Anwar Ibrahim has just announced a ‘peace deal’ for Sabah. And that is good, especially when this ‘peace deal’ includes Sarawak as well. Now they are on the right track and I can only say well done.
THE CORRIDORS OF POWER
Raja Petra Kamarudin
I have said this before so many times. Whomsoever wants to form the federal government must first win enough parliament seats in Sabah and Sarawak. Sabah and Sarawak, combined, control 56 of the 222 seats in parliament. This is significant and therefore puts these two East Malaysian states in a unique position of being the ‘kingmakers’ of Malaysian politics.
And this is never going to change because Sabah and Sarawak will always control 25% of the seats in parliament. Whenever the government increases the number of seats in Peninsular Malaysia they would also have to proportionally increase the number of seats in Sabah and Sarawak to ensure that these two East Malaysian states will continue controlling 25% of the seats in parliament.
Now, this does not mean that Sabah’s and Sarawak’s population is 25% of the entire population of Malaysia. So there are many instances where the number of voters in the rural seats would be a fraction of that in the big city seats. It is not uncommon to see more than 100,000 voters in the big city seats and you will need four or five rural seats to match one big city seat.
Therefore, the opposition neglects the rural seats, in particular those from Sabah and Sarawak, at its own peril. The opposition may win half the seats in Peninsular Malaysia, which it is certainly able to do, but as long as it does not win enough seats in Sabah and Sarawak it will never be able to march into Putrajaya.
What I have also said before, many times, is that the East Malaysians resent political domination from West Malaysia. Sabah for Sabahans and Sarawak for Sarawakians is the battle cry in East Malaysia. You have to allow the local East Malaysians to lead the charge in Sabah and Sarawak. It is no good if a hot shot from Kuala Lumpur goes down to the ground once every few months to rally the forces there.
Parti Keadilan Rakyat thought it could run the show and call the shots from Kuala Lumpur. This is just not on. And by sidelining the locals and appointing leaders from Kuala Lumpur to head the operations in Sabah and Sarawak is political suicide.
Up to yesterday I discounted any possibility of Pakatan Rakyat ever being able to form the next federal government. This is because I had already written off Sabah and Sarawak as non-starters. By sidelining the locals and by appointing leaders from Kuala Lumpur to head Parti Keadilan Rakyat in Sabah and Sarawak meant it would be a long time before we will see Barisan Nasional ousted from Putrajaya.
But now that appears to have changed. It looks like someone has whacked the heads of the Parti Keadilan Rakyat leaders with a heavy sledgehammer and now they have woken up from that dream they were in -- their dream, no doubt, but our nightmare for sure.
Anwar Ibrahim has just announced a ‘peace deal’ for Sabah. And that is good, especially when this ‘peace deal’ includes Sarawak as well. Now they are on the right track and I can only say well done. At last Anwar is listening to the voices on the ground. And this can only be good news for the fight for change.
Dr Jeffrey Kitingan has now been put in charge of Sabah and Sarawak while Thamrin Jaini is being retained as the Sabah chief with Christina Liew as his deputy. This compromise has neutralised the confrontation of the last couple of months over the leadership for Sabah, which threatened to split the party down the middle.
Anwar Ibrahim, in an exclusive interview with Malaysiakini, announced the appointment of Dr. Jeffrey as PKR’s vice president in charge of Sabah and Sarawak with responsibility for drawing up a master plan to develop the two states and to prepare for the coming general election.
Anwar said he recognises the unique circumstances under which Sabah and Sarawak joined the Federation. “As a nation it is regrettable that we have at times failed to live up to the spirit and ideals of The Malaysia Agreement of 1963 which outlined the rights of Sabah and Sarawak. It is one of Keadilan’s key objectives to restore the dignity and position of Sabah and Sarawak and uplift from poverty its many diverse people. I therefore urge all parties to turn the page on divisiveness, pettiness and work together with a renewed commitment to unity and justice,” elaborated Anwar.
Dr Jeffrey hailed Anwar’s announcement and said that he (Anwar) has gone to extraordinary lengths to achieve a deal to unify disputatious factions in Sabah. “He unified the opposition in preparation for the last general election and now he has done the same within one critical wing of his own party that was threatened with needless division,” said Dr Jeffrey.
Is it too early for me to say that I finally see some light at the end of the tunnel? I just hope that that light at the end of the tunnel is not a fast train coming in our direction. Anyway, let us be positive about this although I would not pop champagne just yet. Nevertheless, it is still good news as far as I am concerned and, again, well done Anwar!
Translated into Chinese at: http://ccliew.blogspot.com/2009/12/blog-post_14.html
Comments (40)
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written by Rainbowseahorse, December 21, 2009 05:23:43
written by Rainbowseahorse, December 21, 2009 05:23:43
To those of you in MT who wrote "Take back your fixed deposits" and all other likewise "smart alack" remarks, take that to the natives of Sabah and you can kiss the PKR backside goodbye in the next, or any GE.
You buggers think with your head and not your fat arses! Write responsibly and dont't be too self righteous and condescending. You Malayans still have 6 bloody small States who have NEVER EVER been an opposition held State.
You buggers think with your head and not your fat arses! Write responsibly and dont't be too self righteous and condescending. You Malayans still have 6 bloody small States who have NEVER EVER been an opposition held State.
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written by Rainbowseahorse, December 21, 2009 05:17:38
written by Rainbowseahorse, December 21, 2009 05:17:38
Light at the end of the tunnel????
...hehehe...more like the lights of an on-coming train!
Did the PKR checked with the locals whether that JK is really their choice as their leader?? Ask Christina Liew privately and in complete confidentiality and DSAI might get some enlightenment.
For the lights of me, I really don't know how the PKR is going to win those over 2 millions migrant voters who owe their Malaysian citizenship to UMNO.
For Sarawak, it will do a world of good for the PKR to openly declare an Iban CM in place of that self-proclaimed native CM. Go all out and hammer that smiling tiger. Stir up the shit pool and expose all to the local natives far, wide, and into the interior of Sarawak.
But then comes the interesting, and very important part. Just who, among the native politicians, is acceptable to the natives of Sarawak?? If the PKR can search for and get such a candidate, then Sarawak is theirs come the next GE.
...hehehe...more like the lights of an on-coming train! Did the PKR checked with the locals whether that JK is really their choice as their leader?? Ask Christina Liew privately and in complete confidentiality and DSAI might get some enlightenment.
For the lights of me, I really don't know how the PKR is going to win those over 2 millions migrant voters who owe their Malaysian citizenship to UMNO.
For Sarawak, it will do a world of good for the PKR to openly declare an Iban CM in place of that self-proclaimed native CM. Go all out and hammer that smiling tiger. Stir up the shit pool and expose all to the local natives far, wide, and into the interior of Sarawak.
But then comes the interesting, and very important part. Just who, among the native politicians, is acceptable to the natives of Sarawak?? If the PKR can search for and get such a candidate, then Sarawak is theirs come the next GE.
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written by betasigma, December 20, 2009 04:14:23
written by betasigma, December 20, 2009 04:14:23
definitely no argument on sabah for sabahan,sarawak for sarawakian,but could we trust a frog like character of jeffery kittingan??
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written by ampraxius, December 17, 2009 15:17:33
written by ampraxius, December 17, 2009 15:17:33
Just to make it even more clearer.
I am not a 'Malayan'.
I am Malaysian!
I am not a 'Malayan'.
I am Malaysian!
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written by ampraxius, December 17, 2009 15:16:03
written by ampraxius, December 17, 2009 15:16:03
@Al Tugauw/Sarawak Head Hunter
One of the tenets of democracy is the equal representation of the people and such if a group has an unfair representation over others then it ceased to be a ‘fair representation’ of the people. The current set up is feeding the corrupt BN component parties of Sabah & Sarawak thus enabling the current federal government to continuously shafting the Rakyat. If we remove the allocated seats, Sarawak & Sabah would be in better condition since BN (or in fact any factions) wouldn’t have any incentive to bribe their way to power. The thing about democracy is that we are able to vote out the government we elected and don’t tell me that is not good for ALL of the Malaysian states. Special treatments get special attentions that tend to result in corruption.
Moving on.
No. I did not mean ‘Malayans’ and it is an insult to me personally. I live beyond Malaysia’s borders for over half of my life and I always introduce myself as MALAYSIAN, not peninsular-Malaysian or Malayan. I know what that term means in Sarawak and I expect an apology. Both Sarawak & Sabah is part of Malaysia and thus part of my national identity! Believe it or not us ‘Malayans’ do believe that Sarawak is as Malaysian as any other states, so if you and others have a problem with calling yourself Malaysians then it is not us with the colonial mentality. It’s you and you should join us, we’re fighting for a new Malaysian of which all is treated and represented EQUALLY. Don’t be so presumptuous to assume that I am a colonial child. Saya anak Malaysia.
If you think Sarawak could do better by gaining independence then go ahead lobby for it, but personally I don’t think Sarawak could continue to rely on her natural reserves. Even if you shift from commodities to manufacturing & services, you would be competing with other countries as well. Instead of continuously indulging in state rights rhetoric, why not focus on ways to enhance to movement of capital and workforce throughout Malaysia?
Don’t you think Sarawak would benefit by allowing private companies to bring in their staff from other states to operate in your state? Don’t you think it will motivate investors to open up offices or factories in Sarawak if they have one less red tape from the state government? The current immigration laws regarding internal movement are utterly absurd even if you do find some Schadenfreude pleasure from us ‘Malayans’ being treated as foreigners. If you’re being wronged by the federal government don’t take it on the Rakyat, take it on the federal government by voting them out!
The PM role should not be a merry-go-round between ‘Malaya’-Sarawak-Sabah. If you’re good enough run for it and be a PM for all of us Malaysians. Not a PM for Sarawak-Sabah-‘Malaya’, which is utter crap. It's no longer divide and rule. It's time for YOU to change your colonial mind set, not me.
One of the tenets of democracy is the equal representation of the people and such if a group has an unfair representation over others then it ceased to be a ‘fair representation’ of the people. The current set up is feeding the corrupt BN component parties of Sabah & Sarawak thus enabling the current federal government to continuously shafting the Rakyat. If we remove the allocated seats, Sarawak & Sabah would be in better condition since BN (or in fact any factions) wouldn’t have any incentive to bribe their way to power. The thing about democracy is that we are able to vote out the government we elected and don’t tell me that is not good for ALL of the Malaysian states. Special treatments get special attentions that tend to result in corruption.
Moving on.
No. I did not mean ‘Malayans’ and it is an insult to me personally. I live beyond Malaysia’s borders for over half of my life and I always introduce myself as MALAYSIAN, not peninsular-Malaysian or Malayan. I know what that term means in Sarawak and I expect an apology. Both Sarawak & Sabah is part of Malaysia and thus part of my national identity! Believe it or not us ‘Malayans’ do believe that Sarawak is as Malaysian as any other states, so if you and others have a problem with calling yourself Malaysians then it is not us with the colonial mentality. It’s you and you should join us, we’re fighting for a new Malaysian of which all is treated and represented EQUALLY. Don’t be so presumptuous to assume that I am a colonial child. Saya anak Malaysia.
If you think Sarawak could do better by gaining independence then go ahead lobby for it, but personally I don’t think Sarawak could continue to rely on her natural reserves. Even if you shift from commodities to manufacturing & services, you would be competing with other countries as well. Instead of continuously indulging in state rights rhetoric, why not focus on ways to enhance to movement of capital and workforce throughout Malaysia?
Don’t you think Sarawak would benefit by allowing private companies to bring in their staff from other states to operate in your state? Don’t you think it will motivate investors to open up offices or factories in Sarawak if they have one less red tape from the state government? The current immigration laws regarding internal movement are utterly absurd even if you do find some Schadenfreude pleasure from us ‘Malayans’ being treated as foreigners. If you’re being wronged by the federal government don’t take it on the Rakyat, take it on the federal government by voting them out!
The PM role should not be a merry-go-round between ‘Malaya’-Sarawak-Sabah. If you’re good enough run for it and be a PM for all of us Malaysians. Not a PM for Sarawak-Sabah-‘Malaya’, which is utter crap. It's no longer divide and rule. It's time for YOU to change your colonial mind set, not me.
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written by Youngrakyat, December 16, 2009 14:27:23
written by Youngrakyat, December 16, 2009 14:27:23
Bravo to Anwar and Well done to Dr. Jeffrey..
Dr. Jeffrey had made a very risky decision when he tendered his resignation letter as vice president. Most said that he was ungrateful and....probably...greedy. But if did not do all this, maybe anwar will still think that he can 'remote control' sabah from peninsula.
Since we have a clear picture on who is the leader for Sabah and Sarawak, i hope Dr. jeffrey can re organized PKR Sabah and prepare for the next GE -13.
Well done Dr. Jeffrey. You just don't know how to give up even (after the BN UMNO locked you up using the infamous ISA). It is a very good example for the young people to learn the value of not giving up easily. You are truly a fighter.
Dr. Jeffrey had made a very risky decision when he tendered his resignation letter as vice president. Most said that he was ungrateful and....probably...greedy. But if did not do all this, maybe anwar will still think that he can 'remote control' sabah from peninsula.
Since we have a clear picture on who is the leader for Sabah and Sarawak, i hope Dr. jeffrey can re organized PKR Sabah and prepare for the next GE -13.
Well done Dr. Jeffrey. You just don't know how to give up even (after the BN UMNO locked you up using the infamous ISA). It is a very good example for the young people to learn the value of not giving up easily. You are truly a fighter.
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written by Takiaki, December 16, 2009 13:34:46
written by Takiaki, December 16, 2009 13:34:46
When we say Sabah for Sabahan, Sarawak for Sarawakian...what we mean is that Sabah is supposed to be ruled by Sabahan & same for Sarawak. We should be able to benefit from our land, not some rich tycoon from the peninsula with govt connections. our contractors should be given our projects, not some ali baba companies with datuk this, tan sri that & so on from peninsula... we have capable people to hold high ranking officials in the states, not some imports from peninsular...
On top of all, we should be given the power to pick our leaders, and those picked leaders should be able to lead ion his/their own, not remote controlled from KL (which, sadly still the case although off course he would deny this, malu maaa...)
Now is that too big to ask?? West M'sian are always welcomed in East M'sia. Come & you will see. But dont come to rule us or tell us what to and what not to do. That is what meant. Is that so difficult to understand??
On top of all, we should be given the power to pick our leaders, and those picked leaders should be able to lead ion his/their own, not remote controlled from KL (which, sadly still the case although off course he would deny this, malu maaa...)
Now is that too big to ask?? West M'sian are always welcomed in East M'sia. Come & you will see. But dont come to rule us or tell us what to and what not to do. That is what meant. Is that so difficult to understand??
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written by BAYANGKARA, December 16, 2009 10:58:01
I understand the frustration and anger of all the commentators who wrote along these lines but this could cloud their better judgment.
Secession?
The first person to mention that would be thrown in prison and hung for treason (that is still in the laws). Your best scenario was when PBS was in control of Sabah but it lacked the military muscle. Secession is impossible without bloodshed. Who controls the armed forces? You want to talk about guerrilla warfare?
Autonomy?
You need to have a preceding long period of mayhem, chaos, civil strife and the inevitable loss of lives to make the situation intractable to force any central government to consider autonomy. Just look at Muslim Mindanao. The Moro Islamic Liberation Front and other militant groups fought a bitter rebellion for decades, causing hundreds of thousand of casualties and deaths, both military and civilians. Autonomy was granted but until today there is still violence because some Muslims groups are still not happy. Are Sabah and Sarawak prepared for this?
I guess not on both counts.
This kind of parochialism will destroy a country eventually just as racism will. The respective state electoral systems will ensure a state leader will come each respective state. No problem.
A Prime Minister? This is precisely why the Malay maiority, brainwashed by UMNO of course, with their present mindset, would not accept a Chinese or Indian for Prime Minister. This is racism at its worst. If a non-Malay or a Sabahan or Sarawakian has the charisma, intelligence, leadership qualities and non-racial appeal of Barack Obama, why can't he/she be our Prime Minister? We must work towards a Malaysia where race, religion, discrimination and parochialism has no place in politics and in the ordinary lives of Malaysians. That's when we should say we are Malaysians first before all our other individual attributes.
West Malaysians have no quarrels with their fellow Malaysians in Sabah and Sarawak. But why are they not any closer than it is today? Maybe the physical divide has some bearing but, more importantly, BN policies have kept them apart as part of their divide and rule strategy. Basically, the Borneo states have been corralled by BN so that they and their cronies could plunder at will.
The future of Sabahans and Sarawakians lie intertwined with West Malaysians. There is a new awareness and consciousness on both sides of the South China Sea. Let this grow and merge in a final effort to dislodge BN from Putrajaya. That is your best and, probably, only option in your struggle to regain fairness, justice, respect and dignity. It is also the West Malaysians’ best option.
Instead of griping and whining, why not reach out to the uninformed masses in the two states?
Under a BN government, nothing would change for the better. Under a PR government, even the most pessimistic would admit that a window of opportunity would be open.
written by BAYANGKARA, December 16, 2009 10:58:01
Sabah for Sabahans and Sarawak for Sarawakians, absolutely
I understand the frustration and anger of all the commentators who wrote along these lines but this could cloud their better judgment.
Secession?
The first person to mention that would be thrown in prison and hung for treason (that is still in the laws). Your best scenario was when PBS was in control of Sabah but it lacked the military muscle. Secession is impossible without bloodshed. Who controls the armed forces? You want to talk about guerrilla warfare?
Autonomy?
You need to have a preceding long period of mayhem, chaos, civil strife and the inevitable loss of lives to make the situation intractable to force any central government to consider autonomy. Just look at Muslim Mindanao. The Moro Islamic Liberation Front and other militant groups fought a bitter rebellion for decades, causing hundreds of thousand of casualties and deaths, both military and civilians. Autonomy was granted but until today there is still violence because some Muslims groups are still not happy. Are Sabah and Sarawak prepared for this?
I guess not on both counts.
I am confused....
since it is Sabah for Sabahans and Sarawak for Sarawakians ... why is Dr Jeffrey been put in charge of both Sabah and Sarawak ? Will the Sarawakians listen to a Sabahan leader ? Please enlighten .
Rotation of the Prime Ministership between Malaya, Sabah and Sarawak would do for a start or do the Malayans think that there are no Sarawakians of sufficient calibre?
This kind of parochialism will destroy a country eventually just as racism will. The respective state electoral systems will ensure a state leader will come each respective state. No problem.
A Prime Minister? This is precisely why the Malay maiority, brainwashed by UMNO of course, with their present mindset, would not accept a Chinese or Indian for Prime Minister. This is racism at its worst. If a non-Malay or a Sabahan or Sarawakian has the charisma, intelligence, leadership qualities and non-racial appeal of Barack Obama, why can't he/she be our Prime Minister? We must work towards a Malaysia where race, religion, discrimination and parochialism has no place in politics and in the ordinary lives of Malaysians. That's when we should say we are Malaysians first before all our other individual attributes.
West Malaysians have no quarrels with their fellow Malaysians in Sabah and Sarawak. But why are they not any closer than it is today? Maybe the physical divide has some bearing but, more importantly, BN policies have kept them apart as part of their divide and rule strategy. Basically, the Borneo states have been corralled by BN so that they and their cronies could plunder at will.
The future of Sabahans and Sarawakians lie intertwined with West Malaysians. There is a new awareness and consciousness on both sides of the South China Sea. Let this grow and merge in a final effort to dislodge BN from Putrajaya. That is your best and, probably, only option in your struggle to regain fairness, justice, respect and dignity. It is also the West Malaysians’ best option.
Instead of griping and whining, why not reach out to the uninformed masses in the two states?
Under a BN government, nothing would change for the better. Under a PR government, even the most pessimistic would admit that a window of opportunity would be open.
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written by Takiaki, December 16, 2009 10:50:57
written by Takiaki, December 16, 2009 10:50:57
Just after Najib proudly announce his NKRI / NKPI or whatever he calls it, and Musa Aman showing his ever widening fox (musang) grin on local newspaper....we were hit with 4.5 hours of blackout in KK. What 'performance' is that!!! maybe they should call it RIP (rest In Peace, or rather Rest in Peaces...) for BN. And yet people are still kissing their assess? Fixed deposits my butt!!! we're taken for granted like a fixed deposits which they can deposit and withdraw whenever they like, and some people think thats a compliment!!! what a shame.. Its the biggest humiliation to the lowest level, more like dirt!
Lets hope this Anwar's latest awakening in meant heartedly, not just to please (bodek) us East Malaysians.
And please do not forget SAPP. Some people may not like them but they are true local party. Like Pete said, East Malaysia for East Malaysian... PKR should seriously consider a pact with SAPP. Dont get me wrong, I'm not SAPP people either. Just think wisely...
Lets hope this Anwar's latest awakening in meant heartedly, not just to please (bodek) us East Malaysians.
And please do not forget SAPP. Some people may not like them but they are true local party. Like Pete said, East Malaysia for East Malaysian... PKR should seriously consider a pact with SAPP. Dont get me wrong, I'm not SAPP people either. Just think wisely...
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written by Susuit, December 16, 2009 10:44:31
written by Susuit, December 16, 2009 10:44:31
That the right way to do it DSAI, other wise PKR will lose Sabahan support But we hope it's not temporary..
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written by Zorro, December 16, 2009 09:28:46
written by Zorro, December 16, 2009 09:28:46
And to Dr. Jeffrey and team,
We the rakyats are watching and counting on you, your appointment comes with a heavy responsibility; to bring down BN to their knees(and that includes all the KDM parties in BN). But if you are irresponsible, it is you and your team knees that will be brought down by the rakyats and you might never be able to rise up again.
We the rakyats are watching and counting on you, your appointment comes with a heavy responsibility; to bring down BN to their knees(and that includes all the KDM parties in BN). But if you are irresponsible, it is you and your team knees that will be brought down by the rakyats and you might never be able to rise up again.
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written by Zorro, December 16, 2009 09:16:08
written by Zorro, December 16, 2009 09:16:08
Hi RPK!
I commented this no so long ago in MT:
Thank you DSAI, you have earned my vote back. And i will work hard to convince everyone within my vicinity that we MUST vote for PKR for a better future. Thank you again.
I commented this no so long ago in MT:
Najib or Anwar, you looked the opposite on the outside but actually you share the same ideology inside on sabah and sarawak! u and your predecessors wish to be in power forever and and expect sabah and sarawak tied on the nose following your every will but propagating to the rakyat nonsense as if that it is democracy!
Anwar, most of us have still not forgotten 1994. I voted for your party last year because i want the welfare and rights of non-muslim natives of sabah to be better instead of becoming 2nd rated bumiputera with the newly made Muslim bumiputera from indonesia and philipines being made superior than us! we still remember Anwar, u were one of the mastermind to get these newlymade bumiputeras outnumber us!
Native Sabahans, open up your eyes! Do you think these politicians really do care about us? Even our own KDM politicians are putting up a show pretending to care for us but actually racing among themselves who has a bigger car or bigger house and who can send their children to oversea for studies! Whilst we the ordinary natives have to slug it out to make a living as if we are not sons of the soil of Sabah, the naturally rich state but the abundance of natural richness are being sucked by people who were not from this state.
Native Sabahans, do not trust these politicians, we want a better future for our childrens. That is the best legacy we can leave after God calls us. We have to be united if we want a better future for our people.
And i dont care come next election i will vote for someone who dares to speak for our rights and and will vote for him/her just to get BN lose. BN has been in power too long and have done irreversible damage to our people.
PKR Sabah is no longer in my good books; u will not get my vote again. It is probably better to vote for DAP or SAPP.
Thank you DSAI, you have earned my vote back. And i will work hard to convince everyone within my vicinity that we MUST vote for PKR for a better future. Thank you again.
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written by Sarawak Headhunter, December 16, 2009 07:48:29
written by Sarawak Headhunter, December 16, 2009 07:48:29
ampraxius said:
You do this and immediately Sarawak's representation will be reduced to 10%. As it is Sarawak is already under the yoke of the Federal BN and its State collaborators and exploiters. Do you think that Sarawakians will put up with this even under Pakatan Rakyat? Better for Sarawak to demand independence!
When you say "Malaysians" I presume you mean "Malayans", since Sarawakian Malaysians are quite happy with it, even if in practice this is only purely psychological, given the reality of abuse of Federal power over the state and its resources in spite of this restriction. While Sarawakians may be "Malaysians", I doubt if many feel that Malaya is their own country for the same reasons. Therefore, don't be so presumptuous to assume that Sarawak is your own country.
PR will ignore this at its own peril. Sarawakians are fed up of submitting to Malayans with colonial mentalities, be they from BN or PR. I have yet to see any Malayan politician give Sarawakians the respect they deserve. Most of the time they are patronising and that includes both BN and PR politicians who don't even bother to try to understand where Sarawakians are coming from.
Don't expect Sarawakians to be happy either with BN or PR although we may support PR just for a change.
Putting Jeffery Kitingan in charge of Sarawak (and Sabah) just doesn't send the right message to Sarawakians. It just shows Sarawakians that even PR or Anwar cannot be depended upon to do the right thing.
And what is the right thing?
Autonomy.
After all,that is what the Federal BN has given Taib, or doesn't Anwar or PKR trust their Sarawakian counterparts? Unfortunately they may also have a point! If they don't trust or even understand their own counterparts, perhaps its time to cast a wider net to attract better Sarawakians who can be trusted.
But this can only be done if Anwar and PKR spell out what exactly they are willing to concede to Sarawak and Sarawakians, which they haven't done so far, even with state elections just around the corner.
Rotation of the Prime Ministership between Malaya, Sabah and Sarawak would do for a start or do the Malayans think that there are no Sarawakians of sufficient calibre?
Perhaps then Sarawakians may consider doing away with the immigration restrictions and we may be one nation at last.
Otherwise let Sarawak have its independence.
Al Tugauw
While it is indeed a good step towards gaining a foot forward in the next GE, I think we need to reconsider the reality of 'points of agreement' between the Borneo states and the federation. We need to ensure that every citizen is represented equally and all casted votes are of the same value. The lower house must be reflective of the population and the upper house must be distributed equally among the states.
You do this and immediately Sarawak's representation will be reduced to 10%. As it is Sarawak is already under the yoke of the Federal BN and its State collaborators and exploiters. Do you think that Sarawakians will put up with this even under Pakatan Rakyat? Better for Sarawak to demand independence!
Additionally I think Malaysians are fed up with the immigration laws between the Borneo states and the peninsular states. This is not about cultural baggage or supremacy, but of practicality. It doesn't make sense when Malaysians are only allowed to be in Sabah and Sarawak for 90 days only while the UK gives them 6 months! Same goes with the work force movement, why do i need a work permit in my own country?
When you say "Malaysians" I presume you mean "Malayans", since Sarawakian Malaysians are quite happy with it, even if in practice this is only purely psychological, given the reality of abuse of Federal power over the state and its resources in spite of this restriction. While Sarawakians may be "Malaysians", I doubt if many feel that Malaya is their own country for the same reasons. Therefore, don't be so presumptuous to assume that Sarawak is your own country.
PR will ignore this at its own peril. Sarawakians are fed up of submitting to Malayans with colonial mentalities, be they from BN or PR. I have yet to see any Malayan politician give Sarawakians the respect they deserve. Most of the time they are patronising and that includes both BN and PR politicians who don't even bother to try to understand where Sarawakians are coming from.
Don't expect Sarawakians to be happy either with BN or PR although we may support PR just for a change.
Putting Jeffery Kitingan in charge of Sarawak (and Sabah) just doesn't send the right message to Sarawakians. It just shows Sarawakians that even PR or Anwar cannot be depended upon to do the right thing.
And what is the right thing?
Autonomy.
After all,that is what the Federal BN has given Taib, or doesn't Anwar or PKR trust their Sarawakian counterparts? Unfortunately they may also have a point! If they don't trust or even understand their own counterparts, perhaps its time to cast a wider net to attract better Sarawakians who can be trusted.
But this can only be done if Anwar and PKR spell out what exactly they are willing to concede to Sarawak and Sarawakians, which they haven't done so far, even with state elections just around the corner.
Rotation of the Prime Ministership between Malaya, Sabah and Sarawak would do for a start or do the Malayans think that there are no Sarawakians of sufficient calibre?
Perhaps then Sarawakians may consider doing away with the immigration restrictions and we may be one nation at last.
Otherwise let Sarawak have its independence.
Al Tugauw
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written by Iliyas, December 16, 2009 07:23:15
written by Iliyas, December 16, 2009 07:23:15
Jeffery may not be too keen to pop the champagne yet,but UMNO/BN in Sabah are already celebrating their Trojan Horse success in pulling off this political agenda for them.Jeffery will now damage PKR and tear it to shreds.
Everyone in Sabah,particularly the KDM's are unhappy with this news.The leadership in particular Anwar may live to regret this bad decision.Anwar may have please Jeffery and Christina,but the majority will have the last say.
Bro Pete,while I will agree that Sabah and Sarawak maybe the deciding factor in the next general elections,but the people are certainly not behind Jeffery.
Everyone in Sabah,particularly the KDM's are unhappy with this news.The leadership in particular Anwar may live to regret this bad decision.Anwar may have please Jeffery and Christina,but the majority will have the last say.
Bro Pete,while I will agree that Sabah and Sarawak maybe the deciding factor in the next general elections,but the people are certainly not behind Jeffery.
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written by Jit Dharma, December 16, 2009 01:29:13
written by Jit Dharma, December 16, 2009 01:29:13
Sabah for Sabahans and Sarawak for Sarawakians, absolutely.
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written by sydput, December 16, 2009 00:09:31
written by sydput, December 16, 2009 00:09:31
What about whacking anwar with another sledgehammer by askin to retract the stement that he supports the teaching of maths and science in malay. This bahasa Baku nationalist can easily get all the urban and suburban votes in the peninsuloar the most votes in sabah and sarawak by this simple gesture.
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written by johanssm, December 15, 2009 19:15:01
written by johanssm, December 15, 2009 19:15:01
This also means umno will have to 'eliminates" Anwar as soon as possible by sending him to jail.
If Pakatan able to work with Sabah and Sarawak , umno will have to migrate.
Some of us already knew that Anwar will not be the Prime Minister in waiting but Wan Azizah is the future PM.
Anwar , pls do us a big favor. Cleans up PKR now.
Starts with kicking out the fella from Kulim.
Once you done with that , PAS will have to follow your example by kicking that anti beer fella.
It is a multiple effect.
If Pakatan able to work with Sabah and Sarawak , umno will have to migrate.
Some of us already knew that Anwar will not be the Prime Minister in waiting but Wan Azizah is the future PM.
Anwar , pls do us a big favor. Cleans up PKR now.
Starts with kicking out the fella from Kulim.
Once you done with that , PAS will have to follow your example by kicking that anti beer fella.
It is a multiple effect.
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written by Daryl, December 15, 2009 13:37:20
written by Daryl, December 15, 2009 13:37:20
Bravo
That is a great plan out of the cluster f&*k PKR was in. Supporters need to be smart about how they choose their leaders and they must not seen them as way to become rich.
PR need to focus on collecting money and plan to spread their wings to rural area and also get them to move away from BN. It will be a humongous fight but we need to plan this carefully. No the money is not use to buy votes but continuing education of these rural folks of their rights to choose instead of being intimated by the BN thugs.
That is a great plan out of the cluster f&*k PKR was in. Supporters need to be smart about how they choose their leaders and they must not seen them as way to become rich.
PR need to focus on collecting money and plan to spread their wings to rural area and also get them to move away from BN. It will be a humongous fight but we need to plan this carefully. No the money is not use to buy votes but continuing education of these rural folks of their rights to choose instead of being intimated by the BN thugs.
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written by mowadoha, December 15, 2009 12:49:34
written by mowadoha, December 15, 2009 12:49:34
"It is not impossibilities that fill us with deepest despair, but possibilities that we have failed to realize."
(Robert Mallet)
(Robert Mallet)
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written by myexpat68, December 15, 2009 12:02:18
written by myexpat68, December 15, 2009 12:02:18
Well, can someone whack the head of Datuk JK to clear it up and for him do the right thing now that he is to lead East malaysia for PKR?
As another post said, Jk's track record ain't so good.
Datuk, here's the chance to wipe the slate clean and redeem yourself. I will be the first to congratulate your sucess!!
As another post said, Jk's track record ain't so good.
Datuk, here's the chance to wipe the slate clean and redeem yourself. I will be the first to congratulate your sucess!!
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written by magickriver, December 15, 2009 11:42:34
written by magickriver, December 15, 2009 11:42:34
Ha ha. getting a "well done" from RPK is definitely very strong medicine! There has been toomuch bad news, too much petty squabbling. I suspect it's all part of the talismanic effect of installing a Dark Queen in Putrajaya. People become discombobulated and irritable and find it hard to focus on the Big Picture... It's like walking uphill against a gale-force Banshee Wind!
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written by BAYANGKARA, December 15, 2009 09:37:31
A declaration from a true statesman......so refreshing after all the garbage we heard from UMNO in recent weeks.
Let it resonate in every kampong, long house, kongsi house, town and city in Sabah and Sarawak in the weeks and months ahead.
A plea to Sabahans and Sarawakians: Take back your "fixed deposits"from UMON/BN!
Bravo, Anwar!
written by BAYANGKARA, December 15, 2009 09:37:31
“As a nation it is regrettable that we have at times failed to live up to the spirit and ideals of The Malaysia Agreement of 1963 which outlined the rights of Sabah and Sarawak. It is one of Keadilan’s key objectives to restore the dignity and position of Sabah and Sarawak and uplift from poverty its many diverse people. I therefore urge all parties to turn the page on divisiveness, pettiness and work together with a renewed commitment to unity and justice,”[
A declaration from a true statesman......so refreshing after all the garbage we heard from UMNO in recent weeks.
Let it resonate in every kampong, long house, kongsi house, town and city in Sabah and Sarawak in the weeks and months ahead.
A plea to Sabahans and Sarawakians: Take back your "fixed deposits"from UMON/BN!
Bravo, Anwar!
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written by Mirage, December 15, 2009 09:18:48
written by Mirage, December 15, 2009 09:18:48
I feel the citizens of Malaysia who wants a change has been disappointed too many times. This is mainly becoz the ppl behind Anwar has been rallying while he has kept silence for many months until now. While this news can be taken as positive towards the building of a new Malaysia, any failure from this will certainly cause the ppl supporting PR to loose faith esp after all the heart, blood and sweat has been put and pour into the gatherings, feeling expressed in MT, frustration share in the CPI, frustration of unpunish murderers.......
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written by kenny, December 15, 2009 08:24:35
written by kenny, December 15, 2009 08:24:35
“As a nation it is regrettable that we have at times failed to live up to the spirit and ideals of The Malaysia Agreement of 1963 which outlined the rights of Sabah and Sarawak. It is one of Keadilan’s key objectives to restore the dignity and position of Sabah and Sarawak and uplift from poverty its many diverse people. I therefore urge all parties to turn the page on divisiveness, pettiness and work together with a renewed commitment to unity and justice,” elaborated Anwar.
Since the last GE, the above is the best public statement Pakatan has made in recognition of the importance of East Malaysia as an essential partner in paving the road to Putrajaya. In addition to acknowledging the East Malaysians legitimate misgivings and grouses for their rights as ensconced in The Malaysia Agreement, this statement also foresees and accepts the tremendous work ahead in addressing the internal and external challenges of winning over the East Malaysians. Hopefully, real actions and commitment will follow from this.
Pakatan, especially PKR and DAP, have to cease their inter-party rivalry in both Sabah and Sarawak forthwith to bring about a more formidable and united political machinery this time around, failing which it would once again be an indictment of the Pakatan leadership in relation to Sabah and Sarawak.
An immense commitment to unity and show of leadership is required to turn over the tide in Sabah and Sarawak. To help realize that objective, the people must also show their support to the Pakatan leadership and the East Malaysian leaders tasked with doing the job.
Pete, yeah, not light at the end of the tunnel yet. But I guess we can safely say Anwar has lit a fire under the East Malaysians.
Since the last GE, the above is the best public statement Pakatan has made in recognition of the importance of East Malaysia as an essential partner in paving the road to Putrajaya. In addition to acknowledging the East Malaysians legitimate misgivings and grouses for their rights as ensconced in The Malaysia Agreement, this statement also foresees and accepts the tremendous work ahead in addressing the internal and external challenges of winning over the East Malaysians. Hopefully, real actions and commitment will follow from this.
Pakatan, especially PKR and DAP, have to cease their inter-party rivalry in both Sabah and Sarawak forthwith to bring about a more formidable and united political machinery this time around, failing which it would once again be an indictment of the Pakatan leadership in relation to Sabah and Sarawak.
An immense commitment to unity and show of leadership is required to turn over the tide in Sabah and Sarawak. To help realize that objective, the people must also show their support to the Pakatan leadership and the East Malaysian leaders tasked with doing the job.
Pete, yeah, not light at the end of the tunnel yet. But I guess we can safely say Anwar has lit a fire under the East Malaysians.
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written by CSum, December 15, 2009 06:50:59
written by CSum, December 15, 2009 06:50:59
I am confused....
since it is Sabah for Sabahans and Sarawak for Sarawakians ... why is Dr Jeffrey been put in charge of both Sabah and Sarawak ? Will the Sarawakians listen to a Sabahan leader ? Please enlighten ...
since it is Sabah for Sabahans and Sarawak for Sarawakians ... why is Dr Jeffrey been put in charge of both Sabah and Sarawak ? Will the Sarawakians listen to a Sabahan leader ? Please enlighten ...
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written by mucking fuddled, December 15, 2009 06:48:56
written by mucking fuddled, December 15, 2009 06:48:56
dr jeffrey,
one word of advise if i may, now that you are the head hancho of the east, your hands will be full so get it out of your pocket and don't feel cocky going forward, the operative word is still cooperate and work with the leaders here in the western front, don't try to get up on your high horse and go full gallop with guns blazing, the local sheriff will be out to spook your high horse and you might end up with a bloody nose...
one word of advise if i may, now that you are the head hancho of the east, your hands will be full so get it out of your pocket and don't feel cocky going forward, the operative word is still cooperate and work with the leaders here in the western front, don't try to get up on your high horse and go full gallop with guns blazing, the local sheriff will be out to spook your high horse and you might end up with a bloody nose...
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written by NSTPravda, December 15, 2009 06:48:54
written by NSTPravda, December 15, 2009 06:48:54
Finally, light at the end of the tunnel!!!? We hope UMNO is not planting a freight train coming this way... and derail DSAI plans and leap FROG again....
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written by rocky, December 15, 2009 06:17:35
written by rocky, December 15, 2009 06:17:35
well done., Now make it work!!!Jeffery you are in the driver's seat thus no more excuses. show us what you are made of and deliver the seats in both Sabah and Sarawak. No more sulking etc other PKR folks and please no more back stabbing.
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written by ampraxius, December 15, 2009 06:16:03
written by ampraxius, December 15, 2009 06:16:03
While it is indeed a good step towards gaining a foot forward in the next GE, I think we need to reconsider the reality of 'points of agreement' between the Borneo states and the federation. We need to ensure that every citizen is represented equally and all casted votes are of the same value. The lower house must be reflective of the population and the upper house must be distributed equally among the states.
Additionally I think Malaysians are fed up with the immigration laws between the Borneo states and the peninsular states. This is not about cultural baggage or supremacy, but of practicality. It doesn't make sense when Malaysians are only allowed to be in Sabah and Sarawak for 90 days only while the UK gives them 6 months! Same goes with the work force movement, why do i need a work permit in my own country?
This issue would of course be manipulated by the political parties, but as someone who was born post-1963 it doesn't make any sense. PR should develop a platform to ensure that ALL states and citizens are represented equally!
Additionally I think Malaysians are fed up with the immigration laws between the Borneo states and the peninsular states. This is not about cultural baggage or supremacy, but of practicality. It doesn't make sense when Malaysians are only allowed to be in Sabah and Sarawak for 90 days only while the UK gives them 6 months! Same goes with the work force movement, why do i need a work permit in my own country?
This issue would of course be manipulated by the political parties, but as someone who was born post-1963 it doesn't make any sense. PR should develop a platform to ensure that ALL states and citizens are represented equally!
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written by Proarte, December 15, 2009 05:30:23
written by Proarte, December 15, 2009 05:30:23
Face saving for Anwar but the outcome stil leaves a bitter taste in the mouth.
I am pleased that Anwar has been forced to retreat on his 'Ketuanan' frolic. Jeffrey must be congratulated for being firm. Anwar is vulnerable and he agreed to this outcome because of this.
I am pleased that Anwar has been forced to retreat on his 'Ketuanan' frolic. Jeffrey must be congratulated for being firm. Anwar is vulnerable and he agreed to this outcome because of this.
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written by Nixcloud, December 15, 2009 05:05:36
written by Nixcloud, December 15, 2009 05:05:36
well, jeffrey, please don't dissapoint us (ur track record doesn't look too good) but we will not hold that against u.
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written by Tom n Jerry, December 15, 2009 04:48:44
written by Tom n Jerry, December 15, 2009 04:48:44
Well;well;at last we see some light at the end of the tunnel;anyway I expect this to happen;there is no other way or choice;just to simplify things PR will not work out if Sabahan s are sidelined for one reason or another!But putting Jeffrey is no laughing matter;it certainly takes more than leadership to succeed in this particular case;a sense of conscience is more relevant;give what the Sabahans want and PR will get what they wish;Sadhu3!
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written by sahabat, December 15, 2009 04:27:07
written by sahabat, December 15, 2009 04:27:07
While thanking Anwar for his wise move I hope Datuk Dr Jeffrey Kitingan's appointment this time is really meaningful. Jeffrey was once appointed by Anwar as the Steering Committe Chairman specifically looking after Sabah and Sarawak but without any meaning at all.
This time give Jeffrey the absolute freedom and he will do his job systematically, professionally and confidently. Once again, thank you for listening to the voice of the majority.
This time give Jeffrey the absolute freedom and he will do his job systematically, professionally and confidently. Once again, thank you for listening to the voice of the majority.
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written by gentek003, December 15, 2009 04:21:32
written by gentek003, December 15, 2009 04:21:32
Walauweh..Still too early to say that there is light at the end of the tunnel.
We will have to wait and see.
We will have to wait and see.
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written by tanakwagu09, December 15, 2009 04:18:01
written by tanakwagu09, December 15, 2009 04:18:01
Ooooh, now this is interesting. Can't wait to see where this deal going to head off to.
*munch on popcorns*
*munch on popcorns*
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written by Avex09, December 15, 2009 04:13:17
written by Avex09, December 15, 2009 04:13:17
I hope this is not another promises. *raise single eyebrow*
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Until such times that all Malaysians can be classified simply "Malaysian" in their Mykad and birth certificate, instead of bangsa this and that, and Bumiputra and non Bumiputra, then I am a Sabahan from the country of Malaysia....which, by the way, can be considered an illegal country since one of the component signatory to the agreement (Singapore) has pulled out of the coalition and NO new agreement was ever been re-drafted and re-signed by Malaya, Sabah, and Sarawak.