An offer you just can't refuse!

An offer you just can't refuse. Yes that's the tag line for this property. It is located within Taman Stutong Jaya and it is very well kept. Comes with 7 air conds, alarms system, belian timber decks all done already, wet kitchen all done already and furthermore, the land is 15 points.

The house can be considered fully furnished and all you have to do is just bring your luggage and move in. probably have to buy some TV or Audio system but other than that, its more or less complete.

Honestly I didn't see the BBQ machine as shown above when I was there but then again, at this price who can ask for more.

Interested??? Call Ken on 019-8867688.

So there you have it, a property not to be missed for those looking for a nice place to call home.

Cheers!!!

Fresh Polls In Perak? It's About Time!

"The consensus that is emerging today among Barisan Nasional (BN) leaders is that even if the court of appeal rules in its favour this Thursday, it will still ask the Sultan of Perak to dissolve the state assembly to pave the way for fresh polls.

The Malaysian Insider understands that the Perak constitutional crisis was a major item on the agenda at today’s supreme council meeting of the ruling coalition.

The rationale for such a move is that the ruling coalition stands to lose more credibility and that perception that it is the villain in the Perak power grab would only grow.

A number of BN leaders told The Malaysian Insider that the Pakatan Rakyat (PR) had been effective in painting BN as the usurpers of power." from The Malaysian Insider

It appears that BN is finally coming to realise the damage the Perak Crisis has caused them. In order for them to salvage whatever dignity and pride left for BN, they must adhere to the pressure of the Rakyat. I think most Malaysians feel that fresh polls is the only way to solve the Perak crisis. Win or loose both BN and PKR must move on and do what they were elected for in the first place and that is to Serve The Rakyat. Publish Post

That's my two cents worth on this issue! Happy blogging.

Best Malaysian Success Story

Below is an interesting life story of a young man from Sarawak. I think he deserves credit for what he has achieved and for the way he treated the HR Lady. 

Posted by the guy name is Sii Hoi Chan, he live in Kenyalang on April 23, 2009 at 12:18:06: 

I was 18 in 1997, I came home half complete my high school in England because my father was bankrupted.

He was a contractor, bankrupted because the licensee, taib's uncle defaulted on paying royalty to the Government. Pocketed all the money my father gave.

Together with 6 of my friends we went to Komat in Sama Jaya to look for jobs as they only required MCE. To help out the family.

The HR lady was an Iban, on our turn she refused to give us application forms, demanded our qualifications. Without even understanding us, we were turned away. On further enquiry from us, she said, the 250 posts were all filled. It was 10.25am and the application counter just opened at 9.30am. Asked the guard to show us out. Komat repeated publication for the posts for another week. We went back again and again were rejected. This time she asked us to look for jobs in China.

My uncle promptly help the six of us to look for jobs from his contacts. Ironically, we all ended up in Shenzhen China, working in a micro circuit board plant. We were trained by the American to be testers as we know English. We did well, did so well that within 4 years, we developed a special test using Argon emission from induced current. Testing the board even more thoroughly and 40+ times the efficiency we were doing.

After a few months of trial, the company decided to subcontract all their circuitboard testing to us using the new testing system and they got the test done at a fraction of their cost doing it manually.

Within 3 years, we are testing all the ciruit board of all the companies in Shenzhen then.

BELIEVE ME, WE ARE EACH NETTING 2 TO 3 MILLIONS USD A YEAR.

We spread to include contract in a lot of companies of China, US, Germany and Finland.

We now employed 7600 people and 1600 from Sarawak. Bumiputra or non-bumiputra who made the grade we after.

Why I am writting this?

Today my company had been operating in Penang for 6 months. We are employing 200 staffs.

I was interviewing the senior staffs for the job.

One of the person that came in for the interview was this Iban lady from Komat 10+ years ago. The lady who turned me away, the lady who told me I am not eligible for the job, the lady who told me the posts were filled when yet to select the first applicant of 250 and the lady who asked me to go to China to look for a job.

I had the satisfaction to tell her all these if I wanted to. Instead I listerned to all her talked about how great she had done in her former employment and now she was out on a huge VSS. How well she will do for me with her experience and how much she like to work for Chinese boss. she said she is the daugther of an influential Bumiputra man and her husband doing well in business. I let her raved on with her diatribe.

Finally, when she realised she the one doing all the talking and I was not even asking questions, she stopped.

I finally said, I know her. She was shocked, for now I was properly suited up and not in T-shirt and jean the first time we met.

I simply said, I like to thank her for asking me to go back to China to look for work. I did, I made it and what she is seeing today and the brochure I placed infront of her is in fact the SUCCESS from disgust and disappointment of being a Malaysian Chinese.

She was murmuring to herself. I told her, she will get a job from me but not as the senior HR, not as the assisstant HR but as an assistant to the assistant HR. She was shocked, happy and almost cry. Then she confessed that her husband was bankrupted and her 3 children had to be in the care of her sister.

I told her, she meant nothing to me, her race meant nothing to me, what she had done also meant nothing to me; the insult, the frustration the anguish of a young man trying to help his father. She like anyone, she get her job done or out like anybody. I told her, I do not care for YBs, Bumi policies or business opportunities in Malaysia. I do not need Malaysia.

I CAME BECAUSE I AM BEGGED TO COME, BY THE GOVERNMENT OF MALAYSIA. 

The morale of this story is what comes around goes around in life. No matter what we do, someone is always taking notes and one day.... maybe just one day, these notes will be used as a reference on each and every one of us.

Ok that's my note for today!

CONFIRMED! BN AVOIDING PKR IN PENANTI

It has finally been confirmed by our PM that BN will not be contesting in the Penanti by election. Many are not surprised by this decision and in fact BN made the right choice since they know for sure that they will loose to PKR. However, that does not mean that PKR will win hands down because I am sure there will be some "independants" who will be putting up a fight for the Dun\ seat. Now I am just wondering what Dr. M is going to say tomorrow morning about this news! 

It is becoming more and more obvious to UMNO that BN is loosing its grip on the people. As time goes by and with all the "UMNO Businesses" going on, it is only a matter of time before every peace loving Malaysians will stand up and make their vote count. By then no amount of vote buying will change the outcome of any election. People are beginning to realise that they have been given the short end of the stick all these while.

So people... it's time for us to think really hard and actually exercise our rights for the sake of our future. If we still sit around and do nothing, then we have only ourselves to blame. We need to remind the Government of the old saying, "By The People & For The People." 

Ambiga Sreenevasan with Hillary Clinton and Michelle Obama

US Secretary of State, Hillary Clinton, and First Lady, Michelle Obama, give away the Scretary of State Award for International Women of Courage to Malaysia's Ambiga Sreenevasan (Malaysian Bar Council) at the State Department in Washington.

Now this is what I really call a Malaysian getting an award that she truly deserves. However, it is sad to note that this event was not really highlighted by our local media. So alot of peolpe send emails telling all their friends on this wonderful and proud moment.

Anyway, less and less people read the local newspapers these days. More and more people are turning to the alternative media to get unbiased news about what is really happening in this country. I am sure in time to come, people will fully switch over to the alternative media. I am only putting on this picture as a show of support for those deserving Malaysians who are trying to do something for the betterment of this country. We have to think about the future of our younger generations. So Bravo Ambiga and please keep up the good work!

BYE BYE ELECTIONS

Many Malaysians can't wait to see what the outcome will be for the coming By Elections or should I say Bye Bye Elections.  It is going to be very interesting to see how the people will vote after hearing arguments from both sides.  Money Politics, Murders, Kidnapping, Defections, Oppressions, Detentions.... Macam Macam Ada!!!!  Just like Astro!

Right now PR seems to be in the lead and they are the favorite to win all three seats.  Many from BN knows this but they are keeping their fingers, legs and what not crossed and hoping for the best.  Perhaps the Bye Bye Election phrasing is meant for BN.  Who knows?  Still too close to call! You see, if BN fails to capture the three seats and loose convincingly, BN would know that their time is running out and their days would be over soon.  Judging from current events, things are not working out in their favour because they can only talk about the need to change themselves but that is as far as they get... NATO (No Action Talk Only).  They are still harping on all the old out of date issues such as racial politics.  Furthermore, certain quarters are beginning to exert more and more force and oppression to prevent the freedom or speech or like RPK would say freedom after speech.

Ok going back to why I said Bye Bye Election for BN.  The Sarawak State Election will be held soon and that would be the next biggest test for BN.  By then expect all the top guns from BN to be camping in Sarawak to ensure that BN secure a few seats.  It would not be a  surprise that even the new PM will be around to campaign as if it was the General Election.  All the hotels in town will be fully booked but that's ok, we have plenty of mansions here to house many more top guns.  I am sure the residents or landlords would not mind as Sarawakians are well known for their hospitality.  The full service provided in these mansions would even be better than those found in our hotels.  Hmmm.... what a good idea for future tourist homestay program or luxurious bed and breakfast concept.

Why such a big whohah about the a State Election?  Well that's because the kingmakers will still be Sarawakians when we cast our votes.  If the people decides to vote for change, then the whole political atmosphere in Malaysia will change with it.  Right now the Sarawak BN holds 30 parliamentary seats.  Just imagine what would happen if they do not hold that many seats anymore by the next General Election.  Before we can go there, we need to face the State Election first.  Remember that Sarawak is the only state which do not hold its State Election together with the General Election.  So we need to use the State Election as the platform to set the tone for change and as I said this will also set the momentum for change nationwide.

Ok lets look at the Sarawak State Election.  Judging by the reaction of the last State Election, the city folks have already awoken up and decided to express their unhappiness with their fingers. The Pen is still Mightier than the Sword!  However, most of our rural folks who are deprive of recent unbias news reporting still voted for BN.  Therefore, the opposition only won the city seats.  However, they have been doing well so far and their report cards still shows passing marks.  So I am sure if they keep up the good work, the people will be willing to keep them employed.  Remember all politicians work for the rakyat! 

As the people spread the news of how well PR is working to serve the Rakyat, more and more rural folks will listen with interest. It will no doubt take some time to convince people but I am sure in time to come, they will see the benefits for themselves.  The benefits will not happen overnight but it as time goes by, things will surely improve.  Once the rural folks see that they are being treated with more respect as the original land owners of Sarawak, they will surely turn around and say enough is enough. We need to stop these few people from raping our State and Country. When they vote for change, Sarawakians will be unstoppable because if Sarawak BN looses big time, the 30 Parliamentary Seats will surely become unsecured come the next General Election. Without the 30 seats from Sarawak, BN will loose everything.  Anyway, whatever happens, we must remember one thing... not all PR politicians are good either. If we find them trying to take advantage of their positions, give them a good kick in the backside as well. We vote you in we can vote you out! Always remember this.

Happy Voting my fellow Rakyat!

This Is Malaysian Democrazy!

"Tear Gas Fired At Anwar's Ceramah"

"Volleys of tear gas were fired into the crowd minutes after Opposition Leader Anwar Ibrahim took the podium in a ceramah tonight at Bukit Selambau, Kedah.

According to eyewitnesses, the police fired tear gas and unleashed chemical-laced water on about 5,000 people who had gathered in an open field opposite the PKR election operation centre for the ceramah.

The ceramah, which kicked off at 9.30pm, was to feature a number speeches by top Pakatan Rakyat leaders including Anwar.

“After a 10-minute introduction, Anwar went up on stage and in less than a minute after he started speaking, the police fired tear gas and doused the people with water,” said Saiful Izham, who is Bukit Selambau PKR election director and party’s supreme council member.

Saiful said that no warning was given by the police. The crowd began to disperse soon after but at least 19 people were arrested.

“I saw 19 people held in one truck alone,” said Saiful. He estimated there were more than 200 riot police deployed, backed by two water cannon vehicles as well as five police trucks."

I couldn't believe the actions taken by the police in trying to stop our democratic process.  How can we let the Government do this to its own people.  The police is suppose to serve and protect the Rakyat but instead they are doing the opposite.  Did the people attending last night's ceramah posted any threats to our national security?

This is a sign of desperation for those who walks in the Corridors of Power. They know that their time is running out.  People are beginning to see the need for change.  So those who walks in the corridors of power need to suppress these voices and scare those who wants change.

I wonder if similar scare tactics are being deployed in the other two areas, especially Batang Ai.  The natives there may have been warned not to show any support for the opposition or else they will have to face grave consequences if PR wins.  In fact I have the feeling that PR will win at least two out of three by elections.  However, we still need to wait and see what happens next.  DSAI will probably be arrested soon so that he cannot hold anymore ceramah until the by elections are over. Voices of these leaders will be silence one by one so that the Rakyat will not know what the 

At the end of the day, we are the ones who elect our Government. The only people that can effect change in Malaysia is not those who walk in the Corridors of Power but the Rakyat.  The pen is mightier than the sword. Since the Rakyat has woken up from their slumber, it is time for the Rakyat to exercise their rights and vote in the people they want who will not only promise but to actually lead us into greater heights transparently and honestly. 

WHAT A WONDERFUL WORLD

It is nice to see that there are still generous people in our country Malaysia. The other day I was at the Springs and noticed that Kenny Sia was getting his head shaven for over RM65,000.oo. The wonderful thing is that he will not be getting a cent but it will all be going to the Children Cancer Society. I would like to congratulate Kenny for his sacrifice and I hope there will be more donations coming in for the Society.

1Malaysia.com.my

Najib Najib....

It is indeed a good effort by you to launch your own website so that it can become a forum for all citizens of One Malaysia. However, I can't help but noticed that we can only post comments to you and these comments are not available for everyone else to see. So how can this be a forum when the traffic is only one way.

If you are really want to walk the talk, please let us openly share our sentiments with you. I think if BN wants to save itself from extinction then BN must be ready to be criticized by everyone. At the end of the day, if you and all BN members can take the heat from the Rakyat then you deserve to run the Government. Otherwise I think its time for change!

People can only see that the present Government is in tatters when it starts using the "I Simply Arrest" Act on the pretext of National Security. I think when people said that UMNO is still in the state of denial, it is a real understatement.

Good luck in your effort to hold on to power for ther remaining of this term. Whatever it is, come the next general election, CHANGE will come for sure.

Time To Come Clean PETRONAS

Pakatan Rakyat has been calling for Petronas to show it's cards on the table because the Rakyat wants more transparency. Right now Petronas only has to report to the PM. How can one man be in charge of so much public money? How can this be rightly justified is beyond me. Petronas makes billions per year and only one man has the final say on how these billions are spent. Won't it be better if Petronas in put under the guidance of Parliment?

Suddenly Khairy come out asking Petronas to open up as well. This would undoubtedly give him some political mileage and I think everyone knows it. Let's take it with a pinch of salt and say he has a change of heart and believes in PR's course of action. I don't see any other BN MPs shouting out loudly calling for the same to be done. I mean what are these guys waiting for? Who the hell voted for these lame ducks? So for now I will give Khairy the credit and benefit of the doubt. Lets see if Petronas will listen this time since First Son-In-Law has spoken.

It is now up to Petronas to do the honourable thing and show us the money or whatever is left of it. Not just asking us to refer to their website for annual financial statements. They don't give us the information we want. What needs to be made known is the amount spent on:

Salaries of Exec Directors including benefits in kind, bonuses, etc;
Salaries of top exec within Petronas;
Expenditures on vehicles and planes, yes you heard right PLANES with an S.
Expenditures on hosting functions, gatherings, etc.
Other operating expenses.

These information will then tell us if the top execs in Petronas are indeed living like kings while the rest of the Rakyat are left licking their daily wounds. The Rakyat is saying out loudly, "Enough is Enough!" If the BN Government still don't hear us then perhaps it's time for a change. If the new Government doesn't correct this problem then we will change them too. This is how democracy should work. I don't see why the Rakyat should be the victims here.

As a citizen of this country, I think Malaysia is one of the best place to live in. It is safe from many natural disasters and/or conflicts that are taking place in countries like China, USA, Japan, Indonesia, Africa and the Middle East. I don't think anyone can disagree with me on this one. However, there is one disease that this country needs to get rid off and that is corruption. I am sure other countries have their fair share of the same problems but that's another story. This is the cancer that is going to kill us all. Unless the BN Government takes the necessary steps, Malaysia will never be healed and we are all going to suffer at the end of the day.

Malaysia is a net exporter of oil so that means Petronas makes a lot of money. These monies belongs to the Government which means it belongs to the Rakyat since it is the Rakyat that chooses the Government of the day. Therefore, monies which belongs to us should be spent to improve our everyday lives. The Government must use these monies to improve our public transport system for both East and West Malaysia, improve our education system, improve our health care system and improve our basic infrastructures especially to the rural areas. These are the things that will improve our lives and make Malaysia an even better place to live in. The only acceptable way for the Government to carry out these improvements is through open tenders so that it is transparent and free for all the Rakyat to see. Otherwise, any Government contracts given out for such works may be riddled with corruptions and kickbacks. That is one sure way of losing our monies only to benefit a few.

The Government is right by saying that we have to reduce and ultimately remove our subsidies but we must must evaluate if we are ready for such a drastic move. With the recent rise in fuel prices, Malaysian are already feeling the heat in trying to balance their cheque books every month. Our current public transport is not even up to scratch which means most people still depend on self transportation to get from point A to point B. Try taking a bus in Malaysia and see how long it takes you. It is even worse if you are located in smaller places like Kuching, Ipoh, Kedah, etc. I couldn't believe it when I went to the petrol station the other day. What used to cost me RM75 to fill up now costs me RM105. That is only part of the problem because as soon as fuel price rises, all basic items starts to increase as well. If the Rakyat had the option not to drive but use "good and efficient" public transport then maybe, just maybe, we will be able to save what little we can. That will only solves a small part of the problem because prices of all other things will still increase.

Therefore the only thing for our flip flop PM to do now is to ask Petronas to come clean and open their books for the public to see. I am sure we have more than enough accountants and auditors out there who can tell us the true story. If there is nothing to hide than there are no reasons why this cannot be done. Only after this is done will the Rakyat let this matter rest and move on to other issues. Oh another thing, the PAS Youth in Selangor should concentrate their effort on issues like Petronas instead of barking up small issues like two singers performing for our football match with Singapore. Talk about issues that are more relevant so that the Rakyat will see that you are worth our future vote. Remember, not only the Malays voted for PAS on 8 March 2008. It was Malaysian of all races and religions. So buck up! Like the old saying, "SHAPE UP OR SHIP OUT!" We the Rakyat are running out of patience and believe me, we are not amuse by such actions.

Malaysia is a beautiful country but we Malaysians are not making the best out of things and before we know it, things will be beyond repair. Petronas would have lost all its monies and then what are we going to do then? 25 years of oil reserve and 35 years of gas reserve is not very much. We have to think about our next generation.

Malaysia as a net exporter of oil should be compared to our nearest neighbour, BRUNEI. They too are net exporter and the closest to us. I think that would give us all a clearer picture. Indonesia is now a net importer and that is why they have pulled out of OPEC. Thailand and Singapore don't even produce oil. I think the Government must have thought we were stupid or something. Must be our "excellent" Education System. So its time for Petronas to come clean and open up their books for all to see. Let's all unite together in one voice to ask Petronas and the BN Government to do the right thing. The Rakyat deserves an answer!

God doesn't exist!

A little bit of reading for all of us to reflect on!

A man went to a barbershop to have his hair cut and his beard trimmed.

As the barber began to work, they began to have a good conversation.

They talked about so many things and various subjects. When they eventually touched on the subject of God, the barber said: "I don't believe that God exists."

"Why do you say that?"asked the customer.

"Well, you just have to go out in the street to realize that God doesn't exist.
Tell me, if God exists,would there be so many sick people? Would there be abandoned children? If God existed, there would be neither suffering nor pain. I can't imagine loving a God who would allow all of these things."

The customer thought for a moment, but didn't respond because he didn't want to start an argument.

The barber finished his job and the customer left the shop. Just after he left the barbershop, he saw a man in the street with long, stringy, dirty hair and an untrimmed beard. He looked dirty and un-kept.

The customer turned back and entered the barber shop again and he said to the barber: "You know what? Barbers do not exist."

"How can you say that?"asked the surprised barber. "I am here, and I am a barber.And I just worked on you!"

"No!" the customer exclaimed. "Barbers don't exist because if they did, there would be no people with dirty long hair and untrimmed beards, like that man outside."

"Ah, but barbers DO exist! What happens is, people do not come to me."

"Exactly!"- affirmed the customer. "That's the point! God, too, DOES exist! What happens, is, people don't go to Him and do not look for Him. That's why there's so much pain and suffering in the world.

Good Morning Sarawak!

I thought this article is very interesting so I add it into my blog for reading pleasure. As you know, there are many who have reacted negatively to the increase in our fuel price. Honestly I do not know what the Rakyat can do about it but if everyone follow this suggestions it will be interesting to see what happens. So read on and decide for yourself.

Good Luck!

THIS IS NOT THE 'DON'T BUY' PETROL FOR ONE DAY, BUT IT WILL SHOW YOU HOW WE CAN GET PETROL BACK DOWN TO $1.00 PER Litre....

This was originally sent by Phillip Hollsworth, a retired Coca Cola executive.

If you are tired of the gas prices going up AND they will continue to rise this winter, take time to read this, PLEASE.

This makes MUCH MORE SENSE than the 'don't buy petrol on a certain day' campaign that was going around last April or May!

It is worth your consideration. Join the resistance!!!!
We are going to hit $ 3.00 a liter and it might go higher!! Want petrol prices to come down?

We need to take some intelligent, united action. The oil companies just laughed at last year's action because they knew we would not continue to 'hurt' ourselves by refusing to buy petrol. It was more of an inconvenience to us than it was a problem for them. BUT whoever thought of this idea, has come up with a plan that can really work.


Please read on and join with us!

Here's the idea: For the rest of this year, DON'T purchase ANY petrol from PETRONAS the biggest price-up driver company.

If they are not selling any petrol, they will be inclined to reduce their prices. If they reduce their prices, the other companies will have to follow suit.

But to have an impact, we need to reach literally millions of petrol buyers. It's SO simple!

I am sending this note to 20 people. If each of you sends it on to at least twenty more that's (20 x 20 = 400) ..

And those 400 send it to at least twenty more (400 x 20 = 8000 ... and so on, by the time the message reaches the fifth group of people, we will have reached over SIXTY FOUR MILLION consumers!!!!! 20x20 = 400

400x20 = 8,000

8,000x20 = 160,000

160,000x20 = 3,200,000

3,200,000x20 = 64,000,000

64,000,000x20 = 12,800,000,000

That's 12.80 Billion people folks, who will have been contacted!!!!! Unbelievable?? Do the math and see for yourself!


Of course, not all 12.80 billion pump PETRONAS, but with the hard work and network distributions, others users will get this news and distribute it to the whole Malaysia


Again, all you have to do is send this to 20 people. That's all! I'll bet you didn't think we had that much potential, did you!
Acting together we can make a difference.. If this message makes sense to you, then please pass it on.

THEY will LOWER THEIR PRICES TO BELOW THE $1.50 RANGE AND KEEP THEM DOWN. THIS CAN REALLY WORK.

It's simple - send the message along to others and choose to not buy petrol from PETRONAS

TWENTY FIVE POINT SIX BILLION people:
Now THAT's people power.
LET'S JUST DO IT ! ! ! – stop pump at PETRONAS

Former CM should 'behave like an elder statesman'

GEORGE TOWN: The Penang DAP yesterday told former chief minister Tan Sri Dr Koh Tsu Koon to not meddle in state government matters and to behave in an "ethical" manner.

Bukit Bendera member of parliament Liew Chin Tong, policy adviser to Chief Minister Lim Guan Eng, also insinuated that Koh may be trying to sabotage the Pakatan Rakyat state government.

In a stinging attack, he accused Koh of going against the interests of Penangites and called on the latter to "behave like an elder statesman".

Liew said Koh had repeatedly announced outdated information about pending investment plans of multinational companies to prove his point that his Barisan Nasional state government had been responsible for courting investments.

"In doing so is he trying to prove a point or is he simply trying to sabotage the current state government?" he said.

Liew went on to question Koh on why he was going against the interests of Penangites by sabotaging potential investment plans by multinationals.

He said it was unethical for Koh to preempt potential investment announcements as it was against international best practices.

"It is the right of an investing multinational company to decide how to announce their investments in a foreign country.

"Much as we like to leave Koh alone and accord him the respect befitting an elder statesman who has 'retired', his actions so far have fallen short of such a stature," Liew said yesterday.

He added that it went without saying that many investment plans were proposed during Koh's tenure and that people were aware that the former chief minister had sat on many proposals.

"It is, therefore, inconsequential whether it is Koh or Lim who received an investment proposal.

"It is the closure of the deal that matters," he said, adding that investors everywhere looked for visionary, dynamic leadership and decisiveness in decision-making before pumping resources into a foreign land.

Liew said it was these qualities in the new chief minister which endeared him to investors and resulted in the quick conclusion of several investment deals. - NST

Government's Cost Cutting Measures

Well, the Government is finally trying to lead by example by cutting cost to their allowances and paid holidays. However, a 10% cut is not nearly enough because if we think about it, when does a Minister nor its Deputy ever entertain anyone? I think it is the other way around. I mean when we invite Minister or its Deputy to any functions it is all paid for. Other than that I don't see why Ministers and Deputy Ministers should have entertainment allowances. That is even more so when it comes to our PM and DPM because being the bosses of this country, they are even more unlikely to entertain anyone. Anyway, 10% cut is like nothing if you ask me or anyone else on the streets for that matter. By right it should be totally cut off since they don't need it. Then we can see how much savings there would be.

As for paid holidays, I think they should only limit them to local holidays. In this way we can see that the Government is setting a good example that we should support our own local tourism industry. Instead of flying off somewhere else and enjoy their holiday with the Rakyat's money, these Ministers should enjoy our money here in Malaysia and give Malaysians the chance to earn it back. As our PM was announcing these cost cutting measures, I can't help but noticed that our DPM is actually spending four days in the UK. I only hoped that he is actually doing some work there which will benefit this country because I am sure the amount spent for this trip will no doubt be very big. Imagine the First Class air ticket, the 5 start suites, the food and allowance entitlement, the transport and security costs. All these will add up to a huge bill since the UK Sterling Pound is such a strong currency.

Finally, perhaps the PM should show the way by paying salary based on performance basis. Since the last election result is so poor, perhaps salaries of Cabinet Ministers and their Deputies should be reviewed. Afterall, these salaries are paid by the Rakyat and therefore, if the Rakyat felt that any Cabinet Member is not up scratch then the relevant "Employee of the Rakyat" should not be paid that much.

Anyway, I think everyone now feels the pinch and hence so many people are speaking up about their unhappiness. Whoever becomes the Government of the day should take the Rakyat's voice seriously and take every criticism with a pinch of salt. Otherwise, we cannot be called a truly democratic society in a developed country.

Fuel Crisis! So what now?

Recently the Government delivered another blow to the Rakyat by increasing the price of fuel. This of course affects everyone whether you own a car, motorcycle or just uses public transportation. This is because everything uses fuel in one way or another and even if you don't own car or motorcycle, you still have to pay for higher fares for taxi and buses very soon. On the one hand it is good to see that our Government is finally reducing the oil subsidy so that the rakyat will learn to change their subsidy mentality. However, the only problem now is that are our standard of living or salary earnings are not the same as the rest of the world? Ok lets just take singapore for instance. A retail shop assistant would earn about SGD1,000 to SGD1,500 per month. Food and drinks per meal in hawker stalls are averaging about SGD5-8. And when they go to teh supermarket to get basic items like Dynamo Detergent it cost SGD8-9 per bottle while for the same item here in Malaysia its like RM18-20 per bottle. Bear in mind that Malaysian Shop Assistant We have been seeing a steady rise in our cost of living but the one thing we failed to see is the steady rise in salaries for most people. The same excuses are always used such as no profit, times are bad, slow performance, etc. So it is now a vicious cycle because things seems to be getting from bad to worse. People cannot afford to spend more and hence the economy is not going to improve soon. Inflation is definitely on the rise because our Ringgit is buying less than it use to. In the end, the Rakyat will suffer yet again. We may have been told that our inflation rate will hit 5-6% this year but personally it feels more like hitting 10%.

So the Government said they will spend whatever they can save to improve public transportation, to help the hardcore poor, etc. The question I think we should ask is when will this happen and how will the funds be allocated. I am sure in the next few months the Government will be awarding new contracts to upgrade our public transport and all that. But how will the funds be awarded and to whom? Will these be done by way of open tenders? Will the Government streamline all the public transport services into one system whereby a person buying an "all day ticket" can use them for our buses, trains and monorails? But before the Government does that, the whole public transport industry needs to come under Government control so that there will be no private entity that can monopolize the whole system. Perhaps the Parliament should be put in charge with monitoring the situation so that it will be fair and just for all. Every MP can have a say in how things are done. After all, the Rakyat chose you, the MP, for a reason and that is to serve the Rakyat.

Take the case of East Malaysia, the public transport there are almost non existence. There are bus services but not they are not regular at all. So if the Rakyat wishes to rely on public transport there, I cannot imagine how efficient they would be in their work if they cannot even determine what time they can get to work or move from one place to another during working hours. As for taxis, good luck to anyone trying to flag a taxi down. One would have to spot them on the road first otherwise one would have to call their center to see if any taxi wants to pick you up. Oh lets not forget the taxi meters, in SARAWAK I am sure these taxis have them but they are probably brand new because no one ever switches it on. Until today, I have not heard of anyone in Kuching every paying their taxi fares through the taxi meter. In KK it is more organized, because some taxis actually use them so at least the Rakyat knows that they are paying a fair price.

Well since we are on the hot topic of fuel crisis, I wonder when will the Government make it public the accounts of Petronas. Since the fuel belongs to the Rakyat, we should have the right to know how these monies are spent. The other day, it was stated by Petronas that the cost of oil exploration has gone up tremendously. So won't it be prudent for the Rakyat to see it for themselves how these costs are incurred? Maybe salaries for the Directors and CEO should be reviewed or perhaps the some administrative cost cutting measures should be undertaken. Perhaps contracts being awarded should be made public tenders and should be scrutinize by a select committee which should include a few representatives from PR. I think this will only happen when our Government changes hand.

Be Prepared!

With the recent fuel price increase, there will be price increases in everything very soon. Effective immediately, my favorite kolo mee already cost about 40 cents more. So you can imagine that everything else will be going up too. What is the Government going to do about enforcement to control the spiralling cost of food? Our Government Enforcement should be stepped up and constantly monitor the situation. If we are not careful, there will be chaos soon and people will start to take their protest to the streets. I mean when ones livelihood is affected to a degree when they cannot make ends meet, they will be left with no alternative but to voice their frustrations publicly.

The ministers and high powered politicians do not actually feel the new increases because they go to work in Government cars and they are paid better than most average Malaysians. I think these people don't even realise that we the Rakyat is starting to feel that our inflation rate is already about 6-8% instead of the 3-4%. This also means keeping our money in FD will not actually increase our savings but depleting it eventually.

Today Petronas announced that they are actually not making that much profit. They are saying that the cost of oil exploration is very high. Why don't the Government make public the audited account of Petronas? We the Rakyat should be able to make comments on how Petronas spends its money to run this oil business; i.e. Director's Remuneration and Salaries, Monthly Office Expenses, Benefits and Entitlements to Directors and Senior Executives, Exploration Costs, Monthly Operating Expenditures, etc. Petronas will not be making money is all the above are left unchecked. Petronas can only make more money if they try to trim down all the above expenses. Therefore, some people may have to get less benefits, less pay, less bonuses, etc. I mean everyone acknowledge that times are bad and many companies have already practiced pay cuts, reduced workforce and reduced their expenses. So why should Petronas be any different?

Imagine a 10-20% pay cut for top executives will be more effective then laying off ordinary workers of a company. I think with these measures taken a company like Petronas will be able to improve their profit margin and better serve the nation. Share you thoughts please!

So I would think the best start to satisfy people is to make public the accounts for Petronas and let the Rakyat judge for themselves. Maybe after that, the Rakyat will truly appreciate and understand why the Government had to take drastic measures to increase the fuel prices. Only with such understanding then we can support the Government's decisions. So be prepared everyone, the road ahead is not going to be a smooth ride unless the Government starts listening to the cries of the Rakyat.

Fuel Price Increased Again!

Yesterday's announcement by our PM came as a big surprise to every Malaysian. We were not surprise about the the Government's intention to increase fuel prices. It was already expected to happen after the March 8 2008 election. However, we were surprise by the huge increase being imposed. Just think about it. Now we have to pay even more for our cost of living because before long all other items will definitely increase in prices. Where does that leave the average wage earning Malaysians? I leave that question to be answered by you guys.

Ok so the Government came up with some rebate scheme which is meant to calm the people down. I mean giving back RM625 per year for private cars below 2000cc and RM150 per year for motorcycles below 250cc is really nothing. With our current poorly managed public transport system, the Rakyat still relies heavily on their own transportation. I mean people still need to commute from home to work, sending their kids to school, etc. Furthermore, many companies have not even increased the salaries of their staff to reflect the increase in cost of living. The official indication of our inflation is about 3% and it is expected that it will increase to about 5% this year. I think this figure is actually higher that what is reported. Anyway that is how I feel so consider it my own personal opinion.

So at the end of the day, we the Rakyat cannot do anything about the fuel increment since we have no control of the decision made by our Federal Cabinet but what we should do instead is to demand that Petronas makes public their accounts. This is because Malaysia is a net exporter of crude oil. Unlike Indonesia, which had recently pulled out of OPEC, they are a net importer because their local demand for fuel is actually higher then what they can produce. How come Brunei is left out by the Government when comparing fuel prices with our neighbours?

Why am I saying all of the above? Well because as an average wage earner, I feel that the country is going from bad to worse. I personally find that our disposable incomes are getting thinner and thinner. That means our savings will be affected and eventually that will affect our lives.

Perhaps the Government should also reduced or abolish import duty for cars and the need to pay for our road taxes for privately owned cars. These are some steps which can be taken immediately to compensate for the fuel price increase. However, people who currently own cars will not benefit unless they are buying new cars but at least new car buyers will be able to benefit from these changes.

The Government should also look into establishing a minimum wage system. This would at least make life better for certain lower income group. As for the hardcore poor, I am waiting to see what the Government will do to help these people. Hopefully they will not be made to suffer in the long term. Whatever it is, something needs to be done and it needs to be done soon.

RPK

Dear Malaysians,

Yesterday was indeed a sad day for Malaysia. Raja Petra Kamarudin a.k.a. RPK was charged in court and now he is in jail. He refused bail and is now awaiting trail in October. News is that he is currently on hunger strike. We shall be praying for him and we hope that he is being treated well. We also pray that he will allow his family to post bail and come out of jail.

Malaysia for ALL Malaysians

Well about 2000 people protested in Penang yesterday because the new MB of Penang wanted to promote open tender system and to phase out NEP. This protest was led by UMNO in Penang to show their unhappiness on the proposal. Isn't open tender system a better way to go? Are Malay contractors not confident enough to enter themselves in the open tender system? I think Malay contractors are more capable then what the UMNO pictured them to be. This just goes to show that UMNO themselves have no confidence in their own people. They felt that the Malay contractors are being marginalised. Furthermore, the call for the Federal Government to cancel all projects meant for Penang is nothing more than an act of revenge. Yes, Malaysians did vote against the BN. Yes, Malaysians wanted change. Yes, Malaysians did voiced out Enough is Enough. But what funds for projects that are already allocated are considered done deals and UMNO should not deprive Penangites and the rest of Malaysia from it. UMNO should show good faith in the true spirit of democracy and see to it that these projects are all carried out transparently and for the good of all. After all UMNO keep saying time and time again that all Malaysians are their concern so don't back down from your pledge.

Malaysian Politics In A Mess

Cracks have been found in the Opposition Coalition! Why are the Rakyat not surprised? It was only a matter of time before something like this happened. The only thing that surprised us all was that it happened sooner than later. We would have thought that our Opposition Coalition would have tried to form the State Government first before washing their dirty laundries in public. DAP's respond to the appointment of a PAS member as the MB of Perak just goes to show that the DAP does not trust PAS at all. The only link is PKR between the two parties. I think all three party should just merge as one or the very least work out an agreement that they can live with. Ultimately they can always agree to disagree with one another.

The simple truth is that United We Stand. Divided We Fall. The Rakyat doesn't really care who becomes MB but how the State Government will be run under the Opposition Coalition. Will the Rakyat be the main benefactor in all the policies that are being made and carried out? Will the livelihood of the Rakyat be better under the new regime? Will the wealth of the State be more evenly distributed so that the poor have the chance to improve their standard of living? Overall, will the Opposition Coalition care more about themselves or the Rakyat that put them there in the first place? That is what concerns us all.

East Malaysians are looking really hard at the progress of these five States and will be monitoring their progress very closely. If you do well, then we can and will see a change in Government in the next State and Federal Election. Afterall it was East Malaysian that kept BN in power this time. Without East Malaysian.... wow I don't even dare to imagine the impact so lets just stop here.