STOP THE INFLUX OF CHINA DOLLS

------------------------------

------------------------

It is alarming that Malaysia is now in top 5 for HIV cases with (80,000) people infected (nst Dec, .2) In the first six months of this year 315 people died of the dreadful disease (nst Dec.1) , and surprisingly, most (297) of the HIV infectious cases were people from "Serambi Mekah",,a Muslim State of Kelantan where the people are supposed to be holier than others, and with strict morality norm. This goes to show that the lack of religious education may not be the reason why Malaysian men visit prostitutes.
Contrary to popular belief, more people are now dying due to HIV/AIDS, through sexual transmitted diseases, rather than through drug related cases. Like drugs of various types, foreign and local prostitutes of various races are also easily and freely available in Malaysia today then ever before. It has become so easy for foreign women to enter the country as students, maids, or tourists, and later became sex workers. Even maids who are given weekends off are now going into the flesh trade business, without the knowledge of their employers. If the maids get pregnant, then there is every possibility that male members of the family in the house would be a prime suspect, which could lead to family dispute.
I think it is only natural that some irresponsible men are easily attracted to try a new menu in town , especially those of "Ipoh Mali", or fresh from China, without fear of contracting the slow death disease. Worse of all they could transmit the disease to their spouses or girl friends, and babies could be born with HIV. Thus increasing the number of HIV/AIDS case in Malaysia.
Prostitution is a lucrative business since time in memorial, and some women, gay men and transvestites, took the opportunity to trade their God given asset for a living. Today there is not a night that I missed seeing T>V news of the authorities raiding, massage parlors, pubs,karaoke lounges, night clubs, shady hotels, private clubs and homes, where foreign women were arrested for their illegal activities. Most of these women were from China, and they are often referred to as China Dolls which of course are in great demands, not only among local pimps, Malaysian men, but also foreign tourists who presume that Kuala Lumpur is now a city of "Happening" or a Red Light City, which is an insult to a respected Muslim Country.
Kudus to the police, Immigration, Rela, and the Religious Departments for their tireless effort in conducting nightly raids on these premises to arrest the women and most probable deport them, thus reducing the number of prostitutes in the country
On another note I am very disappointed with the Minister of Tourism ,Dato Seri Ng Yen Yen, who proposed that the Government reduce the visa fees for tourists from China from RM350/- to RM50? ringguit. This would of course encourage more Chinese tourists to visit Malaysia she added. I wonder what type of Chinese tourists she is expecting to come. Surely Malaysia could do well to welcome more rich businessmen, traders, merchants, golfers, honeymooners, and genuine tourists, who could afford the visa fees and also spend their Yuan here rather than the influx of China Dolls coming here to rake our ringgit away.
I hope the Cabinet will not reduce the visa fees, and if necessary amend The Immigration Act to give more clout to the officers to stop single women, or Malaysian men bringing in temporary foreign wives especially from China, Thailand, and the Philippines to work as sex slaves. Otherwise I am afraid HIV/AIDS will be spreading like wild fire ,that could hamper the progress of vision 2020.

NOR SHAHID MOHD NOR
PETALING JAYA

SUPERVISE SCHOOL CHILDREN

SUPERVISE SCHOOL CHILDREN

----------------------------------------------------

I am saddened by what has happened in the suspension bridge tragedy, because not only has innocent lives been lost, but it also tarnishes, the image of the Education Ministry, teachers in particular, and the newly born 1 Malaysia concept, mooted out by the Prime Minister, so much so that, the Perak opposition State assemblymen wanted all the 1 Malaysia camps suspended in view of the tragic incident. "opposition hold their own "sitting"," (nst Oct. 29 ).
I think this ridiculous political motivated decision is uncalled for. Does it means that when a plane crashed with 230 passengers on board killed, people should be stopped from flying?.
As usual in the aftermath of a tragedy, there will be so many individuals ,non-governmental organizations, and politicians,figure-pointing at the authorities and developers responsible for the construction of the project. Almost all will emphasis on the physical aspects of safety. like whether the project
was supervised and inspected by the Public Works Department,or a Fit to Use certificate issued by the relevant authorities,,or if there was an element of corruption, or was there a Notice Board or a Signage put up to warn the public on the use of the bridge, etc. etc.
Our former Prime Minister,Tun Dr. Mahathir Mohamed, after the Highland Towers tragedy, warned that there was a need for a comprehensive study of any construction and development of public projects. The security aspects should not be compromised. The authorities must not be lulled into a false sense of security and must learn from all the tragedies that has happened. I wonder whether the warning has been taken seriously or not.
So much so, as far as Physical aspects of security are concerned, but we seem to be neglecting the practical aspects of security one that should be taught and practiced , by the people especially school children who are venerable to all sorts of accidents, I am more concerned about school children being taught to queue at bus stops, train stations,toilets, school canteens, ticket booths, etc. to let others come down first before alighting a bus or train..They should not be standing on doorways, putting their heads and hands out of the bus's windows, and running and playing while the bus is moving.
When was the last time a fire drill held in schools and school hostels? Are children taught how to leave the classrooms, halls, or hostels. when there is a fire or any disasters ? Do children rushed out of their classrooms when the bell rang, or do they leave in an orderly manner, starting from the first row followed by the others in single file? Children will be children, and while in schools they should be strictly supervised and disciplined. I believe that discipline at home as well as in schools will create an awareness of the practical aspects of security I feel that the Parent Teachers Associations, and the National Institute of Occupational Safety and health should seriously play their roles to oversee to the implementation of the practical aspect of security in all schools in Malaysia
If only precautions were taken and the children were supervised strictly to stand in single file and then allowed to cross the bridge five at a time with a teacher standing guard in the middle of the bridge and two others at both end of the bridge, the suspension bridge tragedy could have been averted
I would like to refer to the letter by Zahidi Ahmad,"were there enough safety measures?," (nst Oct.30 where he mentioned about how his children studying in England were strictly supervised at every school outing. I suggest that the Education Ministry take a cue from this system, so that parents will have more confidence in allowing their children to attend future 1 Malaysia camps.


NOR SHAHID MOHD NOR
PETALING JAYA
31.10.2009

ENACT PROVISIONS IN THE COMMUNITY SERVICE ORDER

ENACT PROVISIONS IN THE COMMUNITY SERVICE ORDER

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

I refer to your report," Community Service awaits NS dodgers," (nst Nov.15) I wonder how the National Service Training Department is going to impose the Community Service Order ( CSO ) on dodgers of the National Service ( NS ) training programme, when the provisions in the CSO itself, I think is not yet fully or legally enacted.
Although an amendment has been made to the Criminal Procedure Code (CPC ) Section 293 (1) (e) which introduced the CSO in 2006, as an alternative to imprisonment, is it already fully workable ,in view of the absence of proper provisions and programmes to implement it effectively, namely:
The minimum or maximum number of hours the offender must work per day. The number of weeks or months the offender must serve. Which department is to supervise.Where will the offender be accommodated. Will he be paid for the services..Must he wears a special uniform. What type of work will he be doing.Is he insured against injury or death. These are but some of the provisions that should be considered and legally enacted before the CSO could be implemented.
Community Service Order is a non-custodial penalty that should only be imposed by the court, requiring offenders to carry out unpaid work in the community under the supervision of a probation or welfare officer. We have been talking about the CSO for more than a couple of decades, and yet it has not been implemented.
Legislators have been inclined to design custodial sentences for every minor and major offences, as they are both punitive and deterrent in nature. The absence of community-based punitive strategies as an alternative to imprisonment has led to imprisonment being used as the sentence of first resort. This has resulted in serious overcrowding in our prisons.
In my view the community-based custodial system not only offers the best solution to prison overcrowding, but also the offences are not registrable and as such would not have criminal records, and at the same time makes recompense to the society the offender has wronged by serving it unpaid over time in ways and for periods determined as a criminal sentence.
I think Malaysia could do well to study the CSO system or model as practiced by the United Kingdom, Australia, and nearer home, Singapore and Hong Kong.It would be better if the CSO could be blended into the Malaysian Criminal Justice System, so that it may be extended to a wider swath of offenders as a punishment for vandalism, Traffic offenders, Mat Rempit and polluters who throw rubbish indiscriminately.
The community service order contains variable elements of reform and retribution, Perhaps the humiliating experience should be enough to deter even the most hardcore Vandals, litterbugs, traffic offenders and Mat Rempit.



NOR SHAHID MOHD NOR
PETALING JAYA.

LOW COST FARE TO JEDDAH

----------------------------------------------

I refer to your report, "Air Asia awaits nod for flight to Jeddah (nst. Nov. 18) Kudos to Air Asia one of the top 50 most innovative companies in the world.The news is certainly the sound of music to the ears of all Muslims, especially in Malaysia who hopefully will be able to enjoy low fare flights to the City.
I applaud the Chief Executive Officer of Air Asia, Dato Seri Tony Farnandes for his proposal to fly to Jeddah, a city frequented by Malaysian Muslims to perform the UMRAH in the Holy City Of Mecca, which is a couple of hours drive from Jeddah.
When Air Asia flew to Abu Dabi recently, I was thinking why not Jeddah, the city that will definitely attracts thousands of pilgrims going for UMRAH, everyday throughout the year. It looks like my prayer had been answered , and now I am sure Muslim in the country will be praying hard for the landing rights to be sanctioned, by the Saudi Arabian government which will allow Muslims to perform the UMRAH on an affordable fare or packages.
I hope Air Asia besides having other holiday packages to all its destinations will also have 'GO UMRAH' packages to Mecca and other Flight + Hotels packages to Jeddah. I am looking forward to be one among the first passengers on its inaugural flight.



NOR SHAHID MOHD NOR
PETALING JAYA
20.11.09

UNITY IN MUSIC IN SONG

--------------------------------------

I refer to your report," Winning voice, A song to match," (nst Nov.22 ). The saying ," If music be the food of love - play on. I think the metaphor is most apt able in as far as Malaysia is concerned, because I am sure, in a way, Malay songs Sung by non-Malays, has been one of the contributory factors that has fostered National Unity. Now quite a large number of non Malays like Malay songs especially the younger generation.

If non-Malay bands could play Malay music and the singers could sing Malay songs,sometimes better than the Malays, and then made a name for themselves in the highly competitive Malay song industry, I see no reasons why Malay singers could not do the same and be successful in their ventures.

We cannot deny the fact that, there are top Malay singers, like Dato Siti Norhaliza, Dato Sharifah Aini, Dato Yusni, Adibah Noor, and many others who can sing very well in English, Mandarin, Japenese, Hindi and even Tamil. Unfortunately they never made it to the top, simply because they have not been exposed, in road shows, stage shows, in night clubs, in discos and pubs. With the exception of Dato Sharifah Aini, who made and English Album, the others have not.. Besides they have not receive enough publicity over TVs and Radio. As far as I know there is only one English mucical show on TV called, Down Memory Lane, hosted by Dato Yusni, or Juli Sudero.

I suggest that local TV and radio stations produce reality shows on TVs requiring Malay singers to sing in English, Mandarin, Hindi or Tamil. If these singers are well trained to sing in other languages and given publicity and exposure over TV and Radio, stage shows at various functions, I am sure they will make it to the top of the chart, in non Malay song industry in Malaysia.at the same time promote the 1 Malaaysia concept.



NOR SHAHID MOHD NOR
PETALING JAYA
22.11.2009

STOP THE INFLUX OF CHINA DOLLS

------------------------------

------------------------

It is alarming that Malaysia is now in top 5 for HIV cases with (80,000) people infected (nst Dec, .2) In the first six months of this year 315 people died of the dreadful disease (nst Dec.1) , and surprisingly, most (297) of the HIV infectious cases were people from "Serambi Mekah",,a Muslim State of Kelantan where the people are supposed to be holier than others, and with strict morality norm. This goes to show that the lack of religious education may not be the reason why Malaysian men visit prostitutes.
Contrary to popular belief, more people are now dying due to HIV/AIDS, through sexual transmitted diseases, rather than through drug related cases. Like drugs of various types, foreign and local prostitutes of various races are also easily and freely available in Malaysia today then ever before. It has become so easy for foreign women to enter the country as students, maids, or tourists, and later became sex workers. Even maids who are given weekends off are now going into the flesh trade business, without the knowledge of their employers. If the maids get pregnant, then there is every possibility that male members of the family in the house would be a prime suspect, which could lead to family dispute.
I think it is only natural that some irresponsible men are easily attracted to try a new menu in town , especially those of "Ipoh Mali", or fresh from China, without fear of contracting the slow death disease. Worse of all they could transmit the disease to their spouses or girl friends, and babies could be born with HIV. Thus increasing the number of HIV/AIDS case in Malaysia.
Prostitution is a lucrative business since time in memorial, and some women, gay men and transvestites, took the opportunity to trade their God given asset for a living. Today there is not a night that I missed seeing T>V news of the authorities raiding, massage parlors, pubs,karaoke lounges, night clubs, shady hotels, private clubs and homes, where foreign women were arrested for their illegal activities. Most of these women were from China, and they are often referred to as China Dolls which of course are in great demands, not only among local pimps, Malaysian men, but also foreign tourists who presume that Kuala Lumpur is now a city of "Happening" or a Red Light City, which is an insult to a respected Muslim Country.
Kudus to the police, Immigration, Rela, and the Religious Departments for their tireless effort in conducting nightly raids on these premises to arrest the women and most probable deport them, thus reducing the number of prostitutes in the country
On another note I am very disappointed with the Minister of Tourism ,Dato Seri Ng Yen Yen, who proposed that the Government reduce the visa fees for tourists from China from RM350/- to RM50? ringguit. This would of course encourage more Chinese tourists to visit Malaysia she added. I wonder what type of Chinese tourists she is expecting to come. Surely Malaysia could do well to welcome more rich businessmen, traders, merchants, golfers, honeymooners, and genuine tourists, who could afford the visa fees and also spend their Yuan here rather than the influx of China Dolls coming here to rake our ringgit away.
I hope the Cabinet will not reduce the visa fees, and if necessary amend The Immigration Act to give more clout to the officers to stop single women, or Malaysian men bringing in temporary foreign wives especially from China, Thailand, and the Philippines to work as sex slaves. Otherwise I am afraid HIV/AIDS will be spreading like wild fire ,that could hamper the progress of vision 2020.

USE DECOY TO ARREST SNATCH THIEF

___________________________________


Hardly a week passed, when the husband of a snatch theft victim died in the incident at Taman Maluri, Kuala Lumpur, another two cases were reported, one in Johore Bahru, when the handbag of a security guard was snatched away, and another in Bangi when a nurse lost her purse to a snatch thief at knife point, Later he rang her up and demanded RM 500 or else he would kill her. (nst Dec.12)
The phenomena is getting from bad to worse. Snatch thieves are getting bolder and dared threatened their victims with death, if their demands were not met.
People are still asking the same million dollar question, how many deaths are going to occur, before the relevant authorities decide on action to put an end to this serious crime. They even demanded for heavier punishment, even a death sentence for snatch thieves.
We already have harsh laws in our criminal justice system, from sentences of imprisonment for a day to natural life, to whipping and hanging, and yet people do not seem to be deterred. Still ,kidnapping, drug smuggling, human trafficking,prostitution , robbery, murder, rape, and above all snatch thieves are on the rise..
While I agree that snatch thieves should be charged for robbery and received a heavier or maximum sentence to deter them from repeat offence, the courts may consider mitigation factors when the accused pleaded for leniency due to personal and compassionate grounds. Thus in a recent conviction of a snatch thief, a guard received only a six year sentence and a lecture from the judge, instead of the maximum sentence of 20 years plus caning ( nst Dec. 9 ).Minus two years for remission, the accused had only to serve four years, which is very light, considering the severity of the offence.
On the other hand how many of these snatch thieves who caused death to their victims have been arrested so far? We all know that it would be difficult for the police to apprehend them for lack of evidence and witnesses. Even the victim after a robbery would be too shocked to cry help let alone take the number of the motorbike.
There are so many policewomen in the force, and I feel that its about time the police make use of them as decoy to arrest these snatch thieves in action. Ops decoy should be launched all over the country and lets see more policemen in civilian patrol the streets on motorbikes . I am sure the snatch thieves will think twice before robbing a woman. with handbags..
The Crime prevention Association, should play its role by advising women not to carry handbags with a lot of cash, jewelry credit and bank cards, address book and hand phones. They should carry MyKad in their pockets ,walk in pairs against traffic. They should always be alert, and be sencetive to the sound of motorbikes .Above all every woman should guard themselves from being robbed, because we simply cannot depend on the police to be everywhere to protect them.
I feel that the government should not ignor public outcry for effective enforcement of the laws and their demand for publuic protection, otherwise it will create a society with bottled up imotions which is dangerous. That is why sometimes we see the public taking the law into their own hands by beating caught snatch thieves to death .

PROVIDE ALTERNATIVE TO SARDINES

--------------------------------------------------

I refer to your report," Stop giving victims only sardines," (nst Dec.22)
Instead of asking the State Welfare Department, who is not a food producer, to stop giving mostly sardines to flood victims, The Deputy Agro-based Industry Minister, Datuk Mohd Johari Baharom, should come out with a positive suggestion, on how to improve the type of food, and effective ways of distributing food and other necessary items to flood victims.
Besides other natural disasters, Flood has become a yearly phenomena beginning with heavy rainfalls almost everyday from December to January. However the authorities like Fire & Rescue Services Department, police, Civil Defence, Rela and the Army, were always ready to evacuate victims to relief centres, where they would be supplied with food, blankets and other necessities. These were sometime not enough,or did not reach the victims especially those in remote areas, causing hardship to the them.
In times of need and hardship ,the State government, members of Parliament,and ,State Assemblymen should answer the call of the Prime Minister, "Rakyat di Dahulukan dan Pencapaian di Utamakan", by going on the ground., to access the damaged and help the victims overcome their suffering.
Muslims all over the world, including Malaysia have just celebrated, "Hari Raya Quarban", and there is nothing dearer to Allah during the days of Quarbani then the sacrificing of animals to be distributed to the poor. In Malaysia thousands of animals, costing millions of ringgit were sacrificed , and the meat distributed to the poor to be consumed within three days..
In this respect I would like to suggest that the Government urges the relevant Ministries, or Muslim Aid Malaysia to emulate, Muslim Aid Australia by collecting donations for Qrabani and part or all of the Quarbani meat be canned. Canned Quarbani meat could be seen as the most viable alternative for distribution to flood or other natural disasters victims as they provide longer shelf life allowing the victims to sustain their families for a longer period.
Instead of only sardines foe weeks which could be boring they could at least enjoy canned mutton curry or kurma, canned corn beef, and various types of rendang and beef curries.
May I suggest that the Deputy Minister initiates the move with a political will, that could fulfill the aims of Rakyat Didahulukan dan Pencapaian Diutamakan.

1 MALAYSIA CLINICS FOR URBAN POOR

----------------------------------------------------

Tan Sri Mohd Ismail Merican's letter," Urban poor need shot in the arm." which is self explanatory, couldn't come at a better time than the start of the New Year.
However I feel that the Ministry of Health could have given a better and positive explanations on the concept of the 1 Malaysia clinics earlier, before the others out of sheer ignorance gave negative feedback on the role of the 1 Malaysia clinics, thus confusing the Rakyat.
I agree that rural Malaysians receives better health care than their poorer urban counterpart. Many developing countries rural areas are often neglected in as far as rural health care is concerned, but not so in Malaysia.
Since Merdeka more than 52 years ago, the Malaysian Government established more than 3,000 rural health clinics and hundreds of Mobile clinics nationwide and since then they were all manned, by Dressers or Hospital Assistant, now Medical Assistant, staff nurses, trained midwives cum "Jururawat Desa" or rural nurse.
Today every Malaysian,in the rural areas including foreign workers in plantations and estates has access to some primary health care. I think it is only fair now that our caring government wants the urban poor to be treated equally with their counterpart in the rural areas.
Malaysia have won kudos for its rural health care programme from not only underdeveloped third countries, but also from developed countries and the World Health Organization (WHO)
I have no qualms about the establishment of the 1 Malaysia clinics for the urban poor, but I am just curious as to who are the urban poor we are referring to. Is it single mothers with many children, OKUs ,orphans,bedridden invalids, senior citizens without income, beggars, vagabonds, illegal immigrants, and those poor Malaysian migrating from the rural areas to the cities in search of jobs.?
What I am afraid is that these clinics will be filled with foreign beggars, vagabonds, and thousands of illegal immigrants , living in illegal settlements in and around the cities.. Most of them are infected with tuberculosis, malaria,hepatitis, and venereal diseases, and without proper care and enforcement, housing, sanitation, electricity, water, drainage,and roads, these settlements will be the center for the spread of diseases .
This is a cause for concern, and an urgent need to recognize and classify the Malaysian urban poor by issuing them with a special identification card to singled them out from the others.
I strongly feel that instead of spending millions of ringgit to build or rent the 1 Malaysia clinics, and equipping them with staff, medicine, medical equipments, and the monthly payment of staff salaries, rent,and , utility bills , I suggest that the Ministry of Health, sign a (MOU) with chosen under utilized private clinics all over the cities and make use of them as the 1 Malaysia clinics, which are easily accessible to the urban poor. These clinics could be appointed as panels to the government to treat the urban poor.for which the government pays a minimum of RM 25 ringgit per patient.
Another option would be for the government to share the rent of these private clinics and the cost of medicine and provide Medical Assistant, and staff nurse to work in shifts to assist the doctor at the clinics. The urban poor patients will receive free treatment. This would be an advantage to the doctor as his clinic will be taken care of by the Medical Assistant or the Staff Nurse, whenever he is away on leave or sick leave.
It would be better still if the government build more Community Health Centers like the one in Kelana Jaya in urban areas or in the outskirts of the cities, which could be accessible to more people of the lower income groups including the urban poor. or increased the number of fully equipped mobile clinics to serve people living in low cost flats, kampongs and villages around the cities. I think these are cost effective and could save the government millions of ringgit if implemented.


NOR SHAHID MOHD NOR
PETALING JAYA

NO GROUNDS TO FEAR

-------------------------------------

I refer to the letter, "Not the road for IJN," by S.M. Mohamed Idris, President Consumers Association of Penang, (nst. Nov. 6 ) While I appreciate his concern over the proposal by the Malaysian Health care Travel Council (MHTC) to persuade eight American companies to send patients for treatment at the Institute Jantong Negara (IJN), I feel that he should see the proposal objectively, instead of criticizing without weighing and studying the pros and cons why IJN struck such a deal..

The involvement of the American companies, would not only keep Malaysia on the medical travel industry map, but would also enhance the possibility of collaborating with world-renowned universities in California to train our cardiologists and cardiothorices surgeons at IJN or possibly in the United States .

I don't think that as a responsible government with the 1 Malaysia concept of " People first, Performance now", mooted by the Prime Minister, the government would compromise health care of the rakyat, just for the sake of getting rich foreign patients, to be treated at IJN. So there is no ground to have all those fears.

The underprivileged the middle income groups, and the rich Malaysian, will I am sure continue to receive due treatment at IJN, as promised by the Government when the Institute was built.

I think this is a concept of the rich helping the poor rakyat, as the fees collected from them will definitely be channeled to the IJN Foundation to support the underprivileged and needy patients, in Malaysia as evident from the more than 300 patients,old and young, rich and poor from all walks of lives, crowding all the various clinics everyday at IJN..
IJN is Malaysia's premier centre for the treatment of heart diseases, and it is now known throughout the world as one of the best heart centre. Due to the increased in the number of patients, the government recently extended the hospital with a new 200 beded wing, making IJN a 500 beded hospital, Unfortunately IJN is still short of cardiologists, cardiothorices surgeons, para medics, and trained nurses. There in lies the opportunity for more of our doctors to be trained locally and overseas.

I feel that the consumer associatios should instead focus their study on the amount of medication being dispensed to patients by IJN daily, and the cost involved. Every patient, including me, after seeing a doctor , received a six months supply of various types of expensive medicine. I often wonder whether all the patients consumed all the medicine given to them. More often than not some patients just stoped taking certain type of medicine for various reasons and the medicine s are thrown away. On their next oppointment the doctor might change the medicine, and the old ones are not returned. This is a shear waste of public fund.

I suggest that IJN should review their method of dispensing medicine and reduce it to a two months supply only, and if the patients finished their medicine , they should go and get them at either IJN or the nearest general hospital, or at the community clinics, or send by post as practiced by the Putrajaya Hospital.
I am sure IJN can save millions, and the money could be better used to help the underprivileged



NOR SHAHID MOHD NOR
PETALING JAYA

CIRCUMCISION IS NOT VULGAR

----------------------------------------------------

I refer to your report, " 'Potong", ad review for being vulgar," (nst Nov.11 ) I feel sorry for some members of Parliament, who have nothing better to do than to raise question on the word 'potong' used in an advertisement which was aired over television and radio. According to Datuk Mohamad Aziz (BN Sri Gading ) the word ' potong ' brings a vulgar connotation, as it is a colloquial way of expressing the act of circumcision.

I wonder, since when the word ' potong ' or the act of circumcision itself became vulgar? As far as I know every Muslim boy has to be circumcised , as it is his religious obligation, and there is nothing vulgar about it.It is an open secret and nothing to be ashamed of. Muslim parents before every school holidays will openly discussed among family members, relatives and friends to fix a date for a kenduri and the circumcision ceremony of their sons.. Sometime a group circumcision is organized by mosques, or government departments. and it is often shown on television. There were no public outcry, and why cry wolf over this particular advertisement?

Now what if an ice cream company, advertises its ice-cream 'potong' showing a girl sucking the ice-cream and said " wow its the best ice-cream ' potong ' in the world. Is that vulgar? I think it is a matter of interpretation, and it depends on how one looks,feel, and think about it, and not everyone will have the same narrow-minded interpretation.

If the advertisement has passed the strict censorship code imposed by the National Censorship Board than it should be allowed to advertise on television as usual, without fear or favour.



NOR SHAHID MOHD NOR
PETALING JAYA

MALACCA PRISON MUSEUM

--------------------------------------------

I refer to your report, "Prison life for Malacca tourists," (Star Nov.1). I must applaud the Malacca Chief Minister,Datuk Seri Mohd Ali Rustum
for answering my call to turn the Banda Hilir Prison into a museum, which will be opened in 2012,
The 140 year old H.M. PRISON as it was known before the second world war, was built by the British in 1860. After the war the prison was known as a Young Persons Prison, where prisoners below the age of 21 were confined, till it was gazetted in l964 as the Henry Gurney School II,to ease overcrowding of the main school in Telok Mas Melaka. One hundred years after it was built, I took over command of the prison from a British officer, who had retired under the Malayanazation scheme,in August 1960 .,and was the first Malayan officer, to take charge of the prison as its Officer in Charge. I served the School for ten years until I was transferred to Taiping Prison in 1970.
Some people think that the Malacca prison, which is now in the heart of the city is an eyesore,and should be removed, but older generations, who are heritage lovers and foreign soldiers who were interned in the prison during world war 2 and myself as the man in charge for ten years wanted the prison as a Heritage Building in a UNISCO declared World Heritage sight to remain, and be turned into a museum for posterity..
The .decision of the State Government is timely in view of the fact that many old prisons in the United Kingdom, France, Germany,Switzerland and nearer home Australia have been preserved and turned into museums, hotels, and other establishment to attract tourists from all over the world. This could be a plus factor for Malacca .

SUPERVISE SCHOOL CHILDREN

----------------------------------------------------

I am saddened by what has happened in the suspension bridge tragedy, because not only has innocent lives been lost, but it also tarnishes, the image of the Education Ministry, teachers in particular, and the newly born 1 Malaysia concept, mooted out by the Prime Minister, so much so that, the Perak opposition State assemblymen wanted all the 1 Malaysia camps suspended in view of the tragic incident. "opposition hold their own "sitting"," (nst Oct. 29 ).
I think this ridiculous political motivated decision is uncalled for. Does it means that when a plane crashed with 230 passengers on board killed, people should be stopped from flying?.
As usual in the aftermath of a tragedy, there will be so many individuals ,non-governmental organizations, and politicians,figure-pointing at the authorities and developers responsible for the construction of the project. Almost all will emphasis on the physical aspects of safety. like whether the project
was supervised and inspected by the Public Works Department,or a Fit to Use certificate issued by the relevant authorities,,or if there was an element of corruption, or was there a Notice Board or a Signage put up to warn the public on the use of the bridge, etc. etc.
Our former Prime Minister,Tun Dr. Mahathir Mohamed, after the Highland Towers tragedy, warned that there was a need for a comprehensive study of any construction and development of public projects. The security aspects should not be compromised. The authorities must not be lulled into a false sense of security and must learn from all the tragedies that has happened. I wonder whether the warning has been taken seriously or not.
So much so, as far as Physical aspects of security are concerned, but we seem to be neglecting the practical aspects of security one that should be taught and practiced , by the people especially school children who are venerable to all sorts of accidents, I am more concerned about school children being taught to queue at bus stops, train stations,toilets, school canteens, ticket booths, etc. to let others come down first before alighting a bus or train..They should not be standing on doorways, putting their heads and hands out of the bus's windows, and running and playing while the bus is moving.
When was the last time a fire drill held in schools and school hostels? Are children taught how to leave the classrooms, halls, or hostels. when there is a fire or any disasters ? Do children rushed out of their classrooms when the bell rang, or do they leave in an orderly manner, starting from the first row followed by the others in single file? Children will be children, and while in schools they should be strictly supervised and disciplined. I believe that discipline at home as well as in schools will create an awareness of the practical aspects of security I feel that the Parent Teachers Associations, and the National Institute of Occupational Safety and health should seriously play their roles to oversee to the implementation of the practical aspect of security in all schools in Malaysia
If only precautions were taken and the children were supervised strictly to stand in single file and then allowed to cross the bridge five at a time with a teacher standing guard in the middle of the bridge and two others at both end of the bridge, the suspension bridge tragedy could have been averted
I would like to refer to the letter by Zahidi Ahmad,"were there enough safety measures?," (nst Oct.30 where he mentioned about how his children studying in England were strictly supervised at every school outing. I suggest that the Education Ministry take a cue from this system, so that parents will have more confidence in allowing their children to attend future 1 Malaysia camps.


NOR SHAHID MOHD NOR
PETALING JAYA
31.10.2009

PRESERVE PART OF PUDU JAIL

I refer to your report, "Pudu Prison makes way for traffic",(nst Oct.19) The curtains finally came down on the old legacy, Pudu Jail, and its wall facing Jalan Pudu and part of the execution chambers have been demolished, a couple of weeks ago to make way for traffic. The project is aimed at easing the traffic congestion along Jalan Pudu and Jalan Hang Tuah. While i appreciate the objective of helping motorists to end their daily traffic woos , surely the entire complex does not have to go.

Built by the British in 1895, Pudu Prison, a relic of the Victorian era is set to be completely demolished soon, to make way for more shopping complex.The decision to tear down the 114 year old prison has upset not only war veterans, locally , and overseas, but also the Ex-Prison Officers Association, Malaysia. who wanted part of the prison preserved for nostalgia.
Many NGOs,,historians,, lovers of heritage buildings, and I,an ex- Superintendent of the prison, have been writing many letters and articles on Pudu Jail to the New Straits Times , appealing to the Government and the Urban Development Authority to preserve part of the prison as a National Heritage, Alas they have been falling on deaf ears .
I can understand that UDA will not compromise on the re-development plan. After all it spent millions of ringgit to build a new prison at Sungei Buloh. However I would like to urge, The Malaysian Heritage Board, the Home Affairs , the Tourism,and the Cultural and Heritage Ministeries to appeal to UDA to consider preserving at least the Tower Block Main Gate, with the Administration Building at the back, for the purpose of turning them into a museum of Crime and Punishment.
This could be another landmark reminding Malaysians and tourists of the place, where local and foreign, prisoners and prisoners of war, from Britain, Australia, New Zealand, and Japan were once confined during World War 2.


NOR SHAHID MOHD NOR
PETALING JAYA.
24.10.09

MCA SHOULD NOT SIDELINE BAHASA MELAYU

Many readers have been writing in about the importance of Bahasa Melayu, as the National Language of 1 Malaysia. and in spite of the frequent media reports, it is regrettable and distressing to see that of all political parties, the MCA, which is the component party of the Barisan Nasional failed to use Bahasa Melayu which is the National language on the backdrop of their Extraordinary General meeting held in Kuala Lumpur on the 10th of October 2009
It was entirely written in Chinese characters on top followed by bold lettering in English. This was not only a blatant disregard for the use of bahasa Melayu, on all official signage, posters,buntings, bill boards, and backdrops, but also did not comply with the requirements and directives of Dewan Bahasa dan Pustaka. Yes ,The government is encouraging Malaysian to learn and use English.,but not at the expense of sidelining Bahasa Melayu wich is the official National Language.
The backdrop was seen on all local T.V stations many times for a couple of days, and that for a moment I thought that the MCA's EGM this time around was held in either China, Taiwan or Hong Kong
Dewan Bahasa dan Pustaka and other relevant authorities, did not protest or took any action, because they have no power to fine or take any other actions , on any organization that did not use Bahasa Melayu in their official administration.
It was reported in Berita Harian Oct.19) that 2 Acts, the National Language Act l963, and the Education Act l996 will be amended in order to give more clout to Dewan Bahasa dan Pustaka to act and fine the public sectors and their agencies for not using Bahasa Melayu in their official administration. The amendment is timely, in view of the fact that the DBP after 52 years of Merdeka is still toothless. I think that it will be more effective if the power is also given to, City Halls, municipalities,, Town and Local Councils. to act on the matter.


NOR SHAHID MOHD NOR
PETALING JAYA
20.10.09

CREATE COOPERATIVE YOUTH BANK

I refer to your report, "Khairi,Stop being defensive," (nst Oct 15 ) While calling on the Malays to get rid of the crutches, and compete with the others on a level playing field, he suggested, that the Government create a Youth Bank "Bank Belia" for the benefit of Malay Youths to get involve in entrepreneur enterprises. It is vital since the youth are facing hardship in finding jobs and demanded that the Government settled their problems immediately, I think it is a tall order that contradicted with his maiden policy speech, calling on the Malays to stop being defensive and relying on the crutches.
If UMNO youth have the civilisational confidence, than they should on their own initiative find ways and means to stand on their own feet without depending on the crutches.Why then the need to have a special bank for the youth,when there are already so many banks and Government agencies that are committed to giving out loans and grants to would be entrepreneurs. I know of many Malay youths who have become successful farmers,,and businessmen on their own initiative. They applied for loans and grants, went for training in various fields, work hard, and were not afraid to dirty their hands, and when they have full confidence, they started their own business. To day they are successful entrepreneurs.
There are more than a million foreign workers in this country, and every one of them are employed, in various fields from plantation and cons traction workers to workers in fast food outlets, petrol stations, hotels, supermarkets and shopping complexes .and yet our youths said that they could not fi nd jobs. I was told by the foreigners that in Malaysia they could pick money on the roads, meaning that it is so easy to find jobs and make money in Malaysia than in their own countries.
UMNO youths with the help of the various banks and government agencies should be able to stand on their own feet and venture into business. There are plenty of opportunities out there .There are 3.4 millions UMNO members in Malaysia, and if each one of them contribute RM1 ringgit each monthly towards a Youth Fund, they would be able to collect RM 3.4 million ringgit a month, and that would add up to RM 40 milluion a year. I am sure all could afford to contribute RM 5 ringgit a month and that would add up to Rm 200 million ringgit a year, and after a couple of years with the help of the Government, it would be enough for UMNO youth to create a CO Operative YOUTH BANK , which not only could go into business,but could also give out loans and other benefits including dividends to members..Allow members to buy a minimum share of Rm 100 ringgit,and I am sure that it would attract more people to become UMNO members Imagine the amount of fund that could be generated. In a decade It could be as strong as Bank Rakyat or Tabong Haji.


NOR SHAHID MOHD NOR
PETALING JAYA
16 Oct.2009

So What's in a Word

I refer to the letter by S.A.I. ,"Words tell their own tales", (nst 8 Oct) Bahasa Melayu was the lingual Franco, or Bahasa of the Malay Archipelago, spoken since the 15 century by more than 300 million people, not only from Malaysia, Singapore, Brunei,and Indonesia, but also from Southern Cambodia, Southern Thailand, Southern Myanmar, Cocos Island, Christmas Island,Sari Lenka, and South Africa, Although a word may sound Malay, but it could be pronounced differently, in different countries. Even the meaning of a word could be different, so I am not surprised if the word "membutuh" which means "memerlukan" or need, in Indonesian could have a different meaning in colloquial Malay.

Bahasa Indonesia and Bahasa Melayu, are separated by some centuries of different vocabulary development, partly due to the influence of different colonial languages. Dutch and German in the case of Indonesia, and English in the case of Malaysia, Singapore and Brunei. Some Malay dialects however show only limited mutual intelligibility with the standard language, for example the Northern Malays or the Kelantanese pronunciation, is difficult even for some fellow Malays in the South to understand. Each State has its own colloquial Malay accent.
Bahasa Indonesia contains a lot of words unique to it, that are unfamiliar to speakers of Malay. There are many ethnic dialects in Indonesia, however they have managed to standardised Bahasa Indonesia into one Official Language spoken in the same accent from Menado to Acheh. While we in Malaysia still speak Bahasa Melayu with our strong colloquial accent A decade ago there was a suggestion to use Bahasa Melayu Baku in schools with the pronouncation according tp the spelling of the word. This could have standardardised Bahasa Melayu as an Official language from Perlis to Sabah, but unfortunately that too has gone with the wind.
So I feel that it would be impossible to standardardise Bahasa Melayu and Bahasa Indonesia, although it is Malay in origin. My only hope is that the Indonesian do not claim Bahasa Melayu as theirs as it originated from Bangka Island off the Southern Coast of Sumatra in the 7th century.From there it spread on to Jambi and Pelembang in Sumatra before going to Melaka.



NOR SHAHID MOHD NOR
PETALING JAYA

BAJU KURUNG WILL NOT CHANGE A NON MUSLIM WAY OF LIFE

I refer to the letter by Samuel Yesuiah,"Make them truly National," (nst OCT. 5 )

Many NST readers have been writing in, far too often with regards to the negative perception,that National Schools,are Malay and religious schools,because most of the students and teachers are Malays, and the language medium is Bahasa Melayu. So non Muslim parents shy away from sending their children to these schools, not because of all these weakness, but for fear of loosing out in respect of their own language and culture.
I am appalled by the writer's comment that some National schools encouraged their non-Muslim pupils to wear the "baju kurung",and to tie their hair, thus making parents look upon these practices as a subtle means of influencing , non-Muslim children to embrace the Islamic way of life. This uncalled for remark, and without any proof, is a blatant disregard for the sensitivities of the Muslims.
I have yet to hear official complaints or protests from non-Muslim parents over this issue. I am sure the schools only encouraged Muslim pupils to wear the "baju kurung" and "tudung" and to tie their hair neatly ,because there are still many Muslim students who do not use the "baju kurung and Tudung", which is their religious obligation to cover up their "aurat"
However non-Muslim pupils may use the baju kurung on their own free will, or with their parents consent .Many Chinese and Indian students wear this attire for comfort. I suggest the writer interview these students and find out whether they are forced to use the "baju kurung",before making such assumption.
Please remember that there is no compulsion in Islam. This is clearly written in the Al Quaran, I quote
"I worship not that which you worship
nor will you worship,that which I worship
and I shall not worship that which you are worshiping
nor will you worship that which I worship
To you be your religion, and to me my religion."

So it is ridiculous to assume that students will change their way of life, just by using the "baju kurung" and tying their hair neatly..
Many Malay women, including my wife, her five sisters, my six sisters, their daughters, my daughters were all educated in convent schools. The can even recite the Christian prayers, but none of them became a Christian. I believe that for as long as we want to be Chinese,Indians and Malays, the concept of 1 Malaysia will remain a political dream.



NOR SHAHID MOHD NOR
PETALING JAYA

REVIVE COMPULSORY ATTENDANCE CENTER FOR TRAFFIC OFFENDERS

I refer to your report, "261 road deaths recorded during Ops Sikap," (nst Sept.29) .It appears that the campaign had not succeeded in changing the 'sikap' or attitude of road users. The recorded death toll was higher than last year's Hari Raya holidays. This not only saddened the government and other Malaysians, but most of all the families of the victims, who must have lost their loved ones and had to spend the festive occasion with tears of sorrow, and 'Tahlil' prayers.

Still, in spite of the frequent announcement of the accidents and death tolls over radio and T.V and strict enforcement by the police and J.P.J, Ops Sikap did not frightened, deter,or changed the attitude of drivers who continued to flout the traffic Rules with impunity.They seemed to be suffering from the 'kiasu' syndrome . The "I must win"," I must not give way," and " I must be first," attitude. Once behind the steering wheel ,they turned into monsters,uncaring, ill mannered ,inconsiderate, and irresponsible ..That was when they broke all rules under the sun, until they were awaken or died in a nasty accident
How then do we changed the attitude of such drivers?. The former Prime Minister, Tun Dr. Mahathir Mohamed,suggested in a local Malay daily, that offenders be put to shame by making them stand at road junctions or highways, with their faces painted and holding a board with the words 'I AM A TRAFFIC OFFENDER'. On the other hand the Inspector General of Police, Tan Sri Musa Hasan gave a negative statement by saying that, drivers will not change their attitude even if a death sentence is imposed. Tan Sri Lim Lam Thye ,Chairman of the National Institute for Occupational and Safety and Health in his letter, " teach them to value their lives" (nst Sept.29) and many other letters ,written by him on this subject, have been falling on deaf ears, Teach them fine, it is easier said than done but who are there to teach, monitor, and enforce , the teaching.The Transport Minister ,Dato Seri Ong Tee Keat, was quoted by a local English daily at the Prime Minister's Hari Raya open house on sept.22 said that he wanted to bring down,the death toll further, and wanted to keep road users on their toes. Instead the drivers put their toes on their accelerators and increased the death toll from 31 on Hari Raya day to 261 at the end of Ops Sikap. Many readers have been writing to this column, suggesting ways on how to change the attitude of drivers,but the authorities do not seem to be interested, and every festive season we hear of rhetorical speeches made by the powers that be on accidents and death tolls, and ended without any positive action being taken. The government should start taking positive action now, if it is serious about reforming and changing the attitude of these drivers. I would like to suggest that the Minister take a look at the existing "Compulsory Attendance Centres, Ordinance or Rules l955.Two centers were built,one beside the Pudu Jail, and the other in front of Penang prison, to cater for offenders sentences under the minor Offences Act l955.These offenders were sent to these centers to undergo reorientation programmes from 5 pm to 9 pm daily. They were not confined behind prison walls and they could keep their jobs and stay in their homes with their families. At the centers they underwent re orientation programmes that included lectures on moral ,religious education, civic mindedness ,etiquette and respect for law and order and ,respect for others .They were taught to be responsible citizen..With amendment, or new legislation to the Road Transport Act, Traffic Offenders could also be sentenced to these centres .For the last decade, we have been talking about the Community Service Order Act, and nothing seemed to materialised . I think it is necessary to have the Act., not only to commit vandels but also traffic offenders, which pose a msajor threat to society.


NOR SHAHID MOHD NOR
PETALING JAYA
30th Sept.2009

PROVIDE FREE BUS SERVICE

Many readers have been writing to this
column for many years, criticizing Kuala Lumpur's Public Transport

System, which I think has not shown positive improvement. There has
been endless complaints by not only the Malaysian public, but also
local and foreign tourists, on the inefficiency and deplorable
services provided for by the city's buses and taxis. Buses are often
crowded, especially during peak hours, and with the exception of
RapidKL buses, some of the others are old and dirty, and not handicap
friendly. The time schedules are not always observed, resulting in the
accumulation of people at bus stops. Some bus drivers are rude, and
inconsiderate, talking aloud,shouting and scolding old passengers,
smoking and talking on the hand phones while driving.
Some taxi drivers sometime refused to take
passengers to their destination, refused to use meters, and often
overcharged foreign tourists.They even refused to go on short
distances ,and demanded a fixed rate according to their whims and
fancies.
Soon there will be a fare hike for buses
and taxis,and this would further infuriate commuters , causing more
dissatisfaction with the city's overall transport system ,leading them
to buy private cars on low interest credit, and would further
contribute to the already congested roads.
Malaysian commuters are not angles either,
we do not queue, at bus stops or train stations.We have this 'KIA SU'
syndrome, , to get into the bus or train first, without bothering to
give ways to the elders, pregnant women, children or the handicap. We
rushed, jolted and pushed our way in order to get in even before
others can get out. The congestion created at the door, gave pick
pockets and sex perverts a field day to do their dirty jobs, without
being caught.
Still with all these inconveniences,public
transport is necessary compliment to car owners,and how how they
wished,they can leave their cars at home, and catch a bus, taxi, or
train to their places of work. To many people this is still the most
convenient way of commuting instead of driving through, the worsening
horrible traffic jam on the city's roads, taking hours to reach their
destinations. It is a nightmare to search for parking lots.Expensive
parking fees and being fined for indiscriminate parking ,burns holes
in their pockets.
I feel that the Transport Ministry and
City Hall should now work hand in glove to positively solve the
problems, and buy over all the privatized bus operators in the city,
and manage the Public Transport System on its own. The services should
be provided FREE within the city limits as it is being done in PERTH
Western Australia.
I was in Perth last week and was amazed
with the city Transperth's CAT (Central Area Transit) buses offering a
fast FREE and convenient means of traveling, in and around the city
(FTZ) Free Transit Zone..Free travel is only permitted within the
(FTZ) and if one travels outside the zone normal fares apply. There
are 3 bus routes , running in circles within the (FTZ) and each route
is covered by, The Red Cat Bus, The Blue Cat Bus, and the Yellow Cat
Bus. Each bus route covers 22 to 35 bus stops and each bus takes 6 to
8 minutes to travel from one bus stop to another. Within three days I
covered all the three bus routes , stopping at tourists spots and
places of interest, shopping complexes, covered by the three routes.
It was a marvelous way to tour the.city and it was FREE. That is how
people in Perth travel to work in the city. There was no traffic jam
even during peak hours.
The bus service is superb, the driver
friendly and very considerate especially towards the handicap, women
and children. People said thank you to the driver when getting off the
bus,and wished the driver "good dye" or good morning when going in.
There was no rush to get in or out, people are polite and
courteous,The buses are specially built to provide for the handicap
with wheel chairs and mothers with prams.
I suggest that the Federal Territory
Minister in The Prime Minister's Department, Dato Raja Nong Chik and
the Minister of Transport and his Officers visit Perth and make a
feasible study of Perth's Central Area Transit System to access
whether it could be implemented in Kuala Lumpur.



NOR SHAHID MOHD NOR
PETALING JAYA