Papa: Maid agency not our member

The Star, Thursday December 6, 2012

By LOH FOON FONG

foonfong@thestar.com.my

KUALA LUMPUR: The maid agency that detained 105 foreign women in Bandar Baru Klang is not a member of the Association of Foreign Maid Agencies (Papa).

Papa president Jeffrey Foo said that, as such, they could not do much to help clients seek redress but had to let the law take its course.

“If you have evidence that you paid the agency, seek a refund quickly,” he told reporters here yesterday.

Foo said if the maids were in transit here to convert their tourist visas into work permits, they were considered to be working illegally.

“It's illegal for employers to use the maid's services before approval is granted by the Immigration Department,” he said.

Foo stressed that Papa did not condone the action of maid agencies in bringing in foreigners through tourist visas and converting them into work permits later.

He said that although the Immigration Department could convert a tourist visa to a work permit if individual employers applied, the process had been abused by many parties, including registered maid agencies.

Not only were the parties flouting the law, it had resulted in possible human trafficking.

Explaining the modus operandi, he said these agencies would bring the maids here illegally and lock them up.

“When an employer asks if they had any maids, they would say yes and ask the employer to pay between RM12,000 and RM16,000 in cash,” he said.

The employer would be asked to fill a declaration form stating that he sourced for the worker by himself.

Since the fees were paid in cash and no guarantee was given towards the service of the maid, many employers could not take a case up with the agency or the Consumers Claim Tribunal when their maids ran away, said Foo.

Foo said Papa's law-abiding members suffered when unethical practices were allowed to happen.

He said Papa was negotiating with the Government for a cost structure revision and gave an assurance that employers would not need to pay more than RM10,000 for a maid from Indonesia.

Maid agencies have maintained that the RM4,511 fee imposed by the Government for Indonesian maids is too low as the actual cost to recruit a maid is double the amount.

UNDP: Extend legal protection to women with informal jobs

By LOH FOON FONG

foonfong@thestar.com.my

KUALA LUMPUR: Legal protection should be extended to the informal sector of the economy to ensure women's rights are protected.

United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) assistant representative James George Chacko said the informal economy was a major source of employment for many in developing countries, especially women.

“In general, more women work in informal employment compared to men, and they tend to be grouped in the most precarious and poorly remunerated forms of work.

“In this context, extending the protection of the rule of law to informal and vulnerable work is vitally important to reducing poverty and inequality and protecting women's rights,” said Chacko in his speech at the International Seminar “Towards a More Inclusive Labour Market: Promoting Women's Increased Participation” on Thursday.

It was read out by UNDP programme manager Anita Ahmad.

Chacko said 53% of working women were employed in vulnerable jobs, including as unpaid workers in family businesses or farms.

Due to the lack of public and private support for family responsibilities, the informal economy might offer the only paid work that provides enough flexibility, autonomy and geographic proximity to home for women to combine paid work with family responsibilities, he added.

In her speech, Women, Family and Community Development Ministry secretary-general Datuk Dr Noorul Ainur Mohd Nur said that last year, 66.9% had cited housework as the main reason for leaving the labour force.

Wet spell pushes up number of influenza-like illness cases

The Star

PETALING JAYA: There is a slight increase in influenza-like illness (ILI) cases due to the wet spell.

Health Ministry's Disease Control Division director Dr Chong Chee Kheong said the number of ILI cases compared to total number of outpatients (national ILI consultation rate) from Oct 7 to Nov 3 showed such cases went up from 0.43% to 0.50%.

He said this was still well below the alert threshold of 10%.

Dr Chong said the ministry's virus surveillance on week 37 (up to Sept 15) showed that the circulating virus was mainly the influenza B virus (72.3%) which was less virulent compared to the influenza A virus (11.6%).

He said ILI occurred throughout the year with a slight increase during the wet season.

The main symptoms of influenza are fever, cough, sore throat, runny nose, muscle aches, headache and fatigue, he said.

To prevent the spread of influenza viruses, he said people should follow basic hygiene rules and frequently wash their hands with soap and water.

“If someone has symptoms and signs of influenza such as fever, cough or difficulty breathing, he should seek early treatment,” he said, adding that those down with the flu should stay home until they were better.

Council: Family name at stake

By LOH FOON FONG

foonfong@thestar.com.my

PETALING JAYA: Fear of unwanted pregnancies is one of the reasons why parents allow their children to marry early.

Early Childhood Care and Education Council (ECCE) president Datuk Dr Chiam Heng Keng said parents consented to their children marrying early to prevent pre-marital sex that could eventually tarnish the family’s reputation.

“They believe marriage is the best solution and do not think that the girl needs to go to school,” she said.

“They also worry whether she could still be married off since she has lost her virginity.”

Dr Chiam said these parents did not appreciate the rights of the child but were more concerned about their reputation.

She said the parents might also not be aware that marrying their children off at a tender age could affect the youngsters’ health as well as limit their self-development.

She added that the children would be overpowered by their desires when not informed of the responsibility of sexual relationships and the importance of self-development and education.

“This could happen when parents do not communicate with their children and educate them on these things,’’ said Dr Chiam, adding that there was also a possibility that most times, the parents themselves were not well-informed of such issues.

She said schools too might not have taught the children life’s skills.

Meanwhile, Emeritus Prof Datuk Dr Hood Salleh said traditions tied to socio-economic needs were also reasons behind child marriages.

He said it had been a custom in the past for parents to marry their daughters off at a young age to help secure socio-economic position for the child.

Dr Hood said it might have worked for communities as a form of security in the past. “However, society has since evolved.’

It was reported that Nur Fazira Saad, 12, married Mohd Fahmi Alias, 19, last week in Kedah after their families agreed to the union.

Orang Asli risking limb and life to put food on our tables

I had a lump in my throat as I took the first bite to one of these mangosteens and recalled the story told by the fruit seller who sold them.

These mangosteens were bought from a seasonal fruit stall in Section 17 in Petaling Jaya yesterday evening.

The flesh was fresh, juicy and has an excellent sweet-sour flavour which I used to remember as a child. It seemed to taste better than the ones that came in from Indonesia.

It has been ages since I see mangosteens with flesh of such superior quality unless one hunts for them in a higher-end supermarket at a premium.

The fruit seller said that the fruits were harvested by the Orang Asli. The rainy season has made it difficult for them to harvest them, resulting in some of the Orang Asli who climbed the trees to harvest them fell from the trees and injured themselves or even died!

No further information were derived from the fruit seller as I did not understand Cantonese.

Much heartfelt appreciation for the Orang Asli for putting such excellent food on our tables but do they need to die for our sake? More needs to be done to protect them and their welfare.

PAS Ulama: Pakatan cannot ignore views expressed during muktamar

The Star (shared byline)

PETALING JAYA: The PAS Ulama wing has stepped up its call for their party president Datuk Seri Abdul Hadi Awang to be the Prime Minister if Pakatan Rakyat wins in the coming polls.

The wing said Pakatan Rakyat could not ignore the views of PAS' one million members.

“If PAS wins the most number of seats, naturally members expect the candidate to be picked from PAS.

“However, Pakatan has yet to make a collective decision on the candidate for the top post if the coalition succeeds in capturing Putrajaya. The party has to abide by the decision,” said Ulama Council vice-chief Datuk Dr Mahfodz Mohamed yesterday in response to objections from DAP leaders over Abdul Hadi as Prime Minister if the coalition comes to power.

Ousted PAS leader Datuk Dr Hassan Ali warned that there would be a revolt in PAS if the Opposition parties reject Abdul Hadi when PAS wins the most number of seats in the election.

“If Pakatan truly practises democracy, it should listen to the voice of the majority, and not the voice of a few top leaders in the Opposition,” he added.

PAS deputy president Mohamad Sabu said the final decision would be made by the Pakatan leadership.
“It is too early to broach the subject, as we must win first. What if Abdul Hadi and Anwar lose in the election?

“Then perhaps even I can be the Prime Minister,” he said.

Meanwhile, DAP secretary-general Lim Guan Eng said it had always been Pakatan's stand that the candidate for the Prime Minister's post would be the Opposition Leader.

“We stick by what has been agreed,” he told reporters at the Parliament lobby yesterday.

DAP chairman Karpal Singh said Abdul Hadi should stick to the consensus that Anwar be appointed Prime Minister if Pakatan comes to power.

“PAS should do likewise without being told because the position has been accepted all along,” he said in a telephone interview yesterday.

He said Anwar was the most qualified and acceptable person to take on the role because he had the experience in government administration as the former Deputy Prime Minister and Finance Minister.

In KUALA TERENGGANU, state PAS commissioner Abdul Wahid Endut said Abdul Hadi was the best choice for the Prime Minister's post because he has no moral issues to contend with.

“In the Islamic point of view, there's no one better,” he said.

However, Abdul Wahid said such hopes largely depended on the outcome of the general election.

“We should focus on winning the election first. If PAS wins the majority of seats, he would be the logical choice,” he added.

Source: http://thestar.com.my/news/story.asp?file=/2012/11/20/nation/12342566&sec=nation

Private nurseries struggle to stay in business

Sunday November 11, 2012

By LOH FOON FONG
foonfong@thestar.com.my

PETALING JAYA: About three million children aged four and below need daycare services in this country but many private nurseries are struggling to keep their doors open.

Association of Registered Child Care Providers Malaysia vice-president P.H. Wong said the Government should extend support to private childcare centres because of high operating costs.

As of May this year, 1,086 childcare centres had been registered with the Welfare Department: 989 were privately run, 16 set up by companies at work places, 67 in government offices and 14 were community-based.

Even for community-based childcare centres, there were few takers despite the RM50,000 set-up grant and annual RM64,000 subsidy given by the Government, Wong said.

This was because the subsidy barely covered operating costs since lower income parents could only afford to pay RM200 to RM350 for each child, she added.

A former childcare centre owner, who wanted to be known only as Cheong, said she closed her centre in Sri Petaling last month after operating for more than two years because the RM600 to RM800 monthly fees she collected from 14 parents could not cover the monthly expenses.

“It was really heartbreaking. I don't want to do it (run a centre) again,” said the 36-year-old.

She could not continue paying the RM3,000 rental for a corner unit house, pay providers' salaries, food, beverage and toys for the children, and utility bills, said Chong who spent RM25,000 to set up the centre.

She also had difficulty looking for care providers because the heavy workload made people reluctant to take the job even if she offered more than the RM1,000 to RM1,600 salaries.

Social Welfare Department legal and advocacy division director Dr Zaitol Salleh said that two nurseries had surrendered their licences from January to May, and on average five cease to operate each year.

Another childcare centre operator, who only wanted to be known as Ooi, said she had to close her nursery in a condominium after operating it for seven years because she could not get baby sitters.

“Most baby sitters prefer to work on their own at home while the young people prefer other jobs,” said Ooi, who is in her 50s.

Source: http://thestar.com.my/news/story.asp?file=/2012/11/11/nation/12306342&sec=nation

Sunday November 11, 2012

Couples hit by childcare costs

By YVONNE LIM
yvonnelim@thestar.com.my

PETALING JAYA: It's a double whammy for working couples with children maids are hard to find while daycare centres have increased their fees in tandem with higher operation costs.

A check with several centres in the Klang Valley showed that they have raised fees by up to 10% over the past two years.

A staff member at a centre in Bukit Damansara, who declined to be named, said that it had to increase its fees by 10% every two to three years.

The centre, which also offers pre-school education inclusive of daycare for children aged three to six years, now charges about RM1,600 per month.

Another centre in Taman Desa, which offers only daycare for children of two years and above without pre-schooling, charges RM500 a month.

“We charged RM450 last year, but had to increase our fees because food prices had gone up,” said the principal who only wanted to be known as Stacey.

A centre in Puchong has maintained its fees at RM500 per month, but expects to raise it soon.

The centre provides lunch and two snacks, a shower in the evening and assistance with school work for the children under its care.

“We will try to hold down our fees for as long as we can, but foresee having to increase it soon as everything else is going up in price,” said its operator.

Demand for childcare centres in the Klang Valley is especially acute as many families have both spouses working while living away from their parents and relatives.

The scarcity of maids has contributed to the increase in demand.

It was reported recently that agencies were asking Malaysians to pay more for maids from Indonesia even as the Philippines was phasing out the sending of its citizens abroad as domestic workers.

Association of Registered Child-care Providers P.H. Wong said the centres had been affected by the increase in living costs as the price of goods had gone up along with public expectation of the quality of service.

“Parents who want quality service must be ready to pay more. Centres have no choice but to increase their fees to survive,” she said.

She urged the Government to introduce a subsidy for parents who need to care for their children while they were at work.

The Health Ministry had announced stricter control of daycare centres, with regular inspection of nurseries to ensure that they are fit to take care of babies in the wake of deaths from choking on milk and other incidents at these establishments.

Social Welfare Department statistics this year showed that 52% of the 3,238 nurseries nationwide were unlicensed.

However, there is no record of the number of children who died while under their care.

According to news reports, at least 22 children under the age of four were believed to have died while in nursery care between 2009 and this year.

Source: http://thestar.com.my/news/story.asp?file=/2012/11/11/nation/12306341&sec=nation

Suhakam to look into dam case

The Star, Saturday November 10, 2012

By LOH FOON FONG 

foonfong@thestar.com.my

KUALA LUMPUR: The Human Rights Commission (Suhakam) has decided to look into the Murum Dam blockade and assured it will hear from all stakeholders related to the issue.

Commissioner Detta Samen received a memorandum from the Damn the Dams Action Group representing 60 NGOs yesterday asking Suhakam to intervene in the state-led negotiations with affected communities.

“We will look into the complaints,” he said at the Suhakam headquarters here.

Samen said Suhakam in Sarawak was in the midst of contacting the Penan headmen, NGOs as well as the Sarawak state government and dam developer Sarawak Energy Bhd to meet in Miri or Kuching.

He said he welcomed whatever information that could be handed over to Suhakam before the meeting takes place.

Damn the Dams Action Group representative Ng Yap Hwa said the state government’s plan to build 12 mega dams, including the Murum Dam, would affect the communities.

“The impending displacement of more than 1,600 natives has resulted in them putting up a blockade since Sept 26 as a last resort to compel the authorities and project proponents to address their concerns over the loss of livelihood, homeland and future,” he said.

The construction of the 944MW hydro power plant to produce electricity by 2013 will inundate about 30,000ha of the Murum Valley.

Two companies from China are involved in the dam construction.

In a separate interview, Chinese Ambassador to Malaysia Chai Xi said he would raise the concerns with Sarawak Chief Minister Tan Sri Abdul Taib Mahmud.

“I will look into it but I hope negotiations and consultations on any problems can be resolved,” he said.

Source: http://thestar.com.my/news/story.asp?file=/2012/11/10/nation/12303532&sec=nation

China tops MM2H programme

The Star, Friday November 9, 2012

KUALA LUMPUR: The number of Chinese nationals taking part in the Malaysia My Second Home (MM2H) programme is expected to increase in the next few years and spur domestic economic activities.

There were 3,332 Chinese participants as of August, making it the highest number of all MM2H participants, said Tourism Minister Datuk Seri Dr Ng Yen Yen.

From January to August, 475 Chinese nationals joined the programme compared with 133 the same period last year, she said.

“We expect to see a substantial increase in the number of participants from China from next year onwards,” she said during the memorandum of understanding signing ceremony between the Ministry and the Bank of China (BOC), for the latter to promote MM2H to all its bank customers through its branches in China and other parts of the world.

Dr Ng pointed out that with 10,961 branches in and outside China (six in Malaysia), the bank has 300,000 high net worth (more than US$1mil) customers.

Since 2002 until August, the MM2H programme had successfully attracted 19,488 participants from 120 countries and after China, the other highest participants were Bangladesh (2,407), Japan (2,187), Britain (1,889) and Iran (1,211).

Dr Ng said Malaysia needed to maintain its economic vibrancy not just by drawing tourists in but also by getting them to stay longer.

The programme had also spurred the property market, as 1,659 pieces of property worth RM1.5bil were bought under MM2H from 2007 to 2012, she said.

For the programme, successful applicants are given a 10-year social visit pass with a multiple entry visa which is renewable for as long as they like. besides enjoying tax-free income from abroad.
Ambassador of China to Malaysia Chai Xi said he foresaw the number of Chinese nationals participating in MM2H to triple in five years.

He added that Malaysia was one of the nicest countries in the world to live in while Bank of China chief executive officer Zhen Jingbo said he would promote MM2H to attract Chinese entrepreneurs and individuals from greater China to invest here.

At another event, Dr Ng launched the book Enchanting Malaysia, which tourists could buy as souvenirs.

Source: http://thestar.com.my/news/story.asp?file=/2012/11/9/nation/12294904&sec=nation

Superstorm Sandy turns lives of Malaysians in US east coast upside down

The Star, Thursday November 1, 2012

By LOH FOON FONG, TERENCE TOH and MARINA SUWENDY newsdesk@thestar.com.my

PETALING JAYA: The damage and destruction caused by superstorm Sandy has thrown the lives of many Malaysians in the east coast of the United States upside down.

“Hurricane Sandy swept through the New York City violently, but we New Yorkers will be out in force the day after to give a helping hand to those in need!” said fashion designer Zang Toi, 51.

“It is quite crazy here!” said model Carolyn Li Ming Geh.

She however was thankful that her area, midtown east/upper east side, was minimally affected.

“It was really hectic before the hurricane with people scrambling to prepare for it and stock up on food,” she said.

Columbia University programmer Zarina Mustapha said she had made preparations the same way she did for Hurricane Irene in August 2011.

“I stocked up a little more than my weekly grocery shopping list, adding a more non-perishable food. I filled up water bottles with filtered water.

“My first concern was in case there would be loss of electricity, gas would go next,” said Zarina, who resides inland of Queens, New York.

... we New Yorkers will be out in force the day after to give a helping hand to those in need! - ZANG TOI

Jewellery company Paz Collective Director of Operations Tay Shar-Lyn, who lives in Forest Hill, Queens said strong winds knocked down some trees in his area.

Tay said she had to figure out a way of getting into Manhattan as she could not miss a third day of work since the subway service was disrupted.

Business development head Anuar Fariz, 31, who was stuck in New York after the John F. Kennedy international airport was flooded is keeping his fingers crossed that the airport would clear soon so that he could fly home.

Meanwhile Bernama reported that three Malaysian senators, Datuk Boon Som Inong, Datuk Muhammed Najeeb Abdulah and S. Bagiam, who had just attended the United Nations (UN) General Assembly meetings were also stranded after their flight home was cancelled.

They arrived on Oct 17 and were supposed to fly home on Monday.

Boon said they were informed on Sunday that all flights to and from New York had been cancelled.
However, Boon said the Office of Permanent Mission of Malaysia to the UN, was trying to get them on the earliest flight home.

Muhammed Najeeb said it was his first trip to New York and little did he know that he would also get a first-hand experience of the hurricane.

“Most of the time, we just stayed indoors. We tried to go out to buy some halal food, but all shops were closed,” he said.

Meanwhile, Malaysians living in the east cost of the United States, maintained communications with each other through SMSes and Facebook updates.

Nur Yasmin Mohd Nuri, from Boston, Massachusetts, said she had sent and received many text messages and telephone calls from her friends.

Social websites, such as “Malaysians in US” and “Malaysians in NYC”, were also deluged with greetings and updates from those affected by Sandy.

Some people lamented over the disruption of the transit service, including bus, subway and the commuter rail service.

Source: http://thestar.com.my/news/story.asp?file=/2012/11/1/nation/12252748&sec=nation

An insight into Hinduism

Thursday October 25, 2012

By LOH FOON FONG foonfong@thestar.com.my

Hindu perspective: Murugesan giving a talk on Hinduism at Menara Star.

PETALING JAYA: Why is the cow sacred in Hinduism? Is there a relationship between the caste system and Hinduism? What is aum? What is the Hindu perspective on sex?

These were among the questions posed to lawyer Datuk S. Murugesan during a talk on Hinduism at Menara Star yesterday.

“Generally, Hindus would not interfere with the actions of other individuals because it is a religion that leaves each to its own with God,” said Murugesan, who is well-versed in Hindusim as well as its customs and rituals.

As such, the tattooing of the aum was not offensive to Hindus, said Murugesan, explaining that the aum was a cosmic sound incantation which Hindus recite before chanting mantras.

When asked what Hindus felt when the media published stories of temples being demolished by local councils, Murugesan, who is also the MIC secretary-general, said the main concern revolved around the deities in the temples.

“Fair enough that there may be no proper permits but if they are going to break the temple, they should contact the Hindu Sangam to remove the deities. The councils can demolish the temple after the necessary rituals and prayers have been performed to remove the deities,” he said.

Likewise, there was also a lack of respect for Hindu deities when devotees carry kavadis bearing the emblem of English Premier League teams such as Liverpool and Manchester United, said Muru-gesan.

Murugesan said cows were sacred for practical and sensitivity reasons.In India, cows were animals of labour and if they were eaten, their numbers would dwindle and this would adversely affect people's livelihood.

On the caste system, Murugesan said the discriminatory variety practised today was not the same as that practised in the past, which was based on the division of labour.

The talk on Hinduism is part of a series of lectures on the various faiths and festivals in the country organised by The Star for its staff.

Source: http://thestar.com.my/news/story.asp?file=/2012/10/25/nation/12224519&sec=nation

Thursday October 25, 2012

Stop condo project, govt urged

PETALING JAYA: The Selangor Government has been urged not to allow any high-rise development near Batu Caves, a site considered sacred by the Hindus.

MIC secretary-general Datuk S. Murugesan said this included the 29-storey condominium pro- ject near the area which had caused much concern among the Sri Mahamariamman Batu Caves Temple committee.

“The project should be stopped if possible,” said Murugesan.

He noted that the state government had said it would conduct soil testing in the Batu Caves area in view of the fact that it was a fragile limestone area.

“The land was approved in 2007 for general development but the concern is that the piling and construction work may destabilise the 42.7m statue of Lord Murugan,” he said during the talk on Hinduism at Menara Star yesterday.

On whether low-rise buildings could be built instead, Murugesan said it was a possibility.

On whether MIC would join the 100,000 people protest against the project on Friday, he said the party would leave members to their own devices.

On Monday, it was reported that the Batu Caves temple committee had given a notice of demand to the developer of the proposed condominium project near the limestone hill.

The developer was ordered to immediately stop all works related to the construction of the property.
The proposed project has sparked anger among not just the temple management, but nature lovers and residents as well.

Registration for the high-rise property was recently opened on property websites, It was advertised as a serviced residence located “a stone's throw away” from Batu Caves and with a “panoramic view” of the natural rock formation site.

Source: http://thestar.com.my/news/story.asp?file=/2012/10/25/nation/12224520&sec=nation

Cop: Tear gas canister may have left mark on Bersih protester

The Star, Wednesday October 17, 2012

By LOH FOON FONG
foonfong@thestar.com.my

 

Precise aim: FRU personnel showing how tear gas is fired during the Suhakam inquiry into the incidents of Bersih 3.0.

 

KUALA LUMPUR: A police officer admitted that a wound on the neck of a protester at the Bersih 3.0 rally could have been caused by a tear gas canister's inner shell.

Asst Comm Jamaludin Abdul Rahman said it was a possibility because of a burn mark that was evident on the neck of the protester, Chong Min Shih.

“However, I cannot say for sure if it was caused by the shell or other objects,” he said at the Federal Reserve Unit (FRU) Base yesterday during the Suhakam inquiry into the incidents of Bersih 3.0 on April 28.

ACP Jamaludin and other FRU personnel were asked about the photograph exhibit of Chong with a wound on the right side of her neck.

Asked by Suhakam Commissioner Detta Samen how tear gas was fired, ACP Jamaludin said the gun would be pointed upwards and the gas shell would be fired 50m into the air and hit the ground about 100m to 150m away.

He said the gun would sometimes be pointed downwards or straight ahead, but this method was seldom used.

He said about 900 canisters of gas shells were used that day.

Commanding officer for Unit I of Kuala Lumpur FRU Supt Zahari Yusoff said they had been ordered to shoot the tear gas upwards all the time.

He also said tear gas contained 1% of a chemical which caused the eyes to sting.

In total, there were 360 FRU personnel on that day and they were ordered to practise restraint and were barred from using pepper spray and the baton, he said.

Asked about a witness, Kumar Suppiah, who had claimed he was kicked until boot print marks were left on his Bersih T-shirt, Supt Zahari said the marks looked like they were made by a combat boot and was different from the boots worn by FRU personnel.

On razor wires, Supt Zahari said they were used for the first time in the rally as barricades from Jalan Tun Perak to Bank Pembangunan and at the two tunnels below Jalan Hishamuddin.

Source: http://thestar.com.my/news/story.asp?file=/2012/10/17/nation/12180772&sec=nation

MCA Youth to give input on education blueprint

Sunday Star, Sunday October 14, 2012

KUALA LUMPUR: MCA Youth will be submitting its recommendations on the Malaysia Education Blueprint 2013-2025 in a week's time to the Education Ministry.

Its Education Bureau chairman Chong Sin Woon said MCA Youth and eight major Chinese youth-based organisations would jointly monitor the implementation of the blueprint.

“There is unanimous support from the floor for Chinese schools and to recognise the Unified Examination Certificate,” he said after a dialogue on the blueprint yesterday.

However, Chong said there were mixed views on the status of Remove and religious classes.

Generally, all disagreed with the proposal for the Bahasa Malaysia (BM) syllabus of national primary schools to be implemented in national-type schools as it would take up more time and impede Chinese studies.

They proposed that alternative methods be used to enhance proficiency in the national language.

“Those who want Remove Class retained have asked for the syllabus and quality of teachers to be improved.

“Others said Remove Class is a waste of time as it does not help improve Bahasa proficiency,” he said.

On religious classes, Chong said some wanted various religions to be taught in school while others felt that it should be replaced by civic education, philosophy, morals and universal values.

The participants agreed on the need to produce more critical thinking students and encourage them to participate in NGOs as well as religious-based and non-profit organisation activities, said Chong.

He also said that participants wanted funding allocated systematically to Chinese primary schools and that sufficient Chinese language teachers be trained as well as teachers of other subjects.

They also agreed that the teaching of Mathematics and Science in English be reintroduced, he said.

Source: http://thestar.com.my/news/story.asp?file=/2012/10/14/nation/12171245&sec=nation

Agriculture to go hi-tech

The Star, Saturday October 13, 2012

Video: http://thestaronline.tv/View.aspx?vid=9215&cid=1

By LOH FOON FONG
newsdesk@thestar.com.my

Healthy choice: Noh Omar checking out the Orygold drink during the agriculture expo in Universiti Putra Malaysia, Serdang.

SERDANG: There are plans to make farming go hi-tech with information and communications technology (ICT) to attract the young to agriculture, said Agriculture and Agro-based Industries Minister Datuk Seri Noh Omar.

He said the use of ICT would enable the young to earn high income.

“This will attract the young into the field,” he said.

Noh Omar said the potential of ICT should be used to benefit the whole food production chain.

“The use of precision farming at the estate level, for instance, had been quickly developed to reduce the use of fertiliser, chemical and water and bring about good agricultural produce,” he said during the Agriculture Expo during Universiti Putra Malaysia's 36th Convocation yesterday.

He said ICT could be used in food traceability system to ensure food security.

Currently, ICT is also used in biotechnology food development.

At the event, Noh Omar launched the Orygold drink, a drink made from germinated brown rice.
Universiti Putra Malaysia laboratory of molecular biomedicine head Prof Dr Maznah Ismail said that the germinated brown rice has health benefits as it contained high-antioxidants.

“It is also low in amylose and could be eaten by people with diabetes,” she said.

She said brown rice was a healthier option than white rice, but germinated brown rice had even higher nutrition value.

The new product is currently only available through her.

Five states to be worst hit

The Star, Friday October 12, 2012

Reports by LOH FOON FONG, EMBUN MAJID, FARIK ZOLKEPLI, A. RUBAN and HAN KAR KAY

 

Monsoon reign: Dark clouds looming over Terengganu’s iconic Crystal Mosque in this picture taken from the Pulau Kambing jetty in Kuala Terengganu yesterday afternoon. — ZABIDI TUSIN / The Star

SPECIAL REPORT

 

PETALING JAYA: The full force of the northeast monsoon is expected to lash five states next month and the people are warned to be prepared for heavy flooding.

The Department of Irrigation and Drainage said the monsoon was expected to hit the east coast and several other parts of the country and flooding would occur mainly in Kelantan, Terengganu, Pahang, Perak, Johor, Sabah and Sarawak, between November and March.

Its Hydrology and Water Resources Division director Datuk Hanapi Mohamad Noor noted that the average annual rainfall was 3,000mm, and added: “With 1,800mm registered from January to September, 1,200mm more is expected from October to December which is a lot.”

Hanapi said flooding would happen if one month's amount of rainfall poured continuously for one to three days in the same area.

From October last year till last month, 227 cases of flooding were reported, with Selangor being the most hit with 70, followed by Perak with 40.

Hanapi said Selangor had more flooding because it was “exposed” to the southwest monsoon rains, the northeast monsoon rains and convectional rain. He also said Kuala Lumpur would face flash floods from mid-November to March, but the cause would be convectional rain.

A rainfall of more than 100mm per day was enough to cause flooding in urban areas but not in in rural or forested areas, Hanapi added.

He said the DID would use data from satellites, radars and the Global Forecast System to warn of floods.
Meteorological Department director-general Che Gayah Ismail said that El Nino was not expected to have any significant impact on rainfall during the monsoon season and the whole country was expected to receive normal average rainfall.

“However, three or four episodes of heavy rain are expected and in each, two to three days' non-stop rain will end in floods,” she said in an e-mail.

She urged the public to be “sensitive to current weather conditions” and heed the department's warnings.
Che Gayah said they could also go to http://www.facebook.com/malaysiamet, http://www.twitter.com/malaysianmet or www.met.gov.my.

The Weather Forecast Centre operates round the clock and can be reached at 03-79678116.

Relief centres can hold a million victims

PETALING JAYA: The 5,068 flood relief centres nationwide are ready for operations and can accommodate 1.3 million people, Social Welfare Department principal assistant director Ahmad Hashim Selamat said.

These centres were sited in schools and community centres, he said.

Five regional depots would store food and other items such as blankets and mats, he said at the National Forum on Climate: The Northeast Monsoon yesterday.

Ahmad said that 2,474 volunteers had been briefed and given training on their tasks at relief centres.

For this year, federal funding of RM1.25mil had been allocated for cleaning kits and hygiene kits while another RM10.1mil would be given to states for food and other necessities, he said.

Meteorological Department director-general Che Gayah Ismail said the northeast monsoon would usually hit the east coast and southern part of the peninsula, the coast of Sarawak and east coast of Sabah in stages, starting from Kelantan and Terengganu next month and early December.

It would then hit the east of Pahang and Johor in December and early January and Sabah and Sarawak in January and February, she said in her speech.

Last year, there were five episodes of heavy rain where two were strong on Nov 19 and Dec 17 and affected Johor, Pahang, Sabah and Sarawak and displaced 15,000 victims and left seven dead, said Che Gayah.

Marine and Oceanography director Lim Zhe Hui said that an advisory on strong winds and rough seas would be given four days before an incident and a warning three days ahead.

The first category of advisory/warning is given for small boats, recreational boats and sea sports to stop operation when wind speed reaches 40 to 50km per hour and the wave at 3.5m, he said.

The shipping line and ferry services would be warned when the wind speed reaches 50 to 60km an hour and wave hits 4.5m while all fishing and work at oil rig should stop when wind speed reaches 60km an hour and wave above 4.5m.

On health preparation, health medical officer Dr Rozlan Ishak said officers would carry out health checks at all relief sites.

During disasters, the Health Ministry would set up mobile clinics and doctors would be sent to treat injuries as well as monitor water-born diseases, he said, adding that health inspectors would also inspect surrounding area for mosquitoes.

Crisis Relief Squad of MCA national chief Datuk Dr Lee Hong Tee said they had 600 volunteers who would assist victims by sending them to relief centres.

“The volunteers will also help send the victims home and clean up their houses after the floods.

We are ready to face the floods, says Nazri

KUALA TERENGGANU: Terengganu, Kelantan, Kedah, Sabah and Sarawak are expected to be the worst-hit during the monsoon season which starts next month, Central Disaster Management committee chairman Datuk Seri Nazri Aziz said.

“We have instructed all agencies to be well prepared with logistical supplies such as boats as well as food rations.”

For Terengganu, Nazri said big floods were expected between Nov 14 and 19 as well as between Nov 27 and 30.

“We hope people can take note of the dates and be prepared for the worst,” he said.

Speaking to reporters after chairing the Terengganu Disaster Management committee meeting here, he said the committee had prepared 353 relief centres in Terengganu which could accommodate 49,052 people.

“The Welfare Department will also be supplying 15 mobile toilets for the relief centres,” he said.

Nazri said the Terengganu Welfare Department had identified 110 front-line bases which would be equipped with supplies such as food and blankets.

“Each base will be able to supply food to a centre for three days.”

He also announced that flood victims who refused to move to relief centres would be required to fill up an “anti-fraud” form to receive aid.

“We have received numerous complaints about such fraud previously, so we want to make sure only deserving recipients get the aid.”

For more information, check http://etindakan.terengganu.gov.my or http://portalbanjir.mkn.gov.my.

In ALOR SETAR, the monsoon season is expected to hit Kedah, Perlis and Penang soon.

“We have earmarked several low-lying areas that need to be monitored closely. They are Padang Terap, Kubang Pasu, Pendang, Pokok Sena and Kota Setar.

“We need to be prepared as the floods could be much worse than those in 2010 or it could last much longer this time around,” said Kedah Civil Defence Department operation coordinator officer Saifuddin Abdullah.
Perlis Civil Defence Department director Ishak Md Radzi said Titi Tinggi, Kampung Bakau and Pengaras were flood-prone areas.

“We will be carrying out regular inspection at main rivers,” he said.

As for PENANG, its state Fire and Rescue Department director Azmi Tamat said 250 firefighters were on standby to help evacuate victims.

“We have also conducted checks on the rescue equipment,” he added.

Penang Water Supply Corporation corporate affairs manager K. Jeya-balan said efforts had been taken to reduce water level at Air Itam dam following a spillover on Oct 5 due to heavy rains.

State exco in charge of flood mitigation Law Choo Kiang said all relevant departments had been instructed to carry out maintenance works especially in flood-prone areas such as the Sungai Pinang river bank, Jalan P. Ramlee, Kampung Masjid and Kampung Dodol.

Help spread message of unity, ‘dakwah’ movements urged

The Star, Tuesday October 9, 2012

KUALA LUMPUR: The Islamic missionary (dakwah) movements in the country have been called upon to play a major role in spreading the message of unity to all layers of society.

Deputy Prime Minister Tan Sri Muhyiddin Yassin said they could play an effective role due to their independence and influence that cuts across political barriers.

“I am confident the unity of the ummah can be achieved if all parties are sincere in pursuing it, without any motive except to see Islam being upheld in this country,” he said at the launch of the National Missionary seminar yesterday.

Muhyiddin warned of the emerging challenges of liberalism and religious pluralism, which pro-posed that Muslims free themselves from their beliefs and religious rules that were based on their faith.

He expressed concern that such a belief system would result in a society not based on religious guidance and direction, while man would no longer believe in the existence of God.

“Islamic teachings that emphasise the order of relationships between individuals, families, communities and the nation will no longer be upheld, but be regarded as something old-fashioned and restrictive to freedom,” he said.

Muhyiddin said the close relationship between the dakwah movement and the Government had enabled syariah practices to spread quickly in Malaysia.

He added that one such spread was through the education system.

The emphasis on syariah in the education system would also be implemented through the Malaysia Education Blueprint 2013 to 2025, he added.

Muhyidin said the Government would make Islamic teachings an important component that built people's faith and devotion, as well as created good character.

“Such values would also instill a good relationship with other religious beliefs.”

Latest malaria drug may be available in govt hospitals in January

The Star, Thursday October 4, 2012

By LOH FOON FONG newsdesk@thestar.com.my

Watch video at: http://videos.thestar.com.my/View.aspx?vid=9171&cid=1

KUALA LUMPUR: The latest malaria combination drug treatment approved by the World Health Organisation will enable patients to reduce the treatment period to three days from the present 14 days.

The drug, which was registered with the ministry's Drug Control Authority in March, is expected to be available at government hospitals in January, said Health Minister Datuk Seri Liow Tiong Lai.

The drug combination contains contributions from Malaysian research data.

He said the fixed dose combination of Artesunate-Metefloquine or ASMQ FDC would enable patients to reduce the malaria treatment period.

“In the past, it took 14 days to treat a malaria case but now a patient takes only one pill a day for three days,” he said after launching the Drug for Neglected Diseases Initiative (DNDI) Jubilee celebrations yesterday.

The pills for three days would cost RM9 to RM10 for adults and RM4.50 for children, he said.

Last year, there were 5,306 malaria infection cases, including 18 deaths, while 3,000 cases, including 14 deaths, were reported up to August this year.

Liow said the case-fatality rate was currently low at 0.35% per case.

“Neglected diseases are mainly due to parasitic and bacterial infections and they affect about 2.7 billion people, especially in rural areas,” he said.

“The diseases could lead to long-term disability, morbidity and premature deaths.”

Since the DNDI was established as a non-profit, public-private partnership effort in 2003, it had introduced six cost-effective drugs and would introduce another seven by 2018.

On the issue of antibiotics abuse, Liow said the ministry had issued a circular to government clinics and hospitals not to over-prescribe medication.

DNDI founding member and former Health director-general Tan Sri Dr Ismail Merican said patients preferred doctors who gave them a strong dose of antibiotics.

“If the drug does not work for them, they tend to consider the doctors lousy. But doctors must explain to them about antibiotics use,” he said.

Asked if a patient with viral infection should accept antibiotics because some doctors give antibiotics in view of possible bacterial attack, Dr Ismail said a doctor should not prescribe antibiotics, but should instead find out the cause of the infection.

Source: http://thestar.com.my/news/story.asp?file=/2012/10/4/nation/12120414&sec=nation

PM: Hire more women

Wednesday October 3, 2012

By LOH FOON FONG foonfong@thestar.com.my

Watch video at: http://videos.thestar.com.my/View.aspx?vid=9166&cid=1

PETALING JAYA: Datuk Seri Najib Tun Razak has challenged public-listed companies to appoint more women to their board of directors.

He said that there are about 200 capable women who have been trained by the Government for such tasks.

The public sector has appointed many women as top decision makers, and it was now up to the private sector to follow suit, he added.

“Don't give the excuse that we have no women. Yes, we do. Ask the Women, Family and Community Development Ministry for the list of women who can serve as directors,” the Prime Minister said at the National Women's Day Celebration 2012 yesterday.

Tribute to women: Najib and Rosmah sharing a light moment with the Anugerah Tokoh Wanita recipients (from left) Puan Seri Sukumari Sekhar, Datuk F.R. Bhupalan, Deputy Women, Family and Community Development Minister Datuk Heng Seai Kie, Puan Seri Professor Datuk Dr Fatimah Hamid Don and the Ministry’s secretary-general Datuk Dr Noorul Ainur Mohd Nur during the celebration.

The ministry's Malaysian Directors' Academy had targeted about 200 competent and experienced women to be trained and offered as potential candidates for the boards of directors of companies by December this year.

A total of RM50mil has been allocated in Budget 2013 to, among others, train 500 women as board members under the Women Director's Programme.

Najib also hoped that more companies and government departments would set up childcare centres as employers would be given a double deduction on the allowance or subsidies provided to the employees and expenses for the maintenance of the centres.

“We hope that these measures will enable more women to join the workforce,” he said, adding that currently only 46% of women work.

The ministry's NAM Institute for the Empowerment of Women director Tan Sri Dr Rafiah Salim said that to date, about 400 candidates have registered with the Women Directors' Registry, with 100 of them trained and ready for board placement.

Securities Commission market oversight director Hasnah Omar said the programme was timely, given the fact that women make up more than 50% of the country's population.

Among the 100 are First Principles Sdn Bhd principal consultant Datin Meha Sivamohan, Sibu Water Board deputy general manager Alice Jawan, AJA EQS Certification Malaysia Sdn Bhd group CEO Jacqueline Francis, Shearn Delamore & Co advocate and solicitor Cheow Wai Yee and Negri Sembilan Pardons Board member Tunku Datuk Nazihah Tunku Mohd Rus.

Source: http://thestar.com.my/news/story.asp?file=/2012/10/3/nation/12118387&sec=nation

British education experts share tips

Tuesday October 2, 2012

Watch video at: http://videos.thestar.com.my/View.aspx?vid=9161&cid=1

KUALA LUMPUR: Green issues in schools and the use of social networking to improve English proficiency are some of the exciting topics at the British Educational Suppliers Asia Forum 2012.

For the second day running today, some of the out-of-the-norm workshops will touch on the use of iPads in teaching Art, Maths, Science and Physical Education.

Workshops on student development such as on education wellness, the best in British anti-bullying practices, and successful sex education will also be held at the Kuala Lumpur Convention Centre.

British Educational Suppliers Association director-general Dominic Savage said he recognised the strong existing education links between Britain and Malaysia.

“We try and bring to this event some new ideas including innovative ways teachers can be supported in offering the best, latest and the most relevant approaches to education for the 21st Century,” he said at a press conference yesterday.

Savage said it was important to use technology in teaching, especially among the young.
British Council director Gavin Anderson said 15,000 Malaysians were currently studying in Britain while 58,000 students in Malaysia had access to education there.

He also said the National Education Blueprint (2013-2025) had done a good job in analysing some of the challenges that still exist in Malaysian education.

In his speech, British High Commissioner Simon Featherstone said Britain aimed to double trade with Indonesia and Malaysia in the next five years from the current £6bil (RM29.7bil) in goods and services.

On Featherstone's announcement on Friday that Malaysians no longer needed to show documentary proof of financial maintenance when applying for a student visa to Britain beginning yesterday, Deputy Science, Tech-nology and Innovation Minister Fadillah Yusof said he welcomed the move.

“This is based on the existing strong ties between Britain and Malaysia. This is where they have accommodated us by giving us some incentives and reducing red tape, which is sometimes troublesome especially for those who are not funded by the Government or banks,” he said.

Source: http://thestar.com.my/news/story.asp?file=/2012/10/2/nation/12109596&sec=nation

Liow hopes allocations will help reduce NCD

The Star, Sunday September 30, 2012

(My story without byline)

PETALING JAYA: Health Minister Datuk Seri Liow Tiong Lai hopes that the Budget allocation for blood test screening and free health checks under the Social Security Orga­nisation (Socso) will help reduce non-communicable diseases (NCD) by 10% to 20%.

He said the funds would help in financing programmes for the early prevention of such diseases.

“Many people come too late for check-ups and by then, they may have to be put on long-term medication,” said Liow.

The Budget 2013 will see cholesterol, sugar and urine tests being offered by 1Malaysia Clinics, while a RM200mil allocation for Socso would enable 1.4 million people aged between 40 and 55 years old to get free health check-ups.

Liow also that said more than 50% of breast cancer cases were detected late and welcomed the Women, Fam­i­­­ly and Community Development Ministry’s RM25mil allocation for free mammogram screenings for 100,000 women aged 40 and above.

On calls for private doctors to be included in the 1Malaysia Clinics scheme, Liow said the ministry would study the idea first.

Socso chief executive officer Datuk K. Selvarajah said the organisation was working out the details of the types of free health check-ups to be offered.

Source: http://thestar.com.my/news/story.asp?file=/2012/9/30/budget/12105259&sec=budget

Boost for healthcare and well-being

The Star, Saturday September 29, 2012

THE Government has allocated RM19.3bil for healthcare management and development services next year. This is a 15% increase compared with last year.

Datuk Seri Najib Tun Razak said the 1Malaysia Clinics would begin to offer cholesterol and glucose testing services as well as urine tests for those who needed them.

As for the reduced sugar subsidy, he said this was done as 2.6 million Malaysians were diabetic.

“The Government urges retailers not to burden fellow Malaysians by increasing prices. Instead, reduce the content of sugar,” he said.

Najib added that the subsidy reduction was supported by consumers groups and health practitioners.

The Prime Minister said that the Government would still be subsidising sugar at 34 sen per kilo, totalling RM278mil.

Interests groups welcomed the reduction of sugar subsidy but some of them were not happy that the 1Malaysia Clinics are affecting private practice.

For instance, Malaysian Medical Association president Dr S.R. Manalan said they were disappointed that the Government did not include the request of private doctors to incorporate their services in the 1Malaysia Clinic scheme.

“We have mentioned to the Government that the programme had affected the livelihood of many private doctors.

“The Government said the doctors could sign up for slots in general hospitals but these slots were always full, filled up by their own doctors,” he said.

Dr Manalan also said that breast cancer had become more common among those aged 40 and below, thus allocations should be made for them for other forms of screening such as ultrasound.

On the RM200mil allocation for Socso to enable 1.4 million workers to go for free check-ups, he said it was a good effort but there must be follow-up efforts to their cases.

Fomca deputy president Muhammad Sha’ani Abdullah said the Government should engage private practitioners for 1Malaysia Clinics instead of creating more clinics by renting new premises and employing additional medical assistants and staff.

He noted that there was no mention of the healthcare financing scheme, which was needed in view of Malaysia becoming an ageing population.

“This must come as soon as possible because healthcare cost has escalated and affecting consumers,” he said.

Source: http://thestar.com.my/news/story.asp?file=/2012/9/29/budget/12097828&sec=budget

‘Fear not China’s rise’

The Star, Friday September 28, 2012

(My story without byline)

PETALING JAYA: China may overtake the United States as the biggest economic power in the next four to six years but this does not mean that it will instantly become the world's superpower, says a leading expert on China.

Dr Martin Jacques, 67, author of the global bestseller When China Rules the World: the End of the Western World and the Birth of a New Global Order, said it would take several decades, from between 2030 and 2040, before it could even achieve developed state status.

“It'd be a long way to go as a superpower,” he said at a talk on “China As Global Superpower: What It Means For Asia and The World”, hosted by the Asian Centre for Media Studies, based in Menara Star.

The second edition of his book was released recently and 40% of its content was new.

“This includes an extensive chapter analysing events after the 2008 financial crisis,” he said.

Expert on China: Dr Jacques presenting a talk hosted by the Asian Centre for Media Studies at Menara Star.

His first was shortlisted for two major literary awards.
Dr Jacques said Westerners were fearful of China's rise due to scant knowledge and understanding of China and that it was a communist country.

They fear the country might throw its weight and its military power around.

However, Dr Jacques pointed out that China had no major interest in developing military power after Deng Xiaoping took over the country from the late 1970s to 1990s.

On fears that a communist country was not democratic, he argued that being democratic had not stopped Europeans from conquering others.

“Although China has a lot of problems now, it doesn't mean that it can't be humane and more democratic,” said Dr Jacques.

“Maybe, it will develop universal suffrage without following the Western way.”

Dr Jacques pointed out that the China Development Bank and China Export-Import Bank gave loans of more than US$110bil (RM338.415bil) to other developing countries in 2009 and 2010 while the World Bank only made loan commitments of US$100.3bil (RM307.65bil).

Dr Jacques, a Senior Visiting Research Fellow at the London School of Economics (University of London), visiting professor at Tsinghua University, Beijing, and Fellow at the Transatlantic Academy, Washington DC, was the former editor of Marxism Today, deputy editor of The Independent and a co-founder of the think tank Demos.
Source: http://thestar.com.my/news/story.asp?file=/2012/9/28/nation/12093853&sec=nation

PM: Promote racial harmony

The Star, Thursday September 27, 2012

By LOH FOON FONG newsdesk@thestar.com.my

KUALA LUMPUR: Datuk Seri Najib Tun Razak has repeated his late father's call for the legal community to dedicate themselves to the promotion of racial harmony.

The Prime Minister, quoting excerpts from Tun Abdul Razak's speech at the first Malaysian Law Conference in 1971, said Malaysian society had unfortunately become fragmented and polarised, therefore a “new synthesis” must be sought.

“To replace the communal groupings of the past, we look to other groups to be the new bridge for greater understanding and cooperation,” Najib said in his opening address at the International Malaysia Law Conference 2012 yesterday.

On this note, he urged the legal community which already possesses multi-racial unity and transcends race, religion and political affiliations “to devote your earnest attention and dedicate yourselves to the promotion of racial harmony to achieve national unity”.

Wait for it: Najib penning his prediction on the general election date as ‘coming soon’ at a booth after opening the law conference. Looking on is Bar Council chairman Lim Chee Wee (right).

Najib reiterated his late father's affirmation of the legal profession and the Malaysian Bar as an important partner in the rule of law and administration of justice.

“When it speaks, we listen. We may not always agree with the views of the Malaysian Bar, but we hear what they say and observe what they do with interest,” he said.

On another matter, Najib said the Government had successfully delivered its promises on law reforms.

Following its promise to the people for a more open and dynamic democracy in Malaysia, it had annulled the three proclamations of Emergency which lead to the expiry of the Emergency Ordinance, he said.

“We promised the rakyat a more human rights-friendly legal environment and we repealed the three controversial laws the Internal Security Act 1971, the Banishment Act 1959 and the Restricted Residence Act 1933,” he said.

For greater freedom of speech and expression, it had amended the Printing Presses and Publication Act 1984, he said.

Source: http://thestar.com.my/news/story.asp?file=/2012/9/27/nation/12089355&sec=nation