INDONESIA OH INDONESIA!

‘Bully- thy neighbour’ seems to be the right slogan for Indonesia, in the light of the recent attack on the Malaysian embassy in Jakarta.

In the incident, demonstrators led by the People’s Defence of Democracy (Bendera), has claimed responsibility for burning the Malaysian flag, Jalur Gemilang and throwing human faeces into the Malaysian embassy compound.

As in the past, Indonesians took to the streets and launched anti-Malaysia campaigns, with protests initially staged against the infrequent Indonesian maid abuse in Malaysia. Emotionally-charged Indonesians vented their anger against Malaysia over almost anything.

Similarities in culture, language and religious customs should make Malaysia and Indonesia good neighbours.

But long-running spats over everything from territorial boundaries to cultural ownership of culinary dishes, dances, instruments and even Malaysia’s national anthem, have over the years hampered ties.

As of 2009, there were nearly two million Indonesian workers in Malaysia, including 800,000 illegals and that 300,000 were employed in the manufacturing sector.

As Malaysian authorities were preparing to send illegal Indonesians home, thousands others were waiting to make their passage, legally or illegally, in search of job opportunities here.

The latest demonstration, which included a threat by Bendera to send home Malaysians in Jakarta after shaving their heads, was supposed to be sparked by our maritime border dispute.

Bendera supporters had also threatened to “sweep” Malaysians from Indonesia. Anti-Malaysia demonstrations in Jakarta, Medan and Pekan Baru took place soon after the arrests of three Indonesian Maritime and Fisheries Ministry officials on Aug 13.

Indonesia should take action against this group -- coincidentally acronymed Bendera, which means flag -- which showed disrespect towards Malaysia. Malaysians have been tolerant towards every uncivilised action from its people without any retaliation.

In the latest incident, Foreign Affairs Minister Datuk Seri Anifah Aman has ruled out an apology over the Aug 13 incident, saying that Malaysia had acted within the law when the authorities arrested the Indonesians.

Yes, Datuk Seri, we should be firm and not let our neighbour have the upper hand.

We have tolerated all these years over their bullying tactics and the time has come for them to stop their ‘acts of terrorism” against their own neighbour, and observe and practice good neighbourliness, in the true spirit of Asean brotherhood.

Abdul Rahman Sulaiman Appointed Bernama Chairman

(Latest pix: Abdul Rahman receiving a souvenir from visiting Vice Minister of State Council Information Office of China, Dong Yunhu (left) at Wisma Bernama on July 6)

KUALA LUMPUR, April 16 (Bernama) -- A former Editor-in-Chief of the Malaysian National News Agency (Bernama), Datuk Abdul Rahman Sulaiman, has been appointed as the new Chairman of the agency effective Feb 1.

He takes over from Datuk Seri Mohd Annuar Zaini whose term as the ninth Bernama Chairman ended on Jan 31, this year, according to the Bernama management today.

The appointment of Abdul Rahman, 64, has received the consent of the Yang di-Pertuan Agong Sultan Mizan Zainal Abidin to lead the 13- member Bernama Board of Governors.

He had headed the Bernama Editorial Department from 1989 until 1995. His last post in the government service was as the Director of Communications in the Economic Planning Unit (EPU) of the Prime Minister's Department from August 2001 until March 2010.

He was also the Director of Communications in the Prime Minister's Department from March 2009 until recently.

Abdul Rahman is married to Datin Maznah Adam and the couple has two sons and a daughter.

He was conferred the Panglima Jasa Negara (PJN) which carries the title Datuk in 2007.

Born on May 26, 1946 in Parit Buntar, Perak, Abdul Rahman received his early education at Sekolah Umum Parit Tok Ngah and the Methodist Secondary School in Parit Buntar.

He joined Bernama in 1971 as a senior journalist after beginning his career in journalism at Radio Televisyen Malaysia (RTM) as a broadcast journalist in 1966.

In 1973 he went for further studies at the Universiti Sains Malaysia (USM) and obtained the Bachelor of Arts degree with honours in communications in 1976, and upon returning to Bernama, he was posted to Bangkok and the agency's correspondent for Thailand and Indo-China until 1978.

He had held numerous positions in the news agency including as the Johor Bureau Head, and Executive Editor of the General News Service before being appointed Editor-in-Chief in 1989.

In 1995, he opted for early retirement to contest in the general election as the Barisan Nasional candidate for the Parit Buntar parliamentary constituency where he beat Idris Abdul Rauf from Parti Semangat 46.
--BERNAMA

Bernama’s Very Own King Ghaz With A Heart

(Pix: Bernama General Manager Hasnul Hassan (left) presenting a photo album to Datuk Seri Mohd Annuar Zaini (right). Looking on is (centre) Editor-in-Chief Datuk Yong Soo Heong).

At yesterday’s farewell gathering for Datuk Seri Mohd Annuar Zaini, whose contract as Bernama chairman ended on Jan 31, former General Manager Datuk Syed Jamil Jaafar likened Mohd Annuar to the late Tun Muhammad Ghazali Shafie.

Muhammad Ghazali, the former Home Minister, who died at the age of 88 last month, was known to be so strict in his work that it earned him the nickname, King Ghaz.

Those who knew King Ghaz, including media reporters who interviewed him, were expected to have enough knowledge when they asked a question on an issue or subject so as not to incur his wrath or displeasure.

Bernama’s very own King Ghaz, was also feared by those who had worked for him during his six year tenure. They describe him as meticulous, one with an eye for details, perfectionist and quick tempered.

Early this week, almost everyone in Bernama – from the security guard to the general manager, received a thank you letter from him dated Jan 31 2010, with the recipient’s name penned in his own handwriting.

The letter : “From the desk of Dato’ Seri Mohd Annuar Bin Zaini’ became the talk of each and every individual in Bernama.

His expression of apology really touched their hearts. “Saya memohon maaf di atas sebarang kekurangan, kelemahan, kekasaran dan kesilapan yang telah saya lakukan dalam tempoh memegang amanah tersebut.”

Mohd Annuar, 59, was the ninth Bernama chairman and had served the agency since Feb 1, 2004.

How often do you get this kind of letter from an outgoing chairman? After his last Bernama board of governors meeting last month, he met up with the editorial staff and personally expressed his sincere thanks to them for their support to him all these years.

The sub editors are especially grateful to Mohd Annuar for approving their request for special allowance, which they have been enjoying till today. This took place during the second half of 2007 when Datuk Seri Azman Ujang was General Manager.

The allowances were more than what they asked for, with English sub editors at the General News Service being paid more than the Malay subs given the large volume of translation work handled daily.

On the other hand, Bernama Economic Service Malay sub editors are paid more than their counterpart in the English subs desk due to the heavy work at the unit.

Special posts at the Editorial were created under his stewardship. Prior to June 2007, the Editorial Department had two executive editors; one for the General News Sservice (GNS) and another for Bernama Economic Service (BES).

I was appointed executive editor of BES in April 2007. The post was renamed Deputy Editor-in-Chief on June 1 2007.

Under the editorial changes, three deputy editors-in-chief were appointed – Zulkefli Salleh (GNS), myself for BES and Zukiman Zain for Foreign and International News Service. Of course, the position comes with a special allowance.

Those who were assigned for some special projects under his leadership would have felt the heat, but they gained knowledge along the way.

While he was known to be short tempered, Mohd Annuar was said to be forgiving. One senior management said that he must have given you the shelling in the morning, but he was quick “to forgive and forget” later in the day.

He demonstrated his eye for details at major events involving Bernama. One example is Bernama’s 40th dinner celebration, which he personally sat through with the organising committee right from the venue, menu, the guests list, seating arrangements, entertainers, Master of Ceremony (MC), etc, etc.

In fact, every minute detail. Nothing should go wrong and his meticulousness throughout the preparation, gave committee members, the jitters. Thanks to him, the event ended with no hitches. It was a roaring success.

Another project is the coffee table book on former prime minister Tun Abdullah Ahmad Badawi, which is in its final stages of completion. Those responsible for the production had to be extra cautious in all aspects, leaving no stones unturned.

Mohd Annuar, who was closely linked to Abdullah, wanted the best and he expected the best out of the book on Pak Lah. There was passion in him as he went through every inch of the book, the right photo, the right caption and the right copy.

One would have thought, he had a heart of stone. But at the farewell, he expressed his heartfelt thanks to everyone, giving praise to his two drivers whom throughout their service, had served him well. At the same time, he expressed his apology to those whose feelings he had hurt.

Syed Jamil in his speech said that despite his stern ways, Mohd Annuar had a good heart.

During his tenure as Bernama Chairman, Mohd Annuar had introduced and launched the Bernama Editorial System Terminal (BEST) for the Editorial Department and launched the 24-hour radio news and television channel namely the Radio24, and Bernama TV.

A Thank You Note from Tan Sri Hassan Marican

"This note is addressed to the entire PETRONAS family where ever they are – across the globe, on the platforms, sailing the oceans, in the deserts, in the snow and the service forecourts.

On the morning of 2nd February 1989, I arrived at Dayabumi, a greenhorn to the petroleum industry. After 21 years, I leave the organization, grey haired – having fulfilled the trust or ‘amanah’ that was placed on my shoulders. I could not have done so without the support, dedication, commitment and sacrifices from each and everyone of you where ever you are located. We have done this together as a team. We have built an institution that is respected globally. We hace avoided scandals and

God willing this institution will continue to exist long after we are all gone. This institution is not about me – it is about all of us including our families. All I can say I thank you from the bottom of my heart. No words, no deeds can express the gratitude and I owe it to all of you. It is not about Hassan Merican, it is about all of us.

It has been an enriching and fulfilling journey for me. Never in my wildest dreams did this person from Sungai Petani ever dreams of leading a Fortune 100 company. I have had the honour and privilege to meet with leaders of many countries and the corporate world, but in the end it is all of you that have made it possible. We did it based on values and principles that are dear to us. It is my hope that you will continue to uphold those values and principles. Lose it and we will lose all that we have built.

There will be many challenges that you will face as you continue to serve and contribute to the organization. Rewards and acknowledgement will be scarce - but I know you will do it because you are a special breed of people. It is my hope that you will bring PETRONAS to greater height – standing shoulder to shoulder with the best in the industry.

Tomorrow is my last day in PETRONAS – after 21 years and seven days. I would be lying if I am to tell you that I am not sad, but at the same time, I have always known that it will never be permanent. As such it makes it easier. It would have been nice if time was on my side to personally go around to say thank you – but that is no longer possible.

I have no advise to leave you except to remind you to continue to live with and believe in the SHARED VALUES in both your professional and personal lives. To the younger generation, you need to know and remember that it was not so easy in the early days. It is now your turn to carry the torch – keep it high and keep it burning. Learn from your elders. Give them the respect they deserve. To the elders, nurture the younger generation so that they can continue the legacy. As I have said, there will be many challenges as you go forward. It will require a large amount of resilience and perseverance. The Global Championship journey will never end – it continues. Remember, if it ends, it will be the beginning of the end.

In my years in PETRONAS, I have made many decisions – some right, some wrong and some unpleasant. These decisions we based on analysis and information available the moment in time, and some a judgment call. There would have been occasions when some of the decisions may have hurt some of you. I have many shortcomings. I have endeavored to be fair, reasonable and consistent. I offer you my apologies and humbly seek you forgiveness. I am afterall a mere mortal –lacking in many aspects.

I have received many emails and text messages. I have tried to reply to most of them but unfortunately time has not been on my side to reply to all. I thank you for the kind words and well wishes and I shall cherish them for the rest of my life.

Finally, as I leave tomorrow, on behalf of myself and my family, please accept our apologies for our shortcomings and transgressions. It has been a humbling feeling and a privilege to serve PETRONAS. I could not have done it without all of you on my side. You have been my family and I hope that you will continue to accept us as family.

As we retreat into the sunset, my family and I wish all of you the very best for the future. I hope you will support my replacement, Dato’ Shamsul Azhar Abbas in his endeavours.

Salam dan mohon maaf atas segala kesilapan dan harap halalkan makan minum kami.

Mohd Hassan Marican

(A great loss to both Petronas and the nation )

Petronas Staff Bid Hassan Fond Farewell

(Bernama Pix)



By Siti Hawa Othman

KUALA LUMPUR, Feb 9 (Bernama) --Petronas is one brand that makes Malaysians proud. And for over a decade, one man has been the face of Petronas, the man we bid farewell today.

The mood was mixed with a tinge of sadness as he walked to the foyer of the Petronas Twin Towers, shaking hands with the staff and well-wishers. For Tan Sri Mohd Hassan Marican, who has helmed the corporation since 1995, his term as president and chief executive officer (CEO) ends today.

It was obvious that he was fighting back the tears as he smiled at the staff.
“I am okay,” he said, when asked by Bernama how he was doing.

The staff in their thousands had been waiting at four separate spots on their own free will from 4.30pm to wish Hassan, who was accompanied by his wife Puan Sri Noraini Mohd Yusoff from his office in the 81st floor, farewell.

Hassan was proud of his staff and always reminded them they were doing a national service.

He would always relate to the press how his men had struggled under the hot sun in the desert and drilled the deepest ocean. He wanted them to know that they were special and that Petronas had contributed to nation-building.

And today, they gathered to bid goodbye to a very special man with fond memories.

Some, unbashedly, cried. Others sang the Petronas anthem and applauded him as he walked by amid shouts “We love you Tan Sri”.

The staff held up notes and placards saying “U’re simply the best”, “You rock,” “TQ for the legacy” and “We are sad you are leaving”.

Shuzairin Shuib and Salwa Mohd Salleh, from the International Business Unit, said they were sad and touched as Hassan had given so much to the organisation.

“He is a good leader, bringing Petronas to greater heights,” they said.
Yugentharan, from Research & Technology Unit, said he was sad because Hassan was a good leader.

“He has done a lot of good things, looking into the sector of education, scholarships” he said.

Many were disappointed at him leaving Petronas and had wanted him to have a proper farewell.

It was understood that many cried over a two-page farewell note that he posted yesterday, thanking the entire Petronas family across the globe, on the platforms, sailing the oceans, in the desert, in the snow and service forecourt.

Never to take credit for himself, Hassan had always attributed the national oil company’s success to the wisdom and foresights of its founders.

He had said that Petronas had instilled in its people the resolve to deliver superior performance to leave a legacy for future generation.

Trained as accountant, Hassan, 57, had joined Petronas in February 1989 as senior vice president of finance. He was under the tutelage of yet another great man Tan Sri Azizan Zainul Abidin.

Azizan and Hassan had led a strong and committed management team which was responsible for the many successes of Petronas today.

Petronas, set up in 1974 to look after the country’s petroleum resources, made its first international venture at the turn of the 1990s, in line with its business integration, value-adding and globalisation strategy, and has never looked back.

Hassan was appointed president and CEO in 1995 and had assumed the post of acting chairman with the passing of Azizan in 2004 at age 69. Hassan was said to be visibly upset with by the latter’s demise.

Petronas then was already a strong company and ranked among Fortune Global 500’s largest corporations in the world, with a presence in more than 30 countries.

From its humble beginnings in 1974 with a paid-up capital of RM10 million, its shareholders’ capital had grown to RM232.1 billion as of March 2009 while total assets were valued at RM388.1 billion.

Petronas contributed more than 40 per cent to the federal government’s coffers and has since its inception, paid the government a total of RM471.3 billion.

It announced a pre-tax profit of RM89.1 billion for the year ended March 31, 2009 on a revenue of RM264.2 billion.

Petronas usually sets aside up to 35 per cent of its profits every year for investment.

For the year, it has made RM74.0 billion in payments to the federal government which accounted for 45 per cent of the government’s revenue and 71.4 per cent of its pre-tax profit.

Its international operations were now the biggest contributor to the group’s revenue.
Hassan has proven his mettle and the baton is now passed to yet another able man,

Datuk Shamsul Azhar Abbas, who will assume the president and CEO posts tomorrow.
Shamsul, who was MISC Bhd’s managing director prior to his retirement last year, has been with the company since 1974.

He has vast experience in the petroleum industry, having served in several senior positions including vice president of oil business, vice president petrochemicals, vice president exploration (upstream) and vice-president of maritime and logistics.

Some of the staff met by Bernama said they welcomed the new boss who was said to be another charismatic leader. — Bernama

Hassan Marican Leaving Petronas in Good Hands

Datuk ShamsulAzhar Abbas, the new captain who will navigate Petroliam Nasional Bhd (Petronas) from next week, is no newcomer in the oil and gas field.

He has been onboard the national oil corporation since 1974 and has served in several senior positions, including Vice President of Oil Business, Vice President Petrochemicals, Vice President Exploration (Upstream) and Vice President Maritime and Logistics.

Shamsul Azhar, 57, last served as President and Chief Executive Officer at Petronas' shipping arm, MISC Bhd between 2004 and 2009, before retiring in January last year.

Without a doubt, his experience in various departments of Petronas, combined with his five-year stint in the shipping business, speaks volumes of the man, who is taking over the helm from Tan Sri Hassan Marican on Wednesday.

The Britain-trained former oil trader will replace Hassan as President and Chief Executive Officer as well as acting Chairman from Wednesday. Hassan’s contract ends on Tuesday.

Analysts say Shamsul Azhar is a highly respected figure both locally and internationally, and the fact that he is from the industry will ensure continuity in Petronas.

They say that he will be able to contribute positively to the company with his rich experience in all segments of the oil and gas industry.

When he clocks out this Tuesday, Hassan, will be reassured that the national oil company will be in good hands.

With strings of accolades under his belt, the 57-year old Hassan, can bow out with his head held high. One legacy he leaves behind would be the success Petronas has achieved.

Incepted in August 1974, Petronas, considered to be Malaysia’s most efficiently managed government-owned corporation, has firmly established itself as a global energy player over the last two decades.

It currently operates in over 30 countries, and its overseas operations, including exports, account for more than 75 per cent of its revenue.

Over the past five years alone, Petronas, which started off as a company with a paid-up capital of RM10 million, has seen revenue grow from RM137 billion in 2005 to RM264.2 billion during its 2009 financial year.

Net profit during that time grew from RM35.6 billion in 2005 to RM52.5 billion in 2009, with the peak of RM61 billion earned during its 2008 financial year.

When Hassan took over as chief executive of Petronas in 1995, he promised he would transform the oil company into a major international player.

Today, the company which controls and owns the country’s oil and gas resources, ranked number 14 among Asia’s top 50 companies, and 80th globally, in Fortune magazine’s Global 500 listings in 2008, the only Malaysian company in the rankings.

Shamsul Azhar Abbas Appointed Petronas President and CEO

KUALA LUMPUR, Feb 3 (Bernama) -- Datuk Shamsul Azhar Abbas, the former President and Chief Executive Officer of MISC Bhd, has been appointed President and Chief Executive Officer of Petronas, effective February 10.

He has also been appointed Acting Chairman of the Petronas Board of Directors, Prime Minister Datuk Seri Najib Tun Razak said in a statement Wednesday.

Shamsul Azhar, 57, who served as MISC President and Chief Executive Officer between 2004 and 2009, will replace Tan Sri Mohd Hassan Marican whose contract ends on February 9.

Najib said Shamsul Azhar, who joined Petronas in 1974, has vast experience in the nation's petroleum industry having served in several senior positions, including that of Vice President of Oil Business, Vice President Petrochemicals, Vice President Exploration (Upstream) and Vice President Maritime and Logistics.

"I am confident he is qualified and experienced to bring continued success to Petronas," he said.

Najib also thanked Hassan for his invaluable contribution to the nation and petroleum industry having served as Acting Chairman, President and Chief Executive Officer of Petronas since 1995.

Hassan began his career with the national oil company in 1989 as Senior Vice President, before being appointed President and Chief Executive Officer in 1995 and later also assumed the position of Acting Chairman in 2004.

Najib said during Hassan's tenure at the national oil company, Petronas enjoyed good repute and excellent standing, internationally, and was the only Fortune 500 company in Malaysia.

"He was also instrumental in bringing Petronas to foreign shores, competing side-by-side with international oil giants," added the Prime Minister.

With vast experience behind him, Najib hoped Hassan would continue to contribute his knowledge and experience to nation building especially in the energy sector.

-- BERNAMA

All Eyes On Petronas – Will There Be Any Changes?

Tan Sri Hassan Marican’s term at the helm of national oil giant, Petroliam Nasional Berhad (Petronas) ends next week, with an announcement expected soon from the government, which will put an end to the uncertainty surrounding his future.

Speculation is rife on whether he would be reappointed to helm Petronas, Malaysia’s only Fortune 500 company that he has spearheaded since 1995.

The focus now is on the replacement for Hassan as president and Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of the oil company. He is also acting chairman to the Petronas board, a position he has held since the sudden demise of former chairman Tan Sri Azizan Zainal Abidin in 2004.

Under the Petroleum Development Act, Petronas is answerable only to the Prime Minister.

The question is whether there’s a need to replace Hassan as president and CEO, whose performance is measured by the financial strength of the oil corporation.
As at September last year, Petronas cash balances stood at US$26.6 billion (RM88.4 billion).

Petronas currently contributes 45 per cent of government revenue. Last year, the group reported RM52.5 billion in profit on revenue of RM264.2 billion, making it Malaysia’s most profitable company.

According to Singapore Business Times, “For the sake of continuity and for planning purposes, the reappointment of a chief executive of an important Malaysian government-linked company is generally announced way before his contract expires."

Some analysts say Hassan’s term is likely to be extended for another year, noting that “he is the best man for the job.”

It is felt that Hassan’s shrewd experience in the oil industry and fierce independence is also needed for Petronas as Malaysia is on the brink of charting a new economic model.

Petronas’ success in securing lucrative exploration rights in Iraq recently is also another boost for Hassan.

So why change for the sake of changing?

To quote Petronas adviser and former premier Tun Dr Mahathir Mohamad: “Perhaps, he has reached retirement age. He has been there for a long time. One has to retire, even if you are very good.”

The rumour mill is now in high gear, with Datuk Shamsul Azhar Abbas, the former managing director of Malaysian International Shipping Corp Bhd (MISC), said to be frontrunner for the post of CEO. It is learnt that the prime minister has met all three internal candidates last week.

Shamsul, 57, retired in January last year from MISC, a Petronas subsidiary and one of the world’s largest oil and gas shippers.

The other potential candidates are Datuk Anuar Ahmad (Petronas Dagangan Bhd chairman), and Datuk Wan Zulkiflee Wan Ariffin (former managing director/CEO of Petronas Gas Bhd from 2003-2007).

There is also talk that the prime minister is considering whether to fill the post of Petronas chairman when Hassan’s contract as acting chairman/CEO expires.

While the focus now is on the replacement for Hassan and president and CEO, but equally important is the position of chairman, given the fact that Petronas is the custodian of the nation’s oil and gas resources.

According to Dr Mahathir, it is important to have continuity in the oil company, and the CEO has to be someone from within.

Dr Mahathir has earlier signaled his objection to Hassan being replaced with a politician.

“The three currently shortlisted for the position are from Petronas and this means, they know the company. However, the chairman can be someone from outside. But the CEO has to be from within,” he says.

Many expect Hassan to be confirmed as chairman of Petronas.

Hassan also refused to comment on his future in the national oil company. “I think the best to comment is the government,” he says.

The ball is now in the PM’s court.

Congratulations Rocky!

(Zulkefli Salleh (left) and Rocky (right) receiving their awards from Acting Yang di-Pertuan Agong on Monday. Pix courtesy of Bernama's photo unit.)

Congratulations to blogger Rocky, whose real name is Ahirudin Attan on being conferred the Panglima Mahkota Wilayah (PMW) award, which carries the title 'Datuk’ on Monday at Istana Negara in conjunction with the Federal Territory Day 2010.

Rocky, who is currently editor-in-chief of The Malay Mail, holds the presidency for the National Press Club and is protem president of the National Alliance of Bloggers (All-Blogs).

He joins the ranks of other media bloggers such as Datuk Ahmad Talib (Pahit Manis), Datuk A.Kadir Jasin (The Scribe), the Star newspaper Group Editor-in- chief Datuk Wong Chun Wai (New Malaysia) and Datuk Ibrahim Yahaya (Dunia Tiger).

Ibrahim, who is Director-General of Broadcasting, added another feather to his cap when he also received the PMW award, together with Harian Metro group editor Mustapa Omar. They were among 27 recipients of the award.

Acting Yang di-Pertuan Agong Tuanku Abdul Halim Mu’adzam Shah presented the Federal Territory awards and medals at an investiture ceremony at Istana Negara.

My heartiest congratulation also goes to Zulkefli Salleh, Deputy Editor-in-Chief, Bernama General News Service and Mohd Ashraf Abdullah, Group Editor of Sistem Televisyen Malaysia Berhad (TV3) on receiving the Johan Mahkota Wilayah (JMW). Ashraf also blogs in his ‘Jejak Pujangga’.

Malaysia in the Spotlight For The Wrong Reasons

Thanks to saboteurs and hate merchants, Malaysia is now in the spotlight for the wrong reasons.

And, negative reports about a country are fodder to the foreign media, with the latest spate of attacks on places of worship in Malaysia attracting international media coverage.

It was not too long ago when the caning of model Kartika Sari Dewi Sukarnor grabbed the international media’s attention, with wide coverage on the issue after she was ordered by the Kuantan Syariah Court to be whipped six times.

She was drinking beer with her husband in a hotel in Cherating in 2007 when she was caught by Islamic enforcement officers. She pleaded guilty a year later. She was fined RM5,000 and sentenced to six strokes of the rotan by the Pahang Syariah High Court on July 20 last year.

There was public outrage over the caning sentence.

And now the controversial use of the word ‘Allah’.

I believe, the desecration of mosques would not have caught that much attention as much as the earlier episode involving the burning of churches following the high court decision granting Catholic magazine, the Herald to use ‘Allah’ in its weekly publication.

In the latest episode on Wednesday, pig heads were thrown into the compounds of two mosques in Petaling Jaya, almost a week after two suraus were torched in Johor.

The mosques are the Al-Imam Tirmizi mosque in Kuala Lumpur and the Masjid Jumhuriyah in a suburb between Kuala Lumpur and Petaling Jaya.

Both are located near Kampung Medan, where a bloody ethnic riot took place in March 2001.

This incident is the latest in a string of desecrations of places of worship across the country over the past three weeks, involving 11 churches, one Sikh temple, one mosque and the two suraus in Johor.

Strangely, the Sikh temple has become the target of attacks, although the issue had created tension between Muslims and Christians.

Are these culprits the same people? Police said they believed that the same people were behind the two incidents, which occurred around 6am.

If they are the same people, what exactly is their motive?

We have no answers but hope that the authorities find ways to bring these trouble makers to book.

Meanwhile, let us all remain calm and remain united amidst the tribulations.

Pig Head Incident – The Work of Cold-Blooded “Pig Heads”

It’s really easy to stir up racial tension, just target the places of worship.

And so, some cold- blooded “pig heads” were playing with fire when they had the nerve and the audacity to launch an assault on two mosques in Petaling Jaya today.

Their bullets – pig heads.

I just can’t imagine these heartless brats who dared to venture into this dirty mission. What do they get in return.

An eye for an eye? Vengeance will only lead to chaos.

Today’s incident was the most serious incident to hit Muslim places of worship following vandalism and other assaults at 11 churches, a Sikh temple, a mosque and two Muslim prayer halls across the country in the past three weeks.

The attacks were following outrage among Muslims over a Dec 31 court verdict that allowed non Muslims to use ‘Allah’ as a translation for ‘God’ in the Malay language.

Nineteen people have so far been arrested for their roles in the attacks.

Police and religious leaders called for calm and said that saboteurs may be attempting to stir up ethnic conflict in Malaysia.

“By looking at the modus operandi of the (pigs’ head) incidents... I think it is the same group that is involved in the previous attacks,” Inspector General of Police Tan Sri Musa Hassan told reporters.

“I think they are throwing money (to those carrying out the attacks) to cause such incidents,” he said, warning those responsible not to “play with fire” and undermine national security.

Let us all remain calm and not retaliate over this incident. Let the police deal with these bad hats.

Meanwhile, let’s pray to Allah for peace and harmony.

Apology Not Enough, Ruthless Aduka Deserves Punishment

By now, everyone knows Aduka Taruna, who shot to instant ‘fame’ for his libelous remarks towards the late Sultan of Johor, Almutawakkil Al-Allah Sultan Iskandar ibni Almarhum Sultan Ismail in his blog.

So far he has apologized and removed the post. But don’t you think this uncivilized blogger deserves some kind of punishment, like making him do community service?

Haven’t we had enough of crude Malaysians like Wee Meng Chee, formerly an undergraduate student at a Taiwan university, who gained popularity after releasing a controversial song fused with Malaysia’s national anthem, Negaraku in 2007?

People like Aduka and Wee probably have the same wavelength – the only difference is Wee is perhaps more “creative” by composing a rap version of the national anthem.

As an unknown blogger, Aduka had earned mileage by insulting the late Sultan with his remarks on his site. Or maybe he thought no one would have read his blog… only to be shared among his friends!

And mind that ‘bazaar’ language used on his blog ‘hubungi gua’ (contact me) and ‘calling2 gua (call me)!

This latest incident should also be a reminder for those on Facebook. Don’t go overboard. Stay away from sensitive issues.

Remember Mohamad Tasyrif Tajudin, an Arts Culture and Heritage Academy (Aswara) student who thought it was funny when he said: "ke nak aku baling bom petrol di sana plak?...harga boleh runding…” (or you want me to throw petrol bomb there? Price is negotiable) on Facebook.

He was charged under Section 233 (1) (a) of the Communications and Multimedia Act 1998 with knowingly using the application with the intention of threatening others.

Bravo to Our BTV Gals On Convoy To Gaza!

Bravo ladies, you have made us all proud!

Malaysians probably have seen them reading news on the atrocities during the Gaza assault, which saw civilians killed, and buildings, schools, mosques and hospitals deliberately targeted.

The two newscasters from Bernama TV, Masrenny Masri and Azmawati Azmi, along with two other BTV colleagues, Kuzaimah Idris and Juana Jaafar Manap, took the bold step by joining the Viva Palestina international humanitarian aid convoy to Gaza recently.

Kuzaimah, a former crime reporter at Bernama’s General News Desk, and now attached to BTV, proved to be versatile when she reported both for the wire service as well as for television, on their Gaza experience.

So you think you can say anything on Facebook?

Last week’s case of a student who posted threatening words on Facebook drives home a point that there are rules that you should follow when posting comments on the internet.

Rules are rules and there are some things that you can’t joke around.

While the 25 year old student was fooling around when he said: “ke nak aku baling bom petrol di sana plak?...harga boleh runding…” (or you want me to throw petrol bomb there? Price is negotiable) on the social networking site, his joke is not funny under Section 233 (1) (a) of the Communications and Multimedia Act 1998.

Mohamad Tasyrif Tajudin, an Arts Culture and Heritage Academy (Aswara) student was charged in the Petaling Jaya Sessions Court last Friday with knowingly using the application with the intention of threatening others.

Tasyrif’s case came in the wake of the controversial use of ‘Allah’ by the Catholic weekly magazine, The Herald, which aroused the anger of Muslims.

Several cases of arson at churches in the country were reported arising from the High Court decision on Dec 31 last year that the Herald had the constitutional right to use the word in respect of instruction and education of the congregation in the Christian religion.

Last Friday’s case serves as a reminder for those who have been using this social networking site by openly giving comments on such sensitive issues.

The ‘Allah’ issue is a sensitive one, and let us not get so emotional over this.

Some non-Muslims chose to worsen the situation with racial overtones in their remarks on Facebook as they failed to understand the reasons for Muslims’ outrage over the use of ‘Allah’ in the Church magazine.

And for our media friends, please respect the use of ‘Allah’. One newspaper recently spelt ‘allah’ (with small letter 'a') throughout in one story in its recent publication. Allah is the Almighty and the only one.

The first letter is a BIG A.

Use of ‘Allah’ By Herald – Controversy Best Resolved Out of Court

Take it from the wise man himself --our dear Tun --the row over the use of ‘Allah’ by The Herald, a weekly Catholic Church magazine, which has aroused the anger of Muslims, could have been resolved out of court.

In his blog, Che Det, Dr Mahathir Mohamad says the controversy started when he was still Prime Minister. The Cabinet then decided that the use of ‘Allah’ in the Bible was a sensitive issue.

Sensitive issues such as the recent controversy, cannot be solved by referring the case to the law, he says.

Laws, he points out, do not consider the sensitivity of an issue, whether it can cause tension or conflict among people of different faiths.

The correct translation for ‘God’ should be ‘Tuhan’, and not ‘Allah’, says Dr Mahathir. (Go to www.chedet.com)

There you have it!. Herald should have consulted Dr Mahathir for the right translation and not drag the issue to the High Court.

Meanwhile, the High Court today allowed a stay of an earlier order to allow the use of "Allah" by Herald, following consent by the Home Ministry and Roman Catholic Archbishop of Malaysia on the grounds of national interest.

Bernama report below:

Court Allows Stay Of Earlier Order On Use Of 'Allah'

KUALA LUMPUR, Jan 6 (Bernama) -- The High Court on Wednesday allowed a stay of an earlier order to allow the use of "Allah" by Catholic weekly, Herald, following consent by the Home Ministry and Roman Catholic Archbishop of Malaysia on the grounds of national interest.

Justice Datuk Lau Bee Lan, who had issued the earlier order on Dec 31 last year, made the ruling in chambers after meeting Attorney-General Tan Sri Abdul Gani Patail and counsel Derek J. Fernandez for Archbishop Tan Sri Murphy Pakiam for 30 minutes.

Fernandez told reporters that Lau agreed to record the stay by consent.

Abdul Gani was grateful that there was agreement for a stay.

"As far as I am concerned, it involves national interest, there is no necessity to get involved in an argument for a stay," he said.

"I am very grateful to my learned friend who has agreed for a stay and we will try to have this matter be heard as soon as possible in the Court of Appeal. I believe it can be very, very soon," said the attorney-general.

-- BERNAMA

(Go to www.bernama.com)

High Court Allows Stay of Order on Use of 'Allah' by Herald

F L A S H

High Court allows stay of order on use of "Allah" by Catholic weekly, Herald, after consensus by parties involved on the ground of national interest.
-- BERNAMA

NO to the Use of ‘Allah’ By The Herald

La illaha illa Allah- There is only one God and that is Allah.

Today, I joined thousands of supporters of a group page on social networking site Facebook in protest against a court ruling allowing a Catholic magazine to use the word ‘Allah’ in its publication.

The Facebook page, named in Malay as “Protesting the use of the name of Allah by non-Muslims" (Menentang Penggunaan Nama Allah oleh Golongan Bukan Islam) expects to draw one million supporters.

The Catholic Church, which publishes a Malay version of its newspaper, The Herald, says that it uses the word ‘Allah” for "the Christian God to meet the needs of its Malay speaking worshippers in Sabah and Sarawak.

The word ‘Allah’ is widely used among the indigenous Christian groups, most of whom speak Bahasa Malaysia.

The ruling by the Kuala Lumpur High Court followed a ban imposed by the government on the weekly Herald in January last year over the use of the word ‘Allah’ by Christians.

According to Reuters, more than 43,000 Malaysians protested online over the court ruling. And the page was drawing 1,500 new supporters an hour yesterday after the court ruling.

The Home Ministry yesterday said it had filed an appeal against the court ruling to avert misunderstanding and confusion among the people.

Meanwhile, the Home Ministry today filed an application to stay the execution of the High Court ruling that the word ‘Allah’ can be used by Herald.

Hearing is tomorrow.

With Blogs, Who Needs The Diary?

In the good old days, the diary was a platform to pen one’s thoughts over events affecting the owner. It was more of personal storytelling.

As internet access became commonly available, more people adopted it as another medium in which to chronicle their lives with the added dimension of an audience.

Today, the humble diary is fast losing its usefulness with the emergence of online diaries, or almost exclusively called blogs, though some differentiate by calling them personal blogs.

The running updates of online diarists combined with links inspired the term 'web log' which was eventually contracted to form the word blog.

In online diaries, people write their day-to-day experiences, social commentary, complaints, poems, prose, illicit thoughts and any content that might be found in a traditional paper diary or journal. They often allow readers to contribute through comments.

With the start of the new year, communication executives are on their rounds to media houses to distribute their “goodies” – diaries and calendars as a token of appreciation for the media support to their companies during the year that just ended.

Some have distributed them towards the end of last year – either at press nights or hand delivered to the respective media. Some choose to give the goodies early this month by dropping by at the respective media’s offices.

A courtesy call around end December and first week of January is not such a good idea as some of the key editors and reporters are on leave. Many are expected to be back in the second week. Hopefully, they come back in top form and not start work with a MC!

So back to the diary, companies used to hand out (large size) management diaries to editors. The trend has changed to regular and more compact sizes, which are not atypical diary. It is more of a notebook with ample space for writing.

I guess, companies have probably conducted a consumer survey on the use of diaries among their clients or journalists, for that matter. To ensure these diaries reach the right person, many companies made it a point to print the recipient’s name on the diary. Bank Rakyat and Ambank are two examples, with the latter producing similar red coloured notebook each year.

But how many do you need?

Well, let’s see. I place the Bank Rakyat management diary on my table to keep track of my appointments, and use the Ambank notebook for my regular meetings. One or two are kept for separate meetings, while the rest are distributed to my staff and close friends.

All my diaries are for official use. Nothing personal. I have not written any affairs of the heart inside the diary, lest someone may read all my secrets! I treat this blog ‘Getaran Jiwa’ my personal diary but some things are not meant to be shared with everyone.

Let your secrets remain with you.

High Blood Pressure – What A Start To A New Year!

The year 2009 did not end well for me, health-wise, that is. I didn’t get a clean bill of health as I was told by the doctor that I had high blood pressure (HBP).

I had expected it as I have been having stiff neck for the few days ending December and the pain kept me awake at night.

I blamed it on the stress at the office when work had to be completed before the year ended. The month of December was unusually busy – unlike previous years when many people would be away on vacation on some exotic island.

Going through staff appraisals, PTK examination papers, staff travel claims, preparing/conducting lectures for journalism courses in Bernama, briefing visitors to Bernama, preparing the KPI for my section, etc, etc. Whew!!!

There was a host of other things at work that I had to attend to which added to the stress, and you know what, due to the stress, I couldn’t remember exactly what else that I did during the horrible month of December!

It was because of all this stress that I had been having sleepless nights.And you can imagine when you can't sleep -whatever that is stored in your brain will flashback!

Back to my HBP, the good doctor asked me to have enough rest, and guess what, she gave me panadol to ease the pain. Anyway, I had to believe her that panadol is not a pain killer. It just relieves the pain.

What a day to start the year with a follow up visit to the doctor. The good news is my BP has reduced to a lower level, but “come and check your BP in the next few days,” says the doctor.

Well, so far I have not gone to the clinic as I was feeling much better after having enough rest after the three-day break.

For those with HPB, please don’t take it very lightly. Don’t be like me, I went to the doctor on the third day. High blood pressure is a serious condition that can lead to coronary heart disease, heart failure, stroke, kidney failure and other health problems.

About 1 in 3 adults in the US has HBP. HBP itself usually has no symptoms. You can have it for years without knowing it. During this time, though, it can damage the heart, blood vessels, kidneys and other parts of your body.

My advice is go for regular check-ups.