ERA Consumer Current Events

Bernama - Changing Consumer Behavior Through Campaign

1970-01-01T00:00:00+01:00

KUALA LUMPUR, July 3 (Bernama) -- The Federation of Malaysian Consumers Associations (Fomca) has embarked on a campaign with the aim of changing consumers' lifestyle towards sustainable consumption.

The theme chosen for the 4-year campaign, running from June 2008 to June 2012 is "Change Begins With Me".

According to Fomca president Datuk Marimuthu Nadason, behavioural change is extremely difficult and a long term investment and commitment is needed to change the mindset of consumers.

Consumers, he said, need to take greater responsibility in responding to the numerous challenges confronting them these days. These includes structural challenges like the global hike in fuel and food prices, which are often beyond the control of any government.

NEED TO RESPOND DIFFERENTLY

According to Marimuthu, Malaysian consumers are increasingly adversely affected by structural challenges at the global level. They need to respond to these challenges in a different manner than previously.

In retrospect, Malaysians need to analyse their lifestyle and be willing to make fundamental changes.

"While global issues in the past have been cyclical, the changes happening today are structural in nature. This means that they are not going to go away anytime soon.

"These problems are here to stay and we need to adapt to the situation by making changes to our lifestyle," he further explained.

Marimuhu said the new global challenges are many fold and these include increases in the price of oil and gas, increasing grain consumption, conversion of food to biofuel and changes in the climate.

"In short, the time for cheap food and cheap fuel is over. Price of rice has increased by 141 percent and wheat by 120 percent over the past year.

"Thirty seven countries are facing food shortages and over 100 million people over the world will be forced into poverty if food prices continue to increase. The United Nations has clearly stated that food production must rise by 50 percent to meet increasing demand," he elaborated.

World experts, he said are already talking of a water crisis next, the result of which could be even more devastating than the climb in petrol price.

BIGGEST OBSTACLE

One of the biggest obstacles in facing such challenges, said Marimuthu, is the mindset of the Malaysian consumers.

Malaysian consumers, continue to expect and even demand that the government intervene in the market to maintain the price of fuel.

As a result, he added, the government has to subsidise the economy at the rate of RM45 billion per year for oil and gas (until the recent price increase) and RM5 billion per year on food.

"Clearly, this kind of subsidy is not sustainable. Malaysian consumers need to take greater responsibility in facing these challenges.

"While petroleum production and export has contributed substantially towards these subsidies, it has been reported that by 2014, Malaysia will be a net importer of oil. This will make the situation even more critical," he argued.

FOMCA'S CAMPAIGN

While Fomca will take the lead in the campaign and play the Secretariat Role, the campaign will only be successful if all sectors of society are involved.

As such, Fomca has formed a partnership with three primary institutions -- the National Council of Women Organisations (NCWO), Malaysian Youth Council (MYC) and Congress of Unions of Employees in the Public and Civil Service (Cuepacs).

"We feel that a multi-prong approach simultaneously targeting different groups would be more effective than Fomca going at it alone," he said.

Using the media to champion their cause, Fomca will also be targeting students in schools and institutions of higher learning, women, youth and worker groups, in its awareness and education campaign.

Marimuthu said Fomca would also be monitoring the price of goods, distributing seeds for home gardening and conduct lifestyle promotions.

Speaking further on the promotion of home farming, he said consumers can use pots or any vacant land around the house to grow vegetables for personal consumption.

"We are sourcing for seeds to be distributed to interested parties. Guidelines on how to manage these home farms shall also be distributed," he said.

Fomca also, he added shall be setting up a price monitoring system, where consumers can make price comparisons, before making purchases.

The "smart consumer" awareness programme, shall provide concrete and feasible actions that consumers can do, for example, how to conserve fuel and water, recycling, using cheaper alternatives like hypermarket home brands and cheaper flight, to get more out of their money.

On the financial literacy programme, he said it aims to promote personal budgeting and better personal management of finances, especially the proper use of credit cards.

SPECIFIC TARGETS

Speaking on the media awareness programmes specifically targeted at adolescents and youths, Marimuthu said it aims to create awareness of the influence of media in their lives, and how to protect themselves from the negative values of materialism and wasteful consumption.

A guidebook on changing one's lifestyle, he said, is being prepared. It will cover issues like budgeting, being a 'smart consumer', home farming, energy, fuel and water saving tips, and transportation tips.

"The essence of the campaign is for consumers to take control of their lives geared towards a healthier and sustainable consumption.

"Consumers must be willing to make the necessary changes to their lifestyle now least greater sufferings await them in the future," said Marimuthu.

By Melati Mohd Ariff

-- BERNAMA

Invitation to the book launching Rapist and Rape: Who & Why

1970-01-01T00:00:00+01:00

The Management of the ERA Consumer Malaysia cordially invites to the book launching of Rapist and Rape: Who & Why

Date: 9th July 2008 (Wednesday)
Time: 9.00 a.m
Venue: Multi Purpose Hall, Women's Institute Of Management
Wisma WIM, 7, Jalan Abang Haji Openg, Taman Tun Dr Ismail, 60000 Kuala Lumpur

Click here to download the invitation form

About the Book:
This book is based on a study that was carried out on convicted rapists in four prisons in Malaysia. Though the original report was more academic in nature, this book has been simplified to make it more readable for the general public. The book provides some information on the background of the rapists, their family background and some of their perception towards women.

Principal Researcher: Rachel Samuel
Ms. Rachel Samuel is a lecturer in the Faculty of Business
Management, UiTM Melaka. She has been involved in publishing books on rape, domestic violence and drug dependents.

Editor & Co-researcher: Rohana Ariffin
Dr. Rohana Ariffin was formerly Associate Profesor of Unisersiti Sains Malaysia, Penang. She was activiely involved in NGO’s fighting for gender equality and labour issues. Main area of intersest, research and publication in the field of violence against women.

0900	Registration
1000	Welcome Message & Keynote Remarks Ms. Nanthini Ramalo Director of Women Programme ERA Consumer Malaysia
1015	Introduction to Rapist & Rape: Who & Why Dr. Rohana Arrifin Author

1030	Opening Remarks & Launch YB Dato' Dr. Ng Yen Yen Minister Ministry of Women, Family and Community Development
1050	Multimedia Presentation
1100	Presentation of Books to Selected Organizations
1130	Adjourn and Press Conference

Click here to download the invitation form

PM announces council line-up

1970-01-01T00:00:00+01:00

PUTRAJAYA: The Government announced the members of the National Inflation Council yesterday.

The council is chaired by Prime Minister Abdullah Ahmad Badawi and Deputy Prime Minister Datuk Seri Najib Tun Razak as deputy chairman.

The members are Second Finance Minister Tan Sri Nor Mohamed Yakcop, Minister in the Prime Minister’s Department Tan Sri Amirsham A. Aziz and Transport Minister Datuk Ong Tee Keat.

Other members are Housing and Local Government Minister Datuk Ong Ka Chuan, Domestic Trade and Consumer Affairs Minister Datuk Shahrir Abdul Samad, Agriculture and Agro-based Industries Minister Datuk Mustapa Mohamed, and International Trade and Industry Minister Tan Sri Muhyiddin Yassin.

Also included are Bank Negara governor Tan Sri Zeti Akhtar Aziz, Chief Secretary to the Government Tan Sri Sidek Hassan, Economic Planning Unit director-general Tan Sri Sulaiman Mahbob, and Treasury secretary-general Tan Sri Dr Wan Abdul Aziz Wan Abdullah.

Members from the private sector are social activist Tan Sri Lee Lam Thye, MTUC secretary-general G. Rajasekaran, Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia vice-chancellor Datuk Dr Sharifah Hapsah Syed Hasan Shahabudin, Bank Rakyat chairman Tan Sri Dr Syed Jalaludin Syed Salim.

Also members are Etiqa Insurance Bhd chairman Tan Sri Mega Zaharuddin Megat Mohd Nor, former deputy Bank Negara governor Tan Sri Lin See Yan, Federation of Malaysian Manufacturers Tan Sri Yong Poh Kon, and economist Datuk Zainal Aznam Yusoff.

Bank Negara directors Datuk Oh Siew Nam, National Farmers’ Association representative Datuk Zainal Dahalan, and Bernama chairman Datuk Seri Mohd Annuar Zaini are also members.

Malaysian Employers Federation president Datuk Azman Shah Harun, Pan-Malaysia Bus Operators Association president Datuk Ashfar Ali, Cuepacs president Omar Osman and Federation of Malaysian Consumer Associations representative Yusof Abdul Rahman are also members of the council.

Yesterday, Abdullah also announced the formation of three committees – the first to look into more efficient use of energy resources, the second to enhance public bus service and the third to improve dissemination of information to the media.

By MAZWIN NIK ANIS and SIM LEOI LEOI

Rebates for vehicle owners from Saturday

1970-01-01T00:00:00+01:00

PUTRAJAYA: Those who renewed their road tax in April and May and are eligible for cash rebates can get the payment from all post offices beginning Saturday.

Prime Minister Datuk Seri Abdullah Ahmad Badawi said although the Government had announced that cash rebates could only be collected beginning July 1, it had decided to bring forward the date.

“This is because we want to ease the burden of the rakyat. Detailed information on the actual procedure will be announced soon,” he told reporters after chairing the first National Inflation Council meeting at his office here yesterday.

On June 4, Abdullah had announced the new fuel price of RM2.70 a litre for petrol and RM2.58 a litre for diesel.

In line with this, private vehicles of engine capacity of 2,000cc and below will enjoy a RM625 rebate, which will be paid to them upon renewal of their road tax.

Private pickup trucks and jeeps with engine capacity of 2,500cc and below will also receive the rebate. Owners of motorcycles of 250cc and below are eligible for a RM150 rebate.

Abdullah said the meeting had also decided to increase the quota of subsidised diesel that public transport companies could buy.

“The companies have been given fleet cards to continue buying diesel at the old price of RM1.43 a litre. We have also agreed to expand the list of vehicles eligible for diesel subsidy to include factory buses and taxis using petrol.

“We are also extending the coverage of our social safety net by considering the increase of several allowances.

“The threshold of income will be raised so more Malaysians can benefit,” he said, adding that more announcements would follow.

Asked if the price of fuel would remain until next March, Abdullah replied that crude oil prices in the global market were rising too quickly.

“There are so many things we have to consider so I don’t think I will say anything now,” he said.

Malaysia's Economic Growth To Sustain At 5-6 Percent

1970-01-01T00:00:00+01:00

KUALA LUMPUR, June 10 (Bernama) -- Malaysia's economic growth is expected to sustain at five to six percent with the initiatives taken by the government, Deputy Finance Minister Datuk Kong Cho Ha said Tuesday.

"Projects which are not critical will be postponed and reviewed according to the national allocations," he said at a press conference after officiating a seminar organised by the Association of Chartered Certified Accountants (ACCA) here.

He said this when asked about the impact on the national economy as a result of the rise in oil prices and inflation.

According to Kong, the country's economic fundamentals remained strong and the challenge being faced was the chain reaction caused by the oil price increase on other products.

He said because of higher oil prices, the subsidy that the government needed to bear should be at deficit not exceeding 3.1 percent of the gross domestic product (GDP).

In his speech, Kong said the ministry was coordinating efforts to get feedback from focus groups, including education, and their proposals as input for Budget 2009.

He said the feedback from the education focus group included resolving the problem of unemployment among graduates, and proposals to upgrade the skills of workers and students.

The Star - Shahrir: Petrol money used as subsidy in many areas

1970-01-01T00:00:00+01:00

PUTRAJAYA: Part of the money used by the Government as subsidy is Petronas’ contribution from its annual revenue.

Domestic Trade and Consumer Affairs Minister Datuk Shahrir Samad said the national oil company did not subsidise petrol at the pump but gave the Government part of its revenue to be put into a consolidated fund.

“It is money from the fund that the Government is using to subsidise petrol, agriculture, education, welfare, and now food. We give all these aids with the help of Petronas.

“Ever since the fuel price increase was announced, people have been demanding to know why Petronas is not helping out. What they don’t know is that the company has been helping out all this while.

“The Government, on the other hand, pays from its coffers to petrol companies as fuel subsidy.

Tracking the system: Domestic Trade and Consumer Affairs Minister Datuk Shahrir Samad arriving at the Express Rail Link station in Putrajaya yesterday, the second day he was trying public transport from his home in Jalan Tunku in Kuala Lumpur to his office in Putrajaya. His verdict after two days? “It’s not so convenient since there is no bus connection from my house to KL Sentral to take the ERL to Putrajaya. My wife has to send me to KL Sentral and my driver picks me up in Putrajaya. He will be bringing the matter up in the Cabinet today. Shahrir is a frequent user of ERL to KLIA.

This is also being enjoyed by Petronas,” Shahrir told reporters after attending his first monthly gathering with the ministry’s staff since his appointment as the minister.

He said the public needed to understand the situation so that there would no longer be accusations that the company was not using its billions of ringgit in revenue to help people.

“Petronas is helping out. Let me assure you of that,” he said, adding that it was important to lift or reduce subsidy so as to discourage wastage and to give higher value to the assets or commodity.

“I am of the opinion the public is not appreciative of the value of goods because they need not pay the actual price. Subsidy has led to wastage. Now, with lesser subsidy, people will tend to be more careful about how they use goods like petrol because they have to pay more.”

Mahathir: Danger of defections is real

1970-01-01T00:00:00+01:00

PUTRAJAYA: There is great danger in Pakatan Rakyat taking over the Federal Government, as there are signs of component parties in the peninsula, Sabah and Sarawak crossing over, said Tun Dr Mahathir Mohamad.

He said when the Barisan Nasional had two-thirds majority in Parliament, it was not worth for any component party to crossover unlike now they had nothing to lose as crossing over meant still being in the Government.

Stating that Pakatan Rakyat was a force to be reckoned with, he added that PKR de facto leader Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim’s threat had to be taken seriously.

“I, at first, wanted to dismiss this possibility, but on studying the situation I feel there is great danger,” he said, adding that members lacked inherent loyalty to the party and are only interested in personal gains.

Dr Mahathir said people in Sabah were used to being under Opposition rule while state Barisan leaders like Datuk Joseph Pairin Kitingan had great support when he was in the Opposition.

“So, can you say they will stay loyal to Umno, I don’t think so. Even here in the peninsula, I see quite a number of the people who will crossover when there is something to gain.

“If this Government loses its power, it is no longer the Government, and it will not be in a position to dole out all kinds of cookies; the clout is gone,” he told reporters after presenting the keynote address on National Sovereignty during the Perdana Leadership Foundation’s Discourse Series yesterday.

Dr Mahathir claimed that Pakatan Rakyat was gaining support because people felt powerless especially when only Umno could change the leadership but now no division dared to hold an EGM to amend the party election system.

“If the 30% support ruling is not changed, no division will nominate another apart from Pak Lah (Datuk Seri Abdullah Ahmad Badawi) as the president and he will win uncontested in December,” he said, adding that the earlier zest to change the leadership had died down and that the “hand kissing” had started again.

Stating that Umno was no longer democratic, he added that his wish to meet Deputy Prime Minister Datuk Seri Najib Tun Razak after the general election to discuss current affairs did not materialise until today.

“Najib said he had to get permission from the PM, until now he has not seen me; apparently the PM does not trust his deputy,” he said.

On the performance of the Opposition so far, he said Penang Chief Minister Lim Guan Eng was smart by not antagonising the people while earning their respect.

MPs to raise queries on food prices

1970-01-01T00:00:00+01:00

KUALA LUMPUR: The rising food prices and cost of living will take centrestage at Parliament today.

The questions include those on whether the Government will scrap the monopoly in the import of rice and sugar, how to prevent the increase in the prices of essential goods and Bernas’ policies on the supply of rice.

Barring interruptions during the first 30 minutes of the live telecast of Question Time, viewers are likely to hear questions fielded by Saifudin Nasution Ismail (PKR – Machang), Khairy Jamaluddin (BN – Rembau) and Teresa Kok (DAP – Seputeh).

These MPs' questions were listed as the first three in the Order Paper for today.

Saifudin wants the Energy, Water and Communications Ministry to state when the Government will formulate a law on the generation and supply of energy.

Khairy will be asking Domestic Trade and Consumer Affairs Minister Datuk Shahrir Abdul Samad on price increase of goods while Kok's question will be directed at the International Trade and Industry Minister.

The DAP Member of Parliament wants to know whether the ministry will cooperate with the five Pakatan Rakyat states to attract foreign investments and also provide incentives to foreign investors to the states.

The next 60 minutes of Question Time, which will not be telecast live, will, among others, see questions ranging from the integration of Malaysia to abandoned housing projects and national agricultural blueprints.

Listed as No. 40 is Opposition Leader Datin Seri Dr Wan Azizah Wan Ismail’s question to the Agriculture and Agrobased Industry Ministry on measures taken to guarantee food security in the country.

Wee Choo Keong’s (PKR – Wangsa Maju) question to the Domestic Trade and Consumer Affairs Ministry is on the steps taken or to be taken by the Government to prevent the increase in the prices of essential goods such as petrol, rice and cooking oil.

Dr Mohd Puad Zarkashi’s (BN – Batu Pahat) question will be whether the Government will stop the monopoly held by one or two companies for the import of essential goods such as rice and sugar.

Both Karpal Singh (DAP – Bukit Gelugor) and Lim Guan Eng (DAP – Bagan) want to know whether the Federal Constitution will be amended to introduce anti-party hopping laws to prevent elected representatives from joining other political parties.

Penang education director stops DCM from distributing spectacles to poor students

1970-01-01T00:00:00+01:00

GEORGE TOWN (May 5, 2008): Last year, prescription spectacles were distributed to poor students in several Tamil schools without a glitch but when the state executive councillor for education tried to carry on with the programme now, he was stopped from doing so by the state Education Department.

Dr P. Ramasamy, who is also the deputy chief minister II, informed the state Education Department of his intentions to distribute spectacles to 223 pupils from 11 Tamil schools in Seberang Perai Utara.

"We planned to do it on May 12 during school hours in a Tamil school in Jawi so that it is easier for the pupils to turn up and receive the spectacles," he said.

However, the department told Ramasamy they are not allowed to go ahead with the programme during school hours.

"They told us that it would disrupt the schooling hours of the pupils so we should not organise it during school hours," he told a press conference today.

"It is ridiculous to expect us to organise this after school hours because these pupils may not have transportation then and they are all from poor families."

Ramasamy said he is not going to let this rest as he plans to write in to the department to appeal and set another date to distribute the glasses.

"It doesn't make sense that last year, Datuk Dr Toh Kin Woon, who was the executive councillor for education then, could distribute spectacles during school hours but this year, we are not allowed to do it," he said.

He said this is probably because of a directive to the state Education Department from the Education Ministry to prohibit members of the state government from holding programmes in schools.

"They should not politicise this at all. What do they think we are going to do in these schools? These are primary school pupils, how do they think we are going to influence them to vote?" he asked.

Ramasamy urged the department to reconsider its decision as the spectacles are meant to help the poor pupils.

In late March, the department confirmed it had received a verbal directive to take a "neutral stand" for the time being and that schools should not invite anyone from any political parties for official functions.

It is learnt that all schools in the five states controlled by the Pakatan Rakyat have been verbally advised to adopt this stand.

High Court grants Church leave to seek judicial review

1970-01-01T00:00:00+01:00

KUALA LUMPUR: The High Court on Monday granted the Catholic Church leave to seek judicial review over the government's decision to forbid the use of the word "Allah" in its weekly publication Herald.

In January, former Minister in the Prime Minister’s Department Datuk Abdullah Mohd Zin said the Herald was not allowed to use the word "Allah" in its publications, citing Cabinet decisions on the matter.

He said restrictions on the use of the word "Allah", as decided by the Cabinet in two of its meetings on Oct 18 and Nov 1 2006, were in force and were to be upheld.

On Dec 31 last year, the publication’s editor Father Lawrence Andrew said the weekly was allowed to continue printing its Bahasa Malaysia section with no restriction on the use of the word "Allah" for God.

He said a representative from the Internal Security Ministry delivered a letter dated Dec 28 with the permit to print the newspaper and that according to him, the letter did not place any restrictions whatsoever.

The newspaper carries reports in English, Bahasa Malaysia, Tamil and Chinese, about the Catholic community. It has a circulation of 12,000.

Wan Azizah gets aggressive, challenges PM

1970-01-01T00:00:00+01:00

KUALA LUMPUR (May 5, 2008): Opposition Leader Datin Seri Dr Wan Azizah Wan Ismail (PKR-Permatang Pauh) challenged the Prime Minister Datuk Seri Abdullah Ahmad Badawi to set up an independent commission to probe the multi-billion ringgit purchases by the Defence Ministry.

She said the government’s integrity was severely affected when government leaders consented to corruption and wastage, practiced nepotism by distributing contracts and shares to family members and cronyism by enriching only a small group of society.

She quoted the purchase of military equipment or specifically the Scorpene submarine worth RM4.5 billion and the Sukhoi jet worth RM3.2 billion whereby massive amounts of commission were paid.

"The people’s perception is that these may not be commissions but bribes between the leaders and individuals who received the commissions,” she added.

Earlier, Wan Azizah said in the international scene, Malaysia being a member of Asean, Apec, Commonwealth, OIC and United Nations must not be isolated in its stand of what is happening around the world.

She said Malaysia must be firm and clear in defending the country’s sovereignty and act in line with the demands of universal fairness and values.

"In this context, we must not be apologetic, keep mum or distance ourselves from contributing towards or playing a role in the international arena and forum to strictly defend our stand accordingly.

"Malaysia was once given the mandate to represent Islamic countries as the OIC chairman but people were let down because Malaysia did not take effective action to protect the fate of Islamic countries and Muslims around the world.

"Malaysia was seen as weak and pathetic in handling the conflicts faced by Islamic countries," she added.

On judiciary, she said the decline in foreign direct investments and refusal of multinational companies to sign agreements which provides for any arguments to be referred to the Malaysian laws, is because of their doubt and bitter experience when dealing with the country’s justice system.

“The latest cases have clearly shown that the executive power is stepping on the country’s judicial system.The chief justice himself admitted to this negative perception.This was an open acknowledgement that the system is biased, corrupt and could be arranged.

“All of us from the Pakatan Rakyat (PR) believe this is not a matter of perception but something which is clear and proven,” she said, adding the exposure made so far such as in the case of Datuk V.K Lingam is only the tip of the iceberg.

The usually quiet Wan Azizah, the country's first woamn Opposition Leader in Parliament, displayed an unusual show of aggression when debating the motion of thanks on the Royal Address in the Dewan Rakyat (Parliament) today.

She rapped Datuk Ismail Abd. Muttalib (BN-Maran) for asking whether she intends to migrate overseas as she had a lot of bad things to say about the country.
Ismail said he was disappointed with Wan Azizah because she was not showing any appreciation towards the country and the government.

“What’s wrong in saying a little bit of thank you?” he asked.

Wan Azizah stressed that she had already said earlier there are some good points about the country.

"Are you not listening? I have already said there are certain goodness. I admit it. But as I’ve said just now, we do not want selective allegations. Is this what you want? All these while we have been attacked by those on the other side (government MPs). You (Maran MP) are only here for your first time.

“Is this the way we take criticisms? Just because we can’t stand it, we have to leave? Are these ears too thin that we cannot take criticisms? In fact, we are saying all these for the sake of our beloved country,” she retorted.

MP: Is there double standard?

1970-01-01T00:00:00+01:00

KUALA LUMPUR (May 5, 2008): Datuk Seri Abdul Ghapur Salleh (BN-Kalabakan) today asked whether the government is practicing double-standards when dealing with power blackouts in the peninsula and Sabah.

"When there is an hour of blackout in the peninsula, the whole world will know but in Sabah, blackouts happened very regularly but the government did not offer any compensation.

"If there is no double standards, please settle this problem of very regular blackouts in Sabah. Two weeks back, power was cut off for the whole state. When we asked, they (Sabah Electricity Sdn Bhd) said it was because the cable was stolen or the transformer was stolen.

"The SESB is a big corporation. Impossible to say the cable or transformer got stolen. Is this acceptable to the rational mind?" he asked Energy, Water and Communications Minister Datuk Shaziman Abu Mansor.

Shaziman said the government was aware of this and the cabinet has agreed to implement on a fast-track basis two generation plan projects in the state.

In terms of transmission, Shaziman admitted that the line in Sabah is not as good as that in the peninsula as previously, the SESB was not fully owned by Tenaga Nasional Bhd (TNB).

"That was why, when one tower collapsed, the whole Sabah will be in the dark," he said, adding however, this will be rectified once the ministry gets the cooperation of the Finance Ministry to increase its allocation and enable SESB to repair its transmission line.

At the Dewan Rakyat: RM39.11m spent on space programme

1970-01-01T00:00:00+01:00

KUALA LUMPUR: At Tuesday's Dewan Rakyat sitting, Science, Technology and Innovation Minister Datuk Dr Maximus Ongkili said that the Government paid RM39.11mil for the Angkasawan space programme.

The first phase of the Angkasawan programme was not totally free of charge for the Government.

Maximus said that of the RM39.11mil paid, RM16.8mil was born by the ministry and RM22.28mil by government-linked agencies.

He added that the Russian Government funded RM75.8mil for the programme as part of a deal when the Malaysian Government purchased Sukhoi SU30MKM fighter jets from the Russian Government.

Blogging information
The Information Ministry is planning to set up blogs to disseminate information and to receive feedback on current issues.

Minister Datuk Ahmad Shabery Cheek said this in the Dewan Rakyat when replying to a question by Datuk Seri Dr Fong Chan Onn (BN - Alor Gajah).

Ahmad Shabery said the ministry would also hold dialogues with bloggers who were considered "critical" by the Government.

He said currently, there is an estimated 500,000 bloggers in the country.

Curtailing speculation
Financial traders and currency speculators will not be allowed to borrow the Ringgit to be sold in the currency market.

Second Finance Minister Tan Sri Nor Mohamed Yakcop said the decision, which was made after the country's economy suffered the effects of the Asian financial crisis in 1997-1998, would remain in place at all times.

He added previously, currency speculators could borrow and trade the Ringgit, which created volatility in the currency exchange market.

"The prohibition in the trade of the Ringgit remains in place," he told Ahmad Maslan (BN-Pontian).

Youthful advice
Counselling units will be set up in district youth offices as one way of helping local teenagers in these areas deal with their problems.

Youth and Sports Minister Datuk Ismail Sabri Yaakob told Chong Eng (DAP - Bukit Mertajam) said these units would also enable the ministry to better keep in touch with the types of problems faced by local youths.

"To cut down bureaucratic red tape, it has also been decided recently that grants will be given to youth associations in the country to hold their activities so that these no longer have to raise their own funds," he said in reply to a supplementary question from Datuk Abdul Manan Ismail (BN - Paya Besar).

Caught overseas
As many as 713 Malaysians are being held overseas on various offences, including credit card forgery, working illegally and human and drugs smuggling.

Deputy Foreign Minister Datuk Abdul Rahim Bakri said out of this, 231 were involved in smuggling of drugs in places like America Latin, Australia and Taiwan.

"Out of those involved in drug smuggling, 169 are men and 111 of them are Chinese. There are 92 Malays and 25 Indians involved.

"We plan to issue a travel advisory soon to remind Malaysians going abroad to be wary of those syndicates taking advantage of them," he told Rosnah Abdul Rashid Shirlin (BN - Papar).

Rising concern
The Dewan Rakyat will be debating an emergency motion on sharp increase of price for rice at 4.30pm Tuesday after a motion tabled by Salahuddin Ayob (PAS - Kubang Kerian) was allowed.

Deputy Speaker Datuk Dr Wan Junaidi Tuanku Jaafar held that Salahuddin's motion was specific, of public interest and urgent.

Salahuddin, in his motion, said price of a 5kg rice (Super A) rose from RM8 to RM13.50, an increase of RM5.50 while 10kg pack now cost RM27, an increase of RM11 compared to its old price of RM16.

Salahuddin also said imported fragrance rice increased between RM8 and RM10 for 10kg pack.

Ka Chuan: It won�t be easy to have multiracial MCA

1970-01-01T00:00:00+01:00

PUTRAJAYA: An amendment to the MCA constitution will be necessary to make the party multiracial, and that will not be an easy task, said MCA secretary-general Datuk Seri Ong Ka Chuan said.

He said any amendment to the constitution would require the support of two-thirds of the delegates at any assembly called to vote on the resolution.

“Our constitution says that MCA fights for the interests of the Chinese community and to suddenly change it to have a multiracial approach is rather difficult.”

He was commenting on a suggestion by party vice-president Datuk Ong Tee Keat that the MCA adopt a multiracial approach or face extinction in the national political landscape.

“We have to hold brainstorming sessions between the grassroots and party leaders (on the subject), it is not something that can be decided in a short time,” Ka Chuan said, adding that MCA also needed to assess its position in Barisan Nasional before deciding on the matter.

Speaking to reporters after attending Firefighters’ Day celebration at the Fire and Rescue Department here yesterday, Ka Chuan said he understood Tee Keat’s sentiment was due to the outcome of the general election.

He, however, said it was Tee Keat’s personal view, and that he was free to voice it.

“As far as the party is concerned, we have to be prudent in looking into this.

“I admit that society is changing and the party has to change, but drastic changes cannot be done by one or two people,” he said.

Rais: Proposal meant for those under 21

1970-01-01T00:00:00+01:00

JAKARTA: Foreign Minister Datuk Seri Dr Rais Yatim clarified here yesterday that his proposal for Malaysian women to show a consent letter from their family or employer before travelling out of the country alone was only meant for those below 21 years of age.

“There's some misunderstanding. I was referring to boys and girls who travel on their own, especially those below 21 and who are still subject to the supervision of their parents. Women above 21 years old are adult enough.

“But for those below 21, it's only fair that parental guidance be given,” he told reporters at a press conference here at the end of his working visit to Indonesia yesterday.

Rais said the consent need not necessarily be in the form of papers or letters of declaration, as that would be a big hindrance.

“What I meant was those below 21 should be guided; parents should ask why they want to go to Venezuela or Spain.

“Parents should know where their children are going,” he said.

Rais said he was only concerned over the safety of those who travelled alone overseas, especially children.

“But if this is regarded by human rightists to be against human rights, wait until their own children get into trouble,” he said.

In Kuala Lumpur, Deputy Foreign Minister Datuk Abdul Rahim Bakri said the proposal would not be a violation of human rights since it would, if accepted, only apply to those who were still under the legal protection of their parents.

He said the proposal would be raised in the Cabinet as soon as possible

Letters to the Prime Minister

1970-01-01T00:00:00+01:00

Letters to the PM is a website where Malaysians can voice out their hopes, opinion and suggestions to our Prime Minister.

Click here to voice out your hopes, opinion and suggestions to our Prime Minister.

NST: Finally, I belong here, says Jeyaraj

1970-01-01T00:00:00+01:00

David Jeyaraj says his MyKad is one of his most treasured possessions

By : Sonia Ramachandran

PETALING JAYA: Sept 24, 2007 will be etched forever in David Jeyaraj's memory. It was the day he received his MyKad and citizenship.

"From having no nation, I now feel I belong to this country. I'm also more confident and more secure. I have also opened a bank account and applied for a passport, things which I could only dream about before.

"I can now also board a plane for the first time in my life," said Jeyaraj.

His newfound status is due mainly to Era Consumer, a non-governmental agency.

He also owes his citizenship to New Straits Times reader P. Ambika who was touched by his plight and took up his case.

Jeyaraj used to roam the streets with a picture of a woman holding a baby, asking everyone if they had seen her. The picture was that of his biological mother, Anbaiakie Muthan.

After Jeyaraj was born on Aug 10, 1982, Anbaiakie went in search of her mother in Kulim, Kedah, only to find out that she had died. She then moved in with her mother's neighbours.

Not long after that, Anbaiakie signed a consent of adoption order and left Jeyaraj behind.

On the order, her name was spelt Anbaiakie Muthan but Jeyaraj's birth certificate showed his mother's name as Anbaiakie Moton. The identity card number and name of his father were not mentioned in the certificate.

When Jeyaraj was 12, he was issued a renewable green IC (a temporary resident identification card) but the government stopped issuing temporary identity cards in 2003.

The National Registration Department (NRD) told him his biological mother had to come forward before he could be given citizenship.

Using Anbaiakie's IC number on the adoption order, Jeyaraj, along with Era Consumer, managed to trace her to a shelter in Kuala Lumpur.

He discovered that Anbaiakie had also given birth to two daughters. He managed to get a photograph of Anbaiakie from the shelter's administrator.

Era Consumer raised his plight with the NST which ran an article about him.

Ambika who volunteers at the Lighthouse Drop-In Centre, which provides food for the poor and homeless, recognised Anbaiakie from the photograph in the NST article and called up.

Arrangements were made for them to meet at the Lighthouse Drop-In Centre on June 18.

"Jeyaraj stood at one side and just observed his mother. I could see tears in his eyes. After dinner was over, we called Anbaiakie to meet Jeyaraj. She said she had been looking for her son for 10 years and was so happy to finally find him," she said.

Jeyaraj said the MyKad was among his most treasured possessions. "I now have something that I never thought I would have - my own MyKad. I can now finally get on with my life," he said.

He thanked Era Consumer director Nanthini Ramalo for not giving up on the search for his mother.

Source: http://www.nst.com.my/Current_News/NST/Wednesday/National/2095348/Article/index_html

Better World Childrens Club

1970-01-01T00:00:00+01:00

The world is being subjected to climate change. Scientists are expecting rise in world temperature which is projected to cause sea water level to rise and intensified tropical storms.

Better World Children’s Club is an attempt by Federation of Malaysian Consumers Associations (FOMCA) to protect the environment from further degradation. The aim of the club is to increase environmental awareness among children. The target members of this club are the children from suburban community. This club functions by bringing together children of particular geographical areas and providing them with avenues to increase their understanding of the nature. This is achieved by creating opportunities for them to be closer with nature, highlighting the values of nature and the human’s dependency on nature. By doing so, we hope the children will understand the beauty of nature and the importance of it which will discourage irresponsible behavior towards nature.

In conjunction with the World Forestry Day Better World Children’s Club was initiated in Sungai Petani by FOMCA, ERA Consumer Malaysia and ERA Community Centre, Sungai Petani. The second launch, officiated by Mr. Raman, Senior Manager, ERA Consumer Malaysia, was held on 9^th of March 2007. 103 children from the age of 8 to 14 years old participated in this program and thus became the member of this club. This event was facilitated by Mr Saravanan, Ms Nanthini, Ms Vaani, Mr Guna and Ms Nirmala.

The children gathered at ERA Community Centre in Sungai Petani, where the registration took place. The children were then divided into a group of ten each and a volunteer from the community centre was appointed as a leader for each group. At the launch, a jasmine plant was sowed by the guest of honor as a symbolic call to protect and nurture the nature. In his speech, Mr Raman reminded the children the importance of the nature. This was followed by a speech by Mr Saravanan, the Director for the Community Development.

According to Mr Saravanan, Better World Children’s Club has been launched in Dengkil and now in Sungai Petani and is planned to be initiated in Petaling Jaya and Taiping as well. He said that children should know the importance of the environment from the start. The value should be installed from young. In this age of time where natural disaster such as the Tsunami is threatening us, it’s vital join hands to stop the climate change or at least slow it down.

With these messages by Mr Saravanan, children were then packed into two buses and were taken on an hour’s journey a serene hillside, Bukit Hijau Recreation Park, which is the home for breathtaking waterfalls; seven-level cascading falls. The trees and the plants along with the waterfalls create a tranquil environment. We parked ourselves at a manmade platform surrounded by trees and plants, facing the waterfall.

Next, the students sat with their group members in order to do their fist task – producing a banner with a message on saving the environment. They were provided with necessary utensils to complete the activity; cloth (banner), magic pens, dyes, marker pens, etc. After the completion of the task, each group presented their artwork to the rest of the crowd. The members of the floor were given opportunity to ask questions related to the banner during the presentation. Through this activity, the students had opportunity to explore their values on nature. It was also a good opportunity for the students to experience team work and strengthen their leadership skills. Each team proudly displayed their banner till end of the day.

After lunch, treasure hunt was organized for the children. The students, guided by the leader had to answer question related to the environment in order to be given the location of the treasure. The groups had to go through 8 stages for them to reach the final destination. The fastest team won the hunt. There were groups who were stuck at certain stages as they do not know the answers and were helped by the team leader. The children had fun during the races and it was a challenge for their knowledge on the nature.

When the students gathered after the exciting hunt, they were asked to make collage out of the fallen leaves, dried branches, fallen flower and etc. This was to encourage recycling and to create love for the nature. They were reminded not to pluck leave or flowers from the plants. This will teach the deterrence of destroying plants and to learn how to make use of the nature by not harming it. The students sat in small groups and had a good time making the collage. They were helpful to each other as they shared the items that they have collected to make the collage.

The last activity was to collect rubbish around the area. This activity was also to remind them that they should not litter at the places they go to. If everyone throws their rubbish in the right places, others do not have to spend their time collecting it.

The children had a pleasurable time at Bukit Hijau. They learnt to appreciate the nature in a fun manner. By bringing them closer to the nature, we attempted to strengthen the relationship with the environment so that they will not harm it.

HRTP for MCA Women & Youth

1970-01-01T00:00:00+01:00

Having organised the Human Rights Training Programme for other parties, the training was now concentrated on the Women and Youth of the Malaysian Chinese Association (MCA). The training was held at Melia Hotel on 3^rd February 2007. The half a day session which was conducted in English saw the participation of 43 people. The aim of the programme is to provide the members with information on what human rights issues are all about and to assist them in strengthening their knowledge on such issues.

The topics for the day were the same as that in the other human rights training programmes namely The Federal Constitution: Its Importance and a Comparison to the Universal Declaration of Human Rights, Police and Your Rights and an Introduction to SUHAKAM. Mr. Malik Imtiaz Sarwar dealt with the area on the Federal Constitution while Mr. Edward Saw, a first timer at the seminar spoke on Police and Your Rights. As always, Prof. Dato’ Dr. Hj. Mohd Hamdan Adnan facilitated the session on SUHAKAM.

In Mr. Malik Imtiaz Sarwar’s session, he gave an overview of what the Federal Constitution stood for and its significance, relevance and similarities to the Universal Declaration of Human Rights (UDHR). Mr. Edward Saw who spoke on Police and Your Rights briefly explained one’s rights in the event of arrest and search and Prof. Hamdan once again discussed the area on the role and function of SUHAKAM.

Y.B Loh Seng Kok, the Member of Parliament for Kelana Jaya, in his opening speech voiced his hope that through such training programme, it would facilitate better understanding of human rights issues among young people in a plural society like Malaysia and to bring about a generation of caring Malaysians who knows their rights and as well as those who respect the rights of others. Though this training programme he also believes that it will create awareness on their role and responsibility as good citizens. He further pointed out that it is not only important that the youth participate in such trainings but what is important is how they make use of what is learnt here to their benefit and the society at large.

Financial Management

1970-01-01T00:00:00+01:00

The father has a secure job and is a hardworking man who does a lot of overtime at work. The mother goes to work too. The daughter is a smart girl who has been working and has a great desire to study. The son is an independent young man. They own a house and a flat unit. The father uses credit card. This is the story of a family which seems a normal middle class family but is currently struggling to make ends meet due to irresponsible behaviour of the father.

The daughter is an ambitious girl who understands the value of education. However, she had to put a stop to her education in order to work to pay off her father’s debt. The father had borrowed money from unlicensed money lender or also known as Ah Long. As any Ah Long, they charge a very high interest rate. They do not tolerate delays in payments. On top of that, the father’s ATM withdrawal card and bank book is held by them. He is given only about 25-30% of his monthly pay.

Once the daughter learnt about this, she worked and paid the debt with the help of her mother. She also managed the family’s finance. One would expect for the father to realize his mistakes and become responsible. However, that did not happen. The father has once again found himself in debt with the same Ah long. The family also has to pay the loans taken to purchase their house and the flat unit. On top all of that, the father has used his not one but two credit cards to the limit

One main reason why the father has so much debt is the habit of gambling. Gambling has become an addiction for the father. Although he works hard at his company to earn extra money, all that is channeled to this hobby. This entire burden has now fallen on the shoulder of the daughter – a smart girl whose dream is to become an educated person. How can she pursue her higher education if the father is not only unable to support the family but keeps increasing the debt of the family?

Financial management is very important. Gambling is not the manner to spend all the hard earned money. Moreover, if we do have financial crisis, do not seek the fast and easy way out such as Ah Long services as it is not easy at all. It will only increase the problems. If you are not able to figure out a solution, do approach family members or friends who can offer sound advise or do come organizations such as ERA Community Centre to seek advise on financial management. At times, it helps to get an opinion from a third person as we may be blinded by emotion and even overlook things or we may not have enough information on certain things.