Zaid: Party was not ready for reform
KUALA LUMPUR, Sept 20 — Three days since his resignation, former de facto law minister Datuk Zaid Ibrahim is still in the news.
Yesterday, he explained that his presence at an opposition-led gathering to set up a parliamentarian caucus against the ISA was his show of support in a cause he believed in — and one of the reasons he quit.
Zaid, 57, who is law-trained, had always maintained that the ISA should not be used for political purposes, but only on terrorists or anyone advocating violence.
He dispelled talk of joining the opposition, saying his Sept 16 decision had not been calculated.
He is still a Barisan Nasional senator.
He has plans to set up a foundation called My Future Foundation to focus on activities for young Malaysians and provide them a forum to raise and discuss concerns and issues about race relations.
When Sept 16 came, it was Zaid who was referred to as the man of the moment by Malaysian media, not opposition leader Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim, who had promised a government takeover that day.
Zaid's resignation after six months in the Cabinet shocked many, as he was considered one of PM Datuk Seri Abdullah Ahmad Badawi's strong loyalists.
He is also popular in the liberal civil community and had vowed to bring forward ideas and proposals for a more transparent judiciary.
He had described the recent ISA arrests of opposition politician Teresa Kok, blogger Raja Petra Kamarudin and journalist Tan Hoon Cheng as the “last straw”.
His disappointment showed at the 40-minute press conference, where he said he was frustrated at facing “brickwalls” and apologised for his “failure” to effect change.
He elaborates in an e-mail interview with The New Paper.
When did you first think about resigning?
I first thought of resigning from the Cabinet after my first month in office. My idea of reform has been construed by some influential members of Cabinet and the party as undesirable and against party interests.
When was the tipping point?
When I was not able to do all these (reforms) and having heard the arguments against them, it then dawned on me that... my party was not ready.
Not ready for a process-driven system, not ready for meritocracy, not ready for greater levels of accountability and a truly independent judiciary. They would like to cling on to the leverages of power based on discretion and privileges.
I could not do much without the support. So, on Sept 12, when they detained Member of Parliament Teresa Kok under the ISA, a journalist for reporting what an Umno leader said — which in my view smacks of racism — and the blogger, I said enough is enough.
What went through your mind as you mulled over this decision to resign?
It was not difficult as I had to endure calls from my party to resign even within my first month. I was labelled an Opposition reformer. I wasn't able to get support from those stakeholders whose support was necessary for me to be effective.
How supportive have your family and friends been?
My family has been very supportive especially my wife, even though I forgot to tell her. She and the rest of my family fully understand my reasons.
(Some friends) said that I could have achieved more by remaining a member of Cabinet.
I want to reassure them that I've thought this through and through and I've come to the conclusion that I could stay on for a few more years, but I would not have achieved much.
Did you seek anybody's advice before you made your decision? Whose was it and what did he or she say?
No. But as I confronted all the challenges in the last six months, I did get advice from many quarters including a senior statesman of an Asean country whom I respect very much.
He advised that I should be patient when faced with adversity.
Advice, suggestions and reflections are good most of the time. But on matters that are dear to our heart, discussions will not change much.
I believe that my country is at a crossroads. I truly feel that the institutions of government, the courts, the police and the judiciary, need a major overhaul... a major clean-up.
Since I was not able to effect positive changes to these things, I resigned.
What has been the reaction to your resignation?
Those who are critical of or oppose my views about the need for rule of law, about justice and fairness for all, were jubilant.
They said I was arrogant, not a true Malay patriot, not a team player.
But the overwhelming response and views of the people of Malaysia have been very supportive of my decision. I'm deeply touched.
I never thought a single act of resignation would trigger such a response throughout the country and from all Malaysians.
Do you rule out politics then? If so, what would make you consider rejoining?
I did not resign after six months just to be in the record books as being the only minister to have resigned from the Cabinet on a matter of principle since Merdeka.
I resigned because I was not able to effectively serve the country. However, just because I'm no longer a minister does not mean I'm out of politics.
I will do whatever I can to make Malaysia better. I'm not quitting politics.
Datuk Anwar Ibrahim has said that defections would allow him to gain majority rule he needs to form a government. Though this is legal, what are your thoughts on this method of gaining control of Parliament?
Crossovers are permitted under our laws. So if Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim has the support of the majority of the House, he can form the new government.
Of course, I would have preferred that we have an “anti-hopping law”, which I proposed, but (it) did not find favour with either my own party or with the Opposition. — The New Paper
Friday, 19 September 2008
Teresa Kok ISA Experience (Her Story)
Teresa Kok ISA Experience
An electrical blip that plunged the DAP headquarters into darkness for some 10 minutes did not spoil the 'welcome home' party for outspoken politician Teresa Kok.
MCPXA bouquet of flowers, a cake and mooncakes were already waiting her even before she came into the conference room.
The 50-minute press conference was conducted in an almost festive note as DAP chairman Karpal Singh, Selangor MB Khalid Ibrahim and state exco colleague Elizabeth Wong joined in.
Relating the incidents of the day, Kok told of how she was tailed the whole day by police before the arrest took place on her way home last Friday.
"I was going back to my condo after a function when a car sped up to block my car while another stopped behind me.
"Police came and tapped on my window to say that I was being arrested under the ISA. My request for a phone call was rejected.
"After instructing my driver to inform the party and my family, I was taken away," said Kok.
Requests for a shower and a chance to pick up some clothings before going to the police station were also ignored, said Kok.
The police, she added, wanted to handcuff her but after pleading with them, they relented and took her to a police station without the restraints.
Kok said that she was unsure where she was taken to and only got to her cell around 4am.
During her seven-day detention, Kok said she was only questioned twice – Saturday and Sunday – on the three allegations.
After the first session on Saturday, the three-term Seputeh MP offered to write her own statement for the police.
"They gave me a laptop on Sunday and I typed out my answers to their three questions in Bahasa Malaysia," said Kok.
The rest of her detention was uneventful, said Kok, except for one day when they gave her only boiled eggs, gravy and some cucumber for lunch and dinner.
Bible to read
Initially, she was not given any reading material but later on she was given a Bible after she requested for "something". On the last two days, Kok was allowed to read newspapers.
"But I got some of the news by asking the investigating officer when I was being questioned in his room. That was the only time I got some air-cond," said the politician with an impish grin.
After the first two days, Kok was also permitted to exercise before she was returned to her '6 by 8' cell at 5.30pm each day.
The only upsetting moment in her detention was when she was told her confinement would be extended by 28 days.
"It was distressing as I had already answered their questions," said Kok.
"It was also ironic that the morning they arrested me, I was explaining to 300 businessmen from China that Malaysia was a politically stable country for them to do business with."
"Imagine, their horror when the person who spoke to them on Friday appeared in the papers the next day, detained."
On her immediate plans, Kok, said that she will return to work as soon as possible.
"In fact, I've three functions to attend tonight," said Kok.
She ended the conference by thanking everyone who had supported her, with a special note to former law minister Zaid Ibrahim, who quit after protesting the ISA arrests.
"Zaid is really my friend! Thanks Zaid and you are welcomed to join Pakatan Rakyat anytime," she quipped.
An electrical blip that plunged the DAP headquarters into darkness for some 10 minutes did not spoil the 'welcome home' party for outspoken politician Teresa Kok.
MCPXA bouquet of flowers, a cake and mooncakes were already waiting her even before she came into the conference room.
The 50-minute press conference was conducted in an almost festive note as DAP chairman Karpal Singh, Selangor MB Khalid Ibrahim and state exco colleague Elizabeth Wong joined in.
Relating the incidents of the day, Kok told of how she was tailed the whole day by police before the arrest took place on her way home last Friday.
"I was going back to my condo after a function when a car sped up to block my car while another stopped behind me.
"Police came and tapped on my window to say that I was being arrested under the ISA. My request for a phone call was rejected.
"After instructing my driver to inform the party and my family, I was taken away," said Kok.
Requests for a shower and a chance to pick up some clothings before going to the police station were also ignored, said Kok.
The police, she added, wanted to handcuff her but after pleading with them, they relented and took her to a police station without the restraints.
Kok said that she was unsure where she was taken to and only got to her cell around 4am.
During her seven-day detention, Kok said she was only questioned twice – Saturday and Sunday – on the three allegations.
After the first session on Saturday, the three-term Seputeh MP offered to write her own statement for the police.
"They gave me a laptop on Sunday and I typed out my answers to their three questions in Bahasa Malaysia," said Kok.
The rest of her detention was uneventful, said Kok, except for one day when they gave her only boiled eggs, gravy and some cucumber for lunch and dinner.
Bible to read
Initially, she was not given any reading material but later on she was given a Bible after she requested for "something". On the last two days, Kok was allowed to read newspapers.
"But I got some of the news by asking the investigating officer when I was being questioned in his room. That was the only time I got some air-cond," said the politician with an impish grin.
After the first two days, Kok was also permitted to exercise before she was returned to her '6 by 8' cell at 5.30pm each day.
The only upsetting moment in her detention was when she was told her confinement would be extended by 28 days.
"It was distressing as I had already answered their questions," said Kok.
"It was also ironic that the morning they arrested me, I was explaining to 300 businessmen from China that Malaysia was a politically stable country for them to do business with."
"Imagine, their horror when the person who spoke to them on Friday appeared in the papers the next day, detained."
On her immediate plans, Kok, said that she will return to work as soon as possible.
"In fact, I've three functions to attend tonight," said Kok.
She ended the conference by thanking everyone who had supported her, with a special note to former law minister Zaid Ibrahim, who quit after protesting the ISA arrests.
"Zaid is really my friend! Thanks Zaid and you are welcomed to join Pakatan Rakyat anytime," she quipped.
Press Statement by YB Teresa Kok
19-09-2008: Teresa Kok's statement after her release from ISA detention
Press Statement by YB Teresa Kok, Member of Parliament for Seputeh,
Senior Exco for Selangor State Government and
ADUN for Kinrara on 19th September 2008 at
Petaling Jaya, after her release from ISA detention
My ISA Detention Is Without Any Legal or Moral Basis. It Is A Clear Abuse of Detention Without Trial
I HAVE been released after being detained in solitary confinement in a 6'-by-8' holding cell for seven days under the Internal Security Act (ISA). I was informed by the police that they detained me under Sec 73(1) of Internal Security Act 1960, which means I have incited racial and religious tension and conflict.
After being detained for seven days under the guise of so-called investigations, the police failed to produce any evidence or proof of me being involved in the activities of causing racial and religious tension.
They were only able to ask me few questions based entirely on the false and malicious article written by Zaini Hassan under the topic "Azan, jawi, JAIS, Uitm dan ba-alif-ba-ya" that was published in Utusan Malaysia on Sept 10, 2008.
The three main questions that the investigation officers asked me were:
(1) whether I have mobilised a group of residents at Bandar Kinrara to present a petition to oppose the azan at the Bandar Kinrara mosque on Sept 13;
(2) whether I have made a statement that 30% of the Selangor Islamic Department (JAIS) allocation is to be given to other non-Islamic religious bodies; and
(3)whether I have opposed to the Jawi wording road signages in Kuala Lumpur.
I denied the first two accusations as I did not do any such things as accused. I also told them that the issue of opposing road signages in Jawi in Kuala Lumpur were done in January/February 2008 at the request and following the pressure of resident associations.
The resident associations, particularly in Taman Seputeh, were most unhappy because many of the road signages were changed arbitrarily by DBKL a few months before, and changed again soon after this time with Jawi wordings. They were strongly opposed to this kind of wastage of public funds by DBKL.
I was quite surprised that there were no other questions posed to me besides these few main questions.
The Internal Security Act (ISA) is meant to detain people who threaten national security. The three issues stated above have nothing to do with national security.
If the police wanted to carry out investigation on me, they can always ask me to give statements in any of the police stations. There was absolutely no need to detain me under the ISA for seven days. This is a phenomenal abuse of the power of police under the ISA.
Besides, it is nonsensical for the police to detain me under the ISA merely based on the unsubstantiated article written by an irresponsible columnist in Utusan Malaysia .
How can they regard that article as the gospel truth without investigating the writer in the first place? How can Utusan Malaysia publish it without verifying the facts?
I wish to ask the police whether they have called Zaini Hassan and Utusan Malaysia 's editors for questioning before and after my detention.
I know that the imam of the Bandar Kinrara mosque has publicly denied that I had gotten involved in the Puchong residents' petition against the azan of his mosque on Sept 13.
I am also quite surprised to read in the New Straits Times dated Sept 19 that the official of the Bandar Kinrara mosque was called by the Dang Wangi police to record his statement only yesterday (Sept 18) afternoon.
Why did the police do it so late, one week after I was arrested? Why didn't they check their facts first before they arrested me and put me behind bars?
I have been made a scapegoat due to the internal squabbles of Umno.
I see my detention as a ploy by Umno to try to cover up the embarrassment and the outrage of the racist statements made by Ahmad Ismail in Penang. I wonder: why did they choose an innocent person like me, as I have never made any racist statements or racist speeches in the past?
I have lodged the police report on Sept 17, 2008, against Utusan Malaysia , Zaini Hassan and Datuk Seri Dr Mohamad Khir Toyo for criminal defamation. I would therefore urge the police to investigate Utusan Malaysia 's editors, those racist bloggers and Dr Khir Toyo under the Penal Code.
As I have mentioned in my previous lawyer's visit, I will sue Utusan Malaysia , Zaini Hassan and Dr Khir Toyo. I have also instructed my lawyers to sue the Malaysian government for my unlawful arrest and detention.
Raja Petra Kamaruddin should be released.
As I am freed from ISA detention today, I also call for the release of Raja Petra, the Hindraf Five and all the other 60-plus detainees under the draconian ISA.
I would also like to thank all politicians in the ruling parties as well as in the Pakatan Rakyat, NGOs, churches and all social organisations who have campaigned and prayed for my release.
Teresa Kok
Member of Parliament for Seputeh, Senior Exco for Selangor State Government and ADUN for Kinrara
Sept 19, 2008
Press Statement by YB Teresa Kok, Member of Parliament for Seputeh,
Senior Exco for Selangor State Government and
ADUN for Kinrara on 19th September 2008 at
Petaling Jaya, after her release from ISA detention
My ISA Detention Is Without Any Legal or Moral Basis. It Is A Clear Abuse of Detention Without Trial
I HAVE been released after being detained in solitary confinement in a 6'-by-8' holding cell for seven days under the Internal Security Act (ISA). I was informed by the police that they detained me under Sec 73(1) of Internal Security Act 1960, which means I have incited racial and religious tension and conflict.
After being detained for seven days under the guise of so-called investigations, the police failed to produce any evidence or proof of me being involved in the activities of causing racial and religious tension.
They were only able to ask me few questions based entirely on the false and malicious article written by Zaini Hassan under the topic "Azan, jawi, JAIS, Uitm dan ba-alif-ba-ya" that was published in Utusan Malaysia on Sept 10, 2008.
The three main questions that the investigation officers asked me were:
(1) whether I have mobilised a group of residents at Bandar Kinrara to present a petition to oppose the azan at the Bandar Kinrara mosque on Sept 13;
(2) whether I have made a statement that 30% of the Selangor Islamic Department (JAIS) allocation is to be given to other non-Islamic religious bodies; and
(3)whether I have opposed to the Jawi wording road signages in Kuala Lumpur.
I denied the first two accusations as I did not do any such things as accused. I also told them that the issue of opposing road signages in Jawi in Kuala Lumpur were done in January/February 2008 at the request and following the pressure of resident associations.
The resident associations, particularly in Taman Seputeh, were most unhappy because many of the road signages were changed arbitrarily by DBKL a few months before, and changed again soon after this time with Jawi wordings. They were strongly opposed to this kind of wastage of public funds by DBKL.
I was quite surprised that there were no other questions posed to me besides these few main questions.
The Internal Security Act (ISA) is meant to detain people who threaten national security. The three issues stated above have nothing to do with national security.
If the police wanted to carry out investigation on me, they can always ask me to give statements in any of the police stations. There was absolutely no need to detain me under the ISA for seven days. This is a phenomenal abuse of the power of police under the ISA.
Besides, it is nonsensical for the police to detain me under the ISA merely based on the unsubstantiated article written by an irresponsible columnist in Utusan Malaysia .
How can they regard that article as the gospel truth without investigating the writer in the first place? How can Utusan Malaysia publish it without verifying the facts?
I wish to ask the police whether they have called Zaini Hassan and Utusan Malaysia 's editors for questioning before and after my detention.
I know that the imam of the Bandar Kinrara mosque has publicly denied that I had gotten involved in the Puchong residents' petition against the azan of his mosque on Sept 13.
I am also quite surprised to read in the New Straits Times dated Sept 19 that the official of the Bandar Kinrara mosque was called by the Dang Wangi police to record his statement only yesterday (Sept 18) afternoon.
Why did the police do it so late, one week after I was arrested? Why didn't they check their facts first before they arrested me and put me behind bars?
I have been made a scapegoat due to the internal squabbles of Umno.
I see my detention as a ploy by Umno to try to cover up the embarrassment and the outrage of the racist statements made by Ahmad Ismail in Penang. I wonder: why did they choose an innocent person like me, as I have never made any racist statements or racist speeches in the past?
I have lodged the police report on Sept 17, 2008, against Utusan Malaysia , Zaini Hassan and Datuk Seri Dr Mohamad Khir Toyo for criminal defamation. I would therefore urge the police to investigate Utusan Malaysia 's editors, those racist bloggers and Dr Khir Toyo under the Penal Code.
As I have mentioned in my previous lawyer's visit, I will sue Utusan Malaysia , Zaini Hassan and Dr Khir Toyo. I have also instructed my lawyers to sue the Malaysian government for my unlawful arrest and detention.
Raja Petra Kamaruddin should be released.
As I am freed from ISA detention today, I also call for the release of Raja Petra, the Hindraf Five and all the other 60-plus detainees under the draconian ISA.
I would also like to thank all politicians in the ruling parties as well as in the Pakatan Rakyat, NGOs, churches and all social organisations who have campaigned and prayed for my release.
Teresa Kok
Member of Parliament for Seputeh, Senior Exco for Selangor State Government and ADUN for Kinrara
Sept 19, 2008
Review ISA : Koh Tsu Koon
19-09-2008:
Review ISA, says Koh
by Regina William
PENANG: While welcoming the cabinet's decision to proceed with the formulation of a Race Relations Act, Gerakan acting president Tan Sri Dr Koh Tsu Koon has emphasised on the need to substantially amend the Internal Security Act (ISA) or to replace it with a more specific act on national security and anti-terrorism, as proposed by Suhakam.
Koh said incidents over the past two years had shown that while the Malaysian society may have become more integrated in many aspects, there were still elements of extremism, racism or sheer opportunism which played on racial and religious issues for publicity and self promotion.
"At the same time, members of the public at large have become increasingly more sensitive and critical against such irresponsible behaviours that hurt feelings, cause uneasiness and evoke sentiments.
"There is a greater determination for zero tolerance," Koh said in a statement.
He said Gerakan had set up a special taskforce to prepare a memorandum to the Cabinet in relations to the proposed National Unity Act, amendment or abolition of ISA and amendments to other related acts.
The taskforce will be headed jointly by two vice presidents, namely Datuk Dr S Vijayaratnam who is also the chairman of Gerakan's International and Inter-ethnic Relations Bureau, and Datuk Chang Ko Youn who is the Central Legal Bureau chairman.
Koh also stressed that the proposed Race Relations Act should cover a more comprehensive scope, to be more appropriately called the National Unity Act, which will promote inter-ethnic, inter-religious understanding and harmony, besides inter-ethnic relations.
At the same time, Koh said there must be clear provisions for stringent deterrents to penalise those who intentionally threaten national unity and inter-group harmony.
A special tribunal and other appropriate dispute resolution mechanism, such as mediation, should also be set up to specifically handle such cases, he added.
Review ISA, says Koh
by Regina William
PENANG: While welcoming the cabinet's decision to proceed with the formulation of a Race Relations Act, Gerakan acting president Tan Sri Dr Koh Tsu Koon has emphasised on the need to substantially amend the Internal Security Act (ISA) or to replace it with a more specific act on national security and anti-terrorism, as proposed by Suhakam.
Koh said incidents over the past two years had shown that while the Malaysian society may have become more integrated in many aspects, there were still elements of extremism, racism or sheer opportunism which played on racial and religious issues for publicity and self promotion.
"At the same time, members of the public at large have become increasingly more sensitive and critical against such irresponsible behaviours that hurt feelings, cause uneasiness and evoke sentiments.
"There is a greater determination for zero tolerance," Koh said in a statement.
He said Gerakan had set up a special taskforce to prepare a memorandum to the Cabinet in relations to the proposed National Unity Act, amendment or abolition of ISA and amendments to other related acts.
The taskforce will be headed jointly by two vice presidents, namely Datuk Dr S Vijayaratnam who is also the chairman of Gerakan's International and Inter-ethnic Relations Bureau, and Datuk Chang Ko Youn who is the Central Legal Bureau chairman.
Koh also stressed that the proposed Race Relations Act should cover a more comprehensive scope, to be more appropriately called the National Unity Act, which will promote inter-ethnic, inter-religious understanding and harmony, besides inter-ethnic relations.
At the same time, Koh said there must be clear provisions for stringent deterrents to penalise those who intentionally threaten national unity and inter-group harmony.
A special tribunal and other appropriate dispute resolution mechanism, such as mediation, should also be set up to specifically handle such cases, he added.
Tuesday, 16 September 2008
Anwar Ibrahim's Sept 16 press statement in full
Anwar Ibrahim's Sept 16 press statement in full
SEPT 16 - Today, Malaysians celebrate Malaysia Day - the day our country became whole and our people become united. This day has a new meaning. After years of struggle, after fighting against a system that is corrupt and unjust - we affirm that victory is finally at hand. Our vision of rebuilding this country and bringing its people together, as the founding fathers envisioned, is within reach.
The economy is in turmoil with runaway inflation and joblessness creating widespread discontent. Racial tensions have been rising, exacerbated by the propaganda spread in the government owned mainstream media. The administration has offered no vision to steer the nation out of this quagmire and there is manifest erosion in confidence in the current government.
We in Pakatan Rakyat believe we can save Malaysia from economic ruin and the dangerous politics of racism. We will do so prudently, legally and in doing so we will not jeopardise the security and stability of the country and the safety of its people.
We have received firm commitments from members of parliament in excess of the number required to form a new government, and our government will reflect the diverse make-up of Malaysian society.
It has been our concern to ensure a peaceful transition of power. We do not wish to see a repeat of what transpired in the Selangor and Perak state governments, where following the victory of Pakatan Rakyat on March 8, documents were shredded and removed by the outgoing administration.
We furthermore advise radical elements within BN against the abuse of state power to unlawfully harass and detain our supporters.
The immediate investigation by the ACA (Anti-Corruption Agency) of Yong Teck Lee after the announcement by SAPP (Sabah Progressive Party) of its intention to move a motion of no-confidence against Abdullah Ahmad Badawi is another example of the tactics we reject.
The use of the ISA, as has happened to MP Teresa Kok, would be an unlawful impediment to the transition process.
In light these serious concerns, yesterday leaders of Pakatan Rakyat sent a letter to the prime minister at 2.30pm requesting a meeting to discuss the future course of the nation's leadership and to seek his assurance on the following important matters:
1) That the BN shall not hinder or prevent their BN MPs from acting in accordance with their conscience, constitutional rights and independent judgment;
2) That the BN government shall not invoke the Internal Security Act to detain any of the MPs who will join Pakatan Rakyat, or any of the present 82 Pakatan Rakyat MPs;
3) That the BN government shall not invoke emergency or police powers, or suspend the constitution, or dissolve parliament in response to our intention to form a new government;
4) That the Barisan Nasional government shall not impose roadblocks and impede the MPs from gaining access to the House of Parliament and the institutions of government.
We believe the prime minister will share Pakatan Rakyat's concerns for the welfare of the people and security of the nation. We are confident he will ensure the BN will act constitutionally and democratically to ensure that the transition will be peaceful, and there will be no actions taken to sabotage the wishes of the people or play on racial tensions in the country.
We appeal to all quarters in Malaysian society to understand our intentions are for the betterment of Malaysian society. The mainstream media, in particular, should accept the reality of these historic times and report fairly, accurately and without bias. The irresponsible tact that is used by the media to obfuscate issues, attack opposition supporters and instigate racial tensions must end immediately.
Following our meeting with the prime minister, we intend to proceed within the framework established by the federal constitution in the formation of a new government, with the assent of the Yang di-Pertuan Agong.
ANWAR IBRAHIM
Opposition Leader
De facto PKR leader
SEPT 16 - Today, Malaysians celebrate Malaysia Day - the day our country became whole and our people become united. This day has a new meaning. After years of struggle, after fighting against a system that is corrupt and unjust - we affirm that victory is finally at hand. Our vision of rebuilding this country and bringing its people together, as the founding fathers envisioned, is within reach.
The economy is in turmoil with runaway inflation and joblessness creating widespread discontent. Racial tensions have been rising, exacerbated by the propaganda spread in the government owned mainstream media. The administration has offered no vision to steer the nation out of this quagmire and there is manifest erosion in confidence in the current government.
We in Pakatan Rakyat believe we can save Malaysia from economic ruin and the dangerous politics of racism. We will do so prudently, legally and in doing so we will not jeopardise the security and stability of the country and the safety of its people.
We have received firm commitments from members of parliament in excess of the number required to form a new government, and our government will reflect the diverse make-up of Malaysian society.
It has been our concern to ensure a peaceful transition of power. We do not wish to see a repeat of what transpired in the Selangor and Perak state governments, where following the victory of Pakatan Rakyat on March 8, documents were shredded and removed by the outgoing administration.
We furthermore advise radical elements within BN against the abuse of state power to unlawfully harass and detain our supporters.
The immediate investigation by the ACA (Anti-Corruption Agency) of Yong Teck Lee after the announcement by SAPP (Sabah Progressive Party) of its intention to move a motion of no-confidence against Abdullah Ahmad Badawi is another example of the tactics we reject.
The use of the ISA, as has happened to MP Teresa Kok, would be an unlawful impediment to the transition process.
In light these serious concerns, yesterday leaders of Pakatan Rakyat sent a letter to the prime minister at 2.30pm requesting a meeting to discuss the future course of the nation's leadership and to seek his assurance on the following important matters:
1) That the BN shall not hinder or prevent their BN MPs from acting in accordance with their conscience, constitutional rights and independent judgment;
2) That the BN government shall not invoke the Internal Security Act to detain any of the MPs who will join Pakatan Rakyat, or any of the present 82 Pakatan Rakyat MPs;
3) That the BN government shall not invoke emergency or police powers, or suspend the constitution, or dissolve parliament in response to our intention to form a new government;
4) That the Barisan Nasional government shall not impose roadblocks and impede the MPs from gaining access to the House of Parliament and the institutions of government.
We believe the prime minister will share Pakatan Rakyat's concerns for the welfare of the people and security of the nation. We are confident he will ensure the BN will act constitutionally and democratically to ensure that the transition will be peaceful, and there will be no actions taken to sabotage the wishes of the people or play on racial tensions in the country.
We appeal to all quarters in Malaysian society to understand our intentions are for the betterment of Malaysian society. The mainstream media, in particular, should accept the reality of these historic times and report fairly, accurately and without bias. The irresponsible tact that is used by the media to obfuscate issues, attack opposition supporters and instigate racial tensions must end immediately.
Following our meeting with the prime minister, we intend to proceed within the framework established by the federal constitution in the formation of a new government, with the assent of the Yang di-Pertuan Agong.
ANWAR IBRAHIM
Opposition Leader
De facto PKR leader
Monday, 15 September 2008
PM Reject Zaid Ibrahim's Resignation
PM rejects Zaid's resignation
KUALA LUMPUR, Sept 15 - De facto Law Minister Datuk Zaid Ibrahim is not out of the Cabinet just yet.
Prime Minister Datuk Seri Abdullah Badawi rejected the letter of resignation Zaid sent in today, telling him instead to take a two-week break.
Sources told the Malaysian Insider that Zaid informed the PM that he felt compelled to quit the Cabinet on a matter of principle because he disagreed with the use of the Internal Security Act (ISA) on journalist Tan Hong Cheng, DAP MP Teresa Kok and blogger Raja Petra Kamaruddin.
He felt that a minister or government official who is at odds with the policy or decision of the administration must offer his resignation.
Abdullah said issues and matters could be discussed and thrashed out in Cabinet.
Zaid, who has been at the forefront of judicial reforms, also said that he felt that his resignation would help the PM politically.
He noted that his opposition to the ISA and his push for reforms did not go down well with certain segments in the ruling party.
"Zaid said he did not want to be a liability to the PM in Umno. Pak Lah thanked him for his concern but said he was committed to the judicial reforms and that he would take his chances with Umno,"" said a source.
The lawyer was a popular addition to the Cabinet following the March 8 general election, with many Malaysians hailing his
appointment as a sign that Abdullah was committed to improving the judiciary.
Zaid pushed for the government to pay ex-gratia payments to judges who were sacked and suspended after the judicial crisis in 1988.
He was also instrumental in proposing the Judicial Appointments Commission. But he has faced major opposition from within his own party as some believe that reforms would result in the government having less control over an important institution and in more non-Malays being appointed to the Bench.
As a result of this opposition, Abdullah has taken his foot off the reform pedal, promising to hit the full speed button after he secures his position as Umno president in Dece
KUALA LUMPUR, Sept 15 - De facto Law Minister Datuk Zaid Ibrahim is not out of the Cabinet just yet.
Prime Minister Datuk Seri Abdullah Badawi rejected the letter of resignation Zaid sent in today, telling him instead to take a two-week break.
Sources told the Malaysian Insider that Zaid informed the PM that he felt compelled to quit the Cabinet on a matter of principle because he disagreed with the use of the Internal Security Act (ISA) on journalist Tan Hong Cheng, DAP MP Teresa Kok and blogger Raja Petra Kamaruddin.
He felt that a minister or government official who is at odds with the policy or decision of the administration must offer his resignation.
Abdullah said issues and matters could be discussed and thrashed out in Cabinet.
Zaid, who has been at the forefront of judicial reforms, also said that he felt that his resignation would help the PM politically.
He noted that his opposition to the ISA and his push for reforms did not go down well with certain segments in the ruling party.
"Zaid said he did not want to be a liability to the PM in Umno. Pak Lah thanked him for his concern but said he was committed to the judicial reforms and that he would take his chances with Umno,"" said a source.
The lawyer was a popular addition to the Cabinet following the March 8 general election, with many Malaysians hailing his
appointment as a sign that Abdullah was committed to improving the judiciary.
Zaid pushed for the government to pay ex-gratia payments to judges who were sacked and suspended after the judicial crisis in 1988.
He was also instrumental in proposing the Judicial Appointments Commission. But he has faced major opposition from within his own party as some believe that reforms would result in the government having less control over an important institution and in more non-Malays being appointed to the Bench.
As a result of this opposition, Abdullah has taken his foot off the reform pedal, promising to hit the full speed button after he secures his position as Umno president in Dece
Zaid Ibrahim Quit to protest ISA against Civilian
Zaid Ibrahim quits (updated)
By SHAILA KOSHY
KUALA LUMPUR: De facto Law Minister Datuk Zaid Ibrahim has submitted his resignation letter to the Prime Minister.
However, it is not known yet whether Datuk Seri Abdullah Ahmad Badawi has accepted Zaid's resignation.
According to sources, the senator tendered his letter of resignation to the Prime Minister's office just before 2pm on Monday.
Zaid could not be reached for confirmation.
The former Kota Baru MP was not fielded to stand in the March 8 general election.
Following the general election, however, Abdullah appointed him a Senator and a Minister in the Prime Minister’s Department.
In announcing his new Cabinet on March 18, Abdullah said that Zaid would be responsible for legal matters and take on the role to reform the judiciary.
It was only last Tuesday that Zaid said he might soon become a full-blown Law Minister with the requisite authority and responsibility to help him effect legal reform.
“In fact, my own position will be reviewed to Minister of Law to give me more authority but that will take time. You can’t have responsibility without authority,” he had said then.
However on Sunday, Zaid broke from rank to say that the use of the Internal Security Act against civilians was wrong, adding that he was prepared to resign over the issue.
By SHAILA KOSHY
KUALA LUMPUR: De facto Law Minister Datuk Zaid Ibrahim has submitted his resignation letter to the Prime Minister.
However, it is not known yet whether Datuk Seri Abdullah Ahmad Badawi has accepted Zaid's resignation.
According to sources, the senator tendered his letter of resignation to the Prime Minister's office just before 2pm on Monday.
Zaid could not be reached for confirmation.
The former Kota Baru MP was not fielded to stand in the March 8 general election.
Following the general election, however, Abdullah appointed him a Senator and a Minister in the Prime Minister’s Department.
In announcing his new Cabinet on March 18, Abdullah said that Zaid would be responsible for legal matters and take on the role to reform the judiciary.
It was only last Tuesday that Zaid said he might soon become a full-blown Law Minister with the requisite authority and responsibility to help him effect legal reform.
“In fact, my own position will be reviewed to Minister of Law to give me more authority but that will take time. You can’t have responsibility without authority,” he had said then.
However on Sunday, Zaid broke from rank to say that the use of the Internal Security Act against civilians was wrong, adding that he was prepared to resign over the issue.
Sunday, 14 September 2008
The Article that causes Teresa Kok Arrest
The Article Published in http://www.pembelamelayu.com/ that causes Teresa Kok ISA Arrest
PAS MP lodges report against Khir Toyo
Maria J.Dass
SHAH ALAM (Sept 11, 2008): Kota Raja Member of Parliament Dr Siti Mariah Mahmud has lodged a police report against former Selangor Menteri Besar Datuk Seri Dr Mohd Khir Toyo and website pembelamelayu.com for spreading malicious slander and lies about certain quarters pressuring the state authorities to tone down the call to prayer at mosque and surau in the state.
When contacted, Siti Mariah, who is also PAS central committee member, said the police must investigate and act on this immediately as malicious lies can ruin racial and religious harmony.
Pembelamelayu.com quoting Mohd Khir in his blog said Seputeh MP and Puchong Assemblyman Theresa Kok had supported a petition by the Chinese in Kinrara against the azan (call to morning prayer) in their area.
The website also alleged that Seri Serdang assemblyman Satim Diman had raised the issue at the state assembly but did not get a response.
In her report lodged at the Dang Wangi police headquarters today, Siti Mariah said Mohd Khir’s statement, published in Utusan Malaysia on Tuesday, was “malicious and aimed at raising the anger and anxiety of Malay Muslims”.
“This action by Khir, the blog and Utusan Malaysia is an obvious attempt to manipulate the sentiments of the Malay and Muslim people,” Siti Mariah said.
She said newspapers should verify the facts before publishing such reports.
(The Utusan Malaysia report quoted Khir, but Kok's name was not mentioned.)
"As a Muslim, I was upset when I read the article, but upon checking with Teresa, I found out that she had not been involved in the petition at all.”
She added that she obtained a copy of the state assembly Hansard from the Speaker’s office and found that allegations that Satim was ordered to remain seated when he brought up the issue at the state assembly was unfounded.
She said it is understood that committees of the mosques involved have also lodged reports with the police against the unfounded allegations.
When contacted, Mohd Khir said: “Let the police to investigate the allegations.”
Asked if he stood by the statements made, Mohd Khir said: “A report has been lodged, so I don’t want to say anything more on the matter.”
On Wednesday, Kok, referring to the article published on PembelaMelayu.com, denied even receiving such a complaint from residents and said she personally had no problems with the prayer calls.
Kok had also demanded a retraction and apology from Mohd Khir, Utusan Malaysia, its writer Zaini Hassan and Satim.
Updated: 07:40PM Thu, 11 Sep 2008
The article from www.pembelamelayu.com that cause the ISA Arrestof Teresa Kok
Bukti Petisyen memperlahankan speaker masjid waktu Subuh adalah benar
PAS MP lodges report against Khir Toyo
Maria J.Dass
SHAH ALAM (Sept 11, 2008): Kota Raja Member of Parliament Dr Siti Mariah Mahmud has lodged a police report against former Selangor Menteri Besar Datuk Seri Dr Mohd Khir Toyo and website pembelamelayu.com for spreading malicious slander and lies about certain quarters pressuring the state authorities to tone down the call to prayer at mosque and surau in the state.
When contacted, Siti Mariah, who is also PAS central committee member, said the police must investigate and act on this immediately as malicious lies can ruin racial and religious harmony.
Pembelamelayu.com quoting Mohd Khir in his blog said Seputeh MP and Puchong Assemblyman Theresa Kok had supported a petition by the Chinese in Kinrara against the azan (call to morning prayer) in their area.
The website also alleged that Seri Serdang assemblyman Satim Diman had raised the issue at the state assembly but did not get a response.
In her report lodged at the Dang Wangi police headquarters today, Siti Mariah said Mohd Khir’s statement, published in Utusan Malaysia on Tuesday, was “malicious and aimed at raising the anger and anxiety of Malay Muslims”.
“This action by Khir, the blog and Utusan Malaysia is an obvious attempt to manipulate the sentiments of the Malay and Muslim people,” Siti Mariah said.
She said newspapers should verify the facts before publishing such reports.
(The Utusan Malaysia report quoted Khir, but Kok's name was not mentioned.)
"As a Muslim, I was upset when I read the article, but upon checking with Teresa, I found out that she had not been involved in the petition at all.”
She added that she obtained a copy of the state assembly Hansard from the Speaker’s office and found that allegations that Satim was ordered to remain seated when he brought up the issue at the state assembly was unfounded.
She said it is understood that committees of the mosques involved have also lodged reports with the police against the unfounded allegations.
When contacted, Mohd Khir said: “Let the police to investigate the allegations.”
Asked if he stood by the statements made, Mohd Khir said: “A report has been lodged, so I don’t want to say anything more on the matter.”
On Wednesday, Kok, referring to the article published on PembelaMelayu.com, denied even receiving such a complaint from residents and said she personally had no problems with the prayer calls.
Kok had also demanded a retraction and apology from Mohd Khir, Utusan Malaysia, its writer Zaini Hassan and Satim.
Updated: 07:40PM Thu, 11 Sep 2008
ISA : Anwar to meet Pak Lah
ISA : Anwar to meet Pak Lah
Anwar Ibrahim is seeking a meeting with Abdullah Ahmad Badawi to discuss national security in the wake of the ISA crackdown and the future of Malaysian politics.
The proposal was agreed by the Pakatan Rakyat leadership council, Anwar told a press conference after the council meeting at the PKR headquarters this afternoon.
The council also comprise DAP supremo Lim Kit Siang and PAS president Abdul Hadi Awang. They were present at the meeting which requested Anwar to meet the prime minister.
The proposal was brought up after the government yesterday invoked the draconian Internal Security Act to arrest a prominent blogger, a journalist and an opposition politician. The journalist was released this afternoon.
The crackdown came ahead of Anwar’s threat to topple the BN federal government by next Tuesday. He claimed he has sufficient number of Barisan MPs to defect to the opposition alliance to do so.
Asked whether the proposed meeting with Abdullah was to effect a transition of power, Anwar replied, "It’s about the future direction of this country without specifically speaking about the transition.”
The opposition leader sidestepped a question on the likelihood of Abdullah's refusal to see him, saying that it will be an issue concerning national security and of paramount importance.
‘Possibility of a second wave’
Anwar also said that Pakatan’s Sept 16 plan was unrelated to the ISA arrests when asked whether he would defer his plan to ease the political tension in the face of more possible arrests.
“The priority is political stability. It’s not an issue of deferring, we have the number to move and we will move according to the mandate. We don’t want to allow the government to create political instability using the race card,” he stressed.
He also said that apart from national security, another major issue that Pakatan has to grasp with was that a huge number of BN legislators are abroad after being sent on an agricultural study tour of Tawain.
To another question, Anwar did not discount the possibility of more arrests on Pakatan leaders.
“There is a possibility of a second wave, we are mindful of that fact. That’s why we discussed that possibility separately and within PKR. We shouldn’t feel threatened, it’s Umno and BN leaders who feel threatened by public sentiments clamouring for change,” he said.
In a related development, the Pakatan Rakyat leadership council also agreed to jointly organise with the Selangor government a peaceful gathering at the Kelana Jaya stadium on the eve of September 16 to celebrate Malaysia Day.
Earlier, the council issued a one-page statement condemning the government’s “desperate move” to use the ISA on the trio and demand for their immediate release or to charge them in court.
Anwar Ibrahim is seeking a meeting with Abdullah Ahmad Badawi to discuss national security in the wake of the ISA crackdown and the future of Malaysian politics.
The proposal was agreed by the Pakatan Rakyat leadership council, Anwar told a press conference after the council meeting at the PKR headquarters this afternoon.
The council also comprise DAP supremo Lim Kit Siang and PAS president Abdul Hadi Awang. They were present at the meeting which requested Anwar to meet the prime minister.
The proposal was brought up after the government yesterday invoked the draconian Internal Security Act to arrest a prominent blogger, a journalist and an opposition politician. The journalist was released this afternoon.
The crackdown came ahead of Anwar’s threat to topple the BN federal government by next Tuesday. He claimed he has sufficient number of Barisan MPs to defect to the opposition alliance to do so.
Asked whether the proposed meeting with Abdullah was to effect a transition of power, Anwar replied, "It’s about the future direction of this country without specifically speaking about the transition.”
The opposition leader sidestepped a question on the likelihood of Abdullah's refusal to see him, saying that it will be an issue concerning national security and of paramount importance.
‘Possibility of a second wave’
Anwar also said that Pakatan’s Sept 16 plan was unrelated to the ISA arrests when asked whether he would defer his plan to ease the political tension in the face of more possible arrests.
“The priority is political stability. It’s not an issue of deferring, we have the number to move and we will move according to the mandate. We don’t want to allow the government to create political instability using the race card,” he stressed.
He also said that apart from national security, another major issue that Pakatan has to grasp with was that a huge number of BN legislators are abroad after being sent on an agricultural study tour of Tawain.
To another question, Anwar did not discount the possibility of more arrests on Pakatan leaders.
“There is a possibility of a second wave, we are mindful of that fact. That’s why we discussed that possibility separately and within PKR. We shouldn’t feel threatened, it’s Umno and BN leaders who feel threatened by public sentiments clamouring for change,” he said.
In a related development, the Pakatan Rakyat leadership council also agreed to jointly organise with the Selangor government a peaceful gathering at the Kelana Jaya stadium on the eve of September 16 to celebrate Malaysia Day.
Earlier, the council issued a one-page statement condemning the government’s “desperate move” to use the ISA on the trio and demand for their immediate release or to charge them in court.
MUSLIM PROFESSIONALS FORUM : ISA ARREST UNJUSTIFIABLE
MPF PRESS RELEASE - ISA ARRESTS
13th September 2008
The arrests of MP Theresa Kok and journalist Tan Hoon Cheng under the ISA following that of blogger Raja Petra Kamarudin raise grave concern for Malaysians.
An endearing legacy of Abdullah Ahmad Badawi’s leadership that we have come to appreciate is the openness albeit limited, that has come as a breath of fresh air after 2 decades of punitive control of the public sphere.
The arrests of the three individuals under the draconian law at a time when Malaysians have become more mature politically and less inclined to be baited by racial politics will no doubt further erode the legitimacy of and support for the ruling party, perhaps irrevocably.
Of no less import will be the repercussions to Malaysia’s reputation internationally, that time and again the ruling party resorts to an unjust and antiquated piece of legislation to silence dissent in order to sustain her cling to power.
It is clear to all that the arrests of MP Theresa Kok and journalist Tan Hoon Cheng are completely without justification. Tan was merely doing her job as a journalist and UMNO has undertaken the appropriate measures, including an apology from its deputy president. In the “Puchong Azan Issue”, MP Theresa Kok was arrested over what is clearly a false allegation. We urge the authorities to immediately release the two and bring to book those responsible for fomenting racial and religious hatred.
It cannot be completely denied that Raja Petra Kamarudin in his writings and those who contribute to his blog have expressed views that many Muslims consider as denigrating the prophet and the religion of Islam. However we believe this can be countered by sound arguments based on well accepted teachings and sources of Islam. In the extreme, the authorities may take him to the Syariah court. The use of the ISA is excessive, inhumane and runs counter to Islam’s principles of justice.
In this blessed month of Ramadhan, we urge the authorities to act justly in carrying out their responsibility of maintaining the peace and security of the country. We also urge everyone in the public sphere to exercise restraint and wisdom in discussing issues of race and religion.
Board of Directors
Muslim Professionals Forum
Dr. Mazeni Alwi
Dr. Shaikh Johari Bux
Haji Mohamed Ali Ghazali
Dato’ Dr. Musa Mohd. Nordin
13th September 2008
The arrests of MP Theresa Kok and journalist Tan Hoon Cheng under the ISA following that of blogger Raja Petra Kamarudin raise grave concern for Malaysians.
An endearing legacy of Abdullah Ahmad Badawi’s leadership that we have come to appreciate is the openness albeit limited, that has come as a breath of fresh air after 2 decades of punitive control of the public sphere.
The arrests of the three individuals under the draconian law at a time when Malaysians have become more mature politically and less inclined to be baited by racial politics will no doubt further erode the legitimacy of and support for the ruling party, perhaps irrevocably.
Of no less import will be the repercussions to Malaysia’s reputation internationally, that time and again the ruling party resorts to an unjust and antiquated piece of legislation to silence dissent in order to sustain her cling to power.
It is clear to all that the arrests of MP Theresa Kok and journalist Tan Hoon Cheng are completely without justification. Tan was merely doing her job as a journalist and UMNO has undertaken the appropriate measures, including an apology from its deputy president. In the “Puchong Azan Issue”, MP Theresa Kok was arrested over what is clearly a false allegation. We urge the authorities to immediately release the two and bring to book those responsible for fomenting racial and religious hatred.
It cannot be completely denied that Raja Petra Kamarudin in his writings and those who contribute to his blog have expressed views that many Muslims consider as denigrating the prophet and the religion of Islam. However we believe this can be countered by sound arguments based on well accepted teachings and sources of Islam. In the extreme, the authorities may take him to the Syariah court. The use of the ISA is excessive, inhumane and runs counter to Islam’s principles of justice.
In this blessed month of Ramadhan, we urge the authorities to act justly in carrying out their responsibility of maintaining the peace and security of the country. We also urge everyone in the public sphere to exercise restraint and wisdom in discussing issues of race and religion.
Board of Directors
Muslim Professionals Forum
Dr. Mazeni Alwi
Dr. Shaikh Johari Bux
Haji Mohamed Ali Ghazali
Dato’ Dr. Musa Mohd. Nordin
SIN CHEW DAILY REPORTER DEFENDS REPORT
Sin Chew Daily Reporter Defends Report
BUKIT MERTAJAM, Sept 13 (Bernama)-- Sin Chew Daily reporter, Tan Hoon Cheng who was released Saturday after being detained under the Internal Security Act (ISA) defended her report on alleged racist remarks made by former Bukit Bendera Umno chief, Datuk Ahmad Ismail.
Tan, 33, said the report was done in a professional manner and was based on what she heard on the night the remarks were made.
"I just write what I heard," she told reporters at her house here after being released at 2.40pm Saturday.
Friday, Tan was detained under the ISA at her home in Taman Alma at about 8.40pm over the controversial report.
Tan said she was treated well by the police during the 17 hours in custody.
"My thanks to everybody including the police who treated me in a very good and professional way," she said.
"I could not sleep but the police treated me well, no problem," she said adding that the incident will not deter her from carrying out her duties.
Ahmad has since been suspended for three years by Umno and also has been stripped of all his party posts.
-- BERNAMA
BUKIT MERTAJAM, Sept 13 (Bernama)-- Sin Chew Daily reporter, Tan Hoon Cheng who was released Saturday after being detained under the Internal Security Act (ISA) defended her report on alleged racist remarks made by former Bukit Bendera Umno chief, Datuk Ahmad Ismail.
Tan, 33, said the report was done in a professional manner and was based on what she heard on the night the remarks were made.
"I just write what I heard," she told reporters at her house here after being released at 2.40pm Saturday.
Friday, Tan was detained under the ISA at her home in Taman Alma at about 8.40pm over the controversial report.
Tan said she was treated well by the police during the 17 hours in custody.
"My thanks to everybody including the police who treated me in a very good and professional way," she said.
"I could not sleep but the police treated me well, no problem," she said adding that the incident will not deter her from carrying out her duties.
Ahmad has since been suspended for three years by Umno and also has been stripped of all his party posts.
-- BERNAMA
Saturday, 13 September 2008
Even BN Component CONDEMN Government ISA ARREST (Updated)
Even BN Component CONDEMN Government ISA ARREST
Ong Ka Ting : The Party Leader are with me.
- We draw a clear line that MCA is against the use of ISA on any journalists, more so in this case
After learning of the arrest of the Sin Chew Daily reporter, Ong said he had immediately discussed with the party leadership before conveying the public and party’s views and feelings to Prime Minister Datuk Seri Abdullah Ahmad Badawi and Deputy Prime Minister Datuk Seri Najib Tun Razak.
“The party leaders told me that I have their backing and they are with me.
“We have principles and we are standing by it. We are drawing a clear line that the MCA is against the use of ISA on any journalists, more so in this case,” he said.
MCA
Datuk Ong Tee Keat : The perpetrator is still at large
- anyone with right mind would certainly be stunned
The MCA has expressed shock that former Bukit Bendera Umno division chairman Datuk Ahmad Ismail, who made racist remarks has not been taken to task but reporter Tan Hoon Cheng, who wrote about the incident, has been arrested instead.
“The perpetrator who vowed to conduct a nationwide roadshow on his remarks without any remorse is still at large,” MCA vice-president Datuk Ong Tee Keat said in a statement yesterday.
He said anybody in his right mind would certainly be stunned by such an arrest targeted at the reporter and not the perpetrator.
MCA
Datuk Seri Fong Chan Onn : Disagree with the use of ISA
- Reporter only carry out her duties.
MCA vice-president Datuk Seri Dr Fong Chan Onn said he disagreed with the use of the ISA on Tan.“As a reporter, Tan was only carrying out duties assigned to her. Her story had gone through the due editorial process before it was printed,” he said.
MCA
Ong Ka Ting : The Party Leader are with me.
- We draw a clear line that MCA is against the use of ISA on any journalists, more so in this case
After learning of the arrest of the Sin Chew Daily reporter, Ong said he had immediately discussed with the party leadership before conveying the public and party’s views and feelings to Prime Minister Datuk Seri Abdullah Ahmad Badawi and Deputy Prime Minister Datuk Seri Najib Tun Razak.
“The party leaders told me that I have their backing and they are with me.
“We have principles and we are standing by it. We are drawing a clear line that the MCA is against the use of ISA on any journalists, more so in this case,” he said.
MCA
Datuk Ong Tee Keat : The perpetrator is still at large
- anyone with right mind would certainly be stunned
The MCA has expressed shock that former Bukit Bendera Umno division chairman Datuk Ahmad Ismail, who made racist remarks has not been taken to task but reporter Tan Hoon Cheng, who wrote about the incident, has been arrested instead.
“The perpetrator who vowed to conduct a nationwide roadshow on his remarks without any remorse is still at large,” MCA vice-president Datuk Ong Tee Keat said in a statement yesterday.
He said anybody in his right mind would certainly be stunned by such an arrest targeted at the reporter and not the perpetrator.
MCA
Datuk Seri Fong Chan Onn : Disagree with the use of ISA
- Reporter only carry out her duties.
MCA vice-president Datuk Seri Dr Fong Chan Onn said he disagreed with the use of the ISA on Tan.“As a reporter, Tan was only carrying out duties assigned to her. Her story had gone through the due editorial process before it was printed,” he said.
GERAKAN
Tan Sri Koh Tsu Koon : This is consistent with Gerakan's stand that the ISA should be reviewed, if not repealed.
Gerakan president Tan Sri Dr Koh Tsu Koon, meanwhile, urged the Government to bring Raja Petra to trial in court under existing laws.“This is consistent with Gerakan’s stand that the ISA should be reviewed, if not repealed,” Dr Koh said in a statement.
Public Pressure Vs Government - Grave Injustice by BN
Public pressure turns against government
-"......the government had committed a grave injustice by arresting a journalist who was only doing her job when she reported Datuk Ahmad Ismail's reckless description of Malaysian Chinese as squatters in the country"
...............if Tan deserved to be held under the ISA so did Ahmad
ANALYSIS
SEPT 13 ~ Why was Sin Chew Daily News reporter Tan Hoon Cheng released 24 hours after her arrest under the Internal Security Act (ISA)? Was it because the alleged threat on her life somehow disappeared just as fast it appeared on the police radar screen?
The simple answer: The intervention by Barisan Nasional politicians, including a few from Umno, who were convinced that the government had committed a grave injustice by arresting a journalist who was only doing her job when she reported Datuk Ahmad Ismail's reckless description of Malaysian Chinese as squatters in the country. And who were concerned of the heavy political punishment that would be exacted on the Barisan Nasional for this mistake.
The Malaysian Insider has learnt that several Umno politicians met Prime Minister Datuk Seri Abdullah Ahmad Badawi last night after finding out about the arrest. They argued that the detention appeared to be a move to punish the messenger who had exposed an Umno division chief.
Wearing their political antennas, they also noted that the Chinese community ~ already peeved with the Barisan Nasional over a range of issues ~ is recoiling with anger over her detention.
One of the Umno politicians noted that if Tan deserved to be held under the ISA so did Ahmad who not only sparked off the ugly episode during the Permatang Pauh by-election but compounded it by making a series of inflammatory remarks after that.
This morning, MCA president Datuk Seri Ong Ka Ting spoke to Abdullah, and voiced the party's distress over the reporter's detention under the ISA.
He noted that the Chinese community felt that this action was unjustified and could have far reaching consequences for race relations.
It is understood that Abdullah empathised with him. Or more likely was only too aware of the political cost of prolonging the detention.
Tan was released at 2.30pm, presumably after the PM gave instructions to Home Minister Datuk Seri Syed Hamid Albar.
Penang chief minister Lim Guan Eng welcomed her release.
"Her unconditional release is a people's victory and the outcome of sustained public pressure against the use of draconian laws," he said in a press statement.
He is right. Sustained pressure by politicians and some government officials close to the PM persuaded him to overrule the police. What is clear from the detention of Tan, DAP's Teresa Kok and blogger Raja Petra Kamaruddin is that the government will have to contend with stronger public activism than ever before.
Partly this is driven by the sense of injustice over singling out these three individuals and partly it is the result of a more politically conscious society. Catholic churches are organising vigils for Kok and Raja Petra.
At the St Francis Xavier church in Petaling Jaya ~ Kok's parish ~ a prayer and silent witnessing session will be held until 2am tomorrow. In an SMS which was circulated widely to Catholics, Father O.C. Lim said: "The unjust may break our bones but they can't break our spirit.''
The Bar Council is going to hold an extraordinary meeting to discuss the use of the ISA on the three individuals. But more than the show of solidarity by religious groups and organisations is the open indignation shown by the man in the street.
Newspapers have been inundated with callers from irate readers upset with the use of the ISA on Tan and Kok, some of them wondering why a decent and God-fearing man like the PM was resorting to detention without trial.
With such a build-up of pressure from the ground, the authorities will be hard pressed to keep the DAP MP for Seputih behind bars much longer.
-"......the government had committed a grave injustice by arresting a journalist who was only doing her job when she reported Datuk Ahmad Ismail's reckless description of Malaysian Chinese as squatters in the country"
...............if Tan deserved to be held under the ISA so did Ahmad
ANALYSIS
SEPT 13 ~ Why was Sin Chew Daily News reporter Tan Hoon Cheng released 24 hours after her arrest under the Internal Security Act (ISA)? Was it because the alleged threat on her life somehow disappeared just as fast it appeared on the police radar screen?
The simple answer: The intervention by Barisan Nasional politicians, including a few from Umno, who were convinced that the government had committed a grave injustice by arresting a journalist who was only doing her job when she reported Datuk Ahmad Ismail's reckless description of Malaysian Chinese as squatters in the country. And who were concerned of the heavy political punishment that would be exacted on the Barisan Nasional for this mistake.
The Malaysian Insider has learnt that several Umno politicians met Prime Minister Datuk Seri Abdullah Ahmad Badawi last night after finding out about the arrest. They argued that the detention appeared to be a move to punish the messenger who had exposed an Umno division chief.
Wearing their political antennas, they also noted that the Chinese community ~ already peeved with the Barisan Nasional over a range of issues ~ is recoiling with anger over her detention.
One of the Umno politicians noted that if Tan deserved to be held under the ISA so did Ahmad who not only sparked off the ugly episode during the Permatang Pauh by-election but compounded it by making a series of inflammatory remarks after that.
This morning, MCA president Datuk Seri Ong Ka Ting spoke to Abdullah, and voiced the party's distress over the reporter's detention under the ISA.
He noted that the Chinese community felt that this action was unjustified and could have far reaching consequences for race relations.
It is understood that Abdullah empathised with him. Or more likely was only too aware of the political cost of prolonging the detention.
Tan was released at 2.30pm, presumably after the PM gave instructions to Home Minister Datuk Seri Syed Hamid Albar.
Penang chief minister Lim Guan Eng welcomed her release.
"Her unconditional release is a people's victory and the outcome of sustained public pressure against the use of draconian laws," he said in a press statement.
He is right. Sustained pressure by politicians and some government officials close to the PM persuaded him to overrule the police. What is clear from the detention of Tan, DAP's Teresa Kok and blogger Raja Petra Kamaruddin is that the government will have to contend with stronger public activism than ever before.
Partly this is driven by the sense of injustice over singling out these three individuals and partly it is the result of a more politically conscious society. Catholic churches are organising vigils for Kok and Raja Petra.
At the St Francis Xavier church in Petaling Jaya ~ Kok's parish ~ a prayer and silent witnessing session will be held until 2am tomorrow. In an SMS which was circulated widely to Catholics, Father O.C. Lim said: "The unjust may break our bones but they can't break our spirit.''
The Bar Council is going to hold an extraordinary meeting to discuss the use of the ISA on the three individuals. But more than the show of solidarity by religious groups and organisations is the open indignation shown by the man in the street.
Newspapers have been inundated with callers from irate readers upset with the use of the ISA on Tan and Kok, some of them wondering why a decent and God-fearing man like the PM was resorting to detention without trial.
With such a build-up of pressure from the ground, the authorities will be hard pressed to keep the DAP MP for Seputih behind bars much longer.
Solidarity vigil for ISA detainees tonight : NUJ Bukit Aman ; DAP Paramount Garden
Solidarity vigil for ISA detainees tonight
KUALA LUMPUR, Sept 13 ~ A non-governmental organisation pushing for the abolishment of the Internal Security Act (ISA) will be holding a candlelight vigil outside the gates of the federal police headquarters in Bukit Aman here tonight as a show of support for all ISA detainees, in particular the three who were arrested yesterday for allegedly threatening national security.
Nalini Elumalai from Suaram said that the vigil will go ahead despite statements by the home minister that Tan Hoon Cheng, the Sin Chew journalist detained under the ISA last night, could be released today.
Datuk Seri Syed Hamid Albar also said he did not expect any more arrests under the ISA this weekend.
"We can't believe everything the government says. The vigil will go ahead and we will decide what to do later if anything changes," she told The Malaysian Insider.
The gathering will start from 8.30pm, after the breaking of fast for Muslims who are observing Ramadan this month, at the entrance accessible from the Butterfly Park in the Lake Gardens, said Nalini, the secretary for Suaram, which is organsing the vigil.
She is expecting a turnout of about 100 people.
The DAP is also planning its own candlelight vigil for its central executive committee (CEC) member Teresa Kok, who is one of the three held under the ISA yesterday.
Their vigil will begin at 7pm at party headquarters in Paramount Garden, Petaling Jaya. An emergency CEC meeting to discuss the ISA arrests will commence after the vigil.
DAP CANDLELIGHT VIGIL
13.09.08 Candle Light Vigil for detainees under ISA;
DAP Headquarters, 24, Jln 20/9, Paramount Garden, PJ;
7pm;
Inquiry: 03-7957 8022
The National Union of Journalists (NUJ) has called on all journalists to turn up outside Bukit Aman police headquarters for a candlelight vigil at 8.30pm Saturday.
'
KUALA LUMPUR, Sept 13 ~ A non-governmental organisation pushing for the abolishment of the Internal Security Act (ISA) will be holding a candlelight vigil outside the gates of the federal police headquarters in Bukit Aman here tonight as a show of support for all ISA detainees, in particular the three who were arrested yesterday for allegedly threatening national security.
Nalini Elumalai from Suaram said that the vigil will go ahead despite statements by the home minister that Tan Hoon Cheng, the Sin Chew journalist detained under the ISA last night, could be released today.
Datuk Seri Syed Hamid Albar also said he did not expect any more arrests under the ISA this weekend.
"We can't believe everything the government says. The vigil will go ahead and we will decide what to do later if anything changes," she told The Malaysian Insider.
The gathering will start from 8.30pm, after the breaking of fast for Muslims who are observing Ramadan this month, at the entrance accessible from the Butterfly Park in the Lake Gardens, said Nalini, the secretary for Suaram, which is organsing the vigil.
She is expecting a turnout of about 100 people.
The DAP is also planning its own candlelight vigil for its central executive committee (CEC) member Teresa Kok, who is one of the three held under the ISA yesterday.
Their vigil will begin at 7pm at party headquarters in Paramount Garden, Petaling Jaya. An emergency CEC meeting to discuss the ISA arrests will commence after the vigil.
DAP CANDLELIGHT VIGIL
13.09.08 Candle Light Vigil for detainees under ISA;
DAP Headquarters, 24, Jln 20/9, Paramount Garden, PJ;
7pm;
Inquiry: 03-7957 8022
The National Union of Journalists (NUJ) has called on all journalists to turn up outside Bukit Aman police headquarters for a candlelight vigil at 8.30pm Saturday.
'
US Interference : ISA - Malaysia Rule of Law in Question.
Washington summons Malaysian envoy
KUALA LUMPUR: The United States has summoned Ilango Karuppannan, the charge d’affaires of the Malaysian embassy, to protest what it called the “crackdown on dissent” at a time when the opposition was attempting to form a new government.
According to the AFP, Ilango was summoned to the State Department after the three arrests under the Internal Security Act (ISA) on Friday.
”Peaceful expression of political opinions is a fundamental right and critical to a democracy,” a State Department official told AFP.
”The United States believes that the Malaysian Government should provide due process and treatment consistent with Malaysian law and international standards,” said the official, speaking on condition of anonymity.
”We expect that democratic countries that purport to advocate free expression of political views will not curtail such freedom,” the official said.
This is the second time Ilango was summoned to the State Department in a month.
The last time was when PKR adviser Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim was charged with sodomy.
”The United States firmly believes that freedom of the press and freedom of speech are fundamental to a vibrant democracy,” the State Department official said.
On Friday, Malaysia Today news portal editor Raja Petra Kamarudin, Sin Chew Daily reporter Tan Hoon Cheng and Seputeh MP and Selangor senior executive councillor Teresa Kok were arrested under the ISA.
Three publications - Sin Chew Daily, The Sun and Suara Keadilan - have also been issued show-cause letters by the Home Ministry for breaching guidelines set by the Government.
KUALA LUMPUR: The United States has summoned Ilango Karuppannan, the charge d’affaires of the Malaysian embassy, to protest what it called the “crackdown on dissent” at a time when the opposition was attempting to form a new government.
According to the AFP, Ilango was summoned to the State Department after the three arrests under the Internal Security Act (ISA) on Friday.
”Peaceful expression of political opinions is a fundamental right and critical to a democracy,” a State Department official told AFP.
”The United States believes that the Malaysian Government should provide due process and treatment consistent with Malaysian law and international standards,” said the official, speaking on condition of anonymity.
”We expect that democratic countries that purport to advocate free expression of political views will not curtail such freedom,” the official said.
This is the second time Ilango was summoned to the State Department in a month.
The last time was when PKR adviser Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim was charged with sodomy.
”The United States firmly believes that freedom of the press and freedom of speech are fundamental to a vibrant democracy,” the State Department official said.
On Friday, Malaysia Today news portal editor Raja Petra Kamarudin, Sin Chew Daily reporter Tan Hoon Cheng and Seputeh MP and Selangor senior executive councillor Teresa Kok were arrested under the ISA.
Three publications - Sin Chew Daily, The Sun and Suara Keadilan - have also been issued show-cause letters by the Home Ministry for breaching guidelines set by the Government.
Malaysian Bar Council : ISA Draconion and Undemocratic
Dato’ Ambiga Sreenevasan ,President Malaysian Bar Malaysian Bar Council : ISA Draconion and Undemocratic
The Bar Council is shocked and deeply troubled over the reported arrest of Raja Petra Kamaruddin under the Internal Security Act (ISA).
The Malaysian Bar has consistently denounced the ISA as draconion and undemocratic, and believes that preventive detention laws should not be invoked under any circumstances. The ISA and other preventive detention laws violate fundamental rights, are unconstitutional and oppressive, and have no place in a society that respects and upholds the rule of law. If an offence has been allegedly committed, the individual concerned must be charged in court and given a fair opportunity to defend himself. We agree with the view reportedly expressed by Foreign Minister Datuk Seri Dr. Rais Yatim yesterday when he disagreed with the call for the use of the ISA on Datuk Ahmad Ismail, saying that this “will have a huge effect on… the rule of law” and that he should therefore “go through the normal process of law”.
The Bar Council is equally perturbed that three newspapers have been issued show-cause letters today over their news coverage. This together with the arrest of Raja Petra Kamaruddin under the ISA may be viewed as a chilling message that our fundamental freedoms are not secure.
Too often we see in other countries, the rule of law and human rights becoming the first casualties when these countries face uncertainties. This must never be allowed to happen in our country where the rule of law is entrenched in our Rukunegara. More so as Malaysia is a member of the UN Human Rights Council.
We therefore call for the immediate release of Raja Petra Kamaruddin and other detainees.
Dato’ Ambiga Sreenevasan
President
Malaysian Bar
12 September 2008
The Bar Council is shocked and deeply troubled over the reported arrest of Raja Petra Kamaruddin under the Internal Security Act (ISA).
The Malaysian Bar has consistently denounced the ISA as draconion and undemocratic, and believes that preventive detention laws should not be invoked under any circumstances. The ISA and other preventive detention laws violate fundamental rights, are unconstitutional and oppressive, and have no place in a society that respects and upholds the rule of law. If an offence has been allegedly committed, the individual concerned must be charged in court and given a fair opportunity to defend himself. We agree with the view reportedly expressed by Foreign Minister Datuk Seri Dr. Rais Yatim yesterday when he disagreed with the call for the use of the ISA on Datuk Ahmad Ismail, saying that this “will have a huge effect on… the rule of law” and that he should therefore “go through the normal process of law”.
The Bar Council is equally perturbed that three newspapers have been issued show-cause letters today over their news coverage. This together with the arrest of Raja Petra Kamaruddin under the ISA may be viewed as a chilling message that our fundamental freedoms are not secure.
Too often we see in other countries, the rule of law and human rights becoming the first casualties when these countries face uncertainties. This must never be allowed to happen in our country where the rule of law is entrenched in our Rukunegara. More so as Malaysia is a member of the UN Human Rights Council.
We therefore call for the immediate release of Raja Petra Kamaruddin and other detainees.
Dato’ Ambiga Sreenevasan
President
Malaysian Bar
12 September 2008
Ahmad Ismail Vs Sin Chew : Culprit Free and Arrogant, Storyteller Detained
WHERE IS JUSTICE IN MALAYSIA?
Ahmad Ismail Vs Sin Chew : Culprit Free and Arrogant, Storyteller Detained
A veteran journalist once shared his work experience with me. He has an interesting interpretation of our role as journalists.
"We are like a story teller, we report truthfully of what we have seen and heard during our interviews. We are telling the stories on behalf of those who can't tell their stories, to inform those who are not witness to their stories." he told me earnestly.
To fulfill such an obligation, we have to listen attentively, and pen our words cautiously, mindful of what we have written will affect the lives of certain people. Listening to him, I can't help to admire and respect his passion for the profession.
The recent Ahmad Ismail's story reminds me of this conversation that we had a while ago. I realised that to be a good journalist, a lot of effort is needed. A public speech made in front of the Deputy Prime Minister and many others could end up having various versions.
Ahmad did not deny that he had called the Chinese (penumpang) lodgers (who do not deserve equal rights with Malays) but he insisted that his speech was quoted out of context as he was referring to the role of Chinese prior to Merderka. He has refused to apologise .
This is not the first time when the media has been made a scapegoat, and most likely it will not be the last. I felt vehement over the fact that my colleague, Tan Hoon Heng, was made a scapegoat in this whole incident. To report truthfully is our duty as a journalist. I am proud that the two other reporters who were present at the scene dared to tell the truth. I believe our readers would have the wisdom to see through all the lies and nonsense.
In days when public opinion is spun to cause confusion, we, the storytellers have to be extremely cautious and careful. We have to listen attentively and write cautiously, to ensure that the whole story is accurately presented before our readers, and to ensure that we ourselves are not made scapegoat of certain politicians with personal agendas only known to them. (By TAN LEE CHIN/ Sin Chew Daily)
Ahmad Ismail Vs Sin Chew : Culprit Free and Arrogant, Storyteller Detained
A veteran journalist once shared his work experience with me. He has an interesting interpretation of our role as journalists.
"We are like a story teller, we report truthfully of what we have seen and heard during our interviews. We are telling the stories on behalf of those who can't tell their stories, to inform those who are not witness to their stories." he told me earnestly.
To fulfill such an obligation, we have to listen attentively, and pen our words cautiously, mindful of what we have written will affect the lives of certain people. Listening to him, I can't help to admire and respect his passion for the profession.
The recent Ahmad Ismail's story reminds me of this conversation that we had a while ago. I realised that to be a good journalist, a lot of effort is needed. A public speech made in front of the Deputy Prime Minister and many others could end up having various versions.
Ahmad did not deny that he had called the Chinese (penumpang) lodgers (who do not deserve equal rights with Malays) but he insisted that his speech was quoted out of context as he was referring to the role of Chinese prior to Merderka. He has refused to apologise .
This is not the first time when the media has been made a scapegoat, and most likely it will not be the last. I felt vehement over the fact that my colleague, Tan Hoon Heng, was made a scapegoat in this whole incident. To report truthfully is our duty as a journalist. I am proud that the two other reporters who were present at the scene dared to tell the truth. I believe our readers would have the wisdom to see through all the lies and nonsense.
In days when public opinion is spun to cause confusion, we, the storytellers have to be extremely cautious and careful. We have to listen attentively and write cautiously, to ensure that the whole story is accurately presented before our readers, and to ensure that we ourselves are not made scapegoat of certain politicians with personal agendas only known to them. (By TAN LEE CHIN/ Sin Chew Daily)
BAR Council EGM on ISA
Bar Council to have EGM on ISA
Saturday, 13 September 2008 03:44pm
©The Star
by Zulkifli Abd Rahman
KUALA LUMPUR: The Bar Council will hold an emergency Extraordinary General Meeting (EGM) on Sept 20 to discuss what it called a serious national crisis regarding the arrests of three people under the Internal Security Act (ISA) on Friday.
The meeting, which would be held at Wisma MCA at 10am, would discuss the violation of the rule of law, Bar Council chairman Datuk Ambiga Sreenevasan said.
She added the Council had set up a legal team, headed by council member Rajpal Singh with about 25 state bar chairmen and representatives, to provide legal aid to the detainees and anyone else who might be arrested later.
Ambiga said the ISA was not a solution to any perceived threat to peace, adding that the three people were arrested in connection to matters that were already in the public domain.
She added that the use of the ISA, far from relieving any perceived tension, had instead created far more uneasiness and unhappiness among right-thinking people in Malaysia.
“We have sufficient provisions in the Penal Code and Criminal Procedure Code that allow for police investigations in these instances.
“If there are perceived offences, charge these people in open court and give them their fundamental right to defend themselves. Our nation and our people don’t deserve the ISA,” she told reporters Saturday at the Bar Council headquarters after chairing a meeting on the issue.
Ambiga was commenting on the arrest of Malaysia Today news portal editor Raja Petra Kamaruddin, Selangor senior executive councillor Teresa Kok and Sin Chew Daily News reporter Tan Hoon Cheng on Friday under Section 73(1) of the ISA.
She also appealed to the Home Ministry to withdraw the show-cause letters issued to Sin Chew Daily, The Sun and Suara Keadilan for breaching guidelines set by the Government.
To a question, Ambiga said she was not aware of any news whether any of the Bar Council’s members may be detained under the ISA later.
Immediate past Bar president Yeoh Yang Poh said it was sad to learn that the Government deemed it necessary to deprive the people of their freedom without going through the due process of law after 50 years of nation building.
Hendon Mohamed, past president of the Bar Council, said she was shocked that the ISA was still used for purposes of convenience, and urged the Government to consider allowing itself to become more open and let the people speak up.
Another past Bar president Sulaiman Abdullah said the country was not facing a major crisis, yet a law that was supposed to overcome a major crisis was being used.
“If the Government insists in continuing to use the ISA, the Act should be used with safeguards written into it, such as that any executive action on the ISA must be subject to judicial scrutiny,” he added.
Saturday, 13 September 2008 03:44pm
©The Star
by Zulkifli Abd Rahman
KUALA LUMPUR: The Bar Council will hold an emergency Extraordinary General Meeting (EGM) on Sept 20 to discuss what it called a serious national crisis regarding the arrests of three people under the Internal Security Act (ISA) on Friday.
The meeting, which would be held at Wisma MCA at 10am, would discuss the violation of the rule of law, Bar Council chairman Datuk Ambiga Sreenevasan said.
She added the Council had set up a legal team, headed by council member Rajpal Singh with about 25 state bar chairmen and representatives, to provide legal aid to the detainees and anyone else who might be arrested later.
Ambiga said the ISA was not a solution to any perceived threat to peace, adding that the three people were arrested in connection to matters that were already in the public domain.
She added that the use of the ISA, far from relieving any perceived tension, had instead created far more uneasiness and unhappiness among right-thinking people in Malaysia.
“We have sufficient provisions in the Penal Code and Criminal Procedure Code that allow for police investigations in these instances.
“If there are perceived offences, charge these people in open court and give them their fundamental right to defend themselves. Our nation and our people don’t deserve the ISA,” she told reporters Saturday at the Bar Council headquarters after chairing a meeting on the issue.
Ambiga was commenting on the arrest of Malaysia Today news portal editor Raja Petra Kamaruddin, Selangor senior executive councillor Teresa Kok and Sin Chew Daily News reporter Tan Hoon Cheng on Friday under Section 73(1) of the ISA.
She also appealed to the Home Ministry to withdraw the show-cause letters issued to Sin Chew Daily, The Sun and Suara Keadilan for breaching guidelines set by the Government.
To a question, Ambiga said she was not aware of any news whether any of the Bar Council’s members may be detained under the ISA later.
Immediate past Bar president Yeoh Yang Poh said it was sad to learn that the Government deemed it necessary to deprive the people of their freedom without going through the due process of law after 50 years of nation building.
Hendon Mohamed, past president of the Bar Council, said she was shocked that the ISA was still used for purposes of convenience, and urged the Government to consider allowing itself to become more open and let the people speak up.
Another past Bar president Sulaiman Abdullah said the country was not facing a major crisis, yet a law that was supposed to overcome a major crisis was being used.
“If the Government insists in continuing to use the ISA, the Act should be used with safeguards written into it, such as that any executive action on the ISA must be subject to judicial scrutiny,” he added.
DAP : ISA Arrests Media Conference Statement
Abdullah - release Teresa, RPK, Tan and withdraw from precipice of new Malaysian dark age
DAP leaders, MPs and State Assembly representatives are gathered in this media conference, together with the parents of Teresa Kok, DAP National Organising Secretary, Selangor Senior Exco Member and MP for Seputeh, to condemn in the strongest possible terms the arrest under the Internal Security Act (ISA) of Teresa, Raja Petra Kamaruddin and the senior Sin Chew Daily reporter Tan Hoon Cheng.
We deplore these ISA arrest and attacks on the media and the blogosphere which also constitute a violation of the Multimedia Super Corridor Bill of Guarantees of no Internet censorship, as the ISA detention of the RPK, the live wire of Malaysia Today news portal, is as good as Internet censorship despite formal government unblocking of the news portal.
Instead of a 916 “sky change” or “political change”, the Prime Minister Datuk Seri Abdullah Ahmad Badawi has orchestrated a 912 “sky-change” of his own, with the ISA arrests and threats to the media and the blogosphere, marking the failure of his premiership to usher in a more open, accountable and democratic administration.
It shows how little things have changed in his five years as Prime Minister – with hardly any structural and institutional reforms or changes as all the repressive laws and institutions have remained intact, just kept in abeyance awaiting to be reactivated, as has happened!
The former Prime Minister, Dr. Mahathir Mohamad took more than six years to abandon his “ABC” (clean, trustworthy and efficient) façade with the 1987 Ops Lalang, putting 106 people under ISA and closing three newspapers.
However, Abdullah took less than five years since becoming Prime Minister to show his face of repression by initiating the current crackdown, up-to-now a mini-Ops Lalang with three ISA arrests and against three newspapers.
This 2008 mini-Ops Lalang is completely unjustified and unacceptable for two reasons:
(i) going against Abdullah’s 2004 general election landslide mandate based on his reform pledges and undertaking to break from the Mahathir past of repressive rule; and
(ii) a totally synthetic crisis arising from gross misgovernance, as there is no national crisis, no racial tension or religious strain unlike the pre-Operation Lalang 1987 which saw serious racial tension resulting from a sustained and systematic campaign of racial polarization by irresponsible elements.
It is the height of irresponsibility to create a synthetic national crisis when the country is faced with a grave economic crisis and the national focus of the government-of-the-day should be to lead all Malaysians to address the economic crisis.
Abdullah is facing a personal political crisis, as evident from the open call by the Umno Vice President Tan Sri Muhyiddin Yasin on him to step down as Prime Minister earlier than his timeframe of mid-2010 and the support given by Umno Deputy President Datuk Seri Najib Razak to Muhyiddin.
However, Abdullah’s personal political crisis as to whether he would have to step down as Prime Minister much earlier than the June-2010 timeline under his “power transition” plan cannot be made an excuse to create a synthetic crisis to justify the use of draconian laws and powers like the ISA and to engender conditions to stamp out attempts by Umno leaders to bring forward his timetable to relinquish the Prime Minister’s post.
All fair-minded and right-thinking Malaysians, regardless of race, religion or political affiliation, reject the use of ISA for the arrest of RPK, Tan Hoon Cheng and Teresa Kok.
RPK’s writings are open and public. He should be charged in court if he had contravened any laws of the land, affording him the opportunity to defend himself in an open trial. The detention-without-trial ISA should not be used against RPK, as it is not only undemocratic and repressive but a clear case of abuse of power.
The detention of Sin Chew reporter Tan Hoon Cheng has evoked all-round outrage by Malays as well as non-Malays, Muslims and non-Muslims.
Everyone in Malaysia is asking – why Ahmad Ismail, the person who had made the provocative, inflammatory and racist reference to the Chinese in Malaysia is not acted against but the reporter, Tan Hoon Cheng, is detainded under the ISA just for reporting what Ahmad said? What has Malaysia become when the most elementary notions of justice and fair play have become alien ideas to the leaders in government?
Teresa’s ISA detention is most ludicrous. She had been accused by the former Selangor Mentri Besar Khir Toyo of wanting to ban the azan in a certain locality in Selangor, which was played up by Utusan Malaysia. Teresa immediately denied the allegation, which was backed up by the mosque committee concerned and the PAS MP for the area also lodged a police report against Khir for the baseless allegation.
If action should be taken, the person who should be the target should be Khir Toyo. Why was Teresa detained under the ISA?
Last night, Teresa was informed at about nine something that she could be on the blacklist of ISA arrests, with the suggestion she go into hiding. Teresa refused as she believed that there is no reason why she should go into hiding as she had not done anything wrong to the country and she was fully prepared to face any ISA arrest. I am very proud of her. I am reminded of my first ISA arrest in 1969 when some party leaders advised me not to return to Kuala Lumpur from Kota Kinabalu as I was on the ISA blacklist. I refused to run away from the country, as I maintained that when the people was going through their darkest hour, the place for me was in the country with them.
The country has been swirling with speculation as to who else were on the ISA blacklist. Among the names mentioned were the DAP Secretary-General and Penang Chief Minister, Lim Guan Eng and myself.
Teresa has already become the first woman MP to be detained under the ISA. Is Abdullah to create another history by having the first Chief Minister in Malaysia to be detained under the ISA?
I call on Abdullah or the Home Minister Datuk Seri Syed Hamid Albar to publicly declare who are on the ISA blacklist to be detained, whether Guan Eng and I are on the list. I will not go into hiding if I am on the list. There is no need for any cat-and-mouse game. Just make it public.
Cabinet Ministers should explain whether the three ISA arrests and action against the three newspapers had received Cabinet approval as Ministers like the Information Minister, Shabery Cik have openly defended the ISA arrest of RPK.
I call on Malaysians to be calm and go about their usual business peacefully and normally. They should not allow themselves to be provoked although there are irresponsible elements who want to engineer another May 13 or another full-scale Ops Lalang.
Malaysia in 2008 is completely different from 1969 when certain elements succeeded in creating a scenario of racial confrontation between the Malays and the Chinese over the May 13 incident. There is no racial confrontation in Malaysia of 2008, as the Pakatan Rakyat comprises all races – Malays, Chinese and Indians – and all religions!
I also want to call on Abdullah to pull back from the precipice of a new Malaysian dark age. Release Teresa, RPK and Tan from ISA immediately and cancel the show cause notice to the three newspapers concerned, or his premiership wll be stained forever by the repression and dark age of 912 - September 12, 2008.
(Media Conference Statement on ISA arrests of Teresa Kok, Raja Petra Kamaruddin and Tan Hoon Cheng held at DAP PJ Hqrs on Saturday, 13th September 2008 at 11.30 am)
DAP leaders, MPs and State Assembly representatives are gathered in this media conference, together with the parents of Teresa Kok, DAP National Organising Secretary, Selangor Senior Exco Member and MP for Seputeh, to condemn in the strongest possible terms the arrest under the Internal Security Act (ISA) of Teresa, Raja Petra Kamaruddin and the senior Sin Chew Daily reporter Tan Hoon Cheng.
We deplore these ISA arrest and attacks on the media and the blogosphere which also constitute a violation of the Multimedia Super Corridor Bill of Guarantees of no Internet censorship, as the ISA detention of the RPK, the live wire of Malaysia Today news portal, is as good as Internet censorship despite formal government unblocking of the news portal.
Instead of a 916 “sky change” or “political change”, the Prime Minister Datuk Seri Abdullah Ahmad Badawi has orchestrated a 912 “sky-change” of his own, with the ISA arrests and threats to the media and the blogosphere, marking the failure of his premiership to usher in a more open, accountable and democratic administration.
It shows how little things have changed in his five years as Prime Minister – with hardly any structural and institutional reforms or changes as all the repressive laws and institutions have remained intact, just kept in abeyance awaiting to be reactivated, as has happened!
The former Prime Minister, Dr. Mahathir Mohamad took more than six years to abandon his “ABC” (clean, trustworthy and efficient) façade with the 1987 Ops Lalang, putting 106 people under ISA and closing three newspapers.
However, Abdullah took less than five years since becoming Prime Minister to show his face of repression by initiating the current crackdown, up-to-now a mini-Ops Lalang with three ISA arrests and against three newspapers.
This 2008 mini-Ops Lalang is completely unjustified and unacceptable for two reasons:
(i) going against Abdullah’s 2004 general election landslide mandate based on his reform pledges and undertaking to break from the Mahathir past of repressive rule; and
(ii) a totally synthetic crisis arising from gross misgovernance, as there is no national crisis, no racial tension or religious strain unlike the pre-Operation Lalang 1987 which saw serious racial tension resulting from a sustained and systematic campaign of racial polarization by irresponsible elements.
It is the height of irresponsibility to create a synthetic national crisis when the country is faced with a grave economic crisis and the national focus of the government-of-the-day should be to lead all Malaysians to address the economic crisis.
Abdullah is facing a personal political crisis, as evident from the open call by the Umno Vice President Tan Sri Muhyiddin Yasin on him to step down as Prime Minister earlier than his timeframe of mid-2010 and the support given by Umno Deputy President Datuk Seri Najib Razak to Muhyiddin.
However, Abdullah’s personal political crisis as to whether he would have to step down as Prime Minister much earlier than the June-2010 timeline under his “power transition” plan cannot be made an excuse to create a synthetic crisis to justify the use of draconian laws and powers like the ISA and to engender conditions to stamp out attempts by Umno leaders to bring forward his timetable to relinquish the Prime Minister’s post.
All fair-minded and right-thinking Malaysians, regardless of race, religion or political affiliation, reject the use of ISA for the arrest of RPK, Tan Hoon Cheng and Teresa Kok.
RPK’s writings are open and public. He should be charged in court if he had contravened any laws of the land, affording him the opportunity to defend himself in an open trial. The detention-without-trial ISA should not be used against RPK, as it is not only undemocratic and repressive but a clear case of abuse of power.
The detention of Sin Chew reporter Tan Hoon Cheng has evoked all-round outrage by Malays as well as non-Malays, Muslims and non-Muslims.
Everyone in Malaysia is asking – why Ahmad Ismail, the person who had made the provocative, inflammatory and racist reference to the Chinese in Malaysia is not acted against but the reporter, Tan Hoon Cheng, is detainded under the ISA just for reporting what Ahmad said? What has Malaysia become when the most elementary notions of justice and fair play have become alien ideas to the leaders in government?
Teresa’s ISA detention is most ludicrous. She had been accused by the former Selangor Mentri Besar Khir Toyo of wanting to ban the azan in a certain locality in Selangor, which was played up by Utusan Malaysia. Teresa immediately denied the allegation, which was backed up by the mosque committee concerned and the PAS MP for the area also lodged a police report against Khir for the baseless allegation.
If action should be taken, the person who should be the target should be Khir Toyo. Why was Teresa detained under the ISA?
Last night, Teresa was informed at about nine something that she could be on the blacklist of ISA arrests, with the suggestion she go into hiding. Teresa refused as she believed that there is no reason why she should go into hiding as she had not done anything wrong to the country and she was fully prepared to face any ISA arrest. I am very proud of her. I am reminded of my first ISA arrest in 1969 when some party leaders advised me not to return to Kuala Lumpur from Kota Kinabalu as I was on the ISA blacklist. I refused to run away from the country, as I maintained that when the people was going through their darkest hour, the place for me was in the country with them.
The country has been swirling with speculation as to who else were on the ISA blacklist. Among the names mentioned were the DAP Secretary-General and Penang Chief Minister, Lim Guan Eng and myself.
Teresa has already become the first woman MP to be detained under the ISA. Is Abdullah to create another history by having the first Chief Minister in Malaysia to be detained under the ISA?
I call on Abdullah or the Home Minister Datuk Seri Syed Hamid Albar to publicly declare who are on the ISA blacklist to be detained, whether Guan Eng and I are on the list. I will not go into hiding if I am on the list. There is no need for any cat-and-mouse game. Just make it public.
Cabinet Ministers should explain whether the three ISA arrests and action against the three newspapers had received Cabinet approval as Ministers like the Information Minister, Shabery Cik have openly defended the ISA arrest of RPK.
I call on Malaysians to be calm and go about their usual business peacefully and normally. They should not allow themselves to be provoked although there are irresponsible elements who want to engineer another May 13 or another full-scale Ops Lalang.
Malaysia in 2008 is completely different from 1969 when certain elements succeeded in creating a scenario of racial confrontation between the Malays and the Chinese over the May 13 incident. There is no racial confrontation in Malaysia of 2008, as the Pakatan Rakyat comprises all races – Malays, Chinese and Indians – and all religions!
I also want to call on Abdullah to pull back from the precipice of a new Malaysian dark age. Release Teresa, RPK and Tan from ISA immediately and cancel the show cause notice to the three newspapers concerned, or his premiership wll be stained forever by the repression and dark age of 912 - September 12, 2008.
(Media Conference Statement on ISA arrests of Teresa Kok, Raja Petra Kamaruddin and Tan Hoon Cheng held at DAP PJ Hqrs on Saturday, 13th September 2008 at 11.30 am)
Brute Force of ISA by BN Government : Anwar Ibrahim
PRESS STATEMENT BY ANWAR IBRAHIM ON ISA ARREST 13 SEPT 2008
The UMNO led BN government is again using the brute force of the ISA to assault those brave and courageous Malaysians who speak out in the name of truth and integrity about the abuses of power, corruption and racism perpetuated by the ruling clique.
I reiterate my unequivocal opposition to the ISA and condemn the unjustified and illegal detention of blogger and social activist Raja Petra Kamaruddin, Seputeh MP and Selangor State Executive Committee Member YB Teresa Kok and Sin Chew Daily reporter Tan Hoon Cheng.
On March 8th and again on August 26th, the Malaysian people expressed their support at the polls for a government that is more accountable and that fulfills its mandate as representative of the people. The UMNO-led BN government has ignored this call. Instead of pursuing a reform agenda it has chosen to burn the country to save itself and to maintain its odious grip on power.
We ask the government how far it is willing to go to usurp justice and destroy the institutions of good governance in its attempt to drive the Malaysian people against each other?
We vehemently reject the racial politics used by politicians in the UMNO-led BN government as an attempt to deflect from internal strife within UMNO, and promise that leaders in the Pakatan Rakyat are committed to and capable of building a peaceful, democratic, multiracial society.
We allude to the statement issued by Pakatan Rakyat on 8 September reiterating our full commitment to constitutional guarantees including the position of Islam as the religion of the federation, the freedom to practice other religions, Bahasa Melayu as the national language and the freedom to practice mother tongue languages, and the status of the Malay kings and the special position of the Malays and bumiputera.
I urge the government to assure the Malaysian people that this politically motivated operation is over. As citizens of a nation that professes to adhere to the spirit of its Constitution, we refuse to live another night in fear.
Those who have been detained under the ISA should be released immediately. We will offer every conceivable support to our friends and their families as they face this ordeal.
ANWAR IBRAHIM
Opposition Chief
De-facto leader, KeADILan
The UMNO led BN government is again using the brute force of the ISA to assault those brave and courageous Malaysians who speak out in the name of truth and integrity about the abuses of power, corruption and racism perpetuated by the ruling clique.
I reiterate my unequivocal opposition to the ISA and condemn the unjustified and illegal detention of blogger and social activist Raja Petra Kamaruddin, Seputeh MP and Selangor State Executive Committee Member YB Teresa Kok and Sin Chew Daily reporter Tan Hoon Cheng.
On March 8th and again on August 26th, the Malaysian people expressed their support at the polls for a government that is more accountable and that fulfills its mandate as representative of the people. The UMNO-led BN government has ignored this call. Instead of pursuing a reform agenda it has chosen to burn the country to save itself and to maintain its odious grip on power.
We ask the government how far it is willing to go to usurp justice and destroy the institutions of good governance in its attempt to drive the Malaysian people against each other?
We vehemently reject the racial politics used by politicians in the UMNO-led BN government as an attempt to deflect from internal strife within UMNO, and promise that leaders in the Pakatan Rakyat are committed to and capable of building a peaceful, democratic, multiracial society.
We allude to the statement issued by Pakatan Rakyat on 8 September reiterating our full commitment to constitutional guarantees including the position of Islam as the religion of the federation, the freedom to practice other religions, Bahasa Melayu as the national language and the freedom to practice mother tongue languages, and the status of the Malay kings and the special position of the Malays and bumiputera.
I urge the government to assure the Malaysian people that this politically motivated operation is over. As citizens of a nation that professes to adhere to the spirit of its Constitution, we refuse to live another night in fear.
Those who have been detained under the ISA should be released immediately. We will offer every conceivable support to our friends and their families as they face this ordeal.
ANWAR IBRAHIM
Opposition Chief
De-facto leader, KeADILan
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