时间过得真快，现在已经在倒数2个月的状态。很快就大功告成，（希望可以）凯旋归来马来西亚。这个星期将会是我的最后一个星期在实验室做实验工作了，接下来只会在家里埋头苦干，绞尽脑汁完成我的论文。
***
在不同国度和文化，别人会给你一些印象而你自己不认为。
举例来说，我的导师（supervisor）会认为我勤力，很有冲劲和上进心，对我很刮目相看。而坦白来说，我感到有点惭愧，因为我并不觉得，反而常常想偷懒。我的好友说：‘这不就好嘛，如果他们不认为如此，你才有问题’。说的也是，我也只好尽量表现出来。相比与我同室的意大利博士学生同事和另一位同事，我的表现还算不错--也许这是这里的研究工作环境吧，节奏放缓，不急不迫。但是我听说，若我改次在德国或瑞士读博士就会感受到不同的拼劲了。也许亚洲人本来就应该很勤力才对的，不然心理就会不平衡或过意不去。
我的导师很想留我下来，作她的博士学生，只是她无法给我助学金支持我。再加上如今我的两个博士申请被拒绝，暂时我的未来还未定。我想，申请工作也需要一点耐性，可能目前在还未硕士毕业前我的条件还不是太好。助学金？我有点不知如何找给她。说实在的，我确实想出走英国到欧洲大陆（德国或瑞士）继续我的学位。我也感觉到欧洲大陆的大学较慷慨，愿意给以升学机会和助学金栽培他们。而英国则把海外学生当他们的赚钱工具，我相当不悦。这可能是现实吧，其他欧洲国家需要下更多的功夫和砸更多的金钱，增加他们的吸引力来说服顶尖人才过去那里助他们一把。我希望我会是受益者。
为什么要继续博士？不少人都会如此问。以我目前的情况，若要在我的本行继续钻，博士应该是最好的选择。我把它当作是我的学术工作之一，希望能赚钱之余（助学金里的生活津贴），趁我还年轻达到我的学位的最顶峰，不让我将来有遗憾。我本身会有趁热打铁的心态，若不是现在，以后的事很难说--比如说我投入了其他的工作和其他的因素，届时不是说要抽身干干脆脆去读博士就可以了。
***
上个星期我与婉仪庆祝了我们的二周年纪念。当天我们互相给对方的惊喜，也像是一种默契。日常生活的支持和精神上的依靠让我们一路走下去，感受到爱的存在。不知不觉中，我们分隔两地了近9个月了。这些日子说难不难，说易不易-难的是，谁不想即刻就在你所爱的人的身边？就在这里，一段感情需要理智和信念来领航。我们都有共同对未来的憧憬，脚踏实地地携手往那理想走去。也许在这年代，不少人都对感情抱着较悲观，而且相信现实就是如此。相信浪漫，制造浪漫的人也许是异数。我认为，很多事情其实是掌握在自己的手中。在生命里，每个人都是自己的导演，自己写自己的结局。不要看小自己的能力，其实你的举动可以决定命运，积极化理想为现实。我很庆幸能找到和拥有一个与我同样信念的人，一起创造我们的未来。^_^
节哀顺变，馨怡。希望你能坚强地面对未来度过难关。
生日快乐，huey in!
Sunday, July 27, 2008
Friday, July 18, 2008
DNA profiling is NOT the best evidence
There is no use for the minister or people like Khairy to challenge for Forensic DNA profiling for Anwar's Sodomy case part 2. I must regress and take back my earlier thoughts that DNA profiling is the best evidence in this case. Normally this method is quite reliable to convict the accused, when the integrity of the investigative team and the police force is not compromised -- they must be independent and professional to gain confidence in public. Still it is not the only proof the prosecution team has to produce.
It is very likely that the result of this DNA profiling be fabricated, to serve the conspiracy theory. I wonder if Saiful still has any of Anwar's 'criminal' samples - such as Pubic hair or semen in/on him, after so long he had been 'sodomized'. I seriously doubt. So, what is there to match if he doesn't obtain these specimen? The best that Saiful can get for DNA profiling is Anwar's hair. This is not too difficult for him to obtain as he is working close to Anwar. But hair sample could be used to yield Anwar's DNA too, DNA profile will be identical to any other part of him. Of course if Anwar is willing to give his DNA sample to match, it will be the perfect match to the his own hair. The question is, how can hair be the decisive evidence to convict someone in sexual crime? How do we know if the DNA specimen obtained from Saiful is semen or pubic hair (he could still obtain this in Anwar's bathroom or toilet, mind you!), not hair? What if police or investigative team just order some dodgy forensic doctor to fabricate the result by duplicating the sample provided by Anwar? This shows how easily the authority could set Anwar up.
That is why i said, DNA profiling should not be the only evidence, and not the best one in this case. I would not believe any of that result unless they could clear my early doubts mentioned here.
It is very likely that the result of this DNA profiling be fabricated, to serve the conspiracy theory. I wonder if Saiful still has any of Anwar's 'criminal' samples - such as Pubic hair or semen in/on him, after so long he had been 'sodomized'. I seriously doubt. So, what is there to match if he doesn't obtain these specimen? The best that Saiful can get for DNA profiling is Anwar's hair. This is not too difficult for him to obtain as he is working close to Anwar. But hair sample could be used to yield Anwar's DNA too, DNA profile will be identical to any other part of him. Of course if Anwar is willing to give his DNA sample to match, it will be the perfect match to the his own hair. The question is, how can hair be the decisive evidence to convict someone in sexual crime? How do we know if the DNA specimen obtained from Saiful is semen or pubic hair (he could still obtain this in Anwar's bathroom or toilet, mind you!), not hair? What if police or investigative team just order some dodgy forensic doctor to fabricate the result by duplicating the sample provided by Anwar? This shows how easily the authority could set Anwar up.
That is why i said, DNA profiling should not be the only evidence, and not the best one in this case. I would not believe any of that result unless they could clear my early doubts mentioned here.
Wednesday, July 16, 2008
Witnessed the historic debate
Last night, i would call the historic debate event a success. I still hope to see more debates like this televised for public, on other issues or topics. A mature democratic society should encourage more debates or forum or discussion on various issues. Suppressing dissent views is a tactic used in the past that proves unsuccessful in the new era of e-generation. It is a good sign that the government step up to face the public for the first time to debate on policy that affects/rocks the whole nation.
This kind of debate should be held especially just before General Election, so that the voters could compare different policies and visions of one party, and get educated in the intellectual process. Thus, they are able to make their informed decision. This is what i called Democracy in action when the people is exposed to all the information concerned them.
From the beginning to the end, i'm more convinced by Anwar. Put aside my affiliation with PKR, the party which i support (for what it worths of the policies they proposed and endorsed) and my personal admiration for Anwar's oratory, on the technical ground of debating, my verdict would be Anwar 8 - Shabery 5 (on the scale of 10). In my opinion, Anwar did successfully make his stand clear and plausible. The argument that if he forms the government tomorrow, he will slash the price of fuel 50 sen, and he is able to show where the money will be coming from, to sustain the amount of subsidies he proposed. This almost goes unchallenged by the opponent who went around to do personal attack, rather hit on the topic or engage with the new policy Anwar stands for. This is kinda regret for me. As a government Minister, he seems like having less statistics, figures and facts to back his argument up, than the former Finance Minister. He drew up his points mostly figuratively and lack of depth in his analysis of the fuel hike issue. His economics sense is quite poor, and that is the major flaw to let the more experienced person Anwar to get the upperhand on few of the crucial arguments on the impact of Fuel hike costs to the national economics growth and inflation.
On the contrary to his recent fiery speeches in many ceramahs, yesterday he acted very gentlemen, and statesman-like. His objective and message are rather clear, speaking with confidence and knowledge -- giving me the impression that 'I know how to run this country's economics, if you are incompetent or ignorant, please don't stand in my way and get me the hot seat now-- i will prove to you that i can do it'!
that's why if Finance minister (our PM Pak Lah) or at least Finance second minister come on stage to challenge, Anwar will not get away with that so easily. I think he made a very good preventive stand to state that he will only reduce 50 sen, within his undoubted ability limit. Although this implies that he did not intend to fulfill his pledge in the last General Election (this is the only qualm i had about him tonight, slightly disappointed), it is still true that he will and he could bring down the fuel price to the extent he said. It says a lot about Anwar, that he is a realistic and practical politician. He could come clean on what he really believe, but himself is a great political tactician. This kind of politician is most likely to succeed, survive and revive.
Funny enough, Shabery still accused Anwar of taking Petronas coffer money out to subsidise the people, i think he really did not pay attention to Anwar's speech just before him. Anwar stated clearly that he wants Petronas to reinvest their small part of interest for the benefits of the GLC. He defended Petronas but just criticized BN government for mishandling the economics. The accusations Shabery threw at Anwar lie bare, and makes it more obvious that Shabery might have prepared/rehearsed his arguments. Perhaps he could not change at that time being, it is out of his expectation that Anwar cleverly shifted the goal post and avoided embroiled in the obvious argument trap.
Overall, even though i did not see face to face with many points raised by Shabery, i still grant a pass for him as a government representative. He has expressed out very much the government wants him to bring out, and considers him has done the job well to impress the boss (while making Anwar appears 'ugly' with all those personal attacks). I am quite satisfy with the debate yesterday night. =)
The TV live debate was broadcast for the first time in Malaysia history. I am very pleased to watch it online after my work. It's nostalgic -- it reminds me of the good old days of debating during my secondary school and college years. At the same time, i learned that Sunway University College has sent their chinese debate team for Intervarsity Chinese Debate (Quan Bian) this year, and UPM had performed quite well in the recent Asian Pacific intervarsity chinese debate. All these events suddenly making me attached to debating once again.
This kind of debate should be held especially just before General Election, so that the voters could compare different policies and visions of one party, and get educated in the intellectual process. Thus, they are able to make their informed decision. This is what i called Democracy in action when the people is exposed to all the information concerned them.
From the beginning to the end, i'm more convinced by Anwar. Put aside my affiliation with PKR, the party which i support (for what it worths of the policies they proposed and endorsed) and my personal admiration for Anwar's oratory, on the technical ground of debating, my verdict would be Anwar 8 - Shabery 5 (on the scale of 10). In my opinion, Anwar did successfully make his stand clear and plausible. The argument that if he forms the government tomorrow, he will slash the price of fuel 50 sen, and he is able to show where the money will be coming from, to sustain the amount of subsidies he proposed. This almost goes unchallenged by the opponent who went around to do personal attack, rather hit on the topic or engage with the new policy Anwar stands for. This is kinda regret for me. As a government Minister, he seems like having less statistics, figures and facts to back his argument up, than the former Finance Minister. He drew up his points mostly figuratively and lack of depth in his analysis of the fuel hike issue. His economics sense is quite poor, and that is the major flaw to let the more experienced person Anwar to get the upperhand on few of the crucial arguments on the impact of Fuel hike costs to the national economics growth and inflation.
On the contrary to his recent fiery speeches in many ceramahs, yesterday he acted very gentlemen, and statesman-like. His objective and message are rather clear, speaking with confidence and knowledge -- giving me the impression that 'I know how to run this country's economics, if you are incompetent or ignorant, please don't stand in my way and get me the hot seat now-- i will prove to you that i can do it'!
that's why if Finance minister (our PM Pak Lah) or at least Finance second minister come on stage to challenge, Anwar will not get away with that so easily. I think he made a very good preventive stand to state that he will only reduce 50 sen, within his undoubted ability limit. Although this implies that he did not intend to fulfill his pledge in the last General Election (this is the only qualm i had about him tonight, slightly disappointed), it is still true that he will and he could bring down the fuel price to the extent he said. It says a lot about Anwar, that he is a realistic and practical politician. He could come clean on what he really believe, but himself is a great political tactician. This kind of politician is most likely to succeed, survive and revive.
Funny enough, Shabery still accused Anwar of taking Petronas coffer money out to subsidise the people, i think he really did not pay attention to Anwar's speech just before him. Anwar stated clearly that he wants Petronas to reinvest their small part of interest for the benefits of the GLC. He defended Petronas but just criticized BN government for mishandling the economics. The accusations Shabery threw at Anwar lie bare, and makes it more obvious that Shabery might have prepared/rehearsed his arguments. Perhaps he could not change at that time being, it is out of his expectation that Anwar cleverly shifted the goal post and avoided embroiled in the obvious argument trap.
Overall, even though i did not see face to face with many points raised by Shabery, i still grant a pass for him as a government representative. He has expressed out very much the government wants him to bring out, and considers him has done the job well to impress the boss (while making Anwar appears 'ugly' with all those personal attacks). I am quite satisfy with the debate yesterday night. =)
The TV live debate was broadcast for the first time in Malaysia history. I am very pleased to watch it online after my work. It's nostalgic -- it reminds me of the good old days of debating during my secondary school and college years. At the same time, i learned that Sunway University College has sent their chinese debate team for Intervarsity Chinese Debate (Quan Bian) this year, and UPM had performed quite well in the recent Asian Pacific intervarsity chinese debate. All these events suddenly making me attached to debating once again.
Friday, July 11, 2008
最近
看了纷纷扰扰的大马政治‘连续剧’，给了很多人一种乱象的感觉。主导着的政治大人物看起来真的很忙，忙着解决自己惹上或被惹上的事。人民的生活如何？安华确实有把人民的课题挂在嘴边，而纳吉甚至连说都说不出来了—被记者左问altantuya右问Bala的SD，忙透了。安华放出风声说要来个‘换政府’东马青蛙跳跳季候风，搞得国阵政府都不能专心念政了。现在做多了也是白费心机的，谁想要在不久后自己的心血被政敌抢功劳？他们现在可以做的是，干扰民联5州政府的运作，试图制造一种印象民联政府也是办事不力。我想，如果要换政府就尽快吧！我已不想听到再多的口头承诺，要嘛，就尽快以行动来证明吧，不然就别浪费新闻版位和我阅读新闻的时间（我发觉近来已对一些政治新闻感到郁闷了，就skip着读）！
说起来，目前民联在落实大选承诺方面，还未能真正让我乐观起来。也许是抱着一定的期望，所以也会比较急迫起来。我相信，若真的要显示改革的诚意，不会太难。我希望看到的（而州政府应该能做到的）：地方政府选举和资讯自由法案，至今仍看似遥遥无期，领导班子好像不太热衷。至于设立影子内阁方面，更提不起兴趣。我相信民联里的议员素质是不容置疑的。理论上，成立一个值得人民钩起幻想的梦幻内阁组合应该不是问题。问题应该还是在于民联内的各党合作基础仍薄弱，各党依旧各自为政，政治行为依然像过去在野党一般。其实我最想看到的是长期能持久性，详细的发展计划和政策。目前国阵与民联看起来只好像有意识上的分别，单看政策还未真正分别出这两个政治联盟的不同。无论如何，现在我仍确信民联会是较廉洁的政府，议员们的人格是可以被信任的。
----
聊到了我自己，事到如今只剩下好好完成我的‘大作’-硕士论文。下周我又要‘离家出走’，搬出去寄宿我LSE朋友的家大约两个月（已说好的啦，是互惠互利啦）。已搬家过的人应该了解搬家的麻烦，这次我就事先把一半的‘身家’运回大马。九月底吧，你会看见我亲自把另外一半的身家搬回来。是的，我继续留在英国深造的机率很低。嘿嘿，我不曾说我不会再出国，只是换个地方继续完成我的梦想。
读生物科技或者现在就读的免疫学，在大马最常被人问到的是，以后你可以有什么就业的机会？基本上，要做回老本行，在大马或只有去钻学术界。同样的，在外国也是一样呀，只是在学术界上的需求高机会多待遇更好罢了。除此之外，你还可以考虑进入医药研究商业机构，也是做研究研发的工作。
在大马生活如今就像‘老鼠赛跑’，薪水的不变应对生活开销的万变，对于很多人日子不容易过。月入三千在今天来讲也无法给自己对未来的保障，只能见一步行一步。怎么能让我安心呢？纵使我愿意成为学术人员（小学时填写的‘科学家’），也不想被金钱问题缠绕着。我希望我的贡献付出，能值一定的待遇，这样才能保持士气去工作，为理想也为现实。即使论良心工作为国为民，在其它的地方更有潜能让我施展抱负，为国争光。所以，在这里做个小结，因为我还不能决定在大马会做些什么学术相关的工作，我会继续留在国外以升学同时工作（就读phD就是一种工作）来赚外汇和知识。何乐不为呢，如果他们赏识我愿意资助我的一切的话。
说起来，目前民联在落实大选承诺方面，还未能真正让我乐观起来。也许是抱着一定的期望，所以也会比较急迫起来。我相信，若真的要显示改革的诚意，不会太难。我希望看到的（而州政府应该能做到的）：地方政府选举和资讯自由法案，至今仍看似遥遥无期，领导班子好像不太热衷。至于设立影子内阁方面，更提不起兴趣。我相信民联里的议员素质是不容置疑的。理论上，成立一个值得人民钩起幻想的梦幻内阁组合应该不是问题。问题应该还是在于民联内的各党合作基础仍薄弱，各党依旧各自为政，政治行为依然像过去在野党一般。其实我最想看到的是长期能持久性，详细的发展计划和政策。目前国阵与民联看起来只好像有意识上的分别，单看政策还未真正分别出这两个政治联盟的不同。无论如何，现在我仍确信民联会是较廉洁的政府，议员们的人格是可以被信任的。
----
聊到了我自己，事到如今只剩下好好完成我的‘大作’-硕士论文。下周我又要‘离家出走’，搬出去寄宿我LSE朋友的家大约两个月（已说好的啦，是互惠互利啦）。已搬家过的人应该了解搬家的麻烦，这次我就事先把一半的‘身家’运回大马。九月底吧，你会看见我亲自把另外一半的身家搬回来。是的，我继续留在英国深造的机率很低。嘿嘿，我不曾说我不会再出国，只是换个地方继续完成我的梦想。
读生物科技或者现在就读的免疫学，在大马最常被人问到的是，以后你可以有什么就业的机会？基本上，要做回老本行，在大马或只有去钻学术界。同样的，在外国也是一样呀，只是在学术界上的需求高机会多待遇更好罢了。除此之外，你还可以考虑进入医药研究商业机构，也是做研究研发的工作。
在大马生活如今就像‘老鼠赛跑’，薪水的不变应对生活开销的万变，对于很多人日子不容易过。月入三千在今天来讲也无法给自己对未来的保障，只能见一步行一步。怎么能让我安心呢？纵使我愿意成为学术人员（小学时填写的‘科学家’），也不想被金钱问题缠绕着。我希望我的贡献付出，能值一定的待遇，这样才能保持士气去工作，为理想也为现实。即使论良心工作为国为民，在其它的地方更有潜能让我施展抱负，为国争光。所以，在这里做个小结，因为我还不能决定在大马会做些什么学术相关的工作，我会继续留在国外以升学同时工作（就读phD就是一种工作）来赚外汇和知识。何乐不为呢，如果他们赏识我愿意资助我的一切的话。
Sunday, June 29, 2008
Disgusted!
I can't believe this new allegation against Anwar... i feel extremely disgusted by the political motive behind this to defame Anwar by this same old dirty trick... Do they really think this time they will make people believe? Do they think people are stupid? I'm certainly not!!!
This is certainly a very wrong move from UMNO/BN if they were behind this... the difference between allegation towards Najib and Anwar is, no one would be angry or protest against the allegation for Najib (more people would incline to believe there is more truth than not) but you will see different scenario for Anwar. Certainly not the case of sodomy, again! I'm sure UMNO/BN will get the serious backlash and repercussion from within if they move on to charge Anwar.
This is certainly a very wrong move from UMNO/BN if they were behind this... the difference between allegation towards Najib and Anwar is, no one would be angry or protest against the allegation for Najib (more people would incline to believe there is more truth than not) but you will see different scenario for Anwar. Certainly not the case of sodomy, again! I'm sure UMNO/BN will get the serious backlash and repercussion from within if they move on to charge Anwar.
Wednesday, June 25, 2008
正义无价？
对于一些人，还是脱离不了凡间对虚名，权位和利益的追求，就不问事情的对错。很多时候，不站在道理这边，就是助长另一边的歪风；顾及到自己的利益，却牺牲了全局。试问自己有没有为大局的未来发展设想？落实正义和站稳立场难道就只有一个办法？世上还是有很多现实的考量，唯独不能让自己的原则和是非判断缺席。默许不合理的事情发生，就是认同该人的做法。除非你并不觉得不合理和违背良心，不然默许或支持劣行就是出卖自己的灵魂。一些权位也只是身外物或虚荣而已，没有什么实际的好处。更可贵的是其中的意义。如果涉及的只是自己的利益，自己还可以做现实的考量；但是如果你的决定也会涉及群体利益，苟且偷生或自私的念头不能存在。若你真是靠如此办法讨好屈服权威而上位，无论如何你还是没有道德权威去领导和取信于团体。一开先列，就设立了非常坏的榜样和示范。
我没有要求你们一定要对着干。对于不合理行为，要智取，要据理力争。须知做错事的人不敢见光，最怕道理这回事。没有受到道德谴责，他们以后就会屡试不爽，逍遥法外。
正义是我崇高的原则，道理是力争的方法。即使没有直接涉及到我，我还是不能苟同有心人为了私利而不择手段。即使不是大事件，看到不正义，我还是会不吐不快。
我没有要求你们一定要对着干。对于不合理行为，要智取，要据理力争。须知做错事的人不敢见光，最怕道理这回事。没有受到道德谴责，他们以后就会屡试不爽，逍遥法外。
正义是我崇高的原则，道理是力争的方法。即使没有直接涉及到我，我还是不能苟同有心人为了私利而不择手段。即使不是大事件，看到不正义，我还是会不吐不快。
Tuesday, June 24, 2008
Original Sin of a politician (depends on which side)
This blog is written in reaction to recent issues raised by Hannah Yeoh, my constituency assemblywoman from Pakatan Rakyat. You could read the full story in her blog. In short, the incident could be summaried like this… Hannah Yeoh was invited to attend her (and also my) high school – SMK Subang Utama’s Prefects Reunion annual gathering (not-specified whether as VIP) which she was the Head prefect back in year 1996 and the founder of this annual reunion event. The event is organized by ex-prefects whom are the school graduates, as a private event. But somehow, the top two authority of the school were issuing stern warning and threats to the teachers and the current prefects not to attend the event if Hannah Yeoh is definitely a guest, or else they will face serious consequences of demoting or sacked from current positions (and other unknown consequences). The reasons they gave (from my sources) are: 1) Hannah Yeoh is an OPPOSITION politician, 2) Her presence will bring bad name to the school or affect the school’s development. Just based on these two premises, the top two school authority wants the organizing committee to withdraw the invitation and hence deny Hannah Yeoh’s right to attend the event.
From this story, I don’t know how do you look into this matter… to you, maybe it is just a petty issue regarding a private event, but the top two school authority certainly don’t think it’s a small matter to them. In my opinion, they are certainly overreacted and, perhaps to a large extent, serve their personal motive to please their ‘master’ (who else?). The reasons they gave are totally unfounded and absurd!!! First, what is wrong with politician? They are elected by the people through democratic practice, to serve their electorate and the community. They are not criminal or gangster or a disgrace personnel. I admit that, even i used to be annoyed by my ex-state assemblyman Lee Hwa Beng so much to see him presence in my official high school function, but i do not think that is in anyway inappropriate to invite him.
Okay, I see more sense now, it MUST be the reason because Hannah is from ‘opposition’? right? WRONG! Hannah Yeoh is a Pakatan Rakyat assemblywoman, which is a part of Selangor State GOVERNMENT. Oh, is it really nothing about whether from which side, politician will certainly spoil the party or the good name of the school? Come on, who is politicking the issue now? I am sure Hannah Yeoh is okay to just sit there to meet her old friends and giving her moral support to the prefects of SMKSU. She does not represent her political party to attend the event, but just represent herself as an alumni and ex-head prefect. I bet also that she did not request to be the guest speaker, and doesn’t mind to put aside her politician identity. Why must ‘mengheboh-hebohkan’ this issue? Nobody will give a damn if it is not for slick(sick)-minded top two school authority. What is so serious until issuing warning and even threats to young-minds and already-so-tired-and-low-morale teachers? Is this the message they are trying to send: Absolute obey and submit to the Authority, no questioning? It is all because of these feudal-minded bureaucrats who spoil the whole education systems. How could you expect bright students be taught and brought up from this kind of education environment and mentality? Ordinary school teachers are very little to be blamed, however professional they are performing (and coping), they are very demotivated and tired, all because of these selfish-minded bureaucrats who don’t give a damn about educational quality.
To me, Hannah Yeoh is one of the exceptional alumni, which the whole school should be very proud of having one. While she is serving in this constituency, you could expect she will be contributing more to her deeply-loved high school. It is very very shame for me, as an alumni, to see that happening. Some people just don’t see the logic.
I’m very concern, and learning that the organizing committee is under intense pressure to solve the matter. They also fear of losing too many participants (which could lead to debt) and worrying about the threats to the current students and teachers. Meanwhile, they are also reluctant to initiate and set a bad example to bow to unacceptable threats from the authority, and therefore opening the case for subsequent years to follow. Between protection of the welfare of beloved students and teachers and standing their ground, it is certainly not an easy task. I do hope everyone (especially SMKSUian) who reads and understands this could help to spread the stories and do not let ‘bad guys’ easily go through. We must stay conscious and informed to make a judgment, on certain rights or wrongs. Evil motives or intentions fear the TRUTH the most. Unless more people are aware and keeps seeking the TRUTH, evil will triumph.
Hannah Yeoh: SMKSU Prefects' Reunion
From this story, I don’t know how do you look into this matter… to you, maybe it is just a petty issue regarding a private event, but the top two school authority certainly don’t think it’s a small matter to them. In my opinion, they are certainly overreacted and, perhaps to a large extent, serve their personal motive to please their ‘master’ (who else?). The reasons they gave are totally unfounded and absurd!!! First, what is wrong with politician? They are elected by the people through democratic practice, to serve their electorate and the community. They are not criminal or gangster or a disgrace personnel. I admit that, even i used to be annoyed by my ex-state assemblyman Lee Hwa Beng so much to see him presence in my official high school function, but i do not think that is in anyway inappropriate to invite him.
Okay, I see more sense now, it MUST be the reason because Hannah is from ‘opposition’? right? WRONG! Hannah Yeoh is a Pakatan Rakyat assemblywoman, which is a part of Selangor State GOVERNMENT. Oh, is it really nothing about whether from which side, politician will certainly spoil the party or the good name of the school? Come on, who is politicking the issue now? I am sure Hannah Yeoh is okay to just sit there to meet her old friends and giving her moral support to the prefects of SMKSU. She does not represent her political party to attend the event, but just represent herself as an alumni and ex-head prefect. I bet also that she did not request to be the guest speaker, and doesn’t mind to put aside her politician identity. Why must ‘mengheboh-hebohkan’ this issue? Nobody will give a damn if it is not for slick(sick)-minded top two school authority. What is so serious until issuing warning and even threats to young-minds and already-so-tired-and-low-morale teachers? Is this the message they are trying to send: Absolute obey and submit to the Authority, no questioning? It is all because of these feudal-minded bureaucrats who spoil the whole education systems. How could you expect bright students be taught and brought up from this kind of education environment and mentality? Ordinary school teachers are very little to be blamed, however professional they are performing (and coping), they are very demotivated and tired, all because of these selfish-minded bureaucrats who don’t give a damn about educational quality.
To me, Hannah Yeoh is one of the exceptional alumni, which the whole school should be very proud of having one. While she is serving in this constituency, you could expect she will be contributing more to her deeply-loved high school. It is very very shame for me, as an alumni, to see that happening. Some people just don’t see the logic.
I’m very concern, and learning that the organizing committee is under intense pressure to solve the matter. They also fear of losing too many participants (which could lead to debt) and worrying about the threats to the current students and teachers. Meanwhile, they are also reluctant to initiate and set a bad example to bow to unacceptable threats from the authority, and therefore opening the case for subsequent years to follow. Between protection of the welfare of beloved students and teachers and standing their ground, it is certainly not an easy task. I do hope everyone (especially SMKSUian) who reads and understands this could help to spread the stories and do not let ‘bad guys’ easily go through. We must stay conscious and informed to make a judgment, on certain rights or wrongs. Evil motives or intentions fear the TRUTH the most. Unless more people are aware and keeps seeking the TRUTH, evil will triumph.
Hannah Yeoh: SMKSU Prefects' Reunion
Is Cycling to Parliament a good idea for MPs?
Hi YB Tian Chua,
I just watched your biking video from Mkini tv. As i am now also a cyclist in London (when going to university), I have few comments to make about your cycling practice. I think you guys should cycle on the side of the road, definitely NOT in parallel but one after another. As you guys were doing that, you blocked the traffic flow all the way. Furthermore it's dangerous to do so. As a cyclist, you must be considerate to the motorists also, then only they would do the same.
What you voiced out (in the video)is very true, leave alone cyclists, there is even lack of motorcycle-designated routes, exposing them in great danger too. One thing about cycling in KL city, the risk of doing that often is almost comparable to begging for accidents to happen. I don’t want you to discourage you to go on cycling, but taking good care of your safety should also be a priority. Cycling once in a while is Okay… people will be saying that what you are doing is just a stunt for publicity. Well, i guess it is fair enough, for raising awareness to public. This just prove the point that cycling in city is impractical, while public transport is still like Sh**, there is no way people won’t get affected by the fuel hike (don’t mention bout the chain effect leading to high inflation). So, what is next? Jogging to Parliament?
I just watched your biking video from Mkini tv. As i am now also a cyclist in London (when going to university), I have few comments to make about your cycling practice. I think you guys should cycle on the side of the road, definitely NOT in parallel but one after another. As you guys were doing that, you blocked the traffic flow all the way. Furthermore it's dangerous to do so. As a cyclist, you must be considerate to the motorists also, then only they would do the same.
What you voiced out (in the video)is very true, leave alone cyclists, there is even lack of motorcycle-designated routes, exposing them in great danger too. One thing about cycling in KL city, the risk of doing that often is almost comparable to begging for accidents to happen. I don’t want you to discourage you to go on cycling, but taking good care of your safety should also be a priority. Cycling once in a while is Okay… people will be saying that what you are doing is just a stunt for publicity. Well, i guess it is fair enough, for raising awareness to public. This just prove the point that cycling in city is impractical, while public transport is still like Sh**, there is no way people won’t get affected by the fuel hike (don’t mention bout the chain effect leading to high inflation). So, what is next? Jogging to Parliament?
Friday, June 06, 2008
Let the figure & fact tell you something...
Kok Fah raised a very good analogy in his latest blog entry. If you were a pork farmer, you would be happy that the pork meat price is increased. This means you could earn more. Therefore, when you go to market and buy more expensive pork, you will not even complain a word, because in your calculative mind, you know that you are earning far exceed the amount you are spending on the purchase. But looking at the fact now, are you happy to live in a petroleum exporting country Malaysia, but the petrol price is the highest in all these oil producing countries? Is this socially just and fair?
I must clarify my stand that government's subsidy should only be reduced or abolished once they have done enough to cushion the fiscal economical negative impact. Definitely not at this stage. Increase the fuel price now is unjustified. In a few years ahead (a year or two before the country becomes a net importer) i support the policy of slowly increase of the fuel price.
Other way to resolve this, is to pay greater compensation for car users, in a bid to raise people's real income. The situation now is gone out of hands, not good for the poor, and not good for the rich either. Not good for BN government's reputation/credibility, not good for economy too. So, what is remaining good to remove the subsidies now?
Here is a clever piece of calculation by someone included in RPK's recent blog writing. I recommend you to read, you'll be inspired.
My views on petrol hike
With reference and reaction to the source of Chin Huat's good blog article 'An Unpopular Position on Petrol Hike - Real Income, not Relative Price' and RPK's 'Yes, let us get angry, but about the right things' here I would like to make my stand on the Fuel Hike decision by BN government.
In a long term, I would not support a policy of continuation in fuel subsidies at very low price, due to the foreseeable increasing market price in raw petroleum in near future. That means more money required to fill the hole in national budget for this subsidy, which is probably unsustainable in long term. I do feel the pinch of the fuel hike, as all my family members are also car-drivers, and the fact that many people especially in Klang Valley can hardly ‘mobile’ without private transportation. If the price rise is to remind the people to curb the excessive spending on petrol and become less dependent on government subsidies to support your transportation ‘lifestyle’, on that motion I support the government’s decision. The subsidy, if it is used properly, this could be more beneficial to the community in many other important public sectors such as health, education and transport. I agree with Chin Huat that it is definitely greener (to encourage people to use petrol less), and make all of us aware that petrol is a limited and precious natural resource. The rebate/compensation to relieve the pain of price rise is also the right way to address this issue, but i cannot see how this small amount of rebate could do much impact on the normal household.
Government is absolutely wrong to judge the public outcry towards this unpopular decision. The more they are trying to explain (even though there contains some truth within), but to many people, the more they sound like shouldering the burden to the people when they refuse to take the responsibility of the mismanagement of the economy all these whiles. If our living standard and average household income are on par with South Korean or Singaporean, we would probably just grudge and mumble few (Malaysian famous last) words when paying the petrol for the first month, and get used to it very soon. Now whatever the reason the government given to ‘educate’ people would just sound hypocrisy, certainly will not dampen their outrage now. The root cause of this problem is not about the petrol price. The lack of good transportation alternatives and poor transport system planning, relatively lower real income and purchasing power of the ordinary middle-class citizen, and the recent inflation rate, are among the factors that disappoint and depress most of Malaysians. Current salary/wage level just undermine the input, the talent and the contribution of most of the citizen to Malaysia’s economy. First, they don’t really deserve to become poorer because of rather lousy government’s economic management. In passing years, all I heard about ordinary citizens’ complaint that their effective income drops, salary cannot catch up with the inflation rate, life is more difficult here in Malaysia nowadays. It is very sad to hear this, because it’s not their fault. Maybe some people would ask, why are we paying more while we are still a net petroleum exporter country? What kind of benefits do we get out of that? How come Venezuela, a poorer country than Malaysia is, could afford to support the subsidy at a level many would never imagine to be paying for one litter of Petrol (which is currently about 17 times cheaper than Malaysia)? Although I’m not a supporter of fuel subsidy in the long run, those are still many valid questions to ask and demand good answers from the government. Have the government done enough to cater for the welfare of ordinary citizen?
Here I would like to highlight the issue of the long term non-transparency and non-accountability of the national petroleum and gas government-linked-company PETRONAS to the mass public, since their first operation. I read articles somewhere before, about the curse of countries rich in natural resources. These natural resources never really translate into the prosperity that their people dream of. Africa continent has many countries are/were rich in minerals and even the most valuable diamond, but the human greed/corruption takes all, nothing left for the general poor citizen. Worse still, people are/were suffering more for that because of the never-ending civil wars to fight for the limited resources. If you watch the movie ‘Blood Diamond’, it will inspire you to realize how important is the existence of good democratic transparent accountable institutions when comes to the management of national wealth and economic planning for future. I always wonder why not many people would care about what is happening with Petronas and where igs the money (3 trillion RM) gone or spent? All the expenditure/wastage spent on mega-white-elephant projects by Petronas– KLCC, Putrajaya, KLIA, F1 circuit, how many actually contribute the direct benefits to the people in the end? Not long ago I read about the expenditure to keep Malaysian Philharmonic Orchestra, paid by Petronas, is so ridiculous. This is just another showcase of wastage. Imagine if Petronas’ account is open to public scrutiny, and all the stakeholders would have the influence/say on the important decision of the company’s investment, wouldn’t the precious petroleum resource already enriched us and transformed us to an advanced nation status?
The price to pay for keeping an incompetent government is just too much. Now people are struggling to live, and bear enough of the suffering! Nevermind the price hike, people’s grouse cannot be unheard. I would support any movement to make Petronas to be accountable to people/parliament, good transport system planning and other compensations (that people deserve) to relieve people’s living pressure. Current rebate is just too little to help! Review the sudden spike of price rise is necessary. Price control / subsidy at this stage is still reasonable, judging on the massive revenue generated from Petronas because of the increasing price per oil barrel. People deserve to have a share of the benefits. A caring government must give its people ample time to slowly adapt to the new reality, step by step, while working hard to look for other alternative plans to improve the current transport situation and to control the inflation rate.
In a long term, I would not support a policy of continuation in fuel subsidies at very low price, due to the foreseeable increasing market price in raw petroleum in near future. That means more money required to fill the hole in national budget for this subsidy, which is probably unsustainable in long term. I do feel the pinch of the fuel hike, as all my family members are also car-drivers, and the fact that many people especially in Klang Valley can hardly ‘mobile’ without private transportation. If the price rise is to remind the people to curb the excessive spending on petrol and become less dependent on government subsidies to support your transportation ‘lifestyle’, on that motion I support the government’s decision. The subsidy, if it is used properly, this could be more beneficial to the community in many other important public sectors such as health, education and transport. I agree with Chin Huat that it is definitely greener (to encourage people to use petrol less), and make all of us aware that petrol is a limited and precious natural resource. The rebate/compensation to relieve the pain of price rise is also the right way to address this issue, but i cannot see how this small amount of rebate could do much impact on the normal household.
Government is absolutely wrong to judge the public outcry towards this unpopular decision. The more they are trying to explain (even though there contains some truth within), but to many people, the more they sound like shouldering the burden to the people when they refuse to take the responsibility of the mismanagement of the economy all these whiles. If our living standard and average household income are on par with South Korean or Singaporean, we would probably just grudge and mumble few (Malaysian famous last) words when paying the petrol for the first month, and get used to it very soon. Now whatever the reason the government given to ‘educate’ people would just sound hypocrisy, certainly will not dampen their outrage now. The root cause of this problem is not about the petrol price. The lack of good transportation alternatives and poor transport system planning, relatively lower real income and purchasing power of the ordinary middle-class citizen, and the recent inflation rate, are among the factors that disappoint and depress most of Malaysians. Current salary/wage level just undermine the input, the talent and the contribution of most of the citizen to Malaysia’s economy. First, they don’t really deserve to become poorer because of rather lousy government’s economic management. In passing years, all I heard about ordinary citizens’ complaint that their effective income drops, salary cannot catch up with the inflation rate, life is more difficult here in Malaysia nowadays. It is very sad to hear this, because it’s not their fault. Maybe some people would ask, why are we paying more while we are still a net petroleum exporter country? What kind of benefits do we get out of that? How come Venezuela, a poorer country than Malaysia is, could afford to support the subsidy at a level many would never imagine to be paying for one litter of Petrol (which is currently about 17 times cheaper than Malaysia)? Although I’m not a supporter of fuel subsidy in the long run, those are still many valid questions to ask and demand good answers from the government. Have the government done enough to cater for the welfare of ordinary citizen?
Here I would like to highlight the issue of the long term non-transparency and non-accountability of the national petroleum and gas government-linked-company PETRONAS to the mass public, since their first operation. I read articles somewhere before, about the curse of countries rich in natural resources. These natural resources never really translate into the prosperity that their people dream of. Africa continent has many countries are/were rich in minerals and even the most valuable diamond, but the human greed/corruption takes all, nothing left for the general poor citizen. Worse still, people are/were suffering more for that because of the never-ending civil wars to fight for the limited resources. If you watch the movie ‘Blood Diamond’, it will inspire you to realize how important is the existence of good democratic transparent accountable institutions when comes to the management of national wealth and economic planning for future. I always wonder why not many people would care about what is happening with Petronas and where igs the money (3 trillion RM) gone or spent? All the expenditure/wastage spent on mega-white-elephant projects by Petronas– KLCC, Putrajaya, KLIA, F1 circuit, how many actually contribute the direct benefits to the people in the end? Not long ago I read about the expenditure to keep Malaysian Philharmonic Orchestra, paid by Petronas, is so ridiculous. This is just another showcase of wastage. Imagine if Petronas’ account is open to public scrutiny, and all the stakeholders would have the influence/say on the important decision of the company’s investment, wouldn’t the precious petroleum resource already enriched us and transformed us to an advanced nation status?
The price to pay for keeping an incompetent government is just too much. Now people are struggling to live, and bear enough of the suffering! Nevermind the price hike, people’s grouse cannot be unheard. I would support any movement to make Petronas to be accountable to people/parliament, good transport system planning and other compensations (that people deserve) to relieve people’s living pressure. Current rebate is just too little to help! Review the sudden spike of price rise is necessary. Price control / subsidy at this stage is still reasonable, judging on the massive revenue generated from Petronas because of the increasing price per oil barrel. People deserve to have a share of the benefits. A caring government must give its people ample time to slowly adapt to the new reality, step by step, while working hard to look for other alternative plans to improve the current transport situation and to control the inflation rate.
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