Saturday, October 31, 2009

One wife, two wife, three wife, four

Patrick

Muslim men are currently allowed to marry up to four wives, but the Muslim courts have to approve the multiple marriages before they take place. This has been contested by some woman's rights group in Malaysia, but to no avail.

However, Malaysia'a Islamic party has begun to tell Muslim men that, for their additional wives, they should take single mothers as opposed to "young virgin girls." The rational is that this will help relieve some of the burden on single mothers, seeing how the husband will need to be economically well off to even have a second, third, or fourth wife, and will not help those young virgin girls because they have no burdens as of yet.

The Islamic party also calls for Husbands who leave theri wives without good reason to be whipped under religious laws.

http://www.google.com/hostednews/afp/article/ALeqM5hpuxECCDEYgv3a-fQFibDugBlMxA

Friday, October 30, 2009

PAS rejects potential pact with UMNO

by Jeff Gimm

After key members of the Pan Malaysian Islamic Party(PAS)said they were interested in a pact with the ruling UMNO, several meetings full of infighting took place. After one final meeting, the official statement coming from the PAS was that there was to be no pact with the UMNO. To quote PAS secretary-general Mustafa Ali "The talks with Umno are a closed chapter - officially closed, no more"
The fact that key PAS members were even considering a pact with the UMNO is intriguing. In the recent past both parties have been trying to appeal to Malaysia's large Islamic community,but if a potential pact was in the works;perhaps the underlying Islamic connection was the key to an alliance.

Do it Right the Second Time... Or Third

Women's groups in Malaysia have protested against polygamy, citing that it has deviated from its original intent of protecting widows and orphans, although Sha'ria law allows Muslim men to marry up to four women (only if it can be afforded). Wan Ubaidah Omar, a cabinet minister from northern Kelantan, has made a suggestion to Malaysian men in the market for another wife; forgo the young, virgin bride and find yourself a single mother. "This will ease the burden of the single mothers as the men can help them to take care of their children. The single ladies have no burden," said Wan Ubaidah.

I have to admit, this makes sense... Well, not in the sense of polygamy, but it does flow with the original intent of multiple wives. Kudos, Minister Ubaidah.

By Caleb B. Ray

Source: AFP

Thursday, October 29, 2009

Malaysian Bible Thumpers out of Luck

by Bri Roozen

In recent months the Malaysian government has seized over 20,000 Bibles because of a lingual technicality. These Bibles, written in traditional Malay language, had to use some Arabic words to fill in the gaps. The word everyone's up in a tizzy about, is God. These 20,000 Malaysian Bibles refer to God in the Arabic language - Allah. This has upset pretty much every Muslim and government groups are fearing a quasi religious takeover from fundamentalists. "Its [Allah] use in Christian publications is like to confuse Muslims and draw then to Christianity... so it has banned use of the word in Christian literature." This is clearly in opposition to the supposed freedom of religion, but as we've learned thus far there's really no arguing with the Malaysian government.

Wednesday, October 28, 2009

Base jumping from the Menare Kuala Lumpur tower

Day in pictures presents:

24 people jumped every 24 hours for 24hrs from the Menare Kuala Lumpur tower, to set a world record attempt for base jumping.

Tuesday, October 27, 2009

Najib speaks against independence demands in Thailand

The Malaysian Prime Minister, Najib Razak, is planning to visit Bangkok in December along with three of the southernmost provinces. Najib has said that Malaysia would continue to support Thailand in any way it can. When Najib was asked about the security in Thailand he replied, "It is somewhat less tense or even less violent now. I think a couple of years ago it was at a peak." The Prime Minister told the press that Malaysia would like to seek a solution to this problem. He also discussed the importance of a resolution being within the Thai constitution and 'winning the hearts and minds' of the people in the south. Concerning the violence in the south, he believes when the majority of the people are with the government, the extremists with be easier to eliminate. With the importance of religion in the southern provinces Najib explained the importance of understanding the peoples needs.

By: Liz Hasseld



New Free Trade Agreement

Patrick Maloney

This has been blowing up the Google Alerts yesterday and today... Malaysia and New Zealand have signed a new free trade agreement after four years of talks, expecting to shoot bilateral trade up to 1.8 billion dollars between the two countries. The agreement specifically, by next year, will begin to progressively eliminate the import taxes on New Zealand's products and the import levy's on Malaysian products, ending the process by 2016. This is the third such trade agreement by Malaysia, the first with Japan in 05 and Pakistan in 07. This is a milestone in Malaysian foreign policy, seeing how they have been hesitant to open up their rice markets and increase in state contracts.

http://www.bloomberg.com/apps/news?pid=20601081&sid=a7oc5XYeIUnk

Monday, October 26, 2009

22 Malaysian children feared drowned

Gina Fazio

In the Houston Chronicle, after a bridge collapsed over the Kampar River 22 Malaysian children have been missing. All of the children are under the age of 13. The bridge collapsed late Monday. About twenty other people were on the suspension bridge at the time of the collapse and managed to not be swept away by holding onto exposed cables or parts of the bridge.

Officials have been looking for the missing children for about 12 hours but at this point are mostly only looking for bodies, one official said.

Sunday, October 25, 2009

Babies on a Plane?

by Bri Roozen

Wednesday of last week was home to an event often speculated about in movies, but rarely seen in real life. While flying to her home state of Sarawak, a 31-year-old divorced Malaysian woman went into labor and had her baby delivered by a mile off the ground. The boy was born almost eleven weeks early, but was of a healthy enough weight they'll be releasing him from the hospital sometime Monday afternoon. The woman and her child have been given free flights for life.

What I thought was most interesting, however, was some of the comments made in the article. Both a doctor at the woman's hospital and at a private clinic commented on the event, but requested to keep their identities hidden. Why you may ask? Apparently Malaysian doctors are required to get approval from the health ministry before commenting on any public cases. I'm not exactly sure how speaking of a flying baby translates into a national health information risk, but the Malaysian government isn't taking any chances.

Malaysians Failing to get Asylum in Australia gets deported.

Soch Mel

Australia deported some Malaysians who failed to seek asylum as 'refugees.' Others came from Indonesia, India and China. Of all those who applied for asylum, 30% of them are Chinese. The next largest group, and so on, is Sri Lankans at 8%, Malaysians, Indonesians, Iraqis, and Indians.

Many of these 'refugees' arrived by plane rather than boat. In fact, the number of 'refugees' arriving by plane is 30 times higher than by boat. Most of those who arrive by plane, 40 to 60%, have protection visas making them less likely to be genuine refugees. Those arriving by boat, about 85 to 90%, are found to be genuine refugees.

What is interesting to note here is that more refugees arrive by plane rather than boat. The next question to ask is why are some Malaysian, Malaysian Chinese maybe, seeking asylum in another country. This seems an interesting issue that could affect the relations between Australia and Malaysia.

Malaysian official advocates using more international ideas in the area of Human Rights

by Jeff Gimm

According to the New Straight Times,the Raja Muda of Perak, Raja Dr Nazrin Shah said over the weekend that "Malaysia's judiciary should look beyond the national borders and adopt more international human rights thinking and standards in arriving at legal decisions" Dr. Narzin Shah stressed that this was not an attack on the way Malaysia is currently conducting itself. "It is about seeking solutions to local problems by consulting universally accepted standards. It is about drawing on the experience of others who have faced similar problems." Towards the end of his speech, he stated that the courts are the ultimate authority in the country, so therefore any movement in the area of human rights should be up to them.
The way this speech was framed was most interesting. Dr. Nazrin Shah framed this idea in a way that stressed Malaysia's rising power. It puts them in a "enviable and unenviable place." He also stressed that while Malaysia should look carefully at the advice of other countries, as many of them have dealt with some of the problems that Malaysia is facing now, that this advice should be looked at as a form of international Amicus briefs.

Malaysian "Polygamy Club" creates stir in Indonesia

Angela Hager

Currently, Islamic law permits a man to have up to four wives. The polygamy clubs aims at to help single mothers, reformed prostitutes and older women to find husbands. plans on opening the first Indonesian branch are underway. However, a lot of criticism has erupted.

The practice of polygamy in Indonesia is limited by law to two spouses, and only if the first is an invalid, infertile, or terminally ill. However, this has be flouted in the past.

Criticism of the club from religious leaders in Indonesia stems from the belief that if polygamy becomes too popular, then the strict practices that must be adhered to will be forgotten, such as fair treatment of all wives and children and equal financial support. However, the criticism does not stop with religious groups. Women's rights activists are also outspoken against the club. Some have no issue with polygamy, but dislike that is it not practiced in private. Others say the practice of polygamy itself hurts women.

Saturday, October 24, 2009

"Islamic Government must show concern for all"

According to newstraitstime.com, prime minister Mahathir addresses his administration that Islamic values, respecting laws and showing concern for all communities as well as being free from corruption should changed and restored in the country of Malaysia. He says that "having a good administration when in power was important to ensure Islam grew and non- Muslims do not keep away from Muslims. and he further states that "If we can do this, the benefits will be great, among them, understanding of Islamic teachings will increase and people will listen more to the administration," at the Perkim's (Malaysian Muslim Welfare Organisation) 48th annual general meeting at a hotel here yesterday.

Due to Islamic administrations exhibit cruelty, abuse of power, corruption, inefficiency, and oppression of others, Islam has been talked about in negative context. and says that ' today there isn't a single islamic country that can be said to be a developed nation, there are some who hold the view that progress of islamic countries is not important. " and that " Islamic counties would only be respected if there were progressive like in the Golden age of Islam."

I feel that this is especially true, since we just learned about the shariah law, those counties that have this law in existence are clearly not using it to its full potential, rather using it to their advantage. That is why so many non-Muslims have wrong perceptions of the shariah law and its teachings.

Hina Latif

Friday, October 23, 2009

Malaysia is the Most Aware out of ASEAN

Malaysia is one of the most aware about human rights out of the ten members of ASEAN. The Malaysian representative to ASEAN, Datuk Muhammad Shafee Abdullah gave a modest boast to explain this result. "We are much more advanced than many other Asean countries...but there is always room for improvement," with further elabortion suggesting that ASEAN intends to revise its Terms of Reference. Shafee also addmitted that while Malaysian human rights are somewhat lacking compared to European standards because of local values, progress is nevertheless being made.

By: Caleb B. Ray
Source: BERNAMA

Wednesday, October 21, 2009

Anwar tries to fight back against rumors


By: Liz Hasseld

Malaysian Opposition leader, Anwar Ibrahim, was planning to sue former premier Mahathir Mohamad for almost 30 million dollars for starting the rumors that he was homosexual. Remember, in 1998 Anwar was charged with sodomy and corruption and served six years in jail. Since Anwar has become the leader of the opposition party in Malaysia, which has gained a huge amount of support in recent elections, winning a third of the parliament seats. This case was thrown out by the high court in 2007 and now the appeals court has also struck Anwar down on his suit against Mahathir. Because of technical reasons (the application was filed in english and not in bahasa malaysia) the case was thrown away. Anwar is facing yet another sodomy charge from a former aide. Anwar insist this is all a part of a malicious plan to ruin his political career.


Tuesday, October 20, 2009

Economic Turnaround for Malaysia

There is excitement in Malaysia due to the bright future for the Malaysian economy. Malaysia's government has taken large leaps towards expanding manufacturing industries in Malaysia. This expansion is said to solidify ties with China and Singapore. Some major East Asian economies have begun making pacts with neighboring Asian states for a free-trade market between each of them. This free-trade system is allowing underdeveloped and developing states to broaden their horizons through international business. Malaysia has been proactive in "dismantling" procedures enacted from the New Economic Policy. In addition, Malaysia has taken a liberalism viewpoint upon themselves for changing their economy for the better. Ties with China has been a big step for Malaysia. "For example, reports that sovereign wealth fund China Investment Corporation would take a stake in Malaysian government-controlled conglomerate Sime Darby," are important for both States' economies. In this article, it also notes that Singapore would reap benefits from moving some of their industry into Malaysia. Not only will this help both economies, but it will strengthen ties between the two countries. Finally, it is briefly stated that an aid to this economic turnaround for Malaysia is their Muslim base.

Monday, October 19, 2009

Spectators Paid to Attend "1 Malaysia Rally?"

According to The Malaysia Insider, some spectators at the 1 Malaysia rally claim to have been paid to attend. The concept, which has been highly publisized in the media, was revealed to a crowd numbering 30,000 by Prime Minister Datuk Seri Najib in Perak Stadium. The large crowd would have represented a boost for the Prime Minister, as the ruling coalitions control in the state of Perak had been shaky. While the crowd would seem to indicate that this has changed, some spectators claim to have been bused in to the rally after being paid 30 Malaysian Ringgits. While addressing the crows, the Prime Minister noted that he was happy to see members in the crowd of all races and cultures. Najin cited social justice as the main goal of 1 Malaysia, and laid out a plans for a new economic plan for Malaysia.

Jacob Simkins

Malaysia Day

Patrick Maloney

September 16th has been declared Malaysia Day by Najib Razak starting next year. Najib told reporters that the establishment of a new sovereign nation was an important part the nations history and, as such, will be celebrated with a twin holiday. August 31st will celebrate Malaysia's freedom from colonial rule and September 16th will be called Malaysia day and "will be celebrated with activities to strengthen unity, racial understanding, and the people's achievement in sports, socio-culture, culture and others to light up the spirit of 1Malaysia."
This 1 Malaysia concept is promoting peace, greater understanding, and stability in aiding Malaysia's goal of being developed by 2020.
Is this just a publicity stunt or are we actually seeing some steps taken towards a unified Malaysia?
http://www.bernama.com/bernama/v5/newsindex.php?id=447848

No Western Sexy???

By Gina Fazio

Beyonce has postponed the concert in Malaysia on October 25 to a "future date to be announced shortly."

Beyonce has faced heavy criticism from Islamic groups in Malaysia concerned about Beyonce's sexualized appearance and dancing. The cancellation is said to be purely at the behest of the artist and has nothing to do with "other external reasons"

Tell that to the the Malysian public that was looking forward to the "Western Sexy".

However groups like the Pan-Malaysian Islamic Party have heavily criticized Beyonce's appearance in Malaysia, stating that her sexualized appearance is an attack on Malaysia's (that is Muslim Malaysia's) more conservative cutural views. This is the second time Beyonce has stopped a perfomance in Malaysia, the first attempt was in 2007. At that time it was blamed on a "sceduling conflict". Can it be blamed on a "conflict of interests" this time?

I guess Beyonce fans in Malaysia will just ahve to keep waiting.

Sunday, October 18, 2009

18 Afghans Detained in a Boat in Malaysian Water

Malaysians caught and detained 18 Afghans illegally sailing to Indonesia late Saturday night. These immigrants were found sailing in between the Malaysian Peninsular and the Indonesian island of Sumatra. They were being led to Indonesia by Indonesian Boaters. It is common for citizens from Iraq, Pakistan, Afghanistan, and Sri Lanka to use Malaysia as a starting point for a voyage to Australia from Indonesia. Many of these citizens are seeking refugee within Australia. This has become an illegal act from the ports of Malaysia. The Afghans caught on Saturday, most of them having legal documents, are facing imprisonment for trying to leave Malaysia illegally. Malaysia has made a goal to work towards eliminating this problem; however, they feel like their waters are far too vast to patrol completely by themselves.

Malaysia furthering ties with Islamic World

by Jeff Gimm

Malaysia will offer scholarships to two eligible Qatari students to study at the Kuala Lumpur Center for International Islamic Finance. This announcement came during a Bahrain-Qatar conference on finances. Islamic finances are similar to normal economics,but are based on Sharia law and ethics. Malaysia has recently made itself a center for Islamic finance in addition to new rules that helped mitigate the recent economic crisis.
This move is cohesive with other recent moves by the Malaysian government to take a lead role in the Islamic world. There seems to be a sort of tour of the Islamic world going on by the Malaysian government, they have now recently brokered deals with Iran, Saudi Arabia and now Qatar.

Malaysia's Little India gets Recognization

by Soch Mel

Little India in Malaysia’s Klang district is declared as an official, must-see tourist spot. Selangor Mentri Besar Khalid Ibrahim stated that Little India has brought lots of dollars to the Malaysian economy. Therefore, giving Little India official recognition would bring more money and promote the Indian community in Malaysia
Ibrahim say that the many pre-war shops, restaurants, craft-shops, and jewelry shops in Little India offers a wonderful cultural experience to tourists. Other people in the Indian Chamber of Commerce talked about the positive economic impact. One businessman stated that believes that the Selangor government cares about the Indian population, and that the government wants to help the Indian community enhance their businesses.

Saturday, October 17, 2009

Generous Malaysia

http://www.bernama.com/bernama/v5/newsindex.php?id=447660

Jenica Alsip

Due to Typhoon Parma many homes in the Philipinnes have been damaged and are flooded preventing about 3 million people prevent people from going about their daily activities. Malaysia being the generous country that it is sent blankets, food, clothes and other items to help out the victims. But, this would prove beneficial for both countries. Second political secretary of the Malaysian Embassy in the Philippines would strengthen ties between the countries.

Don't Come Around Here No More

Malaysian officials arrested and Iraqi terror suspect on Friday as he attempted to enter Kuala Lumpur on a forged passport. Mohammed Al-Daini, a former member of the Shi'ite parliment, has been accused of plotting insurgent attacks including a bombing in 2007 which resulted in the deaths of two members of parliment. Al-Daini has been on the run since February of 2009, when parliment removed his immunity. He will be exdradited to Iraq, just as soon as Malaysian officials obtain his ligitimate passport .

By: Caleb B. Ray

Source: VOA News

Friday, October 16, 2009

Malaysia expands ties with Egypt

According to Malaysia in focus:

Malaysia is Egypt's second largest trading partner in Africa, with investments in oil, gas related industries, palm oil, automotive, and auto parts as well as smart card technology. Malaysian companies are interested in doing more business with Egypt and want to bring more tourism, investors, purchase properties, and participate in the counties development.

Trade, investment, engineering, and construction are several of the links that Malaysia would like to add to expand their relationship with Egypt, they already have strong connections in education, culture, and religion.

Malaysia is to expand bilateral ties with Egypt, says International Trade and Industry Minister Datuk Mustapa Mohamed.


Hina Latif

Wednesday, October 14, 2009

Naked Raid on Beauty Parlor

Soch Mel

A beauty parlor in Jalan, Petaling Jaya; was raided by the local police. The Petaling Jaya police were informed by tips about certain activities taking place.

In the raid there were three men who were naked getting a message by three naked woman from China, each of them were capture in separate rooms. There were also three other masseuses from Thailand and one more from Burma who were also arrested. The age of the masseuses ranges from 22 to 46.

In short, that's it. It may not be that important of a news story, but it is rather interesting!

No love for Burmese Immigrants

Gina Fazio

According to the IRIN, due to the repressive military regime in Myanmar for nearly the past twenty years, many Burmese flee to neighboring countries in search of better work. Although many go to neighboring countries Thailand, Bangladesh and India. However an increasing number are coming to Malaysia, filling positions as manual laborers and construction workers.

Myanmar is ranked 138 out of 182 countries in the UN's Development Programme's 2009 Human Development Report where as Malaysia was in the 60s. One informant says that the government of Myanmar has been making it difficult for private contractors to get permits or jobs and so they have left for Malaysia, searching for work.

However, Burmese immigrants face many difficulties in the already diverse nation. Many can't find legitimate work due to a lack of adequate paperwork so they must take under the table jobs. The informant reports that Burmese are frequently targeted by the police and harassed for papers knowing that many Burmese do not have them. This can force the immigrants to produce a bribe or risk being deported back to a country of lacking opportunity.

Tuesday, October 13, 2009

Malaysia's leader pledges to reform ruling party

By: Liz Hasseld
From the
Associated Press

The United Malays National Organization began their four-day annual congress on Tuesday. Malaysia's prime minister,
Najib Razak, promised to "stamp out deep-seated corruption and make it more acceptable to ethnic minorities in efforts to revive ailing support." UMNO ruling since 1957, suffered the worst election results ever in March 2008. The prime minister said the UMNO 'would radically change the way it elects its leaders as it seeks to "eradicate money politics" and restore its credibility.' Within the current system of appointing leaders, Candidates sometimes offer bribes for votes. Only about 2,500 delegates vote for the leaders every three years. Najib said for the party's next elections (2012), votes would be increased to150,000 members. Opposition critics don't buy what Najib is selling because of all the past corruption within the UMNO. Apparently, Najib also said the UMNO must become more inclusive and take care of all Malaysians, not just the ethnic majority Malays who are its core supporters. This sounds so wonderful!! I will be interested what others have to say in the next three days of the congress and if these statements with create any action.

Sunday, October 11, 2009

Tourism Booms in Malaysia


By: Erica McCauley

Despite the economic downturn in 2008, Malaysia received more than 22 million tourists last year. It is 5% more than in 2007. Surrounding Asian countries such as Indonesia, Singapore, and Thailand are producing all these tourists. They say between 2009 and 20012, tourism with raise 9%, with up to $19.6 billion in growth as well. This growth in tourism has been helped by advertising from the government, and the fact that Kuala Lumpur has become a vast shopping center. For the small price of $963, you can purchase an analysis of Malaysia's future tourism report on the Internet. This report discusses: inbound tourism, outbound tourism, medical tourism, hotel industry, and the tourism industry in general.

Malayisian Indian party a threat to the Malaysian Indian Congress (MIC)

Malaysia's top ethnic Indian minority group was shunned years ago after the launch of the rival party, the reason why this is a harsh to the MIC is because the BN coalition has ruled since independence in 1957. They say that Najib needs to reclaim support from minority Indians and Chinese who are shifting towards a resurgent opposition, cannot rely on the MIC, which is widely seen as out of touch and beset by cronyism.

And:
"That the PM himself is backing a small, insignificant Indian party shows he has lost faith in the MIC, and the MSP is now a threat to the MIC, which will definitely try to block it from joining the ruling coalition," said political analyst Khoo Kay Peng.

Najib said he is willing to work with anyone who is in support of the government, and that he is trying to improve the living conditions of the Indian community. Ethnic Indians make up 27 million of the Malaysia population.

Hina Latif

Tolerance?

Patrick Maloney

Najib sets out to solve the "serious problems" of the ethnic Indian community in Malaysia, including poverty, higher standards of education, and creation of business opportunities for ethnic Indians.
This has all been said in response to the launch of a new Indian political party (piggybacking off the previous post). What are the implications of such claims? Will the government be forced into action? Najib has stated that he is looking forward to working with all parties to devise a solution to the problems with Ethnic Indians. Are we seeing a genuine change and desire for equality or are we seeing political promises that will never come to fruition?
This all could simply be Najib's apology for the outlawing of the Hindraf group, which recently rally over 20,000 people to push for the rights of ethnic Indians. Hopefully we s=will see some change take place, but I am not holding my breath on that one.

http://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/world/indians-abroad/Govt-determined-to-solve-problems-of-ethnic-Indians-Malaysia-PM/articleshow/5110152.cms

Indonesian group proclaims intention to attack Malaysia

by Jeff Gimm

Earlier this week, the Malaysian authorities urged the public not to panic in response to a group of vigilantes in Indonesia announcement that they would attack Malaysia. The group, known as Benteng with an estimated membership of 1,500, said that they would "crush" Malaysia in retribution for such wrongs as abusing Indonesian workers. The Malaysian government, while dismissing the threat, is still taking every precaution according to the Deputy Inspector General of Police, Tan Sri Ismail Omar.
This incident shows the underlying divide between Malaysia and Indonesia and will most likely exacerbate tensions between the two already uneasy nations.

Clash of the Indian Parties

Angela Hager

The Malaysian Indian Congress (MIC) is facing tough competition from a new Indian Party, the Malaysian Makkal Sakti (MSP). The MIC has been a part of the Barisan Nasional (BN), a coalition that has long ruled over Malaysia, but a year ago was shunned in elections. Now the ruling coalition has given its blessing to the new party.

Prime Minister Najib Razak presided over the debut of the new party, which sprang out of a banned human rights group. Razak has said he would work with anyone who agreed to work with and support his government. The MSP has not yet made any plans to join to coalition, focusing instead on improving conditions for Indians within Malaysia.

The future of the MIC in the ruling coalition is very uncertain.

Saturday, October 10, 2009

U.S. and Malaysia Deal

Jenica Alsip

http://www.google.com/hostednews/afp/article/ALeqM5iSRuf2NtkFQyxDL53YQWPqWSAvRQ



Malaysia's Composite Technology Research Malaysia has agreed to a billion dollar deal with U.S. based global aerospace parts provider Goodrich Aerostructures.

The CTRM's main goal is to develop a high technology based industry with concentrations in aerospace and composites.

The contract states that the two companies will be working together for the next two decades on commercial aircraft programs.

Friday, October 9, 2009

Not-So Benign Smut Peddlers Jailed

On Friday, Malaysian authorities arrested a couple accused of sending hundreds of women to Europe and Australia to be sex workers. Hadi Ho Abdullah, deputy director of the federal police crime investigation department, stated the couple arrested were believed to belong to an international prostitution syndicate. With the promise of lucrative employment abroad, hundreds of women were sold into prostitution rings. The arrest is part of a crackdown on human trafficking following criticism from the US state department. It is unclear what punishment will be issued, but the crime of smuggling an adult in Malaysia holds a prison sentence of up to fifteen years, not including penalties for forging passports and travel visas.

by Caleb B. Ray

Source: The Canadian Press

Malaysia In Dire Need Of More Scientists And Researchers

By: Liz Hasseld

The deputy prime minister of Malaysia said on Thursday, that the country 'is in dire need of more scientists, researchers, innovators and pioneers in science and technology' The original goal under the Ninth Malaysia Plan was to have 60 researchers, scientists and engineers per 10,000 workforce. Currently Malaysia has only achieved 18% of that goal. The deputy prime minister did seem encouraged by the increased research and development in local universities. He believes by educating the youth, Malaysia will become a developed nation by 2020. Malaysia is pushing for a university-industry partnership
. "The current economic crisis should not be wasted. We should embrace opportunities to nurture and generate value-added innovative measures to mend and move the nation to greater heights of economic prosperity," -Tan Sri Muhyiddin Yassin, debuty prime minister.





Wednesday, October 7, 2009

Good to have an Ally

by Bri Roozen

A few hours ago French President Nicolas Sarkozy had a fantastic meeting with Malaysian Prime Minister Najib Razak where Sarkozy really impressed on the fact that France wants to make Malaysia a 'privileged partner'. The French politician wants "to deepen and strengthen our bilateral ties. He considers Malaysia as a friend and he wishes possibly to visit Malaysia in the near future." The meeting went on to conclude that France and Malaysia would "reinforce political, economic, strategic and cultural relations" with everything from buying airplanes to producing nuclear energy.

What does this mean for Malaysia? Well, probably the most important part is that France, a largely powerful country in the global spectrum, is openly reaching out to the up-and-coming nation. This could provide great amounts of political strength and respect in the global forum, further ensuring Malaysia's growth and prosperity in the coming years.

Anwar lends advice to United States

By Gina Fazio

Opposition leader Anwar Ibrahim offered the United States some advice on dealing with the Muslim community. He asks the United States to recognize the achievements Islamic nation have made recently like Indonesia and Turkey though he surprisingly did not include Malaysia in these achievements.

Anwar urged the West to think carefully about the Muslim community, saying "I pray, I fast, I don't drink... am I a fundamentalist? I don't know."

Anwar also said that the West should respect the rulings of Shariah courts. However, he personally believes that these ruling should not be tolerated if they curtail human rights and women's rights. This is interesting after recent reports back and forth between Sisters in Islam and the Youth Party. Although Anwar's comments are not in direct correlation with anything happening in Malaysian and have more to do with speaking to the US about it's actions in the rest of the Islamic nations such as Pakistan or Afghanistan, pne cannot help wondering if he is also adressing Malaysians.

Monday, October 5, 2009

UN Human Development Report

The United Nations recently released it's annual Human Development Report. Norway was determined to be the most desirable place to live while Niger ranked lowest of the 182 countries. Malaysia finished in the "High Human Development" category, ranking 66th overall. The ranking system is based on a variety of social, economic, and political factors including life expectancy, literacy rates, crime, etc. The index breaks down the data for each individual country and Malaysia's individual report tells the story of a country which has made tremendous stride confronting poverty and economic development.

By William Muck

Sunday, October 4, 2009

Fight Club

By: Liz Hasseld

In Hong Kong, Gary Chaw Ge (Malaysia PopStar) and Justin Lo (Hong Kong Singer-Songwriter) Got in a fight!!!

Police are investigating the fight, which was captured on video and put on the internet. The two stars have given public apologies. The fight sopposedly began when the two 'friends' were leaving a bar together in Hong Kong. Gary Chaw Ge "is hugely popular in Hong Kong, Taiwan, Singapore and Malaysia and was named best Mandarin language male singer in the 2008 Golden Melody Awards." I am not sure if Gary is a Malaysia citizen but it makes me wonder if he would be prosecuted under sharia law, since the incident happened in another country.

H1N1

Patrick

Although there have been no H1N1 deaths in the past two weeks in Malaysia, the death toll has reached 77. In the last two weeks there have been 726 cases of influenza type flu admitted to local hospitals, 75 cases were H1N1.

There may be some people in class that say that this "is not that bad" and they may be correct. 77 deaths does seem quite a small insignificant number. However, 77 lives is still 77 lives and, in two weeks, there have been another 75 confirmed cases of H1N1. Is this a positive or negative reflection on our health care system?

http://crofsblogs.typepad.com/h5n1/2009/10/malaysia-no-h1n1-deaths-in-two-weeks.html

Human Rights activists told caning is Allah's Will.

By Gina Fazio

Recent women's activists and human rights organizations protesting the Syariah court ruling in July to cane Katrika Sari, a Malaysian model for drinking beer, have been told by Islamic groups in Malaysia to retract statements condemning the Syariah court's decision.

These fourteen groups have urged the Sisters in Islam and the Joint Action Group for Gender Equality to also apologize to the Muslim community for insulting the islamic legal structure.

Amidi Abdul Manan, spokeperson for the Muslim Youth Movement in Malaysia which is one of the groups opposing the comments of the human rights groups urged the "Government to be strict with any parties who challenged the sanctity of Islam as a religion and Syariah laws".

It is because of comments like this that human rights groups in Malaysia spoke out in the first place after the Malaysian government's efforts to portray Malaysia as a "moderate Islamic nation".

Foreign Banks Move to Malaysia

Angela Hager

Two foreign banks, one Chinese and one Indian, might start operations in Malaysia within the next two years. Malaysia already has fairly strong economic ties with both countries, so it seems natural for the banks to open up.

The Indian bank will be comprised of a consortium of three banks, and approval for the banks should be given by December 31.

The added banks should elevate competition and improve products and services.

In the aftermath of the financial crisis, it looks very good for Malaysia to have more banks opening within its borders. Malaysia has sacrificed some civil liberties in order to have a more stable economy. It looks like they may just be getting that stable economy after all. More foreign banks entering into the market helps keep Malaysia looking secure, stable, and predictable.

Malaysian Pop Star Goes AWOL

By: Erica McCauley

We thought Western celebrities were struggling with performing in Malaysia. However, Malaysian pop star, Gary Chaw, admitted to beating a fellow Chinese pop star at a bar in down town Hong Kong. First, the incident was named a fight between the two stars, but later Chaw is quoted saying that, "Justin [Lo] did not try to injure me or hit back a single time. This was obviously not a fight. I lost control." The beating took place last Friday, and Chaw was arrested Sunday after footage of the beating was leaked. Bravely Chaw says, ""I don't have any excuses. I don't have any reasons. I was plain wrong. I'm willing to accept full responsibility, full punishment." Although, Chaw could face up to a year of imprisonment in Hong Kong for the incident, we was not immediately prosecuted.

Saturday, October 3, 2009

Malaysia Airlines: Size Really Does Matter

Malaysia Airlines has confirmed its order of six behemoth Airbus A380s, a so-called "superjumbo." The A380 is an absolutely massive jetliner, with the potential for over 850 coach passengers, although dividing the twin flight decks into classes will shrink that number significantly. To have that many seats is more than mere bragging rights; it drives down operating costs owing to reduced fuel consumption per passenger. Even though the A380's four engines are thirsty devils, the added passengers sharply offset the extra fuel usage. Well, at least in theory. The trouble that faces all airelines today is a lack of travel, which has caused many carriers to rethink adding the gigantic Airbus to their fleets. Tengku Azmil Zahruddin, Director of Malaysia Airlines, is pushing the deal through in spite of the lull in travel. While most air traffic in Malaysia is to and from the rest of the Islamic World, Director Azmil stated in a press conference "we do have a lot of traffic coming in from Europe. The A380s will allow us to do a lot more than what we are able to do today." His gamble on six of these aerial titans could in fact pay dividends, and Malaysia Airlines did see an 876 million ringgit (US$250 million) profit in the second quarter of 2009. Director Azmil has also been looking to reduce nearly 700 million ringgit (US$202 million) in operating costs, which translates into reducing the size of the fleet. So maybe six capacious jets will be the cure.

-by Caleb B. Ray

Source: USA Today: Today in the Sky

Saudi-Malaysian Joint Venture Announced

by Jeff Gimm

Malaysian Prime Minister Najib Razak recently announced a $2.5 billion joint venture between his country and Saudi Arabia. Malaysia will provide $1 billion for the venture with Saudi Arabia covering the rest. The venture will begin investing in oil and gas, along with alternative energies and real estate in Malaysia. Prime Minister Razak also mentioned that more investments similar to this would be coming from Saudi Arabia along with other countries in the Middle East the have a capital surplus.
This joint venture speaks to several things. The first being that Najib Razak's comments recently about the need for Malaysia and other Muslim countries to start working together may not just be empty words. But also that Malaysia will continue as a rising economic power in the region.

Friday, October 2, 2009

“There is no more time for “business as usual”


According to Malaysia in focus, Najib Razak wants to increase the number of scientists and researchers in order to be extraordinary. he has plans to have 60 researchers, scientist, and engineers per 10,000 of the workforce, curently there are 18 per 10,000 of the workforce. He stated that " There is no more time for business as usual. It was time for them to pull agead of the crowd and time for us to become extrodinary". he wants to focus on the technology and invoation of the county for its future, he also stated in his speech at the Mahathir science awards that "We must then re-examine how we manage and deploy our resources for Science, Technology and Innovation, in particular for research and development, and find ways to reap maximum benefits from our investment".

Hina Latif