Sunday, August 30, 2009

Touching and Real - a needed reminder by Anas.

I was touched by this article. Coming from Penang, I understand every single experience related here. It is very easy to forget today how poor many Malaysians were before. It is also very easy to forget how poor many people still are today.

Anas Zubedy writes:

I" love grocery shopping; especially at Guardian during sales.

No I am not a spendthrift, In fact I am rather frugal but I think this simple happiness from buying toothpaste, soaps, shampoo etc is rooted in history. A history of growing up in poverty – that is why you will find that many times in my advertisements, I will highlight about the poor. I know how it is like to have ‘money issues’.


You can continue reading it here.

ARE WE MERDEKA YET?

Tomorrow is Merdeka Day. Let us be clear –it is the 52nd anniversary of West Malaysia’s independence from British rule. It does not mean that the people are free from rule. It means that they are free from British rule.

It means that as far as the people are concerned, they have new political masters – from foreign to local masters. In the beginning, the people generally were happy with the thought that our own people will now become our leaders. Since they are from our own people, they will be able to understand our needs, hopes, difficulties and aspirations better. They will serve us better since they will understand us as no foreigner could.

These must have the thoughts of the people in general. I recall a time when there was actually a general perception that “leaders and the government could do no wrong. They must be good people with good intentions”. I think this perception has long disappeared from the Rakyat’s mind. The Rakyat has matured

“Ah! you are those who love them, but they love you not,- though you believe in the whole of the Book. When they meet you, they say, "We believe": But when they are alone, they bite off the very tips of their fingers at you in their rage. Say: "Perish in you rage; God knows well all the secrets of the heart." (Quran: 3:119)

If we are still dominated by thinking in terms of colour then we are enslaved and will forever be fooled. We must learn to look at the deeds and see what fruits are borne.

They now see that the very people who were supposed to be busy serving the people have become multi-millionaires and multi-billionaires. The Rakyat is not jealous but just curious – when did the leaders find the time to make that kind of money? What business were they involved in? They are also curious that almost everyone of the leaders’ children are equally “capable in business”. Business talent in Malaysia seems to be centered only among the political leaders’ families and those whom they know.

The rest of the Rakyat seems to be not so fortunate such that even the roadside hawker has to “paw” somebody in order to bring back some food for his family. The rest of the Rakyat have to slog for a life time to pay off their car, housing loans and sometimes their children’s educational loans.

Increasing the so-called development that the leaders WANT the Rakyat to be grateful for as their contributions are fast becoming a lifestyle which is expensive and almost impossible to achieve. From the backward, spacious kampong house, now most of the Rakyat live in cubicles called flats. The more fortunate ones live in clustered housing estates called link houses in “taman” this and “taman that” where there is neither any taman nor is it safe for the children to even step out of their houses.

The People are still not merdeka from even trying to rise above the subsistence level. They have to work for the banks for the rest of their life and the advent of so-called “Islamic banks” have not at all been merciful. Banks will be banks. Call money-lenders by any name, they will have the same attitude! Al-Along is still along.

And the parable of an evil Word is that of an evil tree: It is torn up by the root from the surface of the earth: it has no stability. (Quran 14:26)

The Malays. They have been here for a long time. They had the feudal royalty as their masters once. Everything they do is subjected to the royal command of their respective rulers. Then, they had the Portuguese, then the British and now? Has the feudal mentality of the Malays really changed? Are they now free to live a life? Merdeka di dalam erti kata yang sebenar?

“Ketuanan Melayu” is a term that has been bandied about for so many years by the Malay politicians. Yet I see today many Malays who are poor, uneducated, mat rempits, living in extremely poor conditions, trapped in social and economic settings such that the vicious cycle is bound to keep them there. It is so cruel to play with people’s lives by giving them false hopes and promises. I really pity the Malays who are subjugated to the politicians for years just to keep the politicians comfortably in power.

Nobody has really given them a long-term policy that has been properly implemented. Tun Razak came up with the NEP which had good objectives. Unfortunately, greed and power took over and the minority raped the rights and hopes of the majority Malays.

And the second part of the NEP - to alleviate poverty. I still see many Malays, Chinese, Indians, Orang Aslis, indigeneous people in Sarawak very poor…while the leaders and their children have become very comfortable. So too some civil servants! There is no excuse for this.

But when He tested him, restricting his subsistence for him, then said he (in despair), "My Lord has humiliated me!" (Quran: 89:16)

Nay, nay! but you honour not the orphans! (Quran089.017

Nor do you encourage one another to feed the poor!- (Quran 089:18)

And you devour inheritance - all with greed, (Quran 89.19)

And you love wealth with inordinate love! (Quran 89:20)

And the other thing I "pity" about being a Muslim in this country is this: OTHER people can dictate to you how you are to relate to God. In other words, people can be PAID to tell you what Allah’s religion is all about. Again the Malays are controlled. Even in schools teachers who are paid to teach not do teach, but moralise. The moment you mention the word “Islam”, most Malays will not dare to raise an objection or to seek clarification. The vested powers know this and manipulate this to their advantage and gain. The people remain their slaves. “Where is the fear of Allah?” I ask myself.

If the abuser/manipulator can speak Arabic, he can literally get away with the cruelest of deeds. Such is the successful subjugation of the Malay mind that feudalism still persists but with different labels. You are not free to serve God alone. Kamu tidak merdeka untuk sembah hanya Allah tanpa mempersekutukan Nya. Ini lah hakikat Negara merdeka yang kita warisi. How can anyone be truly free when you worship false gods on earth?

“Therefore expound openly what you are commanded, and turn away from those who join false gods with God”. (Quran: 15:94)

Perpaduan. We have heard many songs on unity. Many slogans. Every politician shamelessly will give speeches on unity and then alter the speech when they are facing different crowds. After 52 years we not only have racism. I believe we all love children and we want all the best for them But why do we love them less when they become teenagers and start to distinguish and segregate them legally, socially, economically, etc?

It may be that God will grant love (and friendship) between you and those whom you (now) hold as enemies. For God has power (over all things); And God is Oft-Forgiving, Most Merciful. (Quran: 60:7)

Even between enemies, love is possible and we are not even enemies! Why or why are we so bent on highlighting their differences at a very young age? Why do we not take note of their innocent bonding and work from there? What have our leaders been doing all these years? It is no wonder that the Quran says that the followers will ask God to double the punishment for the leaders!

"(The followers shall cry to the leaders:) "Nay, you (too)! No welcome for you! It is you who have brought this upon us! Now evil is (this) place to stay in!"(Quran: 38:60)

"They will say: "Our Lord! whoever brought this upon us,- Add to him a double Penalty in the Fire!" (Quran: 38:61)

The real answer is greed and selfishness isn’t it? Call it by any name and if you are honest, it boils down to that. We still not merdeka from base desires it seems.

Now, there is a new dangerous virus which the political leaders are afraid to confront – religious bigotry. We have “progressed” from trying to manage race relations to now problems of “inter faith” and “intra faith”. Unnecessary, unthinkable and unprecedented conflicts between religions now exist. Even conflicts between the same religions exist – UMNO supporters cannot enter heaven. PAS supporters can. What about PKR, MIC, DAP, SUPP, etc? What about those not even in any political party?

“And hold fast, all together, by the rope which God (stretches out for you), and be not divided among yourselves; and remember with gratitude God's favour on you; for you were enemies and He joined your hearts in love, so that by His Grace, you became brethren; and you were on the brink of the pit of Fire, and He saved you from it. Thus does God make His Signs clear to you: That you may be guided”. (Quran: 3:103)

If you have difference of opinion with the paid or political “Islamic” scholars, then you are a heretic. They must be followed unquestioningly because they are knowledgeable. It appears we may have become more religious but certainly less human. Slavery of the soul to fellow mankind seems to be on the rise.

“Ask you of them, which of them will stand guarantee for that!” (Quran: 68:40)

As a Muslim, I can never understand this.

To my Muslims brothers and sisters – how merdeka are you? Do you stop being a Muslim for a while when:

1. you accept bribes or kickbacks?
2. when you torture people?
3. when you cheat and lie? ( we know)
4. when you insult other clans including those from your own simply because they have different views?
5. when you do not do the work properly for which you are paid?
6. when you, with hostility, insist that only your views are right?
7. etc – tepuk dada, Tanya selera. (readers may add!)

Say: "Truly, my solat and my service of sacrifice, my life and my death, are (all) for God, the Cherisher of the Worlds” (Quran: 6:162)

I believe that we, the People have to start charting ourselves how we want our free country to be. We have to send this clear message to the leaders. We want peace. We want to the right to live the way we choose without causing harm to the other citizens. We want to excel as a society. We want common values that we can pass on to our children that can be shared with our neighbours’ children irrespective of race or religion.

“And why should you not fight in the cause of God and of those who, being weak, are ill-treated (and oppressed)?- Men, women, and children, whose cry is: "Our Lord! Rescue us from this town, whose people are oppressors; and raise for us from You one who will protect; and raise for us from You one who will help!" (Quran: 4:75)

This is a lot of work. It may call for sacrifices. It takes time, maybe a few lifetimes. Freedom has never been cheap and easy.

Selamat Hari Merdeka.

Peace !

Friday, August 28, 2009

Hindu Brother, Sisters, Please forgive these wayward folks.

Unbelievable! Completely inhuman and unIslamic. This is certainly an offence of inciting religious hatred. Malaysianinsider and malaysiankini reported that a group of residents (after their Friday prayers!) in section 22 Shah Alam had gone to the Selangor Secretariat building this afternoon and had placed the head of a blood – dripping cow there as a protest against a temple relocation plan.

The Prime Minister Datuk Seri Najib Tun Razak apparently has directed Inspector-General of Police Tan Sri Musa Hassan to investigate an incident in Shah Alam Friday where protestors used a cow's head to vent their anger against the Selangor state government.

The police must take prompt action against these irresponsible people. All Muslim NGOs and leaders must condemn this unIslamic act and illegal act.

It is an offence under the Malaysian Penal code as shown below:

298. Uttering words, etc. with deliberate intent to wound the religious feelings of any person.
Whoever, with deliberate- intention of wounding the religious feelings of any person, utter any word or makes any sound in the hearing of that person, or makes ant gesture in the sight of that person, or places any object in the sight of that person, shall be punished with imprisonment for a term which may extend to one year, or with fine, or with both.

298A. Causing etc, disharmony, disunity, or feelings or enmity, hatred or ill-will, or prejudicing, etc., the maintenance of harmony or unity, on grounds of religion.
(1) Whoever by words, either spoken or written or by signs, or by visible representations, or by any act, activity or conduct, or by organising, promoting or arranging, or assisting in organising, promoting or arranging, any activity, or otherwise in any other manner-
(a) causes, or attempts to cause, or is likely to cause disharmony, disunity, or feelings of enmity, hatred or ill-will; or
(b) prejudices or attempts to prejudice, or is likely to prejudice, the maintenance of harmony or unity,
on grounds of religion, between persons or groups of persons professing the same or different religions, shall be punished with imprisonment for a term of not less than two years and not more than five years.

This is what the Quran says:

“Revile not you those whom they call upon besides God, lest they out of spite revile God in their ignorance. Thus have We made alluring to each people its own doings. In the end will they return to their Lord, and We shall then tell them the truth of all that they did”. (Quran: 6:108)

“Invite (all) to the Way of thy Lord with wisdom and beautiful preaching; and argue with them in ways that are best and most gracious: for thy Lord knows best, who have strayed from His Path, and who receive guidance”(Quran: 16:125)

“And there are those who put up a mosque by way of mischief and infidelity - to disunite the Believers - and in preparation for one who warred against God and His Apostle aforetime. They will indeed swear that their intention is nothing but good; But God does declare that they are certainly liars”.(Quran 9:107)

“There is the type of man whose speech about this world's life May dazzle you, and he calls God to witness about what is in his heart; yet is he the most contentious of enemies”. (Quran: 2:204)

“When he turns his back, His aim everywhere is to spread mischief through the earth and destroy crops and cattle. But God loves not mischief” (Quran:2:205)

I pray that ALL Malaysians condemn these perpetrators and say that we do not want a repeat of this anymore.


Peace !

NOte: I FEEL ASHAMED.

Thursday, August 27, 2009

WE MUST DEMAND THIS...LET US BE ALLOWED TO LIVE AS THE CREATED OF THE CREATOR

The People must regain their dignity. I have said this many times. This is something that we all have to keep repeating because our dignity is being challenged at all times by all groups of people in this country. The majority of the ethnic grouping comes from the Malays. The Malays, therefore must make an effort to regain their dignity too because it is the Malay mind that every opinion shaper will try to influence and manipulate.

The Malays being the majority in the country must take the lead in bringing this country towards a more humane, respectful, sharing, emphatic and prosperous nation. If they do not, then, I fear that the laws of nature will take its course.

“For each (such person) there are (angels) in succession, before and behind him: They guard him by command of God. Verily never will God change the condition of a people until they change it themselves (with their own souls). But when (once) God wills a people's punishment, there can be no turning it back, nor will they find, besides Him, any to protect”. (Quran: 13:11)
.
It is actually simple. I am only pleading for us to keep in touch with our humanity and our common sense of what it is to live a life. I do not think that most of us are bad people. On the contrary, most of us are good people. We have friends, families and we do good things in many ways.

All of us have hopes, fears, dreams difficulties and responsibilities. Some of us have an easier life than others but other too has problems which we will never imagine. Each of us want to “have a good life”, whatever that may be. At the basic, we want food, clothing, education, a place to live and a ‘happy life’.

“Be sure we shall test you with something of fear and hunger, some loss in goods or lives or the fruits (of your toil), but give glad tidings to those who patiently persevere” (Quran: 2.155)

“Who say, when afflicted with calamity: "To God We belong, and to Him is our return" (Quran: 2.156)


There is enough space and resources for all of us if some of us stop being greedy.

For God is He Who gives (all) Sustenance,- Lord of Power,- Steadfast (for ever). (Quran: 51:58)

It pains me when I see a Muslim manipulate and abuse the name of Islam for the purposes of self enrichment or for pure politics or for self glory. It pains me because in that process, he uses and confuses other people to the extent that relatively good people are moved to act in cruel ways in the name of God. Cruelty can never be divine sanctioned. We have to learn to say that we will not be a part of that game.

“Have you not seen those who claim sanctity for themselves? No!-but God is the one who sanctifies whom He pleases. But never will they fail to receive justice in the least little thing”. (Quran: 4:49)

“Behold! how they invent a lie against God! but that by itself is a manifest sin!” (Quran: 4:50)

It pains me when I hear any ethnic group championing the culture, the self-interests, the language, etc of that group alone to the exclusion of all others. The pain increases when this championing is done by conjuring up a perceived imaginary threat or enemy. It is not right when one group thinks that they are the only inheritors of this earth. It is certainly not what God intended as otherwise, God would not have created the rest.

There are many cultures, languages, colours, ways of thinking, knowledge, and so on. We are blessed with diversity which we are expected to celebrate together. Why do we have to fear and deny what Allah has created? Why cannot we learn to embrace it?

“O mankind! We created you from a single (pair) of a male and a female, and made you into nations and tribes, that you may know each other (not that you may despise (each other). Verily the most honoured of you in the sight of God is (he who is) the most righteous of you. And God has full knowledge and is well acquainted (with all things)”. (Quran: 49:13)

It pains me that we are becoming a society of blatant contradictions. We speak of God’s mercy but we behave in extremely cruel and horrible ways. We say one thing and do another.

“Grievously odious is it in the sight of God that you say that which you do not do”. (Quran: 61:3)

It pains me when the dignity of being an adult is taken away by laws that reduce them to children so that the powers that be can control the people. It pains me further when the adult allows this to happen under a misguided state of mind. We do not want to be accountable for our actions on earth. We relegate and delegate in matters that cannot be relegated and delegated.

"And behold! you come to us bare and alone as We created you for the first time: ye have left behind you all (the favours) which We bestowed on you: We see not with you your intercessors whom you thought to be partners in your affairs: so now all relations between you have been cut off, and your (pet) fancies have left you in the lurch!" (Quran: 6:94)

We speak of good virtues and being religious but we cannot seem to see beyond our noses. We seem to have forgotten the attitude of empathy and compassion.

“Do men think that they will be left alone on saying, "We believe", and that they will not be tested?” (Quran: 29:2)

Maybe we should blame our leaders? One matter that I note in this regard is that we have never had leaders who are truly humanistically visionary and have a comprehensive view of life. Most, if not all pander and ride on the political realities of the time…doing just enough to fill up their term.

This is why we have Malay leaders who marry Chinese wives and yet behave like “Malay race champions”, whatever that is! (I always believed Allah was the real champion of all). This is why we have Chinese and Indian leaders having corporate and power relationships with Malay leaders and yet in public utter completely racist remarks against the Malays. The world is a stage and these small fools are playing falsely thinking they are immortal.

"(The followers shall cry to the leaders:) "Nay, you (too)! No welcome for you! It is you who have brought this upon us! Now evil is (this) place to stay in!"(Quran: 38:60)

"They will say: "Our Lord! whoever brought this upon us,- Add to him a double Penalty in the Fire!" (Quran: 38:61)

They mistake their power and wealth on earth as being eternal when they cannot even prevent the advance of old age and sickness. They rejoice in their wealth, power and children. They forget that ultimately, the Balancer will balance things out!

“Know you (all), that the life of this world is but play and amusement, pomp and mutual boasting and multiplying, (in rivalry) among yourselves, riches and children. Here is a similitude: How rain and the growth which it brings forth, delight (the hearts of) the tillers; soon it withers; you will see it grow yellow; then it becomes dry and crumbles away. But in the Hereafter is a Penalty severe (for the devotees of wrong). And Forgiveness from God and (His) Good Pleasure (for the devotees of God). And what is the life of this world, but goods and chattels of deception?” (Quran:57:20)

I have been experiencing this pain for years and I feel the pain increasing. I am today convinced that good things are not done in groups but individually. Somehow or other, these individuals seem to be attracted to each other like magnets and they do the things together as individuals. There is no group mentality or group adherence as that will be the first step towards hijacking of good things. Groups or clubs have a way of mutating into something evil or at least move away from their initial causes. This is why politics as it is today, called “Islamic” or “democratic” or whatever will fail the People.

I see that the minority evil among us have made it their purpose on earth to cause immense pain and misery for the rest of the majority. Because they are evil, they are passionate and active in getting what they want and they are active in (and pollute) ALL fields- religion, economy, education, health, human relationships, culture, etc, etc.

“The Hypocrites, men and women, (have an understanding) with each other: They enjoin evil, and forbid what is just, and are close with their hands. They have forgotten God; so He has forgotten them. Verily the Hypocrites are rebellious and perverse” (Quran:9:67)

I also see that there is a minority good that are equally passionate and active in fighting the march of the minority evil. It will not be easy but then again it is to God that we ultimately return. Death is a certainty.

May God empower this minority who will come in all shapes, colour, languages, culture, etc but as one human to shame and defeat the evil doers.

“Let there arise out of you a band of people inviting to all that is good, enjoining what is right, and forbidding what is wrong: They are the ones to attain felicity. (Quran: 3:104)


Peace !

Wednesday, August 26, 2009

JOMHEBOH: KARTIKA SARI DEWI SHUKARNO DISEBAT?

Firstly, I apologise that this article is quite lenghty. Secondly, it is written in Malay as I hope Malays will read it. It is meant for them.

Kes Kartika Sari Dewi Shukarno menimbulkan pelbagai reaksi daripada pelbagai pihak – PM, politikus, pakar undang-undang, Ketua Hakim Mahkamah Syariah negeri Terengganu dan lain-lain. Rata-rata nampak nya tidak menyokong hukuman sebatan keatas Kartika.

BAGAIMANA KES IN TIMBUL?

Kartika di dapati meminum bir di Cherating Bay Lounge, the Legend Hotel di Cherating at about 11.40pm on July 11, 2008. Beliau telah dihadapkan di Mahkamah Syariah diatas tuduhan meminum bir yang menjadi kesalahan jenayah dan dihukum dibawah Seksyen 136 Enakmen Pentadbiran Undang-undang Islam dan Adat Melayu. Beliau mengaku salah.

JADI, APA KEPUTUSAN MAHKAMAH TINGGI SYARIAH KUANTAN?

Hakim Mahkamah Tinggi Syariah Datuk Abdul Rahman Yunus yang mendengar kes ini telah memerintah hukuman terhadap Kartika dengan denda RM5,000.00 dan sebatan 6 kali dengan rotan. Hakim Mahkamah Tinggi ini merasakan wajar untuk mengenakan hukuman sebatan yang paling maksimum yang dibenarkan oleh Enakmen Syariah Pahang terhadap Kartika. Beliau menjalankan tugas berdasarkan apa yang dibenarkan oleh undang-undang Syariah Negeri Pahang. Didalam penghakiman beliau, Datuk Abdul Rahman juga berkata Kartika akan dipenjarakan selama 3 tahun sekiranya gagal untuk membayar denda itu.

Hakim Mahkamah Tinggi Syariah Datuk Abdul Rahman Yunus juga dilaporkan berkata

"The court reached the judgment after the accused pleaded guilty. We feel the sentence is fair after going through the prosecution's argument and since the rotan is provided for in the law.

"The rotan is aimed at making the accused repent and serves as a lesson to Muslims."

Mahkamah merasakan hukuman itu adalah adil. Mengikut Hakim, hukuman itu juga bertujuan sebagai pengajaran kepada Muslim yang lain.

Pihak pendakwaan (iaitu bagi pihak kerajaan Pahang), diwakili oleh timbalan pendakwara Saiful Idham Sahimi. Kartika pula diwakili oleh seorang peguam syarie bernama Mohd Zuki Che Muhamad Ghani.yang mengesahkan bahawa Kartika tidak akan merayu terhadap hukuman.

Kes selesai. Hanya menunggu hukuman untuk dilaksanakan. Lazimnya tidak ada yang mempertikaikan lagi keputusan yang di buat berlandaskan undang-undang yang telah di luluskankan oleh Dewan Undangan Negeri bersama dengan kelulusan Raja-raja Melayu.


APA PULA PENDIRIAN KARTIKA?


Sebenarnya, aneh bertanya soalan diatas kerana kita jarang bertanya soalan: apakah pendirian penjenayah dalam mana-mana kes. Dari kacamata undang-undang Syariah Pahang, Kartika telah melakukan kesalahan jenayah iaitu meminum bir. Namun keadaan kes ini memerlukan kita bertanya soalan diatas.

Kartika dilaporkan berkata demikian:

“I will accept this Earthly punishment, let Allah decide my punishment in the hereafter…for now the court has yet to tell me when the sentence will be carried out, so I would like to ask them to hasten it.
“I truly respect the court’s decision…I admit that it’s my offence and not that of others’, it’s not the offence of my parents, not the offence of my other family members,” a teary Kartika Sari Dewi told reporters when met here, on Wednesday.
Beliau akur dan menghormati keputusan Mahkamah Syariah itu dan mahu hukuman ini dijalankan dengan secepat mungkin. Beliau mahu perkara ini selesai secepat mungkin. Beliau juga minta supaya hukuman ini dijalankan di hadapan khalayak ramai, in public. Secara logic, kalau niat Hakim Syarie adalah untuk perkara ini menjadi pengajaran kepada Muslim yang lain, mungkin bernas permintaan Kartika bahawa ia di rotan di hadapan khalayak ramai. Mana tahu, dengan demikian kita dapat membanteras sekali gus “gejala dasyat meminum bir ini”.

Malangnya, selepas dijatuhkan hukuman dan rela menjalani hukuman, pelbagai pihak pula kini cuba melenggahkan hukuman ini! Pelbagai pihak ini pula bukan lah jenis yang terdiri daripada demonstrasi jalanan tetapi yang berkuasa, yang dianggap bijak pandai serta yang dianggap pakar dalam bidang syaria dan undang-undang.

Melenggahkan hukuman syaria Negeri Pahang ini memberi tekanan kepada Kartika sehingga beliau di laporkan sebagai berkata bahawa beliau di perbuat sebagai bola sepak oleh pihak-pihak tertentu:

Describing herself as "a football being kicked around", she questioned her status because the religious department had not given her any definite answer for not carrying out the punishment on her"

Ada juga pihak-pihak yang seolah-olah tidak senang dengan hukuman yang dikenakan keatas Kartika.

SIAPA YANG KOMEN, SIAPA YANG KURANG SENANG? MENGAPA?

Dr Lo'lo Mohd Ghazali MP Titiwangsa telah disalah lapor oleh berita perdana tertentu kononnya beliau tekejut bahawa Mahakamah Syariah di Malaysia membenarkan hukuman rotan bagi pesalah wanita. Beliau memberi penjelasan didalam blog nya

dimana beliau jelas menyokong hukuman ini. Beliau menulis:

“Memang saya terkejut kerana ada juga Mahkamah Syariah di Malaysia yang berupaya menghukum pesalah dengan hukuman sebegitu walaupun peruntukkan tersebut telah lama ada. Tetapi baru sekarang hukuman sebegitu dijatuhkan bagi pesalah kesalahan tersebut. Saya amat bersetuju dengan hukuman tersebut kerana sekurang-kurangnya hukuman tersebut begitu hampir dengan hukuman Hudud. Di dalam Hudud, hukuman bagi pesalah minum arak adalah 40 kali sebatan malah ada ulamak yang mengatakan sehingga 80 kali sebatan”.

Beliau juga menulis:

“Akhir sekali, SYABAS KEPADA MAHKAMAH SYARIAH KUANTAN dan Syukur Alhamdulillah kepada Puan Kartika Sari Dewi Shukarnor yang telah menginsafi perbuatan tersebut. Moga Allah menerima taubat hambaNya yang menyesali kesalahan. DI SINI SAYA LONTARKAN PERSOALAN INI KEPADA SEMUA ORANG ISLAM DI MALAYSIA, SIAPAKAH YANG SEPATUTNYA DISEBAT DALAM ISU ARAK DI MALAYSIA??...

Perdana Menteri Datuk Seri Najib berpendapat bahawa Kartika seharusnya membuat rayuan terhadap hukuman tersebut (Kartika tidak mahu rayu.). Manakala, Menteri Dalam Negeri Dato’ Hishammuddin Onn pula mengatakan bahawa kita tidak mempunyai pengalaman serta “expertise” dalam menjalankan hukuman ini. (Kalau tidak ada expertise, mengapa di jadikan undang-undang?)

Menteri Wanita, keluarga dan Pembangunan Masyarakat Datuk Seri Shahrizat Abdul Jalil juga berpendapat bahawa hukuman yang dikenakan itu adalah keterlaluan



Di lapurkan juga bahawa timbalan president Persatuan Peguam-peguam Syarie Malaysia iaitu Musa Awang menanggap kenyataan sedemikian merupakan satu cabaran serta penghinaan kepada Mahkamah Syariah Kuantan. Memang aneh apabila ada kenyataan mempertikai dibuat terhadap suatu hukuman yang diperintah oleh suatu Mahkamah berlandaskan undang-undang sedia ada. Lagi pun, pesalah sendiri yang diwakili oleh peguam yang semestinya diberi nasihat guaman telah memutus untuk tidak mengemukakan sebarang rayuan!

Musa menjelaskan bahawa “a rotan or small branch should be used for whipping and that it should be not more than 1.22 metre long and not more than 1.25cm thick” mengikut undang-undang Syariah. Hukuman syariah di terima rata-rata sebagai hukuman Allah.

Ketua Hakim Syariah Terengganu Datuk Ismail Yahya juga membangkitkan isu bahawa jika Kartika ditahan dalam penjara untuk di sebat, ini adalah ultra vires perlembagaan iaitu melanggar peruntukkan perlembagaan.

Nampak nya jalan keluar ialah untuk pihak TPR membuat rayuan kepada Mahkamah Rayuan Syariah Pahang supaya hukuman terhadap Kartika ditambah dengan hukuman penahanan dalam penjara!

Penasihat Jakim Mohd Zulbahrin Zainuddin pula dilaporkan berkata bahawa penjara hanya lah tempat untuk Kartika menungu untuk menjalankan hukuman dan ia nya bukan lah hukuman tambahan”.

Majlis Peguam juga di laporkan berpendirian bahawa hukuman sebatan in bertentangan dengan hak asasi manusia. Tetapi ini bukan kah sudah di luluskan sebagai undang-undang syariah negeri Pahang?

JADI, APA DENGAN SEMUA INI? APA HEBOH NYA?

Saya pun kurang faham. Kenapa ada MP atau Adun kini sahaja membuat pelbagai komen terhadap hukuman syariah dalam Negara ini? Dimana mereka ini sepanjang 50 tahun selepas merdeka dimana pelbagai undang-undang syariah digubal dan diluluskan? Bukan kah Adun-adun BN yang meluluskan semua undang-undang syariah yang ada hari ini? Mengapa tidak bahas, komen dahulu atau teliti dahulu semasa pembentangan dalan dewan undangan negeri dan di luluskan sebagai undang-undang? Tak berani ke? Atau jahil? Atau tak peduli? Atau ketiga-tiga sekali?

Labi pun, bukan ke hampir semua rakyat Melayu menerima undang-undang syariah dalam Negara ini sebagai hukuman Allah atau setidak-tidak nya hampir dengan hukuman “hudud” yng di terima sebagai hukuman Allah? Kalau jawapan nya ya, kalau pesalah dah mengaku salah, mengapa heboh? Hukuman Allah boleh tukar-tukar sesuka hati ke? Aneh!

Kalau jawapan nya tidak, mengapa tidak mahu mengorak langkah kearah reformasi undang-undang syariah? Mengapa tidak lakukan tajdid? Kalau tidak boleh, tidak mampu atau tidak peduli, diam saja lah wahai YB-YB!

I have raised the matter of tajdid to various MPs, ministers, including one former deputy prime Minister and even one former Prime Minister (when he was PM). Some agree with me in private and the others – they cannot understand it! Actually, I felt that they do not care because it is politically sensitive.

Fire fighting attitudes among the elected representatives is becoming tiring and boring for the Rakyat! If you cannot do the job, just resign and give up/sacrifice the” glory”. Be a shopkeeper or a hawker somewhere – at least you earn rezeki yang halal!

Peace !

NOTA: Saya juga kurang faham bagaimana penundaan hukuman ini pada bulan Ramadan di anggap sebagai "menghormati bulan Ramadan". Menundakan perjalankan hukuman syariah yang diterima oleh Melayu di negara ini sebagai hukuman Allah adalah penghormatan ke? Saya memang kurang faham pemikiran ini.

Monday, August 24, 2009

What Do I write about the Quran?


Now that the Let’s Read The Quran Campaign is on, I thought that it is incumbent upon me to write something about the Quran or something Quran related. I wanted to write something about it for the past two days but my mind went blank. I could write nothing even though my friends and clients have always “complained” that I could not hold a conversation without invoking verses from the Quran or from alluding to God. That is my one of my weakness for a very longtime.

This is not the first time something like this happened. Many times before, even when I was writing for Berita Harian some years back. I could never write when I wanted to such that, I told BH not to give me a deadline to meet. Just publish when I write and they agreed. When I cannot write on Quran related topics, the following verse always pops into my mind automatically:

“High above all is God, the King, the Truth! Be not in haste with the Qur'an before its revelation to you is completed, but say, "O my Lord! advance me in knowledge." (Quran: 20.114)

Speaking for myself, when I am forcing myself to write for a “dateline” or a “task” I feel uncomfortable deep within my heart. I cannot write for any other purpose on the Quran other than circumstantial relevancy. I envy those who can write on Quran and related topics for a salary or a wage or a purpose other than to share (and self learn) the messages of the Quran. I also cannot imagine myself earning wages out of the Quran. The following verses have always been uppermost in my mind whenever I want to write or speak on the Quran:

“And verily your Lord knows all that their hearts do hide. As well as all that they reveal” (Quran: 27:74)

I do not wish to fall into the trap of the Satan that may make me write or speak on the Quran for purposes other than ‘pure’. For example, to show-off or to proclaim self-righteousness, or ‘syok sendiri’. Ego is a deceptive devil that can cause you to syirik.

Have you seen the one who took his ego (desire) as his god, and God led him astray, despite his knowledge, and He sealed his hearing and his heart, and He made a veil on his eyes? Who then can guide him after God? Will you not remember?” (Quran 45:23)

It is a real problem, especially with knowledgeable people or people who think they are knowledgeable, they can become arrogant, egoistic and forceful in nature. That to me is worship of the ego. I sincerely have no desire to force my understanding on anyone. I consider myself a student of the Quran and hopefully, before I die I can have the opportunity to understand most of it.

So, when am I able write about the Quran?

Well, actually, almost everyday for about half hour to relax but I write it for myself. Those are not meant for the world. When I do publish articles or thoughts on the Quran, they are those that I have a deep feeling that I have to write and most of them are written from my heart. It is a kind of feeling that if I do not write or speak, I am either ‘playing safe’ or being untrue to myself or to God and that my head will soon explode.

All my life, there are many “Quran projects and religious activities" I shun from because you are expected to contribute”. My good friends sometimes find this attitude of mine exasperating. Some of them understand my fear that belonging to a “committee” or a “club” may make me like the desert Arabs who have to make an impression and become a hypocrite.

The desert Arabs who lagged behind will say to you: "We were engaged in (looking after) our flocks and herds, and our families: do you then ask forgiveness for us." They say with their tongues what is not in their hearts. Say: "Who then has any power at all (to intervene) on your behalf with God, if His Will is to give you some loss or to give you some profit? But God is well acquainted with all that you do”. (Quran: 48:11)


Well, I am actually writing for myself trying to sort out why I cannot write. If this is published on the blog, then it is meant to be so.


Peace !

Sunday, August 23, 2009



Peace!Good news, we are bringing back the Let’s Read The Quran Campaign this Bulan Puasa.

Campaign name: Let’s Read The Quran (2)

Logo/icon: As the above

During the first campaign (January 14 – February 14 2009) there were four friends Syed, Walski, Marina and Anas who got together in the campaign and about 50 blogs participated helping us reach a larger audience.

This time around, four more friends will be part of the main team; they are Art Harun, Jahamy, Pah Nur and Nizam Bashir.

To recap, the campaign is not only for Muslims, but also for our brothers and sisters who are Christians, Buddhists, Hindus, Sikhs and those who believe in God and a proper way of doing things – come join us and share your ideas! You can join this campaign even if you are an atheist!

The goal of this campaign is to encourage people to read the Quran in the language they understand most and find in it areas of common value for our day to day living.

We also want to hear your feedback and comments.


What is the Campaign all about?

Read the Quran in the language that you are familiar with.

When will the campaign start and end?

August 22nd to September 21st (Hari Raya Aidil Fitri)

Where?

Participating blogs in the blogosphere.

Why?

So more people know what the Quran says and what the Quran does not say and to match its relevance to our daily lives.

Who?

Anyone who wants to – the more the merrier! If you have a Blog, Facebook, etc carry the logo/icon.

How?

- To join the campaign, place the accompanying logo/icon at your blog.

- Write or share short articles based on the Quranic text.

- Share what you find in the Quran with family and friends.

- Ask questions about the Quranic message- Read the Quran – eg click here http://www.islamicity.com/QuranSearch , www.altafsir.com

Peace and Thanks,

Marina Mahathir http://rantingsbymm.blogspot.com
Syed Akbar Ali http://syedsoutsidethebox.blogspot.com
Walski http://asylum60.blogspot.com
Art Harun http://art-harun.blogspot.com
Pah Nur http://lunchatthelakeclub.blogspot.com
Rapera http://jahaberdeen.blogspot.com
Nizam Bashir http://nizambashir.com and,
Anas Zubedy http://letusaddvalue.blogspot.com

Peace !

NOTE: Those who are interested may read some views on the Quran at the blog "Journey to God"

Wednesday, August 19, 2009

CAN'T WE JUST LET IT BE???

I have found many times in this country it is "tough" to be a Muslim, especially if you want to practice your faith as you understand.

For example, the song "Let It Be" by Beatles used to be my comforting and inspiring song to uplift me during my teens when I find that the going gets tough. Till today, automatically the song rhymes in my head when something challenging or disastrous happens.

To my Muslim mind, it means "redha". 'I with me', there are no problems. But I remember when I spoke about this song in my teens, an ustad overheard this and rebuked me: " How can you listen to this song and say it is nice? Jaga, nanti termasuk kristian".

To day of course if any person tells me the same thing that the ustad said I will probably ask him if he really thinks I am stupid as I may look or as weak as him to falter in faith due to a song. I wished people can just see the main message without reading too much into something that is probably born from their prejudice or insecurity.

But I would have thought that such a phenomenon would have died many years ago but no...even up to date, if you are a Muslim, you may find another Muslim (a complete stranger whom you never even knew existed before that) coming up to you and telling you what you can and you cannot do as a Muslim. (but be sure, he will not be giving you any money or an opportunity to make money - that is something private!) They will be busy wanting to save your souls but your body - you can do it on your own!

Over the years, we Muslims seem to have cultivated a culture whereby when it comes to "religious matters" it is not necessarily private and anyone else who has the "religious credentials" or appears to have can talk down to you and tell you how to behave - otherwise, you can be sent to stand in the corner of society! In matters of religion, you may be treated like you are still a child!

After many, many years and with total faith in Allah, I now will like to share publicly a very inspiring song by the Beatles - "Let It Be"...let Allah's grace shower upon all of us to bring forth love and understanding irrespective of our diverse backgrounds.

Peace !

Tuesday, August 18, 2009

Politics! Politics! Politics!

Politics is so horrible in the hands of those who see it only as a tool to further enhance their “positions and self” in life. It also makes monsters of people. With the by-election in Permatang Pasir, some blogs will be very busy. Sometimes you wonder what are these people “struggling for”? What is their cause, if any, other than mere partisan interests.

Bloggers. I know a blogger friend who, on hand has certain apparently “solid” ideas on what Islam is but I see that he has absolutely no qualms supporting parties that clearly go against his Islamic stand”. This I cannot understand. Of course you can never argue with this friend of mine (neither do I see any need to), because he will have rationalizations of sorts though to me, the issue is clear from the facts and the Quran.

And then you have the boring and dangerous race and religious card being played out by all and any side in the elections. One person apparently spoke about pigs on the streets if PAS wins. I do not support PAS though I have very good friends who are good people and good Muslims who are PAS members because in my view, as a Muslim I cannot support a party like PAS because I cannot appreciate its “brand of Islam” as potrayed by the leadership. (I may support it if it returns to the Quran)

However, I will not say that if PAS wins, there will be pigs on the streets. That is really in bad taste and reflects major immaturity and ignorance of the Quran.

I may say that if PAS wins we will have confusion on what Islam is and we will have typical dictatorial behavior of the type that theological political leaders are usually inclined to. The case in point being the beer issue in Selangor and the saying that those who support UMNO will not go to heaven. Hmm..how about those that support PKR,MIC, MCA, etc? I do not like nor trust politicians who behave like gods on earth. Sooner or later, they will say that all except those that are sanctioned by them will go to heaven.

Anyway, who am I but an ordinary citizen of this country who is subjected to the rule of law and the usual challenges of life? I may very well be in trouble with the law for what I write.

But politicians? They can get away with anything they say, do or write. They rule the law!

Imagine if I say: ban pork eating! I may be arrested for sedition.

Imagine if I say that those Muslims who do not agree with my views are kafirs? I will be hauled up for deviant teachings.

But of course, I will not say any of the two above because I am a Muslim and I am not insane.

Also, I am not a politician who has to make a mark by uttering lies, insensitive and imbecilic statements.


Peace!

Thursday, August 13, 2009

REGULATE THE “HAPPY JOINTS” where the young hang out.

Image from here.

Life is about balance. While we can boast of high-rise buildings and various developments, in many other areas, we are still 3rd class mentality who refuses to acknowledge that fact. It seems as a nation, we do not have “a policy of balance” in many areas of our national life.

We are also a nation of contradictions. One area that I want to bring up today concerns youth.

While I too like to dance and listen to music, I believe that the authorities should seriously regulate the following:

1. availability and access of alcohol to young people;
2. the operating hours of pubs, discos and clubs (“entertainment joints”).

It appears to me that entertainment joints could just operate right up to the early hours of the morning. There must be a cut-off point. We cannot be encouraging a hedonistic culture to nurture when we know from other countries what the end result will be. The operating hours of such joints deep into the night only encourages young people to waste their life away and expose them to unnecessary personal and social problems. At the moment, the statistics may not show that there exists a major problem but even one kid gone astray is life that must be saved.

Entertainment, like everything else must be accompanied/tempered by responsibility and moderation. This is the value that we must inculcate in the young people. I am not with those who want to ban all ‘safe’ entertainment joints but I am also not agreeable with unbridled, unregulated entertainment places.

We have heard of the use of drugs of various sorts in these places. We also know how alcohol has been abused to take advantage of drunken young girls. We have to find a way to make these places a truly nice place to simply enjoy music and dance or simply to hang out and have good fun.

I recall in my younger days, we had discos. We did not have MTV culture then. But I remember the discos then were generally ‘clean’ (yes, there were drugs but hardly). There was even discipline in dancing. Of course, there was the occasional rare ‘outbursts’. I also remember that most of my friends drank coke or 7up because they did not like the idea of being drunk. When you are drunk, you lose your senses and without senses, you cannot enjoy. Even those who drank did not drink to the point of throwing up. What fun is there in puking?

I hope the licensing authorities and the relevant youth bodies seriously look into the above matter.

Peace !

This video shows the humiliation that can befall you when you over consume alcohol!

NOTE: THOSE WHO ARE AVERSE TO NUDITY OR FIND IT OFFENSIVE ARE WARNED NOT TO WATCH THIS VIDEO. (I posted this video to show how horrible loss of control can be.)

Tuesday, August 11, 2009

Pandemic H1N1 virus globally..How did it HAPPEN suddenly???

H1N1 (referred to as “swine flu” early on) is a new influenza virus causing illness in people. This new virus was first detected in people in the United States in April 2009. Other countries, including Mexico and Canada, have reported people sick with this new virus. This virus is spreading from person-to-person, probably in much the same way that regular seasonal influenza viruses spread.

Like all influenza viruses, swine flu viruses change constantly. Pigs can be infected by avian influenza and human influenza viruses as well as swine influenza viruses. When influenza viruses from different species infect pigs, the viruses can reassort (i.e. swap genes) and new viruses that are a mix of swine, human and/or avian influenza viruses can emerge. Over the years, different variations of swine flu viruses have emerged. At this time, there are four main influenza type A virus subtypes that have been isolated in pigs: H1N1, H1N2, H3N2, and H3N1. However, most of the recently isolated influenza viruses from pigs have been H1N1 viruses.

More than 1,100 people worldwide have died from swine flu since it emerged in Mexico and the U.S. in April, according to the latest figures from the World Health Organization.

As of July 31, the total number of victims killed by the H1N1 virus, also known as swine flu, stood at 1,154 -- an increase of 338 since WHO's previous update on July 27.

The virus has spread around the world with unprecedented speed, spreading as widely in six weeks as common influenza viruses spread in the six months, according to WHO.

WHO data showed the total number of laboratory confirmed cases at 162,380, but the number could be higher since individual cases no longer have to be tested or reported.

The total number of countries and territories reporting at least one case of infection now stands at 168, with new cases reported in Azerbaijan, Gabon, Grenada, Kazakhstan, Moldova, Monaco, Nauru, Swaziland and Suriname.

In the United States, federal health officials are worried about the upcoming flu season.

They say nearly 160 million Americans may need to be vaccinated against the H1N1 virus, but it won't be as simple as a single shot. On Tuesday, British-based pharmaceuticals giant GlaxoSmithKline announced it had signed contracts with nine governments to provide 96 million doses of a H1N1 vaccine and was in ongoing discussions with governments to provide further supplies.

GlaxoSmithKline has already signed deals worth $250 million in total to provide 195 million doses and plans to donate 50 million doses to the World Health Organization.

It started in the US and it has spread all over the world. It is big business for the pharmaceutical companies. We have never heard before of a common flu virus mutating to something like this. First time we are hearing of H1N1..makes me wonder......
an
Peace !

Note: As at July, I understand that in Malaysia, the number of reported H1N1 cases stands at 326...which to me is very high considering that we have a small population relative to countries like India which is reported to have 340 cases.

Monday, August 10, 2009

CrsytalBall: After Raya, After Thaipusam, Before Christmas



Mirror, mirror on the wall
who is the most licik of them all
brader, brader said the wall,
its him who is waiting to fall

Mirror, mirror on the wall,
will the people know it all?
brader, brader said the wall,
they'll know it now - once and for all!


Remember the song that it does not rain every Sunday? Or is it sunshine? Something like that....

PEace !

Saturday, August 8, 2009

IS everything that is called SHARIA consistent with the QURAN?

The following is a comment by a reader of this blog:

"Salam, Bro Jay. I visit your blog often and like your postings for they are very thought provoking.

But in this case of demonstration, could it be an instance of people pouring out their pent-up feelings? Why do so many people become so gullible and easily swayed by the puppet masters? I think it is because deep down inside they have personal grievances and hence become easy preys.

Let me relate my personal experience....my wife and I signed a BBA (Bai Bitamin Ajal) Sale and Purchase Agreement with Bank Islam Malaysia in 1997. The Bank released partially the second 10% amounting to a net of about RM9,000 to the developer. Immediately after that the project was abandoned by the developer. I lost my personal savings of about RM80,000 in this scam. I offered to pay the bank the RM9K that they had released to the developer, but they turned it down and asked me to continue paying my installments! Bank Islam sued my wife and I for RM505,368.54 in 2005 in the High Court (I repeat for emphasis - the bank only released about RM9K to the developer). I engaged a lawyer to respond on our behalf and in April 2009 they withdrew the case in front of the judge. In the process I incurred a lot of legal costs. Now that they have withdrawn the case, they still haven't cleared our names in the CCRIS record, therefore making it difficult for us to get new loans or where it is approved we have to pay a higher interest rate, since we're deemed as "high risk". I have endured this tyranny for the last 12 years. The latest letter from them is asking us to pay RM22,332 to clear my name in CCRIS or they will sue me again. This is an extreme case of bullying, extortion and in contempt of court ruling (I think). But the SYSTEM allows this to happen and happen it did under the label of "Islam". The real culprit here is the developer, but they got away scott-free. Bank Islam should actually be suing the errant developer and its directors for they are the ones who would probably have a half million ringgit to spare. We are just mere wage earners, working hard to put three children through proper education and provide a semblance of a good life for them.

Now put the demonstrators in this context and you'll understand them better".

Askin.
------------------------------------------------------------------------

This is what I have to share on the above:

AND THIS IS WHAT THE QURAN SAYS:

"Maintain just measure in your business and do not cause loss to others" [Quran 26:181]

"We sent to the people of Midian their brother Shu'ayb who also told his people to worship God their only Lord. He said, "A guidance has come to you from your Lord. Maintain proper measures and weights in trade. Do not cause any deficiency in people's property or destroy the land after it has been reformed. This is for your own good, if you have any faith". [Quran: 7:85]

"And of their taking usury when they were forbidden it, and of their devouring people's wealth by false pretences, We have prepared for those of them who disbelieve a painful doom". [Quran: 4:161]

[My comment: The "Islamic Banks" can call it administrative fee and go through the rigmarole of "buy and sell" but if the transaction is oppressive (eg market price is RM100,000.00 and the the bank resells at RM500,000.00, what do you call this????), then my understanding this is riba/oppression. We are fooling Allah with so-called shariah compliant instruments?]

Peace !

PS: Please verify the translations on your own and I stand to be corrected, of course.

Friday, August 7, 2009

More than a Can of Beer

Sales of beer in convenience stores has become a major issue in the Pakatan State of Selangor. Beyond the can of beer are many important indicators and signs that the Rakyat (both Muslim and non-Muslim) must understand. Raperas, must of course read the signs beyond religious and racial sentiments.

It apparently began with the MBSA seizing 70 cans of beer being sold legally in a retail outlet. The Star reported it:

When the Shah Alam City Council (MBSA) enforcement unit seized 70 cans of beer from a retail outlet in Section 8, state executive councillor Ronnie Liu got involved and got MBSA to return the beer and apologise to the owner. Selangor PAS said that the ban will only concern Muslims and not impinge on the rights of non-Muslims, although he conceded to would have to travel farther for their fix. It accused the DAP’s Liu of “meddling in Islamic affairs.”


The Edge reported:

"Ronnie Liu, the state local government, study and research committee chairman, ordered the local council officers to return the seized beer, sparking an outburst from Datuk Dr Hasan Mohamed Ali, chairman of the state Islamic affairs and Malay culture, infrastructure and public facilities committee.

Hasan also called for the removal of Liu from his portfolio. The sale of beer in Muslim-majority areas became a contentious issue, prompting Khalid to issue a gag order on his exco pending his announcement of the new guidelines
"

I have been advised to stay away from commenting on this on the grounds that this is sensitive….but I would like to think that, being a Muslim, it would be munafiquun (hypocritical) of me to shy away from learning from this episode.

These are my comments and observations (stand to be corrected, of course):

1. Obviously, Pakatan has not worked out a formula for cooperation between their leaders of different racial and religious background – again and again it has shown that at the human level, it appears unable to live together. God save multi-cultural, multi-religious and multi-ethnic Malaysia from such leaders!

2. How did MBSA get away with infringing on the retail outlets legal right to sell what is lawfully allowed? (assuming it is not illegal to sell the beer in the first place). What has happened to Pakatan’s commitment to the rule of law?

3. Was Ronnie Liu’ s insistence that the retail outlet be allowed to act in accordance with the law tantamount to “meddling with Islamic affairs”? Is there no respect for existing law?

4. Is Pakatan (PAS) setting a precedent for this country that the minute someone cries “meddling in Islamic affairs”, we, the citizens of this country must immediately dispense with our responsibility to God and country? I think we should first of all evaluate whether our acts really do tantamount to meddling in Islamic or other religions’ affairs.

5. This will once again raise the alarm bells among BOTH Muslims and Non-Mulims living in Selangor about how PAS will react to so-called “Muslim sentiments”. As a Muslim, I believe there must be respectful efforts at reform and it has no place for arrogance, even if it well disguised under religious pretexts. It is very scary when a group of Muslims take it upon themselves to speak for the rest of the Muslim world in issues such as this.

6. If it is true as the Star reported that “that the ban will only concern Muslims and not impinge on the rights of non-Muslims”, well, since I am a Muslim, and it does concern me in the sense that it affects how my non-Muslim friends perceive how Muslims react to such issues, I have spoken up. Like gambling, I do not see consumption of alcohol as an “Islamic issue” but a social issue that needs to be addressed.

7. On the issue of sales and availability of liquor, the following has been my position for years:

(a) I have been against the sale of uncontrolled liquor in convenience stores (24 hours!) because it is EASILY available to teenagers. I believe there must be controls on such items.
(b) I have been against the opening hours of pub and discos extending beyond 11 pm due to many reasons – social problems, drunkenness, again teenagers and young adults get into bad patterns of behaviour. Incidentally, in UK pubs are closed at 10.30pm and in South India, the public is unable to buy any liquor after 1030pm. (both do not boast of being “Islamic”!)

8. I pray to Allah that He gives wisdom to those who claim to champion “Islamic” causes such that their efforts do not move people further away from the Light of Islam, which is a mercy for all humankind.

I do not know Ronnie Liu at all but I know Dr Hasan Ali. In fact I often visit his website and it is even on my blogroll. I am surprised at the way he reacted (unless he has other reasons which I do not know).

Peace !

Sunday, August 2, 2009

Why throw sand into People’s Rice Bowl???

People are already having a tough time earning a living in these tough times.

The whole day yesterday was a loss of business day for all those businesses in Jalan Tunku Abdul Rahman, Jalan Tun Perak, Jalan Masjid India and roads adjoining them. All these because people who do not have businesses there decided to have a senseless street demonstration.

Of course many Malay businesses lost their chance to earn a decent day’s wages because Jalan Masjid India and surrounding areas are mainly Malay business enterprises. I cannot imagine PAS would condone this act of disrupting other people’s businesses as “Islamic”. Rujuk kitab mana bang???

Many I spoke to cannot understand what that demo-crazy was all about. Neither do I. What were they REALLY demonstrating about and why do it the way it was done? I thought the Government was reviewing the ISA and that feedbacks from responsible quarters of the public are sought.

This time around, many do not believe that the demonstration was about the ISA. ISA was just the convenient platform, the expedient issue.

Really, if you have to demonstrate on matters such as these, could not that be done in a confined area like a stadium? I really think we have to designate a stadium and a day especially for “public demonstrations”. We have to cease unnecessarily disturbing the peace and order of other people. They have work to do. They have employees and families to support.

Try not to let your “right to demonstrate” affect other people’s “right to earn a livelihood and peaceful living”.

We cannot keep tolerating politicians who practice manipulocracy keep on troubling the People in the name of democracy. It is sad how these people manipulate the sincere (and some, ignorant) masses to achieve their hidden agenda, even if it harmful to the people.

The cunning and cruel thing about the practice of manipulocracy is this: the real organizers hide behind thick walls while the small participants get arrested.

I just saw TV3. Apparently, some leader of a business society in Jalan Masjid India is giving a memorandum against demonstrations around Jalan Masjid to the Prime Minister. A friend suggested to me that it is more appropriate to give it to the Opposition Leader. Well.

Peace!

PS: This article has nothing to with my stand on the ISA. It is something that has to go in its current form.