Lessons from our neighbour

The Star:


Lessons from our neighbour

By Nelson Benjamin
Southern Reflections

Thursday, 29 Aug 2024


This has been a key year for Singapore as it welcomed Lawrence Wong as its new prime minister on May 15, a first after almost two decades.

Wong, 51, replaces Lee Hsien Loong, 72 – the eldest son of the country’s first prime minister Lee Kuan Yew.




Hsien Loong, who is now a senior minister in the Singapore Cabinet, served as prime minister since August 2004.

Recently, this writer was part of a media delegation attending a week-long Malaysian Journalists’ Visit programme in the island republic.

This was the 16th such engagement with the Malaysian media, and it was organised by Singapore’s ministry of digital development and information in collaboration with the ministry of foreign affairs.

I had the opportunity to meet and interact with at least six government ministers, drop in at an MP’s service centre, interact with senior government officials, connect with fellow journalists in Singapore as well as visit a public housing hub (HDB), youth hub and care centre for elderly citizens.

It was quite a hectic programme, but I was able to witness another side of their politicians, who are always regarded as “careful and guarded when dealing with the media”.

They were actually candid and obliging, especially when answering questions.

The ministers, both young and old, seemed to have a strong grasp of issues within their portfolios.

They didn’t reply based on scripted answers or needed much help from their officers.

There was also not much fanfare around them and the government officers casually called the ministers “SMS so and so”, which is a local reference for “senior minister of state”.

One remark that stood out during the chats was when Singapore’s minister for social and family development Masagos Zulkifli said that a prosperous Malaysia was a prosperous Singapore, while a problematic Malaysia would be a problem for Singapore, as the nations are neighbours.

Singapore, spanning about 735.6 sq/km and smaller than Penang, may be one of the richest countries in the world with huge reserves, but they too have their share of issues, including rising cost of living and an ageing population.

It is predicted that by 2030, at least one in four Singaporeans will be over the age of 65.

Singapore senior minister of state for manpower and defence, Zaqy Mohamad (left) talking to a media delegation during the Malaysian Journalists’ Visit Programme to Singapore.


Singapore’s birth rates have fallen to a historic low, but with better healthcare, their average life expectancy is up to 83 years old.

The island republic is also planning to increase their retirement age and the government subsidises around S$200,000 (RM667,000) for education fees, from preschool up to secondary school level.

The country presently has a population of about 5.92 million people.

To cope with these future challenges, Singapore has raised its goods and services tax (GST) at least six years in advance.

Despite their deep pockets in terms of reserves, whether in cash or gold, they plan to keep that for future uncertainties such as a major disaster similar to the Covid-19 pandemic.

Another point of note is that a significant number of Singaporeans are reported to have at least S$102,900 (RM343,214) − the basic sum needed for retirement − in their Central Provident Fund (CPF), along with some form of assets.

Wong, during his tenure as deputy prime minister, had embarked on the country’s biggest engagement programme over a 16-month period.

He had gathered feedback from more than 200,000 Singaporeans, young and old, on various issues affecting them.

The 180-page “Forward Singapore” report was made public with key agendas setting out their country’s roadmap for the next decade and beyond.

Malaysia, with a population of over 30 million, will be faced with the same dilemma in the future.

The most important question is, do we have enough savings in our Employees Provident Fund (EPF) to retire at 60?

Do you continue working past retirement or rely on your children or the government when you continue living until 83?

What happens if you have no kids or relatives to rely on?

Does the government have the means or resources to care for an ageing population, including subsidising their needs, mainly healthcare, until the age of 83?

What happens if you live past 100? During my visit to an elderly care centre in Bukit Batok West, Singapore, there were a few centenarians at the facility.

This year, our EPF launched a flexible account (Account 3) for Malaysians for that “rainy day”.

However, many have already made the transfer and instead of using the money for emergencies, have started splurging on personal stuff including downpayment on a new car or even a holiday.

Each year, Aug 31 is a significant day for us as it is our country’s day of independence.

However, this Saturday will also be the last day to transfer your funds in EPF to the flexible account.

Please make a wise choice for your future’s sake.

Waiting 32 years for justice in an Indian rape case

BBC:

Waiting 32 years for justice in an Indian rape case


Cherylann Mollan
BBC News, Mumbai

Santosh Gupta
Some of the men accused of raping and blackmailing women in Rajasthan in 1992


"My heart is filled with so much pain. Even today, I cry when I think about how that one encounter destroyed my life."

The year was 1992. Sushma* said she was 18 when a man she knew took her to an abandoned warehouse under the pretext of watching video tapes. There, six to seven men tied her up, raped her and took photographs of the act.

The men belonged to rich, influential families in Ajmer, a city in the western Indian state of Rajasthan.

"After they raped me, one of them gave me 200 rupees [$2; £1] to buy lipstick. I didn't take the money," she said.

Last week, 32 years later, Sushma saw a court convict her rapists and sentence them to life imprisonment.

"I am 50 years old today and I finally feel like I got justice," she said. "But it cannot bring back all that I have lost."

She said she had endured years of slander and taunts from society because of what happened to her, and both her marriages ended in divorce when her husbands discovered her past.

Sushma is one of 16 survivors - all schoolchildren or students - who were raped and blackmailed by a group of powerful men in different places in Ajmer city over several months in 1992. The case became a massive scandal and sparked huge protests.

Last week, the court handed out life sentences to six of the 18 accused: Nafis Chishty, Iqbal Bhat, Saleem Chishty, Sayed Jamir Hussain, Naseem - also known as Tarzan - and Suhail Ghani.

They have not confessed to the crime and their lawyers said they will appeal the verdict in a higher court.

Santosh Gupta
The Suzuki van that was used to transport the women


So what happened to the remaining 12 accused?

Eight were sentenced to life in 1998, but four were acquitted by a higher court, and the others had their sentences reduced to 10 years.

Of the remaining four, one died by suicide. Another was sentenced to life in 2007 but was acquitted six years later. One was convicted in a related minor case but later acquitted, and one of the accused is still absconding.

"Can you even call this [the 20 August verdict] justice? A judgement is not justice," said Santosh Gupta, a journalist who had written about the case and has appeared as a witness for the prosecution.

It is a thought echoed by Supreme Court lawyer Rebecca John, who called it yet another case of "justice delayed is justice denied".

"This points to a problem that extends far beyond the legal system. Our patriarchal society is broken. What we need is a mindset change, but how long is that going to take?"

The accused men used their power and influence to deceive, threaten and lure their victims, said prosecution lawyer Virendra Singh Rathore.

They took compromising photographs and videos of their victims and used them to blackmail them into silence or bring in more victims, he added.

"In one instance, the accused invited a man they knew to a party and got him drunk. They took compromising photos of him and threatened to make them public if he didn't bring his female friends to meet them," he said. "That's how they kept getting victims."

The accused also had strong political and social connections. Some of them were associated with a famous dargah (Muslim religious shrine) in the city.

"They roamed around on bikes and cars in what was a small-town city at the time," Mr Gupta said. "Some people were afraid of these men, some wanted to get closer to them and some wanted to be like them."

He said that it was their power and connections that had helped keep the case under wraps for months. But there were people - like those working at the studio where the photos were developed and even some police officers - who were aware of what was going on.


One day, some of the photographs taken by the accused reached Mr Gupta. They had a chilling effect on him.

"Here were some of the city's most powerful men committing heinous acts with innocent, young girls - and there was proof of it. But there was no major reaction from the police or the public," he said.

He wrote a few reports about it but none managed to blow the case wide open.

Then one day, his paper "made a daring decision", he said.

It published a photo that showed a young girl, naked to the waist, pressed between two men who were fondling her breasts. One of the men was smiling at the camera. Only the girl's face was blurred.

The report sent shock waves through the city. The public was outraged and shut the city down in protest for days. Anger spread through Rajasthan like raging fire.

"Finally, there was some concrete action from the government. Police registered a case of rape and blackmail against the accused and it was handed over to the the state's Criminal Investigation Department [CID]," Mr Rathore said.

Santosh Gupta
A local newspaper clipping from 1992 with the headline: “Blackmail Scandal: Ajmer Shuts Down.”


Mr Rathore explained that the trial had dragged on for 32 years because of several factors, including the staggered arrests of the accused, alleged delaying tactics by the defence, an underfunded prosecution and systemic issues within the justice system.

When police filed the initial charges in 1992, six of the accused - who were only convicted last week - were left out because they were absconding.

Mr Rathore believes this was a mistake, as when the police finally filed charges against the six in 2002, they were still on the run. Two of them were arrested in 2003, another in 2005 and two more in 2012, while the last one was apprehended in 2018.

Every time one of the accused was arrested, the trial would begin afresh with the defence recalling survivors and witnesses brought by the prosecution to give their testimonies.

"Under the law, the accused has the right to be present in court when witnesses are testifying and the defence has the right to cross-examine them," explained Mr Rathore.

This put the survivors in the horrifying position of having to relive their trauma over and over again.

Mr Rathore recalled how often the survivors, who were now in their 40s and 50s, would scream at the judge, asking why there were being dragged to court, years after they had been raped.

As time passed, the police also found it challenging to track down witnesses.

"Many didn't want to be associated with the case as their lives had moved on," Mr Rathore said.

"Even now, one of the accused is absconding. If he is arrested, or if the other accused appeal against the verdict in a higher court, the survivors and witnesses will be called to testify again."

Sushma - who was one of three survivors whose testimony played a key role in convicting the six accused - said that she had been talking to the media about her ordeal because she was telling the truth.

"I never changed my story. I was young and innocent when these people did this to me. It robbed me of everything. I have nothing to lose now," she said.


*Name has been changed. Indian laws do not allow the identity of a rape victim to be disclosed.

WHY CRUMBS ONLY FOR INDIANS ASKS WAYTHAMOORTHY? APA DOSA INDIA?

 

OutSyed The Box

Saturday, August 31, 2024

WHY CRUMBS ONLY FOR INDIANS ASKS WAYTHAMOORTHY? APA DOSA INDIA?

 

 

 

Explosive Trump biopic to hit US theatres before election, say reports

Explosive Trump biopic to hit US theatres before election, say reports

The movie shows former US President Donald Trump suffering erectile dysfunction and undergoing liposuction and surgery for hair loss. — AFP pic

Saturday, 31 Aug 2024 9:53 AM MYT


LOS ANGELES, Aug 31 — A controversial biopic of Donald Trump that depicts the former president raping his wife and which has drawn legal threats from his attorneys will hit US theatres this October, it was reported yesterday.

Tiny indie studio Briarcliff Entertainment plans to release The Apprentice for US audiences less than a month before Trump takes on Kamala Harris in the country’s razor-tight presidential election, the Hollywood Reporter said.


Representatives for Briarcliff did not immediately respond to AFP queries.

The explosive film about Trump’s younger years caused shockwaves at the Cannes Film Festival in May.


Its most talked about scene shows Trump raping his first wife, Ivana, after she belittles him for growing fat and bald.


In real life, Ivana accused Trump of raping her during divorce proceedings but later rescinded the allegation. She died in 2022.

The movie also shows Trump suffering erectile dysfunction and undergoing liposuction and surgery for hair loss.

Just hours after The Apprentice premiered in May, Trump’s lawyers vowed to sue the producers, calling the film “garbage” and “pure malicious defamation.”

Further complicating the film’s prospects for US release is that one of its early financial backers was pro-Trump billionaire Dan Snyder, who was reportedly displeased with its depiction of Trump and sought to block the movie.

He has now been bought out of his financial stake in the movie, according to the Hollywood Reporter. The film is set to be released in US theatres October 11, the Los Angeles Times said.

Sebastian Stan’s lead performance as young New York property tycoon Trump received largely positive reviews at Cannes.

The film’s screenplay was written by Gabriel Sherman, a journalist who covered real estate for the New York Observer and regularly spoke to Trump.

Far from a simple hatchet job, the film depicts Trump as an ambitious but naive social climber desperately trying to navigate the cutthroat world of Manhattan property deals and politics.

The Times of London argued it would “make you feel sympathy for Trump.”

But Trump’s decency is gradually eroded as he learns the dark arts of dealmaking and power from his mentor Roy Cohn, played by Succession star Jeremy Strong.

Film director Ali Abbasi told AFP he included the rape scene to show how Trump distanced himself from “human relationships that define him and that hold him in check as a human being.”

Stan, best known from the Marvel superhero movies, added that Trump’s early behaviour “is much more relatable than we want to admit.”

Briarcliff Entertainment launched in the late 2010s. Its founder Tom Ortenberg previously helped steer Oscar campaigns for best picture winners Spotlight and Crash.

He is expected to promote The Apprentice in Hollywood’s upcoming award season.

The news comes on the same day Reagan, another biopic of a former Republican president, Ronald Reagan, hits US theatres. — AFP

Israel's right to self-defense is a myth

Israel's right to self-defense is a myth

BDS Malaysia
Published: Aug 31, 2024 1:51 PM


COMMENT | The US ambassador to Malaysia Edgard D Kagan has decided to stick with the same tired and indefensible points in defence of his country’s policy on Palestine-Israel. We totally reject those points.

We are referring to the interviews which Malaysiakini published on Aug 29 and Aug 30.

The framing of the occupation of Palestine by Israel as a conflict between two equal sides with the US doing its utmost as an honest broker to bring a peaceful resolution has no bearing whatsoever with reality. Persisting with such a framing is an attempt to delude the Malaysian public.

On one side, Israel is the occupying state, enormously powerful with the diplomatic, economic and military backing of the US and the West and on the other side, the Palestinians are the occupied people, militarily defenceless and at the mercy of the Israelis.

We point out to anyone, including the ambassador, who keeps mentioning “Israel’s right to self-defence” that under international law Israel as an occupying power has no right to self-defence while the Palestinians as an occupied people do have that right.

US ambassador to Malaysia Edgard D Kagan

This myth of Israel’s right to self-defence has been used as an incitement to genocide. It should be put in the dustbin.

By continuing to supply weapons to Israel to enable it to continue with its genocide of the Palestinians in Gaza and providing diplomatic cover to Israel at the United Nations, the US is complicit in the death of more than 40,000 Palestinians.

This is the appalling reality which continues even as this is being written. No one in his or her right mind would claim that the US is acting as an honest broker trying to bring peace to the region.


It did not start on Oct 7, 2023

The ambassador still tries to pull a fast one and pretend that history started on Oct 7, 2023. No, sir, the history of the immense suffering of the Palestinian people started 76 years ago with the Nakba.

What happened on Oct 7 last year was, to use a cliché, the chicken coming home to roost.

The decades of brutal Israeli occupation with impunity granted to the occupiers to kill innocent Palestinian men, women and children, steal Palestinian land, starve and conduct ethnic cleansing have produced an explosion which should be expected of any group of human beings subjected to such horrendous conditions.

The ambassador asked for a condemnation of Oct 7. No, sir, you won’t get that from us. No one has the moral right to condemn what imprisoned and oppressed people do in response to their seven-decade-long oppression; an oppression which is well-documented and known to the whole world.

No one can say that the population of Gaza did not try to end their inhumane open-air imprisonment, for it has been described as such, peacefully.

They did in the Great Return, March of 2018. The Israelis responded by using sharpshooters to kill 299 Palestinian men, women and children, including the handicapped and medical workers.

The world chose to remain indifferent and the Israelis got the implicit message that they have impunity over their barbaric conduct. And the ambassador is still asking people to condemn what happened on Oct 7 - as if nothing had happened before that date.

After Oct 7, 2023, on the other hand, the ongoing genocide by the Israelis against Palestinians in Gaza has taken the lives of more than 40,000 civilians including 16,000 children and 10,000 women.

Israel has killed 160 journalists, 500 medical workers, 100 Islamic preachers and destroyed 24 hospitals, 604 mosques and three churches. Almost all schools and universities have been destroyed.

All these are documented and supported by mountainous evidence. We await the unequivocal condemnation of these barbaric Israeli war crimes by the US ambassador to Malaysia. Absent such a condemnation, we will know that his pronouncements on the issue are to be treated with a shovelful of salt.

Kagan claims that boycotts sparked by the genocide have not been effective in improving matters in Gaza. We ask that he doesn’t try to insult our intelligence. It is astounding that such a claim can come from a person whose country’s history, from the American Revolution to the Civil Rights Movement, was shaped by boycotts.

Boycotts have even been described as an American tradition. For the uninitiated, it is a form of protest whereby the means which is the discourse that opens hearts and minds, is just as important as the outcome. You don’t stop just because it appears to be ineffective. You keep going till it is effective.


Maintain the boycott efforts

On this note, we urge all Malaysians to maintain their boycott efforts against all the BDS targets. Do not give your money to entities which support and enable the Gaza genocide. Every small thing that you can do to help the Palestinian cause which you do not bother to do will give a big victory to the Zionists and genocide-enablers.

The ambassador's attempt to disparage the effectiveness of boycotts is belied by the fact that anti-BDS laws have been passed in 38 states in the US, all induced by Zionist-supporting parties fearful of the impact the BDS campaign would have on American support for Israel. If boycotts are not effective, why bother to pass such laws?

The ambassador again used the welfare of employees of targeted companies as an argument against boycotts. Please read our open letter to him of April this year for our response to that argument.

We take this opportunity to ask all Americans, including the ambassador, to realise that the unconditional support for Israel granted by the US government in its executive and legislative branches carries with it great costs to their country and themselves.

First, the US through its complicity in the Israeli genocide of Palestinians in Gaza has lost its moral standing throughout the globe.

There is no way the US can preach or lecture the rest of the world about democracy, human rights and supposedly enlightened values when you are supporting, if not openly participating in, a genocide which has killed 15,000 children, among others.

You give diplomatic protection to a country which is blatantly breaching international law and committing war crimes. You even honour a war criminal by inviting him to speak to your lawmakers. How can the US pretend to stand for anything progressive and enlightened any longer?

How long can Americans stand the sight of their ambassadors and envoys speaking out in support of genocide?

Second, the US is becoming a dysfunctional democracy. That’s assuming it was a democracy in the first place. Poll after poll shows that 61 percent of Americans oppose the supply of weapons to Israel and yet after every massacre of Palestinians, American politicians rush to supply the Israelis with more weapons. They fear their Zionist paymasters more than their voters.

Third, the civil liberties much vaunted by Americans as the freedom that sets them apart from other societies are slowly being eroded at the behest of the Zionists. Note the anti-BDS laws which strike down the Second Amendment rights of Americans to freedom of political expression.

Fourth, US taxpayers' money, in the billions, is endlessly given to Israel to allow it to continue as a settler-colonial apartheid regime. Money to buy weapons to kill Palestinians and grant Israelis things which Americans themselves would not mind having such as free college, housing and medical care.

This situation will continue unless American voters force their politicians to place their welfare above the interests of the Zionists.

Finally, US politicians beholden to Israeli interests will have no compunction in sending young American men and women to die for Israel in wars started by Israel against its neighbours.

The US presidency and Congress are like a runaway train in their blind support for Israel. It may well end in the loss of thousands of American lives on the altar of Zionism.

We end this with a wish of Happy Merdeka Day to all Malaysians and ask that everyone pray for the Palestinians to have their own Merdeka soon.

Search called off for woman who fell into KL sinkhole

Search called off for woman who fell into KL sinkhole

A file photograph shows rescue personnel at the perimeter of the sinkhole along Jalan Masjid India, in Kuala Lumpur. — Picture by Sayuti Zainudin

Saturday, 31 Aug 2024 3:29 PM MYT


KUALA LUMPUR, Aug 31 —The search-and-rescue (SAR) operation for the Indian national who was swallowed by a sinkhole on Jalan Masjid India here last week has been called off.

Minister in the Prime Minister’s Department (Federal Territories) Dr Zaliha Mustafa said the decision was reached after a detailed evaluation of expert and technical advice on the operation that was now in its ninth day.


“After nine days of SAR and consideration from the Cabinet as well as experts including the police, the search team, DBKL, geologists and more, we've decided to halt the search efforts today," she told reporters at the location of the sinkhole.

Dr Zaliha said that while an obstruction was detected during the search, it could not be positively identified.


“At this point, we also have to consider the safety of the SAR personnel involved as conditions for the SAR were extremely challenging” she said.


She also said the appearance of a second sinkhole in the area also caused concern of possibly increased risk to the search personnel.

“Apart from that, we need to resume normal activities here and ensure the safety of the people using these streets.”

The minister also said efforts to locate the woman would still continue despite the termination of the SAR operation, but would enter a new stage and come under different agencies.

Dr Zaliha said DBKL would be responsible for utility mapping, land structure analysis, and engaging with vendors to help them resume their activities.

“DBKL will handle the recovery and reconstruction in the affected areas, which will include cordoning off the entrance from Mydin to ensure public safety,” she explained.

Dr Zaliha said she has also spoken to the Indian ambassador to Malaysia, whom she said expressed thanks for the efforts expended so far to find his compatriot.

She also said the envoy understood the rationale behind discontinuing the active search.

She also confirmed that the victim’s family had been informed of the decision and their visas had already been extended for another week to accommodate them during this difficult time.

Last Friday, Indian woman, G. Vijaya Lakshmi, 48, fell into the sinkhole that formed on Jalan Masjid India and has remained missing since.

The SAR operation was activated the same day involving members from various security forces and local authorities using various techniques including the use of tracker dog units (K9) and the ‘jetting’ method.

‘This is about saving lives’: Ukrainian and Russian cities suffer deadly strikes, Zelensky calls for ‘air defence agreements’

‘This is about saving lives’: Ukrainian and Russian cities suffer deadly strikes, Zelensky calls for ‘air defence agreements’

A view shows a burning apartment building hit by a Russian air strike, amid Russia's attack on Ukraine, in Kharkiv, Ukraine August 30, 2024. — AFP pic

Saturday, 31 Aug 2024 2:12 PM MYT


KYIV, Aug 31 — Aerial strikes on Russian and Ukrainian border cities killed at least a dozen people yesterday, bombardments that came as Kyiv dismissed its air force commander in a major military shake-up.

Both sides also claimed to have advanced on the battlefield — Moscow in eastern Ukraine and Kyiv in its shock offensive into Russia’s western Kursk region — with the fighting showing no sign of subsiding, two and a half years into Russia’s invasion.


A Russian aerial strike on the northeastern city of Kharkiv yesterday afternoon killed seven people, including a 14-year-old girl, Ukraine’s interior minister said.

Emergency workers were still pulling bodies from the rubble late yesterday evening. Images on social media showed the top floors of a multi-storey residential building ripped open and a fire raging after the strike.


At least 77 were wounded, including 18 children, the emergency services said.


President Volodymyr Zelensky called on Kyiv’s Western backers to up their support after the attack, which officials said was with a glide bomb.

“We need strong decisions from our partners to stop this terror,” Zelensky said in a post on social media.

“We need long-range capabilities,” he added, referring to Kyiv’s appeals to allies to lift restrictions on the use of Western-supplied missiles inside Russian territory and deliver more longer-range weapons.

“We need the implementation of air defence agreements for Ukraine. This is about saving lives,” he added.

War-displaced people spend time in a centre for displaced people in undisclosed location in Kursk region on August 29, 2024, following Ukraine's cross-border offensive into Russia's western Kursk region. — AFP pic


Belgorod hit

Across the border some 60 kilometres to the north, Russia said Ukraine had fired cluster munitions on the city of Belgorod and its suburbs, killing at least five and wounding 37 civilians, including at least six children.

“One woman and four men died of their wounds on the spot before an ambulance arrived,” regional governor Vyacheslav Gladkov said in a post on Telegram.

He posted a video showing a fire raging at a house after one of the strikes. The state-run TASS media agency posted pictures of a road in the city of Belgorod covered in strewn debris and twisted metal.

Both Belgorod and Kharkiv have been hit repeatedly with aerial strikes throughout the war.

Ukrainian rescuers inspect a burnt-out apartment in a damaged residential building following a missile attack in Kharkiv on August 30, 2024. — AFP pic


Russian President Vladimir Putin in May launched a new offensive into the Kharkiv region which he said was designed to push Ukrainian forces back to create a “security zone” for Russia’s own border settlements.

Moscow’s troops also claimed yesterday to have captured three more villages in eastern Ukraine — one in the Kharkiv region — as they press against Ukrainian troops facing manpower and ammunition shortages.

Ukraine also claimed yesterday to have advanced in Russia’s western Kursk region, where it is mounting its own surprise ground offensive, claiming to have captured 100 settlements and more than 1,200 square kilometres of territory since August 6.

In this handout photograph taken and released by the Air Command ‘West’ of the Air Forces of Ukraine on August 29, 2024, two MiG-29 fighter jets fly to pay tribute to Oleksiy Mes, a pilot of the Air Force of the Armed Forces of Ukraine, who had died in a crash on August 26, 2024 while repelling a Russian air attack, during his farewell ceremony in Shepetivka, Khmelnytskyi region. — Air Forces of Ukraine handout pic via AFP


Commander fired

Zelensky yesterday dismissed the country’s air force chief, a day after Kyiv said a US-made F-16 fighter jet had crashed in combat, killing the pilot.

In a video message Zelensky said he had “decided to replace the commander of the air force” to strengthen Ukraine’s military leadership.

His office earlier published a presidential decree to officially remove Mykola Oleshchuk from the post.

The crash of the F-16 was a high-profile setback for Kyiv, which had lobbied the West to send the advanced fighter jet for months.

The military had said the plane and pilot crashed during a combat mission earlier this week after having shot down incoming Russian missiles.

Zelensky did not provide further details on why he had decided to replace his air force commander, saying only that his command team “needed to get stronger”.

Lieutenant General Anatolii Kryvonozhko, who leads the air force’s operations in the central part of Ukraine, has temporarily assumed the role of overall commander.

Kyiv also yesterday issued a plea for Mongolia to arrest Putin when he visits the country next week.

It is the Russian leader’s first trip to a country that is a member of the International Criminal Court (ICC) since The Hague-based body issued an arrest warrant for him last year over the alleged deportation of Ukrainian children to Russia.

Mongolia is technically obligated to detain him, though the Kremlin said yesterday it was not concerned about that possibility and there is little the ICC can do if it chooses not to. — AFP

**

al Jazeera:

Zelenskyy fires Ukraine’s air force commander after deadly F-16 crash

President Zelenskyy dismisses Mykola Oleshchuk, says country needs to ‘protect personnel’.

F-16 fighting aircrafts are seen in the air amid Russia's attack on Ukraine, in an undisclosed location [Valentyn Ogirenko/Reuters]

Published On 30 Aug 202430 Aug 2024

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has fired the commander of the country’s air force, four days after an F-16 warplane that Ukraine received from its Western partners crashed during a Russian bombardment and killed the pilot.

The order to dismiss Mykola Oleshchuk was published on the presidential website on Friday.

Keep reading

list of 3 items

list 1 of 3

Russia-Ukraine war: List of key developments, day 917

list 2 of 3

Ukraine says US-made F-16 fighter jet crashed, killing pilot

list 3 of 3

Russia lashes out against ‘terrorist’ incursion in Kursk, pulls back planes

end of list

“We need to protect people. Protect personnel. Take care of all our soldiers,” Zelenskyy said in an address minutes after the order was published. He said Ukraine needs to strengthen its army on the command level.

Anatolii Kryvonozhko was appointed acting air force commander, the army’s general staff said.

The dismissal came on the same day that Oleshchuk directed scathing criticism at a lawmaker who is deputy head of the Ukrainian parliament’s defence committee for her claims that the F-16 was downed by a Patriot air-defense system. Ukraine has received an unspecified number of the US-made systems.

Mariana Bezuhla cited unnamed sources for her claim and demanded punishment for those responsible for the error.

Video Duration 2 minutes 12 seconds2:12

Oleshchuk accused Bezuhla of defaming the air force and discrediting US arms manufacturers and said that he hoped she would face legal consequences for her claims.

“The truth will win,” Bezuhla posted on X shortly after the dismissal order was published.

The air force did not directly deny that the F-16 was hit by a Patriot missile.

US experts have joined the Ukrainian investigation into the crash, the air force said.

A US defence official told the Reuters news agency that the crash did not appear to be the result of Russian fire, and possible causes from pilot error to mechanical failure were still being investigated.

F-16s are one of the weapons that could be used to hit Russian bases behind the front line.

Oleshchuk said on Telegram that “a detailed analysis” was already being conducted into why the F-16 jet went down Monday, when Russia launched a major missile and drone barrage at Ukraine.

“We must carefully understand what happened, what the circumstances are, and whose responsibility it is,” Oleshchuk wrote in the post shortly before his dismissal.

The crash was the first reported loss of an F-16 in Ukraine, where the warplanes arrived at the end of last month. At least six are believed to have been delivered by European countries.

Military analysts have said the planes will not be a game-changer in the war, given Russia’s massive air force and sophisticated air defence systems. But Ukrainian officials welcomed the supersonic jets, which can carry modern weapons used by NATO countries, for offering an opportunity to hit back at Russia’s air superiority.

***

kt comments:

Zelensky has to blame "someone" when things go south - this time he selects the unfortunate Ukrainian air force chief. What a clown.

SJKC Admiral Cheng Ho? Melaka wants vernacular school named after historical Chinese admiral

SJKC Admiral Cheng Ho? Melaka wants vernacular school named after historical Chinese admiral

A file photograph show Melaka Chief Minister Datuk Seri Ab Rauf Yusof and Chinese actress Fan Bingbing, the 2024 Melaka Tourism Ambassador, at the Chief Minister’s Office on June 14, 2024. — Bernama pic

Saturday, 31 Aug 2024 9:49 AM MYT


ALOR GAJAH, Aug 31 — The Melaka government is considering naming a Chinese national type school after Admiral Cheng Ho, the renowned Chinese explorer and diplomat from the Ming Dynasty, who played a major role in strengthening ties between China and Melaka.

Chief Minister Datuk Seri Ab Rauf Yusof announced that the proposal would soon be submitted to the Education Ministry for approval.


“We are reflecting on the long history, spanning about 600 years, of Melaka’s relationship with China. Historical studies in China highlight Cheng Ho’s voyages to Melaka as events of significant historical value,” he said.

Ab Rauf spoke to reporters after officiating at the event to honour outstanding students of the Sijil Tinggi Persekolahan Malaysia (STPM) examination and Huffaz 2023 Academic Session as well as the launch of the ‘Bijak SPM 2024’ programme, at the Alor Gajah MARA Junior Science College, here.


Admiral Cheng Ho, also known as Zheng He, led seven major naval expeditions between 1405 and 1433 across Southeast Asia, South Asia, the Middle East and Africa. Melaka was a crucial stopover for his fleet, and his voyages played a significant role in establishing Melaka as a key player in regional trade, contributing to its golden age in the 15th century.


Ab Rauf also said that the state government channelled RM639,800 to 99 secondary schools this year to implement the ‘Bijak SPM 2024’ programme of producing outstanding students in Sijil Pelajaran Malaysia.

The allocation was for 26 schools in the Alor Gajah district encompassing 2,954 students, 52 schools in the Melaka Tengah district involving 7,524 students and 21 schools in the Jasin district involving 2,318 students.

“I hope the programme can provide an opportunity for these 12,796 SPM candidates for the 2024 session to attend workshops and learn answering techniques in a more systematic way, thus motivating them to continue their education to a higher level and eventually contribute to the state of Melaka,” he said. — Bernama

In first for Malaysia, Chingay procession appears at 2024 National Day parade

In first for Malaysia, Chingay procession appears at 2024 National Day parade

The Chingay procession marches past the grandstand for the 2024 National Day Parade in Putrajaya, on August 31, 2024. — Bernama pic

Saturday, 31 Aug 2024 10:48 AM MYT


PUTRAJAYA, Aug 31 — The Chingay procession made a spectacular debut at the 2024 National Day parade, showcasing a stunning display of balancing a giant flag, complemented by vibrant lion and dragon dances.

Comprising 23 members from the Lion and Dragon Dances Federation Malaysia, the Chingay performance, which originated in China around two centuries ago, captivated audiences with its dynamic and spirited display.


The Lion and Dragon Dances Federation Malaysia’s general secretary Ching Xiao Fong expressed deep honour on behalf of the federation, as it marked a momentous point in the history of the chingay scene in Malaysia.

“Chingay is typically associated with Penang and Johor during Chinese New Year or heritage performances in temples. Being part of the National Day parade was a profound experience for us as Malaysians,” she said.


“Even our members were thrilled about participating in such a significant national celebration — it was a tremendous morale boost for them,” said teary-eyed Ching when speaking to Bernama after the parade at Dataran Putrajaya today.


Meanwhile, as the art of Chingay has been adapted for the Malaysian community, Ching hopes that it continues to grow with the involvement of all walks of life.

“For now, our members consist only of those from Chinese and Indian communities, particularly teenagers, but we would love to see more public involvement,” she said.

She also expressed hope that Chingay could become part of co-curricular activities in schools in the future, similar to lion and dragon dances.

With the theme ‘Malaysia MADANI: Jiwa Merdeka,’ this year’s National Day celebration highlighted the spirit of unity across all segments of society, embodying the holistic togetherness of a developed and progressive nation that cherishes its diverse population and fosters a shared national identity. — Bernama

Foreign envoys urged to exercise caution when speaking about Palestine

Foreign envoys urged to exercise caution when speaking about Palestine

Bernama
Published: Aug 30, 2024 9:52 PM


Foreign Minister Mohamad Hasan has advised foreign envoys in the country to exercise caution when making statements related to the Palestinian issue, as such comments could affect the sentiments of Malaysians.

Mohamad (above) said although the statements are the opinions of the country that they represent, foreign diplomats must understand and be aware of the sentiments in Malaysia that strongly oppose the genocide in Palestine.

“I am appalled at what was said (in the interview of a local media portal with the United States ambassador to Malaysia).

“Even though the views are on behalf of his country, they should not denigrate the global perspective on the atrocities and the killing of innocent Palestinians, including women and children,” he said, adding that the views violated the boundaries of humanity.

The Rembau MP spoke to reporters during the “Ziarah Kasih” goodwill visit programme in the Kota state constituency.

He was commenting on Edgard D Kagan’s statement in an interview titled “Arms Supply and Peace: US Ambassador Discusses the West Asia Conflict”.

“Even though they want to support Israel as an ally, it should not go to the extent of suggesting that the genocide in Palestine is something normal. I hope foreign envoys in the country will be more mindful when speaking,” the minister added.

- Bernama

PM Anwar slams Batu Puteh mishandling as national betrayal

PM Anwar slams Batu Puteh mishandling as national betrayal

Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim said despite the government's acceptance of the International Court of Justice (ICJ) ruling, no nation would willingly cede territory without a fight, often going to great lengths to defend even a small area. — Bernama pic

Friday, 30 Aug 2024 7:40 PM MYT


PUTRAJAYA, Aug 30 — Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim has described the mishandling of the Batu Puteh issue as a form of betrayal to the nation.

He said despite the government's acceptance of the International Court of Justice (ICJ) ruling, no nation would willingly cede territory without a fight, often going to great lengths to defend even a small area.


“.. and that is why the Madani government has decided to establish a Royal Commission of Inquiry (RCI) to uncover the truth. It is crucial to understand why Malaysia, a proud and distinguished nation, easily allowed such a great lapse, failing to use all available legal avenues to safeguard our rights.

“If anyone considers this a minor issue, they have a problem with their attitude as a Malaysian as this has never happened in global history,” he said during the National Day 2024 address here today.


On May 23, 2008, the ICJ ruled that Singapore had sovereignty over Batu Puteh, while Middle Rocks, situated less than one kilometre from the island, belongs to Malaysia.


The ICJ also ruled that ownership rights over South Ledge, approximately 4km from Batu Puteh, would be determined based on the maritime boundaries of the state in control.

On January 24, the Cabinet approved the establishment of an RCI to examine the handling of the sovereignty case related to Batu Puteh, Middle Rocks and the South Ledge.

Yesterday, Minister in the Prime Minister's Department (Law and Institutional Reforms) Datuk Seri Azalina Othman Said informed that the RCI report will be tabled in Parliament, and the recommendations debated.

She said the report was presented in the Cabinet meeting on Wednesday by RCI chairman and former chief justice Tun Md Raus Sharif.

Anwar said the debate in Parliament regarding Batu Puteh will serve as a lesson and a reminder to future generations not to sacrifice national interests.

“We will allow open debates in Parliament and outside Parliament to serve as a lesson and reminder to future generations that this country was built through struggle, sweat, tears and the blood of warriors who fought against colonial powers for centuries, and its interests should not be compromised,” said Anwar, who is also finance minister.

He also advised youths to embrace the spirit of independence by engaging more with history and enhancing their knowledge to uphold the nation’s values.

The event, organised by the National Unity Ministry, saw the participation of around 7,000 attendees and featured a special performance by Tabika Perpaduan pupils, highlighting elements of the Rukun Negara and also a discussion on National Sovereignty as a Collective Responsibility, reflecting on the Lahad Datu incident. — Bernama