Semua orang suka bergaduh

Di Malaysia, drama pergaduhan berlaku sepanjang masa. Malah drama-drama Melayu yang penuh dengan aksi pergaduhan keluarga pun tidak mampu menandingi kehebatan drama politik Malaysia. Mengapa? Ramai yang tidak menggunakan akal. Yang ada akal, hanya bergaduh menggunakan akal tanpa mengira sensitiviti orang lain.

Bergaduh di Malaysia ada dalam bermacam-macam bentuk- debat, perbezaan idea dan menunjuk-nunjuk siapa yang lebih betul walhal semua mahukan kebaikan untuk semua orang. Jika berbeza idea, didiklah pihak lawan untuk memahaminya-bukan menghukumnya. 

Di satu pihak mengatakan satu pihak ini selalu memfitnah dirinya. Di pihak ini pula selalu mengatakan tidak. Namun kita sebagai seorang yang langsung tidak mengetahui secara langsung, janganlah teruja-uja sangat menyokong mana-mana idea yang kita rasakan betul. Cuba bayangkan macam situasi ini- kalau pihak 'baru dibebaskan' mengatakan semuanya fitnah belaka dan mengatakan pihak 'saya lama dah memerintah' yang memfitnahnya. Namun , kita tidak benar-benar tahu betulkah pihak ini yang memfitnah? Kalau kita percaya tanpa menyiasat, kita berburuk sangka. Dan lebih teruk, pihak 'saya dibebaskan' yang mengatakan orang memfitnahnya, jika fihak lawannya tidak memfitnahnya, dia pula yang menfitnah orang yang dikatakan memfitnahnya. Begitu juga sebaliknya.

Ada satu pendapat seorang ustaz yang saya langgan (subscribe) di Facebook yang berbunyi- perbezaan pendapat itu adalah jihad. Namun, apabila saya melihat dia seakan-akan membantah seorang ustaz lain memasuki pihak lawannya, saya tidak pasti apa yang diperjuangkannya. Bagaimana dengan idea ustaz mengenai perbezaan pendapat itu? Mengapa seorang ustaz lain memasuki parti bukan sokongannya seakan-akan dihina kerana masuk ke dalam kancah rasuah, politik kotor dan sebagainya. Adakah mungkin ustaz itu mempunyai niat untuk mengubah perkara-perkara buruk parti itu dari dalam yang mungkin jauh lebih baik berbanding pendekatan ustaz? Bahkan ini lebih baik berbanding ustaz yang terus mencaci pihak bukan sokongan ustaz namun tidak berusaha untuk melakukan dakwah dengan cara efektif terhadap mereka. Api jika dilawan api makin besar apinya. 

Kadang-kadang saya melihat orang yang mengatakan dirinya memperjuangkan Islam sentiasa bercakap sahaja. Yang lebih ekstrem, membawanya ke jalanan tanpa sebarang penyelesaian konstruktif. Allahuakbar dilaungkan tidak berguna jika dalam hati tidak mendalaminya. Saya tidak menyokong mana-mana pihak (buat masa ini) namun janganlah senantiasa berprasangka buruk terhadap orang lain. Saya menasihati diri terlebih dahulu dan ingin mengajak anda semua. Mungkin cara mereka kurang betul namun niat mereka tetap baik. Jika salah, tegurlah dengan cara betul. Anda pun buat salah juga dan anda juga tidak suka ditegur dengan cara anda menegur pihak lawan. 

Janganlah berburuk sangka. Setiap manusia boleh berubah. Jangan ingat anda sahaja yang betul dalam dunia.-The Chukai Insider

What? 8% of National Service trainees cannot read or write?

Aren't you shocked to read this- 8% of the NS trainees cannot read or write. What did they learn in schools? How did they spend 11 years of schooling? Were their parents okay with their children not able to read or write? How did the teacher thought these students or can we still call them students since they did not even succeed to read or write. Or were they just a bunch of dumb people from the outside world coming to Malaysia to see how we interact with the people who cannot read or write? There are lots of questions in rational minds as to answer this most serious problem of our nation. Yes, Prophet Muhammad never knew how to learn or write but he was different. He was granted the greatest treasure of knowledge directly from Allah SWT which is the Al-Quran.

And do you know what the first surah passed to Prophet Muhammad SAW is about? Iqra' which means 'READ'. These people are no even close than being close to those who could not read or write in Prophet Muhammad's time. And believe me, these people are no like a prophet. I know these students- thanks to my 11 years of schooling in daily school which none of the boarding school students can experience.

This is much much more important than Anwar Ibrahim being acquitted- frankly speaking both sides of the case are losers. But these NS trainees never know they are losing in this competitive world. And the world is not going to be any kinder to us- in fact, it's going more competitive than ever. Forget the Singaporeans but focus on what China is doing with its citizens. To run away from poverty, education is the answer and yet many are seemed to be lost in this concept. The Shanghai students are among the first in reading and maths based on an international education indicator far leaving us behind.

If they couldn't read or write- what have the parents, schools or teachers done to make them able to do so? Seriously, there are literally thousands of questions running in my mind right now. One thing I am sure of- among the 8% of the NS trainees who cannot read or write, more than 90% are Malays. Why am I not surprised? -The Chukai Insider

*PS: To the students who are sooooo eager to demonstrate with the reason to so-called 'change the world and in the name of freedom' (ugh, what a cliché!), and yes you Adam Adli, I think it's far far better for you to go to the NS Training Camps and teach these students how to read and write now that you have 18months suspension from your university. Later on, 'real change' can happen! And I guess it's good for your training to become a teacher. Unless, why would you enrolled in government university to study education?

Malaysian Muslims always in fear?

There is a controversial issue running in the tabloids and even in mainstream media of Malaysia- the smart student who scored 17As in high school who has been different since the day she left Malaysia. Or is that the case? Is Amalina, the medical student in Edinburgh could be the example of the changing Malaysian society?

Physically, she does look different- blond hair and the starkest difference is that she takes her hair cover off which is a big no-no in conservative Muslim societies. However, it is not the issue of this young girl that should be the main concern. It is that the whole Muslim in Malaysia who are always in constant fear of themselves unable to follow their religion closely.

They always fear that people of other religion have agendas to destroy their faiths. In societies, particularly of those in conservative areas, there is always a constant belief that many of other religions are trying convert them especially to the young ones to other religion. It is not just religion. It goes beyond the lifestyle adopted by the youths as well.

The case of the medical student brought attention of many. She was idolised by many of the students with her hard work and all-rounder qualities. The issue is whether things written about her are true or not? Malaysians, in general like to jump on conclusion once they read or see something without knowing what goes on behind the story.

The front page of a news tabloid featuring Amalina in her controversial picture. This front-paged story shows you how much Malaysians love controversies.

This is not the first time such a story makes its headlines in mainstream media. Few years ago, a mathematics genius who studied in Oxford under government company's scholarship, Safiah shocked Malaysians with her prostitution. 

Muslims in Malaysia are always not confident with their beliefs but never tried to strengthen theirs the right way. Most Malaysians blame many ridiculous aspects that deteriorate the moral and beliefs of the young. The case of baby dumping, pre-marital sex, free sex, homosexuals, bisexuals, drugs and mat rempit are embedded in the society but it is obvious that the blaming game is part of the so-called solutions to the social problems. 

The most ridiculous reason given always go back to the so-called agenda of the 'Jews' or people of other religion. Last year, a group which calls themselves Obedient Wives Club made international headlines with its book that aims to show sex guides to bring the glory of Islam from the Jews. Stupid and very narrow-minded, isn't it?

Most Malaysian Muslims are always in constant fear but never tried to make their believers to have stronger relationship with the religion. Why do they always have to blame others? The root of the problem lies within the society which are made up of families and schools. It goes back to parenting and teaching at schools. There are no Jews in Malaysia and no systematic agenda by the non-believers in TV or Astro to deviate your child. 

The funniest thing I read today is about another best Malaysian student, Madihah who is currently studying in Kolej Tuanku Ja'afar which is described by her as 'Westernised'. Another case of someone not being confident of her selves that led to the belief that others can influence you easily. Isn't that will show to the rest that how easy it is to change your belief? I studied in KTJ before and there was no people calling my friends 'budak pakai khemah' and I am definitely sure that the students still do not call you that. The word I am suggesting is paranoid.

It is true that in some ways that the Western style is not in coherent with Islamic teaching. However, in KTJ what is practised as 'westernised' is sometimes more Islamic than what the 'budak pakai khemah' in Kelantan practised. In fact, even tarawih prayers are placed to be 'wajib' by my English housemaster eventhough he is not a Muslim (although this is wrong, but he made it compulsory). He was the one going from one room to another room calling for Muslims to go to the surau to pray. Interestingly, the Muslim students were running away from him. Whose fault was that? The Jews?  The freedom to express beliefs, respecting others, rights to speak up and differences of culture are the things that you cannot get anywhere else but KTJ.

 If you feel threatened with your belief all the time, how are you going to make difference and show the rest that you are able to do something in the cause of Islam? If you think that you are easily influenced by others, that is what you are.-The Chukai Insider

To my non-Muslim friends

To my Non-Muslims friends,

The concern and terror among your hearts which has been tremendously raised was unfounded. Unfortunately it’s like fearing something that doesn’t exist. With this, be assure that Hudud is mandatory for Muslims and it is most welcome for all non-Muslims with option of Syariah Court or Civil Court.

We are fairly appreciative regarding your concern about the differences of punishment between non-Muslims and Muslims. For example when convicted of a geng robbery which consist of a Muslim and a non-Muslim, the punishment will varies between a Muslim and a non-Muslim due to civil and syariah sentences.

Whichever punishment is lenient or harsher, the non-Muslim criminal is given a choice to choose either to be sentenced in a civil or syariah court. As Muslims, we are obliged by the law of our belief (Islam) whereby if we are not sentenced in this world as accordance to the Quran, we will be sentenced harsher in the hereafter. I’m pretty sure in any religion that believes there is a hereafter; they would devote themselves to strive for a better life hereafter which is blessed eternity. Hence, deep down in our hearts we really hope that other religion would respect our belief to implement hudud in our Muslim community.

*This is not from The Chukai Insider. I found it [HERE]. We should thank the authors for doing a great job!

Where are the Islamic Studies graduates?

Do you remember a top-gun Chinese politician featured on a sex video before? Well, apparently he said something that hurts the Muslim populations in Malaysia yesterday. This is where freedom of speech and democracy failed. Democracy allows freedom of speech to anyone regardless of his or her moral standard and credibility. Freedom to speak comes with responsibility. While we are supporting Malaysia to become a more matured democracy, it does not mean you have to put negative statements on issues which are close to the hearts of the Muslims. Being responsible not to hurt the other's feeling by condemning their religion's decree is something that we Malaysians really need. However, even a top politician failed to realise the concept of 1Malaysia in which acceptance of other's religion practice.

It is understandable that he does not understand the concept of how most Malaysian Muslims want the Hudud is implemented here. We do not look for models in Arab countries in doing so. There are so many things that you do not know, Mr. I-was-in-a-sex-video! 

However, a thing that baffles my mind is where are the Islamic graduates that Malaysians produce locally and abroad to answer, rebut and then make Malaysians understand the concept. It is agreed to most Malaysian Muslims (in this context, those who do not speak out via columns in newspapers or politicians) that Hudud cannot be implemented yet since there are lots of preconditions to be met. But since this I-was-in-a-sex-video man is offending ordinary Muslims (Hudud is part of Islam, therefore offending Hudud as a decree of Allah SWT is offending Muslims, although we all know you will deny it after this), I wondered where are the Muslims have gone?

Where are the Islamic Studies graduates have gone? 

I am not saying the responsibilities of dakwah fall under the Islamic Studies graduates only, but your focus of studies should enable us the rest who are not formally educated in particular subjects (hudud, nation building etc.) to understand them. I know the responsibilities fall under each of the Muslims, but we also need some education on the issues. This is where your parts are welcomed in the society. Do not make us scared by saying this and that. Make us understand and blend with the communities in the most creative ways possible. Then, there will be Muslims unity.

When Muslims are united, it should be easier for Muslims and non-Muslims alike to progress and not being stopped by non-intellectual politicians who are just so good in manipulating people.

Government sends students to Al-Azhar University, to Jordan and we even have our own international Islamic university! Where are the thousands of scholars who can speak for the ordinary Muslims. We know it is not viable to implement it yet since even our top leader is not being tarbiyah-ed enough to fill the position as a Muslim but pulling out wrong statement and facts about Islamic Law are unacceptable.

This is the time when you should produce articles, letters and discussions so that not just this video star understands about the issue, but to all Malaysians. 

Even our Muslim artists do not understand the concept- that means we cannot implement it yet. Note the 'yet'.
These are the target groups for our own Islamic Studies graduates whom I think must have better scholarly facts
to educate the ordinary Malaysians.

Why not produce simple articles or discussion without using the jargons which are hard to understand so that we all know about it. There is no point for you to put out the Islamic terms without us understanding them.

Be creative, be bold and be close to the people. Millions of ringgit Malaysia have been spent using taxpayer's money. This is the responsibilities that you owe to ordinary Malaysian Muslims.-The Chukai Insider

* I am not a pengkhianat bangsa or whatsoever, but if the Muslim scholars can produce articles, campaigns or discussions both in English and Malay would be much better so that they can reach our target groups.

BOOK: What Your Teacher Didn't Tell You

In this book, Farish A. Noor (a Senior Fellow at S. Rajaratnam School of International Studies) sought the ideas of history revolving around Malays and the mix of the Chinese and Indian cultures way back to the Hindu-Buddhism era in Tanah Melayu and lots of other issues which were never told in formal syllabus of our history education. 

Being one of the persons who is looking at other views history of Malaysia in critical ways, the author then puts credible sources that link the issues with the rest of the ethnics in Tanah Melayu and Malaya namely Chinese, Indians and the Peranakans. How interesting it could get is how the relationship between keris and  Buddhism in which many people would have never thought of when they put it as a symbol of a certain race while in fact historically, it is not. Extremists of certain races should notify then why their lack of knowledge and perhaps their lack of enthusiasm to learn about other's cultures bring only harm to them. When we come to look at the issue from a scholarly point of view, we can see how un-intellectual we were when the issue of a politician kissing a keris before were brought to the chaotic discussion about ketuanan Melayu. This notion that keris become an Ethno-Nationalist (ethnic-based symbol) symbol puts a turn to the issue when it is discussed in lengthy details in the book. In this case, if we were taught about it in Sejarah, the students would not get stuck with views of the 'winners of the past' only.

The author is excellent in bringing contemporary issues which we are dealing with such as relationships between races, homosexuality, ketuanan Melayu and how 'racial difference' became a big deal in Malaysia. The ideas portrayed in the book show how we come here this way and understanding the process will turn Malaysians to become more understanding. As I myself was the product of Malaysian education system, I doubt anyone can argue the credibility of his sources which are dealt extensively in the footnotes.

The struggles of PAS and the globalisation values portrayed by Hang Tuah were my favourites. The story of the progressive leader of PAS from 1956-1969, Burhanuddin Al-Helmy puts a new perspective and light into how PAS came into one of the biggest  and most influential parties in Malaysia. The Hikayat of Hang Tuah on the other hand, shows how Hang Tuah himself was already travelled to many parts of the world apart from the ubiquitous stories we heard of him. Why do we focus his stories with Hang Jebat only? There are so much more of him apart from his questionable fights with Hang Jebat. In fact, in my opinion Hang Tuah was more 'globalised' than we are. And he did not just converse in Malay.

The book tells how does Hang Tuah was sent to India to visit the Indian Empire of Bijaya Nagaram by the Sultan of Malacca and spoke keling (no offence intended) to the King. The King then impressed with his linguistic skills and sent an ambassador to Malacca immediately.

"Maka titah Kisna Rayan: “Hai Laksamana, kau ini Peranakan apa?”

Maka sembah Laksamana, “ya tuanku shah alam, patek ini peranakan Melayu, tapi patek dari kechil-kechil ke Majapahit, maka patek berlajar mengaji bahasa Keling dari pada sa-orang Lebai; maka oleh itu patek mengerti sedikit bahasa Keling itu”."

This book enables me to think about many of the issues critically. It brings us differences of opinions which I think is vital to our society. These critical thoughts and how we become a generation that understands stories from many points of view will make Malaysia a better place. While Keris has became the symbol of Malay, it should be the symbol of unity of Malaysian heritage since it is originated from the Hindu-Buddhism kingdoms of the Malays. That is the perfect example. Malaysia would be such a much better place if our politicians read this book. However, will they accept the opinion of this blogger to read the book? No.

Hence, I ask all of you to read it as you are the agents of change of Malaysia. It is quite expensive (RM 40.00 ) though. Borrowing the book from me is highly welcomed. No reasons not to read it. 

Every Malaysian should read this book. It is highly recommended.-The Chukai Insider

Ulul Albab: Those possessed of understanding

*Lately, The Chukai Insider has lots in his minds and hence the boring articles. Dia sedang berusaha membiasakan diri supaya tidak kekok menulis dalam Bahasa Melayu sebab dia kurang pandai menulis dalam lenggok bahasa yang tidak skema kerana pada dirinya hanya Bahasa Melayu Terengganu yang paling selesa digunakan namun ramai yang tidak faham kot!

Few weeks ago, a friend of mine mentioned the concept of Ulul Albab and since I come from Terengganu, he made the effort to mention about the concept being implemented in the state. Tahniah kepada Terengganu!

Why should we say Tahniah to this lovely state of mine?

I've been reading Dr. Asri's Islam in Malaysia: Perceptions and Facts for these couple of days and found out about the concept of Ulul Albab. And Alhamdulillah, even Dr. Asri mentioned about the concept being applied in the education system of Terengganu.

Why would this Ulul Albab being so special? Why should I bother writing about it?

In his book, Dr. Asri puts forward the fact that The Noble Quran itself champions the term Ulul Albab- it is not an invention of the ulama, or a motivational speaker or a political leader. The term Ulul Albab itself appears 16 times in the Al-Quran (Asri, 2010) and it is therefore the one that we should be striving for.

Ulul Albab means those who are 'possessed of understanding'.

“Sesungguhnya dalam penciptaan langit dan bumi dan silih bergantinya malam dan siang terdapat tanda-tanda bagi Ulil Albab (orang yang berakal)” AlImran :190

Those who possessed understanding therefore should have mature minds and accurate judgements. Let us strive for these and fulfil the concept of Ulul Albab instead of championing other slogans which are just not as complete as the Words of Allah SWT. 

Apabila kita berusaha untuk mencapai tahap itu, maka seharusnya perangai dan kata-kata kita berubah. Bagaimana? Ilmu menjadi jawapan untuk kita mendidik diri ke arah kecemerlangan diri. 

Sebelum kita bertempik dan meraung mengharapkan perubahan orang lain dan perubahan dalam negara, seharusnya kita merubah diri sendiri dulu. Tidak guna jika kita berkumat-kamit mengenai Ulul Albab tanpa berusaha untuk menjadikan diri kita salah seorang daripadanya. Dan ingat, bukan tugas kita untuk menentukan adakah kita Ulul Albab atau tidak, namun usaha yang kita buat perlu diambil berat.

Untuk memenuhi seseorang yang 'possessed of understanding' kita seharusnya bertindak bijak dan matang. Menjawab 'tukar je kerajaan baru' bukanlah jawapan kepada masalah sosial di negara ini. 

I cannot stress this further but changes in the country starts with you- not the country. 

“Verily never will Allah change the condition of a people until they change it themselves (with their own souls)” 13: 11

I know many of us have heard this before and those speaking about politics are  mostly the ones who heard it mostly but ignore to these Words of Allah SWT the most. It is true what my friend said to me when I ask 'should you involve in politics' and she answered 'only if they are smart enough'. The Ulul Albab generation therefore is therefore the right ones who can get involved in politics. And hence, politics will be clean and Bersih. No Seksualiti Merdeka, no corruptions, no grafts, no leaders who cannot cover aurat properly, no poverty, no people putting other thing than what Allah SWT has ordered to be more important.

Let us be of the Ulul Albab, and not those of slow thought. -The Chukai Insider

Kepandaian dan Politik

Seandainya anda melihat sebuah negeri di Malaysia yang buat waktu ini boleh saya katakan paling maju, anda mampu melihat urus tadbir yang bagus. Namun jika anda berada di sebelah sokongan yang membangkang perkara ini, anda mungkin tidak mampu melihatnya. People see what they want to see. Dalam kes ini, sudah tentu yang membangkang akan terus membangkang. Ini adalah perkara paling bodoh yang berlaku dalam sistem politik negara apabila semua yang salah perlu dijadikan sat benda yang betul jika berada di pihak kawan, namun semua perkara betul perlu dikatakan salah jika berlaku di pihak lawan.

Dalam kes negeri paling maju di Malaysia ini, saya akan merujuk kepada The Pale Blues dan The Reds. Jika anda tidak memahami perkara ini, terdapat banyak blog-blog lain yang boleh membicarakan hal ini dengan lebig terbuka. Saya masih tertakluk di bawah satu akta sebagai seorang pelajar.

Gaji Minimum

Dalam bajet dan polisi negeri maju ini, saya amat kagum dengan ketegasan Pengetua Negeri (harap faham) yang mewakili The Pale Blues. Sementara Kerajaan Belly Button ('belly button' bermaksud 'pusat' di perut anda) masih bergelut untuk melaksanakannya, beliau sudah berjaya melakukannya. Gaji minimum RM1500 itu memberi maksud besar untuk golongan berpendapatan rendah. Mengapa ini perlu dibangkang? 

Surplus dalam bajet 

Perkara ini adalah yang paling penting. Saya begitu berharap negeri Makang Ikang saya beralih seketika untuk melihat pengurusan kewangan negeri paling maju ini. Bukan saya mahu negeri Makang Ikang ini bertukar kerajaan (bertukar Pengetua amat saya harapkan, tapi bukan parti) namun tolonglah lihat ke arah negeri paling maju ini. Surplus, yakni lebihan atau keuntungan dari pendapatan memberi maksud pengurusan kewangan yang cekap. Surplus di negeri maju ini menyebabkan simpanan (reserves) di negeri ini berada pada tahap RM918 juta pada tahun 2010. Pada masa yang sama, negara berada dalam keadaan defisit. Defisit adalah antonim kepada surplus.

Cuba tanya negeri Makang Ikang berapa jumlah simpanannya. Janganlah berharap duit royalti minyak sahaja, carilah sumber pendapatan lain. 

Bilakah anda bekerja untuk rakyat?

Untuk semua ahli politik dari semua parti, soalan yang perlu ditanya ialah- Bilakah anda bekerja untuk rakyat? Jika anda bekerja untuk rakyat, perkara yang baik perlu anda sokong. Kita belajar dari sekolah rendah untuk menjustifikasi mana yang betul dan mana yang salah, bukannya parti mana yang betul dan parti mana yang salah. Jika anda memperjuangkan agama, mengapa perkara yang baik untuk agama (meningkatkan taraf hidup, rezeki) perlu anda halang? 

Perbandingan

Jika dibandingkan Pengetua Negeri yang menghina hamba Allah SWT yang lain dengan memberi batang penyapu dan seorang Pengetua Negeri yang meletakkan gaji minimum RM1500, sudah tentu anda tahu yang mana lagi baik. Satu lagi perbandingan, seorang Pengetua Negeri yang kontroversi dengan rumah banglonya (The Chukai Insider- How do you live your life, Mr Khir Toyo) dan seorang pemimpin yang menguntungkan negeri, mana satu anda mahu? 

Ciri-ciri korporat

Pengetua Negeri paling maju ini bekas tokoh korporat yang memegang jawatan tinggi dalam sebuah syarikat berkaitan kerajaan dulu. Apabila masuk dalam arena politik, beliau tentulah bergelut untuk memuaskan hati penyokong bawahan yang juga termasuk The Rockets. Sudah tentu, The Reds yang sentiasa membangkang walaupun mereka tahu mereka kurang pandai untuk melawan beliau. 

Saya berdoa negeri Makang Ikang saya mendapat seorang Pengetua Negeri yang boleh membawa Ulul Albab ke negerinya dan bukan sekadar pandai memberi duit percuma kepada rakyatnya. Sekian.-The Chukai Insider

*The Chukai Insider really wants his state to be led by someone of a corporate-like and maintains Islamic concepts held by most citizens of the state. He does not normally write in Malay. Forgive him for sounding skema and unnatural.

Undilah: A baffle to minds

It is too late to write about this. But it is never too late to convey the positive message brought by a campaign through Youtube recently. I could not grasp the fuss with the Government for banning the video. Is it because the sometimes-stupid Namawee was in the project? Well, I could accept that and many of us cannot because to some, he said the 'real thing' although what the 'real thing' hit them right them (the supporters) in the nose.

However, banning the video on mainstream media would be a much stupid political act, I would say. We are not even trying to go down the streets to protest (in which I don't support either), but this is a simple act of calling others to do the 'Must-do-thing' for the nation. We should give credits to those who have worked hard to make the campaign. 

The video tries to convey the message to encourage as many voters to do their right as a citizen of this country. And yet, the Government banned the video. I know this campaign came at the right time since my close friends are all not registered although qualified to become one. Hence, to put it simple why does the Government 'curbed' this movement of doing the right thing to Malaysia. Not everyone can become Nicol David to become the world's No.1 player but still they want to contribute to the nation. One of the ways is to encourage others to Vote. How was that wrong still baffled my mind. 

Do not say that the Government already has campaign on their mind since what they are doing with the 'Mari Mengundi' ads made by Jabatan Perfileman Negara was one of the campaign programs that made some of us say 'euww'. The ads should go to the list of the worst ads ever. I do not know how to make the Jabatan or any Government's Jabatans to change with today's 'changes' except with that kind of harsh criticisms as previous constructive criticisms were like going down the drains.

One thing that we are sure of is that even Ku Li was present in the video and that was significance in encouraging Malaysians to cast their vote especially the young ones. Do not say that what am I saying is illegal as I am still a student. How about the rights of me as a Voter? Don't you think that it is a kind of contradicting when they want us to register as voters at the age of 21 but asked us to stay away from politics. You shut up, just register! Woo..

Instead, the Undilah.com website is actually a good ground for the short-message Twitter generation. Here are some of the contents (in which the video was banned!):

Who shall I vote for?

In a democracy, you are entitled to your personal political preference. We don't care who you vote for as long as you do vote.

What do I need to do to vote?

You need to be a Malaysian citizen over the age of 21. You also need to be a registered voter.

How do I register myself as a voter?

There are many voluntary organizations, NGOs and political parties who regularly promote voter registration in public places and events. You may register through them. You may also register at any post office. Just bring you identity card and ask at the counter. It is very easy and takes about 10 minutes.

When should I register?

You may register at anytime. However, if you intend to vote in the coming general election, please register yourself as soon as possible. The Election Commission imposes a voter registration cut-off period counting back 3 months from the date of the election. In other words, you are only eligible to vote if you had registered at least 3 months before the date of the general election.

My friends, you know you have responsibilities to your nation. I have registered myself as a Voter. How about you? It is hypocritical to talk politics when you are not registered as a voter when you are legally qualified to become one. Undilah!-The Chukai Insider

Be Islamic, be critical

When people put a final dot on someone, as in the person is supporting this and that, I wonder what will happen to the world when the person put the wrongs as rights and the rights as wrongs. How can we see black and white? Grey?

Is it a common thing for you to see when someone 'seemed' inclined to a political party, he or she will be forced and fed with the dogma that all of the things done by the so-called 'inclined party' are supported by him or her. 

Then, where is the room for critical thinking and judgements on your side?

Why is the divisive acts continue to exist in our daily conversations? Why do we believe that once the leaders of any organisations made a statement, the lower groups of people ARE surely in parallel believes with the leader?

We are all striving for a better Malaysian. And yet we choose different inclinations of doing things. With our own ways. And hence, different 'inclined support to a political party'.

But at the same time, it does not mean we fully agree to every detailed actions and efforts made by the party. That is why critical thinking is first and foremost important! Think people, think! Don't jump to conclusions straight away otherwise you will place yourselves with the same level as today's politicians whom I have little credit to give for and hence, much less respects.

My word is- you may choose sides. Part of the reasons is because of the way you were brought up, as my friend suggested. But all of us want a better Malaysia. 

Do you think when the Other Side is ruling, the root problems will die away? No. They are embedded in the society and societies are made up of us, and so it depends on us. And so, this quote could not be further from the truth- ‎"Tegakkanlah daulah Islam di dalam hati-hati kalian, niscaya dia akan tegak di negeri kalian" (Hasan Al-Hudaibi).

A critical society would know when to know what is wrong and right because it does not mean when you are Red, the Green is wrong. And when you are Green, the Red is wrong all the time. Although we see many flaws in the Pale Blue, it does not mean they are all wrong, a little credit should go when it is right.

So, at the end of the day, we are all the same. So, don't divide yourself further from each other. Make Greens and Reds work together, and I would be much happier.

Did the Prophet Muhammad SAW denied the questions of the deniers? Did He not answer each single question with proofs and full of grace to make the other side happy and accept the Truth? Did He slammed the other side with harsh words? Did He just leave us with nothing to follow with? Simple questions like these are hard to be answered. Why? Because even these basic things are hard for us to follow.  -The Chukai Insider

A Country at the Crossroads

It seems like Malaysia has never been more open enough in terms of discussion of many things that involve principles, ideologies and beliefs. More divided than before, I would say. Or more concreted to each other as I would want to see it. And yet, while having these tonnes of issues which were considered 'sensitive' the proponents of freedom of speech still fighting for their cause. I think they like to oppose much until they forgot when to stop. Once born Opposition, you keep opposing without any judgements whether they are good or bad. All things are bad, according to you. Unless you are the ones making bad stuffs, no one can put the issues in their newspapers. Well Seputeh's, that's for you. Why did I say that? Do you remember when one of your fella 'rocket' members say our flag should be changed and you told the media to keep the thing off and move on. Oh, how dumber could you get when your leaned-towards-you media been bashing all things done by the other side.

I am not saying that I am on that side. It is just you do things so unpragmatic without credibilities and of course the right word is 'stupid'. Well, it's the rockets. I wonder what the White Moon on the Greens would say since the Rockets are their 'allies'. 

Well, the one with the big serban in Kelantan would just speak with his accent and things would be kept shut. He likes to keep others shut with his sharp and yet unconclusive words. I do respect him but never want him to become my leader.

The other side is no better. When Moderation is the key as they would say, the extreme championista are at their sides. I don't want a wife looks like having her time of life when his husband is the Project Manager (PM) of the country. More hairdo, huh? Make it bigger. 

When some people still do not understand hudud, and its application, the Project Manager straight away said 'NO' when majority of those who understood it thought he should not say that. It really shows that you don't understand the concept and yet you bring the Islamic notion to the international level. Aren't you ashamed? And while at the back, the Queen Bee still does not cover her hair. When could you say it's not yet time or so-called 'your rights', please remember that you are the slave of Allah SWT in this world, and you are not obeying His words. And yet, you tell others in the country to follow you while in my eyes, you don't even have the guts to adhere to your religion closely when it is of paramount importance.

One side is too much to the worldly matters, the other side is no better except in a different way. The opportunist rocket is watching. Still, The Chukai Insider is wondering why the Red Keris and The White Moon on the Greens cannot work together? If tarbiyah is the dogma of The White Moon on the Greens, then they should be acting like friends and not bashing the other side like you don't want to be friends. To the Red Keris, we all know most of you agreed with what The White Moon on the Greens fight for, but why the arrogance?

Everyone was brought up in different ways and so we have different opinions. However, we have always wanted the best in Malaysia. How do you define that is different again. Let's work on it. Yes, the Reds and Greens, please work on your relationship and we can move on, happily ever after.-The Chukai Insider

Did Malaysia mature when we were not looking?

This article is taken from The Malaysian Insider, 31st October 2011. The article can be found here.

OCT 31 — The flurry of Malay organisations making the news in Malaysia bodes well for the country, whether or not these group together extreme rightists, opposition voices, concerned students or professors, or green or human right activists.

The matter has now become too obvious to be denied, which is that the Malay community in Malaysia is like any other community anywhere in the world. Its collectiveness, like anyone else’s, is pragmatic and contingent. This is how it should be. They are not an entity whose extremely diverse and individual needs, thoughts and aspirations can be articulated through one single political party.

The myth is broken. What will take its place is a cacophony of noises or a symphony of tunes, depending on one’s politics and disposition.

That powerful party, Umno, is the oldest in the country, founded as it was just one year after the Second World War. It has dominated Malaysian politics to this day, but now rightly fears that it will lose power in the very near future.

When the party started, its slogan was “Hidup Melayu” — Long Live the Malays. Only after changing that to “Merdeka” in March 1951 did it begin to make serious headway into the popular consciousness.

From the very beginning, Malay political consciousness went in many directions. There were pan-Indonesianists, communists and other leftists, monarchists, Fabian socialists and republicans. The British, with their reputation lost through their defeat by the Japanese, favoured conservatives who were willing to work closely with the nine sultanates. This entity was Umno.

The amazing diversity found in the Malay community — as in all communities — was obvious from the onset. Those more concerned about religious values broke away to form PAS in 1951, while Umno itself split around the same time when its president, Onn Jaafar, left with his group of followers to form the Independence of Malaya Party (IMP).

Umno gained the upper hand through co-operation with the Malayan Chinese Association, formed at the instigation of the British to draw Chinese support away from the communists. This coalition managed to gain independence in 1957 for the country after its electoral successes saw the British abandoning the IMP, which they had favoured since its founding.

Even after 1969, when the so-called Malay agenda could be applied fully through the New Economic Policy, internal fighting continued within Umno, leading to outright splits in 1988 and 1998.

Today, when more and more Malays are urban and well educated, and make up an increasing portion of the population, the expression of diversity within that community — the breaking of the collective myth — should be seen as the coming into being of Malaysia’s modern citizen, largely determined by the Malays.

Opposition from other communities since 1969 has been generally weak, and based on the activism of certain individuals. The propaganda that had served Umno for so long, that the Malays are in danger of extinction, does not work anymore.

This became most obvious when the group Himpun recently demonstrated with a cry against purported Christian threats to Islam.

Despite the claim that a massive crowd of one million would turn up, the Umno government granted the permit. Only 5,000 people showed up, indicating quite clearly that Malays in general cannot relate to the old idle logic any longer.

The Malays continue to decide the national discourse, as they have done since the beginning. But most hearteningly, diversity is taken for granted, and a lot of activism is done in collaboration with non-Malays.

The Malaysian citizen has come into his and her own right.

There is no longer any doubt that the Malays will “hidup”; and Merdeka was won a long time ago. What seems to be the problem now is, how quickly will the death of the old myth mean the fall from power of Umno?

Instead of 1 Malaysia, Umno’s latest slogan, to be correctly reflective of the government’s concerns, should be “Hidup Pemimpin Umno” — Long Live Umno Leaders. — Today

* The views expressed here are the personal opinion of the columnist.

Again on Hudud

This is a simple article just to make my stand on Hudud issue clearer. 

1. It is a matter of choice of Muslims in today's conditions. Not in the context of today's 'world' as Al-Quran is relevant throughout the time. Today's conditions means the situations do not allow us to implement it due to many reasons- unfair institutions, elitism, separation of powers between the leader and the people, unequal distribution of wealth etc. And this matter is already agreed by neutral and unbiased Islamic scholar like Dr. Asri since we are not yet able to provide an adil situation in which all basic conditions of human be met (easy marriage is an example). To put it simple, work on to eliminate those things to implement Hudud. Yes, this goes to you too the Greens. 

On this basis, Hudud law cannot be implemented now. (The Chukai Insider's stand)

2. If you believe that Al-Quran is the Allah's sayings to the Muslims, and you yourself are in efforts to become a Muslims (the lowest level of iman) then you should be in effort to make hudud laws as a way of societies' lives. But never to the point where you implement the whole hudud law but the societies are not yet ready for it. Then, what is the purpose of hudud law if the believers don't even believe in the reasons behind the laws. It would be extremely stupid and very wrong on your side.

3. Hence, priorities should be given to educate the law to the people- not bashing each other on the basis of which one is right. For a wise Muslim, it is the ultimate goal to go with Allah's sayings (decree) and hence we must understand the reasons behind the law. We do not just publicise the law to the public and just say that we should do this and this. It is stupid to implement something in which even the people (rakyat) still do not get to understand and practice. 

4. No example could be better than this- 'some' Saudi Arabians on plane already took off their covers (tudungs/jilbab) once they are outside the country. Does this show that once they are outside the law, they can go against it? This shows lack of deep understanding (fahmuddaki') on their believes. The same thing could happen in Malaysia. Or if it is allowed in the Constitution to implement it in some states, many will fled out of them. And it is not their fault that they feel scared since they don't understand the law. Politicians on both sides argued who is better but everyone wants to be accepted in Allah's views. Perhaps. Hence work together to make sure the conditions where Hudud law can be implemented be realised. 

5. To the championista of Hudud law, it is the responsibility of the Muslims then to support the efforts of going for Hudud law. But the most important thing is education to the people. It is extremely stupid to implement without people understanding it. Even Rasulullah SAW took 13 years to educate and to the level that is far better than today's. I doubt even in Kelantan the leaders can provide the same conditions that Hudud may be implemented in the near future. 

6. This is the truth- in Kelantan or Terengganu. There is always a stark difference between those who are the religous and not. But the vocal ones are the religious person (in this context, practising Muslims) but please do educate others first before you chanting Hudud to the public.

7. I never saw an imam approaching the mat rempits (it may happened but I do not think so since I never saw one approaching the latter) and at least try to converse with them and then make them interested with the religion. When you implement Hudud, what will happen to this cluster of people? They were not educated the proper way and not even acknowledged the reasons behind the law and then get punished.- When you later on say that this group will get scared after the law is implemented, then will they do nothing and be kinder? No, you must remember that there is a possibility that they will get worse and flee away. So, you leave the states full with so-called good people and let others do their bad things somewhere else? Think!

8. Who do you think they will blame?

9. When da'wah is the branch of politics (I saw this with the Greens) then it is hard to make people understand about it. Ilmu as mentioned in the first Surah of Al-Alaq should be given the highest priority to make people understand Hudud law-even to the so called a Muslim columnist championing the human rights. How about the rights to practise my religion- in this case Islam and Hudud? Can you answer that Z Anwar?


 Educating those in power should be prioritised. However, it is so sad to see that even those wearing kopiah on top of their heads saying bad words and 'trying' to educate the less-educated the wrong way and they call themselves the 'knowing' and 'holding Allah's trust as khalifah on this earth'.

There is no point you post pictures of people under punishment of Hudud law if you want that to happen. You must go deeper to yourselves and reflect on how do you understand the law in the first place. I have lots of friends posting photos of Hudud law implementation but fail to make others to understand the law but keep their friend distancing themselves from understanding the law. Maybe your niat is good but the way you transmit the message could not be more wrong. The key word is: educate. Educate yourself first then others.

10. Hudud is a must. Education to understand it is much much more needed.-The Chukai Insider