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Strawberries Teohlogy Support

at home looks back for local


businesses
p 7 on 2010 p 10 p 8

community DECEMBER 31, 2010 – January 2, 2011/ issue 6

The year that was...


By Rahmah Ghazali the headlines in Selangor was the scandal in July, amid criticism that charged by MACC over the multi- and the matter has quietly died
tussle to control the water industry it only caught ‘small fries. million Balinese-styled mansion down, but once again, the nation

W
hat an exciting year it between the state and federal As former MCA president and saga. was shocked over the gruesome
has been for Selangor, governments. cabinet minister, Tun Ling Liong The question now is, who will murder of cosmetic millionairess
from the controversies Selangor had wanted to take over Sik made the news for being the take over as opposition head – Datuk Sosilawati Lawiya and three
that plagued the state administra- the four concessionaires involved in biggest name to be arrested by whose role now focuses solely on others in Banting last September.
tion, to the gruesome murder of a the water industry to avoid high MACC so far, many remain taking the richest state back to The murder came at a time when
cosmetics millionairess. tariffs being imposed on users in the sceptical whether it will result in Barisan Nasional in the next general the nation had barely recovered
As 2010 comes to an end on the state but their overtures have been anything. election. from the shooting of 15-year-old
stroke of midnight tonight, Selangor thwarted thus far.  December continued to be an But the problems plaguing the Aminulrasyid Amzah a few months
Times presents you a roll of the top The height of the unending saga exciting month for Selangor when Khalid Ibrahim administration did earlier. He was shot dead by police
news events of the year. culminated in 10,000 Selangor former Menteri Besar Datuk Seri Dr not end there as such as the illegal while fleeing in a crashed car in
One remarkable event was the citizens, backed by the State, Mohd Khir Toyo resigned as sand-mining problem hit them in April.
tabling of the much-desired marching to Istana Negara in De- Opposition Leader after he was the early part of the year. Meanwhile, the support letters
Freedom of Information Bill last cember to present a memorandum On the other hand, things saga also hit the headlines, with
July by the Pakatan Rakyat State to the King on the need for the took a tragic turn on a national Selangor criticised for not taking a
Government, a move to uphold the State to take over the water assets. level when public tension over the firm stand to curb the practice,
people’s right to information. But for now, the matter is back at ‘Allah’ row escalated in January, which many claimed would open
Following delays, the State is now the negotiating table. resulting in several places of the floodgates to corruption.
set to pass the Bill in March next Shifting the limelight to worship being vandalised. And to complete the list, the
year. The Bill had drawn some flak another issue outside the The controversy started when State Government made an unprece-
from civil society for some weak- Selangor administration, the the Kuala Lumpur High Court, dented move by appointing Sungai
nesses, and has been going through Malaysia Anti- Corruption in a landmark decision, allowed Burong BN assemblyman Datuk
the committee stage where input Commission (MACC) finally Catholic newsletter “Herald” to Mohd Shamsudin Lias as Public
from the public has been sought. arrested a ‘bigwig’ over the multi- use the word ‘Allah’. Accounts Committee chairman,
Another event which dominated billion Port Klang Free Zone Eleven months have passed, much to the chagrin of BN leaders.
2
news
DEC 31, 2010 — Jan 2, 2011

Selangor WEATHER
Friday Saturday Sunday New-look, one-stop
cybercafe
Morning

Afternoon
By Tang Hui Koon

SHAH ALAM: With an open layout and refreshing design,


Night the first cyber café concept store in Selangor – Cyber E Sel
– opens today at i-City.
Besides surfing the net, customers can also buy snacks and
Source: Malaysian meteorological department drinks as well as pay their utility bills at the store’s one-stop
payment counter.

Stop work order on A brainchild of the Selangor Cyber Café Owners


Association, its president, Bronson Chuah Aik King, said the

Klang River project


concept store is part of the association’s bigger plan to salvage
the industry’s negative public image.
He said the open layout made it difficult for customers to There are 120 computers available in Cyber E Sel.
gamble or surf for porn on the 120 computers available at the
store. their MyKad.
In addition, the association is waiting for approval to  As such, operators can, for example, automatically shut
implement a monitoring system at the store to help reduce down computers used by children at 10pm on weekdays or
truancy. 12 midnight on weekends.
Selangor Times had previously reported that the association The State is considering the association’s proposal to imple-
spent RM50,000 to develop a software that will record visi- ment this monitoring system in all 650 licensed cyber cafés
tors’ basic information, particularly their age when they swipe in Selangor.

Victims demand justice


By Rahmah Ghazali
Signboard on the site showed that the project was
approved way back in 2006. But construction only SHAH ALAM: Two men, awarded
began this year. damages for wrongful detention and
assault while in police custody for the
KLANG: The Klang Municipal Council (MPK) has issued a brutal rape and murder of Nurin Jazlin
stop work order to the contractor of the Klang River landscaping Jazimin, are crying foul after the High
project near Jalan Gudang Nanas. Court reversed the decision.
Klang councillor Tan Heng Kim said the contractor did not Mohamad  Zamri  Ibrahim and his
obtain approval from the local authorities before they began brother-in-law Mohd Suhaimi Yusoff
construction. were initially awarded RM41,500 and
“They only submitted their application to the City Planning RM31,500 respectively by the Kuala
Department last week,” Tan told Selangor Times. Lumpur Sessions Court last month. But
Developer Kota Maseni was appointed by the state Irrigation they expressed outrage after the award
and Drainage Department and MPK’s Parks and Recreation was set aside last week. They are deman- Khalid (right) with Zamri and his wife at the press conference yesterday.
Department to beautify the riverside in town this year. ding justice.
Kota Maseni then appointed Senlee Building Construction Mohamad Zamri said the   High to the media at Shah Alam MP Khalid people who were arrested in connection
as its main contractor to build the waterfront and pavilions Court made its ruling based on the Samad’s office yesterday. with the rape and murder of Nurin.
beside the river. Government’s argument that they failed He claimed that the policemen did Her body was found in a gym bag on
However, Tan said the developer and contractor had failed to identify the policemen who had not follow procedure, including not Sept 17, 2007, in front of a shop in
to submit their structural and earth work plan to MPK’s attacked them. informing them why they were arrested Petaling Jaya.
Building Department and Engineering Department before H o w e v e r, t h e 3 6 - y e a r - o l d on the night of Sept 17, three years ago, However, the duo were later released
construction. businessman said it was impossible for when they were remanded for four days. after police found that they were fram-
This issue was first raised by Kapar MCA Youth to the them to identify their assailants because “I was driving with my wife, who was ed by another man, who had been
Chinese press last week as the developer obtained the project they were placed face down on the floor pregnant at the time, before my car was sending text messages to the police to
permit way back in 2006 but only started construction this year. and there was a light shining directly on blocked by three police cars. I was connect Zamri and Suhaimi to the case.
Subsequently, Tan was alerted to the matter and immediately them while they were assaulted. abruptly handcuffed without them Meanwhile, Khalid said the High
probed into it. “Besides, there were too many cops, asking for my identification. Court’s decision should be reviewed.
Tan said the contractor will only be allowed to continue about 20 to 30, who had beaten us up. “I was elbowed in the head and He pointed out that it was already
construction after they obtain approval from the relevant How could we possibly know each subsequently brought to my place of proven that they were assaulted while
departments in MPK. individual’s name at that particular business where my brother-in-law was under police watch.
“We cannot continue to allow developer and contractor to time ?” a ske d Zamri. Zamri, staying,” he said. More

cut corners,” he said. accompanied by his wife, was speaking Zamri and Suhaimi were among four r, Penang
Selangos – good
budget re p 10
counteK
for MP
rs
p 16
BaBy H for futu
Hatc
p12 – 13

State secretary’s post still open


5
/ issue
26, 2010
R 24 –
DECEMBE

community

SHAH ALAM: Selangor is maintaining Selangor Islamic Religious Affairs


phone (603) 5523 2288 its stand that the post of a new state Department ( JAIS) head Khusrin would
fax (603) 5523 1188 secretary is still open despite Putrajaya’s assume the post as state secretary on Jan ncil (MB
SA) and
City Cou District Offic Fairy
es for

rk
Shah Alam g and Petal
ing
n again
st
vals

Fair y Pea nod


the Klan g toug her actio to get appro t-
not takincompany had failedplanning depar

email editor@selangortimes.com
insistence that  Datuk Mohd Khusrin 1.
Park. The A’s building and
from MBS buried
le have been The
ment. than 20,000 peop work orders. h
More te stop s whic
Park despi compound d its
at Fairy only settled five Selcat starte

h
erman

t
comp any them after
Spyk to

gets
ille te d lan Md
By Nev ive priva were issue

Munawi has been appointed. Neither Menteri Besar Tan Sri Khalid
, a mass ille- k Maza from
Fairy Park partly operated the probe. Alam Mayor Datu the direc
tive
ve
received Unit to appro

EDITORIAL
KLanG:here which is has been given all Shah
MBSA ing
cemeteryagriculture land,provided it pays Noor saidEconomic Plann 9.
gally on nue k Teng State on Dec already
to conti land to man Datufinding the conversion gement had ert the
green light to the state. ert the Selcat chair out that lity of the land y Park’s manacation to conv
its dues y Park must convsettle all fines, said
fees athy from pointed nsibi “Fair their appli amount-
tery symp g Khim whods was the respo summonses Mazalan.

The State also denied claims that it was


and submittedhad settled 16

Ibrahim nor his administration was


“Fair s,” cre ceme
purposes auth oritie Chan groun fines,” said
commercialrs it owes the ie Liu. ing the 154-a only 28 acres new burial Fairy and
led that up to land RM136,000 in onses for RM2 engi-
5,000
arrea Ronn accou nt Selca t was prob approval for state. also revea e d to summ A’s
and to take into rted the The inqu iry Park char g for a family ing include five
councillor in , which had 1991. by MBS rt-
executive the state had buried at the site in Meru te graveyard in legally conve 0 , These ,000 issued cement depa
Liu said were already sold other for a priva acres have been her 136 acres are RM316,30uring 48’ x 80’ and 11 for RM1ing and enfor

KL Chan
le any had Only 19 Anot plot meas cheapest plot neering, build must
that peop that the comp ulture use. ium that  land

CHIEF EDITOR Meru and des local from agric agricultural while the ,000. . the prem the
folio inclu t ment ever, he said any to convert is still

late in submitting the names of candidates consulted.


ed to classified as was RM9 s a i d t h a
lots. se port owner had appli comp any How comp use
Liu, who and the to Te n g to RM82 per be paid by the e into commercialand Mines
t, said the h landnot got approval a amounted h was highe
r ultur Land
governmen land. Bhd, whic has land into from agric mined by the
the ivest Sdn lly using ert the sq feet whiccosts of most being deter
convert mber, Prem tted illega 0 people conv tery.
文版
内附中
In Septe than the nt.
Park, admi y 20,00 ceme he could not Departme

Neville Spykerman
Fairy nearl up to said s. the
operates land to bury char ged Koh e who home criticised

COMMUNITY EDITOR
agricultural 1990 s. They . away thos plot s, 报》 He also

to the palace for consideration.


《雪州时

Faekah added that an independent


Koh turn ed buri al Park
since the 0 for family plotsging director, g need that Fairy
RM316,00company’s manawas just performin e claiming the chea pest
But the that he hauled up befor ed little
, argued was cy, offer. But he got
Tian Seng e when he e for Competen rates
a social servic
Select Com
mitte
parency
(Selcat).

Tang Hui Koon, Chong Loo Wah, Gan Pei Ling,


Selangor’s ility and Trans

WRITERS
“Datuk Ramli Mahmud’s term as state selection panel had shortlisted three istmas
Accountab
from

Alvin Chin, Lee Choon Fai, William Tan, Alvin Yap, Merry Chr
Rahmah Ghazali, Basil Foo, Yasleh Hani Mat Yassin secretary ends only on March 20 next candidates and the names were presented
COPY EDITORS James Ang, Deborah Loh year,” said Faekah Husin, the political to the palace on Dec 17.
secretary to the Menteri Besar. She said The panel, established on Nov 27, was Free delivery to RA and
DESIGNER Jimmy CS Lim
there was no requirement which imposes headed by state speaker Datuk Teng JMB. Contact: editor@
PHOTOGRAPHER Victor Chong
a dateline on the state. Chang Khim along with executive selangortimes.com or
ADVERTISING Evelyne Low
On Monday, Chief Secretary Tan Sri councillors Datuk Hasan Ali and   Dr call: 03-55232288
ADVISORS Faekah Husin, Arfa’eza Abdul Aziz
Mohd Sidek Hassan declared that current Xavier Jayakumar.
SELANGOR TIMES ⁄ DECEMBER 31, 2010 – January 2, 2011 ⁄ 3

Unveiling a brand new look


@ a new location
Kuwait Finance House is proud to announce that our Shah Alam branch has relocated! The move symbolises a shift in our focus towards the
retail and consumer segments, and with the branch’s fresh new appearance, our commitment to provide you with an even more conducive
banking environment. Do drop by for an experience of the refined KFH today.

Our new Shah Alam branch is now at: Unit 3/5, Jalan Plumbum S7/S, Pusat Komersial Seksyen 7, Seksyen 7,
40000 Shah Alam, Selangor Darul Ehsan.
Tel: 03 2056 7635

For more information, please call our Contact Centre at 03-2056 7777. Or log on to www.kfh.com.my

BrAnCHeS: Kuala Lumpur Pavilion Shah Alam Klang Johor Bahru Penang Kuching
BureAu de CHAnge: Kuala Lumpur International Airport KL Sentral Station Low Cost Carrier Terminal (LCCT) Pavilion
4
news
DEC 31, 2010 — Jan 2, 2011

Events DOE: Hartalega


Someone Who’ll Watch Over Me
The play, inspired by Irishman Brian Keenan’s
abduction in 1986, will run from Jan 5-16. In the story,
not responsible
Keenan was kidnapped while he was on his way to
work at the American University of Beirut. It was only By Alvin Yap water was frequently clogged with rub- ral Resources and Environment Minis-
four and a half years later that he was released. Keenan bish because it was badly constructed, ter, Datuk S. Sothinathan, said DOE
went on to write an autobiographical book called An shah alam: The Department of and was no fault of the company. had found the allegation baseless. He
Evil Cradling which won the Irish Times Literary Prize Environment (DOE) has cleared glove “The company has offered to foot the said the factory – which had been in
for Non-fiction in 1991. Admission is RM48 for adults manufacturer Hartalega Holdings of bill for upgrading works to redesign and operations for 19 years – had met all
and RM28 for students & the disabled. A flat rate of
RM28 will be charged on preview night Jan 5 and Jan pollution, maintaining that allegations renovate the drain, but some residents requirements set by the environmental
12. Venue: The Actors Studio, Roof Top, Level, Lot 10 by residents are unfounded. have resisted such a move,” said Che ministry.
Shopping Centre, 50, Jalan Sultan Ismail, KL. “Our assessment shows that they are Asmah. At Tuesday’s press conference, Har-
well within the limits of our require- Hartalega’s owners, at a press confer- talega’s managing director Kuan Kam
Malaysia’s 4th Chocolate Fair ments for effluent discharge. Hartalega ence on Tuesday, pointed out that their Hon urged the media to be fair in their
is also doing its in-house monitoring 20-year-old premises was established reporting.
Chocolate lovers will be in for a treat at the Malaysia 4th
Chocolate Fair 2011 where new and exciting local and which also shows that it is under the even before the housing estate was built. “We must defend ourselves. At stake
international brands of chocolate will be showcased. requirements for effluent discharge,” On Dec 3, Deputy Minister in the is a company that takes in million of
An additional section will feature Malaysians’ very own said Selangor DOE director Che Asmah Prime Minister’s Department Datuk T. dollars in foreign exchange from over-
Chocolatier, small and medium size entrepreneurs Ibrahim. Murugiah ordered Hartalega to shut seas. But most of all, we employ 800
with their hand-made chocolates. The fair will be on Hartalega, which operates in Taman down its operations in Bestari Jaya in workers from the community itself.
from Jan 7-9 and visiting hours will be from 11am until Suria Batang Berjuntai, has been ac- Kuala Selangor. He had met representa- They will lose their jobs if we are forced
9pm daily. Admission is free. Venue: Hall 2, Mid Valley
Exhibition Centre, Kuala Lumpur.
cused by a small group of residents of tives claiming to be from nearby resi- to close down,” he said.
polluting nearby drains and air but the dents’ associations who made the com- Kuan pointed out they had taken
Speciality & Fine Food Fair Malaysia billion ringgit nitrile glove manufac- plaints. initiatives to keep pollution at bay and
turer said they have been unfairly tar- Complaints against Hartalega are not spent RM15 million to purchase ‘green
The Speciality & Fine Food Fair Malaysia 2011 is setting geted. new, for as recent as 2007, the factory energy’ technology. He added the com-
its landmark in Malaysia’s food industry. This unique Asmah pointed out the drain where was accused of being responsible for pany had spent an additional RM5.6 to
speciality food show will bring together the finest the factory discharges its treated waste noise pollution. The then Deputy Natu- maintain the factory.
food producers to showcase the most unique, high-

Late effort pays off for three students


end, luxurious & healthy food and drink products. The
fair will be on from Jan 7-9 and visiting hours will be
from 11am to 9pm daily. Venue: Mid Valley Exhibition
Centre, Kuala Lumpur
By Rahmah Ghazali
Bobby in Blue
The concert featuring Giancarlo Guerrero as conductor
shah alam:: Many people think that a last-minute job
and Malaysia’s own star pianist Bobby Chen will be would result in a horrendous finished product, but that was
showcasing Gershwin’s famous Rhapsody in Blue. not the case for three students from Universiti Kuala
Costa-Rican maestro Giancarlo Guerrero, Musical Lumpur (UniKL).
Director of the Nashville Symphony, also leads the Still in their early 20’s, final year animation students
Malaysian Philharmonic Orchestra in other Gershwin Hazwan Juhari, Munira Syafira Mohd Khairuddin and
hits – An American in Paris, and the suite from Porgy Syafiq Muzakkir Zenol Ariffin proved that their last-minute
and Bess. The concert will be on at 8.30pm on Jan 8
and 3pm on Jan 9. Admission is RM 85, RM 65, RM 40, work could earn the grand prize in a competition organised
RM 20. Dress code on Jan 8 is long-sleeved batik or by the State Government.
lounge suit and on Jan 9 is smart casual. Venue: Dewan “We are still shocked that we actually won the first prize,”
Filharmonik PETRONAS, Level 2, Tower 2, PETRONAS said Syafiq, whose team ‘Animade’ defeated five others from
Twin Towers, KLCC, K. Lumpur. Universiti Industri Selangor (UniSel).
The trio bagged RM5,000, trophies and certificates in
IMU open day
the animation category for Animax and Healthy Cyber Cafe
Design Competition at the Science, Technology, Innovation The three students receiving their prizes. On the right is
The International Medical University (IMU) will hold Rodziah Ismail.
its open day on Jan 16 from 10am to 4pm. School Selangor Festival (FesSTIS) on Wednesday.
counsellors, students, parents and anyone interested Going with a ‘creativity’ theme, Hazwan said their anima- it in the last one and a half months.
in medical or health sciences are invited. Visitors will be tion work was to show that insects can be as creative as When asked what they would do with the prize money, they
taken on a tour of the educational and support facilities, people. replied: “We want to upgrade our computers, of course!”
and have the opportunity to speak to lecturers, staff
and students to find out more about IMU. For details, The short animation portrayed how a man tries to defend Meanwhile, Selangor Cyber Cafe Owners Organisation won
call 03-2731 7272, e-mail enquiry@imu.edu.my or visit himself from being attacked by a swarm of mosquitoes and the first prize for the best Cyber Cafe design category and bagged
http://www.imu.edu.my/ Venue: International Medical how the man uses his creativity to tackle the situation. RM12,000 in prize money.
University, 126, Jalan Perkasa 19, Bukit Jalil, Kuala Although the contestants were given a long deadline to State executive councillor Rodziah Ismail closed the com-
Lumpur. complete their project, Hazwan revealed that they only did petition at the state secretariat lobby.
Pick up art
The Department of Extra-Mural Students of Malaysian
MBPJ shows the way
Institute of Arts will offer art classes in January at its
centre in Jalan Ampang, Kuala Lumpur. The classes By William Tan
include drawing and painting for adults (Thursday
or Saturday), Chinese Ink Painting and Chinese petaling jaya: Petaling Jaya City Council (MBPJ)
Calligraphy (both on Sunday). Children art class at its is at the forefront of efforts to make life easier for the disa-
campus in Taman Melawati is also available for kids
aged four and above, as well as primary and secondary bled.
school students. For details, call 03-2163 2337 or Last Wednesday, they held a forum attended by more
e-mail mia.ems@gmail.com than 100 representatives of religious bodies, corporate enti-
ties and organisations for the disabled.
Memorial for Fan Yew Teng The forum was to highlight and find solutions to chal-
lenges faced by the disabled. One out of every 10 people are
A memorial service will be held for former DAP acting MBPJ councillor Anthony Siva Balan Thanasayan
secretary--general Fan Yew Teng at the YMCA Hall in believed to be disabled in Petaling Jaya. (left) admires his commemorative gift with Dr Xavier
Brickfields on Wednesday at 8pm. The former DAP MBPJ councillor Anthony Siva Balan Thanasayan, who Jeyakumar.
parliamentarian passed away in Bangkok on Dec is himself wheelchair-bound, highlighted the concerns of
7. Fan waged a six-month battle with cancer before the disabled, saying the country is severely lacking in its able to leave their houses due to lack of ramps, poor road
succumbing at the Bumrungrad International Hospital. provisions for the disabled. maintenance and inadequate public transport.
The former Menglembu MP was famous for holding Thanasayan said had either Stephen Hawking or Stevie He said the MBPJ had conducted campaigns to raise
the fort for his party in 1969 when Lim Kit Siang was awareness of the problems. They have made the town centre
detained under the Internal Security Act.
Wonder been born here, they would have been denied even
the chance to utilise their talents. more accessible by building more ramps with “press buttons”
He said many, particularly those in wheelchairs, are un- at adequate heights.
news
DEC 31, 2010 — Jan 2, 2011 5

Eye doctor Fire Brigade volunteers


lose RM4k of equipment
wins state By Lee Choon Fai These were mostly aluminium components of a pump

award
used for getting water from alternatives sources like
SERDANG: The Taman Sri Serdang Volunteer Fire monsoon drains or rivers to put out fires, if a hydrant is
Brigade had a rude shock on Monday when they unavailable, said Lim.
discovered their fire fighting equipment missing while “We suspect the culprits are either petty thieves or drug
preparing for their regular training exercises. addicts who are probably going to sell the items to scrap
“The equipment was stored in a box in our Proton metal dealers,” he said.
By Basil Foo Centre also commended the state Arena and it’s fortunate that we made the discovery now He added that the components can probably fetch
for establishing the award. instead of during a fire,” said 39-year-old Lim Chee Keong. RM30 or RM50 from scrapyards.
SHAH ALAM: Ophthalmolo- She pointed out that the em- The deputy chairman of the volunteer fire fighters unit Lim suspects the theft was committed over the
gist Prof Dr Muhaya Mohamad phasis of the award on individuals said 14 pieces of essential equipment worth RM4,000 Christmas weekend when nobody was around.
was presented the Anugerah To- who not only have academic ex- were stolen from the vehicle parked at their headquarters “We have alerted the authorities to keep an eye on scrap
koh Ilmuwan award for her perience but who serve society in Taman University Indah. metal dealers, and notified dealers to report to the police
achievements and contributions served as a form of encourage- if someone is trying to sell them the
to society from the Selangor State ment for everyone. equipment,” said Seri Kembangan
Government on Tuesday. “Everybody should tell them- assemblyman Ean Yong Hian Wah.
“I am humbled and honoured selves every day – I want to think The Selang or executive
by this award because I am sure good thoughts, speak kind words councillor said some of the missing
there are others who are also very and do good deeds,” said Dr Mu- equipment bears the government’s
good,” said Dr Muhaya, who is a haya, who is also a motivational logo and scrapyards should be wary
lecturer at Universiti Kebangsaan speaker in universities and has about buying them.
Malaysia and chairperson of the appeared on television pro- He added that the Ministry of
Malaysian Medical Association grammes. Housing and Local Government
Ophthalmological Society. Selangor executive councillor has promised to allocate RM5,000
The award came with a cash Dr Halimah Ali, who presented to them to replace the equipment
prize of RM10,000. the award, said Dr Muhaya was a and upgrade the security at their
Dr Muhaya said she planned role model for society. headquarters.
to donate the money to a fund to The Anugerah Tokoh Ilmuwan T h e Ta m a n S r i S e r d a n g
help students who are unable to award is part of the Jejak Ilmuwan Volunteer Fire Brigade was set up
pay their fees and deserving single programme which includes over two decades ago to safeguard
mothers. student mentoring programmes, wooden homes in the area. They
The consultant eye surgeon forums, and competitions for supplement the Fire and Rescue
and director of Prince Court students in universities and Department especially in secluded
Medical Centre Eye and Lasik vocational schools. Ean Yong (right) looks at the loss in Serdang. areas in the community.
6
news
DEC 31, 2010 — Jan 2, 2011

NGOs: No to KLORR,
protect Selangor State Park
By Gan Pei Ling kar, director of Treat Every Environ- Selayang last year that the proposed Sensitive Area (Rank 1) under the suggested the State Government
ment Special (TrEES). highway would cut through the National Physical Plan-2. amend its forestry enactment so that
SHAH ALAM: The Kuala Lum- She said the proposed highway state park. She said no development, except public consultation is mandatory
pur Outer Ring Road (KLORR), a would cut through the Ulu Gombak Leela said TrEES is appalled for eco-tourism, research and educa- before a forest reserve can be cleared.
federal project, must not be allowed forest reserve and Ampang forest that KLORR was going ahead de- tion purposes, is allowed in these Malaysian Nature Societ y
to cut through the Selangor State reserve, which are the water catch- spite objections raised by residents areas under the guidelines . (MNS) head of conservation Yep
Park, civil society groups said. ment areas for the Klang Gates Dam and non-governmental organisa- “Therefore, it is clear that the Chin Aik said MNS could not com-
The Selangor Government’s pro- and Ampang Intake. tions. highway shouldn’t be allowed to cut ment as the society was part of the
posal to build part of the road un- “We’re unable to accept that al- Dr Rosli Omar, from Save Our through parts of the state park,” said review panel for the highway’s de-
derground to minimise impact on leviating traffic congestion is more Sungai Selangor, also warned that Sara. tailed environmental impact assess-
the environment, was also not the important than protecting our wa- once the highway was built across She added that both the Federal ment (DEIA).
solution, they said. They also warned ter supply,” Leela told  Selangor the state park, human encroach- and State Governments should ad- State executive councillor Eliza-
of precedents being set if the project Times. ment would follow. here to the National Physical Plan-2 beth Wong, who holds the environ-
were to proceed on land gazetted as “Selangor’s water demand is “It will be extremely difficult for which was approved by a council ment portfolio, said the DEIA re-
a state park. likely to exceed supply in future. In the government to monitor such chaired by the prime minister. port for the highway was not com-
The non-governmental organisa- fact, RM10 billion is being spent on encroachment,” added the Univer- “If a major project like this is al- pleted yet.
tions were reacting to the state’s re- the Pahang-Selangor Water Transfer siti Malaya lecturer. lowed within a gazetted state park, She said the state would do its
cent announcement that the high- project to ensure we will meet the He added that the Selangor For- it could likely set a dangerous prec- best to minimise the social and en-
way developer would dig a tunnel to projected demand,” she said. estry Department had proposed edent for other big projects to be vironmental impact of the federal
prevent the highway from damaging Leela questioned the Federal that the highway be built along the approved in protected state or na- project.
the Klang Gates Quartz Ridge, a Government’s rationale behind forest boundary instead of cutting tional parks,” Sara pointed out. However, Wong added that Pu-
potential Unesco site. building a highway that would affect across it. Another Ampang resident, Lim trajaya should consider switching
“A 200-metre tunnel to protect Selangor, Putrajaya and Kuala Lum- In addition, WWF Malaysia Teck Wyn, also complained that KLORR to an underground high-
the ridge is not enough. The Selan- pur’s main source of water supply. policy analyst Sara Sukor said the ver y little information about way to avoid cutting through the
gor State Park is the main source of It was revealed in the draft local state park, gazetted in 2005, is KLORR was provided to the public. Selangor State Park and damaging
our water supply,” said Leela Panik- plans of Kajang, Ampang Jaya and catagorised as an Environmentally The environmental consultant water catchment areas.

Halimah with
local artists.
Know Your
Councillors:
Azli Idris
By Lee Choon Fai

KUALA SELANGOR: Kuala


Selangor Municipal (MDKS)
councillor Azli Idris is active in
politics and sees his work in the local
council as the building blocks of a
political career.
He is the vice-chairperson of

GeMS tour gets the thumbs up DAP Pekan Kapar and also a
committee member of Pakatan
Rakyat Kuala Selangor.
Born in Perak and a devoted
By Rahmah Ghazali “This is my second time at a Nurul Syahirah Azri, 17, said father of four, Azli is now in his
GeMS event. For me, it would be the event was “enjoyable” and she second term as councillor after he
SUBANG JAYA: A youth initia- boring if a programme was only looked forward to similar pro- was reappointed earlier this year. He
tive by the Selangor Government, filled with religious talks. Youths grammes. is in charge of Puncak Alam Phase
Generasi Idaman Selangor (GeMS), need entertainment and GeMS is Teacher Nor Azainah Adnan 3 and Alam Perdana.
has been getting good support from on the right track,” said the 45-year- said the Selangor Government had “Council work is the stepping
the public as an attractive and non- old. taken the right approach by provid- stone to a political career, [it is] the
intimidating way to reach young ing advice for youths while allowing first level of governance [where] we
people with positive values. a wide range of entertainment. can show the people how state
About 200 people turned up for As a first timer, she said she had policies can help them,” said the discuss issues,” said Azli. He then
a GeMS event at Mydin Mall USJ never experienced such events dur- 41- year-old. raises the issues residents face in the
1, Subang, last Sunday despite the ing her youth. Azli holds a diploma in building MDKS full board meetings.
event being held concurrently with “Now we can enjoy ourselves, surveying from UiTM Shah Alam, The councillor’s office is located
the much anticipated AFF Suzuki while reflecting on ourselves spiritu- and he worked with Shell Malaysia near the MDKS food court in
Cup final between Malaysia and ally,” said Nor Azainah. Trading for six years before Puncak Alam, where residents can
Indonesia. State executive councillor Dr becoming a project director in lodge their complaints or raise
Among the local artistes who Halimah Ali said Subang was the Orionluck Private Limited, a concerns.
wowed the crowd were Mawi and eighth location for a GeMS event developer based in Kuala Lumpur. Azli said he takes his duties as a
Akhill Hayy. since the tour kicked off a few In the areas under his watch, the councillor very seriously because the
Businesswoman Sahdiah Abd months ago. most common complaints are public is involved.
Halim said GeMS was on target by “Our next stop will be in Klang. drainage and garbage disposal. “Councillors should serve the
inviting local artistes to attract I hope the full-day campaign will “I often go on-site to meet the public and help them with issues,
youths and getting across the mes- raise awareness of social issues residents and their representatives reg ardless of their p olitica l
sage of avoiding social problems. Halimah delivering her speech. among youths,” she said. to tackle their problems and to backgrounds,” he said.
news
DEC 31, 2010 — Jan 2, 2011 7

Selangor’s little-known
strawberry farm

Strawberries at the nursery.

By Alvin Yap ries, other attractions are a flower


and orchid farm where fresh flowers
GOHTONG JAYA: Not many and potted plants can be purchased.
people know that strawberry picking There is also a mushroom farm,
is possible within Selangor’s borders. and a bee farm that produces honey;
Cameron Highlands is consid- both products, like the strawberries,
ered the ‘go to’ place for locally- feature in the farm’s tea-house cafe.
grown strawberries. But there’s no Signage is everywhere, giving
Chung at need to drive all the way there, be- educational information on how the
the entrance cause Selangor has its own eco- strawberries and mushrooms are
to Genting
Strawberry
tourism farm that gives people the grown, and on the keeping of bees
Leisure Farm. experience of picking strawberries for the production of honey.
fresh off the vine. After picking strawberries, visi-
Genting Strawberry Leisure tors can enjoy the fruits of their la-
Farm, located in Selangor and bor- bour at the farm’s cafe. They can

Beware of fogging
dering Pahang, is just a 40-minute while the day away sipping straw-
drive from Kuala Lumpur, making berry infused tea or coffee and tuck-
it an ideal place for a family day trip ing into the café’s signature dishes.
or even a date. A must-try is the ‘oyster mush-

cheats, says MPK


  “I know of many people from room tempura’. Crisp and crunchy,
Selangor who tell me that they drive visitors are known to keep ordering
three to four hours to Cameron more of these deep-fried mush-
Highlands, spending RM20 on toll rooms. The mushrooms’ natural
one way, to the strawberry farms. It sweetness, said Chung, is due to the
By Basil Foo them and report to MPK or lodge a police report,” is only later that they get to know freshness of the produce and the
Ong added. about our farm,” lamented Genting organic farming methods.
KLANG: Residents have been warned of fraudsters Bukit Tinggi and Bayu Tinggi areas are said to be Strawberry Leisure Farm’s chief ex- Another favourite is the chicken
who masquerade as Klang Municipal Council (MPK) the most targeted areas by the fraudsters with some ecutive officer, K.C. Chung. He wings, which have been marinated
officers demanding payment for fogging services here. households having paid between RM50 and RM80 admits that his farm suffers from a overnight with strawberries before
“When some of the residents didn’t want to pay per fogging exercise. lack of exposure. being deep fried to a nice golden
them, these people used verbal threats and insisted Local Health Department acting director Zul- Chung said he got his farm’s brown. The result is a mouth-water-
they were council officers,” said Klang councillor kifli Abbas said: “The fogging services are intended concept from the tea houses at the ing dish with a lip-smacking taste.
Wendy Ong Geok Wee. to be free, so the residents should not have been asked plantations in Cameron Highlands. Chung said that the farm and its
Residents have been advised to record the number to pay. “We thought of the idea of a tea family-oriented attractions are a
plates of the trucks that the fraudsters have been using “The council also does not employ third-party house for people to enjoy afternoon ‘niche’ market for those who flock
to help with investigations. contractors to do the fogging. MPK conducts all tea in this cooler environment. You to the casino at First World Genting,
“I have also advised residents to take pictures of fogging exercises itself,” he added. can tuck into the fresh strawberries further up the popular hill-side re-
which you’ve picked yourself,” said sort.
Chung, a mass communications The farm is promoted as a tourist
graduate. destination in foreign trade exposi-
Situated around 1000 metres tions. Tourism Malaysia also pro-
above sea level, he said that the motes Genting Strawberry Leisure
cooler climate gives the impression Farm to foreign dignitaries who
to visitors of being on a farm in a come to Malaysia on official visit. 
temperate country. “As Genting Highlands is mar-
Chung has made sure that the keted as an International City des-
farm looks rustic for more authen- tination, we feel that we comple-
ticity and for visitors who want the ment those who might want to take
feeling of a real farm. Bamboo poles half a day off from the casino,” he
are used for the structures to sup- added.
port the strawberry vines. Chung lamented that while there
Entry to the farm is free, and are overseas advertisements promot-
Chung guarantees visitors that there ing the farm, and an advertorial was
will be a harvest of plump, crimson even featured in an in-flight maga-
strawberries waiting for them. This zine, not enough Malaysians - or
is because the farm alternates the Selangorians, for that matter - know
plots that are open for picking, or about Genting Strawberry Leisure
transfers just-ripened fruit from the Farm.
adjacent nursery. He said the farm’s management
The five-acre farm is a hit with is planning to market its products
families - be it local, regional or more aggressively in the Klang Val-
Ong (left) and Zulkifli (centre) talking to the press after a council meeting. foreign visitors from as far as the ley, before expanding the farm’s
Middle-East. Besides the strawber- reach around the country.
8
news
dEC 31, 2010 — JAN 2, 2011

Supporting local businesses


By Lee Choon Fai

shah alam: Small businesses


had a platform to promote their
goods and services at the Selan-
gor Ria Carnival at the Shah Alam
Stadium recently.
The annual affair was held
from Dec 18-26, and drew 125
participating businesses.
“They are all small, local busi-
nesses that often go unnoticed. This
carnival is organised to help them
gain attention,” said Shamsul Shah-
ril, the State Economic Planning
Unit deputy director.
He said about RM700,000 had Shamsul
been allocated by the State Govern-
ment and various sponsors to fund held, such as a Battle of the Bands,
the carnival. Entry was free and ac- cake decorating, fishing, a mini
tivities were designed to be family- football tournament and several
friendly. dances.
The participating businesses were “We aimed to attract a target
varied, ranging from those in the audience of 500,000 and I am glad
food and beverage sector, to massage that we have more than achieved it,”
centres, pet stores, and farming Shamsul added.
goods. The Selangor Ria Carnival has
Exhibitions at the carnival in- been held annually since 2005. It
cluded shows on livestock, a rabbit takes place every December, cater-
park, farming exhibitions and also ing to business owners who want to
pony rides for children. promote their enterprises. Registra-
Various competitions were also tion starts in November. Visitors enjoying themselves at the livestock section.

Reaching
out in
the Xmas
spirit
shah alam: There was joy
for one hundred children from
various welfare homes at a Christ-
mas party hosted by Yayasan CNI
at Wisma CNI last Sunday.
“We want these children to know
that they are not neglected by soci-
ety and as Malaysians, we value and
respect the relationship with our
fellow citizens regardless of race and
religion,” said Datin Angeline Koh,
the president of Yayasan CNI.
Koh said the event was part of
the company’s community outreach
programme to bring joy and cheer
to the less fortunate.
Selangor executive councillor
Teresa Kok, who was the guest-of-
honour at the event, said she was
happy that CNI had organised the
event as part of their corporate so-
cial responsibility to the commu-
Less stressful ride for motorists with the completion of the elevated highway. nity.

Smoother traffic flow in Klang


“I hope that what CNI is doing
will influence other companies to
do the same as part of their corpo-
rate social responsibility,” said Kok.
The children who attended the
By Yasleh Hani Mat Yassin “Residents can now breathe more easily,” he ated at the start of the elevated highway.The Christmas party were from Ozanam
said. Traffic congestion had been a perennial roundabout will be decorated with frangipanis, Klang, Rumah Kebajikan SVP, PJ
KLANG: A newly-completed RM2.2 million problem in Klang until the new elevated highway shrubs and flowers which will be coordinated by Agathians Shelter and Pusat Jagaan
elevated highway here has helped to ease traffic was completed in September. MPK’s Landscape and Recreation Department. Anbe Sivam.
congestion in the middle of town. He said the one-way traffic system along the The name of the roundabout, which is the This was the third consecutive
Klang Municipal Council president Da- major roads in town had also facilitated better main traffic route from Kapar and Meru, will be year Yayasan CNI had organised a
tuk Mislan Tugiu said there is now a smoother traffic flow.   Mislan added that traffic police had maintained as Town Bridge and this proposal has Christmas gathering for children
flow of traffic in all directions in the town, except been deployed to hot spots during peak hours to been supported by MPK councillors. from charity homes. The foundation
for rush hour in the mornings and evenings. ease congestion. Mislan said he was confident the improved was established in 1988 to provide
But he said the traffic situation was definitely Meanwhile MPK has received instructions traffic flow would also have a positive effect on community assistance regardless of
more bearable even during peak periods. from the State to beautify the roundabout situ- businesses in Klang. race or creed.
news
DEC 31, 2010 — Jan 2, 2011 9

Rubbish woes:
Residents do
own clean up
By Alvin Chin a habitat for snakes”, said Benson Tan, secre-
tary of the resident association.
KLANG: Residents Association of Sungei In early August, Phua highlighted the
Puloh, Klang took cleanliness into their own garbage problems in Taman Klang Utama
hands for two areas of Taman Klang Utama verbally, but no action was taken.
with support from local councillor Winston He then filed a written complaint and
Phua, last Sunday. submitted a photo to the MPK in October.
“Cleanliness is everybody’s responsibility But when he visited the site on Dec 2, it had
and the most important thing is for people still not been cleaned, despite the local coun-
to lend their support in helping out the com- cil’s claim that they had cleared the garbage Phua briefing the contractors before the gotong-royong.
munities,” said Klang Municipal Council’s at the end of November.
(MPK) Phua.
The aim of the gotong-royong was to clean The team,
including
up areas of Lorong Sg Puloh 13A, 13B, 13C, residents,
13D and 14A, 14B, 14C, 14D. preparing
The success of the event might see the as- for the
sociation moving on to clean up other areas gotong-
of their neighbourhood in the future. royong
The gotong-royong was sponsored by local in Taman
businessmen with the support from the Klang
MPK, Alam Flora and Scan Trend Sdn Bhd. Utama on
“We hope to clear all the clogged drains 26 Dec.
that are contributing to the breeding of the
aedes mosquito and which are also becoming

No regrets for
‘sacrificing’
school holidays Christmas joy
SHAH ALAM: Most students would typically want
to take it easy during the long school holidays. So did
Abu Zar Johra, 15, but things did not turn out as
planned.
for the disabled
He had initially planned to fill up most of his holi- By Rahmah Ghazali jigsaw puzzle given to her as present,” he
days with a part-time job and with playing video games, said.
until his parents signed him up for a religious and mo- SUBANG JAYA: They were of differ- Meanwhile, businessman Md Nizam
tivational camp called Gerakan Membina Generasi ent races and religions, but Christmas had Ali said his four-year-old daughter,
Pecinta Al-Quran (GEMPAQ). something for each and everyone of Arissa Sofea who suffered from Down’s
But there was a silver lining to it, as he emerged the them. Syndrome, couldn’t be happier with her
best student in the month-long programme and won a A group of 145 children and adults gifts.
prize to perform the umrah (pilgrimage to Mecca) who are living with various disabilities, “She wanted a new set of cartoon
sponsored by Al-Mukminin Travel. received Christmas gifts at a grand cere- DVDs and her wish was granted. Her
“I didn’t want to go [to the camp] at first. I was mony in the Sunway Pyramid shopping favourite cartoon character is Pocoyo,” he
shocked to have won the best student prize. I really mall last Saturday. The event was organ- said.
thought someone else would win because I didn’t think Md Nizam Ali with his daughter, ised and sponsored by non-profit organ- City Care, which had over 100 young
Arissa Sofea.
I was that good. However, I am so thankful,” he told isation, City Care, and officiated by volunteers assisting, selected recipients
Selangor Times at the award ceremony last Saturday. Subang assemblyperson Hannah Yeoh. of their Christmas gifts with help from
And he had no regrets sacrificing his school holidays Going with the theme ‘Love is a Verb’, the state Welfare Department. They then
for the camp, said the student from Sekolah Menengah City Care managed to successfully fulfil called up the participants based on the
Islam Shira’, Jeram. 90% of the recipients’ wishes. The re- department’s database.
“This programme is worth it and I am glad I went for maining ones involve requests for job The phone call came as a shock for
it. Not only was it beneficial, spiritually and morally, I opportunities. Irnanie Nurul Sharrena, 21, who thought
also learnt to adapt to a more challenging environment,” “Those are a bit harder to fulfill be- that Christmas gifts were only meant for
he said. cause it will take a long process and is those who celebrated it.
“At first, I did not know a lot of people, but in the more challenging. But we are doing our “I am enjoying myself here. And I also
end, I made a lot of friends,” he said. best,” said City Care chief executive of- wish to be healthier and stronger,” said
The motivational course was held from Nov 26 to ficer David Oh. Irnanie, who is suffering from a mild
Dec 27 in Masjid Jamek Tun Uda, Section 16 Shah But the event certainly put a smile on stroke at birth. She received two sets of
Alam, where students from all over the capital city would the children’s faces, and their parents’, too. DVDs of her favourite artiste, Datuk Siti
memorise the Al-Quran, selected hadiths and do’a. Chong Yen Lin, 50, whose daughter Nurhaliza.
In the afternoon, they would participate in motiva- Emily is suffering from Attention Deficit “Next time, I will wish to see her in
tional programmes assisted by facilitators. Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD), found person,” she smiled.
The overall cost for the programme was RM750 but the experience heartwarming. The celebration has been held annu-
through sponsorship by Yayasan Selangor, the students “I moved to Subang early this year and ally since 2008. Assemblyperson Yeoh
only had to pay RM250 each. More than 200 primary Irnanie showing off her this is such a new experience for me. My said she wanted it to be an even bigger
and secondary school students took part in the pro- Christmas gifts. daughter Emily will certainly enjoy the event next year.
gramme.
10
VIews
DEC 31, 2010 — Jan 2, 2011

Teohlogy
patrick teoh Looking back on a
I
n a few more days it will be an-
other year. One year has passed.
So how do you feel? Relieved?
Angry? Disappointed? Or a combi-
nation of all of the above?
confusing 2010
Personally, I also really don’t that tagline a reality. Sure, of late we It also confuses me to know that
know, lah. I spent the last few days The BN played the (PR) have been hearing and reading a lot nothing really great happened for
thinking about it and about what to game to the max and scored of news about the government the people of Malaysia in 2010. As
write for this column since it will be major points in confusing the spending money to reward Felda a friend, Kee Thuan Chye, said in an
in the last issue of the year. settlers, build Chinese and Tamil article, 2010 was a year that was won
Okay lah, so I thought about it
people about who they should schools, new roads for rural areas, by public relations (PR). (http://
in-between drinks during the be voting for in the next GE. etc. w w w. m a l a y s i a n d i g e s t . c o m /
Christmas festivities. But it was still And the Opposition, without But these activities are what opinion/13976-2010-a-year-that-
hard to come up with something the budget and the PR savvy, elected governments do for the was-won-by-public-)
positive to celebrate as we start off a is wincing at every blow.” people of the country. They take care The BN played the (PR) game to
new year in Bolehland. of the people and their needs. the max and scored major points in
I don’t know about you my The prime minister, who claims that pletely contra-1Malaysia events and Surely it is not a ‘feel-good’ stunt to confusing the people about who
friends, but for me it has been a very it is his own original idea and not proclamations? reinforce the prime minister’s slo- they should be voting for in the next
confusing year. I’m happy that the borrowed from some public rela- And since we’re on the subject of gan, no? So why do they make us feel GE. And the Opposition, without
euphoria of the 2008 general elec- tions company’s bargain bin, says it 1Malaysia I must express my ‘thanks’ as if THEY are doing us a big favour the budget and the PR savvy, is winc-
tion tsunami lasted almost two is one thing when addressing one to Selangor’s Ronnie Liu for ban- by giving us what is ours by right? ing at every blow.
years. It’s just that, it’s been quite community. But then he gives it an ning the use of the slogan in adver- Since 2008, my impression is of To add to this there is now a
rude awakening to the fact that all almost completely different mean- tisements in the state. Why he chose the Barisan Nasional (BN) govern- whole new list of snazzy abbrevia-
is not so well, anymore. ing when speaking to another group. to do that a year after the slogan was ment spending our money to repair tions to confuse Malaysians even
As an ordinary Malaysian I am And on the day after Christmas, launched is what is confusing me. the loss of their omnipotence in more – GTP, ETP, NEM, KPI, etc,
getting very confused with what is the prime minister announced that Secondly, I am confused about Parliament. And of the Opposition etc, etc.
going on in my country. Do you feel the 1Malaysia concept is not a gov- the tagline always attached to the flers expending too much of their But as a Malaysian citizen the
the same? If you’re not, then you ernment political agenda, but is slogan. “People first. Performance limited resources to fend off attacks only abbreviation that I can think of
must be one of the lucky few and I aimed at fostering the spirit of to- now.” What does that mean? Sure, from the BN. to accompany me into the New Year
would appreciate it if you could getherness and unity among Malay- the meaning seems to be clear And of course, trying desperately is…WTH!
share your secret with the rest of us. sians. enough. But the evidence is lacking, to manage the increasingly popular
I am confused because of so many Wah! Sounds very noble and all no? Frog Festival that seems set to be- Patrick Teoh is a husband, father,
things, lah. but it still confuses me. Because, why Since the launching of the slogan come a monthly event celebrated by grandfather, actor, former radio
First, I am still confused with does my prime minister tolerate and I honestly cannot remember the at least the BN government and the presenter, generally misunderstood
what the slogan 1Malaysia means. at times even contribute to com- government doing anything to make mainstream media. person, loyal tax-paying Malaysian.

LEE LANDSCAPE SDN BHD

LEE LANDSCAPE SDN BHD (Company No. 433709-X)


46-1, Jalan 8/62A, Bandar Menjalara,
Kepong, 52200 Kuala Lumpur.
Tel: 03-62731913 (Hunting line) Fax: 03-62750496
E-mail : leescape@yahoo.com
Contact person : Ms Brenda Lai
SELANGOR TIMES ⁄ DEC 31, 2010 – Jan 2, 2011 ⁄ 11

PKNS introduces new


affordable home concept

Artist impression of the new affordable homes concept in Bangi

P
Proposed design for new affordable home concept by PKNS
KNS is revamping low-
cost housing in the state.
Research and planning has
been underway to develop
new concept affordable
homes where the objective of building
communities is just as important as
affordability. This is driven by the fact
that the well-being of Selangorians is nursery, kindergartens, modern
always central to PKNS. suraus, and community and reading
rooms. PKNS is also working with the
To date, PKNS has built 59,000 low- public transportation providers in the
cost houses at today’s value of RM2 area to ensure reliable and convenient
billion. Of this amount, RM1 billion public transport services are available
has been subsidised by PKNS. to the residents.
Unlike other property developers,
PKNS fulfils the low-cost housing The new PKNS affordable homes
requirement at the early phases of concept is also being implemented
the project development. in Kota Puteri. While the concept
remains the same, the approach
The affordable homes project in taken is slightly different. Here,
Bandar Baru Bangi is one of two emphasis is on building a sustainable
concepts currently being implemented development through proactive
by PKNS. These concepts fulfil preservation of the ecosystem.
researched and pre-identified
parameters focused on improving PKNS has mobilised the PKNS
living quality and encouraging closer Mobile Response Team to provide
community ties. With this in mind, the maintenance services for the
new affordable homes development low cost and affordable housing
will come with community centres areas. PKNS is also subsidising the
and sports and recreation facilities. It maintenance fee for the low-cost
will have its very own commercial hub flats where the flat owner only pays
for convenience stores and eateries RM15 a month while PKNS bears
together with day care centres, RM50 to RM70 a unit a month.
12 ⁄ DEC 31, 2010 – Jan 2, 2011 ⁄ SELANGOR TIMES SELANGOR TIMES ⁄ DEC 31, 2010 – Jan 2, 2011 ⁄ 13

Activities to benefit
the community

The Selangor Plug n Play Programme at work

industries. Under the Plug n Play International Professional Managers


Selangor Programme, the state is Association UK, Paris School of
investing in companies engaged Graduate Management, University
in the development of solutions of Derby and the Institute of
for digital cities, mobile content or Administrative Management. The
products and services. It is currently academy offers certified courses
looking at 100 start-up companies and is located in Petaling Jaya. It is
to be exposed to the market and planned to be opened to the public.
supported by more than 250 global
The RM5.2 million Asrama Desa Panchang Bedena venture capital companies. PKNS has
signed an exclusive agreement with Free building
Plug n Play Techcenter of Silicon maintenance for
PKNS contributes officially handed over to Yayasan three-storey single block is planned Valley, where the likes of Google,
underprivileged
RM5.2m hostel complex Selangor in December 2010. It is to commence in early 2011 with Skype and PayPal originally started.
expected to begin operations in completion targeted for end-2011. homeowners
to Yayasan Selangor early 2011. Upon completion the school will be 58 graduate Free building maintenance and
PKNS has contributed RM5.2 million able to accommodate 600 students.
The 5,000-acre Kota Damansara is from Akademi services is now available for
towards the construction of a hostel PKNS contributes underprivileged homeowners in
for Yayasan Selangor. The funds are one of the 11 integrated townships Hartanah PKNS Selangor. The service is intended
for the building of Asrama Desa RM450k for Kota built by PKNS.
to lessen the burden of home
58 PKNS employees formed the
Panchang Bedena in Selangor with Damansara School first batch of graduates of the maintenance cost for 35,000 of its
the objective of making available
PKNS presented Jabatan Agama
VIO at PKNS Bizpoint Akademi Hartanah PKNS. Established low-cost homeowners.
facilities for the needy children
from the rural areas in Selangor. The Islam Negeri Selangor (JAIS) with to help entrepreneurs in early 2010 with the objective
Starting with a fleet of 7 vans manned
a contribution of RM450,000 as of improving competency and
hostel covers an area of more than PKNS has set up a Business Centre by 14 experienced civil and electrical PKNS Response Team
part of funds to build the Sekolah fulfilling the training needs of PKNS
6.9 acres and consists of two hostel offering serviced suites and virtual technicians, the PKNS Response
Agama KAFA Kota Damansara in staff, the academy is the result of
blocks and a separate block housing offices to business owners wishing Team provides efficient and friendly
Kota Damansara’s Section 8. The collaborations with international The service is also to ensure that disrepair resulting in deplorable living the desire to continuously improve and
the offices, an administrative to have an impressive office address maintenance services. This number will
school will cater to the Muslim universities and colleges such as the the low-cost housing are properly conditions akin to slums and ghettos. contribute to the communities PKNS
centre, dining hall, medical centre without having to incur high increase as the need arises.
community in the area and is to help Society of Business Practitioners UK, maintained and do not fall into The PKNS Response Team is borne from have built.
and classrooms. Asrama Desa is set-up costs and overheads. The
planned to house 200 male and cater to the high demand caused
PKNS Business Centre and Virtual
female students upon completion. by a shortage of religious schools
Office, also known as VIO, promises A tour around the Akademi Hartanah exhibition
Completed with CF, the hostel was in the state. Construction on the
entrepreneurs an efficiently serviced
office environment. Located at
Contribution of RM450,000 to Sekolah Agama KAFA
PKNS BIZ Point in Shah Alam, VIO
organises events for its customers
to create opportunities for and
encourage business networking.

Silicon Valley Plug n


Play to promote local
technopreneurs
PKNS is developing a high-
tech ecosystem to catalyse a
technopreneur community in
Selangor. Located in Cyberjaya,
Real Plug n Play Sdn Bhd - a PKNS
subsidiary, offers a sustainable Plug
n Play model catering to new age The contemporary Business Centre at VIO
14 ⁄ DEC 31, 2010 – Jan 2, 2011 ⁄ SELANGOR TIMES

From left: Datum Jelatek, Selangor Science Park 2 - Science Discovery Centre, Menara Worldwide, PJ Sentral ‘Garden City’

RM14b new PKNS projects - profit


to support its social obligations
PKNS has introduced new projects worth more than RM14 billion. The projects focus on urban
regeneration and place a premium on sustainability.
Foremost is the intention to This more than RM2.6 billion GDV Asia’s first International residential developments. Sales of PKNS acquires 30%
enhance the economic value of project will generate 5.3 million sq ft Aerospace Discovery Centre PKNS properties accounted for more of AmanahRaya REIT
the developments while elevating of space comprising corporate and lands in Selangor than half of the total SELPEX sales PKNS is to emerge as the second
and enriching the quality of life signature offices, SoHo office suites, PKNS signed a MOU with Advance figures. A total of 1,300 residential largest shareholder of AmanahRaya
of its denizens, especially the flexible commercial and retail space Science Education Asia Sdn Bhd to units were available for purchase, REIT (ARREIT) with a 30% stake. This is
people of Selangor. along with al-fresco restaurants develop Asia’s first International some with promotional discounts, through injecting three of its properties
and upmarket condominiums - all Aerospace and Science Discovery at the highly visited PKNS exhibition in Klang Valley with a combined total
These world-class projects are within a carefully planned verdant Centre in Selangor Science Park 2 booth. SELPEX 2010 was held at the value of RM270 million into ARREIT
seen as high-yield projects from elevated setting. Planned with (SSP2). Targeted for completion in PKNS’ own venue, the Shah Alam in exchange for new shares and
both a financial and brand equity the environment in mind, the 2015, the Discovery Centre, to be Convention Centre (SACC). Also on cash, and the acquisition of some
point of view. They are developed PJ elevated City is designed by built on a 12 ha site, with the aim display was Menara Worldwide, existing shares from ARREIT’s current
either independently or with both incorporating the latest practices in of providing science education to PKNS subsidiary Worldwide Holdings’ major shareholder Kumpulan Wang
local and international strategic eco-sustainability architecture to Malaysians and inspiring an interest new 27-storey tower on Jalan Bukit Bersama (KWB), a fund managed by
collaborators. Profits gained from achieve maximum GBI ratings. in Aerospace science especially Bintang in Kuala Lumpur. AmanahRaya Berhad (ARB).
these projects will provide the among future generations. The
funds for PKNS to improve and Sports City – Discovery Centre’s first phase is to PKNS subsidiary builds Global thumbs up
enhance the Rakyat-centric projects ‘Green’ sports complex be developed at a cost of RM300 Menara Worldwide for PKNS projects
and activities such as affordable The redevelopment plan of the million. The announcement has also Another prestigious development PKNS was also present at
homes, maintenance cost and fee Kelana Jaya Sports Centre into a resulted in various new projects is the 27-storey Menara Worldwide, the International Herald Tribune (IHT)
subsidies, in addition to the many world-class Sports City received being proposed by potential which is situated near Kuala Lumpur Conference ‘Dawn of the New Decade:
cause-related philanthropic projects requests from some 40 interested international smart partnerships. City Centre along the busy Jalan Alternative Investments in Asia’ held
PKNS supports throughout the year international and local parties. 17 Bukit Bintang. In line with PKNS’ in Kuala Lumpur in September 2010.
in Selangor. were shortlisted and have submitted PKNS fetch RM85 million adoption of sustainability as a As the exclusive developer partner,
their proposals for consideration. at SELPEX 2010 deliverable, Menara Worldwide is a PKNS showcased its landmark and
PJ Sentral ‘Garden City’ PKNS launched three new residential GBI certified high-rise commercial iconic projects together with its
PJ Sentral ‘Garden City’ is a 10-acre Planned as a sports-themed mixed projects - Kristal Idaman, Ayu Lestari building – one of the first in the sociocommunity-driven activities to the
integrated urban regeneration development with commercial and Ayu Klasik, offering a total of Klang Valley. The tower’s strategic likes of billionaire Sir Richard Branson,
project designed to further and residential components, an 292 units at the 2010 Selangor location has made it a prime business founder and Chairman of the Virgin
enhance commercial and economic arts centre plus an integrated Lifestyle and Property Exhibition address and is experiencing good Group; and Mary Buffett, bestselling
activity in the new city. PJ Sentral sporting hub, the Petaling Jaya (SELPEX). The three-day exhibition demand from local and international author, environmentalist and ex-CEO of
‘Garden City’ will consist of Sports City (PJSC) will have a GDV garnered a hefty RM85 million, businesses. Menara Worldwide will Berkshire Hathaway – impressing both
elegant futuristic designed towers of RM1.8 billion. indicating the popularity of PKNS also be awarded MSC status. global business figures.
comprising high-end service
apartments, hotels and commercial Datum Jelatek - Iconic urban Sir Richard Branson (top) and Mary Buffett at the IHT Conference PKNS display
towers. Forecasted at a GDV of regeneration in Kuala Lumpur
more than RM2.6 billion, the iconic Located just off the prestigious
development will have a dedicated Embassy Row of Jalan Ampang,
green lung enhancing the lifestyle Datum Jelatek is a mixed development
of its residents and visitors alike. consisting of four residential towers
Adopting the 3R concept of and an exclusive retail podium. It is
redevelopment, reactivation and expected to catalyse the development
restoration, PJ Sentral ‘Garden City’ in the area and elevate retail value.
is a strategic collaboration with Datum Jelatek is envisioned as a
the private sector. Green Building Index (GBI) Platinum
certified development targeted for
PJ Elevated City completion in the coming years with
Prominently located at the a GDV of RM800 million. This high
intersection of the LDP expressway value development enjoys convenient
and the Federal Highway, PJ Elevated accessibility located a minute’s
City is a ‘next generation’ fully drive from the Ampang-Ulu Kelang
integrated city hub. Its 20 acres Elevated Highway and is served
include a hostel that accommodates directly by the Light Rail Transport
10,000 staff and 5,000 parking bays, (LRT) line, adjoining the Jelatek LRT
which are part of the Western Digital Station. It is four stations away
factory expansion programme. from KLCC.
views 15
dec 31, 2010 — JAN 2, 2011

Monochromatic
causes, lawyers,
Ask Lord Bobo is a weekly column by
LoyarBurok (www.loyarburok.com)
where all your profound,
yoga & good cause
abstruse, erudite, hermetic, recondite,
sagacious, and other thesaurus-
described queries are answered!

W
hy do lawyers always wear black
and white? Why not embrace
the entire rainbow? @adriene,
via Twitter
Seeing lawyers in their full regalia often re-
minds Lord Bobo of the Malayan tapir. If you
don’t know what a tapir is (shame on you, by
the way), it is a solid black and white, large
pig-like mammal closely related to the horse
or rhino. Its nose is prehensile, and is used as
a snorkel while swimming.
Solitary creatures except during mating
season, and because of its large size, it has few
predators. Tapirs defend themselves with their
powerful jaws, and can give nasty bites.
Yet, the tapir population is on a decline
worldwide. The similarities between tapirs and
lawyers will be left to your imagination.
Good lawyers usually have wonderfully
colourful yet nuanced personalities, unlike the
lousy ones. Since judges tend to envy the body, mind and spirit of each. It helps people (13) Every turn and twist in Yoga is a chal- you better know what it is that you’re support-
freedom of such colourful lawyers to hang out progress as people. HR upholds individuality lenge while HR activists must persevere in the ing. Always ask the founder or manager of the
with whom they like, eat wherever they like and individual beliefs while defending diver- face of adversity. You need to have patience cause you’re thinking of supporting about
and frequent whichever spa or karaoke joints sity in culture and language. HR makes people and an open mind. Both are painful and long; their mission and values, their deliverables,
without fear of scandal, they imposed black less savage and more civilised. but the results are edifying. the impact of their work, and how they man-
and white attire in the futile hope of stifling (3) Everyone can do Yoga. Anyone can be (14) Once you start Yoga you cannot stop. age their funds.
their beauty, brightness and creativity. an HR activist. You are never too old to do Once the beast of HR is unleashed, we will If all the above does not help you, then you
The judges claim that conservative attire is Yoga. You are never too young to be an HR start the feast. should just stop over-analysing it. In fact, stop
needed so it would not distract from the argu- activist. Ohhmm… hang on, there seems to be 14 the thinking and just start the doing. Try out
ments put forward. But it does not take a le- (4) Yoga flushes toxins from your body and items in that list, not ten. More proof (as if a few causes, for whatever reason. Maybe it
mur to point out that if a judge can be dis- clears evil thoughts from your mind. HR any was required) of Lord Bobo’s extreme makes you look cool, or more attractive? Or
tracted like a guppy from the arguments be- wards off evil practices and bad people. Politi- generosity. Or perhaps His Supreme Emi- is tax deductible?
cause a lawyer’s tie is brightly coloured or he/ cians are afraid of Yogis (Yoga activists) and nenceness has overdosed on purple bananas Hopefully, what appears to have started off
she is decked out in full Mexican regalia in- HR advocates. again. with the wrong intention may help you find
clusive of poncho and sombrero, that judge (5) Yoga and HR calm you down; and puts the right one. It is much better than sitting
has no business sitting in judgment over life in perspective. Both demand and give the I am moved by many causes, how do I around scratching your head (not to mention
others. bare minimum to sustain life. They help you choose one (or two) to invest my time that excessive head-scratching leads to hair
A judge that can so easily be distracted by focus on the important things in life. in? @lishun, via Twitter loss, which is not the reason Lord Bobo wears
a multitude of colours except black and white, (6) Yoga frees your mind. HR frees your There are so many causes these days, espe- a wig, by the way).
instead of argument, should be in a fish tank, spirit. Both concentrate and meditate our cially with the Internet. You surely would have If you are still clueless, and just need a start-
not a courtroom. energies and allow us to enjoy the beauty of received at least one Facebook invitation to ing point, do consider supporting Lord Bobo’s
After all, the courtroom is a place for seri- life and people. “like” a cause. new cause: “Leave My Banana Trees Alone
ous argument and stylish dressing, not stylish (7) Like it or not, you are a Yogi. Like it or If you must choose only one, you should and Use Your Own Bloody Plates”.
arguments and serious dressing! not, you are a HR activist even as you write support the “1M Malaysians Reject 100-sto-
on LoyarBurok. Everyone embraces Yoga and rey Mega Tower” as it currently looks quite Although Lord Bobo already knows your
Lord Bobo, someone asked me to name the HR movement/cause when proper guid- silly with that name and less than 280,000 question before you even knew you had a ques-
ten reasons why yoga is like human ance is given. members. tion, as a practical display of your true desire
rights. I think it is a trick question. Can (8) Yoga makes you many friends as it’s The first rule of thumb is always to think, to have your query answered, His Supreme
you help? Yogi Bear, via email most fun done in groups. HR activism can think and think some more. Have you asked Eminenceness has graciously allowed you to
Whoever asked you that question obviously only be effective if it is done collectively by yourself what type of causes move you the communicate your questions by –
has too much time on his hands. But Lord communities of interested participants. most, or do you really think you’re that mag- • emailing asklordbobo@loyarburok.com,
Bobo is nothing if not helpful, so, in the (9) Yoga revolves around strengthening our nanimous that everything moves you equally? stating your full name, and a pseudonym
spirit of yoga, let us now sit in the lotus pose, spine, while HR is the spine of humanity. Are you saying that a HIV-infected baby if you wish the question to be published
put our hands together (just your own hands (10) Yoga improves blood circulation. brings you the same amount of sadness as the anonymously (and a good reason for ano-
please, His Supreme Eminenceness is not Without HR, we have no blood to flow in our prohibition of same-sex marriage? nymity).
Sting, and this is not that kind of meditation), veins. This is not a trick question. Think about • tweeting your questions by mentioning
close our eyes and imagine a rose far, far away... (11) Yoga exercises and practices must be this, and conduct a process of elimination to @LoyarBurok and using the hashtag
Universal, Indivisible, Inalienable, Inter-de- done daily to be effective. HR principles must narrow your choices down to one or two. #asklordbobo. The first 100 questions pub-
pendent... be repeated to HR violaters everyday, even if What most people forget is that joining a lished will receive LoyarBurok’s ONLY
Ohhmm… Ohhmm… Yoga is Life. Human it means naming and shaming them repeat- cause is not just about making them feel good. merchandise you ever need (worth a lot for
Rights (HR) improves Life. Therefore, HR = edly. It is also about making that cause better by humankind) courtesy of Selangor Times.
Life, and Yoga = HR. (12) Discipline in Yoga and HR is impor- being a supporter. Ask not what the cause can Now, what the hell are you waiting for?
(1) Yoga is for all, not just the Europeans. tant. Both are to be inculcated as part of our do for you, but instead ask what you can do Hear This and Tremblingly Obey (al-
No cultural relativism please. HR is for every lives. Both must be mainstreamed for mass for the cause. Identify your skills, area of ex- though trembling is optional if you are some-
human being wherever you live. No distinc- acceptance. Both are long term projects; no pertise, resources or anything else which could where very warm)!
tion, no discrimination. short-termism allowed. You who enter Yoga help you add value to the cause. Liberavi Animam Meam! I Have Freed
(2) Yoga unites the rakyat; it unites the or evangelise HR are in for the long haul. Also, if you’re going to support something, My Spirit!
16
news
dec 31, 2010 — JAN 2, 2011

top 10 stories
The

Compiled by Rahmah Ghazali and


Yasleh Hani Mat Yassin

1
Freedom of
Information Bill
Pakatan Rakyat Selangor created his-
tory when it tabled the country’s first Freedom
of Information Bill 2010 in July at the state
assembly, a move to strengthen the people’s
right to information.
It received strong objection from the op-
position, the Barisan Nasional, which claimed
that the bill was irrelevant and in violation of
the Official Secrets Act (OSA) 1972, a federal
law.
But Menteri Besar Tan Sri Khalid Ibrahim
insisted that an FOI Act should be enacted to
eventually stop oppressive laws such as Printing
Presses and Publications Act and the OSA,
which have been used to suppress the media.
The Bill is likely to be passed at the assem-
bly sitting next March. It is currently at the

4
committee stage, being subject to public
feedback.
Khir Toyo
resigns as
opposition
leader over
mansion
scandal
In a surprise move, former Selangor

5
Menteri Besar Datuk Seri Dr Mohd sand
Khir Toyo resigned as state opposition mining saga
leader in early December. This followed It was a tough year for the Selangor ad-
his arrest by the MACC over allegations ministration as it dealt with unresolved issues
of the scandal regarding his multi-mil- related to sand mining. 
lion ringgit Balinese-themed mansion in The Menteri Besar had wanted to resolve
Shah Alam. the issue quickly. But the illegal activity is still
The 45-year-old politician said quit- rampant, with culprits getting away due to lack
ting was the only way for him to clear his of enforcement.
name. He allegedly obtained two plots Although Khalid had sought the assistance
of land for the mansion at half the price of the Federal Government, help did not arrive.
Enforcement is under the purview of the po-

2
of the market value for himself and his
Water dispute coming wife. lice. The setting up of a consortium, Kumpulan
to an end? The expose was first made by DAP Semesta Sdn Bhd (KSSB), to streamline all
The long-winded water tussle between Selangor, the water concessionaires and the assemblyman Ng Suee Lim who claimed sand-mining activities has also come under fire.
Federal Government continues to plague both sides. that Khir had constructed the mansion Many claim that it has been ineffective as it has
Despite offers, counter offers and a protest rally being held to hand over a memorandum at a cost of RM20 million and had pur- no enforcement powers.
to the King to protest the Federal Government’s bailout of water concessionaire Syarikat chased the land for RM3.8 million dur- A joint MACC-KSSB taskforce has been
Bekalan Air Selangor (Syabas), there is still no end in sight. ing his tenure as menteri besar. set up to fight the sand-mining corruption
However, the State, which already owns 80 per cent of water supply assets, is again problem.
preparing to take over the remaining assets after Putrajaya said it did not object to direct
negotiations between Selangor and concessionaires.
They are said to want to offer about the same amount they initially tabled in February of
about RM5.7 billion to acquire the remaining water assets.  
The offer will likely be made in January for private assets and equity owned by Sya-
bas,  Puncak Niaga Sdn. Bhd. (PNSB), Syarikat Pengeluar Air Sungai Selangor (Splash)
and Kumpulan Abass.

3
Bigwig finally hauled
up over PKFZ scandal
The Malaysian Anti-Corruption Com-
mission (MACC) finally hauled up a ‘big
fish’, former MCA president and cabinet
minister Tun Dr Ling Liong Sik, in July over
the RM12.5 billion Port Klang Free Zone
(PKFZ) scandal.
Ling was the Transport Minister when the
project was mooted.
Earlier in late 2009, former Port Klang
Authority general manager Datin Paduka OC
Phang and three others were charged with
criminal breach of trust and cheating by mak-
ing false claims.  Although the move was
lauded, many are still sceptical as to how deep
investigations will go, and are waiting to see
who else will be made accountable.
news 17
dec 31, 2010 — JAN 2, 2011

6
“Allah” row spills over
Controversy over who could use the word “Allah” reached its lowest ebb when several
churches were attacked early this year. The first to be firebombed was the Metro Taber-
Happening places
to greet 2011
nacle Church in Ampang, Selangor.
A total of 10 churches and a few mosques nationwide have been the target of attacks and
vandalism since a High Court judgement on Dec 31, 2009, which allowed Catholic newsletter,
The Herald, to use the word “Allah” in its Bahasa Malaysia edition
Although the Government appealed against the court verdict, the attacks on places of wor-

I
ship escalated in January. Not only were churches affected, two mosques in Petaling Jaya were f you have no plans for tonight to usher in the New Year, you might want to
vandalised too. check out one of these countdown celebrations happening around town.
The Government’s appeal is pending; no date has been set for hearing. If you are in Shah Alam, head out to i-City tonight. One of the events

7
planned from 4pm to 12 midnight is the Lightscape, where 1 million LED lights
will be lighting up the night sky and the landscape in the surrounding park.
Sosilawati Another event will be held at the Canopy Walkway, where the public can
murder gather to greet 2011. This walkway leads to a ‘snow theme’ park where the
Cosmetics tycoon Datuk Sosila- temperature is at a constant -5 Celsius. There will also be fireworks, a lion dance
wati Lawiya and three others were and solo saxophone performances.
murdered in a river near Ladang If you want to join a street party for the New Year, head to Sungei Wang
Gadong, in Tanjong Sepat, Banting, Plaza for its Street Party Countdown 2011 Celebration which begins at 9.30pm.
in September. This Street Party is straight up your alley if you are into the Chinese music scene.
The tragedy, which occurred during the Muslim Some of the acts include A-Bin, Power Station, Tank, Yu Heng and many
celebration of Hari Raya Aidilfitri, shocked the na- others.
tion. The three individuals had been reported miss- If a themed dance party appeals to you, the celebration in Mist and Milk will
ing since Aug 30. be the right place for you to go. Its ‘2011 : A Space Odyssey NYE Celebration’,
Police  believe Sosilawati and her companions which starts at 9pm, has a futuristic theme to it. Party like it’s back to the future
were killed and their bodies burned following the and get your more fashion forward sci-fi costumes and gadgets together!
discovery of charred remains at a poultry farm in Join Jedi Voize, Darth Funkzu, DJ Monkey-Wookie, HAL-Terry-Thousand
Tanjung Layang, Morib. Police suspect the motive as business rivalry. along with Captain Kirk-A and Ray-Spock for the most hard hitting beats to
Following this, a lawyer and three farm workers were charged in October with the murder ring in the new year.
of Sosilawati and three others. One of the farm workers pleaded guilty on Oct 15 to disposing Admission is RM30 for those in futuristic costumes or with a space gadget
of evidence by burning the remains of the four murdered people, and was sentenced to seven (includes one drink) and for those without costumes, it’s RM40 for ladies and
years’ jail. RM50 for men (includes one drink). Venue: Mist and Milk, 18 Jalan Liku, Off
But the fate of the lawyer and the other men is still uncertain.The Telok Datok magistrate’s Jalan Riong, Bangsar
court has set Jan 27 for mention of the case. Another club scene you might want to check out is the 2011 Countdown
Party with DJ Ian Ross at Luna Bar. Starting off the night is a buffet dinner and

9
a glass of Luna bubbly, wine or beer for RM148++ per person, followed by one
Support letters of the biggest countdown parties with Ross,
controversy known for his soul, elec-
Pakatan Rakyat Selangor was tronica and uplifting pro-
tested over its own mantra of transpar- gressive beats!
ency and accountability when the use of On top of that, Najee will
support letters by its appointed council- be spinning at Cristallo, so
lors surfaced in July. make sure you get to the city
The public questioned why the admin- on time for one of the most
istration had not taken a concrete stand hectic 2011 countdowns. Par-
on the support letter that got Klang ty starts at 7pm and will last
municipal councillor Tee Boon Hock and until 3am. Admission just for
also Pandamaran assemblyperson Ronnie the countdown party is RM100
Liu, into trouble. Liu is also an executive inclusive of one drink. Venue:
councillor. Luna Bar, 34th floor (Rooftop),
The controversy started when Tee al- Menara Pan Global, Jalan Pun-
legedly abused his position as councillor cak off Jalan P.Ramlee, KL.
by using Liu’s letterhead and seal to obtain For an Indian flavoured cel-
contracts. Tee was expelled from the DAP ebration, the Tantra party at
and sacked as councillor. 7atenine is the place to be. Take
Selangor, however, has not banned the yourself to mystical heights with
use of support letters completely, but sitar music, sensual podium danc-
decided to limit their use to charity cases ers and mingling characters, for a
and not for business tenders. hedonistic party. Hong Kong

8
based DJ Nicole and DJ Acid will
keep you on the dance floor. They

10
The Aminulrasyid Selangor’s will be accompanied by Klai on
shooting Public sitar, Keeran on dhol and Mathan
Aminulrasyid Amzah, a Accounts on electronic drums.
15-year-old student from Committee appointed With a wide variety of food in-
Shah Alam, made national BN leader as fused with exotic spices and herbs.
headlines and sparked public Indian inspired cocktails, cham-
outrage after he was controversially shot chairman pagne, beers, wines and spirits are on hand to keep you reeling with joy when
dead by police in April in a car chase. Po- In an unprecedented move of bi- we all usher in 2011. Party starts at 7pm and ends at 3am. Admission is RM167
lice said they thought he was a ‘criminal’. partisanship, Selangor in July ap- inclusive of one drink. Venue: 7atenine, Ascott Kuala Lumpur, 9 Jalan Pinang,
The Home Ministry, under public pointed Sungai Burong assembly- KL.
pressure, established a special panel to man Datuk Mohd Shamsudin Lias For those who are feeling flush with year end bonuses and feel like really
investigate the cause of death. from the Barisan Nasional, to head splurging for their new year celebration, try the New Year’s Eve party with DJ
A police officer has been charged, and its Public Accounts Committee Keza at Skybar. Coming in straight from Paris, DJ Keza, recent winner of Bei-
the case is now being tried in the Shah (PAC). jing’s City weekend DJ of the Year and a connoisseur of luxury tunes and heavy
Alam Sessions Court. This didn’t please the BN, productions, will be rocking your countdown!
Aminulrasyid’s case highlighted allega- though, which called the move Bringing a French touch to an eclectic track selection, DJ Keza is known for
tions against the police force as being “politically motivated” and a “gim- deep soul shaking house to the sharpest hip hop joints. Party starts at 9pm.
“trigger-happy”. mick”. Opposition leader Datuk Bottle and food packages range between RM690-RM4330, admitting 2-6 pax.
After his death, came news of another Seri Dr Mohamad Khir Toyo said Venue: SkyBar, Floor 33, Traders Hotel, KL.
shooting victim, Norizan Salleh, who was BN was still the minority on the For those who feel like dining at Hotel Nikko on New Years Eve, you can
shot five times by police but survived. committee with two assemblyper- join in their New Year’s Eve Final Countdown 2011 at the Lobby Lounge when
Police also refused to reveal their sons as opposed to seven from Pa- you present your dining bill. For non-diners, cover charge is RM60++ inclusive
guidelines when handling firearms, not katan. of one house beverage.
even to the Malaysian Human Rights Mohd Shamsudin then rejected The countdown begins at the Lobby Lounge. Get onto the dance floor and
Commission (Suhakam). the post through a motion tabled in celebrate till the wee hours of the morning. The celebration begins at 9pm and
the assembly. ends at 3am. For reservations, call 03 27826244. Venue: Hotel Nikko, 165,
Jalan Ampang, 50450 Kuala Lumpur.
18
Features
DEC 31, 2010 — Jan 2, 2011

A new way to do business


By Lee Choon Fai and William Tan through e-mail and the items will be delivered to them
via mail after payment is settled.
SELANGOR: Online shopping has been around Juliana Jamaludin shares Chua’s sentiment, saying
for a while, but a new breed of entrepreneurs are hit- that it was a good side income with flexible working
ting the web to start a new kind of business. times with little overhead costs.
Simple to set up, requiring almost no start-up ex- Juliana runs an online bookshop named ‘Jules
penses, easy to maintain, and best of all, not taxable; Online Bookstore’ and has been doing it for a year.
independent blog shops have been picking up momen- “I love books, and I find buying them online is
tum in recent years. cheaper than retail. When I get a good bargain, I’ll
“There is almost no capital required and if you ever mark-up a bit and re-sell them to cover my reading
lose interest, you can just pack up and close shop,” said habit,” said the 29-year-old.
Adeline Chua. The operations assistant manager added that she
Chua operates a blog shop named ‘Pick Me Up, has regular customers who enjoyed her fast and
Buttercup’ and has been doing it for the past two years. friendly services along with bargain prices.
The 22-year-old university student and her partner However, there is no such thing as a business
Eileen operate the shop together. Eileen deals with the without challenges.
customers and Chua designs the blog and displays the Qistina Rahmat has put her second-hand clothing
items for sale. and accessories shop named ‘Tyna’s Vintage’ on hold
Their merchandise consists of second-hand clothes since last year.
supplied by friends, or from their own cupboards. The The reason? She ran out of stock. The 20-year-old
Cheap second-hand clothing can be found at Creampuff Wardrobe
items are in good condition and are often only used a university student said it was not a stable business as
(above) and Pick Me Up, Buttercup (bottom right). few times, or not used at all. there was difficulty finding merchandise to sell, and
According to Chua, they set up the shop because Malaysians generally do not trust online shops.
“we were bored and needed extra cash, two of the She added that she will be back in business as soon
most powerful driving forces in life”. as she can find enough stock to resupply Tyna’s
She added that clients are mostly young women and Vintage.
students on a bargain hunt. They request their items All of the operators who were interviewed also
agreed that sometimes customers get cold
feet and are reluctant to part with their
money.
Some of the advantages of a blog shop also
work both ways.
According to Joie Khor, a great amount
of patience is needed when dealing with
customers.
“We don’t have fixed working hours, so
customers can call you anytime and anywhere.
There are even times when I have to reply
e-mails till late at night,” said Khor.
The 26-year-old make-up artist started her
business in 2006 during her university years,
but the venture failed due to Malaysians’
unfamiliarity with online shopping. She has
now restarted her business after getting a
steady job. She added that although it was an
easy business compared to “normal”
entrepreneurship, a great amount of time and
Online bookstores like Jules Online Bookstore mean cheaper
effort must still be dedicated to maintaining
books for everyone.
the blogs.

Good food at
a good price
in SACC
SHAH ALAM: The SACC previous high point in his career
Westside Bistro unveiled their new was working in the kitchen of the
menu for the upcoming year last KL Golf and Country Club.
Friday that offers everything from “Prices of the main courses vary
pasta to Nasi Lemak. from RM7-RM20. It is actually
“This is an effort to add more quite cheap in the sense that we are
variety to the restaurant, we hope offering quality food at those
this will be able to attract more prices,” he added.
customers,” said Westside Bistro The menu that was unveiled
executive sous chef Zulkifli Yusof includes 17 new additions to the
(pic). existing menu in the Westside
Zulkifli said that although the Bistro. Ranging from the home-
food is good but business has been made kaya butter toasts and kam-
slow. He believes the reason for the pung fried rice, to the more luxuri-
lack of customers is because of the ous sirloin steak and seafood ara-
lack of publicity. biatta pasta.
Zulkifli, who has 12 years’ All 17 dishes were cooked and
worth of experience working in the displayed in the unveiling and were
food business, has been working in available for sampling.
the SACC’s Westside Bistro since The new menu will be in place
it was set-up in 1998. Zulkifli’s by next week.
FEature 19
DEC 31, 2010 — Jan 2, 2011

The bookseller of Santo


By Raman Krishnan

W
hen Miguel D Mena stood up and
said, “I sell my books mostly to my
friends,” we all laughed.

Domingo and APNET


That is the story of our lives, I thought,
indie publishers. Ultimately, that’s how we sell
books: to friends of friends of friends.
Miguel laughed with the rest of us, shyly
pushing up his round horn-rimmed glasses
with his fingers, and with his tightly curled
ginger hair, looking like a less neurotic, more countries. APNET’s vision is “the trans-
rotund version of Woody Allen. Except, he formation of African peoples through
was dead serious. access to books.”
This was on the first day of a series of Because APNET had no funds when
seminars organised by Litprom (Society for they started, Tainie used to worked for the
the Promotion of African, Asian and Latin organisation part-time for no salary until
American Literature that collaborates with they sorted that out. In 2008, she was
UNESCO) for first-time guests of the Frank- made Director of APNET when it was in
furt Book Fair. We were discussing book sell- the midst of serious financial problems,
ing in difficult markets. which she has managed to solve and take
I make my books the network to the next level.
Miguel D Mena says, “I make my books.” Her grievances sound familiar: The
“How? What do you mean, make?” I think Ministries of Education and Culture do
he means he designs his books. not seem to understand that they need to
“I make my books in my house. I write, I support education and the book industry.
edit, and I type on computer. Now the, what She questions too, her government’s mo-
you say, my quality is little bit better because tives in giving all funds to just one pub-
I have InDesign. Then I print, glue the pages lisher at the expense of the rest of the in-
and the cover using a carpenter’s, what you call dustry.
it ...” “I love my job very much and some-
He gestures with his fingers. He means a times I am scared of this love because I do
vice. I help him with the word. it wholeheartedly and sometimes with no
“Trimming, I cannot do. I take to a shop. thanks from those I represent, and it hurts
My friend do cheap for me,” he says in his when they don’t follow-up to enquire
heavy Spanish-accented English, giving me the (about the contacts I have made) at the
disarming smile I have grown accustomed to. book fairs.”
He would have no difficulty making She attends about six book fairs a year
friends, I conclude. in three continents, but doesn’t think it
I gawp at him. affects her family life because her children
We are at his stand at the Book Fair, and I are all big and she often lives alone. But,
am admiring his display of books of old and she says it does affects her farming life;
new writers from the Dominican Republic, raising pigs, preparing for the rainy season,
with their neat and trim standardised look, Africa’s book ambassador Tainie Mundondo. and setting up for her retirement. Africa’s
black fold-in covers and paste-on artwork -- book ambassador I am looking out of the
not slick, but not unattractive. They, certainly, which shares the island of Hispaniola, where Germans waste no time. window dreamily when I hear Tainie shout.
didn’t look home made. Christopher Columbus first landed in the “When I was here last year, I had to carry “We get off here.”
He flips open an anthology and shows me New World in 1492, with Haiti, can afford my suitcase full of books 200 metres and up “Are you sure?”
the table of contents. His finger is pointing to books. and down the stairs because they had turned “Yes, the other train’s already waiting.”
a name on the list. It is Pulitzer-prize-winning So the biggest market for literature from everything off when the fair closed.” I look out the window and cannot see an-
novelist, Junot Diaz. the Dominican Republic is in New York where I look at her suitcase. other train, but I know better than to argue:
“I meet him in New York, he give me per- more than a million emigrants from the coun- It looks heavy and I am glad I am not lug- Tainie has been my guide in Frankfurt for a
mission to use his story, no copyright, no try, including Junot Diaz, live. He sells his ging it. (I did make her a half-hearted offer, week now. I strap my backpack over one
royalty. He say I contact him anytime.” books to universities in the US, Germany, but she refused it.) shoulder and follow her.
With a name like Junot Diaz on your list, Spain and Canada apart from his own country. I am panting by the time we get to the “Can you slow down, I can’t keep up with
what else could one ask? Still, Miguel D Mena Ripping up the carpets I am still thinking platform but our train is still 25 minutes away. you,” I shout after her.
is a struggling publisher, absolutely devoted about my conversation with Miguel earlier Leaning against a wall to catch my breath “We have to hurry. If we miss this train we’ll
to his profession. that afternoon as I walk (or run) to the train I try to take in everything; the book fair, the have to wait for thirty minutes.”
My family have no money to buy books station with Tainie Mundondo, the Executive people now emptying it, a group of young I remember it is Sunday. Still, I feel a thirty-
“When I was a child in Santo Domingo, I Director of African Publishers Network, people in Halloween costumes and a train at minute wait is better than a heart attack,
was very poor. See my skin? I am white, but APNET, based in Harare, Zimbabwe. the opposite platform carrying hundreds of though I don’t say it.
my family was very poor. Some people say, It is six in the evening on the last day, the loud, drunk supporters home after a soccer She moves very quickly, dragging her suit-
‘Huh, you white. Why you poor?’ But we have Frankfurt Book Fair is just over and we are game. The first leg of the journey back to the case, and I pant after her. Then she stops sud-
not only black people who are poor. When I rushing to the station after our short farewell hotel is relatively quiet. We seem to have run denly, turns around and flashes a 100-watt
was young, my family had no money to buy party before they shut down the travelators out of things to say after being together for smile at me, immensely pleased with herself.
books. So when I see books, I say, ‘Hoh, I want and escalators. On the way, we see workers ten days or, maybe, we didn’t want to break a “Come, help me lift this box onto my head.”
to read.’ So I start writing my own books, then already ripping up the carpets. spell. I stare confused. Fortunately, there are oth-
I sell them to my friends. The transformation of African ers with us who understand and help lift the
Sometimes, my friends come to my peoples through books suitcase and rest it on her tightly braided hair.
house for a party and I read ...” Tainie Mundondo has been in “This is the way to do it,” she says, as she
“When did you start this,” I inter- the book industry since 1982, start- strides rapidly through the platform, down the
rupt. ing as an educational editor in a steps, though the tunnel, up another flight of
“He shrugs. “Maybe twenty years ...” publishing house, and joining a steps, through a dirt track for twenty metres,
Before he can continue I interrupt publishing association several years across the railway tracks to the next platform,
him again. “How many titles have you later. It was while she was with the turning around every now and then, to grin
published?” latter that she helped found AP- at me, to tell me to hurry up.
“I think about sixty-four.” NET, a non-profit organisation, in I am on the verge of dying but dare not,
“And, your own books?” Harare in 1992 with nine founding because this 52-year-old mama, pint sized,
“I don’t know, a few. Not many.” members – Cameroon, Ghana, carrying a thirty-kilo suitcase on her head, will
“How many copies do you make.” Kenya, Mozambique, Nigeria, not let me.
“It depends. Sometimes five, some- Namibia, South Africa, Togo and Anyway, in the event, we miss the train, and
times ten. If I get an order from a uni- Zimbabwe – to “strengthen African I break into laughter. She gives me a resigned,
versity, maybe fifty or one hundred. But publishers through networking, “Oh, well,” grin. We help her lower her bag
that is not important. The books are training and trade promotion in and make her sit down and rest. It is a cold
important. I want to make collection of order to fully meet African’s need night.
all Dominican Republic classic litera- for quality books relevant to Afri- At the hotel, I give her a hug before we part.
ture.” can social, political, economic and I know I am going to miss her. Tainie Mun-
The forty-eight-year-old father of cultural reality”. dondo, Africa’s book ambassador, is one amaz-
three explains that few in his country, Miguel d Mena, the bookseller of Santo Domingo. The network now represents 45 ing woman.
20
FICTION
DEC 31, 2010 — Jan 2, 2011

Jubilee Master of
Fiction by Shih-Li Kow

T
he night is ripe with heat. The ceiling
fan whirs frantically and fails to cool,
brushing heavy air over his skin like a Lollipops now
piece of flannel. He scratches himself and
listens to the neighbourhood dogs’ distant
barking, from one to another across fences
in Malaysia
and walls. Outside, rows of houses strung on a ribbon elephant swings its trunk and seems to smile By William Tan
His cat slips into the room through his of road spiral down the hill he lives on, pinned too, with its upturned mouth. A baby kind
bedroom door left ajar, a white shape in the in place by streetlamps. The neighbourhood of smile. It moves its head from side to side S U B A N G J AYA : Durukan, an
semi darkness. As silent as a little ghost, it has seen better days, the trees are big but tired and fans the child on its back with its ears. internationally renowned brand of Turkish
curls up into a pale patch on the rug. and the rooflines lurch and flatline from The sleeping girl is small and weightless on lollipops, was officially launched at the
He raises his body on his elbows, trying to uncontrolled renovations and home the elephant’s back, her legs dangle. The tiny Mydin Mall last week.
move in freeze frame motions to keep the old improvement whimsies. soles of her feet are black with dirt. Sold in 57 countries, the “Master of
bed from creaking. A shoulder joint pops into All is as it should be except for something “Where’s the circus? There’s no circus here. Lollipops” is available at all Mydin
place. moving slowly up the street. Something that There’s nothing here except houses,” he says. hypermarkets in the country.
“Can’t you sleep?” his wife says, not even excites the dogs. He has to shout because they are moving “We aim to be the leading market leader
half awake. It is a party of two – a person and an away. The elephant’s tail swishes against its of lollipops here in Malaysia and eventually,
It could have been asked of a lover in her animal of some sort too big to be a dog. He rump. the whole of Southeast Asia,” said Durukan
dream. Sighing, she turns on her side to face wonders and guesses, maybe a cow or a horse, A light comes on in his neighbour’s sales manager Ozgur Biyikli.
the wall. The mattress heaves and settles. He and watches as the pair come closer. It cannot window. That brown dog two houses away He said there were three key factors that
catches a breath and holds it in his ribcage be but there is no mistaking the stumpy legs, yips without stopping. made their lollipop stand out. The company,
until she is still again, unreachable in the the bulbous head and the incongruous trunk. “Oh, there’s always a circus, my friend,” says established in 1976, specialises only in
private depths of her sleep. Her hair is the It is a baby elephant. the man, looking over his shoulder. “You just lollipops and uses innovation in their
darkest shadow on the pillow. The sight makes him laugh to himself, the need to find it.” production and natural colouring.
He stands and takes the three steps from way a private joke or a surprise birthday party Our man with the house on the street Biyikli said even lollipop sticks were made
his bed to his desk. He finds the power button would. hesitates but only for a while, long enough to of hardened paper instead of plastic. He added
on his computer easily but stops himself from He rushes downstairs, vaulting three steps pull his running shoes on and lock his door. that Durukan was successful because it had
pushing it, reminded of the electronic beep at a time with both hands on the banisters. His cat is scratching the doormat, excitedly invested a lot in its brand and image.
it makes booting up. When he opens his front door, the elephant digging its claws into the jute fibres. “Starting January next year, you will see
Sealed in the room by the windows and is passing his house. Its keeper looks at him His wife, he believes, sleeps upstairs and is us everywhere, on billboards, television, on
drawn curtains is the quiet of the night and the and raises a hand in greeting. again filling the room with fragments of her the streets ... everywhere” said Biyikli.
remnants of sleep, almost tangible, like a gas. And it is a party of three, not two – a child dreams, lingering echoes and images invisible He said they picked Mydin as their
He opens one window, stretching his arm in a tutu is asleep on the elephant. Her shiny to him which thicken the air. partner because it was Malaysia’s only halal
through the security bars into the coolness skirt froths around her as she rests, folded In the shadowy hour between sleep and hypermarket. The company may also open
outside. The silence escapes the room like a forward with her head on the elephant’s. wakefulness, he follows the elephant and its their first factory outside Turkey in Malaysia.
freed animal. Sporadic night noises rush in “Where are you going?” he asks the man keeper. He rings every doorbell along the way, Also at the product launch was Turkish
to fill the void; the metallic clang of someone’s with the elephant, breathless. light-footed and strangely jubilant as though ambassador Serap Ataay and International
gate, a dog’s coughing bark, the broken scale “To the circus,” the man replies, smiling. touched by the magic of an improbable circus. Trade and Industry Deputy Minister Datuk
of a revving engine somewhere. His teeth shine white in a dark face. The As though chosen. Mukhriz Mahathir.
Travel 21
DEC 31, 2010 — Jan 2, 2011

Up till now, nobody ever


went to Kepong without a
good reason. But this has
changed. LIN ZHENYUAN
slips into Kepong and
discovers a food haven in
Happy City

A
stranger to Kepong in search of food may
find himself going in and out of side roads
and back alleys without finding what he
actually wants.
For a first-time visitor, it may be best to just drop
by the Happy City Food Court which is located
next to the Kepong Carrefour, near Jaya Jusco.
There are close to 50 stalls at this huge food court.
The place comes alive after sunset. But lunchtime is
also a good time to have a quick meal.
  S ince the predominantly Chinese areas of
Kepong Baru and Jinjang are a short distance away,
the Happy City food court caters mainly to non-
halal customers.
  I only learnt of this place a few years ago since I,
too, had no good reason to venture uninvited to this
township. In the past, Kepong wasn’t the kind of
place that outsiders liked to explore, unless one had

Happiness
relatives staying there.
But in recent years, Kepong has earned itself a Activity slows
fine reputation for having some of the best Chinese down in the
cuisine in the Klang Valley. If you are adventurous, afternoon but
you could actually keep going to Kepong on a regular picks up after
basis over six months and still not finish sampling dark.
all its culinary surprises.

is a full belly
  Those who know Kepong should gather a posse
of friends and make a foray into the town after dark.
The most popular places tend to be the noisiest
with the largest crowds. And so, Happy City is an
appropriate name for my favourite glutton square
Television
in Kepong. It has all the right Chinese hawker fare sets abound in
that appeals to my taste buds. the Happy City
  On top of my gastronomical noodles with a few quick twists of   The peppery soup or gravy is Happy City Food Court. It seems to Food Court. It
agenda is the pork belly stall which her wrists. strong enough to fire up my throat. be a Malaysian way of life to watch
is probably the best within a five After witnessing her in action on The “siow kow”, whether deep fried the TV during a meal, regardless of seems to be a
kilometre radius. The stall is several occasions, I came to the or in soup, tastes delicious when the time of day. Mamak restaurants Malaysian way
operated by a slim, Mandarin- conclusion that she possesses hands dipped in vinegar and eaten with nationwide seem to have wised up of life to watch
speaking woman who is not only of steel. slivers of young ginger. to this trend, and now, almost every the TV during a
gracious but is a fine chef. The only minor issue I have with   There are also stalls selling mamak shop you’d come across
  To call her a hawker or a cook her is that she understands no Teochew porridge, Sekinchan pork would have big, flat-screen TVs. meal, regardless
would only denigrate her status. All Cantonese or English and I speak noodles, wantan mee, claypot Mothers who frequent the of the time of
her noodles are hand-made. She very limited Mandarin. Fortunately chicken rice and mixed rice. There’s Happy City Food Court during day. Mamak
tosses ribbons of noodles into the for both of us, my spoken Mandarin even a stall that sells Hong Kong- lunch hours are often seen bringing
air after sprinkling them with flour can be understood after five minutes style braised duck. along their children to have their
restaurants
and then multiplies the strands of of halting sentences. Television sets abound in the meals. Perhaps it is much easier for nationwide seem
mothers to have to have wised
multiple choices of up to this trend,
food on offer for
their hungry and now, almost
children. every mamak
  With rows of shop you’d come
ceiling fans to across would
dissipate the
a f t e rn o o n h e a t , have big, flat-
customers don’t have screen TVs.”
to worry about beads
of sweat dropping
on to their plates of way, and there might still be some
food. change left over.
Another discov-   Customers who are sensitive to
ery is the large num- the outside heat in spite of the
ber of Myanmar na- ceiling fans may saunter over to the
tionals working as Carrefour hypermarket to cool
waiters at this place. down.
They are all young, But one thing is assured. You
energetic and effi- won’t leave Happy City Food Court
cient, and they un- hungry. Of course, you can’t eat
derstand Cantonese! everything sold under that big roof.
  Since this is a You’ll just have to make repeat visits
hawker centre, your to sample all the other dishes that
wallet is in no you couldn’t consume in one sitting.
immediate danger of Don’t forget to bring along a few
being emptied. friends. Make one or two of them
Everything sold here pay for your meal because you would
has a price but it is all have let them in on the secret of one
affordable. RM10 of Selangor’s biggest, yummiest
Mothers bringing their children for their afternoon meals. will take you a long hideouts.
22
Gallery
DEC 31, 2010 — Jan 2, 2011

HORSING
AROUND:
Children
enjoying pony
rides at the
Selangor Ria
carnival from
Dec 18-26 at
the Shah Alam
Stadium.

A stall keeper
proudly showing
off his wares at
the Selangor
Ria carnival from
Dec 18-26 at
the Shah Alam
Stadium.
.

From left: Shah Alam Music Academy’s Gilbert Wong and Aswara’s mu-
sic faculty director Shamsul Kamal Abd Rahman handing over a mock
cheque for RM10,000 to SACC general manager Shuhainie Shamsudin
on Tuesday. In line with the “Spiced Up Countdown 2011”, SACC will
hold a fundraising for victims of natural disasters by contributing RM1
for every combo package sold at SACC tonight.

Member of Parliament for Petaling


Jaya Utara Tony Pua (centre) and
Kg Tunku assemblyman Lau Weng
Selangor state executive councillor Dr Halimah Ali San (right) giving away souvenirs
(left) presents the Anugerah Tokoh Ilmuwan award to children at a Christmas and New
to ophthalmologist Prof Dr Muhaya Mohamad for Year dinner for 200 residents of Kg
her achievements and contributions to society Cempaka on Tuesday.
on Tuesday. Dr Muhaya is a lecturer at Universiti
Kebangsaan Malaysia and chairman of the Malaysian
Medical Association Ophthalmological Society.
culture 23
dec 31, 2010 — JAN 2, 2011

❚ COMPILED BY ZEDECK SIEW

INTERVIEW

Malaysian Art
in 2010 P
ost-rock music -- a genre that appropriates the trappings of rock to
push sounds in weird and wonderful directions -- has a penchant
for grandiloquent nomenclature. Take, for example, Tortoise’s
Millions Now Living Will Never Die, or just Godspeed You! Black Em-

I
t’s been an eventful year in Parliament revealed a bored, Community Art Project and Chow peror. Furniture, Malaysia’s most notable post-rock-like outfit, is no excep-
dear old Malaysia: 100-storey hungry House itching to get Kit Kita!, both designed to map
towers and price hikes; things wrapped up. the history and peoples of those tion. Their 2005 album, Twilight Chases the Sun, was a critically acclaimed
PERKASA- and headmistress- What’s new in the NVADB? two urban townships, facilitated piece of shoegazing emotronica -- how about the tinkling xylophone,
style racism; cops that rob, punch As its name suggests, this by artist-types working closely scratchy percussion and existential meandering of tracks like “Why Is
and kill. You’ve read your share of new legislation focuses on with locals. There’s the monthly Adam King?”
year-end, top-news-stories lists. developing the visual arts as an Pekan Frinjan, a festival for fringe Furniture releases its sophomore effort, They Made Me Out of Dreams
What follows is something you industry. It widens the scope subcultures in Shah Alam, which You’ve Forgotten, digitally on 1 January 2011; hardcopies arrive the same
wouldn’t have seen: a summary from “Peninsular Malaysia” to gets a lot of curious, non-insider
of the year 2010 in Malaysian art. “Malaysia”. It allows the National attention.
month. Frontman Ronnie Khoo -- bit of trivia: he created the “What
Yes, seni is still alive and kicking! Arts Gallery -- already a statutory Other groups are less Would Zaid Hold?” Facebook group -- talks about the new album, his
body -- to open businesses and geography-specific. The band’s influences, and why they’re self-publishing.
The National Visual franchises. It specifies that at Seksualiti Merdeka festival, into
Arts Development least a quarter of the 13-member its third year in 2010, accrues What are the band’s influences? How would you describe
Board Bill 2010 Visual Arts Development Board solidarity for, and awareness Furniture’s music?
be comprised of practising about, alternative gender and As musicians, we should consider the merit in any sort of music, and not
An example of how easily arts
artists or academics. Potentially sexuality issues. The Buka
and culture can be forgotten, get too caught up in the politics of the “mainstream versus underground”
far-reaching changes for Kolektif has been organising
politically -- even by artists, debate. If I was forced to generalise, I’d say Furniture, as a band, listens
practitioners. performance art events, with the
themselves. mostly to the kind of music that is sought out, rather than the kind that
Don’t be blindsided again, overt goal of introducing clueless
The National Visual Arts
Development Board (NVADB)
people! Pay attention! audiences about the form. The gets shoved into the collective consciouness.
Bar Council’s MyConstitution
Bill was mooted as early as
Community- and Issue- campaign has been working on Our music has been built up ambitiously from a pop foundation. It’s
2008, and got its first reading
based Art Projects Radio Demokratika, a compilation
in the Dewan on 11 October
of indie music themed on melodic and catchy, and we try to see what noisy spin we can give it.
this year. But it wasn’t until the The idea of making art in -- and democracy and election rights,
latest parliamentary session for -- local neighbourhoods Tell us about the new album. Any unifying themes or concepts?
set for an early 2011 release.
that artists sat up to take note: and communities isn’t new; we
realising, among other things, that
All these point to the growing They Made Me Out of Dreams You’ve Forgotten was conceived over a pe-
remember 2002’s Taman Medan realisation of a no-brainer: art
the NVADB would be replacing Community Arts Project, or the riod of five years. We wanted to work with a more song-based structure,
shouldn’t be just about artists. which is why there is a lot more singing now. Looking back, I think the
the National Art Gallery Act ongoing efforts of Penang’s Arts-
1959. By then, however, it was Ed programmes. But 2010 saw a new album covers a period when my angst was running dry, so I was look-
too late to do anything: the bill remarkable blossoming of efforts The Ebb and Flow ing for new things to fuel the songs. “Monuments”, for example, was in
was passed, close to midnight to merakyatkan seni. of Cultural Space part inspired by the shifting sands of our city’s landscape.
on 15 December. Tweets from There was the Pudu With so little official support, the
rise and fall of art institutions
are de rigueur in this town. 2010 A lot of Malaysian indie musicians, like Furniture, are self-
opened discouragingly: with publishing. Why is this the case? Is it a good or bad thing?
the 8th BOH Cameronian Arts The music business is currently in flux; we haven’t settled on a new work-
Awards in April, venerable arts ing model. It’s exciting because we get to try and figure it out -- but, at the
and culture journal Kakiseni.com same time, us small-fry, DIY musicians are not going to get any help from
shut its virtual doors. Valentine investors, because they’re holding on to their money and waiting. I think
Willie Fine Art, the most influential
commercial gallery in Malaysia,
it’s a great thing, because it forces us to take on roles beyond just being
reduced its KL floor-size from two musicians -- we have to be entrepreneurial, as well.
Bangsar shoplots to just one.
But things are definitely on What about the Malaysian music industry which you would like
the up. New physical spaces to see changed?
like the ambitious Map KL I think many aspects of Malaysian life, not just the music industry, could
megaproject got started this year, do with a bit more freedom. Currently, there’s too much legislation and
to encouraging -- if unspectacular
--reception. The Actors Studio@ red tape; it’s very stifling. The other day, when we were going to shoot a
Lot 10 and Jaya One’s PJ Live music video for our new album, I discovered you need a permit to film. I
Arts are coming into their own. always thought I could go out with some friends and make a short film if
Neighbourhoodly venues like PJ’s I wanted to -- but now I know I actually need to apply for permission from
Small Talk With The Moon gallery the authorities, just to have some fun. What a killjoy.
and Ampang’s Gudang Noisy gig
space are blossoming up all over.
And, though somewhat Digital copies of They Made Me Out of Dream You’ve Forgotten are
modified, Kakiseni.com is back … available from furniture.bandcamp.com.
Published by Selangor State Government and printed by Dasar Cetak (M) Sdn Bhd No. 7, Persiaran Selangor, Seksyen 15, 40000, Shah Alam, Selangor Darul Ehsan.

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