A good way to start a new day

Having to wake up as early as 5.00am is not too bad at all. With a little bit of self-cleaning and prostrating to God, I prepare myself for work. A good mid-pace walk from my house to the Probation Centre in town would take about 8 minutes. I just love to have several deep breathe of the pure, morning fresh air as I walk to the office.

I also enjoy the morning chat with Kak Faizah, Ash and Sylvia, the supervisor of the office. I opt to take the stairs up to the 4th floor instead of the lift. A healthy way of living, in'it? While working with the mops and the bins, I always practice delivering speeches by myself, and I've been caught doing so many times before! One of the things that made me stick to this job instead of quitting is to be able to force myself to do some exercise. I could do some push-ups while waiting for the tap water to fill in the bucket with detergent before proceeding to mop the kitchen and entrance floors.

Work ends at half seven, and the walk back home was filled with some planning on my to-do list for the day.

As the house door opens, my housemates have already got up from their bed. We exchange morning greetings. There are not many options for breakfast, and I wouldn't mind. A good toast and a large cup of tea would keep my stomach full until lunchtime. I also enjoy making my own lunchpack while listening to the news.

A good breakfast with a good cup of tea in front of a good TV watching BBC Breakfast. Now that's what I call LIFE!

A quick morning shower is vital. There're 6 of us here, and spending less than 7 minutes each is favourable, especially on Tuesday when everyone's class starts at 9!

And that's how my typical day starts. Everyday is a wonderful day, in'it?

Malaya: 10 Years Before Independence

Click To Play

I must say that this is a brilliant, must-see documentary for those who love our nation.

The British people believe in themselves. Why not us?

2 recent events that struck me in writing this post are as follows.

Cardiff University Labour Students Weekly Meeting
It was my first time coming to this meeting, since I missed the 1st two due to the residential fieldtrip I went earlier. The 1st half an hour was pretty much annoying. The Chair came and distributed some newspapers, and people chatting about their lives with each other.

It was in the 2nd half of the meeting when the discussion came about. A few issues were discussed, primarily on taxes, 'war against terror', education and ID cards. Of all our debates and arguments, the 'Statement For The Day' that really caught my attention was " it is our duty and responsibility to make things right. We practice democracy, they're not. We're in peace, they're not. So it was a good idea, initially, to go to Iraq and sort 'em out!" How's that for an argument? Not too bad, I guess.

Today's Hottest News: Britain's Move To Reject Referendum
Gordon Brown is going to address Britain's European Union partners that his country will not agree on the proposed treaty that goes for a standardized social & labour laws, common law, police & judicial processes, foreign and defence policies, tax and social security systems. While propagating a free-trade market, Britain's denial in agreeing with the treaty is claimed to be caused by their sensitivity towards the country's "red-line" and sovereignity.

Now, I'm not interested in arguing on the details of both events.

It is now becoming clearer to me that one could not standardize everything. This applies to idealism, religious practices as well as the rule of law. Humans are collectively brought up in their own unique environment, and this develops their nature of behaviour, belief, cultural practices and perceptions. These respective groups of people have shared interests within their own community boundary.

It's because of these differences that some groups feel superior and the rest might face a problem of inferiority complex, justified by the progress showed by them in their own rat race. The former gets stronger and feels superior while the latter feels a little bit 'behind par'. Possible outcome? The inferior ones might prostitute their initial value/system for the superiors'. This further enhances positive feedback mechanism to the whole system.

But wait! There are certain occasions that the 'big guys' would not want to follow others' agreed-upon ideas. Let's have the British government as our case study.

Earlier between the 15th and 19th century, they went all over the world to 'sort things out' and claimed that it's the 'white man's burden' and responsibility to bring a modernised way of living for everyone. They've sent their troops to Iraq a few years back, claiming that the oil-rich country possessed WMD. The UN said no, but they proceeded anyway. Despite the warnings, protests, roundtable discussions, referendum and demonstrations exhibited by the global community, they just proceed with their own agenda.

My point here is that: it's the British solid, bold attitude that had shaped what they are today! They believe and proud of themselves.

So are/can/must we! Believe in ourselves, mate!
It's a world of grey areas, mate, and there are loads of it!

I'll be going to the Palestinian Solidarity Society meeting in a shortwhile. In case if you're interested to come, if it's not too late to mention, we'll be at the Rona Griffith room, 4th Floor in the Students Union.

Eid Mubaarak

Selamat Hari Raya Aidilfitri

Eid Mubaarak

Happy Eid Celebration

(kudos to Rafie for producing this wonderful piece of art for me)

... to all Muslims, wherever you are!

It is only today that I managed to get hold of my computer after 5 days of fieldtrip at Land's End & 2 full days of celebrating Eid. Works piled up and my email inbox fattened enormously! It was a challenging fieldtrip for me since there was no O2 coverage at the sites I went for my residential outing! Apparently my family had a wonderful Eid celebration back home in Malaysia, which I could tell from my brother's blog post here.

Anyway, it was a great experience. I learnt more about the local community, socialising with the British, appreciating our differences, and at the same time, share my fasting experiences with them. It was an amazing memorabilia that I realized that a Muslim should not separate themselves in their own coccoon. I am a Malaysian by nationality, a Muslim by religion and a citizen of planet Earth. My point here is that Muslims should not act or feel excluded or excluding themselves from the global community, hence creating a community identified as the Muslim ethnic minority.

Some people might have confused between religious wisdoms and ethnic cultural practices. One who holds the principles of religious wisdoms will share tonnes of positive values of the global community. One who only restricted themselves to their ethnic cultural practices MIGHT get confused if they jump into a community of a new pool of people.

As a response to Mr/Ms Anonymous (I think it's a SHE. I might be wrong) who commented in my previous post, I thank you for giving a thoughtful comment.I have read a number of Hassan al-Banna's, Syed Qutb's & al-Maududi's writings, and agreed on some of your points. Yet, I have also read other books written by Thomas L Friedman, Dave Pelzer, Tariq Ramadan and a few others. We have to bear in mind that Islam is a religion that contains highly-valued codes of behaviour, conduct and practices. A white British Catholic lady who keeps her promises at all times and takes good care of her children should be praised for having, potraying & practicing positive attitude, which is Islamic. What is not 'SYAR'IE' with that?

Avram; give him a chance to head Chelsea!

There had been loads of news circulating in tabloids, internet & TV programmes on the downfall of the Chelsea empire. The 'Special One' has left Stamford Bridge, and rumors of disputes between the owner & administrators mushroomed at a tremendous rate. Everyone seemed to be talking about Chelsea!

Those whom only give their support to Chelsea within the period of Mourinho's service should be pitied. Poor them.

Chelsea has been playing great football so far. They might not put a fancy and creative play on the field as what Arsenal does, but they've been showed a lot of powerful, enthralling performances. With Lampard's amazing strikes, Drogba's strong built, Joe Cole's agility, Makelele's confidence, Essien's calm composure, I believe that Chelsea have proven to be one of the most exciting team to watch over in the English Premier League!

Recently, there was a problem. Mourinho left. Avram Grant (who's he?!) took over. 1st Game:
Man Utd 2 - 0 Chelsea
Despite the 4-0 win in the Carling Cup action against Hull, Chelsea was hold back 0-0 to Fulham.

Oh yes, there was also this fact that since the manager is a Jew/Israeli, "i'm not going to support Chelsea anymore".

Now, here are my arguments:

• The name in front of the shirt is more important the one at the back. Club's first, individual later. People come people go, mate, but the club will always be there.
• For goodness sake, give Grant a chance! He's just about to practice his authority in the club.
• The club has a great history, great supporters, great players and fantastic play of football.
  
• To condemn the act of the Israeli government in causing a series of massacre in Palestine is an issue. But to relate Grant to the issue mentioned is unfair. It's not like Arsenal in promoting 'Think Israel' in one of their adverts!

To those of you whom have no idea on the things I've discussed here, do go to ESPN Soccernet and spend some time understanding Chelsea's current situation. You'll be amazed on the things you might learn from them, such as:

• Managing crises.
• Scouting the right people to be installed at the right position.
• Handling the press.
• Dealing with possible interests from outsiders/agents/managers/coaches etc.
• Struggling to maintain the team's morale & composure in difficult times, and win games at the same time!

and many more! For the love of the game!

5 top reasons why you should collect books!

I have been picking up a habit of buying second-hand books lately. Great books can sometimes be found at the price range of 25 - 50 pence each! Hence that answers the pile of books in my room. I'm giving you my 5 top reasons why you should be collecting books as well.

1. Those who create a library create a life -a friend-
2. Collecting books encourages you to read more.
3. A great way of decorating your room.
4. Attracts more friends who share the same interest.
5. You'll eventually feel your IQ is increased significantly everytime you have a good 10-seconds look at your collection!

So far, I've spent about 3 pounds per visit to a carboot sale to buy books. Will get more of 'em later.

There are a few things which I'd like to share with you for now.

1. I came across a good online photo editor, tried it, and found it to be an exciting toy to play with. Picnik.com. Try it here!
2. 'Projek Kalsom 13' video has been uploaded by Ang & Markus. Click here to watch it on YouTube, or here to browse through its website.
3. There has been a major crisis between the leaders and protestors of Burma. Loads of civilians have been oppressed by the military dictatorship for years. Please kindly sign the petition to 'Stand with the Burmese Protestors' here. Every support counts.
   
4. I'll be out for 5 days to Dorset & Devon for a residential fieldtrip. Will be back on Friday night.

That's all for now. God bless

2008: International Year of Planet Earth (IYPE)

The year 2008 has been proclaimed as the IYPE by the United Nation's General Assembly. Despite having a list of virtuous programmes to run throughout the year, there're merely a small number of people who know this. Publicity is lacking. All nations should take the initiative in promoting IYPE, primarily to enhance the understanding of the importance of earth systems.

Click here to read more on the IYPE Student Contest organised by National IYPE Committee.
Winners will receive an invitation to attend the four-day (11-14 Feb 2008) Global Launch Event of the IYPE in Paris. Fully sponsored.

Good enough to motivate me to participate!

Cardiff University Students' Union organised the Freshers Fair 2008 today.
I'm now a member of 4 exciting societies this year!

Quotes on LEADERSHIP to ponder upon

*(from left) Lopes, Hadi & me during the UKEC Council meeting last year in October

I came across this list of a great leader's criteria that I wish to share with everyone here:

1. The LEADER must have a dream larger than those he/she leads.
2. The LEADER must have an attitude superior than those he/she leads.
3. The LEADER is responsible and admits when he/she made a mistake.
4. The LEADER is a decision maker.
5. The LEADER puts those he/she leads first.
6. The LEADER sets the example by being in front of the pack.
7. The LEADER displays a commitment to integrity and character.
8. The LEADER strives in excellence in all things.
9. The LEADER displays a commitment in personal growth.
10. The LEADER has the highest level of persistence and determination.

Here's a quote which I got that exemplifies the courage behind an inspirational leader:

"I will persist until I succeed. I was not delivered unto this world in defeat, nor does failure course in my veins. I am not a sheep waiting to be prodded by my shepherd. I am a lion and I refuse to talk, to walk, or to sleep with the sheep. I will hear not those who weep and complain, for their disease is contagious. Let them join the sheep. The slaughterhouse of failure is NOT in my destiny!"

Learn to lead, for you will then succeed!

Which society to join, and which not?

The Societies Fair will be held at the Student Union's Great Hall, commencing at 10.00am. This is one of the annual attractions of the Student Union where clubs & societies compete with each other in recruiting new members. The societies' previous activities will be on display as well as the plans throughout the year.

* Picture taken during Perantau Cup, Manchester

I will list a few criteria which you might want to ponder on while giving yourself some time to choose the society you'd like to join

1. If you are a newcomer to the university, you might want to join a society that is closely attached to your identity; Islamic Society, Jewish Society, Malaysian Society, Japanese Society and so on. These societies have the potential of attracting members of the same background as you, hence making it easy for you to mingle with your close-knit community.

2. If you have been joining one or two societies before, I'd recommend you to stick on the same society, but do take the opportunity to rise in the ranks. This is a chance for you to learn & develop your leadership skills. Get new experience in organising & explaining your plans for new members. New members normally would respect you because of your experience. Don't worry too much on your capability in becoming a great leader because everyone makes mistakes! Learn, coz the biggest room in the world is the room for improvement!

3. You might feel that you've had enough with the society you've joined for 2 years in a row, so now's the time to take up a new challenge. Try out other societies which could provide you a platform to explore your inner talents to a greater stage.

a. Political-based society (Labor, Conservative, LibDems) if you'd like to learn more on British politics
b. Charity-based society (SVC, BACCUP etc) if you want to know how to run a charity, non-profit organisation in the future
c. Missionary-type society (Islamic, FOSIS, Jew etc) are for those who'd like to do some missionary work.

Don't worry of not getting a high position. It's the exposure that counts! Focus on your attitude, coz where focus goes, energy flows. Positive attitude creates greater aptitude, which directly brings you to a higher altitude!

Political Move

What's that?

My definition of the phrase is simple: doing things while others don't exactly know your underlying intentions.

I learnt a lot of this when I was in Malaysia, and successfully applied in a few occasions. Here are some cases you'd probably interested to study:

1. Walking in a group with a married couple.
Suppose you're having a vacation somewhere exotic with a group of friends. It so happen that there's 1 married couple amongst the herd. You guys were walking upstream by the river. Knowing that the married couple need to spend a little time together, you'd probably have to do something.
Political move: Get in front of the herd unnoticeably. Keep talking until you feel that it's the right time to stop the group. Tell them you're shoelaces are untied. Take your time. At the same time, engage in a conversation on the current scenery. Continue walking after stopping for a while.
Intention: Let the married couple walk further in front a little bit. They might want to chat on something in private. Your friends might not notice this, but the married couple will surely appreciate your effort!

2. Taking ablution (read: wudhu') while the kids are praying
Suppose you and a few friends came to prayer room with kids whom you're confident enough they've not reach puberty. They are praying in congregation. You might not want to join the congregational prayer (read: jama'ah), yet you do not want to potray that you're a lazy guy hanging around outside the prayer room.
Political move: Invite your friends to repeat your ablution. Say to them that it's absolutely fine to take ablution more than once. Do it slowly. Normally kids pray at an amazing speed. Proceed to the prayer room when they've given their salam.
Intention: This is much related to the sciences (read: fiqh) of praying, on which I might not want to explain further. Please Google the relevan sites.

3. Becoming the Imam of a prayer in a congested prayer room
This normally occur in public buildings such as offices, train stations, airports etc. Suppose you enter a common prayer room of a public place and the room is already congested with people praying and leaving. The new ones came and prayed alone at any free spots. Yet, there're plenty of people waiting in line to pray.
Political move: Take your ablution as quick as possible. Go into the room and find someone who'd willing to pray together. Proceed to the front of the room. Be the Imam. Recite the takbir and surah aloud (which doesn't distract others whom are praying by themselves).
Intention: Besides striving to attain greater reward (read: Ajr), we have to consider those whom are waiting. People will notice that you're praying in jama'ah. Those whom had done will leave the front lines, and the new ones will join. Eventually, you've created spaces for the rest to pray comfortably!

Morale of these stories: THINK before you ACT/SAY

Taking screenshots, anyone?

I just learnt this cool technique on taking a screenshot of the website you're watching! It's quite simple, really, and it could be used in so many ways. Your imagination is its limitation. Here's how:

A. Taking a screenshot of a website

1. Go to any website that you like
2. Press the 'Prt Scr' button on your keyboard (it's located right next to your F12 key)
3. Open up 'Paint'
4. Go to 'Edit', and click on 'Paste'
5. Save it to any folder that you prefer
6. Upload it to your blog!

B. Taking a screenshot of the window you're looking at.

1. Select a window from a website that you're browsing
2. Press these 2 keys together: 'Alt' + 'Prt Scr'
3. Follow step 3 in A onwards!

Pretty cool, huh? Here're some samples that I took.... Give it a try, and let me know if you like it.

my own blog

one of my best friends' blog

my other best friend's blog

Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) ?! Yeah right!

I'm putting up a chat dialogue between me and a dear friend minutes ago. Enjoy!

Azad: takde kelas ke harini?
Encik Ano: ade
Encik Ano: in 6 minutes
Encik Ano: minggu ni banyak kelas
Azad: ic, selamat!
Azad: eh chop....Puan Ano pon lecturer gak ke?
affendi dydd: yo
Azad: oo
Encik Ano: my family semua lecturers dan teachers
Azad: memang minat?
Encik Ano: yo
Azad: ic
Encik Ano: dan esp sbb ia kerja yg muah
Encik Ano: mudah
Encik Ano: dapat cuti
Encik Ano: keskes
Azad: there are a few ppl in my family teachers gak....tapi a mix of teachers, army n doctors
Azad: haaa....tu yg best tu
Encik Ano: salary not high but you could claim this and that
Encik Ano: and frequently ade seminars atau kursus kena pergi
Azad: like how often?
Encik Ano: where it happens at a far away islands and exotic places
Encik Ano: like one eveyr two months
Encik Ano: semua ongkos ditanggung
Azad: for a university or for 1 lecturer?
Encik Ano: boleh claim up to rm5000
Encik Ano: per lecturer
Azad: whoa
Encik Ano: eh 500rm
Encik Ano: per trip
Azad: interesting
Encik Ano: so jgn terkejut if suddenly i am at redang, or langkawi having a good time
Azad: hehe
Azad: im more interested in becoming rich
Encik Ano: thsi is one o fthe way
Azad: going to the corporate world, inshaAllah
Encik Ano: sini boleh jadi korporat gak
Encik Ano: e.g. boleh jual ******* secara sambila di kawasan kampus
Azad: tapi recently met a few occasions which was very unexpected n depressing
Encik Ano: profit like rm**** per month
Encik Ano: such as?
Azad: i just came to know
Azad: that charity organisations were 'used' by corporates to ease their dealings
Azad: i wouldnt mind them wanting to exempt their tax through donations or other CSR
Azad: tapi, something like
Azad: say
Azad: my company has a lot of legal problem
Azad: n i'll be busted in months to go if i dont seek some professional legal advice n making connections with certain people
Azad: so
Azad: i'll go for a charity org, invite my friends whom match the criteria mention above
Azad: n proceed with my dealings
Azad: that made my connection with my friends valid
Azad: under the banner of 'helping each others out in charity'
Encik Ano: haha
Encik Ano: open secret sbnrnya
Encik Ano: but a good blog entry if you may want tow rite on it
Azad: i never tot about dis
Encik Ano: i gtg
Azad: ok
Encik Ano: dah two mins late
Encik Ano: chat up later

Retaining the original dialogue is better than writing a whole new article on the topic, i guess.

Still want to be a corporate?
Oh yes, you bet!

Reviewing MSLS

An article written by a good friend on 'Projek Kalsom 13 Perlis' was published in The Star a few days back. Click here to read it.

I think I must've written somewhere on MSLS in my previous post. To those who did not have a chance to be part of the event, I'd say the programme was a good one for idealists (university students alike), generally speaking. Not to mention that there're always room for improvement.

I'm just going to copy-&-paste (thanks to Izwan Ismail for the content) the resolution made by the participants of MSLS 2007.

Here goes....

----------------

Theme: Remembering 50 Years Independence
Malaysian Students Leadership Development Initiative

The MSLS Declaration
5th August 2007
Hotel Nikko, Kuala Lumpur

Kumpulan Tunku Abdul Rahman

This group concentrated on discussing issues related to Democracy and Transparency in Malaysia, in line with the fact that Tunku Abdul Rahman as the founding father of the nation had to deal with these issues.

The group believes in democracy in line with the principles of Separation of Powers and the Rule of Law, therefore believing:

1. In an independent and impartial Judiciary; where the appointment process of the Chief Justice of Malaysia includes a time frame for valid objections to surface.
2. In a free press; where, inter alia, the decision of the Minister in matters pertaining to the issuance and renewal of media licenses are subject to judicial review.
3. that Parliament’s first duty is to the people; where a Parliamentarian votes according to his or her conscience, taking into account the sentiments of his or her constituents.
4. In the freedom of speech; where inter alia, preventive detention laws are not used arbitrarily for political ends.
5. In absolute free and fair elections; thus we commend the Elections Commission in its move to increase transparency and public confidence in the electoral process, especially in the usage of indelible ink.

Kumpulan Tun Abdul Razak

This group concentrated on discussing issues related to Education in Malaysia, in line with the fact that Tun Abdul Razak came up with the Penyata Razak which was a foundation to the Education system in Malaysia.

The group believes in the 5 Guiding Principles:

A. EMPOWERMENT
-Lifelong learning @ learning culture.
-Educators, parents and students.
-Recognizing that every individual is different.

B. DEPOLITICISATION OF EDUCATION
-Subjects at primary and secondary level.
-Administration
-Promotion: Scrap PTK!

C. FUNDING AND TREATMENT
-Equality for all institutions.
-Urban/rural divide.
-Public/private.

D. AUTONOMY
-Community involvement (Parents & teachers).
-Academic freedom for ALL!
-Interdisciplinary studies.
-Different means to the same standard.

E. SYLLABUS AND RESEARCH
-Thinking rather than memorization.
-Researching culture!
-Long term benefits instead of immediate returns..

Kumpulan Tun Hussein Onn

This group concentrated on discussing issues related to Unity in Diversity in Malaysia, in line with the fact that Tun Hussein Onn was well known as Bapa Perpaduan Malaysia.

The group:

1. recognizes that national economic policies, it’s implementations and continuity should focus on the eradication of poverty instead of awarding unneeded privileges to any racial communities
2. recognizes that there should be national schools which truly cater for the need of different racial communities ;
- In particular the teaching of cultural history in schools
3. rejects any form of ethno-religious politics that creates discontent between racial communities;
- In particular on the part of the politicians and the media
4. recognizes that the Malaysian identity should be based upon embracing diversity
5. recognizes the need to encourage meritocracy, transparency, accountability and general equality to reduce disparity amongst racial communities;
- In particular the implementation of the duty to give reasons for public decisions

Kumpulan Tun Dr Mahathir Mohamed

This group concentrated on discussing issues related to the Corporate sector in Malaysia, in line with the fact that Tun Dr Mahathir Mohamed was well known as Bapa Pemodenan Malaysia.

The group separates the issue into:

A. PROBLEMS:
1. Corruption
2. Corporate social responsibility
3. Hardcore poor
4. Benchmarking of competition

B. RESOLUTIONS:
1. 3 legged-model
• self discipline
• market discipline
• regulatory discipline
2. Lower taxes for those who practise corporate social responsibility
3. To support the GLC model and we support that the Government provides essential services under the Government.
4. Implementation of Key Performance Indicators (KPI) must improve.
5. Encourage research & development through fiscal benefits and attracting better human resources as well as increasing marketing standards.

Kumpulan Dr Ismail

This group concentrated on discussing issues related to the National Economic Policy.

The group:

1. Acknowledges the successes of the NEP in enlarging the middle class and reducing racial tensions.
2. Emphasizes the need to implement the original tenet of the NEP ;
- ie Poverty eradication regardless of race as well as increasing efforts to reduce income inequality
3. Agrees that to be against any attempt to exploit the NEP to enrich the few or to gain political capital, it proposes an independent watch dog to police these concerns
4. Believes there should be efforts to gauge public opinion of the NEP
5. Suggests promoting awareness as well as rational and tolerant discussion of the NEP and it’s effects on all stakeholders
6. Believes any prospective reform/non-reform should be based on points 4 and 5

Kumpulan Ghafar Baba

This group concentrated on discussing issues related to the Media control in Malaysia.

The group discussed on:

1. Exposure: Usage of media to promote
2. Quality of content
3. Disallow political parties to have ownership – “Direct/indirect”
4. Reorganization to ensure more transparency to maintain a balanced/tolerating exposure to public
5. Regulatory body consisting of government, media and public; for better sense of censorship

Kumpulan V Sambanthan

This group concentrated on discussing issues related to the Environment issues in Malaysia.

The group believes:

1. That Humanity and the environment interact through technology and it is our responsibilty to use efficient technology to ensure sustainable development.
- Technology here is defined as the means to all human ends. This is not restricted to scientific/electronic devices, but also organizations, corporations, legislations and economic structure
2. To improve technology by importing existing technology, inventing new technology, and implementing new technologies effectively.
3. To improve ourselves via education and empowerment
4. In creating awareness, using the following avenues :
- Education, incorporating environmental awareness since young
- School campaigns involving students and public
- Mass media, through the innovative of reality tv and media campaigns
5. In highly recommending the government in encouraging careers in environmental management through a systematic performance oriented system of incentives.
6. In condemning any lax enforcement of environmental governance and hope that the government will attract the right people in the sector who are passionate and responsible.
7. In imploring all Malaysians through their sense of morality to be vigilant against pollution and champion environmental injustices.
8. To appeal to all Malaysians whether students, regular citizens, corporate leaders or political leaders to encourage the fellow humans in all arena whether work, home or academia to adhere to these standards and further spread the words for a better Malaysia and the world

Kumpulan Cheng Lock

This group concentrated on discussing issues related to the Foreign Policy in Malaysia.

The group believes:

1. To be firm in foreign policies by having more assertive leaders who execute the nation stand, preserving neutrality and the integrity of the federal constitution
2. To participate pro actively in various international organizations and alliances as well as to sign and ratify international accords which produce win-win synergy.
3. Boosting Malaysia’s economic growth through exchange foreign expertise while collaborating in the field of science and technology
4. Establishment of Malaysia as an education hub through mutual exchange of culture and knowledge whilst strengthening foreign ties
5. To address environmental issues more openly and to undertake pro active approach in the exchange of research findings dedicated to environmental conservations

Kumpulan Siew Sin

This group concentrated on discussing issues related to the Malaysian Economy.

The group believes:

1. in revamping the education system to produce a dynamic workforce which can adapt easily to face the demands of an ever-changing world economy
2. in diversifying the economy by intensifying R&D through sharing expertise bilaterally, regionally and internationally to kick start/improve identified areas of growth
3. in setting up proper conditional protectionism guidelines to ensure that infant industries thrive and are able to eventually compete globally
4. that economic development must benefit everyone.
5. to eradicate corruption and promote good governance
6. in ensuring sustainable development in order
7. in improving and promoting financial and economic literacy (ie reaching out to the ordinary citizen)

Kumpulan Temenggung Jugah

This group concentrated on discussing issues related to the Human Rights issues in Malaysia.

The group calls upon:

- the Government to stop misusing Acts of Parliament passed for the specific purpose of combating communism/terrorism against citizens who are exercising their lawful rights of freedom of opinion, speech, and expression;
- Malaysia to sign the Universal Declaration of Human Rights and ratify it with an Act of Parliament, hence empowering the Courts; and
- the provision for judicial review against all arbitrary decisions by the Government violating human rights.

The group proposes:

- for the incorporation of human rights and civil liberties in the national education curriculum; and
- for the mass media to take up the watchdog role against violations of human rights and to educate the public about these rights.