YB (Yang Bertopeng)

What was reported in mainstream media…..

No Politician Arrested In Tawau Car Seizures

October 21, 2004 15:11 PM
KOTA KINABALU, Oct 21 (Bernama) -- No politician or businessman has been arrested in connection with the seizure of eight vehicles suspected to be stolen in Tawau on Monday, Sabah CID chief SAC II Mohamad Bakri Mohamad Zinin said Thursday.

He was refuting speculation that a Tawau politician-cum-businessman, who owns a logging company, had been detained for using stolen vehicles.

Mohamad Bakri said police were trying to identify whether the seven four-wheel-drive vehicles and a saloon car, seized from several areas including a logging camp, were actually stolen.

The seizures were made by a team from Bukit Aman national police headquarters but the case was being investigated by the Tawau police.

Nine people aged between 25 and 45, including two women, were earlier remanded in the investigation but were released on police bail yesterday.

Mohamad Bakri said the Chemistry Department was checking whether the vehicle chassis and engine numbers had been tampered with while the Road Transport Department was asked to confirm the vehicle documents.

What was not reported…… but of course known to the public

The logging company is Wawasan Gunung Emas Sdn. Bhd. Name and address of the company was sprayed on the vehicle seized, 7 4WD and one Proton Waja. Among those detained for investigation were the recently married relatives of Merotai State Assemblymen, Liew Yun Fah. Liew, the controversial BN candidate from Liberal Democratic Party (LDP) has sought help from V.K. Liew who was recently awarded Justice of Peace.

According to reliable sources, Liew is not among the directors in Wawasan Gunung Emas Sdn. Bhd. but he is authorised to sign all the cheques. Whether his name was registered or not everyone knows Wawasan Gunung Emas Sdn. Bhd belongs to Liew.

Liew was said to have broken a promise made to a certain party and breaking others’ rice bowl, thus the resulting on reports being made to Bukit Aman instead of Tawau District Police Station.

We will see if money & power will overrule justice.

Money Politics & Sabah Politicians

Now it is confirmed corruption and money politics among Sabah politicians especially those from UMNO is rampant. Silam Umno division deputy head Samsu Baharun Abdul Rahman who is also the Entrepreneurial and Co-operative Development Ministry parliamentary secretary has been suspended for three years by the party for money politics.

The Umno disciplinary board found the Silam MP – who was elected Silam division deputy chief recently – guilty of money politics. “He had given out RM50,” board chairman Tan Sri Tengku Ahmad Rithauddeen Tengku Ismail told a press conference yesterday.

Silam division chief Mohd Yusof Apdal, younger brother of Domestic Trade and Consumer Affairs Minister Datuk Shafie Apdal, has also been suspended. The board found that Yusof had held gatherings with party members in a hotel in Lahad Datu and given out RM200 while contesting the division head's post. He was also found to be acting for somebody.

Two others from the Silam division in Sabah have been suspended – committee members Hakim Ghulam Hassan and Datu Ibrahim Datu Abd Karim.

This is the second time the division has been embroiled in such problems. In the last Umno elections in 2000, then division chief Yusof Jamlee, Samsu’s brother-in-law, was also suspended by the party. At that time, Samsu had assumed the acting division chief’s post.

It is not a surprise that Samsu was slapped with the suspension. He has been taking much more than that. Besides money he is also a womanizer.

It was reported that during a trade mission to East Kalimantan, Indonesia last year, Samsu was given the honour to lead. With him were his wife and his assistants. However Samsu was always missing from the group. He excused himself for not feeling well. Inside sources revealed that he was having a good time with Indonesian prostitutes arranged by his assistants. Girls were delivered to his assistant’s room. His wife was kept busy by other assistants. His sexual fantasies also caused a few functions to be delayed.

Meanwhile, Yusof Apdal is the proxy for his brother, Shafie, in any business deals. It is not a secret that Shafie has lobbied for projects and passed them to UF Engineering of the Leeka Group. Due to his position, Shafie puts his brother as his representatives. Yusof has direct interests in the Leeka Group.

In fact it is also an open secret that Shafie receives his political funds for both General Election and Party campaigns from Leeka. These are kick backs from the projects which he has lobbied for using his influence as a minister/deputy minister.

RM200 paid by Yusof for a vote is only a small portion offered which were reported. The bigger sums have been given to bigger fish.

Are we going after the bigger fish?

Song For Samy Vellu

Aiyoyo Samy
(London Bridge Is Falling Down)

Kepong Bridge is falling down,
Falling down, falling down.
Kepong Bridge is falling down,
Aiyoyo Samy.

Take a gag and shut us up,
Shut us up, shut us up.
Take a gag and shut us up,
Aiyoyo Samy.

How will we build it up,
Build it up, build it up?
How will we build it up again,
Aiyoyo Samy?

Build it up with tax and toll,
Tax and toll, tax and toll.
Build it up with tax and toll,
Aiyoyo Samy.

Roads and bridges bend and break,
Bend and break, bend and break.
Roads and bridges bend and break,
Aiyoyo Samy.

Blame it on the Act of God,
Act of God, Act of God.
Blame it on the Act of God,
Aiyoyo Samy.

Rocks and blames will wash away,
Wash away, wash away.
Rocks and blames will wash away,
Aiyoyo Samy.

Author Unknown, but definitely Alert Malaysian

Back to Zero

With the introduction of Code of Ethics for elected representatives, it was hope that state assemblymen (women) and members of parliament will contribute more in solving the people’s problem, bringing more progress to their constituencies, and help to bring Malaysia towards a more ‘Cemerlang, Gemilang dan Terbilang” nation.

After the March 2003 General Election and numerous pledges and promises made, was there any real results that could convince the rakyat? Was there any real actions mooted out to solve all kinds of problem faced by the people, electricity, water, land title, squatters, security, illegal immigrants, etc?

The UMNO politicians are so busy with the party election. Since there now appears a consortium to buy votes, being elected as a delegate to the UMNO General Assembly this September would give a big business opportunity. Don’t blame the press for focusing on UMNO election instead of state development because there was nothing said and done. Even small promises are hard to be fulfilled by those once promising politicians.

The Kadazan-Dusun based parties are busy talking about merger. It’s good to be in one big umbrella but let’s leave it to the party leaderships to discuss and work out the details. There is no use in getting everyone involved. The only reason was to divert the people’s attention and forget about the real business of these YBs.

Chinese party leaders especially LDP and SAPP are busy fighting like dog and cat. True, they might give the reasons that they are championing the rights of the Chinese community. The real truth is they are all running away from their actually responsibilities. They are fighting for their individual glories and survival.

Need examples? What has Datuk Ghapur done so far for the people of Kalabakan? He is staying in his big house in Tawau, one hundred Kilometer away from Kalabakan, partying away? Only porch vehicles are parked outside his house. No kampong folks allowed.

What has Datuk Dr Patawari done to the constituency of Sebatik? After failing to serve the people of Merotai, he moved to Sebatik, but nothing new. To be frank, he is more popular among the GROs in MTV, KTV and PUBs compared to the kampong folks in Sebatik. That tells where his real constituency is. When a YB, once an assistant minister, keep asking around for money from contractors, follow them more than the people in Sebatik, you could not expect anything good and fruitful from him.

Samson Chin, being elected for the third time, once as MP and twice as state assemblyman, could only make statements after things happen. Even his campaign leaflets are full of out dated statements. A YB with statements without action is as good as none. No action, no follow-up after the statements. When a non-performing YB being returned, you get a dead-wood.

The list will go on and on. If you think your elected representatives could help you, think twice. If you want things get done fast and efficient, better do it yourself.

Code of ethics or Code of antics?

Musa Aman - Does Money Really Help?

Some people, especially politicians, think that as long as they dress like a holy man, behave well in public and speak against ill doings, they would be perceived as good and would be well respected.

Too bad, they are all wrong. They can only fool themselves, not others. Take this example of corruption and money politics.

09 July, 2004
Sabah Umno Liaison Chief Datuk Seri Musa Aman said party members are free to contest if they wish to do so in the party’s upcoming divisional delegates’ meetings, but reminded them to steer clear of money politics.

“I have already informed them about this...no money politics. There is no two ways about it. If there is contest, do so but refrain from resorting to money politics,” he told reporters here after attending a briefing by the Tourism, Culture and Environment Ministry.

21 July, 2004
On corruption, Musa said the State Government had revived the State Integrity Committee to complement the Federal Government’s efforts to wipe out corruption.

“The fight against abuse of power and corruption, promoting integrity, transparency and accountability in the public and private sectors should be carried out by all stakeholders, including the Government, private sector and NGOs,” he said.

04 August, 2004
Chief Minister Datuk Seri Musa Aman said all quarters should be involved in the prevention of corruption and not the relevant authorities alone.

Corruption, if left unchecked, would spread like cancer, he said while opening a State level Pre-U public-speaking competition on Prevention of Corruption, at the Maktab Sabah hall here, Tuesday.

He pointed out that corruption had resulted in economic and social chaos in certain countries, saying such kind of threat could also happen in this country if not totally eliminated.

18 August, 2004
Chief Minister Datuk Seri Musa Aman is upset over the statement by a Deputy Minister that money politics is being openly practised in Sabah.

Musa, who is also State Umno liaison chief, said the statement was an inaccurate assessment of the situation in the state as the leadership constantly advised leaders and members to refrain from money politics.

“Money politics does not benefit us as Umno leaders and members. We must protect Umno’s image and strive to enhance the party’s strength,” he told reporters Tuesday when asked to respond to the statement by International Trade and Industry Deputy Minister Datuk Ahmad Husni Hanadzlah who implied that money politics was widespread in the State.

An English daily quoted him on Sunday as saying that money politics was rampant in Sabah and is being practised openly in the run-up to next month’s party elections to the extent that he dared not go to Sabah.

Asked whether the State Umno had received complaints on money politics during last month’s divisional polls, Musa said he had not received the report from the State Umno disciplinary committee on the matter.

He said Sabah Umno was closely monitoring the situation to ensure there was no unhealthy practices among party members in the run-up to Umno elections.

23 August 2004
From MGGPillai.com (http://www.mggpillai.com/article.php3?sid=1992)
When corruption rears its ugly head ...

For the UMNO supreme council, the Sabah chief minister, Dato' Musa Aman offers RM1,000 a delegate in three tranches of RM200, RM300 and RM500; the Selangor mentri besar, Dato' Mohamed Khir Toyo offers RM1,000 or RM500 a delegate, depending on where he is from; those offering RM500 a vote are the Titiwangsa MP, Dato' Astaman Aziz; the deputy finance minister, Tengku Putra Tengku Awang; the deputy tourism minister and a former UMNO youth chief, Dato' Zahid Hamidi; the works deputy minister, Dato' Mohamed Zain Mohamed; the deputy rural and territory development minister and the former Tenaga Nasional Berhad chairman, Dato' Awang Adek Hussein.

So, what say you, Musa Aman? You might have ‘aman’ (tamed) the delegates, but certainly not the general public, especially Sabahan.

When The Brain Is Not Functioning

One Sabah politician has never failed to amuse the people when he makes any statement. So far only one politician never learn his lesson and keep talking without even thinking. Maybe the brain is no longer functioning.

His most recent 'stunt' was making all sort of accusations about Saham Amanah Sabah as if he is Mr Know All. He directed his boys to make wild and seditious accusations in the local media without supporting facts.

Feeling confident enough he himself came out and claim his share. But when facts were put forward for him to answer, he said he has a lot of work to do. So all this while he was too free for nothing that he has all the time to make accusations?

Has he even wonder if the people of Sabah, though majority of them are not politician, lawyers or anyone holding high post, but at the very minimum, they know what is right and what is wrong. The know when to say and when to keep quiet. They also know people who forgets to wipe his mouth after eating. Sabahans, Malaysians or even the rest of the people are not easy to be fooled.

Read the following news picked up from Daily Express.

Chong: No bid to link or confuse public

Kota Kinabalu: Liberal Democratic Party (LDP) President Tan Sri Chong Kah Kiat denied having any intention to link the Saham Amanah Sabah (SAS) losses to Warisan Harta Sabah Sdn Bhd’s (WHSSB) business dealings when Sabah Progressive Party (SAPP) President Datuk Yong Teck Lee was the Chief Minister.

The Deputy Chief Minister said contrary to Yong’s claims, he was also not trying to confuse the people when he asked Yong to explain the composite share swap involving WHSSB and several public listed companies, besides the SAS issue.

Chong was asked by reporters to comment on Yong’s letter that was sent to him on Thursday. Yong had, among other things, requested that he reveal the culprit behind the SAS shares fall and said Chong was wrong in attempting to link SAS and WHSSB.

He confirmed receiving the letter from Yong and said he would reply to the letter when he had the time.

“I will reply to him in full once I finish my work. I have a lot of work to do,” he said when met at the launch of the Special Exhibition on Sabah Governors in conjunction with the Merdeka Month 2004 celebration and TYT’s official birthday at the Islamic Civilisation Museum, near here, Friday.

“I never confuse people and you can see how it was reported. I know there is a clear difference between Warisan Harta and SAS,” he said.

Chong said during the press conference that he called on Wednesday he made reference to Warisan Harta as only “in a related matter”.

“They are two different entities, which have made losses it’s a fact,” he said.

When asked whether there is a need for both the Barisan Nasional parties to sit down to resolve the matter amicably before it got out of hand, he said:

“It’s not going out of hand. Every one of us should know what we are doing or what we have been doing or what we did. (There is) nothing to hide.”

Chong, who is also Tourism, Culture and Environment Minister, declined to comment on the statement by the SAS fund management, Saham Sabah Berhad, that the one to be blamed was the share market conditions.

SSB had also said the investors had been warned in the prospectus that there was an element of risk.

“I have not seen the report yet. Perhaps, in another day you can get more,” he said.

Two days ago, Chong had said that apart from the SAS, Yong should also explain about the share swap involving Warisan Harta blue chip stocks with the North Borneo Timbers and Sugar Bun that had resulted in a shortfall of about RM50 million.

This was because, ironically, the composite share swapping deal was also sealed during Yong’s time as Chief Minister.

Sabah Amanah Sabah (SAS) Shout And Shout

20 August, 2004
Yong: Bid to link SAS with Warisan deals will fail

SAPP President Datuk Yong Teck Lee said the attempt to link the Saham Amanah Sabah (SAS) debacle with the business dealings of Warisan Harta Sabah Sdn Bhd (WHSSB) in 1997 will fail.

He said his visit to the Saham Sabah Berhad (SSB) which manages the SAS had confirmed that the WHSSB composite share swap affecting several listed companies had nothing to do with the SAS, as claimed by Liberal Democratic Party President Tan Sri Chong Kah Kiat.
“So what was reported today by the LDP President Tan Sri Chong in trying to link Warisan Harta and Saham Sabah is completely unfounded,” he told a press conference at the SAPP headquarters in Bornion, Luyang.

“I went to the SSB office first to get several prospectuses for my record and secondly to get clarification on the allegations, which were found to be not true,” he said.

In this respect, he said he had written a letter to Chong on the issue.

To a question, he agreed with Chief Minister Datuk Seri Musa Aman that the SAS or any other issues should not be politicised (but) “this is a written letter from me so I leave it at that we will see how it develops”.

Musa had called on the two parties headed by two former chief ministers to put an end to the bickering on who should be blamed for the fall of the SAS shares.

Yong contended that SAPP had been keeping quiet all this while, especially during the past two months, when the attacks on the party leaders by LDP leaders heightened.

“These latest series of attacks in the newspapers by LDP leaders on SAPP leaders has been on-going. Every other week there are statements and we have been keeping quiet until the last one week,” he said.

In his letter to Chong, Yong thanked the former for his statement as published in the newspapers, which he said exposed the falsity of the accusations made against him by Chong’s party colleagues that he was responsible for the Saham Sabah losses.

“Your party divisions, Secretary General (Datuk Anthony Lai), youth and other leaders have been repeatedly attacking SAPP and its leaders, including myself, for months on all sorts of issues,” he said.

Yong said although none was substantiated, this had painted an ugly image of SAPP and its leaders, while adding that he broke his silence on Aug. 8, after a LDP leader accused him by name as being responsible for the SAS losses.

Yong said he had thought that the LDP leader had made a genuine mistake when accusing him, prompting him to tell SAPP members not to be angry with LDP members since he believed that Chong could explain better the matter to them.

“As a Federal Minister, State Minister, former CM and now a DCM at all material times you must have known about the collapse of the stock market, currency controls and the functioning of the National Economic Action Council in handling the financial crisis of 1997-1999 coinciding with my time as CM.

All state unit trusts have suffered,” he told Chong in the letter.

Yong also asked Chong whether his comment on Aug 11 that “even a child knows who is responsible (for the SAS losses) shows that you know who the culprit(s) are but that (in the Chinese newspapers), you do not want to reveal the culprit because you “want to give him face” was referring to a former CM or then Finance Minister or any other official.

“Too many people have got hit by your vague allegation. My statement on Aug 17 was asking you to expose the culprits and not saying that you are the culprit,” he said.

“If you feel wrongly accused, then you should realise how other people feel when they are similarly wrongly accused,” he said.

Yong also criticised Chong for attempting to link SAS and WHSSB and “to put the whole blame on me is highly irresponsible and calculated to cause maximum damage to my reputation.

“How could it be that you (a lawyer) and your secretary general (an accountant and Chairman of Sabah Credit Corporation) do not know the difference between Saham Amanah Sabah and Warisan Harta Sdn Bhd?” he asked.

Yong said Chong in his press conference attended by LDP Supreme Council members still failed to name any person responsible for the SAS losses.

“The 55,000 SAS investors are still waiting for you to expose the culprits who caused the SAS losses. If, as you said, every child knows who the culprit is, then why not name him? Whose face are you trying to save?” he asked.

On Chong’s demand that Yong explain the composite share swap involving NBT/Sugar Bun and MISC shares held by WHSSB, he said he had already done so on Jan. 16 1998 when the issues first arose.

“Under oath in a court of law, in March 2001, I took the witness stand to explain this matter in open court. Would I be so fool hardy to do so if my conduct could not withstand public scrutiny? Whether I am to be believed or not is for the people to decide,” Yong said.

According to Yong, Warisan Harta made profits and declared a dividend of RM7 million, which, he said, could be proven by looking at the WHSSB audited accounts before the end of his tenure as Chief Minister.

Yong claimed that Chong had been selective in releasing information to the 55,000 investors for the SAS losses and even told “my deputy Datuk Tham Nyip Shen that I have eaten the coffin money of the investors”.

Yong said he had no ill feelings towards those raising the Warisan Harta/NBT issue previously since the full facts were not available to them.

But, he contends Chong had access to all relevant documents during his tenure as Chief Minister and that furthermore, the agreements between WHSSB and Suniwang Sdn Bhd were prepared by Chong’s law firm.

“If there were anything wrong, you would have known much earlier. The big question is “Why only now?”” he said, claiming that Chong’s reference to the RM50 million cash was twisted to confuse the public as the RM50 million was paid to WHSSB, not the other way round.

Yong also stated in the letter that he did not believe that Chong was not researching the Warisan Harta issue to look for “evidence” to implicate him.

He said he assumed this by the “direct threats” allegedly made by Chong on him when Yong went to see him on Sept. 28, 2001 at Wisma Innoprise to discuss the gambling issue.

“I was there to state my party’s policy on gambling, which has been established ever since 1994, it was nothing against you”.

But, Yong said Chong responded that he would take action against him (and other ex-CMs) for so-called past wrongs and offences.

“It is a threat that reminds me of another more lethal threat made by the then Acting Prime Minister (former DPM in 1997).

On June 15, 1997 at the Sandakan Renaissance Hotel, (the former DPM) threatened myself and other State Ministers with actions unless the State Cabinet approve a gambling licence for operation in Sabah,” he said.

Yong said the property to explain the performance of SAS is the SSB itself.

“I believe that no CM or Minister or other politician, presently or in the past, are involved in SAS’ investment and management,” he concluded.

Also at the press conference were Vice President Datuk Wong Yit Ming, Secretary General Richard Yong and Supreme Council members.

20 August, 2004
Blame it on mart: SAS

Kota Kinabalu: Saham Sabah Berhad (SSB) the fund manager of the Saham Amanah Sabah (SAS) said its share price plummet had nothing to do with Warisan Harta Sabah Sdn Bhd (WHSSB) or anyone else for that matter.

SSB Chief Executive Officer Datuk Hj Hassan Hj Otoi said if anyone was to be blamed for the estimated RM400 million losses that the 55,000 investors incurred, it should be the share market itself.

Everyone knew about the economic turmoil that hit this part of the region resulting in the downturn which affected not only the SAS but other State-owned trust funds.

At that time, he said a vacuum was created in the share market since there were no buyers at all and only sellers who were willing to sell at any price.

Met at his office after he met Sabah Progressive Party (SAPP) leaders led by President Datuk Yong Teck Lee on Thursday, Hassan said investment of the SAS funds was made in accordance to strict procedures.

He said the investments were regulated by the Securities Commission (SC) and Investment Committee apart from the SSB external auditors, “therefore there was no room for any hanky panky.”

According to SSB Senior Investment Manager, Hassan Abbas so strict was the regulations that despite being a state-owned trust fund, SSB was not obliged to follow instructions even from the Chief Minister on which portfolios to invest.

The law and regulations set by the SC binds fund managers.

He said even in the SAS prospectus, it was clearly printed informing potential investors that there were elements of risk involved when they invest in SAS.

“In any investment, there is risk involved and even in property investment due to depreciation of value.”

Yong met Hassan at his office in CPS Tower Centre Point when they went there to get the SAS prospectus.

“He was kind enough to see us,” said Yong who was accompanied by Vice President Datuk Wong Yit Ming, Information Chief Norbert Chin and a Supreme Council member, Benny Low.

Saham Amanah Sabah SAS - Siapa Ada Salah?

Saham Amanah Sabah (SAS) Siapa Ada Salah

In 1996, the then Sabah Chief Minister Yong Teck Lee persuaded 55,000 Sabahans to invest in SAS – Saham Amanah Sabah – convincing them that it was a great buy which would multiply its value twice or thrice its original price of one ringgit! Today, SAS has reached the point of no return, dropped from RM1 to below 20 sen, incurring over RM400 million losses!



CM sorry about Saham
04 November, 2001

Kota Kinabalu: Chief Minister Datuk Chong Kah Kiat said the State Government is not giving up on the Saham Amanah Sabah (SAS) but that any artificial interference on the stocks will not do it good.

However, Chong said he had full confidence on the capability of State Finance Minister Datuk Musa Aman in turning around the shares back to at least its original standings.

"I cannot bluff you, I cannot bluff the investors and we cannot promise (that the situation would return to normal soon)," he said, adding he believed it may take between two and three years.

Chong said he felt sad for all the investors, including government servants who are facing problems repaying the banks for loans taken to buy the shares. "It was just that the stocks were highly speculative".

Chong was asked to comment on the issue, brought up in the State Assembly which took a weekend break before continuing on Monday, after witnessing the presentation of RM4.734m Federal funds to 84 chinese schools at SM Kian Kok hall Saturday.

According to him, SAS was not the only government-owned shares doing badly, especially with the present world economic downturn.

"Whatever you do cannot bring it (the share price) up until the economy has become better…it is going to be difficult unless the world economy recovers," he said.

"Unless of course we jack it up and do something out of the economic norms," he said, adding this however would not be good.

"The question now is to ensure that the management comprised professionals and to make sure there is no unnecessary interference," he said.

Chong said it was very unfortunate that the counters invested turned out to be sour subsequently because of being highly speculative. "The market was robust but now suddenly boom it plunges. So now we must ensure that the fund has to be fundamentally sound and it cannot be speculative."

Musa is currently looking at all options to see where it can help in recovering the shares. PBS Api Api Assemblyman Dr Yee Moh Chai had in the State Assembly called on the State Government to disclose the full reasons of the disastrous performance of the shares.

He also requested that a salvage plan be implemented to restore the value of SAS to its original issued value of RM1 per share so that the sufferings of all the SAS investors will not be unduly prolonged.

Yee said the government should also ensure no similar pain and suffering would be inflicted onto any potential investors of unit trust if any similar scheme should be launched by the State Government in the future.

SAS records RM15.6m profit; giving 3pc dividend
20 January, 2004

Kota Kinabalu: Saham Amanah Sabah (SAS) is finally seeing some profit. It recorded pre-tax profit of RM15,614,961.18 in the financial year ending Dec. 31, last year, Chief Minister Datuk Seri Musa Hj Aman announced, Monday.

This meant a three per cent net dividend for its 57,857 investors in 2003, involving cash payouts of RM14.07 million on 469 million units.

Of the number, 45,224 were individuals, 7,407 investors under the Hardcore Poor Development Project (PPRT), 2,178 investors on bank loans and 48 corporate investors.

“Some 79.82 per cent (43,790) are Bumiputera investors and 20.18 per cent (11,067) are non-Bumiputeras,” he said. The profits were achieved through investments in share markets (89.6 per cent), financial markets (6.85) and the dividend market (3.55).

SAS would not be trading from Jan. 2 to 25 in order to organise unit holders’ accounts. Musa, who is also State Finance Minister, said SAS could expect some kind of assistance from the State Government to improve its financial standing.

“But for the moment, SAS’ prospects depends solely on share and financial markets performance,” he said. He also hinted at a possibility of Sawit Kinabalu allocating a sizable portion of its oil palm estates for SAS to develop.

“We are not sure how large the land would be but it will be discussed in the State Cabinet later. It’s part of the restructuring to improve the income of SAS,” he said.

The dividend would be paid via the issue of warrant while the investors under the hardcore poor development programme (PPRT) would be paid in cash of RM100 each or through their Amanah Saham Bumiputera (ASB) account if they have one.

“Since its inception more than nine years ago, SAS has given dividends on six occasions involving a total of RM237.454 million in cash,” said Musa.

The highest dividend payment was 13 per cent in 1995 and 1996.

He said that there were still 32.24 million units of SAS, of which 29.14 million units were for the Bumiputera and 3.10 million units for non-Bumiputera, which can be bought at current value.

Compared with other State-owned trust funds, the SAS was not doing too badly as it still managed to give out the 3 per cent dividends.




Public knows the answer: Chong
11 August, 2004

DEPUTY Chief Minister Tan Sri Chong Kah Kiat said the people of Sabah know who is to be held responsible for the massive Saham Amanah Sabah (SAS) losses.

He was asked to comment on Sabah Progressive Party (SAPP) President Datuk Yong Teck Lee’s comment that he (Chong) is more knowledgeable about the SAS matter.

“If you really want to know, why not ask the 55,000 investors who took out their savings to invest in SAS, which now is worth only 20 sen per unit (compared to RM1 at the time of investment),” Chong remarked.



Lodging reports on SAS fiasco
15 August, 2004

Kota Kinabalu: Prompted by the bickering on who is to be blamed for the Saham Amanah Sabah (SAS) debacle, opposition, DAP is lodging reports with the police and Anti-Corruption Agency (ACA) to get to the bottom of the matter.

Its Kota Kinabalu chief Hiew King Chiu said the party would lodge the report with the Commercial Crime Unit at the State police headquarters in Kepayan.

“At the same time, we will also file a report to the ACA on Monday. I have spoken to the Director Mohd Shukri and I will request that the ACA conduct a thorough investigation on whether there are really irregularities in the share investment,” he said.

Speaking here Saturday, Hiew said these allegations were highlighted by a senior member of the Liberal Democratic Party (LDP) in one of its exchanges with Barisan Nasional (BN) counterpart, Sabah Progressive Party (SAPP).

The senior LDP party member had claimed irregularities in the SAS share investment in Warisan Harta, NBT and other listed companies, he said.

Hiew noted leaders from LDP and SAPP had during the past one week made statements pointing fingers at each other for the SAS debacle in the various newspapers.

“Both parties are headed by former Chief Ministers and both are pointing fingers on who was responsible for the plummet of share unit price from RM1 to a dismal 20 sen,” he said.

Neither the two ex-Chief Ministers nor their party senior members had denied when accusing each other of covering up the whole issue, he said.

On the losing end, he said, was the people of Sabah who were urged to invest in the SAS with many to the extent of taking up bank loans or using up their live savings as well as charging their pensions.

“A lot of civil servants had been encouraged to acquire the shares and now they are in the brink of bankruptcy since some are losing in the region of RM300,000 to RM500,000,” he said.

Hiew said since the State Government is managing the fund, the question remains who should be responsible for the total loss estimated to be between RM300 and RM400 million.

The DAP had been approached by many shareholders who requested the party to probe into the matter and find out the actual causes behind SAS’ miserable performance.

“It is only fair that the truth is made known to the suffering shareholders. We will leave the investigations to the police and ACA to give the shareholders the true picture of the situation,” he said.

Hiew said DAP also opined that it is incumbent of the BN State Government as well as the two former chief ministers to inform Sabahans, in particular the shareholders, on what had really happened.

“There should be no further cover-ups. Somebody should bear the responsibility,” he said.



Make public SAS probe findings: Yong
17 August, 2004

Kota Kinabalu: Sabah Progressive Party (SAPP) President Datuk Yong Teck Lee hoped findings of any investigation conducted on the Saham Amanah Sabah (SAS) will be made public.

The former Chief Minister said the results of any investigation by the authorities, including by the Securities Commission, should be made public so that the truth would come out.

He said this when asked to comment on newspaper reports that the opposition DAP was lodging police and ACA reports to investigate the SAS debacle.

Speaking to reporters at the party headquarters in Bornion Luyang, near here, Monday, Yong expressed surprise when Liberal Democratic Party (LDP) President Tan Sri Chong Kah Kiat declined to name the culprits behind the losses suffered by SAS investors.

Referring to the comments by the Chong reported on Aug. 11, Yong said he was glad that the LDP now admitted knowing the truth about the SAS issue.

“But his comment that he does not want to reveal the identity of the culprits shows he is deliberately concealing information at the expense of the 55,000 investors of Saham Sabah by saying he wants to give face to the persons who are responsible for the losses suffered by Saham Sabah investors,” said Yong.

“The people have a right to be suspicious who is he protecting and why,” asserted Yong.

“The people of Sabah, especially the 55,000 investors of Saham Sabah, have a right to know the identity of the person whom Chong now says he wants to give face to.

“If there is a culprit behind the losses of Saham Sabah, then these culprits must be exposed. The LDP leadership should not cover up for the culprits,” he said.



"I Am Not Politicising Share Issue"- Chong Kah Kiat


KOTA KINABALU, Aug 19 (Bernama) -- Liberal Democratic Party President Tan Sri Chong Kah Kiat said Thursday he was not politicising the issue over the fall in the value of the Saham Amanah Sabah (SAS) Bhd shares but merely clearing the air on certain facts when making a statement Wednesday on this matter.

"This is not politicising, this is telling the world what should be told. This is explaining to the people what had happened...I'm talking about responsibility.

"If people can stop politicising other matters and if certain people themselves can behave then everyone else also can behave," he told reporters after launching the ICI Colour Solutions Centre in Jalan Bundusang, near here Thursday.

Chong, who is Deputy Chief Minister, was asked to comment on Chief Minister Datuk Seri Musa Aman's call for an end to the bickering on who should be held responsible for the fall in the value of the SAS shares.

Musa told a news conference after the cabinet meeting Wednesday that the state government was making efforts to increase the share value of the SAS and hoped the issue would not be overly politicised.

The SAS saga had been hitting the headlines for quite some time in the local press, with Chong urging former Chief Minister and Sabah Progressive Party President (SAPP) Datuk Yong Teck Lee to stop passing the buck.

Chong said Yong should be the one who should explain to the people the decrease in the value of the SAS shares as he (Chong) was not the Chief Minister at the material time (1996-1997).

Some 55,000 investors, who mostly took out their savings to invest in the SAS shares are bearing the brunt of the plummeting share price, now worth about 20 sen per unit compared to RM1 at the time of investment.

Bare All, Then Bar Then All

All barred: Mustafa

It was reported in Daily Express 24th July 2004 that, all State government officers are barred from political involvement, said State Secretary Datuk K. Y. Mustafa.

“Our policy is based on the General Orders Section D stating that no government officer is allowed to be involved in political activities. This is not something new and not only concerns Umno but other political parties as well,” he said.

Mustafa said he would be reminding all State government officers on this.

“I will announce this properly and then let them make a choice. If they want to do politics, we will ask them to retire or else stop (their) political activities. There is no compromise and no differentiation of grades (of who can and cannot), this is very clear,” he said.

Mustafa was asked about the Chief Minister Datuk Seri Musa Aman asking him to investigate allegations by the Tenom Umno division that senior government officers were involved in the election campaign recently.

Datuk Rizalman Abdullah, who won the Tenom Umno division chief post, was reported as claiming that senior government officers had campaigned for his rival and in the process used government vehicles.

“That’s why if the allegations are true, all those things are not proper. We will investigate but it is not correct for me to name any person right nowÖ but it is under investigation,” said Mustafa.

Mustafa said he would announce the findings of the investigation but stressed that this was an ongoing process.

However, he acknowledged that it would also be a bit difficult to prove government officers were actively involved in politics because some might be present in the course of duty.

“Its a little bit difficult to identify but we will go into the details,” he said.

When Minority Dictates Terms For The Majority

Bernama reported that Deputy Prime Minister Datuk Seri Najib Tun Razak said on 18 July 2004  that nominations by the Pekan Umno division for the party's top posts and seats in the Umno Supreme Council in the party election in September will attract the attention of Umno members.
 
As such, Najib, who is Umno vice-president carrying out the duties of the deputy president, said that delegates to the divisional meeting should be wise in making their nominations which must follow the trend nationwide.
 
"Let's not make nominations which are out of line and not according to the nationwide trend," he said when opening the Pekan divisional delegates' meeting here.
 
Najib, who is head of the Pekan division, said that the delegates' meeting of the division was now unlike before as the nominations would be referred to by the other Umno divisions."This is the difference for us (Pekan division) today compared with previously.
 
Recently, the (Pekan) Wanita Umno division made nominations which were a little out of line and not according to the trend nationwide," he said.
 
Najib was apparently referring to the meeting on July 10 of the Pekan Wanita Umno division which nominated former Cabinet minister Datuk Dr Siti Zaharah Sulaiman to re-contest the post of Wanita Umno head.
 
The Deputy Prime Minister also advised Umno members to strive to ensure unity in the party, loyalty to the party and outstanding service for the party as well as embrace the people-friendly culture.A total of 503 delegates from 125 branches attended the meeting.
 
When the so call leader trying to dictate terms for the delegates during a time when freedom should be given to them to decide their future, that shows how far democracy has been practice in UMNO (supposedly known as Under Mahathir No Opposition previously). That also reflects how much individual rights is respected.
 
When the head shamelessly call for bias nominations, do you think money politics could be curbed? Do you think nothing dirty would transpire behind the sceen?

You Slap Me, I Slap You Back

Saturday, June 29, 2002

Slapping Incident Mars Wanita AGM

A peaceful Wanita MCA annual general assembly ended on a sour note when Sabah State chairman Agnes Shim Tshin Nyuk was slapped over a dispute over the movement's list of office-bearers. The mother of Tenom branch Wanita head Lili Chin Chor Ngo slapped Shim when they were arguing over the appointment of the division head. Chin's mother, Lo Nyit Yin, called Shim "a liar" before slapping her.

The incident happened after the assembly was adjourned and a Press conference was quickly called to address the issue. MCA Wanita chairman Datuk Dr Ng Yen Yen said she was sad that the incident happened after a successful assembly. "We will set up a committee to investigate this incident immediately," She said adding that disciplinary action would be taken."

Wednesday, 24 July 2002

MCA Slapping Incident Probe To End Soon

The MCA disciplinary committee is expected to complete, by Aug 6, its investigations into the incident where a branch chairman slapped a State Wanita head. Disciplinary committee chairman Datuk Lim Ah Lek said it would propose to the presidential council on what action, if any, to be taken against Kampung Bahagia branch chairman Lo Nyet Yin.

"We will call up Madam Lo and Agnes Shim as witnesses among others. We want to give them a chance to defend themselves," he said after chairing the first disciplinary committee meeting at the party headquarters yesterday. Among those present were vice-president Datuk Dr Fong Chan Onn, Youth head Datuk Ong Tee Keat and Wanita head Datuk Dr Ng Yen Yen.

On June 28, after the Wanita general assembly, Lo reportedly approached Sabah Wanita chairman Agnes Shim and slapped her. Lo was said to be unhappy that her daughter Lily Chin was not appointed the MCA Tenom Wanita head.

Lim said the committee would also look into other cases, including an incident where disgruntled Muar division members burnt the party constitution. The other case is the rowdy behaviour of Selangor Youth members during its meeting in June. "We hope to dispose these cases soonest possible. The investigations were supposed to be held earlier but was postponed because of the Pendang and Anak Bukit by-elections," added Lim. Under the party constitution, the presidential council is empowered to act against errant members based on the recommendations of the discpinary committee. Appeals against the decision can be made through the central committee.

16 September 2002

Agnes Shim was made a Datuk and later appointed a senator. Many believe that the slap from Lo Nyet Yin has brought much luck for Agnes Shim. Even Agnes herself has quietly thanked Lo for the negative publicity she brought about and helped to make Agnes famous.

However, little does she know that when the hat is too big to put on, she was slapped by the party disciplinary board for sabotaging during the General Election.


Wednesday July 14, 2004

Sabah Wanita chief, 10 others, suspended by MCA council
BY FOONG PEK YEE

KUALA LUMPUR: Sabah Wanita MCA chairman Senator Datuk Agnes Shim has been suspended from the party for two years effective yesterday after she was found guilty of sabotaging an MCA candidate in the recent general election.

MCA president Datuk Seri Ong Ka Ting said Shim would not be able to hold any party post and could not contest in the party elections next year.

He said the suspension was decided by the MCA presidential council after Shim, in her 50's, was found guilty by the party disciplinary board of sabotaging the party’s candidate before and during the recent general election.

“MCA will leave it to the Government to decide on Shim’s senatorship,” he said after chairing a two-hour council meeting here yesterday.

Shim was among 11 members and grassroots leaders who were found guilty of indiscipline during the recent general election.

“The council’s decision is a signal to all party members and leaders that priority be given to the party and Barisan Nasional,” Ong said.

Ong said Klang division youth chairman Tiew Min Seng was also suspended for one year for sabotaging another MCA candidate before and during the general election.
The others who were suspended are Taman Hock An branch chairman Chong Swee Choy (one-year suspension), Tanjong Minyak branch chairman Tan Chwee Heng (two years) and Taman Salak South branch chairman Ong Cheng Hwa (one year).

The remaining six who were found guilty – two life members and four members – were expelled from the party, Ong said.

The life members were Bong Ah Kau and Tan Kim Pah while the members were Lim Teck Yu, Koo Kim Kiat, Siew Fook Chan and Tan Chee Chong.

Lim had acted as a seconder to a DAP candidate; Bong had published in a Chinese newspaper a congratulatory message in favour of a DAP candidate’s victory in the general election; and Koo had acted as a counting agent to DAP and PAS.

Siew had campaigned for a Keadilan candidate while Kim Pah and Chee Chong had campaigned for a DAP candidate.

Talk! Talk! Talk! No Action

It was reported by Bernama that Sabah Umno will ensure that all 25 divisions in the state will nominate only Prime Minister Datuk Seri Abdullah Ahmad Badawi and his deputy, Datuk Seri Najib Tun Razak for the post of Umno president and deputy president respectively in the party elections in September.

Sabah Umno Liaison head Datuk Seri Musa Aman said the matter had been discussed and agreed upon unanimously at the liaison meeting on Friday.

It was also in line with the decision of the Umno Supreme Council (MT) that the two top posts were not contested.

"We will ensure that there will be no nominations for the top two posts other than the prime minister for the presidency and the deputy prime minister for the deputy presidency," he told reporters after launching books published by the Borneo Biodiversity and Ecosystem Conservation (BBEC), here Monday.

Musa, who is also Sabah Chief Minister, was commenting on press reports recently on Tengku Razaleigh Hamzah's willingness to be nominated for any top post in the party.

Tengku Razaleigh was also reported to have called for the abolition of the nomination quota for all key posts in the party.

Musa said that so far he had not heard of any division in Sabah planning to nominate Tengku Razaleigh.

Musa also welcomed the decision of the Sabah Umno information chief Datuk Abdul Rahim Ismail not to challenge former chief minister Datuk Osu Sukam for the post of Papar Umno division head.

He said the decision demonstrated the political maturity of leaders in the division who wanted to maintain solidarity among the members.

"This is a good sign and Sabah Umno has matured and wants to avoid splits in the Umno divisions," he added.

3 months after the 2004 General Election, after the state and federal cabinets been formed, politicians are still talking nonsense, none of which are important to the people of Sabah. All they all about are those that would bring them more publicity, more fame and more lime light.

Not long after elected representatives fighting over seats in the cabinet, now they are busy with the party election. Next they will talk about more personal positions and interests.

How about the interests of the people? None. When the top few tries to control the whole division elections and nominations, ignoring democratic practices, do you expect them to do any good to the state of Sabah?

The cycle of selfish politicians has repeated over and over again.

Talk and talk and talk .... there would be no visible action.

Roselan - The Low Class Leader

There are many classes of Leader, some aspire to be the best while some chose to stray. Haji Roselan Johar Mohamad is one who strays.

Roselan queried on RM10m project
29 April, 2004
Kota Kinabalu: Umno Putatan protem vice chief Haji Ibrahim OKK Mohd Laiman Diki urged KK protem division chief Haji Roselan Johar Mohamed to clarify on the RM10 million development plan for Tanjung Aru.

He said Roselan, the former Umno Tanjung Aru acting chief, should not have bypassed the elected representatives in Tanjung Aru, as well as Umno Putatan, since the area was no longer under him following the redelineation exercise.

He said Roselan should have checked first with Umno Putatan protem chief Datuk Yahya Hussin since the area is now under its jurisdiction.

Ibrahim recalled that the development of Tanjung Aru and Sembulan received attention in a meeting between Umno Gaya and Umno Tanjung Aru which was still headed by Datuk Yahya Lampong with former Prime Minister Datuk Seri Dr Mahathir Mohamad several years ago.

Dr Mahathir had agreed that Umno take the initiative to develop the areas but suggested that these projects be implemented by the State Government or agencies and not by any individual development company, said Ibrahim who is also the Tanjung Aru K3P Chairman.

KK Umno Head Apologises Over Rape Remark
May 24, 2004 11:33 AM

KOTA KINABALU, May 24 (Bernama) -- A Sabah Umno division pro tem head, who sparked an uproar following his "off-the-cuff" remark about rape at a seminar here on Saturday has apologised to all, especially women who were offended by his statement.

Kota Kinabalu Umno division pro tem head Roselan Johar Mohamed said his remark was either misconstrued or misinterpreted.

"I did apologise for the remark. It could be in bad taste but I did not mean for it to sound like that," he was reported as saying in a local daily Monday.

Sabah Muslim Lawyers Association (Salwa) President Fatmah Wattie Abu Bakar claimed she and the other guest speakers at the Legal Literacy Seminar for Women were stunned to hear Roselan stating, among others, that "if you cannot fight rape, better lay down and enjoy it".

Chief Minister Datuk Seri Musa Aman said he was saddened by the remark and would advise Roselan to be more careful.

Roselan claimed the particular phrase was a proverb he took from Confucius.

"Please accept my humblest apology," he said as women organisations in Sabah expressed outrage over the remark.

Roselan said sexual crimes were heinous acts and he shared the belief that the offences warranted stiff punishment.

Roselan misquoted Confucius, says Chau
25 May, 2004
Kota Kinabalu: Confucius had never said that “if you cannot fight rape, better lay down and enjoy it” as claimed by Umno Kota Kinabalu pro tem chairman Haji Roselan Johar Mohamed, said Sabah Chinese Culture Association Chairman Datuk Chau Tet On.

“Confucius had never said so, if that was what Haji Roselan was referring to,” he said.

He said if Roselan’s remark was taken from other sources, we would like him to point out the source,” Chau said Monday.

According to him, Confucius seldom touched on sex and even if he did say something that sounded unfair to women, it would have totally been rejected by the Chinese society.

On Roselan’s apology, Chau said apology is one thing but one should be serious about matters like this, especially when rape cases in the country are on the rise.

Roselan continues to come under fire
26 May, 2004
Kota Kinabalu: The Umno division leader here who made a callous remark about rape victims has continued to come under scathing attack for his insensitivity.

Wanita MCA Chairman, Datuk Dr Ng Yen Yen, said she was shocked by Roselan Johar Mohamed’s mindset, adding that it was preposterous to link his comment to Confucius.

She said Roselan was “confused” because the Chinese philosopher did not have such a saying attributed to him, adding that Roselan should apologise to rape victims and women.

Dr Ng said Roselan had insulted Confucius who preached compassion, love and respect.

Women’s Aid Organisation said the statement by Roselan was “misogynistic, insensitive and trivialises the very suffering, degradation and horror experienced by rape survivors”.

Its Executive Director, Ivy Josiah, said public officials should be made more aware of the nature and effects of rape before expressing their views.

Meanwhile, President of the Sabah Thalassaemia Society, Abdul Rahim Hj Kahar, called for Roselan to be replaced.

Abdul Rahim, who is also Vice-President l of the Federation of Thalassaemia Associations Malaysia, said Roselan’s utterances were bound to reflect on Umno as a whole.

“As far as our Society is concerned, his statement is certainly not well-received and does not help in any manner to give moral support to rape survivors, in the light of a rape case involving one of our patients.

“His remarks have cheapened the status of women and girls in Sabah. I am speaking on behalf of the hundreds of thalassaemia patients in Sabah under the care of hospitals’ Thalassaemia Treatment Centres,” he said.

He said sometime in the middle of last year, a 16-year-old patient was raped in some bushes near Tanjung Aru by an unknown person who, earlier, offered a lift while the girl was waiting for transport at a bus stop, together with another patient.

The duo had just received blood transfusion at the Queen Elizabeth Hospital’s Thalassaemia Treatment Centre and wanted to go home. The other patient, however, managed to escape.

“Given the circumstances when the victim is chronically unwell, would she enjoy such an experience? On the contrary, it would only add to her physical and mental trauma,” Kahar contended.

Joining the chorus, Social activist Datin Sue Jayasuriya said she believed that many men are also furious over the remarks.

“Roselan’s action has tarnished the image of men. Our men are respectable people who have high moral principles and respect their mothers, sisters, wives and daughters,” she said.

She called on the men to express their displeasure to show that they do not fit into the likes of Roselan.

Roselan trivialised seriousness of rape, says Sawo
27, May 2004
Kota Kinabalu: Sabah Women Action Resource Group (Sawo) on Wednesday affirmed the views of the Sabah Muslim Women Lawyers Association (Salwa) and called on the Chief Minister to introduce measures such as awareness training to ensure that the political leadership is sensitive to the sentiments of their electorate.

Sawo President, Mary Lee, said the recent remarks on rape victims made by Umno Kota Kinabalu pro tem chairman, Roselan Johar Mohamed, trivialised the seriousness of the crime.

“His action is a setback in efforts made by the Government, women’s organisations and concerned individuals to combat violence against women.

“This shows that the issue of violence against women is still not taken seriously by some our leaders,” she said in a statement Wednesday.

Noting the intense reactions and outcry from various groups and individuals over the past three days, Lee said it showed Malaysians, in general, and Sabahans, in particular, will not tolerate any form of violence against women, be it physical, sexual or verbal.

“It is heartening to know that this is no more a ‘women’s problem’ but has become a social concern.

“Sawo reiterates that it is the collective responsibility of both women and men to end violence against women.”

She said rape is a heinous crime and its alarming incidence in the country had warranted the Government’s action to amend the Penal Code recently to provide for heavier deterrent sentences.

Quoting the latest statistics from the Royal Malaysian Police, Bukit Aman (earlier quoted by the Ministry of Women, Family and Community Development), she said 7,456 rape cases were reported in Malaysia between 1998 and 2003.

“Of the figure, 661 cases occurred in Sabah and these do not include unreported rapes.”

Lee countered that instead of the psychological assessment, as suggested regarding the management of rape victims, facilities in the form of psychological support services need to be provided.

“This is to enable women to express what they endured, to receive acknowledgement of their suffering and personal violation and also to get re-assurance, practical advice and trauma counselling.

“Such services are to be included as a vital component when setting up shelters for distressed women and girls. These (shelters) are urgently needed in Sabah but unfortunately still unavailable.”

Need we say more about Roselan? (Opps .. Haji Roselan). When a leader mades such a statement he is automatically disqualified as a leader. No one, men or women alike, would ever trust him and respect him anymore, despite whatever excuses he gives and how many times he apologises.

Roselan has been given a chance to lead. He screwed it up. So he should go. If no action is taken against Roselan, it only shows those with authorities either equally insensitive or they too, have similar mentality.

Taking Joy Too Far?

Daily Express reported that A 23-year-old woman had her right leg severed following a collision involving a navy combat boat on the coastal highway waterfront, on the night when Sandakan was declared "Nature City".

The victim, Hartinie Abdul Malik, was sitting on the waterfront with her younger sister watching a demonstration by the Royal Malaysian Navy when the mishap took place at 10.45pm during the festivity to mark the launching of Sandakan as Nature City and Sandakan Festival 2004.

One of the three participating CB90H RMN combat boats went out of control and rammed into the seawall where the victims were seated, crushing the woman’s leg below the knee and severing it before turning turtle and capsizing.

The five navy personnel on board also sustained minor injuries. One of them, Shahrul Nizam, in his 30s, was warded for observation after he sustained a neck injury, while skipper Lt Azraf Faizuddin Che Cob had cuts on his right hand.

Police and Rela members rendered assistance to the unconscious victim by rushing her to the Duchess of Kent Hospital where her condition was said to be stable.

Doctors were said to have tried to re-attach the severed leg in an operation.

The victim’s sister, identified as Hartina, 18, was slight injured while a male companion was unharmed. Most of the crowd were shocked by the incident.

Commanding officer Shahruzaman Ahmad, describing the incident as unfortunate, assured that an investigation would be carried out.

He said Region II Commander First Admiral Datuk Abdul Aziz Jaafar was due here Wednesday to visit the victims.

In an unrelated incident, a 43-year-old man was also rushed to the hospital after being hit on the left shoulder by splinters from the fireworks launcher in an adjacent area.

Meanwhile, Sandakan Municipal Council (MPS) President, Datuk Adeline Leong said the Council expressed regret over the unforeseen incident. “We offer our sympathies to the families of the victims,” she said.

She was informed of the mishap 20 minutes after the ‘Nature City’ declaration ceremony had ended.

Leong, who visited Hartinie at the hospital Wednesday morning, described her as a brave lady who accepted her personal tragedy as fate.

“Given the circumstances, she could still offer a smile. She will be fitted with a prosthetic limb, according to the doctor,” she said.

Meanwhile, a navy spokesman told Leong that in the interest of public safety and to avert a recurrence of such accident, they would not hold a speedboat manoeuvring show again in future.

While it is good to celebrate the occasion with the people of Sandakan, security and safety measures must never be forgotten or compromised. Should the organisers, namely Sandakan Municipal Council, were more careful with its planning, not taking things for granted, the above ugly episode would not have happened. Words of comfort or sorry after the incident meant nothing even if it came from the MPS President herself.

Down-Grading Tawau

The previous Tawau Municipal Council (Majlis Perbandaran Tawau - MPT) president, Datuk Hamzah Hj Amir, announced before his transfer that Tawau would be made a city in year 2005. No one believed him then as he could only talk without any actions.

The present President, Datuk Hj Harith M Yahya, also talked about it. He has done a little more then the previous president. However, no one believes him too.

Datuk Harith seemed promising when he first took over as the council president in 2002. He fired his staff for poor working attitudes and complained about other government departments for not doing their jobs. He got the people wake up for a while waiting for more good news. Alas, it was not for long.

Now, like the other previous presidents, Datuk Harith too shows his true colour. First, he acts like real VIP by arriving late for function even when he is not the guest of honour (I do not meant guest of honour could arrive late). He insisted he knows about protocol since he was once in the state palace. But he got it all wrong.

MPT under his leadership now approved the fixing of street lights for the 30KM road from Tawau to Airport. Lamp posts were closely erected, probably advised by his wise engineers. While lighting up the strecth of road which is always deserted after 8.30pm, the housing areas are left in darkness. Burnt bulbs took years to be replaced.

Not enough for that, MPT now fixed up ancient street lights at areas where there are no activities at night. The front part of MPT especially is decorated with these ancient street lights but no one use thise area at night. The street lights are dim and serve no purpose.

Traffic congestion in Tawau is getting from bad to worse. The already narrow roads in town areas are made even narrower. According the wise engineers of MPT, it is to avoid traffic congestion since they said when the road is narrow, no vehicle could stop. Now, Tawau town is flooded with machine turtles due to the road-narrowing process. One just wonders where did these engineers of MPT graduate from.

Sabindo which was once the proud spot of Tawau is now the breeding ground for diseases, rats and flies. Clogged drains are left to unsolved after repeated complaints. The president claims to visit every corner of the town but he misses just too many places. The town councillors too are sleeping lots.

The list could go on and on. Instead of looking forward for a better life (not dare thinking of the city status), MPT is down-grading Tawau. The council must have lost their forward gear that's why they keep going backward.

Help Tawau, somebody! We need fresh blood in MPT!

Some Leaders Don't See When They Look

Read the following news reports and judge for yourself what our leaders are talking about.

1. 9 May 2004

Nazri: Lift night stay ban on island of Sipadan
SEMPORNA: Minister in the Prime Minister’s Department Datuk Seri Nazri Abdul Aziz will propose to the Cabinet to lift the night-stay ban on the diving resort island of Sipadan here, following improved security.

“It is not practical and a burden to operators who have to bring the tourists out of the island before nightfall,” he told reporters here.

The Government had imposed the night-stay ban after armed men abducted nine Malaysians and 12 foreigners from the island in April 2000.

Nazri, who visited the island yesterday, said he would also propose to the Cabinet to set up a body to supervise the development of islands in the country.

He said such a proposal was also made under former prime minister Tun Dr Mahathir Mohamad.

Earlier when addressing members of the Tawau natural disaster committee, he said the National Security Division should be notified of any disaster to enable speedy assistance to be given to those affected.

He said such committees should also identify potential disasters in areas marked for development. –Bernama

2. 1 July 2003 Sabah Tourism

DPM Visits Sipadan, Happy with Security (Daily Express, 1st July 2003)

Pulau Sipadan: Datuk Seri Abdullah Ahmad Badawi Monday visited Pulau Sipadan and expressed satisfaction with the level of security on the island, a diving haven in Semporna water off East Coast of Sabah.

“I am happy with the situation in this area which is good and safe.. there has not been a criminal case since the one which happened previously (a kidnapping on April 23 2000). After that there has been no more incident and those visiting this island are all safe,” the Deputy Prime Minister told reporters covering his visit.

Abdullah who is also Home Minister flew in a helicopter from Tawau to the resort island of Mabul before taking a 20-minute boat ride to Pulau Sipadan where he spent about two hours.

Abdullah is the most senior government leader to visit Pulau Sipadan after the International Court of Justice (ICJ) in The Hague, in a decision on Dec 17, 2002 declared that the island and Pulau Ligitan belong to Malaysia.

Pulau Sipadan, the size of almost two football fields and located 21.8 nautical miles off Semporna town is listed as one of the top five scuba-diving destinations in the world. On April 23, 2000 a group of Abu Sayyaf gunman kidnapped 21 people, comprising nine Malaysians, two Filipinos and 10 foreign tourists on the island and took them in a boat to Jolo Island in Southern Philippines.

The victims were released in stages within six months except for the last hostage, Filipino Roland Ullah who escaped from the kidnappers early this month. When asked on the travel advisory issued by the United States on Malaysia, especially Sabah which is said to be exposed to Southern Philippines, Abdullah said the fact was that Malaysia was a safe country.

“My advice is whoever wants to visit Sipadan should come. It is a beautiful island and they will have the advantage of seeing the (marine) treasure here,” he said.

Asked whether the Government would give special allocations to develop Pulau Sipadan, Abdullah said the matter had yet to be discussed. Abdullah said the discussion held in conjunction with his visit only touched on the question of the presence security forces in waters around the island.

During the visit, he was accompanied by Sabah Chief Minister Datuk Musa Aman and 1st Division Commander Lt. Jen Datuk Pahlawan Mohamad Azumi Mohamed – Bernama

3. 14 May 2004 Daily Express

Order to vacate Sipadan
Kota Kinabalu: Chief Minister Datuk Seri Musa Aman confirmed Thursday that the five dive companies operating on the popular destination of Sipadan have been told to remove all man-made structures on the island by the end of this year.

This is in compliance to notices issued by the National Security Division. Musa said the directive was based on the recommendation by a special Federal-State committee co-chaired by the Chief Secretary and State Secretary. It was aimed at safeguarding Sipadan’s pristine environment.

“We have asked the operators to vacate and build their chalets or resorts at nearby islands and leave Sipadan as it is. People can only visit the island for day trips,” he said. “I think this is more towards protecting the environment in Sipadan.”

Musa, who is also State Security Committee Chairman, believed the firms concerned had been given ample time to look for alternatives.

“(But) I’ll leave it to the committee, which is a joint Federal-State committee,” he said when asked on appeals by the operators, some of whom reportedly described it as unexpected and harsh.

Sipadan shot to world fame when it was recognised by world renowned oceanographer, late Jaques Costeau, as one of the top 10 diving spots in the world.

It was also the scene of an infamous transborder kidnap involving the Philippine-based Abu Sayyaf guerillas where more than 20 foreigners and locals were taken hostage.

Currently the Government has limited the number of people coming into the island daily to just 80 or 16 per firm.

When contacted, State Secretary Datuk K.Y Mustafa said all the dive operators had been made aware of the decision since last year. “We are not asking them to cease operations but only to dismantle their chalets from the island.

“The island cannot afford to have too many people staying overnight as we don’t want solid waste harming the surroundings.

“They can operate from Semporna or nearby islands as long as they don’t let the tourists stay overnight on Sipadan,” he said.

Mustafa said the decision was based on the need to protect the surroundings of the island, including its environmental feature. He added the Federal Government had also consented to the decision.

The move would ensure that the island, a popular spot for turtles to lay eggs and a transit point for migratory birds, is totally protected.

“As a matter of fact, the physical shape of the island is unique as it stands only on one trunk and looks fragile. It is comparatively small in comparison to other Islands.

“If we don’t protect this heritage, then we would lose Sipadan as the best spot for diving in the world.”

Asked about any restrictions on operating hours, Mustafa replied that the time limit for diving had yet to be determined. However, it was advisable for the tour operators to do only daytime diving. Night diving would need special permission and a special guide.

It was learnt that all Sipadan dive operators will meet to discuss the Government’s directive. According to a source, the operators are now in a fix on how to continue their diving business on the island.

“The operators feel the operating from outside the island is not viable because it would take them to ferry the tourists about three to four hours to reach Sipadan during bad weather. Normally on fine weather, it only takes between 30 minutes and an hour to reach there.

“They could not accept the decision if the Government’s reason in imposing the move is to preserve the environment as illegal fishing and fish bombing will take place when the island is unoccupied,” the source said.

Giving an example, he said it is an open secret that fish bombing and illegal fishing in places like Pulau Tiga or Pulau Mantanani is rampant because nobody visits or even stays on the two islands and enforcement is lackadaisacal.

Unlike in Mabul, he said Sipadan faced a serious problem of fish bombing but when some resorts were built, these illegal activity ceased.

Do you see what I saw? Datuk Musa, do you?

Was Salleh Cornered?

Something really interesting reported in Daily Express:

Five Umno branches in Kota Belud said Kota Belud Member of Parliament Datuk Salleh Said should keep to his word about not defending his Umno divisional head post next month.

The five branch heads Lamsil Hamidsor (Peninting), Jelun Sungit (Kampung Siasai), Raiman Taib (Lebak Moyoh), Besari Saudin and Masdor Haji Diman (Kedatuan Wakap) together with three members Nandra Hitong, Magit Julan and Karim Lunoh said this in a statement.

“We fully support Salleh’s decision not to defend his divisional head post which he announced on April 2 and as reported in the media,” they said.

They said Salleh’s decision does not come as a shock to them as he had written to the division’s committee members about his decision to give way.

“Salleh has been the divisional head for a long time and it is time we have a new leader,” said Lamsil.

“When a leader decided to give way, be it he or she has had enough or failed, it is only appropriate that he or she give up graciously,” said Lamsil.

Jelun said he respected Salleh’s smart decision not to defend his post and give the chance to others.

Raiman said a leader must keep to his or her words and once they decided “must stick to the decision” and not made a U-turn.

Meanwhile, Nasdra said Salleh had been the divisional head for more than a decade and his decision is, therefore, “very much appreciated.”

If one overstays his welcome like what Salleh did then this is what he has to face. He has no choice but to write in with honour to tell the committee members that he is not defending his post.

There might be three sides of the stories. One, Salleh knows his political days are numbered. Before he is booted out it is more honourable for him not to contest. If one could accept the facts that leader comes leader goes, then it is totally alright for him to do so.

But it could also due to the facts that Salleh has fallen out of favour with those powerfuls and was forced to indicate his intention in writing. Or else he would have to face the consequences.

Salleh could also play a game DAP Chairman, Lim Kit Siang, always played, resign and waits for members to pursuade him to stay. Thus it would show those above him that his services is still needed. But will he receive calls to ask him to stay?

Judging from the news report, the second assumption is more accurate. If Salleh had sinerely wanted to leave, no one would need to remind (humiliate) him in such a way, calling him to keep his words.

Another political reality. Leave before you overstay your welcome.

The Right Bahasa Malaysia

Culture, Arts and Heritage Minister Datuk Seri Dr Rais Yatim said on Monday that Leaders must speak in correct Bahasa Melayu at official functions to promote the usage of the national language.

He said the language culture of present leaders was akin to “Touch N Go”, which would eventually be followed by the people.

“We must speak the national language correctly. The correct use of Bahasa Melayu should begin with those in authority. If the leaders do not converse in proper Bahasa Melayu, our younger generation will also not speak the language correctly,” he told reporters after visiting the National Arts Academy.

This trend, if left unchecked, would lead to the birth of a generation speaking “Bahasa Rojak” or mixed language, he said.

As such, leaders should set an example by speaking the language correctly, he said.

“For instance, when you speak in English, speak in proper English.

Likewise, when speaking in Bahasa Melayu, speak the language correctly.

“If our spoken language is not right, people will say it’s not right,” he said.

Dr Rais questioned the attitude of certain quarters who disputed the Government’s action in the “Bahasa Rojak” or mixed language issue as not honouring the national language as enshrined under Article 160 of the Federal Constitution.

“If such an honour is not accorded to the national language, why should we enact the National Language Act? Since we’ve the Act, we should implement it,” he added

We do agree with what Dr Rais Yatim was talking about. Howvever, language especially Bahasa Malaysia is just too hard to control. Besides having different dialects from various states in Malaysia, we also have the natives languages besides the influence of major Chinese, Indian and English languages.

Just recently a reader of Utusan Malaysia complained about the type of language used on signboards in Putrajaya, supposedly the most important 'example'for all Malaysians. Words like 'parcel, presinct, boulevard and souq" which were definitely not Bahasa Malaysia were used.

In response, Director of Dewan Bahasa dan Pustaka, Dr. Awang Sariyan said they had questioned Perbadanan Putrajaya about the choice of words but he was ignored.

Let see if Dr Rais Yatim could make any changes to the choice of words used in Putrajaya before he correct the YBs on using proper BM.

Kalau selalu cakap tak betui macam mana nak betul? Bila semuanya sudah betui baru ngam. Teda guna cakap teda serupa bikin.

YB (Yang Bergambar) Chua Soon Bui

Chua Soon Bui, the Wanita Chief of Sabah Progressive Party (SAPP) is always moving in front of cameramen. She likes to be photograhed and more so if those photographs taken are published in newspapers. She even brings along her aids to take photographs for her whenever she goes. Sometimes she pays to get her petty news into front page of local dailies.

It is understandable for Chua to post for press if she is still the Member of Parliament or someone important. She was once an MP for Tawau during 1995 to 1999, but her place has long been replaced by Shim Paw Fatt, her party mate. Shim is into his second term as MP for Tawau after winning the seat uncontested during the last election.

So Chua Soon Bui is no longer the MP but she still acts like one, or at certain time she is more YB than the real YB. She wants people to address her as YB Chua instead of Puan Chua or Madam Chua. She wanted newsmen to name her as the former MP for Tawau. YB just mean so much to her.

She has been trying hard to lobby for a place either in the parliament or state assembly. However her over-exposure and over stepping on other people's rights and jurisdiction has angered and offended many, including her own party members. Therefore she was never proposed by the Tawau SAPP CLC. Subsequently, her name was never in SAPP's list of proposed candidates for the last general election.

In her quest for fame, title, power and popularity, she joined many non-governmental organisations. Not only that she also arranged for her followers to be in those organisations. She demanded for positions in those organisations. Instead of contributing to the organisations she joined, she dragged them into politics. She politicised the organisations and created misunderstanding among members. She made all kinds of promises as though she was more powerful than the ministers. When none of her promises materialise, she left quietly looking for new organisations to continues her hidden agenda.

She also visits the sicks and unfortunates, not to offer console or help but to be photographed and pretend to be someone who cares. She was building publicity on the sorrow of others. Her tricks failed to convince the public.

Has Chua Soon Bui contributed anything to the society? NONE. Not when she was the MP and not after that. She is only a woman hungry for popularity. That's why she is nicked YB (Yang Bergambar) Chua.

Wake up Chua Soon Bui.

List of Sabah Political Secretaries

1. Haji Zakaria Edris (Umno Gum-Gum Assemblyman)
2. Haji Abd Rahman Dahlan (Umno)
3. Abdul Kahar Mohd Zain (Umno)
4. Omarkhan Amir Hussin (Umno)
5. Hajah Hamisa Samat (Umno)
6. Datuk Amisah Yassin (Umno)
7. Suhaibol Omar (Umno)
8. Isnin Aliasneh (Umno)
9. Herbert Timbon Lagadan (PBS Kadamaian Assemblyman)
10. John Lim Yu Sin (PBS)
11. Daniel Kinsik (PBS)
12. Wong Chee Khiong @ Jimmy (SAPP)
13. Hung Kan Yin (SAPP)
14. Japirin Sahadi (Upko)
15. Ellron Alfred Angian (PBRS)
16. Chin Yen Sang (LDP)
17. Tan Kim Beng (MCA)
18. John Chin Tseng Kheong (Gerakan)

POOR YB?

Suddenly so many YBs talks about not having enough money for many things, setting up service centres, paying staff salaries, donations, contribution to party and more.

Why it was never heard of previously except for a hardworking few? Could we assume that previously they have big side income through projects and they do not have to actually contribute. They kept everything for their own and on top of that making huge claims on travelling and other expenses. No one was checking on them. Not even when they disappear from the Parliament meetings and state assembly meetings.

Now that they have been instructed to 'turun padang' and show their record book every three months. Their status would be reviewed. Some states even threaten to sack them by means of submitting their undated resignation letters. Their source of side incomes have also been tightened and carefully watched. TV3 even asks viewers to contact them if they found their YBs not carrying out their duties.

These YBs have been too relaxing in their comfort zone previously that they thought getting elected during election is for them to enjoy their victory for five years without any contribution. New YBs thought they have hit the jack pot when they won but they were seriously wrong.

NOW you know YBs. Don't take the people for granted. Don't take Pak Lah for granted.

YB Yang Bersuara

Suddenly so many YBs spoke in the state assembly. Those YBs who used to be YESmen and RUBBER stamp also suddenly found the courage to say a few words. Never mind if they use broken Malay or Broken English. At least they open their mouths.

We just hope that this sceen will continue for the next five years or until the state assembly is dissolved. Now the YBs have became Yang Bersuara. Let see when are they going to 'turun padang' and be Yang Berusaha, Yang Bekerja and Yang Berkhidmat.

It is still too early to judge. Since there is a record book to be filled they have to do something. Similar to the school children having homework to do. Or they will get punished by their teachers. Pak Lah is watching you YBs. But most importantly the people are watching.

Bravo to Tan Sri Pandikar Amin Hj Mulia for questioning how Chong Kah Kiat got his development fund so fast and so much for Kudat but not the other parts of the state. Bravo for reviewing the Kota Kinabalu Car Park problem.

Show us more results, show us more actions. We will surely give our support. After all we are all for Sabah. Sabah O Sabah.

Chong Kah Kiat Bullies Poor Pregnant Woman

Recently LDP President and state Deputy Chief Minister made headlines in local dailies again. What's the big news? Chong put one poor pregnat woman into jail!

The story went like this. A pregnant woman approached Chong at his house in Kota Kinabalu claiming that her son was suffering from hole in lung and needed to go for operation. She also claimed that she was from Kudat. Chong straight away took out RM1,600 and gave to the woman. He even sent his driver to take the woman to the hospital. However, on reaching the hospital, the woman fled. Chong's driver checked with the hospital and found that there was no such boy which fitted the description. A few days ago Chong's driver tracked the woman down and Chong reported to the police. The woman was later put into jail.

End of the story, but not end of the discussion. Questions:

1. Why, such an intelligent leader like Chong's could be cheated by a poor pregnant woman?

2. Why cash was given to the woman when she said she was from Kudat? Was it for buying vote?

3. Why, a person like Chong who always talks about religion, does not have the compassion to forgive a poor pregnant woman but to put her in jail instead?

4. Why Chong sent his driver to track the woman down? Was it because RM1,600 is too much for him?

What's the conclusion?

I don't think it would be hard for you to figure out.

Sabah Political Reality

Reclassified
Datuk Seri Panglima Lajim Hj Okin - Former Deputy Chief Minister
Datuk Dr Patawari Patawe - Sebatik State Assemblyman, Former Assistant Minister
Tan Sri Joseph Kurup - Former Minister, PBRS President
Datuk Rubin Balang - Former Minister
Datuk Wong Lien Tat - Former Asisstant Minister

Reserved
Datuk Abdul Ghapur Hj Salleh - Kalabakan Member of Parliament, Former Deputy Chief Minister
Datuk Amirkahar Tun Datu Mustapha - Banggi State Assemblyman, Former Minister
Datuk Salleh Tun Said - Kota Belud Member of Parliament, Former Chief Minister

Recycled
Syed Abas Syed Ali - Balung State Assemblyman

Rejected
Datuk Wences Angang - Former Deputy Chief Minister
Datuk Dr Jeffry Kitinggan - Fomer Bingkor State Assemblyman
Datuk Lau Ngan Siew - Former Member of Parliament, LDP Deputy President
Datuk Seri Panglima Osu Hj Sukam - Former Chief Minister
Datuk Railey Jeffrey - Former Deputy Minister
Chua Soon Bui - Former Tawau Member of Parliament, SAPP Wanita Chief
Datuk Dr Charlie Chang Chau Lap - Former Senator, MCA Tawau Division Head,
Datuk Kong Hon Ming - Former Minister
Datuk Rizalman Abdullah - Former Parliamentary Secretary
Datuk Akhbar Khan - Former Member of Parliament
Datuk Clarence Bongkos Malakun - Former State Assemblyman
Datuk Abdul Malik Chua - Former State Assemblyman

Retired
Datuk Abdul Manan Jakasa

Re-???
Datuk Yong Teck Lee, Former Chief Minister, SAPP President
Datuk Tham Nyip Shen, Former Deputy Chief Minister, SAPP Deputy President

Tawau - The Step Child

After the appointment of both state and national cabinets were completed Tawau once again being the biggest loser.

Tawau, the most important town in the east coast of Sabah covers both Tawau and Kalabakan parliamentaries with six state constituencies namely Sri Tanjung, Apas, Balung, Merotai, Tanjung Batu and Sebatik. All the seats were won by BN.

Tawau which is the third largest town in the state is also an important agriculture and aquaculture center. Oil Palm and Cocoa plantations made up most of the agriculture activities while boasted the most number of prawn farming. In addition to that Tawau is also the most important transit point between Sabah and East Kalimantan of Indonesia which brought about millions worth of Ringgit in barter trading.

With such an important role to play and its great contributions to the state's revenue, only one assistant minister was chosen from Tawau is rather unacceptable. Compared to other areas in Sabah which have their voices in the state cabinet and some in the national cabinet, Tawau has once again been left out from the main stream. It is no different from being treated as the step child of the state.

However, this situation has been expected. Tawau, including Kalabakan, has never had any real qualified, educated, dedicated, capable and outstanding leaders. The most it ever had was when Datuk Abdul Ghapur Salleh was made the Deputy Chief Minister. He however resigned siting personal problem before anything could be done to the people of Tawau. When his old friend Chong Kah Kiat was the Chief Minister he was once again invited into the state cabinet as Minister. The second opportunity too was wasted without much contributions.

There were also other assistant ministers from Tawau who were Datuk Michael Lim Yun Sang (Sri Tanjung), Datuk Dr Patawari Patawe (Merotai) and Datuk Abdul Manan Jakasa (Balung).

Datuk Michael Lim was dumped by the people of Tawau for being one of the biggest political frog who has betrayed his mentor Datuk Seri Pairin Kitingan of PBS. He not only made huge profits from the projects he lobbied but also cheated a large number of local businessmen. His debtors are still hunting for him now. He too was a disgrace for the people of Tawau.

Both Datuk Abdul Manan and Dr Patawari did not made any significant contributions to the people of Tawau before they were removed. Datuk Manan opted out during the last election while Dr Patawari was not re-appointed to his previous peosition.

It was widely understood that both Dr Patawari and Datuk Ghapur were not in good terms with Datuk Seri Musa. They were both excluded from the original list of BN candidates. However, due to last minute lobbying and political pressure, they were retained. In such a situation, there was no hope for any cabinet appointments for both of them.

Sri Tanjung state assemblyman Samson Chin Chee Tsu is PBS Vice President. He was also the DAP Member of Parliament of Tawau. He was never a choice for the people in Tawau if not because of his current associations with PBS, the BN component party. If he were to face a stronger contender during the last election, Samson would have lost. Samson is a NPM or non-performance-man.

The fact that DAP candidate Jack Cheah Nget Min or Ayam Chia managed to garner more than 3,000 votes is enough to prove that Samson did not meet the people's expectation. Should Ayam Chia had more resources he would have won handsomely.

The Member of Parliament Shim Paw Fatt is slightly better than Samson. He was lucky to win uncontested. His track of records too have not been good with little to shout about. That of course made him not qualified for any appointment.

The rest of the state assemblymen in Mohamad Kamil Kassim (Tanjung Batu), Liew Yun Fah (Merotai) and Syed Abas Syed Ali (Balung) were there due to some political connections with those in power. The too have nothing much to offer.

It is too late to regret since the people have made their choice.
Blame it on the party leaderships who are selfish and irresponsible in putting up the wrong candidates.
Blame it on the greedy candidates who use all their dirty resources to be YB.
Blame it too to the voters who have opted for 'immediate benefits' and went against their will to make the wrong guys win.
Blame it too to ourselves who have taken things for granted.

When we have bad drivers no one wants to offer them any car to drive.