Professional Documents
Culture Documents
Selangor Times Issue 6, 31 Dececember 2010 - 2 January 2011
Selangor Times Issue 6, 31 Dececember 2010 - 2 January 2011
Selangor Times Issue 6, 31 Dececember 2010 - 2 January 2011
W
hat an exciting year it between the state and federal As former MCA president and saga. was shocked over the gruesome
has been for Selangor, governments. cabinet minister, Tun Ling Liong The question now is, who will murder of cosmetic millionairess
from the controversies Selangor had wanted to take over Sik made the news for being the take over as opposition head – Datuk Sosilawati Lawiya and three
that plagued the state administra- the four concessionaires involved in biggest name to be arrested by whose role now focuses solely on others in Banting last September.
tion, to the gruesome murder of a the water industry to avoid high MACC so far, many remain taking the richest state back to The murder came at a time when
cosmetics millionairess. tariffs being imposed on users in the sceptical whether it will result in Barisan Nasional in the next general the nation had barely recovered
As 2010 comes to an end on the state but their overtures have been anything. election. from the shooting of 15-year-old
stroke of midnight tonight, Selangor thwarted thus far. December continued to be an But the problems plaguing the Aminulrasyid Amzah a few months
Times presents you a roll of the top The height of the unending saga exciting month for Selangor when Khalid Ibrahim administration did earlier. He was shot dead by police
news events of the year. culminated in 10,000 Selangor former Menteri Besar Datuk Seri Dr not end there as such as the illegal while fleeing in a crashed car in
One remarkable event was the citizens, backed by the State, Mohd Khir Toyo resigned as sand-mining problem hit them in April.
tabling of the much-desired marching to Istana Negara in De- Opposition Leader after he was the early part of the year. Meanwhile, the support letters
Freedom of Information Bill last cember to present a memorandum On the other hand, things saga also hit the headlines, with
July by the Pakatan Rakyat State to the King on the need for the took a tragic turn on a national Selangor criticised for not taking a
Government, a move to uphold the State to take over the water assets. level when public tension over the firm stand to curb the practice,
people’s right to information. But for now, the matter is back at ‘Allah’ row escalated in January, which many claimed would open
Following delays, the State is now the negotiating table. resulting in several places of the floodgates to corruption.
set to pass the Bill in March next Shifting the limelight to worship being vandalised. And to complete the list, the
year. The Bill had drawn some flak another issue outside the The controversy started when State Government made an unprece-
from civil society for some weak- Selangor administration, the the Kuala Lumpur High Court, dented move by appointing Sungai
nesses, and has been going through Malaysia Anti- Corruption in a landmark decision, allowed Burong BN assemblyman Datuk
the committee stage where input Commission (MACC) finally Catholic newsletter “Herald” to Mohd Shamsudin Lias as Public
from the public has been sought. arrested a ‘bigwig’ over the multi- use the word ‘Allah’. Accounts Committee chairman,
Another event which dominated billion Port Klang Free Zone Eleven months have passed, much to the chagrin of BN leaders.
2
news
DEC 31, 2010 — Jan 2, 2011
Selangor WEATHER
Friday Saturday Sunday New-look, one-stop
cybercafe
Morning
Afternoon
By Tang Hui Koon
cut corners,” he said. accompanied by his wife, was speaking Zamri and Suhaimi were among four r, Penang
Selangos – good
budget re p 10
counteK
for MP
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p 16
BaBy H for futu
Hatc
p12 – 13
community
rk
Shah Alam g and Petal
ing
n again
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vals
email editor@selangortimes.com
insistence that Datuk Mohd Khusrin 1.
Park. The A’s building and
from MBS buried
le have been The
ment. than 20,000 peop work orders. h
More te stop s whic
Park despi compound d its
at Fairy only settled five Selcat starte
h
erman
t
comp any them after
Spyk to
gets
ille te d lan Md
By Nev ive priva were issue
Munawi has been appointed. Neither Menteri Besar Tan Sri Khalid
, a mass ille- k Maza from
Fairy Park partly operated the probe. Alam Mayor Datu the direc
tive
ve
received Unit to appro
EDITORIAL
KLanG:here which is has been given all Shah
MBSA ing
cemeteryagriculture land,provided it pays Noor saidEconomic Plann 9.
gally on nue k Teng State on Dec already
to conti land to man Datufinding the conversion gement had ert the
green light to the state. ert the Selcat chair out that lity of the land y Park’s manacation to conv
its dues y Park must convsettle all fines, said
fees athy from pointed nsibi “Fair their appli amount-
tery symp g Khim whods was the respo summonses Mazalan.
KL Chan
le any had Only 19 Anot plot meas cheapest plot neering, build must
that peop that the comp ulture use. ium that land
CHIEF EDITOR Meru and des local from agric agricultural while the ,000. . the prem the
folio inclu t ment ever, he said any to convert is still
Neville Spykerman
Fairy nearl up to said s. the
operates land to bury char ged Koh e who home criticised
COMMUNITY EDITOR
agricultural 1990 s. They . away thos plot s, 报》 He also
WRITERS
“Datuk Ramli Mahmud’s term as state selection panel had shortlisted three istmas
Accountab
from
Alvin Chin, Lee Choon Fai, William Tan, Alvin Yap, Merry Chr
Rahmah Ghazali, Basil Foo, Yasleh Hani Mat Yassin secretary ends only on March 20 next candidates and the names were presented
COPY EDITORS James Ang, Deborah Loh year,” said Faekah Husin, the political to the palace on Dec 17.
secretary to the Menteri Besar. She said The panel, established on Nov 27, was Free delivery to RA and
DESIGNER Jimmy CS Lim
there was no requirement which imposes headed by state speaker Datuk Teng JMB. Contact: editor@
PHOTOGRAPHER Victor Chong
a dateline on the state. Chang Khim along with executive selangortimes.com or
ADVERTISING Evelyne Low
On Monday, Chief Secretary Tan Sri councillors Datuk Hasan Ali and Dr call: 03-55232288
ADVISORS Faekah Husin, Arfa’eza Abdul Aziz
Mohd Sidek Hassan declared that current Xavier Jayakumar.
SELANGOR TIMES ⁄ DECEMBER 31, 2010 – January 2, 2011 ⁄ 3
Our new Shah Alam branch is now at: Unit 3/5, Jalan Plumbum S7/S, Pusat Komersial Seksyen 7, Seksyen 7,
40000 Shah Alam, Selangor Darul Ehsan.
Tel: 03 2056 7635
For more information, please call our Contact Centre at 03-2056 7777. Or log on to www.kfh.com.my
BrAnCHeS: Kuala Lumpur Pavilion Shah Alam Klang Johor Bahru Penang Kuching
BureAu de CHAnge: Kuala Lumpur International Airport KL Sentral Station Low Cost Carrier Terminal (LCCT) Pavilion
4
news
DEC 31, 2010 — Jan 2, 2011
award
used for getting water from alternatives sources like
SERDANG: The Taman Sri Serdang Volunteer Fire monsoon drains or rivers to put out fires, if a hydrant is
Brigade had a rude shock on Monday when they unavailable, said Lim.
discovered their fire fighting equipment missing while “We suspect the culprits are either petty thieves or drug
preparing for their regular training exercises. addicts who are probably going to sell the items to scrap
“The equipment was stored in a box in our Proton metal dealers,” he said.
By Basil Foo Centre also commended the state Arena and it’s fortunate that we made the discovery now He added that the components can probably fetch
for establishing the award. instead of during a fire,” said 39-year-old Lim Chee Keong. RM30 or RM50 from scrapyards.
SHAH ALAM: Ophthalmolo- She pointed out that the em- The deputy chairman of the volunteer fire fighters unit Lim suspects the theft was committed over the
gist Prof Dr Muhaya Mohamad phasis of the award on individuals said 14 pieces of essential equipment worth RM4,000 Christmas weekend when nobody was around.
was presented the Anugerah To- who not only have academic ex- were stolen from the vehicle parked at their headquarters “We have alerted the authorities to keep an eye on scrap
koh Ilmuwan award for her perience but who serve society in Taman University Indah. metal dealers, and notified dealers to report to the police
achievements and contributions served as a form of encourage- if someone is trying to sell them the
to society from the Selangor State ment for everyone. equipment,” said Seri Kembangan
Government on Tuesday. “Everybody should tell them- assemblyman Ean Yong Hian Wah.
“I am humbled and honoured selves every day – I want to think The Selang or executive
by this award because I am sure good thoughts, speak kind words councillor said some of the missing
there are others who are also very and do good deeds,” said Dr Mu- equipment bears the government’s
good,” said Dr Muhaya, who is a haya, who is also a motivational logo and scrapyards should be wary
lecturer at Universiti Kebangsaan speaker in universities and has about buying them.
Malaysia and chairperson of the appeared on television pro- He added that the Ministry of
Malaysian Medical Association grammes. Housing and Local Government
Ophthalmological Society. Selangor executive councillor has promised to allocate RM5,000
The award came with a cash Dr Halimah Ali, who presented to them to replace the equipment
prize of RM10,000. the award, said Dr Muhaya was a and upgrade the security at their
Dr Muhaya said she planned role model for society. headquarters.
to donate the money to a fund to The Anugerah Tokoh Ilmuwan T h e Ta m a n S r i S e r d a n g
help students who are unable to award is part of the Jejak Ilmuwan Volunteer Fire Brigade was set up
pay their fees and deserving single programme which includes over two decades ago to safeguard
mothers. student mentoring programmes, wooden homes in the area. They
The consultant eye surgeon forums, and competitions for supplement the Fire and Rescue
and director of Prince Court students in universities and Department especially in secluded
Medical Centre Eye and Lasik vocational schools. Ean Yong (right) looks at the loss in Serdang. areas in the community.
6
news
DEC 31, 2010 — Jan 2, 2011
NGOs: No to KLORR,
protect Selangor State Park
By Gan Pei Ling kar, director of Treat Every Environ- Selayang last year that the proposed Sensitive Area (Rank 1) under the suggested the State Government
ment Special (TrEES). highway would cut through the National Physical Plan-2. amend its forestry enactment so that
SHAH ALAM: The Kuala Lum- She said the proposed highway state park. She said no development, except public consultation is mandatory
pur Outer Ring Road (KLORR), a would cut through the Ulu Gombak Leela said TrEES is appalled for eco-tourism, research and educa- before a forest reserve can be cleared.
federal project, must not be allowed forest reserve and Ampang forest that KLORR was going ahead de- tion purposes, is allowed in these Malaysian Nature Societ y
to cut through the Selangor State reserve, which are the water catch- spite objections raised by residents areas under the guidelines . (MNS) head of conservation Yep
Park, civil society groups said. ment areas for the Klang Gates Dam and non-governmental organisa- “Therefore, it is clear that the Chin Aik said MNS could not com-
The Selangor Government’s pro- and Ampang Intake. tions. highway shouldn’t be allowed to cut ment as the society was part of the
posal to build part of the road un- “We’re unable to accept that al- Dr Rosli Omar, from Save Our through parts of the state park,” said review panel for the highway’s de-
derground to minimise impact on leviating traffic congestion is more Sungai Selangor, also warned that Sara. tailed environmental impact assess-
the environment, was also not the important than protecting our wa- once the highway was built across She added that both the Federal ment (DEIA).
solution, they said. They also warned ter supply,” Leela told Selangor the state park, human encroach- and State Governments should ad- State executive councillor Eliza-
of precedents being set if the project Times. ment would follow. here to the National Physical Plan-2 beth Wong, who holds the environ-
were to proceed on land gazetted as “Selangor’s water demand is “It will be extremely difficult for which was approved by a council ment portfolio, said the DEIA re-
a state park. likely to exceed supply in future. In the government to monitor such chaired by the prime minister. port for the highway was not com-
The non-governmental organisa- fact, RM10 billion is being spent on encroachment,” added the Univer- “If a major project like this is al- pleted yet.
tions were reacting to the state’s re- the Pahang-Selangor Water Transfer siti Malaya lecturer. lowed within a gazetted state park, She said the state would do its
cent announcement that the high- project to ensure we will meet the He added that the Selangor For- it could likely set a dangerous prec- best to minimise the social and en-
way developer would dig a tunnel to projected demand,” she said. estry Department had proposed edent for other big projects to be vironmental impact of the federal
prevent the highway from damaging Leela questioned the Federal that the highway be built along the approved in protected state or na- project.
the Klang Gates Quartz Ridge, a Government’s rationale behind forest boundary instead of cutting tional parks,” Sara pointed out. However, Wong added that Pu-
potential Unesco site. building a highway that would affect across it. Another Ampang resident, Lim trajaya should consider switching
“A 200-metre tunnel to protect Selangor, Putrajaya and Kuala Lum- In addition, WWF Malaysia Teck Wyn, also complained that KLORR to an underground high-
the ridge is not enough. The Selan- pur’s main source of water supply. policy analyst Sara Sukor said the ver y little information about way to avoid cutting through the
gor State Park is the main source of It was revealed in the draft local state park, gazetted in 2005, is KLORR was provided to the public. Selangor State Park and damaging
our water supply,” said Leela Panik- plans of Kajang, Ampang Jaya and catagorised as an Environmentally The environmental consultant water catchment areas.
Halimah with
local artists.
Know Your
Councillors:
Azli Idris
By Lee Choon Fai
GeMS tour gets the thumbs up DAP Pekan Kapar and also a
committee member of Pakatan
Rakyat Kuala Selangor.
Born in Perak and a devoted
By Rahmah Ghazali “This is my second time at a Nurul Syahirah Azri, 17, said father of four, Azli is now in his
GeMS event. For me, it would be the event was “enjoyable” and she second term as councillor after he
SUBANG JAYA: A youth initia- boring if a programme was only looked forward to similar pro- was reappointed earlier this year. He
tive by the Selangor Government, filled with religious talks. Youths grammes. is in charge of Puncak Alam Phase
Generasi Idaman Selangor (GeMS), need entertainment and GeMS is Teacher Nor Azainah Adnan 3 and Alam Perdana.
has been getting good support from on the right track,” said the 45-year- said the Selangor Government had “Council work is the stepping
the public as an attractive and non- old. taken the right approach by provid- stone to a political career, [it is] the
intimidating way to reach young ing advice for youths while allowing first level of governance [where] we
people with positive values. a wide range of entertainment. can show the people how state
About 200 people turned up for As a first timer, she said she had policies can help them,” said the discuss issues,” said Azli. He then
a GeMS event at Mydin Mall USJ never experienced such events dur- 41- year-old. raises the issues residents face in the
1, Subang, last Sunday despite the ing her youth. Azli holds a diploma in building MDKS full board meetings.
event being held concurrently with “Now we can enjoy ourselves, surveying from UiTM Shah Alam, The councillor’s office is located
the much anticipated AFF Suzuki while reflecting on ourselves spiritu- and he worked with Shell Malaysia near the MDKS food court in
Cup final between Malaysia and ally,” said Nor Azainah. Trading for six years before Puncak Alam, where residents can
Indonesia. State executive councillor Dr becoming a project director in lodge their complaints or raise
Among the local artistes who Halimah Ali said Subang was the Orionluck Private Limited, a concerns.
wowed the crowd were Mawi and eighth location for a GeMS event developer based in Kuala Lumpur. Azli said he takes his duties as a
Akhill Hayy. since the tour kicked off a few In the areas under his watch, the councillor very seriously because the
Businesswoman Sahdiah Abd months ago. most common complaints are public is involved.
Halim said GeMS was on target by “Our next stop will be in Klang. drainage and garbage disposal. “Councillors should serve the
inviting local artistes to attract I hope the full-day campaign will “I often go on-site to meet the public and help them with issues,
youths and getting across the mes- raise awareness of social issues residents and their representatives reg ardless of their p olitica l
sage of avoiding social problems. Halimah delivering her speech. among youths,” she said. to tackle their problems and to backgrounds,” he said.
news
DEC 31, 2010 — Jan 2, 2011 7
Selangor’s little-known
strawberry farm
Beware of fogging
dering Pahang, is just a 40-minute while the day away sipping straw-
drive from Kuala Lumpur, making berry infused tea or coffee and tuck-
it an ideal place for a family day trip ing into the café’s signature dishes.
or even a date. A must-try is the ‘oyster mush-
Reaching
out in
the Xmas
spirit
shah alam: There was joy
for one hundred children from
various welfare homes at a Christ-
mas party hosted by Yayasan CNI
at Wisma CNI last Sunday.
“We want these children to know
that they are not neglected by soci-
ety and as Malaysians, we value and
respect the relationship with our
fellow citizens regardless of race and
religion,” said Datin Angeline Koh,
the president of Yayasan CNI.
Koh said the event was part of
the company’s community outreach
programme to bring joy and cheer
to the less fortunate.
Selangor executive councillor
Teresa Kok, who was the guest-of-
honour at the event, said she was
happy that CNI had organised the
event as part of their corporate so-
cial responsibility to the commu-
Less stressful ride for motorists with the completion of the elevated highway. nity.
Rubbish woes:
Residents do
own clean up
By Alvin Chin a habitat for snakes”, said Benson Tan, secre-
tary of the resident association.
KLANG: Residents Association of Sungei In early August, Phua highlighted the
Puloh, Klang took cleanliness into their own garbage problems in Taman Klang Utama
hands for two areas of Taman Klang Utama verbally, but no action was taken.
with support from local councillor Winston He then filed a written complaint and
Phua, last Sunday. submitted a photo to the MPK in October.
“Cleanliness is everybody’s responsibility But when he visited the site on Dec 2, it had
and the most important thing is for people still not been cleaned, despite the local coun-
to lend their support in helping out the com- cil’s claim that they had cleared the garbage Phua briefing the contractors before the gotong-royong.
munities,” said Klang Municipal Council’s at the end of November.
(MPK) Phua.
The aim of the gotong-royong was to clean The team,
including
up areas of Lorong Sg Puloh 13A, 13B, 13C, residents,
13D and 14A, 14B, 14C, 14D. preparing
The success of the event might see the as- for the
sociation moving on to clean up other areas gotong-
of their neighbourhood in the future. royong
The gotong-royong was sponsored by local in Taman
businessmen with the support from the Klang
MPK, Alam Flora and Scan Trend Sdn Bhd. Utama on
“We hope to clear all the clogged drains 26 Dec.
that are contributing to the breeding of the
aedes mosquito and which are also becoming
No regrets for
‘sacrificing’
school holidays Christmas joy
SHAH ALAM: Most students would typically want
to take it easy during the long school holidays. So did
Abu Zar Johra, 15, but things did not turn out as
planned.
for the disabled
He had initially planned to fill up most of his holi- By Rahmah Ghazali jigsaw puzzle given to her as present,” he
days with a part-time job and with playing video games, said.
until his parents signed him up for a religious and mo- SUBANG JAYA: They were of differ- Meanwhile, businessman Md Nizam
tivational camp called Gerakan Membina Generasi ent races and religions, but Christmas had Ali said his four-year-old daughter,
Pecinta Al-Quran (GEMPAQ). something for each and everyone of Arissa Sofea who suffered from Down’s
But there was a silver lining to it, as he emerged the them. Syndrome, couldn’t be happier with her
best student in the month-long programme and won a A group of 145 children and adults gifts.
prize to perform the umrah (pilgrimage to Mecca) who are living with various disabilities, “She wanted a new set of cartoon
sponsored by Al-Mukminin Travel. received Christmas gifts at a grand cere- DVDs and her wish was granted. Her
“I didn’t want to go [to the camp] at first. I was mony in the Sunway Pyramid shopping favourite cartoon character is Pocoyo,” he
shocked to have won the best student prize. I really mall last Saturday. The event was organ- said.
thought someone else would win because I didn’t think Md Nizam Ali with his daughter, ised and sponsored by non-profit organ- City Care, which had over 100 young
Arissa Sofea.
I was that good. However, I am so thankful,” he told isation, City Care, and officiated by volunteers assisting, selected recipients
Selangor Times at the award ceremony last Saturday. Subang assemblyperson Hannah Yeoh. of their Christmas gifts with help from
And he had no regrets sacrificing his school holidays Going with the theme ‘Love is a Verb’, the state Welfare Department. They then
for the camp, said the student from Sekolah Menengah City Care managed to successfully fulfil called up the participants based on the
Islam Shira’, Jeram. 90% of the recipients’ wishes. The re- department’s database.
“This programme is worth it and I am glad I went for maining ones involve requests for job The phone call came as a shock for
it. Not only was it beneficial, spiritually and morally, I opportunities. Irnanie Nurul Sharrena, 21, who thought
also learnt to adapt to a more challenging environment,” “Those are a bit harder to fulfill be- that Christmas gifts were only meant for
he said. cause it will take a long process and is those who celebrated it.
“At first, I did not know a lot of people, but in the more challenging. But we are doing our “I am enjoying myself here. And I also
end, I made a lot of friends,” he said. best,” said City Care chief executive of- wish to be healthier and stronger,” said
The motivational course was held from Nov 26 to ficer David Oh. Irnanie, who is suffering from a mild
Dec 27 in Masjid Jamek Tun Uda, Section 16 Shah But the event certainly put a smile on stroke at birth. She received two sets of
Alam, where students from all over the capital city would the children’s faces, and their parents’, too. DVDs of her favourite artiste, Datuk Siti
memorise the Al-Quran, selected hadiths and do’a. Chong Yen Lin, 50, whose daughter Nurhaliza.
In the afternoon, they would participate in motiva- Emily is suffering from Attention Deficit “Next time, I will wish to see her in
tional programmes assisted by facilitators. Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD), found person,” she smiled.
The overall cost for the programme was RM750 but the experience heartwarming. The celebration has been held annu-
through sponsorship by Yayasan Selangor, the students “I moved to Subang early this year and ally since 2008. Assemblyperson Yeoh
only had to pay RM250 each. More than 200 primary Irnanie showing off her this is such a new experience for me. My said she wanted it to be an even bigger
and secondary school students took part in the pro- Christmas gifts. daughter Emily will certainly enjoy the event next year.
gramme.
10
VIews
DEC 31, 2010 — Jan 2, 2011
Teohlogy
patrick teoh Looking back on a
I
n a few more days it will be an-
other year. One year has passed.
So how do you feel? Relieved?
Angry? Disappointed? Or a combi-
nation of all of the above?
confusing 2010
Personally, I also really don’t that tagline a reality. Sure, of late we It also confuses me to know that
know, lah. I spent the last few days The BN played the (PR) have been hearing and reading a lot nothing really great happened for
thinking about it and about what to game to the max and scored of news about the government the people of Malaysia in 2010. As
write for this column since it will be major points in confusing the spending money to reward Felda a friend, Kee Thuan Chye, said in an
in the last issue of the year. settlers, build Chinese and Tamil article, 2010 was a year that was won
Okay lah, so I thought about it
people about who they should schools, new roads for rural areas, by public relations (PR). (http://
in-between drinks during the be voting for in the next GE. etc. w w w. m a l a y s i a n d i g e s t . c o m /
Christmas festivities. But it was still And the Opposition, without But these activities are what opinion/13976-2010-a-year-that-
hard to come up with something the budget and the PR savvy, elected governments do for the was-won-by-public-)
positive to celebrate as we start off a is wincing at every blow.” people of the country. They take care The BN played the (PR) game to
new year in Bolehland. of the people and their needs. the max and scored major points in
I don’t know about you my The prime minister, who claims that pletely contra-1Malaysia events and Surely it is not a ‘feel-good’ stunt to confusing the people about who
friends, but for me it has been a very it is his own original idea and not proclamations? reinforce the prime minister’s slo- they should be voting for in the next
confusing year. I’m happy that the borrowed from some public rela- And since we’re on the subject of gan, no? So why do they make us feel GE. And the Opposition, without
euphoria of the 2008 general elec- tions company’s bargain bin, says it 1Malaysia I must express my ‘thanks’ as if THEY are doing us a big favour the budget and the PR savvy, is winc-
tion tsunami lasted almost two is one thing when addressing one to Selangor’s Ronnie Liu for ban- by giving us what is ours by right? ing at every blow.
years. It’s just that, it’s been quite community. But then he gives it an ning the use of the slogan in adver- Since 2008, my impression is of To add to this there is now a
rude awakening to the fact that all almost completely different mean- tisements in the state. Why he chose the Barisan Nasional (BN) govern- whole new list of snazzy abbrevia-
is not so well, anymore. ing when speaking to another group. to do that a year after the slogan was ment spending our money to repair tions to confuse Malaysians even
As an ordinary Malaysian I am And on the day after Christmas, launched is what is confusing me. the loss of their omnipotence in more – GTP, ETP, NEM, KPI, etc,
getting very confused with what is the prime minister announced that Secondly, I am confused about Parliament. And of the Opposition etc, etc.
going on in my country. Do you feel the 1Malaysia concept is not a gov- the tagline always attached to the flers expending too much of their But as a Malaysian citizen the
the same? If you’re not, then you ernment political agenda, but is slogan. “People first. Performance limited resources to fend off attacks only abbreviation that I can think of
must be one of the lucky few and I aimed at fostering the spirit of to- now.” What does that mean? Sure, from the BN. to accompany me into the New Year
would appreciate it if you could getherness and unity among Malay- the meaning seems to be clear And of course, trying desperately is…WTH!
share your secret with the rest of us. sians. enough. But the evidence is lacking, to manage the increasingly popular
I am confused because of so many Wah! Sounds very noble and all no? Frog Festival that seems set to be- Patrick Teoh is a husband, father,
things, lah. but it still confuses me. Because, why Since the launching of the slogan come a monthly event celebrated by grandfather, actor, former radio
First, I am still confused with does my prime minister tolerate and I honestly cannot remember the at least the BN government and the presenter, generally misunderstood
what the slogan 1Malaysia means. at times even contribute to com- government doing anything to make mainstream media. person, loyal tax-paying Malaysian.
P
Proposed design for new affordable home concept by PKNS
KNS is revamping low-
cost housing in the state.
Research and planning has
been underway to develop
new concept affordable
homes where the objective of building
communities is just as important as
affordability. This is driven by the fact
that the well-being of Selangorians is nursery, kindergartens, modern
always central to PKNS. suraus, and community and reading
rooms. PKNS is also working with the
To date, PKNS has built 59,000 low- public transportation providers in the
cost houses at today’s value of RM2 area to ensure reliable and convenient
billion. Of this amount, RM1 billion public transport services are available
has been subsidised by PKNS. to the residents.
Unlike other property developers,
PKNS fulfils the low-cost housing The new PKNS affordable homes
requirement at the early phases of concept is also being implemented
the project development. in Kota Puteri. While the concept
remains the same, the approach
The affordable homes project in taken is slightly different. Here,
Bandar Baru Bangi is one of two emphasis is on building a sustainable
concepts currently being implemented development through proactive
by PKNS. These concepts fulfil preservation of the ecosystem.
researched and pre-identified
parameters focused on improving PKNS has mobilised the PKNS
living quality and encouraging closer Mobile Response Team to provide
community ties. With this in mind, the maintenance services for the
new affordable homes development low cost and affordable housing
will come with community centres areas. PKNS is also subsidising the
and sports and recreation facilities. It maintenance fee for the low-cost
will have its very own commercial hub flats where the flat owner only pays
for convenience stores and eateries RM15 a month while PKNS bears
together with day care centres, RM50 to RM70 a unit a month.
12 ⁄ DEC 31, 2010 – Jan 2, 2011 ⁄ SELANGOR TIMES SELANGOR TIMES ⁄ DEC 31, 2010 – Jan 2, 2011 ⁄ 13
Activities to benefit
the community
From left: Datum Jelatek, Selangor Science Park 2 - Science Discovery Centre, Menara Worldwide, PJ Sentral ‘Garden City’
Monochromatic
causes, lawyers,
Ask Lord Bobo is a weekly column by
LoyarBurok (www.loyarburok.com)
where all your profound,
yoga & good cause
abstruse, erudite, hermetic, recondite,
sagacious, and other thesaurus-
described queries are answered!
W
hy do lawyers always wear black
and white? Why not embrace
the entire rainbow? @adriene,
via Twitter
Seeing lawyers in their full regalia often re-
minds Lord Bobo of the Malayan tapir. If you
don’t know what a tapir is (shame on you, by
the way), it is a solid black and white, large
pig-like mammal closely related to the horse
or rhino. Its nose is prehensile, and is used as
a snorkel while swimming.
Solitary creatures except during mating
season, and because of its large size, it has few
predators. Tapirs defend themselves with their
powerful jaws, and can give nasty bites.
Yet, the tapir population is on a decline
worldwide. The similarities between tapirs and
lawyers will be left to your imagination.
Good lawyers usually have wonderfully
colourful yet nuanced personalities, unlike the
lousy ones. Since judges tend to envy the body, mind and spirit of each. It helps people (13) Every turn and twist in Yoga is a chal- you better know what it is that you’re support-
freedom of such colourful lawyers to hang out progress as people. HR upholds individuality lenge while HR activists must persevere in the ing. Always ask the founder or manager of the
with whom they like, eat wherever they like and individual beliefs while defending diver- face of adversity. You need to have patience cause you’re thinking of supporting about
and frequent whichever spa or karaoke joints sity in culture and language. HR makes people and an open mind. Both are painful and long; their mission and values, their deliverables,
without fear of scandal, they imposed black less savage and more civilised. but the results are edifying. the impact of their work, and how they man-
and white attire in the futile hope of stifling (3) Everyone can do Yoga. Anyone can be (14) Once you start Yoga you cannot stop. age their funds.
their beauty, brightness and creativity. an HR activist. You are never too old to do Once the beast of HR is unleashed, we will If all the above does not help you, then you
The judges claim that conservative attire is Yoga. You are never too young to be an HR start the feast. should just stop over-analysing it. In fact, stop
needed so it would not distract from the argu- activist. Ohhmm… hang on, there seems to be 14 the thinking and just start the doing. Try out
ments put forward. But it does not take a le- (4) Yoga flushes toxins from your body and items in that list, not ten. More proof (as if a few causes, for whatever reason. Maybe it
mur to point out that if a judge can be dis- clears evil thoughts from your mind. HR any was required) of Lord Bobo’s extreme makes you look cool, or more attractive? Or
tracted like a guppy from the arguments be- wards off evil practices and bad people. Politi- generosity. Or perhaps His Supreme Emi- is tax deductible?
cause a lawyer’s tie is brightly coloured or he/ cians are afraid of Yogis (Yoga activists) and nenceness has overdosed on purple bananas Hopefully, what appears to have started off
she is decked out in full Mexican regalia in- HR advocates. again. with the wrong intention may help you find
clusive of poncho and sombrero, that judge (5) Yoga and HR calm you down; and puts the right one. It is much better than sitting
has no business sitting in judgment over life in perspective. Both demand and give the I am moved by many causes, how do I around scratching your head (not to mention
others. bare minimum to sustain life. They help you choose one (or two) to invest my time that excessive head-scratching leads to hair
A judge that can so easily be distracted by focus on the important things in life. in? @lishun, via Twitter loss, which is not the reason Lord Bobo wears
a multitude of colours except black and white, (6) Yoga frees your mind. HR frees your There are so many causes these days, espe- a wig, by the way).
instead of argument, should be in a fish tank, spirit. Both concentrate and meditate our cially with the Internet. You surely would have If you are still clueless, and just need a start-
not a courtroom. energies and allow us to enjoy the beauty of received at least one Facebook invitation to ing point, do consider supporting Lord Bobo’s
After all, the courtroom is a place for seri- life and people. “like” a cause. new cause: “Leave My Banana Trees Alone
ous argument and stylish dressing, not stylish (7) Like it or not, you are a Yogi. Like it or If you must choose only one, you should and Use Your Own Bloody Plates”.
arguments and serious dressing! not, you are a HR activist even as you write support the “1M Malaysians Reject 100-sto-
on LoyarBurok. Everyone embraces Yoga and rey Mega Tower” as it currently looks quite Although Lord Bobo already knows your
Lord Bobo, someone asked me to name the HR movement/cause when proper guid- silly with that name and less than 280,000 question before you even knew you had a ques-
ten reasons why yoga is like human ance is given. members. tion, as a practical display of your true desire
rights. I think it is a trick question. Can (8) Yoga makes you many friends as it’s The first rule of thumb is always to think, to have your query answered, His Supreme
you help? Yogi Bear, via email most fun done in groups. HR activism can think and think some more. Have you asked Eminenceness has graciously allowed you to
Whoever asked you that question obviously only be effective if it is done collectively by yourself what type of causes move you the communicate your questions by –
has too much time on his hands. But Lord communities of interested participants. most, or do you really think you’re that mag- • emailing asklordbobo@loyarburok.com,
Bobo is nothing if not helpful, so, in the (9) Yoga revolves around strengthening our nanimous that everything moves you equally? stating your full name, and a pseudonym
spirit of yoga, let us now sit in the lotus pose, spine, while HR is the spine of humanity. Are you saying that a HIV-infected baby if you wish the question to be published
put our hands together (just your own hands (10) Yoga improves blood circulation. brings you the same amount of sadness as the anonymously (and a good reason for ano-
please, His Supreme Eminenceness is not Without HR, we have no blood to flow in our prohibition of same-sex marriage? nymity).
Sting, and this is not that kind of meditation), veins. This is not a trick question. Think about • tweeting your questions by mentioning
close our eyes and imagine a rose far, far away... (11) Yoga exercises and practices must be this, and conduct a process of elimination to @LoyarBurok and using the hashtag
Universal, Indivisible, Inalienable, Inter-de- done daily to be effective. HR principles must narrow your choices down to one or two. #asklordbobo. The first 100 questions pub-
pendent... be repeated to HR violaters everyday, even if What most people forget is that joining a lished will receive LoyarBurok’s ONLY
Ohhmm… Ohhmm… Yoga is Life. Human it means naming and shaming them repeat- cause is not just about making them feel good. merchandise you ever need (worth a lot for
Rights (HR) improves Life. Therefore, HR = edly. It is also about making that cause better by humankind) courtesy of Selangor Times.
Life, and Yoga = HR. (12) Discipline in Yoga and HR is impor- being a supporter. Ask not what the cause can Now, what the hell are you waiting for?
(1) Yoga is for all, not just the Europeans. tant. Both are to be inculcated as part of our do for you, but instead ask what you can do Hear This and Tremblingly Obey (al-
No cultural relativism please. HR is for every lives. Both must be mainstreamed for mass for the cause. Identify your skills, area of ex- though trembling is optional if you are some-
human being wherever you live. No distinc- acceptance. Both are long term projects; no pertise, resources or anything else which could where very warm)!
tion, no discrimination. short-termism allowed. You who enter Yoga help you add value to the cause. Liberavi Animam Meam! I Have Freed
(2) Yoga unites the rakyat; it unites the or evangelise HR are in for the long haul. Also, if you’re going to support something, My Spirit!
16
news
dec 31, 2010 — JAN 2, 2011
top 10 stories
The
1
Freedom of
Information Bill
Pakatan Rakyat Selangor created his-
tory when it tabled the country’s first Freedom
of Information Bill 2010 in July at the state
assembly, a move to strengthen the people’s
right to information.
It received strong objection from the op-
position, the Barisan Nasional, which claimed
that the bill was irrelevant and in violation of
the Official Secrets Act (OSA) 1972, a federal
law.
But Menteri Besar Tan Sri Khalid Ibrahim
insisted that an FOI Act should be enacted to
eventually stop oppressive laws such as Printing
Presses and Publications Act and the OSA,
which have been used to suppress the media.
The Bill is likely to be passed at the assem-
bly sitting next March. It is currently at the
4
committee stage, being subject to public
feedback.
Khir Toyo
resigns as
opposition
leader over
mansion
scandal
In a surprise move, former Selangor
5
Menteri Besar Datuk Seri Dr Mohd sand
Khir Toyo resigned as state opposition mining saga
leader in early December. This followed It was a tough year for the Selangor ad-
his arrest by the MACC over allegations ministration as it dealt with unresolved issues
of the scandal regarding his multi-mil- related to sand mining.
lion ringgit Balinese-themed mansion in The Menteri Besar had wanted to resolve
Shah Alam. the issue quickly. But the illegal activity is still
The 45-year-old politician said quit- rampant, with culprits getting away due to lack
ting was the only way for him to clear his of enforcement.
name. He allegedly obtained two plots Although Khalid had sought the assistance
of land for the mansion at half the price of the Federal Government, help did not arrive.
Enforcement is under the purview of the po-
2
of the market value for himself and his
Water dispute coming wife. lice. The setting up of a consortium, Kumpulan
to an end? The expose was first made by DAP Semesta Sdn Bhd (KSSB), to streamline all
The long-winded water tussle between Selangor, the water concessionaires and the assemblyman Ng Suee Lim who claimed sand-mining activities has also come under fire.
Federal Government continues to plague both sides. that Khir had constructed the mansion Many claim that it has been ineffective as it has
Despite offers, counter offers and a protest rally being held to hand over a memorandum at a cost of RM20 million and had pur- no enforcement powers.
to the King to protest the Federal Government’s bailout of water concessionaire Syarikat chased the land for RM3.8 million dur- A joint MACC-KSSB taskforce has been
Bekalan Air Selangor (Syabas), there is still no end in sight. ing his tenure as menteri besar. set up to fight the sand-mining corruption
However, the State, which already owns 80 per cent of water supply assets, is again problem.
preparing to take over the remaining assets after Putrajaya said it did not object to direct
negotiations between Selangor and concessionaires.
They are said to want to offer about the same amount they initially tabled in February of
about RM5.7 billion to acquire the remaining water assets.
The offer will likely be made in January for private assets and equity owned by Sya-
bas, Puncak Niaga Sdn. Bhd. (PNSB), Syarikat Pengeluar Air Sungai Selangor (Splash)
and Kumpulan Abass.
3
Bigwig finally hauled
up over PKFZ scandal
The Malaysian Anti-Corruption Com-
mission (MACC) finally hauled up a ‘big
fish’, former MCA president and cabinet
minister Tun Dr Ling Liong Sik, in July over
the RM12.5 billion Port Klang Free Zone
(PKFZ) scandal.
Ling was the Transport Minister when the
project was mooted.
Earlier in late 2009, former Port Klang
Authority general manager Datin Paduka OC
Phang and three others were charged with
criminal breach of trust and cheating by mak-
ing false claims. Although the move was
lauded, many are still sceptical as to how deep
investigations will go, and are waiting to see
who else will be made accountable.
news 17
dec 31, 2010 — JAN 2, 2011
6
“Allah” row spills over
Controversy over who could use the word “Allah” reached its lowest ebb when several
churches were attacked early this year. The first to be firebombed was the Metro Taber-
Happening places
to greet 2011
nacle Church in Ampang, Selangor.
A total of 10 churches and a few mosques nationwide have been the target of attacks and
vandalism since a High Court judgement on Dec 31, 2009, which allowed Catholic newsletter,
The Herald, to use the word “Allah” in its Bahasa Malaysia edition
Although the Government appealed against the court verdict, the attacks on places of wor-
I
ship escalated in January. Not only were churches affected, two mosques in Petaling Jaya were f you have no plans for tonight to usher in the New Year, you might want to
vandalised too. check out one of these countdown celebrations happening around town.
The Government’s appeal is pending; no date has been set for hearing. If you are in Shah Alam, head out to i-City tonight. One of the events
7
planned from 4pm to 12 midnight is the Lightscape, where 1 million LED lights
will be lighting up the night sky and the landscape in the surrounding park.
Sosilawati Another event will be held at the Canopy Walkway, where the public can
murder gather to greet 2011. This walkway leads to a ‘snow theme’ park where the
Cosmetics tycoon Datuk Sosila- temperature is at a constant -5 Celsius. There will also be fireworks, a lion dance
wati Lawiya and three others were and solo saxophone performances.
murdered in a river near Ladang If you want to join a street party for the New Year, head to Sungei Wang
Gadong, in Tanjong Sepat, Banting, Plaza for its Street Party Countdown 2011 Celebration which begins at 9.30pm.
in September. This Street Party is straight up your alley if you are into the Chinese music scene.
The tragedy, which occurred during the Muslim Some of the acts include A-Bin, Power Station, Tank, Yu Heng and many
celebration of Hari Raya Aidilfitri, shocked the na- others.
tion. The three individuals had been reported miss- If a themed dance party appeals to you, the celebration in Mist and Milk will
ing since Aug 30. be the right place for you to go. Its ‘2011 : A Space Odyssey NYE Celebration’,
Police believe Sosilawati and her companions which starts at 9pm, has a futuristic theme to it. Party like it’s back to the future
were killed and their bodies burned following the and get your more fashion forward sci-fi costumes and gadgets together!
discovery of charred remains at a poultry farm in Join Jedi Voize, Darth Funkzu, DJ Monkey-Wookie, HAL-Terry-Thousand
Tanjung Layang, Morib. Police suspect the motive as business rivalry. along with Captain Kirk-A and Ray-Spock for the most hard hitting beats to
Following this, a lawyer and three farm workers were charged in October with the murder ring in the new year.
of Sosilawati and three others. One of the farm workers pleaded guilty on Oct 15 to disposing Admission is RM30 for those in futuristic costumes or with a space gadget
of evidence by burning the remains of the four murdered people, and was sentenced to seven (includes one drink) and for those without costumes, it’s RM40 for ladies and
years’ jail. RM50 for men (includes one drink). Venue: Mist and Milk, 18 Jalan Liku, Off
But the fate of the lawyer and the other men is still uncertain.The Telok Datok magistrate’s Jalan Riong, Bangsar
court has set Jan 27 for mention of the case. Another club scene you might want to check out is the 2011 Countdown
Party with DJ Ian Ross at Luna Bar. Starting off the night is a buffet dinner and
9
a glass of Luna bubbly, wine or beer for RM148++ per person, followed by one
Support letters of the biggest countdown parties with Ross,
controversy known for his soul, elec-
Pakatan Rakyat Selangor was tronica and uplifting pro-
tested over its own mantra of transpar- gressive beats!
ency and accountability when the use of On top of that, Najee will
support letters by its appointed council- be spinning at Cristallo, so
lors surfaced in July. make sure you get to the city
The public questioned why the admin- on time for one of the most
istration had not taken a concrete stand hectic 2011 countdowns. Par-
on the support letter that got Klang ty starts at 7pm and will last
municipal councillor Tee Boon Hock and until 3am. Admission just for
also Pandamaran assemblyperson Ronnie the countdown party is RM100
Liu, into trouble. Liu is also an executive inclusive of one drink. Venue:
councillor. Luna Bar, 34th floor (Rooftop),
The controversy started when Tee al- Menara Pan Global, Jalan Pun-
legedly abused his position as councillor cak off Jalan P.Ramlee, KL.
by using Liu’s letterhead and seal to obtain For an Indian flavoured cel-
contracts. Tee was expelled from the DAP ebration, the Tantra party at
and sacked as councillor. 7atenine is the place to be. Take
Selangor, however, has not banned the yourself to mystical heights with
use of support letters completely, but sitar music, sensual podium danc-
decided to limit their use to charity cases ers and mingling characters, for a
and not for business tenders. hedonistic party. Hong Kong
8
based DJ Nicole and DJ Acid will
keep you on the dance floor. They
10
The Aminulrasyid Selangor’s will be accompanied by Klai on
shooting Public sitar, Keeran on dhol and Mathan
Aminulrasyid Amzah, a Accounts on electronic drums.
15-year-old student from Committee appointed With a wide variety of food in-
Shah Alam, made national BN leader as fused with exotic spices and herbs.
headlines and sparked public Indian inspired cocktails, cham-
outrage after he was controversially shot chairman pagne, beers, wines and spirits are on hand to keep you reeling with joy when
dead by police in April in a car chase. Po- In an unprecedented move of bi- we all usher in 2011. Party starts at 7pm and ends at 3am. Admission is RM167
lice said they thought he was a ‘criminal’. partisanship, Selangor in July ap- inclusive of one drink. Venue: 7atenine, Ascott Kuala Lumpur, 9 Jalan Pinang,
The Home Ministry, under public pointed Sungai Burong assembly- KL.
pressure, established a special panel to man Datuk Mohd Shamsudin Lias For those who are feeling flush with year end bonuses and feel like really
investigate the cause of death. from the Barisan Nasional, to head splurging for their new year celebration, try the New Year’s Eve party with DJ
A police officer has been charged, and its Public Accounts Committee Keza at Skybar. Coming in straight from Paris, DJ Keza, recent winner of Bei-
the case is now being tried in the Shah (PAC). jing’s City weekend DJ of the Year and a connoisseur of luxury tunes and heavy
Alam Sessions Court. This didn’t please the BN, productions, will be rocking your countdown!
Aminulrasyid’s case highlighted allega- though, which called the move Bringing a French touch to an eclectic track selection, DJ Keza is known for
tions against the police force as being “politically motivated” and a “gim- deep soul shaking house to the sharpest hip hop joints. Party starts at 9pm.
“trigger-happy”. mick”. Opposition leader Datuk Bottle and food packages range between RM690-RM4330, admitting 2-6 pax.
After his death, came news of another Seri Dr Mohamad Khir Toyo said Venue: SkyBar, Floor 33, Traders Hotel, KL.
shooting victim, Norizan Salleh, who was BN was still the minority on the For those who feel like dining at Hotel Nikko on New Years Eve, you can
shot five times by police but survived. committee with two assemblyper- join in their New Year’s Eve Final Countdown 2011 at the Lobby Lounge when
Police also refused to reveal their sons as opposed to seven from Pa- you present your dining bill. For non-diners, cover charge is RM60++ inclusive
guidelines when handling firearms, not katan. of one house beverage.
even to the Malaysian Human Rights Mohd Shamsudin then rejected The countdown begins at the Lobby Lounge. Get onto the dance floor and
Commission (Suhakam). the post through a motion tabled in celebrate till the wee hours of the morning. The celebration begins at 9pm and
the assembly. ends at 3am. For reservations, call 03 27826244. Venue: Hotel Nikko, 165,
Jalan Ampang, 50450 Kuala Lumpur.
18
Features
DEC 31, 2010 — Jan 2, 2011
Good food at
a good price
in SACC
SHAH ALAM: The SACC previous high point in his career
Westside Bistro unveiled their new was working in the kitchen of the
menu for the upcoming year last KL Golf and Country Club.
Friday that offers everything from “Prices of the main courses vary
pasta to Nasi Lemak. from RM7-RM20. It is actually
“This is an effort to add more quite cheap in the sense that we are
variety to the restaurant, we hope offering quality food at those
this will be able to attract more prices,” he added.
customers,” said Westside Bistro The menu that was unveiled
executive sous chef Zulkifli Yusof includes 17 new additions to the
(pic). existing menu in the Westside
Zulkifli said that although the Bistro. Ranging from the home-
food is good but business has been made kaya butter toasts and kam-
slow. He believes the reason for the pung fried rice, to the more luxuri-
lack of customers is because of the ous sirloin steak and seafood ara-
lack of publicity. biatta pasta.
Zulkifli, who has 12 years’ All 17 dishes were cooked and
worth of experience working in the displayed in the unveiling and were
food business, has been working in available for sampling.
the SACC’s Westside Bistro since The new menu will be in place
it was set-up in 1998. Zulkifli’s by next week.
FEature 19
DEC 31, 2010 — Jan 2, 2011
W
hen Miguel D Mena stood up and
said, “I sell my books mostly to my
friends,” we all laughed.
Jubilee Master of
Fiction by Shih-Li Kow
T
he night is ripe with heat. The ceiling
fan whirs frantically and fails to cool,
brushing heavy air over his skin like a Lollipops now
piece of flannel. He scratches himself and
listens to the neighbourhood dogs’ distant
barking, from one to another across fences
in Malaysia
and walls. Outside, rows of houses strung on a ribbon elephant swings its trunk and seems to smile By William Tan
His cat slips into the room through his of road spiral down the hill he lives on, pinned too, with its upturned mouth. A baby kind
bedroom door left ajar, a white shape in the in place by streetlamps. The neighbourhood of smile. It moves its head from side to side S U B A N G J AYA : Durukan, an
semi darkness. As silent as a little ghost, it has seen better days, the trees are big but tired and fans the child on its back with its ears. internationally renowned brand of Turkish
curls up into a pale patch on the rug. and the rooflines lurch and flatline from The sleeping girl is small and weightless on lollipops, was officially launched at the
He raises his body on his elbows, trying to uncontrolled renovations and home the elephant’s back, her legs dangle. The tiny Mydin Mall last week.
move in freeze frame motions to keep the old improvement whimsies. soles of her feet are black with dirt. Sold in 57 countries, the “Master of
bed from creaking. A shoulder joint pops into All is as it should be except for something “Where’s the circus? There’s no circus here. Lollipops” is available at all Mydin
place. moving slowly up the street. Something that There’s nothing here except houses,” he says. hypermarkets in the country.
“Can’t you sleep?” his wife says, not even excites the dogs. He has to shout because they are moving “We aim to be the leading market leader
half awake. It is a party of two – a person and an away. The elephant’s tail swishes against its of lollipops here in Malaysia and eventually,
It could have been asked of a lover in her animal of some sort too big to be a dog. He rump. the whole of Southeast Asia,” said Durukan
dream. Sighing, she turns on her side to face wonders and guesses, maybe a cow or a horse, A light comes on in his neighbour’s sales manager Ozgur Biyikli.
the wall. The mattress heaves and settles. He and watches as the pair come closer. It cannot window. That brown dog two houses away He said there were three key factors that
catches a breath and holds it in his ribcage be but there is no mistaking the stumpy legs, yips without stopping. made their lollipop stand out. The company,
until she is still again, unreachable in the the bulbous head and the incongruous trunk. “Oh, there’s always a circus, my friend,” says established in 1976, specialises only in
private depths of her sleep. Her hair is the It is a baby elephant. the man, looking over his shoulder. “You just lollipops and uses innovation in their
darkest shadow on the pillow. The sight makes him laugh to himself, the need to find it.” production and natural colouring.
He stands and takes the three steps from way a private joke or a surprise birthday party Our man with the house on the street Biyikli said even lollipop sticks were made
his bed to his desk. He finds the power button would. hesitates but only for a while, long enough to of hardened paper instead of plastic. He added
on his computer easily but stops himself from He rushes downstairs, vaulting three steps pull his running shoes on and lock his door. that Durukan was successful because it had
pushing it, reminded of the electronic beep at a time with both hands on the banisters. His cat is scratching the doormat, excitedly invested a lot in its brand and image.
it makes booting up. When he opens his front door, the elephant digging its claws into the jute fibres. “Starting January next year, you will see
Sealed in the room by the windows and is passing his house. Its keeper looks at him His wife, he believes, sleeps upstairs and is us everywhere, on billboards, television, on
drawn curtains is the quiet of the night and the and raises a hand in greeting. again filling the room with fragments of her the streets ... everywhere” said Biyikli.
remnants of sleep, almost tangible, like a gas. And it is a party of three, not two – a child dreams, lingering echoes and images invisible He said they picked Mydin as their
He opens one window, stretching his arm in a tutu is asleep on the elephant. Her shiny to him which thicken the air. partner because it was Malaysia’s only halal
through the security bars into the coolness skirt froths around her as she rests, folded In the shadowy hour between sleep and hypermarket. The company may also open
outside. The silence escapes the room like a forward with her head on the elephant’s. wakefulness, he follows the elephant and its their first factory outside Turkey in Malaysia.
freed animal. Sporadic night noises rush in “Where are you going?” he asks the man keeper. He rings every doorbell along the way, Also at the product launch was Turkish
to fill the void; the metallic clang of someone’s with the elephant, breathless. light-footed and strangely jubilant as though ambassador Serap Ataay and International
gate, a dog’s coughing bark, the broken scale “To the circus,” the man replies, smiling. touched by the magic of an improbable circus. Trade and Industry Deputy Minister Datuk
of a revving engine somewhere. His teeth shine white in a dark face. The As though chosen. Mukhriz Mahathir.
Travel 21
DEC 31, 2010 — Jan 2, 2011
A
stranger to Kepong in search of food may
find himself going in and out of side roads
and back alleys without finding what he
actually wants.
For a first-time visitor, it may be best to just drop
by the Happy City Food Court which is located
next to the Kepong Carrefour, near Jaya Jusco.
There are close to 50 stalls at this huge food court.
The place comes alive after sunset. But lunchtime is
also a good time to have a quick meal.
S ince the predominantly Chinese areas of
Kepong Baru and Jinjang are a short distance away,
the Happy City food court caters mainly to non-
halal customers.
I only learnt of this place a few years ago since I,
too, had no good reason to venture uninvited to this
township. In the past, Kepong wasn’t the kind of
place that outsiders liked to explore, unless one had
Happiness
relatives staying there.
But in recent years, Kepong has earned itself a Activity slows
fine reputation for having some of the best Chinese down in the
cuisine in the Klang Valley. If you are adventurous, afternoon but
you could actually keep going to Kepong on a regular picks up after
basis over six months and still not finish sampling dark.
all its culinary surprises.
is a full belly
Those who know Kepong should gather a posse
of friends and make a foray into the town after dark.
The most popular places tend to be the noisiest
with the largest crowds. And so, Happy City is an
appropriate name for my favourite glutton square
Television
in Kepong. It has all the right Chinese hawker fare sets abound in
that appeals to my taste buds. the Happy City
On top of my gastronomical noodles with a few quick twists of The peppery soup or gravy is Happy City Food Court. It seems to Food Court. It
agenda is the pork belly stall which her wrists. strong enough to fire up my throat. be a Malaysian way of life to watch
is probably the best within a five After witnessing her in action on The “siow kow”, whether deep fried the TV during a meal, regardless of seems to be a
kilometre radius. The stall is several occasions, I came to the or in soup, tastes delicious when the time of day. Mamak restaurants Malaysian way
operated by a slim, Mandarin- conclusion that she possesses hands dipped in vinegar and eaten with nationwide seem to have wised up of life to watch
speaking woman who is not only of steel. slivers of young ginger. to this trend, and now, almost every the TV during a
gracious but is a fine chef. The only minor issue I have with There are also stalls selling mamak shop you’d come across
To call her a hawker or a cook her is that she understands no Teochew porridge, Sekinchan pork would have big, flat-screen TVs. meal, regardless
would only denigrate her status. All Cantonese or English and I speak noodles, wantan mee, claypot Mothers who frequent the of the time of
her noodles are hand-made. She very limited Mandarin. Fortunately chicken rice and mixed rice. There’s Happy City Food Court during day. Mamak
tosses ribbons of noodles into the for both of us, my spoken Mandarin even a stall that sells Hong Kong- lunch hours are often seen bringing
air after sprinkling them with flour can be understood after five minutes style braised duck. along their children to have their
restaurants
and then multiplies the strands of of halting sentences. Television sets abound in the meals. Perhaps it is much easier for nationwide seem
mothers to have to have wised
multiple choices of up to this trend,
food on offer for
their hungry and now, almost
children. every mamak
With rows of shop you’d come
ceiling fans to across would
dissipate the
a f t e rn o o n h e a t , have big, flat-
customers don’t have screen TVs.”
to worry about beads
of sweat dropping
on to their plates of way, and there might still be some
food. change left over.
Another discov- Customers who are sensitive to
ery is the large num- the outside heat in spite of the
ber of Myanmar na- ceiling fans may saunter over to the
tionals working as Carrefour hypermarket to cool
waiters at this place. down.
They are all young, But one thing is assured. You
energetic and effi- won’t leave Happy City Food Court
cient, and they un- hungry. Of course, you can’t eat
derstand Cantonese! everything sold under that big roof.
Since this is a You’ll just have to make repeat visits
hawker centre, your to sample all the other dishes that
wallet is in no you couldn’t consume in one sitting.
immediate danger of Don’t forget to bring along a few
being emptied. friends. Make one or two of them
Everything sold here pay for your meal because you would
has a price but it is all have let them in on the secret of one
affordable. RM10 of Selangor’s biggest, yummiest
Mothers bringing their children for their afternoon meals. will take you a long hideouts.
22
Gallery
DEC 31, 2010 — Jan 2, 2011
HORSING
AROUND:
Children
enjoying pony
rides at the
Selangor Ria
carnival from
Dec 18-26 at
the Shah Alam
Stadium.
A stall keeper
proudly showing
off his wares at
the Selangor
Ria carnival from
Dec 18-26 at
the Shah Alam
Stadium.
.
From left: Shah Alam Music Academy’s Gilbert Wong and Aswara’s mu-
sic faculty director Shamsul Kamal Abd Rahman handing over a mock
cheque for RM10,000 to SACC general manager Shuhainie Shamsudin
on Tuesday. In line with the “Spiced Up Countdown 2011”, SACC will
hold a fundraising for victims of natural disasters by contributing RM1
for every combo package sold at SACC tonight.
INTERVIEW
Malaysian Art
in 2010 P
ost-rock music -- a genre that appropriates the trappings of rock to
push sounds in weird and wonderful directions -- has a penchant
for grandiloquent nomenclature. Take, for example, Tortoise’s
Millions Now Living Will Never Die, or just Godspeed You! Black Em-
I
t’s been an eventful year in Parliament revealed a bored, Community Art Project and Chow peror. Furniture, Malaysia’s most notable post-rock-like outfit, is no excep-
dear old Malaysia: 100-storey hungry House itching to get Kit Kita!, both designed to map
towers and price hikes; things wrapped up. the history and peoples of those tion. Their 2005 album, Twilight Chases the Sun, was a critically acclaimed
PERKASA- and headmistress- What’s new in the NVADB? two urban townships, facilitated piece of shoegazing emotronica -- how about the tinkling xylophone,
style racism; cops that rob, punch As its name suggests, this by artist-types working closely scratchy percussion and existential meandering of tracks like “Why Is
and kill. You’ve read your share of new legislation focuses on with locals. There’s the monthly Adam King?”
year-end, top-news-stories lists. developing the visual arts as an Pekan Frinjan, a festival for fringe Furniture releases its sophomore effort, They Made Me Out of Dreams
What follows is something you industry. It widens the scope subcultures in Shah Alam, which You’ve Forgotten, digitally on 1 January 2011; hardcopies arrive the same
wouldn’t have seen: a summary from “Peninsular Malaysia” to gets a lot of curious, non-insider
of the year 2010 in Malaysian art. “Malaysia”. It allows the National attention.
month. Frontman Ronnie Khoo -- bit of trivia: he created the “What
Yes, seni is still alive and kicking! Arts Gallery -- already a statutory Other groups are less Would Zaid Hold?” Facebook group -- talks about the new album, his
body -- to open businesses and geography-specific. The band’s influences, and why they’re self-publishing.
The National Visual franchises. It specifies that at Seksualiti Merdeka festival, into
Arts Development least a quarter of the 13-member its third year in 2010, accrues What are the band’s influences? How would you describe
Board Bill 2010 Visual Arts Development Board solidarity for, and awareness Furniture’s music?
be comprised of practising about, alternative gender and As musicians, we should consider the merit in any sort of music, and not
An example of how easily arts
artists or academics. Potentially sexuality issues. The Buka
and culture can be forgotten, get too caught up in the politics of the “mainstream versus underground”
far-reaching changes for Kolektif has been organising
politically -- even by artists, debate. If I was forced to generalise, I’d say Furniture, as a band, listens
practitioners. performance art events, with the
themselves. mostly to the kind of music that is sought out, rather than the kind that
Don’t be blindsided again, overt goal of introducing clueless
The National Visual Arts
Development Board (NVADB)
people! Pay attention! audiences about the form. The gets shoved into the collective consciouness.
Bar Council’s MyConstitution
Bill was mooted as early as
Community- and Issue- campaign has been working on Our music has been built up ambitiously from a pop foundation. It’s
2008, and got its first reading
based Art Projects Radio Demokratika, a compilation
in the Dewan on 11 October
of indie music themed on melodic and catchy, and we try to see what noisy spin we can give it.
this year. But it wasn’t until the The idea of making art in -- and democracy and election rights,
latest parliamentary session for -- local neighbourhoods Tell us about the new album. Any unifying themes or concepts?
set for an early 2011 release.
that artists sat up to take note: and communities isn’t new; we
realising, among other things, that
All these point to the growing They Made Me Out of Dreams You’ve Forgotten was conceived over a pe-
remember 2002’s Taman Medan realisation of a no-brainer: art
the NVADB would be replacing Community Arts Project, or the riod of five years. We wanted to work with a more song-based structure,
shouldn’t be just about artists. which is why there is a lot more singing now. Looking back, I think the
the National Art Gallery Act ongoing efforts of Penang’s Arts-
1959. By then, however, it was Ed programmes. But 2010 saw a new album covers a period when my angst was running dry, so I was look-
too late to do anything: the bill remarkable blossoming of efforts The Ebb and Flow ing for new things to fuel the songs. “Monuments”, for example, was in
was passed, close to midnight to merakyatkan seni. of Cultural Space part inspired by the shifting sands of our city’s landscape.
on 15 December. Tweets from There was the Pudu With so little official support, the
rise and fall of art institutions
are de rigueur in this town. 2010 A lot of Malaysian indie musicians, like Furniture, are self-
opened discouragingly: with publishing. Why is this the case? Is it a good or bad thing?
the 8th BOH Cameronian Arts The music business is currently in flux; we haven’t settled on a new work-
Awards in April, venerable arts ing model. It’s exciting because we get to try and figure it out -- but, at the
and culture journal Kakiseni.com same time, us small-fry, DIY musicians are not going to get any help from
shut its virtual doors. Valentine investors, because they’re holding on to their money and waiting. I think
Willie Fine Art, the most influential
commercial gallery in Malaysia,
it’s a great thing, because it forces us to take on roles beyond just being
reduced its KL floor-size from two musicians -- we have to be entrepreneurial, as well.
Bangsar shoplots to just one.
But things are definitely on What about the Malaysian music industry which you would like
the up. New physical spaces to see changed?
like the ambitious Map KL I think many aspects of Malaysian life, not just the music industry, could
megaproject got started this year, do with a bit more freedom. Currently, there’s too much legislation and
to encouraging -- if unspectacular
--reception. The Actors Studio@ red tape; it’s very stifling. The other day, when we were going to shoot a
Lot 10 and Jaya One’s PJ Live music video for our new album, I discovered you need a permit to film. I
Arts are coming into their own. always thought I could go out with some friends and make a short film if
Neighbourhoodly venues like PJ’s I wanted to -- but now I know I actually need to apply for permission from
Small Talk With The Moon gallery the authorities, just to have some fun. What a killjoy.
and Ampang’s Gudang Noisy gig
space are blossoming up all over.
And, though somewhat Digital copies of They Made Me Out of Dream You’ve Forgotten are
modified, Kakiseni.com is back … available from furniture.bandcamp.com.
Published by Selangor State Government and printed by Dasar Cetak (M) Sdn Bhd No. 7, Persiaran Selangor, Seksyen 15, 40000, Shah Alam, Selangor Darul Ehsan.