An opposition politician held for a week in solitary confinement under controversial security laws spoke of her relief as she was freed on Friday.
Teresa Kok, of the Democratic Action Party (DAP), was detained along with prolific blogger Raja Petra Kamaruddin under the Internal Security Act (ISA).
"I am happy I was freed. I am fine," she told reporters as she left a local police station.
"I do not know why I was freed today and I do not know why I was detained in the first place."
Her arrest drew public outrage and the Malaysian minister responsible for legal affairs resigned Monday over a series of arrests under the security law.
The ISA, which human rights groups have pushed to have abolished, allows for renewable two-year periods of detention without trial and is normally used against terror suspects.
Kok criticised the police for holding her in what she said was solitary confinement under the ISA without first investigating allegations that she incited religious tensions.
"After being detained for seven days under the guise of so-called investigations, the police failed to produce any evidence of me being involved in the activities of causing racial and religious tensions," she said in a statement.
Police said they arrested Kok last Friday because she was involved in a petition to silence the call to prayer in mosques in non-Muslim areas.
Kok has denied making such complaints.
"It is nonsensical for the police to detain me under the ISA merely based on the unsubstantiated article written by an irresponsible columnist... How can they (the police) regard the article as the gospel truth?" she said.
Yap Swee Seng, director of rights group Voice of the Malaysian People (Suaram), welcomed Kok's release but called for those responsible for her arrest to be held accountable for abusing their power.
"We call for the immediate release of Raja Petra and all other ISA detainees. We demand the draconian security law to be abolished," he told AFP.
A journalist for a Chinese-language newspaper was arrested after reporting on racist comments made by a ruling party member but was quickly released after uproar including from within the government.
Raja Petra, founder of the controversial Malaysia Today website, was previously charged with sedition and defamation after linking Deputy Prime Minister Najib Razak and his wife to a sensational murder.
Kok's release came after Washington Thursday expressed "grave concern" over Malaysia's use of the ISA as a possible way to stifle dissent.
"The United States firmly believes that national security laws, such as the ISA, must not be used to curtail or inhibit the exercise of universal democratic liberties or the peaceful expression of political views," State Department spokesman Sean McCormack said.
"The detention of opposition leaders under the ISA would be viewed by the United States and the international community as a fundamental infringement of democratic rights and values," he added.
Friday, September 19, 2008
Trader lodges report against Anwar
GEORGE TOWN: A trader lodged a police report against Opposition Leader Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim for causing alarm in the country after claiming that he has enough MPs to topple the Federal Government.
Wan Abidin Zain, 45, said Anwar’s claim on Tuesday alarmed Malaysians to the extent that many were scared to go out or even send their children to school.
“What Anwar is doing now is causing instability in the country.
“The people have given their verdict in the March 8 general election. He should wait for the next general election if he wants to form the Federal Government.
“He is not the country’s saviour but instead a traitor,” he told reporters after lodging the report at the Patani Road police station here yesterday.
Wan Abidin Zain, 45, said Anwar’s claim on Tuesday alarmed Malaysians to the extent that many were scared to go out or even send their children to school.
“What Anwar is doing now is causing instability in the country.
“The people have given their verdict in the March 8 general election. He should wait for the next general election if he wants to form the Federal Government.
“He is not the country’s saviour but instead a traitor,” he told reporters after lodging the report at the Patani Road police station here yesterday.
Kelantan MCA calls for ISA review
KOTA BARU: Kelantan MCA has called for an in-depth review of the Internal Secutiry Act (ISA) and how it is use.
The call was made when it passed a resolution at its annual general assembly yesterday.
State chief Datuk Dr Ng Yen Yen, who is also Wanita MCA chief, said a review would seek to prevent the Act, which allows for detention without trial, from being misused in the future.
“Kelantan MCA hopes the Government can review the ISA, especially on its effectiveness and implementation. For example, the detention of Sin Chew Daily reporter Tan Hoon Cheng recently gave rise to unhappiness not only among the Chinese.
“If she was detained for her safety, why under the ISA? Tan posed no threat to the country,” Dr Ng said.
Dr Ng is the Women, Family and Community Development Minister.
Party president Datuk Seri Ong Ka Ting opened the general assembly. Also present were deputy president Tan Sri Chan Kong Choy and party secretary-general Datuk Seri Ong Ka Chuan.
Other resolutions passed were support for Dr Ng in her bid to contest for a party vice-president post in party polls next month and a call on the Government to provide more aid and assistance to non-Malay small and medium industries. - Bernama
The call was made when it passed a resolution at its annual general assembly yesterday.
State chief Datuk Dr Ng Yen Yen, who is also Wanita MCA chief, said a review would seek to prevent the Act, which allows for detention without trial, from being misused in the future.
“Kelantan MCA hopes the Government can review the ISA, especially on its effectiveness and implementation. For example, the detention of Sin Chew Daily reporter Tan Hoon Cheng recently gave rise to unhappiness not only among the Chinese.
“If she was detained for her safety, why under the ISA? Tan posed no threat to the country,” Dr Ng said.
Dr Ng is the Women, Family and Community Development Minister.
Party president Datuk Seri Ong Ka Ting opened the general assembly. Also present were deputy president Tan Sri Chan Kong Choy and party secretary-general Datuk Seri Ong Ka Chuan.
Other resolutions passed were support for Dr Ng in her bid to contest for a party vice-president post in party polls next month and a call on the Government to provide more aid and assistance to non-Malay small and medium industries. - Bernama
Kok freed, to sue Government for arrest
KUALA LUMPUR: Seputeh MP Teresa Kok was released yesterday after being detained under the Internal Security Act (ISA) for seven days.
Deputy Inspector-General of Police Tan Sri Ismail Omar confirmed that police found no reason to detain her any longer.
Savoring her freedom: Kok waving as she leaves the Bangsar police station in Jalan Travers, Kuala Lumpur, Friday while accompanied by her personal assistant Mandy Ooi and lawyer Sankaran Nair.
Kok, 44, who is a senior Selangor executive councillor, was arrested on Friday last week following allegations that she had urged several mosque officials to turn down the loudspeakers for the azan prayers.
“I have instructed my lawyers to sue the Government for my unlawful arrest and detention,” said Kok.
She said she had lodged a police report against Utusan Malaysia and its columnist Zaini Hassan and former Selangor Mentri Besar Datuk Seri Dr Mohd Khir Toyo for criminal defamation on Sept 14, and that she would sue them.
Kok called her ISA detention “nonsensical” and a “phenomenal abuse by the police”.
Arrested along with her were Malaysia Today editor Raja Petra Kamarudin and Sin Chew Daily reporter Tan Hoon Cheng. Tan was released 18 hours after her detention but Raja Petra is still being detained.
During her detention, Kok said the police had asked her whether she had mobilised a group of residents at Bandar Kinrara to present a petition to oppose the azan at the Bandar Kinrara mosque; whether she had stated that 30% of the Selangor Islamic Department (Jais) allocation is to be given to other non-Islamic religious bodies; and whether she had opposed the Jawi road signs in Kuala Lumpur.
“I denied the first two accusations, and I also told them that the issue of opposing the Jawi road signs was done in January or February. This was done at the request of residents’ associations who opposed the wastage of public funds as the road signs had only been changed a few months before,” said Kok.
“They (police) asked me the same questions twice and nothing else. I told them my version and even offered to type out my statement, which I did when they gave me a laptop,” she said.
Asked if the police told her why she was released, she said: “No.”
Her parents, Kok Kim Tong, 74, and Pong Seh Kwan, 71, were present at the press conference and looked happy.
“I have not been able to sleep in the last one week, and my blood pressure has gone up,” said Pong.
“But I am so happy today that my daughter has been released. It feels like the darkness which had been present all week has been lifted from my home and my heart.
“It’s bright again,” she added.
Related stories:
Minister: Kok not a threat to public order
DPM hopes release will calm the situation
BN parties told to act against ISA
Deputy Inspector-General of Police Tan Sri Ismail Omar confirmed that police found no reason to detain her any longer.
Savoring her freedom: Kok waving as she leaves the Bangsar police station in Jalan Travers, Kuala Lumpur, Friday while accompanied by her personal assistant Mandy Ooi and lawyer Sankaran Nair.
Kok, 44, who is a senior Selangor executive councillor, was arrested on Friday last week following allegations that she had urged several mosque officials to turn down the loudspeakers for the azan prayers.
“I have instructed my lawyers to sue the Government for my unlawful arrest and detention,” said Kok.
She said she had lodged a police report against Utusan Malaysia and its columnist Zaini Hassan and former Selangor Mentri Besar Datuk Seri Dr Mohd Khir Toyo for criminal defamation on Sept 14, and that she would sue them.
Kok called her ISA detention “nonsensical” and a “phenomenal abuse by the police”.
Arrested along with her were Malaysia Today editor Raja Petra Kamarudin and Sin Chew Daily reporter Tan Hoon Cheng. Tan was released 18 hours after her detention but Raja Petra is still being detained.
During her detention, Kok said the police had asked her whether she had mobilised a group of residents at Bandar Kinrara to present a petition to oppose the azan at the Bandar Kinrara mosque; whether she had stated that 30% of the Selangor Islamic Department (Jais) allocation is to be given to other non-Islamic religious bodies; and whether she had opposed the Jawi road signs in Kuala Lumpur.
“I denied the first two accusations, and I also told them that the issue of opposing the Jawi road signs was done in January or February. This was done at the request of residents’ associations who opposed the wastage of public funds as the road signs had only been changed a few months before,” said Kok.
“They (police) asked me the same questions twice and nothing else. I told them my version and even offered to type out my statement, which I did when they gave me a laptop,” she said.
Asked if the police told her why she was released, she said: “No.”
Her parents, Kok Kim Tong, 74, and Pong Seh Kwan, 71, were present at the press conference and looked happy.
“I have not been able to sleep in the last one week, and my blood pressure has gone up,” said Pong.
“But I am so happy today that my daughter has been released. It feels like the darkness which had been present all week has been lifted from my home and my heart.
“It’s bright again,” she added.
Related stories:
Minister: Kok not a threat to public order
DPM hopes release will calm the situation
BN parties told to act against ISA
Thursday, September 18, 2008
New Perak Youth chief to go for No. 2 post
IPOH: Fresh from beating Datuk Ling Hee Leong for the Perak MCA Youth chief’s post, cardiologist Dr Mah Hang Soon is now eyeing his opponent’s national position -- the deputy MCA youth chief’s job.
Dr Mah, who announced his candidacy at the Perak MCA headquarters here yesterday, said that 13 MCA state Youth chiefs were backing him for the position.
The matter was decided upon following two meetings with MCA Youth secretary-general Dr Wee Ka Siong, the last of which was held on Tuesday in Putrajaya, he said.
Dr Mah, the sole MCA assemblyman in Perak, won the Perak MCA Youth chief’s post on Sept 6, securing 366 votes to Ling’s 184.
Asked to rate his chances of winning the deputy Youth chief post, Dr Mah said he was confident of receiving the majority votes judging from his win in the Perak MCA Youth election.
On whether he would give way if Ling decides to defend his deputy Youth chief’s post, Dr Mah said:
“No. I don’t think so as I have announced I am going for the deputy Youth chief post.”
Dr Mah said that he had spoken to Ling a week ago and the latter did not indicate if he would defend his post.
“But I will be offering him a post in my committee,” he said.
Nominations for the MCA Youth leadership have been set for Oct 13 with the election fixed for Oct 17.
The wing has 2,188 central delegates.
Dr Mah, who announced his candidacy at the Perak MCA headquarters here yesterday, said that 13 MCA state Youth chiefs were backing him for the position.
The matter was decided upon following two meetings with MCA Youth secretary-general Dr Wee Ka Siong, the last of which was held on Tuesday in Putrajaya, he said.
Dr Mah, the sole MCA assemblyman in Perak, won the Perak MCA Youth chief’s post on Sept 6, securing 366 votes to Ling’s 184.
Asked to rate his chances of winning the deputy Youth chief post, Dr Mah said he was confident of receiving the majority votes judging from his win in the Perak MCA Youth election.
On whether he would give way if Ling decides to defend his deputy Youth chief’s post, Dr Mah said:
“No. I don’t think so as I have announced I am going for the deputy Youth chief post.”
Dr Mah said that he had spoken to Ling a week ago and the latter did not indicate if he would defend his post.
“But I will be offering him a post in my committee,” he said.
Nominations for the MCA Youth leadership have been set for Oct 13 with the election fixed for Oct 17.
The wing has 2,188 central delegates.
Ka Chuan backs Tee Keat
BESUT: MCA secretary-general Datuk Seri Ong Ka Chuan is backing vice-president Datuk Ong Tee Keat for the No 1 post in the Oct 18 party polls.
Ka Chuan said he had made his choice as the party required young blood to spearhead its transformation.
“Tee Keat is in his 50s and is young to run for the presidency. The opportunity should be given to a younger leader,” he said after launching the mid-autumn festival organised by Terengganu MCA at Gong Kemuntong here last night.
Tee Keat, who is the Transport Minister, is expected to square off against former vice-president Datuk Chua Jui Meng for the party presidency in the Oct 18 polls.
Ka Chuan, who is the Housing and Local Government Minister, said Chua, a former five-term vice-president, was already in his mid-60s and had served for 15 years as parliamentary secretary, deputy minister and minister.
He said one could not deny Jui Meng’s experience but said Tee Keat, as a younger leader, would be the one to help transform the MCA and return it to its relevance.
Ka Chuan said Tee Keat, at 51, was also younger than the incumbent president Datuk Seri Ong Ka Ting, who is 52.
“I strongly feel that the younger leader should take over to revitalise the party,” he added.
Ka Chuan, the 54-year-old Tanjong Malim MP, said the president should be someone capable and filled with vibrancy, adding that he would opt for younger leaders when casting his vote in the coming party election.
Ka Ting has announced that he would not be defending his presidency.
Ka Chuan also pledged to wage a “gentleman’s” fight for the deputy presidency, expected to be contested between him and former vice-president Datuk Seri Dr Chua Soi Lek who had earlier announced his candidacy.
“There will be no personal attacks (against Dr Chua) and he can be assured of no dirty tactics or unnecessary accusations (from me),” he added.
Asked whether the video tape sex scandal involving Dr Chua, who resigned as Health Minister due to it, would be used to undermine the latter’s bid, Ka Chuan said he did not believe in personal attacks or finger pointing as his priority was party unity.
“Candidates should abide by the party’s guidelines and that includes me.
“Anything that would jeopardise the party’s unity should be avoided ... no dirty tactics,” he stressed.
Ka Chuan said he had made his choice as the party required young blood to spearhead its transformation.
“Tee Keat is in his 50s and is young to run for the presidency. The opportunity should be given to a younger leader,” he said after launching the mid-autumn festival organised by Terengganu MCA at Gong Kemuntong here last night.
Tee Keat, who is the Transport Minister, is expected to square off against former vice-president Datuk Chua Jui Meng for the party presidency in the Oct 18 polls.
Ka Chuan, who is the Housing and Local Government Minister, said Chua, a former five-term vice-president, was already in his mid-60s and had served for 15 years as parliamentary secretary, deputy minister and minister.
He said one could not deny Jui Meng’s experience but said Tee Keat, as a younger leader, would be the one to help transform the MCA and return it to its relevance.
Ka Chuan said Tee Keat, at 51, was also younger than the incumbent president Datuk Seri Ong Ka Ting, who is 52.
“I strongly feel that the younger leader should take over to revitalise the party,” he added.
Ka Chuan, the 54-year-old Tanjong Malim MP, said the president should be someone capable and filled with vibrancy, adding that he would opt for younger leaders when casting his vote in the coming party election.
Ka Ting has announced that he would not be defending his presidency.
Ka Chuan also pledged to wage a “gentleman’s” fight for the deputy presidency, expected to be contested between him and former vice-president Datuk Seri Dr Chua Soi Lek who had earlier announced his candidacy.
“There will be no personal attacks (against Dr Chua) and he can be assured of no dirty tactics or unnecessary accusations (from me),” he added.
Asked whether the video tape sex scandal involving Dr Chua, who resigned as Health Minister due to it, would be used to undermine the latter’s bid, Ka Chuan said he did not believe in personal attacks or finger pointing as his priority was party unity.
“Candidates should abide by the party’s guidelines and that includes me.
“Anything that would jeopardise the party’s unity should be avoided ... no dirty tactics,” he stressed.
Theresa kok released!!!
Finally Theresa Kok has been released more new about her status coming you way but the main point is she has been released so be prepared to see her.
Malaysia's Anwar calls for emergency no-confidence vote in PM
Malaysia's opposition leader Anwar Ibrahim Thursday called for an emergency session of parliament to hold a no-confidence vote against the prime minister.
Anwar promised to use the special sitting to prove his claim he has the support of enough government defectors to topple Prime Minister Abdullah Ahmad Badawi's Barisan Nasional ruling coalition.
"Today, the Pakatan Rakyat (opposition alliance) leaders have submitted a letter to the PM requesting him to call an emergency session of parliament to deliberate a motion of censure against the leadership of Abdullah Ahmad Badawi," he said.
Anwar said he would name the defectors at the session, which he hoped would be held no later than September 23. The next parliament session is only due to begin on October 13.
"Convene an emergency session and you will see in parliament," he said, adding that "it is critical for the prime minister to respond."
"We face a major economic crisis. It is pertinent that they think of the nation and not the interest of themselves."
But Abdullah said the former deputy prime minister would have to wait until the next parliamentary session, after the fasting month of Ramadan.
"I don't see a need for it. Parliament will sit soon after Ramadan," he told reporters after chairing a meeting of his dominant United Malays National Organisation (UMNO) policy-making body.
Anwar needs the support of 30 government lawmakers to take control of the 222-seat parliament.
He stepped up the pressure on Abdullah a day after the small National Front party on Borneo island quit the ruling coalition, and the prime minister indicated he may step down earlier than planned.
Abdullah is facing dissent from UMNO to quit after the ruling coalition was hammered in the March 8 polls. His popularity on the streets is at an all-time low amid high inflation.
The ruling coalition has ruled Malaysia since independence from Britain 51 years ago.
Anwar said he may seek a meeting with the king to stake his claim if Abdullah failed to convene the emergency session.
"I am not discounting the possibility," he said.
Anwar said there was no reason for the government to detain him under the tough Internal Security Act (ISA), which allows indefinite detention without trial.
"There is no reason why I should be arrested under the ISA. This is clearly not an option for any responsible leadership. This (Abdullah's government) is now a minority government. The majority of MPs are with the opposition alliance," he said.
Abdullah also said there was no plan to detain anyone under the security law.
"There are no plans to invoke the ISA on anyone," he said.
Anwar called Monday for a meeting with Abdullah to arrange a smooth transition of power, but the premier refused and demanded he release the names of the defectors.
Abdullah then delivered a warning to Anwar, a former deputy premier who was sacked and jailed a decade ago, accusing him of "lying to the public and confusing the people."
"He has become a threat to the economy and national security," he said. This is a serious allegation in Malaysia, where the government can use internal security laws to detain its opponents without trial.
Last Friday police arrested an opposition MP, a blogger and a journalist under the security law citing security concerns.
Teresa Kok, from the Democratic Action Party (DAP), a member of the opposition alliance, was arrested along with Malaysia's top blogger Raja Petra Kamaruddin.
A journalist for a Chinese-language newspaper was also arrested after reporting on racist comments made by a ruling party member, but was quickly released after an uproar including from within the government.
Anwar promised to use the special sitting to prove his claim he has the support of enough government defectors to topple Prime Minister Abdullah Ahmad Badawi's Barisan Nasional ruling coalition.
"Today, the Pakatan Rakyat (opposition alliance) leaders have submitted a letter to the PM requesting him to call an emergency session of parliament to deliberate a motion of censure against the leadership of Abdullah Ahmad Badawi," he said.
Anwar said he would name the defectors at the session, which he hoped would be held no later than September 23. The next parliament session is only due to begin on October 13.
"Convene an emergency session and you will see in parliament," he said, adding that "it is critical for the prime minister to respond."
"We face a major economic crisis. It is pertinent that they think of the nation and not the interest of themselves."
But Abdullah said the former deputy prime minister would have to wait until the next parliamentary session, after the fasting month of Ramadan.
"I don't see a need for it. Parliament will sit soon after Ramadan," he told reporters after chairing a meeting of his dominant United Malays National Organisation (UMNO) policy-making body.
Anwar needs the support of 30 government lawmakers to take control of the 222-seat parliament.
He stepped up the pressure on Abdullah a day after the small National Front party on Borneo island quit the ruling coalition, and the prime minister indicated he may step down earlier than planned.
Abdullah is facing dissent from UMNO to quit after the ruling coalition was hammered in the March 8 polls. His popularity on the streets is at an all-time low amid high inflation.
The ruling coalition has ruled Malaysia since independence from Britain 51 years ago.
Anwar said he may seek a meeting with the king to stake his claim if Abdullah failed to convene the emergency session.
"I am not discounting the possibility," he said.
Anwar said there was no reason for the government to detain him under the tough Internal Security Act (ISA), which allows indefinite detention without trial.
"There is no reason why I should be arrested under the ISA. This is clearly not an option for any responsible leadership. This (Abdullah's government) is now a minority government. The majority of MPs are with the opposition alliance," he said.
Abdullah also said there was no plan to detain anyone under the security law.
"There are no plans to invoke the ISA on anyone," he said.
Anwar called Monday for a meeting with Abdullah to arrange a smooth transition of power, but the premier refused and demanded he release the names of the defectors.
Abdullah then delivered a warning to Anwar, a former deputy premier who was sacked and jailed a decade ago, accusing him of "lying to the public and confusing the people."
"He has become a threat to the economy and national security," he said. This is a serious allegation in Malaysia, where the government can use internal security laws to detain its opponents without trial.
Last Friday police arrested an opposition MP, a blogger and a journalist under the security law citing security concerns.
Teresa Kok, from the Democratic Action Party (DAP), a member of the opposition alliance, was arrested along with Malaysia's top blogger Raja Petra Kamaruddin.
A journalist for a Chinese-language newspaper was also arrested after reporting on racist comments made by a ruling party member, but was quickly released after an uproar including from within the government.
US concerned over Malaysian use of internal security act
The government of US President George W. Bush views with "grave concern" Malaysia's use of its tough Internal Security Act (ISA) as a possible way to stifle dissent, the State Department said Thursday.
Washington worries about "the possibility" that the act, which allows indefinite detention without trial, "might be used again to detain opposition political figures," said spokesman Sean McCormack.
"The statement by a government figure that a leading member of the opposition had become 'a threat to the economy and national security' is extremely troubling," said McCormack, referring to warnings by Prime Minister Abdullah Ahmad Badawi against opposition leader Anwar Ibrahim, who on Thursday called for a no-confidence vote against Abdullah.
Last Friday Malaysian police arrested Teresa Kok of the opposition Democratic Action Party (DAP), Malaysia's top blogger Raja Petra Kamaruddin, and a reporter with a Chinese-language newspaper under the security law, citing security concerns.
"The United States firmly believes that national security laws, such as the ISA, must not be used to curtail or inhibit the exercise of universal democratic liberties or the peaceful expression of political views," McCormack said.
"The detention of opposition leaders under the ISA would be viewed by the United States and the international community as a fundamental infringement of democratic rights and values," he added.
Washington worries about "the possibility" that the act, which allows indefinite detention without trial, "might be used again to detain opposition political figures," said spokesman Sean McCormack.
"The statement by a government figure that a leading member of the opposition had become 'a threat to the economy and national security' is extremely troubling," said McCormack, referring to warnings by Prime Minister Abdullah Ahmad Badawi against opposition leader Anwar Ibrahim, who on Thursday called for a no-confidence vote against Abdullah.
Last Friday Malaysian police arrested Teresa Kok of the opposition Democratic Action Party (DAP), Malaysia's top blogger Raja Petra Kamaruddin, and a reporter with a Chinese-language newspaper under the security law, citing security concerns.
"The United States firmly believes that national security laws, such as the ISA, must not be used to curtail or inhibit the exercise of universal democratic liberties or the peaceful expression of political views," McCormack said.
"The detention of opposition leaders under the ISA would be viewed by the United States and the international community as a fundamental infringement of democratic rights and values," he added.
Malaysian blogger detained for displaying upside down flag: report
Malaysian authorities have arrested a second blogger, this time for displaying an upside down national flag on his website, according to a report Thursday.
Syed Azidi Syed Aziz, better known as Sheih Kickdefella, was picked up by police late Wednesday under the Sedition Act from his home in opposition-held northern Kelantan state, the Star daily reported.
"We were informed that the police were looking for us on Tuesday and waited for them but they didn't show up," his wife Bariah Ishak told the paper.
"We thought the worst was over but they came looking for him and so he surrendered," she added.
Syed Azidi, known for his links to the opposition conservative Islamic PAS party, had recently organised a nationwide Internet campaign to fly the Malaysian flag upside down in a sign of protest over the country's political and economic turmoil.
The campaign caused outrage in the conservative Muslim-led country with Prime Minister Abdullah Ahmad Badawi ordering a police investigation into the matter.
Syed Azidi is the second blogger to get in trouble with Malaysian authorities over website content.
Prominent blogger Raja Petra Kamaruddin, who has targeted government figures on his website, was arrested last Friday under the tough Internal Security Act (ISA).
Raja Petra, founder of the controversial Malaysia Today website, has already been charged with sedition and defamation after linking Deputy Prime Minister Najib Razak and his wife to the sensational murder of a Mongolian woman.
Rights groups say about 63 people are being held under the ISA, which allows for renewable two-year periods of detention without trial and is normally used against suspected terrorists.
It has also been used to lock up opponents of the government, and last year five Hindu rights activists were detained after mounting an anti-discrimination protest that targeted government race policies.
Syed Azidi Syed Aziz, better known as Sheih Kickdefella, was picked up by police late Wednesday under the Sedition Act from his home in opposition-held northern Kelantan state, the Star daily reported.
"We were informed that the police were looking for us on Tuesday and waited for them but they didn't show up," his wife Bariah Ishak told the paper.
"We thought the worst was over but they came looking for him and so he surrendered," she added.
Syed Azidi, known for his links to the opposition conservative Islamic PAS party, had recently organised a nationwide Internet campaign to fly the Malaysian flag upside down in a sign of protest over the country's political and economic turmoil.
The campaign caused outrage in the conservative Muslim-led country with Prime Minister Abdullah Ahmad Badawi ordering a police investigation into the matter.
Syed Azidi is the second blogger to get in trouble with Malaysian authorities over website content.
Prominent blogger Raja Petra Kamaruddin, who has targeted government figures on his website, was arrested last Friday under the tough Internal Security Act (ISA).
Raja Petra, founder of the controversial Malaysia Today website, has already been charged with sedition and defamation after linking Deputy Prime Minister Najib Razak and his wife to the sensational murder of a Mongolian woman.
Rights groups say about 63 people are being held under the ISA, which allows for renewable two-year periods of detention without trial and is normally used against suspected terrorists.
It has also been used to lock up opponents of the government, and last year five Hindu rights activists were detained after mounting an anti-discrimination protest that targeted government race policies.
Small Malaysian party quits ruling coalition
A small party in Malaysia's ruling coalition quit on Wednesday, in a fresh blow for the beleaguered government which is also facing an opposition bid to seize power.
The decision by the Sabah Progressive Party (SAPP), which has two lawmakers in parliament, comes as the opposition led by Anwar Ibrahim is signing up defectors from the ruling Barisan Nasional (BN) coalition.
SAPP president Yong Teck Lee said the party would become independent and was not applying to join the opposition alliance, but he launched a savage attack on the BN coalition, which he said had "lost its moral authority to rule".
"Perhaps, after 50 years of uninterrupted government, some BN leaders have got it in their heads that they have a divine right to rule," he said in Sabah's capital of Kota Kinabalu.
Yong accused the 14-member coalition of mismanaging the economy, widening ethnic divisions in the multicultural country, and targeting its opponents using draconian internal security laws.
"SAPP hereby proudly dissociates ourselves from these shameful wrongdoings of the BN government," he said.
SAPP has been an irritant to the coalition since June, when it called for a vote of no confidence in Prime Minister Abdullah Ahmad Badawi. Its departure from the coalition was not unexpected.
In the past, SAPP has said it would consider joining the opposition, which has courted disaffected lawmakers in Malaysia's underdeveloped eastern states of Sabah and Sarawak on Borneo island.
Lim Kit Siang, from the Democratic Action Party that is part of the three-member Pakatan Rakyat opposition alliance, said SAPP's departure has "been in the works."
"It's a reflection of the deepening crisis of confidence in Abdullah's leadership," he said in Kuala Lumpur.
SAPP deputy president Raymond Tan, who is also Sabah state deputy chief minister, stormed out of the party meeting in protest over the decision to quit.
"Of course Pakatan Rakyat is going to take advantage of this and woo SAPP to their side," he said.
Anwar said this week that he has the support of more than 31 lawmakers from the coalition, giving him a small majority in parliament that would end Barisan Nasional's long rule.
He has called for a meeting with Abdullah to arrange a smooth transition of power, but the premier has refused and has demanded that Anwar release the names of the defectors.
In March elections, the coalition won 140 seats and the opposition claimed 82, denying the government a two-thirds majority in parliament for the first time in the country's history.
Anwar has targeted concerns in Sabah and Sarawak, where many people are unhappy with the way they have been treated since they joined the Malaysian federation in 1963, along with Singapore.
Singapore left Malaysia in 1965, but Sabah and Sarawak stayed on, and some now feel that was a bad decision.
Many Sabahans accuse the government of allowing large numbers of Muslim Filipinos to settle here illegally, tipping the ethnic balance against indigenous tribes who were formerly in the majority.
In peninsular Malaysia, Muslim Malays are the dominant population, alongside large ethnic Chinese and Indian minorities.
The decision by the Sabah Progressive Party (SAPP), which has two lawmakers in parliament, comes as the opposition led by Anwar Ibrahim is signing up defectors from the ruling Barisan Nasional (BN) coalition.
SAPP president Yong Teck Lee said the party would become independent and was not applying to join the opposition alliance, but he launched a savage attack on the BN coalition, which he said had "lost its moral authority to rule".
"Perhaps, after 50 years of uninterrupted government, some BN leaders have got it in their heads that they have a divine right to rule," he said in Sabah's capital of Kota Kinabalu.
Yong accused the 14-member coalition of mismanaging the economy, widening ethnic divisions in the multicultural country, and targeting its opponents using draconian internal security laws.
"SAPP hereby proudly dissociates ourselves from these shameful wrongdoings of the BN government," he said.
SAPP has been an irritant to the coalition since June, when it called for a vote of no confidence in Prime Minister Abdullah Ahmad Badawi. Its departure from the coalition was not unexpected.
In the past, SAPP has said it would consider joining the opposition, which has courted disaffected lawmakers in Malaysia's underdeveloped eastern states of Sabah and Sarawak on Borneo island.
Lim Kit Siang, from the Democratic Action Party that is part of the three-member Pakatan Rakyat opposition alliance, said SAPP's departure has "been in the works."
"It's a reflection of the deepening crisis of confidence in Abdullah's leadership," he said in Kuala Lumpur.
SAPP deputy president Raymond Tan, who is also Sabah state deputy chief minister, stormed out of the party meeting in protest over the decision to quit.
"Of course Pakatan Rakyat is going to take advantage of this and woo SAPP to their side," he said.
Anwar said this week that he has the support of more than 31 lawmakers from the coalition, giving him a small majority in parliament that would end Barisan Nasional's long rule.
He has called for a meeting with Abdullah to arrange a smooth transition of power, but the premier has refused and has demanded that Anwar release the names of the defectors.
In March elections, the coalition won 140 seats and the opposition claimed 82, denying the government a two-thirds majority in parliament for the first time in the country's history.
Anwar has targeted concerns in Sabah and Sarawak, where many people are unhappy with the way they have been treated since they joined the Malaysian federation in 1963, along with Singapore.
Singapore left Malaysia in 1965, but Sabah and Sarawak stayed on, and some now feel that was a bad decision.
Many Sabahans accuse the government of allowing large numbers of Muslim Filipinos to settle here illegally, tipping the ethnic balance against indigenous tribes who were formerly in the majority.
In peninsular Malaysia, Muslim Malays are the dominant population, alongside large ethnic Chinese and Indian minorities.
Malaysian opposition seeks international help to release detainees
Malaysia's opposition on Wednesday sought international help to push for the release of a politician and others held without trial under the country's tough internal security law.
Teresa Kok, from the Democratic Action Party (DAP), a member of the opposition alliance, was arrested last week along with Malaysia's top blogger Raja Petra Kamaruddin and detained under the Internal Security Act (ISA).
A journalist for a Chinese-language newspaper was also arrested after reporting on racist comments made by a ruling party member, but was quickly released after an uproar including from within the government.
"We will seek international and regional support from parliamentarians for the immediate release of Teresa Kok and all other ISA detainees, and for the repeal of the Internal Security Act," said DAP member Lim Kit Siang.
He said the newly formed "Free Teresa and Abolish ISA Caucus" of opposition lawmakers would contact Commonwealth and Southeast Asian parliamentary bodies to ask for their support in pressuring the government.
Zaid Ibrahim, a cabinet minister in charge of legal affairs who resigned on Monday over the crackdown, was also present at the launch in parliament Wednesday.
"I'm here because I am very concerned about the use of the ISA," he told reporters.
"It should not be used against journalists and politicians. Teresa has to be released, Raja Petra has to be released and all other detainees," he added.
Kok has denied allegations that she was involved in a petition to silence the call to prayer in mosques located in non-Muslim areas.
Raja Petra, founder of the controversial Malaysia Today website, has already been charged with sedition and defamation after linking Deputy Prime Minister Najib Razak and his wife to a sensational murder.
Rights groups say about 63 people, mainly alleged Islamic militants, are thought to be held under the ISA, which dates back to the British colonial era, when it was used against communist insurgents.
The legislation provides for two-year periods of detention that can be renewed indefinitely. However, critics say it has been improperly used by the government to silence its critics.
Teresa Kok, from the Democratic Action Party (DAP), a member of the opposition alliance, was arrested last week along with Malaysia's top blogger Raja Petra Kamaruddin and detained under the Internal Security Act (ISA).
A journalist for a Chinese-language newspaper was also arrested after reporting on racist comments made by a ruling party member, but was quickly released after an uproar including from within the government.
"We will seek international and regional support from parliamentarians for the immediate release of Teresa Kok and all other ISA detainees, and for the repeal of the Internal Security Act," said DAP member Lim Kit Siang.
He said the newly formed "Free Teresa and Abolish ISA Caucus" of opposition lawmakers would contact Commonwealth and Southeast Asian parliamentary bodies to ask for their support in pressuring the government.
Zaid Ibrahim, a cabinet minister in charge of legal affairs who resigned on Monday over the crackdown, was also present at the launch in parliament Wednesday.
"I'm here because I am very concerned about the use of the ISA," he told reporters.
"It should not be used against journalists and politicians. Teresa has to be released, Raja Petra has to be released and all other detainees," he added.
Kok has denied allegations that she was involved in a petition to silence the call to prayer in mosques located in non-Muslim areas.
Raja Petra, founder of the controversial Malaysia Today website, has already been charged with sedition and defamation after linking Deputy Prime Minister Najib Razak and his wife to a sensational murder.
Rights groups say about 63 people, mainly alleged Islamic militants, are thought to be held under the ISA, which dates back to the British colonial era, when it was used against communist insurgents.
The legislation provides for two-year periods of detention that can be renewed indefinitely. However, critics say it has been improperly used by the government to silence its critics.
Malaysian party quits coalition, PM says may step down earlier
Malaysia's premier, who is facing an opposition bid to seize power, was hit Wednesday with the departure of a party in his coalition, and said he may step down earlier than planned.
The resignation of the Sabah Progressive Party (SAPP), which has two lawmakers in parliament, comes after opposition leader Anwar Ibrahim said he has signed up enough defectors to topple the Barisan Nasional (BN) coalition.
SAPP president Yong Teck Lee said the party would become independent and was not applying to join Anwar's three-member Pakatan Rakyat opposition alliance, but he launched a withering attack on the government.
"The BN has lost its moral authority to rule," he said of the coalition that has dominated Malaysian politics since independence from Britain.
"Perhaps, after 50 years of uninterrupted government, some BN leaders have got it in their heads that they have a divine right to rule," he said, accusing it of mismanaging the economy and abusing security laws to arrest opponents.
SAPP has been an irritant to the 14-member coalition since June, when it called for a vote of no confidence in Abdullah. Its departure from the coalition was not unexpected.
But its decision was another body blow for an administration that has been in disarray since March elections, which handed the opposition control of five states and a third of parliament -- its best ever result.
Abdullah, who had announced a plan to hand over to his deputy Najib Razak by mid-2010 in an effort to silence calls for his resignation after the polls debacle, said he could depart sooner than planned.
"I will decide when I want to go... I will not be staying more than 2010," he told a press conference on Wednesday.
"If I should want to go earlier, that is flexible. That is the flexibility we have arranged," he said. "It depends on the progress of the role I am giving to Najib. Let's see what he can do."
There had been speculation that Najib and other figures in the ruling party were preparing to challenge Abdullah, whose popularity has tumbled due to a weakening economy and broken promises for reform.
In a move seen as an attempt to quell any rebellion in the ruling party, which will hold leadership elections in December, Abdullah also said he was passing his finance portfolio to Najib with immediate effect.
James Chin, a political analyst from Monash University's campus in Kuala Lumpur, said Abdullah had been forced to rethink the handover date because of a groundswell against him in the ruling party.
"The pressure is building up and it is getting to him," he said.
Anwar said this week that he has the support of more than 31 lawmakers from the coalition, giving him a small majority in parliament.
He has called for a meeting with Abdullah to arrange a smooth transition of power, but the premier has refused and demanded he release the names of the defectors.
Abdullah on Wednesday delivered a warning to Anwar, a former deputy premier who was sacked and jailed a decade ago, accusing him of "lying to the public and confusing the people."
"He has become a threat to the economy and national security," he said in what is a serious allegation in Malaysia, where the government can use draconian internal security laws to detain its opponents without trial.
"I will not indicate what plan I will take, what I do will be in the best interests of the people and the country," Abdullah said.
Chin said the comments were a clear warning that Anwar could face arrest under the Internal Security Act (ISA).
"If they arrest Anwar under ISA it will not be accepted by both Malaysians and the international community," he said.
The resignation of the Sabah Progressive Party (SAPP), which has two lawmakers in parliament, comes after opposition leader Anwar Ibrahim said he has signed up enough defectors to topple the Barisan Nasional (BN) coalition.
SAPP president Yong Teck Lee said the party would become independent and was not applying to join Anwar's three-member Pakatan Rakyat opposition alliance, but he launched a withering attack on the government.
"The BN has lost its moral authority to rule," he said of the coalition that has dominated Malaysian politics since independence from Britain.
"Perhaps, after 50 years of uninterrupted government, some BN leaders have got it in their heads that they have a divine right to rule," he said, accusing it of mismanaging the economy and abusing security laws to arrest opponents.
SAPP has been an irritant to the 14-member coalition since June, when it called for a vote of no confidence in Abdullah. Its departure from the coalition was not unexpected.
But its decision was another body blow for an administration that has been in disarray since March elections, which handed the opposition control of five states and a third of parliament -- its best ever result.
Abdullah, who had announced a plan to hand over to his deputy Najib Razak by mid-2010 in an effort to silence calls for his resignation after the polls debacle, said he could depart sooner than planned.
"I will decide when I want to go... I will not be staying more than 2010," he told a press conference on Wednesday.
"If I should want to go earlier, that is flexible. That is the flexibility we have arranged," he said. "It depends on the progress of the role I am giving to Najib. Let's see what he can do."
There had been speculation that Najib and other figures in the ruling party were preparing to challenge Abdullah, whose popularity has tumbled due to a weakening economy and broken promises for reform.
In a move seen as an attempt to quell any rebellion in the ruling party, which will hold leadership elections in December, Abdullah also said he was passing his finance portfolio to Najib with immediate effect.
James Chin, a political analyst from Monash University's campus in Kuala Lumpur, said Abdullah had been forced to rethink the handover date because of a groundswell against him in the ruling party.
"The pressure is building up and it is getting to him," he said.
Anwar said this week that he has the support of more than 31 lawmakers from the coalition, giving him a small majority in parliament.
He has called for a meeting with Abdullah to arrange a smooth transition of power, but the premier has refused and demanded he release the names of the defectors.
Abdullah on Wednesday delivered a warning to Anwar, a former deputy premier who was sacked and jailed a decade ago, accusing him of "lying to the public and confusing the people."
"He has become a threat to the economy and national security," he said in what is a serious allegation in Malaysia, where the government can use draconian internal security laws to detain its opponents without trial.
"I will not indicate what plan I will take, what I do will be in the best interests of the people and the country," Abdullah said.
Chin said the comments were a clear warning that Anwar could face arrest under the Internal Security Act (ISA).
"If they arrest Anwar under ISA it will not be accepted by both Malaysians and the international community," he said.
Continue rebuilding UMNO, forget Anwar: Mukhriz Mahathir
KUALA LUMPUR, Sept 17 (Bernama) -- Umno executive committee member Datuk
Mukhriz Mahathir today expressed his disappointment that Umno has been focusing
more on Parti Keadilan Rakyat (PKR) advisor Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim's antics
that it disturbed the party's branch meetings which ended three days ago.
"We now have a confidence crisis in the party, and surely we need a strong,
new approach to resolve our internal problems to ensure that Umno remains
relevant to the people.
"I believe that people are not so supportive of Anwar but disappointed with
Umno and Barisan Nasional (BN). Therefore, we should not get carried away by
Anwar's antics but focus on our party elections and restoration agenda.
"Sept 16 has passed while the BN government is still standing. He (Anwar)
has now come up with another excuse -- wait until 48 hours, but still there are
people who believe his bluff.
"I am confident the BN government will remain in power, and I urge all the
qualified individuals in Umno Youth to contest in the party elections as young
leaders can help rejuvenate the party," he told Bernama here today.
He also said that Umno Youth should go back to its original role of being a
pressure group in the party but with decorum, "otherwse, we would become
irrelevant and disappoint the people".
Mukhriz Mahathir today expressed his disappointment that Umno has been focusing
more on Parti Keadilan Rakyat (PKR) advisor Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim's antics
that it disturbed the party's branch meetings which ended three days ago.
"We now have a confidence crisis in the party, and surely we need a strong,
new approach to resolve our internal problems to ensure that Umno remains
relevant to the people.
"I believe that people are not so supportive of Anwar but disappointed with
Umno and Barisan Nasional (BN). Therefore, we should not get carried away by
Anwar's antics but focus on our party elections and restoration agenda.
"Sept 16 has passed while the BN government is still standing. He (Anwar)
has now come up with another excuse -- wait until 48 hours, but still there are
people who believe his bluff.
"I am confident the BN government will remain in power, and I urge all the
qualified individuals in Umno Youth to contest in the party elections as young
leaders can help rejuvenate the party," he told Bernama here today.
He also said that Umno Youth should go back to its original role of being a
pressure group in the party but with decorum, "otherwse, we would become
irrelevant and disappoint the people".
Monday, September 8, 2008
What would happen if Anwar Ibrahim takes over?
Will the Malaysian politics settle or get worse if Anwar Ibrahim takes over? Will he keep all his promises and make a new Malaysia? What do you think? comment and tell me.
Permatang Pauh Elections
During the last Permatang Pauh elections Anwar Ibrahim had won the elections by an amazing number of votes and became the Head of PKR.
Anwar Ibrahim's prediction
According to Anwar Ibrahim he says thay he would be able to take over the Parliment on September 16 due to crossover from the BN MP's . Will it work? None of us are sure we would just have to wait and see.Hopefully there would be no riots at all.
49 BN MP's travelling today
There will be 49 BN MP's travelling to Taiwan today 8/9/2008 and more that are going tomorrow for a study trip
Welcome to my own created blog
The reason I created this blog is because I am really interested in the Malaysia politics although I am still young I can catch up with the politics which is getting more and more interesting so I decided why not just make my own blog
Subscribe to:
Comments (Atom)