Thursday, July 01, 2010

Makan angin, YB?

Sudah lama agaknya tidak menulis dalam Bahasa Malaysia. Terpanggil pula untuk mengarang dalam bahasa tercinta ini. Almaklumlah, sudah agak lama berjauhan dari negara kelahiran. Lagipun elok juga berlatih menulis dalam bahasa ibunda ini agar tidak kekok apabila pulang ke tanah air nanti.

Saya baru-baru ini telah menerima sepotong undangan melalui kiriman e-mel ke Perasmian 'Friends of Pakatan Rakyat'. Bulat-bulat saya sudah tolak pelawaan itu. Bukanlah apa, sekadar mengingatkan diri agar tidak menyebelahi mana-mana parti politik dalam waktu ini. Teringat juga ketika dahulunya saya dijemput bermain pertandingan bola sepak dan berkali-kali saya memberitahu pihak UMNO London supaya tidak mempolitikkan sukan. Dalam masa yang sama, semua rakyat Malaysia di kota si hidung tinggi berkaki panjang ini akan lebih berminat untuk bermain tanpa dicop 'orang UMNO'.

Saya ada bertanyakan saudari Nurul Izzah secara sinis adakah Parti Keadilan Rakyat kini sudah begitu kaya sampaikan program ini perlu dianjurkan di dunia asing ini? Beliau begitu cepat membalas secara 'defensive', bak kata orang putih, dengan menyatakan 'tiada siapa yang paksa saya hadir ke majlis itu'. Sabar-sabar lah kakak oi! Baru dicuit sedikit, terus mahu melatah? Saya ini bukan siapa-siapa pun. Cuma seorang rakyat Malaysia yang risau jika gelombang baru ini kini mahu mengikuti perangai gelombang lama pula.

Lagipun kami di sini tidak mengundi pun. Malah, kami tidak membayar cukai kepada kerajaan Malaysia pun. Yang bekerja di sini, tidak boleh mengundi pun.

Jadi, saya cuma nak tahu. Adakah berbaloi kehadiran para Yang Berhormat di sini untuk rakyat di Malaysia? Bukannya saya nak halang. Cuma takut-takut perangai suka jalan-jalan makan angin 'oversea' ini menyelinap masuk pula dalam badan 'suci dan murni, nyah korupsi' tuan-tuan dan puan-puan pula.

Dahulu bukan main mengutuk gelombang lama suka berjalan makan angin pakai duit rakyat, membeli-belah Dolce Gabbana, Gucci atau Prada. Kumpulan berbadan tegap berkaca mata hitam kiri dan kanan pun mendapat saguhati masing-masing seperti topi GAP. Walaupun murah di waktu 'Summer Sale' ini, janji GAP, bukan GAGAP buatan Indonesia. Tetapi selalu sangat gelombang baru ini hadir di sini. Apakah tujuan sebenarnya?

Macam saya cakap, bukannya tak bagi... Tapi cerita-lah supaya rakyat yang mahu keadilan dan perubahan ini tahu yang gelombang baru ini bukannya dua kali lima. Apabila ditanya, yang mampu dijawab ialah "apa jawapan sekalipun nampaknya tak memadai untuk saudara. Tentunya banyak lagi yg dirancang".

Mengapa begitu 'defensive'? Apa yang mahu disorokkan? Saya ini bukanlah seorang ahli SB, PERKASA atau UMNO. Walaupun nama ayah saya Abu Hassan, tetapi beliau bukanlah bekas Menteri Besar Selangor. Jika rakyat tanya soalan yang susah-susah sedikit, cepat pula melatah dan ada menganggap kami ini 'khadam' atau penyokong UMNO pula. Habis tu, takkan nak setuju sahaja dengan gelombang baru ini seperti sang memerang dungu?

Sambil menyelam, minumlah air. Ya, seperti seekor memerang!

Jikalau hadir semata-mata kerana 'Friends of Pakatan Rakyat' yang bakal dirasmikan di kota yang gah, hebat, penuh riang-ria London ini, maka apakah faedah kepada rakyat di Malaysia yang membayar zakat, cukai dan mengundi? Apakah 'Greater Kuala Lumpur' tidak cukup hebat seperti 'Greater London' yang sebenarnya agak 'dodgy'?

Setakat detik ketika ini, YB Nurul Izzah masih gagal menjawab soalan ikhlas saya di Twitter.

Azrul Abu Hassan @ Jeg Hui

Monday, June 14, 2010

IPhone 4 Malaysia


I was informed IPhone 4 will only arrive in Malaysia around September 2010 or even later.

I am glad to bring home the latest IPhone for you (Malaysian customers only) as we are allowed to reserve the phones tomorrow (15th June 2010) and collect them on the 24th June 2010 in the UK.

The phone will come factory unlocked! These phones are available only from UK, France and Canadia Apple stores.

UPDATE: Prices are RM2799 for 16GB and RM3299 for 16GB. Black only, SIM-FREE. (Never locked to carriers).

Prices are rated based on previous IPhone (3GS) sale price from Maxis Malaysia.

You can also pay in pounds (16GB - £549, 32GB - £649) via paypal to overmars91(at)hotmail.com.

Updated Delivery: by hand 12th August 2010. (KL)

If you are interested, send me an email at jeghui(at)hotmail.com together with your details.

Or reach me at Twitter or Facebook.

Kind regards,

Azrul @ Jeg Hui

More details on the new IPhone 4 HERE.

Update: Prices explained:

I am very sure my prices are fair. Remember the price of IPhone 3GS 16GB from Maxis store being RM2490? Well, in the UK IPhone 3GS 16GB at the same time was £449.

So now, here's a chance for you to own the new IPhone 4 at a price rated to the old 3GS. IPhone 4 16GB is being sold here from the Apple Store, never unlocked for £499, a difference of £50.

£50 times the current exchange rate, that's about RM2750 + deal cost.

As a first time businessman, it would be such a disasterous start if I were being unfair to the customers.

Azrul reserves the right to charge cancellation or other 3rd party fees.

Monday, May 24, 2010

RPK not in Trinity Court

I was actually really looking forward for that colourful Saturday with a total of four events about to fill in the life of a bachelor in London. The day literally kicked off with some kick abouts in Hyde Park with the guys and after wiping off perspiration left and right (and underneath), I rushed to the BPP Law School in Holborn for the Raja Petra Kamarudin's talk.

I had about half-a-dozen questions to ask him. I have been critical about his controversial, tabloid-like articles in this blog but was ready to hear what he was going to say with an open mind. RPK, together with his wife and beautiful daughter Nabila (not her real name) was greeting the guests outside as I managed to creep into the packed hall under the watchful eye of three or four bodyguards.

The session started with a video footage of RPK's wife about to receive RPK from his ISA release but it was cut short so that the man of the day could start his eagerly waited speech. He did not start well in my opinion, since he was only repeating whatever you can find in his blog regarding his detention and all. I was not impressed myself as I wanted to hear something new, something inspiring and neutral. However, the first part of the talk had a turn of event with a question that stunned most of the crowd who were his hardcore fans.

"What is the 'difference' between you and Anwar who chose to stay in Malaysia to face the trial but you... are here?"

Okay. That should balance the atmosphere a bit. After a lenghty explanation, RPK insisted that he only wanted a fair trial where the late Augustine Paul should not be in the team of judges. He also added he was actually inspired by Sun Tzu to bring the 'enemies' into his own territory, to have a fair trial here in the UK.

However, I am more of a Malay than a Sun Tzu follower that I still believe in 'berani kerana benar'. Saying that though, I am quite sceptical about Malaysian judiciary independence in which I wholly understand why the seasoned man is running away. Come on, the man has gone through ISA twice now and he is not even a communist. (the reason why ISA was established by the late Tun Abdul Razak is to fight terrorism, communism).

But still, my stand is forever like this: You can say and write whatever you want but you must be responsible for them. You should at least include some references especially when your blog hits is like half a million a month! And don't make me start on cowardly acts of anonymity like Kelantanese 'Abdul Noni bin Mus' on this blog. If you want to say something, just say it. Be brave. Stand up and speak up. But take full responsibility for whatever that you have said.

Then the Q&A received quite a blow by hardcore commentaries (instead of asking RPK a question) with one even accusing the Malaysian government of targeting his long troubled son. But I must say, RPK did well to end the session, at least for the neutrals. He reiterated his desire to witness Malaysia achieve great things with an efficient check and balance system. He recalled how he lost a lot of followers because of his suggestion of a unity government after March 2008.

"I was even called a Trojan horse sent by UMNO!" RPK claimed. In my opinion, those followers merely do not understand the concept of unity government, something that we have now in the UK when the Conservatives clinched a deal with the Liberal Democrats to form a coalition in order to be a more stable government. David Cameron (Conservatives) is the new Prime Minister of United Kingdon and Nick Clegg (Liberal Democrats) is his deputy.

"What's wrong with having a BN Prime Minister and a PR Deputy Prime Minister? (vice versa). No one should be given absolute power. If Pakatan were to take over in March 2008, (I fear) it could have been even worse for Malaysia!" RPK said, reaffirming his dream for a more independent, balanced Malaysia. I wanted to give RPK a monkey jump-clap like the one the hardcore 'uncre' (uncle) in front of me gave earlier but lets not spoil the moment shall we?

Finally, RPK has shown the neutral side of him since the first half of the session was more one sided. All the half dozen of questions I wanted to ask him were answered without me having to put up my hand and ask. That was the moment I was waiting for and I finally sincerely gave him a round of applause as the session ended.

All in all it was a time well spent. To be honest, I was quite disappointed with the crowd since only about 10% of them were Malays and most being hardcore partisan. I still do not approve RPK though for some of his writings which are more coffee shop chat or Mastika-like tales than credible information (the statutory declaration he made for example). I am still sticking to my stand that ISA should not be abolished but rather amended to only detain terrorists by specifically mentioning the terms of practice.

However, I respect RPK for his bravery and vision. Plus, he is still trying his best to be as impartial as possible even if he was misunderstood and mistreated by one side. In fact, he is not affiliated with any political parties although there is a question mark over his financial backers.

Uncle Pet(ra), do you mind telling us who they are?

p/s: RPK denies residing in Trinity Court, Paddington as suggested by some... and I believe him.

Friday, April 30, 2010

Blogging from IPhone

Hello everyone. I'm just gonna use this space to test this app iblogger to see if it works.

Have a good Friday and say no to misleading reports to sensationalise!

Saturday, April 24, 2010

Zaid for Hulu Selangor?

I have had enough hoping for a stronger Opposition coalition when PKR, with the likes of supreme leader Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim making serious blunders and bloopers by slapping his own face yet again. To add insult to the wound when a handful of PKR leaders left the party, the rakyat are given another false hope that Pakatan Rakyat will seriously focus on the needs of the rakyat under the "Ketuanan Rakyat" agenda propagated by the coalition.

With Zaid Ibrahim chosen as PKR's candidate for the Hulu Selangor by-election, it has given an impression that he was actually handpicked by Anwar himself so that the Opposition coalition will have a stronger and bolder voice in the Parliament from someone who was a former Minister with vast experience inside UMNO. PKR Vice President Azmin Ali is rumoured to be fuming over the suggestion that Zaid will succeed Anwar at the highest party level if not Pakatan as Zaid's more liberal minded way of thinking suits the spirit of Pakatan Rakyat. Sadly, the Hulu Selangor by-election has become what we call just a mere passage for them to achieve this.

If Anwar does care about the rakyat, a local from Hulu Selangor should be chosen instead. Or atleast someone who genuinely cares about the Hulu Selangor constituents. Not another parachute candidate!

I have nothing personal against Zaid despite him blocking me on Twitter for no apparent reason. The main reason I 'follow' Malaysian leaders on Twitter is surely NOT because I am submissive or blindly agreeing to them like they are gods and titans. I follow them on Twitter because I want to know them better before passing judgment. Most people judge people even before really knowing that person but you are what you say. It's as simple as that. The way you handle Twitters from your own hardcore fans, your counterparts, your haters, your elders... you are what you say.

For Zaid's case, clearly he is not a man of his word. He talks about freedom of speech, but he is unwilling to hear criticisms from the people. Old UMNO habits die hard? I was only debating the dual legal system that still exists in Malaysia with my mate by mentioning him and the next thing I know, I was blocked. Other leaders that I also had a healthy debate with like Tengku Razaleigh and Anwar Ibrahim, ended up following me instead! Yes, a little brat nobody who is supposed to be studying rather than writing this article, me.

The things you learn from Twitter.

So, that is just how much I know Zaid Ibrahim. Not much but tells a lot. I don't care if he drinks, gambles, womanises eventhough he admits to one of them. What is more important for me is that leaders should run far far away from lying to the face of the rakyat and becoming hypocrites. Yes, not just Zaid but everyone. Do not treat us like we are idiots who cannot think, who can be used by you to achieve your personal goals. You are chosen by the rakyat to do good to the rakyat.

It's not that hard to know if someone is really sincere about what they say. They have to walk the talk, not just talk like a cock.

NB: I am referring cock as the rooster you dirty minded people.

Monday, April 12, 2010

Absolute equality, absolute democracy?

I simply laughed at the hypocritical idea of having seperate coaches for men and women for KTMB trains. It is an insult to the species called 'men' implying as if we are all super randy bunch of people. Having said that, if the 'women' have now conceded that we 'men' are ALL gatal people, why can't they accept the practice of polygamy by we gatal men wholeheartedly?

The person who came out with the idea also clearly stated that it is a way to promote 'gender EQUALITY'. For me, this phrase is loosely used and somewhat misleading. There can never be such absolute equality between men and women. We are indeed different afterall. If absolute equality is what these women asked for, there should not be the practice of 'ladies first' anymore. Then, the women should be talked to like how I talk to my guy friends, making vulgar jokes at the same time. There shouldn't be such thing as a direct retaliation by buliding girls schools. London 2012 100-meter Olympics sprint, body-building, weight-lifting should then be made unisex, etc.

Men should then have an equal opportunity to be bikini models.

Yuck!

For me, the men will have their fair share of opportunities and rights based on their needs and capabilities. Same goes to the women. Not many, if not none of the women would like to be 'firewomen' or 'lumberjanes'.

There can also never be absolute equal opportunities between the rich and the poor. This is common sense. In fact, the rich should be taxed more in order to help the poor. Having said that, the poor should be groomed to be the rich not just simply giving them the goodies to be enjoyed for a short term only.

"Teach the poor how to catch fish, not just give them fish."

So what about democracy? Should there be an absolute demoracy in every parts of the world as propogated by the Americans?

I remember Big Mike from last week's American Idol. After about 35 million votes and he was the bottom of the pile, despite giving his 'best performance ever so far' the day before. If it wasn't for the more dictatorhip-style of the judges giving Big Mike another chance, American Idol, a singing competition, will be on par with Akademi Fantasia Season 3 where the guy with a mediocre voice won.

This is the flaw of democracy. You simply cannot do democracy all the time. If democracy is the only way, why didn't the Prophets Moses and Muhammad follow the voice of the majority during that time?

However you choose the leaders, the most important part is to know how just the leaders are to the people.

But remember, this is about nation governing, not your petty popularity contest!

Jeg Hui

Friday, April 09, 2010

Random Thoughts

I have been itching to write for weeks now but I only decided to do it this morning. It was kind of weird to wake up and suddenly had some ideas popping up like the malware XP Security 2010 that infected the company's laptop couple of weeks ago. I still cannot believe I fell victim to a spyware/phishing scam. I know High Speed Broadband (HSBB) is in Malaysia now but please, 'surf the channel' with care. Fast internet? Now I have another excuse to go back for good!

Speaking of going back, a friend who is an ADUN wrote about why Malays work overseas. Although indirectly, in that article, maybe he was trying to shift the blame to the 'old' New Economic Policy (NEP) founded by Malaysia's Prime Minister's father who himself has now replaced it with New Economic Model (NEM). My logical thought would be the reason why these Malays are here at the first place is because of NEP, if you define NEP as the government giving scholarships to these Malays (including me) through MARA convertible loans, Public Service Department scholarships and other Government-linked companies like PNB, Petronas, Telekom and TNB. I did point out to the ADUN friend that most of us here are for the money and that is the obvious reason people are in denial about. You cannot blame us for being a bit ambitious and greedy when the exchange rate permits us to earn a lot more. Sadly, this main reason was not included in his article and that is simply... the truth.

Of course there are other reasons for Malaysians (not just the Malays) to flee Malaysia for example racial discrimination, freedom to express, political powers trying to put their "Yes, sir!" players in various government agencies and even universities, better qualification, quality of education, laid back working culture and personal/family problems. However, lets be honest, money is still the main factor for this case. You don't have to pretend you are not after the money. Have some class, please! The Pound Sterling has gone down now like a falcon diving to its prey and Malaysians in London are like, 'aiyoh, matilah macam ni!'.

I haven't got the chance to read the hundreds pages long of the New Economic Model, but on the surface it looks good. To be honest, in principle, NEP still looks good to me - eradicating the poor not based on racial grounds. I guess what some people are angry about NEP is how the leaders implemented NEP - targeting the Malays/Bumiputras in most cases. I have heard things like, "you got this scholarship because you are a Malay" or "I want to groom you to be my successor because you are a Malay" or "the project is given to you because your company is a Malay company" and I will be insulted if I got these remarks. Since I was a MARA scholar (I love you, MARA) to do my Masters here in London, I was competing with other creme de la creme of Bumiputras/Malays. So the question of if I am a Malay for this case should not arise. However those remarks do happen. And of course surely this will breed racism.

My first thought on the NEM was how the Prime Minister can actually deal with the 'ultra Malays' in the likes of PERKASA or even some within UMNO. NEM approach is more towards needs based rather than racial based as NEP is perceived and for that I give my two thumbs up. The fact of the matter is, there are still more of poor Bumiputras (Malays, Ibans, Kadazans, Muruts, Orang Asli etc) compared to the Chinese so I do not understand why PERKASA should make a big deal out of it (and uttering dirty words during interviews at the same time). On the other hand, please, do not be angry or jealous if the Bumiputras and Indians are seen to be preferred still because everyone should know we have the responsibility to help the poor. Please have the spirit of helping people not based on colour. Poor people can be from the Chinese too and poor people here are mostly 'Orang Putih pujaan wanita Malaysia'... I am just pulling your legs ladies you know I love you.

Okay I know PERKASA talks about the protecting 'Bumiputra Rights' as enshrined in the Constitution. Let me tell you no one is going to take that away from you at the moment because Pakatan Rakyat clearly stated it in their Common Policy Framework-under-progress that it will be based on the Federal Constitution (Bumiputra rights, Islam as the national religion, Bahasa as national language etc). The Chinese you accused of 'taking over' in the 13th General Election also have the Article 153 in the Chinese-dominant party policy like DAP as claimed by Encik Tony Pua via his Twitter (and accusing me of reading Utusan only at the same time). The question is though, what is 'Bumiputra rights'?

I did ask DAP leaders Encik Lim Kit Siang and Encik Tony Pua (since the latter claimed, I quote "your 153" is in his party's policy) what is their interpretation of 'Special Bumiputra rights'. What are these rights? Both however, did not answer despite asking them three times politely! Maybe it was such a hard question for Non-Bumi dominant party leaders like DAP that they refused to answer.

I myself do not have the answer. I am not going to ask the same question to the UMNO leaders because their answer will turn out to be the obvious. But I am not generalising. Some may have different perspective regarding Article 153. I do want to make my own interpretation however. When we talk about safeguarding the rights of the indigenous people under Article 153 I will start to imagine the plight of the Red Indians in the States, the Africans of the then Apartheid South Africa and the aborigines/Torres Strait Islanders of Australia. In a way, Article 153 should be seen as a priority measure to keep the original people's identity, customs, possessions and general happiness in tact. Oh now please, I am NOT saying the rest are 'pendatang' and should be sent out of the country. Their identity should be protected too. But ultimately, we do not want Malaysia to be perceived as 'Little China' like Singapore or second, crazier England like the States while the minority or the original people will somehow lose their centuries old identities.

What makes Malaysia great is that we are allowed to keep our various identities of all different races and religions under one roof. Plus, everyone should live in harmony and respect each other. They should not see a Malay blogger as a racist UMNO cyber trooper who reads Utusan only, a Chinese who is always a rich towkeh and cheat people money, an Indian who only can cook curry and poor, a Sikh who must only don the turban (when you know the women must not) or Sabahans and Sarawakans live in the jungle. They should really know and respect each other. Even wearing the non-type traditional costumes wouldn't hurt but cool! People go to the same one school... This is what I call the ultimate Malaysian dream.

Speaking of identity, Deputy Prime Minister Tan Sri Muhyiddin Yassin was given the acid 1Malaysia test by Encik Lim Kit Siang by asking him if he is a Malay first or a Malaysian first. If you read the concept of 1Malaysia properly, people should see themselves as Malaysians first. I know our DPM is only safeguarding the Malay support that he has via UMNO, but if you ask me if I am a Malaysian first, I will say no. I am indeed a Muslim first and the rest like being a Malay, Malaysian, Arsenal fan, KL-Selangor born and bred, rock star wannabe will only come second, and will always be. No, I am not a kopiah wearing, 'holier than thou' kind of guy but I strictly believe Islam covers everything that is inside the world and also the afterlife so that is why I should be Muslim first.

I don't know about you guys but this is not about me. I am just a skinny guy trying to make a living (famous tagline in KMYS). The point I am making is that it is okay to be what you want to be and to keep your identity however you like. It does not necessarily have to be which one is first, or second, or last. It's your choice, really.

Finally, I would like to take this opportunity to also send the words of comfort and condolences to the families of Sibu MP Datuk Robert Lau and Hulu Langat MP Datuk Dr. Zainal and I hope the leaders from both factions don't get too excited about the upcoming by-elections when it is really a time for us to mourn or atleast say some prayers.

Jeg Hui

Wednesday, March 31, 2010

Congrats, boys and girls


Here is the list of 30 SPM 2009 top-achievers. They are awarded the inaugural National Scholarship Award.
Gladys Tan Yee Kim (SMK Green Road, Kuching)
Grace Kiew Sze-Ern (SMK Perempuan Sri Aman, Petaling Jaya),
Khadijah Ahmad Jais (SM Agama Persekutuan, Labu),
Akmal Hidayat Sabri (SMK Derma, Kangar),
Syamilah Mahali (Kolej Tunku Kurshiah, Seremban),
Amelia Lee Wei Ling (SMK Taman Melawati, Gombak),
Nur Syuhadah Muhamad (SM Sains Tengku Muhammad Faris Petra, Kota Baharu)
Lai Yin Kwin (SMK Tinggi Melaka),
Corinne Gunn Huey Min (SMK Taman Melawati, Gombak),
Hu May Khei (SMK Convent, Taiping);
Muhammad Amal Aiman Mohd Yusof (MRSM Kota Baharu),
Kuah Jia Ying (SMK Bukit Jambul, Pulau Pinang),
Chean Chung Shen (SMK Methodist (ACS) Sitiawan),
Ahmad Zhafir Zulkfli@Zulkifli (SBPI Temerloh),
Goh Diangde (SMK Derma, Kangar),
Ameenah Azman (Kolej Tunku Kurshiah, Seremban),
Erin Chuah Wei Yen (SMK Seri Bintang Utara, Kuala Lumpur),
Mohamad Syukri Azmi (MRSM Kota Baharu),
Muhammad Syafiq Kamarulzaman (SBPI Selandar),
Neelam Devi Nath (SMK Buloh Kasap, Segamat);
Ooi Hui Lynn (SMK Convent Green Lane, Pulau Pinang),
Nurliyana Sanusi (MRSM Kota Baharu),
Gan Li Fang (SMK Tun Mamat, Tangkak),
Muhammad Sallehuddin Mansor (SMK Matang, Perak),
Muhammad Izzat Solihuddin (MRSM Tun Ghafar Baba),
Nurizzati Zainal Nazeri (Kolej Yayasan Saad, Melaka),
Khairunnisa Che Bahrun (Maahad Ahmadi, Tanah Merah),
Nurulaida Mohd Darus (SBPI Jempol, Negeri Sembilan),
Loh Sook Yin (SMK Tinggi St David, Melaka)
Malathy a/p Balakrishnan (SMK Ibrahim, Sungai Petani).
Now, do not mess up like I did. Make us all proud.
Some notes:
50% Malays, 43% Chinese and 7% Indians.
1 from Private School (KYSM)
2 from Sekolah Agama
9 from SBP and MRSM
The rest from Sekolah Kebangsaan
0 from SMJK

Thursday, March 25, 2010

Is Nizar the One

Knowing I was going to be late, I was literally striding like an Olympian to the Pippard Lecture theatre, Imperial College to hear ex-Chief Minister of Perak, Datuk Seri Nizar Jamaluddin. However, I guess I have to get used to YBs turning up late these days, previous experience with the Seri Setia ADUN has somewhat supported this trend. Nizar was like 45 minutes late and during that time, I managed to turn my little town into a 1,000,000 populated megacity (Simcity lah!), finished off yesterday's leftover and chatted with an ACCA girl who is an avid fan of Malaysian politics.

Finally, I could see Nizar being greeted and welcomed by enthusiasts and me, wanting to keep myself calm and composed shook his hands and he asked me if I was a student here. Yes, someone thinks I look young! I'm still getting used to the fact that people do grow old and this guy here just gave me the greatest compliment I could have asked for during my torrid time as an under worked analyst in London. So far so good.

Nizar started off apolitically by reciting the verses from the Quraan, since the crowd being mostly of non-Muslims. He referred to the verse telling us not to conceal the truth and another one about loving one another of different races (Quraan 49:13). He then gave the typical greetings to the members of the floor in four different languages (Arab, English, Mandarin (I think) and Tamil) and so, the political talk has officially begun! He should have just used the Arab version "Assalaamualaikum" to everyone me thinks.

I am not going into acute details about the things he mentioned because he was basically repeating himself (just like Zambry the last time) and you can find them in blogs and alternative news portals. However, I will point out the fun, crazy, unusual things from the talk. For a start, when he was elaborating on the Perak issue yada-yada-yada, I may be the only one from the audience who realised he gave us the middle finger each time he was adjusting his spectacles! I kid you not and I'm not writing to sensationalise! I almost exploded with laughter when people were like so serious listening to the usual bits, Nizar, quite innocently and unintentionally was giving it, WWE The Rock style. LOL.

Okay okay maybe I needed to concentrate more. I wanted to see if the Facebook quiz "Which Malaysian Leader are You?" was accurate with my result being "Datuk Seri Nizar". First thing that I learned about this guy was that he is not a lembik puppet as many anti-Pakatan people perceive. The other day Anwar Ibrahim also had a talk in London and he hypocritically quoted "I may have a bad back, but I have a backbone!" but for Nizar's case, he did really seemed to be one firm leader with a massive backbone! His arguments were strong, bold and honest. He even answered my simple but tricky question quite well by stating how he is strongly against the act of 'froggies', more formally 'party defection'. "It is an act of betrayal to the people!". Some Pakatan leaders are calling these defectors names (frogs, kataks, traitors, shi-oots who only help cleanse the party) but at the same time defending the Westminister-style Constitution that allows ship-jumping and endorsing and agreeing to the failed 16th Sept 2008 party deception (not defection) when asked. That's no backbone if you ask me and there was no evidence at that time that I could find Nizar being in support of party defections even from the Bota ADUN's (I used to be playing football with his kids) double-jump ship as all I could remember was Anwar, Anwar and Anwar being on the ADUN's side.

Sure or not, Jeg? Unfortunately, Nizar has forgotten that he himself welcomed the Bota ADUN to PKR and claimed there were three more UMNO men jumping into the Perak coalition in 2009. "They came forward to us without us inviting them."

Well, you could have said "No, it is an act of betrayal to the people! Go away!"

At least for strongly against the principles of party crossover even if it was constitutional, Karpal Singh and I have got the rights to condemn these defectors. Pot calling the kettle... Made in China? (I need to avoid being anti-Afro and support China products by not using the standard version of the idiom).

"Harus bertaubat!"

Okay now, we all now know Nizar is not a DAP's puppet, evidently from his track record, helping people not based on colour or religion. We know he is a qualified engineer and was English educated (Aston University, Birmingham). He is quite new in politics and one guy asked why did he enter politics. "Because I see there is some injustice and I feel I need to correct this." He is also a religious man with a multi-ethnic background (father is Malay, mother is Chinese). He is quite a strong, firm leader as we all know with a bit sense of humour. His economics agenda and willingness to work with the current Perak government seem like a good idea. What else did I miss?

Well, being quite a particular kind of guy, I did not find that many faults in his speech compared to Anwar's couple of days earlier. I think he did quite well apart from being hypocritical about party defections and Zambry bashing. However, there is only ONE and only ONE part that I could not absorb. I still think it's a minor issue but it is worth mentioning here just to provoke the minds of you guys. He started his speech by quoting the verse of the Quraan clearly reminding us not to conceal the truth. Towards the end of his talk, Nizar said:

"For whatever reasons you read on the blogs, regarding why the Sultan has not dissolve the State Assembly, despite what the Sultan himself wrote in his book, don't believe them!"

"Maybe the Perak Sultan wants to protect his business?" asked an Ah Pek.

"The reason is far more beyond that. The Sultan already has everything under the sun. Like I said, don't believe whatever you read on the blogs regarding this."

I was dumbfounded myself. Nizar was not telling. He gave the impression he knew the reason. Why is he now concealing the truth?

I want to know the reason! Help!!! If you are reading this, Datuk Seri, please get me out of this niggling misery. Look for me on Facebook and Twitter and tell me the reason in private message. I swear I will not tell a soul!

Maybe it's just mind games. Politicians...

Jeg Hui


Tuesday, March 09, 2010

Local Council Election (a ReTweet)

1. Local council election, yes or no? Indifferent. We living in the UK agree the local council (elected) here is just like Msia gov servants Local government election in penang is a political way to get rid of Gerakanised, BN kaw-timmed councillors and planting their own... The newly elected councillors, obviously will be easier to deal with for the new state gov. Throughout time, they also kaw tim. Juz like BN So it's no surprise other PR led states will follow suit, like Selangor. BN led states will reject local gov election to keep their 'frens' This is simple logic. However the hardcores frm both PR n BN will not see this. They're blinded by the team they support, this is normal too

Tuesday, March 02, 2010

Imperial College Malaysian Night 2010

1. It was a last minute decision to have finally gone to a Malaysian Night for years already. The last time I went, Iedil was still around, entertaining us with his spontaneous acts on stage in the UCL Malaysian Night, never failed to make an old man smile.

2. I really think the Imperial College Malaysian boys and girls did a great job. Very talented people. I was sceptical at first but along the way, they finally made this old man smile.

3. The title was Born to be Vile and the only song that I thought could be associated with it was "Born to be Wild" by Steppin Wolf... and I was right, that song did come out during the interval, and it made this old man smile.

4. All in all, it was a good performance. Singaporean diss was a classic, but received some boos from a section of Singaporean friends. 3.5 stars out of 5. That's good from a grumpy old man me.

5. However, I did notice the number of Chinese Malaysians performing is far greater than other Malaysians. I could only count 3 Malays and 3 Indians (one was really funny imitating Karam Singh Walia). My thought on this is fair because I assume it is due to Imperial College having more Chinese Malaysians than other Malaysians for their Undergraduate Programmes.

6. I might be wrong. Any Imperial College students want to object please do.

7. However, sadly, all good things must have a flaw... and this flaw I'm about to tell you spoilt everything that night (apart from Aaron Ramsey's horrific injury).

8. It was during an interval, a local British lady was asking her Malaysian Chinese friend a simple question. "Why are they all Chinese?" Like me, she was just curious of the number of Malaysian Chinese overpowering other Malaysians like Malays, Indians, Kadazans, Muruts and Ibans.

9. Her Malaysian friend simply said spontaneously, "Because they can speak English".

10. I was shocked; I looked at him, and quickly turned away. I still cannot understand there are still Malaysians out there even in the UK, even during this harmonious Malaysian Night, could be belittling other races.

11. I didn't want to make a scene that night by confronting that boy who clearly has issues with Non-Chinese. It would be a big scene since I am a Non-Chinese and my words can be very hurtful to the core for the racists.

12. I wanted to clarify to the British lady who was misinformed. However I think she is not that naive to know other Malaysians can speak English as well, like the Indian girl who was playing the daughter of the detective and the Malay Datin Kelentong.

Monday, March 01, 2010

Official: Zaid Ibrahim Blocks Me on Twitter

Here are the comments I made mentioning/replying to @zaidibrahim on Twitter.

His retaliation? Block @jeghui on Twitter!

You can find the evidence of blocking here: http://img110.yfrog.com/i/euxn.jpg/

Just because people disagree doesn't mean you are that bad. Don't worry. You are not God!

Friday, February 26, 2010

Babi Biru Terbang

Warning: this article will get heavier and heavier as it goes along the way. Hardcores, look away now.

Many months back, the nation was rocked by a circulated picture of a tudung-clad Muslim girl holding a piglet. It turned out that she is a Vet and was doing some research for her project. It has caused some stir among the Malaysian Muslims and there were some angry quarters accusing her of ridiculing Islam. Then, there were pictures of a group of Muslimah students holding and caressing dogs and yes, they were also wearing tudung...

What???!

As usual, many Malaysians are that easy to be agitated. They are also good at making comments without doing enough research for a particular issue. They say things they do not have knowledge of. Their aim is to gain support of the masses and to be famous because they will be perceived as unique, different and great. Heck, they sometimes don't even know what they are talking about and simply agree and spread the words of some so called great leaders, politicians, ustazs, priests, monks, lawyers, actuaries, syeikhs, Al-this, Al-that etc. (Refer to our recent 'sad' story of Syariah caning as an example).

Well, I don't expect each and everyone of us to know every single thing inside out, but a little research wouldn't hurt at all.

In Islam, Muslims are not allowed to eat pork. However, Muslims are allowed to touch pigs and dogs with no problem whatsoever. I myself am not cynophobic. Walking around Kota London can be quite a challenge for me. It's either you step on a big pile of dog-'shi-oot' or licked by these canines. However of course, as a Muslim, you have to clean using an Islamic method called 'Samak'.

"Nak bela anjing boleh tak? Comel lah!!!" Can Muslims take dogs as pets?

Why not? Guide dogs, guard dogs, hunter dogs, dogs to help sheep shearing, dogs to spend time with, your favourite companion perhaps, you name it. Dogs are useful, beautiful, playful, intelligent creatures. However, don't forget to clean yourself before prayers.

Do pigs and dogs go to heaven? As far as I'm concerned all animals go to heaven. For what reason they shouldn't? It's not up to me however, it's up to God to decide. Will pigs turn blue and fly in the heavens? Again, it's possible, but it's up to God to decide.

I myself would love to turn into Superman Blue and fly in the heavens. (but not turning into a pig at the same of course!)

Okay now comes the heavier part. Do you have to 'samak' if you touched a pig or any part of it?

Pigs, they are dirty animals. The reason why we Muslims are prohibited from eating pigs is simply because it is one of the hardest to cook, to make sure that it's clean and safe to eat. My friend Andrew confirmed that to me the other day when we met at his house in Leyton. But do we have to 'samak' in this case?

NobecauseitsnotstatedintheQuranorHadiththatwehavetosamak
ifwetouchpigsoranypartofit
.

Phew, that was hard for me to even write it properly. Growing up following the Syafie Mazhab, I find that hard to swallow myself. It's true that you won't find the instruction in the Quran or the Hadith telling how to deal with this kind of najis.

Okay okay before any of you go berserk (like the caning incident), of course it's not wrong at all for you to 'samak' if you touch the pig. It means you are following the Syafie Mazhab and this Mazhab is not a sect but a guide. Which guide is the best? Hanafi? Hambali? Maliki? Syafie?

Allah knows best.

My Christian brothers and sisters might be puzzled now by how Muslims can even debate about pigs and dogs, gentle little harmless creatures. I don't want to offend but it's a giant myth to say only we Muslims are not allowed to eat pork according to our faith.

It's heavier now, don't tell me I did not warn you, but my Christian friends can check these verses from the Bible. I will not quote the exact verses, you guys should know better.

Leviticus 11:7-8
Evidently, these verses also apply to the Jews. In conclusion, Muslims, Christians and Judaism followers are not allowed to eat pork.
So when people say "Dowan lah masuk Islam, cannot eat pork", that is NOT a fair statement to make.
A fair statement should be (even if they want to be provocative):
"Dowan lah masuk Islam, Christian or Judaism, cannot eat pork!"

Thursday, February 18, 2010

Caning? Big deal!

I remember when I was a lot younger during my high school days. Initially, I was terrified to even think about breaking the school's rules on my first day at Kolej Yayasan Saad, Melaka. Along the way, which was quite normal for any teenager there was a sense of liberation in me that I wanted to try new things. Thank Allah, the facilities provided by Yayasan Saad was second to none. Thus, I didn't have to break any rules to catter for my desire to be adventurous... until one day.

It was just a mere BBQ Party. I was so sure we had permission to do it. 'Hey, this is KYS... not some average school and I think it's cool we gather people around and eat some grub. Tak kacau orang pun'. I thought.

We were caught 'partying' with some chicks (literally) that night and the week after I was caned. Twice, one more compared to the others. Some of us got more than once because we had a record in which I won't elaborate here as it was such a silly case. (no, not sodomy if that's what you're thinking!). The caning has taught me a very good lesson, and I owe that to our now departed Principal, Mr Ramli Maidin.

I have learned that, after 'trying out new things and being adventurous' throughout, I have created a snob of myself. I was arrogant. I thought as if the world was all mine. The caning was a painful one eventhough how many underwears I wore that night. It has also succeeded in shattering my ego. I was never a God. I couldn't even stop Mr Ramli from whipping my bony ass.

Another BBQ Party, Jeghui? You bet! But with permission. Black and white!

Did I go around telling people I was victimised? Was it just a conspiracy to bring down the school's drummer of the year (as I arrogantly thought)? I was so thin, small and wiry so it was UNFAIR by all means I got the same punishment as the beefy Mat Diyah? Justice for Jeghui???!!

No. No. No. No, it was all justified.

Years later, I read somewhere that teachers are not allowed to cane students anymore. My first thought? What pampered society have we become?

Then came the Kartika's story in which I won't elaborate here. What I know is that, Alhamdulillah she has abstained from taking alcohol and out of repentance, she wants the punishment of caning to be carried out. She looks a lot prettier now, donning the headscarf. I also heard she is going for Umrah.

And yet some people are against the things that she wants. What happened to her freedom to practice her religion?

Okay now, 1,2, or 6 lashes of the rattan? and how is the punishment be carried out? Do you even know?

Well I haven't seen how the caning is done when it comes to Islamic Syariah Law. As far as I know, the caning must not meant to cause bodily injury. Please remember that WHIPPING under the Federal Law and CANING under the Syariah Law is not the same. I have seen a demonstration of whipping under Federal Law for sexual offences, drug possession and BRIBERY during my St. Francis Melaka days. It still gives me the goosebumps everytime I think about it.

"Today, I'm ashamed to be calling myself a Malaysian..." said an Indian guy on Twitter after the news of three Muslim-women adulterers being caned broke out.

I quickly replied by saying, "You should reconsider calling yourself a Malaysian for not even knowing the Malaysian law."

I am no expert but I know that we have the dual system in the Malaysian Legal System, as enshrined in the Constitution of Malaysia (refer Article 121(1A)).

Additionally, Syariah or Islamic law is a matter of state law, except for Federal Territories of Malaysia. However, Syariah Law must adhere the Federal Constitution amended 1984 at all times:

1. Trial and punishment carried out to MUSLIMS ONLY. In other words, Non-Muslims are always exempted. (Boohoo! That's not fair! Justice for Muslims??)
2. Fine of not more than RM5000.
3. Jail term not more than 3 years.
4. Caning of not more than 6 lashes.
5. Combination of item 2,3,4 maximum permissable.

I am still searching for the item 'no caning for women' but to no avail. So, I don't understand what is the fuss all about.

Why are these people justifying adultery? They're concerned for the treatment of women, but this caning is NOTHING compared to the whipping under the Federal's Criminal Law. Are they trying to be hypocrites now when they hate men cheating on them but now they are justifying adultery? Is this how you are being fair to we men? (Note to editors, delete this section if you think it sounds sexist, though it's not to me).

It is because the Syariah Law has to follow the Constitution's guide as above, the punishment for adulterers and drunkards are slashed to a maximum 6 lashes from 20, according to the Sunnah. It could have been even a lot heftier under the Hudud Law PAS is bringing (not that I personally against it).

Six lashes of the rattan, and the whole nation went berserk. What kind of Malaysia do you want? A nation of adulterers and drunkards? Would you like to see your children becoming adulterers, drunkards, sodomites and catamites? I don't know. Maybe you people are the so-called 'Westernised people' and you think it's cool that way.

Hey, I am living in a Western country and I still keep my 'Budaya Kampung' and Islamic values everywhere. I don't have to be like them, they don't expect me to be like them. I dont expect them to be like me. So this kind of culture that you should adopt.

So I do not know what are you guys babbling about. Coming back to caning, I would love to have my children caned by the teachers, as long as it's for the right reason lah.

But of course, first things first, I have to get married in order to 'make' babies.

Adultery is waayyy too risky. Too risky for me, too risky for her.

And you call me insensitive.

Jeg Hui

Tuesday, February 09, 2010

'Moderate Muslims'

PKR Kulim Bandar Bahru MP Zulkifli Nordin is now seen by the 'people' as an extreme Muslim. He was even called a Taliban and his recent spat with giggly-on-TV (ref:Aljazeera Asia-Pacific 'Allah' debate) PAS MP Khalid Samad has somehow confirmed this label by the 'people'. Zulkifli, during his interviews with Malaysiakini has again and again said that he will not compromise when it comes to Islam. He even said he has been consistent throughout his life whenever he is asked about an Islamic issue. There are also 'people' who accuse Zulkifli as an UMNO's trojan horse.

The question is, who are these 'people'? Well, obviously, these 'people' are the people who do not actually understand Zulkifli's religion and his defence of The Constitution. These 'people' can be many of Non-Muslims or even some Muslims, whom they call themselves 'moderate Muslims'. These 'moderate Muslims' have been given heaps of praises by many Non-Muslims because simply, in their opinion, this is the kind of Muslims all Muslims should be. This is the kind of Muslims that would fit the society.

But who are these 'Moderate Muslims'? I have seen people who claimed to be 'Moderate Muslims' (MMs) in their writings. Weird enough, these people's initials, two of them in particular, are 'MM' as well. The thing is though, what makes them think that they are 'Moderate Muslims'?

So what makes you a 'highly accepted' MM?

You 'support' Kartika Sari Dewi Shukarno and calling Jabatan Agama Islam Kuantan's verdict as barbaric... and you call yourself an MM.

You reject Kartika's right to repent and to follow her Islamic faith, by accepting the caning... and you call yourself an MM.

You poke fun at Muslims who practice polygamy eventhough many of them are happy that way... and you call yourself an MM.

You call Muslim men who take second, third and fourth wife as bad, bad men, calling them 'Orang Tua Gatal' even... and you call yourself an MM.

You call for the practice of polygamy in Islam to be nationally abolished, ala USA... and you call yourself an MM.

You say capital punishment should be abolished, Hudud Law is old and outdated... and you call yourself an MM.

You say Quran is just for the people during Muhammad's (PBUH) time, outdated, should not always apply now... and you call yourself an MM.

You accept the practice of homosexuality because they have the right to fall in love... and you call yourself an MM.

You say sodomites, catamites and transvestites have their right to choose the best for their lives... and you call yourself an MM.

You say you don't have to wear the hjjaab (headscarves) because they are out of fashion... and you call yourself an MM.

You call the Muslimahs who wear the burqas 'ninjas', 'kolot' and 'oppressed by the husbands'... and you call yourself an MM.

You question the Faraid Law, saying it's unfair to the women... and you call yourself an MM.

You say drug abuse can be eradicated by giving them free drugs called Methadone... and you call yourself an MM.

You say gambling is Okay, justified by of buying and selling shares... and you call yourself an MM.

You say drinking is permissible, as long as you don't get drunk and drinking alcohol is Okay... and you call yourself an MM.

You say adultery is fine, as long as you are 'protected'... and you call yourself an MM.

You are a member of Sisters In Islam, and secular nation is the way... and you call yourself an MM.

... and the list goes on.

You see, atleast I have a little respect for Zinedine Zidane. People did ask if he was a Muslim. He replied, "Yes, but I am a non-practising Muslim".

Did he say he is a Moderate Muslim? Did he justify all the unislamic things he did or didn't do what he is supposed to do as a Muslim? Did he?

Same goes to Shah Rukh Khan. He is a Muslim. Like Zinedine, he admits to being a non-practicing Muslim. Not that he's asking people to be like him. But he is simply telling people that he is a non-practicing Muslim.

'Non-practicing', a negative phrase.

So this phrase, 'Moderate Muslims' is glorified. One even wrote a book claiming she is a Muslim entitled 'I am Muslim' when at the same time, she dares the Muslimahs to take four husbands, as an act to protest against polygamy.

An MM with the initials MM, even asked her daughter there is no need to wear the hijjab.

What if her daughter wants to wear the hijjab? What happens to the so-called 'rights' that these people have been defending?

Another MM with the initials MM, has failed in her bid to eradicate drug abuse using Methadone. Statistics in Perak has shown not only the number of addicts have increased, but they even mis-use the freely available drug called Methadone.

Someone is making money?

There is even one 'westernised bigot' with the initials WIWC, calling himself a non-racist, Liberal Muslim. What is this 'Liberal Muslim'? Liberal means 'not limited to or by established, traditional, orthodox, or authoritarian attitudes, views, or dogmas'. So is he saying the holy Quraan is an established, traditional, orthodox, authoritarian dogmas and he wants to be free from it?

I say, be like Zinedine Zidane and Shah Rukh Khan! They are Muslims (person who submits wholly to the only God, the Creator) but they admit to being non-practicing. What humble and honest people they are.

If you ask me, these self-claimed MMs are not only in denial, they even want other people to be like them, gather a large support for their causes, so that they will feel fine having people around them. This is human nature. They just want to say they are fine people even with the expense of God's commandments.

I also have a friend who told me he is not religious. He didn't even try to make an effort to make himself feel good by declaring himself a Moderate Muslim. For that, I respect him, and pray that we all, including myself, especially myself will be shown the right path that is the Siratul-mustaqim.

Brothers and sisters, there is only one Islam and there shouldn't be some kind of labelling. I know this labelling is first made by the West, calling some Muslim terrorists, Islamic fanatists, extreme Muslims, among others.

Hence the phrase 'Moderate Muslims'. If you read the Quraan, you will know that Islam is moderate, and the concept of Wasatiyyah should apply.

Again there is one Islam. Even the Islam Hadhari campaign has confused some people. But if you have the traits as stated above, thus calling yourself a Moderate Muslim, I suggest you have to reconsider labeling yourself as such. You are confusing the people even the non-Muslims!

I wouldn't have to write this article if you were to call yourself 'not religious' and 'not practicing'.

Jeg Hui

Wednesday, February 03, 2010

Green Energy for Malaysia

I really think green energy is cool.

Countries going for green energy, are giving an impression of how civilised and environmentally friendly they are.

Green and renewable energy technology, such as hydro-electric, windmills, biomass and solar powered generators are not easily found in Malaysia.

Apparently, developed countries with green technology, will never share it for charity.

This has made me wonder, if they are so interested in saving the world and fighting climate change, the technology should be transferred only at cost, not premium to third world and developing countries.

Then only I will see them as civilised people.

If not, they are just capitalysts who are only interested in making money out of noble things.

Maybe Malaysians should create their own green technology with the knowledge they have.

I'm sure we are not that stupid in believing that the West are the only people who have this technology. We also, can be inventors.

I'm not asking people to create a new energy, but rather using the technology that is currently available and improvise it.

Plagiarism?

You can say the same for iPad. Tablet PCs have been around since 1985!

Tuesday, January 12, 2010

Not Urgent for Herald to Use 'Allah'

This is my third article regarding the issue. To date my colleagues have yet to ask me about the 'Allah' issue in Malaysia.

It's either they can't be bothered with it or simply too 'afraid' to discuss the matter with me.

I second the former.

That is the difference between people in the UK and Malaysia. Many Malaysians, still 'afraid' to SPEAK UP.

Instead of speaking up, discussing the matter level-headedly, some chose to torch the churches and suraus.

Malaysians, are still young to handle some issues with 'hikmah', eventhough they are suggested to do so by religions.

Today, I will try to underline a solution for this issue. It has been dragging for years already. When the matter became a lot worse with places of worship being burnt, the best thing many of our so called great leaders did was blaming each other.

Some leaders were quick enough to visit those places with some goodies and words of support, others, politicised the issue hoping to get a run of political mileage.

Disgusting!

Right, solution! Let us be as practical as possible. You guys want to discuss about it, conduct an open dialogue, thats fine, but please get someone who is impartial and non-partisans. I am quite sick already with people politicising the issue. It's like cancer! Even if you have to invite politicians, it's fine but make sure he/she's not a politicKING/QUEEN.

In my humble opinion, I don't see it is urgent for Herald to use 'Allah' in their Bahasa Malaysia version. The argument of Christians in Sabah and Sarawak have been reading 'Allah' in Herald cannot be used to indicate some sort of urgency. The reason why Christians in Syria, Egypt and other parts of the Middle East have been using 'Allah' for thousands of years is simply that they are Arabic speakers.

There are also stories of the pagan Meccans and Egypt Copts (Christians) referring their God as 'Allah' during Muhammad's (PBUH) time. This is simply because they were arabic speakers.

Herald wants to use 'Allah' in their Bahasa Malaysia version, not Arabic version.

Therefore, it is not timely for Herald to use it since millions of Muslims and small number of Non-Muslims in the Peninsula object to it. Malaysia then hit the headlines around the world for the wrong reason over this avoidable issue. Herald, NOT using 'Allah' in their Bahasa version will definitely ease the tension. The Christians, shouldn't feel as if they lost their 'Allah' and should never be angry about it. Herald BM in East Malaysia, can continue using the word 'Allah'.

Thing is though, I must ask, how many Bibles are written in Arabic that is available in Malaysia?

Situational point of view, unlike Muslims in East Malaysia, Muslims in the Peninsula are not comprehensively informed about the usage of 'Allah' by Eastern Malaysian Christians for decades. Of course there is a huge difference in opinions and it will take decades as well for the people in the Peninsula to absorb it. Thus, it is quite normal for the Muslims in the Peninsula to be strongly against it.

I personally think since the East Malaysians are not Arabic speakers, why bother using an Arabic word for God when you have Tuhan in Bahasa? However, since the Christians in the East has been using it for decades, I dare not take that away from them.

Now, I must ask the Muslims in Malaysia, when you read the Asma ul-Husna, do you find 'Allah' in the 99 names of Allah? When I was 8, I asked my ustazah how come 'Allah' is not included in the Asma ul-Husna? Of course she couldn't answer such a big question. It took me years only to realise that Allah is not the name of God in Islam but rather, Allah is what Arabic speakers call God, the Creator of the Universe and everything inside it.

However, since the Holy Quraan was sent down by God, through Jibril the Angel to Muhammad (PBUH) in Arabic, of course the word 'Allah' is more fond with the Muslims. Hadiths are also written in Arabic and to be fair, this is why the Muslims in Malaysia thought 'Allah' is exclusive only for Islam.

Again, Allah is a standard Arabic word for God and is used by arabic speaking people particularly from the Abrahamic faiths. Since Islam accepts the four Holy Books of Taurat, Zabur, Injil and Al-Quraan, we should not object the people who are reading the Torah (Taurat), Psalms (Zabur) and Bible (Injil) in ARABIC using the word 'Allah'. (even though it is arguable the similarities between each of the books from Islamic and non-Islamic point of view).

I know some people who claim to be 'Moderate Muslims' (MM and MM for example) or 'Liberal Muslims' (when there's no such thing as those since Islam always promotes moderation through the concept of Wasatiyyah) would welcome the idea of Herald using 'Allah' in their Bahasa version IMMEDIATELY, but for me, it is not a wise thing to do. The situation will not agree to it and it's impossible to change their mindset in one night.

There is a reason why many Malaysian Muslims are prejudiced to it.

-Why there is a need for Herald to use the word 'Allah' at such an untimely manner?

Some has labeled these people as 'Islamic extremists' and even UMNO-paid agent provocateurs. (I am not referring to the arsonists -these people should be ISA-ed ASAP).

I have to agree with these so called 'extremists' at some point.

It is not urgent and Herald is not having it in Arabic anyway.

And most importantly, most would object to it.

Some stats update:

Malaysian-Facebookers against the use of 'Allah' by Herald = 199,242. (76%)
Malaysian-Facebookers in support of Herald using 'Allah' = 62,284. (24%).

Jeg Hui

Friday, January 08, 2010

Peace be upon all of you

I think everyone should know by now that Islam is a religion of peace, and Al-Qaeda and other terrorism acts around the world is unislamic.

Islam teaches us not to solve issues through violence and also Islam teaches us to respect other people's religion.

When Muslims greet each other, we say "Peace be upon you". However, the term is also not exclusive for the Muslims.

Oh please don't go fight for the use of 'Assalaamualaikum' pulak! I am pretty sure everyone can use the greet as it promotes peace, as demanded by Islam.

I am furious with the way some people react to the issue of 'Allah' being used by Herald's BM version. I am NOT a fan of street demos, but yesterday, 10 demos were conducted peacefully at several mosques and I say kudos to them.

For a moment, today I feel a bit ashamed to call myself Malaysian as I thought the news I saw were from our neighbouring country. Churches were torched and I thought I will never see that happening in Malaysia in my life.

I am calling everyone to be calm. I do hope my humble advise is heard by the people eventhough I am just a nobody.

It is a sad day for Malaysia and thank God noone was hurt or killed.

To the politicians, please stop politicising by blaming each other. For the sake of the people, put aside your craze for popularity and power and do the right thing.

To Herald, I hope you can see now the effect of disregarding the sensitivity of millions of Muslims in Malaysia. You must remember that the Muslims in the peninsular and the East Malaysia understand differently regarding the concept of 'Allah', and do you ask yourself, is there really a need to use the term when people in the Peninsular are not READY?

To all Muslim brothers and sisters, always refer to the holy Quraan and Hadith, and you will know you should always stay calm.

To all Non-Muslim brothers and sisters, there is a need for us to understand each other and build bridges, not quarelling and bickering over sensitive issues. It is evidently clear that the gap is still very, very huge and it will take time for us to actually realise perfect mutual understanding.

Let this be a lesson for all of us. Everyone is at fault. I am not here to say 'I told you so' but when politics, insensitivity, anger and chauvinism are put aside, we will always do the right thing.

We SHOULD always do the right thing.

Wassalaamu'alaikum.

Concerned Malaysian,

Jeg Hui

Wednesday, January 06, 2010

Most Malaysian-Muslims are in Support of the 'Allah' Ban for Herald

The title might be misleading for some, or rubbish for the hardcores but realistically speaking, it is a fair one.

I am here not to take sides, but it is alarming to see the figure you can find from a Facebook Group claiming themselves to be against the use of the word 'Allah' by Non-Muslim groups. The group, calling themselves "Menentang Penggunaan Nama Allah oleh Golongan Bukan Islam" now has 94,005 members and the number is still growing. (as at 6th January 2010, 1024 hours London time).

As a comparison, the Prime Minister's Facebook has 69,163 fans after 2 months in operation, Anwar Ibrahim has 34,194 fans after almost a year and 1Malaysia with 59,783 fans.

I am not being political but when I mentioned these comparisons, it is because they will indicate relevant statistics.

Unless you are from Planet Zargon, it is fair to say it is hard to find supporters of Anwar Ibrahim are also supporters of Najib Razak. Leaving out 2.5% as statistical error, the group has easily dwarfed the number of Muslims in support for Anwar or Najib combined. The 1Malaysia group on the other hand, provides indication of how the members can be more serious about the issue than the national's propaganda.

Browsing through the members of the group, I can say about 98% of them are Muslims. Sceptics might say it is due to over-emotion, racism and prejudice but the large number indicates what these Muslims actually believe all their lives and supporting this group is a way to protect their knowledge of Islam.

It is an acid test for both coalitions, Pakatan Rakyat for the 'Ketuanan Rakyat' concept and Barisan Nasional with their 1Malaysia concept. Both, have expressed their opinions on the matter but unfortunately, both have been hypocritical about it.

Because statistics revolve around the theory of large numbers, based on the Facebook figures (yes, you can learn a lot from FB), it is fair to say that most Muslims are against the usage of 'Allah' in Herald. Since Muslims make up about 60% of the Malaysian population, it is safe to say most Malaysians are in support of the ban. For that, Pakatan Rakyat has ignored the voice of the majority for this case, even if the majority comprises of mostly from one community. What happened to bringing back the power to the people?

Barisan Nasional on the other hand wants to promote unity through mutual understanding with their 1Malaysia concept. So why did they have to apply against the stay of execution of the High Court's decision when they should concentrate on indoctrinating the people of all religions about the 'Allah' as the One True God for All concept?

I don't write to please people. I don't write to become popular. I write simply to share my humble views with the people. I must admit I myself found it a bit confusing when this case actually appeared a few years ago. However, after a deep research on the 'Allah' concept, I agree on the part that Allah is God, in Arabic term and Allah belongs to everyone, not just the Muslims.

Saying that though, we have to look at the reaction of the people and it is quite clear most Muslims in Malaysia are against the usage of the term.

The question is, why?

Many politicians will politicise this issue and that is fair because it's the only thing they are good at. Come again? No, read again. I did not generalise and I used the word 'many', not 'most' or 'all'. However though, I am confident to say MOST Muslims in Malaysia still think 'Allah' can only be used by Muslims. I do not blame them though as I myself was never taught about the definition and the concept of 'Allah' during all Islamic Studies classes I joined during my younger days.

Thanks to Wikipedia, it is all clear now. But of course Rome was not built in one day, it will take many, many years to 'undo' these misinformation that has been planted in the minds of Muslims in Malaysia through the 'Pendidikan Islam' syllabus. There's nothing wrong with the syllabus. The concept of 'Allah' as the God for all creatures not just for the Muslims is simply not highlighted there. Scores still think 'Allah' is the Muslim God, 'Jesus the Nazareth' is the only Christian God and Buddha is the Buddhist God when all these thoughts are wrong altogether.

When these Muslims are misinformed, the thought of a Christian Daily (Herald) to use 'Allah' for the Bahasa Malaysia version would leave a bad taste. It is normal for people to protect all the knowledge and beliefs they carry all their lives. It is also natural to be prejudice. Some might think Herald is just trying their best to lure fellow Muslims to convert to Christianity when the Bahasa Malaysia version use the word 'Allah' instead of the norm 'Tuhan'.

For the peninsular people atleast.

Christians in Sabah and Sarawak have been reading the Bahasa Malaysia version with the word 'Allah' in reference to God. Of course it is a shock for the Peninsular people to accept something which is very uncommon to them. That is normal.

All this while, Islam is taught in Bahasa Malaysia and what if an Islamic daily wanted to use 'Jesus' in reference to the Messenger of God, not the 'Son of God', according to Christians belief. Naturally, (oh please don't lie) the Christians will find it hard to accept if the Islamic daily was to freely use it publicly, writing on their coverpage 'JESUS IS NOT GOD' and repeating it again and again and again...

What happened to sensitivity?

Al-Islam snooping in the Church to look out for Muslims who convert to Christianity? Feel free to be angry! That is insensitive if you ask me.

Herald using 'Allah' for their Bahasa Malaysia version despite anger from the Muslims. That is insensitive if you ask me.

So let us be fair.

Again, I don't have a real solution for this debacle. But let me suggest a few things. First, for now, Herald should not be allowed to use 'Allah' in their Bahasa Malaysia version because the people rejecting it and why do you think it is a BIG ISSUE at the first place? It is simply because most Muslims if not most Malaysians are against it.

Secondly, in the years to come, please include the concept of 'Allah' as the One True God, The God for All, because Allah creates every single thing in this universe and for that, Allah is the One God for All, not just the Muslims in the Pendidikan Islam syllabus.

Thirdly, it is very very clear how Malaysians, be it Muslims, Christians, Hindus, Buddhists etc do not actually know each other very well, if not are sensitive towards each other. We need to do more campaigns on promoting understanding and respect among each other.

Wallahu'alam and good day to all.


p/s: the number has now grown to 97,177 since I last checked. A jump of 3,172. Thats a lot in the Facebook-Malaysian world.

Do the hardcores still think these people are UMNO-paid cybertroopers?

Jeg Hui.