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community DECEMBER 3 – 5, 2010/ issue 2

Selangor King George V Silver Jubilee


Fund Home residents on their way to
lunch at the home on Wednesday. The
retirement home, which houses 26
elderly women, was established in 1937.
– Picture by Victor Chong

• Stories on page 16

By Gan Pei Ling

SHAH ALAM: A tunnel to accommo-


date a section of the KL Outer Ring Road
(KLORR) will be built to protect the
Klang Gates Quartz Ridge in Hulu Klang.
Executive councillor Elizabeth Wong said
Selangor has insisted that the tunnel be built
to  avoid cutting through potential world
heritage sites and the Gombak forest reserve.
She also pointed out that the area next
to the ridge was a vital water catchment area
around the Klang Gates dam.  
“It’s the best solution,” said Wong, whose
portfolio includes the environment. 
She described the move as “small victory”
for the state, which is planning to commis-
sion a study next year in order to apply for
Unesco heritage status for what is possibly
the world’s longest quartz ridge.
“The process is expected to take a few
years, but if we’re successful, it would be
recognition that there is a natural wonder in
Selangor, which few are aware of,” said
Wong.
State Town and Country Planning De-
partment director Datuk Mohd Jaafar
Mohd Atan confirmed that highway devel-
oper Ahmad Zaki Resources has agreed to
the new plan.
His assistant,  Mohd Rozuwan Ab’llah,
also told Selangor Times that the proposed
tunnel would be 200 metres long.
However, the Malaysian Highway Au-

ORR goes
thority declined to comment when asked
about the increased cost to construct the
tunnel.
Its representative also declined to name
the party that would bear the increased cost.
KLORR was originally expected to cost
RM300 million.
Apart from the Klang Gates Quartz

underground
Ridge, she said KLORR was also supposed
to cut through the the Selangor State Park
which may affect another water catchment
area besides fragmenting the forest reserves
and exposing them to encroachment.
Although the highway is a federal project,
residents and environmental groups also
submitted a memorandum to the Selangor
government in April to voice their concern
about the project.
“ Th e stat e c a n st o p
KLORR if they want to be- The state impact of the highway. She said the state forestry department had as the route is not fixed yet.
cause they are in control of can stop Construction work has begun proposed to the developer to build the eastern Once completed, KLORR is expected to
land matters,” Malaysian Na- KLORR if in the western part of the highway part of the highway around the Selangor State ease traffic congestion on Middle Ring Road
ture Society honorary secre- they want near the Kanching forest reserve, Park’s edges instead of cutting across it. Two and provide an alternative route to con-
tary Lim Teck Wyn said. to because but Wong said the remaining sec- “The slopes at those areas are prone to nect residents in Rawang, Cheras and Am-
Wong, however, said it was tions in the eastern part have yet landslides, so the developer must make sure pang.
not within the state’s power they are in to be finalised. the highway does not destabilise them,” said Lim, however, said Putrajaya should focus
to stop the highway, but they control of “They (highway developer) Wong. on building an integrated public transport
will do their best to minimise land matters,” have not shown us the plan for the She added that the Environmental Impact system in Klang Valley instead of building
the environmental and social – MNS chief rest of the road,” said Wong. Assessment for the highway has yet to be done more highways.
2
news
DECEMBER 3 — 5, 2010

Putrajaya mum
over water issue
By Gan Pei Ling protest the Selangor government is the companies, at RM5.7 billion
organising on Sunday, Chin told and later RM9.3 billion, had been
PULAU KETAM: Energy, Green him “you are here to attend a rejected.
Technology and Water Minister function on electricity, please talk The state has now launched a
Datuk Seri Peter Chin Fah Kui has about electricity”. water rights campaign and will
refused to comment on Selangor Selangor’s water concessionaires submit a memorandum to the King
water industry’s consolidation. are at risk of defaulting on their on Sunday to seek royal intervention
“Today’s event is about electricity, bond payments this month. on the issue.
please don’t ask about water,” Chin Chin had said in November that A few thousand demonstrators
told a China Press reporter after Putrajaya might bail out the water are expected to march from the
launching the underwater electric companies but the state government National Mosque to Istana Negara
cable in Sungai Lima, Pulau Ketam, had objected to it. on Sunday.
yesterday. Selangor Water Review Panel Meanwhile, another group called
The minister remained evasive member Tony Pua said Putrajaya Gagasan Anti-Penyelewengan
when Selangor Times tried to should be forcing the companies to Selangor will also march to the
confirm with him whether Putrajaya sell their assets to the state palace on Sunday to protest against
would bail out the four debt-ridden government to offload their debt. the state government’s alleged
water concessionaires. Pua said the companies had been power abuses.
 “Sorry I don’t want to talk about mismanaged and their current The allegations include the issue
water today…I know it’s important, combined debt of RM6.4 billion of illegal sand mining, the purchase
but we can talk about it some other had exceeded their asset value. of property developer Talam
time,” said Chin. The state had attempted to Corporation’s debt and the closure
Chin at the launch of an undersea cable event in Pulau Ketam When another journalist asked consolidate the water industry since of Institut Kemahiran Yayasan
yesterday. Chin to comment on the water 2009 but its two offers to take over Selangor.

Hotline
Talam’s assets handed over
to PNSB to recover debts
MBSA
03-5510 5133
MPSJ
03-8026 3131
MPK SHAH ALAM: Two parcels of PNSB chief executive officer Ah- mentary budget of RM391million He explained that Talam had
03-3375 5555 land worth over RM500 million mad Omar and state secretary Da- for Menteri Besar Incorporated earlier handed the land over to MBI
MBPJ have been handed over to Permoda- tuk Ramli Mahmud along with (MBI) to buy over the debts owed as part of a settlement to pay off the
03-7956 3544 lan Nasional Sdn Bhd (PNSB) as representatives from Talam. by Talam to state subsidiaries which RM392 million they owed.
part of Selangor’s efforts to recover The parcels include a 516 hectare included PNSB and the Selangor With the agreement, PNSB has
MDHS debts from Talam Corporation Bhd. site in Bukit Beruntung and an- Development Corporation. now increased it’s land bank and will
03-6064 1331 Menteri Besar Tan Sri Khalid other in Bestari Jaya worth RM181 However, his administration develop the sites as commercial and
MDKL Ibrahim on Tuesday signed the million. came under fire for using a method industrial centres.
03-3187 2732 agreement which will empower the Khalid emphasised that his ad- called “round-tripping” to consoli- “PNSB has plans to develop the
state subsidiary to develop the land ministration was not writing off date Talam’s debts under MBI be- area and I believe it will reap good
MDKS which previously belonged to Talam’s debts. fore the state could proceed to re- returns,” he said.
03-3289 1439 / 6311 Talam. In November last year, the Selan- cover the money. Profits from the projects will be
MDSB Also at the press conference were gor Assembly approved a supple- “This is no bailout,” he said. channelled back to the state.
03-3224 1655 / 1000

Twitter
MPAJ SHAH ALAM: Comments on morning.” water,” wrote Yvonne Ho.
03-4296 8000 Tan Sri Rozali Ismail’s annual “RM425,000 a month? Syabas “One big SYABAS to them for
wages which amount to RM5.1 has it good, sadly the rest of us have the privatisation of water,” com-
abuzz with
MPKj
03-8737 0112 million at the helm of Syarikat to struggle to get enough food mented Ulquiorra Schiffer
Bekalan Air Selangor (Syabas) while having crappy water,” posted “Is this being championed by

RM425k
MPS dominated Twitter.com this week. Wilson Wong. the Federal Government?
03-6120 3127 / 2126 On Wednesday, Zashnain Zain- “Now I am so motivated to “If it wasn’t enough to privatise,
al wrote: “If I had RM425,000 per work, cause I know of a high-pay- now we are giving them compensa-
salary
MPSepang
03-8319 0200 / 0300 month like the Syabas CEO, I ing position that sells one of the tion as well?” tweeted Auzani
would say Syabas to myself every easiest products known to man, Fikry.

To place your Advert in WEATHER


Friday Saturday Sunday

phone (603) 5523 2288


fax (603) 5523 1188 Contact Evelyne at Petaling Jaya
email editor@selangortimes.com
marketing @selangortimes.com

EDITORIAL
CHIEF EDITOR KL Chan
COMMUNITY EDITOR Neville Spykerman
Error in caption Subang

WRITERS Tang Hui Koon, Chong Loo Wah, Gan Pei Ling,
Alvin Chin, Lee Choon Fai, William Tan The individual for the picture on page 8 last
COPY EDITORS James Ang, Deborah Loh week for our story on community policing was
DESIGNER Jimmy C. S. Lim MBPJ councillor Jeyaseelan Anthony and Shah Alam
PHOTOGRAPHER Victor Chong
ADVERTISING Evelyne Low
not Cassian Baptist.
ADVISORS Faekah Husin, Arfa’esa Abdul Aziz We regret the error.
SELANGOR TIMES ⁄ DECEMBER 3 – 5, 2010 ⁄ 3
4
news
DECEMBER 3 — 5, 2010

MPK to sue 3,000 warrants


KLANG: The Klang Municipal Council will sue
those making what they called ‘baseless’ allega-
tions over the proposed development of the
Pandamaran sports complex. issued to
over allegations assessment
MPK president Mislan Tugiu said councillors
voted at the MPK monthly board meeting on
Tuesday to sue those who made the allegation for
RM100 million.
  It was an overwhelming vote after an emo-
defaulters
tional debate, with some councillors saying they petaling jaya: Three thou-
only learned of the RM9 million project from sand warrants were recently issued
Press reports. by the Petaling Jaya City Council
  “The allegations have adversely affected the (MBPJ) to individuals with assess-
council’s image. The project is only at the early ment arrears.
stages but critics made it seem as though we have “They owe up to RM30 million
started the project,” said Mislan. to the council, this is our last resort
  The controversy followed allegations by Klang after all our previous efforts, such
MCA chief Datuk Teh Kim Poo that the project as sending bills, reminders and even
was a waste of public funds due to its high cost. orders to the defaulters have failed.”
   He revealed that the plan involved resurfacing said the Mayor of Petaling Jaya,  Da-
the existing parking area on the field to tuk Mohamad Roslan Sakiman af-
accommodate 380 cars and 180 motorcycles, ter the MBPJ board meeting last
repairing the drainage and installing street light Monday.
poles at a cost of RM1.2mil. He continued by saying that
  There are also plans to widen the jogging track failure to pay their arrears could
to two metres, build a cycle track and six gazebos cause officers arriving at the default-
around the field and plant trees costing ers’ homes to confiscate all prop-
RM900,000. erty on the premises regardless if
  Critics also allege that there will be an ex- they were at the time renting.
treme park for wall climbing, skateboarding, After which, the defaulters
roller skating and go-kart racing facilities. would have up to seven days to pay
BIG AYE: Majlis Perbandaran Klang councillors vote to sue “baseless” allegations over
  They claim the council also planned to up- the proposed development of the Pandamaran sports complex.
up their arrears before their items
grade the two football fields with floodlights, are auctioned off. He also said that
subsoil drainage, terrain drainage and remove were old and obsolete, while many were in need for political purposes as though approval had most of the arrears involved vacant
stones from the top soil. There are also plans for of repairs. been given. Several documents from MPK have commercial and residential plots.
fast food outlets to be built there.   “We are sensitive towards public opinion and also been leaked. We must now explain to the Meanwhile, Mohamad Roslan
Councillor Ivan Ho had suggested at the board any project will be subjected to a public hearing public what actually transpired. acknowledged that MBPJ were
meeting that a suit be filed and the councillors before implementation.” There were claims that we planned to plant acting on the 57 complaints they
voted for legal action to be taken.    He said the MPK was carrying out a survey grass for RM1.6 million. have received about traffic lights.
  Mislan said he was shocked over the allega- to gather feedback on whether to go ahead with Are we planting golden grass here?” he asked. “Most of them came from Jalan
tions as the project was merely a proposal. He said the project. Councillors also said they had difficulty an- Mahogany in Kota Damasara and
the complex needed upgrading as the facilities   “But then several people highlighted the issue swering questions from the public on the issue. Persiaraan Surian stretch.”

COU000006
Job No:
news
DECEMBER 3 — 5, 2010 5
Litrak
Subang Jaya taking upgrades LDP
measures to eradicate rats
By Alvin Chin
P E TA L I N G J AYA : Hig hway
concessionaire Litrak will spend RM312
million over three years to upgrade the
Damansara-Puchong highway.
“The construction and upgrade of the
highway have already started but we are
SUBANG JAYA: The commercial area in expected to go into full swing in January
SS15 has been given a boost following an 2011“ Litrak CEO Sazally Saidi said.
operation to eradicate rats on Sunday. There will be four packages in the RM400
The operation is a collaboration between million road upgrade of LDP. They are the
the Subang Jaya Municipal Council (MPSJ) improvement of the Puchong Perdana traffic
and Rentokil Initial (M) Sdn.Bhd. The rising intersection, upgrading of road from
number of rodents in SS15 has been a prob- Persiaran Surian to the Penchala toll plaza,
lem to the operators as well as consumers. additional flyover after the Sunway toll plaza
According to MPSJ health director Dr heading towards Putrajaya and capacity
Roslan Mohamed Hussin, measures have been enhancement of the toll plaza.
taken beginning of October and will con- In Puchong, widening of the fourth lane
tinue until the end of December. He added in both directions between Puchong Perdana
that this was just one of their operations to Kampung Bahru has been completed,
throughout the three months. easing traffic congestion during peak hours.
Rentokil senior branch manager Raymond A dedicated left turn has also been completed
Ng said that the rising number of rats was due from Kampung Bharu to Persiaran Puchong
to the emergence of eateries in SS15. Perdana and from Persiaran Puchong
“This area have become a rat breeding Perdana towards Puchong Intan.
ground because of the unlimited discarded The construction of a flyover bridge
food wastes from the restaurants in this area” Employees from Rentokil Initial and volunteers cleaning up a back alley in the SS15 ha s a lready star te d from Puchong
he added. commercial area to destroy rats’ breeding ground. – Picture by Victor Chong Intan Interchange towards Puchong
He also stated that this was their first time Perdana Interchange to solve the traffic criss-
collaborating with MPSJ but previously they that this program can create awareness in Minimarket operator Lim Ah Boon, who crossing from Puchong heading towards
had partnered Kuala Lumpur City Hall SS15 and he also wished the residents and the has been operating in SS15 for 20 years, ex- Putrajaya and Shah Alam. The bridge will be
(DBKL) to deal with a similar problem in operators can band together to create under- pressed his delight for the programme. expected to be completed in December next
Cheras. standing. “This is a good awareness program and I year.
About 60 to 70 Rentokil employees joined He stated that SS15 clean-up will be an hope they can do it every three months”. Sazally said traffic management on this
hands with MPSJ officers and volunteers of initial start in Subang Jaya so that they can He added that pests such as rats and crows route will be expected from January over a
SS15 to clean up the area. influence other areas to take up the same have increased drastically over the past few span of six months. He urged road users to
MPSJ councillor Dr Loi Kheng Min hopes measure. years due to the rapid development in the area. bear with this traffic management scheme.
6
news
DECEMBER 3 — 5, 2010

Vibrant communities
Events deter crime, cops
tell residents
Dance theatre
Two churches, Damansara Utama Methodist Church
(DUMC) and Sidang Injil Borneo Kuala Lumpur (SIBKL)
join forces to present Madworld, a dance choreography
spectacular. Shows are today and Dec 5 at 8pm.
There is also a Sunday matinee at 3.30 pm. Admission
is free. Parking is at the nearby mall, Jaya 33. Venue:
DUMC Dream Centre, No. 2, Jalan 13/1, Seksyen
13, Petaling Jaya. For more details, visit http://www.
madworld.my or call 03-7958 7388 or 03-7957 2701.

Charity fair
Tomorrow, Rumah Faith and Faith Eagle’s Nest will
hold a joint charity fun fair from 9am to 4pm. Fund-
raising is to cover the homes’ expenses and operations
caring for underprivileged children. Venue: TA-Jireh
Multipurpose Hall, Lot 340, Jalan Broga (1st KM),
Semenyih, Selangor. For details, call 03-8724 5153/
5158 (Mala/Victor/Aggie/Yogan)

Christmas Bazaar
Rumah Charis V.S.O.P will be hold a Christmas Charity
Bazaar tomorrow from 10 am to 3 pm. Venue: 11, Jalan
21/14, Paramount Seapark, PJ. For more details, call
03-7781 5977 or 012- 472 3935.

Charity Bazaar
OrphanCARE has a charity bazaar on Dec 11-12. It will
also accept cash donations and donated items to be
sold at the bazaar such as clothing, foodstuff, furniture,
etc. Venue: Jaya 33, Section 14, Petaling Jaya. For
more details, call 03-7876 1900 (Shida)

International Motor Show


Ogle at your favourite cars at the Kuala Lumpur
International Motor Show which starts today until
Dec 12. Admission prices are RM15 per adult on
weekdays and RM20 on weekends. Special rates WORKING HAND IN HAND: Petaling Jaya Police Chief Arjunaidi Mohamed (centre) with residents of SS2 after
for families, students and children are available on holding a dialogue with them last Sunday.
the website http://www.klims10.com/. Venue: Putra
World Trade Centre (PWTC). Visiting hours are from 11
am to 10 pm. By Alvin Chin Speaking at dialogue with residents lationships between residents and the
here last Sunday, Arjunaidi added that police. Heads of the various depart-
Youth Leadership Program PETALING JAYA: Residents of SS2 criminals will be more daring if residents ments from the Petaling Jaya District
need to face their fears and not be are afraid of them. He said a vibrant and Headquarters were present to answer
Extol Toastmasters Club will hold its annual Youth cowed by crimes in their neighbour- active neighborhood, as opposed to a questions from the residents. Yong said
Leadership Program for teenagers 12 to 18 years old hood in order to boost security, police quite one, was itself a deterrent to this was the first time the neighbour-
from Dec 10-12. The three-day intensive workshop said. criminals. hood had held such an event on this
aims to help teens develop communication and Residents can help police fight crime One of the keys to improving neigh- scale.
leadership skills. Course venue: No. 2-6, Jalan SS
19/1G, Subang Jaya. For more details, visithttp://
by maintaining a high level of activity borhood security is for residents to get “We wish to develop understanding
extol-tmc.blogspot.com or contact Kwa Ngan Eng in their neighbourhood to deter poten- to know their one another so that they between the residents and the police.
019-2319800 or Ratnam 012-2323578. tial criminals. can identify strangers in the neighbour- We hope to start tackling crimes in the
“The most important thing is for hood, SS2B Rukun Tetangga chairman neighbourhood together after this
Toastmasters Club meetings people to put away their fears and come Lee Kwee Cheng advised. event.”
out of their houses regularly” said Petal- SS2B Rukun Tetangga committee Yong said that common crimes in the
Toastmasters aims to teach individuals the art of ing Jaya Police Chief Arjunaidi Mo- member Yong Yung Choy said the pur- area include house and car break-ins,
public speaking. Extol Toastmaster is inviting members hamed. pose of the event was to strengthen re- and also snatch theft cases.
of public to join them for their meetings every first
and third Wednesday of the month at 7pm. Venue:
Wisma CNS, No 2-6, Jalan SS19/1G, 47600, Subang
Jaya.

Free Classes
LoyarBurok to launch new book
It has been (almost) two years since the was both celebrated and vilified. It is a Shanmuga edited by Audrey Quay
Compassion Buddhist Mediation Society is offering Perak constitutional crisis first erupted, period which some quarters hope has foreword by Wan Saiful Wan Jan of
classes on Buddhism for Modern People on Sundays, and still, there are ongoing repercussions. been forgotten. IDEAS endorsed by Prof Dr Azmi
Dec 12 and 26. Classes are from10.30am to noon. The litigation has yet to end. The scars But many Malaysians still hope to Sharom, Datin Padu ka Marina
Admission is free. Venue: Journey Within Sdn Bhd, have yet to heal. elect a government of their choice, and Mahathir, Yeo Yang Poh & others.
30-2, Block B, Jalan PJU 5/21, The Strand Kota, Contemporaneous to whilst the to participate in the constitutional LoyarBurok will launch the book
Damansara, Petaling Jaya. For more details, call 012-
222 9201 (Doreen) or 016-620 3565 (Sean), or email political upheavals were occurring, process afforded them. Everyone is keen together with former Perak Menteri
info.mkms@mediateinkl.org. contributors to Malaysia’s top blawg that their votes should count for Besar Datuk Seri Nizar Jamaluddin to
(www.LoyarBurok.com) documented something. remember, review and reclaim the event
Outward Bound Youth Holiday Camp the stories as they unfolded, ranted In the only book of its kind to-date, at the Annexe Gallery at Central Market
about the shenanigans as they happened LoyarBurok presents to you “Perak: A annexe on the Dec 12 at 4pm.
The Outward Bound Youth Association Selangor will and reflected on thecases as they were state of crisis” featuring a comprehensive The event will feature a
organise a holiday camp from Dec 15-19. Suitable for decided. blow-by-blow account of the crisis and LoyarBurokking dialog ue, book
children aged between nine and 17. The camp will teach As elections loom, the rakyat are cutting-edge analysis of the events by: readings signing, performances & meet-
wilderness skills and appreciation, independence, and urged to remember the iconic Perak Amer Hamzah Arshad, Andrew the-protagonists session. More details
teamwork. Venue: Raub, Pahang. For more details,
call 012-206 9981 (Chan Ying Wai) or 012-288 3688
issue, where constitutional law and Harding, Art Harun, Cheang Lek Choy, www.LoyarBurok.com!
(Jerry Ng) order did battle. Where elected Deborah Loh, Edmund Bon, Fahri Get your LoyarBurok merchandise
r ep r e s entati ve s b e tr a y e d th e i r Azzat, Kevin TL Tan, NH Chan, Prof at the door for entry. First 50 will receive
constituents. Where the judicial process Datuk Dr Shad Saleem Faruqi, K a copy of the book for FREE!
news
DECEMBER 3 — 5, 2010 7

Know Your Urgent need to set things right


Councillors:
The poor performance of our track ing thousands of youths in fields all transparent and well structured or-
& field athletes in the Asian Games round the nation. But now we only ganisation that is able to continu-
reflects the failure of the Malaysian have a very limited number of se- ously produce top class athletes at
Amateur Athletics Union (MAAU) lected athletes at centres at the Na- international level.

Roslan Shahir to live up to its role as well as to


achieve its own stated mission “to
develop, produce and manage com-
petitive world-class athletes who
tional Sports Council (NSC),
SSCs, sports schools and also,
a few who are sent abroad.
There are no more train-
  O ur nation demands such
standards, as the MAAU has had a
long successful history, having de-
livered results continuously for
By Lee Choon Fai Datuk Seri Abdul Hadi Awang. excel at the regional and ing and talent spotting many years until recently that is.
Reappointed as councillor for a third world meets in order and development pro- If NSC funds are not enough,
SUBANG JAYA: Subang Jaya Mu- term, Roslan is looking forward to an- to bring honour to grammes for the MAAU should go and look for the
nicipal (MPSJ) councillor Roslan other year serving the people. the country”. masses at the grass- rest! Go get the new athletes and
Shahir brings his past work experience At MPSJ, he oversees USJ 1, Zone 4 While the current roots level. This is grassroots coaches. I asked a former
in management and administration to in Subang Jaya where he’s chairman of organisational weakness where there will be many active coach why he was idle? He
the local council which he has served the Jawatankuasa Kuasa Penduduk of this body may have hidden talents. They seem to do said there was too much infighting
for over the past two years. (JKP). He is also in MPSJ’s caused much of the slide, well in Sukma but after that, they at the top.
“I hope to contribute in One Stop Centre (OSC), there are also other factors. are not heard of again. The present MAAU system
ensuring that MPSJ becomes and the Infrastructure and Just take a look at the situation This cannot be said of all the must be seriously looked into. The
an efficient, transparent and Audit committee. today. Where is athletics in schools games. National bodies are partners so-called democratic elections are a
effective local council. “My committee con- today?  We cannot see any coaches with NSC and at the same time they farce. Most State AAA presidents
“Together with my fellow sists of members from at the grassroots level anywhere in have to raise their own game. Fund- are dependent on their secretaries.
councillors I hope we could vari o us ra c i a l b a c k- the country to tap young talents! ing from sponsors will only come to They must buck up and be more
bring about change for the grounds. The community Where are the fields and tracks? sports bodies that are able to not concerned with administration and
betterment of society and is multiracial and I have Existing facilities are under utilised. only provide successful results in the sports development at state and
make Selangor a safe, clean Roslan is glad to worked well with all of It is hard to see any track & field sports arena, but are also to bodies national levels. Elections are based
and prosperous state for all,” serve the people. them,” said Roslan. programmes being activated. This that are deemed to have a clean on what the kingmaker can offer!
said the councillor. The complaints in the is a social ill which needs deeper management, i.e transparency! At the moment the most inactive
Roslan has worked as Group Admin area are mostly about cleanliness, health, study. Coming back to MAAU. Its state holds the key.
Manager for TDM Berhad, a public infrastructure, and crime. The strength of our perfor- main sponsor is the NSC. Yet, we In my opinion, since 1995, the
listed company. He also served as a “We meet regularly to listen to com- mance in earlier years was a result of often read in the media about the MAAU president has had little
public administrator in the student plaints and suggestions to improve the the abundance of active pro- MAAU being critical of the NSC control of the lethargic council.
council during his student days in Uni- standard of living,” he said. grammes that were carried out in public, when in fact, they should It is not too late for Datuk Seri
versiti Teknologi Mara where he gradu- Events are also organised regularly regularly by the respective Amateur be grateful for the continued sup- Shahidan Kassim to take control.
ated with a major in public administra- to foster good relationships among Athletic Associations (AAAs) and port. Any discrepancies and criti- There is an urgent need to set things
tion. residents. School Sports Councils (SSCs) at cism should be dealt with behind right!
In politics, he is also the Selangor Pas His office is located at 8, Jalan the state and district levels nation- closed doors. Officials should show
information chief, and was previously SS14\8H near Sekolah Kebangsaan Sri wide. their heroics at the sporting admin- Datuk A.Vaithilingam
the press secretary to the party president, Subang Jaya. We had dedicated coaches, train- istration arena, ensuring a clean, Petaling Jaya.
8
news
DECEMBER 3 — 5, 2010

New landmark 18-year


wait for
in Sekinchan titles
almost
over for
factories
By Lee Choon Fai

SUBANG JAYA: The end is in


sight for factory owners who have
been unable to obtain titles, no
thanks to their developer who can
no longer be contacted.
“Developers are supposed to
help the owners apply for land titles
but ours didn’t, and now it’s up to
us,” said Chua Keng Tong.
Chua is among factory owners
at the Subang Jaya Light Industrial
Park who had turned to Subang Jaya
assemblyman Hannah Yeoh in des-
peration for help after trying in vain
for 18 years to get their titles.
The owners were left in a quan-
dary after the developer failed to pay
quit rent for the master titles on the
factory lots since 2000.
On Nov 29, Yeoh arranged for
the owners to collectively settle ar-
Artist impression of the Sekinchan Perdana project in the Sabak Bernam district. rears and late payment charges
amounting to RM435,000 in order
By Tang Hui Koon locals have already snapped up the On the higher end, 16 units of to pave the way for them to apply
four most expensive units, out of penthouses with four to five rooms for their individual titles.
SEKINCHAN: Two condo- the total 280 units, during the proj- are selling from RM480,000 to Yeoh witnessed the handover of
miniums to be built by 2013 will ect’s soft launch in mid-November. RM750,000. cheques by the owners to represen-
become the new landmark in Sek- He added that all four units, Sekinchan assemblyperson Ng tative of the Land Office at her
inchan apart from helping to ease priced RM750,000 each, come Swee Lim said he welcomed the service centre.
the problem of housing shortage in with a private sky garden. project as housing demand has been “The owners received a 50 per
town. Yong said the units were origi- on the rise in the area. cent discount or RM100,000 on
“They will be the highest build- nally scheduled to be opened for He said the fast-rising swiftlet their late payment charges for set-
ings in the Sabak Bernam district,” sale this month. farming industry has attracted tling the entire amount before the
said Sekinchan Perdana project He said they did not expect the many young people to town to in- end of the year,” she said.
director Yong Choo Kong (pic). locals’ overwhelming response at vest in it. Among the factory owners pres-
Jointly developed by Bina Varia- the soft launch, adding that the re- However, Lim said young fami- ent was Eric Lee who said it could
mas and Selangor Industrial Cor- maining units are selling like hot lies have been moving to neigh- still be quite a while before the in-
poration, Yong said Sekinchan cakes. bouring towns like Kuala Selangor dividual titles were issues, but he was
Perdana will include an 18-storey He said the common three-room due to the housing shortage. optimistic.
and a 16-storey condominium. units are priced from RM228,000 “Some have moved to as far as “It’s like seeing the light at the
Yong told Selangor Times that to RM280,000. Klang,” said Lim. end of a tunnel,” said Lee.

MBPJ awards entrepreneurs for excellence


By Lee Choon Fai & William ‘market complex/food court/food
Tan stall’ category, received RM20,000.
“We worked together in the spirit
PETALING JAYA: Six small busi- of ‘gotong-royong’ and cleaned up the
ness owners were awarded RM90,000 place. We also did some landscaping
by the City Council (MBPJ) for mak- to make the place look better,” he said.
ing their products more appealing to Ahmad’s store is located at the Taman
customers. Dato’ Harun Market Complex.
“I did some renovations and land-  Mohd Ealip Baba, also from  Ta- Mohd Ealip
scaping around my store, and it was man Dato’ Harun, won RM20,000 for Baba, of
g o o d en o u g h t o b e aw a r d e d beautifying his stall. Taman
RM10,000,” said a jubilant Saniah MBPJ’s “How to Market Your Dato’
Yusof after receiving her prize. Place’ programme was to help small Harun,
Saniah was one of the winners in businesses compete by emphasising picked up
RM20,000
the ‘night market/morning market/ cleanliness, quality of food and cus- for
night bazaar/kiosk’ category. tomer service. beautifying
She said she would use the The awards were presented at the his stall. –
RM10,000 to improve her stall in SS8. D’Kelana Hall at the Kelana Jaya Picture by Victor
Ahmad Bujang, a winner in the Sports Complex. Chong
news
DECEMBER 3 — 5, 2010 9

An act of sabotage, says Yeoh


By Gan Pei Ling ance was “not enough” to restore
public confidence.
S U B A N G J AYA : Hannah She also called on the state to
Yeoh  is calling on the state to act rectify the discrepancies between
against those responsible for amend- the final draft and gazetted plan
ing Subang Ria Park’s status in the before the plan goes to print. Sime
local plan’s final draft without pub- Darby, which owns Subang Ria
lic consultation. Park, faced strong public opposition
“This is an act of sabotage,” said in 2007 when it wanted to develop
the Subang Jaya assemblywoman at the last green lung in Subang Jaya
a press conference on Wednesday. into a commercial area.
Yeoh said she was shocked to “The park belongs to the public
discover that the park, originally and the developer should not try to
called “Taman Rekreasi Ria” in the make a profit out of it,” said Yeoh.
final draft, was changed to “Taman The company subsequently
Rekreasi Swasta” in the gazetted amended its proposal to retain and
plan. Yeoh also found that 19 acres upgrade 74% of the recreational
(7.7 ha) of the recreational park had park, while developing the remain-
been allocated for commercial de- ing 22% into a residential area.
velopment in the gazetted plan. The last 4% would be reserved for
The proposed 7.7 ha develop- the Sime Darby Medical Centre’s
ment was not included in the local future development.
plan’s final draft, which local coun- In April, Khalid chaired a public
cillors from MPSJ  double checked hearing to receive residents’ feed-
before the plan was gazetted. Yeoh, back on the developer’s new pro-
a lawyer, discovered the discrepancy posal. While some residents agreed
at the state town and planning de- to the plan, most urged the devel-
partment three weeks ago before oper to return the park to MPSJ. Yeoh showing copies of the local plan’s final draft during the press conference on Wednesday.
alerting the state government. Khalid had promised residents
Proper procedure requires a sec-
ond public hearing to be held if the
Subang Jaya Municipal Council
that all development would be
halted until the state had conducted
a valuation to determine the cost of
Nonetheless, MPSJ rejected
Sime Darby’s amended proposal in
May but Sime Darby filed an appeal. Families dejected
over UK decision
(MPSJ) or the state’s town and plan- acquiring, upgrading and maintain- The Appeals Board was supposed
ning department ( JPBD) want to ing the park. to hear the appeal last month but
amend the local plan. According to a government residents filed an intervention to be
Menteri Besar Tan Sri Khalid spokesperson, Khalid will meet the included as a stakeholder in the ap-
Ibrahim, who was alerted to the residents again when the valuation peal hearing. Sime Darby opposed By Alvin Chin before when they told me to wait for
changes in the local plan, had on report is ready. The state also plans the residents’ intervention. The a decision on an inquiry,” she said. 
Nov 19 reassured Subang Jaya resi- to conduct a survey on how the Appeals Board will decide on Dec KUALA LUMPUR: Loved ones The UK government announced
dents that the proposed develop- residents feel about the matter 28 whether the residents have the of those killed in the Batang Kali their decision on Monday.
ment would be put on hold. He had JPBD was supposed to prepare right to intervene in the appeal. massacre are disappointed but not Lawyer Quek Ngee Meng, who
also said that the park was never a and complete the valuation report The Appeals Board has also post- surprised that United Kingdom has heads the Action Committee Con-
public park but a private one. by June but the report has been de- poned the hearing of the developer’s rejected their call for a fresh inquiry.  demning the Batang Kali Massacre,
But Yeoh said Khalid’s reassur- layed. full appeal to Jan 11, 2011. “I am very sad ... I’ve been waiting described the move as cowardice.
for so many years but they still refuse Quek was among committee

Down Kirkby lane with teachers


to hold a public inquiry,” said Loh members who handed a memoran-
Ah Choi, a  69-year-old who wit- dum to Queen Elizabeth
nessed his uncle being dragged away through British High Commissioner
by Scots Guards in 1948. Simon Featherstone on Wednesday. 
By William Tan Chong Koon Ying said what’s left “We have appealed for this case to
were just bitter memories and his- be solved once and for all,” he said.
PETALING JAYA: Sweet mem- tory.  The massacre took place at the
ories and heartfelt reunions will fill “We will continue to push for height of the Emergency when Brit-
the air as the 1959-1960 batch of compensation but what can we do if ish soldiers killed 24 men who they
Kirkby-trained teachers come to- they refuse,” said the 72-year-old claimed were communists. A special
gether to celebrate their 50th anni- whose father, Chong Boon, was task team headed by Frank Williams
versary tomorrow at the Sime Darby among the 24 men who were killed.  was set up on July 10,1970, to inves-
Convention Centre from 12 to From left: While other families are still tigate the matter. However, the inves-
4pm. Cheah Lean hopeful Britain will change their tigation was stopped by the Con-
“Many of us are in our 70s now, Aing, Liew mind, Chan Kew, who also lost her servatives after they took power in
and we actually do this bi-annually Poh Yuk, P. father, is giving up on the case.  1970. 
but it is still so exciting to meet old Ramakrishnan “Since there is nothing we can do, In 1992, the BBC aired an inves-
friends, we are like family.” said at a Kirkby I think the only solution is to forget tigative report entitled “In Cold
Yoong Chew Hing. Teachers about our sorrow. Blood” which revealed fresh evidence
Who are the Kirkby teachers? gathering. “I have been disappointed twice of the massacre. 
Between 1952 and 1961, some
1,500 students were sent to the were even loaned to Brunei for a their shared experience in Kirkby.
Malayan Teachers Training College
in Kirkby, Liverpool, England, on
bond of 5 years.
“We are proud to have served the
“It was one that transcended
ethnicity, where affectionate affini- Water woes at new village
Malayan scholarships to meet the nation and many of us have chosen ty, warmth and sharing were the PETALING JAYA: Low water pressure and frequent supply disruptions
shortage of teachers. to remain as educators throughout norm. It was friendship at its best.“ due to old pipes are a daily bane to residents of SS 9 but Syarikat
“Most of us could not afford to our lives.” added Yoong Chew Hing. he said Bekalan Air Selangor (Syabas) claim their hands are tied.
enter university, so we jumped at Kirkby-trained teachers have al- Among prominent Kirkby “The pipes definitely need replacing as they are old, and the low
this alternative to study abroad.” ways been synonymous with excel- teachers are Tan Sri Dato’ Dr Ya- water pressure is to prevent further rupturing of the old pipes,” said
said Vimala Kandiah. lence and dedication. haya Ibrahim, Pro-Chancellor of Syabas corporate communications director Abdul Halem, but he
She said many of them were only However, the most endearing Universiti Pendidikan Sultan Idris added that nothing could be done until the restructuring of the water
18 and had to go through rigorous thing about these teachers is how (UPSI) and current President of services industry in Selangor was complete.
interviews for about 150 spots they have stayed connected to- the Kirkby Alumni; R.R. Chelva- Residents at the Seri Setia New Village want a permanent solution
opened to each batch. gether through the years. rajah, ex-president of the Malaysian to the problem.
They underwent two years of P. Ramakrishnan, president of Bar Council, and former Singapore They pointed out that the utility company would frequently repair
training and upon graduation were Aliran (a major movement for re- High Commissioner to Malaysia the old pipes but this was only a temporary solution.
posted all across the nation. Some form in Malaysia), attributed this to K. Kesavapany.
10
news
DECEMBER 3 — 5, 2010

Odd twist to Chi Liung saga


By Alvin Chin He pointed out that relocating
the hawkers was a no-win situation
KLANG:The controversial reloca- for any party.
tion of hawkers from Taman Chi Santiago said the move could
Liung has taken a new twist after it affect their livelihood while causing
emerged that some residents actu- more unhappiness for residents in
ally wanted them to stay. Taman Chi Liung and Southern
“As far as I know there are resi- Park.
dents who do not want the hawkers He has called for a compromise,
to move,” said Klang MP Charles saying the hawkers should be al-
Santiago lowed to stay put provided they
The hawkers were initially told to maintain cleanliness and if a solu-
move to Southern Park on Dec 1 tion can be found to mitigate the
following complaints about cleanli- traffic problems.
ness and traffic congestion. Klang councillor Ivan Ho said
But this sparked a protest by MPK must stay neutral and find out
Southern Park residents who fear if the residents actually want the
the hawkers would cause the same hawkers to move.
problems to their neighbourhood. Among those insisting on the
The deadline was called off to relocation is Kota Alam Shah As-
allow the Klang Municipal Council semblyman M. Manoharan.
(MPK) to reassess the situation. However, the hawkers have re-
“The issue will be discussed at fused to move as some have been
MPK’s full board meeting at the end operating in the area for the past 30 Hawkers should be allowed to stay provided they help mitigate traffic and cleanliness issues. – Picture
of the month,” said Santiago. years. by Victor Chong

Early
Christmas for
Assunta kids
By Lee Choon Fai any solid food for about three days
because he needs to fast before and
KLANG:: R. Kishen was all smiles after surgery for appendicitis,” said
as he received a toy plane from Ca- his father V. Vijay.
thay Pacific as part of a CSR (cor- A total of 26 children received
porate social responsibility) pro- gifts from Cathay Pacific yesterday.
gramme at Hospital Assunta. Cathay Pacific will also hold similar
“Thank you auntie!” said the charities in Penang today and Kota
10-year-old boy, who was hospital- Kinabalu the following day.
ised for a foot infection. “Just look Children’s ward head nurse
at him, he’s so happy,” said his Mary Santiago said it was the first
mother, S. Usha, who works at the time such a large corporation had
reception of Assunta’s emergency visited the hospital as part of a CSR
Assunta Hospital staff and patients with their presents after the visit of Cathay Pacific yesterday wing. programme. Nursing manager Soh
morning. Another patient, V. Prashanth, Chew Lian also praised Cathay
10, gave a faint smile while receiving Pacific for their effort.

New Tamil monthly for Selangor


the gifts. “He has not been eating

SHAH ALAM:: Selangor’s move to print their own Tamil


newspaper was greeted by applause yesterday by the Indian com-
munity leaders attending Deepavali celebration at the state
secretariat yesterday.
“The paper will be launched in January and I am very happy
that the community will have an additional newspaper” said state
executive councillour Dr Xavier Jayakumar (pic).
The monthly was approved during Wednesday’s state executive
council meeting and would have a circulation of 50,000 copies.
“It will be fully funded by the state government and
RM800,000 has been allocated for the newspaper,” said Dr
Xavier.
He said that the editorial  team would comprise experienced
writers while his office would oversee the editorial content.
The paper will highlight state policies, welfare programmes
and community news.
The state is planning to distribute the paper at constituencies
and places with significant numbers of Indians.
Dr Xavier called on the community to help support and
distribute the paper.
Also at the event yesterday was Menteri Besar Tan Sri Khalid
Ibrahim and executive councillor Ronnie Liu.
Khalid complimented Dr Xavier over his efforts to help the
Indian community before thanking them for supporting the
state. V Prashanth (left) delighted with the presents he received from the
merry makers yesterday.
views decemBER 3 — 5, 2010 11

Support, jangan tak support!


our local arts practitioners. While
KTHXBAI the difference may seem purely se-
mantic, I am wont to consider Reza
Fahmi Fadzil more ‘artist’ than ‘artiste’, especially
if one listens to his articulations of

L
ast Friday, 26 Nov, I went to his art.
the official launch of Reza That’s the thing, though: do we
Salleh’s Realize. It was a com- Malaysians give the time of day to
fy affair at The Apartment KLCC, our artists, heck just the rakyat even,
with full table reservations and a to say what they want to say, in
very, very packed house of long-time whatever form they wish? Well,
friends, ardent fans, and happy fel- perhaps you and I may, but do the
low musicians – many of whom were masses and the larger bureaucratic
invited to perform their own songs institutions – the Ministry of Cul-
that evening. By the end of that ture, Arts, and Heritage - really lend
merry night, boxes of CDs were sold an ear to the little guys?
and people went home elated from Try and ask someone like Reza
the acoustic experience. It was prob- Salleh, a musician and entrepreneur,
ably one of the most fun album how much support he is getting
launches I’ve been to in a long while. from the government. Or, should we
Truth be told, the local music quiet such expectations, since the
scene is probably the most vibrant government is meant to look after
and most progressive of all Malay- larger affairs? Is arts-making not a
sian art scenes, barring film. (Thanks serious enough affair that warrants
to the rise of the so-called “New consideration by bureaucrats and
Malaysian Cinema”, our independ- lawmakers? Reza took ten years to produce a full-length album.
ent filmmakers have seen their works It’s a known secret that the arts is
– and names – bandied about in the last to be thought of and the first him spread his art to the region... friends asked, ‘So what did you akan support?” is important. It’s not
far-flung locales like Sao Paolo, to be let go when it comes to policy A tale by another singer-song- think of them?’ I couldn’t lie and an exercise in futility, it means that
Brazil.) and budgetary considerations. Yet, writer, Pete Teo (of the “15 Malay- said ‘Well, honestly, I think they we’re thinking long-term. That in
Yet, it has taken someone like if Malaysia wants to up its game by sia” videos fame), wraps it up for me: sucked.’ the long run, as consumers of cul-
Reza Salleh, a veteran of the Kuala joining the big league of the “high “I was in Japan for a gig, when “They replied, ‘Oh yeah? We ture, we need to set aside some
Lumpur singer-songwriter scene, income economy” nations, shouldn’t some friends invited me to go listen think so too.’ And I was like, ‘Why amount of our own hard-earned
some ten years since he began per- we be be giving more room and re- to some local bands. I thought, why did you ask me to go then?’ They resources to invest in Malaysian
forming publicly to produce a full- sources for young Malaysians like not, I’d really like to hear the local said: ‘Well, if we don’t support them, ideas. They may be good ideas, they
length album. (His last EP, Smoke Reza to try and test new things out? ‘sound’. So off we went, down to this who will?’” may be bad ideas. But what’s most
City, was produced back in 2007.) In a high-income, advanced nation, dingy little place – and you know That story means a lot to me, and crucial, IMHO, is that we keep on
While his friends opine that the it’s not just the thing produced that’s how much space they have in Japan, to some extent it’s why I continue to investing to make sure we still pro-
length of time taken to complete important, but the idea that’s para- right? – and there were the kids we’d go for many art events even though duce ideas.
this LP is testament to the amount mount. Reza’s activity contributes to come out tolisten to playing. I may not have much money for As a friend quipped, “If only our
of attention Reza lavishes on his the economy, but imagine if we had “I couldn’t help but think, ‘My tickets, CDs, t-shirts etc. government – both at the state and
work, this level of care and dedica- policies (and funding) in place that god, these guys are HORRIBLE!’ A I think this spirit, of “kalau bukan federal levels – wasted more money
tion is not unusual among many of helped musician-entrepreneurs like little later, over some drinks, my kita yang support, siapa lagi yang in the right places.”

Who can we trust with our water?


IF Selangor’s water operations re- most vital of all public utilities. The well in many developing countries. public matters to people in whom
turn to guardianship of the state logic of privatisation is pay per use, The first thing to note is that many we have faith. But specific to the
government, this will be far from the and higher prices are supposed to were coerced into adopting such issue at hand, both federal and state
first time we have come full circle, Lee Hwok Aun reflect better service or broader policies as a condition for receiving governments, as well as larger pri-
from public to private and back to coverage. But setting tariffs is never World Bank loans or under intense vate companies proposing takeo-
public ownership. That usually gives a market clearing outcome where pressure from the World Trade vers, have entered the fray, magnify-
an opportunity to learn something. connected persons. Indah Water, there is a monopoly. Organisation. ing the need to consider each side’s
In the aftermath of the 1997-98 operating sewerage services, is an Tariffs must be negotiated Liberalisation policies burst credibility in safeguarding public
financial crisis and economic funk, appropriate reference point com- through contract and mediated by open the floodgates for multina- interest.
a slew of privatised entities were re- pared to non-essential airlines and government. I personally prefer that tional corporations to make money The federal government persists
nationalised: Malaysia Airlines, cars. As meticulously documented the lowest rate would be even a to- selling water to poor people. A com- in instituting an authoritative regu-
Proton, and Indah Water Konsor- in Jeff Tan’s Privatisation in Malay- ken amount instead of zero, as is the mon result in various countries, such latory agency and in continually
tium (IWK), to name a few. These sia: Regulation, Rent-seeking and case now and as the Selangor gov- as Bolivia and South Africa, has preserving private concessionaire
past experiences may be on our Policy Failure, IWK underwent ernment wants to retain. Water may been swelling rates, non-payment profits, even as the 2006 Water
minds – or maybe not. If we have numerous switches in ownership. be cheap but we must not forget it and cut supplies. services Industry Act sought to na-
forgotten, or succumbed to habitu- The profits from cashing out under- is precious. In advanced economies where tionalize water assets. On the other
al amnesia, this is a prime time to be mined long term stakeholding and However, tariff increases ought water is privately operated, promi- hand, a number of individuals in-
reminded. commitment to service delivery. to be for widening or improving nently the United Kingdom and volved in the Selangor government’s
We do not need to wait for a full- The company charged high fees; service and sustainable resource France, companies are closely mon- initiative to return water supply to
blown crisis. If the basis for a privat- people refused to pay. Rates were management, not for socially unpro- itored by government. Even then, it the ultimate accountability of elect-
ized project is flawed, if pre-condi- subsequently lowered but the mo- ductive private profits. A compre- is debatable whether private or ed representatives, have been stead-
tions are not present, or if the objec- nopoly went bust and fell back into hensive and independent report of public ownership of water distribu- fast advocates of social concerns and
tives are not met, we can and must government arms. the benefits and costs of water pri- tion is more efficient. Note that the sustainable development.
reconsider its continuing legitimacy, That’s looking back. Looking vatisation and assessment of the ef- private sector may excel in techno- Let us take note of history and
relevance and usefulness. Moreover, ahead and specifically at the water ficiency of private management is logical innovation of water quality, past misdeeds – and aim for present
as we think back, we find that the sector, we must weigh heavily the due. But given the unlikelihood of but this is distinct from distribution and future corrective action.
Selangor water issue bears curious experience of other countries, the such an exercise, the safer bet is to and capital investment.
semblances to privatisation debacles essential feature of this commodity, leave water management in the As mentioned above, the intan- Dr Lee Hwok Aun is a lecturer in
of the past. Then, as now, we saw vast and the credibility of various parties hands of publicly accountable insti- gible yet crucial element of trust the Faculty of Economics and
wealth accumulation by owners, and in the current face-off. tutions with credible people. must enter the frame. In general, I’m Administration at the University of
awarding of contracts to politically Water is a basic necessity, the Water privatization has not gone sure we would prefer entrusting Malaya.
INSIGHT
12 DECEMBER 3 — 5, 2010

It’s about the


interest of
the people
By Nieville Spykerman In the 1980s Jabatan Air Selangor ( JBAS) was
contributing between RM50 million and RM80

T
he battle royale for the supply and distribution million to the state coffers annually.
of Selangor’s water is not about Tan Sri Khalid Good news for consumers, except that Putrajaya
versus Tan Sri Rozali, nor is it aboutPakatan and its Energy, Green,Technology and Water Minis-
Rakyat and Barisan Nasional.. try are adamant on handing back the concession to
It’s about the interest of 7.5 million consumers in Syarikat Bekalan Air Selangor (Syabas).
Selangor, Kuala Lumpur and Putrajaya who deserve Based on Syabas’ track record, the repercussion
clean water at reasonable rates. of this folly will be felt not only by consumers today
In 2006, Parliament passed the Water Services but their children.
Industry Act (WSIA) to do exactly what the Selangor Worse still, the cost of the  impending Putrajaya
Government proposes to do today: bailout of the same water concessionaires, who are
Consolidate the ill-managed water service industry unlikely to pay the debts to bondholders, will be
which is fragmented between three private companies borne by taxpayers not only in Selangor but the entire
that treat water and another that distributes it. country.
In line with WSIA, which was to fix the failed Yet it’s still not too late for rational minds from
costly privatisation experiment, the Khalid Ibrahim both sides of the political divide to prevail.
administration proposes to take over the industry, In the words of Kuala Selangor MP Dr Dzulkefly
manage it well, cut tariffs and still make a profit. Ahmad, “this is a bi-partisan issue which affects the
Impossible? Rakyat”.

Take a stand, says Khalid


SHAH ALAM: Tan Sri Khalid Ibrahim has called on the public to join the delegation who will submit a
memorandum on water to the King on Sunday.
“The gathering will be a sign of support for the state to take over the administration of water,” said the Selangor
Menteri Besar.
Selangor and Putrajaya are deadlocked over who should manage both supply and distribution.
He added that both the federal government and the four concessionaires had rejected the fair price offered by
the state.
Khalid said his administration believed that water is a basic necessity and should not be traded to enrich just
a few individuals. “Water should be administered efficiently and consumers are entitled to it at a fair price.” he
said. 
Water players
Wat e r T r e at me n t D i s tr i b u ti o n
Syarikat Pengeluar Air Konsortium Abass Puncak Niaga Sdn Syarikat Bekalan Air
Sungai Selangor Sdn Sdn Bhd Bhd (PNSB) Selangor Sdn Bhd
Bhd (Splash) • 55% – Selangor • 100% – Puncak (Syabas)
• 40% – Gamuda investment arm Niaga Holdings Bhd • 70% – Puncak
• 30% – Selangor Kumpulan Darul (PNHB) Niaga Holdings Bhd
investment arm Ehsan Bhd (KDEB) (PNHB)
Kumpulan Darul • 45% – Operasi Murni • 15% – Selangor
Ehsan Bhd (KDEB) Sdn Bhd investment arm
• 30% – Sweet Water Puncak Niaga Sdn Kumpulan Darul
Alliance Sdn Bhd Bhd (PNSB) Ehsan Bhd (KDEB)
• 100% – Puncak • 15% – Selangor
Niaga Holdings Bhd investment

RAs, MTUC do not want bai


(PNHB) arm Kumpulan
Perangsang Selangor
Bhd (KPS)
• Finance Ministry
owns one golden SHAH ALAM: Resident associa- angor government should take control
share tions and the Malaysian Trade Union of water management, the Federal
Congress say that the state govern- government should too.
* Tan Sri Rozali Ismail is executive chairperson of PNHB and Syabas. ment is the right body to manage Residents Association of Maxwell
Other players water in Selangor. Towers secretary-general Yeoh Kean
S e lango r g ov e r n me n t
According to SS10 (Petaling Jaya) Wah would also like the state to take
F e d e r al g ove r n me nt
Residents Association SS10 assistant over the administration of water in
Selangor Menteri Besar Tan Sri Khalid Ibrahim Energy, Green Technology and Water secretary M. Paramasivam the federal Selangor.
Adviced by: Ministry Datuk Seri Peter Chin government should not bail out the “Syabas is incompetent and is
Selangor water review panel Pengurusan Aset Air Bhd (PAAB) water concessionaires and instead take charging too much for water. Why is
1.    Tony Pua • 100% - Finance Ministry over the administration of water them- it that the people in Penang get to pay
• To buy over and develop water assets from selves as it should not be privatised in half our prices?” he said.
2.    Charles Santiago water concessionaires the first place. The 56-year-old retiree said that the
3.    Dr Dzulkefly Ahmad   “Water is everyone’s right and not federal government should not be
4.    William Leong National Water Services Commission (SPAN) a private company’s authority. They bailing out water concessionaires ei-
• To issue renewable three-year licences care more about profit than serving ther, and that the money could be
to concessionaires and lease out PAAB’s the public,” he said. better used elsewhere.
assets to them The 53-year-old Human Resources Malaysia Trades Union Cogress
manager added that not only the Sel- (MTUC) secretary-general G. Ra-
Public reaction over
Syabas vs Selangor
SELANGOR: Selangor Times conducted a “They should bail out the water companies
random poll to gauge reactions to the water because it continues to guarantee a basic
stalemate between the state government and necessity for the people,” said the 20-year old
Syabas. student.
“If they have been making losses to the tune K. Punithaa (pix) has a different opinion, “I
of hundreds and millions of ringgit, they should still see Syabas as capable of managing water in
not be managing anything at all, let alone water,” Selangor. However they would require better
Jason Cheong said. consolidation and a better operations
The 24-year old also agreed that the state management,” she said.
government should take over water operations However, the 23-year old banker would
because the ‘free water’ policy benefits the rather have the state take over water distribution.
people. He thinks that “Syabas will just make Punithaa also thinks that another bailout would
things worse at the rate they are going.” be extremely costly and is unsustainable. She also
However, Cheong, who works as a sales stated that the money could be better utilized.
operator, also said that the federal government “Water is a basic need and it should not be
should b e a llowe d to ba il out water left to be managed by a private company such as
concessionaires to keep supply going, but added Syabas,” said Tan Weng Hwa, 54, who prefers
that they should also teach the water that the state take over water management.
concessionaires how to manage better. Tan, a business manager, added that “Syabas
Matthew Tan, 21, also felt that Syabas should has shown to be mismanaged and has been far
not be managing water if they were raking up so too generous to its directors and top management
much debt. He also added that the federal despite its debts.”
government should not be bailing out the He does not support the federal government Tan
concessionaires as it was their own responsibility bailing out the water concessionaires either.
to repay the debts. Seventy-one year old G. Rajendran is strongly
The junior designer is however, neutral on opposed to Syabas’ water management and
his standing. “I don’t want any more water tariff stated that residents in his area are already
hikes, but we don’t really know if the Selangor making a petition on it.
government can do better,” he said. “It is honestly a matter for the state and I
Roslina Latif was also neutral about the believe the state should be given free rein of
situation. She said, “As a normal citizen I management of the items under its jurisdiction,”
wouldn’t care less who has control over water said the pensioner.
distribution, so long as we have guaranteed water R ajendran also opposes the federal
supply and at the cheapest price possible.” government bailing out water concessionaires,
She also supported a federal bailout if the citing that the state’s problems should be
concessionaires showed they had potential to handled by the state itself.
perform better. She was opposed to any tariff Balamurugan Radakrishan, 23 questions “If
hike, saying, “Raising the price of water is never the current service by the water concessionaires
a good idea, whatever the reason.” is bad, why should they continue to operate and
Pang Wey Yau is all in favour of the Selangor make profit out of it?
government taking over water distribution. The student added that the Federal
“No, no, and no. [Syabas] should not be Government should not bail them out of their
allowed to continue managing water,” he said. debts.
He is also opposed to the federal government “If the Federal Government bails them again,
bailing out water concessionaires. they will continue operating and distributing
Justin Lee agrees that Syabas should not be poor water quality and the people are the ones
allowed to continue managing water as they have who suffer” he said.
been making losses. However, he supports the Twenty-two-year-old Eric Khoo suggested Punithaa
federal government in bailing out water ma king a ll the water concessiona ires
concessionaires. government-linked companies.

ilouts
jaskaran had similar views.
“The MTUC’s stand on the matter
is for the state government to take over
Syabas. Water is not something you
should privatise.”
He also believes that the model
adopted by Penang, of dual-owner-
ship between the state and the private
sector, should be applied in Selangor
too.
However, Federation of Malaysian
Consumers Association (FOMCA)
secretary-general Muhammad Sha’ani
Abdullah said that all parties should
stop politicking and negotiate a solu-
tion to the problem.
“Both parties should come to an
agreement or refer the matter for ar-
bitration.” he said. Lee Balamurugan Pang
14
FEATURE
DECEMBER 3 — 5, 2010

Be Who You Want To Be


By Alvin Chin

B
uilding kindergartens, feed-
ing leeches and pushing
yourself into trekking the
jungles of Borneo is not an ordinary
adventure for most youths today.
A Raleigh International expedi-
tion is for youths between the age
of 17 and 24 who believe in making
a difference by wanting to learn
about themselves and different cul-
tures from different places.
Before embarking on an expedi-
tion, participants will first have to
attend an introduction weekend,
and it happens only twice a year. It
promises challenging terrain where
participants have to challenge them-
selves in the outdoors.
An expedition is designed to be
challenging and will be a life chang-
ing experience for all volunteers.
Ho Chung Sin, 23, who volun-
teered in the 2010 expedition from
July till September recalled how the
expedition impacted his life.
“During the second phase of my
expedition, when we were about to
complete the kindergarten, I saw
mothers weeping with hope and joy
in their eyes. I could hear them tell-
ing their children where they would
attend school.”
Ho added these children in the
villagers were very keen to learn and
they usually walked one and the half
hours just to attend school. Ho then
compared the children’s life and his
life.
“We don’t know how lucky we
are. We do not know how to ap- Taking a breather — Venturers taking a break at the kindergarden construction site.
preciate the things we have such as
clean water, electricity and educa- down our backs, while trying to faced required physical and mental tion, but they are now keen to con- vision is to inspire a generation to be
tion.” quickly soap ourselves and get ability. Sandra Sim, who got the tribute back to the society with all all that they can be; to awaken a
As for Arina Amalina, she was clean.” inspiration to join Raleigh from the skills they have developed. sense of life-purpose and belonging,
also touched by how the children Lee also expressed how lucky she ex-venturers, recounted her achieve- Being in Raleigh encourages self and unite them as part of a global
attended school. was to be at the right place at the ment. awareness and empowering youths community who can work together
“It is heartbreaking to see a seven right time. “The best moment during my to develop themselves to be leaders to rise to the challenges of the world
year old carrying a heavy backpack, “The waterfall only appeared af- adventure phase was when we of the future. However, Raleigh’s they live in.
trekking down the yellow muddy ter rainfall. No other group had the needed to climb up a nearly 70 de-
path under the scorching sun just luck to see this amazing waterfall grees hill using a rope. We were
to get something that we all take for
granted”
and experience this fantastic shower
ledge with a view to die for. I am glad
pushing our limit and the encour-
agement from my friends was bril- Raleigh International
One venture remembered her I braved my fear of wet rocks and liant. As I stepped foot on top of the
most memorable moment. Lee climbed up to get to the waterfall. hill, the feeling of being on top of In 1978, Colonel John Blashford-Snell and HRH Prince Charles
launched Operation Drake, running youth projects from ships
Chee Huan, 21, shared her experi- This is exactly what expedition is the world was indescribable and I circumnavigating the globe, to developing self-confidence and
ence of showering under the icy about, stepping out of your comfort knew I couldn’t have done it with- leadership through adventure, scientific exploration and community
water of the waterfall. zone, and discovering a whole new out my team.” service.
“I still remember six of us, shiver- world of wonders and beautiful These adventurous youths may However following the success of Operation Drake, the much
ing under the icy cold water, howl- memories.” have experienced life changing mo- more ambitious Operation Raleigh was created in 1984. Operation
ing with pain when the water pelted Some obstacles the venturers ments during their 3 months expedi- Raleigh became Raleigh International in 1992, reflecting the number
of volunteers from across the globe. We widened the diversity of
volunteers by raising the relevance and quality of our overseas
expeditions and raising issues of global awareness.
Raleigh International was founded on the vision of giving young
people the chance to explore the world, and by doing so discover
their potential as leaders and members of a team working together
to make a difference. Today, Raleigh is a global community of
like-minded people who want to be all they can be, get out there
and make a difference in the world. Raleigh aims to inspire people
from all backgrounds and nationalities to reach their full potential
by working together on challenging environmental and community
projects around the world.
The expedition phase seeks for youths to discover their potential
as well as contributing back to society. Expedition life fosters a
For the children sense of mutual responsibility and respect between otherwise
— Lee Chee socially segregated groups. The unique social and cultural mix on
Huan toughens a Raleigh expedition makes for an exciting and developmental
herself to build a experience.
kindergarden for • Raleigh International Kuala Lumpur is organizing an Introduction
the children of weekend for potential participants next week from today to Sunday.
Kampung Maliau Think you have the potential to take up the challenge? Head down
Layang, north of to the International Youth Centre, Jalan Yaacob Latiff, Bandar Tun
Sabah. Razak, 56000 Cheras, Kuala Lumpur.
SELANGOR TIMES ⁄ DECEMBER 3 – 5, 2010 ⁄ 15

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16
feature
decEMBER 3 — 5, 2010

Selangor’s
colonial
women’s
shelter,
still open
after 70
years.
By Lee Choon Fai and Having been born in China, be- been a resident for seven years. years since she saw home. and must be independent for as long
Chin Yow Kheat fore arriving in Malaya when she was Originally from Ipoh, 79-year-old “I lost contact with my relatives as they are can.
just seven, the widow has lost touch Leong Ah May came to Kuala in Ipoh a long time ago, maybe they “These little things might seem
KUALA LUMPUR: A little with her relatives and like most of Lumpur to search for work and had all passed away. I don’t know. inconsequential but it keeps them
known women’s home, set up by the her companions has no means to no one to turn to when she became ‘’But life is very relaxed here and active, and it can also be considered
British, today continues to be a place support herself. too old to work. I am comfortable,” she said. a form of exercise for them.
where the unwed and unwanted “I’m happy here. With a roof over “I was always alone; I don’t have The 78-year-old, who moved into Psychologically it also prevents
come to live and die with dignity. my head and food to fill my stomach any relatives, only a few friends. the home last December, is among them from feeling helpless,” said
Established by enactment in it’s more than I could have asked for,” It was like that ever since I started the residents who are healthy enough Linda Tan, the administrator.
1937, the Selangor King George V said Kok, who has been at the home working. It was still like that after I to look after those less able. Meanwhile the community’s
Silver Jubilee Fund Home houses a for 22 years. retired,”she said. Among the residents are five with newest addition, 84-year-old Poh
community of 26 elderly women, in More fortunate than most at the She heard about the home from Alzheimers, two who are deaf and Kin Yin, who moved in earlier this
the heart of the city. home, 65-year-old Lee Moi Pi has a a friend in church and visited it be- mute while most have a host of month, also expressed delight at her
Still under Selangor’s jurisdiction, younger brother who works at a wet fore deciding to move in two years other ailments that come with age. new home.
the home, on a 0.81 hectare plot of market near the home, and who she ago. With only a single full time staff “Previously I was in an old folks’
land at Jalan Jubileem, off Jalan Loke occasionally visits. “I like it here... I’m happy, ” she and several part-time workers, the home for two months but I could
Yew, bears all the expenses of the resi- “My brother works hard but does added. residents have to lend a hand to each not sleep well there. I just got here
dents, including their funeral costs. not make much money. He can’t Also from Ipoh,   Yen Khoon other to get by. and I feel comfortable already,” said
For 88-year-old Kok Yok Yin, it even support himself, so he found came to Kuala Lumpur to work as a Those who are able are responsi- the widow, who was born in Kuala
has been a godsend. this place for me,”said Lee, who has baby sister.It has been more than 30 ble for their own personal hygiene Pilah, Negri Sembilan.

Last of her kind


By Alvin Chin and Gan Pei Ling Their braided hair represented their vow to
History of the King George
Silver Jubilee Fund Home
1935 under purview of the Selangor
• Funds were raised by public Government
celibacy and to never marry. subscription as a memorial of • The Home is run by trustees,
Chan Phan (pix) was the last of a unique group Some ma jie however were divorcees, but the Silver Jubilee (coronation) of including state Executive
of women called the ma jie who found a home once they have made the sacred vow there was King George V. It was agreed the Councillors (Exco).
at King George V. no turning back. funds would be used to provide • The current board includes
Like her fellow ma jie from China, Chan, An auspicious day would be picked, and their a home for poor and aged excos like Teresa Kok, Elizabeth
who died aged 90 on Jan 18, 2008, took a vow hair was braided before they drank chicken Chinese in Selangor and for Wong and Ronnie Liu.
of celibacy and worked as a nanny or maid to blood in front of their families and friends. other charitable purposes.
rich families. Then the sacred vow was made.
Two philanthropists, Cheong Funding:
Yoke Choy and Liew Weng Annual grants from the Social
Chan, who arrived at the home in 2005, was born in If the vow was broken, the ma jie would be tortured, Chee, are credited with Welfare Department and
Guangzhou - the capital of Guangdong province. put in a pig basket and drowned in a river. establishing the home. donations.
She had previously worked as a nanny with a family in During the 1930s, some travelled to seek a better life in
Malacca. Malaya and other countries in the region. Sept 23, 1937 Admission:
The ma jie originated from a few different districts in Many faithfully served the same families for their entire • The Home was formally Elderly women without
Guangdong, China but the most famous were from lives. established by enactment. dependents or children who
• A plot of two acres was cannot support them.
Shunde. Others who were luckier would be regarded as a mem- gazetted by the Selangor All applications are subjected
The emergence of the ma jie started in the  early 20th ber of the family by their employers. Government as the site for the to vetting before approval for
century when women workers gained economic independ- Over the years, King George has become a retirement home. admission.
ence because of the fast-developing silk industry in home for many ma jie but their exact numbers and stories Upon admission, all the needs
Shunde. have been lost. Administration: of the resident, including the
Women chose the way of life after witnessing how their Ma jie can still be found living in communities in • 73 years after it was expenses of her funeral, are
peers were mistreated by their husbands and in-laws. China. established, the home remains borne by the home.
SELANGOR TIMES ⁄ DECEMBER 3 – 5, 2010 ⁄ 17
18
feature
DECEMBER 3 — 5, 2010

Right
interest.
On a micro level, the potential
candidate is faced with push and
pull factors. Assuming that he is

or
motivated by proper interests, the
push factor is more dominant. Many
are “pushed” into politics to try to
arrest the decline of our country

Wrong?
into the toilet. But that is not
enough to encourage more to be
involved. To “pull” them in, the sup-
ply and demand infrastructure
mentioned above has to be in place.
Back to the question of when –
hopefully soon, for all our sakes!

R
ight and wrong, love, half- lete and tainted concepts, The second
past six lawmakers, Ma- memes and bananas are dis- revelation:
laysian timing, and the carded from the Body of His Su- We sincerely believe that Malay-
meaning of life! preme Eminenceness to maintain sians can rid themselves of half-past
Ask Lord Bobo is a weekly column the purity and integrity of the sim- six lawmakers if they first rid them-
by LoyarBurok (www.loyarburok. ian state. Whatever means necessary selves of Malaysian time, i.e. the
com) where all your profound, ab- to get to this end, is justified. phenomenon of making appoint-
struse, erudite, hermetic, recondite, ments one turns up for at least 30
sagacious, and other thesaurus-de- Lord Bobo, why is love an minutes later. As for competent
scribed queries are answered! illusion? @xiaohengyip, via Parliamentarians, it’s very simple –
Twitter initiate a government project for a
What is right or wrong? Which It seems like the questioner has re- new Parliament at the cost of RM2.3
should take priority in cently suffered a tragic loss in the billion, which will balloon to
determining right/wrong? Is the name of love, has probably had heart RM5.0 billion, then hush it up. A
end more important, or the ripped out of chest, torn into itty- building that costly MUST have
means? @woonkingchai via bitty pieces and discarded in the love. Let your love be your example From the angle of supply, meri- competent Parliamentarians.
Twitter wind. Lord Bobo is very sympa- for a better life, and let that be tocracy must be practised within
Right or wrong is a function of thetic to all orphans of love. enough. And if not, we have it on each political party. That means the Apa reti idup? (What is the
culture, fashion and geography. For Now go and give yourself two good authority that Lord Bobo has party leadership at all levels have to meaning of life?) @j_rubis, via
example, bell bottoms look so hard smacks, preferably cheek-to- a very attractive cousin-sister who is identify and nurture competent Twitter
wrong now, but were so right in the cheek (feel free to choose which ready to settle down, wan or not? members. This is a tall order because Throughout the course of your exist-
sixties. Second example, slavery cheeks) so you can stop wallowing it requires such leaders to be selfless; ence, you may have come across
seemed right in the US in the 17th in self-pity. For love never ends, is When can Malaysia have if they come across a member more many answers to the meaning of life.
Century, but is wrong now. Under- never lost, it just transforms. There competent Parliamentarians, capable than them, they should not Either through religion, philosophy,
lying the vicissitudes of right and is no such thing as a lost love. and not half-past six block his rise, but instead facilitate Very Important Books, or the time
wrong through the ages is one con- The illusion that you allude to is lawmakers? @kennethwpl, via it. you were convinced you saw The
stant – the wishes of Lord Bobo. the transformation of love that you Twitter Where demand is concerned, Almighty Hairy One on a popsicle
In line with the above, the state once knew. Sure it sucks when the This question was so compelling voters must regard competency as stick but nobody had the gall to
of Lord Bobo’s digestion must take object of your love does not return that Lord Bobo channeled answers the main criteria in making their believe you (just sayin’).
priority in determining right or your favour, writes police reports to two LoyarBurok-kers. choice. For example, one should not And perhaps at some point of
wrong. It is not as arbitrary as it against you, and sends Big Hairy The first revelation: vote out of sympathy for a widow of your life, you were quite convinced
sounds, for Lord Bobo is now the Scary Uncle Macha Relative to your This one is a pickle. The setting a recently deceased MP. Nor should that you finally got it, and yet here
supreme manifestation of human door (may or may not have hap- must be congenial enough to en- one vote for her because the coali- you are once again, looking for an
rights principles. He is compassion pened to some of us). That is not to courage and nurture competent tion to which she belongs has prom- answer.
personified. He is the pinnacle of say that your love has not made a Parliamentarians. This can be ana- ised to develop the constituency The answer is that the answer
human evolution, come back from significant difference in her life, for lysed in terms of supply (political (which, by virtue of being in power, does not matter; what matters is that
100,000 A.D. to enlighten the great it has. Trust in it. parties offering competent candi- is their job anyway). Voter maturity you don’t stop seeking, don’t stop
unwashed (i.e. all of you). Learn and become stronger from dates) and demand (voters demand- is essential. At a party level, mem- questioning. Hold fast to what is
Finally, Lord Bobo’s end is very this, yet keep your heart childlike ing such candidates). The key to bers should not vote out of loyalty true to you, your set of core values,
important indeed. It is where obso- and open to new possibilities of both is meritocracy. to certain camps, nor out of self- and choose to live your life accord-
ing to it. Because if you do not
choose for yourself, society will do

SACC raises funds for flood victims


so for you.
And oh yes, be good to people,
eat less carbs and live in peace and
harmony with all kinds of primates,
By William Tan no matter what their beliefs are.

SHAH ALAM: A month-long campaign is being Although Lord Bobo already knows
launched by the Shah Alam Convention Centre your question before you even
(SACC) to aid flood victims in northern Malaysia. knew you had a question, as a
“This fund is our way of giving back to the commu- practical display of your true desire
nity and we hope to raise more than RM10,000,” to have your query answered,
said SACC managing director Shuhainie Shamsu- His Supreme Eminenceness
din. has graciously allowed you to
Shuhainie expects to raise most of the donations communicate your questions by –
from collaborations with SACC business partners. • emailing asklordbobo@
He has also pledged to donate 5 percent of the rev- loyarburok.com, stating your full
enue from their food and drinks services. name, and a pseudonym if you
During the campaign, which will end at the end wish the question to be published
of the month, parking tickets at SACC will be raised anonymously (and a good reason
from RM3 to RM5, with the RM2 added to the fund. for anonymity).
Last Saturday, Power Impian International Sdn • tweeting your questions by
Bhd, a direct selling firm dealing primarily in coffee, mentioning @LoyarBurok and using
donated RM6,000 at its first convention at SACC. the hashtag #asklordbobo.
“This is in line with the goals of Power Impian to The first 100 questions published
empower people to achieve their dreams but who will receive LoyarBurok’s ONLY
might not be able to do so due to circumstances,” merchandise you ever need (worth
said Mohammad Noor Shamsuddin. a lot for humankind) courtesy of
The ambassador of Power Impian believes that Selangor Times. Now, what the
SACC move may motivate other companies to start hell are you waiting for? Hear This
up their own funds to aid the victims. and Tremblingly Obey (although
In addition, Les’ Copaque, the creators of Upin trembling is optional if you are
and Ipin, who are holding a carnival at SACC till Dec somewhere very warm)! Liberavi
29, have pledged to give half their profits from their From left: Event manager Syaiful Bakhtiar Salim, Shuhainie, Power Impian executive
Animam Meam! I Have Freed My
sale to the fund. director See Thuan Po and Rosyam Noor at the launch of the campaign. Spirit!
FEature 19
DECEMBER 3 — 5, 2010

Half A Chicken And


A Quarter Of A Cow


Fiction by Chua Kok Yee work in a special project under him. someone asked Mr Wong at the
Colin was exhilarated at the pros- briefing. Mr Wong explained that
Colin was standing over the sink pect of working directly with the excessive money would lead to sinful
with a knife in his hand. He looked tycoon, but the excitement turned thoughts among the recipients,
down and realised his shirt was into incredulity after the first brief- which in turn would bring more
smeared with blood. With a shriek, ing. negative karma to him.
he dropped the knife and turned Mr Wong wanted a big surplus So the amount has to be meas-
around. On the kitchen table, a in his ‘karma account’ to ensure he ured and reasonably accurate, Mr
Take 5 minutes to fill this form and drop it off at severed chicken head was engaged would have a good ending to his Wong explained, before firing that
the nearest police station to have regular checks in a conversation with a cow’s head. current life, and enough positive guy on the spot. Later, he donated
at your house while you are away. The clucking and mooing became karma to carry forward to the next. the fired guy’s two years’ salary to a
louder and louder, until Colin had He decided to compensate for any charity, of course.
Ibu pejabat Polis Daerah Subang Jaya to press his palms against his ears. bad karma he has earned, and would Colin was assigned to the second
“I screamed at them to stop, and receive, in the only way he knew; in group which was responsible for the
Tel: 02-5637 3722 Fax: 03-5631 9815 then I woke up,” Colin said. He lets dollars and cents. present. They had to discreetly ob-
Borang maklumat out a sigh, and slumps back to the The project team was split into serve Mr Wong, and place a value
Memaklumkan tentang meningalkan rumah kediaman untuk couch. Jonathan, his friend, was two groups. The first group was as- on his deed. After brainstorming
bercuti. seated across him. signed to put monetary values on and debating, the team agreed on a
“Do you think it’s because of the the negative things Mr Wong had measurement system by using a
Kepada Kawasan Pentadbiran Balai Polis job? My boss is crazy, and maybe done in the past, and make a month- karma factor. The karma factor was
the insanity is catching,” ly recommendation of donation in proportion to the negativity of
.............................................................................................. Jonathan looked at him, but said amount to be made to organisations. the deed. If Mr Wong purchased a
nothing. Colin’s boss, Mr Wong, The job involved a lot of research chicken wing and ate it, the value
Butiran penduduk: was one of the richest persons in and interviews to reconstruct Mr would be the price of the wing mul-
Asia. After visiting a temple on his Wong’s life history. tiplied by the karma factor of one.
Nama: .................................................................................. 60th birthday, Mr Wong hand- Wouldn’t it be easier if you just However, if he stole the wing and
picked a group of accountants from donate a really huge amount, sir? ate it, the karma factor would be
Alamat: ................................................................................. his companies, including Colin, to Surely, that would cover everything, increased to three.
Despite the ludicrousness of the
.............................................................................................. endeavour, Colin actually enjoyed

Poor response at
the first few weeks on the job. He
.............................................................................................. had all-expenses paid visits to New
York, Amsterdam and Monaco
Nombor telefon bimbit/kediaman: ........................................ along with his boss, and the salary

library open day


was good. Furthermore it was not as
Nombor telefon yang boleh dihubungi: ................................ stressful as his previous position; all
he had to do during his shift was to
.............................................................................................. record Mr Wong’s actions, review
them and assign a value to it. Some-
Tarikh meninggalkan rumah: ................................................ one in the office would compile
them, and give out the appropriate
Tarikh dijangka balik ke rumah: ........................................... donation at the end of each month.
Good life, easy money.
Kenderaan yang ditinggalkan (jenis model & nombor daftar Then the nightmares started.
kenderaan). There were a few variations to the
theme, but always with a lot of
1. .......................................................................................... blood and chatty dead animals.
Once, he dreamt of soaking in a
2. .......................................................................................... bathtub filled with blood with a
swine. The beast, with half of its
3. .......................................................................................... body roasted, was espousing the
merits of socialism.
Lain-lain maklumat: “I’ve a theory,” Jonathan said.
Colin turned towards Jonathan,
.............................................................................................. and raised his eyebrows.
“How do you measure the value
if your boss orders a huge steak, or
half a roasted chicken?”
“That’s easy - I’ll use their prices
............................................... ....................................... on the menu, and multiply them by
Tandatangan Tarikh a karma factor of one.”
“I believe here is where you got
Have you checked By Alvin Chin time we are hosting this event,
the resp onse ha s b e en ver y
it wrong. You can’t just take the price
of the food. The bad karma in this
your electrical PETALING JAYA: A three-day
reading campaign by a public library
p o o r,” s a i d   s a l e s e xe c uti v e
Mohd Hamizal, whose
case comes from the loss of lives.
Half a chicken is one dead chicken,
switches before here failed to draw a crowd despite
the long school holidays.
company  Rangkaian Ilmuan was
among the booths set up at the
and a quarter of a cow is still one
slaughtered cow. So you have under-
leaving home? The Mari Membaca programme
at the Taman Tun Dr Ismail Public
entrance of the library. 
Seen using the library’s facilities
valued them.”
Colin thought about it for
Library from Nov 26 to 28 was were ten-year-old Amir Ariff (pix) awhile, before nodding.
Before ieaving your home for a holiday, have you aimed at encouraging more children and his cousin, whose parents “Thus I’m receiving bad vibes
checked all your electrical switches and turned off to read. brought them to the library. from them? It’s karma.”
your gas tanks? However, a brief visit to the In addition to free membership, The two of them sat there in si-
library by Selangor Times on Sunday the library also arranges activities lence. “You could be right,” Colin
Call the SS17 Bomba for adviCe at found only a few parents and children such as book sales, free health said after awhile. “Who really un-
at the library. checks, puppet shows and derstand how this karma things re-
03-5634 9444 “Although this is the second storytelling sessions. ally works, right?”
20
REVIEW
DECEMBER 3 — 5, 2010

Bali experience
close to home
By Alvin Chin arrived. We had ordered nasi fresh fruit. We don’t recommend
campur, which may sound like the sharing this yummy dessert because
WHO would have thought that we usual economy rice that Malaysians for only RM13, it is too good to
can experience Balinese food are accustomed to at their local share, and you can finish one all by
without flying 1,960 kilometers to coffee shop. However, at the price yourself.
Bali? At Bumbu Bali, the food is of RM33, we of course had higher The damage came to RM90.85
rich in tradition as is the restaurant expectations of Bumbu Bali’s nasi but fortunately for Jusco card
with its authentic atmosphere and campur. holders like us, Bumbu Bali gave a
decor. Bumbu Bali’s design is similar And it didn’t disappoint. The 10% discount which brought our
to many of the restaurants on the dish is served with a combination of bill down to RM82.95.
island east of Java. Patrons who have Balinese grilled lemongrass prawns, Whether it is to celebrate a
been to this popular holiday island grilled squid and fish, chicken special occasion or just to enjoy a
may well find themselves returning rending (beef rendang is also casual dinner, the atmosphere in
to Bumbu Bali to relive some available) and sate lilit. On Bumbu Bali is calm and serene,
memories of their time on Bali. the side are servings of lawar kacang evoking memories of your last
There are many similarities (a bean salad), rempeyek (anchovy holiday in Bali, and making you
between Malaysian and Balinese crackers), sambal terasi and sambal want to return again.
cultures. But when it comes to food, matah. The rempeyek was not soggy Bumbu Bali is located at Lot 18
each has its own specialty. Our task but very crispy and tasted even & 18-1, Jalan Persiaran Puteri 1,
was to sample a three course meal at better after dipping it in the Puchong, and is open daily from Es Campur is a iced blended mound of sago, jackfruit, banana,
Bumbu Bali consisting of an tamarind peanut dressing. The fish 11am till late. honeydew, watermelon. and sweet shredded coconut.
appetizer, main course and dessert, and squid were hot off
with a budget of RM100 for two the grill and are best
people. consumed before they
We started off with two of their get cold.
recommended drinks; the barley We couldn’t finish
lime and the pulut hitam. The barley the nasi campur as we
lime might sound like your average were too full from the
drink but it was dubbed a house tipat cantuk. But we did
favourite. The traditional pulut try all the varieties of
hitam drink is different from food served on the nasi
Malaysia’s black glutinous rice campur platter.
dessert. As a drink, it is ice-blended Fo r d e s s er t , w e
and a good measure of santan is ordered es campur. It is
mixed in to attain a perfect level of an iced blended mound
creamy sweetness. The barley lime o f s a g o , j a c kf r u i t ,
costs RM6 and the pulut hitam banana , hone yde w,
drink RM12. watermelon and sweet
Our appetizer came shortly shredded coconut. Do
afterwards and we were surprised by not underestimate this
how big the portion was. Called dessert because eating
tipat cantuk, it is a warm vegetable fast will result in a brain
salad with grilled chicken, deep- freeze! The combination
fried tofu, rice cakes or ketupat, and of fruits was just what
hard boiled egg. A Balinese version we needed after the
of rojak, this dish is served with an flavorful tipat cantuk
addictive tamarind peanut dressing. and nasi campur. The
For only RM15, it can stand alone blended iced is mixed
as a a regular meal for light eaters. with santan but is not
While we were busy snapping too sweet, and created a
pictures of the food, the main course perfect base to enjoy the Bumbu Bali’s special Nasi Campur

Chong Eu a bridge Truck damaged


to modern era walking path
I FIRST met Lim Chong Eu in lose Kit Siang in Parliament...”. was a bridge May I wish to congratulate Selangor Times on its inaugural
August 1986 in the aftermath of This was in reference to the between our publication.
the 1986 general election when I ‘battle royale’ in the Tanjung colonial days and the Some weeks ago the MBPJ sent a contractor to spruce up
visited him at his new office at the parliamentar y constituency, modern era. He helped bring the garden near the children’s playground in SS20. After
newly-completed KOMTAR between Lim Kit Siang and Koh develop-ment and prosperity to cutting the bamboo and other branches they brought a truck
Tower with a delegation of Tsu Koon (Chong Eu’s protege) Penang in very challenging times. to cart away the cuttings.
businessmen. that Kit Siang had just won. In retirement, he conducted In doing so the truck left deep tyre track marks and also
He was very courteous but I Chong Eu took the comment in himself with grace and dignity, damaged a section of the cemented walking path where
noted that he was a pensive good nature - a reflection of the never once commenting publicly residents do their morning walking exercise.
person, calm and deliberate in man’s maturity, I thought at that on politics or the performance The cemented walking path around the ‘padang’ is also in
discussions. time. Incidentally, Tsu Koon also and policies of his successor as a poor condition that needs repair.
During the visit, one of our sat in on the discussions as Chong Chief Minister.  
groups remarked in jest to Chong Eu’s special officer. I would appreciate if the authorities could look into the
Eu that “…it is not that we love I am sure all Malaysians mourn May God bless his soul! matter.
you less but we cannot afford to the passing of a statesman who Richard Y W Yeoh Anak Selangor David Teh.
YOUTH 21
DECEMBER 3 — 5, 2010

Blend of cultures at Youth


Mad Fest 2010
By Lee Choon Fai known, and to mingle with other cultures as well,”
said Sanjeavan.
PETALING JAYA: Youths can enjoy themselves He added that they will be coming together to
with a musical bazaar at the Civic Centre Audito- express the contemporary significance of their di-
rium in the MBPJ headquarters tomorrow. verse music and dance traditions in a spirit of cele-
“This is a showcase of music from all cultures and bration and exchange.
races where there will be church music, Bollywood The highlight and grand finale of the event of the
dances, even orang asli music,” said K. Sanjeavan, festival is the World Jugal Bandhi, an assembly of
one of the organisers of the festival. drummers from a range of eastern musical cultures
Organised by the non-profit organisation Nur performing in vibrant synergy. 
Damai, the event is free of charge and also welcomes “If the turnout is good tomorrow, we might or-
foreigners in Malaysia. ganise another one next year. But for now there are
“We also have some foreign music and dances no such plans,” said Sanjeavan.
included in the event, like the African dance, Qa- Nur Damai is a cooperation circle of URI -
walli music, and Indonesian music as well,” he United Religions Initiative, an organization
added. founded in 2000, composed of people of diverse
Up to 130 performers will be participating in the religions, spiritual expressions and indigeneous
event and there will be a minute-long presentation traditions who are striving in various ways to pro-
before each performance to promote the different mote enduring daily interfaith cooperation, to end
culture. religiously motivated violence and to create cultures
“This is a chance for youths to make their culture of peace.

Upgrade for roundabout


PETALING JAYA: Almost 40 companies Sakiman told reporters that the Petaling Jaya
have submitted proposals to upgrade the Roth- City Council will deliberate on the proposals
mans roundabout in Petaling Jaya. on Dec 20.
The Rothmans roundabout, where traffic “Although, we have received many proposals
jams are a mainstay of the area, is to be replaced for the traffic light junction, I think the best
with a traffic light junction. solution is to build a flyover,” said Roslan on
Petaling Jaya Mayor Datuk Mohamad Roslan Monday.

Tracking the pulse of Penang

jan feb mar apr may jun jul aug sep oct nov dec jan feb mar apr may jun jul aug sep oct nov dec jan feb mar apr may jun
20 0 9

2 010

20 11

Penang Economic Monthly is a monthly magazine dedicated to socio-economic issues in


Penang, offering reliable socio-economic data as well as informative articles on the arts,the
industry, culture and social issues that are relevant to today’s generation of Malaysians.
Available nationwide at bookshops and newsstands.
www.penangeconomicmonthly.com
22
Gallery
DECEMBER 3 — 5, 2010

A couple checking out a model park bridge before the Anugerah


Kediaman Idaman Ceria Bangunan 2009/2010 start last Monday.

Sultan Sharafuddin Idris Shah of Selangor (left) and one of the speakers Prof Emeritus Datuk
Dr Shad Saleem Faruqi at the start of the “Constitutional Monarchy: Perspective of History, Residents from Bangi lining up to register dur-
Now and Future” seminar on Monday. The other speakers were Prof Emeritus Tan Sri Dr ing a voter registration exercise last Saturday.
Khoo Kay Kim, Prof Datuk Dr Ramlah Adam and Assoc Prof Dr Mohammad Agus Yusof.

Pakatan Rakyat leaders (from left) Datuk Seri Abdul Hadi Awang, Lim Kit Siang, Selangor
Menteri Besar Tan Sri Khalid Ibrahim and Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim having dinner after the
Pakatan Rakyat Menteri Besar and Chief Minister Summit 2010 in Shah Alam on Monday.

Six small business owners were awarded a total of RM90,000 by the Petaling Jaya City Council (MBPJ) for their success at making their products more appealing to cus-
tomers. The programme was to help small businesses compete by emphasising cleanliness, quality of food, and customer service at the D’Kelana Hall at the  Kelana Jaya
sports complex last Tuesday. Among those present were Selangor Exco Yaakob Sapari (7th from right) and PJ mayor Datuk Mohamad Roslan Sakiman (6th from right).
CULTURE DECEMBER 3 - 5 2010 23
PLAYS ■ Compiled by Zedeck Siew

REVIEW
Serangan
Zombi
Pertama di
Birdy
Pekan Frinjan 16:
Hak Asasi Manusia
Malaysia
Theatre; Shah Alam has a bit of a bad rep. It’s played host to a
KL Performing Arts Centre; number of ultra-racial and ultra-religious demonstrations
2 - 12 December 2010; — the cowhead protest of August 2009 being the most
03-4047 9038; infamous. Students from the Universiti Teknologi Mara
www.klpac.com (UiTM) campus occasionally march against calls for their
American writer William institution to open its doors to non-Bumiputras. But UiTM
Wharton’s award-winning also has a sizable counter-culture of progressive types —
novel, Birdy — about two Editor’s and you see these kids out in force at the monthly Pekan
school friends who serve
in the Vietnam War and
Pick Frinjan street festival and bazaar.
This exciting mainstay of the Klang Valley cultural
return home scarred — was Bazaar & Street Festival; calendar, already well into its second year, brings together
made into a film (starring Frinjan; i-City Amphitheatre, all sorts of people: the blogging community, peddlers
Nicholas Cage) in 1984; it Shah Alam; of fashion and books, NGO types, street performers,
was also adapted into a 4 December 2010; alternative musicians. “By presenting art and culture in ‘pop’
critically-acclaimed play by 010-512 6836; form, we hope that society will continue to appreciate stuff
Naomi Wallace. Now, KLPac frinjan@gmail.com with an intellectual focus,” says the Frinjan collective, which
resident director Christopher organises Pekan Frinjan, in its mission statement. A lofty,
Ling brings this tale of heartening goal!
psychological madness This month’s festival, which begins at 5pm and ends at
and post-war redemption midnight, will feature performances by singer-songwriter
to the Malaysian stage. Meor; performance artists chi too and Sharon Chin; bands
Featuring Alex Chua, Calvin like Tilu, Mona Lyssa, Asboon and Dahlia By The Stairs; and
Tan, Darius Taraporvala, Jon many more. With stalls selling apparel and literature. Pekan
Chew, Michael Chen and Frinjan is also supported by Tourism Selangor and MBSA.
Tung Jit Yang.

ARTS
Bakat Muda Malaysian artists” and
Sezaman 2010 “elevate the standard of
visual arts in the country”.
Exhibition; That’s a predictable,
National Art Gallery; nearly-Soviet “nation-

H
20 November 2010 – building” approach, and alfway through Serangan Zombi Pertama di Malaysia
20 January 2010; the process has met with
03-4025 4990; is a segment titled “Emptiness”; in it, female lead
criticism: that it is less than Sandee Chew (playing bakery salesgirl, blogger, and
www.artgallery.gov.my meritocratic. Thankfully,
The Bakat Muda Sezaman the NAG has been trying zombie-apocalypse survivor Salmon Chen) lapses into inter-
Awards is one of our biggest to mix it up a bit. This year, pretive dance: she begins stretching and doing ballet moves
visual art competitions: potential participants of the around a table. A car alarm blares throughout.
it has a grand prize of competition were chosen Sitting through it felt like forever. At the end of it, some-
RM20,000, with three jury through open nominations one in the audience shouted: “Tak faham!”
awards of RM10,000 each. from the arts community After the show, co-director Ayam Fared — who created
Started in 1974 by the and the public. This public
National Art Gallery (NAG), exhibition collects the
the aforementioned scene — explained his rationale. “It is
its goal is to “showcase the competition’s finalists. like living in this country: it is painful,” Ayam said. “I want
latest and best artworks Winners will be announced to see how much the audience could stand.” It’s a simple
by young and upcoming soon. enough metaphor: Malaysia is an endurance test; we are
forced to live in a zombified state. But testing an audience’s
capacity for suffering, for no other reason — that’s a little
PREVIEW juvenile. The gimmick isn’t as clever as it seems.
Sadly, Ayam’s bits were the most conceptually inquisitive
Follow The Light (PJ Live Arts, 2 - 9 December 2010) parts of Serangan Zombi Pertama di Malaysia — a two-hour
It’s December, and Yuletide commercialism has already work that, with three different directors interpreting texts
been in our malls for some time. However, if you want less from three different playwrights, felt cobbled together and
consumerist Christmas fare, why not check out Follow The collegiate.
Light: a “Christmas musical for young and old of any faith or The more traditionally theatrical, dialogue-driven scenes
creed”. involve Salmon and risk-adverse physics nerd Ma’an (played
Former journalist Nick Choo’s first effort in KL was The
Edge, a musical about suicide. Chipper subject matter and
by performer/writer Redza Minhat) trapped in an office
some odd plot twists aside, it was a decent piece of musical pantry. The big debate? Whether they should leave their safe
theatre, with memorable melodies and clever arrangement. haven, brave the undead-infested streets, and travel on to
Kawan show sound interesting. His newest show is an updated version of something Langkawi, a supposedly “Zombie Free Zone”. Eventually,
So it’s nice to see Kawan he staged in Perth, while studying in university; that Ma’an comes to the predictable conclusion that he can’t live
Exhibition; so modest in its intentions. performance of Follow The Light won a Best Musical award
Pelita Hati Gallery; his life like a routine-obsessed zombie, and takes a chance.
“Friends get together to in Western Australia Finley Awards for Independent Theatre. That’s paltry stuff. The zombie genre has been pregnant
20 November 2010 – have this exhibition with This musical takes some liberty with its source material:
11 December 2010; art as their most common the Wise Men are competing for fame and fortune, the with socio-economic commentary since Romero’s Night of
03-2292 3380; interest,” its press materials Shepherds are unhappy siblings; Joe and Mary are a young the Living Dead, dealing with runaway consumerism, the
www.pelitahati.com.my read. Featuring works in couple suddenly burdened with a baby — we’ll see whether concept of the Other, and Hobbesian ideas of government.
Painting shows are the various media by artists they dump it. Serangan Zombi Pertama di Malaysia was an opportunity
most common kind Anassuwandi Ahmad, “I was 16 when the earliest strands of music for for incisive observations about the Malaysian state of being.
of art exhibition in this Azman Hilmi, Hamdan Follow The Light were composed,” Nick says. “At that Unfortunately, it doesn’t dive below surface-level moaning.
town; curators and Shaarani, Izaddin Matrahah, impressionable age, I was influenced particularly by Lloyd
artists sometimes jump Johan Marjonid, Mohd Jamil Webber’s Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat. Serang Zombi Pertama di Malaysia was staged under The
through some ridiculous Mat Isa, Nasir Che Din, I wanted to write a fun, colourful, funny, poignant piece of Actors Studio’s Teater Rakyat programme, at KLPac from
conceptual hoops just Zakaria Sharif, and Zainon theatre that could be enjoyed by people of all ages; of any 24 to 28 November 2010. Directed by Megat Sharizal, Yus-
to make a new painting Abdullah. race, belief or background.” man Mokhtar and Ayam Fared.
SELANGOR TIMES ⁄ DECEMBER 3 – 5, 2010 ⁄ 24

Published by Selangor State Government and printed by Ultimate Print Sdn Bhd Lot 2, Jalan Sepana 15/3 Off Persiaran Selangor, Seksyen 15, 40200, Shah Alam, Selangor

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