I was having a chat with one of cyber friends from one of those local Unis in malaysia. She's a chap who takes pride her Uni and she is sure a loyal student who goes all out promoting her Uni. Sad thing she's from Local U because if she was from one of those Private Institutions, she did make a real good PR manageress.

I met her online last night and we began talking about the recent USM fiasco. She was mad by the comments made by some politicians about the whole blunder.

"I do not understand Malaysians." she said.

Thinking it was about the Port blunder, I expressed my gratitude to a certain politician who highlighted the issue or I'd be in a newb about this issue.

"I hate him/her," she continued.

"Why?" I asked.

"Why is he/she harping over the USM issue? It's just a minor issue and he/she is there making all sorts of conclusions as if he/she is one of the victims." she replied.

"Hey, that's his/her job, isn't it. To be the mouth of the rakyat, just as what he/she promised us in his/her election manifesto. Come to think of it, I don't think that mistake should happen in the first place. yeah, it may be some technical glitch but did they think about those students who had to suffer the anguish of disappointments?" I replied.

"USM is definitely regrettable but the politician should refrain from jumping on any opportunity to gain political mileage by exploiting the whole fiasco. There was no racism involved. It is about just the mistake they made in the database. Can't he/she stop making conspiracy theories?" she responded.

"Moreover, our Higher Education Minister has made assurances that those rejected by USM will be processed by UPU for consideration for entry into the other public unis. So what is the fuss now? Shoosh, Can't he/she just shut up and let the UPU do their job," she continued.

"I think his/her concern is whether their chances of getting into one of the other public universities will be jeopardized by their USM rejection. He/she is actually fighting a place in Local U for those USM victims. I think he/she is doing a good deed.. hey, but the blunder should not have happened in the first place , considering the fact that USM has been awarded the apex status," I argued.

"There is no issue now. USM has apologised. The MOHE has given their assurance. So where's is the issue?" she answered.

"Okay, how would you feel if you were one of the USM victims?" I questioned her.

"C'mon, everyone makes mistakes... Nobody's perfect, even computers. Can't they all accept that fact, instead of making a fuss in the papers." she answered.

Easier said than done...

**

Hmm, this chap should be made USM's PR manager.

Lower 6 started today.

This was what I remember learning about Malaysia from the Pengajian Am and Malaysian Studies textbook:

Government type: Constitutional monarchy. Nominally headed by a paramount ruler. Bicameral parliament that consists of a non-elected House of Senate and elected House of Representative. Democracy.
Three bodies: Legislative Body (Bicameral parliament), Executive Body (Headed by Prime Minister) as the and Judiciary Body.
*our Judiciary is independent of the Executive, and that the Legislative is an untouchable sanctity of a parliamentary democracy.

For once, I can reconcile with what the Pengajian Am textbook says. Yes, you might call me a cuckoo for being a slow learner. Perhaps I am really a cuckoo. But I know, after 11th May 2009, I will remember the message above that is bold in green. High court Judge Datuk Abdul Aziz Abdul Rahim showed me the way! Confidence. Dignity.. INTEGRITY and 1Malaysia. Thank you for remembering to uphold the precedent on Stephen Kalong Ningkan,\.

We all know, there are still two more appellate Courts after the High Court in this process:- Court of Appeal and Federal Court. So Zambry and his teams of worthy lawyers can always appeal, which I think they would anyways. But I remain optimistic in this case. I refuse to believe that at best, it is only the High Court until I hear it myself from the mouth of the two Courts.

Anyway, the next best solution would be to call the election and let the people decide who should be the MB. That will be our ultimate judge given the context of a democratic country.

But who am I to say.

Please don't mind me, I am just spouting nonsense again.

The long hand strikes 12MN.
I got to click "Publish Post" soon.
A long two weeks or so beckons, beginning tomorrow.
Just wake me up when May ends.

People always say that they wish they could become a student again. Me too.
Can I go back to become a student again?

I sit back and think:

What has happened to Perak?

What has happened to 1Malaysia?

Okay, I wasn't at the Perak State Assembly to witness the event but why must V. Sivakumar be physically removed from his chair and physically dragged out, as if he has no feet to walk?

Sigh.

THANK YOU.

I shall miss you most ardently, Democracy.

Fare thee well and I shall bid You adieu.

A note on Perak

Perak.

The whole nation's already talking about the 5th February 2009 Perak "Crisis". Thus, I won't be adding much more value talking about it here.

But lessons learnt:
1.) Trust no one, but yourself.
2.) Stop doubting. Your doubts might just come out true after all. But don't be judgemental fools.
3.) Know your worth.

Constitutional monarchy?

I will leave this issue with those Powers while hoping that this country is NOT fast descending into a failed state. Not even slow descending. I want Malaysia to be Fast Ascending into a successful state.

Peace.

By-elections

Sometimes I just wish that it is my voting parliamentary constituency which is having its by-election now since it may bring a lot of meaning to Barisan Nasional and Pakatan Rakyat. IF Wan Ahmad Farid Wan Salleh wins tonight, this can add to Datuk Seri Najib Razak's credentials as the next prime minister. On the other hand, if Mohd. Abdul Wahid Endut wins, this will drive the Pakatan Rakyat alliance closer to national power.

I am not cursing anyone to die or wanting the current MP to resign, but I just love it when you have the whole nation looking your way as if their fate is in your hands. Isn't it nice when everyone bows to your greatness....

Today is the Kuala Terengganu by-election. A once quiet place is now the centre of all flurry activities especially in the last 10 days. It has became the melting pot for all the country's political top-guns, be it from the Barisan Nasional or Pakatan Rakyat. Datuk Seri Abdullah Ahmad Badawi, Datuk Seri Najib Razak, Datuk Zaid Ibrahim, YB Lim Kit Siang, Raja Petra Kamaruddin, Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim, Tok Guru Nik Aziz and etc were all in Kuala Terengganu last week. I am confident if I was in Kuala Terengganu last week, roaming around the town especially the modest ChinaTown, I bet you I'd be able to meet at least one cheftain.

General elections are different. It covers the whole country. The political top-guns who have to do little campaigning in their respective constituencies since they are assured of winning already would be helping out to campaign for their hopeful counterparts which are many too. So there you have it, the chances of meeting them is few too. Besides that, nobody bows at you too except for the candidates in your constituency.

I know that Sarawak is due to have its state elections very soon- latest by 2011. Very soon, we will be the talk of the country and all eyes will be on us especially since PKR chief Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim has made a declaration of intent on taking power in the next Sarawak elections. Then we will see all the top-guns especially those from Pakatan Rakyat flying to Sarawak, trying to win our hearts. But the difference between the coming state election and this KT by-election is that the state election covers the whole state, whereby the KT by-election covers the constituency of Kuala Terengganu only. Thus, the chances of me meeting a top-gun would be lower as these West Malaysia Pakatan Rakyat top-guns would be moving around the state. Maybe I'd be able to hear YB Lim Kit Siang speak in life if I stay put at a DAP ceramah from the start of it till the end.

Okay, so call me an attention-whore.

Anyways, happy voting, voters of KT. Vote wisely, which I believe all of you would...

Buh-bye for now...

"Good value always triumphs over bad. Good guys always win against the bad."

Happy Birthday, Malaya

Happy 51st Birthday, Malaya. Yup, that's right. I'm wishing Malaya a happy birthday, not Malaysia. Malaysia's birthday's coming up- 16th Sept. See, I remembered what I learned in Sejarah Malaysia back in Form 5.

I love Malaysia. I'm proud to be a Malaysian. I was born here and I flourished(??) here. But that does not mean that I love the fascist those-who-governs-the-country. It does not mean that I am in all for the oppression of minority shareholders’ rights because I am NOT.

So why do I love Malaysia?
Easy. Malaysia is ruled by a supreme government who has developed my interest in the concept of human rights and of what is fair and reasonable.....

Now don't say that I am not apathetic about the direction our nation is headed.

I'm part of the generation of change so I'm rising up and grabbing the mantle.

But first, I've got to continue on with my MKT3007 assignment 1. Can I do a case study about our current political situation in Malaysia, instead of the Steinway: Buying a Legend case study??? Please..... Assignments bores me.

Okay, I bashfully admit that I fall into the category of those-who-wants-change-but-wants-someone-else-to-effect-the-change-for-us. (for the time being).

Sorry, freedom fighters.

Oh-wimp-picks

MR. LEE, WHAT HAPPENED TO YOU??

How come you got demoralized so soon?

With Lin Dan's aggressive style of playing and Mr Lee's all-round defensive style, I expected this match to be one hell of a match since the gold medal is at stake. RM1,000,000 out there waiting for Mr Lee. I expected smashes that break rackets and unbelievable dives to save the shots...

However these are all expectations. Just like how I expected Josiah Ng to enter the kierin finals.

Perceived performance was below par. Mr. Lee made too many unforced errors. 21-12, 21-8 in 39 minutes :(

Well, maybe Lin Dan was just too good for Mr. Lee. Maybe Mr. Lee was too complacent- that's what my parent's says. Maybe it's just not his day today as most of his shots weren't accurate. But Lin Dan had the home crowd advantage too. Ah, whatever it is, at least he went into the finals so it's quite an achievement.... CONGRATULATIONS, anyways. Good job. At least Mr Lee helped put Malaysia on the medal tally- 1 Silver :)

CRAP, I better get back to work for I have spent far too long minding how Mr Lee played when I could have used this energy on "marketing" my recommendations. Application of Service Gaps model and ServQual model, how??

However, life has been generally dull. It's hard to gather the will to complete your assignments when you've being distracted by grander plans on the horizon such as watching the Olympics- y'know like watching Michael Phelps winning his 8th gold medal before getting myself over!!! The hardest part to telling myself to just settle down and be patient for the finishing line is nearly there.

Recently, I just realised that my behaviour has been a tad hypocritical. I've been advising people to have passion in whatever we are doing when I, myself, am unable to fling open the doors to my own heart and embrace my love for my subjects for all that it is.

And it does not help a single bit as my assignment due dates are in two weeks time (and one more on the 5th of Sept. *phew*). However, as the day moves closer, the pressure is mounting, and I’m beginning to lose the coherent flow of my thoughts...

I met my cousin in the college library

I was in the college library this morning. I was there for my menial mundane library duty, NOT TO STUDY.

The library is never in total silence. You can hear people whispering, which ironically includes the bimbotic librarian who will ask you to shut up but when she and her bimbotic gang are together, they'll be talking and laughing away like nobody's business. Then there will be people walking in and out of the library.

When you are in the midst of absorbing all the stuff you need for your exams, suddenly....

*some Chinese song starts playing at top volume*

Person: (stops the song and presses the phone to the ear): Hello.. (walks out of the library upon seeing the librarian heading towards him or her).

Then,

*Beep Beep*
The student beside you takes out his or her handphone and starts sms-ing. Message sent. He/she puts the phone on the table. A few seconds later:
*Beep Beep*
(and this continues for the next 10 minutes or so, hence burning up their credits- the telco company should give them shares in the company.)

That's a common scene in the library. Unfortunately, some students do not understand the notice pasted read on the wall which reads, "PLEASE MUTE YOUR HANDPHONE".

You try to regain your concentration but in vain attempt.

The fact that the library isn't sound proof makes my house a somewhat better place to study. It's situated on the 1st floor but you can hear the blaring sound of a car's alarm or voices of an Ah-beng wannabe speaking Hokkien, sounding more or less like this:

"Lu eh chai bor, wa ye chia yeh sound system si be ho ar. Kui pak ko, ar. Lu beh siang sin wa kah, huh, wa ho lu kua." (and the ah-beng wannabe turns his sound system on and you can hear it loud and clear from the library especially if you are sitting near the computers. Trust me, it makes you feel like taking the nail gun and nail their lips to the lamp post).

Sometimes, you would have students who would break out in very random exclamations, quotes and sounds for purposes not known even to me, and the whole gang bolts out, laughing hysterically.

Occasionally, somebody will be sneezing, sniffing or whizzing, thanks to the temperature that is ideal for keeping corpses. Yup, the library can get inhumane-ly cold and naturally, my brain freezes accordingly, hence the inability to study...

That is why I prefer studying at home. No doubt my stupid neighbour was renovating his house in the midst of my exam and I was disturbed by the sounds of drilling and hammering, but that was only during the day and being a nocturnal animal, I do not study during the day. I study late at night, thus resulting in my immune system being battered. At the very least, I have all my books and notes at home. There is no way I am going to lug all my books to college. Books=Excess baggage=extra fuel consumption for the car. Besides that, i can study anywhere i like at home. Thus, during pre-exam period, you can see my books and notes lying everywhere in the house (except the toilet). And if you go there now, my MR and CB notes are still lying on the sitting room table and in time to come, it shall be upgraded to become reading materials for guests (yes, if you do come to my house, you can always read my CB notes if the programmes on ASTRO bores you.). My CB textbook has just been given another task to be my mouse pad while my MR and Leadership textbooks are still lying on table in my room, waiting for its owner to put it into the cupboard that is made from the the hardest of ancient timber, handcrafted to perfection by skilled artisans.....Apparently, its owner is too lazy to finish clearing up her stuff.

Today, the library was no difference. There was a whole bunch of diploma students in the library doing their assignments. Sitting behind at the last table was my cousin. He is also doing his degree from the same university but doing a different major. I'm a business major, while he's an accounting major. Both of us are having our semester break but while I'm still enjoying my newly-found freedom, he is already preparing for next semester. *KJ gasps in horror* The next semester starts on the 21st of this month and my cousin is already reading his textbook- chapter 3. Arrgh... I have just placed the order for my textbooks. He's taking his final subject next sem and I'm taking 3 subjects next sem. He has started reading his sole textbook and yours truly has not even started anything..... Anyway, that's my cousin.

- He is a super kuai student and a bookworm. I'm 10 million times more playful as compared to him and his siblings.
- He is a pure Chinese, a trilingual. He can speak our mother tongue very well. On the other hand, I'm a pure banana, a bilingual(???)
- I can't stand dedicating my entire student life to books and academic alone. He can.
- He sells life insurance during his free time while I dedicate my free time to club activities and internet. I earn my pocket money by giving tuition to two primary school students.
- He thinks that joining Extra Co-curricular Activities are a waste of time cos we don't earn any money from it... I joined ECAs in college in hope of getting a scholarship and maybe, like what Mr Adviser said, to give my CV a boost. (Ah, well, I think I shall pay a visit to the office of the honourable DPM to apply for a postgraduate scholarship when I've completed my studies or at the worst, get a letter of recommendation!!! For all I might know, Datuk Seri Najib Tun Razak would be so gracious as to grant me an audience. Well, if Mohd Saiful could be granted an audience with Najib's officer, Khairil Anas, I'm sure I can too, right??? He got a CGPA of below 2.0 while in Uniten, you know..... )
- He is every teachers' dream student. Quiet, smart, and etc. Me?? Let my lecturers be the judge. What can you expect from somebody who 一 定 complain when asked to do tutorials?? Complain 上, complain下, before getting it done!!!
- In short, he and his siblings make me look like a devil. He is one year older than me, much wiser than me and is forever telling me to spent more time on my studies. *Sigh*, I'm not like you. I can't sit resolute on the chair, studying for hours...

Sometimes, I wonder if we are actually related or am I just the odd one out in the entire family?? Maybe I was lost at birth...

Anyway, HOT NEWS here. Ah, how nice is it to be in Malaysia. There's never a dull moment. Our Malaysian political arena offers you all you want for entertainment, ranging from scandals, allegations, fabrications, and quoting Malik Imtiaz, a whole lot of political intrigue in between.
What do I have to say? Discussion suits a contemplative young generation, one that I am part of. We want more openness about the things that matter to us, and the last thing we want to see is blatant sweeping under the carpet. Negaraku, tanah tumpahnya darahku; we are growing up. Every day brings us closer to the maturity. All I wish for is transparency, accountability, justice, equality. Thus, I sincerely hope you'll grow with us. In two months time, Malaysia, as we sing you your birthday song, please reciprocate by thinking of us as you blow your 51 candles, as much as we think of you. God bless you, Malaysia.

Oh yeah, my cousin isn't interested in social politics....

Starbucks at IPTAs???

I was dumbfounded after reading this article, which appeared in today's Sunday Post, p. B3 under the heading: Body receptive to foreign franchisees opening outlets at local varsities.

Apparently, the Higher Education Ministry has given permission to franchise holders like Starbucks, Kopitiam and Dunkin Donuts to open their outlets in public institutions of higher learning. Okay, as a business student, it means better opportunity to franchisees but to me, if I were to subsidize, I doubt I would call this an opportunity. Well, if I subsidize, yes, more customers=more revenue (which may not equate to higher profit). If I don't subsidize, less customers as it's too expensive and not many students can afford to patronize it minimum, once a week.

That aside, I don't think it is a good idea. I mean an average Starbucks coffee would cost about RM10 per cup. RM10 for a cup of coffee isn’t cheap, at least for me. How many students are earning their own money or do not have to rely on their parents or guardian for pocket money?? If students are not relying on their parents or guardian for pocket money, fair enough- they can go indulge themselves in a cup of gourment coffee to compensate for their hard work. If they aren’t and are currently relying on FA-MA@father mother for their pocket money, aren't we encouraging them to spend what-is-not-their-money-in-the-first-place lavishly and soon, FA-MA would have to remit more money to their kids?

Deputy Minister of Higher Eduction, Dato Idris Haron claimed that by opening Starbucks on campus, would help provide a more comfortable place for the student's to study with wifi internet connections. Is he trying to say that local universities does not have campus-wide wireless connection?? I don’t know as I’m not a local uni student. HECK, they didn’t want me in the first place because my academic intelligence level according to the Malaysian public exam (which does not cover cognitive thinking skills and ability to think-outside-the-box) was below their standard. From what I heard from my friends, most local universities eg. USM has wireless coverage in most parts such as the library, lecture halls, main hall and etc. and all hostel cafes have wi-fi.

In my point of view, opening a Starbucks on campus would just add different social classes among the students.
Class 1: those who can afford Starbucks and enjoy it,
Class 2: those who can't afford Starbucks, and watch jealously at those who can afford it go there,
and Class 3: Wannabes; those who don't have that much discretionary money, but heck, since everyone's going, I so have to go or Class 1 would not want to be my friend. (those who succumb to peer pressure easily).
So in short, I think it's just not good for the students.

Imagine this scenario:- doing assignment in a group. The group consist of Group 1, 2 and 3 students. The Class 1, being the leader, decides to go to Starbucks for assignment discussion since they can't discuss in the library as library is too full of groups that comprise of Class 2 students. Class 3 student agrees (got to please the Class 1 leader so that he/she would not look down on me). Thus, majority wins so Starbucks is the place. Both Class 1 and Class 3 students are drinking the Ice Blended so Class 2 student is somehow compelled to order a drink too (plain water excluded). Class 2 student orders the cheapest drink unwillingly and is thinking of eating Maggi mee for dinner tonight to cut cost. Is there a possibility that this scenario would happen?? I don't know but I hope it is only hypothetical scenario.

Okay, the Malaysian Franchise Association chairman, Datuk Mukhriz Mahathir was smarter to say that local coffee franchisees should be given the same opportunity. Well, that’s a better idea as I expect our local coffee franchisees to be cheaper as compared to Starbucks, albeit different quality. Thus, it wouldn’t be that painful on the students’ pocket (Don't get me wrong, I’m not trying to imply that price is a surrogate indicator of quality).

Datuk Mukhriz Mahathir then continued, “University students would loiter outside the campus. So if we allow them (franchisees) to open the outlets in the campus, what more with wi-fi facilities, it will help the students to stay in the campus to enjoy the gourment coffee." After reading that line, I thought his IQ level dropped one notch. I’m not insulting him or what. But why is Datuk Mukhriz Mahathir worried about UNIVERSITY students loitering? University students should be matured enough to think. HELLO, they are UNI students, NOT secondary school students. The youngest of them all should be around 19 years old. Is he trying to imply that some uni students are still immature and often spent their time doing something unproductive. If yes, how did they enter Local Universities which is actually more difficult to gain entry as compared to private institutions of higher learning???. This makes me doubt the standards of our local universities. Students actually have the time to loiter… Heck, when I was doing the diploma course before (and even now), my weekends were dedicated to assignments, tutorials, revision for upcoming quizzes, and some leisure activities eg online, tv and window shopping to relax. I had/ have practically no time to loiter...

PS: I’m not trying to insult any local university students here but Datuk Mukhriz Mahathir actually used the word LOITER, which somehow gave me an impression of how free students are over there. Therefore, my sincere apologies if I have hurt your feelings. I had no intention to do so as I only said some local u students are immature.

By the way, are university students who spent their time LOITERING a product of the Pendidikan Moral syllabus? Has studying and memorising the 36 "nilai moral" and their definitions in any way made us more virtuous?? Do moral decadence, juvenile delinquency, vandalism, drug ingestion and abuse, glue sniffing, gangsterism still exist in schools, universities and the society?? Has Pendidikan Moral really made a better moral society??? Cadit qauestio.

Prelude: I liked the subject economics at Diploma level, though I found macroeconomics easier than microeconomics. Partly because I had a good lecturer. [You know the Swinburne University (Sarawak campus) economics lecturer, Mdm Heng, yup, she WAS my econs lecturer!!!]. Anyway, one reason why I did not consider becoming an economist was because I cannot bring myself to see eye to eye with other economists especially those highly paid - PhD economists, "think tank" experts and ivory-towered academicians who in typical fashionable "high-flown" rhetorical arguments are taking the side of the government's decision on recent fuel hike.

There was an interview with two economists about the fuel hike. Abstracts below are taken from here.

This is what RAM Consultancy Services’ chief economist Dr Yeah Kim Leng said.

Dr Yeah: No doubt the 40 per cent increase is the biggest jump in the history, it's significant and sizeable, but if it is properly channel for development projects and for the improvement of public transportation, the public will be able to support it.
I say: Do you know why I am all against this price hike? In 2006, the government promised us hat they will improve our public transportation. But did they improve it?? I do not know, but I'm very sure that the public transportation in Kuching, Sarawak has not been improved.

Dr Yeah: The government had no choice but to allow the price to increase as it had been holding back such a move or adjustment since one and a half years ago, despite the higher fuel prices.

“It has resulted in the budget deficit to go to an unsustainable level. So today, you see a 40 per cent adjustment, which is significant but it still comes with some form of subsidy,” he said.

I say: Hmm, the government had no choice?? Read what Tun Dr Mahathir said here. Note that Tun Dr Mahathir is the adviser of Petronas so I'm sure his words and figures can be trusted right? Oh yeah, the subsidy. Thank God for that. But like what I mentioned earlier, it's still not enough...

Dr Yeah: For the middle and higher income groups, the increase will not be significant and will only slightly dampen their demand. They can afford it but with a reduced in saving, which means, real income will be lowered.
I say: WTF?? Increase will not be significant. HELLO, the increase was a 40.6% for petrol and a 63% for diesel. You call this not significant. And you go on by saying the middle-income group and higher-income groups can afford it. Higher-income groups (like you??), I agree. Middle-income groups?? I personally don't think so. Wait a minute, you said earlier on that the increase of 40% is significant. Then you say that the increase will not be significant for middle and higher income groups. So are you trying to say that you do not belong to either the middle or higher-income group?? Thus, which group to you belong to? Lower group? IF that is so, I shall categorize myself as a hard-core poor then.

Dr Yeah: For the lower income group, the government’s proposal for the rebate was a relief as it would help them cope with the increase. They will be a reduction in spending too and definitely there will be impact on the consumption.
I say: Ok, no comments. I agree on this.

And this is what economist Prof Dr. Mansor Jusoh has to say:

Prof Dr Mansor Jusoh: The cash rebates to Malaysians who owned private cars or motorcycles would benefit the middle and lower income groups.

I say: Benefit us?? Rubbish. The RM625 annual rebate works out to be a rebate of RM52.08 per month. Is it enough to sustain our ever-increasing cost of living?? Let the people be the judge.

Prof Dr Mansor Jusoh: However, the benefit of the cash rebates would not be felt by the poor who had no vehicles but had to face the increase in the price of essential items following the fuel price increase. He suggested that the government put in place a special mechanism to help the poor.

I say: Okay, thank God Prof Dr. Mansor Jusoh has some common sense this time. At the very least, he's compassionate in some sense.

Prof Dr Mansor Jusoh: The government’s decision to maintain the price of liquefied natural gas and natural gas at RM1.75 per kg and 63.5 sen per litre respectively, would benefit the power-generation industry.

“So, the electricity tariffs should not increase and Tenaga Nasional Bhd should be able to absorb the fuel price increase in the global market,” he said.

I say: Correct, correct, correct. I am of the same view as you, Prof Dr. Can you please tell Yang Amat Berhormat Datuk Seri Abdullah Ahmad Badawi that??? Datuk Seri said that the increase in electricity tariff for Tenaga Nasional Berhad will enable TNB to absorb the fuel cost for gas and coal. So as an economist, please tell our YAB Perdana Menteri that. I'm sure Malaysians will remeber your kind deed.

Prof Dr Mansor Jusoh: The increase would however impact the public transportation in major cities and towns.

I say: Funny... Datuk Shahrir Abdul Samad told Malaysian Insider this: "No, the public transport operators, there is a RM1.43 price for diesel. It's being maintained for all transportation, transport companies and all the groups that used to get subsidised diesel. You see, what has happened with diesel is that there used to be three prices for it – RM1 for the fishermen, RM1.20 for river transportation and RM1.43 for road transportation. So, we have moved it to one level, which is RM1.43, and taken out the fishermen to be looked at and looked after by the LKIM (Fisheries Development Board). So we are still maintaining the subsidy for diesel for the various economic sectors, the critical economic sectors like transportation, public transportation, you know, various categories." Isn't Datuk Shahrir trying to imply that the fuel hike will have no impact on public transport operators?? Well, we've been told the Lorry Association are going to increase their transportation costs.

Anyway, like what NoktahHitam said, those who voted Barisan Nasional should not be complaining cos their wish has been granted. I have to say that those who did not bother to vote last elections should shut up too. They did not participate in the process of selecting who will legislate and administer the country on their behalf. Therefore they have given up their rights to criticize the manner on how they will subsequently govern them.

Okay, did I vote for Barisan Nasional during the 12th GE, one may ask. My answer: You bet. Else, I wouldn't be ranting here again. The fuel hike is enough to dampen my mood to study. Well, I voted but I lost.

If fuel hike was indeed inevitable, I'd be in support of the reduction/removal of the subsidy as long as the savings from it would be put to GOOD use. I'm just unhappy with the fact that:
1. Datuk Shahrir initially said that price of petrol will NOT be increased until August, and what happened the next day??

2. The drastic increase. At least a gradual one would not be so painful...(that is if there is a need for increase in the first place. C'mon, we are not a bunch of uneducated or heartless people. If the government can reason it with us why a fuel hike is inevitable, I'm sure we will understand. Trust me, nobody is that free to go protesting but the reason why some DAP MPs went protesting today was because they know that this fuel hike is ridiculous especially after learning from the advisor of Petronas's statement. So is the price hike inevitable?? Go ask yourself? I need not say more)

3. Announcement that price of petrol and electricity increase at the same time
4. The you-know, I-know stuff, thanks to Tun Dr Mahathir in his remarks here made me realised that I cannot accept the rising world crude oil price as an excuse.

Anyway, happy World's Environmental Day, people.

Towards a BETTER Malaysia.

Fuel hike

I had no intention to blog actually but over dinner just now, my sis received an sms from her friend that fuel price for RON 97 will increase by 78 sens per liter and diesel will increase by RM1 effective midnight. This is not a rumour. Star Online and RTM news has confirmed it. The petrol stations are jam packed with cars, all thanks to the new fuel subsidy scheme that was announced today. How do I know when I'm sitting here blogging, one may ask. Well, I just came back from a car ride. "Wah, so rich until can go for car ride, huh?" one may ask. Well, I accompanied mum out in hope of going to the nearest petrol station to pump full tank for her car since what will serve every Malaysian a full tank at this point of time will only get us slightly more than half full by midnight. Anyway, it was done in vain attempt as the queue to the petrol station was more than 1km long. So we gave up because we thought it was pointless to join the queue and burn more fuel while waiting. The petrol station across the road ran out of fuel... That was at 8:05pm.

Ironically, Domestic Trade and Consumer Affairs Minister Datuk Shahrir Abdul Samad announced yesterday that Malaysia is planning petrol price hike in August. In early April, Datuk Seri Abdullah Ahmad Badawi said there would be no increase in the petrol price as this was the wish of the people. Then I stumbled upon this blog archive that mentioned that Datuk Shahrir Abdul Samad had told Reuters in Putrajaya on 15th April, 2008 that Malaysia aims to keep fuel prices unchanged under a reform of energy subsidies to be launched this year by curbing wastage and smuggling in a move that could cool inflation. Furthermore, on 24th May, 2008, Datuk Shahrir Abdul Samad said that the government has NO plans to increase fuel price despite the price hike of petrol by 30% in Indonesia. On 31st May, 2008, Datuk Seri Najib Tun Razak quashed talks on petrol price increase. (Maybe he's not wrong cos priced of petrol is going up by 78 sens not 40 sens!!) And what happened today?? Datuk Seri Abdullah Ahmad Badawi announced an increase of 40% in the price of petrol. That’s the biggest increase in petrol price in the entire history of Malaysia.

But why am I complaining?? After all, our Prime Minister was the one who told the press on 12th February, 2008 that parliament would not be dissolved the next day. Then on 13th February, 2008, the 11th parliament was dissolved. Reason given for telling a different story on 12th February 2008: Agong's consent needed....

Each time the government calls for a petrol price hike, they tell us that a fuel hike is inevitable due to the rising crude oil price and that the oil price in Malaysia is still lower than other countries because our kind government is still subsidizing it. But who are they trying to cheat?? Read this to get my point. Increase the minimum wage rate in Malaysia and I shall reconsider my words. As if the salaries of those working in the private sector would be increased by 40%. Anyway, when the world crude oil prices fell below US50 per barrel in January 2007, did our government lower the fuel prices in our country??. Ask yourself. The onus is with you to decide.

Well, in 2006, when the Government announced an increase in the prices of petrol and petroleum products by 30 sen a litre causing RON 97 petrol to cost RM1.92 a litre, diesel RM1.581 a litre and LPG RM1.75 a kilo, Datuk Seri Abdullah defended the hike, saying that the estimated RM4.4 billion savings from fuel subsidy reduction would be used to improve the public transportation system. I'm currently residing in Sarawak, which is a state in Malaysia. Has the public transportation system here in Kuching, Sarwak's capital, been improved?? I don't think so but MAYBE the government did not allocate some money to improve the public transportation in Sarawak since Sarawakians are paying one sen less than our West Malaysian counterparts....

Today, Datuk Seri Abdullah announced that to offset the higher fuel price, the government will offer rebates to motorists. Under the scheme, vehicles below 2,000cc will receive a RM625 rebate annually to compensate for 800 litres of fuel used under the new price. Motorcycles will be given a rebate of RM120. Okay, thank you very much, Datuk Seri Abdullah Ahmad Badawi, for the rebate (I really appreciate it but I would further appreciate your kindness if the rebate was more.) but is it enough to sustain our living especially with the cost of everything that will increase since Higher petrol price = higher logistics = higher cost = higher price in everything. Your guess is as good as mine.

Meanwhile, I shall have to change my lifestyle: go out unless necessary and really heed Agriculture and Agro-Based Minister Datuk Mustapa Mohamed's advice to eat less rice. But the price of flour has increased. The price of noodles has also increased. So what is left for me to eat?? Answer: eat fresh air and drink drain water to survive. Wait a minute, fresh air?? In the name of development, the environment is being sacrificed, and soon, Malaysia's green lungs will be snatched away right under our very own noses. Oh well, I will just have to starve in time to come. As if the government would care if I starve to death. For all I might know, they would be happier. Population control, they may call it. 27.19 million citizens minus 1.

But my question still remain: if our government can't afford to continue on subsidizing that much for our fuel, how could they spent RM792,325.20 for the use of executive jets by Prime Minister Datuk Seri Abdullah Ahmad Badawi and his deputy Datuk Seri Najib Razak between Feb 24 and Mar 7?? And I'm also wondering like this author here.

Anyway, who am I to complain?? I will just have to sit here and bemoan the fact that the majority had voted for this excellent government. After all, the 78 sen hike or 40 per cent increase for the RON 97 petrol is still below the anticipated RM4 per litre price projected earlier and among the cheapest in Asia, right??? If my memory serves me well, I remember learning in my Form 1 Geography that Malaysia produces oil too, thanks to Miri in Sarawak, Ketih in Terengganu and Sabah. Oh, my memory did not fail me. This site has proven my statement right... Hence, Malaysia can be considered to be an oil-producing country, isn't it? So is the new petrol price still one of the cheapest among the oil-producing countries?? Scroll down this website to find the answer.

For those who are still blur about the new petrol price, RON 97 will cost RM2.70 per litre and diesel will cost RM2.58 per litre effective midnight on 4th June 2008. If this is not enough to break your heart, Datuk Seri Abdullah Ahmad Badawi also said that Tenaga Nasional Bhd would be raising electricity rates by 18% for homes and 26% for business users. Fellow Sarawakians and Sabahans, don't be too happy because in the media statement issued by the Prime Minister's department, "Satu struktur tarif baru akan diumumkan tidak lama lagi bagi Sabah dan Sarawak."

I foresee a rippling effect: Increase in the prices of everything EXCEPT for our salaries....But if all businessmen can think like our brilliant Datuk Shahrir Samad, then there wouldn't be a spillover effect caused by the fuel hike. Price of goods wouldn't go up- that is IF all businessmen share the same view as our honourable Domestic Trade and Consumer Affairs Minister. Wait a minute, in March 2006, the then Human Resources Minister, Datuk Seri Dr Fong Chan Onn, suggested that employers should find ways to help their workers absorb the impact of the recent fuel hike, like increasing their transport allowance or implementing salary adjustment. As a pessimistic business student who isn't blessed with a brilliant mind unlike our honourable Domestic Trade and Consumer Affairs Minister or Dr Fong Chan Onn, I cannot bring myself to agree with their statements or thoughts. That is why I'm ranting instead of studying, and that is why I'm not the Domestic Trade and Consumer Affairs Minister, neither do I have a PhD in Operations Research/Industrial Economics (Heck, I'm only an undergraduate). Hmm, how I wish Dr Fong is my employer....

For now, I have to agree with Lim Si Pin that Datuk Seri Abdullah has created a name for himself just like his predecessors. From today onwards, I reckon that Datuk Seri Abdullah Ahmad Badawi will be known as Bapa Inflasi.

To all Malaysians, (*no comments*). You be the judge. The onus is with you, once again.

**Off to look for a less jammed petrol station now. Round 2**

By the way, will there be any round of fuel price hike in August 2008?? I don't know but I'm fearing the worst after reading from here that the government will scrap ceiling prices on petrol and diesel in August, and allow market forces to determine pump prices.

*sigh*
As if we are not feeling enough of the pinch of inflation.

Times like this and I wonder why I'm still living in Malaysia or why am I a Malaysian to start off with.
__________________________________________________________________
Updated at 12:30am 5/6/2008: Queued up for half an hour at the Shell petrol station at BL at 10:05pm. Accompanied mum there again at 11:05pm to fill her car up only to know that we can only pump RM30 worth of petrol (at RM1.91 per liter). Still, it's better than nothing. Praise God. The queue at GR and Rock Road was Still SOoooooooo long when I was on the way home at 11:35pm. Thank you very much, Datuk Seri Abdullah Ahmad Badawi and his cabinet. I hope you will have a good night's sleep.... ZZZZZZzzzzzzZZZzz...........

BENAR: Walk for Media Freedom

Prelude: Okay, I'm alive. I survived the stampede of my MR assignment 2 (Praise God), leaving me too fatigue to start my preparation for my quiz this Friday. Ah, I shall start my revision tomorrow.. Got to relax first. Many thanks to my partner-in-crime: Alester for the usage of your printer, paper and etc; my trusty Acer laptop for enabling me to do my assignments on you; my old but reliable Proton for being my source of transportation to get me to SCS and back; Yee Chee for letting me leave the orientation right after I have said a few words about the Club on Saturday; my MR lecturer at SCS: Ms Sharifah, for pitying us and letting us continue on with our assignment during tutorial sessions; Mr. Alan for letting me leave the club matters aside until I was done with my assignment and have recuperated from it (which I do not when will that be. BTW, sorry for being kinda inattentive during the second last class and last class of CB. MR assignment 2 ate my brain cells up and I'm in the process of getting my brain cells back but in vain attempt); Dad for just being there; and not forgetting, to all my MR course mates, SCS's Head of Academic: Ms Grace, SCS's PR manager: Mr. Joseph, Keith, and Dilys for your words of encouragement....May God bless all of you.. (No thanks to the two club committee who ironically had something on at the same time and the same day despite the fact that I informed both of you two weeks before hand. To make things worst, you had the guts to inform you that you weren't free 4 days before.. WTF!! Hmmm, I wonder what was your thing???)

For further info, visit this site.

BENAR is a civil society initiative established to address the state of journalism in our beloved country and restore Truth in Reporting. They will be organizing a walk for us Malaysians on Sunday, 1st June 2008, at Dataran Merdeka, Kuala Lumpur at 9am, to show our desire for Media Freedom.

There will be NO PUBLIC GATHERING as participants are being asked to arrive on their own and show their respect to the National Flag at Dataran Merdeka before proceeding to the National Press Club which is just around the corner. Those who wish to do so are invited to wear something yellow as a reflection that this is a People’s Activity. Key note address will be delivered by Law Minister, YB Datuk Zaid Ibrahim.

For more information, feel free to visit the BENAR site here.

Media freedom is for the general public too, not only for media or the press.

So JOIN THE WALK.

Towards a BETTER Malaysia.

Thank you.

Posted by the ethnocentric KJ,
who unfortunately can't join the walk despite the fact that it's going to be a long weekend for Sarawakians (Happy Gawai, people!!) as she is across the South China Sea. No doubt AirAsia and MAS are offering cheap fares but she still can't go either because she's got to prepare for her Leadership quiz due on the 8th June followed by her exams in mid-June.
PS: When will there be a Walk for Media Freedom in Kuching??

My perception about AirAsia has changed.....

As I was moderating the comments left on my blog just now, I realized that Tony Fernandes left a comment on my post: Healthy Competition is Good. **WooT** Okay, I do not know whether it is really Dato' Tony Fernandes or just somebody who is using his name. But I shall assume that it is really Dato' Tony Fernandes, as in the CEO of AirAsia Berhad. (Thank you, Dato' Tony Fernandes for highlighting several issues out to me. I truly appreciate it as it made me realised that I have been looking at things from a one-sided perspective, thus giving a rather bias judgment on certain issues at times). I know I praised his arch-rival in that post but it is in my personal opinion that Datuk Seri Idris Jala is a transformational who managed to bring MAS out of its abysmal position (and this opinion still remains until today.)

I have used AirAsia countless times because of its cheaper fares and I have experienced numerous postpurchase dissonance in the process because of the the airline’s deep-seated inability to keep to its schedules. At one point of time, I surmised that flight delays due to the late arrival of the aircraft is central feature of AirAsia’s business operating plan!! However, I shall not lament on flight delays or cancellation due to bad weather because it is something inevitable. Nevertheless, despite all my unpleasant experience, I continued using AirAsia but it is out of repeat purchase behaviour because the airfare was much cheaper as compared to MAS and of course, the number of flights a day that they offer for the Kuching-KL sector: 10 flights a day as compared to MAS's 7. Note: until today, I will choose the one that offers the cheapest price. I do not have brand loyalty when it comes to airlines.

However, my past experience with AirAsia's service isn't my main point here. It is their down-to-earth leader that I shall talk about. I have heard from many people that they met Dato' Tony Fernandes at KLIA while checking-in and how humble was he to approach them first, chat with them and even agreed to take a picture with them. Then Peter Tan commended Dato' Tony Fernandes's quick response to meet with the members of Barrier-Free Environment and Accessible Transport Group (BEAT) personally to discuss the ways to resolve issues faced by disabled persons wanting to book seats to fly with AirAsia, immediately after the protest by the members of BEAT. However, after today, the fact that he commented on my post that did not favour AirAsia that much, I have to say that Dato' Tony Fernandes has proven himself to be a down-to-earth person. I mean, who am I? I am not actually a nobody. I am only one of the 27.17million people in Malaysia. I am not an opinion leader to anybody about airlines. I am not a frequent flyer of any airlines. I do not even have active income (my salary from my tuition is considered my pocket money). But the fact that my opinion actually mattered to the CEO of AirAsia (if it was really him) has changed my opinion about AirAsia:-
AirAsia: the number 1 budget airline in Asia.
AirAsia: the company that I used for most of my assignments during my diploma days because the website was (and still is) user friendly, availability of information and they had this section called Student FAQ which was very helpful.
AirAsia: The market leader in zero-fares.
AirAsia: Its low fares are more to a strategy since it is in line with the mission of the airline, and its tagline “Now Everyone Can Fly”.
AirAsia: The company with a CEO that takes the problems faced by physically challenged people seriously and addressed it immediately.
AirAsia: The company with a down-to-earth CEO.
and as mentioned by the lecturer just now during CB lecture, AirAsia: the sponsor for Manchester United, Formula One's Williams team and professional referees in English soccer.

Tony Fernandes (as in the one who commented on my blog) commented that AirAsia has not been given more routes to Singapore and have to compete against FireFly that is operating in Subang. True enough, Subang is much nearer as compared to Sepang, so some people might end up using FireFly even though it is more expensive than AirAsia. AirAsia currently has two daily flight frequencies between the lucrative KL-Singapore route (because it is allowed only two) while MAS has five flights. To say whether this is actually unfair, I don't know. After all, like what Datuk Seri Idris Jala said, Malaysia has open sky agreements with the US, United Arab Emirates, New Zealand, Taiwan and Scandinavian countries so AirAsia is actually free to fly to any of these destinations with no limitations on frequency.

Nevertheless, my stand regarding the zero air fare competition shall remain....

MAS is offering FREE Seats.
AirAsia is offering SubZero FREE Seats.
FireFly is now showing their FREE Seats is lower than Subzero.

*Surcharges such as fuel, insurance and administration fees are non-refundable.

Healthy and FAIR competition is GOOD
not only for consumers, but also for Malaysia's tourism industry
(though travel agents might really not welcome it with wide open arms because the incentive to sales agents and other ticket handling costs are minimized since tickets can only be booked online!!!).

Therefore, the winner of the MAS-AirAsia price war is us, the CONSUMERS
(as long as the interests of the consumers are taken care of, and most importantly, safety and efficiency are not compromised.)

So on behalf of all the consumers, I would like to thank Datuk Seri Idris Jala for being the first full-service airline to offer zero fares (source) and to Dato' Tony Fernandes for coming up with creative strategies when responding to competition (and for commenting on my blog).

May the Malaysian aviation industry be FULLY liberalised before the Asean open skies policy fully opens on 1st January 2009....

Towards a BETTER Malaysia.....

Reality hits in...

Just when I thought things were going smoothly as planned, reality check puts me back in the front seat of life.

Reality hits in. To think of it, I have got one essay due next week, one assignment due on the 26th, CB Online Quiz 4 opening next week so I must get it completed by the 23rd, CB Online Quiz 5 opening on the 30th and Leadership quiz 3 due end of this month.... **GAH**..Academic stuff aside, I received an email from the president of SCS Student Council saying that I've got to prepare the Student Council I&E statement and promote the YEC during the orientation for the new bunch of babies intake on the afternoon of 24th May...**pukes**...Unfortunately, my preparation for my quizzes and MR assignment have been put to halt due to my Leadership essay..... (and reality hits in that my essay is 40% completed as of today but it has surpassed the word limit by a grand four-figure amount and reality hits in that the list of references is not enough!!!). Preparation for those non-academic matters????????????????????????

Last night (and just now, as well), as I was trying to continue on my Leadership essay, an unpleasant message appeared in my mind: "There are no more ideas inside the brains. Please insert some more ideas into KJ's brains." So I tried to insert some ideas into my brains, but another message appeared: "KJ's brains have encountered a problem and needs to be closed."

So I decided to go online to read some blogs. My first stop was YB Wong Ho Leng's blog that presents a daily summary of Sarawak's DUN meeting. On most days of the sitting, the meeting convened around 5-10 minutes later because there are insufficient number of assemblymen in the Hall for a quorum. This left me wondering, how do you expect us to keep time when our leaders do not keep time even?? But anyway, reality hits in that I'm leaving in a society where the practice of the polychronic-time culture is a norm. Wait a minute, this website says that polychronic people are easily distracted and subjected to interruptions... ***Reality hits into KJ's head that that is why she chucked her essay aside again. She is just NOT DISCIPLINE at all***

After that, I went to YB Lim Kit Siang's blog for some political updates and spent around 20 minutes enjoying 2 YouTube footage on our YB Lim's debate on why the DAP MP for Kota Melaka, Sim Tong Him, and two DAP assemblymen, Goh Leong Sin (Kesidang) and Lim Jak Wong (Bachang), in Malacca last week were arrested by the police. I also watched the footage about the world's richest unemployed that was uploaded today..Then I stumbled upon Din Merican's blog that contained 3 YouTubes videos of our fiery and articulate Ipoh Timur MP raising the issue about RPK's arrest when it was his turn to hold the floor in the debate on the royal address. He took two hours to deliver his speech, which was of course filled with endless interjections, clarifications, demands for rebuttals mostly from BN backbenchers. (Thank you YB Lim for raising all those issues up in the dewan Rakyat. You are really the people's eyes, ears and mouth in the Dewan Rakyat.) Reality hits in that I must agree with Azmi Anshar's write-up about our DAP stalwart.

How I wish that I am the world's richest unemployed. How I wish I am one of the advisers to the Prime Minister of Malaysia...Read this to find out how much Datuk Seri Shahrizat Abdul Jalil, the adviser on women and social development affairs, and Tan Sri Dr Abdul Hamid Othman, the adviser on religious matters earn per month. It makes Tun Dr. Mahathir's salary as the adviser to Petronas look little... A big thank you to the PKR's Member of Parliament for Kulim Bandar Baru, YB Zulkifli Noordin, for posting the questions, and to our Prime Minister for his written reply...By the way Datuk Seri Prime Minister, is there any vacancy for me as an adviser to you???

The DAP MP for Taiping cum assemblymen for Pantai Remis, YB Nga Kor Ming, is a great orator too. It reminds me of a Malaysian version of Barrack Obama. All praise to the other MPs too, be it from the Barisan Nasional or the Opposition side. Most of them speak very well with beautiful Bahasa Malaysia....***reality hits into KJ's head that she has to improve her command of the BM language*** Unfortunately, the act of the Independent MP for Pasir Mas, Datuk Ibrahim Ali, apologising to the physically challenged BUT NOT to YB Karpal Singh has irked me. ***Reality hits into KJ's head that not ALL Member of Parliaments in Malaysia are professional to differentiate between work and play...***

After that, I visited several other social-political blogs for more updates about Raja Petra Kamarudin, only to feel happy that he has finally agreed to post bail and has been released. Life must have been tough for his family members too. This posting on Susan Loone's blog touched my heart. Though I'm across the South China Sea, I stand with solidarity with everyone who participated in the RPK's candle vigil at the Sungai Buloh prison and Dataran Merdeka for the past two nights.

Then I stumbled upon the DAP MP for Rasah, YB Loke Siew Fook's blog and I was shocked when I read this. (Thank you, YB Loke for posting this)

Total undergraduates in local universities (2007) : 382,997

Bumiputra - 79.7%
Chinese - 12%
Indian - 3.2%
International - 3.7%

Is this a real reflection the meritocracy system??? Why is the Indian admission to local universities 3.2% while the admission of International students 3.7%??? *KJ gasps in horror* Aren't Indians Malaysians too??? ***Reality hits into KJ's head that this is MALAYsia***. Anyway, I strongly agree with the Barisan Nasional MP for Alor Gajah, Datuk Seri Dr Fong Chan Onn's proposal that the government should adopt a single entry system into local universities. (Excellent proposal, Datuk Seri Dr Fong. Keep it up.)

Okay, I feel that there are some space in my brains now so I shall take advantage of this rare opportunity to continue on with my never-seem-to-finish essay. Hope it's not another false alarm.

Have a great weekend, people...

Leadership essay beckons... this calls for concentration.

Reality hits into KJ's empty head that she has to concentrate.
and reality hits into KJ's head that it is already Saturday morning....

...and what do we get for speaking our minds out???

We celebrated World Press Freedom Day on 3rd May, 2008. Yesterday, we were greeted with the news that Raja Petra Kamarudin, the editor of Malaysia Today, has been charged under Section 4(1)(c) of the Sedition Act 1948 for his post here. Businessman Syed Akbar Ali was also charged under the same act for posting a comment on Raja Petra Kamarudin's site on 5th June, 2007.

Though some quarters aren't happy with his bravado, I got to respect RPK's rectifying actions. He has the guts to post allegations(??) against high-ranking officials. He is a victim of sadistic victimization. This is a political outrage to all bloggers....

This left me wondering...
-where is our freedom of speech as provided by Article 10 of the Federal Constitution??
- With regards to the Malaysian Bar Council statement that the use of the Sedition Act shows a severe encroachment on the fundamental freedoms as stated in the Federal Constitution, do these opressive legislations still have a place in a democratic country like Malaysia??


, left me hoping...
- that the Government of my beloved democratic country, Malaysia, would one day, repeal the Official Secrets Act 1972, Sedition Act 1948, Internal Security Act 1960, other opressive legislations and not forgetting, detention without trial.

, and left me wanting......
- to leave in a peaceful and multi-racial country where criminals are given a fair trial, and innocent people do not have to live in fear of being charged for expressing their thoughts and opinions.

But is there such a country in this world today?
I do not know because I am not well-versed in International Politics and Law.

But what I know is that this articulate man who spoke without fear or favour, but with proof, has chose to stay behind bars instead of posting the RM5000 bail to prove his point while pending the trial on his case on 6th October, 2008.

Like all brave bloggers, he is a man of words..He stood up for what was right.....

Nevertheless, I believe that ONE DAY, truth will prevail and justice will be done....

And we shall never be vilified, subdued, or subjugated by threats of intimidation.

Towards a BETTER Malaysia.

Side note- Taken from Malaysia Today: The Center for Independent Journalism (CIJ) and the Civil Society Initiative for Parliamentary Reform (CSI-Parliament) have prepared 4 documents supporting the Private Member’s Bill on Freedom of Information in Parliament. These documents are available for you to read here. There is also a petition calling for a Malaysian Freedom of Information Act. Please support the petition by signing it. Link here to find out more...Thank you.

Update on 8/5/2008: RPK has agreed to post bail.

Healthy Competition is GOOD

I had the inspiration to blog about this after reading Keith’s blog and after hearing Datuk Seri Idris Jala's message each time I sign out from Hotmail…(Credit given to the author of The Journals.blogspot.com -hope it's enough to save me from any charges pressed against me by the author!!)

Our national carrier, Malaysia Airlines (and its wholly-owned subsidiary, FireFly), had just launched its newest promotion: Everyday Low Fares.

1,000,000 free seats.
Fly from KL to Kuching (one way): RM0*
Book only at www.malaysiaairlines.com
Book early. Book online. No refunds. Fly 5-star!
Booking period: 5-19 May, 2008.
Travel period: 10 June, 2008-14 December, 2008.
*The above Economy Class fares EXCLUDE YSQ charges (fuel surcharge, administrative fee and airport tax), insurance levy and etc. Fares not available during peak periods. T&C apply…..

Your eyes are not deceiving you. This is not taken from an AirAsia advertisement. It (the words, I mean) is taken from the Malaysia Airlines (hereinafter referred to as MAS) advertisement in the 6th May, 2008 copy of Borneo Post, page 5. YES, our once-ailing national carrier, MAS, is now offering 1,000,000 free seats which includes the usage of the aerobridge, meal and etc. Remember that MAS does not charge any check-in baggage fee. It's AirAsia which charges the baggage fee of RM3 per bag (for online check-in) and RM5 per bag (for airport check-in). So you DO NOT have to pay any check-in baggage fee (that is if your check-in luggages do not exceed 20kg!)

Gone were those days when they could charge premium ticket prices, yet render poor service to customers and still survive. Gone were the days when they didn’t really have to improve their service even if it is under performing relative to other airlines.

Okay, to give MAS some credit: I redeemed MAS had played an important role in contributing to Malaysia’s economic and social integration. The company is currently operating the "loss-making" Rural Air Service (RAS) within Sabah and Sarawak through MasWings. I think this is indeed essential for social and economic development. MasWings took over this route from Fly Asian Xpress which gave it up after operating for around a year or so.

Credit goes to Datuk Seri Idris Jala, the revolutionary Managing Director and CEO of Malaysia Airline System Bhd, who took over the ailing airline on December, 2005 and later implemented the Business Turnaround Plan on 27^th February, 2006. The plan was aimed at cutting losses from RM1.7 billion (full year) to RM620 million in 2006, achieve a profit of RM50 million in 2007 and a record profit of RM500 million in 2008.

[I know some people will say that MAS is copying AirAsia's strategy of selling those seats that would otherwise remain empty and etc. So to be fair, I shall say that in reference to this case of MAS' low-fare offer, AirAsia is the market leader and MAS is the market follower. Anyway, there's no rule saying that one can't become a market follower, right??]

Then on 27^th February, 2008, it was reported that Malaysia Airline System Bhd confirmed its turnaround with a record net profit of RM851 million for the financial year ended 31st December, 2007.

And again, credit is given to that Sarawak interior-born Datuk Seri Idris Jala, for MAS' turnaround– all based on accountability, transparency, hard work and thrift... An example of a transformational leader.

….Gone were the bleak days when Malaysia Airline System (MAS) reported an abysmal loss of over RM1.3 billion while other airlines reported strong profits.

Yesterday, we were greeted with the news that AirAsia would come out with two new initiatives:
> AirAsia will pay the difference to any of his passengers if they can find any MAS airfare that is lower than the cheapest offered by AirAsia.
> A sub-Zero Fare campaign. Quoting Dato’ Tony Fernandes, “As for the sub-Zero Fare, which will be launched in the next few days, it will be cheaper than zero.”.

*WOoooooOT*…
Healthy competition is GOooooOD……

I strongly welcome it AS A CONSUMER. (but not IF I am another airline operator in Malaysia!!!).

Time for stimulus generalisation and stimulus discrimination???

.......Gone were the days when our Malaysian aviation industry was monopolized by one airline only.

And to give credit when credit is due, here's a THANK YOU to the CEO of AirAsia Berhad, Dato’ Tony Fernandes, for bringing AirAsia into operations....

However, I do not know whether this is a one-off marketing tactic for both airlines.... I hope it's a strategy instead. Anyway, Datuk Seri idris Jala has said that MAS is still making money from charging low fares. and Like what Sen Ze said, regular advertisements in mass media that advertise unbelievably low ticket prices is a great way to generate word-of-mouth publicity.

May Malaysia Airlines: the symbol of our national sovereignty, and AirAsia: the No.1 budget airline in Asia, be preserved without sacrificing efficiency.