ELECTION 2008 - WE NEED CHANGE THAT WE CAN BELIEVE IN (Part 2)

My late grandfather, Sungei Petani’s George C Philip, an educationist and peer of the nation’s first and second prime ministers, had always advocated that our answers be always truthful and straightforward. He always maintained that our answers be a short, simple and truthful ‘yes’ or ‘no’. This school of thought is an ‘endangered species’ in today’s political Malaysia. So, like millions in the country, I am shellshocked that of all persons, our beloved Prime Minister, Abdullah Ahmad Badawi, the architect and advocate of Islam Hadhari, the leader of the Organisation of Islamic Nations (OIC), rather blatantly lied to the nation on Feb 12 when he denied that Parliament would be dissolved on February 13, which it was. The lie was totally unnecessary as all Malaysians were well aware of the impending dissolution of Parliament. They are also aware of - and cynical about (based on his performance and track record) - the PM’s claims and assurances that BN will only field able candidates who can serve the people with honesty, integrity and efficiency in the coming general election. The fact remains that if Britain’s Prime Minister Gordon Brown or Thailand’s Samak Sundaravej had lied to or misled the people, I am certain public pressure, convention, public interest and an independent and fair media would have made certain they resigned from political office. I wonder why, in Malaysia, the PM’s lying is no big deal in certain quarters. Perhaps they are accustomed to the muddied and bloodied waters of Malaysian politics where leaders say one thing and outright do another without feeling an ounce of guilt. Our brand of politics and governance tolerate and sanitise deep-seeded corruption at all levels. And our confused, frail media lacks the commitment, drive and patriotic spirit to expose these wrongs. Instead of being a beacon of responsibility and truth, it publishes ‘feel good’ stories and spins political stories for reasons and rewards that are mind-boggling. Now with the dates announced for both the nominations and polls, and the self-righteous assurance that only ‘clean and qualified’ candidates will be given the nod to contest, it will be relevant to note what the definition for ‘clean and qualified’ is according to the present leadership. Amid the scandals that rocked, and continue to rock, our beloved nation - from financial improprieties, incompetence and mismanagement, to the attempts to manipulate, fetter and control the independence of the various tiers of government - we need to reflect and reinforce that we need honest, radical change. We need a change that upholds and reveres human dignity, justice, fair-play, truth, accountability, transparency, good governance and a respect for the religious beliefs and culture of all Malaysians. In all honesty, and in sadness, based on the available facts and track records, I remain rather cynical that this change will be achieved during these forthcoming elections, let alone in my children’s and my lifetime.

ELECTION 2008: TIME TO ASSIST THOSE WHO HAVE SERVED OUR NATION – THE PENSIONERS!

 Nor Yaacob - ‘always open, available and willing to help - Malaysia’s 1st Finance Minister!’ - Dr Jacob George

TIME TO ASSIST THOSE WHO HAVE SERVED OUR NATION – THE PENSIONERS! 

I have received several telephone calls from pensioners in the country! 

I cannot deny that in the past many of my relatives, friends and former teachers had also approached me with various ‘horror stories.’ 

But I was under a mistaken impression that our pensioners were alright! 

And that thought got a severe beating when I was approached by a team of pensioners who shared their agony with me! 

I had stated that I will address this issue with the future Minister of Finance, yes in my book, none other, than the competent and hardworking Tan Sri Nor Mohamad Yaacob, who is always helpful and mindful of people’s needs! 

To start their tales of agony – was their claim that the Malaysian government had shortchanged them for many decades and that a revision of salary or salary readjustments were only done 2007. 

To them it was a political cum electing stunt? 

I am advised that all government pensions are calculated for 25 years of service only. 

This is despite the fact that many among the pensioners do work for considerably longer. 

They say that a person who has worked for 32 years should be getting a pension of about RM2, 000 but instead he/she is only paid RM1, 220. 

They claim there is a short change of RM780 which according to my mathematical calculation that over seven years of government service is wiped out! 

The situation they claim is so severe and dehumanizing that many pensioners is forced to seek re-employment. 

I am a bit troubled as if this group of former senior government servants cannot make hands meet how would others especially the smaller pension earners? 

How will they put their children through school or college, or children who cannot find jobs readily and still reliant on their parents? 

What about the costs of rising prices? 

And certainly, the costs of healthcare for those in this age group? 

I am told that apart from this, this target groups also get a raw deal in the repayment of housing loans. 

They allege that more than half their gratuity is taken for their housing loan. 

Which automatically means that the principal loan sum is reduced but no recalculation is done as is the norm when we deal directly with the banks! 

Perhaps, something is really amiss and we need to put to paper a plan of action or memorandum and highlight these views and feedbacks to the incoming Finance minister! 

Without a change in the calculation and proactive assistance I am certain Malaysian pensioners will be hard hit as prices and costs of living are expected to skyrocket post Election 2008! 

That includes – also necessities such as petrol, transport, pharmaceuticals and off-the-counter medicines. 

I am certain something can be achieved and urge these friends to give me some time to engage in more discussions with my team and address these issues with the person most qualified to provide solutions! 

SHAME ON YOU CLINTONS!

‘I am extremely disappointed at Hillary Clinton’s tone and posture!’ They would have made a dream team if not for his unfortunate and baseless outbursts!’ - Dr Jacob George.    

Despite the infamous ‘Bill Clinton scandal’, the negative media blitz, the various allegations and alleged linkages to lobbyists, I was among the first to give ‘my Asian support’ to Hillary Clinton when she made her extremely early entry announcement for the White House! 

But ‘the manner’ the Clintons had run this their campaign and the comments that came from Bill Clinton and now Hillary has thrown me off completely! 

I thought Hillary would have been different, but again, if one is just obsessed of wanting the Oval Office as she clearly is and thinking the best way to go about it when you are trailing is to do this!

Yes - I was wrong and her latest ‘outbursts’ clearly a tactic out of desperation is just all the more sick! 

It is a pity when a certain cross section of America continues to feel that a place in the White House is a sure thing akin to a family trust - that only a ‘Kennedy, Clinton, and Bush’ have outright ‘birth right to!’ 

And if you are neither - GOD help you! 

So by the latest vain outburst is Hillary saying to Obama - you have spoiled my dream, my ‘marriage right as a Clinton’ in the White House? 

But what else can justify this presidential hopeful’s fiercest denunciation so far of Barack Obama, her rival for the Democratic Party nomination? 

Hillary accused the Illinois senator of producing a misleading leaflet on her health care policy. 

While she denounced him saying - ‘Shame on you, Barack Obama!’ before another contest on Ohio in 10 days time - Obama is plain contrast and in statesmanship stood by the leaflet, saying he was puzzled by what he called his rival’s change in tone. 

The answer being that Hillary is desperate and must win both the contest in Texas and Ohio to see the ‘Clinton dynasty’ come to realization! 

For the record - Barrack Obama has won 11 consecutive primaries and caucuses in recent weeks, is now seen as the Democratic front-runner. 

And the fact remains that - the Clinton campaign has struggled to find an effective way to cope with Obama’s extraordinary momentum and feel this foolish and coolly calculated gamble is the answer to stopping Obama! 

But from where I am standing - it is yet another blunder - and a sad one at that! 

Hillary should have known better! 

But it is still not too late to say you are sorry Hillary!

I trust you will do the right thing!

THOSE BEHIND THE BHOPAL TRAGEDY ARE SIMILAR TO WAR CRIMINALS!

It was shocking, hurting, a massacre of an unkind kind and one that should never be repeated the world over!

Truly it was a catastrophe with no parallel in industrial history.

Yes I am referring to the tragedy called Bhopal in India more than a decade ago!
‘these hurting pictures will never be erased from our mind!’ 

But the truth remains that even after nineteen years the Bhopal gas tragedy continues to be a cruel reminder of corporate irresponsibility and of course apathy by all stakeholders!

The question however remains after more than 19 years whether there is today corporate responsibility and morality to do the right thing!

To me 19 years ago as an upcoming consumer advocate attached to the leading consumer and environmental movements/NGOs in this region – the Consumers Association of Penang (CAP) and Sahabat Alam Malaysia (SAM) – the Bhopal tragedy was a painful lesson.

It is true that today – in the year 2008 – there perhaps may be an increased awareness among corporations, among multi and transnational corporations and about the manner they deal with corporate responsibility!

It is true that in comparison to the early morning of one December 3 where an innocent community in Bhopal died today we have awareness, of social responsibilities, agents of sensitiveness to a host of issues ranging from the environment, industrial safety and labor to issues of transparency, good governance and accountability!

But is it enough or do we need a greater move in the mindsets in which corporations and governments deal with similar issues to protect the life and limb of communities threatened by various threats brought about by industrialization and the setting up of dangerous and hazardous corporations and business near populated regions or areas near vital lifelines – forests, lakes, water catchments and so forth!
 

We must not forget the night of Dec. 2nd and 3rd, 1984, when a Union Carbide plant in Bhopal, India, began leaking 27 tons of the deadly gas methyl isacyanate!

The result: Half a million people were exposed to the gas and 20,000 have died to date as a result of their exposure.

More than 120,000 people still suffer from ailments caused by the accident and the subsequent pollution at the plant site.

These ailments include blindness, extreme difficulty in breathing, and gynecological disorders.

If you think that was bad – take note that in 1999, local groundwater and well water testing near the site of the accident revealed mercury at levels between 20,000 and 6 million times those expected.

As a result cancer and brain-damage - and birth-defect-causing chemicals were found in the water; trichloroethylene, a chemical that has been shown to impair fetal development, was found at levels 50 times higher than EPA safety limits.

To make matters worse – examination revealed that poisons such as 1, 3, 5 trichlorobenzene, dichloromethane, chloroform, lead and mercury in the breast milk of nursing women.

Interestingly, in the year 2001, a Michigan-based chemical corporation Dow Chemical purchased Union Carbide, thereby in all legal means - acquiring its assets and liabilities.

But the irony remains that Dow Chemical has steadfastly refused to clean up the site, provide safe drinking water, compensate the victims, or disclose the composition of the gas leak, information that our doctors could use to properly treat the victims.!

If this is not inhumane and criminal - I wonder what really is!

In my analysis - the owners of this company are as quilty as war criminals and should be treated as such!

Perhaps, those in the ICJ at the Hague needs to relook at this scandalous and heinous corporate crime of the century!

MOBILE USAGE AND THAT CANCER LINK SCARE EMERGES!

‘controversy continues and fear lingers on in consumer hearts’        From time to time we get the scare but because there is no conclusive data to convince the relevant authorities the matter is laid to rest until the next apparent ‘scare report!’ True, we must agree that from time to time we get the scare but because there is no conclusive data to convince the relevant authorities the matter are laid to rest until the next apparent ‘scare report!’So I find myself yet again under heavy burden when consumers call to seek information about a related connection between cancer and mobile phone users!More so when a recent study showed that heavy mobile phone use may be linked to an increased risk of cancer of the salivary gland!In this research program we are told that researchers looked at 500 Israelis who had developed the condition and compared their mobile phone usage with 1,300 healthy controls. It was noted that those who had used the phone against one side of the head for several hours a day were 50% more likely to have developed a salivary gland tumor. The research findings certainly caused a stir in the consumer community as the research data and findings were revealed in the prestigious American Journal of Epidemiology. You are right that there have been numerous other studies focusing on the risk of tumors among those who use mobile phones, and overwhelmingly found no increased cancer risk. But inexplicable, we have to note quite cautiously that in this study researchers at Tel Aviv University do state these have tended to focus on brain tumors that often did not include long-term users. For your information - cancer of the salivary gland is a very rare condition. Medical experts reveal out of the 230,000 cases of cancer diagnosed in the UK for instance annually, only 550 relate to this area. But in this research one Dr Siegal Sadetzki, who led the research, states quite clearly that while mobile phone use in Israel was much heavier than in many other parts of the world, this gave an insight into what the long-term, cumulative impact could be. He feels that in comparison to other studies, the amount of exposure to radiofrequency radiation they saw in their recent study was much higher and this is where we are in anxiety! I am especially uneasy with one of their key findings that heavy users in rural areas had an even higher risk that those in cities! And more so the fact that mobile phones in areas without strong signals need to emit more radiation to work properly. So once again we are left in a drift and the sooner medical research come out with a conclusive link and data we as consumers will be on the receiving and anxiety filled arena!

JUST WHEN YOU THOUGHT IT WAS SAFE - US BEEF RECALLED!

‘beef recall sents shocks and shivers down the spine of consumers!’

‘Is this safe?’ This morning we are going to deal with cows! No, not political cows or overstaying their welcome cows or worst yet old fart cows and others certain editors and editorials are continuing to support which is a deception indeed! The cows we deal with today are the cow that the US Department of Agriculture (USDA) has ordered recalled! And we are advised that about 143m lb (64.9m kg) of beef - the largest meat is being recalled in the country’s history. The recalled products come from a California meat plant, which officials say broke rules on cattle inspections. So far the only ’silver linning’ seems to be the statement that the health hazard is minimal. Sad to note however that much of the meat was purchased for school lunch and other federal nutrition programmes. Sounds familiar - like our infamous food poisoning scandals with milk and school canteen food! In this case, the plant is also being investigated over alleged animal cruelty. Yes - animal cruelty - as in certain countries even animals have more rights than human beings in certain Asian, West Asian and African countries! Irony of ironies!  In this fiasco - we are advised that the USDA has recalled beef products from the Westland/Hallmark Meat Co, dating back to 1 February 2006. It is stated that the said  move surpasses a 1999 recall of 35m lbs of ready-to-eat meats! Again - much of the beef was destined for federal welfare assistance programmes, as well as some major fast-food chains. But the horror of horror is the statement by officials that  most of the recalled meat has already been eaten so we now look out for health hazards and multi million dollar civil suits filed by upset and angry consumers! I pray none of these meat lands up in any of our fast food joints! Trust you got my drift!

JG’S ELECTION 2008 PREDICTION!

Saturday February 16/2008 - what a day? A day of national shame!

A day where Women and children were among those detained because they participated in a peaceful demonstration to address a marginalized community woes!

Thank GOD this event was carried live in the international media of all forms and blogs!

Among the highlights in those expose were allegations that police had aggressively manhandled a women with her child?

I am advised by friends and fellow lawyers that by 6pm today, the police released all arrested Hindraf supporters, including 20 children, except for nine people who are still being detained for questioning.
                           
The nine, including two women, all aged between 35 and 40, were remanded for repeatedly defying police instructions to disperse.

“The police outnumbered the crowd  three to one! 

Yes - Malaysia is in the news again - getting massive negative publicity in the International media - for the ‘heavy handed approach of public dissent and the Hindraf ‘ Red Roses Event’ which brought international spotlight on Malaysia again for the ‘wrong reasons’  and weeks before election 2008!

While addressing this ‘day of shame’ - let us look at the coming weeks, while reflecting on the past events, where some ‘carefully engineered events’ unfolded under the ‘umbrella of transparency’ but nothing is going to come out of it, except, that it may ’shut up’ a former Malaysian premier during the run-up of the Election 2008 and at the same time, ‘convieniently vacant’ the parliamentary seat in Putrajaya - a very2 safe BN seat!

 ’to take Putrajaya?’

And I strongly believe that seat will go to Umno Youth deputy chief Khairy Jamaluddin, the son in law of the Malaysian Prime Minister!

Well this is my first prediction!

Lets see if my political ‘crystal ball’ is indeed accurate!

WITH ALL THE RUBBISH GOING ON IN SELF RIGHTEOUS MALAYSIA - THIS IS A BETTER WATCH SAYS JG!

The Place -    Ferguson and Wenger are looking forward to the clash Old Trafford The Date: Saturday 16 February The Occasion: The FA Cup fifth round The Kick Off - 1715 GMT And Sir Alex Ferguson and Arsene Wenger both brillant managers and both wary of each other’s leading scorers and teams have many things up their mind and ahead of Saturday’s FA Cup tie between Manchester United and Arsenal. This match will be brillant to watch as my favourite team Arsenal take on Manchester United! I pray we have a dedicated and honest referee! Enough of Crooks! My prediction: 2-1 in Arsenal’s favor!

EMBARASSING STATE OF AFFAIRS IN A DEMOCRACY? (PART 2)

 HINDRAF’S ROSE DEMONSTRATION OF FEB 16/2008 - IS TEAR GAS AND WATER CANNONS THE ANSWER TO A PEACEFUL DEMONSTRATION  AND DISSENT? MALAYSIA IS FAST LOSING ITS INTERNATIONAL IMAGE AS A DEMOCRACTIC NATION?   

A senior foreign diplomat friend had asked me last night whether my country was in such a ‘state of political mess and turmoil’ that the authorities had to revert to obtaining ‘restraining orders’ and worst still, in arresting journalists under Section 189 of the Penal Code and lawyers crying out against racial marginalization under the Internal Security Act (ISA) while tolerating corrupt and incompetent politicians! 

And worst still, further infuriate public discontent when available resources and manpower are utilized to stop a public demonstration on ‘rising costs of living’ when on the scales of statistics at the other end, the crime index in the country is skyrocketing, where really basic logic demands the manpower and resources should be diverted!  I honestly told my diplomat friend that only an idiot in ‘a situation like this’ would attempt to mitigate on behalf of the authorities for the ‘inexplicable decisions’ that they have taken! But the truth remains, it was indeed pretty illogical and utter foolishness, that Malaysiakini journalist, Syed Jaymal Zahiid who was reporting the anti-toll hike protest at Kuala Lumpur City Centre was arrested and charged under Section 189 of the Penal Code ‘for allegedly obstructing a police officer from performing his duty?’ Syed Jaymal Zahiid who was reporting the anti-toll hike protest at Kuala Lumpur City Centre was arrested and charged under Section 189 of the Penal Code ‘for allegedly obstructing a police officer from performing his duty?’ He is out on bail and certainly all politically enlightened and legally conscious Malaysians and others in the civilized international arena would be anxiously looking forward to the hearing scheduled to be heard from June 16-18 provided the authorities do not ‘for some inexplicable reasons’ withdraw the said charge against Syed! Syed Jaymal Zahiid who was reporting the anti-toll hike protest at Kuala Lumpur City Centre was arrested and charged under Section 189 of the Penal Code ‘for allegedly obstructing a police officer from performing his duty?’ He is out on bail and certainly all politically enlightened and legally conscious Malaysians and others in the civilized international arena would be anxiously looking forward to the hearing scheduled to be heard from June 16-18 provided the authorities do not ‘for some inexplicable reasons’ withdraw the said charge against Syed! But if the ‘show goes on’ and I hope it does for the sake of the sanctity of the law and the need to address alleged abuse, I am certain that there will be no lack of a team of lawyers willing to defend Syed Jaymal Zahiid - pro bono! 

Syed Jaymal Zahiid who was reporting the anti-toll hike protest at Kuala Lumpur City Centre was arrested and charged under Section 189 of the Penal Code ‘for allegedly obstructing a police officer from performing his duty?’ He is out on bail and certainly all politically enlightened and legally conscious Malaysians and others in the civilized international arena would be anxiously looking forward to the hearing scheduled to be heard from June 16-18 provided the authorities do not ‘for some inexplicable reasons’ withdraw the said charge against Syed! But if the ‘show goes on’ and I hope it does for the sake of the sanctity of the law and the need to address alleged abuse, I am certain that there will be no lack of a team of lawyers willing to defend Syed Jaymal Zahiid - pro bono! But the sad part is, while many of us are working so hard in the country and abroad to position our nation as a civilized, political vibrant, legally mature and democratically a strong nation, such acts embarrasses us and will be interpreted as ‘acts of intimidation to undermine media freedom and the rights and freedoms of journalists to report without intimidation! 

That arbitrary arrest, detention and selective prosecution are a way of life in Malaysia! 

Already the infamous ‘Lingham tapes’ have made our judiciary a laughing stock in the ‘eyes of the sanitized world!’ 

Perhaps, certain quarters obsessed with holding on to ‘political power at all costs’ are not bothered any more about public opinion, decency, political ethics, fair play, justice or let alone international reaction and condemnation in regard a clear abuse of power and the withholding the fundamental rights of the public to hold peaceful assemblies and their right not to be subjected to torture, cruel, inhuman, or degrading treatment.

I am certain our law enforcers having boasted of representing ‘United Nations international peacekeeping force abroad’ are aware of the UN Code of Conduct for Law Enforcement. 

And more so, provisions contained in Article 5 that no law enforcement official may inflict, instigate or tolerate any act of torture or other cruel, inhuman or degrading treatment or punishment or invoke superior orders or exceptional circumstances, such as a threat to national security, to justify these actions!

If our national security is really under threat and there is clear and unquestionable evidence that is detailed and comprehensive having withstood debate and public analysis - certainly by all means take the needful action in the public interest but give those accused the right to a proper defense! 

But without such debate nor defense, if for each and every show of ‘protest and dissent’ we indulge in obtaining blanket unilateral restraining orders and use maximum force against the general public as a means to crack down against public assemblies the nation cannot but look pretty paranoid in the eyes of today’s enlightened world! 

And it is acts like these that ‘bleeds the peace loving hearts of Malaysians’ and sadly give credence to others to say that indeed, Malaysia has to date become a Police state!

ELECTION 2008 - WE NEED CHANGE THAT WE CAN BELIEVE IN!

‘As Obama says - we need change that we can believe in…..! 

In the USA - California’s first lady and wife of California Governor Arnold Schwarzenegger, Ms Maria Shriver, a member of the powerful Kennedy political clan, had just endorsed Barack Obama for US president, just days after her former-actor husband backed Republican John McCain. 

Her reasons were simple – Obama was diverse, open, smart, independent, buck’s tradition, innovative, inspiring, dreamer, and certainly a leader! 

Her endorsement came one week after her prominent uncle, US Senator Ted Kennedy and her cousin Caroline the only surviving child of slain US President John F. Kennedy publicly endorsed Obama. 

In the USA elections, it is about change – real change! 

We are also facing national elections soon! 

But it will be unthinkable for something similar in ‘predictable Malaysia’ despite all the ‘great political and prophetic quotes and claims’ which was utter hogwash from the days of the Mahathir Mohamad regime! 

But, change is certainly possible provided all parties are sincere and ethical about it! 

And it is in this vein, I would like to direct my thoughts at Deputy Premier, Najib Abdul Razak urging the MIC to re-brand it to remain relevant to the Indian community.

It was a keynote address that while addressing the seven core issues confronting Malaysian Indians, it also appealed to both the MIC and the Indian community to work within the system to help the government to mend the mistakes that have been done in the past! 

Some felt it was a subtle threat, while others a carefully ‘managed and maneuvered’ speech quite carefully between the ‘big stick and carrot methods!’ 

In all fairness, I thought it was an honest admission by Najib that wrongs had been done and rectification certainly possible! 

What was good is it came after 50 years of independence, despite our lack of a political culture mature enough to tell a coalition partner off, or to leave the political stage, who through incompetence, greed, plain stupidity and arrogance had eroded and contributed a political backlash towards the ruling party’s image and ‘questionable  moral authority!’ 

But, in all fairness, that speech showed ‘consistency and courage’ to accept political liability for the wrongs done to any marginalized community and sends a signal to those who take political leadership in future that with leadership comes responsibility! 

That was Najib’s speech if one reads between the lines! 

That high political office demands nothing less than total commitment and honesty of service to King and country! 

And in failure one must be mature enough to stand down and allow others to lead! 

I am certain when deputy premier used the terminology re-branding’ it does not mean ‘business as usual!’ 

It did not mean changing a few while retaining the bulk of the ‘political misfits’ that have been there in political office both at state and national level for decades! 

It does not mean either the continued sprinkling of a few new faces from one’s own personal camp of relatives, friendly corporate figures and friends to show change, at least cosmetically! 

Najib’s keynote address of re-branding meant just one thing – real change! 

To move forward - a new plan of action initiated by a new political team with unblemished moral and ethical standing committed to democracy, accountability, transparency, good governance and decency was needed! 

This must start from the branches, divisions, at state level and ultimately at corridors of power nationally! 

Nothing less! 

It is in tune with Prime Minister, Abdullah Ahmad Badawi’s honest statement, despite denials by others – that Malaysian Indians are really ‘hurt and angry’ and they want real change! 

But I will add that it is not only the Malaysian Indians but all right thinking, ethically and religiously brought up Malaysian’s deep seeded desire! 

All peace loving Malaysians are bleeding, in sadness and agony at the various controversies that are rocking our small nation of 26 Million people! 

And really no end in sight as new ones keep springing up before the last controversy is addressed sufficiently. 

And I would add that same community is also in plain religious Virgil for the detained 5 Hindu Rights Action Force (Hindraf) leaders who sacrificed their personal freedom and risked all for the Indian community! 

Their unconditional and unfettered freedom is vital! 

Against this backdrop, political hoaxes, misrepresentations, arrogant statements and the ‘recycling of old lies’ in controlled electronic and print media will only make matters worse! 

They must cease to provide an atmosphere for the renewal of cordiality and warmth! 

Change and real change is the answer and it now falls on aging and discredited Malaysian politicians to reflect honestly whether they love themselves, their political power or their country Malaysia! 

Our leaders who preach change must set the examples themselves and make certain that those against change, holistic change are removed from the corridors of power so that the nation can move forward! 

SMOKING RELATED DEATHS GROWING IN INDIA!

‘commitment & drive needed to stop this scourge!’ - Dr Jacob George.

It is rather sad and depressing to hear that over 1 million people a year will die from tobacco smoking in India during the 2010s, a well respected research groups predicts. Yes - the popular and respected New England Journal of Medicine study found smoking already accounts for 900,000 deaths a year in India. Their comprehensive study warns that without concrete and well planned action, the death toll from smoking will climb still further. It does predicts smoking could soon account for 20% of all male deaths and 5% of all female deaths between the ages of 30 and 69. Interestingly, the report indicates having calculated that on average, men who smoke bidi - small hand-rolled cigarettes common in India - lose about six years of life. And indeed, men who smoke full-size cigarettes shorten their lives by about ten years. And for women bidi smokers the figure is about eight years. For therecord, the said figures are based on a survey of deaths among a sample of 1.1 million homes in all parts of India carried out by about 900 field workers. Among men who died between the ages of 30 and 69, smoking caused about 38% of deaths from tuberculosis, 32% of deaths from cancer and 20% of deaths from vascular disease! It is indeed sad and there is a needed call to revitalise and commit a comprehensive plan of action to address this scourge of smoking!

JG SWINGS HIS VOTE TO OBAMA TO WIN!

‘OBAMA - Whom America needs to lead it for total revamp & change after years of controversy and shame!’   Honestly, I feel really proud to back Illinois Senator Barack Obama who looks set to overtake his rival, Senator Hillary Clinton, in the race for the Democratic presidential nomination. For the record, in the latest round of primaries, Mr Obama has clinched Virginia, Maryland and the District of Columbia. But the fact remains that neither has secured enough party delegates to secure the nomination to contest November’s presidential poll. For the Republicans, Senator John McCain is on course to win all three races, beating rival Mike Huckabee. He as far as I am concerned is ‘bad news’ for America which needs a massive honest CHANGE! The kind Obama is promising! Now with eight consecutive primary wins behind him, Mr Obama is beginning to look formidable and the manner of his victory on Tuesday looks ominous for Mrs Clinton! I pray that he goes on now with total speed and control to take the democratic party’s nomination!

CAN WE LEAVE OUR RELIGIOUS FIGURES OUT OF THE COMMERCIALS PLEASE!

The lip balm shows Christ flanked by two women (Photo: Blue Q) If you thought 2008 was free of religious controversies think again! As while we are speaking a controversy is erupting in Singapore where a leading retailer in Singapore has withdrawn a cosmetics range with a Jesus theme after complaints from local Roman Catholic church! The controversial product named Lookin’ Good for Jesus, was on sale at three Topshop outlets in Singapore! The Roman Catholic Church complained the cosmetics’ marketing was disrespectful, full of sexual innuendo and trivialised Christianity and certainly it was! We must remember that about 15% of Singapore’s 4.4 million population are Christians. The controversial products included a “Virtuous vanilla” lip balm and a “Get Tight with Christ” hand and body cream, featuring a picture of Christ flanked by two adoring women which to any rind minded individual was certainly ‘out of line!” Actually I cannot understand why anyone would use religious figures to promote vanity products? It’s certainly is very disrespectful and distasteful to say the least! The company in the middle of this storm was the Wing Tai company, which runs Topshop’s outlets in Singapore! Perhaps an unreserved public apology by the said company to all Christians is in order!

ORGAN SCAM DOCTOR CAUGHT IN NEPAL! WELL DONE NEPAL!

Dr Amit Kumar is escorted by Nepal police officials in Kathmandu, Nepal. Well done Nepal - Dr Jacob George.

I am really glad to hear from friends in Katmandu and those I am closely linked in Nepal’s government that the doctor alleged to be the mastermind of an organ trading racket in India has been arrested in Nepal! Wel done Nepal! The doctor Amit Kumar was reportedly discovered in a popular jungle resort in southern Nepal. I am told that Indian police had been wanting to question Dr Kumar after they raided a house in Delhi which had been used to carry out illegal kidney transplants. It is indeed sad to hear that hundreds of poor labourers were lured from across northern India and bribed into selling their kidneys or their kidneys removed under ‘false pretences!’ Nepal’s minister of state for home affairs Ram Kumar Chaudhary has gone one record that Dr Kumar was carrying $145,000 and a cheque for 900,000 euros when he was taken into custody. So the next logical move is for Indian officials to proceed with extradition proceedings. As I indicated in my keynote address recently at an International Conference on Organ Trade - the trade in human organs though banned in India continues as so in China! Their clients are the rich from both the East and the West!

JG SAYS ITS ILLOGICAL & FOOLISH TO CHARGE MALAYSIAKINI REPORTER!

‘lets stop being paronoid and foolish!’ - Dr Jacob George 

A senior foreign diplomat friend asked me last night if my country was in such a ‘state of political mess and turmoil’ that the authorities had to revert to obtaining ‘restraining orders’ and arresting journalists.

Instead of deploying resources and manpower to address the country’s skyrocketing crime index, police assets were used to stop a peaceful demonstration on the rising costs of living. Basic logic demands that these police resources should have been used elsewhere.

I told my diplomat friend that only an idiot would attempt to mitigate on behalf of the authorities for the inexplicable decisions they have made.

The truth remains that it was pretty illogical and utterly foolish for Malaysiakini journalist Syed Jaymal Zahiid to be arrested and charged while covering the Protes assembly last Saturday.

He is out on bail. And, certainly, all politically-enlightened and legally-conscious Malaysians, and others in the civilised international arena, are anxiously looking forward to the hearing scheduled for June 16-18 provided the authorities do not – for inexplicable reasons – withdraw the said charge against Syed!

But if the show goes on – and I hope it does to preserve the sanctity of the law and address alleged abuse – I am certain there will be no shortage of lawyers willing to defend Syed Jaymal Zahiid pro bono.

But the sad part is that while many of us are working so hard – domestically and abroad – to position our nation as a civilised, politically vibrant, legally mature and democratically strong, such incidents embarrass us. They are interpreted as acts of intimidation to undermine media freedom and the right of journalists to report.

Perhaps certain quarters obsessed with holding on to political power at all costs are not bothered any more about public opinion, decency, political ethics, fair play and justice let alone international reaction and condemnation. Perhaps they are also not bothered by such clear abuses of power as denying the public the right to hold peaceful assemblies and preventing journalists from carrying out their duties.

If our national security is really under threat - and there is clear and unquestionable evidence - then certainly, by all means, take the needed action in the public interest. But give the accused the right to a proper defense and let the public have access to reporting from unhindered journalists.

But if for each and every show of peaceful protest and dissent we indulge in obtaining blanket unilateral restraining orders and the use of maximum force against the general public and the press, the nation cannot but look pretty paranoid in the eyes of today’s enlightened world.

And it is acts like these that bleed the peace-loving hearts of Malaysians and, sadly, give credence to others who say that, indeed, Malaysia has become a police state.

JG WISHES ALL A BLESSED CHINESE NEW YEAR 2008!

WISHING ALL MY CHINESE BROTHERS & SISTERS A BLESSED CHINESE NEW YEAR 2008!

WITH ANOTHER BUS CRASH AND ANOTHER SAD LOSS OF LIFE - THE MINISTRY OF TRANSPORT CONTINUES TO EMBARRASS ALL MALAYSIANS!

I am deeply saddened that another tragedy has taken place! And despite all the recent public hypes and undertakings!

It is ironic that yesterday, the Ministry of Transport has purchased expensive wrap-around advertisements in several national newspapers, reminding road users of road safety ahead of the festive seasons. Perhaps, they fear a blacklash and rightly so!

I am advised that yesterday, friends of Lee Nian Ning, a medical student who died in a bus accident on January 25, unveiled an online petition in memory of her, who came from Taman Glugor, Penang.

Ironically, the target of the petition is the Ministry of Transport. They are seeking your signatures for a petition on express bus safety that they will send to the Transport Ministry after Chinese New Year!

I pray you do support this signature campaign as it is a first step in addressing the many wrongs that are still taking place in our nation’s public transport system!

The ROAD CARNAGE seems never ending and worst still the driver of that bus had a record! SHAME ON YOU MINISTRY OF TRANSPORT!

TIME ALL MALAYSIAN EXPECTED INFACT DEMANDED MORE THAN THIS RUBBISH!

 WE SAY BUS CRASH NO MORE!   

View Current Signatures   -   Sign the Petition 

To:  Ministry of Transportation, MalaysiaWe, the concerned youths of Malaysia express appalled anger towards the Slim River Bus Crash incident that claimed the life of Lee Nian Ning and two others on the 25th of January 2008. This is not the first time that such an incident has occurred. Despite numerous complaints and public uproar in the past, incidents like this continue to occur. It was reported that the driver’s company had 13 summonses on that bus itself. We find it unacceptable that such a company could have operated that vehicle on the road.

What are the explanations?

Hundreds of thousands of university students just like Nian Ning and us rely on such public transport to travel back home. Human life should not be taken lightly.

How could a vehicle with 13 summonses be free on the roads and not held by the authorities?

We, the following, hereby demand that the relevant authorities take immediate solid actions in ensuring that mistakes like this do not occur again in the future.
Sincerely,

The Undersigned