Here in My Home

Kereta Jahat

This is the last addition to the Perodua family, Perodua Nautica (or Naughty Car or Kereta Jahat) which cost a whopping RM89,900.

More review at http://www.motortrader.com.my/NUS/articles/article_1397/page_m.asp.

I am waiting for the test drive report...

马来西亚华人的心声 The Aspiration of Malaysian Chinese

So, what do you think?

source: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bmsszXGQ8WY&feature=related

Saddam in McDonald Kuching

Source: http://www.kennysia.com/

The Tun Quits The UMNO 2

Mokhzani quits Umno

ALOR STAR: Former Kedah Umno treasurer Datuk Mokhzani Mahathir and former Kota Setar MP Dr Abdul Hadi Derani are among Umno members who have quit the party.

Mokhzani said he hoped Datuk Seri Abdullah Ahmad Badawi would step down as the party president before more Umno members leave the party in protest.

Former Prime Minister Tun Dr Mahathir Mohamad who quit the party on Monday had called on other members to follow suit to show their vote of no confidence in Abdullah’s leadership.

Mokhzani, a member of the Sungai Layar Hujung Umno branch for 22 years, submitted his letter of resignation to the Merbok division on Tuesday while Dr Abdul Hadi submitted his resignation letter to the Pokok Sena division, also on the same day.

Mokhzani said mass resignation has created a ripple in Umno.

“A tsunami starts with a ripple.

“I do not see how the crisis could be resolved by the present leadership. We need a new leader,” said Mokhzani when contacted Wednesday.

Some 300-odd members of Umno Jalan Badlishah branch in Merbok were among the first to quit en masse followed by another 156 members from Sri Tanjung branch in Pokok Sena and about 2,000 members in Gombak.

It is learnt about 2,000 more from five branches in Pokok Sena namely Langgar, Limbong, Tasak, Taman Teratai and Kampung Bersatu would be submitting their resignation letters in stages within the next few days.

Mokhzani said a leadership change in Umno must happen quickly before more members quit.

“The Opposition is aggressively wooing those who have quit Umno,” he said.

Kedah Umno liaison committee chairman Mahdzir Khalid had in early 2006 dismissed Mokhzani as state party treasurer.

Asked if he would rejoin Umno if Abdullah steps down, Mokhzani said “Insya Allah (God willing)”.

“For the time being I prefer to be with the larger group of Malaysians who are not aligned to any political parties,” he said.

On Tuesday, Umno Youth exco member and Jerlun MP Datuk Mukhriz, who is also Mokhzani's brother, had announced that he will not quit the party.

He however called on Prime Minister and Umno president Datuk Seri Abdullah Ahmad Badawi to resign.

Source: http://thestar.com.my/news/story.asp?file=/2008/5/21/nation/20080521095840&sec=nation

The Tun Quits The UMNO --- So what?

The following statement are extracted from chedet.com

Pengumuman Keluar Dari UMNO

"Hari ini, Mei 19, 2008 saya mengumumkan keputusan saya untuk keluar daripada UMNO. Isteri saya turut bersama".

Mr. Krab's Comment: So what? That is not my problem.

Keputusan ini dibuat kerana UMNO yang ada sekarang bukan lagi UMNO yang ditubuh 62 tahun dahulu yang berjuang untuk bangsa Melayu, Agama Islam dan Negara Malaysia (Malaya); UMNO yang menggagalkan Malayan Union, memperjuangkan kemerdekaan Malaya dan Malaysia dan membangunkan Malaysia sehingga menjadi Negara yang termaju di antara Negara membangun di dunia.

"UMNO yang ada sekarang hanya wujud untuk menyokong Dato Seri Abdullah Ahmad Badawi, keluarganya dan tindakan serta dasar yang tidak secocok dengan kepentingan bangsa, agama dan negara".

Mr. Krab's Comment: Again, so what? Did you know that "Kewujudan BN Sarawak (not only one political party leh) adalah untuk menyokong Pak Uban, ahli-ahli keluarganya, dalam and luar negeri serta "abang-adik" -nya"? That is why you see when the BN Sabah's MP is planning for an "Operation Moving House", the Sarawakian do nothing.

"Kepimpinan Dato Seri Abdullah jelas membawa kekalahan dan bencana kepada Barisan Nasional, UMNO, MCA, MIC, Gerakan dan PPP. Kemenangan UMNO di Sabah dan BN di Sarawak bukan kerana kepimpinan Dato Seri Abdullah".

Mr. Krab's Comment: Of course kemenangan BN di Sarawak bukan kepimpinana Pak Lah. Is Pak Uban lah!

Saya akan jelas satu persatu dasar-dasar dan tindakan Dato Seri Abdullah yang menjadikan Kerajaan pimpinannya dan parti BN dibenci oleh ahli-ahli parti komponen sendiri.

Walaupun sebelum perisytiharan ini saya adalah ahli UMNO tetapi sebenarnya selepas saya letak jawatan sebagai Perdana Menteri saya tidak dilayan sebagai ahli UMNO.

Saya tidak dibenarkan berjumpa ahli UMNO dan ahli UMNO tidak dibenarkan hadir apa-apa perhimpunan di mana saya dijemput sebagai jurucakap atau penyampai ucapan.

Menteri-Menteri yang dahulu berada dalam Kabinet saya tidak dibenarkan atau tidak berani atau tidak mahu jumpa saya lagi.

Jemputan oleh UMNO dan bukan UMNO kepada saya diarah ditarik balik oleh Mneteri Besar dan Polis.

Ramai pemimpin UMNO melepaskan kata-kata kesat kepada saya dan ada yang menyuruh saya keluar daripada UMNO walaupun mereka baru sahaja masuk UMNO. Tidak ada pemimpin UMNO yang pertahankan saya secara terbuka.

Wakil ke Perhimpunan Agong tidak dibenarkan menyuara pendapat mereka. Mulut semua orang ditutup.

Yang didengar hanyalah media arus perdana yang memuji Dato Seri Abdullah sehingga dia percaya dia begitu popular dan akan sapu bersih parti lawan dalam pilihanraya umum ke-12.

Hasilnya ialah kekalahan yang teruk bagi Barisan Nasional. Malangnya mesej yang hendak disampaikan oleh pengundi dan penyokong BN tidak dapat difahami oleh Dato Seri Abdullah.

Dia masih berkata dia menang. Ini sukar diterima oleh orang Kedah, orang Pulau Pinang, orang Perak, Selangor dan Wilayah Persekutuan.

Oleh kerana Dato Seri Abdullah buta mata dan pekak telinga dan tidak faham mesej ahli BN, oleh kerana ahli UMNO pun turut bersama, oleh kerana proses demokrasi tidak berjalan, oleh kerana UMNO yang ada sekarang bukan lagi UMNO yang ditubuhkan 62 tahun dahulu, saya berpendapat penyertaan saya sebagai ahli UMNO tidak bermakna dan tidak berguna lagi.

Justeru itu saya ingin umumkan bahawa saya sudah keluar daripada UMNO.

Saya ingin tegaskan bahawa saya bebas dan tidak menyokong mana-mana parti lawan.

Saya akan pohon untuk masuk UMNO apabila Dato Seri Abdullah Ahmad Badawi sudah berhenti daripada menjadi Presiden UMNO, Pengerusi BN dan Perdana Menteri Malaysia.

Dr Mahathir bin Mohamad (bekas ahli UMNO No 1)
Dr Siti Hasmah binti Mohd Ali (bekas ahli UMNO No 2)

Mr. Karb's comment: Again and again so what? Live with it, you are just a common rakyat with a respectable title of "Tun" . You will feel better after this "denial stage". After all, it is understandable that you was being "puji" for the past 20 odd years.

八荣八耻

The Original Version:

胡锦涛提出的“八荣八耻”：

以热爱祖国为荣； 以危害祖国为耻。
以服务人民为荣；以背离人民为耻。
以崇尚科学为荣； 以愚昧无知为耻。
以辛勤劳动为荣； 以好逸恶劳为耻。
以团结互助为荣； 以损人利己为耻。
以诚实守信为荣； 以见利忘义为耻。
以遵纪守法为荣； 以违法乱纪为耻。
以艰苦奋斗为荣； 以骄奢淫逸为耻。

The revised version for Women:

以饭后洗碗为荣，以不做家务为耻.
以按时回家为荣，以彻夜不归为耻.
以和睦婆媳为荣，以刁难他人为耻.
以照顾小孩为荣，以整天去玩为耻.
以听老公话为荣，以指挥老公为耻.
以温柔体贴为荣，以泼辣刁蛮为耻.
以精打细算为荣，以铺张浪费为耻.　
以科学保养为荣，以乱吃零食为耻.

China 2007?

这年头，

大棚把季节搞乱，
小姐把辈份搞乱，
关系把程序搞乱，
级别把能力搞乱，
公安把秩序搞乱，
金钱把官场搞乱，
手机把家庭搞乱！

这年头，
女人漂亮的不下厨房，
下厨房的不温柔，
温柔的没主见，
有主见的没女人味，
有女人味的乱花钱，
不乱花钱的不时尚，
时尚的不放心，
放心的没法看！

这年头，
老婆像小灵通经济实惠但限本地使用，
二奶像中国电信安全固定但带不出门，
小蜜像中国移动使用方便但话费太贵。
情人像中国联通优雅新潮但常不在服务区！

这年头，
一哥们说北京地铁拥挤不堪他怀孕的老婆竟被挤流产了；
昨天他问上海的地铁是不是好些，
上海的哥们说更糟：
上个月他老婆乘地铁竟然被挤怀孕了！

这年头，
教授摇唇鼓舌，
四处赚钱，
越来越像商人；
商人现身讲坛，
著书立说，
越来越像教授。
医生见死不救，
草菅人命，
越来越像杀手；
杀手出手麻利，
不留后患，
越来越像医生。
明星卖弄风骚，
给钱就上，
越来越像妓女；
妓女楚楚动人，
明码标价，
越来越像明星。
警察横行霸道，
欺软怕硬，
越来越像地痞；
地痞各霸一方，
敢做敢当，
越来越像警察。

这年头，
军委领导说解放军的工资如果翻四倍可以打美国，
翻三倍可以打日本，
翻两倍可以打台湾，
翻一倍可以回家打老婆，

Dalai Lama statements: 28th March 2008

The following is an appeal from the Dalai Lama to the Chinese people following protests in Tibet, March 28th 2008.

Today, I extend heartfelt greetings to my Chinese brothers and sisters round the world, particularly to those in the People's Republic of China. In the light of the recent developments in Tibet, I would like to share with you my thoughts concerning relations between the Tibetan and Chinese peoples, and to make a personal appeal to you all.

I am deeply saddened by the loss of life in the recent tragic events in Tibet. I am aware that some Chinese have also died. I feel for the victims and their families and pray for them. The recent unrest has clearly demonstrated the gravity of the situation in Tibet and the urgent need to seek a peaceful and mutually beneficial solution through dialogue. Even at this juncture I have expressed my willingness to the Chinese authorities to work together to bring about peace and stability.

Chinese brothers and sisters, I assure you I have no desire to seek Tibet's separation. Nor do I have any wish to drive a wedge between the Tibetan and Chinese peoples. On the contrary my commitment has always been to find a genuine solution to the problem of Tibet that ensures the long-term interests of both Chinese and Tibetans. My primary concern, as I have repeated time and again, is to ensure the survival of the Tibetan people's distinctive culture, language and identity. As a simple monk who strives to live his daily life according to Buddhist precepts, I assure you of the sincerity of my motivation.

I have appealed to the leadership of the PRC to clearly understand my position and work to resolve these problems by "seeking truth from facts." I urge the Chinese leadership to exercise wisdom and to initiate a meaningful dialogue with the Tibetan people. I also appeal to them to make sincere efforts to contribute to the stability and harmony of the PRC and avoid creating rifts between the nationalities. The state media's portrayal of the recent events in Tibet, using deceit and distorted images, could sow the seeds of racial tension with unpredictable long-term consequences. This is of grave concern to me. Similarly, despite my repeated support for the Beijing Olympics, the Chinese authorities, with the intention of creating rift between the Chinese people and myself, assert that I am trying to sabotage the games. I am encouraged, however, that several Chinese intellectuals and scholars have also expressed their strong concern about the Chinese leadership's actions and the potential for adverse long-term consequences, particularly on relations among different nationalities.

Since ancient times, Tibetan and Chinese peoples have lived as neighbors. In the two thousand year-old recorded history of our peoples, we have at times developed friendly relations, even entering into matrimonial alliances, while at other times we fought each other. However, since Buddhism flourished in China first before it arrived in Tibet from India, we Tibetans have historically accorded the Chinese people the respect and affection due to elder Dharma brothers and sisters. This is something well known to members of the Chinese community living outside China, some of whom have attended my Buddhist lectures, as well as pilgrims from mainland China, whom I have had the privilege to meet. I take heart from these meetings and feel they may contribute to a better understanding between our two peoples.

The twentieth century witnessed enormous changes in many parts of the world and Tibet, too, was caught up in this turbulence. Soon after the founding of the People's Republic of China in 1949, the People's Liberation Army entered Tibet finally resulting in the 17-Point Agreement concluded between China and Tibet in May 1951. When I was in Beijing in 1954-55, attending the National People's Congress, I had the opportunity to meet and develop a personal friendship with many senior leaders, including Chairman Mao himself. In fact, Chairman Mao gave me advice on numerous issues, as well as personal assurances with regard to the future of Tibet. Encouraged by these assurances, and inspired by the dedication of many of China's revolutionary leaders of the time, I returned to Tibet full of confidence and optimism. Some Tibetan members of the Communist Party also had such a hope. After my return to Lhasa, I made every possible effort to seek genuine autonomy for Tibet within the family of the People's Republic of China (PRC). I believed that this would best serve the long-term interests of both the Tibetan and Chinese peoples.

Unfortunately, tensions, which began to escalate in Tibet from around 1956, eventually led to the peaceful uprising of March 10, 1959, in Lhasa and my eventual escape into exile. Although many positive developments have taken place in Tibet under the PRC's rule, these developments, as the previous Panchen Lama pointed out in January 1989, were overshadowed by immense suffering and extensive destruction. Tibetans were compelled to live in a state of constant fear, while the Chinese government remained suspicious of them. However, instead of cultivating enmity towards the Chinese leaders responsible for the ruthless suppression of the Tibetan people, I prayed for them to become friends, which I expressed in the following lines in a prayer I composed in 1960, a year after I arrived in India: "May they attain the wisdom eye discerning right and wrong, And may they abide in the glory of friendship and love." Many Tibetans, school children among them, recite these lines in their daily prayers.

In 1974, following serious discussions with my Kashag (cabinet), as well as the Speaker and the Deputy Speaker of the then Assembly of the Tibetan People's Deputies, we decided to find a Middle Way that would seek not to separate Tibet from China, but would facilitate the peaceful development of Tibet. Although we had no contact at the time with the PRC - which was in the midst of the Cultural Revolution - we had already recognized that sooner or later, we would have to resolve the question of Tibet through negotiations. We also acknowledged that, at least with regard to modernization and economic development, it would greatly benefit Tibet if it remained within the PRC. Although Tibet has a rich and ancient cultural heritage, it is materially undeveloped.

Situated on the roof of the world, Tibet is the source of many of Asia's major rivers, therefore, protection of the environment on the Tibetan plateau is of supreme importance. Since our utmost concern is to safeguard Tibetan Buddhist culture - rooted as it is in the values of universal compassion - as well as the Tibetan language and the unique Tibetan identity, we have worked whole-heartedly towards achieving meaningful self-rule for all Tibetans. The PRC's constitution provides the right for nationalities such as the Tibetans to do this.

In 1979, the then Chinese paramount leader, Deng Xiaoping assured my personal emissary that "except for the independence of Tibet, all other questions can be negotiated." Since we had already formulated our approach to seeking a solution to the Tibetan issue within the constitution of the PRC, we found ourselves well placed to respond to this new opportunity. My representatives met many times with officials of the PRC. Since renewing our contacts in 2002, we have had six rounds of talks. However, on the fundamental issue, there has been no concrete result at all. Nevertheless, as I have declared many times, I remain firmly committed to the Middle Way approach and reiterate here my willingness to continue to pursue the process of dialogue.

This year the Chinese people are proudly and eagerly awaiting the opening of the Olympic Games. I have, from the start, supported Beijing's being awarded the opportunity to host the Games. My position remains unchanged. China has the world's largest population, a long history and an extremely rich civilization. Today, due to her impressive economic progress, she is emerging as a great power. This is certainly to be welcomed. But China also needs to earn the respect and esteem of the global community through the establishment of an open and harmonious society based on the principles of transparency, freedom, and the rule of law. For example, to this day victims of the Tiananmen Square tragedy that adversely affected the lives of so many Chinese citizens have received neither just redress nor any official response. Similarly, when thousands of ordinary Chinese in rural areas suffer injustice at the hands of exploitative and corrupt local officials, their legitimate complaints are either ignored or met with aggression. I express these concerns both as a fellow human being and as someone who is prepared to consider himself a member of the large family that is the People's Republic of China. In this respect, I appreciate and support President Hu Jintao's policy of creating a "harmonious society", but this can only arise on the basis of mutual trust and an atmosphere of freedom, including freedom of speech and the rule of law. I strongly believe that if these values are embraced, many important problems relating to minority nationalities can be resolved, such as the issue of Tibet, as well as Eastern Turkistan, and Inner Mongolia, where the native people now constitute only 20% of a total population of 24 million.

I had hoped President Hu Jintao's recent statement that the stability and safety of Tibet concerns the stability and safety of the country might herald the dawning of a new era for the resolution of the problem of Tibet. It is unfortunate that despite my sincere efforts not to separate Tibet from China, the leaders of the PRC continue to accuse me of being a "separatist". Similarly, when Tibetans in Lhasa and many other areas spontaneously protested to express their deep-rooted resentment, the Chinese authorities immediately accused me of having orchestrated their demonstrations. I have called for a thorough investigation by a respected body to look into this allegation.

Chinese brothers and sisters - wherever you may be - with deep concern I appeal to you to help dispel the misunderstandings between our two communities. Moreover, I appeal to you to help us find a peaceful, lasting solution to the problem of Tibet through dialogue in the spirit of understanding and accommodation.

With my prayers,

Dalai Lama

March 28, 2008

Note: translated from the Tibetan original

(www.tibet.net is the official website of the Central Tibetan Administration.)

Our voice?

Sarawak State Assembly suspends DAP assemblyman

KUCHING: The State Assembly has suspended the DAP’s Kota Sentosa assemblyman Chong Chieng Jen for making unfair remarks in public against Speaker Datuk Mohd Asfia Awang Nassar.

Forty-seven members voted in favour of Chong’s suspension while seven others voted against it.

Acting Speaker John Sikie said Chong would be suspended for the entire current session (including the next sitting) unless he apologised in writing to Mohd Asfia and sends copies to the media.

In moving the motion, Deputy Chief Minister Tan Sri Alfred Jabu said Chong had breached Section 24 (1) of the Dewan Undangan Negeri (Privileges & Powers) Ordinance 2007 by making public statements that “would bring the Speaker into public ridicule, disrepute and odium”.

Chong’s statements were published in See Hua Daily News and Sin Chiew Jit Poh on May 10. Jabu said Chong was reported by See Hua Daily as saying that he felt sad to see that the Speaker was still unable to learn to be neutral, and as an Opposition member he would continue to teach him to be a fair Speaker.

Sin Chew, said Jabu, quoted Chong as saying that the DAP would continue to teach the Speaker on how to be fair.

Jabu said Chong’s act was serious.

Defending himself, Chong, who is the also the Bandar Kuching MP, claimed that the Speaker was too protective of Chief Minister Tan Sri Abdul Taib Mahmud.

Chong and the five other DAP assemblymen walked out of the House in protest after the motion was adopted.

Source: http://thestar.com.my/news/story.asp?file=/2008/5/14/nation/21242441&sec=nation

Comments

Regardless of what Jabu says, sometime when looking at the behavior of certain YBs (both BN and Opposition alike), it is really disgusting. Dear YBs, can you all think first before you speak out or act?

p/s: Our "Voice" suppose to help the us to address far more important issues in the State Assembly as well as the Parliament NOT talking crab like me.

The Eagle and The Rabbit Incidents

Sex and the Malaysian

PETALING JAYA: Malaysians do not have enough orgasms, according to the latest findings of the Durex Sexual Wellbeing Global Survey.

Only 44% of Malaysians manage to achieve an orgasm almost every time they have sex. Malaysians however are ahead of the Singaporeans, of whom only 36% usually manage an orgasm.

Gender-wise, 62% of Malaysian males almost always climax during sex while women get a raw deal, with only 25% almost always achieving orgasm.

Globally, the leaders are the Italians, Spaniards, Mexicans and South Africans who are most likely to climax every time with 66% usually managing to hit the sweet spot.

Least likely to achieve an orgasm are mainland Chinese and people from Hong Kong (both 24%), followed closely by the Japanese (27%).

Reproductive and sexual health specialist Dr Mohd Ismail Mohd Tambi said that while orgasms are not the be all and end all of sex, regularly achieving orgasms improves emotional and overall well-being.

"If you want to have an orgasm, it is important that you allow yourself to surrender to the good feelings you are experiencing. Relaxation is crucial," he said.

Dr Mohd Ismail said work worries should also be left outside the bedroom, and couples needed to have protected and uninterrupted time.

The survey also found that 86% of Malaysians who have frequent orgasms feel sexually at ease with themselves.

The survey was conducted among 26,000 people in 26 countries of which 1,026 were Malaysians. They were questioned on key aspects of their sex lives such as health, education, beliefs, attitudes to sex and social circumstances.

Source: http://thestar.com.my/news/story.asp?file=/2008/5/1/nation/20080501171313&sec=nation

Abdul Taib Mahmud (a comment from Wikipedia)

Pehin Sri Dr. Haji Abdul Taib bin Mahmud (born 21 May 1936 in Miri, Sarawak, Malaysia) is the current Chief Minister of Sarawak of Melanau descent.

Personal life and education

He undertook his early schooling at the St. Joseph's Schools in Miri and Kuching, before receiving a Bachelor of Laws from the University of Adelaide in South Australia in 1960.

Returning to Sarawak, he worked in the judiciary until 1963 when he joined the State Legislative Council of Sarawak, where he held various ministries in Sarawak and the Malaysian Parliament, before succeeding his uncle, Abdul Rahman Ya'kub, as the Chief Minister of Sarawak.

He is the father of Sulaiman Abdul Rahman Taib. He is better known as "Bai Mao"(白毛) in Chinese which means "White Hair". Among Malay speaking communities, he is known as "Pak Uban", which translates as "Old Man with White Hair". Being the Chief Minister of Sarawak for almost 27 years, he has successfully and securely made
Sarawak as a kingdom of corruption.

Corruption and Sarawak's logging industry

Charges of deep corruption have surrounded Taib Mahmud on numerous occasions and the dominance of Sarawak's political elite including Taib Mahmud's family in the logging industry is well documented ^[1]. Most recently a foreign wire agency reported on March 29 that Taib has been implicated in a 1.1 billion yen (RM32 million) timber export kickbacks.^[2] It said nine Japanese shipping companies, which transported timber from Sarawak, had allegedly failed to report some 1.1 billion yen in income over a period of up to seven years.The report claimed the money was paid as kickbacks to Sarawak officials via a Hong Kong agent linked to Taib and his family.

The results of the logging industry under Taib Mahmud is that less than 10% of Sarawak's primary forests remain, logging many of the ancestral lands of many of Sarawak's indigenous communities, despite their continued petitions and road blockades ^[3] where forceful dismantling has led to several deaths and regular violent coersion by the Malaysian army, police and logging company enforcers ^[4].

Ever since good Prime Minister Abdullah Ahmad Badawi’s exciting anti-corruption programme saw the arrest of Eric Chia and Kasitah Gaddam, “Why only hunt ikan bilis in KL and Sabah? Why not also audit some bigger fish in Sarawak?” For example, many know that the Chief Minister (CM) of Sarawak since 1981, Pehin Sri Abdul Taib Mahmud’s family, has a rags to riches story. Abdul Taib Mahmud insists his family made their money via hard work in business. But many observers remain sceptical and wonder how his siblings and children came into all that wealth, both locally and overseas.

Born into impoverished circumstances in 1936, Abdul Taib Mahmud is an ethnic Muslim-Melanau who traces an aristocratic link to the Royal Court of Brunei. But since becoming CM, Taib has been previously described, at various times, by the international media in the following terms: He is “flamboyant with expensive tastes” and is said to have “purchased the piano of the late American showman Liberace for close to US$2 million”. He “lives in a well-guarded palatial home in Kuching and rides in a cream-coloured Rolls Royce. A dapper dresser, he is partial to double-breasted suits and sports a ring with a walnut-sized red gem surrounded by small diamonds”. Presently, he lives in a palatial private estate outside Kuching along Jalan Bako in a choice location called Demak Laut fronting the Sarawak river.

In the late-1980s, clients loyal to Taib collectively were estimated to control 1.6 million hectares of timber concessions. By 2000, Mahmud family members had major investments not only in Sarawak and Malaysia but also in other parts of the world. Taib Mahmud’s sons, Sulaiman Abdul Rahman Taib and Mahmud Abu Bekir Taib, are the two key directors of Cahya Mata Sarawak (CMS), a multi-million ringgit financial and infrastructure conglomerate listed on the KLSE that thrives because it receives lots of patronage projects from the Sarawak government via PPES Works, a CMS subsidiary company jointly owned with the State government. CMS also owns Bank Utama that engineered a reverse takeover of RHB Bank in 2003. And CMS continues to eye the Bakun mega-project.

Abdul Taib Mahmud’s spouse, Laila Taib, and his children are the majority shareholders of Sitehost Pty. Ltd., Australia, a company which owns the Adelaide Hilton Hotel. Company records dated December 2000 show them holding 95 percent of the company or 9.5 million fully paid up shares of Sitehost. Onn Mahmud (Taib Mahmud’s brother), Taib’s daughter Jamilah Hamidah Taib and her husband Sean Murray, are listed as director-shareholders of SAKTO Corporation, a major real estate operator of non-residential buildings in Ottawa, owning and managing over half a million square feet of prime office space with affiliate offices in the US, Asia, the UK and Australia. As well, they own SAKTO Development Corporation, a multi-million dollar development and construction company in Ottawa, while Jamilah is the sole director of SAKTO Investment Corporation.

Now, it may well be that the Mahmud family is one of the best and most astute business families in Malaysia. And more power to them on that account. But much of their known wealth has arisen during the tenure of Abdul Taib Mahmud as Sarawak CM. Is there then any wonder why there exists so much public scepticism about the sources of Abdul Taib Mahmud’s family wealth? Would not a transparent audit do well to quash such obviously unscrupulous rumours once and for all?

Corruption and Nepotism

In 2008, Mahmud gave his son Sulaiman a seat in the Malaysian parliament. After the son was elected, he was made a deputy federal minister despite not having any political experience. It is almost certain that the son would not even have a political career if the father was not the chief minister. Mahmud's sister Roziah is one of the most powerful businesswoman in Sarawak with extensive holdings in property and timber business.Mahmud's brother in law, Tan Sri Aziz Hussain, was appointed state secretary by Mahmud and when he retires, Mahmud appointed him executive director of Sarawak Energy and other companies.

Source: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Abdul_Taib_Mahmud

A Small Part of Taib Mahmud & Family's Corporate Empire

The Taib family group of timber companies has provided funds for the chief minister to become vastly wealthy and to reward or buy political loyalty, including that of Iban leaders.

However, the sum total of the Taib family’s personal wealth seeking and patronage activities goes far beyond the timber sector. The family runs a well-diversified financial empire with interests in building materials, construction and finance.While timber holdings are important, it is in the context of their allowing the Taib family to multiply its wealth and satisfy patronage objectives that the family's control of 20 timber concessions should be understood. Detailing the Taib family’s non-timber economic activities is an important undertaking because it demonstrates the extent to which rent from Sarawak’s forests is recycled to meet the financial and political objectives of the Taib clan, rather than being formally captured by the government.

Source:http://www.malaysia-today.net/2008/content/view/6909/84/

Some thought:

The "Tahi" (shit in Malays) has been around and roaming the street and jungle of the land of the hornhill for donkey years. It is an open secret in this petroleum and timber rich State as to the "integrity" of this "First" family. Ironically, for donkey years, the people of Sarawak are not able to do anything to change the status quo. Firstly, the Tahis were being "protected" by the former PM until the Shit grow so big that the present PM hardly can stand nearby let alone rock this big pile of shit. To make the matter worse, now the old Shit and give birth to a little shit whom the "wise" electorates of Samarahan had their given support to and whom has become an MP of Malaysia at the recent March 8 General Election. What a shame the police and ACA is doing nothing. I think many of us who just simply give up and decided to leave the stupid place for good.

Permission To Rest

Finally reached Wujiang of Jiangsu Province yesterday after a tiring 12 hours door-to-door journey.

Read an article during the flight regarding slowing down in our life and experience life. It is really "mind-opening". Interest enough to note that France people only work for a 35 hours week. If they are unemployed, the Government will still pay them 80% of their last drawn salary for a period of up to 23 months. Medical bills are also borne by the Government and retirees can even have their glasses changed for free. Furthermore, if French are still entitle to something called "Depression Leave" for as along as 2 weeks should they encounter stress at work place. However, French people, even though they work 35 hours per week, are more productive than Americans or British. Germans have established 28.8 hour workweeks and have seen their productivity been driven up by 20%. Emm...

More interesting extract...

No-rush attitude doesn’t represent doing less or having a lower productivity. It means working and doing things with greater quality, productivity, perfection, with attention to detail and less stress. It means reestablishing family values, friends, free and leisure time. Taking the “now”, present and concrete, versus the “global”, undefined and anonymous. It means taking humans’ essential values, the simplicity of living.

It stands for a less coercive work environment, more happy, lighter and more productive where humans enjoy doing what they know best how to do. It’s time to stop and think on how companies need to develop serious quality with no-rush that will increase productivity and the quality of products and services, without losing the essence of spirit.

Many of us live our lives running behind time, but we only reach it when we die of a heart attack or in a car accident rushing to be on time. Others are so anxious of living the future that they forget to live the present, which is the only time that truly exists. We all have equal time throughout the world. No one has more or less. The difference lies in how each one of us does with our time. We need to live each moment. As John Lennon said, “Life is what happens to you while you’re busy making other plans”.

Also check out this interesting web site at http://www.slowdownnow.org/

Slow Down And Experience Life (By Robin Skeen)

Do you suppose you and I are the only people who are way too busy and always trying to do too much? Probably not. But it sure feels that way sometimes. You know the feeling when you're in the middle of something and your mind is already on the next thing? That doesn't leave any room to enjoy the present experience does it? If it has been a long time since you've really experienced life, then it is definitely time slow down before it whizzes on by.

Here are a few things that I have found to be helpful when I'm under the illusion that I am Wonder Woman. Well, I AM, but you know what I mean. I am constantly wondering what it is I have forgotten to do or what I shouldn't have done!

First, you have to ask yourself if you are getting into a rut. If you have forgotten to laugh, well it's no longer fun. I have to remind myself that I have to stop trying to control the things that I have no control over. The only person I can change is me. I have found that if I make a pact with myself to actually enjoy being with my friends, or whatever it is, my brain will stop making lists and worrying about the next project. The main thing is, stop being so serious. Turn off the cell phone once in awhile. Turn off the computer (not now, keep reading).

Secondly, for just this week give your entire attention to something you enjoy. It's okay to let your mind wander on its own and get clear of the clutter. For just a couple times a week, let the obligations take care of themselves and see if you like it. I find it revitalizing and feel better able to keep myself on track when I do this.

Another clue that you need to slow down is when the little things start to seem way more important than they really are. So the spouse didn't put the breakfast plate in the dishwasher. Viewed in proper context, this really is not a big deal. Stopping for a moment to remind yourself of this will be a much better start to your day. I know that's not an easy thing to do at times, but there are way worse things. Concentrate on what you appreciate about your spouse instead.

Something that really helps is to start each day with the goal of eliminating items on your list and vowing to create your own day. You are in charge. You are the manager of your life. No one else is in charge that you can fire for mismanaging things. Stay focused in the present and the rest WILL take care of itself.


Author's Bio

Robin lives in the lovely state of Ohio, USA. She is a freelance writer and her website contains her reflections on inspired personal growth - transforming body, mind and spirit so you can live your best life NOW! To find out more, visit today at www.robinskeen.com and check back on a regular basis for free reports and eBooks.

The above is extracted from http://www.selfgrowth.com/articles/How%20To%20Slow%20Down%20And%20Experience%20Life.html

Mr. CraB's Day 1 @ 30April 2008

Well, finally Mr. CraB has been created after a bit of hassle. Initially, I want to name this blog as "出差行者" which means business traveler in mandarin. On second thought, I think it would be more appropriate to name it as Mr CraB as most of the time I will be talking crab here.

Tomorrow, I will be flying again. Another tour of duty to mainland China. Clocked up 60 days so far in PRC from 1.1.2008. Still within the targeted range i.e. not more than 50% of my time to be spent on the soil of PRC for tax planning purpose.

I will be flying to Jiangsu Province via Shanghai tomorrow. Stay there for few days. Then "detour" to the provincial capital of Fujian on the following Monday. Hang around for another few days. Detour again to Quanzhou. And hopefully, able to come back to Singapore on the eve before Stationery officially "gong" at SGX.

During last few trip, I tried to assess http://nicolekiss.blogspot.com/blog at mainland but some how did not manage to hook on. I don't know if blogspot.com is being banned by the PRC authority. I will try to blog from PRC tomorrow and let see what will happen.

I will try to get this blog updated as frequent and as interesting as possible. However, it seems that I am going to have a very busy schedule for the next 2 to 3 months. But, as the saying goes, we'll see how it goes :)

p/s: This blog is being create with more that "a bit" of hassle in fact. This blog was originally appeared on http://crapblog-craptalk.blogspot.com/ which was created on 30 April 2008. However, an error on the email address provided render the blog page inaccessible for me to update the blog. I just hope that i will get this one right. :P