By Wong Ho Leng
22nd May, 2007
Has the Dewan’s roof fallen? I checked before leaving. It is still there, but must have shaken a little. Never before in the history of Sarawak’s DUN had there been such a commotion.
Never before has the Opposition Parties been smeared to this extent and in that venomous manner. It was absolutely bad taste that this could come from the DCM and who could be allowed to smear the Opposition parties in that manner.
A new chapter is written in the history book of Sarawak. The Opposition members erupted in protest against the DCM for telling untruths in the Dewan.
This morning, I was arguing with Soon Koh because he accused in the Dewan that I had made disparaging remarks against the civil service. The accusation was wrong, most unfair and most unjustified. Yet, in total exhibition of unfairness, the Speaker allowed the Minister to say it. The BN backbenchers were prepared to side the Minister. The Dacing was “sengit”, but I never thought that it could be so “sengit”.
But my altercation with Soon Koh was nothing compared to what happened shortly after 6:00 p.m. Jabu accused the DAP and KeADILan of oppressing the rural people against development. The Hansard recorded that we protested that this is a pack of lies. Decorum meant nothing when the law of the streets had to take over. An Assistant Minister challenged Dominique to a fight. “Babi”, “monkeys”, “animals”, were hauled against “honourable” members. It is a shameful day.
Jabu said he could substantiate all that he said but produced nothing. He claimed that in Rh Christopher in 2005 Anwar-led KeADILan led the people to go against development. He said that on 10.10.1994 DAP asked the people in Kanowit to reject NCR land development.
How untrue! Chong and I fought to defend the dignity of DAP. Chong called Jabu a liar. The Speaker asked him to withdraw. Chong refused and said he could substantiate it. I wanted Jabu to be honest. Jabu’s allegation was perverse and most unjustified. When I was in the Dewan between 1996 and 2001 Jabu made the same accusation against the DAP. I had there and then written to Jabu to ask for more details so that I could investigate. I saw Jabu take my letter from the Dewan’s staff, gave me a nod but no information was given. I went back and checked what happened. The incident in Kanowit had nothing to do with the DAP. What a lie that Jabu said the same thing now. In the commotion, I had it recorded in the Hansard that Jabu received my letter and I challenged him to be honest about it. He did not deny that. Yet, he did not withdraw what he said against the DAP. DAP has never been anti-development, so long as the development is meaningful. We have never been against NCR land development. How on earth could DAP have oppressed the natives against development? How could we oppressive anybody without power in our hand?
Dominique, the only standard bearer of KeADILan, fought hard to defend his party. He challenged Jabu to repeat what he said outside the Dewan so that he could sue him. Incensed, he challenged the authority of the Speaker and shouted until his voice turned hoarse. The Speaker insisted that Jabu proceed. How unfair that we could not have our say against the most baseless accusations? Whatever voice of the Opposition meant nothing to the Speaker. That is BN’s formula of fairness.
A dark day befalls DUN Sarawak. The details follow...
Tuesday, May 22, 2007
Monday, May 21, 2007
Dewan Diary Day 6
By Wong Ho Leng
21st May, 2007
Reporters had done a difficult but good job for the whole of last week. We gave them a simple treat last night.
But reporting of the Dewan proceedings in the English press for the whole of last week leaves much to be desired. It was totally lopsided in favour of the Government. Now that the Ministers will do the winding up speeches for the next 3 days, we can only expect a total gag on the Opposition voice, especially on their injections or seeking clarifications from the Ministers.
(1) Motion Sunk
Chong intended to move an important motion for the sake of the sanctity of the Dewan. The Minister of Infrastructure Development had to account why, for the same question over bridge projects, 2 inconsistent answers were given to Chong. One written answer received in November last year by Chong before the last day of the sitting listed 24 contracts, with pages of detail of the contract sums and contractors. Another but short answer that was sent to me to be distributed to the 5 DAPpers said that listing the details of the contracts is very difficult. Was this an attempt to hide something?
As has been the practice for the whole of last week, the Dewan meeting started at 9:00 a.m. on the dot. Chong attempted to move the Motion but could not have his way. He had only read portion of one of the written replies when the Speaker stopped him and ruled that he would stick to the Order of the day and the Minister will reply to the Motion later. How would the Minister reply without knowing the detail of Chong’s complaint? Has the Speaker known what the inconsistencies were? I lent some help to Chong, but to no avail. A smart Dominique tucked along too. We all made clear that the Speaker has not been fair, but the Speaker remained nonchalant and shot the Motion down. He did not even ask for a seconder which is needed in the Standing Order in order to move a Motion. How would you expect the Minister to reply to the Motion which is not even seconded? So, let’s wait and see the standard of the Minister in his reply tomorrow. If the answer is unsatisfactory, we will not rule out moving a Motion to refer him to the committee of privileges. It is trite that written answers form part of the Hansard. With 2 inconsistent answers, which one will form the Hansard record?
(2) Winding Up by Awang Tengah
Awang Tengah was the first Minister to do the winding up speech, for he is the most junior of the Ministers. That is the Parliamentary convention. The Minister answered issues raised by Tze Fui on the movement of Lands and Surveys and the resettlement scheme. Tze Fui said she was quite happy with the answers.
Awang Tengah was not so friendly to Violet’s issue concerning Koperasi Polis Diraja Malaysia Sarawak Bhd’s (KOPODIMS) project at Jalan Matang, Kuching. The Minister explained that Maxiplan Development Sdn Bhd (owned by Assistant Minister from Tupong) was the 4th Contractor appointed to salvage the project and seemed to suggest that everything was above board.
The issue of water supply has been raised by ADUNs for rural constituencies, but year in and year out, there seems to have no solution forthcoming.
The Minister justified the new SESCo tariff rates by rising fuel costs to generate the power. He said that by the time the Bakun HEP is implemented in 2010/2011 then the price for electricity in Sarawak will be stabilized. Or did I hear “civilized”? I stood to stay that for the purpose of electricity tariffs, price being “stabilized” or “civilized” are interconnected, but the question is how would the Bakun Dam help us when implemented? No satisfactory answer was forthcoming.
Though saying that the Government is aware of the impact of fuel price hike, the Minister uttered not a word about the Memorandum submitted by ADUN Pujut to him on 29th April, 2007 to reconsider the hike. I stood to ask for the answer but the smart Minister dodged the issue. But the answer is obviously there. The Memorandum is as good as thrown into the basket.
(3) Michael Manyin
It wasn’t a lively afternoon which was supposed to start at 2pm. According to the practice of the previous week, it would have started punctually. By 2:07pm, there was still no quorum. Only 15 members were at the Dewan. Apart from the Minister responsible for the Environment, not a single other Minister was present. They were not according respect to the House. The Speaker wouldn't start but I indicated that the Opposition wouldn't raise objection to the lack of quorum.
Michael Manyin started to state the policy of his Ministry and to answer the issues raised. He enjoyed reading his speech with minimal interruption. Chiew and Tze Fui were allowed to seek clarification but Dominique was not so lucky.
It looked like the Government is keen in encouraging people to quit smoking through 31 quit-smoking clinics. But I wonder how successful this will be.
Cancer is the No.1 killer. Lung cancer is still the most common killer for men. The females suffer breast, cervix and rectal cancers. Among children, leukemia, lymphoma and brain cancer are the worst destroyers of lives.
Manyin said that all local authorities will continue to maintain road and drains but at times due to financial limitations maintenance may not be satisfactorily done but the Councils will continue to do their best and to bid for maintenance fund. He also advised the people to only pay licence fees at the office of local authorities. That cleared the issue raised by Tze Fui about some council staffs trying to collect 3 months licence fees in advance without receipts. That matter will be probed further.
Dominique tried to teach Manyin the correct pronunciation to Petanak, not “Pentanak”. The Minister hit back by telling Dominique the correct way to pronounce Tebedu. It should read “Tebede”. Well, it livens the afternoon and chased away the sleeping bugs.
Users pay concept again sprang up in the reply and a small altercation started between Manyin and Chong. Dominique chipped in. The Minister asked Chong, “what would you suggest as the alternative”?
I had seen many hawkers not trading despite having licences. When asked, the Minister said he will not allow absentee hawkers and there is no sub-letting of licences.
Chong raised the issue of the Kali Garden Development. The Minister told the Dewan that it is receiving attention and will be reviewed. The matter will be solved. This shows the importance of raising the plight of the people in the Dewan.
(4) Soon Koh
Soon Koh started his Ministerial reply from 4:20pm. He deliberated on matters relating to urban development and tourism. As usual he stated the policy of his ministry with particular emphasis on implementation under the 9th Malaysia Plan. He holds another portfolio, that of Finance. He would leave that for tomorrow.
He said that improvement of the urban traffic transportation system is the priority of his ministry. Bus service in urban areas is the most important mode of public transport but has not improved in recent years.
He deliberated on the flood mitigation project and the urban landscape and beautification projects. Chong stood to suggest priority on drain works over beautification to which the Minister merely said the points are noted.
On solid waste management, the Minister said the recycle of plastic materials and wastes have resulted in monthly reduction of 40 tonnes of rubbish for the Miri City Council. He was proud of the efforts. Other towns and cities, apparently, are lagging behind.
The Minister replied to Chew on the flood problem in Kidurong. The Bintulu Development Authority has plans to upgrade drainage in flood prone area.
On the issue of floods raised by me in Sibu and my constituency, the Minister said that the Government has always been very concerned. Therefore, the Government has implemented flood mitigation plan that will hopefully solve the regional flood relating to the Rejang River.
Air connectivity is a huge problem. Dominique and I asked the Minister to seriously look into forming the Sarawak Airlines. The Minister merely said the point is noted. Air connectivity has really affected the tourism industry in our state. The Minister went on overdrive to show what efforts had been put in to promote tourism.
As usual, Soon Koh could not end his speech without deliberating on his biased perception on politics. He asserted that the opposition’s criticisms should be loyal, constructive and responsible. But it seems to me that he can see no wrong in his Government.
Soon Koh said the Opposition has no licence to discredit the Government. He emphasized that the Government would wish to accord members of Opposition with respect and honour if respect and honour are rightly theirs and if they deserve it. The Opposition is not a licence to be disrespectful. He tried to admonish the Opposition members to oppose through articulating constructive criticisms and through reasoned arguments and facts. He said he did not seek to silent the Opposition but they should adopt a moderate stance.
If Soon Koh meant that these were the exemplary yardsticks shown by SUPP ADUNs, he was way off the mark. I cannot see much in the merits of electing the SUPP ADUNs. As has been demonstrated in the whole of last week and today in the Dewan, they are “yes” men.
Soon Koh has a complaint about DAP Newsletters (the Rocket”) which he said are widely sold. He had personally bought a copy. He accused that there was an attempt to launch malicious smears on BN leaders, including the publication in one issue that the 2nd Minister of Finance’s house was built with marbles costing RM8 million. He said that another issue of “the Rocket” shows the CM heading a dynasty and other state leaders dressed in Manchurian official uniform, depicting them as eunuchs. Chong stood to clarify that the uniform was that of Ching officials and not eunuchs. Soon Koh said that that was Chong’s interpretation.
Soon Koh said he believed in public political maturity and would leave it to the good sense of the people in discerning what is right, wrong, truthful and untruthful
That was it for the day. Boring reading sessions but we get our answers to issues raised.
Projects were implemented though I must say, the people do not see the money. I have heard often enough condemnations of the rakyat for supporting the Opposition Party, how immature they are, and that the Opposition areas will not be developed etc. From answers given by the Ministers in the Dewan, development is not pegged to election results. I hope this will hold true. A well audited Government will have to carry out development fairly and equitably.
21st May, 2007
Reporters had done a difficult but good job for the whole of last week. We gave them a simple treat last night.
But reporting of the Dewan proceedings in the English press for the whole of last week leaves much to be desired. It was totally lopsided in favour of the Government. Now that the Ministers will do the winding up speeches for the next 3 days, we can only expect a total gag on the Opposition voice, especially on their injections or seeking clarifications from the Ministers.
(1) Motion Sunk
Chong intended to move an important motion for the sake of the sanctity of the Dewan. The Minister of Infrastructure Development had to account why, for the same question over bridge projects, 2 inconsistent answers were given to Chong. One written answer received in November last year by Chong before the last day of the sitting listed 24 contracts, with pages of detail of the contract sums and contractors. Another but short answer that was sent to me to be distributed to the 5 DAPpers said that listing the details of the contracts is very difficult. Was this an attempt to hide something?
As has been the practice for the whole of last week, the Dewan meeting started at 9:00 a.m. on the dot. Chong attempted to move the Motion but could not have his way. He had only read portion of one of the written replies when the Speaker stopped him and ruled that he would stick to the Order of the day and the Minister will reply to the Motion later. How would the Minister reply without knowing the detail of Chong’s complaint? Has the Speaker known what the inconsistencies were? I lent some help to Chong, but to no avail. A smart Dominique tucked along too. We all made clear that the Speaker has not been fair, but the Speaker remained nonchalant and shot the Motion down. He did not even ask for a seconder which is needed in the Standing Order in order to move a Motion. How would you expect the Minister to reply to the Motion which is not even seconded? So, let’s wait and see the standard of the Minister in his reply tomorrow. If the answer is unsatisfactory, we will not rule out moving a Motion to refer him to the committee of privileges. It is trite that written answers form part of the Hansard. With 2 inconsistent answers, which one will form the Hansard record?
(2) Winding Up by Awang Tengah
Awang Tengah was the first Minister to do the winding up speech, for he is the most junior of the Ministers. That is the Parliamentary convention. The Minister answered issues raised by Tze Fui on the movement of Lands and Surveys and the resettlement scheme. Tze Fui said she was quite happy with the answers.
Awang Tengah was not so friendly to Violet’s issue concerning Koperasi Polis Diraja Malaysia Sarawak Bhd’s (KOPODIMS) project at Jalan Matang, Kuching. The Minister explained that Maxiplan Development Sdn Bhd (owned by Assistant Minister from Tupong) was the 4th Contractor appointed to salvage the project and seemed to suggest that everything was above board.
The issue of water supply has been raised by ADUNs for rural constituencies, but year in and year out, there seems to have no solution forthcoming.
The Minister justified the new SESCo tariff rates by rising fuel costs to generate the power. He said that by the time the Bakun HEP is implemented in 2010/2011 then the price for electricity in Sarawak will be stabilized. Or did I hear “civilized”? I stood to stay that for the purpose of electricity tariffs, price being “stabilized” or “civilized” are interconnected, but the question is how would the Bakun Dam help us when implemented? No satisfactory answer was forthcoming.
Though saying that the Government is aware of the impact of fuel price hike, the Minister uttered not a word about the Memorandum submitted by ADUN Pujut to him on 29th April, 2007 to reconsider the hike. I stood to ask for the answer but the smart Minister dodged the issue. But the answer is obviously there. The Memorandum is as good as thrown into the basket.
(3) Michael Manyin
It wasn’t a lively afternoon which was supposed to start at 2pm. According to the practice of the previous week, it would have started punctually. By 2:07pm, there was still no quorum. Only 15 members were at the Dewan. Apart from the Minister responsible for the Environment, not a single other Minister was present. They were not according respect to the House. The Speaker wouldn't start but I indicated that the Opposition wouldn't raise objection to the lack of quorum.
Michael Manyin started to state the policy of his Ministry and to answer the issues raised. He enjoyed reading his speech with minimal interruption. Chiew and Tze Fui were allowed to seek clarification but Dominique was not so lucky.
It looked like the Government is keen in encouraging people to quit smoking through 31 quit-smoking clinics. But I wonder how successful this will be.
Cancer is the No.1 killer. Lung cancer is still the most common killer for men. The females suffer breast, cervix and rectal cancers. Among children, leukemia, lymphoma and brain cancer are the worst destroyers of lives.
Manyin said that all local authorities will continue to maintain road and drains but at times due to financial limitations maintenance may not be satisfactorily done but the Councils will continue to do their best and to bid for maintenance fund. He also advised the people to only pay licence fees at the office of local authorities. That cleared the issue raised by Tze Fui about some council staffs trying to collect 3 months licence fees in advance without receipts. That matter will be probed further.
Dominique tried to teach Manyin the correct pronunciation to Petanak, not “Pentanak”. The Minister hit back by telling Dominique the correct way to pronounce Tebedu. It should read “Tebede”. Well, it livens the afternoon and chased away the sleeping bugs.
Users pay concept again sprang up in the reply and a small altercation started between Manyin and Chong. Dominique chipped in. The Minister asked Chong, “what would you suggest as the alternative”?
I had seen many hawkers not trading despite having licences. When asked, the Minister said he will not allow absentee hawkers and there is no sub-letting of licences.
Chong raised the issue of the Kali Garden Development. The Minister told the Dewan that it is receiving attention and will be reviewed. The matter will be solved. This shows the importance of raising the plight of the people in the Dewan.
(4) Soon Koh
Soon Koh started his Ministerial reply from 4:20pm. He deliberated on matters relating to urban development and tourism. As usual he stated the policy of his ministry with particular emphasis on implementation under the 9th Malaysia Plan. He holds another portfolio, that of Finance. He would leave that for tomorrow.
He said that improvement of the urban traffic transportation system is the priority of his ministry. Bus service in urban areas is the most important mode of public transport but has not improved in recent years.
He deliberated on the flood mitigation project and the urban landscape and beautification projects. Chong stood to suggest priority on drain works over beautification to which the Minister merely said the points are noted.
On solid waste management, the Minister said the recycle of plastic materials and wastes have resulted in monthly reduction of 40 tonnes of rubbish for the Miri City Council. He was proud of the efforts. Other towns and cities, apparently, are lagging behind.
The Minister replied to Chew on the flood problem in Kidurong. The Bintulu Development Authority has plans to upgrade drainage in flood prone area.
On the issue of floods raised by me in Sibu and my constituency, the Minister said that the Government has always been very concerned. Therefore, the Government has implemented flood mitigation plan that will hopefully solve the regional flood relating to the Rejang River.
Air connectivity is a huge problem. Dominique and I asked the Minister to seriously look into forming the Sarawak Airlines. The Minister merely said the point is noted. Air connectivity has really affected the tourism industry in our state. The Minister went on overdrive to show what efforts had been put in to promote tourism.
As usual, Soon Koh could not end his speech without deliberating on his biased perception on politics. He asserted that the opposition’s criticisms should be loyal, constructive and responsible. But it seems to me that he can see no wrong in his Government.
Soon Koh said the Opposition has no licence to discredit the Government. He emphasized that the Government would wish to accord members of Opposition with respect and honour if respect and honour are rightly theirs and if they deserve it. The Opposition is not a licence to be disrespectful. He tried to admonish the Opposition members to oppose through articulating constructive criticisms and through reasoned arguments and facts. He said he did not seek to silent the Opposition but they should adopt a moderate stance.
If Soon Koh meant that these were the exemplary yardsticks shown by SUPP ADUNs, he was way off the mark. I cannot see much in the merits of electing the SUPP ADUNs. As has been demonstrated in the whole of last week and today in the Dewan, they are “yes” men.
Soon Koh has a complaint about DAP Newsletters (the Rocket”) which he said are widely sold. He had personally bought a copy. He accused that there was an attempt to launch malicious smears on BN leaders, including the publication in one issue that the 2nd Minister of Finance’s house was built with marbles costing RM8 million. He said that another issue of “the Rocket” shows the CM heading a dynasty and other state leaders dressed in Manchurian official uniform, depicting them as eunuchs. Chong stood to clarify that the uniform was that of Ching officials and not eunuchs. Soon Koh said that that was Chong’s interpretation.
Soon Koh said he believed in public political maturity and would leave it to the good sense of the people in discerning what is right, wrong, truthful and untruthful
That was it for the day. Boring reading sessions but we get our answers to issues raised.
Projects were implemented though I must say, the people do not see the money. I have heard often enough condemnations of the rakyat for supporting the Opposition Party, how immature they are, and that the Opposition areas will not be developed etc. From answers given by the Ministers in the Dewan, development is not pegged to election results. I hope this will hold true. A well audited Government will have to carry out development fairly and equitably.
Friday, May 18, 2007
Debate on TYT Speech by Wong Ho Leng
DEBATE SPEECH by Wong Ho Leng, ADUN Bukit Assek, on 18th May, 2007 on Motion to Appreciate the TYT’s Speech:
I rise to debate on the Motion in appreciation to the speech delivered by his Excellency the TYT in this august House.
Due to the fact that I am slotted to speak on the last day, I will deliberate on the following issues:
(1) Peace and Security
His Excellency is concerned with peace and security of our state.
Everybody is entitled to enjoy peace and security. My responsible members from the DAP had spoken on this issue in this Dewan in July and November 2006 but had unfortunately generated not much response from the state Government.
It was only after MP Bintulu spoke about the issue in Parliament that the issue began to get attention. I am glad to see that, finally, there is one backbencher from the BN who was speaking the truth in Parliament for Sarawak.
The issue raised in Parliament concerned triads and gangsterism in Sarawak, and in Sibu in particular.
The efforts of the police had been very much questioned recently. Much that the Police have assured us that they had tried their best, unfortunately, even their best is not enough. They are under-staffed throughout Sarawak. The Government should look into this pressing need by increasing the police force in our state.
The first rule to crime reduction is police presence, but the people do not seem to see much of it either in residential areas on in town centres.
That there are organized crimes owe much to the state of the economy. The Government may be painting a rosy picture of the economy, yet the bulk of the people are not enjoying the benefits of the economic growth. When so much money is made from oil palm, oil and gas, timber, mineral exports, I cannot resist asking where have all our money gone to. The people will not commit crime if the economy is rosy.
The BN Government earned more than 90% of the Parliamentary seats in 2004. Despite this strong mandate, the BN Government failed in its duties to ensure that the people are having peace and security.
The people are entitled to be disappointed and annoyed for having given the BN Government such a huge mandate.
ADUN for Pelawan appealed to us not to go overboard or exaggerate about the true extent of gangsterism and security. Isn’t crime rampant in Sarawak and Sibu in particular? Please, do not play ostrich. Ask around, especially your constituents. They are concerned. What is there to exaggerate? Are you alleging that MP Bintulu was exaggerating the issue in Parliament?
When the police were conducting an open forum on triads and gangsterism in Sibu in April, 2007, a murder occurred within 24 hours thereafter. When 90 police personnel had to come to Sibu to look into the issue of triads and gangsterism, it shows that the situation is serious and warrants special attention.
Nobody is exaggerating, except the SUPP leaders in Sibu who seemed to say that triads and gangsterism are not serious in Sibu. Why did they say it is not serious?
Is it because some of them may be associated with triads and gangsters? Who are the Deputy Federal Minister, state cabinet Minister and ex-MP who are said to be connected to triads? I hope the police can release their identities soon.
ADUN Pelawan said: “If you go around Sarawak, I am sure you find people ‘alive and well’ enjoying themselves at night and Sibu is no exception.” Do not wait until the people are killed before you take action. In respect of life and death, do not say, “Better Late than Never”. Do not learn from ADUN Pujut who said “Better Late than Never” yesterday. You are a part of the Government. Do not wait till it is too late. When a person is no longer “alive and well”, what use is action? The SUPP is always suffering from delayed reaction.
A good politician would know the temperature on the ground about the people’s fear for their security. It is irresponsible of any politician to say that because there are people alive and well enjoying themselves therefore the security issue has been exaggerated. How can the people have faith in this sort of Government?
There is no need to worry about implications on tourism if the people are truly safe. What is the use of tourist dollars if the people are not feeling even safe?
(2) HIKE in SESCO RATES
As from 1/4/2007 a new electricity tariff was imposed on the industrial and commercial users. The tariff affecting the industrial sector hiked 25%, whereas the commercial sector 4%. The real hike is more than this.
There is no justification for this hike. Not a single user had been consulted before the state cabinet approved the hike. It shows how irresponsible and insensitive and uncaring the BN Government has been.
Public consultation is the cornerstone to a caring Government. When was it ever done?
At the very least, the intention to review the tariff ought to have been laid on the table of the Dewan Undangan Negeri. None of this was done.
The people do not agree with the hike for 2 main reasons: Firstly, the effect of the hike will be passed on to consumers. This is the fundament of economics. The ultimate victims are the consumers. Secondly, the Government should encourage industries rather than suffocate them. A new tariff system may kill many SMIs in Sarawak in the future.
With the timber industry quickly becoming a sunset industry, with the agriculture industry not thriving due to lack of incentives, the viable alternative is to be found in the industrial sectors. Yet, before these industries have even started, the Government had approved a slap on them of 25% hike in SESCO tariffs. The BN Government does not seem to encourage the setting up of SMIs.
An example can be found in the Rantau Panjang Industrial Zone. Here, the Government should give incentives such as waiving the payment of development tax to SESCO and also improve the infrastructures there like improving the drainage. The shipping industry was hampered by the limited height of the Igan Bridge and the proposed Lebaan Bridge. The new tariff rates will also put a damper on this industrial zone.
To introduce a new tariff is therefore unfair and uncaring. Why should the rates be increased without public consultation? I think the answer is because the BN is too strong. There need more changes than now.
Yet, there had been so much playacting from the SUPP, as if showing that they cared, but I will show you they do not.
Yesterday, ADUN for Pujut told the Dewan that he did present a memorandum on behalf of the Federation of Chinese Associations in Miri to the Minister. The newspapers on 29th April 2007 reported this. The Playacting was so innovative that ADUN for Pujut submitted the Memorandum at the VIP lounge of the Miri Airport. In the usual tradition known only by the BN formula of timeliness, ADUN Pujut submitted the Memorandum 29 days after SESCO had introduced the new tariff. In this case, the delayed reaction was even more than 29 days. SESCO announced the new tariff on 7th March, 2007. As on this date, the State Government had already approved the new tariff rates. So, how long was the delay reaction, the hallmark of the SUPP? The SUPP had 2 cabinet Ministers who approved the new tariff rates. Yet, ADUN Pujut had to submit a Memorandum to a PBB Minister on 29th April 2007. What does it show? It shows that the SUPP had no say in the decision making process in the Cabinet. What use was it to submit the Memorandum to a PBB Minister? Whether it is from the PBB or SUPP, you are the same Government. The State Government had approved. The water had gone under the Bridge. Yet, ADUN Pujut had the audacity to say, “Better late than never”. As a part of the Government, you have no right to say this. When the Opposition said this in this Dewan, we were giving you face. When you say this in the Dewan, you are slapping your own face. You are slamming on your own toes. Submitting a Memorandum to the Minister urging the Government to reconsider the tariff hike shows that you know that the hike was wrong and unjustified. Yet, it was approved by yourself as a part of the Government. You should apologize to the people of Sarawak, especially industrial operators and businessmen that your Party and the state Government was wrong in approving the new tariff.
In November last year, you wanted this Dewan to know that you are constructive, unlike the Opposition. How wrong? Your yardstick for being constructive is when the horse had bolted, when the goats had escaped the confines, when water had gone under the Bridge, only then you start work. Is this the most constructive playacting which SUPP can present?
Let me show you how to be constructive. Before hiking the rates, consult the public. Be sensitive to the people’s need. State your opposition to the hike in the Cabinet before they approved the hike. The cabinet decision is made unanimously. Do not engage in play-acting. Prime Minister Abdullah expressed his disgust about playacting.
Try to understand that your Government is not caring. You are a part of the Government. You are equally guilty.
(3) Issues of the People
While it is generally accepted that Sibu has peculiar peat soil condition it must be also accepted that this condition should not impede the implementation of development projects much needed by the people. The problem lies in whether there is a heart to solve the plight of the people.
Because of the mix and structure of the population in Sibu, it is impossible to talk only of my constituency issues without linking them to the general picture of Sibu.
ADUN Pelawan had spoken of road improvement to Brooke Drive. I wish to bring in Pedada Road. It is one of the 3 major roads serving Sibu but it is very prone to flood during the rainy season. Unfortunately, this road has been constantly neglected. Many parts of the road have sunk. The authorities should upgrade the sunken parts as soon as possible.
Sand is a natural gift to Sibu. The Rejang and Igan Rivers are now suffering a slow death unless siltation is solved and the sand is dredged regularly. I had measured that in certain places in mid river, the depth of Rejang River is 6 ½ feet. That is the cause of the much unwanted flood in Sibu. Even a downpour in Kapit can cause the Rejang basin to flood, causing multi-millions of losses to the inhabitants in Sibu.
The sand can be dredged for land and road fills. There are so many businessmen in Sibu who are prepared to dredge the sand for land fill and road fill but are unable to get licenses.
There is another type of flood, flash flood. The problem arises from lack of efforts of the authorities to ensure that clogged drains are cleared periodically.
There is no proper monitoring of the Contractors many of whom are politically connected.
At any time you can see clogged drains in Sibu. Weeds are not cut and Monsoon Drains are blocked by debris and refuse. In Kampong Bahagia, grass were not cut and the drains were not cleared. The residents even had to quarrel with the local council who still did nothing. Some poor people are moving out because of frequent flood there. Yet, this is the very place that the Wawasan Team of the Sibu SUPP mooted to move half of the people in Bukit Assek by digging a huge lake in Bukit Assek.
Lorong Rambuttan, Lorong Belian, Lorong Laichee, Jalan Punai, Jalan Hua Khiew, Jalan Tiong Hua, Lorong Oya 8, Lorong Langsat, Jalan Bertuah, Jalan Luku, Jalan Bukit Assek, Jalan Uk Daik, Jalan Rhu, Jalan Kapor, Jalan Chong Sang, Jalan Selangan, Jalan Bunga Mawar, Lorong Tekam, Lorong Oya 18, Jalan Kiong Tung, Jalan Tong Sang Lane 2 are some of the very low lying roads in Sibu which require immediate attention as they are prone to flash flood.
Green algae is easily seen floating in the drains, bearing testimony that the water in the drains is not flowing. The local authorities are partly to blame for the clogged drains. Culverts are covered by contractors, disallowing water to flow.
Some drains had been clogged for years by weeds and refuse. Banana trees are growing into the drains after several rounds of harvests.
Yet, the SUPP had always tried to make political capital out of this. They would do something when election is coming, even working way past midnight.
The flood problem is almost similar in the Arang area in Batu Kawa. The problem has not been solved.
It is high time to implement the flood mitigation Masterplan throughout Sarawak.
(4) Land Matters
After my Motion was moved in this august House in November 2006, the Chief Minister indicated that he would be issuing a policy paper this year. Not so long ago, the Chief Minister said that he would issue a policy paper in May.
The people in Sarawak are waiting with excitement, and pray that the new policy will be acceptable to all and sundry.
I wish to reiterate that the Chief Minister will do all Sarawakians a great favour if all land titles are to be unconditionally extended for 99 years when the lease terms expire.
But there is another matter that has caused uneasiness and concern among landowners. As a responsible wakil rakyat, I cannot ignore it and I ask for an explanation from the Government.
I have come to know that the Lands and Surveys department had imposed as a condition for the approval of AVTC and Subdivision that perpetuity titles are to be reduced to a 90 year leases for the new resultant titles.
This condition is grossly unfair. How can the authority short change the landowners and the developers in this manner? A landowner even told me that this is day light robbery.
If even perpetuity titles are not secure and safe from Government policies, how can we expect titles of 999 years and 99 years and 60 years to be secure and safe?
Please, have a heart for the landowners. They spent their hard earned money buying their land and yet, you robbed them off the rights by reducing perpetuity titles to 90 years in the event of a private development.
(5) Air-Connectivity
Air connectivity and accessibility has been a hindrance to tourism in Sarawak. The rationalization exercise has not done Sarawak any good. We used to have the Malaysian Airline System serving the many destinations in Malaysia for many years. But poor management has resulted in losses. The rationalization exercise was the result. So, Fax Airline came in. MAS provides services to certain sectors, Air Asia or FAX the others.
We had heard often Air Asia’s slogan, “Everyone can Fly”.
During the Forum held in Sibu in December 2005, a new brand was revealed. It said in one of the handouts:
“There’s a new girl in town. She’s twice the fun and half the price.”
That is Air Asia. What a slogan, which can be misunderstood. It carries a double entendre.
Lots of people held high hopes about the future of flights to and out of Sarawak when Air Asia came to serve Sarawak. But they were soon disappointed. There had been frequent delays. Not too long ago I was at the LCCT. I saw that 1/3 of the flights had been delayed, rescheduled or cancelled. Many were stranded at the airport. Everybody whom I met was unhappy. Maybe sometimes budget fares come with it the risk of delay and no compensation. But over time, the amount of delays had become unbearable.
The Government should put its foot down for the airlines to get their houses in order. While some delays are unavoidable for technical reasons, passengers have to be compensated or provided with food and drinks each time that delay is caused not by technical reasons. Air Asia had been stringently enforcing its weight limit, and even half a kg is not spared. Yet, when flight delays were over 2 hours, not a single sen was compensated.
Millions in revenue to the tourism industry had been lost due to reduced air connectivity. The losses are brought home to the State and the tour operators. Many operators are saying that they are at the brink of bankruptcy.
The State Government can do away with this brand as “There’s a new girl in town. She’s twice the fun and half the price.” If there were so much delay, where is the fun, even if it is for half the price? Sometimes the low fares are even more than the routine flights.
I am not saying that MAS is perfect. Many people called it “Mana Ada System”. It has to improve too. But the quality of the services provided by Air Asia has really left much to be desired.
There is little point in bringing in FireFly unless we can be sure that its services will be satisfactory.
The time has come for the State of Sarawak to form its own airlines. The proposal for a Sarawak Airline had been made by other members before. I had also proposed this. In view of the need of an improved air services, in view that we may as well live by our own standards, in order to preserve our pride, Sarawak should seriously consider having its own airlines.
(6) Principals for Chinese Primary Schools
I have learnt that there are at least 25 Chinese Primary schools in Sarawak which do not have headmasters. I understand that the State education office is tasked to do something about this. May the honourable Minister overseeing education update this august House on this issue.
(7) Respect and Love to TYT
The DAP had been accused of being disrespectful to the TYT. I resent the accusation.
Yesterday, ADUN for Tasik Biru accused that members of the DAP did not give due regard to our TYT who officiated the opening of the Dewan on 14th May, 2007. He said that we stood at the staircase of the Dewan watching his Excellency from a distance.
Nobody who is sane would in his/her right mind question my and my colleagues’ loyalty to Sarawak and my and my colleagues’ respect to his Excellency.
If we are not loyal to Sarawak, we would not have sacrificed so much to serve the State in the Opposition platform in order to ensure that the Government would do a better job. There is no kantow awaiting the Opposition politicians.
On 14th May, 2007, all ADUNs gathered at the garage of the Dewan. Apart from the heat, the seating arrangement left much to be desired. Those sitting behind were unable to see anything that happened at the Dewan compound. They would not be able to see his Excellency performing the inspection of the guards of honours and the parade. We chose to move ourselves from the crowd to stand at the staircase out of respect to his Excellency. You can only respect a person by knowing or seeing what he did.
What happened when you could not see the happenings in front of you? Naturally, when you saw people in front stand, you followed. When you saw their backside moving to sit, you also followed. That is not loyalty. This is blind following. Following people’s backside is not the DAP’s style. We are not “Yes Men”.
Out of this incident, ADUN for Tasik Biru asked why we could not be ones in this Dewan? I have 3 answers for you. One, we cannot be part of you because we are not “Yes-Yes” men and follow whatever actions without question.
Secondly, you do not treat us as part of this democratic institution. For example, you passed the Dewan Undangan Negeri (Privileges and Powers) Bill on 15th May 2007 to stifle us.
Thirdly, there is double standard and discrimination against us. We are not treated as a part of this institution though the TYT is neutral. On 14th May, 2007, there was supposed to be a dinner with his Excellency. No one from the DAP was invited. Of course, we don’t come here to have dinner only but more importantly to do the cause of the people. But if the Government did not practise discrimination, no member of this House should be excluded from the invitation from the TYT’s office.
I thought that everybody is equal, just that in this Dewan, some are more equal than others.
I pray that the TYT continues to be blessed with health and will understand that DAP members are loyal to him and respect him as the head of the state.
I support the Motion of appreciation.
I rise to debate on the Motion in appreciation to the speech delivered by his Excellency the TYT in this august House.
Due to the fact that I am slotted to speak on the last day, I will deliberate on the following issues:
(1) Peace and Security
His Excellency is concerned with peace and security of our state.
Everybody is entitled to enjoy peace and security. My responsible members from the DAP had spoken on this issue in this Dewan in July and November 2006 but had unfortunately generated not much response from the state Government.
It was only after MP Bintulu spoke about the issue in Parliament that the issue began to get attention. I am glad to see that, finally, there is one backbencher from the BN who was speaking the truth in Parliament for Sarawak.
The issue raised in Parliament concerned triads and gangsterism in Sarawak, and in Sibu in particular.
The efforts of the police had been very much questioned recently. Much that the Police have assured us that they had tried their best, unfortunately, even their best is not enough. They are under-staffed throughout Sarawak. The Government should look into this pressing need by increasing the police force in our state.
The first rule to crime reduction is police presence, but the people do not seem to see much of it either in residential areas on in town centres.
That there are organized crimes owe much to the state of the economy. The Government may be painting a rosy picture of the economy, yet the bulk of the people are not enjoying the benefits of the economic growth. When so much money is made from oil palm, oil and gas, timber, mineral exports, I cannot resist asking where have all our money gone to. The people will not commit crime if the economy is rosy.
The BN Government earned more than 90% of the Parliamentary seats in 2004. Despite this strong mandate, the BN Government failed in its duties to ensure that the people are having peace and security.
The people are entitled to be disappointed and annoyed for having given the BN Government such a huge mandate.
ADUN for Pelawan appealed to us not to go overboard or exaggerate about the true extent of gangsterism and security. Isn’t crime rampant in Sarawak and Sibu in particular? Please, do not play ostrich. Ask around, especially your constituents. They are concerned. What is there to exaggerate? Are you alleging that MP Bintulu was exaggerating the issue in Parliament?
When the police were conducting an open forum on triads and gangsterism in Sibu in April, 2007, a murder occurred within 24 hours thereafter. When 90 police personnel had to come to Sibu to look into the issue of triads and gangsterism, it shows that the situation is serious and warrants special attention.
Nobody is exaggerating, except the SUPP leaders in Sibu who seemed to say that triads and gangsterism are not serious in Sibu. Why did they say it is not serious?
Is it because some of them may be associated with triads and gangsters? Who are the Deputy Federal Minister, state cabinet Minister and ex-MP who are said to be connected to triads? I hope the police can release their identities soon.
ADUN Pelawan said: “If you go around Sarawak, I am sure you find people ‘alive and well’ enjoying themselves at night and Sibu is no exception.” Do not wait until the people are killed before you take action. In respect of life and death, do not say, “Better Late than Never”. Do not learn from ADUN Pujut who said “Better Late than Never” yesterday. You are a part of the Government. Do not wait till it is too late. When a person is no longer “alive and well”, what use is action? The SUPP is always suffering from delayed reaction.
A good politician would know the temperature on the ground about the people’s fear for their security. It is irresponsible of any politician to say that because there are people alive and well enjoying themselves therefore the security issue has been exaggerated. How can the people have faith in this sort of Government?
There is no need to worry about implications on tourism if the people are truly safe. What is the use of tourist dollars if the people are not feeling even safe?
(2) HIKE in SESCO RATES
As from 1/4/2007 a new electricity tariff was imposed on the industrial and commercial users. The tariff affecting the industrial sector hiked 25%, whereas the commercial sector 4%. The real hike is more than this.
There is no justification for this hike. Not a single user had been consulted before the state cabinet approved the hike. It shows how irresponsible and insensitive and uncaring the BN Government has been.
Public consultation is the cornerstone to a caring Government. When was it ever done?
At the very least, the intention to review the tariff ought to have been laid on the table of the Dewan Undangan Negeri. None of this was done.
The people do not agree with the hike for 2 main reasons: Firstly, the effect of the hike will be passed on to consumers. This is the fundament of economics. The ultimate victims are the consumers. Secondly, the Government should encourage industries rather than suffocate them. A new tariff system may kill many SMIs in Sarawak in the future.
With the timber industry quickly becoming a sunset industry, with the agriculture industry not thriving due to lack of incentives, the viable alternative is to be found in the industrial sectors. Yet, before these industries have even started, the Government had approved a slap on them of 25% hike in SESCO tariffs. The BN Government does not seem to encourage the setting up of SMIs.
An example can be found in the Rantau Panjang Industrial Zone. Here, the Government should give incentives such as waiving the payment of development tax to SESCO and also improve the infrastructures there like improving the drainage. The shipping industry was hampered by the limited height of the Igan Bridge and the proposed Lebaan Bridge. The new tariff rates will also put a damper on this industrial zone.
To introduce a new tariff is therefore unfair and uncaring. Why should the rates be increased without public consultation? I think the answer is because the BN is too strong. There need more changes than now.
Yet, there had been so much playacting from the SUPP, as if showing that they cared, but I will show you they do not.
Yesterday, ADUN for Pujut told the Dewan that he did present a memorandum on behalf of the Federation of Chinese Associations in Miri to the Minister. The newspapers on 29th April 2007 reported this. The Playacting was so innovative that ADUN for Pujut submitted the Memorandum at the VIP lounge of the Miri Airport. In the usual tradition known only by the BN formula of timeliness, ADUN Pujut submitted the Memorandum 29 days after SESCO had introduced the new tariff. In this case, the delayed reaction was even more than 29 days. SESCO announced the new tariff on 7th March, 2007. As on this date, the State Government had already approved the new tariff rates. So, how long was the delay reaction, the hallmark of the SUPP? The SUPP had 2 cabinet Ministers who approved the new tariff rates. Yet, ADUN Pujut had to submit a Memorandum to a PBB Minister on 29th April 2007. What does it show? It shows that the SUPP had no say in the decision making process in the Cabinet. What use was it to submit the Memorandum to a PBB Minister? Whether it is from the PBB or SUPP, you are the same Government. The State Government had approved. The water had gone under the Bridge. Yet, ADUN Pujut had the audacity to say, “Better late than never”. As a part of the Government, you have no right to say this. When the Opposition said this in this Dewan, we were giving you face. When you say this in the Dewan, you are slapping your own face. You are slamming on your own toes. Submitting a Memorandum to the Minister urging the Government to reconsider the tariff hike shows that you know that the hike was wrong and unjustified. Yet, it was approved by yourself as a part of the Government. You should apologize to the people of Sarawak, especially industrial operators and businessmen that your Party and the state Government was wrong in approving the new tariff.
In November last year, you wanted this Dewan to know that you are constructive, unlike the Opposition. How wrong? Your yardstick for being constructive is when the horse had bolted, when the goats had escaped the confines, when water had gone under the Bridge, only then you start work. Is this the most constructive playacting which SUPP can present?
Let me show you how to be constructive. Before hiking the rates, consult the public. Be sensitive to the people’s need. State your opposition to the hike in the Cabinet before they approved the hike. The cabinet decision is made unanimously. Do not engage in play-acting. Prime Minister Abdullah expressed his disgust about playacting.
Try to understand that your Government is not caring. You are a part of the Government. You are equally guilty.
(3) Issues of the People
While it is generally accepted that Sibu has peculiar peat soil condition it must be also accepted that this condition should not impede the implementation of development projects much needed by the people. The problem lies in whether there is a heart to solve the plight of the people.
Because of the mix and structure of the population in Sibu, it is impossible to talk only of my constituency issues without linking them to the general picture of Sibu.
ADUN Pelawan had spoken of road improvement to Brooke Drive. I wish to bring in Pedada Road. It is one of the 3 major roads serving Sibu but it is very prone to flood during the rainy season. Unfortunately, this road has been constantly neglected. Many parts of the road have sunk. The authorities should upgrade the sunken parts as soon as possible.
Sand is a natural gift to Sibu. The Rejang and Igan Rivers are now suffering a slow death unless siltation is solved and the sand is dredged regularly. I had measured that in certain places in mid river, the depth of Rejang River is 6 ½ feet. That is the cause of the much unwanted flood in Sibu. Even a downpour in Kapit can cause the Rejang basin to flood, causing multi-millions of losses to the inhabitants in Sibu.
The sand can be dredged for land and road fills. There are so many businessmen in Sibu who are prepared to dredge the sand for land fill and road fill but are unable to get licenses.
There is another type of flood, flash flood. The problem arises from lack of efforts of the authorities to ensure that clogged drains are cleared periodically.
There is no proper monitoring of the Contractors many of whom are politically connected.
At any time you can see clogged drains in Sibu. Weeds are not cut and Monsoon Drains are blocked by debris and refuse. In Kampong Bahagia, grass were not cut and the drains were not cleared. The residents even had to quarrel with the local council who still did nothing. Some poor people are moving out because of frequent flood there. Yet, this is the very place that the Wawasan Team of the Sibu SUPP mooted to move half of the people in Bukit Assek by digging a huge lake in Bukit Assek.
Lorong Rambuttan, Lorong Belian, Lorong Laichee, Jalan Punai, Jalan Hua Khiew, Jalan Tiong Hua, Lorong Oya 8, Lorong Langsat, Jalan Bertuah, Jalan Luku, Jalan Bukit Assek, Jalan Uk Daik, Jalan Rhu, Jalan Kapor, Jalan Chong Sang, Jalan Selangan, Jalan Bunga Mawar, Lorong Tekam, Lorong Oya 18, Jalan Kiong Tung, Jalan Tong Sang Lane 2 are some of the very low lying roads in Sibu which require immediate attention as they are prone to flash flood.
Green algae is easily seen floating in the drains, bearing testimony that the water in the drains is not flowing. The local authorities are partly to blame for the clogged drains. Culverts are covered by contractors, disallowing water to flow.
Some drains had been clogged for years by weeds and refuse. Banana trees are growing into the drains after several rounds of harvests.
Yet, the SUPP had always tried to make political capital out of this. They would do something when election is coming, even working way past midnight.
The flood problem is almost similar in the Arang area in Batu Kawa. The problem has not been solved.
It is high time to implement the flood mitigation Masterplan throughout Sarawak.
(4) Land Matters
After my Motion was moved in this august House in November 2006, the Chief Minister indicated that he would be issuing a policy paper this year. Not so long ago, the Chief Minister said that he would issue a policy paper in May.
The people in Sarawak are waiting with excitement, and pray that the new policy will be acceptable to all and sundry.
I wish to reiterate that the Chief Minister will do all Sarawakians a great favour if all land titles are to be unconditionally extended for 99 years when the lease terms expire.
But there is another matter that has caused uneasiness and concern among landowners. As a responsible wakil rakyat, I cannot ignore it and I ask for an explanation from the Government.
I have come to know that the Lands and Surveys department had imposed as a condition for the approval of AVTC and Subdivision that perpetuity titles are to be reduced to a 90 year leases for the new resultant titles.
This condition is grossly unfair. How can the authority short change the landowners and the developers in this manner? A landowner even told me that this is day light robbery.
If even perpetuity titles are not secure and safe from Government policies, how can we expect titles of 999 years and 99 years and 60 years to be secure and safe?
Please, have a heart for the landowners. They spent their hard earned money buying their land and yet, you robbed them off the rights by reducing perpetuity titles to 90 years in the event of a private development.
(5) Air-Connectivity
Air connectivity and accessibility has been a hindrance to tourism in Sarawak. The rationalization exercise has not done Sarawak any good. We used to have the Malaysian Airline System serving the many destinations in Malaysia for many years. But poor management has resulted in losses. The rationalization exercise was the result. So, Fax Airline came in. MAS provides services to certain sectors, Air Asia or FAX the others.
We had heard often Air Asia’s slogan, “Everyone can Fly”.
During the Forum held in Sibu in December 2005, a new brand was revealed. It said in one of the handouts:
“There’s a new girl in town. She’s twice the fun and half the price.”
That is Air Asia. What a slogan, which can be misunderstood. It carries a double entendre.
Lots of people held high hopes about the future of flights to and out of Sarawak when Air Asia came to serve Sarawak. But they were soon disappointed. There had been frequent delays. Not too long ago I was at the LCCT. I saw that 1/3 of the flights had been delayed, rescheduled or cancelled. Many were stranded at the airport. Everybody whom I met was unhappy. Maybe sometimes budget fares come with it the risk of delay and no compensation. But over time, the amount of delays had become unbearable.
The Government should put its foot down for the airlines to get their houses in order. While some delays are unavoidable for technical reasons, passengers have to be compensated or provided with food and drinks each time that delay is caused not by technical reasons. Air Asia had been stringently enforcing its weight limit, and even half a kg is not spared. Yet, when flight delays were over 2 hours, not a single sen was compensated.
Millions in revenue to the tourism industry had been lost due to reduced air connectivity. The losses are brought home to the State and the tour operators. Many operators are saying that they are at the brink of bankruptcy.
The State Government can do away with this brand as “There’s a new girl in town. She’s twice the fun and half the price.” If there were so much delay, where is the fun, even if it is for half the price? Sometimes the low fares are even more than the routine flights.
I am not saying that MAS is perfect. Many people called it “Mana Ada System”. It has to improve too. But the quality of the services provided by Air Asia has really left much to be desired.
There is little point in bringing in FireFly unless we can be sure that its services will be satisfactory.
The time has come for the State of Sarawak to form its own airlines. The proposal for a Sarawak Airline had been made by other members before. I had also proposed this. In view of the need of an improved air services, in view that we may as well live by our own standards, in order to preserve our pride, Sarawak should seriously consider having its own airlines.
(6) Principals for Chinese Primary Schools
I have learnt that there are at least 25 Chinese Primary schools in Sarawak which do not have headmasters. I understand that the State education office is tasked to do something about this. May the honourable Minister overseeing education update this august House on this issue.
(7) Respect and Love to TYT
The DAP had been accused of being disrespectful to the TYT. I resent the accusation.
Yesterday, ADUN for Tasik Biru accused that members of the DAP did not give due regard to our TYT who officiated the opening of the Dewan on 14th May, 2007. He said that we stood at the staircase of the Dewan watching his Excellency from a distance.
Nobody who is sane would in his/her right mind question my and my colleagues’ loyalty to Sarawak and my and my colleagues’ respect to his Excellency.
If we are not loyal to Sarawak, we would not have sacrificed so much to serve the State in the Opposition platform in order to ensure that the Government would do a better job. There is no kantow awaiting the Opposition politicians.
On 14th May, 2007, all ADUNs gathered at the garage of the Dewan. Apart from the heat, the seating arrangement left much to be desired. Those sitting behind were unable to see anything that happened at the Dewan compound. They would not be able to see his Excellency performing the inspection of the guards of honours and the parade. We chose to move ourselves from the crowd to stand at the staircase out of respect to his Excellency. You can only respect a person by knowing or seeing what he did.
What happened when you could not see the happenings in front of you? Naturally, when you saw people in front stand, you followed. When you saw their backside moving to sit, you also followed. That is not loyalty. This is blind following. Following people’s backside is not the DAP’s style. We are not “Yes Men”.
Out of this incident, ADUN for Tasik Biru asked why we could not be ones in this Dewan? I have 3 answers for you. One, we cannot be part of you because we are not “Yes-Yes” men and follow whatever actions without question.
Secondly, you do not treat us as part of this democratic institution. For example, you passed the Dewan Undangan Negeri (Privileges and Powers) Bill on 15th May 2007 to stifle us.
Thirdly, there is double standard and discrimination against us. We are not treated as a part of this institution though the TYT is neutral. On 14th May, 2007, there was supposed to be a dinner with his Excellency. No one from the DAP was invited. Of course, we don’t come here to have dinner only but more importantly to do the cause of the people. But if the Government did not practise discrimination, no member of this House should be excluded from the invitation from the TYT’s office.
I thought that everybody is equal, just that in this Dewan, some are more equal than others.
I pray that the TYT continues to be blessed with health and will understand that DAP members are loyal to him and respect him as the head of the state.
I support the Motion of appreciation.
Thursday, May 17, 2007
Dewan Diary Day 4
By Wong Ho Leng
17th May 2007
An Assistant Minister thought that the Dewan is a Formula 1 race course where a question could be answered by changing gear. Dominique shouted “Hidup KeADILan Rakyat” and “Reformasi” in the Dewan. Chong used “Jangan Kurang Ajar” a bit too often and was asked to withdraw or sit down. He walked out without finishing his speech.
We started at 9 a.m. on the dot. The consistent punctuality owes much to our Punctuality Motion that was moved last year. All Ministers were present though not all answered questions.
12 questions were answered orally. The session saw for the 1st time a member adopting a fellow member’s question as his own.
The Government is optimistic about the oil palm industry over the next 30 years. In 2006 the oil palm industry earned RM2.38 billion for the state, including RM800m sales tax. When I heard that, I could not resist but ask myself where has all the money gone to?
Vincent Goh (Pelawan) asked a Supplementary Question which attracted a supplementary answer but the Assistant Minister (Semunjian) read from ready text. How could the Assistant Minister know what Supplementary Question would be raised?
The Assistant Minister indicated that there is a possible alternative to oil palm, jatropha! He said it is planted in Myamar and India now. Wow, this tree can be densely planted and has medicinal value and is a viable bio-fuel substitute. I had wanted to ask a Supplementary Question because the Speaker refused me, saying that 2 already had been asked.
In respect of the fishing industry, Assistant Minister Fatimah informed the Dewan that small fish caught are returned to the river and sea. She said that with a smile and a gesture possibly indicating to Jepak, the enquirer, that he should not have asked it. I think the true answer lies in her gesture.
Violet was fortunate to have her question answered, the last for the day. That was the highlight of the 1st hour. But Assistant Minister Hamden (Balawai) was reading the figures so quickly that his answer was incomprehensible. I protested. He had the cheek to tell the Dewan that he is changing gear. He started with 1st gear and pronounced Mukah as “Muuuukaaaahhhhh”, forcing me to tell him that was not the way to do it and be serious about his job. Then he said he changed to 2nd gear. I cannot resist telling the Dewan that he ought to be serious. He thought that the Dewan is a Formula 1 circuit. We believed that those figures had to be carefully given to us, because we could then see whether the amount of welfare funds had been reduced over the years. They were. When Violet raised a Supplementary Question why the welfare funds were reduced from 2006 and 2007, the Assistant Minister made a presumption that it might be because the number of poor was decreasing over the years. That was not the way to answer. Respondent politicians are not interested in conjectures. I asked him whether he was presuming, only to be told that he would give a written answer. Well, I told him that if he did not know the answer, better be honest about it. Do not presume and expect us to receive your answer as idiots.
I loved the speech made by Lihan Jok (Telang Usan). He appealed that the poor Penans should not be left out of ICT initiatives. He challenged for a radio program in Penan language. To me, that was wishful thinking under the present BN Government. His speech had a nice tempo and I felt sure that there were lots of ears on the other side.
Dominique (Padungan) started at 11:35 a.m. and was expected to finish just past midday. But he was given some leeway. He dutifully brought up his constituency problems first and then complained of his questions not being entertained by the Dewan. Due to the loss of his father, he had not submitted his questions in time. He claimed that the Dewan ought to be flexible. He also complained that he had not received written answers for the previous sitting. I can understand Dominique’s feelings. With floor given to me, I asked that written answers be given before the end of the sitting. The Speaker said that there was no such right in the Standing Orders. How wrong, this answer of us. The Ministries could then decline to answer our questions.
With time running out, Dominique talked about Soon Koh, as the Minister of Finance, not answering his request to recommend the moving of a Motion concerning grants to Chinese and missionary schools. Soon Koh retorted by asking whether Dominique had consulted him. I asked whether he had received Dominique’s letter. There was no reply. Dominique was at pains to tell the Dewan that he would continue his crusade for financial grants, like a foolish old man moving the mountain, until PKR shall form the Government. The roof almost fell down with the BN backbenchers and Ministers going for Dominique’s neck. The commotion became uncontrollable with the Speaker yelling the next ADUN to take the floor. Dominique stood his ground and began a rampage of “Hidup KeADILan” and “Reformasi” against them. I think Dominique realized that a lone voice was almost futile, but his shouts at the BN “all of you should be ashamed of ourselves” were pretty good bonuses.
I did not like the flu bug. Aches in the bone forced me to take a pill and rest. I told Chong to try his luck at 3p.m. I was in the Dewan at 3.05p.m., and was able to hear that Chong was talking. I asked one of the Dewan staff, “sudah bising?” “Belum lagi. Warming up”, was the reply. Chong was speaking on the hike in SESCO tariff and condemned that not a single SUPP ADUN speak about it. That was true. Andy (Pujut) had the audacity to say that the SUPP had not spoken yet, forgetting, probably, that Vincent Goh had seconded the Motion for debate with his “lengthy speech”. Andy accused Chong for misguiding the Dewan, saying that he had presented a memorandum to the Minister. I let the Dewan know that Andy presented the Memorandum asking for review of the tariff hike only on 29th April, 2007, 29 days after the new tariff was in force. How embarrassing it was to hear from Andy saying, “better late than never”. Chong asked whether the SUPP is in opposition by presenting the memorandum. By the time the memorandum was presented, the water had run under the bridge.
Chong had a mind set against the SUPP this afternoon. He asked that land for relocation of Chung Hua Primary School No.2 be given together with financial grants, for building schools is the duty of the Government. It was not fair to get money from the Chinese community which is tantamount to double taxation, one for the income tax and the other for school.
When another SUPP subject was brought up, you could see the civil servants laugh. Chong deliberated on the sale of shophouse at Kelly Garden, built in 1996 and sold as strata title but after many years, occupation permits were not issued. When the purchasers wrote to MBKS why occupation permits were not issued, the reply, in August 2005 was that there was no building plan approval for abovementioned property. Therefore the question for issuance of occupation permit by the council does not arise. A SUPP Councillor developed the land without approval of building plan. Chong said this is worse than Zakaria who built the house for himself and if not approved, he suffered. Here, building without building plan caused suffering to purchasers.
The Dewan’s roof was already “shaking” when Chong spoke about land compensation to about 67 acres of land acquired under s.47. Landowners were dispossessed under s.49 but for years compensation were still not forthcoming. This is not new. Chong quoted the Backbencher Chairman’s own words made to the Borneo Post asking for land compensation to be paid out quickly. Standing, Karim said he stood by his statement, prompting a quick witted Chong to tell him not to stand for too long.
The straw that broke the camel’s back was Chong’s final issue concerning the Titanium Management Sdn Bhd. Chong had not even started when a barrage of protest came, saying that the issue had been deliberated before. Chong retorted with “jangan kurang ajar”. The Speaker had enough of all these and demanded Chong to withdraw, otherwise he must sit down. Phrases sich as “Kuching bodoh” were uttered by the BN backbenchers. A shouting match blew up between the Speaker and Chong. The Speaker gave 3 warnings for Chong to withdraw or sit down. Chong bombarded the Dewan at the top of his voice and walked off, with the Speaker saying, “Get out”, “Get out”. It was another commotion. The Speaker had not been so angry for many months.
As “bodoh” echoed in the Dewan, I stood up to protest that there was double standard but all was in vain. The Speaker had enough and called the next member to speak. We staged a walk out. The Press rushed to interview us on the matter. Chong took charge of one group. I took charge of another. We promised we would not be cowed by the practice of double standard. Violet and Tze Fei also gave their piece of mind to the press. They had come to learn the hard things.
It was then time for a meeting between the 6 DAPpers. We unanimously decided to boycott the remaining of the afternoon session. Violet and I would speak tomorrow and had we stayed, our only “job” would be to listen to the songs of praises sung by the BN backbenchers of their masters. Would they let us in for clarification? No. So it was decided. “Let’s pack and boycott the remaining 2 hours”. We would be back in the morning.
Chong’s wife was in the public gallery witnessing the words of bomb between her husband and the Speaker and BN backbenchers. I thought that it was not easy to take those heat despite the coldness of the Dewan.
The commotion at least jolted me from flu a little. We had a pretty good session at the Ming Kiong fruit stall at Rubber Road. Probably upset over what had been practised against us, I “sapu” the dozen of mangoes in the stall. The taste is a lot better than that in the Dewan.
The Dewan will be boring without us in there. To the BN, they will say there is a lot of peace without us for the few hours.
17th May 2007
An Assistant Minister thought that the Dewan is a Formula 1 race course where a question could be answered by changing gear. Dominique shouted “Hidup KeADILan Rakyat” and “Reformasi” in the Dewan. Chong used “Jangan Kurang Ajar” a bit too often and was asked to withdraw or sit down. He walked out without finishing his speech.
We started at 9 a.m. on the dot. The consistent punctuality owes much to our Punctuality Motion that was moved last year. All Ministers were present though not all answered questions.
12 questions were answered orally. The session saw for the 1st time a member adopting a fellow member’s question as his own.
The Government is optimistic about the oil palm industry over the next 30 years. In 2006 the oil palm industry earned RM2.38 billion for the state, including RM800m sales tax. When I heard that, I could not resist but ask myself where has all the money gone to?
Vincent Goh (Pelawan) asked a Supplementary Question which attracted a supplementary answer but the Assistant Minister (Semunjian) read from ready text. How could the Assistant Minister know what Supplementary Question would be raised?
The Assistant Minister indicated that there is a possible alternative to oil palm, jatropha! He said it is planted in Myamar and India now. Wow, this tree can be densely planted and has medicinal value and is a viable bio-fuel substitute. I had wanted to ask a Supplementary Question because the Speaker refused me, saying that 2 already had been asked.
In respect of the fishing industry, Assistant Minister Fatimah informed the Dewan that small fish caught are returned to the river and sea. She said that with a smile and a gesture possibly indicating to Jepak, the enquirer, that he should not have asked it. I think the true answer lies in her gesture.
Violet was fortunate to have her question answered, the last for the day. That was the highlight of the 1st hour. But Assistant Minister Hamden (Balawai) was reading the figures so quickly that his answer was incomprehensible. I protested. He had the cheek to tell the Dewan that he is changing gear. He started with 1st gear and pronounced Mukah as “Muuuukaaaahhhhh”, forcing me to tell him that was not the way to do it and be serious about his job. Then he said he changed to 2nd gear. I cannot resist telling the Dewan that he ought to be serious. He thought that the Dewan is a Formula 1 circuit. We believed that those figures had to be carefully given to us, because we could then see whether the amount of welfare funds had been reduced over the years. They were. When Violet raised a Supplementary Question why the welfare funds were reduced from 2006 and 2007, the Assistant Minister made a presumption that it might be because the number of poor was decreasing over the years. That was not the way to answer. Respondent politicians are not interested in conjectures. I asked him whether he was presuming, only to be told that he would give a written answer. Well, I told him that if he did not know the answer, better be honest about it. Do not presume and expect us to receive your answer as idiots.
I loved the speech made by Lihan Jok (Telang Usan). He appealed that the poor Penans should not be left out of ICT initiatives. He challenged for a radio program in Penan language. To me, that was wishful thinking under the present BN Government. His speech had a nice tempo and I felt sure that there were lots of ears on the other side.
Dominique (Padungan) started at 11:35 a.m. and was expected to finish just past midday. But he was given some leeway. He dutifully brought up his constituency problems first and then complained of his questions not being entertained by the Dewan. Due to the loss of his father, he had not submitted his questions in time. He claimed that the Dewan ought to be flexible. He also complained that he had not received written answers for the previous sitting. I can understand Dominique’s feelings. With floor given to me, I asked that written answers be given before the end of the sitting. The Speaker said that there was no such right in the Standing Orders. How wrong, this answer of us. The Ministries could then decline to answer our questions.
With time running out, Dominique talked about Soon Koh, as the Minister of Finance, not answering his request to recommend the moving of a Motion concerning grants to Chinese and missionary schools. Soon Koh retorted by asking whether Dominique had consulted him. I asked whether he had received Dominique’s letter. There was no reply. Dominique was at pains to tell the Dewan that he would continue his crusade for financial grants, like a foolish old man moving the mountain, until PKR shall form the Government. The roof almost fell down with the BN backbenchers and Ministers going for Dominique’s neck. The commotion became uncontrollable with the Speaker yelling the next ADUN to take the floor. Dominique stood his ground and began a rampage of “Hidup KeADILan” and “Reformasi” against them. I think Dominique realized that a lone voice was almost futile, but his shouts at the BN “all of you should be ashamed of ourselves” were pretty good bonuses.
I did not like the flu bug. Aches in the bone forced me to take a pill and rest. I told Chong to try his luck at 3p.m. I was in the Dewan at 3.05p.m., and was able to hear that Chong was talking. I asked one of the Dewan staff, “sudah bising?” “Belum lagi. Warming up”, was the reply. Chong was speaking on the hike in SESCO tariff and condemned that not a single SUPP ADUN speak about it. That was true. Andy (Pujut) had the audacity to say that the SUPP had not spoken yet, forgetting, probably, that Vincent Goh had seconded the Motion for debate with his “lengthy speech”. Andy accused Chong for misguiding the Dewan, saying that he had presented a memorandum to the Minister. I let the Dewan know that Andy presented the Memorandum asking for review of the tariff hike only on 29th April, 2007, 29 days after the new tariff was in force. How embarrassing it was to hear from Andy saying, “better late than never”. Chong asked whether the SUPP is in opposition by presenting the memorandum. By the time the memorandum was presented, the water had run under the bridge.
Chong had a mind set against the SUPP this afternoon. He asked that land for relocation of Chung Hua Primary School No.2 be given together with financial grants, for building schools is the duty of the Government. It was not fair to get money from the Chinese community which is tantamount to double taxation, one for the income tax and the other for school.
When another SUPP subject was brought up, you could see the civil servants laugh. Chong deliberated on the sale of shophouse at Kelly Garden, built in 1996 and sold as strata title but after many years, occupation permits were not issued. When the purchasers wrote to MBKS why occupation permits were not issued, the reply, in August 2005 was that there was no building plan approval for abovementioned property. Therefore the question for issuance of occupation permit by the council does not arise. A SUPP Councillor developed the land without approval of building plan. Chong said this is worse than Zakaria who built the house for himself and if not approved, he suffered. Here, building without building plan caused suffering to purchasers.
The Dewan’s roof was already “shaking” when Chong spoke about land compensation to about 67 acres of land acquired under s.47. Landowners were dispossessed under s.49 but for years compensation were still not forthcoming. This is not new. Chong quoted the Backbencher Chairman’s own words made to the Borneo Post asking for land compensation to be paid out quickly. Standing, Karim said he stood by his statement, prompting a quick witted Chong to tell him not to stand for too long.
The straw that broke the camel’s back was Chong’s final issue concerning the Titanium Management Sdn Bhd. Chong had not even started when a barrage of protest came, saying that the issue had been deliberated before. Chong retorted with “jangan kurang ajar”. The Speaker had enough of all these and demanded Chong to withdraw, otherwise he must sit down. Phrases sich as “Kuching bodoh” were uttered by the BN backbenchers. A shouting match blew up between the Speaker and Chong. The Speaker gave 3 warnings for Chong to withdraw or sit down. Chong bombarded the Dewan at the top of his voice and walked off, with the Speaker saying, “Get out”, “Get out”. It was another commotion. The Speaker had not been so angry for many months.
As “bodoh” echoed in the Dewan, I stood up to protest that there was double standard but all was in vain. The Speaker had enough and called the next member to speak. We staged a walk out. The Press rushed to interview us on the matter. Chong took charge of one group. I took charge of another. We promised we would not be cowed by the practice of double standard. Violet and Tze Fei also gave their piece of mind to the press. They had come to learn the hard things.
It was then time for a meeting between the 6 DAPpers. We unanimously decided to boycott the remaining of the afternoon session. Violet and I would speak tomorrow and had we stayed, our only “job” would be to listen to the songs of praises sung by the BN backbenchers of their masters. Would they let us in for clarification? No. So it was decided. “Let’s pack and boycott the remaining 2 hours”. We would be back in the morning.
Chong’s wife was in the public gallery witnessing the words of bomb between her husband and the Speaker and BN backbenchers. I thought that it was not easy to take those heat despite the coldness of the Dewan.
The commotion at least jolted me from flu a little. We had a pretty good session at the Ming Kiong fruit stall at Rubber Road. Probably upset over what had been practised against us, I “sapu” the dozen of mangoes in the stall. The taste is a lot better than that in the Dewan.
The Dewan will be boring without us in there. To the BN, they will say there is a lot of peace without us for the few hours.
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