SEREMBAN -GEMAS RAILWAY SCAM - MEDIA BLITZ NEXT WEEK! (Part 8)

Next week, Malaysia’s Transport Minister and several of  my friends in the Cabinet will be briefed and updated on this scam!

It is important that the former is brought into the loop! - Dr Jacob George   

WHO IS AP MISRA? IS THERE A ‘DR’ AT THE ‘RB OF THE MOR’ – INDIA?

SEREMBAN TO GEMAS DOUBLE TRACK RAILWAY SCANDAL - HUNT ON FOR MALAYSIAN CON-MAN BALADEVAN THEAIVENDIRAM (Part 8)

Pathological liar, conman and fraud - Baladevan Theaivendiram (57) who claims he is ‘a relative’ of Tamil Nadu Chief Minister Hon’ble CM Dr Kalaignar M. Karunanidhi through marriage ties (claims the CM’s daughter Kanimozhi is married to his nephew G. Aravindan a Singaporean) according to his relatives is hoping that the ‘heat on him’ will lessen so that he can emerge with another new scheme to cheat more innocent individuals both in India and Malaysia with his far fetched claims!

Singapore police will also be alerted!

After all, this is not the first scam, he has orchestrated throughout his ‘miserable life of 57 years!’

As this ‘low life and scumbag’ Baladevan Theaivendiram ‘runs and hides’ – I am advised that several police reports will finally be made next week.

Among the names that may emerge is that of his RM2/- company - Zen Bridge Sdn Bhd, and that of several others of Indian nationals!

According to sources, one name that keeps coming up repeatedly is that of one ‘AP Misra!’

Baladevan Theaivendiram has been telling many quarters, including this writer, how much gifts and financial support he has been giving this ’senior man’ who he alleges is ‘close’ to him (apparently they both share a cup of capuccino coffee - everytime they meet in India! Aiyah, so so romantic?)

The ‘AP Misra’ is allegedly also close to the former Railway Minister!

This has to be verified!

But who actually is AP Misra?

How far and deep is he involved in this matter?

Or is AP Misra - also a victim of this notorious Baladevan who has to date, fooled many across the two countries on his true position - which is that he is an unemployed parasite living on the monies of those he cheats in his many claims and scams!

Will the Indian authorities shed some light on this soon?

And in this age and time - with the electronic DNA, I am aware that the links, if any, will be made!

One thing so far is certain – Malaysian Baladevan Theaivendiram (57) will be cited for cheating, fraud and misrepresentation!

The Malaysian media will have a field day next week!

 Our campaign against RACISM AND GENOCIDE of all forms!

MS SALVAM MARY PLEASE CONTACT SOLICITORS!

CONSUMER PROTECTION ALERT!

MS SALVAM MARY A/P PALAVENTHIRAM (NRIC NO: 621206-06-5268/6966791) – Please contact Solicitors -  Ms Rina Kaur at 016-3261700.

IN THE MATTER OF:

Parcel Number 171 – Storey No: 4, of Building No: A, Jalan Mulia, Taman Muliajaya, 68000 Ampang, Selangor held under Master title No:P.T. 9773, Mukim of Ampangm District of Ulu Langat in the state of Selangor Daul Ehsan.

Thank you!

 Our campaign against RACISM AND GENOCIDE of all forms!

BALADEVAN THEAVENDIRAM HIDING BUT HOW LONG? (Part 6)

‘I am told by reliable sources that this matter had brought some ’shocks and embarrassment’ in both Delhi and Chennai and they want this matter to be investigated thoroughly!

More so, before the Indian Prime Minister visits Malaysia in the third quarter!

As usual - I will brief several senior Cabinet Members ‘close to me’ on this matter, which includes, the former Minister of Works, Malaysia!

I am certain several Police reports will be made and this matter be pursued in a manner unheard of both in Malaysia and India!’ - Dr Jacob George    

DOUBLE TRACK RAILWAY SCANDAL - SEREMBAN TO GEMAS  CONTINUED:

We will soon upload the photograph of the notorious Baladevan Theaivendiram so that members of the public can provide feed backs on his movements in the country in lieu of the serious allegations against him!

Several Police reports will also be made this week so that there can be an official probe into this scandal which started with Zen Bridge Sdn Bhd after there was a LOI between the Government of Malaysia and India over the Double Track Railway Projects Butterworth to Padang Besar.

The second stage started after the Malaysian government awarded the Seremban to Gemas to India and Baladevan Theaivendiram went to town with price sensitive project information and data in his laptop which included a copy of the Letter of Award given to India!

He claimed he was a ‘nominated consultant’ of India having links to former Railways Minister, Lalu Prasad, several senior members of the Railway Board and senior official of the Ministry of Railways India and at least one individual at the IRCON International Office at KL Sentral in Kuala Lumpur!

He alleged that the very expensive branded watches, perfumes, pens (skeleton), medication and jewelery he bought from ‘other people’s  money were given to prominent politicians and civil servants in Delhi and Chennai were ‘part payments’ to facilitate the awards to Malaysian companies.

According to reliable sources, he showed them several of these gifts prior to his trips to India!

He had also given them several names of those who he claimed were assisting him. I have in my possession that list.

He has also claimed he is a relative of Tamil Nadu Chief Minister Hon’ble CM Dr Kalaignar M. Karunanidhi through marriage ties (claims the CM’s daughter Kanimozhi is married to his nephew G. Aravindan a Singaporean) and through these claims is alleged to have been brokering various project contracts in Tamil Nadu!

With these claims Baladevan is alleged to have collected ‘hundreds of thousands’ as ‘upfront monies’ to ‘facilitate the awarding of these projects to individuals or companies’ introduced by this scumbag!

We need to address this issue and bring it to a closure before the forthcoming visit to Malaysia in the third quarter by India’s well respected and visionary Prime Minister, HE Dr Manmohan Singh  and one, I have a lot of respect for personally!

 Our campaign against RACISM AND GENOCIDE of all forms!

RAILWAY SCANDAL - HUNT ON FOR MALAYSIAN CON-MAN BALADEVAN THEAIVENDIRAM (Part 5)

‘I am awaiting instructions before leaving for Delhi and Chennai to brief the proactive, no nonsense Minister HE Kumari Mamata Banerjee, Railway Board Chairman Shri S.S. Khurana and Tamil Nadu Chief Minister and senior State Ministers!

It is time Malaysian Baladevan Theaivendiram be made legally accountable for the wrongs he has committed and the lives he has ruined and about to ruin!‘ - Dr Jacob George

DOUBLE RAILWAY SCANDAL (SEREMBAN TO GEMAS)- HUNT ON FOR MALAYSIAN CON-MAN BALADEVAN THEAIVENDIRAM (Part 5)

Conman - Baladevan Theaivendiram who claims he is a relative of Tamil Nadu Chief Minister Hon’ble CM Dr Kalaignar M. Karunanidhi (above left) through marriage ties (claims the CM’s daughter Kanimozhi (above left bottom)is married to his nephew G. Aravindan a Singaporean) and through these claims is alleged to have been brokering various telecommunication and other project contracts in Tamil Nadu is now believed to be hiding!

As this ‘low life and scumbag’ Baladevan Theaivendiram runs and hides – I am advised that several police reports are about to be lodged against him and RM2/- company - Zen Bridge Sdn Bhd for cheating, fraud and misrepresentation and this matter goes global!

Even those ‘close’ - have turned against him unable to tolerate his behavior and decades of ‘irresponsible actions!’

To them this was the final straw!

And this time it is certain that Police reports will be made as among the victims are high profile individuals and a well politically connected company!

Interpol will be notified, the Indian authorities as well and we  have sent official letters to key agencies abroad which includes, his passport details!

I am awaiting instructions before leaving for Delhi and Chennai to brief the proactive, no nonsense Minister HE Kumari Mamata Banerjee (above), Railway Board Chairman Shri S.S. Khurana (below left) and Tamil Nadu Chief Minister and senior State Ministers!

It is a 10 year issue that has erupted and threatens to blow up into a full scale scandal!

Due to this low lying rascal and scumbag there will be many victims, some losing savings, some their homes, many their good reputations and certainly some their jobs and facing jail terms, if convicted!

Yesterday, we put up some of the sample Railway Board documents and are awaiting confirmation on its authenticity!

There are other samples as well which includes price sensitive data and drawings on the Seremban to Gemas double track project!

Data that certainly confirms Baladevan Theaivendiram had ‘inside help!’

Police will certainly also visit the high profile shops where many of these branded items were alleged to have been purchased!

We will also seek the involvement of Interpol so that rascal cannot escape the arms of the law!

It is time Malaysian Baladevan Theaivendiram be made accountable for the wrongs he has committed and the lives he has ruined and about to ruin!

 Our campaign against RACISM AND GENOCIDE of all forms!

MINISTRY OF RAILWAYS, INDIA - THIS REAL OR FAKE? (Part 4)

DOUBLE TRACK RAILWAY PROJECT – WERE THERE CORRUPT INSIDE MEN? (Part 3)

DOUBLE TRACK RAILWAY PROJECT – WERE THERE CORRUPT INSIDE MEN? (Part 3)

CON MAN BALADEVAN THEAIVENDIRAM ON THE RUN BUT FOR HOW LONG?

Gosh! And Holy Heavens!

What shocked this writer is his claim that he is a relative of Tamil Nadu Chief Minister Hon’ble CM Dr Kalaignar M. Karunanidhi through marriage ties (claims the CM’s daughter Kanimozhi (below) is married to his nephew G. Aravindan a Singaporean) and through these claims is alleged to have been brokering various project contracts in Tamil Nadu!

To date we have alerted New Delhi, the Tamil Nadu CM’s Office and government of this matter and seeking their clarification on these claims!

I have personally alerted the Chief Secretary of the Tamil Nadu government!

We are also initiating alerts to the Indian High Commission in Malaysia on the same!

He has also sought the assistance of a third party ‘close to this writer’ to call for a truce and ‘table talk!’ I have rejected both – he has caused irreparable damage and financial loss to countless persons, damaged the spotless reputation of innocents over the years and must be made to account for this!

New Delhi and Chennai has been alerted and I am now seeking an appointment with no nonsense and pro-active India’s Minister of Railway, HE Mamata Banerjee (above left) to share with her and hand over all relevant documents so that an internal probe could be conducted in Delhi - India, - Dr Jacob George

UPDATES:

CON MAN ON THE RUN BALADEVAN THEAIVENDIRAM!

He used to walk the ‘length and breath’ of the nation meeting individuals, brokers and corporate executives, construction company owners with a laptop in hand!

In the laptop, he carried price sensitive drawings, figures, specifications and prices for the Seremban to Gemas stretch of the Double Track Railway Project given to India (IRCON)!

In the laptop presentation – there was also the Letter of Award of the Malaysian Government to the Government of India for the Seremban to Gemas stretch.  

Unemployed con-man Baladevan Theaivendiram was an experienced hand at these schemes but certainly he had help from the inside either from India or the IRCON office in Kuala Lumpur!

How else could he get his hands on price sensitive information which at one stage he wanted to sell at RM5 Million saying that that was the fees of the ‘inside men and to the Minister” but thank GOD – he had no takers!

Partly – after the last scheme in early 2000 he pulled off which ran into hundreds of thousands of ringgit (a conservative estimate) claiming to be Ministry of Railways India’s ‘consultant in the ‘organizing,co-ordinating and securing participation in the project called Ipoh-Padang Besar Double Tracking Railway Project’ Awarded to IRCON INTERNATIONAL LIMITED’ (I am here using the phrase he used in the –Bilateral Confidentiality And Non Disclosure Agreement between his RM2/- company ZEN BRIDGE SDN BHD and his victims!) no one believed him this time around as word about him was well circulated in the industry!

He proudly claimed the deal was not given to India despite a LOI so that’s why he and his people in Delhi could not deliver to those who paid him lots of money but with the Seremban to Gemas and perhaps also the speculated- (?) Tampin to Malacca he would!

Interesting spin!   

Those who were there this time were there only to assist to try to get back their monies or that of the many innocents but when he appeared on the scene again claiming that his confidant a high profile Ministry of Railways and former IRCON Staff who had served in Malaysia had given him the new data which he proudly showed all and sundry in his marketing endeavors and that he was the Uncle to G. Aravindan a Singaporean whom Baladevan claimed was married to Tamil Nadu Chief Minister Hon’ble CM Dr Kalaignar M. Karunanidhi daughter Kanimozhi and that he was also brokering many projects from Telecommunications, civil works and Tamil Nadu government contracts – this all added to the ‘persona’ he was trying to create and people gave him the benefit!

After all – it is all impressions is it not – so in India he always stayed in the Suites of 5 Star Hotels and he stayed at the Suite at TAJ COROMANDEL in Chennai as well and well served by their former Assistant Front Manager Ashish Loach and where many Tamil Nadu senior civil servants, politicians and brokers and others wanting opportunities gathered at the suite Baladevan stayed paid by the many victims of the scandalous schemes he initiated but this the Indians in Delhi and Chenna did not perhaps know!

Even - perhaps, that ‘Ministry of Railways contact’ who then was serving in Chennai and he had come to the suite as well to collect gifts!

Yes - I was there in that Suite as well and witnessed this as I led an investment delegation to Tamil Nadu for a contact development meeting during that week Baladevan was there!

But to those there - conman Baladevan was politically connected to the Tamil Nadu CM and they had several Ministers in the Federal Ministries and there were individuals in Delhi who he spoke of!

They did not know he was an unemployed conman who lived his life conning others!

The Government of India and their CBI officers can check con-man Baladevan Theaivendiram was a Starwood Preferred Guest under the name of DEVAN BALA – A50854400646!

Baladevan Theaivendiram alleged that under the advice of the ‘high profile inside man whose name I know’ he bought very expensive branded watches, Pens, Perfumes, Jewelery, medication  which all ran into a big fat expense and to date, he has (a conservative estimate used up RM1.7 Million of other people’s monies and destroyed careers and reputations).

He alleges he gave former Railway Minister Lalu Prasad –a Rolex watch, several others equally expensive watches in Delhi which includes the Railway Board - expensive gifts, watches which include senior politicians in the Tamil Nadu government!

I have in my care and control – alleged Railway board letters, a pen drive containing the price sensitive specifications and certainly the names of those who have been in sine-biotic relationship with this trickster and conman who is now bringing great shame to many innocents in Delhi and Tamil Nadu!

I have done my part by refusing to meet this scumbag – this filth who has hurt and destroyed careers and reputations!

I have done my duty in alerting Delhi and Tamil Nadu and I have also given my mobile number - +60(0) 123664444 and I am ready to fly to Delhi and Tamil Nadu to meet any quarter to expose this scandal!

I have also asked for an appointment with Railway Minister HE Mamata Banerjee whom I have great respect for and it is her call!

I want to thank those from Delhi and Chennai and particularly from the media who have asked me to highlight the identities of those involved!

Though tempted, I will not highlight the identities of those Baladevan Theaivendiram has ‘fingered’ – they deserve the right to be heard and the truth to be revealed!

Their careers and future should not be destroyed and jeopardized by this scumbag who goes by the name of  Baladevan Theaivendiram unless an Indian comprehensive probe finds them quilty!

Next - the ‘Indian Connection! in this scandal!

 Our campaign against RACISM AND GENOCIDE of all forms!

DOUBLE-TRACK RAILWAY PROJECT - ON THE RUN CON-MAN BALADEVAN THEAIVENDIRAM! (Part 2)

Gosh! And Holy Heavens!

What shocked this writer is his claim that he is a relative of Tamil Nadu Chief Minister Hon’ble CM Dr Kalaignar M. Karunanidhi through marriage ties (claims the CM’s daughter Kanimozhi is married to his nephew G. Aravindan a Singaporean) and through these claims is alleged to have been brokering various project contracts in Tamil Nadu!

We are immediately alerting New Delhi, the Tamil Nadu government of this matter and seeking their clarification on these claims!

I have personally alerted the Chief Secretary of the Tamil Nadu government!

We are also initiating alerts to the Indian High Commission in Malaysia on the same!

He has also sought the assistance of a third party ‘close to this writer’ to call for a truce and ‘table talk!’ I have rejected both – he has caused irreparable damage and financial loss to countless persons, damaged the spotless reputation of innocents over the years and must be made to account for this!

New Delhi and Chennai has been alerted and I am now seeking an appointment with no nonsense and pro-active India’s Minister of Railway, HE Mamata Banerjee (above left) to share with her and hand over all relevant documents so that an internal probe could be conducted in Delhi - India, - Dr Jacob George

DOUBLE-TRACK RAILWAY PROJECT - ON THE RUN CON-MAN BALADEVAN THEAIVENDIRAM! (Part 2)

The man in the center of this notorious controversy is - Baladevan Theaivendiram NRIC Number - 540614-10-5729?

According to reliable sources, this con-man who has to date cheated and tricked many in Malaysia – stating that he is ‘connected’ to the ‘powers-that - be’ in Delhi and Chennai promising many civil and other jobs in the double track railway project that was awarded to India by the Malaysian government!

But to date, despite collecting ‘directly and indirectly’, contractually (through Zen Bridge Sdn Bhd) and otherwise (a conservative estimate) of more than a million ringgit - he has delivered nothing!

According to reliable sources in India, this trickster always stays in 5 Star hotel suites, living out a posh lifestyle smoking cigars, winning and dinning - giving the impression that he is a corporate figure.

According to sources – Baladevan Theaivendiram is an unemployed moving from one con to another!

With the monies collected through these schemes he claims he (with advice from one Indian senior official ‘APM’) bought expensive and branded watches, pens, perfumes and jewelry for high profile politicians in Delhi and Chennai, members of the Indian Railway Board, IRCON and others to induce them to award portions of the railway project in Malaysia, the Indian telecommunication licenses, other roads, ports, rail and civil works awards in India.

For Malaysia it includes - ‘used rail carriages and trains’ in India to be refurbished and reused in Malaysia through ‘inflated prices!’

Here in Malaysia he had also pledged a flat claiming that it was his wife’s and collected RM50,000.00 from a senior Singapore lawyer in return of the monies, its interests and a portion of civil works amounting to a few millions but to date, nothing came out of it despite 2 years of playing ‘hide and seek!’

We will also seek the authorities assistance to check the source of the finance of this flat in Sentul, Kuala Lumpur Malaysia!

Worst – as this writer again found out after speaking to his legal wife that the said flat does not belong to her but to a third party speculated to be ‘another wife?’

Several Police reports are to be made on this matter alone from across the causeway and here and it is just a matter of time before the law gets him!

If he approaches YOU in another scheme of his and ‘upfront money’ - please alert the POLICE or me - - and - run for your lives!

What shocked this writer is his claim that he is a relative of Tamil Nadu Chief Minister Hon’ble CM Dr Kalaignar M. Karunanidhi through marriage ties (claims the CM’s daughter Kanimozhi (above left) is married to his nephew G. Aravindan a Singaporean) and through these claims is alleged to have been brokering various project contracts in Tamil Nadu!

We are immediately alerting New Delhi, the Tamil Nadu government of this matter and seeking their clarification on these claims!

Since we know both - we do not want the good name of the honorable CM and his daughter to be tarnished by the acts of a notorious Malaysian trickster!

We are also initiating alerts to the Indian High Commission in Malaysia on the same!

We are also assisting various victims to speak freely in a well attended press conference soon.

Instead of making right a wrong, according to reliable sources he has called his wife to say that he is going below the radar for 7-8 months till the ‘heat’ runs off!

He has also sought the assistance of a third party ‘close to this writer’ to call for a truce and ‘table talk!’

I have rejected both – he has caused irreparable damage and financial loss to countless persons, damaged the spotless reputation of innocents over the years and must be made to account for this!

Various press conferences are also planned.

DID INDIAN OFFICIALS RECEIVE KICK-BACKS TO FACILITATE RAIL JOBS IN MALAYSIA?

Allegations are gathered that parties in India and a Malaysian (Mastermind) ripped off millions from individuals and reputed companies here by promising portions of the civil works and others for the ‘Electrified Double Track Railway project’- (2000-2010).

There were representations and documents that even fooled senior legal experts?

New Delhi and Chenai has been alerted and I am now seeking an appointment with no nonsense and pro-active India’s Minister of Railway, HE Mamata Banerjee to share with her and hand over all relevant documents so that an internal probe could be conducted in Delhi - India.

In the meantime these questions are still raised:

1. Who is behind Malaysian registered company - Zen Bridge Sdn Bhd (Co Number: 604098-T)? Who was their company secretary?

2. Did they have sine biotic relationships with certain politicians, policy-makers and civil servants in Delhi and Chennai, Tamil Nadu, India?

3. What happened to the hundreds of ringgit collected as ‘initial deposits’ and alleged monies spent on luxury car rentals, expensive watches, pens and jewelry  to ‘Indian officials and others?’

4. Meetings held allegedly in Suites in 5-Star hotels in both Delhi and Chennai as this alleged mastermind was a ‘Star wood Preferred Guest!’

5. Was the Ministry of Railway, Indian and certain IRCON officials also involved since this ‘mastermind’ had named several?

6. Will a former Minister of Railways and the Tamil Nadu’s Chief Minister and his officials be implicated since the ‘mastermind’ of this ‘scam’ claims to be the Tamil Nadu CM’s relation? Full disclosures, documents, thumb drives and with police reports to follow!

7. Are Indian pro-active media both electronic and print interested in this scandal exclusive? If so please do email us/or call us at +60(0)123664444!

Malaysia’s leading Consumer Advocate Datuk Dr Jacob George leads the exclusive exposure on this heinous crime that will destroy and hurt many trusting, innocent individuals and professionals!

Interested Continue to Log on to:http://www.drjacobgeorge.com/

 Our campaign against RACISM AND GENOCIDE of all forms!

DOUBLE TRACK RAIL SCANDAL - WHO WAS BEHIND ZEN BRIDGE SDN BHD? (Part 1)

Who is really Baladevan Theaivendiram NRIC Number - 540614-10-5729?

Will innocent individuals reputation be tarnished by his and certain Indian nationals  in high office alleged blatant act of deception and fraud?

I was in India recently and what I heard from senior officials on this matter was most disturbing!

I am now seeking an appointment with the new proactive Minister of Railway, HE Mamata Banerjee to share with her and hand over all relevant documents so that an internal probe could be conducted in Delhi and Chennai - India.

Dr Jacob George

This Week:

DID INDIAN OFFICIALS RECEIVE KICK-BACKS TO FACILITATE RAIL JOBS IN MALAYSIA?

Allegations are gathered that parties in India and a Malaysian (Mastermind) ripped off millions from individuals and reputed companies here by promising portions of the civil works and others for the ‘Electrified Double Track Railway project’- (2000-2010).

There were representations and documents that even fooled senior legal experts? Is this true? We will find out?

His name was mentioned! But was he involved?

The man in the center of this scandal - one unemployed -  claims to be related to the CM by marriage ties. That his nephew is married to the former’s daughter who is also a minister at federal level? Is this true?
In the meantime these questions are raised:

1. Who is behind Malaysian registered company - Zen Bridge Sdn Bhd (Co Number: 604098-T)? Who was their company secretary?

2. Did they have sine biotic relationships with certain politicians, policy-makers and civil servants in Delhi and Chennai, Tamil Nadu, India?

3. What happened to the hundreds of ringgit collected as ‘initial deposits’ and alleged monies spent on luxury car rentals, expensive watches, pens and jewelry  to ‘Indian officials and others?’

4. Meetings held allegedly in Suites in 5-Star hotels in both Delhi and Chennai as this alleged mastermind was a ‘Starwood Preferred Guest!’

5. Was the Ministry of Railway, Indian and certain IRCON officials also involved since this ‘mastermind’ had named several?

6. Will a former Minister of Railways and the Tamil Nadu’s Chief Minister and his officials be implicated since the ‘mastermind’ of this ‘scam’ claims to be the Tamil Nadu CM’s relation?

This man also claimed that his brother was a former special assistant to a Malaysian senior minister?

Full disclosures, documents, thumb drives and with police reports to follow!

7. Are Indian pro-active media both electronic and print interested in this scandal exclusive? If so please do email us/or call us at +60(0)123664444!

IF YOU HAVE BEEN CONNED BY THIS MAN OR THIS COMPANY PLEASE CONTACT ME AS WELL AS WE ARE COMPILING ALL RELEVANT DOCUMENTS AND DATA ON THIS MATTER! 
Malaysia’s leading Consumer Advocate leads the exclusive exposure on this heinous crime that will destroy and hurt many trusting, innocent individuals and professionals!

Interested Continue to Log on to:http://www.drjacobgeorge.com/

 Our campaign against RACISM AND GENOCIDE of all forms!

AN INSPIRATIONAL MESSAGE!

As I go through a great challenge, personal pain and anxiety - - this was sent to me from abroad and from a source, I least expected!

It is a brilliant prayer and advice - and - I duly share the same with all of you.

May the words and its meditation touch you as it has done me! God Bless. Dr Jacob George

WHATS ALWAYS ON MY MIND - A YOUNG MAN SPEAKS!

WHATS ALWAYS ON MY MIND – CONSUMERISM AS A WAY OF LIFE!

A very good morning to 1MALAYSIA and CASSA!

My name is Reuel Jacob and this morning, the pertinent question is – what is always on my mind?

What is on the mind of this visionary, innovative and inspirational 16 year old from a secondary school in Shah Alam, Selangor, Darul Ehsan?

Ladies and Gentlemen – I am always thinking about Consumerism?

Now what is Consumerism?

Consumerism is a social and economic order that is based on the systematic creation and fostering of a desire to purchase goods and services in ever greater amounts.

In an abstract sense, it is the belief that there is a free choice for consumers and an unfettered marketplace dictating the economic structure of a society.

But then again, is this a reality in today’s marketplace?

Now consumerism is generally defined as a movement seeking to protect the rights and interests of consumers!

Generally in cases of product safety – it means one expects a high standard of care going into manufacturing process, the pricing, the packaging, the advertising, product guarantees and redress mechanism.

The very essence of consumerism and its ideology is about upholding consumers’ rights concerning food, housing and habitat issues, health care, sanitation, public transport, education, public policy, human rights, freedom to information and the environment.

It is about the organizing and participating in national and international workshops, seminars, and conferences on various consumer issues to educate various grassroots communities and the civil society, which includes, residents associations, religious organizations, trade unions, farmers, fishermen, institutions of learning and higher education, the media and women’s groups.

It is about addressing and promoting sustainable development and consumption, the encouraging of ethical business practices.

It is about advocacy and providing vital feedbacks on social and policy planning issues to state and federal policymakers so that consumer’s rights and interests are always protected.

It is about upholding accountability, good governance, and transparency, zero tolerance for corruption and business ethics!

Consumerism is about having statutes ands legislations that protects us whether it is the Consumer Protection Act, the Hire Purchase Act, The Private Healthcare, Facilities and Services Act, The Food Act, The Direct Sales Act, The Environment Act or the just passed Competitions Act and the soon to pass Anti-Profiteering Act!

Consumerism, my friends are about getting the stakeholders in the Malaysian demography to address all these issues in a professional, equitable, fair and reasonable manner!

And Consumerism is about us joining advocacy groups like the lead consumer organization – The Consumers Association of Subang and Shah Alam, Selangor (CASSA) which fights for the rights and interests of Malaysian consumers linking consumer, environmental and development issues to make our society, our nation 1Malaysia a better place for all of us to live in!

The addressing of consumerism is an ongoing matter full of twist, turns and challengers!

This brings to my mind in conclusion the sayings of the famed talk show host, writer, author, poet  Robert Frost – ‘The one great ultimatum in all of life’s many battles I this: We must rise and rise again lambs become lions – and – in Consumerism we must all become lions of Consumerism!

Our beloved Prime Minister, Datuk Seri Najib Tun Abdul Hj Razak put it in another way – ‘Malaysians must be ‘real consumerists’ for holistic public policy thus making Malaysia a land of  holistic growth and its citizens an integral part and facilitator of that transformation!

 Our campaign against RACISM AND GENOCIDE of all forms!

NEW INSURANCE SCHEME – SENIOR TEACHERS SPEAK OUT!

NEW INSURANCE SCHEME – SENIOR TEACHERS SPEAK OUT!

Let me first congratulate the Consumers Association of Subang and Shah Alam Selangor (CASSA) and you personally, Jacob George for the manner you have lead and driven this campaign in and out of Parliament, in the Cabinet, among senior Ministers and on the streets of the nation, in every hall and eateries and most importantly, in the inner circle of public policy think tanks!

You have put fear and anxiety in the hearts and minds of all public policy movers, the Central Bank and most importantly the notorious and insensitive insurance industry!

I am really proud to see my student of the 70’s addressing an issue that is again so close to our hearts in the grassroots and you have done well my boy!

On Sunday many of your former teachers gathered at my home to celebrate my 50^th Wedding anniversary and we were all discussing you Jacob and we are really proud to have had a hand in your early learning years!

Now with our sincere prayers and blessing we want you to address this issue without fear or favor as you have always done and make certain that the insurance lobbyists, the political cronies and other self servers do not bleed us the Malaysian Consumers!

Convince Prime Minister Najib Tun Razak to stand with the consumers against the insurance lobbyist and their sympathizers!

Well done Jacob and here we oldies have a few views we like to share which I am certain your team and you are already aware of!

We ‘oldies’ just want to tell those lobbyists and insurance industry sharks we the ‘raayat’ are not stupid so watch out!

These are our collective thoughts:

On the present proposal of BNM, the following points may be noted:-

1. If there is adverse influence and pressure from political brokers, the insurance industry and their cronies resulting in an unfair cap limiting the already ‘limited’ claims who protects the interests of the victim?

The Member of Parliament (MP) or State Assembly person for that for that constituency from his/her allocations?

2. If an accident victim suffers serious injury, if the amount is small – and barely enough to cover the medical and surgical expenses that may be incurred.  And if the accident victim cannot work thereafter, how is he going to sustain himself and his family?  The beneficiary from this limited payment will be the insurance companies who will now have to pay much less as compensation;

3. The allocation strapped public health system will be burdened with accident victims who have no place to turn to, due to the limited amounts payable;

4. That’s not all - similarly, accident victims and their families will have to turn to welfare organizations and NGOs’ (where they got monies!) so as to make ends meet, more so, where the principal wage earner of the family is the accident victim.  How far can these welfare organizations and NGOs’ help? Will we have more destitute families as a result of this?

5. I am sure and certain that you having attended a series of high powered meetings and listening to endless finger pointing, self righteous assertions and the voices of political opportunists masquerading as consumer advocates you would question who will pay the medical and surgical bills for the low income accident victims (presently paid in many cases by the lawyers handling the matter)?

6. The separate company to be established (silly idea again – the government should not be involved here!)is unlikely to make any payments until the authenticity of the claim is established by an independent party (probably the police) and reports obtained from the relevant hospitals treating the accident victim.  And, it is common knowledge that it takes time (in some cases much time) to obtain police reports, hospital reports and to determine the outcome of police investigations;

7. The rationale behind a ‘top up’ insurance scheme for third party insurance is ridiculous! Why the need to take additional insurance coverage? How many of us can afford additional insurance coverage?  Many low income earners are barely making ends meet – to require them to take additional insurance coverage would be an additional burden to them and their families.  Even us government pensioners! The immediate beneficiary to additional insurance coverage is again the insurance companies who will earn substantially more insurance premiums;

8. So much hype on the ‘separate company with its board’ (another SOSCO fiasco in the making?) that will be entrusted with considering the claims and making the payments?  Will this be done in an open and transparent manner?  The last thing we want is a situation where, for certain reasons, legitimate claims are rejected and again, for certain reasons, fraudulent claims accepted;

9. And setting up a company not that straight neither forward nor easy as there is also the issue of seed money yearly or costs says RM500 - 700 Million! Yes, according to Puan Rafidah and Cikgu Rahim@ Mr Mannix - it is estimated that this may exceed RM500 Million (initially).  Is the tax payer to be burdened by this?  Is the tax payer also to be burdened in supporting accident victims and their families who are paid insufficient amounts under this proposed scheme of BNM?

10. Now who will do the running around to get police reports, hospital reports and specialist medical  reports (presently done by the lawyers handling the matter) so that all these are  put forward to ensure that accident victims are adequately compensated?  In view of the efficiency of the present system (or rather the inefficiency), some one has to liaise with the relevant parties, compile the documents, obtain further documents (if necessary) and obtain views of medical specialists.  Is the injured accident victim or family member of a deceased accident victim able to do all this? Nothing is free – who will pay the ‘out of pocket expenses’ or say ‘under the table money’ for ‘services rendered’ on and above the call of duty?

11. You told me that they are promising a 2 to 4 weeks settlement – My Foot! Totally unrealistic! This is what happens when pencil pushing bureaucrats in high floors and air conditioned rooms having no field experience are asked to prepare policy papers! We should not be so naïve to think that if the Courts and lawyers are not to be involved in the BNM scheme, that claims will be settled faster.  Third parties such as the police and hospital authorities are involved.  The reports from these parties all take time (and in some cases, much time).  Of all persons Jacob you know this – Our poor Doctors are already have a tough time managing patient care without having to be further burdened writing accident reports on top of hospital paperwork!

Ms Ooi (says hi’) - she always had a soft spot for you being her first speaker in those inter school debates of the 60-70’s was saying that the Court system is now working much faster.  She claims that the backlog of cases has been substantially reduced.  Special courts have been set out in certain places (KL is an example) where these Courts only handle accident cases.  At the rate things are going, accident cases can be resolved by the Courts within 6 months of the filing of the claim in Court;

12. Now if the insurance company is claiming they are losing money. These are fictitious claims that insurance companies are making losses on motor insurance policies.  Apparently, that for every RM1.00 obtained by these companies, they are paying out RM2.70 on claims.  If this was the true scenario, many insurance companies including some insurance companies which have a high percentage of motor insurance policies, would have gone out of business.  Are these statistics verifiable?  Is the entire motor insurance premium earned by the insurance companies taken into account in determining these statistics or is it only a portion of the motor insurance premium?  Then ask them to show you their books? Let us see what are the percentages for payouts, administrative and managerial costs, commissions and worst perks and bonuses to the cronies?

13. In view of the above, Jacob it is the view of your former teachers that the preferred approach is to consider the present system and seek to improve it.  In that regard, the following may be noted:-

(a) The Courts are moving fast.  Claims are being resolved by the Courts faster;

(b) The Courts are best in determining what fair and reasonable compensation is.  Further, there is a right of appeal if any party is dissatisfied;

(c) The awards of the Malaysian Courts cannot be considered excessive.  Certainly these awards are below the awards made in neighboring countries;

(D) Ms Ooi says again that the Bar Council is taking steps to have a structured fees scale for lawyers in this area of practice.  This will help reduce complains of excessive fees being imposed by lawyers;

(e) The police force needs to expedite the investigation process on accidents.  This issue will be present regardless of whether the BNM scheme is implemented or the present scheme is maintained;

(f) The public hospitals would have to expedite the issuance of reports on the nature and extent of injuries sustained.  Again, this issue will be present regardless of whether the BNM scheme is implemented or the present scheme is maintained.

Jacob do your best as you always do!

ST.MARKS OLD MAGNIFICIENT SEVEN.

 Our campaign against RACISM AND GENOCIDE of all forms!

COMING SOON  - An Exposure on the scandalous ‘Electrified Double Track Railway project’- (2000-2010)

A WOMAN OF VISION AND SUBSTANCE - INDIA’S NEW RAILWAY MINISTER!

On - India’s Railway Minister Mamata Banerjee

As a consumer advocate, I was touched by her speech clearly outlining that she will not tolerate any price increases in the railway sector as it would burden Indian consumers!

She also spoke about building more miles of railway lines to give rail accessibility to consumers.

She is visionary.- Dr Jacob George

A WOMAN OF VISION AND SUBSTANCE - INDIA’S NEW RAILWAY MINISTER!

Seeing her in action ‘live’ at the Indian Parliament in February when I was there was a great adrenalin boost!

Really, India’s Railway Minister Mamata Banerjee was then presenting at the Indian Parliament - her ministry’s budget!

And not without the usual ‘shouts and verbal carnage’ all which she took in the stride giving back where needed to howling and unruly opposition parliamentarians!

I gathered while there she was really very popular on the ground and with foreigners – this writer included!

I can understand why too.

She is accessible and friendly, strong willed and extremely witty!

I am advised that she is among the few most popular and sought in the international community in the United States, Japan, Germany, France, Japan and several other European Union countries to discuss railway projects!

I believe a key reason was her statement in her railway budget speech in Parliament in February where she unveiled policies to seek private investment in rail projects.

Like many countries facing a paucity of funds I was aware that her budget speech clearly laid emphasis on the public private partnership (PPP) model for developing railway infrastructure.

Perhaps, this was the reason for the various invitations but take nothing away from this woman – she is a qualified, hands on and formidable personality with a sharp political vision.

As a consumer advocate I was touched by her speech clearly outlining that she will not tolerate any price increases in the railway sector as it would burden Indian consumers!

She also spoke about building more miles of railway lines to give rail accessibility to consumers.

She is visionary.

Speaking to several senior officials I was impressed that after taking office she has yet to go on a world tour like many do!

She is more interested in work, plans to upgrade the present system and most importantly take on the various opposition groups in Kolkata!

I thought there was no person who could replace former Railway Minister, that flamboyant and controversial Lalu Prasad (above left) who had a passion for news breaking stories especially and who in his tenure had visited many a foreign land inspecting railway stations, maintenance depots simulators and the London Underground/Metro stations.

I am told that in France, Prasad visited the most-advanced high speed TVG train depot and held bilateral discussions on international cooperation in the field of training of Indian Railway officials, fire simulations in coaches, land development and heritage and development of logistic parks.

He later signed a MoU with French counterpart SNCF International to get technical help and cooperation for high speed railways.

But I was wrong – as – in Mamata Banerjee the new Railway Minister of India – India has found an extremely qualified, hands-on and visionary minister!

What she has just - flagged off a Howrah-Puducherry Weekly Express from the Howrah station to commemorate the centenary year of Aurobindo’s travel to the erstwhile French colony and establishing an ashram there for preaching ancient Indian philosophy and culture.

The “Aurobindo Express” was one of the several budget proposals she cited in her budget speech in February when I was there!

I can remember her saying that –“Puducherry is a seat of theological learning and Rishi Aurobindo is still loved by the people. The inaugural train will be received at the Puducherry station by members of the Auroville on April 10!”

I was told that an interesting feature of the train is a special exhibition coach decorated with photographs of the life and times of Aurobindo and his philosophy.

Interesting idea and I look forward to meeting this visionary person God Willing in my next visit there!

There is so much to talk about!

 Our campaign against RACISM AND GENOCIDE of all forms!

COMING SOON  - An Exposure on the scandalous ‘Electrified Double Track Railway project’- (2000-2010)

CASSA VINDICATED - WITH COMPETITION/ ANTI PROFITEERING ACT DEBUT!

Key Thoughts:

A ‘hidden black hand’ seems to be always present manipulating the marketplace and some clearly identifiable, as that of parallel importers, those holding the distribution chains and lines and certainly ‘the rascals’ that are given vast business monopolies in the country without caveats!

But we have to admit that holistic change has been slow to arrive at leaving many confused and disappointed at the government, consumer movement and its leaders!

They include a re-look at the notorious Hire Purchase Act, Trade Description Act 1972, The Companies Act 1965, The Control of Supplies Act 1961, The Price Control Act 1946, The Direct Sales Act, The Consumer Protection Act and the Private Healthcare facilities and Services Act, The Food Act, The Human Tissues Act 1974 and so forth.

As early as in the late 80’s, I was lobbying for a COMPETITIONS ACT - and finally it is becoming a reality!

I also appeal for clear comprehensive policies on high rise development, laws to curb to ensure fair competition, while protecting our SMI, a law to govern the import and transport of hazardous goods and the much needed amendments to blacklist all those involved in controversial housing projects.

They include – bankers, financial planners and institutions, solicitors, architects and developers! – Dr Jacob George

FINALLY – A COMPETITION AND  ANTI-PROFITEERING ACT IN THE MAKING!

There are several questions that one may ask pertaining to the state of Malaysian consumer’s rights and interests!

More so, during this unexpected economic downturn which has caused tremendous backlash, chaos, anxiety and concern in our marketplace and incidents and these made worse when it is further compounded with cases of shortages of essential goods!

A hidden black hand seems to be always present manipulating the marketplace and some clearly identifiable as that of parallel importers, those holding the distribution chains and lines and certainly ‘the rascals’ that are given vast monopolies in the country without caveats!

As a leading consumer advocate in the country, I have repeatedly emphasized the entrenchment of all essential consumer rights to be advocated in all public policy initiatives!

I am glad to note Prime Minister Najib Tun Razak (above left) has more than once endorsed and indicated that his administration will certainly look at consumer grouses and issues and welcomes constructive criticism with solutions, comprehensive and well documented contributions and feed backs for implementation as we move forward as a nation!

Food, clothing, shelter, redress, information, education, occupational safety, accessible healthcare, rights to information, green environment and policy are all essential issues that need to be addressed!

But we have to admit that holistic change has been slow to arrive at leaving many confused and disappointed at the government, consumer movement and its leaders!

Some are more interested in creating ‘consumer monopolies, private business and its subsidiaries’ while others more inclined to use this platform for their political aspirations and agendas!

Consumers on the other hand must accept equal blame for their failure to respond to repeated calls for boycotts and other actions which could send a clear signal of consumer solidarity against profiteers!

For the record, in recent years a trend that started in 1997 – we have witnessed high increases in the prices of essential goods, utilities and services – such as food, house rent, clothing, electricity, education, tolls and healthcare!

True, selective caps on the toll increase have helped but it is always not consistent and it is time the concessionaires are brought to account or the concessionaires withdrawn and operated by the government!

What is the present rationale in paying tolls only to be in a congested highway like the federal highway?

We continue to see hikes in taxi fares, private medical treatment and the indiscriminate increase of prices at department stores, hypermarkets, hair saloons, car wash outlets and even hawkers!

The pertinent question is:

Will we see similar hikes of between 40 to 50% when the GST is implemented causing more havoc to cash strapped and struggling consumers? The grassroots?

Prices of essential goods and services are fast sky-rocketing!

What - even fresh vegetables that went for ‘a song’ is shockingly expensive!

The present trend if unchallenged and rectified will give authenticity for the thought that Malaysian consumers are repeatedly shortchanged and cheated by very politically connected, academically qualified profiteers masquerading as wholesalers, parallel importers, hypermarket owners, retailers, distributors and service providers!

We must not forget that in Malaysia wage revision for a large scale or cross section of the population is only once in every three years at best when their collective agreements are renewed and worst we have yet to have a minimum wage!

Why?

We are still running away from the repeated calls for a minimum wage structure in the country!

With that entrapment - we can say we are competitive when actually we are not with all ‘kinds and flavors’ of hidden costs and corruption rearing its ugly with strong tentacles in the Malaysian business scenes directly, indirectly and by proxies!

Due to the present economic downturn or slowdown with various uncertainties, which includes political – a large population of workers have opted for a freeze in increments with several quarters taking a pay cut, lesser working hours, no over time, all to assist managements to keep business competitive and avoid retrenchment!

In this climate it is vulgar for certain quarter specially several idiots to suggest a pay rise for politicians, ministers, deputy ministers and others!

Or even bonus for the obese and incompetent public sector!

Prime Minister Najib was certainly right to say that the suggestion is irrational in the present economic climate and global onslaughts and uncertainties!

What is needed is to increase productivity in the public sector but this has repeatedly failed with an obese population of civil servants, wastage, duplication and sheer wastage!

Premier has already spoken about the need to change our mindset and increase productivity!

Minister Sabri always sensitive to our calls for fairness and equity in the marketplace.
But these sacrifices must eventually be rewarded with efforts to improve and sustain the purchasing power of consumers and protecting their dignity and basic rights to quality life at affordable process!

My continued plea and cry for fairness and justice at the marketplace must be answered with concrete measures aimed at removing profiteers – period!

So the COMPETITIONS ACT and the proposed Anti Profiteering Act is welcome but it must have teeth not like the other toothless tiger legislation we have just for cosmetics reasons!

Let us not play games!

We have an enlightened consumer society today - alert and vigilant on various marketplace trends and manipulations!

The time is also right to re-look, update, initiate amendments and inadequate enforcement so that consumer related legislation would be effective.

They include a re-look at the Trade Description Act 1972, The Companies Act 1965, The Control of Supplies Act 1961, The Price Control Act 1946, The Direct Sales Act, The Consumer Protection Act and the Private Healthcare facilities and Services Act and so forth.

I appeal for clear comprehensive policies on high rise development, laws to curb to ensure fair competition, while protecting our SMI, a law to govern the import  and transport of hazardous goods and the much needed amendments to blacklist all those involved in controversial housing projects.

This list in legislative changes in all fairness should include financial planners and institutions, solicitors, architects and developers!

If we do that – we are moving forward!

To move forward and be competitive we must remove the deadwood and Nay Sayers, the little and big Napoleons in the public sector and revamp the system to be ‘lean, competent and mean’ to address the many challengers we face as a nation!

For now I applaud the coming to reality the COMPETITIONS ACT AND THE SOON ANTI PROFITEERING ACT 2010!

 Our campaign against RACISM AND GENOCIDE of all forms!

COMING SOON  - An Exposure on the scandalous ‘Electrified Double Track Railway project’- (2000-2010)

NOW CONSUMERS TO DEAL WITH FAKE EGGS?

CONSUMER UPDATE: ENTRY OF THE FAKE EGGS!

One of the many issues in consumerism is the issue of genuine and addressing fakes in the market place.

In the early years of my ‘consumer indoctrination and walk’ into consumerism in the early seventies - to tackle these issues was far easier!

Today more than 4 decades later – we have cash rich governments/industry devoting themselves and their finances in ‘quick fixes’ towards dangerous products, contaminated tinned foodstuff, dangerous preservatives in preserved food and worse - producing imitation/fakes.

True, compared to the 70’s we have more consumer directed legislation but then again, as I always say it is not legislation alone being the answer - but proactive enforcement of the said statute and Act!

If not, we are all but toothless Tigers - one and all pretending that all is well!

As such, the task today for us advocates - is made more difficult unless you are politically connected and have abroad, a strong support from sources and counter-parts engaged in the same consumer agenda and vision!

I have on countless cases addressed fake goods (watches, belts, designer outfits, car spare parts etc), even pharmaceuticals drugs, vitamins and supplements but have you heard of fake eggs?

This is to those who love their eggs in their ‘many versions’ in the morning, evening and night – even in the early hours of dawn!

Reliable sources and counter-parts abroad have alerted that in the land of instant and fakes – CHINA - there are fake schools and classes that teach a variety of blatant fraud technology, and in this instant - even eggs can be modulated by chemical materials!

Interestingly, there are several steps to this bogus act and first - the modulation of 7 kinds of chemical materials.

Here the fake eggs are made from calcium carbonate, starch, resin, gelatin, alum and other chemical products.

Step 2 – Egg Production:

Here the raw egg is placed into the mold to 2 / 3 full, put calcium chloride, coloring dye, the egg appears on the film been announced.

The ‘yolk’ is shaped in a mould. Then the fakers use something they call ‘magic water’ containing calcium chloride.

Step 3 – The Egg Shape:

Now there ‘create’ the mold into 1 / 3 raw egg white, like the first package, like dumplings into the egg yolk, egg white into another, into the magic water, a shell eggs will come slowly.

The ‘naked egg’ comes to egg shape within 1 hour then kept aside to dry to after washing with water and the shells are ready.

Step 4 – Refining the Fake:

Then there are the sewing lines through the use of eggs, immersed in paraffin wax, calcium carbonate, such as modulation of the eggshell into a solution, repeated several times until the shell a little dry, immersion in cold water pumping line shape, this point, the egg has been put on a false cloak and you are done!

Now the hard shells are formed by soaking in paraffin wax onto the egg, which are then left to dry.

The Egg is ready. The artificial egg shell is very fragile and breaks easily but who cares!

It looks very real!

Many small bubbles are formed during frying the egg but not many people can tell the difference.

The egg looks exactly the same, and the eggs taste better than real but you are adding to the statistic of food poisoning cases and in others fatalities!

The cost of fake egg is only 0.55 Yuan/kg, while the market price is 5.6 Yuan/kg.

The result of this heinous action is the follows:

In 2001 – there were 185 cases of food poisoning affecting 15,715 people causing 146 deaths.

In 2003 – the cases were 10 times more with 29,660 people affected with 262 deaths.

And in 2008 there were 53,000 people affected.

And among them -children always the real victims!

I sincerely hope that this version of ‘egg’ will never find its way into the Malaysian marketplace where other suspect goods have - making us a dumping ground!

 Our campaign against RACISM AND GENOCIDE of all forms!

Next - Exclusive - Exposure on the scandalous ‘Electrified Double Track Railway project’- (2000-2010)

NEW INSURANCE SCHEME - NAJIB’S INTERVENTION LAUDED!

The central bank’s attempted agenda to limit third-party motor insurance claims to RM100,000, inclusive of hospitalization, rehabilitation, pain, suffering, loss of income and future earnings was certainly foolish and stupid and was a move that would have had affected and put millions of ordinary people at risk of road accidents and spearhead a backlash against the federal administration.

We are grateful that Prime Minister Najib has taken a personal interest in advising Bank Negara to engage and consult the consumer groups and other stakeholders and not just the insurance industry!- Dr Jacob George

NEW INSURANCE SCHEME - NAJIB ‘S ADVICE TO BANK NEGARA LAUDED!

The Consumers Association Of Subang and Shah Alam, Selangor (CASSA) records its thanks to Prime Minister Najib Tun Razak for his timely advice to Bank Negara Malaysia to take into consideration the plight of the people when proposing new basic motor insurance coverage for third-party bodily injury and death- just like enacting any other policy!

Najib ’s advice to the central bank to specifically consult consumer groups, associations and the public to iron out disagreements before committing to the new policy known as the Third-Party Bodily Injury and Death (TPBID) should be fast tracked before more damage in done to the image of the government because of the omissions of the former!

CASSA in opposing the scheme from the onset had received strong support from all Members of Parliament, the Bar Council, civil society members and the trade union groups!

We are saddened that the entire process of the said scheme was shrouded in mystery and was a clandestine move where consultations were only initiated with the insurance industry and specific private interest!

CASSA was dismayed that the said TPBID seemed to be rushed through without consultation and this does not inspire confidence especially when a new company to manage the scheme has been proposed with a speculated costs of over RM500 million which would have all drastically and radically changed the face of insurance and consumer protection in the country for the poor and vulnerable groups.

All this despite proactive changes, mitigation, guidelines and reforms brought by the present visionary honorable chief justice!

Looked upon in totality - the central bank move certainly went against the spirit of 1Malaysia and the Najib administration’s agenda of close consultation, accountability, good governance, transparency and putting the consumers first!

The central bank’s attempted agenda to limit third-party motor insurance claims to RM100,000, inclusive of hospitalization, rehabilitation, pain, suffering, loss of income and future earnings was certainly foolish and stupid and was a move that would have had affected and put millions of ordinary people at risk of road accidents and spearhead a backlash against the federal administration.

We are grateful that Prime Minister Najib has taken a personal interest in advising Bank Negara to engage and consult the consumer groups and other stakeholders and not just the insurance industry!

With this intervention CASSA hopes the central bank will take cognizance of Najib’s instruction and initiate what protects the rights and interests of Malaysian consumers!

 Our campaign against RACISM AND GENOCIDE of all forms!

Next - Exclusive - Exposure on the scandalous ‘Electrified Double Track Railway project’- (2000-2010)

RESTAURANT SECTOR - FREEZE ON FOREIGN WORKERS SHOULD STAY!

To go on record - I have advised against any move to re-open foreign-workers for the restaurant sector as I consider this sector ‘the mother of all exploitation!’

This view I have repeatedly shared with senior officials at the Home ministry, the human resources ministry, the Prime Minister’s office and the lead mainstream media both in the country and abroad!

Kudos to the Home Minister who, knowing the facts and situation on the ground has rightly frozen this sector despite the strong manipulation and lobbyists!- Dr Jacob George

proactive and ‘hands-on’ Home Minister - Hishammuddin done extremely well in turning down such request!

RESTAURANT SECTOR - FREEZE ON FOREIGN WORKERS SHOULD STAY!

In 2009, and the height of the scandalous Bangladeshi workers abuse and corruption trend - the Malaysian government banned the hiring of foreign workers amidst the looming economic downturn.

The ban still remains unless the said sector gets the approval from the Human Resources ministry for sensitive sectors like manufacturing where the need is acute and most times justifiable!

Foreign workers who have worked for more than five years can no longer renew their permits.

This is generally good and prevents abuse!

Restaurant Owners Association had initially welcomed the move but now are grumbling!

Worst – last another association had called for work permits are extended for the 90,000 foreign workers its members employ.

My views on that were carried in the Utusan Malaysia and widely accepted.

To go on record - I have advised against any move to re-open foreign-workers for the restaurant sector as I consider this sector ‘the mother of all exploitation!’

This view I have repeatedly shared with senior officials at the Home ministry, the human resources ministry, the Prime Minister’s office and the lead mainstream media both in the country and abroad!

Since then there have been many comments but some dwelt on utter falsehood.

We must remember that Malaysia’s services sector is one sector that has repeatedly exploited foreign workers to the hilt.

As a result, workers from source countries refuse to come here.

self service the answer!

Their governments are angry with us because of poor salaries, abuse, exploitation, sex scandals while those behind the schemes and others in the gravy line like those approving, politicians, their runners, brokers, even sitting MPs were reaping in millions of commissions especially from the Bangladesh sector!

A fact that I found out in my deliberations with policy makers and government officials in source countries!

If you are following an ongoing case in court today it has many a revelation of the scandalous abuse!

Employers here should not get carried away with their self inflated boast that their RM800 a month plus food and lodging are great financial benefit!

My foot!

They think we are all fools and idiots – as we are aware that there are deductions for levy payments yearly (despite the government ruling!) deductions also for medical checks, treatment and other and other ‘out-of-pocket payments!’

We must not forget that the said workers come here after paying huge commissions to employers, brokers, politicians, agents, various tiers on both sides of the border and their approval bodies - monies they borrowed or gotten from selling family land, tractors, and even in some cases, the forced marriage of family members to third parties and old men to raise funds!(see pix above left!)

This is unadulterated vulgar exploitation and these Restaurants and other groups have the audacity to make us feel they are the victims?

If they pay the rightful wages, the statutory agreed working hours with over-time and other benefits with training and time off given – I am certain there will be a pull factor!

But no – the employers want to still have the foreign worker to exploit with long hours and dis-proportioned wage scheme and to add to insult, they also make commissions from the manpower agents for their own workers which includes free trips abroad for interviews!

I am pleased and certainly I say - Kudos to the Home Minister who, knowing the facts and situation on the ground has rightly frozen this sector despite the strong manipulation and lobbyists!

 Our campaign against RACISM AND GENOCIDE of all forms!

Next - Exclusive - Exposure on the scandalous ‘Electrified Double Track Railway project’

BLESSED EASTER 1MALAYSIA!

TO ALL HAVE A BLESSED EASTER!

ARE OUR CONSUMERS REALLY PROTECTED?

Sometimes I feel like throwing in the towel and quitting as it is an unpaid and thankless vocation of volunteerism where you end up being ‘Mr Fix It’ ‘or the trouble shooter for all and sundry’ in a sea-saw of high profile political, economical and commercial advocacy saga!

And when you ask for an appointment to see the Prime Minister, you are delayed or made to wait while business and political predators over-shoot you in speed - thanks to over-zealous officials!

And in the sudden quietness of the night as you ponder whether it is all well worth it – we tend to ask ourselves should we continue this public service or stand down we also ask whether Malaysia a country without adequate laws and legislation to protect us from these challenges? - Dr Jacob George

EDUCATIONAL HUB YES – TRANSIT POINT FOR CRIMINALS NO!

But, something more by other ministries other than just plain political gesturing and statements are needed to convince that Malaysia is not a “dumping ground” for foreign students who have problems and are not qualified to study here!

I have no problems opening our doors to bona fide applicants, tourist, investors but we need to be vigilant and constantly assess and critically monitor the ground situation.

There is nothing wrong to aggressively market our educational institutions abroad but we must also be responsible to see beyond the multi million financial returns!

So far our Ministry of Home Affairs has done remarkably well to nip potential dangers and kudos to the leadership and team! - Dr Jacob George

EDUCATIONAL HUB YES – TRANSIT POINT FOR CRIMINALS NO!

So far thanks to the vigilance and professional response shown by the Home Affairs Ministry we have addressed challenges on our shores!

Home Minister Hishammuddin Tun Hussein Onn has done well indeed!

But something more by other ministries other than just plain political gesturing and statements are needed to convince that Malaysia is not a “dumping ground” for foreign students who have problems and are not qualified to study here!

Here the Higher Education Ministry must do more than issue press rhetoric!

Worst that Malaysia is chosen not because of its educational standards but because we are used as a transit point for other hidden agendas!

I am saying this despite hearing the statement at Parliament by Higher Education deputy minister Dr Hou Kok Chung.

Dr Hou stated that the government does not compromise on the quality of foreign students it allows to study in institutes of higher education here.

He gave the assurance that in Malaysian we encourage institutes of higher education to take in foreign students who are under government sponsorship or are being sponsored by an organization.

He feels those students by that access was committed and has quality!

But I tend to differ!

As I have indicated before I am very concerned about several entry points made available in the country through

1.     Education

2.     Malaysia my second home policy

3.     Business/Tourists arrivals

4.     ‘Health Tourism?’

I have no problems opening our doors to bona fide applicants, tourist, investors but we need to be vigilant and constantly assess and critically monitor the ground situation.

Let us examine the number of foreign student arrivals.

We are advised that as of December 31, 2009, Malaysia took in 80,700 foreign students from over 150 countries and of that number, 22,400 were in public institutes of higher education and 58,300 in private institutes.

Inexplicably, this confirms that we have overtaken our target of 80,000 foreign students in 2010.

Then there is the data that the enrollment of foreign students in 51 international schools was 16,600.

My concern like any other person are they all bona fide students or individuals using Malaysia as a stepping stone and transit for other activities even that of being sleeper agents for acts of terrorism!

We must accept just because we are a caring and cordial nation there will be groups out to abuse this less than strict atmosphere here.

And based on police statistics for 2009, the number of serious crime cases involving foreign students was 17 - six cases of criminal threat, four of rioting, three of theft, two of molestation, one of rape and one of causing hurt.

Those are serious statistics!

And I fault this on the lack of inter-ministerial discussions and joint oversight on this important matter!

As a result of that I am advised that till Nov 30, 2009, 29 private institutes of higher education have had their licenses revoked by the Home Ministry for taking in students for courses that were not professionally accredited!

Others for not operating in registered premises and worst a third for the lack of a foreign student’s affairs unit!

In fact can I ask how many of these educational institutions do responsibly inform the Immigration Department and the ministry about students who did not attend classes for three consecutive days or worst had less than 80 per cent attendance?

There is nothing wrong to aggressively market our educational institutions abroad but we must also be responsible to see beyond the multi million financial returns!

So far our Ministry of Home Affairs has done remarkably well to nip potential dangers and kudos to the leadership and team!

But we must be alert and vigilant and there must be inter-ministerial discussions and action.

 Our campaign against RACISM AND GENOCIDE of all forms!