Whose idea was it to organise the World Sailing event?

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)

With DAP coming into the picture and Israel is involved, it has become a sensitive issue. Just like everything else in this country, it has turned political. Friends and foes criticised DAP.

However, DAP has a point. Why did the Sports Ministry approved and agree to the event knowing Israel is not only a contender, but world champions?

MH132 amplify importance of training in air safety

There was a Christmas Day mix-up in Auckland, when an Malaysia Airlines pilot queried the air traffic controller on a flight plan provided to return to Kuala Lumpur. The initial coverage of the incident by NZ Herald the next day got the attention of local and international media to report.

One could only expect the dramatic and negative headlines given by the "orang putih" media. Pilot was headlined as spooked, surprised and baffled. Flight was flying or flied in the "wrong direction". MAS was blamed for giving the "wrong direction".

The worse headline seen was "Disasters strike again for doomed Malaysia Airlines" for the pilot's enquiry to the control tower whether they are flying to KL or Melbourne.  

This is not about a recent advise by Dato Salleh Said Keruak to public to not just read news headlines but the content too. The negative attention MAS is getting is partly due to the two air disasters involving MH 370 and MH17 suffered within a short time. More important, it highlights public concern to safety. 

And, it emphasise the message in the previous posting here that a well trained pilot is an important component in air safety.

Giving a chance avoid the difficult choice

The posting using the quote of former American President George W Bush, "You are either with us or against us" got a decent traffic but attracted few negative reactions. One was too vulgar to be released in the commentary. Another was from Life of Annie here.

For someone, who follows politics diligently, her reaction was a surprise. W Bush was applying a manipulative political strategy called bandwagon. It is quite typical in politics, even in Malaysia. And, Dato Najib will eventually have to put UMNO members on that crossroad to consolidate himself.

Maybe the mention of W Bush was just too revolting. Nevertheless, the original posting title of Take no prisoners, Mr President sounded more brutal. Is politics not military in strategy and at times, has only a human facade?

Tun Dr Mahathir is a known practitioner of Sun Tzu's Art of War and Niccolo Machiavelli's Il Principe. The two works is nothing compared to W Bush.

It should be OK to Annie because he is a handsome 90 year old and watch Star War recently at the movie theatre.

Something ain't right II

The Malay proverb to describe the predicament of the former Senior Exco of Perak, Dato Hamidah Osman would be "Sudah jatuh ditimpa tangga."

Murphy's Law says if something is to go wrong, it will go wrong. More befall on the already fallen Hamidah.

Without any position in the Perak State Assembly and Wanita UMNO Malaysia, she was sacked by UMNO Supreme Council in late November.

No new development in the sacking that seemed something ain't right. However, a day before Christmas Eve, her home was sealed by Ipoh High Court bailliff.

The representative of Mohamed Hanifa & Associates, the firm of Sepang MP, Hanipa Maidin carried the order for their client, Shah Alam MP, Khalid Samad.

Salam Maulud (Video)

Compromising safety will eventually be costly

Transport Minister Dato Seri Liow Tiong Lai told AirAsia to buck up for leaving hundreds of passengers temporarily stranded on November 30 to December 1st. Same happened in early October at Langkawi airport.

A week later, AirAsia A320 aircraft had a rear axle tyre burst during landing at Sibu airport last Friday. This is more serious as early in the month, the Indonesian authority released report on the AirAsia Indonesia's QZ8501 crash.

The report highlighted problems related to "maintenance regime of AirAsia" and suspicion of insufficiently trained pilot.

The latest incident in Sibu reflect badly on the company. It is as if the company did not heed warning by authorities and learnt any lesson from last year's Christmas tragedy involving the flight from Surabaya to Singapore.

If AirAsia could not appreciate the need to minimise risk and pay attention on safety issue, the tragedy off the western coast of Kalimantan that cost 162 lives will eventually find its way into the short and long term financials of the company.

"You are either with us or against us"

The Patriot, the blog of Johor Assemblyman, Putra Haron Aminurrashid bin Tan Sri Tengku Abdul Hamid Jumat quoted the words of US President, George W Bush in his 2001 speech, "You are either with us or against us" in his latest posting here.

It is not intended to support Bush's deceptive justifications to invade Muslim countries, but the approach Bush used to secure full support for his actions was something to be thought off.

With 1MDB dying off as an issue and the visible support to Dato Najib at the UMNO General Assembly, the subsequent decisive and strategic action would be to remove any dissenting voices from within the "troops" to prepare for the way forward.

As Tengku Putera see, it is time "to eliminate the enemies within and move forward as a big, strong and united coalition under one flag." After last weekend's "No Retreat, No surrender" message at the UMNO General Assembly, it is a natural follow-up.

The inevitable

The officially released text of Dato Najib's winding-up speech had a sober and mild ending. However, it was far different than what was delivered in the Merdeka Hall last Saturday afternoon (transcribed below):

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.

Constitutionally, Mamak are not Malays

Shekh Fadzir brothers without Kadir: Indians or Malays?

Malay is so embracing that any Muslim that adopts the Malay and Islamic culture and way of life or the minimum of adopting an Arab name is considered Malay.

UMNO accepted Punjabi singer, DJ Dave as member. Both the KSN and KSP are Indian coverts though possess Arab sounding names.

One time inner circle adviser to Dato Najib, Dato Omar Ong once held the position of Treasurer for UMNO Gelang Patah. Back in school, he goes around by a Chinese name. His father reminded him during his wedding dinner to the now divorced first wife to not forget his root.

In UMNO and within Malay society, they take a blind eye to accept Muslim converts, including Indians and Mamak as Malay when they are constitutionally not. Yet many position holders in UMNO, government and king makers in Malay politics are Mamak.

The Star published an article which highlighted the legal reality that they are not Malay. Since they do not adopt Malay culture and their psyche are not Malay at all, the Orang Asli are more Malay. Thus, Orang Asli should be given more attention than these Mamak and Indian converts.

Where will this quarrel lead to?

Been watching the political event within UMNO leading to the UMNO General Assembly unfolding than writing about it. From where we are, after listening to as many sources and sides, the concern is: Where will it head to?

Tun Dr Mahathir has never lost a political war and he is not likely to admit defeat now. From what RPK described, the game is no child's play and no resources spared to ensure a swift win. Thus far, Dato Najib has survived beyond their targeted deadline.    

Tan Sri Muhyiddin has stepped up to the plate. It seemed consistent in adhering to the principle of "setiakawan" (comradeship) and refraining to fight his boss till he is disgraced. There is justification for him to do so. He has been sacked from position in government and denied opportunity to express his concern.

However, Muhyiddin is still hesitant in his move. The campaign message is still preliminary. Unlike Tun M, whose side is believed by sources willing to destroy UMNO to ensure a Najib disposal, Muhyiddin seemed still considering and reconsidering the impact on the party.   

Maybe Najib realised this thus yesterday's speech. Among the most glaring message was one to Muhyiddin that "I will fight to the end. No retreat. No surrender." A fight has the long shot of ending Najib but it will ensure the end of UMNO in the next General Election.

In the midst of pre-GE slander game, we heard it from the horses mouth itself. Najib side has anticipated the current senario four years ago. They would have kept a close watch and gather all the dirt on Muhyiddin and Tun M.  

New MAS report better revenue but no P&L mentioned

TMI posted a news report of MAS (or now referred to as MAB) last week on December 3rd. Not to be confused with MAHB for Malaysia Airport.

The headlines reads as New Malaysian Airlines records better revenue, performance. Thinking it is an MAB quarterly profit announcement, we click on to read. Have been eagerly wanting to know how well the new MAS under the new Mat Salleh led management is doing.

But no profit and loss mentioned. What is the point?

Is this another of that highest profit ever recorded media blitz Dato Idris Jala did many years ago but it turned out to be an operating loss for the quarter? Or could it be another Dato Fuad Dahlan charade of going for revenue without consideration for profitability?

Suddenly KL Mayor had a change of mind

Heard some Pemuda UMNO in FT called us blogger "mengarut" for posting on controversy of high end development with Development Order given by DBKL for an area slotted for 100% affordable housing at Dato Keramat, Kuala Lumpur.

When members of a political party with an election slogan "Rakyat didahulukan, Pencapaian diutamakan" make such remarks, it is only a hint of more to be uncovered.

Dato Rocky previously asked why FT Minister was silent and have remained silent ever since. Media, believed to be Astro Awani TV reported KL Mayor willing to meet the resident.

Suddenly there is a change of mind by KL Mayor.

Zeti on vindictive mode to cover-up for sleeping

Bank Negara Governor, Tan Sri Zeti Akhtar Aziz has yet repeat herself on the 1MDB investigation yesterday.

Zeti was reported saying "progress being made" and "action on 1MDB" on three approvals given under Exchange Control Act for 1MDB to invest abroad.

She took the vindictive act to insist on the repatriation of the money despite explanation by Attorney General, Tan Sri Apandi that there is no legal basis to prosecute on those alleged infringements. She was insisted BNM made no mistake and unreasonably insist on the repatriation of money earmarked for the "debt to asset swap".

Yesterday's report is telling that she is covering up for her slip shot work in enforcement. If Zeti is so damn serious about investigating and putting things right at MDB, why is she not seriously pursuing the yesterday mentioned disappeared fugitive Casey Tang and Jasmine Loo?

Putting up on website is hardly much an effort. Another of her drama on 1MDB?

Something ain't right

Ketua Wanita for UMNO Gopeng Division, Dato Hamidah Osman was sacked by the UMNO Supreme Council last Tuesday. Irrespective of the arguments - pro or con - for or against Hamidah, this is but a typical rough and tumble in party politics.

Today sacked, tomorrow reinstated, and day after back as buddy again. After decades of observing, following and limited participation in politics, a lesson learned is not to interfere and involve in internal party jostling for positions.

As far as Hamidah, her political career had gone downhill after her spectacular manouvre to wrestle back Perak from DAP. So she "could" be seeking for a new lease of political life after losing her positions in the last general election, Wanita UMNO party election, and government appointed chairmanship in Tekun.

The lifeline she chose was to support Tun Dr Mahathir's fight against Dato Najib. As Tun M picks up pace and visibly seen as collaborating with opposition and their satellite NGOs, yet again Hamidah suffered another setback in her political career.

Rightly or wrongly, it is all political rhetorics and the ensuing exchange of political rhetorics is still on going. Though some sympathy for this protelariat struggle up the feudel power ladder, still not a concern. Only notice the strange coincident as published in Utusan Malaysia's last Friday issue.

Prequel to Dec 8th: PCs, SD, 1MDB and Middle East

As the days pass by approaching the last month of the year, more and more events are unfolding in what appears to be a coordinated and planned effort to topple Dato Najib.

In a past posting here, it was highlighted that the vote of no confidence in Parliament or the proxy to reject budget will not work out. Tun Dr Mahathir will be aiming for the UMNO General Assembly due to begin from December 8th. As RPK predicted, Najib cannot be left comfortable till Christmas.

The puzzling thing is why planned the 5,000 UMNO members demonstration to pressure Najib to step down on December 27th, after Christmas?

Blame it on A Kadir Jasin, Tony Pua and Rafizi

Edra should not be sold to foreigners and it should be given to TNB. Our nationalistic stance has not changed since the two postings here and here.

Policy set to limit foreign ownership at 49% should be respected without any exception till policy is changed. There are basis to change policy since countries like Indonesia, Singapore, and Australia have open up power generation for 100% foreign ownership.

Unfortunately, Government decided to sell Edra to China-Qatar JV, CGN Group at RM9.83 billion. Before anyone, including TNB management and staff union, blame Dato Najib and his government, please not.

If there is a blame, blogger Be Da Man was right to blame it on Dato Abdul Kadir Jasin. He was reported by MMO of applying pressure on TNB not to bailout 1MDB. Thus TNB cannot up it's bid to compete out of fear of being accused bailout.

Historic establishment of Asean Community

The Star's frontpage today reads:

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.

NST's frontpage reads:

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. 

The 3-day visit by the American President, Barrack Obama and his statements on Malaysian affairs may have taken the most intention on the social media. Too much domestic politicking that many may not realised the significant of the 27th Asean Summit that closed yesterday.

Did KL Mayor lied on Datok Keramat land issue?

We were in the vicinity when there was a Kg Datuk Keramat demo against the construction of condominium on a site planned for 100% affordable housing.

Been busy with other matters that we did not get to into the issue till Rocky Bru's posting last Thursday reminded us. KL Mayor statement to warn instigators was something really strange.

This issue was brought to the attention and subsequently championed by Titiwangsa MP, Dato Johari Ghani. As Accountant, Corporate man and previous UDA Chairman, there is every reason to trust his ability to smell something ain't right.

Is Kuala Lumpur Mayor calling a Deputy Minister and BN MP instigator? 

On this issue of affordable homes for Dato Keramat, KL Mayor have been rather inconsistent and may have lied.

Did Zeti lowered her eyelids to "baby" Nazir's shit?

There was a joke on FB last week that pun a common joke meant for a you-know-who whose been rather quiet and keeping a low profile: 

Why did the chicken cross the road?
Answer: To run away from a debate.

Maybe one could pun something similar for Nazir :

Why did baby went on tantrum?
Answer: To suck more milk from mother's tit

It is quite applicable to Zeti as she has a habit of going tantrum. Only different is she does not have the baby tantrum but more of the phenomenon of woman at advance age. At least her latest statement is not so "menopausal" as before.

Interestingly, there is similarity, connection and possibly a collusion between Nazir and Zeti. Many failed to realise that Zeti may have lowered her eyelids on matters concerning Nazir.

If not done on purpose, late 60s Zeti is in the habit of sleeping during office hours.

Either Nazir apologise to Arul or ...

... he is just another childish and selfish Mr Bean look-a-like.

Rocky Bru wrote that he does not expect Nazir to be put under inquiry for his "bastardly" erroneous Instagram message as what happened to Badlisyah Ghani, the former CEO of CIMB Islamic for highlighting inconsistencies in an exposure by Wall Street Journal.

Rocky suggested that the least he should do is to apologise to Arul Kanda.

That is if he is a truly gentleman with aristocratic upbringing. Someone so spoilt as a youngest child and with a big ego will never apologise.

As far as Nazir emulating Badlisyah to resign, we have been saying so for quite sometime. Nazir made a wrong call in Indonesia that cost the bank. Instead of quiting, he promoted himself and left behind shit for Tengku Zafrul to clean. [read past posting here].

So do not get upset for this name calling. It is justified. 

Another WSJ set-up, but admitted "no allegations of wrongdoing"

In his posting here, Rocky "cautioned my friends against underestimating our friends. A storm is always preceded by calm."

What sort of issue could be the storm after rather scraping statements of Tun Mahathir reported by news portal on Wednesday to create a new controversy from any mistake in response? 

UMNO General Assembly in December is still long way to go. The nearest in the horizon will be Obama's visit for the 27th Asean Summit in November. The date is November 15-23 and that is only a matter of days.

The Bantah TPPA is expected to do something. Last week, there was an application for judicial review by a group of lawyers in collaboration with ABIM and Teras. Read in Aidil Khaid FB here, interesting angle.

Our stance has not changed. However, it is not time for games. The announced cost benefit analysis due in two weeks. Tunku blog here has links to download the various documents. Our regular contact is studying the materials.

While this is happening, the game to welcome Obama could be the 1MDB-DuSable solar power project in Kedah.

Will this be the political battle that Tun M finally lose?

And now, the end is near
And so I face the final curtain

Read more: Frank Sinatra - My Way Lyrics | MetroLyrics

The Council of Ruler urged the government to complete investigation.

It may have been brought about by allegations by sceptic that it was Dato Najib but a certain government official accused Datin Rosmah was part of a meeting to halt and delay investigation.

That's what they want so YES it is, said Bujai. By Year End, Statement and investigation must be completed. In the interview to The Malaysian Insider, Attorney General Tan Sri Mohamed Apandi Ali was reported saying that MACC wanted more time.

If so, where is the logic in the claim that former Attorney General, Tan Sri Gani Patail and former Deputy Prime Minister Tan Sri Muhyiddin Yassin were in cohoot to arrest Najib if the investigation is yet completed?

Sarawak Report makes no sense to claim the existence of a charge sheet (which does not formally look like one) with regard to SRC investigation since MACC is told to quicken their interview of Najib.

Conflicting jurisdiction in EDRA ownership decision

In our last Friday posting here, the concern was on energy security and opening new political front of problem.

Prior to the posting, Utusan Malaysia made a report on Thursday that Energy Commission (EC) had given exemption for 100% foreign-ownership to 1MDB subsidiary, Edra Global Energy Sdn Bhd. Their source claim that the decision was arrived in a meeting on September 8th.

This information  runs contrary to a September 30th report by The Star that quoted EC Chairman, Dato Abdul Razak Abdul Majid saying, "We are not the agency to regulate foreign partnerships or foreign equity in power plant operators."

Whether Utusan Malaysia source had been right or wrong, the Utusan report claimed the Ministry for Energy, Green Technology and Water (KETTHA) had rejected the application for exemption. They are sticking to a stated policy until such time policy is changed.

Knowing well EC is not empowered to make such decision, why did Treasury Secretary (KSP), Tan Sri Dr Irwan Serigar Abdullah wrote the letter to EC? Does he not know the jurisdiction of EC? Or someone directed him to write to EC on the expectation that the Board of EC will oblige?

The Utusan report below:

Edra Energy must not fall to foreigners!

The wind of Edra Energy falling to foreign hands coming out of the 1MDB rationalisation have been blowing for quite a while.

At the time the rumour was shared in several of our WA groups - both the pro-Najib group and pro-Tun groups, 1MDB had announced Qatar and China Groups bidding for it. So it was brushed aside as merely speculation.

Furthermore, it was understood that 1MDB will hold about 20%, while local and foreign bidders will hold the balance shares in Edra Energy. So the concern was of foreign group/s holding the majority. Earlier, it was announced local groups expressing interest to bid for Edra are YTL, Malakoff and TNB.

A little bird flew on to our window ledge this morning to chirp that it is not for a certain percentage of equity but a take all bid.

It is understood that a paper was submitted by the Ministry of Finance official to the Minister of Finance cum the Prime Minister recommending to accept the foreign bid over the bid by TNB. MoF official would only point to the KSP, Tan Sri Dr Mohd Irwan Serigar Abdullah.

To enable approval, the KSP had also written to the Energy Commission and Minister for Energy and Green Technology to seek exemption for foreigners to own more than 49% of Edra. There is a stated policy against foreigners owning more than that.

It means civil servants in MoF are not giving national interest the highest of consideration but only looking at financial consideration.

That is not good news.

All the barking but nothing on missing billions

The Arul Kanda-Tony Pua debate is over but DAP is in desperation to save the face of their wunderboy. In the manner of a barking Dog and a bulldozing Pig, DAP cybertroopers are trying to reverse the chickening out accusation to Arul. 

Arul was announced yesterday to appear at PAC on December 1st. Instruction of Parliament Speaker Tan Sri Pandikar Amin Mulia is clear that he cannot involve himself in any public LIVE debate. He has to abide [read here].

So the offer of Rafizi as replacement for Tony Pua is just childish dog bark. It is typical of neighbourhood dog barking at anyone unfamiliar. The moment the person come after the dog, it ran away. As soon as the person ignore the dog, it comes back barking.    

They simplistically barked that Arul Kanda's reluctance to answer the 10 Questions posed by Tony Pua till after PAC as an act of guilt and trying to hide something.

The questions were briefly touched in yesterday's posting here. Azmi Arshad (AA) put together an impressive properly referenced responses to the 10 Questions [read in FB here]. Similar to the neighbourhood dog, most of Tony's questions have been ask and responded and nothing firm on any allegation of stealing. 

Game's over the moment Tony blinked

When doing MBA, there was a classic quote involving the one-on-one competition between Coca Cola and Pepsi Cola. Coca Cola made a bad move in 1985 to change it's formula and introduce New Coke. Pepsi CEO sent out a letter to all it's staff which had a great opening line.

"After 87 years of going at it eyeball to eyeball, the other guy just blinked."

In 1962, the American navy shadowed the Russian merchant ships carry missiles to Cuba in the Cuban Missile crisis. The Russian ship stopped midway and returned. In relief, then Secretary of State Dean Rusk whispered a great line to National Security Adviser McGeorge Bundy.

“We’re eyeball to eyeball, and I think the other fellow just blinked.”

Tony Pua and Arul Kanda have been going eyeball to eyeball to exchange many words and Tony Pua just blinked. So it is a futile effort of Wenger J Khairy to try cook up a spin [read here] that government flip flop to step in the moment Tony posed 10 questions. 

Najib to speak on 1MDB at parliament today

Sorry for being off-line for too long.

It is long breaks like this that will eventually lead to speculation and possibility of permanent retirement. However, no such plan yet. Neither is there any plan to give up on blogging in favour of other media platform.

Taking a breather to follow Parliament proceeding.

Also right Quadratus Lumbarum and Latissimus Dorsi giving us a hard time when using the laptop. High time to install the PC bought last year but not used yet. 

Supposedly, there was to be a vote of no confidence on Dato Najib either directly or via rejecting of the budget. The manner Lim Kit Siang got himself suspended and PKR could not put the motion properly only indicate it will not happen.

Tun Dr Mahathir also have been rather quiet since the first generation IPPs which include that of YTL were given a 3-year extension.

Send out the clown

Aspan Alias blog posting was given coverage by FMT here in September and his quote "Send out the clown" was used as title. An apt title for this posting too on MPs behaviour in Parliament and the circus surrounding their attempt to do a vote of no confidence.

The questions our friend posed sounded strange. He loves to clown around but his views, though usually lacking in details and heavily rhetorical, are serious concern. However, it is laughable that this Tengku Razaleigh fanatic, but disguised as DAP member, showed concern for Dato Najib and BN.

As far as sending out the clown, there are lots of them, especially his DAP and PKR friends in Parliament.

UMNO and PAS's struggle for ideology, survival and continuance

Before leaving for Kota baru to witness the Fastaqim 60K gathering by PAS, there was a discussion in our WA Group about idealogy.

It arise from a friend complaining on the likes of Dato Zaid Ibrahim and Dato Saifuddin Abdullah that move up in UMNO but left when they can't get things their way.

When in positions, they pretentiously agree to UMNO "idealism" and even abuse their positions. Eventually, they began to lose their common sense and this led him to believe UMNO idealism is dead.

However, we believe UMNO has an objective to it's existence as spelled out in Article 3 of their Constitution but does not uphold to any form of ideology. The so-called Malay nationalism has no guiding political or economic theory as guiding ideology but rely on pragmatism to bow to the wind.

Pragmatism was in-sync with the thinking of a lawyer friend. He felt that ideology does not matter, more important is implementation. In other words, the deliverable.

That discussion was timely as it puts the PAS event in Kota Baru in a different context.

PAS need to remain steadfast

PAS is holding the Fastaqeem Himpunan 60K today in Kota Baru these evening. The event kicks off 3:00 PM with youth events. The main event will be the mass maghrib and special sunat hajat prayers in the evening.

It will be followed by a series of speeches by the new office bearers of PAS with the finale by the Kelantan MB, Dato Ahmad Yaacob, Spiritual Leader, Dato Harun Din, and Presiden Tuan Guru Dato Haji Hadi Awang.

PAS Youth tentative message received from a reliable source revealed outside speakers, as in Tuan Haji Azmi, likely the leader of NGO Teras, Tan Sri Abdul Kadir Sheikh Fadzir, protem President for Ikatan, and PKR Deputy President, Azmin Ali will be talking.

However, these names did not appear in the official schedule received.

Since PKR have officially joined hands with DAP and Pakatan Amanah Nasional (PAN) to launch Pakatan Harapan (PH), they have conceded to the request of DAP to reject PAS. The probable presence of Azmin Ali is a surprise.

Seasoned political analyst with The Malay Mail, Zainal Epi mentioned the same in the October 15th issue.

Hazy sky to hazier politics

Selamat Maal Hijrah.

It was looking clear from one room in Langkawi yesterday. However, scenery last week was bad as it was covered by haze. The first night was in Penang and the whole island "disappeared" from Peninsular sight under the haze.

Pity the tourist that spend money for a holiday but end up staying in for few days. The place we stayed over advised the tourist on what to do and provided room service. It was heard that Langkawi airport was not operating on Monday and Tuesday and only revive operation Wednesday night due to poor visibility.

A friend had his Malindo flight going around in the air for an hour before they could land. Some flights had to return back to KL or from where it came from.  It was quite chaotic. A certain airline just abandoned their passengers without anyone at the airport bother to communicate or assist the stranded passengers.

The state of Malaysian airlines. Some take care of their passengers very well and more than making money for the company. Some only care for money but passengers still come. Yet wish to use Langkawi as one of their hub.

You guess it right.

Zeti continuously slept on the job

Attorney General statement said the report submitted and application for review by BNM was in insufficient to bring a legal case on 1MDB for alleged offense under para (4) of Part 1 of the Fifth Schedule of Exchange Control Act.

In her statement here, Tan Sri Zeti Akhtar Aziz noted AG's sole power under the constitution to make assessment and initiate criminal proceeding. Zeti admitted:

On its part, the Bank concluded that permissions required under the ECA for 1MDB’s investments abroad were obtained based on inaccurate or without complete disclosure of material information relevant to the Bank’s assessment of 1MDB’s applications.

It means Zeti tidor and simply approved 1MDB's application based on as she alleged now as "inaccurate or without complete disclosure" in their assessment to approve in 2009-11.

That is 4-6 years later.

Azmi Arshad: ".. can't provide proofs on billions missing..."

BNM STATEMENT.... THAT'S ALL YOU'VE GOT?

Azmi Arshad

Zombies and Poops are so desperate that they have to resort to amplifying and spinning the words contained in any statement that does not make the AGC and 1MDB appear in good light.

We can easily observe they pretend to be shocked that foreign media is reporting negatively about the country although we know they are the ones collaborating with the foreign media. They trumpet the statement by the Conference of Rulers (which is what the government also wants) even if it’s purely sentiment. And now they wave in our face BNM’s statement that has nothing to do with the (obviously false) allegations against 1MDB.

That’s because they just can't provide proofs on billions missing, money being siphoned out by Jho Low or anyone, the BSI asset being worthless, loan defaults, money laundering, illegal fund transfers etc.

That’s why they have to move the goal posts.

The BNM statement was nothing about corruption. Nothing about billions missing. Nothing about illegal fund transfers. Nothing about money being siphoned out. Nothing about money laundering. Then what else is there? Well, with the help of a microscope, there might be technical or procedural imperfections, if any at all -- maybe typos in filling up the forms.  

Pathetic.

Royal rebuke exposed more of Zeti's incompetency

The first two para in Bank Negara Malaysia's description of "About the Bank" in their website [read here] explains their role, crystal clear:

The role of Bank Negara Malaysia is to promote monetary and financial stability. This is aimed at providing a conducive environment for the sustainable growth of the Malaysian economy.

Bank Negara Malaysia’s monetary policy stance is to maintain price stability while remaining supportive of growth. Bank Negara Malaysia is also responsible for financial system stability. This is achieved by developing a sound, resilient, progressive and diversified financial sector which serves to support the sectors of the real economy. It also plays an important function in implementing initiatives to deepen and strengthen the financial markets, including the foreign exchange market.

Do the instant noodle foreign exchange experts need further explanation? Those still asking what else BNM can do should refer to their 1999 publication: The Central Bank and the Financial System in Malaysia: A Decade of Change. Probably there are more updated editions.

If it does not add up to 10, come back to a former "agent" for BNM interventions in Forex and Money Market. Happen to spend his semi-retired free time as a blogger these days.  

On the ringgit market, there had been a profit taking activities that saw a temporary breather from the bullish US dollar condition. It could also be a retracement but no intervention reported [read a report here]. The 1 year chart above indicate also a new base forming.

More important, the chart tell us that the country's foreign exchange ringgit market is not stable and not conducive for the sustainable growth of the Malaysian economy. Does it indicate Zeti doing anything?

If still defensive, we can only repeat this quote, "We must not let other people's limited perceptions to define us." At least you should appreciate as to why we are adamant to say Zeti is a smart academics but crumble under pressure.

There is more indicators of her incompetence.

It's still propaganda and potshot to me

Oh, it doesn't matter what they say in the papers
'Cause it's always been the same old scene
There's a new band in town
But you can't get the sound from a story in a magazine...
Aimed at your average teen

Billy Joel, 

It's still rock and roll to me, 

Glass houses (1981)

It's a long break from the last posting. Was in no mood to write. Wanted to observe for a couple of days. So far nothing of substance but sheer noises.

Though there was a statement by the Ruler's Council and followed up by among others, Tan Sri Muhyiddin Yassin, Azmin Ali, Salahuddin Ayub, and other cyber kompang team, it is filled with inconsistencies.

Why 1MDB issue means so much to Ruler's Council over many others similar issues and of similar implications?

If the complains before was of too much propaganda, getting more and more absurd, subtle internal sabotage, and ridiculous Tamil dramatising, this time around there is too much cheap potshot throughout Dato Najib's overseas trip.

It is not worthy to refer it as propaganda but typical unschooled pariah-ganda whose debating ability at best is making accusation of bloggers getting paid and working with Chinese. Whose supporting for the many months without job? 

MUSICAL INTERLUDE: Flirting with disaster

We're flirtin' with disaster, y'all know what I mean
And the way we run our lives, it makes no sense to me
I don't know about yourself or what you want to be, yeah
When we gamble with our time, we choose our destiny

Molly Hatchet (1979)

Deepak's Tamil movie sequel to come

It started with Tun Dr Mahathir's acting out sympathy for a confessed murderer, Sirul.

That didn't catch on because there is no new story. As The Mole reported here, it needs new story to attract attention and keep a propaganda going till it etches into the public psyche.

Then came the Al Jazeera documentary with trumped up accusation of Abdul Razak Baginda as the murderer. Story shifted from Rosmah to Razak now.

A confirmed giver of bribe claimed to be the middleman between Dato Najib and Sirul. On a cheap Nokia-like handphone, it makes no sense for Najib to offer RM15 million to a convicted murderer whose more worried for his life than making lots of money. All this done on SMS?

Sirul, that came from a humble and kampong background, suddenly got a relative in Australia talking in Australian accent and with a name Frank. Laughable ...

However, it is not over. The wayang is far from over. There is a Tamil movie sequel version.

Too much propaganda

When an answer to an enquiry is not accepted or disputed, the onus is on the enquirer to open his or her hand and divulge the proofs.

For seven months and approaching eight, Tun Dr Mahathir has been making his allegations in the form of answer-seeking questions. His response to the answers is to doubt it, and change goalposts with new enquiries arising from the answers.

By right, he is supposed to divulge his proofs. When that failed, then one resigned to God's judgement as RPK wrote here to correct Ummi Hafilda,

If Tun M has all the proofs as one officer bearer of Perkasa and a pentaksub claimed, why is he not divulging his proofs with the next Parliament seating around the corner?

The pentaksub claimed some 8 government and intelligent-related agencies cc-ed a report on 1MDB to Tun M.

Zeti said nothing, did nothing and view nothing

Something forgotten in the previous posting. Tan Sri Zeti Akhtar Aziz did say there will be no pegging. She said the same thing yesterday.

Zeti also said at a conference that Malaysia is not the weakest link in Asia, thus disputing Dato Nazir Abdul Razak's prophet of doom claim Malaysia's bond will turn into junk. Nazir was merely sabotaging the 30-year bond issue which he chicken out from. And, doing the same tantrum after demand for Minister of Finance position rejected. 

Extracting from NST below:

Malaysia is vulnerable given the weaker global growth outlook but it has a diversified economy which will enable it to weather the uncertainties said Bank Negara Malaysia Governor Tan Sri Dr Zeti Akhtar Aziz.

But it is not a weak link in the region.

She dismissed a suggestion that neighbouring countries viewed the current weakness in the ringgit and placed Malaysia as the weak link in the region, raising the risk of a contagion (similar to the baht weakness before the Asian Financial Crisis).

TMI chose to highlight the Bond Market. Extract below:

Malaysia's bond market will not collapse as local funds will step in to fill the void and invest in the market, assures Bank Negara Malaysia (BNM) Governor Tan Sri Zeti Akhtar Aziz, amid concerns over the weakening ringgit and economic slowdown. 

Hmmm ... is that an answer? So was her comment on Ringgit.

Did Zeti intentionally allow Ringgit to fall sharply?

The above is the latest monthly chart.

Yes, it is just off the new high of 4.48. But that is not the point at all.

Ever since Tan Sri Zeti shrugged off her responsibility as Manager of the National Reserve and her role as Central Banker to manage and monitor the Ringgit to pass the buck to government by meddling in politics to ask politicians to end political perpetal quarrel and MoF to sort out 1MDB on September 20th., Ringgit has continued to decline unabated.

Prior to her statement, ringgit had plateau off and strengthen back to 4.20 level. The simple analysis shows she intentionally pushed Ringgit to fall further.

Communicating under crisis, managing reputation

Dato Salleh Said Keruak only sent Deputy?

It's not our field of expertise but just sharing some interesting thoughts. 

Once in a while, it is great to attend conference, or seminar or forum to refresh and update oneself. Thanks to an inivitation from Wanita UMNO, we got ourself a spot at the World Communication Forum Kuala Lumpur.

The Kuala Lumpur Conference is organised in conjunction with the WCF Davos. It was held at the PWTC. So we've earned our keeps for the free meals, few songs by Siti Nurhaliza last night and most importantly the knowledge.

As the conference theme reads "Communication World: Challenges, Changes, Chances."

And, we saw an idea we had during the Dotcom boom in the 90s, but we've said to "forget about it", is now happening. A chap sold off his developed product for US$2 billion before commercialisation!

Anyway that was not the reason we went to WCF but to pick up few pointers on the latest in the specific areas of crisis communication and managing reputation.

Who after Najib?

Has Tun M found the heir apparent for Malaysia?

It is a Sunday. Not the best day to talk politics. Time for family, leisure and errands.

Those going balik kampong for Hari Raya Haji and school holidays will be streaming back to their respective homes. The highway will be packed and traffic will be slow.

Hmmm ... why not as it provide something to read on the smartphone. More so, there are something interesting in Tun Dr Mahathir's latest posting here 2 days ago.

One particularly, Tun M seemed to have reached a phase of repeating himself. According to Joseph Goebbel, repeating is an integral part of propaganda. But then, there will be those especially the Kelab Che Det-type that will vehemently oppose such description.

1MDB thinks otherwise. They regret that "Mahathir easily forget". He "continues to reuse and recycle stale and unproven allegations, which have repeatedly been proven wrong." It is convenient to forget because according to a World War II propaganda manual, it is to address to "the least intelligent".

Roosevelt used to say, "Repetition does not transform a lie into a truth."

Getting more and more absurd

As October draws near and next Parliament seating gets closer, more and more absurd news and slanderous accusations are surfacing to psyche the public and gullible MPs for a vote of no confidence against Dato Najib.

Najib should tell off Dato Pendikar Amin Mulia and bite the bullet. If he goes down, it is better now than later. Let the emotive orang UMNO go through the repercussion of losing power. Should he survive, he could buy time and work on his turnaround plan.  

The absurdity is looking to be very reformasi style. Dato Khairuddin Hassan will soon make claim of arsenic poisoning and HIV virus injection. There is also the drama leading to his arrest and re-arrest.

Not forgetting, Xavier Justo's confession mentioned Clare Rewcastle and Dato Tong Kooi Ong wanted the stolen data fast to do a number on the ringgit, government and Najib. Since Clare was reported saying she could get other info from Tun Dr Mahathir, what does that mean? 

Not only Hitler said the above, his Propaganda Minister, Joseph Goebbel had a famous quote: "If you tell a lie big enough and keep repeating, people will eventually come to believe it."

This fight is about power and truth does not matter. As was said, "Fact does not matter, (so-called) principle matter".

MUSICAL INTERLUDE: Sacrifice

In two separate world
But, it's no sacrifice
No sacrifice
It's no sacrifice, at all

No sacrifice, at all
No sacrifice, at all
No sacrifice, at all
No sacrifice, at all

Rest of lyric here.

While walking down the stairs of the federal court, one of the defense lawyer was grumbling, "I'm not being a sore loser. Or sour grape ...

"The appeal court may have got their facts screwed up but their argument quite  fair and acceptable. But this ... the judges just could not grasp facts."

"Not much can be done ... bro. How to argue when it is 9-0?", a voice replied.

"I know ... I know ...", the lawyer admitted.

Blaming others to cover inadequacy

Cyberspace is hot over whether Bank Negara Governor, Tan Sri Zeti Akhtar actually blamed 1MDB for the ringgit fall. Someone send us her video and it confirmed that she actually said it.

As a former currency trader used to follow statements of Central Bank Governors and Ministers of Finance of major economic powerhouses, her statement to implicate 1MDB was a pathetic excuse to cover her inability to manage and that led into a crisis. 

The words of a Central Bank Governor are usually loaded and have far reaching impact. It is a signal for upcoming monetary policy. In some countries, it is gives an insight into possible future budget and fiscal policies.

Currency traders and other financial market traders analyse their every words and nuances for hints of policies on interest rates and their assessment of existing monetary issues.

Unfortunately, Zeti's words on Ringgit means nothing.

Arsenic poisoning and HIV virus injection

Ever since Dato Khairuddin Hasan and Matthias Chang made their trips to few overseas financial centre to make various report to foreign authorities, there have been a deluge of unsubstantiated reports on Dato Najib and 1MDB. 

WSJ, whose rather fond of Malaysia these days, reported of responsive investigation, accounts frozen, Najib-owned company accounts in Hong Kong, and the latest unpaid money due to IPIC for US$1.3 billion and later an additional RM1.0 billion. [refer to 1MDB's reply to the allegations here and here.]

Over the weekend, Washington Post and several other foreign media called on President Obama to severe relationship with Najib.

One pro-Tun blogger proudly put up postings on the list of foreign news agencies giving negative report on Malaysia including the unconfirmed WSJ report of FBI investigating Najib.

As one of the early cyber warrior from the reformasi days, he failed to realise that they are emulating reformasi play-by-play. Reformasi painted perception of CIA and FBI investigating Tun M, and now same by Tun M?

Maybe it's in the plan to pressure Najib internationally in the same vein as Iraq's WMD. Perhaps someone learned a trick or two from meetings with Saifuddin Nasution, Johari Abdul, Azmin Ali and Rafizi Ramli in various places, including London and Yayasan Perdana office in Putrajaya. [Read past posting here]. 

Expect Dato Khairuddin Hasan to come out of remand to claim arsenic poisoning from the walls of the police lock-up. Not too far fetch, this cousin of Anwar Ibrahim could claim being injected with HIV virus. Second wife and actress, Ummi Aida to do a dramatic command performance to reveal it. 

Conspiracy against Khir Toyo?

Since charged in December 2010, the corruption case against Dato Dr Khir Toyo (KT) should see it's finality tomorrow.

Sometimes longer but that is how long cases can take for those wanting to see lawsuit as the deciding factor in a political issue. The very reason Tun Dr Mahathir chose to ignore the RM100 billion swindling allegation by former Wall Street Journalist reporter, Barry Wain in his book.

Maybe it is the common Javanese blood in us. And, maybe the sympathy to a fellow plebeian. Not discounting also, he deserve to be given a second chance after undergoing dugaan (challenges), self realisation, and mending his ways.

Something about Khir Toyo's corruption case does not jive. Love him or loath him, KT deserve justice and fair hearing.

Is "Perhimpunan Merah" the answer to Bersih color revolution?

The Russian have long suspected that US covert operation involving NED, Freedom House, George Soros, and NATO were behind attempt to start a color revolution in Russia. [Read here and here]. In Macedonia, Soros was detected to give money to students [read here].  

NED and Soros involvement to fund Bersih, Malaysiakini, Sarawak report, SUARAM, Bar Council, etc is an open secret.

In March this year, RT, formerly Russia Today website reported that the Russian is undertaking a research to counter color revolution. [read RT here]. Part of their strategy would likely be joint collaboration with China as Tass News Agency [read here] reported statement of Deputy Defense Minister, Anatoly Anatonov after the Umbrella Revolution in Hong Kong in November last year.

Already color revolution NGO are being crackdown [read FB here]. More on possible strategy by Rusia in this You Tube here and article here.

In "spite" of BERSIH

Pua's diverting the diversion to divert a diversion

In the previous posting here, the latest Wall Street Journal so-called expose on the accounting anamoly between IPIC and 1MDB was seen as a diversion to divert a diversion.

NST, BH and TV3 disclosed the content in the document submitted by Xavier Justo to Thai court for his guilty plea to revive the conspiracy to topple the government story.

It serves to divert the public attention from the damaging statement by former Deputy Director of Special Branch, Dato Hamid Bador. And, it did reduced further exchanges between him and Datin Seri Rosmah's assistant as not newsworthy.

In the disclosure, unfamiliar names like Nurul Izzah and Kamal Siddiqi were mentioned [read Rockybru here for the link to MMO on Kamal].

No solution in sight

Forget facts and figures for a while.

And forget the principle of evidence in the court of law. Malaysian politics is only concerned with perception because the popular belief is Malaysians vote on perceptions and not on ability to govern.

By the way things are looking, no solution is in sight for the current political crisis. It has reached to a point where it has lingered into the realm of economics i.e. fall in ringgit.

The intended solution is not so much for a truce between Dato Najib and Tun Dr Mahathir. When the conspiracy to topple the government begin to unfold, Tun M clearly said there is no conspiracy. He want to topple Najib.   

Samad Alias wash hand after 1MDB settled PKFZ-linked Tadmax land sale

The talk of 1MDB latest appointed member to the Board of Advisory, Tan Sri Dr Samad Alias complaining for not getting brief was heard over the Hari Raya open house.

However, it was brushed off since many politicians, media and bloggers managed to get briefing with 1MDB albeit in various capacity.

It is now out in the open when Samad Alias made known of his official resignation yesterday. Dato Nazir Tun Abdul Razak took the opportunity to take potshot at his eldest brother-led government as he wrote in his Instagram:

“Respected, honest, professional appointed by the Govt and welcomed by the Chairman with fanfare.

“But denied access to information by management. If this is true and tolerated, what message does it send to other GLC’s/agencies?”

This morning Bigdog uncovered an interesting discovery on Samad Alias here.

It puts into question Nazir's ability in making character judgement. And, how could he not know Samad Alias had dealing as Chairman of PKFZ-linked company, Tadmax Resources Berhad?

Big Brother MCMC watching over you

This was recently highlighted by a participant in one of our many Whass App and Telegram groups.

One blogger noticed that local blogs using blogspot.com had their domain changed to .my. From http://anotherbrickinwall.blogspot.com/, this blog is now http://anotherbrickinwall.blogspot.my/.

This could have implication to anonymous bloggers. In the past, it provide space to escape lawsuits and the long hands of the law. One blogger in the group said things may not be as easy anymore with domain name is now based in Malaysia.

This technical bit is not something familiar to this blogger. Only suspect it could have came out of collaboration between MCMC and blogspot.com for some localisation. Techincally, it may serve the purpose of reducing traffic on the trunk line to the US.

Could it be that all the storage of bloggers' posting is now in Cyberjaya?   

No place for royals and politicians in FAM

Malaysia was given a 10 goals drubbing by UAE last Thursday night in the World Cup qualifier.

NST reported the netizen's rage over the drubbing [read here]. It's five days already, but the public is still hurling sarcasm at various parties for the loss.

Naturally, Dato Najib was conveniently blamed. One sarcastic joke made fun of the 10 goals as the much talked about favour in exchange for the RM2.6 billion Arab donation that went into his private account.

1MDB was linked to the loss but the name changed to 10MDB or 10 (gol) Malaysia Di Belasah.

Mahathir dependent on Kit Siang, Anwar, Ambiga and Maria Chin to bring Najib down

Like Raja Petra wrote here, it's the same with this blog.

Not keen to comment and argue on Tun Dr Mahathir's twice appearance at the BERSIH 4.0. The pro-Tun will use whatever it takes to spin. Taking a cue from the man himself, they said he was there to see and came later to be as Maria Chin put it as participant. It was denied he support BERSIH 4.0.

If so, why did Tun Siti Hasmah said it is people's revolution?

Quite sure she could not see well enough from the passsage opened for her to walk through the crowd that it was 80%, or some say 90% attended by DAP supporters. It does not represent the composition of the country. Also it's heavily skewed towards Chinese DAP demand!

Anyway it is pointless to write when one is in an excitable mood. That was till we came across Bigdog's twitter in Helen Ang's blog posting here. With him steadfast to his belief, someone commented that "Bigdog is more the flagbearer of Mahathirism that Mahathir!

To understand Mahathirism, read this academic work here than reading politically laced criticism on racism, human rights and cronyism [read one here]. No wonder RPK was writing a series against Mahathirism in May [read here to here].

Airasia should sue Daily Mail for 3rd most dangerous airline rating

Air Asia is in a foul mood these days. They seemed to be suing every other person.

On July 31 last month, it was reported that Air Asia sued airport operator, Malaysia Airport Berhad for RM409 million for losses allegedly arising from KLIA2 and the earlier LCCT.

The issues seemed to be repeated one since the days they were endlessly complaining on the KLIA2 like "ponding" on the runway, bumpy taxiway, and "sinking" parking bays [read TMI here]. No news was found on MAHB's reply and the media seemed to be an accomplice to one sided reporting. They had replied and explained in their website here.

It's conforting to know Malaysia Airport will be going aggressive on Airlines not paying their dues [read here]. Presumably legal action is a necessary option.

Other than Malaysia Airport, they sued Wee Choo Keong and others too in March [read FMT here]. Heard to be a blogger too.

Since they are on that mode, they should sue UK's Daily Mail for a damaging report on Airasia's safety record but praised twice crashed Malaysia Airlines. Does it mean things have not turned for the better since the crash at end of 2014?