Move IT

The Tree

2009-08-21T01:16:00.001+08:00

Chocolate

2009-08-20T11:15:00.001+08:00

New from 15Malaysia

2009-08-18T13:41:00.000+08:00

Enjoy!!

Sometimes love just ain't enough

2009-08-11T10:27:00.000+08:00

There is a feeling of hopelessness among our non-UMNO cadres. It is like walking on a travelator - in the opposite direction. You are working hard, putting one foot in front of the other but you are going nowhere. In fact you just can't keep up, you are even going backwards.
For every grand gesture by the PM, there is an almost Newtonian equal reaction to nulify the effect of the original action. For every 8atu Caves, there is a Beng Hock or for every change in fiscal policy, there is a Rais hare brained idea to bring us down to Earth.

Happy Birthday Cash!

2009-07-05T13:43:00.001+08:00

Cash Lee celebrated his 49th birthday last night at the Power Station. Friends and guests like Boorman Wong(Ahli Majlis Pasir Gudang) and PS Ting ( Ahli Majlis MBJBT) attended. Happy Birthday Cash!

Liar! Liar! Pants on fire.

2009-06-30T12:21:00.001+08:00

In a recent political discourse, accussations have been made towards the State leadership for systematic castration of certain people's right to be nominated as a Life Member. Without checking the facts, they maintained that two of their supporters have been purposely left out from the list of Life Members. However, what they did know was that the list was drawn up by Dr Chin after applying a set of priorities in selecting Life Members. Even the computer list sent by HQ was deemed a fabricated evidence by these people. Nothing could convince them that 'their' people did not qualify on merit. By hook or by crook they wanted their people in. Well, what else can we say. Que sera sera?

Case of the Bulging Carpet

2009-06-10T22:05:00.000+08:00

Recently a vernacular paper highlighted the case of two MCA members complaining about having their identity being used to register as Gerakan members in Segamat. This is a serious case of phantom voters. We were made to believe that our members administration is ISO approved and therefore phantom free. However this case has proved that this is not true. The leadership must take this case seriously as a police report has been lodged and our reputation is at stake. The perpetrator must be identified and strict disciplinary action taken. Lets not push the matter under our bulging carpet.

Pulai Division Speaks Out

2009-05-21T18:43:00.001+08:00

Pulai Division headed by Saudara Hoe Hong Seng showed their displeasure with the selection process for the post of Ahli Majlis MBJBT. They are incensed that their candidate, Sdr Hoe, was overlooked in favour of a less experienced candidate. They were also not happy that the seat vacated by Sdr Koh Kian Siang of Pulai Division has been replaced by a candidate from Gelang Patah division. The lost seat has been a blow to the division which now has no government representative. Sdr Ho has called out for more transparency in the selection process to ensure the best candidate is chosen. He feels let down by the state leadership, promising a mountain and delivering more promises. We need to address the real issue here. The posts as always have been used as a bargaining chip. If you have a chip to exchange then the post is yours. This is Gerakan politics.

Nizar is MB

2009-05-12T09:35:00.002+08:00

Well, all the fuss was about nothing. The court has decided. Nizar is the MB. But for how long? He will want to have new elections because if he goes for the assembly, he will be voted out. So the ball is in the Sultan's court. Maybe it is for the best. I am proud that BN did not riot nor demonstrate when they had to give back the seat of power. Let see PR do that the next time instead of boosting sales of T shirts every time they do not agree. I think people is getting tired of the antics of these people. That is why only a few hundreds show up in Ipoh on May 7. People can see self interest at work from miles away. In any case, Perak is still not done. If an election comes along, the results may not be as expected. I have a feeling the people will surprise us.

Najib is right

2009-05-09T10:24:00.002+08:00

Najib was right when he said that the change in govt in Perak did not contravene the constitution. The ADUNs have the right to change party and they exercised that right. When PR lost the majority, they have to make way for the new majority to form a govt. They cannot insist on a re election just because they have lost the majority. It is the PR's govt obstinacy which has brought the Perak govt to the state it is today. Their refusal to hand over the seat of govt peacefully has made it a ruckus and a big mess. But it has also shown what kind of leaders they are. Leaders who bully women, throw stuffs, climb onto tables and chairs and people who do not know when to quit. The Speaker Sivakumar has obviously exceeded his authority. The speakers role in the Dewan was to ensure sobriety and order but he has made the position an even more powerful position than the MB. The tail wagging the dog? Definitely, when he can sack whoever he likes. PR should just admit defeat and wait for their chance again in a few years.

Happy Birthday Poh Thong

2009-05-07T22:30:00.001+08:00

Happy birthday to Poh Thong. May the cake fulfill your wishes in your day of birth. The party was held in Power Station with friends from all over.

Perak debacle

2009-05-07T18:37:00.001+08:00

Seems like the Perak debacle will be solved today. Well, at least for now or until the legal complications are resolved. Which would mean, not until the next election. Haha.

Lets examine what happened. The debacle started when three PR assemblymen/women decided they do not want to be under PR anymore and decided to jump to the other side. When the PR leaders realised they could lose the seat of govt, three letters of resignation was faxed to the Speaker. Without veryfying the authenticity of the letters with the signatories, the speaker declared the assemblymen and women as resigned. Fortunately the Election Commision was not so stupid and checked with the ADUNs. Lo and behold, the letters were presigned and legally invalid, therefore making the resignation non grata. With the ADUNs pledging their alliance with BN, the pendulum has now swung. Unfortunatelly the leadership of PR is still insisting that the resignation is valid and it is they who hold the power of govt. With the help of an obstinate Speaker, PR has manage to drag the matter till today. The showdown was held and the Speaker kicked out. Maybe it is the end or the beginning of the new chapter in the Story of Govt of Perak.

What is the problem?

2009-04-23T12:09:00.001+08:00

Last night, PM Najib called for a dinner. Gerakan was allocated 10 tables. The leaders decided that liason committee members should attend the dinner and extended the invitstion to Pemuda and Wanita for the rest. However on the day of the dinner, we found out that Kulai Division decided to hold a division meeting on that day. Not one Kulai representative was present apart from YB Cheong. There is an uderlying message here somewehere. Does this mean that the Kulai division no longer wants to be a part of Gerakan Johor? Or they are bocotting state's activity just for fun. After all when you think of it, Kulai division is the strongest Gerakan division in Johor and some say Malaysia. Kulai division contributed 1 MP and 2 Aduns, in fact all of Gerakan Johor representatives to the goverment. It is a wonder that Kulai Division did not get the state's chairman post as well. It must have been an abnormality to have a non Kulai people to win the state's chairman post. It is now like the tail wagging the dog.

Majlis Jamuan Makan Malam dengan PM Najib.

2009-04-20T20:56:00.002+08:00

Majlis Jamuan Makan Malam dengan PM Najib telah diadakan di Persada Johor pada 20 April 2009. Lebih 2000 pemimpin parti parti komponen Barisan Nasional menghadiri majlis ini. Turut hadir ialah Timbalan PM Muhyiddin dan juga Dato Ong Tee Keat. Hidangan istimewa jamuan makan malam adalah Beryani Gam dan beryani kambing bersama ayam masak merah, udang goreng rangup dan kuah dalca. Majlis tamat pada pukul 10.30 selepas ucapan bersemangat PM Najib.

How to make Gerakan relevant again 2

2009-04-11T20:40:00.002+08:00

Quiet. Quiet as a mouse even when we saw that some leaders are just not doing the job. The peruntukkan is the drug and we are the addicts. We have to stop cold turkey. Survive on our own or not at all. Sooner or later, BN will lose the government. We will be the opposition just as the KMT in Taiwan lost after many years in govt. But not to worry, on maturing to a two party democracy, we will have a chance to get back on the saddle. The masses is fickle and is easily bored. Change will be implemented and once again we will be in favour. To shorten the turnover time, we must change in anticipation of what will be popular in the future. Racialism is out, multi racialism is in. For real, not for show only. The public knows the difference. Fight for real equality and justice. How can we support mother tongue education for maths and science while at the same time espousing Satu Malaysia. This is really a hypocritical idea. If we are for Satu Malaysia, everything should be done together. Not in different schools.

How to make Gerakan relevant again

2009-04-11T20:19:00.002+08:00

Gerakan is currently deemed irrelevant in the Malaysian political diaspora. With only 2 parliamentarians and a handful of ADUNs, Gerakan was virtually wiped out during the 2008 election. This is because Gerakan no longer uphold its original charter of being a multi racial party. It has instead morphed into MCA ver 2.0 with chinese dominated agenda and leaders who think along racial lines. Meetings were conducted in mandarin and members from other races were not recruited. Branches were set up just as pawns in internal party battles. Being in the government for so long has made us soft. We were pampered with trappings of power and members that joined were attracted to those too. Low cost house, permits and licenses were the code word to recruit members. On the way, ideals such as equality, rights and justice were set aside when it become inconvenient. We accepted bribes in form of peruntukkan from the government to keep quiet even when we saw that things are not right. The money stuffed into our mouths kept us qu

Why the by-elections loss in the bukits is good for us. Part 2

2009-04-08T09:42:00.002+08:00

The perkongsian kuasa is not working. That is why the non malays are not voting BN. Gerakan is practically not in the government because we have no representation at all. We may as well be in the opposition. At least that way we can be more open with our views. However the leaders are still attached to the notion that Gerakan was a founding member of BN and should not just leave like that. Many gerakan members are disillusioned. A party with no influence is irrelevant. It is just another social club. Politics is about power. Power to influence. Power to change and power to empower. Without all these, can Gerakan survive?

Why the by-elections loss in the bukits is good for us.

2009-04-08T09:23:00.002+08:00

So we lost the two bukits. It was back to status quo. Najib's ascendancy did not change the equation nor did Mahathir's campaigning. It just means BN needs to transform more of itself. MCA and Gerakan did not bring in the chinese voters. UMNO will be pissed and blame the two chinese parties for not pulling their weight. The two parties will say they are guilty by association with UMNO. As long as UMNO do not change, elections will be lost. Gerakan is no longer an entity in the BN government. We have no representation in the government. Even the JPMM post in Skudai is now a lost cause. A few more days and we will celebrate the first anniversary of our request for the post. The Johor govt has ignored us and we are no longer servicing the area. And there will be no service until the position is clear that we retain the right to represent BN in Skudai. The BN chairman from UMNO was an obstacle to Gerakan and still is. By right, the BN chairman should be the MP of Gelang Patah, Mdm Tan Ah Eng but it is not. This is the point of contention and the reason why we lost and will continue to lose. Unless the component parties are treated fairly, the electorate will not vote for UMNO stooges.

Do you know where we are going to?

2009-02-28T13:01:00.001+08:00

I am having problems with Gerakan political future nowadays. People asked me what are we going to do next? And I tell them dutifully that we will reclaim what was once ours. But when they probe further, what are you doing to win back what was once yours? I have no answer. The truth is we have done nothing. After the election, we had our own election but the new team has not make any significant moves. No grand plan to recapture lost seats. No commitee to spearhead a task force. NOTHING. Apart from feeble press statements from the sidelines, Gerakan no longer make the headlines. Even press statements issued to certain vernacular papers were considered spam by the papers' firewall. How pathetic is that?

Gerakan needs to get of their sorry asses and work hard if we are to survive. Nobody is going to rollover and let Gerakan takeover. We will have to fight for it, an inch at a time. Taskforce needs to be set up in our kawasan with the purpose of winning the mind, hearts and votes of the rakyat. The opposition will no sit still waiting for us to catch up and that is why we have to start now. No more sulking over lost positions or misplaced loyalties, for to win, we need to be ONE. One mission, one will and one victory.

In Public Interest

2009-02-22T10:06:00.001+08:00

The Elizabeth Wong saga demonstrate the inner voyeur in all of us. We are disgusted by the invasion of privacy the saga promotes but at the same can't seem to stop talking about it and looking for it in the internet. It is like a car crash. We just cannot stop but look if only to get the four digit number. Elizabeth Wong saga is a car crash. It is not wanted nor wished for but it is there and we cannot stop talking, writing and reading about it. We are sorry for her for what happened. From reports, she seemed like a good ADUN, working hard and honest to the bone. But shit happens. In the words of Forest Gump, life is like a box of chocolates. Sometimes there are worms in it.

Gerakan sidelined?

2009-02-15T10:29:00.002+08:00

After the last election, the Johor MB has appointed one Pembantu Khas in each of the kawasan lost to the opposition except Skudai. Gerakan has recommended Sdr Koo Shiaw Lee, the PA to the previous YB. Until today the appointment has not been confirmed despite numerous request and reminders from central in the matter. Is the MB opposed to having a Gerakan Pembantu Khas? He should just come out and say it, instead of dillying and dallying for so long. We will have our annual dinner on 7 Mac, one year to the date of election. We should make an announcement then. Reject the appointment and do it ourself in Skudai. We must prepare for the next round, with or without the MB. We should also lay the groundwork to welcome the next MB so that we will not have the same problem again. Heard Wong Siew Poh was made a Pembantu Khas. Maybe that is the sign.

Perak - democracy in action(2)

2009-02-07T10:04:00.002+08:00

Third, in choosing people who jumps for money or anything else, shows the lack of talent in PR. We would have wished for a more gentle way of winning but this is politics. If they wanted fairplay they should have played chess instead. The only regret PR has actually is not doing it to us first at national level. Trips to Taiwan, declarations after declarations, PR has no shame stating they wanted to take over the govt by defection. Lastly, PR deserve to lose Perak because they were already to addicted to the trappings of power. Notice how the ex MB declared he is going to fight till his last drop of blood. Who can blame him? Politics without power is like marriage without sex.

Perak - democracy in action

2009-02-07T09:52:00.001+08:00

Many has written why the takeover of Perak govt by BN is not demoratic and immoral. However, for the sake of equality, we should be objective and look at it with a clear head. Firstly, PR had no qualms welcoming a frog when the situation suits them but now cries that it is immoral, illegal and undemocratic. They even tried to block the process by pulling out a presigned letter of resignation. Although it has been established that such letters are invalid, PR insisted that the ADUNs resigned on their own. The PR speaker did not even have the courtesy to check with the ADUNs the authenticity of the letters. This has got to be the dungu-est speaker ever or he has to be in on it all along. Secondly, the ex MB announced the dissolution of the assembly only after they have lost the majority. They should have dissolved it while they had the majority and they would be in the right. They also bungled it when they annouced the dissolution before getting royal consent.

Press Releases by Gerakan Leaders

2009-01-20T12:00:00.003+08:00

I just went to Gerakan's main website. There are several press releases by Gerakan leaders recently. Here is what I found : Tan Sri Dr Koh Tsu Koon - 3 Dr Dominic Lau - 2 Sdr Teng Chang Yeow - 1 and Jayanthi - 1.

Three leaders release a press statement for the New Year, Tan Sri Dr Koh Tsu Koon, Sdr Teng Chang Yeow and Dr Dominic Lau as Pemuda Sec-Gen. Isn't it a bit odd to have the Sec-Gen instead of the Ketua Pemuda to release a vision statement for the year?

What has the Ketua Pemuda been doing? The Pemuda Sec-Gen has been releasing press statement with regularity, putting our message across and even engaging a dialogue with the Human Resource Ministry. The Ketua Pemuda must buck up. Wonder if he went to KT for the by election?

Election in Terengganu

2009-01-17T15:33:00.003+08:00

The KT election happens today. A by election after the demise of the previous MP, it has generated excitement never before seen in the history of the town. Millions have been spent, by both sides, to win this little election. It is little because it will have no bearing on the status of the government. What it is, is face. Both cannot afford to lose. One, to maintain the anti govt momentum and the other, to stop it. Dad told me he has been feasting everyday. There has been a feast somewhere in town since nomination day. He went to Gerakan's karaoke event and also the Wei Sin Dinner. He took mom to Tian Kee one morning for an event. He did not go to DAP's events at Ocean restaurant though. Had to pay RM30 plus tips(donations). But he did get reimbursement for mom from both PAS and BN. RM200 each. He also received a carton of oranges from MCA and two oranges hanged at the door from the PAS candidate when he was not at home. The thing is this, by elections are good for the economy. Millions have been spent in the local economy in a matter of days. Ocean and Tian Kee really strike the lottery this time. We should have this thing more often. We should ask the MP to take turns resigning and stimulate the local economy. Pak Lah do not have to lament the lack of local consumption. Elections benefit the local economy and helps the poorest people with direct monetary injection. The multiplier effect is enormous. Elections are good. It is democratic and it helps poor people.

Walk the Talk

2009-01-11T21:47:00.002+08:00

Recently the central has been very concerned with the ''Potong Jalan Syndrome''. A warning has been issued to all states to stay in line as per the constitution with regard to recommending candidates for govt position. The approved flow of decision makers are as follows: branch to state to central. This is to prevent any duplicitous recommendations either by the state or the branch. However a bigger question looms as certain parties have taken advantage of the autocratic decision making process from central to bypass state decisions. We want the central to walk the talk and not talk the walk. But like the crab teaching its progeny to walk, it is harder than it seems. Bikin tak serupa cakap.

Gerak Tumpu Flat Taman Tun Aminah

2009-01-05T11:48:00.001+08:00

Ahli Majlis MBJBT Sdr Ting Pang Seng telah menganjurkan program Gerak Tumpu di rumah pangsa blok 10 hingga 20 bersama Persatuan Penduduk Tun Aminah dan Badan Pengurusan Blok 10-20 pada 4 Januari 2009. Bersama program Gerak Tumpu juga diadakan Pertandingan Pakaian Kanak-Kanak. Acara di rasmikan oleh wakil Ahli Parlimen Gelang Patah Sdr Goh Teck Kuan dan juga Dato Teo Kok Chee, Pengerusi Parti Gerakan Negeri Johor.

State loses face, Central takes over.

2008-12-20T14:47:00.003+08:00

The recent ahli majlis selection process has seen an extention of Central's power play as never before. They have unilaterally called for a second interview for candidates from Mersing. This was a result of intensive lobbying from one of the rejected candidates. Dr Chin and Sec-Gen Teng will be in JB on Friday to interview the candidates again. Apart from that, several state decisions have been reversed, even to the point of extending the normally understood term limit of three. So white can be black and black can be white. It is not what you see is the truth but what I tell you to see is the truth. God help Gerakan.

Looking for Obama in Malaysia

2008-11-08T16:29:00.001+08:00

Yup, Obama won and quite handsomely too. McCain was gracious in defeat, conceding early and promising to work together with the new administration. Our own opposition can learn a thing or two from them on How to Lose 101. They fought hard and sometimes rough. More than a billion dollars was spent on the election. But the money there was all to see. TV ads, billboards, even internet ads. And most of the money, at least on the Obama side, was from small contributions. It shows that every person do matter and can make a difference. The question here in Malaysia is, do we have an Obama here. Someone who will unite us, black or white ( bumi and non-bumi ), inspire us and lead us to a better world. This old one is leaking here and there, and needs too much maintenance. Might not survive in 22nd century. We need change too. Change in thinking. Change in doing things. And most of all, more pocket Change.

Skudai's Predicament

2008-11-06T14:32:00.001+08:00

In Gelang Patah's division meeting last night, a new secretary was elected. Sdr Teo Chu Giap from Lima Kedai replaced Sdr Ting Pang Seng of Taman Universiti. Will we see a new Ahli Majlis representing Gelang Patah this year? Hopefully we can get a candidate that will be able to shoulder the responsibility of winning back the Skudai state seat. Whatever happened to the JPMM post anyway? Last I heard Sdr Koo Shiaw Lee was proposed for the job. However, in the meeting last night, opposition came from Sdr Steven Ou, who at first proposed Sdr Khoo Kong Ek and then later himself for the post.

Well, whoever is chosen will have to work hard to win back Skudai state seat. He or she will have to organised a team to service the area, launch projects to gain goodwill from the population and basically go against the seemingly impossible task of unseating Dr Boo. Good luck to whoever gets the job.

Pulai Division Installation Dinner

2008-11-01T20:51:00.001+08:00

Pulai Division had their installation dinner at Jia Ping Restaurant, T.U.T.A. tonight. The event was formally opened by Dato Teo Kok Chee, Pengerusi Gerakan Negeri Johor. The 50 table event had the usual karaoke event and speeches. Pulai Division is headed by Sdr Hoe Hong Seng

How to get things done and not be jailed under ISA.

2008-10-30T16:48:00.001+08:00

Pasir Gudang division head, Dr Ker Ching Sheng, showed us how a very sensitive case like a loud volumed speaker at a mosque could be handled. The mosque in Johor Jaya recently upgraded their sound system which has been a discomfort to many Johor Jaya residents. The residents brought this to their ADUN but to no avail. The opposition Keadilan passed it around like a hot potato starting with Tian Chua down to the head of division. In the end, Dr Ker's help was sought. He was apprehensive at first because this type of issue can be blown out of proportion and ended up like Theresa Kok. Anyway with advise from the secretary of division, Sdr Koo Shiaw Lee, Dr Ker met with the mosque Iman and explained the predicament. He offered to upgrade the mosque's minaret as a gesture of goodwill by getting the community to chip in. The Iman was so touched he immediatelly adjusted the sound system and all is well again. It goes to show that talking to each other is still the best way of solving these problems.

Rules are rules

2008-10-28T18:42:00.002+08:00

Sunday was the first meeting of the state Pemuda liaison commitee. In a pincer crab movement, Pasir Gudang and Sri Gading questioned the appointment of an AJK without prior approval from CWC. Saudara Steven Au was appointed AJK to take up a CC national position, however in their haste, the state leadership has not made an application to the CWC. Well, rules are rules. There should not be any short cut, no matter who you are. In an unrelated matter, Treasurer Liang Chi publicly questioned former Ketua Pemuda and present Adviser Sdr Koh Kian Siang about the cash in the bank. He wants to know why there is a drastic reduction in the last moment of the previous administration. A suggestion has been brought forward to visit the Parliament this year. YB Liang has promised to make arrangement. New Ketua Pemuda Saudara Yap Cheng Heng declared that the priority for the first half of the year will be recruitment and training. Sdr Kian Hwa from Gelang Patah has been appointed as the coordinator for the recruitment drive.

Unscientific experiment

2008-10-23T17:02:00.001+08:00

A friend called up JB Sin Chew office and asked for Dr Boo's( DAP Skudai ADUN) handphone number. The person from Sin Chew was very defensive and did not want to reveal Dr Boo's number. She said Dr Boo is a very busy person, serving the community and working in his clinic. She added that we should not disturb him. Wow! The vernacular press is really in love with their leaders from DAP. They are also very protective of them even when negative news arises. The DAP leaders are never taken to task for any boo-boos. Nanyang were more accomodating, giving the number without any fuss.

What holds the shoe together

2008-10-21T09:08:00.002+08:00

A secret agent had problems with his latest high tech shoe issued by Q, the technical expert in charge of equipment. So what is the problem,doc asked the agent. It keeps coming off when I run. Hmmmm, Q replied, it seems to be matter of the quantum of shoelace.

The most expensive curry chicken mee

2008-10-20T20:57:00.002+08:00

Today I almost had a heart attack before I ate a cholesterol laden curry chicken mee. It was at Ka Poh noodle house at Dedap, near the Pan Mian shop. I ordered the large curry chicken noodle with chopped chicken. I told them to hold the roast pork and prawns because I did not want the curry chicken noodle to be contaminated with alien stuff. It came in a large bowl. Well, the bowl was large, content was adequate. Then I paid the girl with a ten ringgit note. The girl stood there waiting. Funny, I thought it would be enough, so I asked her. Sebelas ringgit she said. Wow! I haven't eaten but i choked anyway. Ten for noodles and one for the kopi o. Why so expensive? Peha, tuan. I am going to buy Ayamas stock after this, I thought as I savored the most expensive chicken curry noodle ever.

BN direct membership- will it work?

2008-10-18T17:24:00.002+08:00

Pak Lah was thinking aloud when he mentioned direct membership in BN. Apart from Gerakan I don't see any support from any other party for it. Sdr Mah Siew Keong has been peddling this idea for some time but as soon as it came out from Pak Lah's mouth, Shabery from UMNO shot it down as an UMNO killer. Imagine this, if BN was to recruit directly then it would logical for its members to be eligible for Prime Ministership. Now, this and the deputy PM's post have always been UMNO's and if a non-malay under BN membership were allowed to be even deputy PM, that will be the end of UMNO. The reason many Malays join UMNO is because of its historical link with power and privileges. With the loss of 5 states recently, UMNO is not seen as invincible after all and no longer guarantees access to the seat of power. It is getting complicated and more so as time goes by. To change or to remain the same. Decisions, decisions...

The aftermath of NDC 2008

2008-10-14T17:12:00.003+08:00

In the aftermath of NDC 2008, a well worn story of lies, betrayal and hatred lays in its wake. The saga of Paul Yong's betrayal was played out in full view of the youth delegates. NS ex ketua pemuda thought he was in the money, as the saying goes. He was in the same team as the anointed leader of the youth, sdr Lim Si Pin and a bunch of his people was in the dream team as well. As the results rolled out that day, a slow realisation dawned on him as heads rolled one by one. His people was going by the wayside faster that a kangaroo in heat. When his name was announced as the best loser in the timbalan ketua pemuda category, he knew that he was betrayed. Betrayed by the very same person he has supported and partnered all the while. The knife was still sticking to his back as he made his way out from the dewan. He feels hurt but also anger. Probably angry for being so stupid and greedy enough that he lost sight of the game at hand. This is politics. Betrayal was always on the menu.

Si Pin won but at a price

2008-10-10T17:59:00.003+08:00

Sdr Lim Si Pin won the Ketua Pemuda Gerakan post easily. However the team has to sacrifice a "queen" for the victory. Sdr Paul Yong lost the Timbalan Ketua Pemuda post to Sdr Oh Tong Keong who is in the same team as Sdr Chai Tek Loong. In any event, Naib Ketua Pemudas was a mixed group. Sdr Liang Teck Meng, Sdr Vincent Hooi Wy Hon and Sdr David Ang came in ahead of Sdr S.Vijaya Kumar and Sdr Stephen Doss.

One surprising result is the rejection of the non-chinese candidates at the Naib Ketua Pemuda level. I am sure the leadership must be scratching their head over this development when they are trying to promote multi racialism in the party. Sdr Dr Teng Hock Nan even withdrew from the VP race for this reason. Maybe the youth needs more time to accept multi racialism or are we just practicing meritocracy. Either by multiracialism or by meritocracy, we need to get more people from non chinese races to join Gerakan. The party needs to reflect the nation's aspirations and sadly, color, before we can say we are the Party for Malaysians.

Election

2008-10-09T10:12:00.003+08:00

D-day starts tomorrow. As the delegates make their way to the impressive Gerakan building from all over the country to select our future leaders, one thing will definitely be on our collective minds. What direction will Gerakan take after this? We are at an important juncture in the history of the party. In our hands, we have the power to choose the party's destiny. Are we going to be what we said we are, a non racial approach to justice and equality or are we going to play the zero sum game of ''them and us''? Can Gerakan members rise to its initial vision forged in the idealistic 60s or are we one with Borg and there is just no escape. Move It believe that if we stick to our original principles and voted in good honest hardworking people who believe in the Gerakan way, we can do no wrong. We have a choice. Change or Perish.

Meeting Lim Si Pin

2008-10-06T09:11:00.002+08:00

Met Sdr Lim last night at Bamboo Garden Seafood restaurant. He spoke well, in mandarin no less but did not elaborate on any issues. It is a safe speech. Paul Yong on the other hand sounded apologetic for the involvement of fellow Negeri gerakan member Chai Tek Loong in the Ketua Pemuda race. There was no need to explain why somebody else is a candidate. After all Gerakan practises democracy, any one can offer themselves for any post. There is no need to be selected or pre approved. The food was good but the order of delivery a bit strange. The rice came in the middle of the course. Wondered who paid?

Sdr Lim Si Pin will be in town tomorrow.

2008-10-04T10:28:00.001+08:00

Sdr Lim Si Pin aka Ketua Pemuda Candidate will be in town tomorrow to meet all the division leaders and delegates. The meeting will be held in Pelangi somewhere at 730pm. I hope to attend. It will be an opportunity to listen to what he had to say. Anyway most of the Johor leadership is already in his camp. Sdr Liang Teck Meng is already competing for VP under his banner. So is Sdr Yap Cheng Heng, for the AJK post. In any case, two is not enough. Johor has the most represetatives in the delegates count and also in government representation. By right, Johor should be leading the charge and not be mere followers. At the least, one of our YBs should be competing for the deputy or even the Ketua post. Unless of course, they think they just don't have the head to fit the hat. I say, nothing ventured nothing gained. Let the games begin.

Why people quit their jobs?

2008-10-03T09:52:00.002+08:00

Auntie has called Koo up and asked him to reconsider his decision to quit. In actual fact, the decision has been difficult for Koo. The straw that broke the camel's back was the incident with the three ladies from Kulai. He did not expect people that he had helped and was on friendly terms with would stab him in the back. There was also the betrayal of his boss in the youth election. A boss that is willing to sell out his most loyal supporters for an extra 50 votes he does not need, will one day sell Koo out too. And at that time Koo might not have a lucrative job offer waiting for him. Koo cannot afford to be without a job, even for month. The boss should understand that this is not personal, just good common sense. The Boss' conduct did not encourage the confidence that his people will be taken care off. His supporters are just bargaining chips to be used at appropriate times to gain advantage over the opponents. Understandable but not a right conduct in our Liu Bei's mind. This kind of leadership is morally wrong.PERIOD

Sdr Chai Tek Loong- the maverick Ketua Pemuda Nasional candidate

2008-10-02T16:53:00.002+08:00

Met Sdr Chai Tek Loong today near Goodhope Hotel. He was doing his rounds of the various states to gather support for his bid to be the Ketua Pemuda Nasional against Sdr Lim Si Pin. It will be an uphill battle against the present Deputy. In fact most of Johor reps have already move in behind Sdr Lim this time. There is even a bus to take delegates up this time. Sdr Chai even got us to sign the nomination forms for him. He was also willing to submit our nomination forms for Johnson and me. Looks like Move It will be on the ballot again.

The state executive secretary and Central Liaison Officer quits.

2008-10-02T09:54:00.001+08:00

Sdr Koo Shiaw Lee quits his post as the state executive secretary and CLO on Tuesday in a letter to the state secretary, Sdr Cheong Chin Liang. He has decided to quit working for the party to concentrate on his career. He will pick up his career as a HR executive in a well known local bakery cum bistro.

Dr Teng told them to bugger off

2008-10-01T09:54:00.001+08:00

I am beginning to have new found respect for Dr Teng. In a statement, he told both MCA and UMNO to basically bugger off and mind their own business. Whether our members wants to be in or out of BN is our own business. Bravo Dr Teng!! That is right. It is our right to choose. Not even the president of Gerakan can tell us what we want. We still have democracy in this party.

Letter Of Reminder

2008-09-25T18:02:00.001+08:00

Letter of Protest to NESC Pemuda

2008-09-25T12:36:00.004+08:00

Lai Kee Kong (F0069411)
D0706 Sri Wangi Apt
Taman Tampoi Indah
81200 Johor Bahru

Pengerusi
Jawatankuasa Penyelian Pemilihan Nasional
Pemuda Parti Gerakan Rakyat Malaysia
Level 5 Menara PGRM
8 Jalan Pudu Ulu
56100 Kuala Lumpur 17 September 2008

Saudara,
Per: Bantahan Terhadap Pemilihan Pemuda Gerakan Johor yang di adakan pada 14 September 2008.

Merujuk kepada perkara di atas, kami ingin membuat bantahan terhadap Pemilihan dan juga Persidangan Perwakilan Pemuda Gerakan Negeri Johor yang telah diadakan pada 14 September 2008.
Bantahan ini berteraskan perkara-perkara berikut:
1. Senarai nama perwakilan diragui.

Senarai nama perwakilan yang digunakan untuk persidangan dan pemilihan adalah berlainan. Senarai nama perwakilan pada hari pencalonan dan juga yang disemak oleh kami adalah bercanggah dengan yang digunakan untuk pemilihan.

Terdapat seorang wakil yang dibenarkan mendaftar untuk persidangan tetapi tidak dibenarkan untuk membuat pemilihan kerana namanya tidak tersenarai.

Pada hari pencalonan Sdr Ramon Yeo dari Bahagian Pasir Gudang telah ditolak pencalonan beliau diatas sebab penyokong yang bukan wakil. Setelah membuat semakkan, kami dapati penyokong tersebut adalah seorang Ketua Bahagian dan dengan tersendirinya adalah seorang wakil. ( Peraturan Pemilihan Pemuda PGRM 2008 3.2(b))

Ini menunjukkan senarai nama perwakilan di hari pencalonan dan juga yang disemak oleh kami adalah tidak tepat dan berkemungkinan mempunyai kesalahan-kesalahan lain yang lebih besar. Sdr Ramon Yeo juga telah kehilangan peluang untuk bertanding diatas kesilapan ini.

2. Persidangan and Pemilihan yang tidak mengikut peraturan

Persidangan dan Pemilihan Pemuda Gerakan Johor tidak mengikut peraturan yang ditetapkan. Pengerusi majlis dan agen pemilihan tidak dipilih sebelum pemilihan dijalankan. Pihak penyelia membuat keputusan bahawa penyelia-penyelia dari nasional di pilih sebagai agen pemilihan. Ini bercanggahkan dengan Peraturan Pemilihan Pemuda PGRM 2008 7.0(b) yang mengatakan agen pemilihan perlulah seorang yang layak mengundi pada persidangan Perwakilan tersebut. Pihak kami telah menghantar sekeping faks untuk melantik seorang agen pemilihan 24 jam sebelum pemilihan kepada pihak penyelia.

Perlantikkan Pengerusi majlis juga dicurigai kerana Sdr Hew Chin yang dilantik bukanlah seorang wakil ke Persidangan Perwakilan tersebut. Perlantikkan pengerusi majlis juga telah diadakan setelah pemilihan di jalankan. Ini bercanggah dengan peraturan dan juga agenda yang ditetapkan.

Keadaan kucar kacir dan huru hara di dewan pemilhan juga menyebabkan beberapa perwakilan tidak membuang undi. Pengurusan pemilihan tidak berjalan dengan lancar dan telah mengugatkan prisip demokrasi parti.

Salah seorang daripada pegawai pemilihan mempunyai kepentingan yang diragui dimana suami beliau diketahui umum menyebelahi salah sebuah pihak yang bertanding. Ketelusan pemilihan terjejas dengan kehadiran dan penglibatan pegawai pemilihan ini.

3. Lain-lain perkara berkaitan

Pada hari pencalonan, Sdr Koh Kian Siang dan juga Sdr Hew Chin telah menjadi penyelia. Mereka berdua adalah Ahli Jawatankuasa Pemuda Gerakan Johor dan mempunyai kepentingan yang diragui. Sepatutnya Jawatankuasa Penyeliaan Pemilihan Nasional menghantar seorang penyelia yang tiada kepentingan untuk menyelia pencalonan pada hari tersebut. Dengan adanya dua orang penyelia yang berkepentingan di dalam Pemuda Gerakan Johor, ketelusan dan keadilan proses tersebut adalah terjejas terutamanya kepada Sdr Ramon Yeo.

Dengan ini, kami meminta Jawatankuasa Penyelian Pemilihan Nasional membuat penyiasatan terperinci dan telus untuk membaikpulihkan keadaan yang kini menurut perlembagaan adalah tidak sah terutama dengan wujudnya dua senarai nama perwakilan ditandatangani oleh Sdr Ho Saw Hoo yang telah digunakan pada pemilihan kali ini. Perkara ini perlu diselesaikan dengan segera supaya Pemilihan Pemuda Nasional tidak terjejas pada bulan Oktober kelak.

Sekian, terima kasih.

SATU HATI

Yang benar,

Lai Kee Kong
0197507006

Sk Saudara Mah Siew Keong
Saudara Hoo Saw Ho
Saudara Dr Koh Tsu Koon

Chinese Version of Mar Chon Hang letter

2008-09-25T12:32:00.001+08:00

24.09.2008

致：卸任柔佛州民青团团长许景翔同志

潜水艇论

首先，恭喜你已完成担任两届州团团长的使命。再恭喜您荣任新届州民青团顾问。

我并不认同您在2008年州民青团代表大会上所讲的潜水艇论，您说很多州代表在平时不出来活动，可是在改选时却出来竞选高职。据我所知，您本身在这两届所领导的州团里最能配合您的也是这些所谓的潜水艇论的人。“做人要将心比心”，正所谓“无功也有劳”，您不能因个人利益而语无伦次的抹杀这些人几年来的功劳。

您要扪心自问，是谁平常载你东南西北的出席各项宴会或活动？是谁时常看到您因找不到人帮你而又无厌无悔的帮您？是谁在您出席友族活动时帮你写讲稿？是谁在2008年载您去各分团？是谁在2008年区团改选时代某一民青领袖监督选举？是谁在我们州团这一届唯一大型宴会时帮您撮合我团和中国云南西双版那歌舞团？是谁和您一起出席2007年总团长在安顺举办的新春团拜？谁又是您唯一可商量的人？吉兰丹州代表大会又是谁为了帮您壮大柔佛州民青团的声势而一起出席？

您所说的党有竞争，才有进步，大家比表现，比领导能力及服务精神。可是，在这次的州改选中我们所看到的是您讲一套，做一套，以您这样的领袖并没有政治情操，只懂得安排所属人选上台，并排挤那些不顺从您家长式安排的人，您要知道在这民主选举的程序，任何一个合格党员都有资格竞选任何的党职。

在州团代表大会上您所谓的州团推荐人选并没有在州团会议上通过，当时我们某一个州委想推荐另一位人选时就被当时的州团秘书所干扰，所以我们并不能有效的发表，以上的做法有欠民主精神可言，而是以您个人主义所领导。

您一直强调除了您所属意的两位人选并没有第三人选出现，可是在改选前三个月里，当时还是您朋友的我们已无数次告知您州团一职将会有竞争，可您却不当一回事，充耳不闻，犹如患上了前香港艺人宫雪花一样的“选择性失忆症”。

我自问并没对不起柔佛州民青团，为党付出的并不少，可是得到的却是一位像您这样的一位领袖，值得吗？谢谢您带我上了这宝贵而又毕生难忘的一课，让我看到了政治的真伪！再一次的谢谢您。

祝您前程似锦，一帆风顺，步步高升

( 马遵汉 ) 启
F0041306

副本：
民青总团长马袖强同志
民青总秘书贺绍和同志
民青全体中委
全国代主席许子根博士同志
总秘书谢宽泰同志
柔佛州联委会主席张国智同志

EGM to decide BN membership

2008-09-25T09:47:00.001+08:00

As a founding member of Barisan Nasional, it is understandable why we find it difficult to tear away from BN. The leaders are suggesting an EGM to discuss and decide on the issue. The reason given why the issue will not be decided at the NDC is because other issues ie. election are already on the table. Well, as long as we are going to do something about it, then it is fine. No point ignoring the pink elephant in the room.

Hell has no fury as a brother spurned.

2008-09-25T09:33:00.003+08:00

Sdr Mah Chon Hang from Sri Gading has written an open letter to former Ketua Pemuda Johor, Sdr Koh Kian Sian. In it he pours out his grievances on the allegations stated by Sdr Koh at the Persidangan Perwakilan Pemuda recently. Sdr Koh alleges that certain people are like submarines who only surface during elections for higher post. Sdr Mah lamented the selective memory that the former Ketua Pemuda seems to be afflicted with during the election. He also thanked Sdr Koh for the lesson in politics.

To: Former Ketua Pemuda Gerakan Johor Sdr Koh Kian Siang

The Submarine Allegation

First of all, congratulations to you having completed two terms as Ketua Pemuda Gerakan Johor. Congratulations too on your appointment as the new Pemuda Gerakan Johor Advisor.

I disagree with what you said in your speech at the Persidangan Perwakilan Pemuda Negeri Johor 2008 the other day. In your speech, you mentioned that many Pemuda members do not come out and participate in activities but only surface during election period to go for higher posts. According to what I know, those who you allegedly accused as submariners are those who helped you the most and the most cooperative during your two terms tenure. You have to ask yourself truthfully if these allegations are valid. These people have given you their blood, sweat and tears. You should not discount their hard work and contributions for your own personal and political advantage.

You have to look into your heart and asked who are the people who ferried you here and there and around Johor and beyond for functions and other activities? Who are the people who lend out their helping hand when you have no one to turn to for help? Who are the people who outlined your speeches for multi racial functions? Who are the people who drove and accompanied you to a couple of 2008 Pemuda branch elections all around Johor? Who are the people who stood in to help supervise the 2008 Pemuda Gelang Patah election when a youth leader could not carry out his responsibilities? Who are the people who helped you to liaise with the Yunnan Xi Shuan Ban Na dance troupe and made the most successful and the only event that the Pemuda Johor has ever organized? Who are the people who travelled to Teluk Intan with you for the 2007 Chinese New Year Open House organized by Sdr Mah Siew Keong? Who are the people who you can always count on, pour your sorrows and discussed your troubles with? Who are the people who represented Pemuda Johor and attended the Persidangan Perwakilan Negeri Kelantan with you?

You commented that the party can only progress if there is competition and we should rate leaders by their performance, leadership and services. However, you did not practice what you have lectured. You are not true to your word as you have shown favourtism and you only arrange for your favourite candidates to take the centre stage and ostracized those who disobeyed your paternalistic arrangement. You should know that election is all about democracy. Any qualified delegate is eligible to take part.

As I recalled, there is no show-of-hand during the last state youth committee meeting. No candidates are unanimously crowned as the “state youth recommended candidates”. Your disciples didn’t get my vote and my blessing. Mine and many others. One committee member was about to speak his piece but he was rudely interrupted by our previous state youth secretary. This kind of behavior obstructs democracy and shows your autocratic tendencies.

You keep on stressing that there are only two known candidates for the Ketua Pemuda election even though we have told you repeatedly that there will be a third candidate. The candidate himself has informed his intention to compete in the election to you, but you turned a deaf ear as if you have contracted selective amnesia. We told you three months before the election and you are in denial for three months.

I have did Pemuda Johor no wrong. As a matter of fact, I have given my fair share to the party. Do I deserve a leader like you? Is it worth it??? Thanks for the painstaking lesson in enlightening me on what really is politics. Thank you.

Satu Hati – as long as we follow your Hati. Now I get it.

Yours faithfully,

Mar Chon Hang
F0041306

Cc Sdr Mah Siew Keong
Sdr Ho Saw Hoo
Ahli Jawatankuasa Pemuda Nasional Gerakan
Sdr Dr Koh Tsu Koon
Sdr Chia Kwan Chye
Sdr Teo Kok Chee
Ahli Jawatankuasa Pemuda Negeri Johor

Pemuda NESC still working?

2008-09-23T09:47:00.003+08:00

Almost a week ago Move It sent a letter of protest to the Pemuda NESC. It was mainly about the existence of two voting lists used in the state election. Until today, there has been no response from the Pemuda NESC. No acknowledgement whether by fax, email, telephone nor snail mail. This is highly disturbing considering what implications the matter can bring. The national conference is about two weeks away and we still have no news about it. What is happening up there? Is anybody home?

Update: received letter for Pemuda NDC today, phew!!! JIT

Gerakan next move

2008-09-21T10:15:00.002+08:00

NDC is next month, 10 October. Most members are thinking sayonara to BN. The leaders is still thinking 'wait and see'. Conversations with the leaders revealed that they are waiting for reforms in UMNO. They believed that there are people in UMNO who wants reform and will change BN into a workable party. The question now is, how many of us believe this could be true. Frankly, we could not see the any changes that will be implemented by the reformist in UMNO. It will business as usual and Gerakan will still be saddled with a chain around its neck, unable to face its constituency of the non racialist for just and equitable society. The problem here is timing. The question is not if but when.

Problem in Pemuda Nasional

2008-09-19T11:54:00.002+08:00

It is now 19 September 2008, exactly 21 days before the National Delegates Conference. I wonder if the Pemuda has issued the notice as required by the Constitution. No one has received the notice to date.

The ex Ketua Pemuda Negeri Johor went around looking for division heads to confirm the name list for the attendees because he claimed they need to make hotel arrangement. I wonder what is the present Ketua Pemuda Negeri doing about this matter since the ex Ketua Pemuda is no longer a pemuda and should not be involved in its matters. The Ketua Pemuda Negeri better buck up lest be accused of being a submarine. Or worse, a puppet.

Letter of protest

2008-09-18T09:52:00.002+08:00

Sent a letter of protest to HQ yesterday. The main point of contention was existence of two separate voting lists. One was used for nomination, registration and checking, and another for voting. It is a serious transgression and the HQ should viewed it as so. I hope they don't try to sweep it under the carpet but instead face it head on and take whatever steps necessary to rectify the matter. We don't want the matter to be taken to the next level. We do hope a solution will be found for this serious infringement of democratic right. Actually there were many serious mistakes in the Pemuda Election the other day but most serious of all is not technical nor procedural but moral. The previous Ketua Pemuda claimed that we are a bunch of submarines who surfaces only during elections. That statement really hurt many people in our team who has sacrificed their time and money during his tenure. He seemed to have forgotten the people that drove him around the state, help him with his speeches and attended his functions. Sad.

Why did the ex-Ketua Pemuda say such things?

2008-09-16T16:56:00.002+08:00

Koh Kian Siang said we did not did not deserve to win because we did not participate in youth activities and did not come to meetings. Although I must admit I did not often go to meetings because I was working, the point of the matter is 'what was achieved in all those meetings.' The only activity by the youth in 2007 was the Semtek courses for SPM students apart from meetings and attending functions. Technically they are not activities because the youth have no part in organising them. Let's not kid ourselves. The previous youth head did not do his job as evidenced by the chaotic and ridiculous sharing of meeting venue with Wanita. The election was contested under shameful and laughable conditions. We hope we do not have to endure the same conditions again next year. But that would be easy, the post set is so low. It will be a cinch.

Now what?

2008-09-16T16:23:00.002+08:00

The state election is over, now what? We sort of miss the frenzy we endured the last couple of weeks together. There is a sense of restlessness after an invigorating battle. We were trounced alright but it was more because of an act of betrayal rather than lack of effort. We will have to reorganised and focus our effort to help Gerakan in other ways. Dr Ker just came back from a meeting with the MB. Basically the MB told us to go f@?k ourselves. We were never considered for any ahli majlis post in Pasir Gudang. He even challenge us to withdraw from BN. Looks like this is the end of road for Gerakan in Johor. Wonder which side Gerakan will be in the next general election, BN, PR or ours?

We lost

2008-09-15T19:52:00.005+08:00

We lost the election. Everyone lost except Er Kok Liang who was on both tickets. The massive swing in votes was mostly due to bounced pledges by Segamat and Muar-Bakri divisions. Controlled by the Boss, the delegates did not show up. It was an arrangement with certain people to ensure he wins big for the chairman post. This betrayal was a slap in our face and taught us a valuable lesson. There were also inconsistencies in the voting list. Hanky panky is suspected when a delegate was not allowed to vote even though he was on the state's copy of the voting list. The team is now tired and disappointed but we will not go away just like that. The team has grown and will grow further with time. It will a team of the committed and the believers of truth and the Gerakan philosophy.

Election day

2008-09-14T11:58:00.001+08:00

Me and Eric

Dr Koh in Skudai

2008-09-14T00:20:00.001+08:00

Dr Koh, Dato Teo Kok Chee and Dato Chang Ko Youn eating supper at Restoran Segar Segar in Skudai.

Campaign Trail

2008-09-13T15:09:00.001+08:00

We have completed the Johor Gerakan Youth circuit. We met many leaders and most have pledged support. Tomorrow we will know if those pledges can be cashed in. I hope none of the pledges bounce. If the pledges do bounce, we will know who to blame. That is politics. There are no permanent enemies nor friends. Just a common interest. To win at all cost. Which of course reminds me of the movie ''Stormriders''. Those familar with the story line will know what I mean. ''Stormriders 2'' is coming up. Wonder how it ends?

ISA arrests could be the tipping point?

2008-09-13T14:21:00.001+08:00

Recent ISA arrests could be the tipping point for Anwar. Even though Move It os against any undemocratic process of taking power, the sentiment has shifted after the BN govt gave up on winning over hearts and minds and decided on incarcerating them instead. It is the biggest mistake BN could make. If the course of action taken by BN continues in this vein, Gerakan will have no choice but seriously rethink our role in BN. Gerakan has not condone the use of ISA against anyone because we believe existing laws are more than enough to deal with the situation. Is this where history will point out as the tipping point? Time will tell.

Batu Pahat Campaign

2008-09-11T21:48:00.001+08:00

The team minus two at Batu Pahat.

Batu Pahat campaign

2008-09-11T19:52:00.001+08:00

With Batu Pahat leaders at Carrefour.

On the campaign trail

2008-09-11T09:21:00.001+08:00

Politics in its meaning is the struggle or distribution of power. However, in this few days on the campaign trail, I have found that it is also about building relationships and connecting with people. Meeting youth delegates, branch leaders and division heads have made me realised that we have much in common apart from being a member of Parti Gerakan. Over a cup of tea or coffee, we could talk about issues affecting our country, party and even a little of gossip on party members as well. Being in the same party gives us instant connection even though he might be a 30 years veteran who in agriculture. The Ahmad Ismail issue matter just as much to us as to them. Above all is the issue of where Gerakan will be heading. Everyone wants to know and the leaders better have some answers come October's NDC.

The Politicians are on holiday

2008-09-09T12:16:00.003+08:00

The events in Penang this past week has been disturbing to say the least. We have a politician without any government position stoking the fire of racialism with every other sentence uttered. And we have a PM which is incensed but paralyzed with electoral calculations. And then we have the Chinese, who must be boiling with rage, as expected, considering the provocation by the provocateur.

Is this a trap? A trap to stir up the hornet's nest and make life miserable for the rest of us. We should all be vigilant and not take the bait to chaos and anarchy.

Of course, to spice it all up, Anwar has offered us the poison apple of 916. If the shift do occur, we are to blame for electing these unprincipled opportunist. It is us who elected these clowns.

This circus has to stop. The country is in an economic crisis and nobody is at the counter. Help!!!!!!

To be outspoken without fear or favor

2008-09-09T09:50:00.001+08:00

Gerakan members need to be more outspoken. One of the reason of our loss in the previous election was the perception that Gerakan has not spoken out against the excesses of the government. We must again take the mantle our founding fathers have left us. Speaking out with fear and favor will make us relevant once again.

To promote Gerakan Ideology

2008-09-09T09:48:00.001+08:00

We believe in the Gerakan ideology of the non racial approach to justice and equality. We believe it is vital that this universal approach is adopted if Malaysia is to develop further. The Rukunegara should be the backbone of the nation as it reflects the Gerakan Ideology.

To be sensitive and proactive

2008-09-09T09:47:00.001+08:00

Gerakan members starting with the youth needs to be more sensitive to the needs and wants of the rakyat. Those in power will have to be clean, efficient and trustworthy as demanded by the rakyat. Those who are not will have to assist leaders in position by bringing problems and shortcomings of the government to the leaders with position.

To educate and motivate

2008-09-09T09:45:00.001+08:00

Education is the key to arm the Gerakan youth to face the future. A knowledgeable and politically savvy member will be a great asset to the party. They will be able to respond and face any opponent in the political arena. Motivation goes along with education to provide the desire to succeed. A motivated member will be able to achieve great things. Education should also include lessons on intergrity. Honest politicians should be cultivated and encouraged.

To promote democracy

2008-09-09T09:39:00.001+08:00

We believe in elections not selection. Elections are a tool for democracy and should be free and fair. Only with free elections can we choose the leaders we want to lead us.There should not be any unseen hand trying to negotiate a selection. Keen competition is the only way to revitalize the party.

5 reasons why we compete

2008-09-09T09:33:00.001+08:00

Over the past couple of months, I have written about why I want to compete. The reasons conceptualized here is now OURS. 1. To promote democracy 2. To educate and motivate 3. To be sensitive and proactive 4. To promote Gerakan ideology 5. To be outspoken without fear or favor

Pictures from the nomination

2008-09-08T15:57:00.001+08:00

Ting Pang Seng picking the ping pong balls with gusto

Nomination Day - Johor Gerakan

2008-09-07T13:03:00.002+08:00

Nomination for Johor Gerakan was held at the party headquarters in Skudai. As expected, the state chairman post is contested by three candidates. Sdr Dato Teo Kok Chee, Sdr Wong Kau and Sdr Dr Ker Ching Sheng. The wanita chairman post was uncontested and won by Tai Mun from Ledang.

It is a straight contest for the youth post. Lai Kee Kong AKA Move It will be facing Yap Cheng Heng for the Ketua Pemuda post. It is a team fight with each coming out with a team of AJKs, Wakil Nasional Pemuda and also Wakil Nasional. The team for Move It team wll be as follows :

Ketua Pemuda
1. Lai Kee Kong

AJK
2. Teo Poh Thong
3. Tan Yang Kuok
4. Jason Lim Hee Kueng
5. Chong Fook Yen
6. Chin Woon Yin
7. Er Kok Liang

Wakil Pemuda Nasional
2. Lee Chong Beng
3. Chiam Kim Hui
4. Er Kok Liang

Wakil Nasional
2. Lok Chee Ching
3. Lim Yak Chai
4. Tan Yang Kuok
5. Er Kok Liang

Pemuda Gerakan Election List

2008-09-07T12:49:00.000+08:00

Ketua Pemuda
1. Lai Kee Kong
2. Yap Cheng Heng
AJK
1. Yong Meng Chai
2. Teo Poh Thong
3. Tan Yang Kuok
4. Jason Lim Hee Kueng
5. Chong Fook Yen
6. Chin Woon Yin
7. Er Kok Liang
8. Lee Choong Ong
9. Lim Tian Leong
10. Chong Fook Yen
11. Ee Kian Hwa
Wakil Ke Nasional Pemuda
1. Yong Meng Chai
2. Lee Chong Beng
3. Chiam Kim Hui
4. Er Kok Liang
5. Ee Kian Hwa
6. Lim Tian Leong
7. Tan Tian Chun
8. Lee Boon Hong
Wakil ke Nasional
1. Yong Mew Chai
2. Lok Chee Ching
3. Lim Yak Chai
4. Tan Yang Kuok
5. Er Kok Liang
6. Tay Choon Yang
7. Liang Teck Meng
8. Chong Chen Kook

Nomination day 2008

2008-09-07T11:02:00.001+08:00

Submitting the forms.

Nomination day 2008

2008-09-07T10:54:00.001+08:00

Submitting the forms.

Pemuda Election- Gerakan Johor 2008

2008-09-06T14:31:00.003+08:00

Elections can bring out the worst in people. In an ideal election, candidates will agree to disagree and slug it out with their vision and ideals and in the end let the delegates to decide. However in this less than ideal world, things are not that simple. Some people with an interest in the outcome will go all out to sling mud at the opposition and as they say, if you sling enough mud, some will stick.

Move It has pledge that we will not stoop so low just to win an election. We wish the delegates to judge us on our merits and make the right choice on election day. We wish to see a clean, honest contest and may the best men win. Whoever wins will have the difficult job of reconciling the pemuda movement back together again to achieve Gerakan's aim of a for a truly Malaysian non-racial approach towards the attainment of a united, secular and socially just Malaysia.

Election or Selection

2008-09-04T09:49:00.002+08:00

Election is when the people choose its leader. Selection is when the leader is chosen for the people. In a democracy, leaders are elected to reflect the wishes of the people. The people gets to choose from a buffet of candidates to represent them. The candidates freely offer themselves for election, accepting the fact if they are not chosen, they will accept the decision because the people has spoken. However in a Selection, a cabal of people with special interest will pre select the candidates and discourage competition in favour of 'unity'. This well known ploy is the reason for the collapse in empires and governments all through history. Ferdinand Marcos was famous for holding power by emergency rule, thus limiting people's choice. The communist could not stand more than a century in Russia because of the inbreeding caused by limited choice. In a democracy, we need choice, much like when we go shopping for instant noodles. Although we always come back with Maggi but it is nice to know we could choose from a wide variety of brands like Cintan, Mamee, Koka with different flavours unique to each of the brand. Democracy is about the power to choose.

Why vote Move It

2008-09-02T13:32:00.002+08:00

We have a team now. A small group of the concerned and committed will be the core. To make sure the team is balanced, representatives from a wide geographical area are invited. It will be a team representative of Johor's pemuda. Last night was a watershed. The expected competitors sat down with us and had a pow wow. In the end, we agree to disagree because we are committed to the cause and could not join their team. But we assured them even if we were not elected, we will still be committed to Gerakan and will still be available to serve. It is now time to think of what we want for the future of Gerakan. Move It promises a committed team to get Gerakan moving again. Be relevant, be true and be committed.

Kerk to go for Johor Gerakan chief's post?

2008-08-25T22:28:00.002+08:00

http://www.sun2surf.com/article.cfm?id=25097
KUALA LUMPUR (Aug 25, 2008) : Eight Gerakan divisions in Johor want former national deputy president Datuk Seri Dr Kerk Choo Ting to go for the state chief’s post but Kerk is mum whether he would accept their endorsements.

According to a report in Oriental Daily News today, at a meeting of more than 100 delegates from the eight south Johor divisions in Johor Baru on Saturday night, their representatives spoke of the need for change in Gerakan state leadership to reinvigorate the party so that it will not be marginalised within the Barisan Nasional.

In a unanimous decision, the divisions decided to nominate Kerk to take on incumbent Datuk Teo Kok Chee.

A representative from Simpang Renggam, Tay Kok King, said delegates should vote with their heads and not their hearts if they want to save the party.

He also said to save Gerakan, there must be changes to the party and strengthening of its leadership.

Kulai delegate Ang Ho Tiong said Johor Gerakan needs a leader who can foster better relationship with the mentri besar.

He believed someone who had been a minister, a deputy minister or an MP would make a good candidate.

Another delegate concurred with Ang, saying the present leadership does not enjoy a very cordial relationship with the menteri besar.

News from the battle front.

2008-08-25T09:56:00.002+08:00

The Anti Teo Kok Chee faction had their pre nomination dinner at Bamboo restaurant in Pelangi on Saturday night. There were about 6 tables although the China Press mentioned 100 people attended the function. The faction aka The Kulai Gang faction gathered members from 10 divisions for the dinner in support of Sdr Kerk Choo Ting for the state chairman post. There were even 4 representatives from Pasir Gudang division. Surprisingly even potential candidate Sdr Low Kok Guan was there too. Maybe he has thrown in the towel and has decided to be a supporter. A plausible explaination was that he has failed to get the faction's endorsement and realised the futility of the endeavour. Dr Ker was not there but two of his most trusted lieutenants were. Ah Hai and Ah Tey were at the dinner. Was this a spying mission or have they become frogs? Interesting!! Or maybe it is the lure of free food.

Koh Fights Back

2008-08-22T14:18:00.001+08:00

NST Online » Columns
2008/08/22
'Docile' Koh steals the show
David Yeow

IT seems former Penang chief minister Tan Sri Koh Tsu Koon has had enough of the public snipping by his successor Lim Guan Eng.
The usually composed and scholarly-looking, some even say docile, Koh was a changed man when he took to the rostrum in the televised public debate with Lim over land issues in the state.

While both men were equally fluent in Bahasa Malaysia and firmly sold in their beliefs that they were in the right, it was Koh who stole the show.

From the first bell by moderator Dewan Bahasa dan Pustaka chairman and New Straits Times columnist Datuk Johan Jaafar, Koh took on a combative attitude and clearly thumped Lim, point after point and even left room to chide Lim's supporters who turned a tad unruly towards the end of the night.

"We are having a gentlemanly debate here, let's behave professionally and be civilised about it," Koh said coolly, immediately silencing a jeering portion of the crowd who were unhappy when he accused Lim of always blaming others while not doing enough himself.
Even online journalist Wan Hamidi Hamid, who was on Lim's side, was taken to task when he suggested in his long question to Koh that the former chief minister was afraid of or covering up for Umno.

"That's not a question, that's an accusation," Koh said steely and the journalist was visibly taken aback.

The debate, titled Kisah Benar Di Sebalik Kontroversi Tanah di Pulau Pinang (The truth behind the land controversy in Penang) and organised by online news portal AgendaDaily, did not reveal anything that has not been reported by newspapers over the past few months.

For much of the 45-minute debate, Lim accused Koh of cover-up, while the latter countered that the former was flogging a dead horse and repeating half truths.

The alleged cover-up involved DAP's discovery that the previous Barisan Nasional state government had alienated a plot of land (initially thought to have belonged to the state government, but later found to be private land) to a quarry operator. The operator has filed a claim for RM40 million which the previous state government is challenging in court.

Lim repeatedly questioned Koh and his government over the lack of stern action against the culprit responsible for the "loss", except to give a warning letter to the Land Office staff.

Lim even insinuated that the reason Koh made little mention of the case until he brought up the issue was because certain Umno politicians were involved in the wheeling and dealing.

Koh countered Lim's accusation by saying that his administration had investigated the "mistake" in awarding the 4.3ha land to the quarry operator before handing over the probe to the Anti-Corruption Agency.

"What cover-up? When the ACA said there was no evidence of fraud, I was not happy.

"We formed a committee and re-investigated the case internally. We forwarded the case again to the ACA for another probe."

Koh said as the ACA again found that there was no fraud, no other action could be taken against the officer for the "mistake".

He chided Lim for not re-opening the case and conducting his own investigation and bringing the issue to the ACA if he was adamant that there was a "scandal".

Koh also took to task Lim's assertion that the state government had already lost the RM40 million even though the case was still being fought in the courts.

"We believe that the damages are not worth RM40 million. We believe we have a case. That's why I did not 'reveal' the issue because the legal process is not over yet.

"But did the opposition reveal this point? No, they just gave up and played up the claim that we have lost RM40 million. This is his half truth."

Koh's "killing blow" came towards the end of the night, when he turned the tables on Lim.

Arguing that if Lim only had the RM40 million case and a few other yet-to-be proven "land scams" against the previous state government, then they were only giving credence to their impeccable track record.

"The Penang government approves an average of 500 land transactions a year.

"Meaning that in our (BN) 18 years there, we approved more than 10,000 land deals.

"If the RM40 million case and a few others are all they can throw at us, this means that we have a success rate of 99.9 per cent," Koh exclaimed, while Lim quickly stared at his notes to avoid eye contact.

As if acknowledging he had walked into a trap, Lim admitted at a press conference later that the public debate would not have been necessary if Koh had accepted his invitation to meet him to discuss the land "scandals".

In an immediate response, Koh said Lim had indeed, through media reports, offered to talk about the issue amicably.

"But in less than 24 hours, he started blasting me in the papers, claiming the previous government and I had committed fraud.

"So I decided that a debate was the best place to reveal the whole truth as everyone could hear for themselves the facts."

Gerakan's "Mr Nice Guy" is a formidable foe when crossed.

News from the battle front. ,

2008-08-21T18:07:00.002+08:00

Saturday could be a momentous event in Johor Gerakan history. A group of anti Teo Kok Chee faction has organised a dinner at the restaurant in the golfing range in Pelangi. They have invited Sdr Kerk Choo Ting to show support for his candidacy for the state chairmanship. Now, most people would have thought that KCT being a good friend of TKC would hesitate to take the offer. But we all know how power gets into your head, even with just a promise of power. Interestingly, the JB division chairman works at the restaurant. Now, the question is: what is on the menu and who is going to pay for the food?

Perak starts the ball rolling

2008-08-18T10:04:00.002+08:00

Perak State Delegates Conference has started the discussion everyone in Gerakan has had in their mind ever since the March election. To withdraw or not to withdraw from Barisan Nasional. Even as we contemplate this move, pieces of Gerakan is falling off the wagon as evidenced by the Lee Kah Choong, Tan Kee Kwong and Toh Kin Woon affairs. The leadership cannot ignore the pink elephant in the room any longer. The matter must be addressed comprehensively in the next NDC. If enough states resolve to have this matter on the plate, the leadership will have no choice but to take the bull by the horns and wrestle with it. No matter how painful or politically damaging it is. If the matter is brought up often enough, the only democratic way to resolve this matter would be a referendum among the members at the NDC. The pink elephant in the room is no illusion and we better be ready to deal with it because sooner or later the elephant is gonna move its bowel.

Sensitive Issues?

2008-08-12T09:57:00.002+08:00

The recent sabotage of the Bar Council Forum indicates the reason why we still have racial parties in Malaysia. The racial parties are there to protect the rights of the individual groups as opposed to the the rights of all. Each party will have their own agenda to promote and rights to protect. Without these agendas and rights, the parties will disappear, made irrelevant by the magnanimity of the people. Alas, the people is petty and weak. Easily manipulated by a cartel of power hungry people with personal agendas, the people is easily divided into different camps, fighting for ideas that has separated mankind ever since the club was invented. Being fair and right has nothing to do with what is mine and might.

The people will have to rise above it all and see the strings that is holding us back from uniting as the human race. Only as one do we see that all these pettiness is absurd and holding us back from achieving greatness.

Dr Ker joins the fray.

2008-08-08T22:10:00.002+08:00

Pasir Gudang division's chairman, Dr Ker Ching Shen, announced his intention to go for the state chairmanship. The election this year promises to be a heated one with Dato Teo Kok Chee defending his position and Lau Kok Guan already announcing that he will clean house if he wins. Another one or two more candidates are expected to throw their hats into the ring.

Why some people go into politics?

2008-08-02T13:59:00.002+08:00

After the loss of several seats in Johor during the last election, the BN govt appointed Pembantu Khas kepada MB in areas the BN has lost. Gerakan recommended Koo Shiaw Lee for the post in Skudai. He was the PA to the previous ADUN and has been servicing the area for the last 5 years under the tutelage of the YB. However the appointment has been delayed in the MB's office. No official reason has been given but there has been plenty of speculation. Factions in Gerakan Johor has protested the appointment saying the candidate is too young and inexperienced. One of the hopeful replacement in a moment of weakness even confessed he needed the appointment to enhance his business. Another veteran politician even lamented the candidate's inexperience in 'cari lobang' for businessmen. It seems to some people, appointments are not a responsibility to serve but a licence to raid and plunder. It is not the age that counts, it is the integrity.

Elections in Gerakan

2008-07-31T14:50:00.000+08:00

Winning elections in Gerakan is more than coming out with a catchy slogan like “ Change You Can Believe In” and a branding process. It is really more like playing monopoly. The contestants try to get as many properties as they can and the winner gets it all.
The process normally starts a few years before the actual battle. The contestants have to gather soldiers and generals, and placed them in strategic positions. Soldiers = members and generals = delegates. When the battle starts, each contestant will fire accusations and innuendoes to each other. Some will even buy out the other generals literally or turn over the generals with psych weapons.
Sometimes when the battle is lost, the generals might even sabotage the outcome on technicality. That is when the NESC comes in. NESC or National Supervisory Election Committee tries very hard to remain neutral, which is not easy because they are humans too. In any case, dark unseen powers sometimes steps in and voila everything is fine and balance in the universe is restored.

Why Vote for Move IT

2008-07-31T12:50:00.001+08:00

In many contests for the top posts in any political parties, things do not work out as it seems to be heading. Many unseen hands work in secret to put their so called "man" in place. That is why it is really difficult for a person with an idea and commitment to break into the comfortable cartel of power. In getting the unseen's hand approval or endorsement, a person might have to sell his soul to the devil.

Move IT in supporting the No Menu initiative has burned this very bridge to victory. Move IT only has his word and commitment for a better Gerakan as his weapon, not to mention a few comrades committed to the view of a just and transparent Gerakan Youth.

In not aligning with established power bases, Move IT is free to implement much needed reform in Gerakan Youth Johor. Positions given is not an honour, it is a responsibility. It should not be a reward given for loyalty but a trust that the job will be done.

Gerakan Youth Johor should have a program to attract like minded people into the party. A party is strong when it has a strong network of committed and active members. We should encourage more people to be our members and not block formation of the wing because they are not "our people". For your information, we have less youth divisions and branches than 3 years ago. We are shrinking into irrelevance.

UMNO jumped ship?

2008-07-29T16:46:00.003+08:00

After the election, I always thought that if Gerakan is to stay true to its principles of equality and fairness, it will either be kicked from BN or asked to leave. Recent events have shown that we won't be the first one. UMNO in its bid to remain numero uno is now going to bed with PAS. Their motives are simple, total malay and muslim domination. The political scenario will be changed, with Barisan Melayu Islam on one side and Pakatan Dan Lain-lain on the other. Every policy will be race based and every decision quota approved. Is this the way forward?

New Gerakan Invention - Mobile Polling Center

2008-07-29T13:53:00.005+08:00

Last Sunday, 27 July 2008 saw the birth of a new Gerakan innovation - The Mobile Polling Center. The divisional election in Pagoh was the first time the innovation was tried out. The trial run was a success when the election was completed in time and to the satisfaction of the delegates. The inventor of the Mobile Polling Center, Sdr Wee Chong Yan from Bakri Division who was also the Election Supervisor was forced to innovate when the appointed site of the election was not available on the stated time and date. Using readily available materials, the Mobile Polling Center was born.

Gerakan Johor Division Election

2008-07-28T09:54:00.003+08:00

Divisional elections were held peacefully yesterday. No unexpected results were received unless YB Lau Chin Hoong lost in Sekijang to Sdr Peter Teo is considered an upset. Party insiders have already predicted the outcome based on the support at branch level. YB Lau never had a chance because there was a lack of preparation in organisation at branch level. Other results were expected. Dato Teo Kok Chee won easily in Gelang Patah as did Sdr Hoe in Pulai. Ex ADUN of Skudai Sdr Koo Kong Ek easily won in JB while Sdr Hew Chin had no problem in Kulai. There was no contest in Pagoh when the incumbent dropped out leaving the challenger unchallenged. The winner was the ex-chairman Tee Sing Kiat. On the Youth side, Sdr Chek Kwee won the Gelang Patah seat. There was no contest in Wanita.

Proton Perdana can of worms

2008-07-28T09:28:00.002+08:00

The Proton Perdana/Mercedes Benz saga in Terengganu has been a revelation. The can of worms been implied in this saga shows how corrupt the govt machinery is. How do you maintain a car which cost more to maintain than the cost of the car in a year? I am sure even Ferrari has no answer to that. A lot of hanky panky must be going on and ACA must investigate. Don't just catch the workshop owners, get the people inside the govt too. It must have been easy money for the culprits. Take out good parts and put in imitation parts and charge the govt extra. This must be happening in other states too because other MBs also have the same complaint for the Perdanas. This can of worms must be exposed and punished.

Taman Universiti branch Installation Dinner

2008-07-25T20:55:00.002+08:00

Gerakan Taman Universiti branch had an installation dinner for the 2008 to 2011 committees at the sports complex today. Sdr Ting Pang Seng was returned as the chairman of the 700+ members branch. Sdr Jason Lim is the Youth head while Sdri Wong Mei Kim is the Wanita chairman. Dato Teo Kok Chee was in attendance together with MP YB Liang Teck Meng.

BN Tajuddin shoots us on the foot.

2008-07-19T10:10:00.002+08:00

MP Tajuddin from Pasir Salak just cannot say the right thing. While declaring that scholarships are Malay rights in the Parliament, he has again put BN into a corner. How can Gerakan support this man and the party he apparently represents. After the reform in the scholarships distribution last year from 90percent bumi and 10percent non bumi to 55 : 45 (bumi not malay), things were looking better and fairer. Tajuddin has put us in a corner. Can we or should we be in the same side as the person who makes such pronouncements? Why didn't our two MPs say something. After all it is official government policy now. Or are scholarships not worth defending? This is something we did right and it is definitely worth defending.

Anwar refuse DNA test

2008-07-17T09:50:00.002+08:00

Why is Anwar refusing to take the DNA test? First he refused to swore to the quran, the Islamic version of chopping the head of a white rooster. Now he is refusing to take the DNA test. This will just give the police a reason to keep him longer in remand while getting an order from the court. In any case, this will paint a picture of a man not entirely innocent of the charges. Like Mukhriz said, ''Liwat atau tidak liwat'' that is the question.

Why is the police treating Anwar with kid's glove

2008-07-17T00:05:00.003+08:00

The whole Anwar saga has exposed the feudalistic way the police treats different classes of criminals. You won't see the police pussy footing around Anwar if the Anwar in question was an illegal alien from Indonesia. They would just go his kongsi and haul him up right there and then. No appointment needed. And they won't need 15 ninja-like police personnel and a helicopter to do it either.

The Anwar in question is treated like royalty as if we are in the 15th century. I thought everyone is equal in the eyes of the law. Maybe next time when the police comes for me ( for my unpaid summons), I will get my lawyer to insist on an appointment. And when they come to serve the order(as required by law) unannounced, I will merajuk and not make the appointment. Then the police will have to come to me like paparazzi going for Britney. Hahaha I will have my 15 minutes of fame.

Note: Anwar was admitted to the ROYAL ward no less for the DNA test. Maybe he is royalty after all.

A step in the right direction

2008-07-14T21:47:00.002+08:00

I was feeling good these couple of days. No, I did not strike 4D or such things. But when I saw the No 1 and No 2 of the Immigration Dept in handcuffs on the newspapers, there was warm glow flowing through my body. Maybe there is hope after all. Maybe this government is serious about getting rid of corruption. Well, this is a good start. I can't wait for the sequel : Custom Duo in Jail or ASPs in the slammer.

Business As Usual

2008-07-07T13:52:00.004+08:00

Recently MP from Pasir Salak, Tajuddin Abdul Rahman labelled non-malays as immigrants in his parliamentary debate on RMK9 mid term review. It has brought criticism from various parties but Gerakan.

There was no news from any Gerakan leaders on this crucial matter. A branch leader from Pasir Gudang was so disappointed with this matter, that he wanted to withdraw from the party because he thinks the party is not voicing out the members' concern. He feels our party is now no longer relevant and has lost the initiative to voice out the concerns of the people.

Maybe the reason for our inaction was because our acting chairman is out of the country on holiday. It would seem we are headless when the head is not in. Our other leaders must be too busy with the elections to bother about the concerns of the people.

This is not acceptable. We cannot be headless every time the head is not available. Somebody must take up the mantle to voice out the concern of the people on behalf of Gerakan. If this is not done, the people will think we are stooges of UMNO and dare not say anything that will jeopardize the Gerakan-UMNO relationship. We are already seen as irrelevant and powerless. Unless we buck up and speak out in matters of national importance, we will be ostracized forever and we can forget about rebranding or reinventing or renaming or rejunevating Gerakan. Poo in another name smells just as bad.