自从从Liechtenstein回来后，良久没有经营我的部落格了。不好意思。hehe
似乎过去几个星期谈了很多政治。很多人都会问我，‘这样的结果，你开心吗？’ 无可厚非，那时的确是爽快不已。现在我仍然继续关心，丝毫不少。
我有位老朋友MH，他是我长久以来的思考挑战者(mind-sparring partner)。每次他来我家做客，我们都会侃侃而谈至深夜。记得在选举之前，我们讨论一些理论性问题。
比如说，我抛出我心中的疑问：是否人在其位，发言表达立场时才会有说服力？是否一个人当他有党职或党派后，他的言论的说服力会降低？说服的对象是游离中间的选民和支持敌对阵营的选民。
我举例，当Jeff Ooi决定加入政党和参选时，对公民社会到底是损失还是有利呢？
他提出，没有党派的人，不代表没有立场或立场中立。当然，没有党派的人没有党利益挂钩，其思考和立场会较自由，比较可以直接反映自己的心声和看法。所以，同样的道理发自有党派和没党派的人的口中，理论上后者的说服力会比较强，可信度会较高。他举例，当你的朋友一个从事保险业的鼓励你买他的保险，另一个朋友是其保险使用者叫你别买那保险因为它骗人的，你会倾向于相信那一个朋友？
我再把课题重新定义，质疑说，如果你要得到中肯的专业的意见，或许那位从事保险业的朋友会给你更全面的客观分析（只要他没有强推销其公司的产品），多于另一个朋友的一面之词。同样的道理，你会认为权威的政党领袖，还是咖啡店老板谈民主和自由，哪个会比较有说服力？
如果说，说服力不是只是体现在要你投他一票而已，而是要推动一个改革议程，你认为有党位的人士和局外分析人，哪个人的角色会比较吃重？
我们就回到了对Jeff Ooi这位我国著名的部落客，探讨他参政会否对公民社会的制衡力量是一种损失。我认为，充满理想的他，决定要走出虚拟世界的空间，以行动来落实他的理念，是值得尊敬的。再况且他把过去进步开放的公民社会的想法带入政治，会为政治注入新改革气象，才有可能带来实质成果。可贵的是，你可以了解当你批评和抱怨时容易，但要能坐言起行(walk the talk)却是另一种对客观环境的挑战。毕竟不是每一个人都会一致认同你的某种道理和理念。
我觉得，我们需要现在的Jeff Ooi，就像过去我们如何需要他，虽然角色已不同了。我也敢相信，会有更多的部落客会填补他过去的角色。
党派与否，我觉得无伤大雅。毕竟很多党员与党利益没有直接挂钩。政党是应该有宽大的胸怀来接受党内的批判和谏言。一个人的自由意志和思想，不一定每时每刻都与该党牵涉在一起。你加入一个政党，是因为你认同该党的理念的大方向，而不是全部细节。多元化的意见可以撞击出更多理性讨论的火花，进一步改善该政党的政策。
是的，有时候我会顾虑别人的看法，但是我觉得自己要认清自己的角色。党员是一种身份而已，我必须利用这个身份来作更多的独立思考，以期可以影响和贡献社会（不只是所属的政党）。我拒绝成为没有思考能力的党棍。我要别人听到和认同的是我的心声，想法和道理，而不是基于政党的标签。
Saturday, March 29, 2008
Saturday, March 15, 2008
Some people just never learn!!!
After reading and following up after General election, i found out that, somebody just never learn from the past mistakes. UMNO is still using Mainstream Media (MSM) to spin heavily on the issues like DEB/ NEP (New Economic Policy), as if NEP is the savior of Malays. I am deeply disgusted with that motion. I would tell them now, if you dare, please open up the space in MSM for people to freely discuss or debate on issues of NEP , whether it is still relevant nowadays.
The same old BN still emerge after the election, first UMNO pits PKR and PAS as the traitor to Malays, pact with DAP for 'sacrificing' or 'selling' Malays' rights to Chinese/ non-Malays. On the other hand, MCA (from Johor) and Lim Geng Yeik ( ex-Gerakan President) were speaking to press that voting for DAP results in forming a PAS-led government in Perak. This is an obvious attempt to capitalize on the religious or racial issue to incite PAS-phobia among Chinese voters especially, to make those who had voted for DAP recently regret of their action.
You see, no joking, after election, they are still playing racial and religious card!!! This is the same old BN that we shall despise and demise! I'm sick of hearing their rhetorics. Even though this is the case, i am still afraid that my dear Malaysians will fall back to the same old tune of BN, start to believe in their propaganda (after heavily spin), that is so harmful for our harmony and cohesive multiethnic society.
The Penang state Opposition leader from Umno, Datuk Azhar Ibrahim is such a loser, whohad called for the funding allocated to the public infrastructure projects in Penang state to be withdrawn by the Federal Government. If this is not the call for political 'revenge', i don't know what... he sounds like the money of Federal Government is owned by UMNO, and dispense at their preference. Hey loser, People from Penang pay taxes also, hello? That is people's money to be used to invest, not belong to UMNO or the Ruling coalition! How come they don't understand?
I'm glad that the transition of Power to new government coalition in the 5 states is finally resolved. No more buying state assemblyman to crossover the other party ( clearly BN is still practising Money politics, that is why they deserve to lose... they still can't understand Money can't buy everything as they like). More patience shall be given to the (federal-) opposition camp to sort out their administration technical issues, before they could focus on carrying out their duty to serve the people and fulfill their election pledges. Listen to MSM spins again -- they are trying to portrait how poor and loosely-cooperated is the opposition coalition, and hence to undermine or doubt the ability of the coalition to govern. Yet another attempt to destroy the image of (federal-)opposition coalition before the new government is put in place. Haih... MSM , please be professional in reporting, ok? Just let the opposition to sort it out, and deliver it. I am sure they make better state government than previous BN government.
I hope Lim Kit Siang and some fellows in DAP could be more tolerance and show more understanding to their partner PAS. I don't know what is a fuss to be PAS-phobia into year 2008 now. Evolve, and move on!!! Don't fall in BN's tricks. We will defend you if they are defaming you on the issues of the working relationship with PAS. I hope opposition leaders could adapt themselves into the new position, and prevent themselves from making unwise statement for MSM to gain 'free' materials to attack opposition. Opposition must be united behind the Barisan Rakyat ( the contract is The Declaration of People). We are the boss who orders you to do so, for the sake of the future of Malaysia!
Recommended articles to read (from Merdekareview - in Chinese):
大肆炒作新经济政策课题
巫统打种族牌垂死反击？
种族主义阴魂仍飘荡
在野党不容盲目乐观
种族政治依旧无法消灭
三党政治理念备受考验
The same old BN still emerge after the election, first UMNO pits PKR and PAS as the traitor to Malays, pact with DAP for 'sacrificing' or 'selling' Malays' rights to Chinese/ non-Malays. On the other hand, MCA (from Johor) and Lim Geng Yeik ( ex-Gerakan President) were speaking to press that voting for DAP results in forming a PAS-led government in Perak. This is an obvious attempt to capitalize on the religious or racial issue to incite PAS-phobia among Chinese voters especially, to make those who had voted for DAP recently regret of their action.
You see, no joking, after election, they are still playing racial and religious card!!! This is the same old BN that we shall despise and demise! I'm sick of hearing their rhetorics. Even though this is the case, i am still afraid that my dear Malaysians will fall back to the same old tune of BN, start to believe in their propaganda (after heavily spin), that is so harmful for our harmony and cohesive multiethnic society.
The Penang state Opposition leader from Umno, Datuk Azhar Ibrahim is such a loser, whohad called for the funding allocated to the public infrastructure projects in Penang state to be withdrawn by the Federal Government. If this is not the call for political 'revenge', i don't know what... he sounds like the money of Federal Government is owned by UMNO, and dispense at their preference. Hey loser, People from Penang pay taxes also, hello? That is people's money to be used to invest, not belong to UMNO or the Ruling coalition! How come they don't understand?
I'm glad that the transition of Power to new government coalition in the 5 states is finally resolved. No more buying state assemblyman to crossover the other party ( clearly BN is still practising Money politics, that is why they deserve to lose... they still can't understand Money can't buy everything as they like). More patience shall be given to the (federal-) opposition camp to sort out their administration technical issues, before they could focus on carrying out their duty to serve the people and fulfill their election pledges. Listen to MSM spins again -- they are trying to portrait how poor and loosely-cooperated is the opposition coalition, and hence to undermine or doubt the ability of the coalition to govern. Yet another attempt to destroy the image of (federal-)opposition coalition before the new government is put in place. Haih... MSM , please be professional in reporting, ok? Just let the opposition to sort it out, and deliver it. I am sure they make better state government than previous BN government.
I hope Lim Kit Siang and some fellows in DAP could be more tolerance and show more understanding to their partner PAS. I don't know what is a fuss to be PAS-phobia into year 2008 now. Evolve, and move on!!! Don't fall in BN's tricks. We will defend you if they are defaming you on the issues of the working relationship with PAS. I hope opposition leaders could adapt themselves into the new position, and prevent themselves from making unwise statement for MSM to gain 'free' materials to attack opposition. Opposition must be united behind the Barisan Rakyat ( the contract is The Declaration of People). We are the boss who orders you to do so, for the sake of the future of Malaysia!
Recommended articles to read (from Merdekareview - in Chinese):
大肆炒作新经济政策课题
巫统打种族牌垂死反击？
种族主义阴魂仍飘荡
在野党不容盲目乐观
种族政治依旧无法消灭
三党政治理念备受考验
Wednesday, March 12, 2008
High expectation vs Performance - how the new State government should deal
Recently i just watched a series of 4 videos in Malaysiakini, interviewing 2 political analysts. Unfortunately the video is in Mandarin. They have some very good piece of advice for the new incoming State government currently held by Opposition.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DQT-vwLimUM
Since the problems of these states which were under BN's rules for so many years... 50 years problems past down to a new government, it just cannot be solved immediately to meet the voters' super high expectation.
So the state government has to be realistic. They are required to set up a short term and long term plan. They should tell the voters clearly on what would they do and could achieve in this period of 4 - 5 years. Constant communication between the government and the people is vital, so that the voters could be more patient and understanding about the situation of government. Let people know how much time the government needs to get all their MPs adapted to their role ( as many are inexperience and are political rookie). All the election promises that had made, the government is responsible to set a timetable on when they are going to fulfill the promises, so that the voters could judge the performance of the government based on that, rationally.
High hopes usually accompany with big disappointment, if the government fails to keep up to the hopes. So i hope you (Nat) and Anwar Ibrahim could do better to handle these issues. =)
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DQT-vwLimUM
Since the problems of these states which were under BN's rules for so many years... 50 years problems past down to a new government, it just cannot be solved immediately to meet the voters' super high expectation.
So the state government has to be realistic. They are required to set up a short term and long term plan. They should tell the voters clearly on what would they do and could achieve in this period of 4 - 5 years. Constant communication between the government and the people is vital, so that the voters could be more patient and understanding about the situation of government. Let people know how much time the government needs to get all their MPs adapted to their role ( as many are inexperience and are political rookie). All the election promises that had made, the government is responsible to set a timetable on when they are going to fulfill the promises, so that the voters could judge the performance of the government based on that, rationally.
High hopes usually accompany with big disappointment, if the government fails to keep up to the hopes. So i hope you (Nat) and Anwar Ibrahim could do better to handle these issues. =)
AI
This morning, i was phoned interviewed by a Malaysian company. In the middle of the interview, she asked me to gave her an example whom i see as an inspiring role model.
The first person who pops out from my mind, is Anwar Ibrahim... Maybe i am too hooked up by the General Election recently. But honestly, i can't help admiring him for his powerful and clear vision for the country, how he deliver his ideas and get his messages across the people instantly without the help of our biased mainstream media. On top of that, i can clearly see the difference he made before he gets his head into opposition politics when he just released from jail. That time, the opposition camp was still flawed with many insolvable conflicts between parties. The most obvious antagonist is between PAS and DAP. PKR was badly lost in 11th General Election until it left with one seat. PKR was so weak, and lost the position to become the effective mediator between those two parties.
Anwar Ibrahim, with the extraordinary ability and influence, he brought the two sides together once again and put their differences aside to form an united coalition, working together to go against the mighty BN. It wouldn't be easy, and it is hard to imagine how he could do it. How could he bring a party from just one seat, now springing to the biggest Opposition party in Parliament (second biggest party after UMNO) ? How could one who is declared 'irrelevant' by all BN leaders but in a short time could still be rising up to become the most influential political figure in Malaysia? A stunning political comeback success for him, proves that he is popular among people certainly with reasons.
I am the person who rather believes in the change of the system than putting all my trust on just one particular leader or become his follower blindly. That is not my principle. Now I am still sane. I share almost all of his visions for Malaysia. What he believes is also what i want to see my Malaysia to become - Equality/fairness to all, justice, transparency, and so on.
Who say political ideology is not relevant anymore in this globalized world? At least now we could declare 'race-based' politics is becoming less and less relevant, and already obsolete in this multiethnic and multireligious country.
I must admit that he is a very charismatic politician/ statesman. I have seen many of his campaigning speech videos... he has been consistent. His oratory skill is always the killer! I never meet any Malaysian politician could be as impressive and motivating as him! (Mahathir's one is just funny and witty, but not the substance he said had impressed me)
I had already long forgiven him about his past records while he was in the UMNO government. At least he took the brave step to apologize in one press conference before . Yet I cannot fully blame him for his past records because that was all from top-down UMNO policies, not his creation. Unlike many other BN politician, they do not even breathe out a word of apology for their wrongdoing. For a person who undergone all the tough times in jail, that must change him to a large extent. He is now a changed man, a man who is determined and confident with his reform agenda to serve the nation and the people. His integrity and commitment cannot be bought by billions of ringgit from BN.
I will be giving him my continuous support for as long as he is carrying the same vision as i do, and working to the right direction i believe the country should be heading to. Good luck to him! Let him do his part, and i will play my part too.
Politics is an art of POSSIBLE. So they say. =)
The first person who pops out from my mind, is Anwar Ibrahim... Maybe i am too hooked up by the General Election recently. But honestly, i can't help admiring him for his powerful and clear vision for the country, how he deliver his ideas and get his messages across the people instantly without the help of our biased mainstream media. On top of that, i can clearly see the difference he made before he gets his head into opposition politics when he just released from jail. That time, the opposition camp was still flawed with many insolvable conflicts between parties. The most obvious antagonist is between PAS and DAP. PKR was badly lost in 11th General Election until it left with one seat. PKR was so weak, and lost the position to become the effective mediator between those two parties.
Anwar Ibrahim, with the extraordinary ability and influence, he brought the two sides together once again and put their differences aside to form an united coalition, working together to go against the mighty BN. It wouldn't be easy, and it is hard to imagine how he could do it. How could he bring a party from just one seat, now springing to the biggest Opposition party in Parliament (second biggest party after UMNO) ? How could one who is declared 'irrelevant' by all BN leaders but in a short time could still be rising up to become the most influential political figure in Malaysia? A stunning political comeback success for him, proves that he is popular among people certainly with reasons.
I am the person who rather believes in the change of the system than putting all my trust on just one particular leader or become his follower blindly. That is not my principle. Now I am still sane. I share almost all of his visions for Malaysia. What he believes is also what i want to see my Malaysia to become - Equality/fairness to all, justice, transparency, and so on.
Who say political ideology is not relevant anymore in this globalized world? At least now we could declare 'race-based' politics is becoming less and less relevant, and already obsolete in this multiethnic and multireligious country.
I must admit that he is a very charismatic politician/ statesman. I have seen many of his campaigning speech videos... he has been consistent. His oratory skill is always the killer! I never meet any Malaysian politician could be as impressive and motivating as him! (Mahathir's one is just funny and witty, but not the substance he said had impressed me)
I had already long forgiven him about his past records while he was in the UMNO government. At least he took the brave step to apologize in one press conference before . Yet I cannot fully blame him for his past records because that was all from top-down UMNO policies, not his creation. Unlike many other BN politician, they do not even breathe out a word of apology for their wrongdoing. For a person who undergone all the tough times in jail, that must change him to a large extent. He is now a changed man, a man who is determined and confident with his reform agenda to serve the nation and the people. His integrity and commitment cannot be bought by billions of ringgit from BN.
I will be giving him my continuous support for as long as he is carrying the same vision as i do, and working to the right direction i believe the country should be heading to. Good luck to him! Let him do his part, and i will play my part too.
Politics is an art of POSSIBLE. So they say. =)
Sunday, March 09, 2008
A Defining Moment for Malaysia~
I lost for words how to describe my feelings for this moment to come - I feel the hope and the new dawn of better Malaysia. I am so touched by the event happened yesterday in my beloved country. This would only be the second greatest thing i want to witness in my entire life - the next one i want to see is the topple of the old and tired, racist corrupted incompetent regime and the system that does not work for the future of Malaysia. Without getting rid of the old regime and system, you can't barely have much hope. I am so excited to look forward a new justice-and-equality-for-all-races system to put in place in near future. This spells the rise of Malaysia to the Global stage as a developed country!!!
What excites me is, my state and parliament constituency are in the hand of Opposition (DAP & PKR), and the state government is fallen to the hand of Opposition too!!! Also, Opposition allies have together denied the two-third majority of BN in Parliament! Wow, i can't believe it... it is just too amazing. No one could actually predicted this would be coming before election. No one knows how the magnitude of the voice of change could be this strong. No one can tell the dissatisfaction among the people with the previous (and this coming) government, could have taken 5 states from the government's iron grip. The ruling parties could throw all their machinery, media, money (3M) to campaign and to cheat, but they could not suppress and cheat to people for too long. All their propaganda just don't work, because truth is truth, cannot be twisted and turned. People's heart cannot simply bought by 3M that BN used. People will wake up and do what is right to defend their rights! People sent a strong signal to BN, if they still continue to be arrogant and refuse to listen to rakyat, this is what you deserve!!! Hope this is a superb good lesson to BN. I wish them good luck and start reforming themselves if they want to be relevant in politics and win back electorate's hearts. I can't say i won't support them in future, if they are heading to a right direction and undergo massive changes. I hope that, one day, BN would discard all their racial doctrine, disband all their component parties and integrate into just one BN party which support for justice and equality for all races (like PKR).
I wish all opposition parties remain sensible and put forward some urgent reform agenda that this country desperately needs in the parliament and the state level. Local council election is one thing they could do, and also the Freedom of Information Act. They could set a good example for other state BN government to follow suit. If the opposition wants to continue to rule or possibly unseat the current govenment, what they just need to do is - Deliver all their promises at best, so that BN couldn't steal their limelight for change. If they manage the states well enough, the next General Election they will have something to show to all the people of Malaysia that Opposition parties are capable to handle the state and hence the nation. This is the best chance ever for opposition to let people see how different is under their model governance to BN governance. Personally, i think the opposition should keep pressuring the federal government into considering amendment or abolishment of draconian undemocratic acts such as ISA, UUCA, Sedition Act, Printing Presses and Publications Act, Official Secrecy Act. Those acts could prove unpopular , and are detrimental to the nation.
So much to hope for, and so much joy i would like to share at this moment!!!
Congrats to my friends who participated the election and won the election - They are Gan Pei Nei, Chang Lih Kang, and Nik Nazmi. Well done!!! They are the role model of the teenagers , who not only concern about politics but involve themselves into action for changes. I felt sorry for Ginie Lim for her defeat.
Today is a day that would be definitely written into the history of new Malaysia! =)
------------
Doesn't these guys' statement strike a chord with you (about the outcome of General Election)?
Dr Farish Noor: The message the voters are sending is a clear one: We, the Malaysian people, have come together united to demand a Malaysia that is plural and democratic, and home to all. Let no single Malaysian ever be marginalised and neglected ever again. We will no longer be patronised, insulted, manipulated by a government that claims to represent us but actually serves only itself.
The fact that so many independent candidates and so many new faces have come to the fore shows that the Malaysian public has grown weary of the old faces, the old discourses and the old mode of politics in the country. We are now a more complex and plural society than before and we need to forge a new politics that reflects this diversity and pluralism.
We need and want a new Malaysian politics where merit, equality, fairness and accountability prevail. The Malaysian people will no longer tolerate empty promises, discredited politicians, bankrupt politics, cronyism, nepotism and abuse of power. The Malaysian nation wants the country back. We will no longer surrender our future to politicians and elites alone.
Wong Chin Huat:
The BN has to do some soul-searching and reinventing. It cannot sideline the Chinese and the Indians.
The results also show that Anwar is relevant. It is certainly a victory for Anwar. It will put an end to speculation that Anwar would go back to Umno. It also shows a strong civil society, and the strong discontent among the Chinese and the Indians. Anwar did not single-handedly do this.
The Opposition needs to find a way to work together, to prove it is a viable alternative. It has to offer a line-up for a shadow Cabinet. Penang has the opportunity to be a model Opposition coalition government. Civil society will keep a watchful eye on the Opposition government to see what it does. Will it introduce the Freedom of Information Act, local government election, and a new socio-economic policy to contrast what we have at the federal level?
Question: Going forward, what needs to be done to strengthen democracy in Malaysia?
Dr Toh Kim Woon: Going forward, the government will have to take cognisance of being more sensitive and responsive towards the people. They will have to do away with the ISA and the other restrictive laws, and provide people with the space to air their views, including through a more balanced media. And what’s this nonsensical argument that demonstrations equal violence? If you keep denying people the space, then it’s going to explode in the ballot box as it has in this elections.
What excites me is, my state and parliament constituency are in the hand of Opposition (DAP & PKR), and the state government is fallen to the hand of Opposition too!!! Also, Opposition allies have together denied the two-third majority of BN in Parliament! Wow, i can't believe it... it is just too amazing. No one could actually predicted this would be coming before election. No one knows how the magnitude of the voice of change could be this strong. No one can tell the dissatisfaction among the people with the previous (and this coming) government, could have taken 5 states from the government's iron grip. The ruling parties could throw all their machinery, media, money (3M) to campaign and to cheat, but they could not suppress and cheat to people for too long. All their propaganda just don't work, because truth is truth, cannot be twisted and turned. People's heart cannot simply bought by 3M that BN used. People will wake up and do what is right to defend their rights! People sent a strong signal to BN, if they still continue to be arrogant and refuse to listen to rakyat, this is what you deserve!!! Hope this is a superb good lesson to BN. I wish them good luck and start reforming themselves if they want to be relevant in politics and win back electorate's hearts. I can't say i won't support them in future, if they are heading to a right direction and undergo massive changes. I hope that, one day, BN would discard all their racial doctrine, disband all their component parties and integrate into just one BN party which support for justice and equality for all races (like PKR).
I wish all opposition parties remain sensible and put forward some urgent reform agenda that this country desperately needs in the parliament and the state level. Local council election is one thing they could do, and also the Freedom of Information Act. They could set a good example for other state BN government to follow suit. If the opposition wants to continue to rule or possibly unseat the current govenment, what they just need to do is - Deliver all their promises at best, so that BN couldn't steal their limelight for change. If they manage the states well enough, the next General Election they will have something to show to all the people of Malaysia that Opposition parties are capable to handle the state and hence the nation. This is the best chance ever for opposition to let people see how different is under their model governance to BN governance. Personally, i think the opposition should keep pressuring the federal government into considering amendment or abolishment of draconian undemocratic acts such as ISA, UUCA, Sedition Act, Printing Presses and Publications Act, Official Secrecy Act. Those acts could prove unpopular , and are detrimental to the nation.
So much to hope for, and so much joy i would like to share at this moment!!!
Congrats to my friends who participated the election and won the election - They are Gan Pei Nei, Chang Lih Kang, and Nik Nazmi. Well done!!! They are the role model of the teenagers , who not only concern about politics but involve themselves into action for changes. I felt sorry for Ginie Lim for her defeat.
Today is a day that would be definitely written into the history of new Malaysia! =)
------------
Doesn't these guys' statement strike a chord with you (about the outcome of General Election)?
Dr Farish Noor: The message the voters are sending is a clear one: We, the Malaysian people, have come together united to demand a Malaysia that is plural and democratic, and home to all. Let no single Malaysian ever be marginalised and neglected ever again. We will no longer be patronised, insulted, manipulated by a government that claims to represent us but actually serves only itself.
The fact that so many independent candidates and so many new faces have come to the fore shows that the Malaysian public has grown weary of the old faces, the old discourses and the old mode of politics in the country. We are now a more complex and plural society than before and we need to forge a new politics that reflects this diversity and pluralism.
We need and want a new Malaysian politics where merit, equality, fairness and accountability prevail. The Malaysian people will no longer tolerate empty promises, discredited politicians, bankrupt politics, cronyism, nepotism and abuse of power. The Malaysian nation wants the country back. We will no longer surrender our future to politicians and elites alone.
Wong Chin Huat:
The BN has to do some soul-searching and reinventing. It cannot sideline the Chinese and the Indians.
The results also show that Anwar is relevant. It is certainly a victory for Anwar. It will put an end to speculation that Anwar would go back to Umno. It also shows a strong civil society, and the strong discontent among the Chinese and the Indians. Anwar did not single-handedly do this.
The Opposition needs to find a way to work together, to prove it is a viable alternative. It has to offer a line-up for a shadow Cabinet. Penang has the opportunity to be a model Opposition coalition government. Civil society will keep a watchful eye on the Opposition government to see what it does. Will it introduce the Freedom of Information Act, local government election, and a new socio-economic policy to contrast what we have at the federal level?
Question: Going forward, what needs to be done to strengthen democracy in Malaysia?
Dr Toh Kim Woon: Going forward, the government will have to take cognisance of being more sensitive and responsive towards the people. They will have to do away with the ISA and the other restrictive laws, and provide people with the space to air their views, including through a more balanced media. And what’s this nonsensical argument that demonstrations equal violence? If you keep denying people the space, then it’s going to explode in the ballot box as it has in this elections.
Thursday, March 06, 2008
Few Days to go...
It's very interesting to hear and summarize the key points threw at the people from Barisan National. These are the few things they keep repeating:
1) Opposition has no experience in governance. They cannot prove competent for the job. Therefore, GOVERNMENT CANNOT BE CHANGED. It is not a game , hence no risk taking or trying is allowed. Or else it will leave the country in chaos or disorder. Stability overrides all.
My opinion: Yes, we do know about the fact that opposition never came to ruling position before. The reason is very obvious - there is never a fair playing ground in General Election, worse still the ruling party is using the whole national machinery to suppress the dissident voice.
Well, indeed very few of them from Opposition have experience in governance. But the qualification and the credibility of the Opposition candidates are undoubted.
Anwar Ibrahim has the portfolio of being Financial Minister - he is the one contributing to the high-flying economic growth until 1997 Economic crisis.
Tony Pua from DAP is an Oxford University graduate , with a degree in Philosophy, Politics and Economics, also a Malaysian former CEO and founder of a public listed IT company.
Tan Sri Khalid Ibrahim - former CEO of Guthrie, famous for bringing Sime Darby back to Malaysia in the legendary Dawn Raid at the London Stock Exchange. Sivarasa Rasiah - winner of the prestigious Rhodes scholarship, and prominent lawyer
Lee Boon Chye - leading heart surgeon with a successful Ipoh practice.
and many more Social Activists and Professionals involved in this movement. The common point of all of them is, they have a wide and far-sighted vision for the country, and often spell out what the country needs to change, and determine to put forward their better policies to ask people for support.
Look at BN cabinet now, who really has the credential to lead the country? Our dear Prime Minister even failed his first year undergraduate mathematics, still holding the position of Financial Minister at the same time. Tell me also what do Samy Vellu & Ong Ka Ting ( the head of MIC and MCA respectively )have got to offer? What is so good about them until they are irreplaceable ? If Samy Vellu is so caring and responsible for people, why does he have to hide the the toll agreement signed with Highway Concessions at the expense of public interest? Yes, Mr Koh Tsu Koon was indeed a phD scholar. However, look at Pulau Pinang state now, what has he contributed to the people that we could remember during 18 years tenure under his helm?
2) Vote BN if you want to have economic growth (for your country and in your area).
My Opinion: A government brings economic growth to the country is certainly a responsibility. That is something a government shall deliver, no matter which party is the ruling party now. However, economic growth still has a condition to be attached - 'sustainable' is the key word. 'Transparency' is another crucial things to keep the ruling party accountable for the people.
Economic growth cannot be used as a claim that only BN could deliver. Why shall we still believe in them while they are now handling our national economy like a mess, and leading to nowhere? Is this the best BN can do? What if people vote in BN as government, our economy still continues to drop and become worsen?
As the opposition candidates i mentioned above, why do we still believe that BN candidates are more superior?
3) If opposition were voted in government, race-riot (like May 13) is bound to happen!
My opinion: that is certainly a THREAT, there is no basis of saying that. NO THREAT should be allowed to use in the election campaign. Changing government, needs not to be afraid, it is a norm in many democratic countries. Opposition front coalition would discard all the racism doctrine used and abused by BN. Malaysia is thus given hope to become more tolerant to multiracial and multicultural society. People will live harmony with each other without fanning with racist remarks, if opposition manifesto based on equality is followed.
What opposition has to prepare and beware is, the possibility that certain quarters of BN party would lash out the last resort to save the party from disgrace, if they cannot accept the election result.
4)Bn would do anything to defame the opposition's party leaders using the whole state machinery, without giving space for them to defend themselves. They try to get away with it.
My opinion: That is why i always endorse and advocate Freedom of Press in Malaysia. The whole society will not be mature enough in thinking and make their judgment, if they are not exposed to balance views and debate from both side. NOT THE OTHER WAY ROUND. Maybe many would still be mislead by what the Mainstream Media said, and affect their decision. BN just take the advantage over the inability of average society member to have critical thinking.
What is so bad about opposition's party leaders? Come on and have a televised debate from both side, like how other democratic countries do, see if people are convinced?
Opposition in Malaysia is always doing things out of their conscience, and their real political belief to serve the people. They are already so brave to go out there to face the unknown risk and tantamount pressure and challenge of the whole state machinery. If they are not the real fighter for the country and their people, for what many people supporting them? Maybe opposition is not perfect, but they stand firm in their principles to defend citizen's rights and freedom, having guts to contribute to the change agenda (which they could not be benefited), and show the great love for the country and the people.
So the Malay idiom says, 'Takut kerana salah' - if you don't find anything wrong with yourself and have nothing to worry about, why don't you keep suppressing the freedom of expression? Go face-to-face and prove to them wrong! I'm sure if what you say is true, people know how to judge your arguments fairly and you still have all their support!
5) MCA or MIC would say the same thing: ' Vote for me, to send enough representation of your race-kind to defend your rights! Weaker representation, means weaker voice, eventually leads to more compromise.
My opinions: No use for keeping these BN race based component parties for playing racial cards to trump. Last election both MIC and MCA won the highest number of representation in parliament ever, but do you see they do better jobs to look after their respective races? If MIC does, they would not see the massive HINDRAF rally took place in the Capital City. For MCA, the record is poorer, result is so little to show yet still want to boost it so loud in the media --- i am totally ashamed by their action, what a disgrace to my race identity!!! i never send them any consent to represent me, and many other chinese.
6) A strong government is needed to take place in parliament and form a formidable cabinet. When the ruling party loses too many seats, they are weakened and render them useless to push forward their agenda. So, we (BN) is pleading for stronger mandate from you people
My Opinions: Last election, didn't we (the people) give you the strongest mandate ever in Malaysian electoral history? With 90% of parliament seats (even though it's just about 63% popularity votes), why i do not see the country is going to a better direction and in better shape to solve many longstanding problems, but instead more problems are created? Lack of wills and determination is seen too, in terms of trying to meet the sweet promises in last election manifesto. So, what is the use of stronger mandate if you (BN) cannot even deliver when you had the strongest government ever? How could we trust you again?
A good article from Natheliel Tan on why does Opposition deserve your votes, if you seriously have doubts about the credibility of opposition. The link is here
Go debate with him, if you are disagree on certain parts.
As what i stressed above, i hope i did not make an impression to you that Opposition is perfect. But in any circumstance at this stage, they are clearly the better choice for people, if you ask me. Any weakness of Opposition is still in the process to overcome. They need your contribution and support to keep it going better and better!
So, for my dear friends and fellows in Malaysia, vote for Barisan Rakyat, instead of Barisan National on 8th March! Malaysia deserves a better future.
1) Opposition has no experience in governance. They cannot prove competent for the job. Therefore, GOVERNMENT CANNOT BE CHANGED. It is not a game , hence no risk taking or trying is allowed. Or else it will leave the country in chaos or disorder. Stability overrides all.
My opinion: Yes, we do know about the fact that opposition never came to ruling position before. The reason is very obvious - there is never a fair playing ground in General Election, worse still the ruling party is using the whole national machinery to suppress the dissident voice.
Well, indeed very few of them from Opposition have experience in governance. But the qualification and the credibility of the Opposition candidates are undoubted.
Anwar Ibrahim has the portfolio of being Financial Minister - he is the one contributing to the high-flying economic growth until 1997 Economic crisis.
Tony Pua from DAP is an Oxford University graduate , with a degree in Philosophy, Politics and Economics, also a Malaysian former CEO and founder of a public listed IT company.
Tan Sri Khalid Ibrahim - former CEO of Guthrie, famous for bringing Sime Darby back to Malaysia in the legendary Dawn Raid at the London Stock Exchange. Sivarasa Rasiah - winner of the prestigious Rhodes scholarship, and prominent lawyer
Lee Boon Chye - leading heart surgeon with a successful Ipoh practice.
and many more Social Activists and Professionals involved in this movement. The common point of all of them is, they have a wide and far-sighted vision for the country, and often spell out what the country needs to change, and determine to put forward their better policies to ask people for support.
Look at BN cabinet now, who really has the credential to lead the country? Our dear Prime Minister even failed his first year undergraduate mathematics, still holding the position of Financial Minister at the same time. Tell me also what do Samy Vellu & Ong Ka Ting ( the head of MIC and MCA respectively )have got to offer? What is so good about them until they are irreplaceable ? If Samy Vellu is so caring and responsible for people, why does he have to hide the the toll agreement signed with Highway Concessions at the expense of public interest? Yes, Mr Koh Tsu Koon was indeed a phD scholar. However, look at Pulau Pinang state now, what has he contributed to the people that we could remember during 18 years tenure under his helm?
2) Vote BN if you want to have economic growth (for your country and in your area).
My Opinion: A government brings economic growth to the country is certainly a responsibility. That is something a government shall deliver, no matter which party is the ruling party now. However, economic growth still has a condition to be attached - 'sustainable' is the key word. 'Transparency' is another crucial things to keep the ruling party accountable for the people.
Economic growth cannot be used as a claim that only BN could deliver. Why shall we still believe in them while they are now handling our national economy like a mess, and leading to nowhere? Is this the best BN can do? What if people vote in BN as government, our economy still continues to drop and become worsen?
As the opposition candidates i mentioned above, why do we still believe that BN candidates are more superior?
3) If opposition were voted in government, race-riot (like May 13) is bound to happen!
My opinion: that is certainly a THREAT, there is no basis of saying that. NO THREAT should be allowed to use in the election campaign. Changing government, needs not to be afraid, it is a norm in many democratic countries. Opposition front coalition would discard all the racism doctrine used and abused by BN. Malaysia is thus given hope to become more tolerant to multiracial and multicultural society. People will live harmony with each other without fanning with racist remarks, if opposition manifesto based on equality is followed.
What opposition has to prepare and beware is, the possibility that certain quarters of BN party would lash out the last resort to save the party from disgrace, if they cannot accept the election result.
4)Bn would do anything to defame the opposition's party leaders using the whole state machinery, without giving space for them to defend themselves. They try to get away with it.
My opinion: That is why i always endorse and advocate Freedom of Press in Malaysia. The whole society will not be mature enough in thinking and make their judgment, if they are not exposed to balance views and debate from both side. NOT THE OTHER WAY ROUND. Maybe many would still be mislead by what the Mainstream Media said, and affect their decision. BN just take the advantage over the inability of average society member to have critical thinking.
What is so bad about opposition's party leaders? Come on and have a televised debate from both side, like how other democratic countries do, see if people are convinced?
Opposition in Malaysia is always doing things out of their conscience, and their real political belief to serve the people. They are already so brave to go out there to face the unknown risk and tantamount pressure and challenge of the whole state machinery. If they are not the real fighter for the country and their people, for what many people supporting them? Maybe opposition is not perfect, but they stand firm in their principles to defend citizen's rights and freedom, having guts to contribute to the change agenda (which they could not be benefited), and show the great love for the country and the people.
So the Malay idiom says, 'Takut kerana salah' - if you don't find anything wrong with yourself and have nothing to worry about, why don't you keep suppressing the freedom of expression? Go face-to-face and prove to them wrong! I'm sure if what you say is true, people know how to judge your arguments fairly and you still have all their support!
5) MCA or MIC would say the same thing: ' Vote for me, to send enough representation of your race-kind to defend your rights! Weaker representation, means weaker voice, eventually leads to more compromise.
My opinions: No use for keeping these BN race based component parties for playing racial cards to trump. Last election both MIC and MCA won the highest number of representation in parliament ever, but do you see they do better jobs to look after their respective races? If MIC does, they would not see the massive HINDRAF rally took place in the Capital City. For MCA, the record is poorer, result is so little to show yet still want to boost it so loud in the media --- i am totally ashamed by their action, what a disgrace to my race identity!!! i never send them any consent to represent me, and many other chinese.
6) A strong government is needed to take place in parliament and form a formidable cabinet. When the ruling party loses too many seats, they are weakened and render them useless to push forward their agenda. So, we (BN) is pleading for stronger mandate from you people
My Opinions: Last election, didn't we (the people) give you the strongest mandate ever in Malaysian electoral history? With 90% of parliament seats (even though it's just about 63% popularity votes), why i do not see the country is going to a better direction and in better shape to solve many longstanding problems, but instead more problems are created? Lack of wills and determination is seen too, in terms of trying to meet the sweet promises in last election manifesto. So, what is the use of stronger mandate if you (BN) cannot even deliver when you had the strongest government ever? How could we trust you again?
A good article from Natheliel Tan on why does Opposition deserve your votes, if you seriously have doubts about the credibility of opposition. The link is here
Go debate with him, if you are disagree on certain parts.
As what i stressed above, i hope i did not make an impression to you that Opposition is perfect. But in any circumstance at this stage, they are clearly the better choice for people, if you ask me. Any weakness of Opposition is still in the process to overcome. They need your contribution and support to keep it going better and better!
So, for my dear friends and fellows in Malaysia, vote for Barisan Rakyat, instead of Barisan National on 8th March! Malaysia deserves a better future.
London's calling - for democracy in Malaysia
I am not clever at delivering speeches, and i did not prepare at that time. However, my friend still recorded it down. Although i am not a part of Anwar Ibrahim Club (AIC), i would like to dedicate my thanks to them for featuring me in the video, and airing my view.
Monday, March 03, 2008
The original flyer distributed on 2nd M nite day
Disclaimer: This has nothing to do with Imperial College Malaysia Society and Malaysia Night.
We are a group of concerned Malaysian citizens. We understand that most Malaysian here are probably non-partisan, we respect that.
But, please be a Malaysian that is aware with surrounding issues back in our beloved country. Malaysia always needs your attention, to help her to become a better place to live.
As an overseas student, sometimes probably we ask these questions to ourselves:
• Why can’t I have better salary, job opportunity and career future back in Malaysia? Why do I still have to struggle for living, even though I am UK graduate?
• Why does our country’s security against crimes have been so poor these days?
• Why does our country’s interracial relationship have been tense at times and not so harmony as before? What is the root cause of this?
Maybe extra questions to think about:
• Is what I read in the mainstream media a truth? Why is there sometimes so many differences when we compare to the reports and writings from International media or the online independent news media? How does it affect my understandings about situation in Malaysia?
• What has democracy anything to do with the good governance? How politics could affect us in every aspect of life?
• How could I contribute to the solutions of many problems in Malaysia, even without taking part in partisan politics?
It is never too late to find out why. Now this is a good starting point for your critical thinking –
For balance views and uncensored credible independent news, please visit:
http://www.malaysiakini.com/ - Free (in Malay) but available in English, Chinese
and Tamil
http://www.malaysia-today.net/ - Free
http://www.merdekareview.com/ - Free (in Mandarin only)
We are a group of concerned Malaysian citizens. We understand that most Malaysian here are probably non-partisan, we respect that.
But, please be a Malaysian that is aware with surrounding issues back in our beloved country. Malaysia always needs your attention, to help her to become a better place to live.
As an overseas student, sometimes probably we ask these questions to ourselves:
• Why can’t I have better salary, job opportunity and career future back in Malaysia? Why do I still have to struggle for living, even though I am UK graduate?
• Why does our country’s security against crimes have been so poor these days?
• Why does our country’s interracial relationship have been tense at times and not so harmony as before? What is the root cause of this?
Maybe extra questions to think about:
• Is what I read in the mainstream media a truth? Why is there sometimes so many differences when we compare to the reports and writings from International media or the online independent news media? How does it affect my understandings about situation in Malaysia?
• What has democracy anything to do with the good governance? How politics could affect us in every aspect of life?
• How could I contribute to the solutions of many problems in Malaysia, even without taking part in partisan politics?
It is never too late to find out why. Now this is a good starting point for your critical thinking –
For balance views and uncensored credible independent news, please visit:
http://www.malaysiakini.com/ - Free (in Malay) but available in English, Chinese
and Tamil
http://www.malaysia-today.net/ - Free
http://www.merdekareview.com/ - Free (in Mandarin only)
Drama continues...
Yesterday i claimed a victory. I was encouraged and inspired by my fellow comrades, suggesting to go inside the campus for many obvious reasons we could do that (try to link all of the reasons together) :
1) Public University is a public place
2) I am an Imperial College Student
3) Union Constituency has empowered individuals/ students to have freedom of expression - freedom to air any particular political views (without inciting hatred against particular religion or race).
4) Our existence there cannot be proven causing any disruption to the show on the stage.
5) Therefore i have every right to be there, and Malaysian Society cannot claim that space (which is not the venue) to be theirs, unless they show black-and-white written proofs to prove otherwise.
6) Everytime we encounter people, we made it clear by clarifying what we did has nothing to do with Malaysian Society (by saying out or showing the placard we created)
7) People have their rights not to accept our flyers or even throw it away in their free will. We do not and cannot force people.
In that way, we started our operation with a group of 8 people backing, including my German coursemate around 6.30pm (which is our bad Malaysian timing, as we scheduled to be there by 6pm). 10 minutes later, that Hazwan Hadian which i mentioned that day, came alone to confront me. He shouted: " This is MY malaysian society! This is MY Malaysia Night! YOU guys cannot do this here, YOU don't have MY APPROVAL!"
I don't know whether it was because of psychology reason with a stronger backing behind me, i firmly stressed that the reasons above, sounded no compromising. Just at the end of my last note, he was seen clearly pissed off, and left the ground without lashing out any word again.
It is what my friends said to me, reason by reason, has awaken me from defending my rights and not letting people easily taking away from me. My friends, one of them is lawyer-to-be, and another is an experienced student activist. I feel very grateful to them, for giving me another lesson. I am always glad to have friends who are lawyers, and they often remind me how to argue on the grounds of rights i have. I just don't know how and why i overlooked the situation, and be nice to people who become more aggressive. The day before was putting just the two of us purely psychologically inferior to that guy. Maybe i was lack of experience, or i did not know how to handle the stress and fear created by intimidation and aggression. That was my weakness. Now i learned.
That night, we all finished distributing the leaflets we had printed. Some of us (like me) went into the hall just to sit down and watch the show. The mission is considered accomplished, despite the fact that we lost more than 50% of audience before we arrived.
Consciously i know why am i doing what i did. I could not bear the general attitude of students , which many of them are scholarship holders, do not bother to care about the issues back in our homeland, and become political apathetic. Do they know why are they sent here, by using taxpayers' money? Even though you may not want to be at the front line for the activity, it does not mean you should avoid that altogether. We all share equal burden for building a better country! Whatever your political belief is, it is better than you have none!!! We are now overseas higher educated students, we shall be the one that our society highly regards and put hopes upon us to contribute better ideas about how the country should run and in which direction it should be going. We shall show more quality and do better than the self-belief that if we cannot change anything so let it be.
1) Public University is a public place
2) I am an Imperial College Student
3) Union Constituency has empowered individuals/ students to have freedom of expression - freedom to air any particular political views (without inciting hatred against particular religion or race).
4) Our existence there cannot be proven causing any disruption to the show on the stage.
5) Therefore i have every right to be there, and Malaysian Society cannot claim that space (which is not the venue) to be theirs, unless they show black-and-white written proofs to prove otherwise.
6) Everytime we encounter people, we made it clear by clarifying what we did has nothing to do with Malaysian Society (by saying out or showing the placard we created)
7) People have their rights not to accept our flyers or even throw it away in their free will. We do not and cannot force people.
In that way, we started our operation with a group of 8 people backing, including my German coursemate around 6.30pm (which is our bad Malaysian timing, as we scheduled to be there by 6pm). 10 minutes later, that Hazwan Hadian which i mentioned that day, came alone to confront me. He shouted: " This is MY malaysian society! This is MY Malaysia Night! YOU guys cannot do this here, YOU don't have MY APPROVAL!"
I don't know whether it was because of psychology reason with a stronger backing behind me, i firmly stressed that the reasons above, sounded no compromising. Just at the end of my last note, he was seen clearly pissed off, and left the ground without lashing out any word again.
It is what my friends said to me, reason by reason, has awaken me from defending my rights and not letting people easily taking away from me. My friends, one of them is lawyer-to-be, and another is an experienced student activist. I feel very grateful to them, for giving me another lesson. I am always glad to have friends who are lawyers, and they often remind me how to argue on the grounds of rights i have. I just don't know how and why i overlooked the situation, and be nice to people who become more aggressive. The day before was putting just the two of us purely psychologically inferior to that guy. Maybe i was lack of experience, or i did not know how to handle the stress and fear created by intimidation and aggression. That was my weakness. Now i learned.
That night, we all finished distributing the leaflets we had printed. Some of us (like me) went into the hall just to sit down and watch the show. The mission is considered accomplished, despite the fact that we lost more than 50% of audience before we arrived.
Consciously i know why am i doing what i did. I could not bear the general attitude of students , which many of them are scholarship holders, do not bother to care about the issues back in our homeland, and become political apathetic. Do they know why are they sent here, by using taxpayers' money? Even though you may not want to be at the front line for the activity, it does not mean you should avoid that altogether. We all share equal burden for building a better country! Whatever your political belief is, it is better than you have none!!! We are now overseas higher educated students, we shall be the one that our society highly regards and put hopes upon us to contribute better ideas about how the country should run and in which direction it should be going. We shall show more quality and do better than the self-belief that if we cannot change anything so let it be.
Saturday, March 01, 2008
So much for the first lesson to be an activist
Yesterday, i decided to walk the talk, to become an activist for the good cause. At the same time, i learned so much after the postmortem when i was telling my housemate what was happening. I've got scold badly by her... damn right, i shall well deserve it. I wonder why am i so ill-preparing the activity.
The objective of my activity yesterday, was to raise as many political awareness from the crowd attending Malaysia Night, especially about the upcoming General Election. We want to persuade the people by distributing to them two flyers, showing videos and do some talking, about how bad BN handles the country and it's time for change.
As my initial research and try to book an official space in Imperial College to do that campaign. First, from the Conference office, states that we could not go on with any activity in the vicinity of venue , but could allow to do it outside the Sherfield building. For what i got heavily criticized by my housemate later is, i failed / did not get a black-and-white permission for us to do the activity outside too. I also did not study the Union Constitution, to defend my every right to be in that area for doing my activity. When i was confronted badly by the President of current Malaysian Society, he was so rude and bad into swearing , at the same time, telling me whatever i do here and there needs his approval. He said Union gave him authorization to do this and that, and every attendee is his guest, claiming that we have no rights to pull the crowd away. At some point, he threaten us with calling security (which he said he did call but no one actually comes). Even though i believe that his arguments were quite poor and what he was telling big might not have any proofs behind, strangely i did not defend my rights to be there and ask him to show proofs.
Event was reached into a climax after hearing enough of swearing from a president, i said out loud that 'you are a shame to Malaysian Society'. He responsed aggressively with a swear sign and shouted 'screw you' - that was the Kelab UMNO member a.k.a Msoc President i was dealing with. REMEMBER THIS NAME - Hazwan Hadian. I wish the future leader of Malaysia could never be like him (He reminds me of Khairy, the PM's son-in-law). Two of his colleagues hold him and calm him down, and pleading us not to incite him. (We did not say a single bad mouth word to him, i must clarify)
Later the drama went on, he finally calm down his emotions and offered us a 'gentlemen' talk. At first he did apologize to us for his rude attitude. We asked him about how was things going with M night as well. He wanted us to understand something about the nature of non-political of the society, and he was afraid to associate with the things we were doing. We of course knew that, and told him we did clarify that we were not related to M night or M soc, but not effective enough as too large crowd coming in the direction. Finally we reached a 'gentlemen' agreement that tomorrow we will do that outside the campus (at the gate entrance of college). After knewing this , my housemate scold me stupid enough to take that humiliating compromise. She said (and i also believe) that our activity is no way could have anyhow affect the event in the great hall. She told me how could easily done to remove the tag of association with the society, but we didn't do it.
She actually like lecturing me about how much preparation we must do to face every situation, so that opponents could not find any single fault in every step we take. The way we have written the flyers also stir the controversy. She said, even if i want to achieve the goal or objective i set, i could have written them properly , with proper quotes and references. In one flyer i wrote about the comparison of policies between Barisan Rakyat and Barisan National, she said it was not convincing enough, as i did not actually do reference for BN side. A clearly bias argument is harder to persuade or convince people to buy it (how true is the extend, i don't know -- cause previously i thought neutral argument is a waste of time). She went on to say, it needs not to be neutral, but if i have written it smartly, by comparing the solid facts (which are quoted) sometimes could reach the same argument more convincingly.
I am not sure if Malaysian all work this way, but maybe psychologically true -- the fact is, i rarely receive a flyer like what she said. It's still a good critic from her though, made me inspired by her thoughts. That was the first time when she scold me, and i don't hate her but thankful to her.
To some extent, i have a afterthought that if i wish to achieve the same objective next time (how to raise people's awareness and persuade them into your arguments), the way you (and your words - in text or spoken) approach them is crucial. This leads me thinking about how past demonstrations did not effectively convert more people into your support (but served the purpose of grabbing people's attention). Political Education is a long way to run, but essential to lay a foundation to shape people's mind and beliefs. Strong arguments come from good reason/ strong point which have strong backing. I shall not take it for granted next time.
Next time, i shall take all these advises into my calculation should if encounter similar situation. I am so regret now that i was not well-prepared. No more next time. I shall rehearse everything in my mind.
So much for my first lesson to learn to be an activist!!! Please apply this to other real-life situations too , such as what could you do if you were arrested by Police in Malaysia unjustly or without good reason. You must know what are your rights, how to defend them reasonably and showing them you actually know how things go, so that then police could not bully you for your ignorance.
The objective of my activity yesterday, was to raise as many political awareness from the crowd attending Malaysia Night, especially about the upcoming General Election. We want to persuade the people by distributing to them two flyers, showing videos and do some talking, about how bad BN handles the country and it's time for change.
As my initial research and try to book an official space in Imperial College to do that campaign. First, from the Conference office, states that we could not go on with any activity in the vicinity of venue , but could allow to do it outside the Sherfield building. For what i got heavily criticized by my housemate later is, i failed / did not get a black-and-white permission for us to do the activity outside too. I also did not study the Union Constitution, to defend my every right to be in that area for doing my activity. When i was confronted badly by the President of current Malaysian Society, he was so rude and bad into swearing , at the same time, telling me whatever i do here and there needs his approval. He said Union gave him authorization to do this and that, and every attendee is his guest, claiming that we have no rights to pull the crowd away. At some point, he threaten us with calling security (which he said he did call but no one actually comes). Even though i believe that his arguments were quite poor and what he was telling big might not have any proofs behind, strangely i did not defend my rights to be there and ask him to show proofs.
Event was reached into a climax after hearing enough of swearing from a president, i said out loud that 'you are a shame to Malaysian Society'. He responsed aggressively with a swear sign and shouted 'screw you' - that was the Kelab UMNO member a.k.a Msoc President i was dealing with. REMEMBER THIS NAME - Hazwan Hadian. I wish the future leader of Malaysia could never be like him (He reminds me of Khairy, the PM's son-in-law). Two of his colleagues hold him and calm him down, and pleading us not to incite him. (We did not say a single bad mouth word to him, i must clarify)
Later the drama went on, he finally calm down his emotions and offered us a 'gentlemen' talk. At first he did apologize to us for his rude attitude. We asked him about how was things going with M night as well. He wanted us to understand something about the nature of non-political of the society, and he was afraid to associate with the things we were doing. We of course knew that, and told him we did clarify that we were not related to M night or M soc, but not effective enough as too large crowd coming in the direction. Finally we reached a 'gentlemen' agreement that tomorrow we will do that outside the campus (at the gate entrance of college). After knewing this , my housemate scold me stupid enough to take that humiliating compromise. She said (and i also believe) that our activity is no way could have anyhow affect the event in the great hall. She told me how could easily done to remove the tag of association with the society, but we didn't do it.
She actually like lecturing me about how much preparation we must do to face every situation, so that opponents could not find any single fault in every step we take. The way we have written the flyers also stir the controversy. She said, even if i want to achieve the goal or objective i set, i could have written them properly , with proper quotes and references. In one flyer i wrote about the comparison of policies between Barisan Rakyat and Barisan National, she said it was not convincing enough, as i did not actually do reference for BN side. A clearly bias argument is harder to persuade or convince people to buy it (how true is the extend, i don't know -- cause previously i thought neutral argument is a waste of time). She went on to say, it needs not to be neutral, but if i have written it smartly, by comparing the solid facts (which are quoted) sometimes could reach the same argument more convincingly.
I am not sure if Malaysian all work this way, but maybe psychologically true -- the fact is, i rarely receive a flyer like what she said. It's still a good critic from her though, made me inspired by her thoughts. That was the first time when she scold me, and i don't hate her but thankful to her.
To some extent, i have a afterthought that if i wish to achieve the same objective next time (how to raise people's awareness and persuade them into your arguments), the way you (and your words - in text or spoken) approach them is crucial. This leads me thinking about how past demonstrations did not effectively convert more people into your support (but served the purpose of grabbing people's attention). Political Education is a long way to run, but essential to lay a foundation to shape people's mind and beliefs. Strong arguments come from good reason/ strong point which have strong backing. I shall not take it for granted next time.
Next time, i shall take all these advises into my calculation should if encounter similar situation. I am so regret now that i was not well-prepared. No more next time. I shall rehearse everything in my mind.
So much for my first lesson to learn to be an activist!!! Please apply this to other real-life situations too , such as what could you do if you were arrested by Police in Malaysia unjustly or without good reason. You must know what are your rights, how to defend them reasonably and showing them you actually know how things go, so that then police could not bully you for your ignorance.
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