How & Why UMNO Joined Hands With Rival DAP To Overthrow Perak Bersatu CM

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Traitor PM Muhyiddin Betrayed – How & Why Ally UMNO Joined Hands With Rival DAP To Overthrow Perak Chief Minister

UMNO thought by joining forces with PAS, it’s a guarantee that the combo will win the next 15th General Election. So the best way to undermine them is to feed their own ego. PAS thought by siding with Bersatu (instead of ally UMNO), it’s a guarantee that the Islamist party will continue to be part of the government. So the best way to undermine them is to feed their own arrogance.

Bersatu thought by splitting UMNO and PAS, it’s a guarantee that it will control the federal government forever. So the best way to undermine them is to feed their own over-confidence. Yes, the only way to undermine the backdoor Perikatan Nasional government is to play along and feed their own ego, arrogance and over-confidence.

The formula is to constantly trumpet and agree that UMNO and PAS’s Muafakat Nasional (National Concord) alliance are invincible, UMNO should be the dominant party, PAS is the kingmaker in the Perikatan Nasional (National Alliance) coalition and Bersatu is the cleverest and the smartest strategist among the three Malay-Muslims political parties.



The United Malays National Organization (UMNO) believes it could use Malaysian Islamic Party (PAS), who in turn believes it could play UMNO, while the Malaysian United Indigenous Party (Bersatu or PPBM) thinks it could screw both UMNO and PAS. The three biggest Malay political parties love to be flattered, so that’s what we should do – praise them to the skies.

After the Budget 2021 was passed at the “policy stage” through a majority voice vote, backdoor Prime Minister Muhyiddin Yassin thought he had won big and was indeed the most brilliant leader. Like an arrogant peacock, the traitor crows day and night bragging that if not because of Covid-19, he would have dissolved the Parliament for a snap general election “yesterday”.

However, Mr Muhyiddin didn’t realize that the Bersatu-UMNO-PAS triangle power struggle is not like the Romance of the Three Kingdoms. Not only his party is the weakest among the three Malay-based parties, there’s also the powerful opposition Pakatan Harapan consisting of the People’s Justice Party (PKR: 38 MPs), Democratic Action Party (DAP: 42 MPs) and National Trust Party (Amanah: 11 MPs).



When the state of Perak collapsed today, it’s not only a slap in the Muhyiddin’s face, but also could be the beginning of the domino effect and even the emergence of a new political landscape. Perak Chief Minister Ahmad Faizal Azumu was caught with his pants down when he lost spectacularly in a motion of confidence vote – 48 assemblymen voted against him, while only 10 supported and 1 spoiled vote.

To add salt to the injury, Ahmad Faizal Azumu was not only the Perak Chief Minister, but also is the Deputy President and State Chairman of Perak as well as Pahang of Bersatu (PPBM), the same party that Muhyiddin had “stolen” from his former boss – Mahathir Mohamad – after a political coup that saw Muhyiddin betrayed his own Pakatan Harapan government.

In the Perak State Legislative Assembly, the ruling Perikatan Nasional state government comprised 33 assemblymen – UMNO (25), Bersatu (5) and PAS (3) before the collapse. The opposition Pakatan Harapan consists of 24 assemblymen – DAP (16), Amanah (5) and PKR (3). There is also 1 assemblyman each from Gerakan and Independent.



That means not only Muhyiddin was backstabbed and betrayed by his own ally UMNO in Perak today (Dec 4), but the coup was assisted by the Opposition. The motion, which was raised by Pengkalan Baharu assemblyman, Manaf Hashim (UMNO), was supported by Temenggor assemblyman, Salbiah Mohamad (UMNO) and Pasir Pinji assemblyman, Howard Lee Chuan How (DAP).

All the 24 assemblymen of Pakatan Harapan had supported rival UMNO in voting against the Perak Chief Minister. It was UMNO-DAP against Bersatu-PAS – a vote of “no confidence” disguised under a motion of confidence that had occurred so stunningly it left PM Muhyiddin and his lieutenants Azmin Ali and Hamzah Zainudin, along with PAS fake holy men speechless.

It was a trap from the beginning. Traitor Muhyiddin, who has been constantly looking over his shoulder for potential betrayals even from allies, did not realize that when Perak State Assembly Speaker Mohamad Zahir Abdul Khalid (UMNO) approves the motion of confidence, it would be used to topple Ahmad Faizal – not to support the chief minister.



PAS was incredibly shocked and furious after ally UMNO joined hands with the enemy, especially DAP, in toppling Muhyiddin’s boy in Perak. The Islamic party has announced that it will not be part of the new Perak government formation. It will be interesting to see if the hypocrite PAS fake holy men would make a U-turn for the sake of power and perks.

In the same breath, it will be fun to see if the prime minister’s party, with tail between legs, has to choice, but supports a new chief minister from UMNO – despite being stabbed in the back. If Muhyiddin supports UMNO, it means the coward and weak premier can be further challenged. If Muhyiddin rejects UMNO, it means all bets are off and it’s an open war between Bersatu and UMNO.

Without PAS and Bersatu, UMNO needs just 5 assemblymen from the opposition to support them to form a simple majority state government (30 assemblymen in the 59-seat state assembly). In the current situation, Pakatan Harapan has nothing to lose but everything to gain by working with UMNO (or its coalition Barisan Nasional) – temporarily until the next general election.



Perak could be the “test bed” to experiment the possibility of a new political alignment where UMNO works together with opposition Pakatan Harapan on a bigger scale (minus some crooks). It makes more sense, both politically and economically. Politically, there would be less overlapping and competition for Malay-majority seats, unlike the present tussle among UMNO, Bersatu and PAS.

Economically, cooperation between Barisan Nasional and Pakatan Harapan would create a government that is based on moderate Islam, and not a government based on Islamic extremism and radicalization as increasingly being promoted by Bersatu and PAS now. Investors and business community do not like a Taliban government for obvious reason.

But why did UMNO suddenly become so rebellious? Perak UMNO leader Nazri Abdul Aziz claimed the final straw that broke the camel’s back was Faizal’s unilateral appointment of Aznel Ibrahim, an UMNO assemblyperson, as his political secretary without consulting UMNO leadership, a sign of disrespect. Former PM Najib Razak, however, has another theory.



Najib claimed that the ousting of Bersatu’s Ahmad Faizal Azumu as Perak Chief Minister today was due to the sale of 15,000 hectares of palm oil plantations owned by the Perak state to Singapore-based Taiko Plantations Pte Ltd. Both Nazri and Najib can cook up grandmother stories or excuses to justify UMNO’s action today. In truth, the last straw has everything to do with Sabah.

After the Sabah state election on 26 Sept, 2020, the power-hungry and greedy Bersatu forced its way for the Chief Minister post, despite winning only 11 seats as compared to UMNO’s 14. Emboldened by how Bersatu bullied its way to snatch power in the Borneo state, Perak Chief Minister Ahmad Faizal appointed Aznel on Oct 15 in an attempt to “buy support”.

Since the Sabah episode, UMNO had wanted to take revenge for being backstabbed in the back when Bersatu quietly sponsored Independent candidates to sabotage UMNO candidates in the state election. UMNO was also not impressed that their demands for deputy prime minister and other strategic ministries have been ignored by the arrogant prime minister.



More importantly, UMNO wanted to test PAS’ loyalty, forcing it to choose between UMNO and Bersatu. PAS appears to be more loyal to Bersatu when it is supposed to be the closest ally of UMNO. UMNO wanted PAS to become its only bitch, but the slutty PAS prefers to diversify by becoming the bitch of both UMNO and Bersatu, throwing support to whoever can give it the most benefits.

The Perak move is to tell both Bersatu and PAS that when push comes to shove, UMNO might do the unthinkable – building a new alliance with the Opposition. Based on past election results of over 60 years, Chinese-based DAP’s command of 90% of ethnic Chinese votes can certainly help Barisan Nasional returns to its old glory days.

Coincidentally, both UMNO and Pakatan Harapan have a common enemy in Perak. The opposition had wanted to punish Bersatu’s betrayal and treachery since March this year. Even if UMNO would eventually form a new state government with Perikatan Nasional still intact, it’s worthwhile to see bad blood and distrust go up a few notches among the three fake Malay parties.



In the event UMNO forms a government in Perak with opposition Pakatan Harapan, the same model could be replicated in other crucial states such as Sabah and Johor. DAP could easily justify its cooperation with UMNO to its supporters that under Muhyiddin’s pro-PAS government, the minorities have seen the liquor sale ban as well as Hindus’ temple being demolished.

Regardless, Ahmad Faizal Azumu was never a good leader to begin with, let alone a man with integrity. He was the former UMNO Ipoh Barat Youth Chief (2016-2017) before switched sides and became Perak Bersatu Chairman under Mahathir. He followed Muhyiddin in betraying Mahathir in the March coup. But even before Muhyiddin’s betrayal, he was a traitor or a mole working with UMNO.

Last year, a video clip of Perak Menteri Besar (Chief Minister) Ahmad Faizal Azumu bitching to a group of people of how he was fighting a “lone battle” against DAP had gone viral. He was caught saying – “I am fighting alone with the DAP clans. I want to defend the Malay land and to fight for our religion. Thankfully, some friends in UMNO don’t scold me. They are good with me.”



Not only the despicable Ahmad Faizal was a racist who had no issue working with UMNO crooks, he was also a very ungrateful leader who badmouthed his own friends. Despite his own party having only 2 seats in the 59-seat state assembly, DAP together with PKR and Amanah had supported him as the Perak Chief Minister throughout the 22 months Pakatan Harapan in power.

Today, in less than 10 months since he took office as Perak Chief Minister under the backdoor Perikatan Nasional government, the same UMNO party with which he claimed to have good friends had toppled his leadership. He deserves to be kicked out. Still, the spineless and useless Faizal could only suck up to UMNO, shamelessly insisting that his party’s alliance with the party that has humiliated him is still intact.

More on the anti-Hindu Kedah MB

Malaysiakini:

Religious leaders 'deeply dismayed' with Kedah MB over temple demolition

The Malaysian Consultative Council of Buddhism, Christianity, Hinduism, Sikhism and Taoism (MCCBCHST) is deeply dismayed with Kedah Menteri Besar Muhammad Sanusi Md Nor over the demolition of the Sri Raja Muniswarar Hindu Temple in Taman Bersatu, Kuala Kedah.

MCCBCHST said the temple had been there for 50 years, and Sanusi should have engaged in a dialogue for an amicable solution even though the Majlis Bandaraya Alor Setar (MBAS) has been aware of the existence of this temple for some time.

"We would like to reiterate that any place of worship which has been allowed to be built and given tacit approval cannot be illegal, more so as this temple had been built about 50 years ago.

"The menteri besar is also reported to have alluded to the fact that if Muslims have no problem in building their mosque and surau with permission, why can't the Hindus do the same?

"It is a known fact that the building of non-Muslim places of worship has often faced hurdles and challenges from local authorities unfairly," claimed the MCCBCHST in a statement today.

The statement was jointly signed by MCCBCHST president Archbishop Julian Leow Beng Kim of Christian Federation Malaysia (CFM), Malaysian Gurdwaras Council's Sardar Jagir Singh, Malaysia Hindu Sangam's RS Mohan Shan, Federation of Taoist Associations Malaysia's Dao Zhang Tan Hoe Chieow and the Venerable Sing Kan of the Malaysian Buddhist Association.

"In the past, these places of worship were built to serve the local community that surrounded them and provided a space where people can seek not only tranquillity and solace but also celebrate the joys of life.

The MCCBCHST said that in a recent meeting between themselves and Minister for National Unity Halimah Sadique held on Oct 1, 2020, it was informed that Halimah and Minister of Human Resources M Saravanan, had met with Sanusi who agreed not to demolish any non-Muslim POW without first discussing with the two Ministers.

"However, we are perturbed that such actions continue to take place. The MCCBCHST hereby registers its strong protest at the insensitive and arbitrary manner in which temple demolitions are being carried out in Kedah.

"We call on the authorities in the state of Kedah to stop such actions immediately and engage in consultation and dialogue with the respective religious heads and the local community before even considering such harsh actions which do not bode well for the peace and harmony in this country.

The MCCBCHST said that at a time when Malaysians are facing the challenges of a pandemic, such arbitrary actions would only cause further anger and heartache.

Sanusi had courted further controversy when he suggested that his critics, which included MIC and DAP leaders, were "drunk on the toddy of popularity" and advised them not to act as if they are "drunk on three bottles after consuming only one bottle".

Calling Sanusi "insensitive", MIC president S Vigneswaran said he did not want to descend to the PAS leader's level.

"I am capable of insulting like him, but I don't want to be narrow-minded and go as low as him.

***

kt notes:

Even Papagomo (Umno Youth exco member Wan Muhammad Azri Wan Deris and enfant terrible) criticised Sanusi, as reported by MKINI, as follows:

"The Kedah MB should be ashamed of himself as the statement not only reflected the state government as arrogant, but reflected a Muslim leader who is badmouthing the Indian community."

"I hope the Kedah MB can apologise to the Indian community for his remark which is clearly an insult to the Indians."

UMNO and Pakatan play footsie-tootsie in Perak

FMT:

We may work with PH parties, including DAP, to form govt in Perak, says Zahid

Umno president Ahmad Zahid Hamidi, speaking outside Istana Kinta in Ipoh, says Umno and Barisan Nasional must consider a new political equation to form a new Perak state government.

IPOH: Umno president Ahmad Zahid Hamidi has not ruled out the possibility of forming a coalition with other parties, including those from Pakatan Harapan (PH), including DAP, to form the new government in Perak.

He said this move was necessary following statements by PAS secretary-general Takiyuddin Hassan and PPBM secretary-general Hamzah Zainudin yesterday on continuing to work with Umno.

Takiyuddin had said PAS will not be part of the new Perak government.

Hamzah had expressed the party’s disappointment with Umno for colluding with the opposition to support the no-confidence vote against the Perikatan Nasional menteri besar Ahmad Faizal Azumu.

“We know from the statements by the two party leaders that Umno and Barisan Nasional have to consider a new formula to form the Perak government.

“However, any move we make will take into account all political considerations so that the new government will be stronger,” Zahid told reporters after his audience with Perak ruler Sultan Nazrin Shah today.

*** Meanwhile ***

Malaysiakini:



Nga: Perak DAP willing to work with Umno in interest of rakyat

Perak DAP is willing to work with Umno in the interests of the people and to form a stable state government.

Perak DAP chairperson Nga Kor Ming (above) told Malaysiakini this when asked to comment on Umno president Ahmad Zahid Hamidi's earlier remarks that the latter was talking to all parties about forming a new coalition state government.

"In the best interests of the people, Perak DAP is ready to work with any party that can help to form a multiracial, strong and stable government.

"I am open for any constructive discussion. We are ready," the Teluk Intan MP said.

Given that Umno and DAP are the two largest parties in the 59-seat Perak state assembly, with 25 and 16 seats respectively, this leaves open the possibility of arguably the most unlikely coalition state government in Malaysian political history.

Other parties in the state assembly include Bersatu (five), Amanah (five), PKR (three), PAS (three), Gerakan (one) and one independent.



Meanwhile, Perak PKR chief Farhash Wafa Salvador Rizal Mubarak (above) also confirmed that he had met with Umno leaders to discuss the possible formation of the new state government.

"We are ready to work with Umno for the sake of the rakyat. The ball is in their court," he told Malaysiakini.

Farhash said that PKR was open to the partnership with Umno but only as a bloc with its Pakatan Harapan partners DAP and Amanah.

MIC Vigneswaran challenges Kedah MB over illegal polluting factories in state

FMT:

MIC challenges menteri besar over illegal factories now

MIC president S Vigneswaran has challenged the Kedah menteri besar to say there are no illegal factories in the state.

GEORGE TOWN: The spat between MIC and the Kedah state government has worsened with party president S Vigneswaran challenging the menteri besar to say there are no illegal factories in the state.

The challenge comes a day after Muhammad Sanusi Nor had defended the city council for tearing down what he said were illegally built temples. Sanusi said the council was merely upholding the law.

In the past two years, residents in Sungai Petani have complained that the air quality in the area has dropped, claiming illegally-operating factories were carrying out open burning.

Vigneswaran said that since he was all for upholding the law, the menteri besar should easily declare that there were no illegal factories in the state.

Yesterday, Sanusi had told off MIC for wanting to make concessions on enforcement action against illegally-built Hindu temples in the state, following the clearing of one on Tuesday.

Residents in Sungai Petani have complained that the air quality in the area has dropped, claiming illegally-operating factories are carrying out open burning.

“Since he’s talking about upholding the rule of law, I want him to state there are no illegal factories in Kedah. If there are, what action is he taking?

“Temples are a sensitive matter. Illegal factories obviously need enforcement action.

“I must remind him that he is a menteri besar for all Kedahans. At the rate he is going, he is going to humiliate PAS and its electorate further,” he told FMT.

Separately, Vigneswaran also asked Sanusi to respond to claims that he had falsely said there were no allocations from the federal government for Indian affairs in Kedah. He said there was documentary evidence proving otherwise.

“Sanusi did not apologise in the Dewan for making a false remark claiming there was no federal funding,” he said.

FMT has reached out to Sanusi for comment.

Why Muhyiddin is refusing to accord recognition to secular principles in Malaysian Constitution

MM Online:

Kit Siang questions if Bersatu following PAS in refusing to accord recognition to secular principles in Malaysian Constitution

Lim Kit Siang has questioned if Parti Pribumi Bersatu Malaysia (Bersatu) is now headed in the direction of Islamist party PAS. — Picture by Ahmad Zamzahuri

KUALA LUMPUR, Dec 6 — A veteran politician has questioned if Parti Pribumi Bersatu Malaysia (Bersatu) is now headed in the direction of Islamist party PAS, following Tan Sri Muhyiddin Yassin’s recent vow to fight ‘secularism and liberalism’ and uphold moderate Sunni Muslim teachings.

DAP’s stalwart Lim Kit Siang, through a statement, highlighted the various instances of how the formation of the Federal Constitution contained articles that uphold Islam as the country’s official religion, but at the same time protect the rights of others to freely practise other religions as they wish.

Lim also pointed out that despite the presence of an official religion, the Federal Constitution also acknowledges the country is effectively a ‘secular state’, even including how former Lord President of the Supreme Court, Tun Salleh Abas had in a December 1987 ruling described Malaysia as governed by ‘secular law’.

The Iskandar Puteri MP said the words of Bersatu president Muhyiddin, during the party’s Annual Grand Meeting on November 28, where he vowed to combat secularism would effectively put him in conflicting positions with the Constitution and National Principles (Rukun Negara), demanding the Prime Minister clarify his party’s position.

“In the light of this constitutional and historical background, Muhyiddin’s speech at the Bersatu AGM at the end of November, where he declared war on ‘secularism’ must be viewed with great concern by all Malaysians who abide by the 1957 Merdeka Constitution, the 1963 Malaysia Agreement, and the 1970 Rukun Negara.

“ That the status of Islam as the official religion of Malaysia does not imply that Malaysia is not a secular state where there is freedom of religion throughout the country.

“Malaysians are entitled to know whether Bersatu now follows PAS in refusing to accord recognition to the secular principles in the Malaysian Constitution, Malaysia Agreement 1963, and the Rukun Negara,” Lim wrote in a statement today.

Muhyiddin had during the same speech in November said the alliance that was cobbled together between his party, Umno, and PAS was God’s will despite them being political enemies before.

He had said the unity of the three Malay parties was caused by divine will, before promising Perikatan Nasional would fight to return ‘moderate’ Sunni Muslim teachings, which form the basis of the brand of Islam solely recognised by Putrajaya, and to ‘fight secularism and liberalism’.

*********

kt notes:

It seems Lim KS might be back to his OLD form, becoming the nation's conscionable statesman, and also spokesman of secular Malaysia. Personally I'm glad to see he might have reverted to his old self though I'm still suspicious of him and his 'Atuk-ism', wakakaka - oh, how 'power' corrupts and 'absolute power' corrupts absolutely.

OTOH, speaking in fairness for Muhyiddin, what else could he have said when his own political position teeters on the brink, depending principally on PAS to succour him in his current PM position. PAS can balance off a predatory UMNO from munching on the kerbau-ish Moo-Moo. Alhamdulillah, bless be PAS for holding Muhyiddin up strongly, wakakaka. 

Ahmad Zahid meets Perak Sultan over vacant Mentri Besar post

MM Online:

Ahmad Zahid meets Perak Sultan over vacant Mentri Besar post

Umno President Datuk Seri Ahmad Zahid Hamidi arrives at Istana Kinta in Ipoh, December 6, 2020. — Picture by Farhan Najib

IPOH, Dec 6 — Umno president Datuk Seri Ahmad Zahid Hamidi has arrived for his audience with Sultan Nazrin Muizzuddin Shah at Istana Kinta here.

The Bagan Datuk member of Parliament was seen entering the palace at 9.48am in his white Toyota Vellfire.

The meeting was expected to centre on the now vacant Mentri Besar post following the resignation of Datuk Seri Ahmad Faizal Azumu yesterday, who lost the confidence vote on Friday at the State Assembly.

Ahmad Faizal lost the vote 48-10, with one spoilt vote.

Ahmad Faizal’s resignations also saw all the state executive councillor’s (exco) posts quashed automatically.

It is learnt that Perak Umno state liaison chairman and Kota Tampan assemblyman Datuk Saarani Mohamad and Umno Rungkup assemblyman Datuk Shahrul Zaman Yahya are among the shortlisted candidates for the Mentri Besar seat.

Last night, the party held a special meeting, which was chaired by Saarani, at the Perak Umno Building here.

Among the party leaders who were seen attending the meeting were Ahmad Zahid, Shahrul Zaman, Padang Rengas MP Datuk Seri Nazri Aziz, Pasir Salak MP Datuk Seri Tajuddin Abdul Rahman and Pangkor assemblyman Datuk Seri Zambry Abdul Kadir.

The outcome of the meeting was unknown as all the party leaders kept the discussion mum.

Kedah MB hiding ‘RM43t’ in mineral deposits behind two toddy bottles

MM Online:

Kedah MB demolishing temples to divert from his claim of ‘RM43t’ in mineral deposits, says DAP rep

Bagan Dalam assemblyman Satees Muniandy alleged that Kedah Mentri Besar Muhammad Sanusi Md Nor (pic) was being provocative on purpose as the latter wanted to draw attention from his claim this week that mineral deposits worth ‘RM43 trillion’ had been discovered in Kedah. — Bernama pic

KUALA LUMPUR, Dec 5 — Kedah Mentri Besar Muhammad Sanusi Md Nor was intentionally courting controversy with temple demolitions for which he told critics not to be drunk on “toddy of popularity”, Bagan Dalam assemblyman Satees Muniandy asserted today.

The state lawmaker in the neighbouring state of Penang alleged that Sanusi was being provocative on purpose as the latter wanted to draw attention from his claim this week that mineral deposits worth “RM43 trillion” had been discovered in Kedah.

“The demolition of non-Muslim houses of worship is among tactics of the PAS government in Kedah to divert public attention from its shortcomings,” Satees said in a statement.

“Isn’t it ironic, when the Kedah MB intentionally plays up this issue, including calling for MIC — a party within the Perikatan Nasional — to be banned when the public are laughing at him for claiming ‘Kedah has identified mineral deposits worth 43 trillion’.”
The discovery of “RM43 trillion” in mineral deposits within Malaysia would have been monumental given that the value of the entire Malaysian economy for 2019 was just RM1.5 trillion.

Such minerals would also have given Malaysia another crucial resource to exploit over the country’s approximately 3.7 billion barrels in proven oil reserves that were worth around RM1 trillion at current prices.

However, Sanusi’s office later clarified that the deposits were valued at RM62 billion.

Today, Satees noted that the demolition appeared to coincide with the controversy of Sanusi’s “RM43 trillion” claim, which he said has brought the competence of the Kedah government into question.

Satees went on to accuse Sanusi of targeting non-Muslim houses of worship to burnish his Islamist credentials, but said such efforts have only gone on to divide Malaysians by race and religion.

Previous Kedah government also did not appear to have issues with non-Muslim houses of worship in the state, according to the Penang assemblyman who pointed out that the matter only became a problem when under the current PAS government.

Among others, he said many of the houses of worship labelled as illegal by the Kedah administration were from before Merdeka, have existed for decades and built on land that has changed hands several times.

“This shows the PAS government in Kedah does not understand the background of the houses of worship, and only want to use these to play up racial sentiments for politics,” he added.

Satees went on to say that the failure of the central PAS leadership or Perikatan Nasional to reprimand Sanusi for his remarks demonstrated their lack of ability to effectively govern a multiracial electorate.

Yesterday, Sanusi posted a message on Facebook telling detractors from MIC and DAP not to criticise the demolition of a temple in Kedah that he also brushed off as a small matter.

He questioned why MIC and DAP did not similarly criticise the demolition of a silat ring near the temple.

“Let us not argue in the future simply because one is drunk on the toddy of popularity, and become race champions in the present,” Sanusi said in a Facebook post.

“Senior politicians such as they might as well not drink one bottle, but get drunk on two or three instead,” Sanusi said.

The choice of toddy, a palm wine, and silat in his remarks appeared to have racial overtones.

Kedah Hindu-shrines Demolition-er unrepentantly VellHellfire

MM Online:

Criticised over temple demolition, Kedah MB tells MIC and DAP critics not to be drunk on ‘toddy’ of popularity

Kedah MB Muhammad Sanusi Md Nor told MIC and DAP critics to work to build harmony rather than stoke discord. — Bernama pic

KUALA LUMPUR, Dec 5 — Kedah Mentri Besar Muhammad Sanusi Md Nor has hit out at MIC and DAP critics by referring to the controversy over the recent demolition of a Hindu temple in the state as “a little trouble”.

He told them to work to build harmony rather than stoke discord.

“Let us not argue in the future simply because one is drunk on the toddy of popularity, and become race champions in the present,” Sanusi said in a Facebook post.

Toddy is a palm wine made from fermented palm sap.

He questioned why MIC and DAP did not similarly criticise the demolition of a silat ring near the temple.

“Senior politicians such as they might as well not drink one bottle, but get drunk on two or three instead,” Sanusi said.

The mentri besar reiterated that the demolition of the temple in Taman Bersatu, Kuala Kedah was because it stood on gazetted land, and as such is a legal issue and not one of race, religion, or discrimination.

“Ultimately every structure must be there legally and under the purview of the law and administration of government agencies.

“This has always been the case, not only now although it is still not too late to rectify,” he said.

Sanusi added that despite the attacks on the PAS-led state government which sought to twist history by claiming the temple had been there for the past 30 to 50 years, this is not so.

“The authorities have the factual records on this. The structure only appeared in the past few years, and prior to that was a place of worship among some trees.

“Those speaking out for the temple have also omitted to mention that a bigger, wider and more comfortable location had been given to replace the now-demolished temple since the original land is meant for constructing expansions of Alor Setar's railway lines.

“Yet after being given the new location with a temple constructed, they decided to return to the original location and build a temple there,” he said.

Sanusi also criticised the spinning of facts which he said has led to the perception that PAS are religious extremists who discriminate against other religions.

“The temple is claimed to be over 100 years old whereas it is only a few. For a temple site on KTM land involved in development for the public, how many new sites must be given as a replacement?

“None of the Indian MIC and DAP leaders dare to reveal this fact, but instead flame the sentiments of race and religions in order to become champions. But champions of what? Race, religion, or spinning facts?” he said.

Sanusi said he has repeatedly and clearly stated that political leaders in the country must act as peacemakers, guardians of harmony and order in line with the laws and regulations.

“The existing laws and rules in effect are to preserve the lifestyles of the rakyat as a whole, and not to discriminate against anyone.

“Should there be any political, racial or religious leaders trying to fan the flames of enmity, prevent the laws from being applied, accuse and slander outside of bounds, twist a issue of the law into one of race and religion, they should not be allowed to get away like that,” he said.

The temple's demolition on Tuesday (December 1) led to criticism, with MIC deputy president Datuk Seri M. Saravanan claiming Sanusi broke his promise to inform him if any temples were to be demolished in the state.

Similarly Penang Deputy Chief Minister ll P. Ramasamy said Sanusi has proven himself to be a racist and religious extremist who should not remain in power, as well as questioning the need to destroy temples to build motorcycle parks or futsal courts.

Racist PAS sides neither PPBM nor UMNO, but only itself

FMT:

3 reasons why PAS prefers PPBM to Umno

PETALING JAYA: Although it started out by cooperating with Umno in the Muakafat Nasional, PAS seems to prefer working in the Perikatan Nasional with PPBM, says an analyst.

There are three reasons for this, says Bridget Welsh of the University of Nottingham Malaysia.

The first is that PPBM has given PAS the largest political representation it has ever had at federal level.

Second, PAS believes it has a stronger electoral pull than Umno, adding that the Islamist party probably thinks its collaboration in Muafakat Nasional helped Umno more than itself.

Bridget Welsh

“The third reason is that PPBM has allowed PAS to engage in its agenda in terms of promoting Islamist politics. We see issues involving the sale of alcohol and temples. These are things where they have been able to push their agenda,” she told FMT.

Welsh added that these reasons probably explained PAS’ decision not to be part of the new Perak government which is likely to be helmed by Umno, following the ousting of Menteri Besar Faizal Azumu.

Welsh said it was too early to determine if the tensions between PAS and Umno would escalate to the federal and national level due to the unpredictable nature of Malaysian politics, adding that only time will tell.

“The situation is constantly changing, it’s very fluid. One day you are the enemy and the next you are a friend, then you’re the enemy again. We’re seeing Malay politics that are usually behind the scenes now out in the open,” she said.

She predicted there would be a spillover at the state level. “There are five vulnerable states. One has to look at what’s happening in Kedah and also the issues in Johor. These are important states to be watching.”

She added that it was not yet clear who was the biggest winner in the change of government in Perak, although new relationships might develop there.

James Chin

James Chin of the University of Tasmania’s Asia Institute said that all PAS wanted was to remain a part of the government, which is why they are still part of the Perikatan Nasional federal government for now.

He also told FMT that PAS was not friendly with either PPBM or Umno, but just wanted to remain in a place of power in order to push for more Islamisation.

“PAS has no loyalty. It will dump PPBM on one condition — that it can remain in the government.

“PAS wants a government that is fully Malay or Islam-centric. That’s why they were more than happy to pull the old Pakatan Harapan government down, because they thought that government had too much non-Malay and non-Muslim influence,” he said.

Faizal lost the confidence of the Perak state assembly after 48 members voted against him in a motion of confidence. There were 10 votes in support of Faizal and one spoilt vote.

PAS secretary-general Takiyuddin Hassan said the party will not be part of the new state government, adding that all three of its assemblymen had supported Faizal during the motion.

Why Penang needs LRT

FMT:

Why Penang needs LRT

Penang is a bustling state without a proper public transport infrastructure. Despite being the second smallest state in Malaysia and without natural resources, Penang has been punching above its weight by positioning itself as a robust industrial state, remarkably capturing 47% of foreign direct investment (FDI) in the first half of this year, amid the global lockdown due to Covid-19.

The pattern of post-pandemic mass mobility, with a promising vaccine to be delivered next year, will very likely return to pre-pandemic proportions. Soon, roads in Penang will once again be packed with numerous users – workers, students, others – during peak hours.

The mobility modal split among the 225,000 person-trips taken during peak hours with a population of 1.56 million in a 2013 report was between 89% private vehicles and 11% shared transport services (including factory and school buses).

The predominant public transport at the time was buses. When the population increases above two million from the current 1.8 million, the projected person-trips will be more than 300,000 while the level of modal split will be the same.

In layman’s terms, if Penang’s status quo remains with just buses to serve the public, the increasing road usage will worsen traffic congestion.

This is why Penang needs a reliable, safe and efficient system – the Light Rail Transit (LRT) – as the main backbone for our public transport infrastructure.

The LRT is a time-tested rail system proven for its safety and reliability. The system is so established that according to the Asian Development Bank (ADB), one of the foremost authorities with a transport specialist team that has implemented sustainable public transport all over the world, the global trend is to build and expand LRTs rather than metros or bus systems.

While many cities had opted for the proven system, Penang Forum wanted to introduce a bus system known as the Autonomous Rail Rapid Transit (ART) or “trackless tram”. Despite its bombastic appellation, ART is basically a bus.

In fact, to David Levinson, professor of transport engineering at the University of Sydney, the title “trackless tram” is a “silly phrase” because it is actually a bus. The original cost for this bus was priced up to RM10 billion to be implemented in Kuching, Sarawak.

A comparison study between LRT and ART, conducted by the ADB for Penang, has recommended the LRT as a proven technology to be adopted. Penang deserves a time-tested public transport infrastructure which will serve as our main backbone line rather than a multibillion-ringgit bus system.

Perak Pakatan leaders granted audience with Sultan (today)

MM Online:

Perak Pakatan leaders granted audience with Sultan tomorrow** after MB ouster

** that's today

Perak PKR chairman Farhash Wafa Salvador Rizal Mubarak speaks to media in Segambut February 23, 2020. — Picture by Ahmad Zamzahuri

IPOH, Dec 4 — Three Perak Pakatan Harapan (PH) leaders has been granted an audience with Sultan of Perak Sultan Nazrin Muizzuddin Shah tomorrow, after Datuk Seri Ahmad Faizal Azumu lost a confidence vote motion earlier.

The three were state PKR chief Farhash Wafa Salvador Rizal Mubarak, state DAP chairman Nga Kor Ming and state Parti Amanah Negara chairman Datuk Asmuni Awi.

The three were scheduled to meet the sultan at Istana Kinta here at 11am.

This came following the result of the confidence vote at the State Legislative Assembly today which saw caretaker Mentri Besar Datuk Seri Ahmad Faizal Azumu lost the majority support.

Perak Speaker Datuk Mohammad Zahir Abdul Kalid announced the results showing that 48 assemblymen had voted against Ahmad Faizal, while only 10 supported him.

Ahmad Faizal had earlier had his own audience with the Malay ruler to brief him on the situation.

Najib: Perak MB’s fall due to sale of palm oil land

MM Online:

Najib: Perak MB’s fall due to sale of palm oil land, appointing Pengkalan Hulu assemblyman as political secretary

Datuk Seri Najib Razak is pictured at the Kuala Lumpur High Court October 13, 2020. — Picture by Shafwan Zaidon

KUALA LUMPUR, Dec 4 — Datuk Seri Najib Razak said the ousting of Bersatu’s Ahmad Faizal Azumu as Perak Mentri Besar today was due to two main issues that Umno did not agree with.

In a Facebook post, the former prime minister said the two reasons were the sale of 15,000 hectares of palm oil plantations owned by the state to Singapore-based Taiko Plantations Pte Ltd and the appointment of an Umno assemblyman as Ahmad Faizal’s political secretary without approval from the state Umno leadership.

Najib said the selling price of the palm oil plantation announced in April after the PN government took over was RM342 million, while the total value of the estate is RM1.03 billion, which is only 35 per cent of the original price of the plot of land.

“Last year, the late Datuk Khusairi Abdul Talib, who was Slim assemblyman warned the Pakatan Harapan (PH) government not to sell the oil palm plantations worth RM1.03b that gives Perak a huge profit of RM40m a year, at cheap to Singapore-based Taiko Plantations.

“After the collapse of the Perak PH government, the PH Perak MB became the Perikatan Nasional (PN) Perak MB, and the sale continued through direct negotiations without tenders even though the price of palm oil has reached RM3,400 a tonne compared to RM1,800 to RM2,000 last year,” he said.

Najib then pointed out that the appointment of an Umno assemblyman as the political secretary of the Perak MB without reference and approval from the Umno state leadership also contributed to the downfall of Ahmad Faizal.

“Perak Umno has been on the alert for a long time after Bersatu Perak took some Umno assemblymen after the 14th general election. That is why an agreement was made when the Perak PN government was formed after PH fell in March.

“Among the agreements was that every political appointment must get the consent of their respective parties, and even though Umno has warned Perak MB several times not to appoint an Umno assemblyman as his political secretary, Ahmad Faizal simply ignored the advice.

“It seems that Umno Perak and the inter-party agreements are not important. The appointment of an Umno assemblyman and the attitude of the Ahmad Faizal refusing to entertain Umno protests is a moment of clarity for Umno Perak,” Najb said.

On October 12, Azumu appointed Umno’s Pengkalan Hulu assemblyperson Datuk Aznel Ibrahim as his political secretary.

Najib further clarified that those who tried to accuse Umno of colluding with DAP and PKR in Perak to overthrow the Mentri Besar is simply false as PH has been waiting long to overthrow Ahmad Faizal as they look at him as a traitor, as he switched sides during PH’s downfall in March.

“This is not true because PH Perak has been waiting for a long time to overthrow the Perak MB because PH thinks they were betrayed by the Perak MB, who also took some PH assemblymen with him,” Najib said.

Earlier today, Ahmad Faizal lost a motion of confidence that was tabled against him at the state legislative assembly.

Perak Speaker Datuk Mohammad Zahir Abdul Kalid announced the results showing that 48 assemblymen had voted against Ahmad Faizal, while only 10 supported him.

PEJUANG Jeram-ADUN protests against non-halal section in Jaya Grocer in Puncak Alam

Via Malaysia-Today:

Non-Halal Section In Brand New Supermarket Boarded Up After Protest By Local Assemblyman

(The Rakyat Post) – Barely a day after opening the new Jaya Grocer outlet in Puncak Alam, the entrance to its non-halal section was boarded up following protests from a local assemblyman.

Selangor Assemblyman Mohd Shaid Rosli (PEJUANG-Jeram) shared on Facebook yesterday evening that a memorandum had been sent to the management of the Jaya Grocer outlet in Eco Grandeur, Puncak Alam to protest the sale of alcohol in the store.

Mohd Shaid Rosli 

In the memorandum, the assemblyman stated that the protest against the non-halal section was based on several factors including “respecting the sensitivities of the 90% Muslim population in Puncak Alam” and complaints of “social crimes and fractured family relationships from drinking alcohol.”

Memorandum from Jeram assemblyman Mohd Shaid Rosli to Jaya Grocer.
(Credit: @shaid.rosli/Facebook)

He also shared pictures showing the entrance of the non-halal section boarded up, stating that the management had basically agreed to not sell the goods and hoped that they would stick with the decision.

Credit: @shaid.rosli/Facebook

Credit: @shaid.rosli/Facebook

In the post, he also wrote “This is Puncak Alam” and “This is Malay Territory.”

Shaid Rosli

21 hours ago

Salam Semua. Saya Telahpun Menghantar Memorandum Kepada Pengurus Operasi Jaya grocer Cawangan ECOWORLD Bandar Puncak Alam.

Alhamdulillah...Mereka Telahpun Tutup Pintu Masuk Ke Bahagian Alkahol & Barangan Non Halal, Setelah Mereka Dapat Info Berkenaan Dengan Bantahan Dari Kita.

Secara Dasarnya Mereka Bersetuju Untuk Tidak Menjual Barang2 Tersebut. Harap Mereka Kekal Dengan Keputusan Itu. 

...See More

+15

Jaya Grocer had earlier announced the opening of the outlet on 3rd December.

Online backlash

While people commenting directly to the politician’s Facebook post were largely supportive, it also received backlash online.

Some of the criticisms included anger at Shaid Rosli for brewing up racial and religious division.

Screenshot from Facebook

Many also expressed disappointment at Jaya Grocer for caving in to the pressure.

Screenshot from Facebook

Jaya Grocer responds

In response to the growing backlash on its social media following the decision to board up the store’s non-halal section, Jaya Grocer acknowledged the concerns and assured it would keep their customers updated via social media.

Dear all, thank you for raising this issue. Rest assured that your concerns have been heard. Please stay tuned and we will keep you updated about any upcoming changes via social media.

Jaya Grocer via Facebook.

TRP has reached out to Jaya Grocer for comment.

*********

kt notes:

1st step - ban sales of alcohol in Chinese medicine shops, step taken by UMNO balls carrier to PAS and Bersatu;

2nd step in Islamic oppression - ban non-halal section in supermarket but taken by Atuk's man - must regain limelight lah, ta'bolih kalah

The (dubious) distinction Azumu has been looking for

Malaysiakini:



Faizal is fourth chief executive to fail confidence vote

Ahmad Faizal Azumu will go down in history as the fourth chief executive of a state or territory in the country to be ousted through a confidence vote.

Faizal was voted out as menteri besar today by 48 of 59 Perak assemblypersons, through a motion initiated by a lawmaker from an allied party.

In 1966, Stephen Kalong Ningkan was ousted as chief minister by the Sarawak Council Negri, which predates the current Sarawak legislative assembly.

The federal government had imposed emergency rule on Sarawak at the time to allow the governor, and not the chief minister, to convene a Council Negri sitting, which eventually ousted Stephen.

In 1976, Harun Idris was ousted by fellow BN lawmakers as the Selangor menteri besar through a similar manner.

At the time Harun was fighting corruption charges and was eventually convicted.

In 1977, Muhamed Nasir was ousted by fellow PAS lawmakers as the Kelantan menteri besar.

PAS had contested under the BN banner for the first time in 1974. By 1977, PAS lawmakers no longer favoured Muhamed on grounds that he was favoured by BN.

Muhamed's ouster led to riots in Kota Bharu and an emergency was declared.

Azumu trapped into losing the MB position

MM Online:

Hoisted with own petard, outgoing Perak MB pledges smooth handover

Datuk Seri Ahmad Faizal Azumu speaking to press at the Weil Hotel in Ipoh October 9, 2020. — Picture by Farhan Najibk

KUALA LUMPUR, Dec 4 — Perak Mentri Besar Datuk Seri Ahmad Faizal Azumu said he will ensure a smooth transition of power to his successor after he lost a vote of confidence in the state assembly today that was submitted by his political secretary.

The outgoing MB said in a concession speech after the vote that he hoped the next administration would preserve the policies introduced during his two terms in power.

“I hope that the future government will make sure that all the efforts we have done — which was not to establish a personal legacy — like the women's secretariat which will come to realisation next year will be continued.

“We hope they continue to make sure all GLC’s (government linked corporations) do not continue to do redundant work. We also hope they continue to make sure government officers are proactive in carrying out their duties instead of waiting for meetings to be held before taking action,” Faizal said in his speech at the state legislative assembly this morning.

“With the best in communication technology available to us now we should have good communication between agencies to ensure the work the people need to be done is done in a good and proper manner.”

Faizal said he was grateful for the opportunity to have become the MB and said the focus now should be to ensure the incoming administration would continue addressing problems and issues in the state.

This was especially critical given the economic disruptions caused by the Covid-19 pandemic, he said.

Faizal went on to thank the cooperation of the state lawmakers and even told his former allies in Pakatan Harapan that he “missed”.

He also said he was grateful for the opportunity to still present the Perak budget for 2021, which he said was “very good”.

Faizal was previously the MB for the Pakatan Harapan state government and was returned to power after his Parti Pribumi Bersatu Malaysia party broke away to form Perikatan Nasional.

He was elected the deputy president of Bersatu earlier this year.

This morning, he lost confidence vote by 48 votes against him and 10 in support.

The motion of confidence was initiated by Umno’s Pengkalan Baru assemblyman Datuk Abdul Manap Hashim, whom Faizal recently appointed as his political secretary.

Fauci warns of 'surge in cases' post Thanksgiving

BBC:

Covid: Fauci warns of 'surge in cases' post Thanksgiving

IMAGE COPYRIGHTEPA

US infectious disease expert Anthony Fauci has warned that the country could see "surge upon surge" of coronavirus cases in the coming weeks.

Millions of people are returning home following the Thanksgiving holiday.

Speaking on Sunday, he said it was "not too late" for those yet to travel to help curb the virus by wearing masks and socially distancing.

The US has recorded more than 13 million coronavirus cases and more than 266,000 people have died.

As of Sunday, the number of Covid-19 cases recorded in November have surpassed four million, double the figure recorded in October.

Thanksgiving typically heralds the busiest week for travel in the US. Last year, an estimated 26 million people passed through the country's airports in the week surrounding the holiday.

Health experts had called for people to spend Thanksgiving at home, but this week US airports marked their busiest period since mid-March.

Anywhere from 800,000 to more than one million travellers passed through US airport checkpoints on any day during the past week, according to Transport Security Administration statistics.

"There is almost certainly going to be an uptick because of what has happened with the travel," Mr Fauci told CNN's State of the Union.

IMAGE COPYRIGHTEPAimage caption

US airports recorded their busiest week since the pandemic began

In another television appearance, he recommended Thanksgiving travellers to quarantine for a period of time "if it's possible".

Dr Deborah Birx, White House coronavirus response coordinator, echoed Mr Fauci's concerns, telling CBS News that people who have travelled for the holiday should avoid seeing people over the age of 65.

"Now we're entering this post-Thanksgiving surge with three, four and 10 times as much disease across the country," she said. "We are deeply worried".

Meanwhile, in New York City Mayor Bill de Blasio says schools can reopen in December, weeks after they were shut for a second time. Parents had complained that bars and restaurants were able to operate, but not schools.

And in California, Los Angeles county is imposing a new three-week lockdown from Monday, which will ban most public gatherings and limit the number of people allowed in shops at any one time.

This coming week, the Centres for Disease Control and Prevention is set to discuss the rollout of the vaccine with the Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices.

Mr Fauci said the vaccine offered a "light at the end of the tunnel".