In Memoriam: Michael Joseph Jackson (1958 - 2009)

Technorati tags: In Memoriam, Michael Jackson, King Of Pop, Black Or White, Black And White

Walski won’t lie to you – he’s never been a big fan of Michael Jackson. Or much of any size fan. Or, a fan of most pop, for that matter. Not in Walski’s adult life, at least – his cuppa tea’s always been music with more edge.

Some people prefer stuff that’s “popular”, since everybody else likes it. Easier to fit in, he reckons, when you roam in bigger numbers – but Walski’s always preferred to rock to the beat of a different drum machine. That’s just the way he rolls…

That said, Walski will admit this: the world of pop culture lost a major icon today. And rightfully, the entire world today mourns Michael Jackson’s passing. He died early today, succumbing to a cardiac arrest. He was 50 (just a couple of months short of turning 51).

The boy had talent, and he certainly could dance – like no other person had danced before, or likely would again.

As an artist, Michael Jackson went through various stages of metamorphosis – from the young but talented baby brother in the Jackson 5, to the enigmatically bizarre pop icon. But in between, thru the many stages of change, he gave to the world what he will be best remembered for – hit and hip pop tunes and superhuman dance moves. In spades.

The King of Pop may be dead, but his legacy will live on for generations to come. 
(a Black and White tribute, and more, in the full post)

He has contributed much to the world of popular music and popular culture during his lifetime. About that, there is no doubt.

Walski could probably write a lot about Michael Jackson – the good, the bad, and the outrageously bizarre – despite not being a fan. But that would probably be a rehash of the millions of tribute pieces that would have been written by now.

Instead, Walski would like to highlight a side of Michael Jackson that many didn’t pay much attention to – his philanthropy. In year 2000, the Guinness Book of Records listed him as supporting 39 different charities. He also founded the Heal The World Foundation in 1992, aimed at providing assistance to the underprivileged. Jackson also spoke up for HIV/AIDS in the early 90’s, at a time when such action was still considered controversial.

Finally, Michael Jackson did leave one legacy behind that is entirely Malaysian. It’s probably something even the late King of Pop didn’t know about.

It’s called the Black & White – a mixture of soy bean milk and grass jelly. Generally known as Soya Cincau locally in Malaysia, it earned the nickname Black & White partly in honor of the King of Pop. Another nickname for this drink is, in fact, Michael Jackson – supposedly given by some coffee shop owner somewhere. A tongue in cheek tribute, but a tribute nonetheless.

In any case, Walski had this at lunch, while offering a silent toast to the departed pop icon… for all that Michael Jackson had given to the world of popular culture.

Here’s to you, Michael… thank you, on behalf of your many fans. May you finally find your eternal Neverland, and may your soul rest in peace. Until, of course, it’s time to put those dancing shoes on again, for that great gig in the sky…

Black Or White also happens to be one Michael Jackson song Walski actually kind of likes. For a couple of reasons – like the fact it came with an absolutely fantasticool video, particularly the morphing bits towards the end. But more importantly, because the song is about breaking down barriers of race and color – something that a color-blind person like Walski strongly believes in, too.

And it’s something that Walski thought most appropriate to close this post with.

The King is Dead… Long Live The King… forever in our memories.

Click here for the full post......

In Memoriam: Farrah Fawcett (1947 - 2009)

Technorati tags: In Memoriam, Farrah Fawcett, Charlie's Angels, Jill Munroe

If you’re around and about Walski’s age group, you will probably remember this iconic image of Farrah Fawcett, then known as Farrah Fawcett-Majors.

While her most memorable, and immediately recognizable, role was as Jill Munroe on the popular TV series Charlie’s Angels (between 1976 and 1980), Fawcett’s career actually began much earlier. She had started her career in the late 60’s, appearing in several commercials, and playing minor roles on a few TV series.

She had also appeared in The Six Million Dollar Man, along side then husband Lee Majors, as Major Kelly Wood, America’s first female astronaut.

She will, however, be best remembered for her role in Charlie’s Angels, as Jill Munroe, along side actresses Kate Jackson and Jaclyn Smith. Even though she was only on full time for one season (her spot replaced by Cheryl Ladd, playing Jill’s younger sister Kris Munroe), with cameo appearances in later seasons.

Although she remained active in film and TV, it is her role in Charlie’s Angels that will always be the immediate memory whenever her name is mentioned.  
(why this obit and not the other, and more, in the full post)

Walski recalls that just about every guy in his school class had a crush on Farrah Fawcett. She was a sex symbol, no doubt.

After her separation from Lee Majors, she had been romantically linked to actor Ryan O’Neil, with whom she had a son.

Walski chose to put up an obit on her first, instead of the other major passing of the day, primarily because Walski knew that her death would be immediately overlooked by many. And because Charlie’s Angels was actually one of his favorite TV programs when he was a kid, he figured that it’s important that she not get too terribly overshadowed.

Farrah Fawcett had been battling cancer ever since she had been diagnosed with anal cancer three years ago. At one point she was declared cancer free, as reported back in 2006 after treatment and surgery (via USA Today). But not long after, it returned.

She passed away on the morning of June 25th, 2009 (Los Angeles time – approximately 1:30am this morning Malaysian time).

May her soul rest in peace. The world's favorite angel finally gets her wings for real…

Click here for the full post......

A foot

Technorati tags: Humor, Crypticism, Politics, A Foot, 1Tangent

In all likelihood, no matter how shoddy an English language education you got in school, you probably would have heard that clichéd saying.

And yes, it is originally that foot...

If you actually haven’t, then the teaching of English is in even worse shape than Walski originally thought.

On top of that, there’s another saying: something is a foot. And since something can literally be anything, it means that our entire existence boils down to 12 inches. 
(12 inches of separation to rule the world, and more, in the full post)

Why? Simply because, 12 inches is a foot. And since anything in infinitely large numbers is everything. Our entire friggin’ universe – 12 inches.

If you’re trying to make sense out of all this, Walski’s advice is DON’T. Because it’ll never add up to what you hope it adds up to. It’ll just add up to 12 inches.

Because something is a foot. Something, like a standard ruler – 12 inches. Even those idiotic rulers with only metric scales on them. Centimeters on one edge, and millimeters on the other. Even if the ruler is physically a foot long. 12 inches, in other words. And what sense does a 12-inch long metric ruler make? Go figure…

Like, have you ever wondered if those foot-long hot dogs actually measure 12 inches? Or do you just take it for granted that they are, because measuring them would be too much trouble. But then, by default, if it were too much trouble, and since trouble is a foot… Yup – 12 inches, buddy boy. Case closed… and Walski would like fries with that, please.

Think of this post as one big tangent. But tangents, no matter how big, will always be 12 inches. If you’ve read enough posts on this blog, you’ll know that Walski is prone to go on tangents sometimes. And tangents can be a problem because it takes your mind away from the main point, discussion, or argument. Therefore, tangents to an argument can be trouble. Uh-oh… you got it… 12 inches. And it follows from there that tangents are a foot.

Exactly like that “unity talks is an Islamic duty" statement by Najib, which some say is contradictory to, and becomes a tangent from, the concept of 1Malaysia. And since tangents are always 12 inches, they are trouble.

Because trouble is a foot. Especially the kind that ends up in people’s mouths. Those are really trouble.

Walski hopes all this makes sense to you, because he sure as hell hasn’t a clue what the heck is going on anymore.

Trouble. Is a foot. Just like Something. Each.

And if you ain’t packing at least a full 12 inches, the best advice Walski can give you is to shut the hell up.

Click here for the full post......

Political Marriage: The Musical

Technorati tags: Humor, Politics, PAS, UMNO, Unity Government, Hegemony

A lot has been said of late about the now aborted unity government talks between PAS and UMNO. Some have even likened it to a marriage.

There’s probably some truth to that idea, Walski thinks. Had it gone ahead, it would have been a marriage based on love. But not any ‘ol kind of love.

Walski wonders if he’s the only one that sees it this way. 
(more hypothetical thoughts and musical “what ifs”, in the full post)

On a lighter note, Prime Minister and UMNO President likened exploring the possibilities of a unity government to a marriage proposal. The thought that crossed Walski’s mind when he heard this was “Hmmm… isn’t that like coveting another man’s wife?”

Oh, wait – Najib’s been down that road before, too.

But, kidding aside, Walski reckons that such a marriage would have been worrisome for many. Himself included.

For one thing, both bride and groom have multiple personalities that make up each whole entity. Each side, for example, have their fair share of conservatives, when combined into a unity government, could mean that any comment or criticism of policies would be tantamount to attacking Islam. Shannon Shah, through his article in The Nut Graph, seemed to think along the same lines.

Sure, both UMNO and PAS came from the same body politic, but that was in a time long, long ago, in a galaxy far, far away.

And what both parties have evolved into belie their more liberal beginnings.

The fear is that had the marriage gone ahead, the conservative elements on both sides would rise to the fore, and it would have been their way, or the highway. Or, that their way would be a highway in itself – one much worse than the other highway.

Hand basket sales would have never been brisker.

The other side of the coin is that mooting such unity talks were strategically designed to cause disarray in the Pakatan Rakyat coalition, and less to do with Malay and/or Islamic “unity”.

Which always begs the question – unity against what? Or whom?

Blogger Dr. M. Bakri Musa, in the opening of his piece, The Poison of “Unity” Government, pretty much asks the same question.

The two Malay political parties – UMNO and PAS – are battling each other to convince us that each is better than the other in advancing the “Malay agenda.” The two are like ageing fighters stuck with their same old tired moves. They are oblivious of the fact that we are fed up with their act; their lack of vigor and imaginative new strategies.

In a clumsy if not desperate attempt for new moves they concocted a ‘vision’ for a ‘unity’ government based on the two parties! Left unstated is the question: Unity for what and against whom?
(source: M. Bakri Musa)

And that’s where part of the fear was, too – that the “real” enemy for this intended marriage may just have been anything, or anyone, against what the proposed New Malaysian Order stood for.

Whatever the heck that would’ve evolved to become…

Politics, apart from having strange bedfellows, can be perplexing sometimes. But the aim of Malaysian politics, it seems, is the pursuit of power. Power and all the trappings that come with it, to Walski, is the real root of all evil. And when power is the real motivation, those in pursuit of it will stop at nothing. You know the saying about the corruptibility of absolute power, right? Well, the pursuit of it gets pretty ugly as well.

In any case, this talk of marriage between PAS and UMNO is now moot. For now, at least. It’s not the first time such “marriage proposals” have been talked about, nor will it likely be the last.

For the time being, we can go back to feeling how we did before all this “unity” talks emerged…

Click here for the full post......

Swinging from Poll 2 Poll

Technorati tags: Opinion Poll, Poll Position, Malaysia, 1Malaysia, Ideal Malaysia

Recently, Walski put up a poll asking if you peeps understood what the 1Malaysia concept is all about, or not. And the results weren’t all that surprising – although Walski was a little disappointed with the underwhelming response. But nevermind.

In any case, 75% of you didn’t have a clue. And quite frankly, Walski’s not entirely sure either – as did 17% of the poll respondents. And only 8% understand what it’s all about.

Okay, yes, Walski knows about the 8 thrusts and all that, but with the political appeasement caveats introduced, doesn’t it sound like status quo restated? At best, aren’t these 8 thrusts pretty much leading to the same damned thing that Vision 2020 wants to achieve? And by when?

More importantly, however, for Walski is this question – what kind of Malaysia would you like to see in the future, as a result, or despite of, 1Malaysia? 

Which, by some strange cosmic coincidence is exactly the question that the new poll asks (see sidebar).
(rules of poll response, and more, in the full post)

The poll will run for about 8 days or so, until the end of June. And as usual, if you have a blog on the Blogger platform, you can easily incorporate the poll by clicking the button below it.

Yes, the choices may seem limited, but then again, these are the possibilities Walski sees, based on the current situation. You can, by the way, add a response of your own, if you wish.

Personally, Walski would like to see a more democratic and a more liberal Malaysia. No one has the right to claim a permanent lease on leadership, nor does any individual have the right to impose their own morality onto another.

Then again, that’s just Walski.

Which is exactly why he put the poll up. What do YOU want as an ideal Malaysia down the road?

 

Click here for the full post......

Book Launch: "Things In Common"

Technorati tags: Books, Book Launch, Things In Common, Syed Akbar Ali

Friday, June 19th, 2009, saw the official launch of a book called “Things In Common”, written by Syed Akbar Ali. The book, for the most part, explores further a theme introduced in his second book, “Malaysia and The Club of Doom”, which Walski had reviewed back in 2006.

The book was launched at Kelantan Delights Restaurant, now located at Sooka Sentral, the food and entertainment complex just across from KL Sentral Station, by none other than Tun Dr. Mahathir Mohamad, former Prime Minister of Malaysia, who also is an active blogger these days.

Tun Dr. M, who was accompanied by his wife Tun Dr. Siti Hasmah, had also launched Syed Akbar Ali’s second book, some two years ago.

Also in attendance were luminaries from the Malaysian bloggerhood and world of journalism, such as Ahirudin “Rocky” Attan (pictured on the right), Big Dog, Nuraina Samad, Amir Muhammad, A. Kadir Jasin, just to name a few. All in all, according to the book author’s blog, about 120 people or so, including many of his friends and family.

More pictures from the launch can be viewed at the Minaq Jinggo Photopages. What Walski

Walski shared a table with Rocky, Nuraina, and blogger Alliedmartster, located somewhere towards the back, from where the rostrum and main table were. Rocky, of course, was recently appointed CEO of the Malay Mail, his second tour of duty, having served on the paper earlier.

The launch was not very different from other book launches that Walski had attended in the past – speeches by the author and guest of honor, signing of the book plaque by the guest of honor.

What was a little different about this launch was the short press conference afterwards – journos probing the thoughts of Dr. M on political happenings of the day. 
(more on the launch, with lots more pictures, in the full post)

In any case, the first to speak was Syed Akbar Ali, who started off by briefly explaining the motivation behind his third book. As mentioned earlier, “Things In Common” is an expansion of a theme introduced in his second book, that many things considered to be part of Islam today are not found in the Quran, but can be found in the scriptures of the other two Abrahamic religions, Judaism and Christianity.

This idea was first introduced in chapter 11 of his second book, “Malaysia and The Club of Doom”. 

Syed Akbar mentioned of a less than amicable relationship between the Islamic world and the West, and that many of the practices generally associated with Islam – such as cruel punishment of stoning of adulterers, temporal punishment for apostasy, and destruction of other faiths’ temples and icons – were blamed on the Quran. After all, the Quran is the primary source of Islamic guidance.

He states that this blame is off the mark, because many, if not all, of these Islam-associated practices are not even mentioned in the Quran. Many of these, however, can instead be found in the Bible, in particular the Old Testament. But this misunderstanding is not surprising – even Muslims, too, don’t know well enough what’s in the Quran. And more importantly, what’s not.

And so, Syed Akbar’s aim with this book – to bridge the gap of understanding. Not just of those in the so-called West, but within the Muslim community as well. But to understand the Quran, one must be able to read it in a language that one is comfortable with. This idea, too, is touched upon by Tun Dr. Mahathir later on during his 20-some minute speech.

“Things In Common“ is divided into four parts, with the first 3 parts examining in detail the practices generally accepted as “Islamic”, but whose basis cannot be found anywhere in the Quran. Part 4 focuses on Malaysia, primarily, and again ties in with his previous book, asking an implicit, but important question – where we are headed as a nation.

One thing Walski intends to do, but has not yet been able to, is to write a review of the book. Perhaps covering the launch has now provided an impetus.

Next up on the podium was Tun Dr. Mahathir Mohamad, with his keynote address. Tun is still sharp for his age, and his speech, peppered with his usual biting wit, is testament to that.

Tun began by quipping that he had felt apprehensive at first about accepting the invitation to launch the book, stating the current climate vis-à-vis Islam. He then made an observation that Muslims, particularly Malay/Muslims in Malaysia, were increasingly seeking exclusivity when it comes to their faith. That it is their faith, and their faith alone, that is the correct one, to the extent of ignoring and even rejecting any notion that there are similarities with other religions. In fact, many similarities existed between Islam and other religions.

And perhaps the evolution of this outlook has to do with the method of how we were learned about Islam. Tun recalled that when he was young, religion was taught on the basis that whatever was learned had to be accepted without question. The Quran was taught to be recited, but the emphasis was never on what information the book conveyed. Walski can attest to this fact – that we were expected to accept whatever we were taught without question.

Today, there are many interpretations of, and what constitutes, “Islam”. Or, as Tun put it, “many religions of Islam”. While this in itself is natural, the problem comes in when each school of thought regards their interpretation as the one and only valid one, and start regarding others as deviant. Loyalty is to their own ulama (learned person) and to the interpretation that their ulama has. The many “religions of Islam” today are literally at loggerheads with each other. The most well-known and obvious one today being the schism between Sunni and Shiah Islam.

But more than just divided, Muslims today are a confused lot, and are not able to derive guidance from the Quran. One reason for this is that by and large, the “study” of the Quran is limited to being able to recite the book in perfect pronunciation. Tun said that it is important to be able to read the Quran in a language that one is comfortable with, in order that the wisdom contained in the book can be derived. Only then can understanding be derived from the Holy Book.

Instead, the general expectation is that one can only learn the Quran from a teacher, and not on our own. The question then arises: doesn’t that teacher, too, use his/her own interpretation? So, certain interpretations (which may or may not be right to begin with) get passed down from one generation to the next, without the benefit of referring to the original Quranic text.

When it comes to Syariah laws, to Tun, the underlying principle should be justice, for which, through his own study, there are 42 references in the Quran. Justice is an important theme in the book, and using a few examples, concluded that whatever laws are unjust cannot be from the Quran.

One example that Tun Dr. Mahathir quoted was when it came to rape. The generally accepted precept that 4 male witnesses are needed to “prove” that the rape occurred is unjust. And as it has happened (elsewhere in the “Islamic” world), if rape cannot be proven, the victim is liable to be prosecuted instead. That is certainly not justice.

And when it comes to punishments, many that are generally accepted to be “Islamic” are actually do not originate from the Quran – stoning being one of them, which has been borrowed/adopted from the scriptures of other religions.

Being able to study the Quran in one’s own language, therefore, is important so that an individual is able to discern what is and is not from the Quran, and not have to rely on anecdotal information alone.

No book launch is complete without the guest of honor signing the plaque, and this occurred not long after Tun Dr. Mahathir concluded his keynote address.

And then, it was time for the press to have their time with both Tun and Syed Akbar Ali, which lasted for about 20 minutes or so.

Walski will attempt to do a review of the book in the not too distant future (hopefully later this coming week). He thanks Syed Akbar Ali for the invitation, and wishes him all the best for his upcoming book.

Yes, folks, you heard it – expect another book to come your way very soon. Walski’s not sure when, exactly, nor what the book will be about. Rest assured, however, that as soon as he knows, and gets clearance to announce something, you’ll be one of the first to know.

The following are more pictures from the event. If you get a chance, pick up a copy of Things In Common, available in major bookstores nationwide. Walski guarantees you an interesting read.

Read Syed Akbar Ali's own report of the book launch here. Blogger Big Dog, who was there, has his report on the book launch.

“Things In Common” has been reviewed by the following blogs (Long ago! Walski’s just late in doing this):
► Writing by Amir: In God we trust
► Rapera: BookIntro7: THINGS IN COMMON - SYED AKBAR ALI

Click here for the full post......

Top 10: Rocking the Iranian Revolution

Technorati tags: Humor, Top Ten, Iran, Green Revolution

Walski doesn’t know offhand if Mahmoud Ahmadinejad likes rock. In all likelihood, Ali Khamenei, Iran’s Supreme Leader (and not Diana Ross, as some people might think), detests such decadent music. Actually, Walski is almost certain that this is the case.

But the situation in Iran is interesting – it could very well develop into the country’s third revolution.

And if such a thing were to come to pass, what better way to commemorate the event, than with a rock-ish compilation?

Presenting Walski’s Top Ten Hits to Rock the new Iranian Revolution
(the Top 10 list, and more, in the full post)

10. Transmission (Joy Division)
If it transmits, very likely it's been blocked, or monitored/censored. There have been numerous reports, via Twitter and the blogs, about SMS network shutdowns, and about certain web sites and online services blocked. Not just after the election results were announced, but apparently even prior to the polling. Infidel airwaves, Walski supposes…

9. Enjoy The Silence (Depeche Mode)
One interesting and unique characteristic of the protests have been the lack of sound from the protesters. To underline the peaceful nature of these protests, that is. Some even taped their mouth shuts, signifying the suppression of their voices.

8. You Really Got Me (The Kinks)
In what's called a "guided" democracy, such as Iran, potential candidates for both the presidential and legislative polls are vetted by the Council of Guardians, a 12-jurist body appointed (6 directly and 6 indirectly) by the Supreme Leader (again, not Diana Ross). In the case of the recent presidential election, there were allegations of poll fraud, leading to the ‘desired’ outcome of Ahmadinejad being elected to a second term. This is not the first time allegations of fraud have been raised, incidentally.

7. Another One Bites The Dust (Queen)
Kinda self-explanatory, Walski thinks...

6. Smells Like Teen Spirit (Nirvana)
One thing Walski noticed about the protesters - their youth. Ok, maybe not teenagers, but you get the general idea. No? Live with it.

5. Loser (Beck)
What some Iranians probably call certain prominent personalities in government. True of any government anywhere, in all likelihood.

4. Any song by GREEN Day or GREEN JELLŸ, or Rev. Al GREEN
It's being called the Green Protest. If it goes as far as Walski suspects it might, it may one day be called the Green Revolution.

3. Won’t Get Fooled Again (The Who)
The Iranians successfully replaced one tyrannical regime with another tyrannical regime. Let’s hope that it’s a case of once bitten… and that they won’t be fooled again.

2. Na Na Na Na Hey Hey Goodbye (the Crazy Frog version)
The song was originally done by a group called Steam in the 60’s – Walski has chosen this particular version because it’s extra annoying. Just like how many Iranians view their government.

And the Number One song to be included in the new Iranian Revolution compilation album…

The Revolution Will Not Be Televised
(Gil Scott Heron)

In all likelihood, it will be the LEAST publicized revolution - since all media will probably NOT be allowed to cover it. Kinda like how it is currently in Iran, where foreign journalists have pretty much been under a lockdown.

So there you have it – 10 hits to remember the possible Green Revolution by. Coming to a record store near you. Probably sooner than you expect!

Click here for the full post......

Class

Technorati tags: Commentary, Zaid Ibrahim, Adnan Yaakob, Wolf In Sheep's Clothing

Walski's pre-post forenote: This post has kinda been brewing in the cobwebs of Walski’s to-be-completed pile for about a week, and will probably seem dated. It’s been kind of a busy week, and when that happens, posts don’t get completed in a timely manner. You might even say that this post is “so last week”. And you would be absolutely correct.

A simple 5-letter word like class can have numerous meanings. Amongst its numerous meanings, class can mean a division or rating based on grade or quality (via Mirriam-Webster).

And that’s the definition that Walski would like to focus on in this post.

When talking about people, too, class can be a defining factor. Particularly when trying to dichotomize a population, based on economic factors. Such as that shown in the diagram on the right – albeit, based on the structure of American society. But you get the picture.

In a society that has historically been feudalistic, Malaysia being one of them, we generally still identify station in life according to class. And there are many categories – too many for Walski to bother listing out.

And being that Walski tends to be somewhat egalitarian in his outlook, he simply categorizes people as those with Class, and those with No Class.

Especially when it comes to politicians…
(Class in the world of No Class politics, in the full post)

To be able to appreciate politicians with Class, it is usually helpful to examine those totally bereft of it. And for the present moment, no other politician epitomizes No Class, than the current Menteri Besar (Chief Minister) of Pahang, Adnan Yaakob.

Who can forget this classic clip (courtesy of Tumpang Sekole…?, via YouTube).

This politician is one that is known to shoot his mouth off – as opposed to speaking his mind – there’s a big difference between the two. Adnan, in commenting about former UMNO member Zaid Ibrahim joining PKR, said that Zaid was a “wolf in sheep’s clothing” (via Bernama). Walski does wonder if that makes Adnan Yaakob a wolf in wolf’s clothing…

"Before he was in the Cabinet for a short duration and tried to be a champion of democracy and freedom, but see what he has done against the government," he told reporters after attending a taichi exercise programme with the people, here today.
(source: Bernama)

Speaking of taichi, Adnan, who had been named as defendant in a lawsuit by Seruan Gemilang Makmur Sdn Bhd for breach of contract pertaining to a logging concession deal (as Pahang’s Chief Minister), has since refused to pay the compensation amounting to RM 63 million, as ordered by the courts. He has since, however, managed to obtain a stay.

You know, this talk about wolves in sheep’s clothing and all, made Walski remember this classic Gary Larson cartoon, from the now defunct The Far Side series.

But be that as it may, as Walski mentioned earlier, it is useful to look at No Class, in order to understand Class. Also partly because in Malaysia, there really aren’t that many politicians whom Walski consider have a lot of it.

And therefore, our case study is, not unexpectedly, Zaid Ibrahim – the target of Adnan “No Class” Yaakob’s blinkered party-line accusations. Zaid was, of course, formerly from UMNO (until he was sacked from the party late last year), and also formerly the de facto Law Minister – a post he quit from in protest of the abuse of the Internal Security Act.

To Walski, if there were any politician that could be said to have Class, it would be Zaid Ibrahim. Sure, there are those out there who are dead-set against Zaid, simply because of his liberal views on certain matters. Well, Walski has pretty liberal views, too. So, live with it.

In any case, this is what Zaid Ibrahim had to say in rebuttal (originally in Bahasa Malaysia here, translated by The Edge, via Malaysia Today):

Responding to Pahang Menteri Besar Tan Sri Adnan Yaakob's description of him as "a sheep in wolf's clothing", Zaid said he was surprised by the hatred from Adnan.

"Adnan is constantly accusing and insulting me. Some people say that he was one of the strongest proponents of my sacking from Umno," said Parti Keadilan Rakyat's latest high-profile signing.

"I've never being involved with any dodgy land or logging deals in Pahang hence I'm surprised by his attacks," Zaid wrote in his blog today.

The former minister also said that "anyone who seeks change such as eradicating corruption and curbing the abuse of powers or arguing against the Internal Security Act is seen as an Umno enemy". Adnan, said Zaid, had also complained that he had enriched himself through his relationship with Umno and Barisan Nasional.

"When Umno leaders are upset with me they constantly raise this issue. Nevertheless, I've always maintained that I'm neither rich nor was made rich by Umno.

"But since this is a recurring accusation, I suggest that the government repeals the Official Secrets Act and declassify all information pertaining to government contracts, projects and shares given out to ministers, former ministers, chief ministers and other Umno leaders and their families," Zaid wrote.
(source: PDF of a report in The Edge, via Malaysia Today)

No angry or insulting rhetoric - just a straight, in your face, gentlemanly rebuttal. Now that’s what Walski calls Class. The original Bahasa Malaysia piece by Zaid Ibrahim can be read here (via his blog).

But Walski does wonder if The Edge had really meant “sheep in wolf’s clothing” when they wrote their report… kinda like saying “Lipatan dalam gunting”, or “Batu di sebalik udang”…

Zaid joining PKR is probably something not unexpected. Still, it is a scary development as far as UMNO is concerned, primarily because now it brings about even more speculation as to whom else will cross over. Plus, it doesn’t do one iota of good for UMNO’s image.

We live in interesting times, people – the development politic is likely to get more and more interesting in the coming weeks, months and years. Whom else as high profile might we see crossing the Styx of Malaysian politics in the near future?

Whomever it may be, Walski hopes that they bring across Class…

Click here for the full post......

Farish One-on-One (Part 3)

Technorati tags: History, Malaysia, Communal Relations, Ethnicity, Religion

Related posts:
► Farish One-on-One (Part 1)
► Farish One-on-One (Part 2)

Finally, the long-awaited (and slightly delayed) third, and final, installment of the Malaysiakini exclusive interview with Dr. Farish A. Noor.

Since Walski thinks that you should watch the video (in fact, all three parts) for yourself, the 4 key words in part 3 that you should pay attention to, and strike him as being extremely relevant if we ever want to solve our own Malaysian problem: courage, truth, reconciliation and honesty. 
(some final thoughts on this series, in the full post)

Not to be ostentatious or anything like that, knowing that many of us are victims of a horrendous English language education, courtesy of our convoluted, yet broken, system of education, there is one word Farish has used that you may have a tad bit of difficulty with.

And that word is primordial. As with many words in the English language, it has a few meanings, depending on context. In the context of the interview, what Farish is saying is that our “existing in, or persisting from, the beginning” attachment to race and/or religion is continually getting stronger in Malaysia, evidenced by the kind of discourse we keep hearing, be it political or otherwise.

In other words, we are regressing, and not moving forward, as a nation. That is something very worrying for Walski. He thinks that many of you feel the same way.

Remember the four keywords Walski mentioned earlier? They are actually four very important concepts that we, collectively as Malaysians, MUST adopt if we ever want to move forward progressively.

Forget 1Malaysia – which is actually a good, albeit rehashed, concept, but with so many caveats that it has the net effect of bringing us back to square one.

Again, Walski urges you to view the video in its entirety. Then, ask yourself this question:

If South Africa and Indonesia can both overcome their painful histories, why the heck can’t we?

Click here for the full post......

A letter from Iran

Technorati tags: Politics, Iran, Green Revolution, Citizen Protest, Elections

Walski was alerted to via Twitter – hat-tip to @chinhuatw. Facebook users can read the posted letter here.

It’s a letter received from an individual, recounting what happened in Tehran yesterday, June 15th, 2009. Walski has edited it for readability and emphasis (plus the added pictures), but otherwise the contents are intact.

A letter I received from Iran right now... Be warned, not light reading.... 

Citizen in Tehran* reports his own observations on the course of events of 15th June 2009 in Tehran.

I left my home in Tajrish along with my family at 3 p.m. We went down Valiast Street which is the main northern-southern avenue in Tehran and entered the Evin Exp'way which leads to Enghelab Street. We knew that people are supposed to gather in Enghelab Sq. (Revolution Sq.) at 4 and march toward Azadi Sq. (Freedom Sq.). From Gisha Bridge onwards, we saw people walking down. Cars were blowing their horns and people were showing victory sign. We went to Navvab Street and parked our car at the end of the street. Then we took a taxi to bring us back to the Enghelab Street. On our way, near Jomhouri Sq. (Republic Sq.), I saw a group of about 20 militia with long beards and batons on motorbikes.

My hand was out of the car window with a little green ribbon (the sign of reformists) around my finger. One of the militia told me to throw that ribbon away. I showed him a finger. All of a sudden, about 15 people attacked me inside the car. They beat me with their batons and wanted to pull me out. My wife and my daughter who were sitting in the back seat cried and hold me tight. I also hold myself tight on the chair. They wanted to shatter the car windows. The driver went out and explained that he is a taxi and we are his passengers and he has no fault. After about 5 minutes,they left. My elbow hurts severely. Then, a young man from their group came and kissed my elbow! I told him: You know, I don't hate you. I am like you with the only difference that I know more and you are ignorant. He apologized and left.

We joined the crowd in Enghelab Street.

Read carefully:

(the rest of this letter, in the full post)

What I saw today was the most elegant scene I had ever witnessed in my life. The huge number of people were marching hand in hand in full peace. Silence. Silence was everywhere. There was no slogan. No violence. Hands were up in victory sign with green ribbons. People carried placards which read: Silence.

Old and young, man and woman of all social groups were marching cheerfully. This was a magnificent show of solidarity. Enghelab Street which is the widest avenue in Tehran was full of people.

I was told that the march has begun in Ferdowsi Sq. and the end of the march was now in Imam Hossein Sq. to the further east of Tehran while on the other end people had already gathered in Azadi Sq. The length of this street is about 6 kilometers. The estimate is about 2 million people.

On the way, we passed a police department and a militia (Baseej) base. In both places, the doors were closed and we could see fully-armed riot police and militia watching the people from behind the fences.

Near Sharif University of Technology where the students had chased away Ahmadinejad a few days ago, Mirhossein Mousavi (the reformist elect president) and Karrubi (the other reformist candidate spoke to people for a few minutes which was received by cries of praise and applause. I felt proud to find myself among such a huge number of passionate people who were showing the most reasonable act of protest. Frankly, I didn't expect such a political maturity from emotional Iranians who easily get excited.

My family and I had put stickers on our mouths to represent the suppression. Placards that people carried were different; from poems by the national poet Ahmad Shamlu to light-hearted slogans against Ahmadinejad. Examples include: " To slaughter us/ why did you need to invite us / to such an elegant party" (Poem by Shamlu). " Hello! Hello! 999? / Our votes were stolen" or " The Miracle of the Third Millenium: 2 x 2 = 24 millions" (alluding to the claim by Government that Ahmadinejad obtained 24 million votes) , "Where is my vote?" , " Give me back my vote" and many other.

We arrived in Azadi Square where the entire square was full of population. It is said that around 500,000 people can be accommodated in this huge square and it was full. Suddenly we saw smoke from Jenah Freeway and heard the gunshot. People were scared at first but then went forward.

I just heard the gunshots but my sister who had been on the scene at that part told me later that she saw 4 militia came out from a house and shot a girl. Then they shot a young boy in his eye and the bullet came out of his ear. She said that 4 people were shot. At least one person dead has been confirmed. People arrested one of the Baseeji militia but the three others ran away when they ran out of bullet.

At around 8 we went back on foot. On the way back people were still in the street and were chanting Allah Akbar (God is Great).

I was coming home at around 2 a.m. In parkway, I saw about ten buses full of armed riot police parked on the side of the street. Then I saw scattered militia in civil clothes with clubs in hand patrolling the empty streets. In Tajrish Square, I saw a very young boy (around 16) with a club who was looking at the cars to see if he can find something to attack. I don't know how and under what teachings can young boys change into militia.

I came home. Tomorrow, people will gather again in Valiasr Square for another peaceful march toward the IRIB building which controls all the media and which spreads filthy lies.

The day before Yesterday, Ahmadinejad had hold his victory ceremony. Government buses had transported all his supporters from nearby cities. There was full coverage of that ceremony where fruit juice and cake was plenty. A maximum of 100,000 had gathered to hear his speech. These included all the militia and the soldiers and all supporters he could gather by the use of free TV publicity.

Today, at least 2 million came only relying on word of mouth while reformists have no newspaper, no radio, no TV. All their internet sites are filtered as well as social networks such as Facebook. Text messaging and mobile communication was also cut off during the demonstration. Since yesterday, the Iranian TV was announcing that there is no license for any gathering and riot police will severely punish anybody who may demonstrate.

Ahmadinejad called the opposition as a bunch of insignificant dirt who try to make the taste of victory bitter to the nation. He also called the western leaders as a bunch of "filthy homosexuals". All these disgusting remarks was today answered by that largest demonstration ever. Older people compared the demonstration of today with the Ashura Demonstration of 1979 which marks the downfall of the Shah regime and even said that it outnumbered that event.

The militia burnt a house themselves to find the excuse to commit violence. People neutralized their tactic to a large degree by their solidarity, their wisdom and their denial to engage in any violent act.

I feel sad for the loss of those young girls and boys. It is said that they also killed 3 students last night in their attack at Tehran University residence halls. I heard that a number of professors of Sharif University and AmirKabir University (Tehran Polytechnic) have resigned.

Democracy is a long way ahead. I may not be alive to see that day. With eyes full of tear in these early hours of Tuesday 16th June 2009, I glorify the courage and bravery of those martyrs and I hope that their blood will make every one of us more committed to freedom, to democracy and to human rights.

Viva Freedom, Viva Democracy, Viva Iran

p.s.: If you find this report of any value, please share it with as many people as possible. Facebook is filtered and internet is very slow in Iran. Please somebody put this on Facebook.

* – actual name of the author has been removed

Walski will take it at face value that this did indeed come out of Tehran somehow. It exemplifies one important thing: that people can only take so much crap.

It’s also a lesson to those who think that staying in power via rigged elections, and then fabricating “people’s support” as “proof”, will stay in power indefinitely.

Finally, it’s an indication that even the people who have to endure “guided democracy” want the real thing instead. And Walski ain’t talkin’ about Coca Cola.

It may be a long time before the people of Iran can rid themselves of the self-inflicted shackles they put on themselves almost a generation ago. But you can’t hold down the will of the people indefinitely…

Click here for the full post......

Reaping what you sow

Technorati tags: Politics, Malaysia, Iran, Reap What You Sow

That old clichéd saying is surely coming true a lot these days – you reap what you sow. Both at home and abroad.

At home, in particular, at a harvest festival no less...

According to the Malaysiakini article clipped above, Rais Yatim, Malaysia’s Minister of Information, made allegations that “certain parties” were trying to sow discord in the East Malaysia states of Sabah and Sarawak.

As usual, a BN politician getting as much political mileage as he can at a public event. But it seems as though Rais was not informed that such talk is not appreciated during Tadau Kaamatan, the annual harvest festival in Sabah, where friends and foes alike put aside their differences to give thanks, and to rejoice.

Surprisingly, one would have thought that being the Information Minister, he’d have been better informed, rather than diving headfirst with the usual motor-mouth political mileage spiel.

Not exactly a good way to endear the hearts and minds of people… 
(but it’s not only at home in Malaysia, and more, in the full post)

Unfortunately, Rais Yatim belongs to the old school of politics. And coming from the ruling party, who’ve been the ruling party since forever (or 1957, at least), it means that it’s The Government Knows Best type of talk.

Despite being told that this particular archaic mode of governance is no more, by the Prime Minister himself no less, Rais simply falls back to the familiar tried, true and obviously, by today’s standards, failed. Of course, this lackluster performance wouldn’t be possible without Rais Yatim’s media advisor, another relic of days bygone – Chamil Wariya.

Times have changed, attitude and expectations have changed, but some politicians simply don’t have the capacity to embrace that change. These are the kinds that end up on the dusty top shelf, in a box labeled “Relics”. Soon to be fossilized.

But hey – you reap what you sow, innit?

Political know-it-all misadventures, however, don’t just happen in Malaysia. And in no way is Walski even suggesting that we have a higher per capita of political stupidity than the rest of the world. It’s just that being in Malaysia, you get to witness more and frequent faux pas of this kind.

And the biggest political know-it-all-misadventure that’s currently ongoing is the presidential elections in Iran, which just concluded last week. This one’s a classic case study.

Iran replaced one repressive regime with another repressive regime. And as is common with many repressive regimes, unconventional methods sometimes must be employed to ensure that one stays in power for as long as possible.

Including, but not limited to, election fraud. The following is an excerpt from an article entitled “A Stolen Election” by Keyvan Soltany.

Click to read the rest of the article. (via Averroes Press)

But then again, elections are really kind of pointless in Iran’s current system of government, which some politely call a “guided” democracy. A system that, unfortunately, has a base of support even here in Malaysia among some Islamists. Essentially, a show election is orchestrated, whose outcome is the “desired“ one. And this desire is typically controlled by an individual or committee (of clerics, in the case of Iran), who hold the real power.

And now, the people of Iran have just about had enough. The person many think they voted for, lost. Despite the ban, droves are pouring into the streets in protest, which the latest news reports indicate has seen a number of deaths. The shedding of blood is never good, but even worse in a politically heightened situation as that which is currently engulfing Iran.

What is happening there could very well be the beginning of an uprising that may see the the government of the Islamic Republic topple. And in the process, erupting into what could be a very bloody Iranian civil war.

The history of tyranny repeats itself. And by not heeding the lessons of history, the Mullahs of Iran may just have reaped what they have sown…

Click here for the full post......

Faux PAS

Technorati tags: PAS, Resolution, Khalid Samad, Faux Pas, Politics

Related posts (chronologically):
► One step forward, Nineteen steps back
► SOS for SIS
► A challenge to Zulkifli's noggin

The effect of some mistakes are difficult to undo. Even if those mistakes were sincere errors (we are human, after all). Including, that big faux PAS of a resolution…

What’s more interesting will be the response from folks like Zulkifli Noordin, PAS-in-PKR-clothing MP for Kulim Bandar Baru (to whom Walski directed a challenge yet to be answered), who came out strongly in support of the resolution (and added a few more demands). Not to mention the numerous individuals and organizations that voiced support for the PAS call for Sisters In Islam (SIS) to be investigated and possibly banned.

One thing Walski will say, though – Khalid Samad’s willingness to admit that an oversight had been made is laudable.  
(Khalid Samad explanatory videos, and more, in the full post)

Malaysiakini released a two part video, during which Khalid Samad made a long-drawn explanation relating to the chronology of events that led to the resolution being passed, plus the actual intention of the resolution.

Part 1

Part 2

More importantly, he explains the real intent of the resolution, and the intended approach - both of which were nothing like how the resolution was presented, and subsequently viewed by just about anyone reading it.

Khalid’s biggest mistake – assuming that his directive to amend the wording would be carried out (at the end of Part 2). Walski doesn’t need to remind you what happens when you assume…

Again, Walski reiterates what he’s mentioned before – there’s the PAS that its leadership envisions, and then there’s the PAS that is what its grassroots’ want. The two twains don’t seem to meet sometimes.

Be that as it may, for PAS to be accepted and acceptable to the general Malaysian populace, the perception of what the party is about is extremely important. The heavy-handed, authoritarian PAS of the grassroots’ idealism (as how Walski sees it), is not one that is going to be palatable for all Malaysians. Perhaps what the PAS grassroots needs to remember is that PAS is a POLITICAL party, and not God’s representatives and apostles.

The bottom line is that PAS is of the opinion that a number of stands that SIS has taken is not in line with PAS’s idea of what is Islamic, per what Khalid calls “mainstream” Islam. Which Walski feels is acceptable – it is their right to disagree.

If what PAS really wants is more engagement and dialog, that’s okay, too. What most people took offence to is the heavy-handed wording of the resolution, and the resulting projected perception that if it’s not the PAS way, then it’s the highway. Or worse.

Perceptions such as these, it must be said, is PAS’s own doing, as those are exactly the type of rhetoric we hear from its components and supporters.

Such a faux pas like the SIS resolution issue, and the fact that some of the party’s middle management thinking that the wording “wasn’t all that bad”, is not going to improve and elevate the party’s image one iota – admission of oversight, or not.

Click here for the full post......

Another death in police custody

Technorati tags: Police, Police Brutality, Malaysia

Updated @ 0701 hrs: Some error corrections, received via Twitter. Corrected information and additions in this color.

Deaths in police custody – it really is starting to sound like an epidemic.

Late Sunday (yesterday) evening, Walski was alerted via Twitter to yet another death while in custody. This makes it, what… the third this year alone? Not to mention other reports of police misconduct on persons in their custody.

Last year, Parliament was informed that between 2003 and 2007, some 85 deaths while in police lock ups were reported.

Details of this latest incident are sketchy at the moment, but this is what Walski had found out.

The deceased has been identified as Gnanapragasam Antony, who died sometime Sunday evening at 8:06am on Sunday morning while in custody at the Sri Damansara police station. His family was notified around noon.

Gnanapragasam Antony had complained to the magistrate last Thursday that he had been beaten up by the police. The man’s family, upon being allowed to see him the following day, reported that the man had a bruised eye.

The family was also told on Friday that they need not worry, as Gnanapragasam would be released on Monday (today) without any charges, or imposition of bail. It is not immediately known on what suspicion he was initially arrested. 
(a few more sketchy details, in the full post)

Gnanapragasam’s family, after some hours of negotiation, was finally allowed to see the deceased in the mortuary. His wife has apparently confirmed a bruise on the right eye, and scratches on left face, plus bruises on the left shoulder. However, when the family started to take photographs, they were chased out of the police station mortuary. The actual extent of the deceased’s injuries could not be further ascertained.

This latest incident makes it even more imperative that the full, unadulterated IPCMC (Independent Police Complaints and Misconduct Commission), recommended via a Royal Police Commission some 4 years ago, be implemented immediately. Instead, a much watered down, and not-so-independent body was put in place.

Coupled with the unnecessary action against peaceful protests this year, the continued deaths while in police custody further erodes the public’s confidence in our police force. While immediate action is taken against anyone and anything with even the slightest whiff of dissent against the incumbent government, our crime rate continues to rise. Particular violent crimes.

Walski will keep you posted on any disclosures and/or new developments pertaining to this latest shameful incident. The law is there for a reason, and no one, not even the police, should be above it.

Click here for the full post......

A challenge to Zulkifli's noggin

Technorati tags: Humor, Challenge, Zulkifli Noordin, Politics, Bully

This was suggested by one of Walski’s friends. And he, in turn thought that it was an excellent idea.

It pertains to Zulkifli Noordin, PKR MP for Kulim Bandar Baru and his incessant attacks on certain people, on the pretext that he’s “destined” to defend Islam.

Let’s have a look see whom exactly he’s been lambasting lately…

Okay, there’s Latifah Koya in relation to the Bar Council forum protest last August, which he was actively protesting.

Then, he objected against the reinstatement of Elizabeth Wong, and distanced himself from his party, PKR.

More recently, he took a swipe at Chew Mei Fun over her condemning the dress code decision by the Kota Bharu Municipal Council to impose a sportswear dress code.

Of course, there’s the now infamous IWK suggestion relating to supporting PAS’s call for investigating and possibly banning SIS.

Hey… it’s all been against the fairer sex, it appears. And it is exactly this epiphany that Walski’s friend had.

Which makes Zulkifli Noordin either a misogynist, or a bully. 
(the challenge, and more, in the full post)

Now, Zul, here’s an excellent opportunity for you to redeem yourself. To show just really how MAN you are.

And it has to do with what Anwar Ibrahim had said about the resolution passed by PAS during their muzakarah (via Malaysiakini).

On a separate matter, the Pakatan leader said he disagreed with PAS’ call for the National Fatwa Council to ban prominent women’s organisation Sisters In Islam (SIS) for its ‘liberal’ views.

“I don’t agree with the issue of simply banning any movements for no good reason as we support the principle of freedom,” said Anwar briefly.
(source: Malaysiakini, subscription required)

Well, Zul... what are you waiting for? Doesn’t Anwar Ibrahim, too, deserve to bear the brunt of your Defender of Islam superpower laser-mouth? And while you’re at it, include Mustaffa Kamil Ayub and Jonson Chong, both from your party, for having the audacity to not support the PAS resolution (via Malaysiakini).

Yeah, yeah… they’re all men. Walski knows that. But hey, it’s your destiny! Right?

Or is that bravado only reserved for those whom you consider weaker?

Take your time… no need to answer Walski’s challenge immediately. In fact, take your lil’ white hat off and let some blood circulation back into your noggin while you think about it.

But at some point we’d really expect to see you display your supreme jantan-ness.

So, please – don’t let us down.

Click here for the full post......