November 1, 2011
FMT LETTER
From Jackson Ng, via e-mail
ALTHOUGH I have retired as a journalist of more than 30 years in the mainstream print media for about a year, I still believed in my instincts.
When, obviously pro-MCA (read as boot lickers of immoral president Chua Soi Lek) bloggers uploaded a news spin that ousted president Ong Tee Keat is to join the DAP, my suspicions were aroused.
Through the years of my experience as a reporter and editor, I sensed something was just not right. The news is based on a picture of Tee Keat having lunch with DAP Selangor state executive councillor Teresa Kok.
Why was I suspicious about the report:
- Why have lunch in the public for all to see; Don’t tell me there are no more discreet places to hold such politically sensitive discussions? and
- If Tee Keat had wanted to join the DAP or Pakatan Rakyat (PR), why now? Veteran political observers will tell you that the timing is just not right because political moves and decisions are made with calculated advantages.
Tee Keat would have followed the direction of former MCA vice-president Chua Jui Meng to join PKR if he wanted to, instead of making the move now because in politics, there is always the right time to make a right decision and a right move.
To prove my news instincts right, as a free lance journalist now, I decided to “watch the fun” at the SJK (C) On Pong 2 Environmental Day where Tee Keat was scheduled to attend.
I was not to be disappointed.
Tee Keat, now without a government portfolio to call the shots after being toppled by those who sinfully benefitted from the multi-billion ringgit Port Klang Free Zone (PKFZ) financial scandal, is after all no more “news value” for the mainstream media. Take my word for this based on my experience.
Turning up for a purely school event on a Saturday (Oct 22, 2011) were TV, radio and the print media. I was tickled by their presence, by their herd mentality and lack of news judgment.
Instead of being offended, Tee Keat invited the reporters to shoot their questions even before the actual event and conference could be held.
A barrage of questions, all related to the news spin and photographs, that Tee Keat was quitting the MCA to join the DAP was asked. And this was how Tee Keat responded:
“Yes, I had lunch with Teresa and two others, a Taman Saga resident and an Ampang Jaya Municipal Council (MPAJ) councillor on Oct 25, 2011.
“Teresa invited me for lunch to discuss the long-standing objections of the residents of two housing estates over the construction of high-tension cables.
“It is an issue which I had taken up with the residents since 2008 and we have even submitted a memo to the state government.
“The state government needs to resolve this because the matter is now at the level of the state exco.
“The news spin is therefore devoid of any truth. It is the work of rumourmongers or cybertroopers resorting to the use of gutter politics to attack politicians to serve a specific agenda of their paymasters.
“I cannot be sure who is responsible for this attack. But, just before Deepavali, there was a similar attack by MCA cybertroopers that I am joining Parti Keadilan Rakyat (PKR).
“This follows Chua’s media statement to the press at the recently concluded MCA annual general meeting that I should quit the party since I have expressed my view that the MCA had become ‘irrelevant and in denial’.
“Yes I bumped into (PKR de facto leader) Anwar Ibrahim in Parliament now and then and we do sit down to chat. Does that mean I am joining PKR?
“Also, for those not in the know or had missed an ‘opportunity to spin rubbish news’ I had also met Selangor PAS MPs, so I will not be surprised that they will say I am joining PAS next.
“The cybertroopers also missed another opportunity to speculate! I was with Teresa Kok’s father at the SMJK Confucian Form Five graduation ceremony for the whole morning! What are you going to write next?”
Ong said he had been a subject of political speculations after he was ousted as MCA president.
“I have also been approached several times to join the PR since then. It is nothing new and I have left the matter that way because it is just water under the bridge,” he said.
Ong said he had reiterated many time that he would offer himself as a parliamentary candidate for Pandan in the next general election.
“This is my promise and my duty to my constituents whom I had served since January 1989,” he added.
It is now crystal clear that the current “immoral” MCA leadership is frustrated and wants Tee Keat out of the way in MCA and Pandan. But it has no guts to sack him.
Feel free to prove me wrong!
ORIGINAL POSTING : FMT
Showing posts with label Ong Tee Keat. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Ong Tee Keat. Show all posts
Wednesday, November 2, 2011
Tuesday, October 11, 2011
Tee Keat did not sack Chua
Jackson Ng
3:40PM Oct 11
I read with interest the two letters posted by Malaysiakini recently.
One was headlined ‘Ong Tee Keat's flagging fortunes his own doing' (Oct 4, 2011, by Tan SA) and the other ‘A case of blind loyalty for present MCA leaders' (Oct 7, 2011, by Sebastian Loon).
Tan SA wrote: "Had Tee Keat not sacked Chua, MCA politics would be totally different now. It was Tee Keat's own doing to start a full-fledged campaign to sack Chua, the then-deputy president ..."
It was not Tee Keat who sacked Chua. It was the party disciplinary board (DB) that recommended Chua's sacking which was endorsed by both the presidential council (PC) and central committee (CC).
To accuse Tee Keat of sacking Chua, just because he was the president, is grossly unfair as it was a democratic decision taken by the PC and CC.
The ultimate ouster of Tee Keat as president is testimony to the fact that he was not in full control of the PC and CC.
Also, the disciplinary matter was left unresolved by former president Ong Ka Ting. It was not an issue created or raised by Tee Keat.
Tan SA also wrote: "During Tee Keat's tenure as MCA chief many unprecedented records were set. He was the first-ever president to lose a vote of confidence in an EGM. He was also the first president to lose a re-election before his term expired. Furthermore, he set a record by holding two EGMs in a span of six months between October 2009 and March 2010. All in all, he left behind a trail of misfortune and misery for MCA."
Tan SA blames Tee Keat for everything that went wrong in MCA. He does not ask who are stirred up the problems in the party.
The facts:
It was not Tee Keat who initiated or called for the EGMs; The first EGM on Aug 10, 2009, was requisitioned by the delegates spearheaded by Chua to salvage him from being sacked. Ong Ka Ting left the mess behind and he and his lieutenants wanted to give Chua the boot;
The second EGM on Nov 28, 2009, was aborted by Ong Ka Ting's loyalists who initially wanted to give Tee Keat the boot; and
The third EGM on March 28, 2010, was engineered by Chua who secured ‘support' from Liow Tiong Lai to betray Tee Keat and to stage a coup d'etat via mass resignations to force fresh party elections sanctioned by Umno cronies looking after their own interests and agenda, especially the Port Klang Free Zone (PKFZ) multi-billion-ringgit financial scandal.
Reading Tan SA's letter, the aim of the story seems to imply that when a person has lost a contest, in this case the presidency of the MCA, he has no right to speak but to opt out of MCA or politics.
Chua has also accused Tee Keat of sacking him. As the current president, he should check the facts or is it more politically convenient for him and his cronies to malign Tee Keat?
I agree with Sebastian Loon that both Chua and Tee Keat are, after all, human and they are therefore capable of many mistakes and wrong decisions.
However, it is the gravity of mistakes that matter. Is there any leader in the world that can claim that he or she did not make mistakes?
Regarding Chua's adulterous scandal, it is only his own doing. If his wife and family approve of his extra marital affairs, it is also their right. It only shows Chua and his family's level of morals.
Just because he has admitted to cheating on his wife does not give him the right to force us to accept him as a community leader.
The Chinese community do have higher moral values than Chua and his family. We have every right to condemn him and not trust him as a community leader. That is different from forgiving him.
I am sure the majority of women disapprove such behaviour. Perhaps not MCA vice-president Ng Yen Yen who would support an adulterer for political position and power.
As far as I am concerned, Tee Keat has been shown to be consistent in the fight against corruption. He was prepared to jeopardise his position in the cabinet to expose the PKFZ scandal.
Already, you can see how Chua's crony MCA secretary-general Kong Cho Ha is treating the PKFZ issue as transport minister.
And while on cronyism, why are MCA central leaders keeping mum on Chua appointing his son to key positions in MCA and its assets?
Why are they dumb on curbing press freedom by seizing total control of The Star? Cronyism was such a big issue during the Ong Ka Ting-Ong Ka Chuan era. Why not now?
As long as Chua keeps his crony supporters happy, the president can do no wrong. That's the way of warlords.
ORIGINAL POSTING MalaysiaKini
3:40PM Oct 11
I read with interest the two letters posted by Malaysiakini recently.
One was headlined ‘Ong Tee Keat's flagging fortunes his own doing' (Oct 4, 2011, by Tan SA) and the other ‘A case of blind loyalty for present MCA leaders' (Oct 7, 2011, by Sebastian Loon).
Tan SA wrote: "Had Tee Keat not sacked Chua, MCA politics would be totally different now. It was Tee Keat's own doing to start a full-fledged campaign to sack Chua, the then-deputy president ..."
It was not Tee Keat who sacked Chua. It was the party disciplinary board (DB) that recommended Chua's sacking which was endorsed by both the presidential council (PC) and central committee (CC).
To accuse Tee Keat of sacking Chua, just because he was the president, is grossly unfair as it was a democratic decision taken by the PC and CC.
The ultimate ouster of Tee Keat as president is testimony to the fact that he was not in full control of the PC and CC.
Also, the disciplinary matter was left unresolved by former president Ong Ka Ting. It was not an issue created or raised by Tee Keat.
Tan SA also wrote: "During Tee Keat's tenure as MCA chief many unprecedented records were set. He was the first-ever president to lose a vote of confidence in an EGM. He was also the first president to lose a re-election before his term expired. Furthermore, he set a record by holding two EGMs in a span of six months between October 2009 and March 2010. All in all, he left behind a trail of misfortune and misery for MCA."
Tan SA blames Tee Keat for everything that went wrong in MCA. He does not ask who are stirred up the problems in the party.
The facts:
It was not Tee Keat who initiated or called for the EGMs; The first EGM on Aug 10, 2009, was requisitioned by the delegates spearheaded by Chua to salvage him from being sacked. Ong Ka Ting left the mess behind and he and his lieutenants wanted to give Chua the boot;
The second EGM on Nov 28, 2009, was aborted by Ong Ka Ting's loyalists who initially wanted to give Tee Keat the boot; and
The third EGM on March 28, 2010, was engineered by Chua who secured ‘support' from Liow Tiong Lai to betray Tee Keat and to stage a coup d'etat via mass resignations to force fresh party elections sanctioned by Umno cronies looking after their own interests and agenda, especially the Port Klang Free Zone (PKFZ) multi-billion-ringgit financial scandal.
Reading Tan SA's letter, the aim of the story seems to imply that when a person has lost a contest, in this case the presidency of the MCA, he has no right to speak but to opt out of MCA or politics.
Chua has also accused Tee Keat of sacking him. As the current president, he should check the facts or is it more politically convenient for him and his cronies to malign Tee Keat?
I agree with Sebastian Loon that both Chua and Tee Keat are, after all, human and they are therefore capable of many mistakes and wrong decisions.
However, it is the gravity of mistakes that matter. Is there any leader in the world that can claim that he or she did not make mistakes?
Regarding Chua's adulterous scandal, it is only his own doing. If his wife and family approve of his extra marital affairs, it is also their right. It only shows Chua and his family's level of morals.
Just because he has admitted to cheating on his wife does not give him the right to force us to accept him as a community leader.
The Chinese community do have higher moral values than Chua and his family. We have every right to condemn him and not trust him as a community leader. That is different from forgiving him.
I am sure the majority of women disapprove such behaviour. Perhaps not MCA vice-president Ng Yen Yen who would support an adulterer for political position and power.
As far as I am concerned, Tee Keat has been shown to be consistent in the fight against corruption. He was prepared to jeopardise his position in the cabinet to expose the PKFZ scandal.
Already, you can see how Chua's crony MCA secretary-general Kong Cho Ha is treating the PKFZ issue as transport minister.
And while on cronyism, why are MCA central leaders keeping mum on Chua appointing his son to key positions in MCA and its assets?
Why are they dumb on curbing press freedom by seizing total control of The Star? Cronyism was such a big issue during the Ong Ka Ting-Ong Ka Chuan era. Why not now?
As long as Chua keeps his crony supporters happy, the president can do no wrong. That's the way of warlords.
ORIGINAL POSTING MalaysiaKini
Friday, September 30, 2011
MCA gung-ho only when it comes to talking, says Tee Keat
Saturday, 01 October 2011 08:42
Written by Malaysia Chronicle
The MCA is on the path to irrelevance, its former president Datuk Seri Ong Tee Keat said this week ahead of the party’s annual gathering this weekend.
He said the Barisan Nasional (BN) component has not heeded the push for reform that saw the party lose 25 of the 40 federal and 59 of the 90 state seats it contested in Election 2008.“MCA is still stuck in the mindset of being gung-ho with statements instead of delivering good governance. It is parroting old polemic rather than delivering reforms asked for by voters.
“If MCA continues on this same old path and psyche, then it is certainly headed for irrelevance. Some have bluntly said we are already irrelevant,” said Ong, who was deposed as MCA boss by Datuk Seri Dr Chua Soi Lek in a fractious power struggle 18 months ago.
The Pandan MP cited, as examples of “empty platitudes,” his successor’s threats to quit BN if Umno implemented hudud and to resign from the Cabinet and other government posts if the party does not improve in a general election expected soon.
“I don’t see how his threats can lift the party from its doldrums,” he said.
The party holds what is likely to be its final general assembly this weekend before federal polls are called.
But despite having three presidents in as many years, the MCA has seen Chinese support continue to shrink in by-elections.
Some analyses state that the Tenang polls held earlier this year saw just 18 per cent of Chinese voting for BN.
Datuk Seri Najib Razak has begun taking over the charge for Chinese votes, spending last weekend dishing out RM15 million to Chinese schools and exempting a Community Chest project headed by Chinese tycoons from tax to help it channel RM100 million a year into vernacular education.
“Najib as BN chief is spearheading initiatives to win Chinese votes, triggering the question of ‘where is MCA?’ from the public,” Ong said.
He said the MCA could not shirk its responsibility as part of government despite Umno’s seniority in the ruling coalition.
“How are they justifying their position as minister? Chinese want a level playing field. Ministers must get rid of cronies and monopolies,” he said.
Ong cited his 26-month tenure as transport minister where he opened the probe on the RM12.5 billion Port Klang Free Zone scandal even though senior officers told him it was a closed case.
“I put aside considerations of whether or not it would implicate Tun Dr Ling Liong Sik or Tan Sri Chan Kong Choy,” he said of the former MCA president and deputy who were Ong’s predecessors as transport minister.
“I was more concerned about how the party had been linked to that debacle which was a key factor in the March 2008 tsunami,” he added, referring to the BN’s landmark loss of its customary two-thirds majority in Parliament and five state governments.
But, he said, the reforms he tried to implement in the party and in the Transport Ministry, now headed by MCA secretary-general Datuk Seri Kong Cho Ha, “all went down the drain” after he was ousted.
He also said he tried to caution Datuk Seri Ng Yen Yen whose tourism projects such as the RM1.8 million spent on developing six Facebook tourism campaigns have been repeatedly questioned.
“Taxpayers have every reason to ask, how can you justify your presence in that portfolio?” he said of the tourism minister, who was also criticised last year when Parliament revealed that she slashed her tourism promotional budget but increased spending on her official trips abroad.
Ng also came under fire after Tourism Malaysia’s former advertising agency alleged that the ministry had asked for bribes in exchange for a promotion contract.
“I admit that I failed to convince the party to change its mindset,” he said of his 18 months in charge of the MCA.
Saturday, September 3, 2011
Tee Keat says Soi Lek backed ‘ketuanan Melayu’
Malaysian Insider
By Shazwan Mustafa Kamal
December 09, 2010
KUALA LUMPUR, Dec 9 — Datuk Seri Ong Tee Keat accused Datuk Seri Dr Chua Soi Lek today of previously supporting the concept of “ketuanan Melayu”, contradicting the party’s fiery rhetoric now against Umno.
He said Dr Chua also remained subservient to Umno.
Ong, who was ousted as MCA leader this year by Dr Chua, said he was “surprised” and “puzzled” by his rival’s recent call for a ban on terms like “ketuanan Melayu” and censuring Umno for approving government policies during its supreme council meetings.
He claimed that Dr Chua’s firebrand views now contradicted his past statements on similar issues.
Ong alleged that Dr Chua’s remarks at last week’s Barisan Nasional (BN) convention were not only a distinct U-turn from the MCA chief’s past views, they also mirrored Ong’s stand when he was party chief.
“Firstly, on the issue of ‘ketuanan Melayu” (Malay supremacy) he mentioned about the master-slave relationship. I brought this up as early as 2008 when I was interviewed by Bernama, and of course I was under fire back then.
“But at the same time I can still remember some time back he (Dr Chua) himself was supportive of ketuanan Melayu. Especially when he made a statement in a front-page report of Utusan, which was given wide coverage,” said Ong today.
The Pandan MP demanded Dr Chua explain his change of heart, saying that MCA members knew about the “real” stand of some of its top leaders regarding the matter.
“Now all of the sudden he makes such a stand, of course that has taken me by surprise. At least when I expressed my view, I did so through the proper channels. Of course I don’t mean to say that he couldn’t voice his concern but what really surprised me was on the same subject matter, not too long along you were saying something different, and you seem to have made a U-turn and that you choose to do it glaringly, in the open. Which one is your real stand? Please state.”
Dr Chua had told his Umno allies that there should not be a “big brother, small brother” system in the ruling pact.
In his speech at the BN convention, Dr Chua had made direct references to Umno as he reminded the ruling party that the MCA, and all other component parties, deserved to receive equal recognition as coalition partners.
The veteran politician even took a direct swipe at Umno by pointing out that the MCA was not in agreement with how important government policy decisions were made during Umno supreme council meetings instead in the Cabinet.
The MCA president’s remarks were not well received by many Umno leaders, with Umno vice-president Datuk Seri Hishammuddin Hussein saying yesterday that Dr Chua had upset a number of leaders last weekend with his remarks.
Hishammuddin had said that many had expressed their dissatisfaction that the straight-talking MCA president had used the Barisan Nasional convention over the weekend as a platform to air his grouses against Umno.
Ong also accused Dr Chua today of abandoning several proposals which Ong had pushed for during his tenure as MCA president.
“When I was MCA president, I brought up such suggestions to BN, to have multi-party participation in the BN grassroots network, especially the appointment of BN divisional chiefs.
“MCA brought up such a proposal and that was adopted by BN ... whereby if a constituency is represented by the MCA or any component party, the BN divisional chairmanship should go to the same party, and that was accepted. If the candidate won, the BN MP should himself be BN division chairman. If he lost, the chairmanship should go to the division chief of the component party,” explained the Pandan MP.
Ong claimed that the implementation of the proposal had been “watered down” when Dr Chua took over the MCA leadership, suggesting that despite the MCA president’s apparent boldness in defending the MCA’s rights, the latter was still subservient to Umno.
“Chua somehow, without the knowledge of grassroots, had overturned this decision ...and at the end of the day, the overwhelming majority of the divisional chairmanship still goes to Umno and of course that was done with his (Dr Chua’s) full knowledge, his consent as well. This could only be done at the BN supreme council level, and I was no longer in the council (when the decision was overturned),” said the one-time transport minister.
Wednesday, May 4, 2011
A CALL TO REJECT THE POLITICS OF THREATS AND RACE
May 4 2011
PRESS STATEMENT BY:-
TAN SRI DATUK ROBERT PHANG MIOW SIN
Justice of Peace
Chairman – Social Care Foundation
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
A CALL TO REJECT THE POLITICS OF THREATS AND RACE
The Chinese community is an integral part of Malaysian society and the exercise of their intellectual rights should not be subjected to any political threats or intimidation. History has shown that the Chinese are pragmatic and open-minded and seek only fair implementation of policies by the Government of the day. The views I express below are the culmination of Chinese thoughts based on the above principles.
1. During the past MCA presidential campaign, I took out an advertorial at my own cost to denounce Dr Chua Soi Lek as a bad apple compared to Ong Tee Keat. Some members of the public misunderstood my action to mean that I am an MCA member and was taking sides in that party presidetntial elections.
2. Let me be clear. I am not and have never been an MCA member nor a member of any political party. I took out that advertorial because the issue at stake was very clear to me, as clear as night and day. Chua Soi Lek was a “soiled“ person, having admitted that he was the actor in the pronographic vcd that was widely circulated. A philandering husband and a person with such decadent moral values would be problematic if he takes on a public office. Being President of MCA would mean he is the leader of the Chinese community, the Chinese face in the Government when he meets government leaders from other countries.
3. By Chua Soi Lek’s own admission of his inherent weaknesses, he could not possibly be the best person in the Chinese community to talk about Chinese interest in this country. It would be a sad day for Malaysian Chinese if that was the case, as if we have scraped the barrel and could only come up with someone like him. After all, this is the same rationale used by UMNO to denounce Anwar Ibrahim as a great risk to the Malays if he ever ascend the Premiership. Thus, MCA must be seen consistent wiith the principles espoused by its more dominant partner in BN.
4. At that time, the option was for the MCA to be led by Ong Tee Keat whom the majority of the Rakyat had likened to be a good apple. The reasons are obvious. Ong Tee Keat did not have the inherent weaknesses of Chua Soi Lek. He was also fearless in raising the PKFZ issue that had resulted in several personalities being prosecuted. That proved costly to Ong when the invisible powers caused him to lose the MCA Presidency and his Minister’s post.
5. Today, Chua Soi Lek as MCA President had issued a statement that the party will give up all government posts if the Chinese community did not support its candidates in the next general election. In an act of total naiveness, the MCA presidential council says they back him. If they made that declaration out of of their own free will, then truly they have been deceived. I say so because they must been mislead by Chua Soi Lek’s cunning move.
6. Presently, Chua has no government post because under present climate he is too much of a liabilty. Thus, Chua loses nothing by making that declaration. If he succeeds in his scheme, he would only be perpetuating his presidency because the other MCA leaders would also have to give up their Ministerial posts. Thus, Chua would have removed the advantage they have over him as a party leader without a government post. Thus,Chua plays the wild card game. He is throwing the gauntlet to UMNO, to BN and to the Chinese community to accede to his demands in a round about way. He is resorting to the politics of threats.
7. By doing that he is making the MCA behave like a Chinese pressure group instead of the government’s coalition partner. He is making the MCA behave no differently than PERKASA, the ultra Malay rights group. It must be remembered that PERKASA is not a government component party. MCA cannot behave that radical especialy after having condemned PERKASA so vehemently. Therein lies the hypocrisy and deceitfulness of Chua Soi Lek. Even Tun Dr. Mahathir felt that way, thus he is defended PERKASA’s struggles.
8. As a BN coalition partner, I would expect MCA President Chua to behave more responsibly. By making his personal agenda to be MCAs‘ official stand, he will only harden our Malay bothers to support Perkasa and Utusan’s proposed “1Melayu, 1Bumi” movement to curb Chinese political power in the country. This philosophy of race-based politics should be rejected outright by all Malaysians. Dr. Chua’s statement paled in comparison to then CM of Penang, Lim Guan Eng – who dealt with this issue in a more statesmalike manner when he said that Elections are about democracy, not about race. It is about choosing the best candidate who can best serve and represent voters, not about race. It is about whose policies promote justice, freedom and truth, not about race.“
9. Chua’s declaration is setting a very dangerous precedent that will divide the country further if the Chinese are not represented in the government. His declaration was made for a very selfish motive because Chua realises that Prime Minister Najib would not have a man of his background in the Cabinet. He is a liability not only to the Government but also to the Chinese community at the next GE13. My fears of the gambit that Chua would take for his political survival have now proven true.
10. Needless to say, by his statement, Chua Soi Lek will only be remembered as someone who is looking after his own interest instead of the interest of all Malaysians. For that irresponsible stand, he should be consigned to obscurity.
11. To that end, I humbly appeal to our PM YAB Dato‘ Sri Haji Mohd. Najib to try comprehend more of the Chinese inner feelings, that the Chinese community do not like to be threatened. If the Chinese community in Semenanjung choose to remain silent, that would mean they will send the same message in a loud and clear manner as reflected by the Sarawak Chinese in the recent Sarawak state elections. Despite the strong and intimidating threats by the regime of CM Taib Mahmud and the BN, the Chinese community outrightly rejected them.This is a clear and undisputed fact. I pray our PM not to ignore this glaring fact. I implore the PM to avoid being dragged into this pitfall by the President of MCA, Dr. Chua Soi Lek.
12. Thus, I call on all Chinese especially the MCA current leaders and members to remove the blinkers and wake up, not to succumb to Chua’s politics of threat and race. They must reject that call to abandon government post because, in truth, that is a call to reject participation in a 1Malaysian Government.
“HUMBLENESS IS GOOD VIRTUE, ARROGANCE SHALL FALL, THE MEEK WILL RULE THE WORLD”.
.....................................................................
Tan Sri Datuk Robert Phang Miow Sin
Justice of Peace
PRESS STATEMENT BY:-
TAN SRI DATUK ROBERT PHANG MIOW SIN
Justice of Peace
Chairman – Social Care Foundation
A CALL TO REJECT THE POLITICS OF THREATS AND RACE
The Chinese community is an integral part of Malaysian society and the exercise of their intellectual rights should not be subjected to any political threats or intimidation. History has shown that the Chinese are pragmatic and open-minded and seek only fair implementation of policies by the Government of the day. The views I express below are the culmination of Chinese thoughts based on the above principles.
1. During the past MCA presidential campaign, I took out an advertorial at my own cost to denounce Dr Chua Soi Lek as a bad apple compared to Ong Tee Keat. Some members of the public misunderstood my action to mean that I am an MCA member and was taking sides in that party presidetntial elections.
3. By Chua Soi Lek’s own admission of his inherent weaknesses, he could not possibly be the best person in the Chinese community to talk about Chinese interest in this country. It would be a sad day for Malaysian Chinese if that was the case, as if we have scraped the barrel and could only come up with someone like him. After all, this is the same rationale used by UMNO to denounce Anwar Ibrahim as a great risk to the Malays if he ever ascend the Premiership. Thus, MCA must be seen consistent wiith the principles espoused by its more dominant partner in BN.
4. At that time, the option was for the MCA to be led by Ong Tee Keat whom the majority of the Rakyat had likened to be a good apple. The reasons are obvious. Ong Tee Keat did not have the inherent weaknesses of Chua Soi Lek. He was also fearless in raising the PKFZ issue that had resulted in several personalities being prosecuted. That proved costly to Ong when the invisible powers caused him to lose the MCA Presidency and his Minister’s post.
6. Presently, Chua has no government post because under present climate he is too much of a liabilty. Thus, Chua loses nothing by making that declaration. If he succeeds in his scheme, he would only be perpetuating his presidency because the other MCA leaders would also have to give up their Ministerial posts. Thus, Chua would have removed the advantage they have over him as a party leader without a government post. Thus,Chua plays the wild card game. He is throwing the gauntlet to UMNO, to BN and to the Chinese community to accede to his demands in a round about way. He is resorting to the politics of threats.
7. By doing that he is making the MCA behave like a Chinese pressure group instead of the government’s coalition partner. He is making the MCA behave no differently than PERKASA, the ultra Malay rights group. It must be remembered that PERKASA is not a government component party. MCA cannot behave that radical especialy after having condemned PERKASA so vehemently. Therein lies the hypocrisy and deceitfulness of Chua Soi Lek. Even Tun Dr. Mahathir felt that way, thus he is defended PERKASA’s struggles.
8. As a BN coalition partner, I would expect MCA President Chua to behave more responsibly. By making his personal agenda to be MCAs‘ official stand, he will only harden our Malay bothers to support Perkasa and Utusan’s proposed “1Melayu, 1Bumi” movement to curb Chinese political power in the country. This philosophy of race-based politics should be rejected outright by all Malaysians. Dr. Chua’s statement paled in comparison to then CM of Penang, Lim Guan Eng – who dealt with this issue in a more statesmalike manner when he said that Elections are about democracy, not about race. It is about choosing the best candidate who can best serve and represent voters, not about race. It is about whose policies promote justice, freedom and truth, not about race.“
9. Chua’s declaration is setting a very dangerous precedent that will divide the country further if the Chinese are not represented in the government. His declaration was made for a very selfish motive because Chua realises that Prime Minister Najib would not have a man of his background in the Cabinet. He is a liability not only to the Government but also to the Chinese community at the next GE13. My fears of the gambit that Chua would take for his political survival have now proven true.
10. Needless to say, by his statement, Chua Soi Lek will only be remembered as someone who is looking after his own interest instead of the interest of all Malaysians. For that irresponsible stand, he should be consigned to obscurity.
11. To that end, I humbly appeal to our PM YAB Dato‘ Sri Haji Mohd. Najib to try comprehend more of the Chinese inner feelings, that the Chinese community do not like to be threatened. If the Chinese community in Semenanjung choose to remain silent, that would mean they will send the same message in a loud and clear manner as reflected by the Sarawak Chinese in the recent Sarawak state elections. Despite the strong and intimidating threats by the regime of CM Taib Mahmud and the BN, the Chinese community outrightly rejected them.This is a clear and undisputed fact. I pray our PM not to ignore this glaring fact. I implore the PM to avoid being dragged into this pitfall by the President of MCA, Dr. Chua Soi Lek.
12. Thus, I call on all Chinese especially the MCA current leaders and members to remove the blinkers and wake up, not to succumb to Chua’s politics of threat and race. They must reject that call to abandon government post because, in truth, that is a call to reject participation in a 1Malaysian Government.
“HUMBLENESS IS GOOD VIRTUE, ARROGANCE SHALL FALL, THE MEEK WILL RULE THE WORLD”.
.....................................................................
Tan Sri Datuk Robert Phang Miow Sin
Justice of Peace
Wednesday, April 20, 2011
You’re a liar, Tee Keat tells Soi Lek
Patrick Lee April 20, 2011
Free Malaysia Today
The former MCA boss launches a broadside against his successor for blaming him for the party's continued presence in the federal and state governments after the 2008 polls.
PETALING JAYA: Former MCA president Ong Tee Keat has described his sucessor Dr Chua Soi Lek as a “despicable liar”.
He was responding to Chua’s remark that it was Ong’s decision to allow MCA leaders to assume government posts despite the party’s dismal performance in the 2008 general election.
“Chua’s statement on my alleged insistence of staying in the federal Cabinet after 2008 should be disdained in view of its factual flaws,” said Ong.
He said that it was not possible for him to have made such a decision when he was not even MCA’s president in March 2008.
(The party president at the time was Ong Ka Ting. Tee Keat assumed the presidency on Oct 18, 2010)
Ong also added that Chua never mentioned anything about staying out of the federal government during the former’s tenure as president.
“The presidential council, which Chua was in (as deputy president), unanimously mandated me to handle the matter with the new prime minister,” he said.
‘Ongoing prejudice’
Chua’s statement, Ong claimed, was indicative of an ongoing prejudice against him.
“Perhaps Chua has been overly obsessed with his prejudice against my political presence until today,” he said.
The former president also criticized his successor for being hypocritical, as the latter had assumed various official positions after Najib Tun Razak took over as prime minister.
These included the MCA presidency on March 28 last year, the Penang Port Commission Chairman and becoming a member of the PM-run Economic Council.
Ong also took a swipe at Chua for pushing his son up the political ladder to become Labis MP and eventually a deputy minister in Najib’s Cabinet.
Following the Sarawak state election on Sunday, Chua had urged Sarawak-based Chinese party SUPP to reject positions in the state government in view of the party’s heavy defeat.
His call was met by criticism from DAP, who asked why MCA did not do the same after the 2008 general election.
Meanwhile, Ong said Chua should have walked his talk by pulling out Perak MCA from the state government as well since the party’s candidates were wiped out in the 2008 polls.
“He has no excuse to be evasive as he has been helming Perak MCA for the past one year,” he added.
Free Malaysia Today
PETALING JAYA: Former MCA president Ong Tee Keat has described his sucessor Dr Chua Soi Lek as a “despicable liar”.
He was responding to Chua’s remark that it was Ong’s decision to allow MCA leaders to assume government posts despite the party’s dismal performance in the 2008 general election.
“Chua’s statement on my alleged insistence of staying in the federal Cabinet after 2008 should be disdained in view of its factual flaws,” said Ong.
He said that it was not possible for him to have made such a decision when he was not even MCA’s president in March 2008.
(The party president at the time was Ong Ka Ting. Tee Keat assumed the presidency on Oct 18, 2010)
Ong also added that Chua never mentioned anything about staying out of the federal government during the former’s tenure as president.
“The presidential council, which Chua was in (as deputy president), unanimously mandated me to handle the matter with the new prime minister,” he said.
‘Ongoing prejudice’
Chua’s statement, Ong claimed, was indicative of an ongoing prejudice against him.
“Perhaps Chua has been overly obsessed with his prejudice against my political presence until today,” he said.
The former president also criticized his successor for being hypocritical, as the latter had assumed various official positions after Najib Tun Razak took over as prime minister.
These included the MCA presidency on March 28 last year, the Penang Port Commission Chairman and becoming a member of the PM-run Economic Council.
Ong also took a swipe at Chua for pushing his son up the political ladder to become Labis MP and eventually a deputy minister in Najib’s Cabinet.
Following the Sarawak state election on Sunday, Chua had urged Sarawak-based Chinese party SUPP to reject positions in the state government in view of the party’s heavy defeat.
His call was met by criticism from DAP, who asked why MCA did not do the same after the 2008 general election.
Meanwhile, Ong said Chua should have walked his talk by pulling out Perak MCA from the state government as well since the party’s candidates were wiped out in the 2008 polls.
“He has no excuse to be evasive as he has been helming Perak MCA for the past one year,” he added.
Dato' Sri Ong Tee Kee response to Chua Soi Lek's nonsensical allegations
By Dato' Sri Ong Tee Keat
Though Chua Soi Lek (CSL)’s statement on my alleged insistence of staying in federal Cabinet after the 2008 electoral setback faced by MCA should rightfully be disdained in view of its factual flaws, the despicable intention of spreading lies on-line should in no way be connived without setting the record straight.
Perhaps CSL has been overly obsessed with his prejudice against my political presence till today that he has erroneously attributed the decision of MCA to stay in Cabinet after the said setback to my alleged insistence when I was then NOT the Party President. (Note: Ong Ka Ting was then still the President till 18-10-2008)
In early April 2009 when Dato’ Sri Najib Abdul Razak took over the premiership, I was consulted in my capacity as the then Party President on the choice of MCA nominees to the Cabinet. The question of opting out the Cabinet line-up had never arisen as the Presidential Council, of which CSL was a member by virtue of his position as the Deputy President, had unanimously mandated me to handle the matter with the new Prime Minister. At that material time, nobody, including CSL, had ever raised the issue of staying out of the Cabinet.
Given the benefits of hindsight, had CSL been serious with his purported claim of staying out of the Cabinet in face of the plummeting ethnic Chinese representation in the 2008 poll, he could have done so after he took over the MCA Presidency on 28-3-2010. But instead, he had his own son, Tee Yong (MP for Labis) in the Cabinet line-up when Dato Sri Najib announced the Cabinet reshuffle on 1-6-2010.
On the other hand, CSL who had earlier vowed not to lobby for any government posts, however paradoxically chose to renege his words when he happily accepted the government portfolio appointments as the Penang Port Commission Chairman and later a member of the Economic Council headed by the Prime Minister.
Similarly, CSL could have reversed any earlier decision by bringing MCA out from the Perak State government if he were truly committed to what he advised SUPP, instead of resorting to finger-pointing. He has no excuse to be evasive as he has been helming the Perak MCA for the past one year.
I have no intention to pick a quarrel with such a character as there are many more meaningful things to do in serving the people, especially my Pandan electorate. Actions speak louder than fabricated lies deliberately dispensed with for political assassination.
Tuesday, March 22, 2011
Pudu Rotary Club's wheelchair donation
Irene Medona
Danny Tan Wee Mun
Tuesday, March 22nd, 2011 11:24:00
Rotary Club of Pudu
KUALA LUMPUR: To help patients unable to afford wheelchairs, the Rotary Club of Pudu yesterday donated 20 of these essential aids to the Ampang Hospital.
The hospital's Department of Medical Social Works will assign the wheelchairs to needy patients based on demand.
Still, they are not enough and Datuk Seri Ong Tee Keat who made the donation for the club urged other corporate bodies and the public to make similar contributions.
Commenting on the Rotary Club's "Wheelchair for Poor Patients" project, he said: "I look forward to projects like this and would like to urge other NGOs to join the government sector in serving the needs of local communities."
The idea was the brainchild of former Pudu Rotary Club president Ng Sim Bee, who said: "I visited a friend who was admitted in Ampang Hospital and realised some patients who had difficulty walking, didn't have wheelchairs.
"Upon asking them why, most said they could not afford one."
Ng then called on Pudu Rotary Club members to plan a special project for poor patients.
Danny Tan Wee Mun
Tuesday, March 22nd, 2011 11:24:00
Rotary Club of Pudu
KUALA LUMPUR: To help patients unable to afford wheelchairs, the Rotary Club of Pudu yesterday donated 20 of these essential aids to the Ampang Hospital.
The hospital's Department of Medical Social Works will assign the wheelchairs to needy patients based on demand.
Still, they are not enough and Datuk Seri Ong Tee Keat who made the donation for the club urged other corporate bodies and the public to make similar contributions.
 |
| CHARITY: (From left) Rotary Club of Pudu president Leong Choy Ying, Rotarian Tam Peng Huat, Ng, Ong and Ampang Hospital vice president (Medical) Dr Roosli Muhamed Salleh with one of the wheelchairs from Rotary Club of Pudu |
The idea was the brainchild of former Pudu Rotary Club president Ng Sim Bee, who said: "I visited a friend who was admitted in Ampang Hospital and realised some patients who had difficulty walking, didn't have wheelchairs.
"Upon asking them why, most said they could not afford one."
Ng then called on Pudu Rotary Club members to plan a special project for poor patients.
Monday, March 21, 2011
Some past PKA board members may walk free
Karen Arukesamy
newsdesk@thesundaily.com
KUALA LUMPUR (March 21, 2011): In less than 10 days, some of the 28 past directors of the Port Klang Authority (PKA) could be walking free as the Limitation Act would have excused them from any civil action with regards to their involvement in the Port Klang Free Zone (PKFZ) scandal.
The Act excludes officials of statutory bodies from civil action due to economic loss, after six years.
With the March 31 deadline looming – after previous board meetings which approved the additional works at inflated costs that brought the PKFZ bill to over RM12 billion – at least a dozen directors are expected to escape.
This is if the PKA does not initiate civil suits against these individuals soon.
Transport Minister Datuk Seri Kong Chor Har, when met at the MCA extraordinary general meeting last week, could only muster a smile when asked if these former directors would be let off the hook.
Former transport minister Datuk Seri Ong Tee Keat said there was a recommendation to sue the ex-board of directors when he was in office.
“When I was minister, I gave PKA the decision-making power in the case and did not influence nor interfere in its decisions.
“At that time, they wanted to proceed with the civil suit but I do not know what transpired after my time,” he said after launching a community project "Wheelchair for Poor Patients" by Pudu Rotary Club today.
Ong said normally the decision whether to sue or not is up to the current board of directors, yet PKA must follow instructions of the Transport Ministry.
“I am not sure if this is the minister’s decision or not,” he said.
When he was the minister, Ong had promised to bring to book all those responsible for the scandal .
PKA general manager Kee Lian Yong and chairman Datuk Lee Hwa Beng declined comment.
However, it is understood that the current board is waiting for one of the directors to seek his own legal counsel before deciding on endorsing the decision to sue the past directors.
A final decision is expected to be made by the board next week.
Updated: 09:55PM Mon, 21 Mar 2011
newsdesk@thesundaily.com
KUALA LUMPUR (March 21, 2011): In less than 10 days, some of the 28 past directors of the Port Klang Authority (PKA) could be walking free as the Limitation Act would have excused them from any civil action with regards to their involvement in the Port Klang Free Zone (PKFZ) scandal.
The Act excludes officials of statutory bodies from civil action due to economic loss, after six years.
With the March 31 deadline looming – after previous board meetings which approved the additional works at inflated costs that brought the PKFZ bill to over RM12 billion – at least a dozen directors are expected to escape.
This is if the PKA does not initiate civil suits against these individuals soon.
Transport Minister Datuk Seri Kong Chor Har, when met at the MCA extraordinary general meeting last week, could only muster a smile when asked if these former directors would be let off the hook.
Former transport minister Datuk Seri Ong Tee Keat said there was a recommendation to sue the ex-board of directors when he was in office.
“When I was minister, I gave PKA the decision-making power in the case and did not influence nor interfere in its decisions.
“At that time, they wanted to proceed with the civil suit but I do not know what transpired after my time,” he said after launching a community project "Wheelchair for Poor Patients" by Pudu Rotary Club today.
Ong said normally the decision whether to sue or not is up to the current board of directors, yet PKA must follow instructions of the Transport Ministry.
“I am not sure if this is the minister’s decision or not,” he said.
When he was the minister, Ong had promised to bring to book all those responsible for the scandal .
PKA general manager Kee Lian Yong and chairman Datuk Lee Hwa Beng declined comment.
However, it is understood that the current board is waiting for one of the directors to seek his own legal counsel before deciding on endorsing the decision to sue the past directors.
A final decision is expected to be made by the board next week.
Updated: 09:55PM Mon, 21 Mar 2011
Wednesday, March 16, 2011
Speech at the unveiling of three Eclimo electric motorcycles
Submitted by webmaster on Wed, 2011-03-16 12:00
Speech at the unveiling of three Eclimo electric motorcycles by Dato Sri Ong Tee Keat
Ladies and gentlemen.
It gives me great honour and pleasure to be given this opportunity to address everyone present.
I am honoured because at least, in my short stint as transport minister, I am still remembered for having encouraged the venturing into green technology in the transport sector.
Pleasure because it is a historic occasion for Malaysia’s foray into electric vehicles (EVs) and to be part of this unveiling.
While as transport minister, transport-environment related issues had bugged my conscience.
I told myself that Malaysia and mankind cannot go on polluting our beautiful earth and hope for a prosperous future for our generations.
As transport minister, it was therefore incumbent on me to try and encourage businessmen to seriously venture into cleaner alternative modes of transport.
EVs are definitely cleaner than fossil-fuel-powered vehicles. The only hitch is technology and cost. But we have to start from somewhere.
With today’s unveiling and launch of sales soon, Malaysian businessmen have taken a giant leap into reforming transport and the way man commutes daily.
As in everything else, the cost of EVs is expected to be brought down over time due to competition and aggressive Research & Development (R&D). Just look at technology development of wireless hand phones and lap tops. They are getting more and more affordable by the day.
That is due to demand, R&D and healthy competition.
Transport is one of the biggest culprits of air pollution, contributing to global warming concerns via exhaust pipe emissions.
Let us also not forget the traffic congestions in the cities.
Up to end of 2009, the number of active petrol and diesel-powered vehicles on the road, according to Road Transport Department records, is 19 million. Of the 19 million fossil-fuel powered motor vehicles, 8.9 million are motorcycles.
Can you imagine how much cleaner our environment will be when EVs replace all those polluting motor vehicles that are on the roads today.
The rapid pace of economic development and the need to overcome traffic congestion makes it all that urgent for the government to really encourage businessmen to tap the tremendous potential for EVs, especially starting with electric motorcycles.
Why electric motorcycles? There is growing consensus that electric vehicles are the closest “near to market” green technology.
The battery technology, particularly the application of lithium batteries, has been developing rapidly. The cost of this technology is falling while petrol/diesel fuel prices continue to rise. Fossil fuel prices are likely to continue to rise in the future, making EVs more cost-effective.
EVs are also softer on maintenance compared with conventional motor vehicles, thus contributing to reducing consumer cost.
Ladies and Gentlemen.
Based on my years of experience with the government, the success of any initiative will depend on how committed we are in enforcing a policy.
In this case, whatever is the government’s Green Agenda or Green Technology policies, the political will to ensure strict and efficient enforcement will determine success or failure.
To realise the holistic green policies, enforcement must be based on the adopting of truly green technology. Therefore, cost must never be the overriding factor in enforcement and approvals.
If there is a premium to be paid by consumers for adopting truly green technology, so be it, as long as it is commercially viable.
We might as well not venture into EVs if approvals are based only on the lowest cost. Cheap is not always cleaner. Neither is it of better technology.
Enforcement agencies must, therefore, be suitably knowledgeable in the technicalities of green technology in order to make the right decisions.
Once a wrong decision is made and implemented, it is an awesome task to withdraw, as demonstrated in the past.
To propel Malaysia into taking a global lead in green technology and tackling global warming issues, the government must be fully committed to implementing holistic policies.
I see the government taking a step in the right direction by introducing a green technology ministry last year and for tax cuts in EVs in the Budget for this year.
That is a good start and of course there is much more to be done to forward Malaysia’s green agenda.
I wish everyone all the best in playing a role in greening our environment.
ORIGINAL POST From http://ongteekeat.net
Speech at the unveiling of three Eclimo electric motorcycles by Dato Sri Ong Tee Keat
Ladies and gentlemen.
It gives me great honour and pleasure to be given this opportunity to address everyone present.
I am honoured because at least, in my short stint as transport minister, I am still remembered for having encouraged the venturing into green technology in the transport sector.
Pleasure because it is a historic occasion for Malaysia’s foray into electric vehicles (EVs) and to be part of this unveiling.
While as transport minister, transport-environment related issues had bugged my conscience.
I told myself that Malaysia and mankind cannot go on polluting our beautiful earth and hope for a prosperous future for our generations.
As transport minister, it was therefore incumbent on me to try and encourage businessmen to seriously venture into cleaner alternative modes of transport.
EVs are definitely cleaner than fossil-fuel-powered vehicles. The only hitch is technology and cost. But we have to start from somewhere.
With today’s unveiling and launch of sales soon, Malaysian businessmen have taken a giant leap into reforming transport and the way man commutes daily.
As in everything else, the cost of EVs is expected to be brought down over time due to competition and aggressive Research & Development (R&D). Just look at technology development of wireless hand phones and lap tops. They are getting more and more affordable by the day.
That is due to demand, R&D and healthy competition.
Transport is one of the biggest culprits of air pollution, contributing to global warming concerns via exhaust pipe emissions.
Let us also not forget the traffic congestions in the cities.
Up to end of 2009, the number of active petrol and diesel-powered vehicles on the road, according to Road Transport Department records, is 19 million. Of the 19 million fossil-fuel powered motor vehicles, 8.9 million are motorcycles.
Can you imagine how much cleaner our environment will be when EVs replace all those polluting motor vehicles that are on the roads today.
The rapid pace of economic development and the need to overcome traffic congestion makes it all that urgent for the government to really encourage businessmen to tap the tremendous potential for EVs, especially starting with electric motorcycles.
Why electric motorcycles? There is growing consensus that electric vehicles are the closest “near to market” green technology.
The battery technology, particularly the application of lithium batteries, has been developing rapidly. The cost of this technology is falling while petrol/diesel fuel prices continue to rise. Fossil fuel prices are likely to continue to rise in the future, making EVs more cost-effective.
EVs are also softer on maintenance compared with conventional motor vehicles, thus contributing to reducing consumer cost.
Ladies and Gentlemen.
Based on my years of experience with the government, the success of any initiative will depend on how committed we are in enforcing a policy.
In this case, whatever is the government’s Green Agenda or Green Technology policies, the political will to ensure strict and efficient enforcement will determine success or failure.
To realise the holistic green policies, enforcement must be based on the adopting of truly green technology. Therefore, cost must never be the overriding factor in enforcement and approvals.
If there is a premium to be paid by consumers for adopting truly green technology, so be it, as long as it is commercially viable.
We might as well not venture into EVs if approvals are based only on the lowest cost. Cheap is not always cleaner. Neither is it of better technology.
Enforcement agencies must, therefore, be suitably knowledgeable in the technicalities of green technology in order to make the right decisions.
Once a wrong decision is made and implemented, it is an awesome task to withdraw, as demonstrated in the past.
To propel Malaysia into taking a global lead in green technology and tackling global warming issues, the government must be fully committed to implementing holistic policies.
I see the government taking a step in the right direction by introducing a green technology ministry last year and for tax cuts in EVs in the Budget for this year.
That is a good start and of course there is much more to be done to forward Malaysia’s green agenda.
I wish everyone all the best in playing a role in greening our environment.
ORIGINAL POST From http://ongteekeat.net
Wednesday, March 2, 2011
Water arrears dispute with Syabas resolved
News Date: Wed, 2011-03-02
By OTK Info Unit
KUALA LUPUR (March 1, 2011): The outstanding accumulated water bill arrears dispute of nine blocks of Taman Lembah Maju apartment residents with SYABAS have been resolved.
By OTK Info Unit
KUALA LUPUR (March 1, 2011): The outstanding accumulated water bill arrears dispute of nine blocks of Taman Lembah Maju apartment residents with SYABAS have been resolved.
Pandan MP Dato’ Sri Ong Tee Keat announced at a Chinese New Year community rally dinner on Feb 16 that SYABAS executive chairman Tan Sri Rozali Ismail had agreed to a review of the arrears based on residential instead of commercial rates from Jan 1, 2008.
“The details of the arrears are to be ironed out in due course and there will be no water cuts as long as the current bills are remitted accordingly,” he said to the cheers of those present.
Shortly before Chinese New Year, the threat of water cut was again looming for the residents.
“The details of the arrears are to be ironed out in due course and there will be no water cuts as long as the current bills are remitted accordingly,” he said to the cheers of those present.
Shortly before Chinese New Year, the threat of water cut was again looming for the residents.
SYABAS, Selangor’s water concessionaire, had issued an ultimatum to all property owners to settle their arrears dating back to 2008 or water supply would be cut.
The residents approached Ong to help settle the dispute but they were skeptical that their MP would be able to resolve the impasse amid negative speculations that he would be dropped by the Barisan Nasional in the next general election.
Ong, however, hurriedly arranged with SYABAS for immediate negotiations for an amicable solution.
As early as 2005, the residents had been remitting their water bills at commercial rates unknowingly.
The residents approached Ong to help settle the dispute but they were skeptical that their MP would be able to resolve the impasse amid negative speculations that he would be dropped by the Barisan Nasional in the next general election.
Ong, however, hurriedly arranged with SYABAS for immediate negotiations for an amicable solution.
As early as 2005, the residents had been remitting their water bills at commercial rates unknowingly.
The Joint Management Board (JMB) comprising the residents grudgingly took over the arrears on Jan 1, 2008, but the unjust remittance at commercial rates was only discovered last July when Ong detected the error while scrutinising the residents’ complaints.
This was immediately addressed by SYABAS through Ong’s help and the rate was revised from RM2.28 per cubic metre (commercial rate) to RM 1.38 per cubic metre (residential rate) effective last July 2010.
However, the arrears remained unresolved as negotiations with SYABAS hit snag. This led to the pre-Chinese New Year water-cut threat in January.
Ong quickly spearheaded fresh negotiations with a proposed formula that was acceptable to SYABAS.
This was immediately addressed by SYABAS through Ong’s help and the rate was revised from RM2.28 per cubic metre (commercial rate) to RM 1.38 per cubic metre (residential rate) effective last July 2010.
However, the arrears remained unresolved as negotiations with SYABAS hit snag. This led to the pre-Chinese New Year water-cut threat in January.
Ong quickly spearheaded fresh negotiations with a proposed formula that was acceptable to SYABAS.
ORIGINAL POSTING : http://otkservice.org
Tuesday, February 22, 2011
Technical Resource and Internship Network (TRAIN)
About TRAIN
Technical Resource and Internship Network (TRAIN) is managed by Yayasan Bakti Nusa Malaysia (YBNM). The foundation has Dato’ Sri Ong Tee Keat as its patron.
TRAIN was established to promote and coordinate vocational skills training for drop-outs and school leavers who are not academically inclined, to eventually assist them to secure a job.
All qualified Malaysians, regardless of race or religion, are eligible for assistance by TRAIN .
Introduction
Technical Resource and Internship Network (TRAIN) is managed by Yayasan Bakti Nusa Malaysia (YBNM). The foundation has Dato’ Sri Ong Tee Keat as its patron.
TRAIN was established to promote and coordinate vocational skills training for drop-outs and school leavers who are not academically inclined, to eventually assist them to secure a job.
All qualified Malaysians, regardless of race or religion, are eligible for assistance by TRAIN .
Introduction
Technical Resource and Internship Network (TRAIN) is managed by Yayasan Pendidikan Bistari. The foundation has Dato’ Sri Ong Tee Keat as its patron.
TRAIN was established to promote and coordinate vocational skills training for drop-outs and school leavers who are not academically inclined, to eventually assist them to secure a job.
All qualified Malaysians, regardless of race or religion, are eligible for assistance by TRAIN.
Patron
YB Dato’ Sri Ong Tee Keat
YB Dato’ Sri Ong Tee Keat
Everyone involved in the development of the concept of TRAIN should be commended for the contribution as training is not only useful in itself but rather as an essential ingredient to a decent life and constructive contribution to the development of society.
One of the key factors in the future development of our economy and labour market is human capital. The world is witnessing the fall of artificial boundaries as we liberalise our economies. This has created a pressing need for human workforce that is skilled and recognized. The opportunities are thrown wider with the combination between commercial, industrial and technical occupations and service occupations.
TRAIN is established to open up opportunities for our youths, particularly those who are not academically inclined, to get an equally good start in the world. They should be empowered with skills that are recognised by trade occupations worldwide.
I welcome the initiative of TRAIN partners to value add the programme by conducting the programme in multiple language. I also applaud the move to provide an international dimension to TRAIN in terms of accreditation and internship opportunities.
With scholarships, subsidized fees, private and government loans available via. TRAIN, youths of today will have no more excuses not to empower themselves with skills that set them up for a lifetime.
Scholarships & Financing
One of the attractions of approaching TRAIN for vocational training is access to scholarships and financing. These are some of the schemes available in which the Foundation can assist in:
Scholarships
Qualified trainees are able to apply for scholarships available such as:
* Ministry of Youth training programme
* Yayasan Bakti Nusa Malaysia scholarships
The successful trainees enjoy full or partial scholarships off tuition fees. Certain scholarship schemes may also cover cost of living expenses such as accommodation, food and transportation.
Candidates are advised to approach the Foundation officers for more information.
One of the attractions of approaching TRAIN for vocational training is access to scholarships and financing. These are some of the schemes available in which the Foundation can assist in:
Scholarships
Qualified trainees are able to apply for scholarships available such as:
* Ministry of Youth training programme
* Yayasan Bakti Nusa Malaysia scholarships
The successful trainees enjoy full or partial scholarships off tuition fees. Certain scholarship schemes may also cover cost of living expenses such as accommodation, food and transportation.
Candidates are advised to approach the Foundation officers for more information.
Subsidised Fees
Fee paying trainees are able to enjoy subsidized training rates which as substantially lower than fees charged in the open market. The subsidized fees come in the form of pledges of their excess places by participating training centres to the Foundation.
Candidates are advised to refer to the table on subsidized fees in this website or approach Foundation officers for detailed information.
Fee paying trainees are able to enjoy subsidized training rates which as substantially lower than fees charged in the open market. The subsidized fees come in the form of pledges of their excess places by participating training centres to the Foundation.
Candidates are advised to refer to the table on subsidized fees in this website or approach Foundation officers for detailed information.
Loans
The Foundation is able to assist in arranging for loans from the Government and private banks for training in cooperation with the participating training centres. Among the loans available are:
* Skills Development Fund Corporation or Perbadanan Tabung Pembangunan Kemahiran (PTPK)
Perbadanan Tabung Pembangunan Kemahiran (PTPK)
Tabung Pembangunan Kemahiran (TPK) mula beroperasi pada 2001 sebagai satu kumpulan wang amanah untuk membiayai pelatih-pelatih kursus Sijil Kemahiran Malaysia (SKM) dari pusat-pusat latihan awam dan swasta yang programnya ditauliahkan oleh Jabatan Pembangunan Kemahiran (JPK). Tujuan penubuhan TPK ialah untuk menyediakan pinjaman bagi latihan kemahiran agar memenuhi keperluan tenaga kerja mahir negara.
Tabung Pembangunan Kemahiran (TPK) mula beroperasi pada 2001 sebagai satu kumpulan wang amanah untuk membiayai pelatih-pelatih kursus Sijil Kemahiran Malaysia (SKM) dari pusat-pusat latihan awam dan swasta yang programnya ditauliahkan oleh Jabatan Pembangunan Kemahiran (JPK). Tujuan penubuhan TPK ialah untuk menyediakan pinjaman bagi latihan kemahiran agar memenuhi keperluan tenaga kerja mahir negara.
link:www. ptpk.gov.my
* Kojadi
* Private banks
The Foundation is able to assist in arranging for loans from the Government and private banks for training in cooperation with the participating training centres. Among the loans available are:
* Skills Development Fund Corporation or Perbadanan Tabung Pembangunan Kemahiran (PTPK)
Perbadanan Tabung Pembangunan Kemahiran (PTPK)
Tabung Pembangunan Kemahiran (TPK) mula beroperasi pada 2001 sebagai satu kumpulan wang amanah untuk membiayai pelatih-pelatih kursus Sijil Kemahiran Malaysia (SKM) dari pusat-pusat latihan awam dan swasta yang programnya ditauliahkan oleh Jabatan Pembangunan Kemahiran (JPK). Tujuan penubuhan TPK ialah untuk menyediakan pinjaman bagi latihan kemahiran agar memenuhi keperluan tenaga kerja mahir negara.
Tabung Pembangunan Kemahiran (TPK) mula beroperasi pada 2001 sebagai satu kumpulan wang amanah untuk membiayai pelatih-pelatih kursus Sijil Kemahiran Malaysia (SKM) dari pusat-pusat latihan awam dan swasta yang programnya ditauliahkan oleh Jabatan Pembangunan Kemahiran (JPK). Tujuan penubuhan TPK ialah untuk menyediakan pinjaman bagi latihan kemahiran agar memenuhi keperluan tenaga kerja mahir negara.
link:www. ptpk.gov.my
* Kojadi
* Private banks
How it Works
One of the advantages of TRAIN is the opportunity for TRAIN assisted trainees or graduates to undergo internship with leading companies in Malaysia as well as overseas.
TRAIN collaborates with partners and leading companies to provide internship opportunities. The trainees enjoy the following unique features of internship packaged by TRAIN:
* Availability of hundreds of internship positions in Malaysia and worldwide;
* Online matching of internship opportunities with qualification;
* Internship that is moderated and accredited;
* Certification upon successful completion of internship;
* Value-added courses are built-in such as interview skills, resume writing and professionalism.
List of Internship Partners:
* Jobstreet.com
* Media Prima
* SEG International
* Agensi Pekerjaan People Source
One of the advantages of TRAIN is the opportunity for TRAIN assisted trainees or graduates to undergo internship with leading companies in Malaysia as well as overseas.
TRAIN collaborates with partners and leading companies to provide internship opportunities. The trainees enjoy the following unique features of internship packaged by TRAIN:
* Availability of hundreds of internship positions in Malaysia and worldwide;
* Online matching of internship opportunities with qualification;
* Internship that is moderated and accredited;
* Certification upon successful completion of internship;
* Value-added courses are built-in such as interview skills, resume writing and professionalism.
List of Internship Partners:
* Jobstreet.com
* Media Prima
* SEG International
* Agensi Pekerjaan People Source
Advantages
The TRAIN programme offers the following advantages to young trainees:
Value-Added International Recognition:
Qualifications are accreditated, certified and/ or recognized by Malaysian Government. In addition, students have the option of value-adding their qualifications after completing and passing internationally recognized assessments. Trainees who possess qualifications that are recognized both in Malaysia and Internationally will have an edge in obtaining work overseas.
Relevant Courses Conducted in Mandarin:
Selected courses under TRAIN are conducted in Chinese for the benefit of those who are not proficient in English. Additional classes in English and Chinese may also be arranged.
Wide Network of Participating Training Providers
TRAIN works with a network of more than 30 approved training providers. The facilities and delivery of vocational training from these providers have been approved and recognized by the Government of Malaysia and various accreditation bodies.
Availability of Scholarships & Subsidised Fees
TRAIN has received pledge of scholarships for vocational training. The scholarships cover tuition fees, either in full or in part.
For selected programmes, trainees are provided allowances for food, transport and accommodation.
Fee paying trainees enjoy subsidized fees pledged by participating training providers.
Availability of Loans
TRAIN will assist qualified students to obtain loans from the Government such as PTPK. The loans may cover allowances and other cost of living. Additionally, the Foundation will also help students obtain loans from private institutions such as KOJADI and banks.
Certified Internship Prospects with local and foreign companies
Trainees and graduates of TRAIN have the option of undergoing internship with leading local and foreign companies. TRAIN have also partnered with job search companies to facilitate internship that is moderated, accredited and certified.
The TRAIN programme offers the following advantages to young trainees:
Value-Added International Recognition:
Qualifications are accreditated, certified and/ or recognized by Malaysian Government. In addition, students have the option of value-adding their qualifications after completing and passing internationally recognized assessments. Trainees who possess qualifications that are recognized both in Malaysia and Internationally will have an edge in obtaining work overseas.
Relevant Courses Conducted in Mandarin:
Selected courses under TRAIN are conducted in Chinese for the benefit of those who are not proficient in English. Additional classes in English and Chinese may also be arranged.
Wide Network of Participating Training Providers
TRAIN works with a network of more than 30 approved training providers. The facilities and delivery of vocational training from these providers have been approved and recognized by the Government of Malaysia and various accreditation bodies.
Availability of Scholarships & Subsidised Fees
TRAIN has received pledge of scholarships for vocational training. The scholarships cover tuition fees, either in full or in part.
For selected programmes, trainees are provided allowances for food, transport and accommodation.
Fee paying trainees enjoy subsidized fees pledged by participating training providers.
Availability of Loans
TRAIN will assist qualified students to obtain loans from the Government such as PTPK. The loans may cover allowances and other cost of living. Additionally, the Foundation will also help students obtain loans from private institutions such as KOJADI and banks.
Certified Internship Prospects with local and foreign companies
Trainees and graduates of TRAIN have the option of undergoing internship with leading local and foreign companies. TRAIN have also partnered with job search companies to facilitate internship that is moderated, accredited and certified.
More Info here http://www.train.org.my/index.php
Thursday, February 17, 2011
Tee Keat finds unusual support from Umno warlord
Malaysiakini
Kuek Ser Kuang Keng
Feb 17, 11 12:56pm
Although losing support from his own party division, former MCA president Ong Tee Keat has found unusual allies in the suspended Pandan Umno division chief and the Gerakan division chief, in his struggle to defend the Pandan parliamentary seat in the next general election.
Ong's candidacy was questioned by Pandan Umno division deputy chief Iszeham A Hamid, who is acting division chief, but the suspended division chief Abdul Ghani Ismail lent his support to Ong.
“He does go to the ground. It would be a loss to BN if he was not nominated as a candidate,” said Abdul Ghani when contacted yesterday.
Abdul Ghani was suspended as division chief after he was charged with corruption. The case is still pending in court.
However, he remains as BN coordinator of Chempaka, one of the two state seats under Pandan.
“I don't care whether it is Umno, MCA or Gerakan (to contest the seat), as long as the candidate can win. There are still many who can accept Ong (as their MP). He still enjoys the support.”
He defended Ong against his critics, saying “if you don't work and don't go to the ground, keep your mouth shut”.
Iszeham's 'self-indulgence'
Asked on Iszeham's proposal to Prime Minister and BN chairperson Najib Abdul Razak last Saturday, offering a 'solution' to the Pandan candidacy issue, Abdul Ghani said the retired army officer does not understand the ground.
“What does he know? He is a veteran. It is very simple. If Umno can do better than Ong, go ahead (to fight for the seat).”
He said the so-called 'solution' was just Iszeham's personal view out of his 'self-indulgence' (syok sendiri).
He hinted that Iszeham was bidding for his own chance to replace Ong, “now many are lobbying to become a candidate”.
Iszeham could not be reached for comment.
Abdul Ghani also pointed his finger at MCA president Chua Soi Lek who has yet to respond to this issue.
“The MCA president does not know the area. He is good at talking but does he know the ground?”
Create more problems if dropped
Abdul Ghani's stance was echoed by Pandan Gerakan division chief Lim Choong Meng.
“It is better to let Ong contest because he has the people's support. The people trust him,” he told Malaysiakini yesterday.
“He survived the 'political tsunami'. I believe he can sail through the next general election.”
Lim also worried about how would it affect BN's chance in Pandan should Ong be dropped.
“If BN changes the candidate, can they win the seat? This is a major problem.
“Should Ong contests as an independent, it would create more problems.”
Ong had insisted that he would continue to contest in Pandan “as long as I'm still a Malaysian citizen”.
Pandan MCA expresses reservations
However, Ong did not get the endorsement from his own party division.
Pandan MCA division chief Eric Ong Chen Huing appeared non-committal when asked about the issue.
“As division chairperson, I will give my full cooperation to all parliamentarians and state assemblypersons.
“At the same time I also respect the decision of the top leadership of MCA and Umno.”
The controversy surrounding Ong's candidacy intensified after Iszeham last Saturday proposed a 'solution' regarding the Pandan candidacy when meeting Najib.
While details of the 'solution' have not been revealed, it is no secret that Ong does not see eye-to-eye with Umno division leaders in his constituency. Hence the speculation that he may be on his way out.
Ong was first elected as Ampang Jaya MP in a by-election in 1989. He held the seat until 2004 when it was delineated into Ampang and Pandan, and Ong continued his term in Pandan.
In the 'political tsunami' that defeated many BN incumbents in 2008, Ong retained Pandan with a 2,692 majority and become the only MCA parliamentarian in Selangor.
He later failed to defend the MCA presidency in bitter polls last year, losing to Dr Chua Soi Lek. He eventually lost his post as transport minister as well.
Kuek Ser Kuang Keng
Feb 17, 11 12:56pm
Ong's candidacy was questioned by Pandan Umno division deputy chief Iszeham A Hamid, who is acting division chief, but the suspended division chief Abdul Ghani Ismail lent his support to Ong.
“He does go to the ground. It would be a loss to BN if he was not nominated as a candidate,” said Abdul Ghani when contacted yesterday.
Abdul Ghani was suspended as division chief after he was charged with corruption. The case is still pending in court.
However, he remains as BN coordinator of Chempaka, one of the two state seats under Pandan.
“I don't care whether it is Umno, MCA or Gerakan (to contest the seat), as long as the candidate can win. There are still many who can accept Ong (as their MP). He still enjoys the support.”
He defended Ong against his critics, saying “if you don't work and don't go to the ground, keep your mouth shut”.
Iszeham's 'self-indulgence'
Asked on Iszeham's proposal to Prime Minister and BN chairperson Najib Abdul Razak last Saturday, offering a 'solution' to the Pandan candidacy issue, Abdul Ghani said the retired army officer does not understand the ground.
“What does he know? He is a veteran. It is very simple. If Umno can do better than Ong, go ahead (to fight for the seat).”
He said the so-called 'solution' was just Iszeham's personal view out of his 'self-indulgence' (syok sendiri).
He hinted that Iszeham was bidding for his own chance to replace Ong, “now many are lobbying to become a candidate”.
Iszeham could not be reached for comment.
Abdul Ghani also pointed his finger at MCA president Chua Soi Lek who has yet to respond to this issue.
“The MCA president does not know the area. He is good at talking but does he know the ground?”
Create more problems if dropped
Abdul Ghani's stance was echoed by Pandan Gerakan division chief Lim Choong Meng.
“It is better to let Ong contest because he has the people's support. The people trust him,” he told Malaysiakini yesterday.
“He survived the 'political tsunami'. I believe he can sail through the next general election.”
Lim also worried about how would it affect BN's chance in Pandan should Ong be dropped.
“If BN changes the candidate, can they win the seat? This is a major problem.
“Should Ong contests as an independent, it would create more problems.”
Ong had insisted that he would continue to contest in Pandan “as long as I'm still a Malaysian citizen”.
Pandan MCA expresses reservations
However, Ong did not get the endorsement from his own party division.
Pandan MCA division chief Eric Ong Chen Huing appeared non-committal when asked about the issue.
“As division chairperson, I will give my full cooperation to all parliamentarians and state assemblypersons.
“At the same time I also respect the decision of the top leadership of MCA and Umno.”
The controversy surrounding Ong's candidacy intensified after Iszeham last Saturday proposed a 'solution' regarding the Pandan candidacy when meeting Najib.
While details of the 'solution' have not been revealed, it is no secret that Ong does not see eye-to-eye with Umno division leaders in his constituency. Hence the speculation that he may be on his way out.
Ong was first elected as Ampang Jaya MP in a by-election in 1989. He held the seat until 2004 when it was delineated into Ampang and Pandan, and Ong continued his term in Pandan.
In the 'political tsunami' that defeated many BN incumbents in 2008, Ong retained Pandan with a 2,692 majority and become the only MCA parliamentarian in Selangor.
He later failed to defend the MCA presidency in bitter polls last year, losing to Dr Chua Soi Lek. He eventually lost his post as transport minister as well.
Wednesday, February 16, 2011
Tee Keat: MCA politics not on my radar
Malaysiakini
Regina Lee
Feb 16, 11 10:39am
Fresh from vowing to defend his Pandan parliamentary seat even if BN drops him as candidate, former MCA president Ong Tee Keat is edging away from the nitty-gritty of party politics.
Appearing to show no signs of eagerness for the MCA election, Ong said he would rather focus attention on his constituency these days.
Asked to comment on the MCA central committee's recommendation for an extraordinary general meeting (EGM) to postpone the party polls, Ong said this was not on his 'radar'.
Many have said that MCA head Dr Chua Soi Lek has checkmated dissidents into submitting to an EGM, especially when rumours abound that Ong is planning to challenge the presidency.
“At this juncture, what's important and the pressing need is the Pandan agenda, the people's livelihoods and the macro issues,” Ong told reporters after his Chinese New Year open house in his constituency in Selangor last night.
“We need to look at the big issues impacting the nation, rather than to just focus on this so-called partisan exercise.”
Pressed further, he said he would rather “focus on the people” who gave him the mandate.
“I have no role to play in the EGM. So I want to keep clear of all this. My hands are full so I don't have time for politicking. If there is any politicking, count me out,” he later said.
If there are indications as to whether Pandan voters want Ong to defend the seat in the next general election, there was no need to look far.
At the open house held in SJKC On Pong 2, the predominantly Chinese visitors were greeted with several banners in support of Ong, with even one lambasting the MCA leadership.
In a recurring theme, speeches by 'representatives' of Pandan residents also pledged support for Ong to defend the seat.
“We still want Ong Tee Keat to be our MP for the next term,” said Pandan Residents Association representative Tong Man Yin.
Signature drive
A signature drive, claimed to be organised by 58 NGOs based in Pandan, has also been initiated with about 120 signatures already collected.
Pandan MCA Wanita chief Cindy Leong said the signatures, to be attached to a memorandum supporting Ong, will be handed to the prime minister next week.
The public backing for Ong has come after Pandan Umno division deputy chief Izeham A Hamid last Saturday proposed a 'solution' regarding the Pandan candidacy when meeting Prime Minister and BN chairperson Najib Abdul Razak.
While details of the 'solution' have not been revealed, it is no secret that Ong does not see eye to eye with Umno division leaders in his constituency. Hence the speculation that he may be on his way out.
Ong was first elected as Ampang Jaya MP in a by-election in 1989. He held the seat until 2004 when it was delineated into Ampang and Pandan, and Ong continued his term in Pandan.
In the 'political tsunami' that defeated many BN incumbents in 2008, Ong retained Pandan with 2,692 majority and become the only MCA parliamentarian in Selangor.
He later failed to defend the MCA presidency in bitter polls last year, losing to Chua. He eventually lost his post as transport minister as well.
Regina Lee
Feb 16, 11 10:39am
Appearing to show no signs of eagerness for the MCA election, Ong said he would rather focus attention on his constituency these days.
Asked to comment on the MCA central committee's recommendation for an extraordinary general meeting (EGM) to postpone the party polls, Ong said this was not on his 'radar'.
Many have said that MCA head Dr Chua Soi Lek has checkmated dissidents into submitting to an EGM, especially when rumours abound that Ong is planning to challenge the presidency.
“At this juncture, what's important and the pressing need is the Pandan agenda, the people's livelihoods and the macro issues,” Ong told reporters after his Chinese New Year open house in his constituency in Selangor last night.
“We need to look at the big issues impacting the nation, rather than to just focus on this so-called partisan exercise.”
Pressed further, he said he would rather “focus on the people” who gave him the mandate.
“I have no role to play in the EGM. So I want to keep clear of all this. My hands are full so I don't have time for politicking. If there is any politicking, count me out,” he later said.
If there are indications as to whether Pandan voters want Ong to defend the seat in the next general election, there was no need to look far.
At the open house held in SJKC On Pong 2, the predominantly Chinese visitors were greeted with several banners in support of Ong, with even one lambasting the MCA leadership.
In a recurring theme, speeches by 'representatives' of Pandan residents also pledged support for Ong to defend the seat.
Signature drive
A signature drive, claimed to be organised by 58 NGOs based in Pandan, has also been initiated with about 120 signatures already collected.
Pandan MCA Wanita chief Cindy Leong said the signatures, to be attached to a memorandum supporting Ong, will be handed to the prime minister next week.
The public backing for Ong has come after Pandan Umno division deputy chief Izeham A Hamid last Saturday proposed a 'solution' regarding the Pandan candidacy when meeting Prime Minister and BN chairperson Najib Abdul Razak.
While details of the 'solution' have not been revealed, it is no secret that Ong does not see eye to eye with Umno division leaders in his constituency. Hence the speculation that he may be on his way out.
Ong was first elected as Ampang Jaya MP in a by-election in 1989. He held the seat until 2004 when it was delineated into Ampang and Pandan, and Ong continued his term in Pandan.
In the 'political tsunami' that defeated many BN incumbents in 2008, Ong retained Pandan with 2,692 majority and become the only MCA parliamentarian in Selangor.
He later failed to defend the MCA presidency in bitter polls last year, losing to Chua. He eventually lost his post as transport minister as well.
Monday, February 14, 2011
Tee Keat vows to defend Pandan seat if dropped
Malaysiakini
Kuek Ser Kuang Keng
Feb 14, 11 6:09pm
Former MCA president Ong Tee Keat's supporters will mobilise support for him to defend the Pandan parliamentary seat, after the local Umno division implied they want him dropped as candidate for the next general election.
Qng tee keat pandan mp supporters dinner Over 1,200 supporters, including leaders of NGOs and community groups, have declared their support at a Chinese New Year dinner tonight in Pandan Indah, Selangor.
The 113-table buffet dinner is organised by the NGOs, which have invited Ong (right) as their guest of honour.
The momentum will grow tomorrow night when supporters are expected to unfurl banners of support at another 100-table Chinese New Year dinner hosted by Ong's service centre at SJK(C) On Pong 2.
ong tee keat pandan mp supporters dinner 3A signature campaign will also be launched during the dinner.
The supporters want BN to retain Ong as Pandan candidate in the next general election, for which the date has yet to be set.
Pandan Umno division deputy chief Izeham A Hamid had last Saturday proposed a solution regarding the Pandan candidacy when meeting Prime Minister and BN chairperson Najib Abdul Razak.
Izeham claimed that Najib (left) had agreed to the proposal, but the premier had refused to comment when asked about this later.
It is no secret that Ong does not see eye to eye with Umno division leaders in his constituency.
Keeping all options open
Yesterday Ong had said that Izeham has a right to express his views, but that he too has a right to contest the seat as a citizen.
ong tee keat pandan mp supporters dinner 5In the dinner tonight, Ong told the multi-racial crowd that he would defend his Pandan parliamentary seat if BN drops him from the line-up.
"I will contest as long as I'm still a Malaysian citizen."
However, when asked later by reporters whether he would contest as an independent, Ong dismissed the question. He said it was "far-fetched" to answer a hypothetical question at this point.
Other local NGO leaders who took the podium also expressed their support to Ong, saying that no matter what decision made by Umno or MCA regarding the candidacy of Pandan, they would only support Ong.
ong tee keat pandan mp supporters dinner 2Ong was first elected as Ampang Jaya MP in a by-election in 1989. He held the seat until 2004 when it was delineated into Ampang and Pandan, and Ong continued his term in Pandan.
In the 'political tsunami' that defeated many BN incumbents in 2008, Ong retained Pandan with 2,692 majority and become the only MCA parliamentarian in Selangor.
He later failed to defend his MCA presidency in last year party polls and eventually lost his ministerial post
Kuek Ser Kuang Keng
Feb 14, 11 6:09pm
Qng tee keat pandan mp supporters dinner Over 1,200 supporters, including leaders of NGOs and community groups, have declared their support at a Chinese New Year dinner tonight in Pandan Indah, Selangor.
The 113-table buffet dinner is organised by the NGOs, which have invited Ong (right) as their guest of honour.
ong tee keat pandan mp supporters dinner 3A signature campaign will also be launched during the dinner.
The supporters want BN to retain Ong as Pandan candidate in the next general election, for which the date has yet to be set.
Pandan Umno division deputy chief Izeham A Hamid had last Saturday proposed a solution regarding the Pandan candidacy when meeting Prime Minister and BN chairperson Najib Abdul Razak.
Izeham claimed that Najib (left) had agreed to the proposal, but the premier had refused to comment when asked about this later.
It is no secret that Ong does not see eye to eye with Umno division leaders in his constituency.
Keeping all options open
Yesterday Ong had said that Izeham has a right to express his views, but that he too has a right to contest the seat as a citizen.
ong tee keat pandan mp supporters dinner 5In the dinner tonight, Ong told the multi-racial crowd that he would defend his Pandan parliamentary seat if BN drops him from the line-up.
"I will contest as long as I'm still a Malaysian citizen."
However, when asked later by reporters whether he would contest as an independent, Ong dismissed the question. He said it was "far-fetched" to answer a hypothetical question at this point.
Other local NGO leaders who took the podium also expressed their support to Ong, saying that no matter what decision made by Umno or MCA regarding the candidacy of Pandan, they would only support Ong.
ong tee keat pandan mp supporters dinner 2Ong was first elected as Ampang Jaya MP in a by-election in 1989. He held the seat until 2004 when it was delineated into Ampang and Pandan, and Ong continued his term in Pandan.
In the 'political tsunami' that defeated many BN incumbents in 2008, Ong retained Pandan with 2,692 majority and become the only MCA parliamentarian in Selangor.
He later failed to defend his MCA presidency in last year party polls and eventually lost his ministerial post
Thursday, February 3, 2011
Hopes for health and happiness on CNY eve
Malay Mail
Nurfadhilah Jalaludin
Friday, February 4th, 2011 06:21:00
JENJAROM: The 1Malaysia spirit was evident at the Fo Guang Shan Dong Zen (FGS Dong Zen) temple here with three lanterns in the form of rabbits hoisted to represent the three major racial groups within the country.
Apart from celebrating the Year of the Rabbit, the temple reminded all of the need to preserve the earth with the theme "The Garden of Environmental and Spiritual Preservation" amid the backdrop of a giant lantern of the world.
Launched by former Transport Minister Datuk Seri Ong Tee Keat at the stroke of midnight, thousands of devotees then joined him and his family for prayers.
Chief of the Shrine, Venerable Jue Cheng, 51, of Johor Baru, said the temple adopts a recreational approach to encourage the younger generation to visit the temple.
Yiaw Yeong Huei, 20, of Klang, said he visits the temple every Chinese New Year.
"I came to make my wish in front of the Da Xiong Bao Dian deity and hope I will get good grades in my exams."
Another devotee, Soo Mei Yan, 24, prayed the floods down south will subside as many of her relatives live there. "I wish for my family's health and safety this Rabbit year."
Dorris Ng, 26, said: "I came here to make my wish for my family's health."
Every year, more than 20,000 people come to the temple on Chinese New Year eve. Activities include holding a lantern and a flora festival till Feb 20 as well as many programmes highlighting Chinese culture, arts, religious and education. Among them are Dharma talks, cultural shows, a photography contest and a costume parade.
Lanterns, courtesy of the Taipei Economic and Cultural Office, the Taoyuan province in Taiwan and the Buddha Memorial Hall, are also on display.
Admission is free and open from 10.30am to midnight. For more information, contact 03-31911533.
Nurfadhilah Jalaludin
Friday, February 4th, 2011 06:21:00
 |
| DEVOTION: Ong (second from right) leading the prayers at the temple |
Apart from celebrating the Year of the Rabbit, the temple reminded all of the need to preserve the earth with the theme "The Garden of Environmental and Spiritual Preservation" amid the backdrop of a giant lantern of the world.
Launched by former Transport Minister Datuk Seri Ong Tee Keat at the stroke of midnight, thousands of devotees then joined him and his family for prayers.
Chief of the Shrine, Venerable Jue Cheng, 51, of Johor Baru, said the temple adopts a recreational approach to encourage the younger generation to visit the temple.
Yiaw Yeong Huei, 20, of Klang, said he visits the temple every Chinese New Year.
"I came to make my wish in front of the Da Xiong Bao Dian deity and hope I will get good grades in my exams."
Another devotee, Soo Mei Yan, 24, prayed the floods down south will subside as many of her relatives live there. "I wish for my family's health and safety this Rabbit year."
Dorris Ng, 26, said: "I came here to make my wish for my family's health."
Every year, more than 20,000 people come to the temple on Chinese New Year eve. Activities include holding a lantern and a flora festival till Feb 20 as well as many programmes highlighting Chinese culture, arts, religious and education. Among them are Dharma talks, cultural shows, a photography contest and a costume parade.
Lanterns, courtesy of the Taipei Economic and Cultural Office, the Taoyuan province in Taiwan and the Buddha Memorial Hall, are also on display.
Admission is free and open from 10.30am to midnight. For more information, contact 03-31911533.
Monday, January 31, 2011
Show your support for Ong Tee Keat
The March 8, 2008 general election has changed the country's political landscape. In the poll, the electorate has made it crystal clear that they want a clean, accountable, transparent and corruption-free government. They want a government which can speak up for their aspirations and dreams.
Since the last general election, not many politicians have proven to possess such qualities. Many are only good at crafting beautiful rhetorics but fail in walking the talk. However, one man stood out heads and shoulders above your ordinary fare of politicians - Ong Tee Keat.
Tee Keat is known to be a combative leader who takes up the people's plight without fear or favour. PKFZ has embellished his credentials as a no-nonsense leader who abhors corrupt practices. Many are awed by his single-minded determination to wage a battle against powerful forces with links to even more powerful people - all in the name of justice for taxpayers.
But his efforts have made him many enemies who have selfish interests to safeguard. Some had conspired successfully to topple him as the president of the Malaysian Chinese Association (MCA) and the same sinister forces are hard at work to finish off Tee Keat for good politically .
As concerned citizens, we cannot allow the looters, insidious conspirators and traitors who subvert national interests to have it their way. The peoples' voice must be heard - here and now, not just during the general election. Now is the time to make your voice heard. Now is the time to stand up and be counted. Now is the time to showcase the People Power.
Show your support for Tee Keat by fill up the form. This is a non-partisan initiative. This is a People's Initiative. Because at the end of the day, it is YOU, the people who will be affected.
Thank you
FORM AVAILABLE HERE : http://people4otk.com/#
Since the last general election, not many politicians have proven to possess such qualities. Many are only good at crafting beautiful rhetorics but fail in walking the talk. However, one man stood out heads and shoulders above your ordinary fare of politicians - Ong Tee Keat.
Tee Keat is known to be a combative leader who takes up the people's plight without fear or favour. PKFZ has embellished his credentials as a no-nonsense leader who abhors corrupt practices. Many are awed by his single-minded determination to wage a battle against powerful forces with links to even more powerful people - all in the name of justice for taxpayers.
But his efforts have made him many enemies who have selfish interests to safeguard. Some had conspired successfully to topple him as the president of the Malaysian Chinese Association (MCA) and the same sinister forces are hard at work to finish off Tee Keat for good politically .
As concerned citizens, we cannot allow the looters, insidious conspirators and traitors who subvert national interests to have it their way. The peoples' voice must be heard - here and now, not just during the general election. Now is the time to make your voice heard. Now is the time to stand up and be counted. Now is the time to showcase the People Power.
Show your support for Tee Keat by fill up the form. This is a non-partisan initiative. This is a People's Initiative. Because at the end of the day, it is YOU, the people who will be affected.
Thank you
FORM AVAILABLE HERE : http://people4otk.com/#
Saturday, January 22, 2011
IT grad receives top award
The Sun
Sat, 22 Jan 2011
> Nine grads also received awards named in honour of Malaysia’s founding fathers and distinguished political figures
IT was a joyous occasion for over 600 graduates of Olympia College, Raffles Education Group when they were bestowed awards in various disciplines by guest of honour, Datuk Sri Ong Tee Keat, at the Palace of the Golden Horses Hotel on Dec 10.
Sat, 22 Jan 2011
> Nine grads also received awards named in honour of Malaysia’s founding fathers and distinguished political figures
IT was a joyous occasion for over 600 graduates of Olympia College, Raffles Education Group when they were bestowed awards in various disciplines by guest of honour, Datuk Sri Ong Tee Keat, at the Palace of the Golden Horses Hotel on Dec 10.
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| IT programme graduate Cheang Heng Hoong receiving the Tun Dr Mohamed Suffian bin Hashim Award – Best Student Award for Diploma in Information – from Ong at the recent Raffles Education Group Graduation Ceremony. |
Nine graduates in various disciplines also received awards named in honour of Malaysia’s founding fathers and distinguished political figures for their accomplishments in their studies.
In his address, Ong said: "Graduation day is the climax of many years of diligent and determined effort expended to attain the standard required for the conferment of your respective awards. I wish to first and foremost congratulate all those who are graduating today."
"The government under the leadership of Datuk Seri Najib Abdul Razak aspires after a knowledge-based and developed society with high income by 2020. It is the duty of institutions of higher learning, such as the Raffles Education Group in collaboration with its various international and local partners, to develop and impart the attributes, skills and knowledge to our human capital and help the nation achieve its aspirations for a progressive and continuously successful nation. I am confident that all of you who are graduating today will no doubt be contributing to nation-building in one way or another.
"I commend the tireless efforts of the Raffles Education Group and its member institutions in their endless journey to develop human capital in Malaysia and abroad."
"Education is also concerned with ensuring social cohesion and harmony in a society. In the context of a multiethnic-cultural-religious society such as Malaysia, the role it plays becomes even more pivotal, and I am happy to note that to this end, the Raffles Education Group sees it fit to ensure that the form of education and training being provided also emphasises respect, cooperation and tolerance in a multicultural-ethnic and religious setting," he added.
IT programme graduate, Cheang Heng Hoong, 25, received the Tun Dr Mohamed Suffian bin Hashim Award – Best Student Award for the Diploma in Information Technology (majoring in Software Programming).
Cheang, who had pursued the DIT programme full-time, said: "I am so excited to receive this award. I have learnt the foundation of computing knowledge, programming languages, and have also gained a deeper knowledge of the concepts of IT.
"I had a wonderful and memorable experience at Olympia College. I met many friends and the lecturers were very helpful."
On his future plans, Cheang said he wanted to keep learning and gaining experience in the IT industry.
The late Tun Dr Mohamed Suffian Hashim was born in Kota Kiri Lama, Perak in 1917, and was the son of a kadi. He schooled in Clifford School, Kuala Kangsar, after which he went on a Queen’s Scholarship to Cambridge University, from where he graduated in Arts and Law.
Lord President Suffian "has many firsts" to his credit, among which are, the first Malay to be awarded the Queen’s Scholarship; the first Malay to be recruited directly to the Malayan Civil Service; the first Malay to become a State Legal Adviser and then the Solicitor General of Malaysia during the colonial regime; the first chairman of the Higher Education Advisory Council of Malaysia and chairman of the Royal Commission of Salaries; and the first member of the judiciary to be honoured with a Doctorate in Law by the University of Singapore, although he also holds a Doctorate in Letters from the University of Malaya.
As pro-chancellor of the University of Malaya for more than 15 years, he was deeply involved in the cause of education with his comprehensive reports and concise comments on higher education, which are of immense value to educators.
Olympia College offers scholarships to needy and outstanding students. Scholarships available are the Olympia College Principal’s Scholarship for Deserving Students and the Winston Pereira Premium Scholarship for Excellence. Study/PTPTN loans can also be arranged. These are subject to terms and conditions.
Olympia offers Business Studies, Business Management, IT & Computing, Hotel Management, Secretarial Studies, Accounting and Finance, English Language and the MBA.
In his address, Ong said: "Graduation day is the climax of many years of diligent and determined effort expended to attain the standard required for the conferment of your respective awards. I wish to first and foremost congratulate all those who are graduating today."
"The government under the leadership of Datuk Seri Najib Abdul Razak aspires after a knowledge-based and developed society with high income by 2020. It is the duty of institutions of higher learning, such as the Raffles Education Group in collaboration with its various international and local partners, to develop and impart the attributes, skills and knowledge to our human capital and help the nation achieve its aspirations for a progressive and continuously successful nation. I am confident that all of you who are graduating today will no doubt be contributing to nation-building in one way or another.
"I commend the tireless efforts of the Raffles Education Group and its member institutions in their endless journey to develop human capital in Malaysia and abroad."
"Education is also concerned with ensuring social cohesion and harmony in a society. In the context of a multiethnic-cultural-religious society such as Malaysia, the role it plays becomes even more pivotal, and I am happy to note that to this end, the Raffles Education Group sees it fit to ensure that the form of education and training being provided also emphasises respect, cooperation and tolerance in a multicultural-ethnic and religious setting," he added.
IT programme graduate, Cheang Heng Hoong, 25, received the Tun Dr Mohamed Suffian bin Hashim Award – Best Student Award for the Diploma in Information Technology (majoring in Software Programming).
Cheang, who had pursued the DIT programme full-time, said: "I am so excited to receive this award. I have learnt the foundation of computing knowledge, programming languages, and have also gained a deeper knowledge of the concepts of IT.
"I had a wonderful and memorable experience at Olympia College. I met many friends and the lecturers were very helpful."
On his future plans, Cheang said he wanted to keep learning and gaining experience in the IT industry.
The late Tun Dr Mohamed Suffian Hashim was born in Kota Kiri Lama, Perak in 1917, and was the son of a kadi. He schooled in Clifford School, Kuala Kangsar, after which he went on a Queen’s Scholarship to Cambridge University, from where he graduated in Arts and Law.
Lord President Suffian "has many firsts" to his credit, among which are, the first Malay to be awarded the Queen’s Scholarship; the first Malay to be recruited directly to the Malayan Civil Service; the first Malay to become a State Legal Adviser and then the Solicitor General of Malaysia during the colonial regime; the first chairman of the Higher Education Advisory Council of Malaysia and chairman of the Royal Commission of Salaries; and the first member of the judiciary to be honoured with a Doctorate in Law by the University of Singapore, although he also holds a Doctorate in Letters from the University of Malaya.
As pro-chancellor of the University of Malaya for more than 15 years, he was deeply involved in the cause of education with his comprehensive reports and concise comments on higher education, which are of immense value to educators.
Olympia College offers scholarships to needy and outstanding students. Scholarships available are the Olympia College Principal’s Scholarship for Deserving Students and the Winston Pereira Premium Scholarship for Excellence. Study/PTPTN loans can also be arranged. These are subject to terms and conditions.
Olympia offers Business Studies, Business Management, IT & Computing, Hotel Management, Secretarial Studies, Accounting and Finance, English Language and the MBA.
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