Truth is just an illusion

Guilty or Not Guilty

The nation will again be kept on her toes when  the decision of this infamous sodomy trial involving former Deputy Prime Minister,Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim (DSAI) is announced. A sequel to a similar story occurred more than a decade ago that tore the nation apart. The sensational case of 1998 has in fact divided the general public into three factions. One faction of society swayed strongly to DSAI side, convinced that he was merely a victim of a grand conspiracy by the government while the other faction strongly believed that DSAI was indeed involved as charged. While a small  faction, the fence sitters who chose to remain neutral. These three factions exist everywhere, in the public sector, the private sector and even in institutions of higher learning.

How did all these come about? The cause, to me, was rather obvious.The judgement passed then created a turbulence that led to this segregation of opinions. Whatever the situation my humble opinion points to the failure in the line of actions taken by the police on that matter.  Probably a KGB like operation would have saved the nation unnecessary embarrassments and avoided the present  political scenario. The unprofessional handling of the whole matter in 1998 was the main cause that threw us into this cauldron of uncertainty.The constant political upheavals too drained our financial resources. In short a Chua Soi Lek type of operation would be more effective to have the devil exposed and  this situation we now face totally avoided.

By the way, I wonder in the Chua Soi Lek's escapade, who was the smart Alex who executed his operation so smoothly that his identity remained intact to this very day? Phew! Probably he was trained by the KGB? Well mister mysterious, whoever you are you surely is my kind of man and you would have been my first choice candidate for the post of our intelligence chief.So much for that, whatever has been done cannot be undone.Just like the Malay proverb  'nasi dah jadi bubur' that's exactly the situation we are in.It's best we  look forward for the sake of unity and security of this country. A thing easier said than done all  due to the failure to react appropriately when the 1998 case was known.

Come 9 Jan 2012 ,what do we expect next? We know the outcome of the case of 1998 which later swung in favour of DSAI who was then released from his 'Sungai Buluh residence'. The aftermath of this thriller saw the birth of 'Reformasi','Parti Keadilan','Hindraf' and other movements including   "Bersih". 9 Jan 2012 is just around the corner and the pro DSAI supporters are already charting the course of actions to be launched and drumming up support to get DSAI released. The other faction too does not just sit down with folded arms and watch things go by.They too probably have plans of their own. Notwithstanding which way the verdict goes found guilty or not guilty, a turbulence will definitely further reshape our political landscape.A not guilty verdict too will interpret that DSAI again was an innocent victim of a grand conspiracy.A jubilant mood among the supporters with shouts of 'takbir Allahu Akbar' will surely and constantly echo aloud wherever this man, once the Deputy Prime Minister chose to visit.

D-day Jan 9

9 Jan 2012 is the time we wait for the second tidal wave concerned with the recent case of similar nature and charges preferred against DSAI by his ex aide. Though lots of controversies surrounded the investigation into this case, the honourable judge, will have to come to a decision after careful scrutiny and review all the evidences and facts presented  before him, A tough decision but someone has to do the job don't they?

 Of course we will again face yet another complex situation.As law abiding citizens of  this beloved country we need to react in a manner that will not bring unnecessary disruptions to our daily lives.Planned demonstration will further strain our financial resources and create difficulties to the general public,As peace loving people we have to accept whatever the outcome may be.Those dissatisfied with the decision or the present government can use their executive rights when the next general elections comes and hope that we Malaysians can put our differences behind and come together once again like we once used to be. Phew! This is easier said than done.

For the members of the Royal Malaysia Police  in the Klang valley, it means bad news as usual leave will be frozen and all are to be on' standby' a word hated by most serving in the Klang valley. But nothing to complain as members of the Royal Malaysia Police must realise that their responsibility to the nation is not a walk in the park which I learnt during my training days. Since 1998 street demonstrations and assemblies became a common affair.

Oh yes, don't forget to tune into the next episode of "Did He Do It?" concerning the controversial sex video clip that should be next after this episode, or is it just going to be filed away?

Lastly as a humble Muslim and just back from the holy land I always pray to Allah swt for the truth to prevail and when this happen  it can be painful but like it or not, the truth is the truth and has to prevail. Instability and chaos will only bring miseries and therefore I again pray for  Allah swt to protect this beloved country, avoid any catastrophe and  let us enjoy progress,everlasting peace and above all racial harmony. Amin

Liku-liku menunaikan ibadah haji



Perkmpulan umat Islam berbagai bangsa dan warna

Memang telah menjadi hasrat dan cita-cita setiap Muslim yang  bertaqwa dan mempunyai kemampuan dan kekuatan pasti agar dapat ke tanah suci menunaikan rukun Islam yang kelima ini. Seruan Ilahi adalah amat penting bagi setiap insan.Tanpanya tidak akan tergerak hati seorang itu untuk menjijak kaki ke tanah suci walaupun bertubuh  sihat dan berkemampuan dari segi kewangan.

Bagi saya sendiri urusan untuk menunaikan fardhu haji ini, satu ketika dulu, merupakan perkara biasa dan tidak diberikan keutamaan. Ramai juga yang berpendapat urusan haji lebih utama untuk orang yang  sangat 'senior' sahaja. Namun Allah swt yang menentukan segalanya dan sedih mengetahui ramai yang gugur sebelum dapat sempurnakan tuntutan agama ini. Benar sekali urusan menunaikan haji perlu di selesaikan pada usia bila kemampuan dari segi mental dan fizikal sedang kuat.

Menara Makkah ciptaan rakyat Malaysia

Namun, selepas 61tahun mengedut udara di bumi Allah ini saya akhirnya telah menerima jemputan dari Ilahi untuk menunaikan kewajiban terakhir ini. Pada saat-saat keadaan fisikal bertukar dari hari ke hari  maka bisikan-bisikan ke hati mempengaruhi saya agar mengambil langkah positif ini sebelum terlambat. Telah tiba masanya   bagi saya untuk membersihkan diri dari segala gejala yang telah ditempohi dulu serta menghilangkan tompok daki yang menebal di sanubari. Ini bukan perkara yang tidak mustahil tapi agak sukar juga. Tambah pula pada usia sebegini saya sebenarnya seolah berada dalam 'masa tambahan' atau ' added time'  saperti  dalam perlawanan bolasepak. Saya bersyukur ke hadrat Allah swt yang sepanjang hayat ini telah memberikan kesihatan yang baik tanpa masalah yang rumit.

Setelah melengkapi kehendak Tabung Haji (TH) dan menjalani segala proses yang dikehendaki hati mula berdebar menunggu tarikh untuk berangkat. Kerisauan juga sentiasa bermain dalam jiwa maklumlah bak kata mereka ilmu saya ini belum cukup di dada dan apakah dugaan saya akan hadapi di sana nanti? Rombongan saya dijadualkan berlepas dari Pulau Pinang. Respon dari sms yang dihantar setiap pagi dan petang  ke TH juga mengeciwakan kerana tidak mendapat respon yang diidamkan tapi teman-teman lain yang dipilih lebih lewat telah pun dapat tarikh berlepas mereka.

Rombongan kami yang terdiri dari empat orang masih berada dalam keadaan suspen. Suspen menunggu kami berakhir bila tarikh penerbangan terakhir dari pulau mutiara berlepas pas 19 Okt 2011 dan kekeciwaan dan curiga pula mula dirasai  kami, takut di tolak pula pada saat-saat terakhir.Perkara ini pernah berlaku kepada seorang teman saya beberapa tahun yang lalu. Apakan daya semua ini disusun rapi oleh Allah swt begitulah kata orang.Kelegaan dirasai apabila pada 21 Okt 2011 kami dapat bernafas lega mengetahui keberangkatan ke tanah suci dtetapkan pada 26 Okt 2011 tapi akan berlepas dari KLIA dan bukan Bayan Lepas saperti kami harapkan.

Klinik TH di Makkah

Rantai pengenalan jemaah haji

Apakan daya pertukaran ini mungkin ada hikmah yang tersembunyi. Memang  usaha TH dalam pengurusan keberangkatan jemaah  haji Malaysia berjalan lancar namun masih terdapat banyak kelemahan yang dapat diperbaiki untuk jadikan TH salah satu badan pengendalian haji terunggul dan berkesan.

Terdapat kelemahan-kelemahan kecil yang seharusnya tidak timbul. Antara kelemahan yang perlu diberikan perhatian segera oleh TH demi memperbaiki khidmat kepada jemaah  Malaysia adalah saperti berikut:-

1. Kurangkan kos pos - Kenapa TH harus menghantar gelang pengenalan diri melalui pos yang melibatkan kos. Pelik  pula pasangan suami isteri yang tinggal serumah di kirim 2  bungkusan  berasingan yang mengandongi gelang pengenalan masing-masing.Tidak dapat diterima  kenapa tidak dimasukan dalam satu sampul saja?

Sepatutnya bagi menjimatkan perbelanjaan wang yang besar dalam penghantaran benda ini TH boleh menyerahkan gelang pengenalan diri ini semasa jemaah-jmaah datang menyerahkan paspot mereka di pejabat TH di mana TH telah menyerahkan bag dan barangan lain pada ketika itu. Wang penjimatan kos pos ini dapat digunakan untuk hal lain demi kebajikan dan keselesaan jemaah kita.

2.  Kursus perdana dan haji juga tidak mengadakan taklimat ringkas keselamatan tentang langkah-langkah yang perlu diambil sekiranya berlaku sesuatu di tempat penghinapan di maktab, hotel dfan Mina. Bukan semua jemaah yang mempunyai pengetahuan tentang penggunaan alat pemadam api dan hos air. Prosedur menyelamatkan diri  (evacuation) semasa berlaku sesuatu di penghinapan perlu diterangkan dengan jelas kepada semua bagi elakkan kehilangan nyawa jika berlaku sesuatu hal.

3.  Penantian adalah satu seksaan, TH perlu tindak lebih positif dalam menyusun penerbangan jemaah ke Makkah.Apabila butir yang diperlukan dari jemaah telah lengkap diperolehi maka mereka ini boleh disenarikan dalam senarai penerbangan pertama,kedua dan seterusnya. Sekiranya ini dibuat maka bila ada pesawat maka terus diberitahu kepada semua yang tersenarai memberikan masa yang menasabah untuk jemaah membuat persiapan rapi. Apabila ditanya jawapan yang diberikan sama saja iaitu mennunggu pengeluaran jadual penerbangan. Masalah timbul pada jemaah yang tidak dapat buat kenduri doa selamat sebab jadual penerbangan belum diperolehi. Tak kan nak buat doa selamat sebelum ketahui tarikh berangkat apakan jadi sekiranya tiba-tiba tak dapat pergi. Macam mana ni?

4.   Urusan 'check in' jemaah di Kelana Jaya perlu di kaji semula. Di kompleks TH di Bayan Lepas semua keluarga yang menghantar di hadkan sehingga satu kawasan dan tidak dibenarkan masuk ke kawasan kompleks.Proses berjalan dengan lancar. Kenapa pula di kompleks TH Kelana Jaya SOP berlainan. Semasa proses daftar masuk penerbangan kami hujan turun dan keadaan di Kelana Jaya sangat kucar kacir.Suasana sangat sesak dan orang ramai berada dimerata kawasan dalam kompleks yang menyulitkan proses periksa masuk jemaah.Mereka langsung tidak bertimbang rasa kepada jemaah yang perlu urusan untuk penerbangan ke tanah suci. Mungkin 1 atau 2 orang sahaja bagi setiap jemaah yang dibenar ke komplek untuk bantu jemaah yang akan berangkat.

5.  Di Mina pula penyebaran maklumat perlu lebih berkesan. Pembesar suara yang  mencukupi hendaklan dipasang disegenap pelusuk perkhemahan jemaah Malaysia supaya siaran jelas kedengaran dan setiap arahan dan hebahan sampai ke semua. TH menggunakan 'megaphone' alat pembesar suara tangan yang kadang menimbulkan masalah. Saya perhatikan khemah jemaah haji negara jiran kita mempunyai sistem penyampaian maklumat melului pembesar suara yang begitu jelas jadi kenapa kita pula yang ketinggalan?

Perkhemahan di Mina

6.  Pergerakan menuju ke Arafah memang baik dan  teratur pada mulanya. Jemaah  diperuntukkan nombor bas masing-masing untuk dinaiki. Malangnya pergerakan selepas Arafah ke Musdalifah dan Mina menjadi haru biru bila jemaah diberitahu mereka boleh menaiki mana-mana bas yang kosong pada hal keadaan ini dapat dielakkan sekiranya mereka kekal dengan arahan terdahulu bagi semua mengikut nobor bas masing-masing. Pengumuman bahawa jemaah  boleh menaiki mana-mana bas yang kosong menimbulkan keadaan 'stampede' yang  tidak diingini.Kasihan melihat jemaah-jemaah yang lanjut usia dan yang kurang upaya yang tidak di pedulikan langsung. Maka adalah lebih baik mengikut  arahan terdahulu agar mereka menaiki nombor bas  mengikut nombor yang diperuntukan kepada mereka.

Masakan ala mana ni?

7.  Dalam khemah di Arafah dan Mina  juga sepatutnya ada petanda/petunjuk arah Kiblat. Memang terjadi kumpulan jemaah-jemaah yang bersolat berkiblat ke  arah yang lain-lain disebabkan tidak ada petanda dalam khemah untuk tujuan ini.


Dapur di Mina -Mamat mana jadi tukang masak ni?

8.    Tahun demi tahun terdapat sungutan yang sama berkait mutu makanan yang disediakan . Dalam hal ini TH patut tentukan mutu makanan yang berkualiti dan sesuai dengan citra rasa jemaah Malaysia. Makanan yang diberikan tidak sesuai dimakan oleh jemaah malaysia. Jelas TH akan hadapi masalah  sekiranya jemaah jatuh sakit disebabkan masalah kurang makan. Makanan yang sihat akan jaminkan tubuh yang sihat. Hairan juga makan yang disediakan ini bukan citra rasa Malaysia pada hal kita dimaklumkan bahawa TH mengendalikan dapur penyediaan makanan di tanah suci. Apakah ada jawatankuasa 'food tasting' yang terlebih dahulu merasai masakan sebelum dipilih untuk dihidangkan semasa musim haji? Sekiranya persediaan makanan di kontrakan dalam hal ini Wafa Catering maka sepatutnya TH pastikan makan dapat diterima oleh semua. 

9. Masalah perumahan terutama di Makkah merupakan perkara yang rumit, namun terdapat bilik yang tidak diberikan sekurangnya sebuah meja kecil bagi meletakkan minuman dan sebagainya. Juga perlu ada kipas angin kerana terdapat jemaah yang hadapi masalah dengan hawa dingin dan kipas angin dapat membantu keselesaan penghuni.

10. Saya dapat tahu dari seorang kenalan lama yang merupakan ahli jemaah haji Indonesia bahawa setiap jemaah mereka yang mengisi borang permintaan dibekalkan 20 naskah Al-quran secara percuma untuk mereka wakafkan apabila tiba ditanah air nanti. Malangnya jemaah haji kita hanya diberikan senaskah seorang padahal jumlah jemaah Indonesia jauh lebih ramai dibandingkan dengan Malaysia.

11. Taklimat ketibaan dan keberangkatan diadakan ditempat yang sempit dan kurang sesuai dengan jumlah jemaah yang ramai. Dewan 'banquet' hotel di hotel kami di Madinah tidak digunakan seharusnya TH menggunakan tempat ini sebagai dewan makan dan taklimat dan memberikan kesenangan kepada jemaah yang terpaksa makan di 'corridor' di bilik penghinapan.

Memang ramai yang sungut dengan masalah yang dihadapi tapi pada pendapat saya yang penting ialah makanan yang perlu diutamakan untuk memastikan setiap jemaah Malaysia semasa berada di tanah suci dikurniakan Allah swt dengan menikmati kesehatan yang baik dan dengan keadaan sedemikian dapat menunaikan ibadah haji dengan sempurna.

Kita juga terima bahawa Allah swt memang akan duga umatnya di tanah suci. Saya telah menerima suntik 'influenza' dan sehat sebelum berangkat namun kuasa Allah swt lebih besar. Saya jatuh sakit 3 hari selepas tiba di Makkah menghidap selsema dan batuk yan begitu dahsyat sehingga sampai ke tahap putus harapan untuk terus berada di sana.Namun kesabaran memng diperlukan demi menghadapi dugaan ini. Apa lagi semasa berkeadaan sedemikan selera makan juga hilang dengan hidangan yang langsung tidak membangkit selera sediaan TH.

Petugas yang ke tanah suci juga perlu faham mereka ke sana demi untuk memberi khidmat kepada jemaah sepenuh masa tambah pula merek di biayai oleh TH dan ini adalah wang ahli-ahli yang merupakan jemaah sendiri.

Semoga TH dapat terima segala tegoran dengan sikap terbuka dan memperbaiki keadaan demi untuk kebajikan, keselesaan jemaah haji Malaysia yang akan datang dan tidak sekadar 'masuk telinga kanan keluar telinga kiri'

When will this end?

This time a land issue

Looks like we are a punching bag each time certain issues   are brought up by our neighbour across the Straits of Malacca. Just cannot comprehend why there are certain groups there that don't seem to like us. Last year when a maid was  abused by her employer here our Embassy in Jakarta  got clobbered. Similarly issue about Ambalat sparked the same ferocious demonstrations happened at our Embassy and many more with same pattern happened.This has been going on for years. Is our bilateral relations that cordial? Why are matters not deliberated in a civilised manner and why must such uncalled for conduct take place.

As far as I am concerned good relations picture to  exist only among the top echelon of both countries and of course this happens over golf  sessions. When it come to grass root level, not much can be shout about.Let's take any sport between us.We can visualise the situation that normally prevail at these events. So this is indeed a great problem and needed to be addressed seriously. Possibly many more people to people exchange programmes should be on the government's agenda with the sincere hope to improve and foster greater relations about this pain in the you know where problem.

This time around it is the issue of  'illegal' land acquisition in West Kalimantan  that was used as an excuse again to bombard our Embassy  in Jakarta. What are the next issues  on their check list? This  is  entirely unknown and we  just have to sit and wait for the next wave.There seems to be no end in sight.

During my sojourn in Pontianak, West Kalimantan as the Police Liaison officer regular meetings and consultations were held between us and them. Apart from the operational meetings targeted on the remnants of the communist elements of the 'Pasukan Rakyat Kalimantan Utara' (Paraku)  along the common border, civil matters and others matters of mutual interest were also deliberated.

In the early 80s "Rapat Kordinasi' (Rakor) meetings were held  twice a year   between military commanders from Malaysia and Indonesia.The border survey issue was also on the agenda. Subsequently both countries agreed on the border demarcation and no problem or anomilies were brought up on this. How come some smart Alex come up with this issue now?.

If someone removed the stones at certain stretch of the borderline then investigations should be conducted by both sides and have the culprit responsible for this serious act be brought to face the music. There is no need for all this stupid drama.

As Malaysian we should be proud that we are not in the same boat and can be said to be more disciplined. On no occasions did we ferociously attack any Embassy as what happened in Jakarta. Massive demonstrations at the US Embassy  KL too did not reach the mark of what happened to our Embassy in Jakarta.During one of the demonstration at our Embassy, our national flag was  strewn with faeces by the demonstraters.This is a grave humiliation and an act of sheer stupidity.

Of course the normal SOP of  the Foreign Ministry is to sent a protest note and that's about all. Wait till the next incident another note and the Indonesian Foreign Ministry will have volumes of our protest notes.One prominent politician  recommended that we  call home our Ambassador in retaliation and I tend to agree and probably this will pass the correct message through.

Each time something like this takes place what we know from the media is that the demonstration only involved a small group of people.Now, if a small number was involved and no executive action was taken how can they handle if a few hundred thousands come out to protest. Sometime ago the 'screening of  Malaysians' ops were carried out in Jakarta and again it was  stated that only a 'few' were really involved. Well, if the number was small strangely, why nothing was done. Why these 'few' were allowed to put up road blocks to check on Malaysians and no arrests made for these illegal road block?.

We need to make sure that no violent protests happens again.But we can accept anything that's being done in a civilised and professional way. Don't expect too much on this either.

Of course we expect the Indonesian politicians to handle matters like this which affects our bilateral relations but on the other hand we too just can't fold our arms and forget about it.We must be kept informed of the line of actions taken and justifiably  the Malaysian public should be kept abreast of what was achieved from the protest notes sent.

As mentioned earlier , apart from government to government exchanges,  more people to people and group to group exchanges should be put in place with the hope that the grass roots level interaction is at the highest expected level and this can in a way improve our  bilateral relationship. After all as they say we are 'serumpun'. At times I kept pondering as to why we bought the scorpene subs and Sukhoi jets?

Well, the ball is now at the Minister of Foreign Affair's feet.

 

Who cares?

How this happened?

On a recent walk around KL with an old friend who came visiting from Pontianak I was shock to see some worrying cracks on  the concrete rail behind the Dayabumi building leading to  Pasar Seni. I was indeed curious to know what really caused these cracks? The  little brain   between my ears  suggest that these cracks could indicate the possible existence of a    subterranean stream or can also be due to the effect of  the many earth quakes from across the Straits or for some other reasons I do not know.



Visible cracks



I wonder  whether any checks or investigations were done on matters like this. Maybe no one realises this or it could just be that trivial matters like this usually go unnoticed. In short someone is sleeping on his job. Only when incident like  a sink hole happened then fingers will start pointing up, down, left, right and center searching for a scapegoat. This, of course is our national trend.



What is the cause?



Even a minute matter like this needs to get  answers about the cause.If there is no cause for alarm , then it is okay. But isn't prevention  better than cure?

So who is responsible for this? I hope the relevant authority conduct investigations to establish the causes and ensure that nothing is actually wrong. Is this a construction defect? Aren't they supposed to ensure worries like this don't happen? If so, then why this and furthermore no rectification efforts were  made.  I am neither an engineer,seismologist nor geologist but,whatever the situation let's hope nothing serious occur and life can go on usual. May Allah protect us always!





Sacrifice of a brave journalist

It is indeed a sad day for Malaysia and in particular to the Malaysian humanitarian group to Somalia. Noramfaizul Mohd Noor a member of the media group went with a mission to record all activities of the humanitarian group in Somalia and died a hero. However this was destined to happen and the risks are obvious to everyone. A war journalist can never avoid risks and that includes death.

However some important factors need to be focused to ensure the safety of future mission members and to maintained a high level of alertness. Recollecting my experience while in the Balkan, upon our arrival a security brief was given to all mission members. We knew clearly about the risks we faced and everyone of us left everything to Almighty God. The dos and the don'ts were made clear to us before we went on our various assignments. But although much was said  we have to accept that  fate knows no one and can strike without notice and this can be painful to accept.

Also on mission like this, like it or not, all  should wear the flak jacket and helmet as a precaution each time on assignment as danger lurks in every corner. Hopefully future missions to conflict areas anywhere in the globe should undergo a proper briefing before departure as well as upon arrival. Necessary equipments should also be supplied to each and every member of the group including communication.Members should   be physically fit as conditions, in particular, in conflict areas demands this. Probably some form of training is conducted here before departure to expose members to circumstances they might encounter at their destination.

Whatever the situation, what was done cannot be undone and what is more important here is that a lesson is learnt from this unfortunate incident. In a conflict area like Somalia, although the government is responsible for the safety of everyone, they cannot be totally blamed.One must clearly remember that the government faced limitations by years of conflict and the individuals concerned have to ensure his or her own security in a volatile zone like in Somalia.

We must also accept that this  will not be the end and it will happen again because the risks are always there and everyone on a mission like this understands this very well.In conflict areas the  risks cannot be eradicated totally. So at this juncture there is no point crying over split milk but instead we should focus our efforts to  improve standards and plan for future missions.

 Noramfaizul Mohd Noor, may Allah swt bless your soul and the family should remain strong in the face of such a calamity. It is hoped that whatever promises made to the family by the government is not a mere lip service but a reality. 

Noramfaizul Mohd Noor, may Allah bless your soul. Alfatihah.



Menjelang 1 Syawal - Kenangan mengusik jiwa




 Meriam Raya tradisional Pontianak

  Yaa! 1 Syawal yang di tunggu-tunggu sudah pun sampai. Sealiran dengan kedatangan Hari Raya dan di dalam keghairahan untuk berada di kampong halaman pada hari raya maka dijangkakan banyak  kemalangan di jalanraya akan berlaku yang sepatutnya dapat dielakkan. Kewaspadaan dan bersikap lebih tanggongjawab boleh mengelakkan perkara ini.

Di kampong dan luar bandar pula bakal terdengar kejadian mereka yang cedera atau hilang  jari akibat cuba mencipta   mercun sendiri atau kerana bermain meriam 'artileri' ciptaan sendiri juga. Semua in ternyata mengundang bala di kala perayaan menjelma.Ibu bapa mestilah mesti mengawasi anak masing-masing supaya hari raya tidak menjadi hari bersedih pula. 

Walau pun kerajaan mengharamkan pembakaran mercun dan permainanan apa jenis meriam pun dan disamping nasihat dan amaran bertubi-tubi tentang bahaya ini,namun semua ini saperti menuang air di daun keladi saja. Banyak bahan haram ini di seludup masuk ke sini dari negara jiran dan sudah menjadi perkara biasa saja. Pada malam ini pun telah mula bunyi mercun di sana sini. Sepatut risikan di pertingkatkan sepanjang tahun  untuk melumpuhkan kegiatan ini dan sekali gus hapuskan budaya asing ini.

 

Di pinggir Sg Kapuas,Pontianak

Mengimbas tentang bermain meriam ini,maka teringat pula saya semasa bertugas di Pontianak,Kalimantan Barat pada tahun 80an dulu. Di sana permainan meriam raya merupakan yang paling hebat di seluruh Indonesia. Yang pelik, tak pula terdengar  berita tentang orang yang cedera akibat bermain meriam  semacam yang terjadi disini.Pada hal meriam  mereka itu lebih besar dan  bunyinya pun lebih dahsyat seakan macam perang di Iraq lebih kurang kuatnya.

Tambah pula meriam  mereka di perbuat dari batang pokok-pokok besar. Tapi sekarang telah ada meriam moden diperbuat dari konkrit barangkali.Beberapa hari sebelum raya lagi dah mula 'perang' meriam disana. Suasana memang sungguh meriah sekali yang tidak dapat kita tandingi.

Pada waktu senja berdentam-dentum bunyi meriam mengisi ruang udara Pontianak hingga tak terdaya pihak berkuasa nak bendung hal ini. Apakan daya, ini sudah menjadi budaya berzaman masyarakat setempat di Kalimantan Barat. Satu tradisi sejak dari pemerintahan Kesultanan Melayu Pontianak lagi. Mainan meriam juga dikatakan berlaku di Lampung,Sumatra tetapi tak sehebat di Kalimantan Barat. Dentum-berdentum bunyi meriam raya ini pun berkesudahan dengan semuanya aman tenteram juga. 

Setiap kali menempuh Ramadan fikiran saya akan melayang mengenangkan hari-hari raya saya di Kalimantan Barat.Pengalaman ini akan terus kekal terpahat  abadi di sanubari saya. Berhari raya di perantauan buat pertama kali dalam hidup saya, itulah yang sangat bermakna kepada saya kerana suasana yang saya alami disana tidak  pernah di rasai di negara sendiri.


Meriam moden sekarang

Pada yang berkemampuan dan kesempatan pergilah dan menikmati sendiri suasana hangat sebelum dan semasa hari raya di Pontianak. Tradisi   pada malam sebelum hari raya dahulu juga sangat luar biasa sekali.Jalan-jalan di kota  penuh sesak dengan motosikal dan kenderaan membunyikan hon serta bertakbir raya menandakan selesainya ibadah puasa dan hari raya telah pun tiba. Tapi dengar khabar perkara ini tidak  lagi di adakan di telan pembangunan.

Suasana Ramadan juga membawa kesan yang manis pada diri saya. Bersahur di Pontianak juga sangat istimewa kerana warga kampong akan bergerak di sekeliling kampung memukul tin dan tiang letrik untuk bangunkan penduduk setiap hari untuk bersahur. Suasana berbuka puasa pula adalah saperti biasa dan masing-masing  tertumpu di rumah.

Ketika itu tidak ada pasar Ramadan semacam kita disini. Di hotel pun tidak  di adakan makanan 'buffet' istimewa saperti kita di sini. Tapi sekarang  keadaan mungkin berubah kerana  mengikut jejak pembangunan jiran mereka Sarawak.

Sembahyang terawih  sangat menyeronokkan dari hari pertama  hingga ke akhir.Masjid dan surau begitu meriah dan barisan saf-saf begitu penuh dari mula hingga ke akhir tidak saperti di sini yang semakin berkurangan bila semakin hampir ke hari raya.Tambah pula yang hadir berterawih termasuk yang muda,tua, lelaki dan perempuan.Di Pontianak kita tak perlu khuatir kerana di setiap 'gang' atau lorong ada masjid atau surau untuk beribadah. Alangkah baiknya sekiranya fenomena yang sama wujud di negera kita demi perpaduan ummah.

Di sana pun sama, sebelum tiba hari raya warga Kalimantan Barat juga akan berebut untuk pulang ke kampong halaman mereka. Setakat ingatan saya masa dulu tak juga berlaku kemalangan teruk macam yang berlaku di sini. Di pagi 1 Syawal kota Pontianak begitu hidup dengan warga kota berkeliaran ke masjid-masjid untuk solat hari raya.

Masjid Mujahiddin di Pontianak merupakan masjid utama dan mempunyai ciri seakan masjid negara dan menjadi tumpuan ramai. Hairan pula saya pada ketika itu, kerana mereka tidak gunakan dewan utama solat  sebaliknya menggunakan perkarangan masjid dan jalan raya sebagai tempat menunaikan solat raya. Solat raya juga di adakan atas jalanraya di hadapan markas tentera di Pontianak. Apakah tradisi ini masih diteruskan tidak saya ketahui pula.

Sebagai seorang 'bujang lokal' di sana, pada setiap hari raya tidak terasa langsung rindu terhadap kampong halaman sendiri.Sebaliknya saya rasa amat gembira berhari raya di perantauan. Pada hari raya  juga tak terdaya  saya memakan hantaran makanan dan juadah yang di berikan oleh kenalan dan jiran-jiran berhampiran. Kemesraan penduduk di sekitar tempat kediaman saya yang mengangap saya saperti saudara mereka. Ini  membuat saya rasa tidak terasing diperantaun dan merasa sebagai sebahgian dari masyarakat setempat. Sehingga kini saya masih berhubung dengan rakan dan kenalan di sana dan inilah satu perkara yang penting bagi diri saya.

Memang niat di hati ingin kembali ketempat yang penuh kenangan dan memberi kesan dan pelajaran kepada saya.Apatah lagi penugasan di sana merupakan yang  pertama kali dalam hidup saya meninggalkan tanah air. Tibanya saya di situ tanpa rakan atau saudara mara,namun satelah selesai tanggongjawab yang diamanahkan  saya telah dapati ramai kenalan yang pada mulanya dianggap sebagai rakan biasa telah berubah menjadi saperti saudara mara saya di perantauan.

Kita dijadikan Allah swt untuk saling berhubung dan mengeratkan silatulrahim sesama manusia dan itulah yang  telah saya lakukan tanpa mengira darjat dan kedudukan seorang.Ini adalah matlamat penting dalam hidup kita.

Wahai Pontianak, Kota Khatulistiwa!  Kau telah mengajar aku tentang makna penghidupan. Kau telah memberikan kesedaran agar aku bersyukur kepada Allah swt di atas apa yang dikurniakan. Pontianak akan tetap ku kenang selagi hayat dikandong badan! 

Akhir kata,


                                   "SELAMAT HARI RAYA AIDIL FITRI " 
                                                   "MAAF ZAHIR BATIN"

.  

.

MRT- Don't miss the hospitals



Bandar Tun Razak LRT away from HUKM





More coaches needed

 The proposal for a new MRT line for the Klang Valley  was put forward in June 2010 and received the approval  at the end of 2010. Apparently construction will commence soon.This of course comes as a great relief to practically most residents in the Klang Valley. We will have to wait for the final details on the route this MRT will traverse. Among the destination quoted was Cheras and this is what residents in the area are praying for.So let's hope that fellow that is sitting on the chair making the decisions don't create a blunder again.




A Crowded Hospital Car park

 Everyone agrees that hospital is a place never short of visitors and of course visiting this places are not for any entertainment either.People who come here are either sick, bringing the sick relative or friend or coming to visit someone. Again in a country like Malaysia most have cars  due to  an often unreliable public transport. You have to experience  parking at most hospitals to understand about this urgent need to make sure future lines comes very close to or inside the hospital itself. Each time I visit hospitals like GH,UH or HUKM, frankly I curse the minister concerned for this glaring over sight.

Just go and have a tour of all hospitals, government or private, parking is the 'numero uno' problem. For people with high blood pressure finding a parking lot at a hospital can be stressful. So stops at government hospitals is a 'must not miss' point on the checklist as most 'rakyat' flock to this place rather than the private hospitals.


Maybe,the Transport Minister, should try drive his private car to HUKM in the morning and try park in the hospital car park and experience how stressful this will be.Perhaps go to General Hospital too and he might end up in a ward with high blood pressure. 

So whatever the circumstances have a mind for the sick. For instance, the LRT stops at University station but never enters University Hospital (UH) or somewhere near for the convenient of visitors to this place as parking is limited and crowded at UH.  


Mono rail passes through Chow Kit too don't enter into a nearest location at the General Hospital KL block. A 'walkalator' to the main block can be very convenient. Sadly all these are far from reality or expectations.


Important land marks and government departments along the proposed route should be high on the check lists of stops.Mid Valley which was up much earlier than the LRT line and is a traffic congested point at the complex. Surprisingly the LRT's  nearest stop to the Mid Valley was at Abdullah Hukum, some distance away. You will sweat profusely walking to the Mid Valley from the station. Imagine how the traffic congestion at Mid Valley can be reduced if the LRT stop a short comfortable walk to this mall.


A station stop at Hospital UKM is not only timely but appropriate as well. Ask everyone the problem they face when going to hospitals and the majority will have this reason to tell. Undoubrtedly a stop at HUKM will ease the traffic congestion during sporting events held at the Stadium KL or the swimming pool. We are bidding to host the Asian Games aren't we? If that's the case then, this is probably a wonderful idea.

It makes us wonder whether public reactions are taken into consideration and some form of brain storming sessions are held before a final decision is made. It looked unlikely otherwise these shortcomings can be avoided. Places like hospitals and other important government departments and land marks should be on the stop checklist. Well, from wherever this new line will originate is not a vital question but the station stops are what people are interested in.


Daily traffic jam




It is absolutely good news to know that the line will be a reality but as mentioned the route and stations are vital and the general public on the whole must benefit.

As far as what most people are concerned with is the daily horrible jams clogging the city. A drastic reduction in the number of cars on the road will of course reduce stress,  pollution and every one's precious time.

Another factor that needed due consideration on the part of the government is on the question of toll. I find it ridiculous paying toll to enjoy a jam, isn't that funny? I have been to countries with toll but not paying into enjoy the jam. I think tolls in the city should be abolished but the highway toll should remain.

While on this topic, as a parting shot let me relate a joke I knew during my service days a long time ago. "A man in Russia was sentenced by the KGB to 25 years of hard labour for calling the Minister of Transport a bloody fool. The man actually  got 5 years for slender and 20 years for revealing a state secret.

Hope it is not the case here in Malaysia!!

             TO ALL MALAYSIANS SELAMAT HARI MERDEKA

                 TO ALL MUSLIMS SELAMAT HARI RAYA AIDIL FITRI    

                HAVE A WONDERFUL DAY

Awas Bahaya Di Jalanraya

 

Bahaya di atas jalanraya

1 Syawal semakin hampir dan semua warga kota akan bergegas balik ke kampong masing-masing ke pangkuan keluarga dan ibu bapa. Pihak Polis tahun demi tahun sering mengingatkan tentang keselamatan di jalanraya. Seharusnya "Ops Sikap" tidak perlu di lancarkan sekiranya kita menggunakan pemikiran kita dan lebih bertanggong jawab semasa perjalanan pulang bagi menyambut perayaan.

Peruntukan  ops ini boleh digunakan untuk pembangunan yang lain bagi rakyat.

Walau apa pun kita perlu pentingkan keselamatan sendiri, dan juga keselamatan orang lain.Oleh itu satu perkara yang di fikirkan penting dan perlu diingatkan kepada semua.

Berwaspadalah pada 'ular sawa' macam ini yang banyak dijalanraya yang menjadi antara sebab kemalangan berlaku.Pihak yang berwajib perlu lebih tegas tangani masalah ini sebab sering benda ini di dapati berada di atas jalanraya. Lebih bahaya lagi bagi penunggang motosikal apa lagi pada waktu malam. Ini adalah tanda kelemahan penguatkuasaan dan sikap ambil mudah sehingga dapat membahayakan nyawa pengguna jalan lain.

Sebagai langkah keselamatan dari segi jenayah pastikan 'speed dial' anda ada nombor talipon Pusat Kawalan Malaysia  0322663333 dan 22663444. Kenapa ini perlu tak manasabah kita membawa senarai talipon semua balai dalam talipon kita maka hubung saja Bukit Aman dan laporkan apa jenayah yang dikesan dan mereka tahu apa yang perlu dilaksanakan. Itu saja tugas anda,

Jadi kepada semua yang akan balik raya berhati-hati dan berwaspada pada cebisan-cebisan tayar ini demi untuk keselamatan semua.


                               " SELAMAT HARI RAYA MAAF ZAHIR BATIN"

Merdeka! Merdeka! Merdeka!

                             



Our Jalur Gemilang

 Yes, at the stroke of midnight the nation enters it's 54th year and simultaneously too Muslims in Malaysia and the rest of the world celebrate Eid Mubarak or Aidil Fitri. Throughout my entire life this is the first coincidence  since we achieved independence in 1957. We have experienced Kongsi Raya and now here we are celebration  a two in one again just like Kongsi Raya if not much better because the indigenous people of Malaysia is celebrating it too an not only confined to the major races.

I think this phenomena about celebration two in one, only Malaysia can experience the extraordinary. Why this can be so is because we are a multi racial country where others can't match up to our credentials. So Hari Raya can fall on same day as celebration by the other races. Isn't that something we need to be proud off.

On this day all Malaysian should show their patriotism by flying the  "Jalur Gemilang" at home. However some see this in a different light that gives rise to  presumptions. Are they not patriotic? This can be a sensitive question. I always advocated to the saying that 'action speaks louder than words'.So in a situation like this let it remain as it is. Only with time shall a person's patriotism and love for the country will be put to test.

As a former men in blue I am always proud first to be a Malaysian, next as  a policeman. Strangely after my schooling I was a loafer of course. The family was not financially strong and so I had to resort to some odd jobs just to try stand on my own two feet. I applied for a number of jobs but was turned down probably the   Almighty destined me to be a cop.

At times during my talk sessions with the various Resident's Association I will first emphasised about my patriotism. First being a Malaysian, secondly being a policeman of course. But not everyone are alike but I realised in the long run that I was destined by the Almighty to be policeman to serve the country.However like in all other departments there are people whose mere existence is basically to "fill up the blanks" that's about all. This is more true in the forces.

Patriotism, oh sure! I have done my part in whatever circumstance what about you? On two occasions I led my men and placed my life as well as theirs on the line to hunt down criminals for the sake of peace and public order. In one of the encounters I cheated death but sadly my Corporal went down. I know how it feels to have a comrade fighting for his life in your arms. Since then  every second day of Hari Raya this sad drama creeps into my conscious. For my Allahyarham Corporal Kamaruzaman I pray Allah swt bless his soul.

At that time I felt like the whole world did not bother after all, that was the risks we have to face, so be it. Even after my role was over I still stand proud knowing that I have done by part for "Kerana Mu Malaysia" and will continue to do it whenever required. There are other occasions that I need not mention.

So what can be more patriotic? So just fly the flag as a simple gesture to show our patriotism but if you are hardcore then keep it flying all year round. But please ensure that the flag does not become a "kain buruk".

On this  I recollect a disgraceful incident in Sept 2005 on my last visit to Singapore for our annual police veteran football series with the Republic Of Singapore Police. I insisted my police guide, Mr Mohd Noor, from the Singapore Police to take me on a simple tour and we stopped at  Jalan Ampas where most    P.Ramlee movies were shot and the FMS Railway station at Tanjung Pagar.

I stood with pride at this historical icon, the Federated Malay States Railway station on a foreign soil. But suddenly a couple of things  changed my mood. The Jalur Gemilang that hoisted side by side with the Singapore national flag and the KTM flag all looked like "kain buruk". 

How can this be? My visit to the station was in Sept 2005 and  our Merdeka Day was just over, why on earth did they not change or at least throw the flags into the washing machine that simple? The old clock hanging at the railway station too was not functioning as well.Relying on the information from my guide,the clock has been in that situation for a long time. Are those working in Tanjung Pagar railway station from the St Nicholas home? They can show a little patriotism and responsibility can't they?

So on this Merdeka Day we need to change and be accountable on all matters under our control. I know situations like my experience in Tanjung Pagar happened here too. On 9 Jul as scheduled I was to return to my hometown Penang and took the sardine packed commuter to the KTM KL station only to be caught in the mob for the Bersih 2.0.I knew the several roads were closed but I have not the slight idea that there were restrictions placed on buses entering the city. I know not that the bus operator's office was also closed and  they were temporary operating from the new terminal at Bandar Tasik Permaisuri.

I pushed my way out from the mob only to discover that food was also hard to find that morning. I proceeded on foot to Pudu Raya under the care full scrutiny of the men in blue. As I  was carrying a bag and wearing the skull cap it obviously gave the cops the right impression that they should have. I of course subject myself to their spot checks without questions but never at any time revealed my past role. Why should I, after it is "game over" for people like me.

No buses  were able to come in or out of Puduraya too, so I proceeded to take the LRT to Bandar Tasik Selatan bus terminal. Unfortunately my tank was about to be full and obviously had to go to ease myself.I headed to the gents only to find it locked and a notice clearly indicated "rosak".

Upon my inquiry with the Auxiliary Police on duty I was shocked from the answer given. Apparently the toilet was out of order a long time ago before 9  Jul 2011 and no  efforts made to straightened things out right away. Are we not ashamed of such mentality.What can I say, as I got no choice but forced to  distract my mind from my predicament or else I would have 'peed' in my pants.

Now on patriotism again, you can follow my previous blog on my meaningful experience attending the Indonesian Independence day. The level of patriotisn exhibited on that particular day is really something. Their celebrations were more solemn,full of protocol and more meaningful.

Year in year out we  place more emphasis on entertainment. Probably  someone with innovation in the government sector can introduce something more meaningful especially for the 30 August event. We know the night of entertainment also the dark side of our youths and many unpleasant incidents goes unreported.

I remember a directive from the government urging  the various religions  to conduct special prayers on this day. If ever he event at dataran Merdeka  need to be held it howefer need a revamp and focus on patriotism and with a more  meaningful atmosphere and protocol put in place.






Merdeka! Merdeka! Merdeka


Probably a repeat of the same scenario  undertaken by the late YAM Tuanku Abdul Rahman on the night of 30 August 1957 be emulated. His speech for instance can be read year in year out because people must be constantly reminded about the sacrifices and the spirit of  independence.

Of course there is no need to bring down the Union Jack on that night as it will cause unnecessary embarassement. The ceremony too need not be too elaborate but should have some significance with the spirit of 31 August 1957. The Merdeka parade is undoubtly colourful and should proceed with probably some addition with a patriotic flavour.

Reflecting on my Indonesian experience during their independence day ceremony, I tend to wonder where was the original flag that was flown at the Selangor Club Padang 54 years ago, and the  Jalur Gemilang raised on 16 Sept 1963 kept? Probably in our muzeum? We can't ask the British either.

This is the reason why I have always place emphasis on the need to always remember history. By the way, our Jalur Gemilang was designed by Mr. Mohamed Hamzah a young engineer from  Johor employed by the Public Works Department. He passed away before his 75th birthday on 13 February 1993 in Jalan Stulang Baru, Kampung Melayu Majidee. Not many realised that it was one off us and not any "Mat Salleh" that designed it.





Our pride on the road

There is a statute that regulates the use of the national flag and anthem  when it should be use and respected. This is hard to enforce I can say. Any act which appears to belittle the National Anthem and flag in the eyes of the public, is considered as not respecting the National Anthem and flag.

Police are empowered to arrest without warrant anybody found to be disrespectful towards the National Anthem or flag. As said it is hard to enforce and  we are gradually losing the spirit of respecting our own flag and anthem. Since we ourselves don't bother what do we expect form the foreigners don't too.Actually they should being guests in this country they should as the saying goes 'when in Rome do as the Romans do'.Like wise we too should respect the flag and anthem of a foreign country and in reciprocate we get their respect.

This is rampant during sports events. Our own youths should show some form of patriotism but this is sadly absent. Only through the rigid enforcement of the law that can  see a change in this attitude.A meagre RM100 fine means nothing these days and probably needed to be enhanced. Some arrests can be made as a warning and lessons to those  who defy this national requirement. Sadly, Jalur Gemilang too can be seen lying on  roads. I remember my training told me that the flag should not be allowed to dip the ground. But this was not observed strictly even at times by men in uniform.

Concerning a situation like during a football game it is not easy task to book an offender. I remember an experience on way to office and passed Puchong Perdana I noticed the area many motorists moving without helmet a problem those days. I noticed a lady with 3 passengers on a motorcycle and on top of that no helmets too. Well as she stopped to and was an easy target for me.

I approached and as usual, demanded her IC and driving license. To my surprise she got the former but not the latter. Spontaneously I directed my driver to issue her a ticket with the appropriate offences. At this juncture I was once questioned on my action as to why she was stopped when their are many more around but nothing was done.

My reply to her was also spontaneous as well I inquiring that if she goes fishing can she possibly catch all the fishes in the sea and with that it wrapped up my case. 

On the national anthem and the national flag again I remember an incident during my service days. I and a friend visited Betong in south Thailand amidst a major joint operations going on with Thai army to flush the communist insurgents. Later  in the evening me and my friend headed for a movie.

Suddenly the Thai national flag was shown and both of us sat as normal  not knowing what it was all about.Immediately I felt a tug and a pull at my collar from the patron behind demanding us to stand.I did exactly that and it remained a lesson since. A similar move was done in Malaysia but later abandoned which indeed was a right move.

So for this Merdeka let us show some form of patriotism and most important for me is to work towards national integrity and do all things possible for a progressive, peaceful and strong Malaysia.

              Selamat Hari Raya Aidil Fitri Maaf Zahir Batin.

     Selamat Menyambut Hari Kemerdekaan Yang ke 54

Flyers Nuisance

A picture paints a thousand words.that's the way it is. Would you categorise the distribution of flyers to houses  as  a  public nuisance ?

I am sure that if not all, most of us have experienced this. This  form of irritation   can drive us  overboard each time we  discover that   letters in our   boxes are  soiled by the rain a result of the way these flyers were place in the box.

 Most of those involved are foreigners and I just can't understand, don't they have letter boxes in their country or is it  because back home they use pigeon service? Some  locals are involved and sadly they behave in the same stupid manner too.

Moreover don't they not know  the purpose of a letter box ?One thing for sure these numskulls were  not specifically brief  on their role. Perhaps this is  merely a case of ' come take these bundle of flyers and go distribute them'. These numskulls too seems not to have the slightest idea of  the consequences of their actions.Wonder why these numskulls can't just push the whole flyers into the letter box but   prefer instead to stick them halfway in  the letter box slot and caused the slot door be left ajar.



A tongue sticking out

All documents in the box are left to the mercy of the torrential KL thunderstorm.Each time after a heavy downpour  all our letters  will be drenched and soggy.  Is this a difficult assiignment or are they specifically told to do it like way? Irrespective ot the type of letter boxes you have they just do the same. These numskulls just do not bother even slip flyers even though the house has been abondoned. How are these people paid if it is based on the number of flyers distributed than most employers are in for a ride as they too can just dump some or all flyers into the dustbin rub their hands  and return to collect what was due for the day. 

 

Maybe  some someone can come out with  water proof envelopes to eradicate this problem.It's sickkening to see important documents soiled by rain water making it illegible. The consequences can be disastrous and often also result in lost of valuable apportunities.

My instinct urges me to lay ambush and pounce on these numskulls and conduct a simple in service training regarding this. Putting a note by the side of our letter boxes telling these numskulls to do exactly what we want  done with the flyers too is a waste of time. After all local or foreigners just can be bothered and prefer the easy way out.

So, we expect the employers to brief their 'macai'  how exactly this needs to be done.Unfortunately they just don't bother either. The employers probably resides in apartments or condos and to them they dont't encounter  this problem that  we face.

Now, considering our important documents are soiled or ruined.Obviously this can sometimes caused a lost of business or other opportunities.Under this circumstance can those companies responsible be sued for such losses inflicted on us by their 'macai' with regards to the flyers problem? Probably a test case is necessary and only through this process will it drive some sense into the heads of those irresponsible lot?

So for heaven sake, as a amicable solution, let's hope they do it the right way.