(Mingguan Malaysia, 29 November)
Dr. Mohd Ridhuan Tee Abdullah, Senior Lecturer, National Defence University Malaysia
Many people asked how Lee Kuan Yew can be successful with the system of one school in Singapore using English as the main language. Lee Kuan Yew was highly praised because he was willing to sacrifice the mother tongue language for the national interest. Is it true? My answer is Lee Kuan Yew had no choice. Hence, he had to make a stand. If there are choices, I believe he would have acted otherwise. Remember! Mandarin is still an important subject over there compared to the Malay language, being the reason that they are the majority.
We need to understand the history of Singapore on why Lee Kuan Yew had to choose the English language? If Singapore did not originate from the system of the Malay country, I believe Lee Kuan Yew will not choose the English language. Lee Kuan Yew has long been able to read the psychological mindset of the Malays. His ability to read and write Jawi managed to melt the Malays. If the Chinese language was chosen, it will be certainly opposed by the Malays at that time.
Singapore can not be separated with the Malays. Even until to this day I would still say that Singapore is a country in the Malay Archipelago. Unless Singapore is in the archipelago such as Taiwan, then I would recognize it as a nation of its own. Lee Kuan Yew only sacrificed the Mandarin language only temporarily. Let us not make the assumption that Singapore is well developed for using the English language. It is actually closely related to the nature of ultra kiasu.
We should not be surprised that Singapore can be a developed nation within a short period. If Singapore is destined to be as big as Malaysia or Indonesia, I believe it would not be where it is now. Singapore is fortunate because of its location and size which were the many factors that help made it into the developed countries. Do not be too impressed with its leadership until we forget what it has done to our country before this. Do we still have the memory on the history and the dark events that lead to the separation of Malaysia-Singapore? Did the entry of Singapore into Malaysia truly sincere? Read the history. What is important today is how to overcome their ultra kiasu attitude which is highly dangerous to our country's politics. Remember, the followers of this ultra kiasu from Singapore are plenty in our country, thus they do not cease from requesting and demanding. Are we still not aware? In short, they are not alone.
Just look at how much strategic land has been mortgaged? Similarly, with the luxury houses that had been purchased? Do not discount the water agreement and water catchment's areas which are being protected by their armed forces even in Johor. Lee Kuan Yew rarely visits to Malaysia after the separation, but why was he willing to tour our country recently, particularly to Penang? Do you realize what were being discussed explicitly and implicitly? Think. Do not overlook on the fate of the Malays in Penang? Do not regret after being hit. Before you are hit you need to be careful. When rice has turned into porridge, it is already too late. The disunity among us is a clear indication of their success.
Wake up my dear friends, the Malay Muslims in Singapore have been successfully melted. Today a handful of the Malays are sweetened with power and are already not as Malay Muslims. They had not only been melted, but no longer concern about the Malay Muslims, except for those in the madrasahs. To what extent can the madrasahs with hold? It is still remains a big question today. The position of the madrasahs is decreasing. Similarly, their mosques are facing the same thing, too. Have we not realized? It is already enough that we lose Pulau Batu Putih. Don't just regret over it. Take it as a lesson before it is too late. Those who are strong with the Malay Muslims spirit will never be selected as leaders or ministers over there. Therefore, such person like Dr. Lily Zubaidah Rahim (2001) was thrown out from her own land. This is because for speaking to protect the interests of the Malay Muslims. Have we not learned from this?
Let us ponder why Singapore today spend almost USD11 billion a year on defense just to strengthen the country with a population of only 4.6 million and is ranked number 23 in the world? It is more than double the amount that Indonesia spends on defense (USD 4.7 billion). Their defense expenditure far exceeded our country which is not even listed in the world ranking. Have we realized that their close allies are the enemies of Islam such as Israel, America, Australia, Britain and others? Have we not thought on what were their actual agenda if it is not because of us? I am confident that we will not lose the island of Batu Putih if our strength exceeded theirs. Our threats and warnings would have shaken them. But why they are so bold and rude? Because they already knew their strength and is ever ready to face any consequences. Tendency for them to win big is in their favor.
Perhaps the defense experts may not agree with me. But we must remember, today we are no longer using humans to fight but technological sophistications is the word. Make a comparison on our war defense technology with Singapore. The difference would be like the sky and the earth. We should spend more money on national defense. Unfortunately, more money was used for politics instead for defending the country. It's time we reduce slightly on politicizing for the sake of building our national defense strength.
To what extend do we want to continue to believe that the cold war has ended and that the world is safe? Enemies are no longer around and we do not need to be strong? Have we not realized that the enemy is growing stronger and is always discussing plans to destroy us?
Henceforth, I hereby appeal that we do not engage ourselves in politics too much. So much time and money were used up just to defeat among ourselves. Unfortunately, we are not only engaging ourselves politically in politics, but in other areas as well. Take for instance in seizing power in the office or public bodies, agencies, NGOs and others. These do not include the issues of corruption. In short, nearly in every areas the Muslims engaged themselves politically. Politics is actually a loss and weakening itself. Ultra kiasu will take advantage.
The enemy will continue planning to make the Muslims fight among themselves. Today we are being instigated with Indonesia. Who are the provocateurs? Let us think together. Simple logic, if the neighboring Islamic countries are fighting with each other, then it would be easier for the country and the ultra kiasu to organize their strategy. Let us not be too emotional among ourselves for I am afraid we will not benefit anything.
The West is making the Arab countries fighting among themselves. As a result, the illegalized Israel gained control of the Arab countries with a ratio of 1 Israeli to more than hundred Arabs. 100 Arabs could not defeat 1 Israeli. While in terms of logic, 1 person can be flooded by 100 people that teamed up to urinate on the Israeli. Instead the opposite resulted. The one successfully defeated the 100. Arab-Israeli scenario is similar to the Singapore-Malay archipelago. They are already prepared with all the power of technology. We continue to politicize with no end.
We are fortunate that today we have became consumers of technology and not the creator. The benefit is that we do not need to spend additional time to create the technology because it has been created. So much time developing these technologies have been saved. What is needed today is to fully utilize these technologies and capitalize them as what is being done by Iran. Instead, Iran is being victimized by the West.
The West and the ultra kiasu have successfully read the thoughts of the Muslims. They knew that their technology is used by the Muslims. The Muslims will become stronger if the technology is capitalized fully. Thus, before that to happen, they break and melt them for easy controlling. It appears that their strategy is successful. The Muslims were successfully controlled and broken up. It is not because they are not technological savvy. Actually they are clever. Instead they were being induced to fight and quarrel among themselves over petty issues such as the Bali pendet dance. Unfortunately, for those not fighting, the technology is not being capitalized but being used incorrectly instead. Eventually the spirit became empty and melted.
Therefore, I am appealing that we begin the first step by resolving the basic issues related to the education in our country. This is because education is very important as a defense mechanism stronghold. It should begin with one school system. The foundations of patriotism must be present. Do not gamble the future and the national security systems in order to maintain power today. If popularity is lost but the future of education is secured, it's only for a while not to be popular. What is the use of popularity if the education future and country eroding? Retreating does not mean we are defeated. Instead it is to recoup our strength, rather than we continue to lose and eventually be defeated. I still remember the words in Latin "si vis Pacem para bellum", which means that if you wish for peace, prepare for war. Are we ready in that direction when others had already prepared themselves long ago? If they are too ultra kiasu, are we too accommodating? We need to be firmed against them for the future interest. Remember! We will lose if we continue accommodating.
Sunday, November 29, 2009
Sunday, November 22, 2009
Do Not Politicize the Country's Education Future
(Mingguan Malaysia, 22 November)
Dr. Mohd Ridhuan Tee Abdullah, Senior Lecturer, National Defence University Malaysia
I was hoping the government will not bow down to the pressure from the Chinese Federation of Associations of Malaysia (Hua Zong) to assist the 60 of the Chinese Independent Secondary School and to recognize the certificates issued (UEC). It is already enough with the existing of over 1300 SJKC and this will be increased from time to time. Separation in the primary school is already a burden for us to strengthen the future. Do we want to continue to divide them when they are in the secondary school? This does not include the IPTS which has a strong race based with a very significant number of enrolments, using the mother tongue as the main language especially in Kajang, Kuala Lumpur and others. I am able to name each one of them. However, I shall not reveal them for the time being. Is this the spirit of 1Malaysia?
In the vernacular schools, the Malay language is taught three times a week. Can they actually master the national language? Do make a research. Just look at only the UPSR results of these students in the Malay language and the transition classes. That is already enough to provide an overview. Then conduct a census in the new villages. Rate the level of the mastery of the national language. I'm not anti-Chinese. I love my race for Allah also created them, too. If I reject them, it also means that I reject Allah that created me as a Chinese. Am I anti-Chinese when I bring up this issue?
Let's debate today for the sake of our future. Hopefully our children and grandchildren will have a better life after this. Their interests must be prioritized against our own interests. In fact, the Minister of Education has full authority to reject all these vernacular schools. However, the power vested was not enforced. Just consider if such tolerance was absent.
Before 1996, we have the Education Act 1961 Section 21 (1B), which empowers the Minister of Education to close or abolish the SJKC / T. This Act made the Chinese associations fearful. They have appealed and urged the government to repeal this act. On the basis of compromising, and in 1995, the education minister made a bold decision by agreeing with the Chinese request to withdraw the power vested or in other words the provision in the act by presenting a new Education Act in 1996 which was more acceptable.
The Education Act 1996 introduced was still not agreeable by a handful of the ultra kiasu. The ultra kiasu considered the amendment of Education Act 1961 to 1996 had actually solved one problem with the repeal of Section 21 (1) (b), but had also created new problems with the addition of Section 17 (1). According to them, Section 17 (1) provides new powers to the Minister of Education to enforce the vernacular schools to use the Malay language as the main medium.
The ultra kiasu argued that the previous act context was within the primary school but the new act allows the ministry to have a wider scope of context from pre-school education to post secondary level education. According to Section 28 of the act, only vernacular schools owned by the state government are granted 'special permission' by the Minister of Education, which may be exempted from the provisions under Section 17 (1).
In fact, the Education Act 1996 also known as Act 550 'is softer' compared to the Education Act 1961 which was repealed. Is this tolerance? The vested power was sacrificed for the sake to accommodate others. For those ultra kiasu who are always opposing with me, please read this act and make a comparison with the previous act. Whoever enacted this act, if it is not for our Prime Minister today which was the then Minister of Education? The Minister of Education before him could not compromise on this at all. Who was that? Just ask the party affiliated with this ultra kiasu. I do not actually understand why they are so good today while before that, the Act 1961 was the most feared by this ultra kiasu.
However, a group of the ultra kiasu is never grateful, let alone appreciative. I do not see any differences in the SJKC with the Chinese schools in China in terms of language, except with the additional Malay subject being taught 3 hours a week. I remembered the words of Khoo Kay Kim that the education system today must meet the requirements to establish the idea of 1Malaysia. The multiple educations system will not help the people to understand the establishment of this great idea. Children are separated from young. When they have grown up, it would be difficult for them to cooperate with each other. The vernacular school was originally established to enable the Chinese and Indian people to learn about the country they originated from. But today they have became the people of Malaysia, thus such situation should not exist anymore. Kay Kim is frustrated with those groups who are defending schools which are race-based.
I am full of anticipation on those who talk a lot about maintaining the vernacular schools would make a complete study on this. Do not always blame the government only. What is really their agenda? If only to defend the heritage of ancestors, please bear in mind on the culture and way of life of others, too. Do not just blame on the language as an issue, because the language issue is a national problem. I hereby ask them to do a research on the performance of the Malay language (BM) in the vernacular schools. First, is the ability and capacity to understand and converse in BM? Second, is the percentage of BM failure? Third, on the problem arises from the transition classes and problems of communication among students in BM. Fourth, on the interactions among students from the transition classes with the Malay students. Fifth, is the failure and low passing rate in BM in the PMR and SPM levels? Sixth, is the understanding and ability on BM after finishing high school? Seventh, is the ability to speak BM among the non-Malays? If it is still not feasible to make a study, then take a sample of several political leaders and NGOs which are vocal, including lecturers from the Chinese institutions and test their ability on BM?
We were extremely disappointed when recently, as reported in the Chinese newspapers that a few Chinese organizations such as Dong Zong, Hua Zong, the Association of Heads of Chinese Schools, Chinese Schools Alumni Association and other Chinese associations were strongly against the proposal by the Ministry of Education to standardize the BM syllabus in SK and SJKC. For your information, the BM syllabus in SJKC is very much easier than SK. That was how united they are. When studying BM, they want it to be simple & easy (cincai). Instead, in studying own language, it must be in detail. Are we seriously strengthening the country? Isn't this ultra kiasu? Are we still blind and unconscious? Simple reasoning; the students of SJKC must not be burdened with BM which is relatively difficult because they had to learn three languages, namely Mandarin as a major, BM as a second language and English as a third language. This is the fate of the Malay language in the Malay land. Have we realized that BM is the easiest language in the world? Obviously BM is difficult if only taught three times a week at the SJKC. Are we serious?
I do not deny there are some Chinese students who managed to get excellent results in the Malay language, but the number is very small. That is also because it is a compulsory subject to pass. Imagine if it is not a compulsory subject. Is the learning of the Malay language is because of being forced or for loving the language as spirit of national identity? Please consider. There is no need to uphold a wet strand of thread for our children will face a greater loss later and we will not be there. Do not let our ego today destroy our future interests.
To the ultra kiasu I would like to ask them to give me an example of a country in the world that practices such a system as ours? If there is I will yield. I will not touch the issue on vernacular educations. Is this not heaven for us in here? Do not always use diversity as strength of argument or unity within diversity. Too much diversity will also not benefit. We need to find more similarities to meet the goal of establishing the idea of 1Malaysia. The similarities can only be achieved with a shared goal of the national vision. It starts with sharing the one school system, without denying the rights of everyone respectively. If issues such as the basic language we cannot agree on, what else can we agree on? In short, the one school system is only a fantasy if we continue to be soft. Kiasu is permissible. It is not wrong to be kiasu. In fact, Islam permits it also. But just do not be ultra kiasu. We are Chinese but don't be too ultra Chinese, ultra Malay, ultra India and other ultra races in Sabah and Sarawak. That is already extreme and excessive.
I am also not denying the fact that the vernacular school teachers are hardworking and dedicated. But that does not mean that we can make a generalization that the national school teachers are not of the same standards as with the SJKC. Remember! It is not all teachers in SJKC are good. I had my experienced. I'm neither a Chinese converted to Malay nor a Chinese apostate. I am only defending the interests of the future of our children and our great-great-grandchildren. Do not politicize the education because it is extremely dangerous for the future of the country. Do not deny the role of the government on capital assistance schools such as SJKC. Please be reminded that more than 400 SJKC is aided and built by the government in every Malaysia plan.
Dr. Mohd Ridhuan Tee Abdullah, Senior Lecturer, National Defence University Malaysia
I was hoping the government will not bow down to the pressure from the Chinese Federation of Associations of Malaysia (Hua Zong) to assist the 60 of the Chinese Independent Secondary School and to recognize the certificates issued (UEC). It is already enough with the existing of over 1300 SJKC and this will be increased from time to time. Separation in the primary school is already a burden for us to strengthen the future. Do we want to continue to divide them when they are in the secondary school? This does not include the IPTS which has a strong race based with a very significant number of enrolments, using the mother tongue as the main language especially in Kajang, Kuala Lumpur and others. I am able to name each one of them. However, I shall not reveal them for the time being. Is this the spirit of 1Malaysia?
In the vernacular schools, the Malay language is taught three times a week. Can they actually master the national language? Do make a research. Just look at only the UPSR results of these students in the Malay language and the transition classes. That is already enough to provide an overview. Then conduct a census in the new villages. Rate the level of the mastery of the national language. I'm not anti-Chinese. I love my race for Allah also created them, too. If I reject them, it also means that I reject Allah that created me as a Chinese. Am I anti-Chinese when I bring up this issue?
Let's debate today for the sake of our future. Hopefully our children and grandchildren will have a better life after this. Their interests must be prioritized against our own interests. In fact, the Minister of Education has full authority to reject all these vernacular schools. However, the power vested was not enforced. Just consider if such tolerance was absent.
Before 1996, we have the Education Act 1961 Section 21 (1B), which empowers the Minister of Education to close or abolish the SJKC / T. This Act made the Chinese associations fearful. They have appealed and urged the government to repeal this act. On the basis of compromising, and in 1995, the education minister made a bold decision by agreeing with the Chinese request to withdraw the power vested or in other words the provision in the act by presenting a new Education Act in 1996 which was more acceptable.
The Education Act 1996 introduced was still not agreeable by a handful of the ultra kiasu. The ultra kiasu considered the amendment of Education Act 1961 to 1996 had actually solved one problem with the repeal of Section 21 (1) (b), but had also created new problems with the addition of Section 17 (1). According to them, Section 17 (1) provides new powers to the Minister of Education to enforce the vernacular schools to use the Malay language as the main medium.
The ultra kiasu argued that the previous act context was within the primary school but the new act allows the ministry to have a wider scope of context from pre-school education to post secondary level education. According to Section 28 of the act, only vernacular schools owned by the state government are granted 'special permission' by the Minister of Education, which may be exempted from the provisions under Section 17 (1).
In fact, the Education Act 1996 also known as Act 550 'is softer' compared to the Education Act 1961 which was repealed. Is this tolerance? The vested power was sacrificed for the sake to accommodate others. For those ultra kiasu who are always opposing with me, please read this act and make a comparison with the previous act. Whoever enacted this act, if it is not for our Prime Minister today which was the then Minister of Education? The Minister of Education before him could not compromise on this at all. Who was that? Just ask the party affiliated with this ultra kiasu. I do not actually understand why they are so good today while before that, the Act 1961 was the most feared by this ultra kiasu.
However, a group of the ultra kiasu is never grateful, let alone appreciative. I do not see any differences in the SJKC with the Chinese schools in China in terms of language, except with the additional Malay subject being taught 3 hours a week. I remembered the words of Khoo Kay Kim that the education system today must meet the requirements to establish the idea of 1Malaysia. The multiple educations system will not help the people to understand the establishment of this great idea. Children are separated from young. When they have grown up, it would be difficult for them to cooperate with each other. The vernacular school was originally established to enable the Chinese and Indian people to learn about the country they originated from. But today they have became the people of Malaysia, thus such situation should not exist anymore. Kay Kim is frustrated with those groups who are defending schools which are race-based.
I am full of anticipation on those who talk a lot about maintaining the vernacular schools would make a complete study on this. Do not always blame the government only. What is really their agenda? If only to defend the heritage of ancestors, please bear in mind on the culture and way of life of others, too. Do not just blame on the language as an issue, because the language issue is a national problem. I hereby ask them to do a research on the performance of the Malay language (BM) in the vernacular schools. First, is the ability and capacity to understand and converse in BM? Second, is the percentage of BM failure? Third, on the problem arises from the transition classes and problems of communication among students in BM. Fourth, on the interactions among students from the transition classes with the Malay students. Fifth, is the failure and low passing rate in BM in the PMR and SPM levels? Sixth, is the understanding and ability on BM after finishing high school? Seventh, is the ability to speak BM among the non-Malays? If it is still not feasible to make a study, then take a sample of several political leaders and NGOs which are vocal, including lecturers from the Chinese institutions and test their ability on BM?
We were extremely disappointed when recently, as reported in the Chinese newspapers that a few Chinese organizations such as Dong Zong, Hua Zong, the Association of Heads of Chinese Schools, Chinese Schools Alumni Association and other Chinese associations were strongly against the proposal by the Ministry of Education to standardize the BM syllabus in SK and SJKC. For your information, the BM syllabus in SJKC is very much easier than SK. That was how united they are. When studying BM, they want it to be simple & easy (cincai). Instead, in studying own language, it must be in detail. Are we seriously strengthening the country? Isn't this ultra kiasu? Are we still blind and unconscious? Simple reasoning; the students of SJKC must not be burdened with BM which is relatively difficult because they had to learn three languages, namely Mandarin as a major, BM as a second language and English as a third language. This is the fate of the Malay language in the Malay land. Have we realized that BM is the easiest language in the world? Obviously BM is difficult if only taught three times a week at the SJKC. Are we serious?
I do not deny there are some Chinese students who managed to get excellent results in the Malay language, but the number is very small. That is also because it is a compulsory subject to pass. Imagine if it is not a compulsory subject. Is the learning of the Malay language is because of being forced or for loving the language as spirit of national identity? Please consider. There is no need to uphold a wet strand of thread for our children will face a greater loss later and we will not be there. Do not let our ego today destroy our future interests.
To the ultra kiasu I would like to ask them to give me an example of a country in the world that practices such a system as ours? If there is I will yield. I will not touch the issue on vernacular educations. Is this not heaven for us in here? Do not always use diversity as strength of argument or unity within diversity. Too much diversity will also not benefit. We need to find more similarities to meet the goal of establishing the idea of 1Malaysia. The similarities can only be achieved with a shared goal of the national vision. It starts with sharing the one school system, without denying the rights of everyone respectively. If issues such as the basic language we cannot agree on, what else can we agree on? In short, the one school system is only a fantasy if we continue to be soft. Kiasu is permissible. It is not wrong to be kiasu. In fact, Islam permits it also. But just do not be ultra kiasu. We are Chinese but don't be too ultra Chinese, ultra Malay, ultra India and other ultra races in Sabah and Sarawak. That is already extreme and excessive.
I am also not denying the fact that the vernacular school teachers are hardworking and dedicated. But that does not mean that we can make a generalization that the national school teachers are not of the same standards as with the SJKC. Remember! It is not all teachers in SJKC are good. I had my experienced. I'm neither a Chinese converted to Malay nor a Chinese apostate. I am only defending the interests of the future of our children and our great-great-grandchildren. Do not politicize the education because it is extremely dangerous for the future of the country. Do not deny the role of the government on capital assistance schools such as SJKC. Please be reminded that more than 400 SJKC is aided and built by the government in every Malaysia plan.
Sunday, November 15, 2009
When Own Strength is Dismissed
(Mingguan Malaysia, 15 November)
Dr. Mohd Ridhuan Tee Abdullah, Senior Lecturer, National Defence University Malaysia
As expected it is a taboo to question the vernacular education as this has made some of the ultra kiasu jumped. They claimed that it is their rights. Ethnic interests must be preserved. It cannot be interfered. What I had written was about nation building and empowering the national interest future without denying the rights of the other races to learn their own languages. Are we still confused? The irony part is that if they are agreeable on the one school system, then English should be the main medium and not the Malay language. It is obvious that they are excluding altogether and reduce the position of Malay language as the national language. When the language is not respected, will the race of the language be affected, too?
Therefore it is not a surprise that today they are very proud and boast with the additional names such as Joe, Michael, Nicol, Matthew, Martin and etc. Sometimes it becomes so nauseated by just hearing and calling these names. They have a sense of pride by associating with the Christianity and the West, and not associating at all with Islam and Malay. Is it not that the east is much closer to us than the west? Some are willing to change into new identity cards merely because they are obsessed with the west. Why are the names like Muhammad, Mahmood, Aziz, Ridhuan and other Islamic names are not favorable, but viewed instead with hatred? Are the Islamic and Malay names so disgusting? Are the usages of Islamic names considered to have neither standard nor glamorous? Is it not that the names from the east actually featured more towards 1Malaysia? I do not have to open a can of worms here. Let me save them temporarily for the next time.
It is not my intention to instill the fire of hatred among the races. However, the various comments have forced me to reveal the truth about some of them which are never grateful. They preferred to be assimilated and acculturated with the west instead of with the Malays and Islam.
Whatever that is pertaining to the assimilation and acculturated with the Malay Muslims is lowly perceived and will not be practiced at all. Meanwhile, the western way of life is accepted wholeheartedly. Just take for instances on the lifestyles such as wearing the Malay dress, using songkok, eating with the hands and listening to Malay music. Have we seen the non-Malays at least acculturated such manners? If there are, they can be countable with our fingers.
In the context of 1Malaysia, it is more appropriate that we assimilated and acculturated with the Malay Muslim's way of life, because it will benefit the country's future. The Muslims are easily impressed and 'melt' with the non-Malays who are trying to borrow their way of life. Instead, we are more western than the west. This included the Malays. Sometimes to the extent of forgetting that they are Malays because of being too western.
Being a Chinese Muslim, my race does not want to be associated directly with the Malays, especially on the lifestyle. If there is any friendliness with the Malays, it is for favors and advantages. Only a minority of the Malays actually worked in the non-Malay companies. Conditions such as the ability to communicate in Mandarin are an excuse to reject the Malay workers. In comparison with the Malay companies that took non-Malays workers, on the grounds that the non-Malays are more diligent than the Malays. In fact, sometimes the non-Malays are also appointed to higher positions. Who is actually more willing to give and receive in this case?
Even though if the Malays (including Indonesians) are employed, they are only for the purpose to popularize the sale of the food and services. The Malays are being used. The Malay name will be used to popularize the food sales such as using the Malay and Muslim as the brand names. However, the actual basic right remains unfulfilled. The Malays continue to give in for it is their iron rice bowl. How many Malay Muslim employees have complained to me that they are unable to perform the Friday prayers and the obligatory prayers? I can actually provide a list of the companies. The prayer time is considered a waste of time and reduces quality and productivity. However, we know that the fear of a person has with Allah, the stronger he will work for the people, whether the employer is a Muslim or not. The nature of fearing Allah will make the person perform their work with care. I do not deny the fact that there are people pious in praying but are also lazy and deceitful.
Is there already a plan to separate the Malays from its God in order to 'melt' them? When their bond with Allah has been 'melted', then they are able to break the spirit of jihad in them, thus easier to secularize and empowered them. We must be aware of these cunning actions of theirs. I do not mean jihad with war but just enough jihads to request that changes for us to be better and closer to the Almighty Creator.
Sometimes I do not blame them. They search and took advantage. It is only that we became complacent and relax. We do not appreciate what we have nor even to enforce what we have. We willingly sacrificed what has been provided to us for the sake our country can progress forward, even to the extent of sacrificing the dignity of the religion and race. Take for an instance on the position of the language and education policies.
Why we did not study the strength we had before studying the strength of others? Sometimes, I am puzzled on our enthusiastic to study others until forgetting our own selves. This will eventually lead us to neglect our own strength because for being too obsessed with others. Is this secularism?
In the context of teaching and learning at the higher learning institutions, students are compulsory to learn and understand the various theories that derived from the west (specifically) and east from prominent individuals. These theories were not only told to be memorized, instead those succeeded explained in details that they were considered best student and were given higher marks. Take for example on the theory of strategy and war by Tsun Tzu. The students are forced to memorize these theories externally and internally, cover to cover, to the extent that at times they forgot their responsibility towards the al-Quran and Sunnah. Tsun Tzu strategies are not only applied in war but also in business. Meanwhile, Tsun Tzu had never got himself into any university, let alone taking up PMR and SPM.
What surprised me the most is we have forgotten that in our religion we have great experts and thinkers in war strategies such as Muhammad SAW, Khalid Ibn Walid, Omar Al-Khattab, Salahuddin al-Ayubi and others. These prominent figures are rarely in the centre of discussions. Let alone to memorize their theories. What are not so prominent of them compared with Tsun Tzu, Kautilya (India), Clausewitz, Duhe and others? I am not rejecting these figures, but let us balance the figures with ours who are equally impressive.
Did Tsun Tzu ever graduated from any university or obtained a PhD? Obviously, he did not. Why are the university students today studying the various stages of the war strategies from a person who had never had a degree nor entered the university? Muhammad SAW also did not enter into university. However, he is the Prophet chosen by Allah. Therefore, he deserved to be highly acclaimed. So, it's not surprising for Michael Hart (2006) to rank the Prophet Muhammad SAW as the most supreme and powerful person among the top 100 most influential people in the world leaving behind Jesus, Moses, Buddha, Confucius, Aristotle, Tsun Tzu and many more powerful figures. Unfortunately, many did not make a study on this.
Today, what is happening is the opposite; the west is so interested in studying the east individual personality. Instead, the east is busy studying the west and end up neglecting its own. Therefore, I am not surprised when non-Muslims do not want to be assimilated nor acculturated because we do not acknowledge our own prominent figures or ourselves.
I do not believe we can rise up with other people's molding. History has shown that all nations rise up with their own strength and effort. The Japanese rose up because of the spirit of being Japanese, the Chinese with the spirit of being Chinese. Do we want to rise up with the spirit of being western? Of course, the Muslims must rise up with the Islamic spirit. Then only we will get the blessings from Allah SWT.
Recently I attended an important meeting in the ministry office. In the meeting there was an American entrepreneur who can speak Malay but not fluently. All because of one foreigner, the chairman of the meeting did not use the Malay language but instead conducted it in English language. I am very confident that even the president of Iran will not be prompted to do so, despite being fluent in English. If we are unsure on ourselves with our own language, who else can we hope to ensure a noble language? Language is the soul of a nation.
Dr. Mohd Ridhuan Tee Abdullah, Senior Lecturer, National Defence University Malaysia
As expected it is a taboo to question the vernacular education as this has made some of the ultra kiasu jumped. They claimed that it is their rights. Ethnic interests must be preserved. It cannot be interfered. What I had written was about nation building and empowering the national interest future without denying the rights of the other races to learn their own languages. Are we still confused? The irony part is that if they are agreeable on the one school system, then English should be the main medium and not the Malay language. It is obvious that they are excluding altogether and reduce the position of Malay language as the national language. When the language is not respected, will the race of the language be affected, too?
Therefore it is not a surprise that today they are very proud and boast with the additional names such as Joe, Michael, Nicol, Matthew, Martin and etc. Sometimes it becomes so nauseated by just hearing and calling these names. They have a sense of pride by associating with the Christianity and the West, and not associating at all with Islam and Malay. Is it not that the east is much closer to us than the west? Some are willing to change into new identity cards merely because they are obsessed with the west. Why are the names like Muhammad, Mahmood, Aziz, Ridhuan and other Islamic names are not favorable, but viewed instead with hatred? Are the Islamic and Malay names so disgusting? Are the usages of Islamic names considered to have neither standard nor glamorous? Is it not that the names from the east actually featured more towards 1Malaysia? I do not have to open a can of worms here. Let me save them temporarily for the next time.
It is not my intention to instill the fire of hatred among the races. However, the various comments have forced me to reveal the truth about some of them which are never grateful. They preferred to be assimilated and acculturated with the west instead of with the Malays and Islam.
Whatever that is pertaining to the assimilation and acculturated with the Malay Muslims is lowly perceived and will not be practiced at all. Meanwhile, the western way of life is accepted wholeheartedly. Just take for instances on the lifestyles such as wearing the Malay dress, using songkok, eating with the hands and listening to Malay music. Have we seen the non-Malays at least acculturated such manners? If there are, they can be countable with our fingers.
In the context of 1Malaysia, it is more appropriate that we assimilated and acculturated with the Malay Muslim's way of life, because it will benefit the country's future. The Muslims are easily impressed and 'melt' with the non-Malays who are trying to borrow their way of life. Instead, we are more western than the west. This included the Malays. Sometimes to the extent of forgetting that they are Malays because of being too western.
Being a Chinese Muslim, my race does not want to be associated directly with the Malays, especially on the lifestyle. If there is any friendliness with the Malays, it is for favors and advantages. Only a minority of the Malays actually worked in the non-Malay companies. Conditions such as the ability to communicate in Mandarin are an excuse to reject the Malay workers. In comparison with the Malay companies that took non-Malays workers, on the grounds that the non-Malays are more diligent than the Malays. In fact, sometimes the non-Malays are also appointed to higher positions. Who is actually more willing to give and receive in this case?
Even though if the Malays (including Indonesians) are employed, they are only for the purpose to popularize the sale of the food and services. The Malays are being used. The Malay name will be used to popularize the food sales such as using the Malay and Muslim as the brand names. However, the actual basic right remains unfulfilled. The Malays continue to give in for it is their iron rice bowl. How many Malay Muslim employees have complained to me that they are unable to perform the Friday prayers and the obligatory prayers? I can actually provide a list of the companies. The prayer time is considered a waste of time and reduces quality and productivity. However, we know that the fear of a person has with Allah, the stronger he will work for the people, whether the employer is a Muslim or not. The nature of fearing Allah will make the person perform their work with care. I do not deny the fact that there are people pious in praying but are also lazy and deceitful.
Is there already a plan to separate the Malays from its God in order to 'melt' them? When their bond with Allah has been 'melted', then they are able to break the spirit of jihad in them, thus easier to secularize and empowered them. We must be aware of these cunning actions of theirs. I do not mean jihad with war but just enough jihads to request that changes for us to be better and closer to the Almighty Creator.
Sometimes I do not blame them. They search and took advantage. It is only that we became complacent and relax. We do not appreciate what we have nor even to enforce what we have. We willingly sacrificed what has been provided to us for the sake our country can progress forward, even to the extent of sacrificing the dignity of the religion and race. Take for an instance on the position of the language and education policies.
Why we did not study the strength we had before studying the strength of others? Sometimes, I am puzzled on our enthusiastic to study others until forgetting our own selves. This will eventually lead us to neglect our own strength because for being too obsessed with others. Is this secularism?
In the context of teaching and learning at the higher learning institutions, students are compulsory to learn and understand the various theories that derived from the west (specifically) and east from prominent individuals. These theories were not only told to be memorized, instead those succeeded explained in details that they were considered best student and were given higher marks. Take for example on the theory of strategy and war by Tsun Tzu. The students are forced to memorize these theories externally and internally, cover to cover, to the extent that at times they forgot their responsibility towards the al-Quran and Sunnah. Tsun Tzu strategies are not only applied in war but also in business. Meanwhile, Tsun Tzu had never got himself into any university, let alone taking up PMR and SPM.
What surprised me the most is we have forgotten that in our religion we have great experts and thinkers in war strategies such as Muhammad SAW, Khalid Ibn Walid, Omar Al-Khattab, Salahuddin al-Ayubi and others. These prominent figures are rarely in the centre of discussions. Let alone to memorize their theories. What are not so prominent of them compared with Tsun Tzu, Kautilya (India), Clausewitz, Duhe and others? I am not rejecting these figures, but let us balance the figures with ours who are equally impressive.
Did Tsun Tzu ever graduated from any university or obtained a PhD? Obviously, he did not. Why are the university students today studying the various stages of the war strategies from a person who had never had a degree nor entered the university? Muhammad SAW also did not enter into university. However, he is the Prophet chosen by Allah. Therefore, he deserved to be highly acclaimed. So, it's not surprising for Michael Hart (2006) to rank the Prophet Muhammad SAW as the most supreme and powerful person among the top 100 most influential people in the world leaving behind Jesus, Moses, Buddha, Confucius, Aristotle, Tsun Tzu and many more powerful figures. Unfortunately, many did not make a study on this.
Today, what is happening is the opposite; the west is so interested in studying the east individual personality. Instead, the east is busy studying the west and end up neglecting its own. Therefore, I am not surprised when non-Muslims do not want to be assimilated nor acculturated because we do not acknowledge our own prominent figures or ourselves.
I do not believe we can rise up with other people's molding. History has shown that all nations rise up with their own strength and effort. The Japanese rose up because of the spirit of being Japanese, the Chinese with the spirit of being Chinese. Do we want to rise up with the spirit of being western? Of course, the Muslims must rise up with the Islamic spirit. Then only we will get the blessings from Allah SWT.
Recently I attended an important meeting in the ministry office. In the meeting there was an American entrepreneur who can speak Malay but not fluently. All because of one foreigner, the chairman of the meeting did not use the Malay language but instead conducted it in English language. I am very confident that even the president of Iran will not be prompted to do so, despite being fluent in English. If we are unsure on ourselves with our own language, who else can we hope to ensure a noble language? Language is the soul of a nation.
Sunday, November 8, 2009
Fantasy to create a One School System
(Mingguan Malaysia, 8 November)
Dr. Mohd Ridhuan Tee Abdullah, Senior Lecturer, National Defence University Malaysia
The issue on one school, an education system is not a new thing. It has been debated since before. I have spoken and written a lot about this. The situation remains and has not changed much. The answer is simple; the education has been politicized. If the Malay language as the national language cannot be uphold, how far can we proceed from there? We have provisions in the constitution, but they are not being used nor enforced. We are busy attending to the pressure from the ultra kiasu political groups. Finally, the language and education system cannot be strengthened in its own land. This country seems to have no identity as compared to other countries.
When there is news to create one school system, the ultra kiasu will rise against it. As for them, their ancestral heritage must be preserved. They will do anything, including demanding and threatening the government. Demanding and threatening have great influences with the political elections. Finally, the government relented. The one school system had to be shelved for a while.
Recently it had been voiced again, but with a different tone. The one school system is only for the secondary schools. Indeed, the secondary system flow has been standardized. There are not many vernacular schools for the secondary compared to the primary (1300 SJKC + 530 SJKT). It can be said that most of the non-Malays send their children to the national secondary schools due to the limited places in the vernacular secondary schools (5%). Therefore, there is no issues arises on the one school system for the secondary schools.
The main issues that should be seriously debated are how to create an education system that can integrate the children in the primary school level. Children should not be separated from young. Studies and time have shown that due to the separation among them from young has created difficulty to unite them again in the secondary school. The existence of the transition classes and the mastery of the Malay language among vernacular primary school students have created interactions problems between non-Malays and Malay students. In the end, they became awkward, shy and will not mix easily. They will hide in their own cocoon. This situation will make them become more kiasu.
As the head of the Parents and Teachers Association of the school where the majority were non-Malay students for the past 6 years until now, I can understand that race relations are at an alarming level. These students are not able to mix after being separated for 6 years in the primary school. Thus, it is continued to the secondary level and higher education. Look at what happened in the public and the private institutions. I do not need to speak further. It has been clearly shown. How long do we need to discuss this issue? As long as we bow to their demands and threats, it is kind of waiting for a cat to grow its horn; this deadlock will never be solved. It is to our utmost disappointment that we are only thinking for the current interests rather than on the future. We prioritized politically and thus ignoring the importance of education. Perhaps we would not be able to feel the effects today, but are we willing to leave all this to our children and great grandchildren? I am worried for by then it will be too late to be corrected.
I have repeatedly stated that as a result of this racist school system, our race relationship in this country is like a fire that cannot be put out completely. We have successfully extinguished the fire, but the amber from the fire is still there. This amber is most detrimental if left unchecked in the long run.
Recently, the National Defense University of Malaysia has organized a conference pertaining on higher education and race development. The same anxiety was heavily debated on the one school education system in our current main education system as recommended by Prof Khoo Kay Kim.
Our country is the only one in the world that adopts a multi-stream school system. There is only one school system in other countries. Even if there are more than one, it has long been abolished, thus to achieve the future and national interest. Therefore, we could see that Thailand has abolished since the beginning by destroying the Chinese school in the 1930s (Ye Lin-Sheng, 2003). In fact, Malaysia is heaven to the non-Malays for they get what they actually are not entitled. They are no different from what they were in the first place. Whatever benefits them will not be voiced out. Instead, the ultra kiasu group will continue to demand that the vernacular schools be increased in every Malaysia plan.
My question is whether we are serious on this matter. I have repeatedly stated that the national interests or the country must be put forward rather than the ethnicity interest. National schools must be given priority over the ethnic schools. National agenda will strengthen the future. Meanwhile, the ethnic agenda serves only a few specific groups only. This is the amber that is affecting the political racism in our country. I have raised this issue a long time ago but was opposed heavily by the ultra kiasu group. Refer to my previous article in the Utusan Malaysia.
The Government must take a firm stand like what have been done by other countries such as Thailand and other countries in the world. The Government must not bow down nor compromise in strengthening the future. I do not mean that we eliminate the non-Malay rights to learn their mother tongue language. They can still learn their mother tongue language. However, these students must not be separated from young.
The world civilization has proven that when people are separated from young, we are actually inviting danger in. It is already enough with the political and economic system which are racist. Do not add it to the education system which is the pillar to the development of a nation.
It is true we need to discuss. But have they ever agreed? The answer is never. In fact, they are demanding that the vernacular schools be increased from time to time. So, what is the delay? Are we expecting another recurrence of May 13 for us to review our education system? By then, it's too late. How long does it take to rise again after that? 20 years? 30 years? The effect of May 13 is still being felt to this day on how difficult it is to rise up after a fall.
The reasoning that the national schools are more Malay and Islamic (morning prayers) is not strong grounds for rejecting the one school system. What other identities that can be highlighted in a country that reflected its nation's roots? If these also are being withdrawn, then what else will remain that can reflect the identity to the Malays and Islam? Have we not realized that this position is guaranteed in the constitution? Are we still unable to comprehend this basis after living in this blessed land all this while?
Dr. Mohd Ridhuan Tee Abdullah, Senior Lecturer, National Defence University Malaysia
The issue on one school, an education system is not a new thing. It has been debated since before. I have spoken and written a lot about this. The situation remains and has not changed much. The answer is simple; the education has been politicized. If the Malay language as the national language cannot be uphold, how far can we proceed from there? We have provisions in the constitution, but they are not being used nor enforced. We are busy attending to the pressure from the ultra kiasu political groups. Finally, the language and education system cannot be strengthened in its own land. This country seems to have no identity as compared to other countries.
When there is news to create one school system, the ultra kiasu will rise against it. As for them, their ancestral heritage must be preserved. They will do anything, including demanding and threatening the government. Demanding and threatening have great influences with the political elections. Finally, the government relented. The one school system had to be shelved for a while.
Recently it had been voiced again, but with a different tone. The one school system is only for the secondary schools. Indeed, the secondary system flow has been standardized. There are not many vernacular schools for the secondary compared to the primary (1300 SJKC + 530 SJKT). It can be said that most of the non-Malays send their children to the national secondary schools due to the limited places in the vernacular secondary schools (5%). Therefore, there is no issues arises on the one school system for the secondary schools.
The main issues that should be seriously debated are how to create an education system that can integrate the children in the primary school level. Children should not be separated from young. Studies and time have shown that due to the separation among them from young has created difficulty to unite them again in the secondary school. The existence of the transition classes and the mastery of the Malay language among vernacular primary school students have created interactions problems between non-Malays and Malay students. In the end, they became awkward, shy and will not mix easily. They will hide in their own cocoon. This situation will make them become more kiasu.
As the head of the Parents and Teachers Association of the school where the majority were non-Malay students for the past 6 years until now, I can understand that race relations are at an alarming level. These students are not able to mix after being separated for 6 years in the primary school. Thus, it is continued to the secondary level and higher education. Look at what happened in the public and the private institutions. I do not need to speak further. It has been clearly shown. How long do we need to discuss this issue? As long as we bow to their demands and threats, it is kind of waiting for a cat to grow its horn; this deadlock will never be solved. It is to our utmost disappointment that we are only thinking for the current interests rather than on the future. We prioritized politically and thus ignoring the importance of education. Perhaps we would not be able to feel the effects today, but are we willing to leave all this to our children and great grandchildren? I am worried for by then it will be too late to be corrected.
I have repeatedly stated that as a result of this racist school system, our race relationship in this country is like a fire that cannot be put out completely. We have successfully extinguished the fire, but the amber from the fire is still there. This amber is most detrimental if left unchecked in the long run.
Recently, the National Defense University of Malaysia has organized a conference pertaining on higher education and race development. The same anxiety was heavily debated on the one school education system in our current main education system as recommended by Prof Khoo Kay Kim.
Our country is the only one in the world that adopts a multi-stream school system. There is only one school system in other countries. Even if there are more than one, it has long been abolished, thus to achieve the future and national interest. Therefore, we could see that Thailand has abolished since the beginning by destroying the Chinese school in the 1930s (Ye Lin-Sheng, 2003). In fact, Malaysia is heaven to the non-Malays for they get what they actually are not entitled. They are no different from what they were in the first place. Whatever benefits them will not be voiced out. Instead, the ultra kiasu group will continue to demand that the vernacular schools be increased in every Malaysia plan.
My question is whether we are serious on this matter. I have repeatedly stated that the national interests or the country must be put forward rather than the ethnicity interest. National schools must be given priority over the ethnic schools. National agenda will strengthen the future. Meanwhile, the ethnic agenda serves only a few specific groups only. This is the amber that is affecting the political racism in our country. I have raised this issue a long time ago but was opposed heavily by the ultra kiasu group. Refer to my previous article in the Utusan Malaysia.
The Government must take a firm stand like what have been done by other countries such as Thailand and other countries in the world. The Government must not bow down nor compromise in strengthening the future. I do not mean that we eliminate the non-Malay rights to learn their mother tongue language. They can still learn their mother tongue language. However, these students must not be separated from young.
The world civilization has proven that when people are separated from young, we are actually inviting danger in. It is already enough with the political and economic system which are racist. Do not add it to the education system which is the pillar to the development of a nation.
It is true we need to discuss. But have they ever agreed? The answer is never. In fact, they are demanding that the vernacular schools be increased from time to time. So, what is the delay? Are we expecting another recurrence of May 13 for us to review our education system? By then, it's too late. How long does it take to rise again after that? 20 years? 30 years? The effect of May 13 is still being felt to this day on how difficult it is to rise up after a fall.
The reasoning that the national schools are more Malay and Islamic (morning prayers) is not strong grounds for rejecting the one school system. What other identities that can be highlighted in a country that reflected its nation's roots? If these also are being withdrawn, then what else will remain that can reflect the identity to the Malays and Islam? Have we not realized that this position is guaranteed in the constitution? Are we still unable to comprehend this basis after living in this blessed land all this while?
Sunday, November 1, 2009
The Rocket Destination is not to the Moon
(Mingguan Malaysia, 1 November)
Dr. Mohd Ridhuan Tee Abdullah, Senior Lecturer, National Defence University Malaysia
Being Muslims we must believe and obey whatever came from Allah, because we are his invented creatures. However, at the same time we also need to know the real politics of our country and our society. Can Islamic country be established implementing the Islamic law when the country's population is neither solid nor near to one hundred percent Muslims? How do we force the non-Muslims which are almost 50 percent to accept the Islamic law? Perhaps we would argue that the law of Islam is for the Muslims only and the non-Muslims according to the teachings of their religions. The question is, has the party or those ultra kiasu ever agreed with these ideas? I do not have to repeat what were their answers.
I am very much surprised on why we were so anxious to follow the rocket to the moon? Eventually, we knew that the rocket destination is not to the moon. I am worried on those with the rocket already equip themselves with parachutes when they knew that the rocket will not be allowed to reach the moon. If that's the case, why we are willing to take the rocket with them? Why we can't just switch the rocket with another aircraft which already has its destination but approaching it differently?
Are we not able to sit together discussing the destination? Even we are not traveling together, the least we should do is to initiate the first move by sitting and facing each other to discuss on the best methods to arrive at the destination. Do not continue having negative presumptions. Why able to have good presumptions with the enemy who is already clearly known with its bad intentions?
We need to figure out together on how to implement the Islamic values in our country rather than addressing the difficult question on implementing the law because our country majority-minority is not large. Perhaps Brunei, Pakistan and other Arab countries have no difficulty to implement the Islamic law. However, in Malaysia our geographical population is different.
It is better to first strengthen the Islamic values because I believe the Islamic values are also shared by all religions. I have not seen any single good values of Islam rejected by other religions. What is forbidden by Islam also forbids other religions such as adultery, gambling, drinking, and etc. Whoever rejects the values of religion today is among those who are too enthusiastic with the western way of life glorifying the human rights. Today it appears that the human rights extremism have destroyed the west. The west began to realize the importance of religious life (Ziglar, 2000).
Whereas the west have begun approaching religion, do we want to inculcate the devastation they have experienced into our lives. Actually there are many similarities in the values shared by all religions that we have not implemented. This is what I have learned as a Buddhist and a Christian before. We need to find the similarities and resolve to implement them, rather than wasting time discussing something that is far away from the real politics and very difficult to implement. In the end, money is wasted, because of discussing things that cannot be implemented for not understanding the real politics and being divided for no apparent reasons. Who actually are at lost?
I'm not rejecting an Islamic country or the Islamic law, but as a political researcher, I studied the Malaysian real politics. I am sad and very concerned to see the Muslims divided. We have lost Singapore and do we want to see a second Singapore after this? Are we unable to anticipate the thoughts of these ultra kiasu? They viciously attacked us with courage. Do we want to continue surrendering?
Just look at the fate of the Member of Parliament for Bandar Baru Kulim, Zulkifli Nordin. I sympathized so much with him. His intentions are good; do not want the condoms and liquor to be sold openly in the convenience stores. But his views were heavily attacked by the ultra kiasu group, particularly by the non-Muslim women who do not use condoms. Actually, the men should be the one to object because condoms are used by them, but unfortunately those who do not use condoms are more vocal instead, insisting that condoms to be sold in the public and to be used during sexual intercourse as 'safe sex'. What was more pathetic was that some Muslims also object. Do we actually have 'safe sex' by just using condoms? We should instead question the reasons for using the condoms in the first instance. Are those using condoms already married?
I am confident that most of them who use condoms are practicing sex freely. For married couples, they rarely use them for Allah has provided the best that required no further modifications. However, for those who do not believe in God, having sex freely is their choice, henceforth condoms are strewn everywhere. Those who violated God's commands should not be defended compared to those who want to follow God's commands. I am sure for married couples, if they ever use condoms, they understand the meaning of embarrassment, thus the condoms will be purchased 'secretly' and will be kept in its respective places.
Anyway for those who are not easily embarrass, they would openly and proudly purchase condoms and alcohol in public. Are those using condoms actually felt that sex is safer, while their actions are questionable? If only married couples using condoms for safer sex, I would feel much relieved. Instead, the overall condom's customers consist of those who only want safe sex, although this method may not be actually safe.
If condoms and alcohol are conceived as freedom and human rights, I would suggest that those who oppose them of being sold in private to place the condoms and alcohol at the front door in order to facilitate their children to have safe sex. Just purchase a dozen and put them at the front door or near the dining table. Why should condoms be kept in the house after they had been purchased? If they are suitable for sale openly, then it is also good to place them in strategic places in the house for the children usage. Say to them that 'if you want safe sex, use condoms'. I am sure that those who like condoms will not agree to put the condoms openly. The question is if condoms are not suitable to be placed in the house openly, then why should they to be sold openly in the stores?
It is common sense that the implementation of this matter does not need to be discussed. Perhaps it is well practiced in the west, but not in Malaysia for the community in the east is well known of its ethics and politeness. I'm neither against condoms nor the usage of alcohol, but please have some tactfulness when addressing something that is contrary to the human norms and ethics, although it is never an offence to be used by those who are husband and wife.
I am confident that those who like condoms and alcohol are among the types of people who do not fear God. Husband and wife rarely use condoms because it is not that exciting in a sexual relationship that is 'halal'. Do we after this will support the idea of having condom vending machines and alcohol vending machines outside the building just like the water vending machines on the basis of human rights? Today, why we are not discussing the exploitations brought by the usage of condom and alcohol? Have we actually study on how many innocent people died due to the abuse usage of alcohol that will lead to the failure in car drivers which caused road accidents?
Therefore, I would support if condoms and liquor are sold in private. This is the eastern ethics set forth in the pillars of our country's constitution. Let us be ashamed to do anything that is damaging including having sex freely . Just by quoting only condoms, we should feel ashamed, even though it may be necessary.
Actually, condoms and liquor will destroy the Muslims. When the Muslims are weak and corrupt, then the ultra kiasu group will dominate the minds of the Muslims. Thus, they are against any attempts to hide the condoms and alcohol from the public, for the damage will not be them but the Muslims. I am so worried that we will not be able to rise again after falling. By then, we will be empowered by them.
For those going to the moon, are you sure the rocket will actually lead us there?
Dr. Mohd Ridhuan Tee Abdullah, Senior Lecturer, National Defence University Malaysia
Being Muslims we must believe and obey whatever came from Allah, because we are his invented creatures. However, at the same time we also need to know the real politics of our country and our society. Can Islamic country be established implementing the Islamic law when the country's population is neither solid nor near to one hundred percent Muslims? How do we force the non-Muslims which are almost 50 percent to accept the Islamic law? Perhaps we would argue that the law of Islam is for the Muslims only and the non-Muslims according to the teachings of their religions. The question is, has the party or those ultra kiasu ever agreed with these ideas? I do not have to repeat what were their answers.
I am very much surprised on why we were so anxious to follow the rocket to the moon? Eventually, we knew that the rocket destination is not to the moon. I am worried on those with the rocket already equip themselves with parachutes when they knew that the rocket will not be allowed to reach the moon. If that's the case, why we are willing to take the rocket with them? Why we can't just switch the rocket with another aircraft which already has its destination but approaching it differently?
Are we not able to sit together discussing the destination? Even we are not traveling together, the least we should do is to initiate the first move by sitting and facing each other to discuss on the best methods to arrive at the destination. Do not continue having negative presumptions. Why able to have good presumptions with the enemy who is already clearly known with its bad intentions?
We need to figure out together on how to implement the Islamic values in our country rather than addressing the difficult question on implementing the law because our country majority-minority is not large. Perhaps Brunei, Pakistan and other Arab countries have no difficulty to implement the Islamic law. However, in Malaysia our geographical population is different.
It is better to first strengthen the Islamic values because I believe the Islamic values are also shared by all religions. I have not seen any single good values of Islam rejected by other religions. What is forbidden by Islam also forbids other religions such as adultery, gambling, drinking, and etc. Whoever rejects the values of religion today is among those who are too enthusiastic with the western way of life glorifying the human rights. Today it appears that the human rights extremism have destroyed the west. The west began to realize the importance of religious life (Ziglar, 2000).
Whereas the west have begun approaching religion, do we want to inculcate the devastation they have experienced into our lives. Actually there are many similarities in the values shared by all religions that we have not implemented. This is what I have learned as a Buddhist and a Christian before. We need to find the similarities and resolve to implement them, rather than wasting time discussing something that is far away from the real politics and very difficult to implement. In the end, money is wasted, because of discussing things that cannot be implemented for not understanding the real politics and being divided for no apparent reasons. Who actually are at lost?
I'm not rejecting an Islamic country or the Islamic law, but as a political researcher, I studied the Malaysian real politics. I am sad and very concerned to see the Muslims divided. We have lost Singapore and do we want to see a second Singapore after this? Are we unable to anticipate the thoughts of these ultra kiasu? They viciously attacked us with courage. Do we want to continue surrendering?
Just look at the fate of the Member of Parliament for Bandar Baru Kulim, Zulkifli Nordin. I sympathized so much with him. His intentions are good; do not want the condoms and liquor to be sold openly in the convenience stores. But his views were heavily attacked by the ultra kiasu group, particularly by the non-Muslim women who do not use condoms. Actually, the men should be the one to object because condoms are used by them, but unfortunately those who do not use condoms are more vocal instead, insisting that condoms to be sold in the public and to be used during sexual intercourse as 'safe sex'. What was more pathetic was that some Muslims also object. Do we actually have 'safe sex' by just using condoms? We should instead question the reasons for using the condoms in the first instance. Are those using condoms already married?
I am confident that most of them who use condoms are practicing sex freely. For married couples, they rarely use them for Allah has provided the best that required no further modifications. However, for those who do not believe in God, having sex freely is their choice, henceforth condoms are strewn everywhere. Those who violated God's commands should not be defended compared to those who want to follow God's commands. I am sure for married couples, if they ever use condoms, they understand the meaning of embarrassment, thus the condoms will be purchased 'secretly' and will be kept in its respective places.
Anyway for those who are not easily embarrass, they would openly and proudly purchase condoms and alcohol in public. Are those using condoms actually felt that sex is safer, while their actions are questionable? If only married couples using condoms for safer sex, I would feel much relieved. Instead, the overall condom's customers consist of those who only want safe sex, although this method may not be actually safe.
If condoms and alcohol are conceived as freedom and human rights, I would suggest that those who oppose them of being sold in private to place the condoms and alcohol at the front door in order to facilitate their children to have safe sex. Just purchase a dozen and put them at the front door or near the dining table. Why should condoms be kept in the house after they had been purchased? If they are suitable for sale openly, then it is also good to place them in strategic places in the house for the children usage. Say to them that 'if you want safe sex, use condoms'. I am sure that those who like condoms will not agree to put the condoms openly. The question is if condoms are not suitable to be placed in the house openly, then why should they to be sold openly in the stores?
It is common sense that the implementation of this matter does not need to be discussed. Perhaps it is well practiced in the west, but not in Malaysia for the community in the east is well known of its ethics and politeness. I'm neither against condoms nor the usage of alcohol, but please have some tactfulness when addressing something that is contrary to the human norms and ethics, although it is never an offence to be used by those who are husband and wife.
I am confident that those who like condoms and alcohol are among the types of people who do not fear God. Husband and wife rarely use condoms because it is not that exciting in a sexual relationship that is 'halal'. Do we after this will support the idea of having condom vending machines and alcohol vending machines outside the building just like the water vending machines on the basis of human rights? Today, why we are not discussing the exploitations brought by the usage of condom and alcohol? Have we actually study on how many innocent people died due to the abuse usage of alcohol that will lead to the failure in car drivers which caused road accidents?
Therefore, I would support if condoms and liquor are sold in private. This is the eastern ethics set forth in the pillars of our country's constitution. Let us be ashamed to do anything that is damaging including having sex freely . Just by quoting only condoms, we should feel ashamed, even though it may be necessary.
Actually, condoms and liquor will destroy the Muslims. When the Muslims are weak and corrupt, then the ultra kiasu group will dominate the minds of the Muslims. Thus, they are against any attempts to hide the condoms and alcohol from the public, for the damage will not be them but the Muslims. I am so worried that we will not be able to rise again after falling. By then, we will be empowered by them.
For those going to the moon, are you sure the rocket will actually lead us there?
Sunday, October 25, 2009
The Intentionally Breakoff in Islam
(Mingguan Malaysia, 25 October)
Dr. Mohd Ridhuan Tee Abdullah, Senior Lecturer, National Defence University Malaysia
I was accused for collaborating with UMNO and was paid millions to write articles. Oh! What an easy way to be rich. Just by writing articles to condemn the opposition with racial overtones, UMNO shall pay. Maybe after this, the readers can join me to become rich. It is an easy method, criticize the oppositions and praise UMNO, hence we shall be paid millions. That's how rich is UMNO! This is an ultra kiasu mindset. They are untouchables. Everyone is wrong except them.
I was being challenged for not questioning UMNO for being corrupted. For everyone information, please read my article in Utusan Malaysia (December 22, 2008). I have written that to accept corruption is so much disgusting than eating pork or either way, it is much better to eat pork rather than accepting corruption. That is how disgusting it is to accept corruption. Why the oppositions did not support me then? This is the third class mentality of our society that we are happy if it happens on others, however, when it happens on ourselves, it is like spitting into the sky. Are we that 'clean'? Remember, we are just an ordinary people, and are not perfect. I do not deny that the existence of the opposition alliance in the democratic system is important as check and balance to the system.
There is only one thing I am requesting, that whichever is good, please accept and support. However, as for the bad, it should be debated wisely. Do not just reject everything because differences in opinions. What is more humiliating is resorting to personal attacks. Are we actually better off? Remember, sometimes we also have some secrets to ourselves. We also make mistakes, but we dare not reveal them, for fear of facing the truth.
Honestly speaking, if PAS has the intention to establish an Islamic state and to carry out its laws, the ultra kiasu party and its alliances are not appropriate alliances for them. The reason is that the ultra kiasu party and its alliances, do not agree with Islam. The ultra kiasu party is very strongly against Islam. Are we still not aware of that? Meanwhile, the allies as at today have never issued any statement supporting the idea of PAS to establish an Islamic state. How about PAS instead try to ask the highest leadership in the alliance? The answer would be they do not want Islam. Clearly in their personal agenda is to avenge. It is because due to the anger of one mosquito, the whole mosquito net is burn. Who are the losers? Actually the Muslims are the losers. Have the non-Muslims lose anything? No, not really. They will eventually gain either in the BN or Pakatan Rakyat, even they face the internal crisis within the party itself.
Therefore, it is not an empty rhetoric when I proposed that PAS cooperate with UMNO to create a unity government. PAS and UMNO are the dominant parties for the Muslims in this country. The directions of the Malay Muslims depend on this two Malay Islamic parties and not the ultra kiasu party and its' newly ally which are very newly formed. They have hidden agenda. I am asking all of you to read all the materials which are plentiful in the internet. Do not forget to read also the Freemason struggle. You will obtain a clearer understanding.
The benefit of PAS taking UMNO as a friend will eventually produce better Islamic results compared with the ultra kiasu party which has clearly rejected Islam, including its ally. The state of Selangor for instance on Islam, even though it is lead by a Muslim leader; has the light on Islam been reflected? Please ponder. Don't create a conflict on yourself as it will make you more miserable. The sayings, love your enemy as yourself for you would know their hearts better as yours rather than the enemy in camouflage and the fox in sheep's clothing, which are folded scissors or thorns in the flesh.
I'm not a member of UMNO and I do not even get one sen from UMNO. But I can see that the Muslims political are at a disadvantage. If having UMNO as a friend, and yet unable to uphold Islam, does having the enemies of UMNO as friends will instead uphold Islam? No, I do not think so. Therefore, make a justification which one is better. That's it. End of the story.
Our politics are more to avenge. This is an obvious political weakness of the Malays. We are willing to break heads and break everything just because of different opinions as portrayed in the recent Bagan Pinang's by-election. The others also quarrel, but they quarrel like brothers and sisters. Today they are seen to be quarrelling, but tomorrow they become friends again. There was no news on heads injury. Why is this not happening to us? Why should charcoal easily broken with a stroke? This problem has been haunting the Muslims today until we are being taken advantaged. The Muslims become a drifter in its own land. Are we confident to stand up after this?
Compared with China, they have only one China. There is no issue of Taiwan excluding itself from China. In the government of China, Taiwan is Chinese. The Chinese remains as Chinese. Taiwan cannot be in cahoots with the American to destroy China. Why? The answer is because the Chinese government, know who is the real enemy and the enemy in camouflage. Any attempts to destroy China will be uncompromised.
Thus, the Chinese government is very strict with Taiwan. Any attempt to 'Americanized' Taiwan will be completely opposed. China is taking the approach of one Chinese and the dignity of its race is more important than everything. By adhering to the principle of this ONE, China eventually became great. The staunch enemy, America also became fearful of it, too, let alone an enemy who is trying to become the enemy in camouflage. Their civilization is inherited from their ancestors who cannot be bought nor compromised. If Taiwan is being spoilt, then the concept of ONE China unity will destroy. I hope the readers understood this little comparison with our country and which is related with my last week article. That is how great of the in heritage of the ancestral teachings and civilizations of that race.
Islam does not consider the ancestors as important, because we have Allah as the most compassionate. In fact, by having Allah with us, we should be greater than those who believe in ancestors. Allah created the ancestors. Why is it that today when people who worshiped Allah are considered more despicable than those who worship the ancestors? Don't blame Allah, because we are not united in the name of Allah, even Allah has warned; that to hold fast to the rope of Allah and not to be divided.
People who were confident with Allah were proven to be great. Look at the civilizations that were brought along by Prophet Muhammad. There is no shortage of anything. The question is why are the Prophet SAW believers so naive? Is it so difficult for us to unite on the basis of Islam? Is the union of Islam has to be delayed until the existence of an Islamic country or the implementation of Islamic law?
Are we unable to read the Islamic real politics of our country? Can we establish an Islamic country implementing the Islamic law when the country's population is not solid nor one hundred percent Muslim. How do we force the almost 50 percent non-Muslims to accept the Islamic law? Are we not aware that the non-Muslims will never ever agree with Islam?
If that is the situation, can PAS actually establish an Islamic country if their friends have clearly rejected Islam? I don't think so. If that's the case, why are we presently not grateful to the current existing Islamic leadership and try instead to strengthen the Islamic values despite the fact that the actual Islamic law cannot be implemented?
Today, I think we need to sit together to figure out how to implement the Islamic values into our country rather than to speak on hudud laws which are difficult to implement because our country majority-minority are not large. Perhaps Brunei, Pakistan and other Arab countries have no difficulty to implement the Islamic laws. But in Malaysia our geographical population is different.
It is better to implement the Islamic values because I believe the Islamic values are also being shared by all religions. There isn't any good value in Islam being rejected by other religions. What is forbidden by Islam is also forbid by other religions such as adultery, gambling, drinking, gossiping and etc. All other good values need not be mentioned, because I do believe everyone would agree, except for those who are too enthusiastic with the western way of life.
If there is any religion that says that what is prohibited in Islam is allowed, and the good values are rejected, then I would dare to say that their religion should be despised. But I believe there is none. What I have learned as a Buddhist and a Christian before, actually there are many similarities. We need to find that similarities and resolve so as to implement them, rather than wasting time discussing something that are far away from the real politics and so difficult to implement. In the end, so much time is exhausted, money wasted, because of discussing things that cannot be implemented for not understanding the real politics and being divided for no apparent reasons. Who are actually at a loss?
I am not rejecting an Islamic country and Islamic law, but as a political researcher, I read the Malaysian real politics. I am saddened and very concerned to see the Muslims divided among themselves. Fragmentation is always at a loss. We have lost Singapore, and do we want to see a second Singapore and after that a third Singapore?
Dr. Mohd Ridhuan Tee Abdullah, Senior Lecturer, National Defence University Malaysia
I was accused for collaborating with UMNO and was paid millions to write articles. Oh! What an easy way to be rich. Just by writing articles to condemn the opposition with racial overtones, UMNO shall pay. Maybe after this, the readers can join me to become rich. It is an easy method, criticize the oppositions and praise UMNO, hence we shall be paid millions. That's how rich is UMNO! This is an ultra kiasu mindset. They are untouchables. Everyone is wrong except them.
I was being challenged for not questioning UMNO for being corrupted. For everyone information, please read my article in Utusan Malaysia (December 22, 2008). I have written that to accept corruption is so much disgusting than eating pork or either way, it is much better to eat pork rather than accepting corruption. That is how disgusting it is to accept corruption. Why the oppositions did not support me then? This is the third class mentality of our society that we are happy if it happens on others, however, when it happens on ourselves, it is like spitting into the sky. Are we that 'clean'? Remember, we are just an ordinary people, and are not perfect. I do not deny that the existence of the opposition alliance in the democratic system is important as check and balance to the system.
There is only one thing I am requesting, that whichever is good, please accept and support. However, as for the bad, it should be debated wisely. Do not just reject everything because differences in opinions. What is more humiliating is resorting to personal attacks. Are we actually better off? Remember, sometimes we also have some secrets to ourselves. We also make mistakes, but we dare not reveal them, for fear of facing the truth.
Honestly speaking, if PAS has the intention to establish an Islamic state and to carry out its laws, the ultra kiasu party and its alliances are not appropriate alliances for them. The reason is that the ultra kiasu party and its alliances, do not agree with Islam. The ultra kiasu party is very strongly against Islam. Are we still not aware of that? Meanwhile, the allies as at today have never issued any statement supporting the idea of PAS to establish an Islamic state. How about PAS instead try to ask the highest leadership in the alliance? The answer would be they do not want Islam. Clearly in their personal agenda is to avenge. It is because due to the anger of one mosquito, the whole mosquito net is burn. Who are the losers? Actually the Muslims are the losers. Have the non-Muslims lose anything? No, not really. They will eventually gain either in the BN or Pakatan Rakyat, even they face the internal crisis within the party itself.
Therefore, it is not an empty rhetoric when I proposed that PAS cooperate with UMNO to create a unity government. PAS and UMNO are the dominant parties for the Muslims in this country. The directions of the Malay Muslims depend on this two Malay Islamic parties and not the ultra kiasu party and its' newly ally which are very newly formed. They have hidden agenda. I am asking all of you to read all the materials which are plentiful in the internet. Do not forget to read also the Freemason struggle. You will obtain a clearer understanding.
The benefit of PAS taking UMNO as a friend will eventually produce better Islamic results compared with the ultra kiasu party which has clearly rejected Islam, including its ally. The state of Selangor for instance on Islam, even though it is lead by a Muslim leader; has the light on Islam been reflected? Please ponder. Don't create a conflict on yourself as it will make you more miserable. The sayings, love your enemy as yourself for you would know their hearts better as yours rather than the enemy in camouflage and the fox in sheep's clothing, which are folded scissors or thorns in the flesh.
I'm not a member of UMNO and I do not even get one sen from UMNO. But I can see that the Muslims political are at a disadvantage. If having UMNO as a friend, and yet unable to uphold Islam, does having the enemies of UMNO as friends will instead uphold Islam? No, I do not think so. Therefore, make a justification which one is better. That's it. End of the story.
Our politics are more to avenge. This is an obvious political weakness of the Malays. We are willing to break heads and break everything just because of different opinions as portrayed in the recent Bagan Pinang's by-election. The others also quarrel, but they quarrel like brothers and sisters. Today they are seen to be quarrelling, but tomorrow they become friends again. There was no news on heads injury. Why is this not happening to us? Why should charcoal easily broken with a stroke? This problem has been haunting the Muslims today until we are being taken advantaged. The Muslims become a drifter in its own land. Are we confident to stand up after this?
Compared with China, they have only one China. There is no issue of Taiwan excluding itself from China. In the government of China, Taiwan is Chinese. The Chinese remains as Chinese. Taiwan cannot be in cahoots with the American to destroy China. Why? The answer is because the Chinese government, know who is the real enemy and the enemy in camouflage. Any attempts to destroy China will be uncompromised.
Thus, the Chinese government is very strict with Taiwan. Any attempt to 'Americanized' Taiwan will be completely opposed. China is taking the approach of one Chinese and the dignity of its race is more important than everything. By adhering to the principle of this ONE, China eventually became great. The staunch enemy, America also became fearful of it, too, let alone an enemy who is trying to become the enemy in camouflage. Their civilization is inherited from their ancestors who cannot be bought nor compromised. If Taiwan is being spoilt, then the concept of ONE China unity will destroy. I hope the readers understood this little comparison with our country and which is related with my last week article. That is how great of the in heritage of the ancestral teachings and civilizations of that race.
Islam does not consider the ancestors as important, because we have Allah as the most compassionate. In fact, by having Allah with us, we should be greater than those who believe in ancestors. Allah created the ancestors. Why is it that today when people who worshiped Allah are considered more despicable than those who worship the ancestors? Don't blame Allah, because we are not united in the name of Allah, even Allah has warned; that to hold fast to the rope of Allah and not to be divided.
People who were confident with Allah were proven to be great. Look at the civilizations that were brought along by Prophet Muhammad. There is no shortage of anything. The question is why are the Prophet SAW believers so naive? Is it so difficult for us to unite on the basis of Islam? Is the union of Islam has to be delayed until the existence of an Islamic country or the implementation of Islamic law?
Are we unable to read the Islamic real politics of our country? Can we establish an Islamic country implementing the Islamic law when the country's population is not solid nor one hundred percent Muslim. How do we force the almost 50 percent non-Muslims to accept the Islamic law? Are we not aware that the non-Muslims will never ever agree with Islam?
If that is the situation, can PAS actually establish an Islamic country if their friends have clearly rejected Islam? I don't think so. If that's the case, why are we presently not grateful to the current existing Islamic leadership and try instead to strengthen the Islamic values despite the fact that the actual Islamic law cannot be implemented?
Today, I think we need to sit together to figure out how to implement the Islamic values into our country rather than to speak on hudud laws which are difficult to implement because our country majority-minority are not large. Perhaps Brunei, Pakistan and other Arab countries have no difficulty to implement the Islamic laws. But in Malaysia our geographical population is different.
It is better to implement the Islamic values because I believe the Islamic values are also being shared by all religions. There isn't any good value in Islam being rejected by other religions. What is forbidden by Islam is also forbid by other religions such as adultery, gambling, drinking, gossiping and etc. All other good values need not be mentioned, because I do believe everyone would agree, except for those who are too enthusiastic with the western way of life.
If there is any religion that says that what is prohibited in Islam is allowed, and the good values are rejected, then I would dare to say that their religion should be despised. But I believe there is none. What I have learned as a Buddhist and a Christian before, actually there are many similarities. We need to find that similarities and resolve so as to implement them, rather than wasting time discussing something that are far away from the real politics and so difficult to implement. In the end, so much time is exhausted, money wasted, because of discussing things that cannot be implemented for not understanding the real politics and being divided for no apparent reasons. Who are actually at a loss?
I am not rejecting an Islamic country and Islamic law, but as a political researcher, I read the Malaysian real politics. I am saddened and very concerned to see the Muslims divided among themselves. Fragmentation is always at a loss. We have lost Singapore, and do we want to see a second Singapore and after that a third Singapore?
Sunday, October 18, 2009
The Benefit of being United in Silence
(Mingguan Malaysia, 18 October)
Dr. Mohd Ridhuan Tee Abdullah, Senior Lecturer, National Defence University Malaysia
The recent crisis that occurred in the MCA political party should not alarmed us at all. This is a common happening in politics. The important question is what had we learned from this crisis? I'm not that concerned with the MCA nor Gerakan, because both of these parties are not strong among the Chinese itself compared with another Chinese party that is ultra kiasu. Therefore, I do not actually have much concerned on the fate that had befallen on both of these BN component parties.
I would be more overwhelmed if the ultra kiasu party is in crisis instead. But until today this party seldom has any crisis. Instead, this party continues maturing and has had many useful experiences. More importantly they are able to read with precise on the Malays' psychology. Thus, this party is increasingly getting attention and trust, posing dangerously to the Malaysian politics. Moreover, this party has rarely lost in the Chinese majority in any PRUs and by-elections. Without any doubts, they will also win in a Malay majority area one day. It is not impossible; if the Malays continue their act to burn the mosquito net because of one mosquito compared to the practice to strip-shred the chicken feathers which will eventually merge.
If we analyzed the elections, most of the seats won by the MCA and Gerakan were contested in the Malay majority areas. If MCA and Gerakan were to compete in the Chinese majority areas against this ultra kiasu party, I believe, both parties will face with a severe loss. For instance this is happening in Kuala Lumpur, Penang and the majority urban areas. These are the written and unwritten results of the voting trends that I hope the readers are able to figure out.
Perhaps, some may be asking how Gerakan has been able to sustain itself in Penang? The answer is to study the Gerakan's history and the causes that led to May 13, 1969 incident, i.e. prior joining the Barisan Nasional. Gerakan was chosen because during that time, Gerakan was outspoken and very vocal to voice the fate of their race. But when Gerakan began to compromise with the government, which ultimately led to it being rejected, hence the ultra kiasu party won in the 12th PRU. In other words, the more ultra kiasu a political party, the more they will get the support and attention. This simply means that the ultra kiasu party will be supported by those who are also ultra kiasu. I do not accuse all the Chinese as ultra kiasu. The fact is that this ultra kiasu will still continue to win big majority in the area they are representing.
I am confident that perhaps after this, the ultra kiasu party will be putting one or two Malay candidates in the Chinese majority area, just to prove that they are a multi-racial party. I am also confident that the candidates will have a big win. However, it is neither surprising nor shocking. This is because they have comprehended the kiasu politics. If the Malay candidates won, the Malay candidates will not even be able to do anything because the party is still dominated by those who are ultra kiasu. The existence of the Malays in the party is just a 'shadow puppet play' (wayang kulit) games that were shown to obscure our eyes.
Do not be fooled with their tricks. The emergence of the Malays and the Indians appointed in their party leadership are only to obscure the eyes of the public just to prove that they are a party for all races. Thus, when there was one fairly influential Malay joined them; he was appointed as a vice chairman of the party. Perhaps, after this he will be the deputy chairman. I am still waiting whether the Malay will be appointed as chairman of the ultra kiasu party in the future? We shall wait and see! Irregardless, this is their cunning strategy that we may have overlooked. Hence, do not worry so much on the internal affairs of MCA and Gerakan. What is important is that we need to expose this ultra kiasu party so that the Malays and the other Chinese who love this nation will not be deceived by them.
If the readers do not believe what I have written, try to propose the issue of rotating the Chief Minister of Penang among the various people in their alliance or the Barisan Nasional? I believe that not only will this ultra kiasu party jumped, even those not related to the ultra kiasu party will also unite themselves with the ultra kiasu party to go against this proposal. Essentially, the Penang Chief Minister post must not be given to other races. In my opinion, anyone who ruled Penang among the three parties is not important. What is more important is that the Malays cannot become the Chief Minister over there. Any attempts and efforts will be heavily opposed.
Therefore, I am not surprised with any crisis that is happening in any of the political parties of my race. True, they are seen to be divided. They shout until they became hoarse. But actually, they are united in silence. The ultra kiasu party will forcefully demand, criticize and condemn. But all these are not from a hollow impact. Who are actually working silently? Two parties from this component will silently deliver to the BN that this demand and request should be met. Otherwise the voting will be affected whereby the Chinese people will be angry and switch directions. That was the actual message in the 12th PRU. This is what I wrote being united silently even it looks divided from the external.
That is how MCA and Gerakan benefited for being in the coalition with the government. The Malays will give their undivided support to them because that is the Malays attitude in this Malay land. They are loyal to the leaders' command. They are willing to push aside the candidate of their own race and religion because they are taught to obey the leaders. This has been happening since the feudal era that it is a taboo to disobey. This connotation has its pros and cons and it is up to us to evaluate them.
The Chinese political parties are very lucky because externally there are those who are very vocal in criticizing, demanding and claiming, but at the same time internally there are those who will be doing the persuasions. This does not matter in which state they are in, whether in the alliance or in the government.
Unlike the Malay political parties where externally they are so forcefully criticizing, however internally there is no one to persuade. This is because the Malay political party (UMNO) is the only one in the government. UMNO is alone in the government facing the unending demands from the others. I do really understand why UMNO has to concede defeat sometimes, because UMNO is in a catch-22 situation, having difficulties to provide an amicable solution. UMNO's friends of the same races and religions are not with them. The friends that are of the same race and of the same religion are in the oppositions. They are only good at condemning and criticizing but unable to persuade. Finally who are the losers? These are the fate of the Malays on the Malay land.
I am not sure that after this, BN will be able to seize back Penang and most probably may lose it, because this ultra kiasu party has successfully organize an established strategy to 'melt' the Malays with the governance style of Umar Abdul Aziz and using slogan 'amar makruf nahi mungkar' (to invite people to do good, and to prevent people from doing bad). If the Malays were to 'melt', then it is not difficult to obtain victory because a solid vote will be obtained.
It is so unfortunate that today Malay Muslims parties, not even silently uniting, they break up like the charcoal easily broke with just a stroke. The road to reconciliation is far from achieved. They are like being divorced under 'talak 3' (talak means divorce). Their divorce is irrevocable meaning no more negotiation. Thus, each partner willing to find a new partner even not compatible. If the need to reconcile again, then has to marry by way of 'Blind Chinese' (Cina Buta - meaning the ex-wife (divorced wife) has to remarry another man and the marriage has to end in a divorce so that she can marry the former partner again). What a loss for the Malays, they divorced and split up, and Chinese (Cina Buta) gets the name and its share.
So what should we do now? Meet all their claims and demands in order to get back their trust and votes? It is difficult to provide an answer, but it is not impossible. The Muslims must unite to be strong. When we are strong, it would be hard for others to step over our heads. Today the problem is we are weak, and therefore 'kaduk naik junjung' (meaning a plant that normally grows on the ground that suddenly creeps up on the tree for support decided to stay on growing on high places instead).
The Bagan Pinang by-election is not a measure for us to say that the BN has won the hearts of the Chinese and the Indians. There are many other factors that we need to study. Do not be too complacent for we might lose eventually. What is important now is to find a solution to establish a unity government. How to integrate both UMNO and PAS, for the strength of the Malays depends on these two political parties.
Put a side PKR for the time being. In fact this party is not strong if PAS is not with them. Although it is spearheaded by the Malays, however, the Malays will still be at a loss because the ultra kiasu group is with them. Look at what happened in Selangor. Have Islam and PAS ever benefited from that alliance? I am confident should PAS switch direction, the alliance will fell and they will eventually lose in all the places they contest.
I still can predict that the Malays in PKR will return to UMNO in the future as we have seen many cross over had occurred. Today they are avenging themselves because the ultra kiasu are with them. The question is whether Islam and Malay will be protected even if the Malays rule? The answer is the Malays will still lose in Selangor. In other words, wherever the Malays rule, they will eventually lose because they divorce 'talak tiga' and they cannot even unite in silence.
I seldom came across any bad incidents in clashes between the candidates of the Chinese party with the ultra kiasu party in the by-elections or general elections; compared with the clashes that occurred among the Malay political parties. We often heard there were head injuries, bottles/stones throwing and many more. In fact, we are divided externally and internally, and willing to break our brotherhood relationship. We are still far from uniting in silence. This is the fate of the Malays in the Malay land.
Dr. Mohd Ridhuan Tee Abdullah, Senior Lecturer, National Defence University Malaysia
The recent crisis that occurred in the MCA political party should not alarmed us at all. This is a common happening in politics. The important question is what had we learned from this crisis? I'm not that concerned with the MCA nor Gerakan, because both of these parties are not strong among the Chinese itself compared with another Chinese party that is ultra kiasu. Therefore, I do not actually have much concerned on the fate that had befallen on both of these BN component parties.
I would be more overwhelmed if the ultra kiasu party is in crisis instead. But until today this party seldom has any crisis. Instead, this party continues maturing and has had many useful experiences. More importantly they are able to read with precise on the Malays' psychology. Thus, this party is increasingly getting attention and trust, posing dangerously to the Malaysian politics. Moreover, this party has rarely lost in the Chinese majority in any PRUs and by-elections. Without any doubts, they will also win in a Malay majority area one day. It is not impossible; if the Malays continue their act to burn the mosquito net because of one mosquito compared to the practice to strip-shred the chicken feathers which will eventually merge.
If we analyzed the elections, most of the seats won by the MCA and Gerakan were contested in the Malay majority areas. If MCA and Gerakan were to compete in the Chinese majority areas against this ultra kiasu party, I believe, both parties will face with a severe loss. For instance this is happening in Kuala Lumpur, Penang and the majority urban areas. These are the written and unwritten results of the voting trends that I hope the readers are able to figure out.
Perhaps, some may be asking how Gerakan has been able to sustain itself in Penang? The answer is to study the Gerakan's history and the causes that led to May 13, 1969 incident, i.e. prior joining the Barisan Nasional. Gerakan was chosen because during that time, Gerakan was outspoken and very vocal to voice the fate of their race. But when Gerakan began to compromise with the government, which ultimately led to it being rejected, hence the ultra kiasu party won in the 12th PRU. In other words, the more ultra kiasu a political party, the more they will get the support and attention. This simply means that the ultra kiasu party will be supported by those who are also ultra kiasu. I do not accuse all the Chinese as ultra kiasu. The fact is that this ultra kiasu will still continue to win big majority in the area they are representing.
I am confident that perhaps after this, the ultra kiasu party will be putting one or two Malay candidates in the Chinese majority area, just to prove that they are a multi-racial party. I am also confident that the candidates will have a big win. However, it is neither surprising nor shocking. This is because they have comprehended the kiasu politics. If the Malay candidates won, the Malay candidates will not even be able to do anything because the party is still dominated by those who are ultra kiasu. The existence of the Malays in the party is just a 'shadow puppet play' (wayang kulit) games that were shown to obscure our eyes.
Do not be fooled with their tricks. The emergence of the Malays and the Indians appointed in their party leadership are only to obscure the eyes of the public just to prove that they are a party for all races. Thus, when there was one fairly influential Malay joined them; he was appointed as a vice chairman of the party. Perhaps, after this he will be the deputy chairman. I am still waiting whether the Malay will be appointed as chairman of the ultra kiasu party in the future? We shall wait and see! Irregardless, this is their cunning strategy that we may have overlooked. Hence, do not worry so much on the internal affairs of MCA and Gerakan. What is important is that we need to expose this ultra kiasu party so that the Malays and the other Chinese who love this nation will not be deceived by them.
If the readers do not believe what I have written, try to propose the issue of rotating the Chief Minister of Penang among the various people in their alliance or the Barisan Nasional? I believe that not only will this ultra kiasu party jumped, even those not related to the ultra kiasu party will also unite themselves with the ultra kiasu party to go against this proposal. Essentially, the Penang Chief Minister post must not be given to other races. In my opinion, anyone who ruled Penang among the three parties is not important. What is more important is that the Malays cannot become the Chief Minister over there. Any attempts and efforts will be heavily opposed.
Therefore, I am not surprised with any crisis that is happening in any of the political parties of my race. True, they are seen to be divided. They shout until they became hoarse. But actually, they are united in silence. The ultra kiasu party will forcefully demand, criticize and condemn. But all these are not from a hollow impact. Who are actually working silently? Two parties from this component will silently deliver to the BN that this demand and request should be met. Otherwise the voting will be affected whereby the Chinese people will be angry and switch directions. That was the actual message in the 12th PRU. This is what I wrote being united silently even it looks divided from the external.
That is how MCA and Gerakan benefited for being in the coalition with the government. The Malays will give their undivided support to them because that is the Malays attitude in this Malay land. They are loyal to the leaders' command. They are willing to push aside the candidate of their own race and religion because they are taught to obey the leaders. This has been happening since the feudal era that it is a taboo to disobey. This connotation has its pros and cons and it is up to us to evaluate them.
The Chinese political parties are very lucky because externally there are those who are very vocal in criticizing, demanding and claiming, but at the same time internally there are those who will be doing the persuasions. This does not matter in which state they are in, whether in the alliance or in the government.
Unlike the Malay political parties where externally they are so forcefully criticizing, however internally there is no one to persuade. This is because the Malay political party (UMNO) is the only one in the government. UMNO is alone in the government facing the unending demands from the others. I do really understand why UMNO has to concede defeat sometimes, because UMNO is in a catch-22 situation, having difficulties to provide an amicable solution. UMNO's friends of the same races and religions are not with them. The friends that are of the same race and of the same religion are in the oppositions. They are only good at condemning and criticizing but unable to persuade. Finally who are the losers? These are the fate of the Malays on the Malay land.
I am not sure that after this, BN will be able to seize back Penang and most probably may lose it, because this ultra kiasu party has successfully organize an established strategy to 'melt' the Malays with the governance style of Umar Abdul Aziz and using slogan 'amar makruf nahi mungkar' (to invite people to do good, and to prevent people from doing bad). If the Malays were to 'melt', then it is not difficult to obtain victory because a solid vote will be obtained.
It is so unfortunate that today Malay Muslims parties, not even silently uniting, they break up like the charcoal easily broke with just a stroke. The road to reconciliation is far from achieved. They are like being divorced under 'talak 3' (talak means divorce). Their divorce is irrevocable meaning no more negotiation. Thus, each partner willing to find a new partner even not compatible. If the need to reconcile again, then has to marry by way of 'Blind Chinese' (Cina Buta - meaning the ex-wife (divorced wife) has to remarry another man and the marriage has to end in a divorce so that she can marry the former partner again). What a loss for the Malays, they divorced and split up, and Chinese (Cina Buta) gets the name and its share.
So what should we do now? Meet all their claims and demands in order to get back their trust and votes? It is difficult to provide an answer, but it is not impossible. The Muslims must unite to be strong. When we are strong, it would be hard for others to step over our heads. Today the problem is we are weak, and therefore 'kaduk naik junjung' (meaning a plant that normally grows on the ground that suddenly creeps up on the tree for support decided to stay on growing on high places instead).
The Bagan Pinang by-election is not a measure for us to say that the BN has won the hearts of the Chinese and the Indians. There are many other factors that we need to study. Do not be too complacent for we might lose eventually. What is important now is to find a solution to establish a unity government. How to integrate both UMNO and PAS, for the strength of the Malays depends on these two political parties.
Put a side PKR for the time being. In fact this party is not strong if PAS is not with them. Although it is spearheaded by the Malays, however, the Malays will still be at a loss because the ultra kiasu group is with them. Look at what happened in Selangor. Have Islam and PAS ever benefited from that alliance? I am confident should PAS switch direction, the alliance will fell and they will eventually lose in all the places they contest.
I still can predict that the Malays in PKR will return to UMNO in the future as we have seen many cross over had occurred. Today they are avenging themselves because the ultra kiasu are with them. The question is whether Islam and Malay will be protected even if the Malays rule? The answer is the Malays will still lose in Selangor. In other words, wherever the Malays rule, they will eventually lose because they divorce 'talak tiga' and they cannot even unite in silence.
I seldom came across any bad incidents in clashes between the candidates of the Chinese party with the ultra kiasu party in the by-elections or general elections; compared with the clashes that occurred among the Malay political parties. We often heard there were head injuries, bottles/stones throwing and many more. In fact, we are divided externally and internally, and willing to break our brotherhood relationship. We are still far from uniting in silence. This is the fate of the Malays in the Malay land.
Sunday, October 11, 2009
Recognising the Enemy in Camouflage
(Mingguan Malaysia, 11 October)
Dr. Mohd Ridhuan Tee Abdullah, Senior Lecturer, National Defence University Malaysia
It is fine with me that all my descendants and ancestors and me were condemned. I have an inbuilt resistance already. However, sometimes my siblings and relatives who were not involved with my writings were affected instead. They were 'attacked' by this ultra kiasu group with all kinds of accusations. My grandparents and parents were blamed for not educating me well to be Chinese, uncaring the descendants, more Malay than the Malays, traitor to the race and all sorts of accusations that were beyond unacceptable.
I have no difficulties with this ultra kiasu group for I understand perfectly their characters as we are from the same kind. I stand on the principle to be brave enough to tell the truth and to fear of telling lies. Even to face my own family members. I don't care because they do not understand. Let alone to understand Islam as a way of life. Never assume that life is simple. The struggle to defend the truth is very challenging. Anyway, it is reassuring enough that Allah SWT is always with the truth seeker. Therefore, always put Allah priority above everything else.
After embracing Islam, I studied and was taught that in the event of a clash between the interests of Islam with other interests including the interests of the race, ancestors and so forth, then the interests of Muslims must be given the priority. A never will always be a never. Similarly a clash between the interests of the ummah and self interest, then preferences will be the ummah. This is because the ummah interest has great implications on Islam as a whole. These rights belong to Allah SWT, the eternal one. Other interest is only temporary for the world is only a temporary place for us to live.
Therefore, I cannot agree with my own race that stated property can be replaced but language, ethnicity, identity and ancestral heritage must be preserved. There is no compulsion and must be defended at all cost whenever they are being threatened. Is that correct? What I do understand is that self-interest, ethnicity, political parties and ancestors should be ignored when encountered with the interests of Allah SWT. Similarly, human rights should be ignored when encountered with the interests of Allah SWT.
In other words, whatever interests when faced with Allah's interest, then we should forget the rest as they are not permanent being temporary in nature. This does not mean we should ignore everything around us. What is the use of being noble in this world, in the eyes of others, but instead was despised by Allah SWT. We should understand this matter as well as the ultra kiasu group.
The best is being noble both in this world and with Allah. If there are no other choices, then let it be less noble in this world but be noble with Allah. This is my faith as a humble person that had accepted Islam. I am not sure how others will perceive.
In my writings, I only want the Muslims to realize that others have long been advancing themselves and became powerful and therefore it's hard for us to pursue. Do we want to continue to be left behind? See how others are taking care of their interests. They have reached the clouds, while we are busy quarrelling among ourselves. We are always divided in politics and the least we should be united in other things. Instead, we continue to split in other things as well.
The latest issue was on the caning punishment of Kartika Dewi Shukarno. I am impressed and respected her family and herself for accepting the punishment who requested that the caning punishments to be implemented. The question whether the sentence is appropriate or not is another issue. Essentially, the highest legal institution has decided. Honor that decision. Why are the Muslims among themselves that are not being punished nor involve in the punishment became so involved in this case? Have we not realized that people are shouting with joy because they do not have to speak as we have indirectly been representing them?
Kiasu
Those ultra kiasu do not have to interfere nor question the sharia's court decisions because we ourselves have enemies in camouflage. We among ourselves cannot even agree on a basic issue relating to religion and our own affairs which has been our flesh and blood. Imagine how are we coping with other issues?
I have never heard of non-Muslims going against the decision of Buddhist monks, Hindu or their priests on their religious actions even though they are sometimes quite extreme. For example, issue on covering 'aurat'. For those who do not want to cover their 'aurat', it is better to be silent. There is no need to criticize those who wants to cover their 'aurat' or those turning a new leaf (depending on their intention). Don't tease them nor criticize them.
I have never heard of my own race criticizing the clothing of Buddhist monks, Hindu or Christian priests which are well covered as Islam. There are monks who are willing to have their head bald (whether male or female), walking around without slippers and others in accordance with the teachings of their religion to deliver their religious duties. I noticed that they are being honored in the public or when they go from house to house. They are being welcome and charity or alms are given to them. Their arrival is considered to bring sustenance and good luck to the host. In other words, the non-Muslim honor their religious leaders, even they look to be extreme.
Why are we not 'acting' like them? Be united to defend the teachings of the ancestors. Be silently united even though from the external it looks as if it is divided. Today, let's ignore about silently united as we are divided internally and externally. We intentionally hang our dirty linings in the open. We adhere to the human rights more than the rights of Allah. Unfortunately, we opposed the good and silent the bad. Those sentenced drinking alcohol are opposed, those who drink alcohol are not opposed. Those not covering their 'aurat' revealing what not to be seen and should be hidden (being sexy), were not ask to cover up, but for those who really cover up were instead teased, "why are you covering up!" What is so derogatory when words like this being hurled up, "no use covering up if your heart is not sincere, closed behavior is worst then not covering up, therefore better don't cover up".
Remember, we are just ordinary people. It is not necessarily for those who try to practice their religion, their morals are better than those who do not, although that is what should happen. We need to distinguish between the human rights with the rights of Allah. There are those following the teachings of religion, but when they are being tested, eventually strayed away. There are also people who do not have the least desire to follow the religious teachings or the teachings of Allah, but yet they only see the good, reflecting as if those not practicing are better.
Therefore, my question is whether those who do not practice are better than those who actually practice? What if an imam or monk or priest was involved in a rape case, can we conclude that it is useless to have faith in the teachings of God? Why should we blame the teachings of God in this matter rather than ourselves who has corrupted the human faith? This is the ultra kiasu attitude that can corrupt the human faith. Thus, emphasizing human rights over the rights of the Creator. Besides, debate on the issue to strengthen a wet thread. Portraying as if the people do not need religion for it restrict the human rights.
If that's the case, there is no need to build so many places of worship until building at places which are not suitable. If the presence of God is not necessary, there is no need to have faith. It is better to follow our passions based on human rights. Do whatever you like even though it is prohibited by God's teachings such as drinking, gambling, casino, fooling around, adultery and so forth. Perhaps those who are against the punishment on Kartika will agree with these prohibitions? Is the existence of religion itself is viewed as a threat to restrict the freedom of human rights?
Dr. Mohd Ridhuan Tee Abdullah, Senior Lecturer, National Defence University Malaysia
It is fine with me that all my descendants and ancestors and me were condemned. I have an inbuilt resistance already. However, sometimes my siblings and relatives who were not involved with my writings were affected instead. They were 'attacked' by this ultra kiasu group with all kinds of accusations. My grandparents and parents were blamed for not educating me well to be Chinese, uncaring the descendants, more Malay than the Malays, traitor to the race and all sorts of accusations that were beyond unacceptable.
I have no difficulties with this ultra kiasu group for I understand perfectly their characters as we are from the same kind. I stand on the principle to be brave enough to tell the truth and to fear of telling lies. Even to face my own family members. I don't care because they do not understand. Let alone to understand Islam as a way of life. Never assume that life is simple. The struggle to defend the truth is very challenging. Anyway, it is reassuring enough that Allah SWT is always with the truth seeker. Therefore, always put Allah priority above everything else.
After embracing Islam, I studied and was taught that in the event of a clash between the interests of Islam with other interests including the interests of the race, ancestors and so forth, then the interests of Muslims must be given the priority. A never will always be a never. Similarly a clash between the interests of the ummah and self interest, then preferences will be the ummah. This is because the ummah interest has great implications on Islam as a whole. These rights belong to Allah SWT, the eternal one. Other interest is only temporary for the world is only a temporary place for us to live.
Therefore, I cannot agree with my own race that stated property can be replaced but language, ethnicity, identity and ancestral heritage must be preserved. There is no compulsion and must be defended at all cost whenever they are being threatened. Is that correct? What I do understand is that self-interest, ethnicity, political parties and ancestors should be ignored when encountered with the interests of Allah SWT. Similarly, human rights should be ignored when encountered with the interests of Allah SWT.
In other words, whatever interests when faced with Allah's interest, then we should forget the rest as they are not permanent being temporary in nature. This does not mean we should ignore everything around us. What is the use of being noble in this world, in the eyes of others, but instead was despised by Allah SWT. We should understand this matter as well as the ultra kiasu group.
The best is being noble both in this world and with Allah. If there are no other choices, then let it be less noble in this world but be noble with Allah. This is my faith as a humble person that had accepted Islam. I am not sure how others will perceive.
In my writings, I only want the Muslims to realize that others have long been advancing themselves and became powerful and therefore it's hard for us to pursue. Do we want to continue to be left behind? See how others are taking care of their interests. They have reached the clouds, while we are busy quarrelling among ourselves. We are always divided in politics and the least we should be united in other things. Instead, we continue to split in other things as well.
The latest issue was on the caning punishment of Kartika Dewi Shukarno. I am impressed and respected her family and herself for accepting the punishment who requested that the caning punishments to be implemented. The question whether the sentence is appropriate or not is another issue. Essentially, the highest legal institution has decided. Honor that decision. Why are the Muslims among themselves that are not being punished nor involve in the punishment became so involved in this case? Have we not realized that people are shouting with joy because they do not have to speak as we have indirectly been representing them?
Kiasu
Those ultra kiasu do not have to interfere nor question the sharia's court decisions because we ourselves have enemies in camouflage. We among ourselves cannot even agree on a basic issue relating to religion and our own affairs which has been our flesh and blood. Imagine how are we coping with other issues?
I have never heard of non-Muslims going against the decision of Buddhist monks, Hindu or their priests on their religious actions even though they are sometimes quite extreme. For example, issue on covering 'aurat'. For those who do not want to cover their 'aurat', it is better to be silent. There is no need to criticize those who wants to cover their 'aurat' or those turning a new leaf (depending on their intention). Don't tease them nor criticize them.
I have never heard of my own race criticizing the clothing of Buddhist monks, Hindu or Christian priests which are well covered as Islam. There are monks who are willing to have their head bald (whether male or female), walking around without slippers and others in accordance with the teachings of their religion to deliver their religious duties. I noticed that they are being honored in the public or when they go from house to house. They are being welcome and charity or alms are given to them. Their arrival is considered to bring sustenance and good luck to the host. In other words, the non-Muslim honor their religious leaders, even they look to be extreme.
Why are we not 'acting' like them? Be united to defend the teachings of the ancestors. Be silently united even though from the external it looks as if it is divided. Today, let's ignore about silently united as we are divided internally and externally. We intentionally hang our dirty linings in the open. We adhere to the human rights more than the rights of Allah. Unfortunately, we opposed the good and silent the bad. Those sentenced drinking alcohol are opposed, those who drink alcohol are not opposed. Those not covering their 'aurat' revealing what not to be seen and should be hidden (being sexy), were not ask to cover up, but for those who really cover up were instead teased, "why are you covering up!" What is so derogatory when words like this being hurled up, "no use covering up if your heart is not sincere, closed behavior is worst then not covering up, therefore better don't cover up".
Remember, we are just ordinary people. It is not necessarily for those who try to practice their religion, their morals are better than those who do not, although that is what should happen. We need to distinguish between the human rights with the rights of Allah. There are those following the teachings of religion, but when they are being tested, eventually strayed away. There are also people who do not have the least desire to follow the religious teachings or the teachings of Allah, but yet they only see the good, reflecting as if those not practicing are better.
Therefore, my question is whether those who do not practice are better than those who actually practice? What if an imam or monk or priest was involved in a rape case, can we conclude that it is useless to have faith in the teachings of God? Why should we blame the teachings of God in this matter rather than ourselves who has corrupted the human faith? This is the ultra kiasu attitude that can corrupt the human faith. Thus, emphasizing human rights over the rights of the Creator. Besides, debate on the issue to strengthen a wet thread. Portraying as if the people do not need religion for it restrict the human rights.
If that's the case, there is no need to build so many places of worship until building at places which are not suitable. If the presence of God is not necessary, there is no need to have faith. It is better to follow our passions based on human rights. Do whatever you like even though it is prohibited by God's teachings such as drinking, gambling, casino, fooling around, adultery and so forth. Perhaps those who are against the punishment on Kartika will agree with these prohibitions? Is the existence of religion itself is viewed as a threat to restrict the freedom of human rights?
Sunday, October 4, 2009
Priortising GOD to Ancestors
(Mingguan Malaysia, 4 October)
Dr. Mohd Ridhuan Tee Abdullah, Senior Lecturer, National Defence University Malaysia
I feel sympathized with the leader who is the head of an Islamic party and also a state executive councilor (exco) in Selangor. What was so unfortunate was that the exco had to deal with its own people in the party, who had asked him to resign. If the ultra kiasu party wants to follow the rule of Umar Abdul Aziz style, then the exco action should be acknowledged. The exco is entitled to criticize and issued a statement questioning the procedure of the Select Committee on Competence, Accountability and Transparency (Selcat) which handled the case involving the public administrators.
This show that the ultra kiasu party is not opened to views and criticism which is contrary to the governance style of Caliph Umar. Previously they were known to be so vocal in criticizing. They find faults with others. Now, when it is their turn to be criticized, they considered themselves to be correct and others as wrong. It is very clear that this party is very ultra kiasu and do not want to lose nor admit their own faults, but instead can still shout with joy for there are Malays who are still with them and supported them.
For the readers' information, Umar Abdul Aziz was known to welcome any differences of opinions. The Caliph was very open to anyone who criticized his leadership. In this issue, the exco only emphasised that the government officials who were investigated not to be humiliated in public.
Actually this is the leadership style of Caliph Umar. Degrading the pride of individuals in the public are not allowed in Islam. For example, during the reign of Umar bin Abdul Aziz, there was an incident occurred where an individual was accused of spreading news that might lead to defamation. That individual was brought to face the Caliph.
In verifying the news, the Caliph cited the al-Quran verses which means, "O ye who believe! If a wicked person comes to you with any news, ascertain the truth, lest ye harm people unwittingly and afterwards become full of repentance for what ye have done." (Al-Hujurat: 6).
This verse was addressed to the unbelievers with the view that they were hypocrites and those in the same category. On hearing the words from Caliph Umar, the man asked for forgiveness from the Caliph and decided not to continue his intention to spread the news.
The Caliph reasoning was very noble, so that it will neither bring harm to the community nor create any misunderstanding. Imagine if the action by those foxes in the sheep clothing using the Caliph Umar leadership style going out to avenge on those who they are not happy to be with?
It appears in this issue; Caliph Umar had made every possible consideration even if the news were true, or if the news or allegations were false or untrue itself. Does this ultra kiasu group have this characteristic? Just imagine if in this era where information and news materials can be traded for the sake of pursuing materialism, wealth and promotions, regardless of whether the information are correct or wrong. Most important, revenge is sweet.
Today, we are very sad, because for the sake of pursuing wealth and promotions, the Muslims forget to maintain the relationship of Islamic brotherhood and human relations. Rasulullah SAW has mentioned the strong bond among the believers. The mutual care and love can be illustrated that when one limb is in pain, then the whole body will feel that pain. Does this feelings still existing among the Muslims? If not, imagine the consequences if we put our trust in this foxes in the sheep clothing?
We must remember that the conflicts and battles among the Muslims will only weaken us. Although there are many people who call themselves by the name of Islam and will be angered when they were told to be weak and less Islamic in their faith, but at the same time they are mocking the teachings of Islam and disregard the teachings that they are championing. Not only will they blaspheme themselves which led to sin, but instead they are doing a disservice to Islam and humiliate the Muslims as a whole. They prefer to see the Muslims destroyed because of the attitude to avenge themselves, thus trusting other people more instead of their own people.
Islam allows us to give our views and criticism if the matter touches and towards doing good and honorable or amar makruf nahi mungkar (to invite people to do good and to prevent people from doing bad). This is also the slogan proclaimed by the state ultra kiasu party. I have doubts whether they understood this slogan? Or is it being used to 'melt' us? What we are seeing today is that they are releasing their resentment and avenging themselves by promoting themselves and putting others down. To me, those who want to emulate the Caliph must practice to be fair, and not wicked or hypocrite. They seem to be easily corrupted to make allegations against the people which could bring disaster to the people and country.
The Muslims should be aware that we need to be an example to all mankind. What's more if you want to follow the style of the Caliph Umar. We should be ashamed and embarrassed to ourselves to Allah SWT if we called ourselves Muslims, but did not practice the Islamic teachings. Remember the words of Umar bin Al-Khattab, that we are the people honored by Allah with Islam. If we seek nobleness by means other than the noble way, Allah will damn us. Allah SWT reminded us, "Ye are the best of peoples, evolved for mankind, enjoining what is right, forbidding what is wrong, and believing in Allah." (Al Imran: 110)
The exemplary pattern rule of Umar Abdul Aziz should be a role model to this ultra kiasu. In fact they never believe in Islam, let alone with those who fight for Islam. I am confident that it will not be easy for the exco to carry out his daily activities as he will always be under the watchful eyes of this ultra kiasu. I also believed that the exco movement is monitored daily because this group is afraid with those who champion for Islam because they themselves are anti-Islamic. The logic is simple; if they do not believe in Islam, how can they believe in the Malays. This is the fate that befalls on the Malays in the land of the Malays in Singapore. Are we still blind to see the fate of the Malay Muslims people over there? What is the difference between the ruling party that rules Singapore with this foxes in sheep clothing?
In the latest issue, a young leader from the alliance associated with this ultra kiasu party, proposed that the Chief Minister's post in the ultra kiasu state to be rotated. Actually, this is not a new issue, because it has long been proposed by the Malay party before this. Spontaneously, a few hours after the issue was raised, the youth wing and chairman of this ultra kiasu party jump on the issue just like a worm in hot weather wriggling around in panic. So kiasu.
What does this wing from the foxes in the sheep clothing said? They blamed their own allies as power crazy. To them, it is not the time yet for the position of the Chief Minister to be rotated. The question is until when? Until resurrection? Can we still remember, before this, a Muslim Malay party cropped up this same issue a couple of times with the reason that they have the majority of seats? Does their request or views being attended by their party affiliation? The answer was no. This is Dutch nature obtaining lands as Jews. What can we learn? Meaning, they do not have two or three, but they only have ONE. ONE is the reason for them to be strong. Because of this ONE that will unite them to defend the rights of the pride of the ancestors. Similarly for the Muslims, Islam is only ONE; we remain one to protect the only ONE, although ONE consists of various races because ONE is not racist but universal. I hope we all understand what I meant.
When I said this, I believed I will be accused again for unable to actually understand this group of people even though I am of the same race with them. I will also be charged guilty to my ancestors. My question, what is the use of preserving the fate of the ancestors if the dignity of religion is being mocked or pawned? Who is more important, the ancestors or Allah? To them probably their ancestors, but to me Allah SWT is everything. Since the ancestors were created by Allah SWT, then I must prostrate to Allah SWT instead of my ancestors. The ancestors will not have me to prostrate, but only to be remembered. Descendants to me are no longer important after meeting the God that has opened my heart to accept Islam. Allahhuakbar!
To those who feel that their descendants are more important than God, then take good care of the descendants. Honor them. Do not commit adultery. Stay away from forbidden relationships. Validate the relationship as husband and wife. Do what is advised, stay away from the forbidden. Abide by the concept of inviting people to do good and preventing people from doing bad. Then the descendant's ancestors' honor will be safeguarded and rest in peace in the grave. Otherwise, the ancestors will revolt because we have actually been treacherous to them. Do not cleverly talk about descendants and ancestors, if we ourselves are treacherous and hypocrites.
Dr. Mohd Ridhuan Tee Abdullah, Senior Lecturer, National Defence University Malaysia
I feel sympathized with the leader who is the head of an Islamic party and also a state executive councilor (exco) in Selangor. What was so unfortunate was that the exco had to deal with its own people in the party, who had asked him to resign. If the ultra kiasu party wants to follow the rule of Umar Abdul Aziz style, then the exco action should be acknowledged. The exco is entitled to criticize and issued a statement questioning the procedure of the Select Committee on Competence, Accountability and Transparency (Selcat) which handled the case involving the public administrators.
This show that the ultra kiasu party is not opened to views and criticism which is contrary to the governance style of Caliph Umar. Previously they were known to be so vocal in criticizing. They find faults with others. Now, when it is their turn to be criticized, they considered themselves to be correct and others as wrong. It is very clear that this party is very ultra kiasu and do not want to lose nor admit their own faults, but instead can still shout with joy for there are Malays who are still with them and supported them.
For the readers' information, Umar Abdul Aziz was known to welcome any differences of opinions. The Caliph was very open to anyone who criticized his leadership. In this issue, the exco only emphasised that the government officials who were investigated not to be humiliated in public.
Actually this is the leadership style of Caliph Umar. Degrading the pride of individuals in the public are not allowed in Islam. For example, during the reign of Umar bin Abdul Aziz, there was an incident occurred where an individual was accused of spreading news that might lead to defamation. That individual was brought to face the Caliph.
In verifying the news, the Caliph cited the al-Quran verses which means, "O ye who believe! If a wicked person comes to you with any news, ascertain the truth, lest ye harm people unwittingly and afterwards become full of repentance for what ye have done." (Al-Hujurat: 6).
This verse was addressed to the unbelievers with the view that they were hypocrites and those in the same category. On hearing the words from Caliph Umar, the man asked for forgiveness from the Caliph and decided not to continue his intention to spread the news.
The Caliph reasoning was very noble, so that it will neither bring harm to the community nor create any misunderstanding. Imagine if the action by those foxes in the sheep clothing using the Caliph Umar leadership style going out to avenge on those who they are not happy to be with?
It appears in this issue; Caliph Umar had made every possible consideration even if the news were true, or if the news or allegations were false or untrue itself. Does this ultra kiasu group have this characteristic? Just imagine if in this era where information and news materials can be traded for the sake of pursuing materialism, wealth and promotions, regardless of whether the information are correct or wrong. Most important, revenge is sweet.
Today, we are very sad, because for the sake of pursuing wealth and promotions, the Muslims forget to maintain the relationship of Islamic brotherhood and human relations. Rasulullah SAW has mentioned the strong bond among the believers. The mutual care and love can be illustrated that when one limb is in pain, then the whole body will feel that pain. Does this feelings still existing among the Muslims? If not, imagine the consequences if we put our trust in this foxes in the sheep clothing?
We must remember that the conflicts and battles among the Muslims will only weaken us. Although there are many people who call themselves by the name of Islam and will be angered when they were told to be weak and less Islamic in their faith, but at the same time they are mocking the teachings of Islam and disregard the teachings that they are championing. Not only will they blaspheme themselves which led to sin, but instead they are doing a disservice to Islam and humiliate the Muslims as a whole. They prefer to see the Muslims destroyed because of the attitude to avenge themselves, thus trusting other people more instead of their own people.
Islam allows us to give our views and criticism if the matter touches and towards doing good and honorable or amar makruf nahi mungkar (to invite people to do good and to prevent people from doing bad). This is also the slogan proclaimed by the state ultra kiasu party. I have doubts whether they understood this slogan? Or is it being used to 'melt' us? What we are seeing today is that they are releasing their resentment and avenging themselves by promoting themselves and putting others down. To me, those who want to emulate the Caliph must practice to be fair, and not wicked or hypocrite. They seem to be easily corrupted to make allegations against the people which could bring disaster to the people and country.
The Muslims should be aware that we need to be an example to all mankind. What's more if you want to follow the style of the Caliph Umar. We should be ashamed and embarrassed to ourselves to Allah SWT if we called ourselves Muslims, but did not practice the Islamic teachings. Remember the words of Umar bin Al-Khattab, that we are the people honored by Allah with Islam. If we seek nobleness by means other than the noble way, Allah will damn us. Allah SWT reminded us, "Ye are the best of peoples, evolved for mankind, enjoining what is right, forbidding what is wrong, and believing in Allah." (Al Imran: 110)
The exemplary pattern rule of Umar Abdul Aziz should be a role model to this ultra kiasu. In fact they never believe in Islam, let alone with those who fight for Islam. I am confident that it will not be easy for the exco to carry out his daily activities as he will always be under the watchful eyes of this ultra kiasu. I also believed that the exco movement is monitored daily because this group is afraid with those who champion for Islam because they themselves are anti-Islamic. The logic is simple; if they do not believe in Islam, how can they believe in the Malays. This is the fate that befalls on the Malays in the land of the Malays in Singapore. Are we still blind to see the fate of the Malay Muslims people over there? What is the difference between the ruling party that rules Singapore with this foxes in sheep clothing?
In the latest issue, a young leader from the alliance associated with this ultra kiasu party, proposed that the Chief Minister's post in the ultra kiasu state to be rotated. Actually, this is not a new issue, because it has long been proposed by the Malay party before this. Spontaneously, a few hours after the issue was raised, the youth wing and chairman of this ultra kiasu party jump on the issue just like a worm in hot weather wriggling around in panic. So kiasu.
What does this wing from the foxes in the sheep clothing said? They blamed their own allies as power crazy. To them, it is not the time yet for the position of the Chief Minister to be rotated. The question is until when? Until resurrection? Can we still remember, before this, a Muslim Malay party cropped up this same issue a couple of times with the reason that they have the majority of seats? Does their request or views being attended by their party affiliation? The answer was no. This is Dutch nature obtaining lands as Jews. What can we learn? Meaning, they do not have two or three, but they only have ONE. ONE is the reason for them to be strong. Because of this ONE that will unite them to defend the rights of the pride of the ancestors. Similarly for the Muslims, Islam is only ONE; we remain one to protect the only ONE, although ONE consists of various races because ONE is not racist but universal. I hope we all understand what I meant.
When I said this, I believed I will be accused again for unable to actually understand this group of people even though I am of the same race with them. I will also be charged guilty to my ancestors. My question, what is the use of preserving the fate of the ancestors if the dignity of religion is being mocked or pawned? Who is more important, the ancestors or Allah? To them probably their ancestors, but to me Allah SWT is everything. Since the ancestors were created by Allah SWT, then I must prostrate to Allah SWT instead of my ancestors. The ancestors will not have me to prostrate, but only to be remembered. Descendants to me are no longer important after meeting the God that has opened my heart to accept Islam. Allahhuakbar!
To those who feel that their descendants are more important than God, then take good care of the descendants. Honor them. Do not commit adultery. Stay away from forbidden relationships. Validate the relationship as husband and wife. Do what is advised, stay away from the forbidden. Abide by the concept of inviting people to do good and preventing people from doing bad. Then the descendant's ancestors' honor will be safeguarded and rest in peace in the grave. Otherwise, the ancestors will revolt because we have actually been treacherous to them. Do not cleverly talk about descendants and ancestors, if we ourselves are treacherous and hypocrites.
Subscribe to:
Comments (Atom)
