Pak Lah - life after Perdana Putra

Abdullah: PAS' Welfare-State Stance A Bait for Non-Muslim Voters

2011-06-12T22:31:00.000-07:00

Sunday, 12 June 2011 17:43

KEPALA BATAS, 12 JUNE, 2011: PAS' changed struggle for the establishment of an Islamic state to a welfare state is seen as a bait to draw support from non-Muslim voters.

Former prime minister Tun Abdullah Ahmad Badawi said PAS' changed stance showed that it had lost its direction and objective.

Abdullah who is also Kepala Batas MP and Umno division chief, said PAS was trying to copy the Barisan Nasional (BM) government which had been implementing the welfare state concept since the days of the country's first prime minister.

"The people have until today been enjoying the benefits, such as education," he said after opening the division's delegates' conference at the Kepala Batas Industrial Training Institute, here, today.

Last week, PAS president Datuk Seri Abdul Hadi Awang in his policy speech at the party's general assembly said PAS was now focusing on the establishment of a welfare state as its partners in the opposition pact was fighting for the same while there was no mention of Islamic state in the Quran.

On the move by the Penang government for elections to be held to choose the mosque committees in the state, Abdullah disagreed with this as it could divide the local Muslim communities due to friction caused by factions, tension and political interference.

He said the present method used through consultations among the committee members should be maintained as it had not caused any major problems all this while.

"Harmony within a mosque committee and among the congregation must be preserved to protect the sanctity of the mosque," he advised.

On the Coalition for Clean and Fair Elections (Bersih)'s plan to hold a street demonstration on July 9, the former premier said it would only cause tension and public inconvenience.

Abdullah said such groups and the opposition were willing to sacrifice the country's peace and security through illegal demonstrations which would not benefit anyone.

He advised the public not to join such protest demonstrations as these would not solve the problems, while there were proper channels to air their dissatisfaction or grievances.

"If they insist on demonstrating, then they should gather at a stadium and not on the streets," he said. - Bernama

Awareness campaign on importance of water and conservation

2011-05-27T05:13:00.001-07:00

27 May 2011

IPOH: About 600 international participants will take part in an awareness campaign camp to educate the young generation on the importance of water and conservation of nature to safeguard the planet.

The camp, with the theme Think about Water in conjunction with the World Thinking Day theme this year, will be held at Kem Bina Negara, Ulu Kenas in Kuala Kangsar from Aug 17 to 22.

It is organised by the Girl Guides Association of Malaysia in conjunction with its 90th anniversary celebrations. The association, which was established in 1917 presently has 85,000 members and volunteers nationwide.

The participants of the camp are girls and adult leaders from Malaysia, Singapore, the Maldives, Sri Lanka, Hongkong and the United Kingdom.

Among the activities are jungle-trekking, abseiling, water safety, handicraft, dance and on-site challenges like origami, rock painting, elephant steps, Batu Seremban, giant shoe, congkak and trestle.

The "Science in Camp" activity would include experiments like the purification of water, water clock and acid rain.

Cultural performances by the contingents will be held each night. Evening activities will include the Theme Night, Malaysian Night, International Night and Campfire Night.

The camp will be officiated on Aug 18 by the association’s Perak branch chief, Raja Puan Muda Perak Raja Nor Mahani Raja Shahar Shah. Association president Datin Seri Jeanne Abdullah, wife of Prime Minister Datuk Seri Abdullah Ahmad Badawi, will officiate the Campfire Night and closing ceremony on Aug 21.

Also expected to be present at the closing ceremony are Raja Nor Mahani and Girl Guides Chief Commissioner Datin Zalillah Mohd Taib.

Source: http://www.thesundaily.com/article.cfm?id=24755

Short take: Islam and the West

2011-05-27T05:12:00.000-07:00

26 May 2011

Article by: JOHN RASH , Star Tribune

Noisy, nasty protests over a proposed Islamic community center in lower Manhattan faded from the headlines after the midterm elections, said Imam Feisal Abdul Rauf, chairman of the Cordoba Initiative, an organization dedicated to "improving Muslim-American relations," as well as the man behind the center's plans.

Rauf is in Minneapolis this week, along with former Prime Minister of Malaysia Tun Abdullah Ahmad Badawi, in a visit coordinated by the Minnesota International Center.

Rauf believes the mosque controversy was largely media-generated.

"A small but very vociferous Islamophobic community in the United States began to target us, in partnership with the very extreme right wing, Tea Party, anti-Obama, anti-Democratic kind of coalition," Rauf said.

"And those forces combined with the Rupert Murdoch news machine of Fox News and the New York Post that really targeted us. It wasn't about what we said -- it didn't matter what we said."

But what was played for domestic politics had international implications, said Badawi, who added that the perceptions of how Islam integrates into America's political and social culture may restrict foreign-policy options for the United States.

"If in America we are having problems between Muslims and non-Muslims, then what can we expect from America if they are to play a role in Islamic countries in the Mideast?" Badawi asked, later adding ,"Any kind of intervention or involvement in all these countries must be on the basis of understanding Muslim aspirations."

This perception problem is particularly important as the Obama administration addresses the "Arab Spring" of uprisings roiling North Africa and the Middle East.

The pan-Arabic protest movements are generally led by tech- and media-savvy young citizens who pay attention to how Americans perceive Islam and treat Muslims.

"We have to engage with the Muslim world with great depth, probity and wisdom," said Rauf. "You can't just be the ugly American."

Yet despite the disappointment of how hot the issue became, Rauf believes that, in the end, some good was done: "The optics of a Jewish mayor ... supporting the establishment of what was seen as 'the Ground Zero Mosque' raised America's profile."

John Rash is Star Tribune editorial writer and columnist.

Source: http://www.startribune.com/opinion/otherviews/122691979.html

The Commonwealth: Bringing nations together

2011-05-27T05:10:00.000-07:00

24 May 2011

The Commonwealth has been in existence since 1949. It binds together in voluntary association, the governments and peoples of 54 member countries; from India, the world’s largest democracy; to Tanzania, with its remarkable achievements, history and opportunities; to small, diverse Pacific island nations like Kiribati.

Member countries and their citizens inherit from the Commonwealth's roots a special mix of common values, including democracy, freedom, and the rule of law. Where these values are not always perfectly respected, as is the case in many countries, including my own, Canada, we all commit to strengthening them because they matter.

But many would ask, “Is there is any real point to the Commonwealth - and how does it relate to me?”

Having spent nearly a year as a member of the Commonwealth Eminent Person’s Group, hearing from a broad range of stakeholders about their vision and ideas for the Commonwealth, my response is - unequivocally – YES there is a point, and YES, it does have something to do with each and every Commonwealth citizen, from Africa to Asia, from the Caribbean, to North America, from down under to the UK.

The organisation has a strong foundation, built on important values and principles. But, principles and values mean little to most of us without meaningful action to make them a reality. Based on EPG discussions with people and organisations across the Commonwealth, it seems there is a strong view that if the Commonwealth is to remain relevant and truly serve its citizens, it needs to be more active, coherent and more focused by harnessing its potential to deal with the pressing issues facing our world.

This is particularly true when it comes to issues that touch the daily lives of people throughout the Commonwealth and their prospects for the future. It’s about the Commonwealth providing support and opportunities for young people to become future leaders; it’s about education, training, and exchange programs that will not only provide better economic opportunities for Commonwealth citizens, but facilitate cross-cultural understanding and sharing of experience in the process; it’s about utilising Commonwealth networks and expertise to help societies develop and address pressing challenges, like climate change; and it is about speaking out and taking a stand in the face of atrocities so that people can live in peace and dignity, free from fear.

The Eminent Persons Group (EPG) was created at the 2009 Commonwealth Heads of Government meeting in Trinidad and Tobago as an initiative to help define the Commonwealth’s role for the 21st century. With this objective in mind, I was invited to join a small group of highly accomplished colleagues representing the
geographic diversity of the Commonwealth, under the able chairmanship of Tun Abdullah Ahmad Badawi, former Prime Minister of Malaysia. We all participate in the EPG as individuals – not as representatives of our governments.

Our role as the EPG has been to explore and recommend ways in which the Commonwealth can sharpen its impact, strengthen its networks, and raise its profile to ensure it remains relevant and serves its citizens now and into the future.

In considering the hundreds of submissions we have received, we tried to identify areas in which the Commonwealth has a comparative advantage – a unique opportunity to play a positive, dynamic role, without duplicating the work done by other international institutions – and can have a tangible impact on the lives of Commonwealth citizens.

We’re looking at ways to promote youth development and enterprise, social and political advocacy, election monitoring and support (the Commonwealth had an observer mission for the Tanzanian election in October): to advance initiatives on health, HIV/Aids, climate change; and to ensure that Commonwealth citizens are increasingly active participants in decision-making processes that affect their own lives.

All of these ideas and our provisional recommendations are open for debate and discussion – and the EPG invites comments from the public, from civil society, and from governments of member states until June 15 via the Commonwealth Secretariat website (http://www.thecommonwealth.org/).

Not so long ago, the Commonwealth played a pivotal leadership role on this continent in advocating for the end of apartheid in South Africa and confronting white minority rule in the-then Rhodesia and supporting the front line states that made democracy and fairness their goal.

When President Nelson Mandela was freed from prison, one of his very first visits was to Marlborough House in London (the home of the Commonwealth Secretariat), to express his appreciation for the Commonwealth’s active role in combating apartheid. He thanked the Commonwealth for "making the world safe for diversity" I believe strongly that the Commonwealth has an unprecedented opportunity to increase its impact as a values-based, voluntary association of free nations bound by history, parliamentary democracy and multicultural diversity. Two and a half billion human beings, from every faith, culture, race, language spanning the entire globe is a unique platform on which to advance education, broaden development, enhance rights, promote understanding and combat the narrow and small-minded.

Canadian Senator Hugh Segal is one of the Commonwealth's Eminent Persons. He will be speaking, along with 2 other members of the Eminent Persons Group -- Samuel Kavuma of Uganda and Emmanuel Akwetey of Ghana -- at a free, public event at the British Council today at 5.30pm. All are welcome to attend

Source: http://thecitizen.co.tz/editorial-analysis/-/11260-the-commonwealth-bringing-nations-together

Nik Mustapha dilantik semula sebagai KP IKIM

2011-05-27T05:08:00.001-07:00

18 May 2011

KUALA LUMPUR 18 Mei - Datuk Nik Mustapha Nik Hassan dilantik semula sebagai Ketua Pengarah Institut Kefahaman Islam Malaysia (IKIM) bagi tempoh dua tahun berkuatkuasa 2 Ogos ini.

Pengerusi IKIM Tun Abdullah Ahmad Badawi hari ini berkata, pelantikan semula itu dibuat oleh Perdana Menteri Datuk Seri Najib Tun Razak.

Nik Mustapha, 58, lulusan Ijazah Sarjana dalam bidang ekonomi dan perniagaan dari Universiti Ohio, Amerika Syarikat menyandang jawatan itu sejak Ogos 2009, dan merupakan Ketua Pengarah IKIM yang keempat.

"Pihak IKIM mengucapkan terima kasih kepada Perdana Menteri atas pelantikan semula itu dan berharap IKIM akan terus menggandakan usaha untuk meningkatkan kefahaman Islam baik di Malaysia mahupun di peringkat dunia,” kata Abdullah dalam satu kenyataan hari ini.

IKIM, yang ditubuhkan pada 18 Februari 1992, bertujuan mencerminkan kefahaman Islam yang tepat kepada orang ramai melalui pelbagai usaha, seperti penyelidikan, seminar, bengkel, forum, perundingan, latihan, penerbitan dan siaran Radio IKIMfm. - Bernama

Contohi strategi perdagangan inklusif China

2011-05-27T05:07:00.001-07:00

28 April 2011

KUALA LUMPUR 28 April - Malaysia disaran mencontohi strategi perdagangan inklusif yang digunakan China iaitu menjalankan perniagaan di seluruh dunia.

Bekas Perdana Menteri, Tun Abdullah Ahmad Badawi berkata, strategi itu amat berkesan sehingga republik tersebut berjaya menjadi antara kuasa ekonomi yang disegani dunia.

"China menjalinkan hubungan perdagangan secara inklusif tidak kira dengan negara miskin, kaya, kuasa besar atau bukan kuasa besar dunia.

"Pendekatan ini diterima baik banyak pihak dan hasilnya semakin banyak negara menjalankan perdagangan dengan China," katanya selepas mengadakan pertemuan dengan Perdana Menteri China, Wen Jiabao di sini, hari ini.

Selain Abdullah, seorang lagi bekas Perdana Menteri, Tun Dr. Mahathir Mohamad turut mengadakan pertemuan dengan Jiabao.

Dr. Mahathir yang ditemui selepas majlis itu pula menganggap perjumpaannya dengan Jiabao lebih merupakan pertemuan di antara dua sahabat lama.

Menurutnya, dalam pertemuan berkenaan, mereka membincangkan isu persahabatan kerana keakraban hubungan dua hala di antara Malaysia dengan China sejak sekian lama.

Diminta mengulas persepsi Jiabao terhadap perkembangan politik di Malaysia, Dr. Mahathir berkata, Perdana Menteri China itu cuma menegaskan beliau sangat menghargai hubungan antara kedua-dua negara.

"Selain itu, kita membincangkan mengenai kerjasama antara Malaysia dan China pada masa depan, gabungan dengan ASEAN serta kepentingan kerjasama antara ASEAN," katanya.

Source: http://www.utusan.com.my/utusan/info.asp?y=2011&dt=0429&pub=utusan_malaysia&sec=Dalam_Negeri&pg=dn_05.htm&arc=hive

Transformasi sistem perundangan Islam

2011-05-27T05:06:00.001-07:00

5 April 2011

KUALA LUMPUR 5 April - Pelaksanaan sistem perundangan Islam di negara ini perlu ditransformasi ke arah lebih dinamik sebagai persediaan menghadapi cabaran dan permasalahan yang wujud pada masa kini.

Pengerusi Institut Kefahaman Islam Malaysia (IKIM), Tun Abdullah Ahmad Badawi berkata, transformasi tersebut harus bermula dengan pemerkasaan peranan sultan dan raja sebagai ketua agama Islam selain jentera penggerak yang terdiri daripada agensi-agensi Islam.

''Penjenamaan semula terhadap agensi-agensi yang terlibat ini menggambarkan perubahan yang lebih bertenaga dan cekap dalam mendepani atau mengurus permasalahan semasa umat Islam.

''Selain itu, nilai-nilai kreativiti dan empati dalam menyelesaikan segala isu masyarakat Islam harus ditingkatkan supaya suara hati mereka dipenuhi,'' katanya.

Beliau berucap pada majlis perasmian Konvensyen Pemacuan Transformasi Sistem Perundangan Islam di Malaysia yang dirasmikan oleh Sultan Selangor, Sultan Sharafuddin Idris Shah.

Menurut Abdullah, pemerkasaan agensi-agensi Islam harus bergerak serentak dengan semangat saling bekerjasama supaya kekuatan komponen sistem perundangan Islam digembleng secara sempurna dan menyeluruh.

Katanya, pertubuhan bukan kerajaan (NGO) dan persatuan berkaitan perlu diberi penambahbaikan agar dapat menyerlahkan peranan mereka sebagai penghubung antara kerajaan dan masyarakat.

''Institusi pendidikan yang bakal melahirkan graduan perundangan perlu menyambut gelombang transformasi ini bagi melahirkan golongan pelapis yang mempunyai kemampuan dan kredibiliti.

''Kita tidak mahu kepincangan berlaku kerana kekurangan ini yang akan menyebabkan kapasiti yang diperlukan tidak mencukupi untuk membuat lonjakan jauh,'' katanya.

Sehubungan itu, katanya, IKIM memulakan langkah dengan mewujudkan satu jawatankuasa penyelidik bagi menyediakan pelan strategik yang lengkap bagi tujuan transformasi itu.

Jawatankuasa itu akan disertai bersama Jabatan Kemajuan Islam Malaysia (Jakim), Jabatan Kehakiman Syariah Malaysia (JKSM), Jabatan Peguam Negara (Seksyen Syariah), Jabatan Bantuan Guaman (JBG) selain pakar akademik, pertubuhan dan persatuan serta perunding berkaitan.

Source: http://www.utusan.com.my/utusan/info.asp?y=2011&dt=0406&pub=utusan_malaysia&sec=Dalam_Negeri&pg=dn_09.htm&arc=hive

World Halal Forum promotes integrated economy

2011-05-27T05:05:00.000-07:00

5 April 2011

KUALA LUMPUR: The strong emphasis of the World Halal Forum (WHF) was on the convergence of the halal goods and services industry and Islamic finance into an integrated halal economy estimated to be worth several trillion US dollars.

The global halal food industry is estimated at US$661bil and growing at a rapid 20% per annum, driven by an increasing population and an under-served market.

Speaking at the launch of the WHF yesterday, former Prime Minister Tun Abdullah Ahmad Badawi said he was optimistic on the prospects of the halal economy and the forum would increase the branding of Malaysia.

“We have a big hub for the halal industry in Malaysia. It is getting bigger and bigger. More people are showing interest in our services and products,” he said.

Jumaatun Azmi, founder and managing director of Kasehdia Sdn Bhd, which organised the WHF, said the halal industry could not be ignored because of the size of the market.

“There are 1.7 billion Muslims in the world, so that is the third largest market after China and India. Islam is also the fastest growing religion by virtue of birth rates,” she said.

Hala Industry Development Corp Sdn Bhd managing director/CEO Datuk Seri Jamil Bidin added that Malaysia’s halal industry was worth RM15bil, and was growing by 5% every year.

“By 2020, we see the halal industry contributing 5% to Malaysia’s gross domestic product, with a huge portion of this coming from the services sector,” he said. Jamil expected strong growth from non- Muslim countries.

He said the halal industry was no longer confined to the Muslims and industry would grow because there was also more interest from non-Muslims, as halal promoted cleanliness and safety.

HSBC Amanah Malaysia Bhd CEO Rafe Haneef said Islamic finance was part of the halal food chain. He said that most Islamic banks worked in an infrastructure of a conventional bank. For people who want to participate in Islamic finance, Rafe Haneef said: “How Islamic do you want to be? In Islamic finance for instance, riba (interest) is considered unlawful. Does this mean the prohibition of riba only applies to compound interest and not simple interest? No, because profit is lawful.”

Rafe said interest was meant for loan payment. “When a borrower seeks more time to repay the money borrowed, the lender is entitled to claim compensation for the loss suffered due to the delay,” he said.

“Over time, the lenders argued that if they can charge double the amount of the original loan as interest for additional time for payment surely there is less harm if the lender is allowed to charge nominal interest say 5%, for the original loan period,” said Rafe.

Source: http://biz.thestar.com.my/news/story.asp?file=/2011/4/5/business/8413539&sec=business

PKFZ: Abdullah saksi utama pendakwaan kes Chan Kong Choy

2011-05-27T05:03:00.001-07:00

31 March 2011

PUTRAJAYA 31 Mac - Tun Abdullah Ahmad Badawi akan memberi keterangan sebagai saksi utama perbicaraan kes bekas Menteri Pengangkutan, Tan Sri Chan Kong Choy berhubung skandal Zon Bebas Pelabuhan Klang (PKFZ) melibatkan kos pembangunan hampir RM1.9 bilion.

Bekas Perdana Menteri itu tersenarai sebagai salah seorang saksi penting pendakwaan selepas namanya dinyatakan dalam tiga tuduhan menipu yang dihadapi oleh bekas menteri Kabinetnya.

Timbalan Pendakwa Raya, Dzulkifli Ahmad memberitahu Mahkamah Sesyen di sini hari ini, seramai 15 saksi akan dipanggil memberi keterangan pada perbicaraan tersebut.

Hakim Azhaniz Teh Azman Teh menetapkan 10 Mei ini untuk sebutan menentukan tarikh perbicaraan dan perkembangan sama ada kes itu akan didengar di Mahkamah Sesyen atau Mahkamah Tinggi.

Sebelum itu, peguam Arthur Wang yang mewakili Kong Choy memaklumkan pihaknya sedang menimbang untuk mengemukakan permohonan agar perbicaraan dipindahkan ke Mahkamah Tinggi.

Terdahulu, Dzulkifli memberitahu mahkamah, pihak pendakwaan sudah menyerahkan 19 set dokumen kepada pihak pembelaan seperti yang dikehendaki di bawah Seksyen 51A Kanun Tatacara Jenayah.

Arthur pula berkata, dokumen-dokumen itu yang diterima pagi semalam antaranya merupakan dokumen sulit kerajaan dan ia perlu diklasifikasikan semula untuk kegunaan pada perbicaraan kelak.

Kong Choy, 55, meminta dibicarakan atas tuduhan menyembunyikan fakta mengenai pembiayaan kos pembangunan sehingga Abdullah bersetuju supaya kelulusan diberikan kepada Kuala Dimensi Sdn. Bhd. (KDSB) selaku pemaju siap guna (turnkey developer).

Projek pembangunan itu ialah Transshipment Hub di Zon Bebas Pulau Indah, kerja-kerja pembangunan tambahan bagi projek PKFZ dan lima fasa pembangunan tambahan bagi projek yang sama.

Fakta-fakta yang disembunyikan adalah pembiayaan tersebut akan dibiayai melalui terbitan bon oleh KDSB melalui tiga syarikat, Transshipment Megahub Bhd., Valid Ventures Bhd. dan Free Zone Capital Bhd. dengan sokongan Kerajaan Malaysia menerusi Menteri Pengangkutan.

Abdullah selaku Perdana Menteri (ketika itu) tidak akan memberikan persetujuan jika fakta-fakta tersebut dimaklumkan kepada beliau. Ketiga-tiga tuduhan didakwa dilakukan di antara 24 Februari 2004 dan 29 Mac 2006 di Tingkat 4, Blok Utama, Pejabat Perdana Menteri, Bangunan Perdana Putra di sini.

Bekas menteri Kabinet itu didakwa bagi ketiga-tiga tuduhan mengikut Seksyen 417 Kanun Keseksaan yang memperuntukkan hukuman penjara maksimum lima tahun atau denda atau kedua-duanya jika sabit kesalahan.

Source: http://www.utusan.com.my/utusan/info.asp?y=2011&dt=0401&pub=utusan_malaysia&sec=Mahkamah&pg=ma_03.htm&arc=hive

Hindraf deliberately creating bad publicity for Malaysia, says PM

2011-05-27T05:02:00.001-07:00

27 February 2011

TEMERLOH: Prime Minister Datuk Seri Najib Razak regards the action by Hindu Rights Action Force (Hindraf) members of holding a demonstration in the federal capital today as deliberately creating bad publicity for Malaysia through the international media.

He said the group was actually hoping the police would use force on them so that the Malaysian government would be seen as a brutal and autocratic regime.

"We don't want to use force, but they are hoping we will do so as they want to exploit the situation by painting a bad picture of Malaysia through the international television channels," he said after attending a gathering with Felda Jengka 25 residents, here, today.

The prime minister was referrig to the incident where more than 15 people, believed to be Hindraf members, were arrested by police for holding a demonstration protesting against the novel "Interlok", at the Kuala Lumpur City Centre (KLCC) grounds, here, this morning.

"With regards to issues facing the Indian community, we have resolved many of these issues," Najib said.

He said Hindraf had already submitted their memorandums to him or other Barisan Nasional leaders in Putrajaya to look into the Indian community's issues.

"Why the need to hold a demonstration and why at KLCC?" he asked.

In KEPALA BATAS, former prime minister Tun Abdullah Ahmad Badawi said the Hindraf group's actions including their plan to hold a major protest procession from KLCC to Jalan Dang Wangi today could be politically-motivated or they had a certain devious agenda.

"If their actions now are the same as when I was prime minister, they might also want to split the votes.

"This is by gettig Indians not be support Barisan Nasional but the opposition," Abdullah said when asked to comment on Hindraf's troubling actions of late including today's, after handing over equipment and machinery to 18 farmers, here.

However, he added, with the many positive approaches undertaken by the government in solving problems faced by the Indian community, Hindraf would find it difficult to get support from the community. - Bernama

No need for non-Muslim portfolio, says Badawi

2011-05-27T05:01:00.002-07:00

20 February 2011

KEPALA BATAS, Feb 20 — There is no need for the Penang government to have a portfolio for non-Muslim affairs as the federal government has always looked after the welfare of non-Muslims, said former prime minister Tun Abdullah Ahmad Badawi.

Abdullah, who is also the MP for Kepala Batas in Penang, said the federal government had also always been responsive to the needs of non-Muslim communities.

“The Federal government has never marginalised anyone and as such, I do not think there is need for a specific institution to look into non-Muslim affairs,” he told reporters after opening the annual general meeting of Sekolah Kebangsaan Kepala Batas’ Parent-Teacher Association, here today.

On Wednesday, Penang Chief Minister Lim Guan Eng, who is also DAP secretary-general, announced that the state government would be adopting a portfolio to look into the affairs of Buddhists, Taoists, Christians, Sikhs and Hindus.

The portfolio will be chaired by Lim himself while Deputy Chief Minister II P. Ramasamy was appointed the deputy. — Bernama

Anwar tidak layak perlekeh batik Malaysia - Pak Lah

2011-05-27T05:01:00.000-07:00

16 February 2011

SHAH ALAM 16 Feb. - Tun Abdullah Ahmad Badawi menyelar sikap Ketua Pembangkang, Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim yang memperlekehkan tahap mutu batik keluaran negara ini sedangkan produk tempatan itu mendapat banyak pengiktirafan antarabangsa.

Bekas Perdana Menteri turut mempersoalkan kelayakan Anwar membuat penilaian terhadap batik Malaysia yang merupakan sebahagian daripada warisan seni budaya bangsa dan negara.

"Siapa dia hendak membuat penilaian dan memperlekehkan batik Malaysia yang diiktiraf bukan setakat di negara sendiri malah sudah terkenal seluruh dunia.

"Batik Malaysia terbukti mampu bersaing di peringkat antarabangsa, hanya dia seorang sahaja berpendapat sedemikian," katanya.

Beliau berkata demikian pada sidang akhbar selepas menyampaikan ucapan sempena lawatan ke Universiti Antarabangsa Al-Madinah (Mediu) di sini hari ini. Hadir sama Rektor Mediu, Prof. Dr. Muhammad Khalifa Al Tamimi.

Abdullah mengulas kenyataan Anwar yang memperlekehkan batik Malaysia dalam syarahan umum di Indonesia yang dipetik oleh Awang Selamat dalam kolum Bisik-Bisik Mingguan pada Ahad lalu.

Dalam syarahan bertajuk 'Kebebasan dan Musuh-Musuhnya' diadakan sempena Festival Salihara 2010 Jakarta pada Oktober tahun lalu, Anwar berkata: "Mahu pakai batik Indonesia, dikatakan saya ini antinasional. Mahu pakai batik Malaysia, orang Indonesia bilang jelek sebab ciri kesenian itu cukup rendah dan saya setuju. Tapi saya tidak mahu sebut di Malaysia. Jadi, saya akhirnya memilih batik Afrika."

Di negara ini, pemakaian batik semakin popular ketika pentadbiran Abdullah selain kegigihan isterinya, Allahyarham Tun Endon Mahmood yang memperjuangkan industri batik sehingga wujud Piala Seri Endon yang mempertandingkan rekaan batik bagi diketengahkan di peringkat dunia.

Inisiatif Endon mendorong tertubuhnya Majlis Batik Dunia dan mendapat sokongan 15 buah negara.

Ketua Setiausaha Negara, Tan Sri Sidek Hassan mengumumkan kakitangan Kerajaan Persekutuan diwajibkan memakai baju batik pada setiap hari Khamis melalui pekeliling pada 15 Januari 2008 dan amalan tersebut berterusan hingga kini.

Source: http://www.utusan.com.my/utusan/info.asp?y=2011&dt=0217&pub=utusan_malaysia&sec=Dalam_Negeri&pg=dn_07.htm&arc=hive

Dakwaan Mediu rekrut pelampau Wahabi andaian tidak baik

2011-05-27T05:00:00.000-07:00

16 February 2011

SHAH ALAM 16 Feb. – Bekas Perdana Menteri, Tun Abdullah Ahmad Badawi hari ini berkata, dakwaan segelintir pihak kononnya Universiti Antarabangsa Al-Madinah (Mediu) di sini merekrut pelampau-pelampau Wahabi adalah satu andaian yang tidak baik.

Beliau berkata Mediu yang beroperasi di Plaza Masalam di sini bukan sahaja menawarkan pengajian agama tetapi dalam bidang lain seperti bahasa, teknologi komunikasi dan maklumat, pendidikan, sains kewangan, pengurusan serta kejuruteraan.

"Jangan terlalu cepat membuat andaian akhirnya merugikan kita,” katanya kepada pemberita selepas melawat kampus Mediu di sini hari ini ketika diminta mengulas dakwaan penulis blog tertentu kononnya universiti itu merekrut pelampau Wahabi.

Abdullah berkata beliau amat gembira dengan perkembangan Mediu yang kini mempunyai 3,000 pelajar daripada 90 bangsa di seluruh dunia sejak ia beroperasi pada tahun 2007 semasa beliau menjadi Perdana Menteri.

Rektor Mediu, Prof Dr. Muhammad Khalifa Al Tamimi berkata pula, berkata Mediu turut menarik pelajar-pelajar dari luar Malaysia untuk mengikuti pengajian secara online sepenuhnya.

Mediu mempunyai pejabat dan pusat pembelajarannya di Madinah, Kaherah, Kuwait, London, Yogyakarta, Makassar, Bangkok, Singapura dan Maghribi. - Bernama

Winners of King Faisal award announced

2011-05-27T04:59:00.000-07:00

18 Jan 2011

RIYADH: The General Secretariat of the King Faisal International Prize announced names of the recipients of the award for the year 2011, Monday.

Abdullah Ahmad Badawi, the former prime minister of Malaysia, was named the recipient of the 2011 King Faisal International Prize for Service to Islam.

The General Secretariat of the prize said that the selection panel had chosen Badawi for his “work to improve bilateral and multi-lateral cooperation relations and his active leadership of ASEAN – the Association of Southeast Asian Nations – as well as the Non-Aligned Movement and the Organization of the Islamic Conference when the Malaysia held presidency of the latter two in 2003 and 2008.

The General Secretariat said that Badawi was further noted for his work in building Malaysia’s economic competitiveness through modern agriculture and high precision industries as well as human resources and education.

“Badawi has been greatly concerned to encourage Islamic religious studies and he set up private religious schools to become a fundamental part of the educational system,” the secretariat said.

The secretariat also described Badawi as keen to “develop the Islamic legal administration and strengthen Zakat, endowment and Haj organizations”.

“He also established the International Institute for Higher Islamic Studies in 2008 to broaden the field of Islamic intellectual discourse to overcome political parties.”

The King Faisal Prize for Islamic Studies was awarded jointly to Khalil Ibrahim Inalcik from Turkey for his book “The Socio-Economic History of the Ottoman State”, and Muhammad Adnan Bakhit Al-Sheyyab from Jordan for his work, “Studies in the History of the Sham in Three Volumes”.

The prize for Medicine, dedicated this year to stem-cell treatment, was awarded to Professor James Alexander Thomas from Wisconsin University and Japanese professor Shinya Yamanaka from the Gladstone Institute of Cardiovascular Disease in San Francisco and Kyoto University, for their research in the field of stem cells. The King Faisal Prize for Science was dedicated this year to chemistry, and went to US professors George M. Whitesides and Richard Neil Zare. The prize for Arabic Language and Literature was withheld this year with the selection committee citing a “lack of works meeting requirements”. The 2011 topic had been set as “studies concerned with tendencies of renewal in Arabic poetry up to the end of the ninth Hijri century”.

Winners of the King Faisal International Prize are awarded SR750,000, a certificate in Arabic calligraphy describing the work for which the prize was awarded, and a commemorative 24-carat, 200-gram gold medallion. – Okaz/Saudi Gazette

Source: http://www.saudigazette.com.sa/index.cfm?method=home.regcon&contentID=2011011891612

Bukti keangkuhan DAP - Pak Lah

2011-05-27T04:57:00.000-07:00

10 January 2011

KEPALA BATAS 10 Jan. - Bekas Perdana Menteri, Tun Abdullah Ahmad Badawi mengutuk tindak-tanduk Ahli Dewan Undangan Negeri (ADUN) Komtar, Ng Wei Aik ketika menyertai operasi menyita sebuah restoran nasi kandar baru-baru ini yang disifatkannya sebagai angkuh.

Abdullah menegaskan, walaupun pada satu tahap, Wei Aik berpandangan restoran berkenaan mungkin melakukan kesalahan tertentu, wakil rakyat DAP itu tidak sepatutnya bertindak sendirian dengan sesuka hati mencampuri urusan penguatkuasaan.

''Dulu DAP tuduh UMNO sombong, angkuh. Tetapi tengoklah, rupa-rupanya mereka yang angkuh," katanya kepada pemberita selepas merasmikan Program Ulul Albab di Maktab Rendah Sains Mara (MRSM) Kepala Batas di sini hari ini.

Turut hadir Pengerusi Majlis Amanah Rakyat (Mara), Datuk Seri Idris Jusoh; ADUN Pinang Tunggal, Datuk Roslan Saidin dan ADUN Bertam, Zabariah Wahab.

Ahad lalu, Restoran Syed Kassali Mohamad Aliyar di Lebuh Maccalum kecoh apabila kakitangan Majlis Perbandaran Pulau Pinang merampas kerusi, meja, televisyen serta peralatan lain yang terdapat di dalam premis tersebut.

Sebelum restoran berkenaan didatangi penguat kuasa, berlaku satu kemalangan melibatkan dua buah kereta berhampiran restoran itu kira-kira pukul 10.10 malam.

Sebuah kereta yang dipandu seorang wanita tua merempuh sebuah kereta lain yang dinaiki sepasang suami isteri sebelum terbabas sehingga ke kawasan kaki lima restoran berkenaan.

Tidak lama kemudian, Wei Aik bersama-sama kakitangan MPPP 'menyerbu' restoran berkenaan dan didakwa mengeluarkan kata-kata kesat termasuk berunsur perkauman kepada pemilik restoran berkenaan.

Tindakan Setiausaha Politik Ketua Menteri, Lim Guan Eng itu mendapat kecaman pelbagai pihak termasuk Kongres India Muslim Malaysia (Kimma) manakala Pemuda UMNO pula menyifatkan ia tidak ubah seperti perbuatan mafia.

Abdullah yang juga Ahli Parlimen Kepala Batas berkata, Wei Aik sepatutnya merujuk kepada pihak berkuasa bagi membolehkan tindakan penguatkuasaan dilakukan mengikut peruntukan undang-undang.

''Di mana-mana pun kita sudah ada peraturan yang ditetapkan, kena ikutlah peraturan itu. Bukan boleh bertindak dan buat sesuka hati, tindakan Wei Aik itu tidak kena cara," tegasnya.

Source: http://www.utusan.com.my/utusan/info.asp?y=2011&dt=0111&pub=utusan_malaysia&sec=Politik&pg=po_10.htm&arc=hive

Pak Lah perjelas kenyataan berhubung dakwaan rogol oleh menteri

2011-05-27T04:56:00.000-07:00

9 January 2011

KUALA LUMPUR, 9 Jan. - Bekas Perdana Menteri, Tun Abdullah Ahmad Badawi hari ini menjelaskan bahawa beliau ada membuat kenyataan mengenai dakwaan rogol yang kononnya dilakukan oleh seorang menteri hanya semalam selepas baru mengetahui dakwaan itu.

Katanya, beliau tidak berkata apa-apa sebelum ini kerana tidak dimaklumkan mengenai dakwaan itu.

Abdullah berkata, beliau memberi maklum balas semalam kerana media bertanya mengenai dakwaan itu yang tersiar dalam beberapa laman blog yang mendakwa Menteri Penerangan Komunikasi dan Kebudayaan, Datuk Seri Utama Dr. Rais Yatim telah merogol bekas pembantu rumahnya pada 2007.

Bekas perdana menteri itu berkata beliau tidak menyatakan perkara-perkara lain dan mahu menghindarkan diri dari rujukan-rujukan lain dalam laporan awal yang memetik beliau berhubung dakwaan itu. Jumaat lalu, bekas pembantu rumah Rais menafikan dakwaan rogol itu. - Bernama

Source: http://www.utusan.com.my/utusan/info.asp?y=2011&dt=0109&pub=utusan_malaysia&sec=Terkini&pg=bt_32.htm&arc=hive

Abdullah puji pendekatan Najib

2011-05-27T04:55:00.002-07:00

8 January 2011

KUALA LUMPUR 8 Jan. - Bekas Perdana Menteri, Tun Abdullah Ahmad Badawi memuji pendekatan Perdana Menteri, Datuk Seri Najib Tun Razak menemui setiap Ahli Parlimen Barisan Nasional (BN) bagi mengenal pasti masalah rakyat di kawasan Parlimen masing-masing.

"Bagus... ia satu pendekatan yang baru," katanya ringkas ketika diminta mengulas mengenai pendekatan terbaru itu yang merupakan sebahagian daripada Pelan Transformasi Politik yang diperkenalkan Perdana Menteri. - Utusan

Source: http://www.utusan.com.my/utusan/info.asp?y=2011&dt=0108&pub=utusan_malaysia&sec=Terkini&pg=bt_17.htm&arc=hive

Henti perbuatan cemar kesucian rumah ibadat - Pak Lah

2011-05-27T04:55:00.000-07:00

30 December 2010

KEPALA BATAS 30 Dis. - Semua pihak diingatkan supaya menghentikan perbuatan menyentuh sensitiviti agama terutama membabitkan rumah-rumah ibadat kerana ia boleh mengundang polemik yang menjejaskan keharmonian masyarakat berbilang kaum di negara ini.

Bekas Perdana Menteri, Tun Abdullah Ahmad Badawi menegaskan, walaupun rumah ibadat seperti masjid sepatutnya menjadi pusat kegiatan masyarakat, tidak bermakna ia boleh dilakukan dengan sesuka hati sehingga mengundang reaksi negatif.

Merujuk polemik membabitkan Ahli Parlimen Serdang, Teo Nie Ching yang didakwa masuk ke pekarangan sebuah masjid dengan memakai baju ketat melakukan senamrobik baru-baru ini, Abdullah yang juga Pengerusi Institut Kefahaman Islam Malaysia (IKIM) berkata, kontroversi itu sepatutnya boleh dielakkan.

''Apa juga hal-hal yang menyentuh soal agama termasuk kegiatan-kegiatan di rumah-rumah ibadat, kita perlu ada kefahaman dan bersikap ambil berat perkara-perkara yang boleh mengundang keadaan yang tidak baik.

''Kita mesti lebih sensitif dan sepatutnya tahu sama ada perbuatan itu akan mengundang reaksi-reaksi yang tidak baik atau sebaliknya, tolong berfikir dahulu sebelum membuat sesuatu," katanya.

Beliau yang juga Ahli Parlimen Kepala Batas berkata demikian selepas menyempurnakan majlis penyampaian Anugerah Kecemerlangan Ujian Pencapaian Sekolah Rendah (UPSR) kepada 328 pelajar di kawasan itu hari ini.

Turut hadir isteri beliau, Tun Jeanne Abdullah; Timbalan Ketua UMNO Bahagian Kepala Batas, Datuk Hilmi Abdul Rashid dan Ketua Pemuda UMNO bahagian tersebut, Datuk Seri Reezal Merican Naina Merican.

Utusan Malaysia hari ini menyiarkan laporan mengenai polemik terbaru membabitkan Nie Ching yang didakwa masuk ke pekarangan Masjid Taman Cheras Jaya, Balakong, Selangor dengan memakai baju ketat melakukan senamrobik bersama-sama jemaah masjid tersebut.

Nie Ching dalam blognya di www.wretch.cc/blog/teonieching memberitahu, acara senamrobik tersebut adalah program pertama Karnival Maal Hijrah anjuran masjid berkenaan.

Wakil rakyat DAP itu pernah mencetuskan kontroversi ekoran tindakannya masuk ke ruang solat Surau Al-Huda, Kajang Sentral untuk menyampaikan 'tazkirah' dan menyampaikan sumbangan moreh kepada surau tersebut.

Abdullah yang kesal dengan perkembangan itu berkata, apa juga aktiviti yang ingin dijalankan di kawasan masjid perlu dilakukan secara tertib bukannya secara sesuka hati.

''Jangan kita anggap ini sebagai satu kebiasaan, nak jalankan aktiviti sekali pun, fikirlah apa akan jadi dan jangan ikut suka hati kita saja. Kalau kita fikir secara mendalam mengenai apa yang kita cakap dan buat, isu-isu ini tidak akan timbul," tegasnya.

Source: http://www.utusan.com.my/utusan/info.asp?y=2010&dt=1231&pub=utusan_malaysia&sec=Politik&pg=po_03.htm&arc=hive

Radio IKIM.fm yakin raih tiga juta pendengar

2011-05-27T04:53:00.001-07:00

22 December 2010

KUALA LUMPUR 22 Dis. - Institut Kefahaman Islam Malaysia (IKIM) yakin dapat meraih tiga juta pendengar menerusi radio IKIM.fm apabila siarannya diperluaskan ke kawasan pedalaman mulai tahun depan.

Pengerusinya, Tun Abdullah Ahmad Badawi berkata, ia juga sebagai tanggungjawab IKIM untuk memenuhi permintaan penduduk di kawasan berkenaan yang sudah lama ingin mendengar siaran IKIM.fm

"Saya percaya dengan sambutan pendengar ini akan menjadikan IKIM.fm terus berkembang dalam usaha memberi informasi ilmiah berkaitan Islam,'' katanya.

Beliau berkata demikian ketika berucap melancarkan Program Kerja IKIM 2011, Buku Terbitan IKIM 2010 dan Anugerah Perkhidmatan Cemerlang IKIM 2009 di Dewan Besar IKIM di sini hari ini.

Abdullah berkata, biarpun IKIM.fm masih serba kekurangan khususnya dari segi teknikal dan kewangan yang terhad tetapi ia telah berjaya menunjukkan prestasi yang cemerlang.

Sementara itu, Ketua Pengarah IKIM, Datuk Nik Mustapha Nik Hassan dalam sidang akhbar selepas itu menjelaskan, sejak IKIM.fm diperluas menerusi radio 'streaming' di www.ikimfm.gov.my, ia membolehkan siaran itu diikuti oleh 2,000 pendengar pada satu masa.

"Siaran ini juga boleh diikuti oleh rakyat Malaysia yang tinggal dan bekerja di luar negara,'' katanya.

Malah katanya, jumlah pendengar IKIM.fm juga kini mencecah hampir sejuta orang dan lebih membanggakan ia bukan sahaja berjaya menarik golongan muda, malah penduduk negara luar seperti Singapura dan Batam.

Tambahnya, radio IKIM.fm juga mendapat perhatian daripada syarikat yang mahu mengiklankan produk masing-masing.

Katanya, ini menunjukkan siaran IKIM.fm semakin diyakini oleh pengeluar produk sebagai radio yang mempunyai pendengar yang tersendiri.

Source: http://www.utusan.com.my/utusan/info.asp?y=2010&dt=1223&pub=utusan_malaysia&sec=Dalam_Negeri&pg=dn_10.htm&arc=hive

Rawat sakit pinggang: Abdullah lawat Nik Aziz di HUSM

2011-05-27T04:52:00.001-07:00

20 December 2010

KOTA BHARU 20 Dis. – Bekas Perdana Menteri, Tun Abdullah Ahmad Badawi meluangkan masa lebih sejam melawat Menteri Besar Kelantan, Datuk Nik Abdul Aziz Nik Mat, yang menerima rawatan susulan kerana menghidap sakit pinggang di Hospital Sains Malaysia (HUSM), Kubang Kerian hari ini.

Beliau diiringi anggota exco Pemuda UMNO, Datuk Reezal Merican Naina Merican.

Abdullah kelihatan memasuki hospital itu pada 10.30 pagi dan keluar pada 11.45 pagi, dan 15 minit kemudian, Nik Aziz pula keluar dari wad hospital itu dengan menggunakan kerusi roda sebelum memasuki kereta rasmi setelah dibenarkan pulang berehat di rumahnya.

Nik Aziz memberitahu pemberita bahawa beliau dan Abdullah “bercakap perkara biasa”. Setiausaha Sulit Khas Menteri Besar, Rosdi Abdullah berkata, Nik Aziz dibenarkan pulang oleh doktor kerana kesihatannya bertambah baik selepas menjalani rawatan pembedahan laser di bahagian pinggangnya. – Bernama

Banyak negara berminat konsep koridor - Pak Lah

2011-05-27T04:51:00.001-07:00

14 December 2010

KUALA LUMPUR 14 Dis. - Bekas Perdana Menteri, Tun Abdullah Ahmad Badawi berkata, banyak peserta luar negara menunjukkan minat untuk mengetahui matlamat dan hala tuju konsep koridor ekonomi yang diwujudkan sewaktu era pentadbirannya.

Abdullah berkata, malah mereka turut meminta beliau menasihatkan cara terbaik untuk menubuhkan koridor ekonomi di negara mereka.

"Saya hanya berkata, saya tidak boleh menasihatkan negara lain tetapi sekadar berkongsi pengalaman," katanya pada sidang akhbar selepas menyampaikan ceramah "Kelahiran Koridor" di Institut Tadbiran Awam Negara (Intan) di sini hari ini.

Beliau turut berdialog dengan 40 peserta Program Pertukaran Pengetahuan, Melihat Ke Timur: Satu Pendekatan Alternatif Kepada Paradigma Tadbir Urus Barat.

Program itu disertai 23 peserta luar negara termasuk pegawai tinggi kerajaan Emiriah Arab Bersatu (UAE), Bahrain, Mesir, Maldives, Brunei dan selebihnya kakitangan awam pelbagai agensi.

Berhubung kemajuan yang dicapai di koridor ekonomi berkenaan, Abdullah memberitahu, nilai pelaburan sehingga kini mencecah jumlah RM66.08 bilion.

Dalam pada itu katanya, sehingga 30 September tahun ini, pelaburan yang komited di koridor-koridor ekonomi tersebut telah mencecah RM252.47 bilion mengatasi sasaran pelaburan berjumlah RM145 bilion.

Beliau juga berkata, perkembangan pelaburan paling ketara ialah di Iskandar Malaysia dan Sarawak sementara di utara menghadapi masalah teknikal berhubung pelaburan.

Sementara itu, beliau berkata, konsep koridor tidak diketepikan malah transformasi ekonomi yang dilakukan mampu membantu pertumbuhan di kawasan koridor ekonomi.

Pembangunan di koridor Sarawak dan Johor ujarnya, berkembang dengan cepat berikutan ia menjadi kawasan tarikan pelabur walaupun tanpa bantuan kewangan daripada Kerajaan Pusat.

Kata beliau, antara matlamat ditubuhkan koridor berkenaan ialah untuk memastikan terdapat pertaburan yang berkualiti tinggi di tempat-tempat berkenaan dan tidak hanya ditumpukan ke kawasan seperti Lembah Klang.

Source: http://www.utusan.com.my/utusan/info.asp?y=2010&dt=1215&pub=utusan_malaysia&sec=Dalam_Negeri&pg=dn_15.htm&arc=hive

Amal prinsip Rukun Negara - Tun Abdullah

2011-05-27T04:50:00.002-07:00

8 December 2010

KUALA LUMPUR 8 Dis. - Bekas Perdana Menteri, Tun Abdullah Ahmad Badawi mengingatkan rakyat pelbagai kaum dan agama di negara ini supaya tidak lupa mengamalkan prinsip Rukun Negara.

Abdullah yang juga Pengerusi Institut Kefahaman Islam Malaysia (IKIM) berkata, ini kerana prinsip Rukun Negara diwujudkan supaya ia menjadi amalan rakyat di negara ini untuk menikmati kehidupan yang sentiasa aman.

"Malah, Rukun Negara dihasilkan daripada gabungan pemikiran mereka yang mahu melihat negara ini selamat untuk didiami oleh rakyat yang berbeza anutan agama,'' katanya.

Beliau berkata demikian pada sidang akhbar selepas ucaptama dan merasmikan Seminar Peranan Agama Dalam Menangani Masalah Sosial di Dewan Besar IKIM di sini hari ini. Turut hadir Ketua Pengarah IKIM, Datuk Nik Mustapha Nik Hassan.

Sehubungan itu, Abdullah mahukan rakyat di negara ini sentiasa memberikan perhatian terhadap prinsip Rukun Negara dalam menjalani kehidupan seharian.

"Tidak perlu mencari yang lain tetapi cukup dengan mengkaji prinsip Rukun Negara supaya masing-masing akan lebih faham dan dapat menghayatinya,'' katanya.

Selain itu, katanya, agama tetap memainkan peranan yang utama dalam membentuk generasi agar bebas daripada gejala sosial.

"Tidak mengira apa juga agama, semuanya menyuruh penganutnya supaya melakukan kebaikan,'' katanya.

Abdullah berkata, setiap ajaran mana-mana agama juga tidak menyuruh penganutnya mengganggu penganut agama lain. Malah, masing-masing menyuruh saling bertimbang rasa dan tidak melakukan sebarang kekacauan yang boleh merosakkan masyarakat.

Seminar dua hari yang berakhir esok itu dianjurkan dengan kerjasama Jabatan Perdana Menteri (JPM) bertujuan mengetengahkan beberapa masalah sosial utama melibatkan semua penganut agama di negara ini.

Pembentangan kertas kerja ini terbahagi kepada empat sesi iaitu sesi pertama mengenai Masalah Sosial dan Peranan Agama di Malaysia dan sesi kedua, Peranan Agama Menangani Ketagihan Dadah dan Arak.

Sesi ketiga pula mengenai Pandangan dan Peranan Agama Memerangi Kegiatan Perjudian dan Pelacuran dan sesi keempat, Pandangan dan Peranan Agama Membendung Jenayah Rasuah.

Source: http://www.utusan.com.my/utusan/info.asp?y=2010&dt=1209&pub=utusan_malaysia&sec=Dalam_Negeri&pg=dn_08.htm&arc=hive

FRIM marks natural heritage site declaration

2011-05-27T04:50:00.000-07:00

23 November 2010

THE FOREST Research Institute Malaysia (FRIM) celebrated the official declaration of its main campus in Kepong as a Natural Heritage Site, and already has plans to attain world heritage recognition in the near future.

Former prime minister Tun Abdullah Ahmad Badawi, who was accompanied by his wife Tun Jeanne Abdullah, officiated at the ceremony on Nov 18 and unveiled the Heritage Plaque that was installed at the entrance of the FRIM Museum and Research Gallery.

FRIM was gazetted as a Natural Heritage Site on Feb 10, 2009, and received the Heritage Plaque from the National Heritage Department this year.With the official declaration, the 485.2ha site is to be conserved and protected for future generations under the National Heritage Act 2005 (Act 645).

In conjunction with the ceremony, FRIM also launched its 194-page pictorial book entitled FRIM Tapak Warisan Semula Jadi Negara (FRIM the Country’s Natural Heritage Site).

The book provides an insight into the institute’s history, its struggle to protect its forest against encroachment of development, its natural uniqueness and biodiversity richness.

Abdullah later presented the “Friends of FRIM” certificates to representatives from various corporate bodies that have worked closely with or supported FRIM’s public awareness, environment education, forest conservation and tree-planting efforts.

To achieve the target of having FRIM listed as a Unesco World Heritage Site within the next few years, FRIM director-general Datuk Dr Abd Latif Mohmod said FRIM would come up with a comprehensive conservation management plan and work towards accomplishing that goal (of being listed).

Source: http://www.starproperty.my/PropertyScene/TheStarOnlineHighlightBox/8548/0/0

Anwar hina rakyat - Pak Lah

2011-05-27T04:49:00.000-07:00

18 November 2010

KUALA LUMPUR 18 Nov. - Bekas Perdana Menteri, Tun Abdullah Ahmad Badawi menganggap Ketua Pembangkang, Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim telah menghina rakyat Malaysia kerana mempertikaikan pengiktirafan yang diberi oleh negara luar kepada pembangunan negara.

Dengan nada tegas, Abdullah tidak bersetuju dengan tindakan Anwar yang secara terang menidakkan pengiktirafan terhadap kemajuan yang telah dicapai Malaysia termasuk sebagai sebuah negara Islam moden kepada media asing.

"Kenapa pula (pengiktirafan Malaysia sebuah negara Islam moden) satu penghinaan? Anwar yang sebenarnya menghina rakyat Malaysia.

"Kenapa perlu ada pemikiran begitu? Kita tidak boleh terima kenyataan (Anwar) itu," katanya.

Beliau berkata demikian pada sidang akhbar selepas merasmikan pengiktirafan kampus utama FRIM di Kepong sebagai Tapak Warisan Semulajadi di sini hari ini.

Hadir sama, isteri beliau, Tun Jeanne Abdullah, Pengerusi Lembaga Penyelidikan dan Pembangunan Perhutanan Malaysia (MFRDB), Nancy Shukri dan Ketua Pengarah FRIM, Datuk Dr. Abdul Latif Mohmod.

Anwar dilaporkan berkata demikian semasa ditemu bual oleh Sky News Australia pada 15 November lalu dalam usahanya mencari sokongan antarabangsa selepas cubaan terdahulu untuk meraih sokongan Amerika Syarikat berhubung pertuduhan liwat yang sedang dihadapinya gagal.

Laman berita The Australian semalam turut memetik Anwar menganggap kenyataan oleh kerajaan Perdana Menteri Australia, Julia Gillard bahawa 'ini (Malaysia) adalah negara Islam moden yang bagus' sebagai satu penghinaan bagi Ketua Pembangkang itu.

Penghinaan yang disifatkan oleh Anwar itu dipercayai merujuk kepada pengiktirafan Gillard terhadap kemajuan negara semasa melakukan sesi lawatan rasmi ke Kuala Lumpur baru-baru ini dalam usahanya untuk mengukuhkan hubungan dengan Malaysia.

Perdana Menteri, Datuk Seri Najib Tun Razak yang diminta mengulas mengenai kenyataan Anwar itu semalam hanya menganggapnya sebagai suara sumbang minoriti yang bercanggah sama sekali dengan pengiktirafan para pemimpin dunia terhadap kejayaan Malaysia.

Source: http://www.utusan.com.my/utusan/info.asp?y=2010&dt=1119&pub=utusan_malaysia&sec=Politik&pg=po_01.htm&arc=hive

FRIM disyor tubuh bank benih negara

2011-05-27T04:48:00.000-07:00

18 November 2010

KUALA LUMPUR 18 Nov. - Tun Abdullah Ahmad Badawi mencadangkan Institut Penyelidikan Perhutanan Malaysia (FRIM) membuka cawangan di setiap negeri di Malaysia seterusnya menjadi peneraju industri perhutanan negara.

Bekas Perdana Menteri itu berkata, FRIM kini sudah mempunyai pusat penyelidikan dan pembangunan (R&D) di beberapa negeri tetapi perlu mengembangkannya menjadi sebuah cawangan yang mampu mengeluarkan produk hutan yang bernilai tinggi.

"FRIM merupakan institusi terbesar dan tertua di dunia yang mempunyai tanah sendiri tetapi perlu mengembangkan sayapnya dengan membuka cawangan di negeri lain memandangkan kawasan miliknya di Selangor adalah terhad.

"Dengan nama yang dikenali dunia, FRIM mampu membangunkan industri perhutanan negara melalui pelbagai produk hutan yang mempunyai potensi perubatan atau komersial seperti mana industri herba kini yang semakin pesat berkembang di seluruh dunia," katanya.

Beliau berkata demikian pada sidang akhbar selepas merasmikan pengiktirafan kampus utama FRIM di Kepong sebagai Tapak Warisan Semulajadi di sini hari ini.

Hadir sama, isteri beliau, Tun Jeanne Abdullah, Pengerusi Lembaga Penyelidikan dan Pembangunan Perhutanan Malaysia (MFRDB), Nancy Shukri dan Ketua Pengarah FRIM, Datuk Dr. Abdul Latif Mohmod.

Abdullah turut mencadangkan FRIM mewujudkan 'bank benih' sendiri untuk menyimpan benih tumbuhan dalam jangka panjang terutamanya bagi menyelamatkan spesies pokok yang terancam.

Source: http://www.utusan.com.my/utusan/info.asp?y=2010&dt=1119&pub=utusan_malaysia&sec=Dalam_Negeri&pg=dn_02.htm&arc=hive

Saya tidak terkejut – Abdullah

2011-05-27T04:47:00.000-07:00

16 November 2010

KEPALA BATAS 16 Nov. – Bekas Perdana Menteri, Tun Abdullah Ahmad Badawi tidak terkejut dengan tindakan Datuk Zaid Ibrahim meninggalkan Parti Keadilan Rakyat (PKR) apabila parti itu berdepan krisis kepimpinan yang serius.

Menurut beliau, Zaid yang juga bekas Ahli Majlis Tertinggi Pusat PKR pastinya tidak akan bertindak demikian sekiranya mempunyai keyakinan untuk memperbaiki kerosakan yang sedang berlaku dalam parti tersebut.

“Saya tidak terkejut, dulu pun dalam UMNO saya beri peluang jadi menteri tapi dia buat keputusan letak jawatan, saya ingat dia nak terus jadi ahli tiba-tiba masuk PKR. Tapi nampaknya PKR pun tidak memuaskan hatinya.

“Kalau dia jadi pemimpin dan suka PKR, dia kekal untuk membaiki parti kalau dia sanggup, tapi ternyata sekali dia tak suka pada PKR,” katanya.

Beliau ditemui selepas majlis penghargaan Sekolah Menengah Sains Kepala Batas (SMSKB) di sini hari ini. Turut hadir Ahli Dewan Undangan Negeri (ADUN) Pinang Tunggal, Datuk Roslan Saidin; Ketua Penerangan Pemuda UMNO, Datuk Seri Reezal Merican Naina Merican; Timbalan Naib Canselor Universiti Sains Malaysia, Omar Osman dan Pengetua SMSKB, Jamaah Taman.

Abdullah mengulas perkembangan terbaru dalam kemelut PKR yang menyaksikan Zaid bertindak keluar daripada parti tersebut, seminggu selepas mengumumkan menarik diri bertanding jawatan Timbalan Presiden PKR selain melepaskan semua jawatannya.

Sehari selepas pengumuman itu, Zaid mendesak Penasihat PKR, Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim dan Naib Presiden, Mohamed Azmin Ali meletakkan jawatan kerana mendakwa kedua-dua mereka adalah punca segala masalah dalam parti itu.

Zaid dalam blognya sebelum ini mendakwa kepimpinan PKR tidak berusaha mengatasi manipulasi dan penyelewengan dalam pemilihan parti yang sedang berlangsung walaupun isu berkenaan telah beberapa kali ditimbulkan.

Abdullah percaya perkembangan tersebut memberi tamparan hebat kepada kepimpinan PKR terutama Anwar yang sebelum ini lantang melaung-laungkan prinsip ketelusan dalam PKR sambil menuduh kononnya UMNO parti yang tidak demokratik.

“Semua orang tahu apa dia (Anwar) kata dulu, tapi (lihatlah) apa jadi sekarang,” katanya.

Ditanya mengenai peluang Zaid sekiranya ingin kembali kepada UMNO, Abdullah berkata: “Itu terserahlah kepada UMNO, tapi Setiausaha Agung (Datuk Seri Tengku Adnan Tengku Mansor) dah kata takkan terima, Wallahualam.”

http://www.utusan.com.my/utusan/info.asp?y=2010&dt=1117&pub=utusan_malaysia&sec=Politik&pg=po_05.htm&arc=hive

PKR sedang bergelora, kata Pak Lah

2011-05-27T04:46:00.000-07:00

10 November 2010

KUALA LUMPUR 10 Nov. - Bekas Perdana Menteri Tun Abdullah Ahmad Badawi berkata Parti Keadilan Rakyat (PKR) sedang bergelora ekoran pelbagai kontroversi dalaman parti itu yang gagal ditangani oleh kepimpinannya.

Beliau berkata, krisis terbaru dalam PKR berikutan penarikan diri Datuk Zaid Ibrahim bagi jawatan Timbalan Presiden membuktikan parti itu tidak mempunyai prinsip yang kukuh dalam memperjuangkan apa yang mereka gembar-gemburkan sebagai keadilan.

"Rakyat tidak akan suka pada parti yang selalu ada krisis, bergaduh... rakyat tiada keyakinan pada parti yang dalam keadaan bergelora,” katanya kepada sidang media selepas menyempurnakan majlis penutup seminar “Kreativiti Dan Inovasi Dalam Dunia Semasa: Pendekatan Islamik” anjuran Institut Kefahaman Islam Malaysia (IKIM) di sini hari ini. - Bernama

Sharma and Eminent Persons Group mourn death of Barbadian Prime Minister

2011-05-27T04:45:00.000-07:00

25 October 2010

Secretary-General Kamalesh Sharma and the Commonwealth Eminent Persons Group (EPG) have offered their deepest sympathies to the government and people of Barbados following the death of Prime Minister David Thompson.

Mr Sharma praised the late Prime Minister’s life-long commitment to public service in the pursuit of democracy and development, both in Barbados and the wider Caribbean region.

“He was also a valued supporter of the Commonwealth who provided exceptional leadership, notably in a number of election observation exercises,” the Secretary-General wrote. “The Commonwealth is, and will remain, ever grateful for his service.”

Mr Sharma and the EPG - a new body set up by Heads of Government to propose options for reform of the Commonwealth - conveyed their deepest condolences to the family of Mr Thompson.

“We are committed to fulfilling [our] mandate so that the Commonwealth grows in its relevance and positive impact in all Commonwealth citizens, which will assuredly be part of the late David Thompson’s distinguished legacy to Barbados, the Caribbean and the wider Commonwealth,” wrote Tun Abdullah Badawi, former Prime Minister of Malaysia and Chair of the EPG.

Mr Thompson became the sixth Prime Minister of Barbados when his Democratic Liberal Party (DLP) won the January 2008 general election. He is succeeded by Prime Minister Freundel Stuart.

Source: http://www.thecommonwealth.org/news/231231/251010davidthompson.htm

Pemahaman cetek punca perbalahan

2011-05-27T04:44:00.000-07:00

21 October 2010

KUALA LUMPUR 21 Okt. - Pelbagai perbalahan berkenaan Perlembagaan Persekutuan yang timbul mutakhir ini adalah berpunca daripada pemahaman cetek terhadap asas-asas pembentukan perlembagaan tersebut.

Bekas Perdana Menteri, Tun Abdullah Badawi berkata, penerangan dan penjelasan kepada isu-isu yang berhubung kait dengan perlembagaan dan kedudukan Melayu amat penting untuk difahami semua.

Justeru tegasnya, ucapan Presiden UMNO, Datuk Seri Najib Tun Razak mampu menjadi penyedar kepada pelbagai isu yang seringkali menimbulkan kekeliruan dan kecelaruan di kalangan rakyat.

"Dengan adanya penjelasan itu maka kita mendapat satu kesedaran bahawa kita tidak perlu hendak menimbulkan perkara-perkara untuk menakut-nakutkan atau memomok-momokkan rakyat.

"Ini kerana apa yang terkandung dalam Perlembagaan telah dimeteri dalam satu perjanjian melalui permuafakatan semua pemimpin pada masa itu. Ini yang kita perlu sedar," katanya.

Beliau berkata demikian ketika diminta mengulas ucapan dasar Najib pada perasmian Perhimpunan Agung UMNO di Pusat Dagangan Dunia Putra (PWTC) di sini, hari ini.

Abdullah berkata, ucapan tersebut yang disampaikan dengan penuh semangat juga memberi keyakinan kepada orang Melayu untuk memajukan diri dan bangsa.

Menurutnya, mereka perlu menggunakan kekuatan mental dan minda dalam usaha membuktikan kredibiliti masing-masing

Source: http://www.utusan.com.my/utusan/info.asp?y=2010&dt=1022&pub=utusan_malaysia&sec=Dalam_Negeri&pg=dn_08.htm&arc=hive

Perubahan ke arah perpaduan kaum masih gagal - Pak Lah

2011-05-27T04:43:00.000-07:00

27 September 2010

KUALA LUMPUR 27 Sept. - Kerajaan perlu membentuk minda masyarakat pelbagai kaum di negara ini supaya ia bebas daripada unsur-unsur negatif yang boleh merosakkan proses perpaduan.

Bekas Perdana Menteri, Tun Abdullah Ahmad Badawi berkata, jika tidak, bukan sahaja perpaduan malah apa jua perubahan sukar untuk dilakukan kerana rakyat tidak dapat memahaminya secara menyeluruh.

"Sudah 50 tahun saya mendengar kita bercakap soal perpaduan. Tetapi sehingga kini perubahan ke arah itu masih gagal dilaksanakan.

"Ini kerana, pemikiran rakyat pelbagai kaum negara ini masih belum bebas dan dibelenggu oleh perkara-perkara negatif yang boleh menggagalkan proses tersebut," katanya.

Beliau berkata demikian ketika menyampaikan ucapan bertajuk Cita-Cita dan Harapan Negara pada Forum Perpaduan Kebangsaan 2010 anjuran Pusat Kajian Polisi Awam (CPPS) dan Institut Kepimpinan dan Strategi Asia (Asli) di Hotel The Corus di sini hari ini. Hadir sama Pengerusi CPPS, Tan Sri Ramon V. Navaratnam.

Abdullah berkata, kerajaan juga akan mampu melahirkan modal insan berkualiti di negara ini sekiranya pemikiran rakyat dapat dibebaskan daripada unsur-unsur negatif.

"Rakyat perlu sentiasa diberi kesedaran bahawa mereka hidup di dalam sebuah negara iaitu Malaysia, mempunyai rakyat pelbagai kaum dan agama dan perlu hidup bersatu padu.

"Sekiranya pemikiran rakyat boleh dicorakkan ke arah itu, insya-Allah perpaduan rakyat pelbagai kaum di negara ini akan dapat dicapai," katanya.

Dalam pada itu, beliau berkata, perpaduan akan dapat dilakukan sekiranya rakyat memahami dan mengamalkan apa yang termaktub di dalam Perlembagaan Persekutuan dan Rukun Negara.

"Perlembagaan dan Rukun Negara perlu dihormati dan dipatuhi oleh semua kaum. Ini kerana, ia merupakan panduan dan pegangan yang akan menguatkan kita (semua kaum) secara bersama," katanya.

Source: http://www.utusan.com.my/utusan/info.asp?y=2010&dt=0928&pub=utusan_malaysia&sec=Dalam_Negeri&pg=dn_19.htm&arc=hive

Former Malaysian PM Badawi asked Lee Kuan Yew to “shut up”

2011-05-27T04:42:00.000-07:00

19 September 2010

Another former Prime Minister of Malaysia Tun Abdullah Badawi has lashed out against PAP strongman Lee Kuan Yew for interfering in the domestic affairs of Malaysia literally telling him to “shut up”.

During a recent interview with the New York Times, the octagenarian Lee criticized Malaysia for its “racist” politics and claimed that the PAP would have improved inter-racial relations had Singapore remained a part of Malaysia.

“I think if the Tunku (Malaysia’s first prime minister) had kept us together, what we did in Singapore – had Malaysia accepted a multiracial base for their society – much of what we’ve achieved in Singapore would have been achieved in Malaysia. But not as much, because it’s a much broader base. We would have improved inter-racial relations and an improved holistic situation,” he said.

He also described Malaysia to be in a most “unhappy” situation and that inter-racial relations there have plummeted to a new low. Lee’s insensitive remarks sparked a massive outcry among the Malaysian leaders with many lampooning him for doing so including former premier Mahathir Mohamad, UMNO Youth Chief Khairy Jamaluddin and MCA President Dr Chua Soi Lek.

Even the mild-mannered Badawi is unable to tolerate Lee’s penchant for teaching others how to run their countries and spoke out against him.

Speaking to reporters at his Hari Raya open house in Penang yesterday, Badawi said:“Malaysians do not need advice from Lee Kuan Yew on how to manage the country.”

He also criticized Lee for wanting Malaysia to be managed like Singapore which is impossible given the fundamental differences between the two nations.

“Every country has its own peculiar problems, which have to be settled mostly by themselves,” he added.

Being a senior statesman and leader, Lee should be more circumspect and cautious with his remarks which has triggered yet another diplomatic tiff with Malaysia.

Source: http://www.temasekreview.com/2010/09/19/former-malaysian-pm-badawi-asked-lee-kuan-yew-to-shut-up/

Wakil rakyat perlu lebih sensitif hal agama - Abdullah

2011-05-27T04:41:00.000-07:00

28 August 2010

KEPALA BATAS 28 Ogos – Bekas Perdana Menteri, Tun Abdullah Ahmad Badawi berkata, semua wakil rakyat perlu lebih sensitif berhubung hal agama di negara ini bagi mengelak berlaku ketegangan antara kaum.

Katanya, sebagai wakil rakyat mereka seharusnya mengetahui serba sedikit mengenai sensitiviti agama yang dianuti pelbagai kaum di negara ini.

"Sebagai seorang wakil rakyat, kita mesti faham dulu tentang agama dan keharmonian semua kaum serta perlu tahu sensitiviti dalam hal agama supaya tindakan yang dibuat tidak menimbulkan rasa tidak senang hati yang boleh menjejaskan perkauman dan agama,” katanya kepada pemberita selepas menyampaikan sumbangan Hari Raya Kawasan Dewan Undangan Negeri Pinang Tunggal di sini hari ini.

Beliau berkata demikian bagi mengulas laporan akhbar mengenai Ahli Parlimen Serdang dari DAP, Teo Nie Ching memasuki ruang solat utama Surau Al-Huda, Kajang Sentral Ahad lepas untuk memberi “tazkirah”, tanpa menutup kepala.

Kejadian itu menyebabkan Sultan Selangor, Sultan Sharafuddin Idris Shah murka dan mengarahkan Majlis Agama Islam Selangor (MAIS) untuk mengambil tindakan segera dan tegas terhadap pengurusan surau berkenaan.

Abdullah yang juga Ahli Parlimen Kepala Batas berkata, sepatutnya perkara itu (Nie Ching memberi ucapan dalam surau) perlu dielakkan lebih awal lagi.

"Beliau (Nie Ching) perlu tahu tentang sensitiviti orang Islam dan jangan nak buat cara baru seperti itu (bagi ucapan dalam surau).

"Dulu tiada orang bukan Islam bagi ucapan dalam masjid, orang masjid juga perlu faham perkara seperti itu dan jangan buat sesuka hati panggil mereka (orang bukan Islam) berucap atau bagi tazkirah di tempat ibadat kita,” katanya. – Bernama

Sedekah Ramadan

2011-05-27T04:40:00.000-07:00

15 August 2010

SERAMAI 70 keluarga dari kawasan Kepala Batas, Pulau Pinang menerima bantuan sempena Ramadan yang disampaikan Ahli Parlimen Kepala Batas, Tun Abdullah Ahmad Badawi di Pusat Khidmatnya semalam.

Program bantuan itu adalah inisiatif Sekretariat Malaysia Prihatin melalui penaungnya, Tun Jeanne Abdullah untuk penduduk dari kawasan Dewan Undangan Negeri (DUN) Bertam, Pinang Tunggal dan Penaga.

Abdullah dalam ucapannya berkata, bantuan itu diberikan sempena Ramadan kepada golongan yang kurang berkemampuan agar mereka dapat menikmati Ramadan sama seperti insan lain.

Selain itu, beliau berharap, agar semua penduduk di sekitar Kepala Batas dapat menikmati bulan puasa serta menyambut Hari Raya Aidilfitri dengan sempurna.

Jelasnya, tiada pihak harus merasa terpinggir pada bulan yang mulia ini sebaliknya harus menyambut Syawal dengan penuh kegirangan dan keberkatan.

Source: http://www.utusan.com.my/utusan/info.asp?y=2010&dt=0815&pub=utusan_malaysia&sec=Dalam_Negeri&pg=dn_11.htm&arc=hive

Pelihara khazanah alam, hutan untuk tatapan generasi muda

2011-05-27T04:39:00.001-07:00

12 August 2010

MERSING 11 Ogos - Bekas Perdana Menteri, Tun Abdullah Ahmad Badawi berkata, setiap anggota masyarakat perlu menitikberatkan soal penjagaan alam dan hutan bagi memastikan khazanah alam terus terpelihara.

Beliau berkata, khazanah tersebut tidak ternilai harganya dan perlu dipelihara untuk generasi akan datang.

"Seperti Hutan Simpan Endau-Rompin ini, ia adalah hutan yang paling berharga dan mempunyai banyak khazanah bernilai.

"Kita harus menjaga khazanah ini terutama pokok-pokok yang sedang membesar untuk generasi akan datang," katanya semasa program Ekspedisi Landskap Malaysia bersempena Hari Landskap Sedunia di Taman Negara, Endau-Rompin, dekat sini, baru-baru ini.

Turut hadir isterinya, Tun Jeanne Abdullah dan Menteri Besar, Datuk Abdul Ghani Othman. Pada kunjungan itu, beliau dan isteri turut melawat Kampung Orang Asli Peta.

Program tersebut diadakan bagi menimbulkan kesedaran orang ramai untuk menjaga khazanah hutan supaya dapat ditatapi generasi akan datang.

Sementara itu, Abdul Ghani memberitahu, Johor merupakan salah sebuah negeri yang istimewa kerana mempunyai pelbagai khazanah berharga untuk generasi akan datang.

Beliau memberitahu, antara khazanah yang tidak ternilai ialah hutan simpan dan masyarakat Orang Asli di sini.

"Masyarakat Orang Asli di sini masih mengamalkan adat dan budaya serta mempunyai keistimewaannya tersendiri.

"Dengan khazanah sedia ada ini, kita patut bersyukur dengan segala yang kita miliki," katanya.

Source: http://www.utusan.com.my/utusan/info.asp?y=2010&dt=0812&pub=utusan_malaysia&sec=Johor&pg=wj_05.htm&arc=hive

UMNO tegakkan prinsip Islam kerana tanggungjawab

2011-05-27T04:38:00.001-07:00

8 August 2010

KEPALA BATAS 8 Ogos - Tun Abdullah Ahmad Badawi menegaskan, polisi serta pendirian UMNO dalam menegakkan isu-isu berkaitan agama Islam di negara ini dilakukan atas prinsip tanggungjawab bukan berlandaskan kepentingan politik semata-mata.

Sehubungan itu, bekas Perdana Menteri itu berkata, kenyataan Presiden MCA, Datuk Seri Dr. Chua Soi Lek yang mendakwa UMNO terikut-ikut pendekatan Pas menggunakan agama untuk meraih sokongan sehingga menjadikannya parti konservatif adalah satu persepsi yang salah.

"Samalah juga seperti program yang ada hubung kait dengan Islam yang dijalankan jabatan agama di peringkat negeri atau Persekutuan, ini kita lakukan atas dasar tanggungjawab bukan hendak pancing undi.

"Kalau kita bina masjid, madrasah serta sekolah agama untuk membangunkan (syiar) Islam, adakah ini untuk pancing undi? Sudah tentu tidak kerana itu memang menjadi tanggungjawab kita," katanya.

Abdullah yang juga Ahli Parlimen Kepala Batas berkata demikian kepada pemberita selepas menyempurnakan majlis penanaman kira-kira 400 pokok pelbagai spesies di sekitar Pantai Kamloon sempena program Mai Riuh!!! di sini hari ini.

Turut hadir isteri beliau, Tun Jeanne Abdullah dan Ahli Dewan Undangan Negeri (ADUN) Pinang Tunggal, Datuk Roslan Saidin.

Ketika berucap pada Majlis Perhimpunan MCA Kedah baru-baru ini, Soi Lek menyifatkan kecenderungan Pas menggunakan agama dalam meraih sokongan rakyat telah memaksa UMNO untuk menggunakan cara yang sama bagi mengukuhkan kedudukan parti itu.

Beliau berkata, disebabkan itu, UMNO menjadi sebuah parti konservatif kerana bersaing dengan Pas untuk mendapatkan perhatian sehingga ada beberapa polisi yang kurang berkesan dibuat oleh kerajaan.

Malah, katanya, senario itu menyebabkan negara terperangkap menjadi negara berpendapatan sederhana selama 10 tahun.

Bagaimanapun, Abdullah berkata, adalah tidak adil membuat telahan begitu kerana walaupun UMNO mempunyai prinsip jelas berkaitan agama Islam, agenda pembangunan negara sentiasa diberi perhatian.

Source: http://www.utusan.com.my/utusan/info.asp?y=2010&dt=0809&pub=utusan_malaysia&sec=Politik&pg=po_03.htm&arc=hive

Abdullah puji Pas tolak cadangan DAP

2011-05-27T04:37:00.001-07:00

7 August 2010

KEPALA BATAS 7 Ogos – Bekas Perdana Menteri, Tun Abdullah Ahmad Badawi memuji ketegasan Pas menolak cadangan DAP untuk memansuhkan dasar pemberian diskaun kepada bumiputera dalam pemilikan hartanah.

Menurutnya, pendirian Pas itu wajar kerana kemudahan tersebut merupakan dasar kerajaan yang tidak pernah diubah.

“Jika Pas menyokong apa yang sudah menjadi dasar kerajaan, maka ia dianggap baik. Ia merupakan satu sokongan yang wajar diberikan,” katanya.

Beliau berkata demikian kepada pemberita selepas merasmikan program Mai... Riuh!!! peringkat kawasan Dewan Undangan Negeri (DUN) Pinang Tunggal di sini hari ini.

Semalam Presiden Pas, Datuk Seri Abdul Hadi Awang berpendapat, hak dan keistimewaan orang Melayu serta bumiputera yang merupakan penduduk majoriti di negara ini perlu dikekalkan termasuk dasar pemberian diskaun dalam pemilikan hartanah.

Sebelum ini, Ahli Parlimen Petaling Jaya Utara, Tony Pua mencadangkan agar kerajaan memansuhkan dasar pemberian diskaun kepada bumiputera dalam pemilikan hartanah komersial dan mewah di Selangor.

Kenyataan itu mendorong Pergerakan Pemuda UMNO Selayang dan Gombak membuat laporan polis supaya pihak berkuasa melakukan siasatan dan mengambil tindakan tegas mengenainya.

Source: http://www.utusan.com.my/utusan/info.asp?y=2010&dt=0808&pub=utusan_malaysia&sec=Politik&pg=po_07.htm&arc=hive

Abdullah kesal isu pasir gagal ditangani pihak berkuasa

2011-05-27T04:36:00.001-07:00

27 July 2010

KUALA LUMPUR 27 Julai - Bekas Perdana Menteri, Tun Abdullah Ahmad Badawi kesal apabila aktiviti mengorek dan mencuri pasir yang semakin berleluasa kini masih gagal ditangani pihak berkuasa.

Beliau yang juga Pengerusi Institut Kefahaman Islam Malaysia (IKIM) berkata, kegagalan pihak berwajib menangani perkara itu sebenarnya telah memberi kesan buruk kepada alam sekitar.

"Sepatutnya kegiatan seperti itu sudah dihentikan. Pihak penguat kuasa seharusnya mengambil tindakan tegas kalau nampak lori-lori yang bawa pasir dan siasat mereka," katanya.

Beliau berkata demikian ketika berucap pada perasmian Persidangan Kesedaran Alam Sekitar dan Tindakan Demi Kebaikan Dunia anjuran IKIM di sini hari ini.

Abdullah berkata, setiap individu juga perlu bertanggungjawab menjaga alam sekitar dan tidak hanya mengharapkan kepada kerajaan untuk melakukannya.

"Anak-anak kita juga perlu diajar tentang betapa pentingnya menjaga alam sekitar. Mereka perlu sedar mengenai perlunya manusia hidup di dalam alam sekitar yang baik," katanya.

Dalam pada itu, seorang pembentang kertas kerja pada persidangan itu, Pengarah (Jabatan Teknikal) Jabatan Meterologi, Dr. Wan Azli Wan Hassan berkata, Malaysia akan terus mengalami peningkatan suhu terutamanya di sekitar bandar raya besar seperti di ibu negara.

Katanya, walaupun trend peningkatan suhu yang berlaku di negara ini tidak tinggi iaitu sekitar 0.5 darjah Celsius setiap 10 tahun dan tidak dirasai oleh manusia, ia akan tetap memberi kesan kepada habitat dan alam sekitar.

"Trend itu berlaku kerana aktiviti pembangunan di kawasan bandar yang terlalu pesat sehingga menyebabkan keadaan suhu terperangkap dan juga perubahan cuaca secara semula jadi seperti El Nino dan La Nina," katanya ketika membentangkan kertas kerja bertajuk Perubahan Cuaca: Pengalaman Malaysia.

Beliau berkata peningkatan suhu yang paling ketara kini dapat dilihat berlaku di kawasan Lembah Klang memandangkan banyak aktiviti pembangunan yang dibuat.

Menurutnya, sebagai negara maritim, Malaysia terdedah kepada ancaman perubahan cuaca yang disebabkan oleh keadaan alam semulajadi dan juga pemanasan global.

Sehubungan itu katanya, semua pihak terutama masyarakat perlu mula bertindak menyelamatkan alam sekitar daripada menerima kesan-kesan buruk dalam jangka masa panjang.

Source: http://www.utusan.com.my/utusan/info.asp?y=2010&dt=0728&pub=utusan_malaysia&sec=Dalam_Negeri&pg=dn_11.htm&arc=hive

Inaugural Eminent Persons Group meeting opens with message to Mandela

2011-05-27T04:35:00.000-07:00

19 July 2010

A group of international statespersons and experts tasked with examining ways to boost the impact and profile of the Commonwealth began their initial meeting this week with a goodwill message to Nelson Mandela on his 92nd birthday.

The ten-member Eminent Persons Group (EPG), which will present recommendations to Commonwealth leaders at their next meeting in Australia in 2011, is convening for the first time at Marlborough House in London, United Kingdom, between 19 and 20 July 2010.

Chair Tun Abdullah Badawi, writing on behalf of the EPG on 18 July 2010, thanked the former South African leader – who in 1994 steered South Africa back into Commonwealth membership after more than thirty years' absence – for his “immense personal contribution” to the association.

“It gives me great pleasure to convey very best wishes and salutations to you on the occasion of your birthday,” wrote Tun Badawi. “Today [18 July 2010] is auspicious also as the launch of the first meeting of the Commonwealth’s Eminent Persons Group, which has been convened to consider options for strengthening the networks, sharpening the impact, and raising the profile of the Commonwealth.

Nelson Mandela Day

“You have made an immense personal contribution in this regard in the past, which continues to be deeply appreciated across the Commonwealth. We hope and trust that the celebration of your natal day is a joyous occasion for you and your family.”

Mr Mandela’s birthday yesterday coincided with the first ever international Nelson Mandela Day endorsed by the United Nations to help celebrate the life and birth of the Apartheid-era prisoner and civil rights champion.

The Eminent Persons Group, meeting at the request of Commonwealth Heads of Government in Trinidad and Tobago late last year, is expected to consult extensively with governments, civil society groups and professional associations and individuals, as well as those beyond the membership with an interest in its work. The group is also tasked with looking at the format, frequency, and content of Commonwealth ministerial meetings.

Members include:

Tun Abdullah Ahmad Badawi (Malaysia, Chairperson)
Ms Patricia Francis (Jamaica)
Dr Asma Jahangir (Pakistan)
Mr Samuel Kavuma (Uganda) – (Commonwealth Youth Caucus)
The Hon Michael Kirby (Australia)
Dr Graca Machel (Mozambique)
Rt Hon Sir Malcolm Rifkind (UK)
Sir Ronald Sanders (Guyana)
Senator Hugh Segal (Canada)
Sir Ieremia Tabai (Kiribati

Source: http://www.thecommonwealth.org/news/34580/34581/227039/190710epgmandela.htm

Fresh thinking key to Commonwealth’s future’

2011-05-27T04:34:00.000-07:00

19 July 2010

The Commonwealth’s new Eminent Persons Group has met for the first time to develop options for renewing the organisation.

“The goal is to sharpen the impact, strengthen the networks, and raise the profile of the Commonwealth,” said the Group’s chair, Tun Abdullah Ahmad Badawi of Malaysia.

“A very positive start has been made. The group discussed the Commonwealth’s purpose and some of the options for renewal and reform. We want to ensure that the Commonwealth of the future serves new generations in ways that are relevant and have strong beneficial impact.”

The Eminent Persons Group (EPG) - which met in London, UK, on 19 and 20 July - started to discuss the ways in which the Commonwealth should remain fully engaged in global debates and challenges that affect its members, especially small states and developing states, such as climate change, food security, and international financial liquidity.

Some of the other issues discussed by the Group at its first meeting included:

ways and means by which the commitment to Commonwealth values can be honoured more fully in practice;
options for the Commonwealth to make an enhanced global contribution as a source of constructive ‘soft power’ in the pursuit of collective global goals;
the possible development of new youth programmes as well as the challenges of youth unemployment and access to education, and the empowerment of youth as nation builders;
the format and content of Commonwealth Heads of Government Meetings and Ministerial meetings; options for civil society interaction with government leadership;
the scope to promote stronger research, collaboration and technology transfer in support of employment generation and other facets of development;
ways in which the profile of the Commonwealth can be strengthened; the consolidation and strengthening of election institutions;
the pursuit of strategic partnerships, including with diverse partners outside the Commonwealth and with consideration to the possibilities offered by the business community;
the Commonwealth Scholarships and Fellowships Plan – a longstanding initiative which promotes exchanges between all Commonwealth countries and provides added value in education; and,
progress to develop the Commonwealth Partnership Platform Portal as a pan-Commonwealth source of information, best practice, networks, innovative interactions, and a marketplace for transactions.

“The Commonwealth has set high international standards as a values-based organisation. But ways need to be found to ensure that the Commonwealth’s activities uphold and support more effectively our shared values and the moral authority deriving from them,” Tun Abdullah said.

“The Commonwealth recognises that development and democracy go hand-in-hand and reinforce each other. The organisation needs to continue to embrace all its values and to convert them into practical action on the ground that delivers prosperity and economic opportunity as well as the rule of law, human rights, and democracy.”

“The Group’s work has just begun but will be highly consultative. Each Group member will seek views from their own contacts in their own home countries and regions; we will aim to use the four Commonwealth regional centres – in Guyana, India, Solomon Islands and Zambia - to engage with a wider audience; and we will be seeking views from all Commonwealth civil society and professional associations and organisations. We will also be launching a questionnaire on the Commonwealth Secretariat website. Our aim is to be open and transparent,” Tun Abdullah continued.

“Many of the views already being expressed to the Group are encouraging a sharper focus in the Commonwealth’s work, a greater openness to civil society’s voice, and the critical importance of building young people’s concerns and needs into as much Commonwealth activity as possible. These first contributions of views are warmly welcome,” Tun Abdullah concluded.

Background

In the course of its first meeting, the Eminent Persons Group met The Queen, Head of the Commonwealth, and was briefed by representatives of the Commonwealth Foundation, the Commonwealth of Learning, and the Royal Commonwealth Society.

The Eminent Persons Group was established by Commonwealth Heads of Government at their summit in November 2009. The Group met at Marlborough House, London, from 19 to 20 July 2010. It is scheduled to meet again in October 2010 and March 2011 before reporting to leaders at the Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting (CHOGM), to take place in Perth in October 2011.

The Group comprises:

Tun Abdullah Ahmad Badawi (Malaysia, Chairperson)
Patricia Francis (Jamaica)
Dr Asma Jahangir (Pakistan)
Mr Samuel Kavuma (Uganda, Commonwealth Youth Caucus)
Hon Michael Kirby (Australia)
Dr Graca Machel (Mozambique)
Rt Hon Sir Malcolm Rifkind (UK)
Sir Ronald Sanders (Guyana)
Senator Hugh Segal (Canada)
Sir Ieremia Tabai (Kiribati)
Dr Graca Machel was unable to attend the first meeting.

Source: http://www.commonwealthfriends.org/component/content/article/15-news/123-fresh-thinking-key-to-commonwealths-future

Umat Islam perlu penanda aras pendapatan tinggi

2011-05-27T04:31:00.000-07:00

13 July 2010

KUALA LUMPUR 13 Julai - Umat Islam memerlukan penanda aras seperti dalam bidang pendidikan, teknologi, pembangunan insan dan penyelidikan bagi mencapai status negara berpendapatan tinggi, kata bekas Perdana Menteri, Tun Abdullah Ahmad Badawi.

Beliau berkata, bidang lain yang memerlukan penanda aras itu ialah peningkatan statistik graduan kelas pertama, kadar literasi penduduk serta perkembangan produktiviti pekerja melalui kreativiti dan inovasi dalam disiplin ilmu yang bersepadu.

"Jika kejayaan ini dapat dicapai, maka umat Islam dan pemimpin negara Islam akan berupaya mencipta model ekonomi yang mandiri, menandingi model lapuk tinggalan Amerika Syarikat dan Barat,” katanya.

Beliau berkata demikian ketika merasmikan Seminar Model Baru Ekonomi:Tinjauan Dari Perspektif Islam, anjuran Institut Kefahaman Islam Malaysia (IKIM) di sini, hari ini.

Abdullah yang juga Pengerusi IKIM berkata, penduduk dalam ekonomi berpendapatan tinggi mempunyai taraf yang lebih baik berbanding penduduk dalam ekonomi berpendapatan sederhana tinggi.

Selain itu, Abdullah berkata, pendekatan penyusunan ekonomi melalui amalan konvensional banyak menimbulkan masalah kepada kestabilan dan kesejahteraan ekonomi.

Sehubungan itu, satu model baharu ekonomi diperlukan, khusus bagi memenuhi keperluan negara Islam, katanya. - Bernama

Abdullah mahu parti komponen BN kurangkan politik dalaman

2011-05-27T04:29:00.001-07:00

11 July 2010

KEPALA BATAS 11 Julai - Parti-parti komponen Barisan Nasional (BN) hendaklah mengurangkan politik dalaman yang keterlaluan dan sebaliknya memberi tumpuan kepada usaha memberikan perkhidmatan terbaik kepada rakyat, kata bekas Perdana Menteri Tun Abdullah Ahmad Badawi.

Katanya, politik dalaman itu menyebabkan anggota BN lupa agenda sebenar iaitu membantu rakyat dengan melaksanakan pelbagai projek pembangunan serta kebajikan rakyat.

Abdullah berkata, beliau bimbang terhadap politik dalaman keterlaluan ketika ini berikutan khabar angin mengatakan Pilihan Raya Umum Ke-13 akan dibuat dalam masa terdekat.

"Macam-macam berita yang membawa kepada pertelagahan dalam parti sendiri ketika ini berikutan ada khabar angin mengatakan pilihan raya umum akan dibuat dalam tempoh terdekat dan ia tidak memberi kebaikan kepada kita sebenarnya.

"Ini semua menyebabkan orang (anggota parti) mula lupa tentang kehendak pembangunan yang diperlukan rakyat dan segala yang diatur oleh pemimpin tertinggi negara tidak menjadi kenyataan," katanya ketika berucap merasmikan persidangan perwakilan UMNO Bahagian Kepala Batas di sini hari ini.

Abdullah, yang juga Ketua Bahagian UMNO Kepala Batas berkata, ketika ini sudah wujud pertelingkahan antara satu kumpulan dengan kumpulan lain dalam parti serta ada yang sudah mencari siapa calon bakal ditampilkan dalam pilihan raya umum akan datang.

"Bila ini berlaku maka keperluan pembangunan terhadap rakyat kurang diberikan dan ini yang tidak mahu kita lihat hanya kerana kita sibuk sangat berpolitik sehingga lupa tugas asal," katanya.

Katanya, semua anggota komponen BN seharusnya mengambil langkah proaktif bagi memenangi hati pengundi pada masa kini yang dilihat lebih bijak dan mempunyai banyak permintaan.

"Mereka (pengundi muda) lebih kritis dan ini semua harus ditangani secara baik bagi memastikan mereka memberi sokongan kepada BN yang berjaya membangunkan negara sejak merdeka," katanya. - BERNAMA

Tun Abdullah dilantik pengerusi EPG Komanwel

2011-05-27T04:28:00.001-07:00

9 July 2010

KUALA LUMPUR 9 Julai - Bekas Perdana Menteri, Tun Abdullah Ahmad Badawi telah dilantik sebagai pengerusi Kumpulan Tokoh Terkemuka (EPG) Komanwel.

Beliau mengetuai kumpulan sembilan tokoh dari negara anggota Komanwel untuk membuat perakuan bagi mengukuhkan persekutuan itu ke arah mencapai potensinya dalam abad ke-21, kata Setiausaha Agung Komanwel, Kamalesh Sharma dalam satu kenyataan hari ini.

"Tugas kumpulan ini ialah memastikan bahawa Komanwel akan terus menjadi relevan selain menggunakan semua rangkaian dan perkongsiannya dengan cara yang terbaik,” katanya.

Anggota kumpulan itu terdiri pemudah cara perniagaan Patricia Francis (Jamaica), peguam hak asasi Dr. Asma Jahangir (Pakistan), pengerusi sementara Kaukus Pemuda Komanwel Samuel Kavuma (Uganda).

Hakim bersara Michael Kirby (Australia), peguam hak wanita dan kanak-kanak Dr. Graca Machel (Mozambique), ahli politik parti Conservative Sir Malcolm Rifkind (United Kingdom), bekas diplomat Sir Ronald Sanders (Guyana), senator Hugh Segal (Kanada) dan Anggota Parlimen Sir Ieremia Tabai (Kiribati).

Machel, bekas Menteri Pelajaran Mozambique, adalah isteri pejuang kemerdekaan Afrika Selatan Nelson Mandela.

Kumpulan itu dijadual mengadakan mesyuarat pertamanya di London pada 19 dan 20 Julai ini dan akan membentangkan perakuannya kepada ketua-ketua kerajaan Komanwel pada sidang kemuncak mereka di Perth pada Oktober tahun depan. - Bernama

Modal insan pemangkin kemajuan negara - Pak Lah

2011-05-27T04:27:00.001-07:00

8 July 2010

BATU PAHAT 8 Julai - Bekas Perdana Menteri, Tun Abdullah Ahmad Badawi berkata, kemajuan negara akan terus bertitik tolak daripada kekuatan tenaga modal insan dalam enggerakkan pembangunan secara kreatif dan inovatif.

Beliau berkata, kepimpinan negara sentiasa percaya dengan keupayaan tenaga anak tempatan bagi merealisasikan segala perancangan kemajuan sejak negara merdeka lebih 50 tahun lalu.

Namun, kata beliau, generasi muda kini perlu meningkatkan lagi penguasaan ilmu untuk pembangunan negara.

"Penguasaan ilmu amat penting bagi kita, tanpanya, tenaga modal insan tidak mencukupi bagi memajukan negara kita.

"Kemajuan bergantung kepada kekuatan modal insan dan berapa ramai tenaga kerja yang ada dan kualiti yang dimiliki, kalau kurang kita tidak boleh menjadi negara maju," katanya ketika berucap pada Majlis Pemimpin Bersama Mahasiswa Baru di Universiti Tun Hussein Onn Malaysia (UTHM) di sini hari ini.

Menurut Abdullah, beliau berbangga melihat rakyat Malaysia saling berganding bahu bagi memajukan negara sama ada daripada pihak kerajaan atau pun sektor swasta.

"Dalam negara kita yang merdeka ini, kita tidak mahu bergantung kepada tenaga orang putih, Australia, New Zealand, India serta Ceylon (Sri Lanka).

"Negara kita yang merdeka mesti dibangunkan oleh rakyat Malaysia sendiri dan begitu juga universiti kita, barulah kita boleh merancang pembangunan untuk menjadikan negara lebih maju," katanya.

Source: http://www.utusan.com.my/utusan/info.asp?y=2010&dt=0709&pub=utusan_malaysia&sec=Dalam_Negeri&pg=dn_23.htm&arc=hive

UTHM Confers Honorary Doctorate On Abdullah

2011-05-27T04:26:00.000-07:00

8 July 2010

BATU PAHAT, July 8 (Bernama) -- Former prime minister Tun Abdullah Ahmad Badawi was conferred an honorary doctorate in technical education at the ninth convocation of Universiti Tun Hussein Onn Malaysia (UTHM) here Thursday.

UTHM Chancellor, the Sultan of Johor, Sultan Ibrahim Ibni Almarhum Sultan Iskandar, officiated at the convocation and presented the degree to Tun Abdullah.

Sultan Ibrahim, in his speech, said the award reflected the appreciation and recognition UTHM accorded to Tun Abdullah's contribution to national development, particularly the growth of technical and vocational education.

"I and the staff of the university as well as the people of Johor extend our congratulations to Tun Abdullah Ahmad Badawi on the conferment of the award on him," he said.

Tun Abdullah said efforts must be made to get 70 per cent of the country's students to pursue technical and vocational subjects to realise the objective of making the country a developed nation.

A total of 242 graduands received their scrolls at the convocation, 222 of them receiving the bachelor's degree, 15 Masters and five doctorate.

Tun Abdullah's wife, Tun Jeanne Abdullah, and Higher Education Minister Datuk Seri Mohamed Khaled Nordin were also present at the event.

Jambatan Johor: Serah kepada kerajaan - Abdullah

2011-05-27T04:25:00.000-07:00

27 June 2010

KEPALA BATAS 27 Jun - Bekas Perdana Menteri, Tun Abdullah Ahmad Badawi berkata, isu pembinaan jambatan Johor harus diserahkan kepada kerajaan pusat untuk tindakan seterusnya.

Ini kerana kata beliau, kerajaan lebih tahu mengenai apa yang harus dilakukan memandangkan ianya projek yang besar. "Serah kepada kerajaan untuk kaji. Ini projek besar dan kerajaan sendiri tahu apa nak buat,” katanya kepada pemberita selepas merasmikan Persidangan Perwakilan Puteri Umno Kepala Batas, di sini hari ini.

Abdullah yang juga Ketua Umno Bahagian itu diminta mengulas titah Sultan Johor Sultan Ibrahim semalam yang meminta kerajaan pusat mempertimbangkan semula pembinaan jambatan baru bagi menggantikan Tambak Johor.

Antara lain, baginda bertitah pembinaan jambatan baru itu akan menyelesaikan banyak masalah termasuk masalah pencemaran laut yang terpaksa ditanggung rakyat Johor, khususnya di Johor Baharu. - Bernama

Source: Bernama

KUNJUNGAN HORMAT

2011-05-27T04:24:00.001-07:00

23 June 2010

Bekas Perdana Menteri, Tun Abdullah Ahmad Badawi semalam menerima kunjungan hormat empat daripada 12 sukarelawan yang menaiki kapal Mavi Marmara untuk menghantar bantuan misi kemanusiaan ke Gaza baru-baru ini.

Kunjungan para sukarelawan ke pejabat Abdullah di Presint 3, Putrajaya itu adalah untuk berkongsi pengalaman mereka sendiri ketika ditahan oleh tentera Israel.Sukarelawan yang hadir pada kunjungan itu ialah Pengerusi Aqsa Syarif, Hasanuddin Mohd. Yunus; Timbalan Presiden Yayasan Amal Malaysia, Jamaluddin Elias; wakil Muslim Care Malaysia, Halim Mohamed Redzuan dan sukarelawan Jemaah Islah Malaysia (JIM), Dr. Selamat Aliman.

Source: Utusan Malaysia

Tunas Mekar, an innovative model

2011-05-27T04:23:00.000-07:00

18 Feb 2010

THE Tunas Mekar Project, an initiative of former prime minister Tun Abdullah Ahmad Badawi, is a smart partnership arrangement between Bumiputera graduates and SME entrepreneurs.

Its two main objectives are to improve the performance of small and medium-sized enterprises and to expose graduates, especially those from Universiti Teknologi MARA (UiTM), to the world of entrepreneurship.

"Graduates are placed with SMEs as apprentices for one year, where they will learn new management techniques. At the same time, they will gain valuable hands-on experiences that will help them later on in their own businesses," said project director Prof Madya Sodri Ariffin.

"During the internship, they are also paid a monthly allowance of RM800, with the entrepreneurs also providing accommodation or allowances."

"A lecturer from UiTM is also appointed as counsellor to provide advice."

The Tunas Mekar project, a collaborative effort between UiTM and the Implementation and Coordination Unit of the Prime Minister's Department, was started in Penang in 2005, and followed by Wilayah FELDA, Terengganu, Kedah, Johor, Kelantan, Malacca, Pahang and Selangor.

A total of 245 graduates were involved in the first phase. Based on impact studies in July 2007, 90 per cent of entrepreneurs and 95 per cent of students are satisfied with the project while 82 per centof the entrepreneurs reported an improvement in sales and profit levels.

Presently, more than 150 graduates from the programme have started small businesses, including operating restaurants, grocery shops, cleaning services, construction company, photography shops, beauty services, printing, computer sales and child care services.

Most of them earned a net profit of between RM2,000 and RM4,000 a month and employed between three and four workers. There are also at least 10 outstanding entrepreneurs who are earning more than RM10,000 a month. Their experiences with Tunas Mekar have proven to be a valuable asset when applying for financing from banks and funds.

Following the successful implementation of the pilot project, the government has allocated additional funds for the project to be implemented in all states and, to date, a total of 480 graduates have been enrolled in the second phase.

"The number students who dropped out was fairly high in the first few months of the programme, as many were not up to the rigorous demand of being entrepreneurs.

"However, the rate was reduced when we interviewed and selected only those who have a deep interest in entrepreneurship and business careers."

"Graduates chosen for the project must aspire to become entrepreneurs and are imbued with entrepreneurial characteristics that make them determined, hard working, resilient, adventurous and willing to take calculated risks. "Generally, the chosen graduates are good human resource materials whom we believe have a high potential to be successful entrepreneurs.

"Given the opportunity through Tunas Mekar, they will learn the ropes fast and I will not be surprised if they emerge as business leaders in the country one day."

Source: http://smeblog.nst.com.my/2010/02/tunas-mekar-innovative-model.html

Pak Lah condemns church attacks

2010-01-07T23:17:00.000-08:00

Malaysian Insider By Debra Chong

KUALA LUMPUR, Jan 8 — Former Prime Minister Tun Abdullah Ahmad Badawi today added his voice to a small but growing section of leaders straddling the political divide who have come out to openly condemn the anonymous attacks on several churches in the Klang Valley.

"Two incidents happened last night, which were attempts to burn a church in Taman Melawati and Petaling Jaya, are very regretful. The act to pollute and desecrate any houses of worship must be strongly condemned by all parties," he said in a statement.

"The police and all levels of society must jointly take responsibility and work together so that such incidents do not spread and jeopardise the stability and security of the country," he added.

Abdullah, who is better known by his moniker Pak Lah, urged all citizens to work together and "protect and preserve freedom of religion as it is stated in the Federal Constitution."

"We must always safeguard the harmony and good relations among the races and religions," he said.

The former premier, whose father-in-law was Catholic and whose funeral service had taken place at the Church of the Assumption next to the Assunta Hospital in Petaling Jaya barely a week ago, was very upset with the spate of attacks.

A Molotov cocktail was lobbed into the Assumption grounds at about 4am today but failed to explode, police officials confirmed.

Two other churches were not as fortunate. The Metro Tabernacle in Desa Melawati here and the Live Chapel in Section 17, Petaling Jaya, were torched.

Use of the word ‘Allah’ must be clearly defined, says Pak Lah

2010-01-07T03:40:00.001-08:00

KUALA LUMPUR, Jan 4 (Bernama) — The issue of the use of the word “Allah” in the Catholic church’s weekly publication, the Herald, must be clearly explained immediately to the people, including non-Muslims, to avoid tension and confusion, said former prime minister Tun Abdullah Ahmad Badawi.

Abdullah, who is the chairman of the Institute of Islamic Understanding of Malaysia (Ikim), said the stand was made by the institute at its three-hour meeting chaired by him today.

“The issue must be well understood, so it must be clearly explained with the facts,” Abdullah told Bernama here.

He said Ikim has the religious experts or scholars who could provide the explanations on the issue through articles or forums.

“We can do this almost immediately. If non-Muslims want explanations on the issue, Ikim officials are prepared to meet them,” he added.

On Thursday, the Kuala Lumpur High Court allowed the Herald to use the word “Allah”.

Last Feb 16, Kuala Lumpur Archbishop Tan Sri Murphy Pakiam, as the publisher of the weekly, filed for a judicial review on the use of the word “Allah” in the church’s publication, seeking a declaration that the Home Minister’s decision to prohibit the use of the word in the publication was wrong and that the word “Allah” was not exclusive to Islam.
Abdullah said he was worried that if the issue was not explained clearly, it could bring harm to the country in the form of racial tension and conflict.
He also hoped the people would show restraint so as not to confuse the situation that could result in undesirable actions and reactions.

“Be careful about this issue. Acting on emotions cannot resolve it, but understanding based on facts can, God willing,” he said.
Abdullah said as the issue would again be brought to court, the legal process should not be disturbed, while it was the government’s right to appeal against the High Court’s decision.
The Home Ministry today filed the appeal against the High Court’s decision. Tomorrow, it will apply for a stay of execution of the court order made on Dec 31. — Bernama

Perginya seorang negarawan

2010-01-07T03:36:00.000-08:00

ARKIB Utusan Malaysia : 02/01/2010

Oleh RAJA SYAHRIR ABU BAKAR

KUALA LUMPUR 1 Jan. - Bekas Perdana Menteri, Tun Abdullah Ahmad Badawi menyifatkan Tan Sri Mohamed Rahmat sebagai tokoh yang banyak berjasa kepada negara.

Justeru katanya, pemergian negarawan itu merupakan sesuatu yang mendukacitakan buat negara serta beliau sendiri secara peribadi.

''Sudah tentu pemergiannya mendukacitakan seluruh ahli parti (UMNO) yang memahami dan mengikuti perjuangan beliau.

''Semoga Allah mencucuri rahmat ke atas roh beliau," katanya selepas menziarahi jenazah Allahyarham di Bukit Damansara dekat sini hari ini.

Hadir sama Menteri Pertahanan, Datuk Seri Dr. Ahmad Zahid Hamidi; Menteri Kemajuan Luar Bandar dan Wilayah, Datuk Seri Mohd. Shafie Apdal dan Timbalan Menteri di Jabatan Perdana Menteri, Datuk Ahmad Maslan.

Dalam pada itu Ahmad Zahid memberitahu, beliau amat menghormati Allahyarham yang disifatkan sebagai 'sifu' beliau dalam bidang politik.

''Selain itu, saya juga berasa amat rapat dengan beliau kerana kami berkongsi tarikh lahir yang sama iaitu pada 4 Januari dan tarikh ulang tahun perkahwinan kami juga serupa iaitu pada 26 Mac.

Ahmad pula berkata, Allahyarham merupakan seorang tokoh negara yang menyemai semangat patriotik rakyat terhadap tanah air.

'Saya masih ingat semasa Allahyarham menjadi Menteri Penerangan, beliau memperkenalkan Program Semarak (Setia Bersama Rakyat) yang bertujuan meningkatkan semangat cintakan negara," ujarnya.

Mohd. Shafie berpendapat, Allahyarham merupakan seorang pemimpin berkaliber serta mempunyai nilai kemanusiaan yang tinggi.

'Semasa saya berkhidmat sebagai timbalannya selama lima tahun, saya dapati Allahyarham bukan sahaja seorang ketua, malah seorang pembimbing, pendidik dan rakan yang amat pemurah.

''Dari perspektif kenegaraan pula, beliau merupakan tokoh yang berjaya menyelesaikan krisis dalaman UMNO sewaktu era kepimpinan Tun Dr. Mahathir Mohamad dahulu," jelasnya.

Sementara itu, bekas Menteri Penerangan, Tan Sri Zainuddin Maidin berkata, pemergian Allahyarham bermakna beliau telah kehilangan seorang sahabat yang kreatif dan inovatif dalam membangunkan negara.

Katanya, sepanjang menjadi Menteri Penerangan, Allahyarham memperkenalkan beberapa dasar yang memberi manfaat untuk kemajuan agama, bangsa dan negara.

''Allahyarham ialah individu yang bertanggungjawab memperkenalkan Kumpulan Pembaca, Pendengar dan Penonton (K3P) bagi menggalakkan rakyat menambah pengetahuan melalui pembacaan akhbar, radio dan menonton televisyen,'' katanya kepada Utusan Malaysia hari ini.

Bapa Jeanne Abdullah meninggal

2010-01-07T03:34:00.000-08:00

Utusan Malaysia: 31/12/2009 9:12pm

KUALA LUMPUR 31 Dis. — Matthew Danker, bapa kepada Tun Jeanne Abdullah meninggal dunia di rumahnya di Subang Jaya dekat sini pada 6.50 petang ini, kata seorang pembantu kepada bekas perdana menteri Tun Abdullah Ahmad Badawi.

Danker, 90, meninggalkan empat orang anak, Tun Jeanne, Rodney, Davo and Susan. Tun Jeanne, isteri kepada Abdullah, adalah anak sulung. - Bernama

Ulama diseru beri penjelasan

2009-11-12T21:59:00.000-08:00

Sumber: Utusan Malaysia

KUALA LUMPUR 12 Nov. - Golongan ulama diseru memberikan penjelasan kepada masyarakat tentang sesuatu fatwa, pandangan, hukuman atau kedudukan yang dikeluarkan oleh mereka bagi mengelak kekeliruan di kalangan umat Islam.

Pengerusi Institut Kemajuan Islam Malaysia (IKIM), Tun Abdullah Ahmad Badawi berkata, fenomena itu dapat dilihat semasa pewartaan atau penerbitan fatwa-fatwa yang selalunya tiada penerangan dan keputusan mahkamah syariah yang seringkali tidak disusuli dengan alasan penghakiman secara terperinci.

Memburukkan lagi keadaan katanya, orang awam ditakutkan dengan bahaya salah faham sekiranya hal-hal agama cuba diselami dengan lebih mendalam.

''Ini tidak membantu masyarakat memahami, menghargai dan menghayati agama secara lebih mendalam.

''Ulama perlu membuat penerangan apakah jenis dalil, sandaran atau kaedah yang digunakan pada setiap kali isu agama diperjelaskan kepada masyarakat,'' katanya semasa berucap merasmikan Seminar Taqlid, Ijtihad dan Talfiq; Skop, Amalan dan Batasan di Dewan Besar IKIM di sini hari ini.

Turut hadir ialah Pengerusi IKIM, Datuk Nik Mustapha Nik Hassan dan Timbalannya, Profesor Datuk Dr. Zaleha Kamaruddin.

Abdullah berkata, banyak isu dalam masyarakat hari ini menagih penjelasan daripada golongan bijak pandai agama.

''Isu-isu seperti kalimah Allah, yoga, ajaran sesat, fahaman syiah, antimazhab atau anti ahli sunnah wal jamaah adalah perkara yang memerlukan penjelasan kemas dan tegas daripada pihak berkuasa,'' jelasnya.

Tambahnya, kebanyakan rakyat hari ini yang berpendidikan dan berpelajaran tinggi sukar menerima pandangan bersifat dogmatik tanpa penjelasan yang boleh diterima akal.

''Cabaran utama selalunya datang daripada kumpulan ini yang menagih penerangan rasional kepada hampir semua perkara.

''Keadaan ini menjadi cabaran paling hebat bagi golongan ulama jika fatwa mereka tidak meyakinkan, boleh berlaku perbalahan dan perpecahan dalam masyarakat,'' katanya.

Seminar yang disertai kira-kira 300 peserta bertujuan memberi kefahaman mengenai konsep taqlid, ijtihad dan talfiq serta istilah lain berkaitan di samping meningkatkan kefahaman mengenai objektif undang-undang Islam.

Seramai 11 pembentang kertas kerja termasuk dari Indonesia dan Brunei telah diundang pada seminar yang berlangsung selama dua hari itu.

Syariah bukan perundangan jumud

2009-11-12T21:55:00.000-08:00

UCAPAN sulung Tun Abdullah Ahmad Badawi sebagai Pengerusi Institut Kefahaman Islam Malaysia (IKIM) sewaktu merasmikan seminar “Taklid, ijtihad dan talfiq: Skop, amalan dan batasan” di Dewan Besar IKIM, Kuala Lumpur pada 12 November.

Source: Utusan Malaysia

Segala puji milik Allah, selawat dan salam atas junjungan agung Nabi Muhammad SAW, para sahabat, para tabi’un serta pengikut jejak langkah Baginda hinggalah ke hari pembalasan.

Alhamdulillah, dengan izin-Nya saya dapat bersama dalam majlis seperti ini buat julung-julung kalinya sebagai Pengerusi institut ini.

Taklid, ijtihad dan talfiq secara umumnya adalah istilah yang saling berkaitan tentang cara pengamalan syariah dengan mengikut sesuatu mazhab tertentu sama ada secara sebahagian atau keseluruhannya.

Penggunaanya membayangkan tahap keilmuan anggota masyarakat yang berbeza. Taklid lebih merujuk kepada orang awam manakala ijtihad dan talfiq lebih menjurus kepada tanggungjawab ahli-ahli perundangan Islam menggunakan pengetahuan mereka membantu masyarakat mematuhi kehendakkehendak agama.

Permasalahan dalam kalangan masyarakat awam ialah kecenderungan untuk bertaklid secara buta tuli dan tegar. Dari sudut sejarahnya, mazhab Shafie telah bertapak sejak ratusan tahun di Malaysia. Fakta ini telah dizahir dan dimaktubkan dalam hampir semua perlembagaan atau undang-undang tubuh negeri di mana mazhab Shafie ditetapkan sebagai mazhab rasmi pemerintah.

Ini disusuli dengan keutamaan rujukan kepada mazhab ini yang terkandung dalam hampir semua akta atau enakmen undangundang Islam negeri.

Justeru, masyarakat secara umumnya menganggap bahawa mereka mesti mengamalkan mazhab tersebut secara ketat tanpa tolak ansur. Majoriti bukan sahaja ragu-ragu malah takut untuk menyimpang daripada ajaran mazhab berkenaan walaupun ada keperluan munasabah yang membenarkannya.

Namun begitu, dalam beberapa hal tertentu, seperti ibadat haji dan zakat, kelonggaran untuk menerima pandangan mazhab lain memang telah diperakukan dengan alasan-alasan yang cukup praktikal. Apa yang lebih menarik, di Perlis, tertulis dalam Perlembagaan Negeri bahawa ia tidak tertakluk kepada mana-mana mazhab secara khusus.

Jelas terdapat paradoks (pertentangan) dalam pengamalan ajaran Islam di Malaysia. Dari satu aspek, syariah perlu ada keseragaman dan kesatuan. Dari sudut lain, undang-undang Islam haruslah bersifat dinamik, progresif, sedia berubah mengikut suasana dan keadaan selagi mana ia tidak bertentangan dengan prinsip dan matlamat syariah.

Ternyata juga bahawa masyarakat muslim tidak dituntut mengikut ajaran mazhab secara tertutup dan jumud. Tetapi, melihat kepada realiti semasa, orang-orang Islam dinasihatkan – malah diberi amaran – supaya hanya setia bertaklid dengan satu mazhab sahaja. Selain dari kes-kes yang diketahui umum seperti haji dan zakat, orang awam ditegah daripada menukar mazhab mereka. Apabila sesuatu isu timbul, masyarakat tidak sabar lagi menunggu apa fatwa yang akan diberikan.

Suasana yang bercelaru ini harus dirungkai dan dimurnikan agar masyarakat tidak berterusan terumbang-ambing dalam kekeliruan.

Dalam situasi seperti ini, kecenderungan sebahagian ulama pula (seperti fuqaha, mufti dan hakim) ialah untuk memberikan pandangan, fatwa, hukuman atau kedudukan sesuatu perkara tanpa menjelaskan dalil, sandaran atau kaedah bagaimana sesuatu keputusan itu dicapai.

Fenomena ini boleh dilihat contohnya, melalui pewartaan dan penerbitan fatwa-fatwa yang selalunya tanpa penerangan; dan juga keputusan-keputusan Mahkamah Syariah yang seringkali tidak disusuli dengan penghakiman bertulis menjelaskan alasan-alasan atau rasional penghakiman secara terperinci.

Memburukkan keadaan, tahap pemikiran orang awam, sama ada secara langsung atau sebaliknya, direndah-rendahkan secara tidak wajar. Mereka ditakutkan dengan bahaya salah faham sekiranya hal-hal agama cuba diselami dengan lebih mendalam. Justeru, mereka hanya perlu bertaklid, iaitu patuh dan ikut pandangan orang-orang yang diberi kuasa keagamaan baik secara politik mahupun pentadbiran.

Ini tidak membantu masyarakat memahami, menghargai dan menghayati agama.

Sesetengah pimpinan agama menakutkan golongan awam ini bahawa mereka tiada pilihan selain bertaklid; bahawa taklid itu adalah sesuatu yang natural buat mereka; bahawa itulah kedudukan mereka selama-lamanya; bahawa mereka tidak perlu kepada alternatif lain; bahawa mereka tiada peranan untuk terlibat dalam proses ijtihad.

Mentaliti taklid paksaan inilah yang merata dalam pemikiran masyarakat muslim terdahulu dan berterusan ke hari ini. Belenggu mental inilah yang menghentikan amalan ijtihad. Lama-kelamaan kaum muslimin beranggapan bahawa pintu ijtihad telah ditutup. Malah ia seolah-olah menjadi salah satu “Rukun Iman” mereka bahawa kepercayaan ini sebenarnya suatu tuntutan keagamaan.

Penerimaan meluas mentaliti taklid ini membantutkan kemampuan daya fikir orang-orang Islam dan membataskan kemampuan mereka pula dalam mentadbir urusan keduniaan. Untuk keluar dari jurang ini, umat Islam mesti menguasai ilmu pengetahuan yang luas.

Majoriti anggota masyarakat memang bukan pakar dalam hal-hal syariah dan agama. Mereka boleh dikategorikan kepada dua kumpulan. Kumpulan pertama terdiri daripada mereka yang tidak berpelajaran secara formal. Kumpulan kedua terdiri dari kelompok yang berpendidikan dan berpelajaran tinggi.

Mereka adalah para professional yang memegang posisi penting dalam struktur sosio-budaya masyarakat. Mereka mempunyai suatu tahap pemikiran tertentu yang membolehkan mereka menganalisis, membanding dan menyaring maklumat dalam pembentukan pegangan dan world view mereka.

Dalam kehidupan beragama, cabaran utama datang dari kumpulan kedua ini. Mereka adalah golongan yang menagih penerangan rasional kepada hampir semua perkara. Mereka sukar menerima pandangan yang bersifat indoktrinasi atau dogmatik tanpa penjelasan yang boleh diterima akal.

Dalam mengutarakan persoalan taklid, ijtihad dan talfiq ini, penekanan seminar ini ialah kepada peranan golongan orang awam atau bukan pakar yang dimaksudkan. Mereka mungkin tidak faham malah kelihatan mempersoalkan hal-hal keagamaan, tetapi tidak boleh disisihkan. Mereka adalah anggota masyarakat Islam. Mereka juga mempunyai tugasan dan peranan yang harus dilaksanakan ke arah pemantapan agama secara keseluruhannya.

Keadaan ini yang menjadi cabaran paling hebat bagi golongan ulama. Jika fatwa mereka tidak meyakinkan, perbalahan dan perpecahan dalam masyarakat boleh berlaku. Pendekatan yang perlu diambil ialah menerima ijtihad sebagai kaedah untuk mencari penyelesaian dan keputusan bagi masalah-masalah yang dihadapi oleh masyarakat Islam.

Banyak isu dalam masyarakat yang menagih penjelasan dari golongan bijak pandai agama. Golongan awam dan bukan agama dari kalangan umat Islam pula harus diberi kefahaman, bukan sahaja untuk diri mereka, malah untuk orang-orang lain yang berada di sekeliling mereka, termasuklah orang-orang bukan Islam.

Isu kalimah Allah, yoga, pelbagai aliran ajaran sesat, faham syiah, wahdatul wujud, wahdatul syuhud, antimazhab, anti Ahli Sunah Wal Jamaah, adalah sekadar beberapa perkara yang memerlukan penjelasan kemas dan tegas dari pihak penguasa.

Soal tidak semua anggota masyarakat akan berusaha mendapatkan penjelasan tidak berbangkit. Apa yang lebih utama ialah penyediaan bahan-bahan rujukan yang memadai dan dapat dirujuk dengan mudah apabila keperluan timbul.

Seminar ini berhasrat memberikan kefahaman tentang senario ini. Ia harus dimulakan dengan menerangkan latar belakang konsep taklid, ijitihad dan talfiq serta lain-lain istilah berkaitan dan kedudukan mereka dalam Islam. Ke arah itu, ia harus menoleh ke belakang melihat sejarah undang-undang Islam bagaimana idea ini berkembang dalam pengalaman masyarakat Islam terdahulu dan tindakan ulama menanganinya.

Seminar ini akan melihat ruang lingkup talfiq dan faktor-faktor yang mendorong kemunculan dan penggunaannya. Ia akan menganalisis pandangan ulama tentang keadaan-keadaan yang menolak dan mengharuskan pengamalan talfiq. Ia juga akan meningkatkan kefahaman tentang objektif undang-undang Islam dan menegaskan bahawa syariah sesuai untuk semua keadaan, tempat dan zaman.

Kita perlu mengakui bahawa syariah bukan suatu perundangan Islam yang jumud. Syariah mesti terus berkembang dan berkemampuan untuk menentukan hukum-hukum yang berkaitan dengan kehidupan ummah dalam semua bidang.

Kewibawaan undang-undang syariah akan bergantung kepada integriti dan kemampuan ijtihad. Masyarakat Islam sekarang perlu memberi iktiraf kepada ijtihad semasa – ijtihad hadhari yang boleh membawa kemajuan dan perubahan (alislah wal tajdid) kepada umat Islam sekarang dan yang akan datang. Para ulama perlu bersedia menghadapi cabaran baru. Fahaman Islam perlu ditingkat dan diperluaskan dari peringkat sekolah hingga pengajian tinggi. Ia memerlukan perubahan kepada kurikulum pengajian Islam.

IKIM berusaha mendapatkan pembentang-pembentang yang terbaik dari dalam dan luar negara. Bagaimanapun, terdapat beberapa perkara luar jangka di saat-saat akhir menyebabkan beberapa penceramah asal tidak dapat menghadirkan diri. Ini tidaklah menjejaskan objektif seminar kerana saya yakin tokoh-tokoh yang ada bersama kita sepanjang dua hari ini tidak kurang hebat tahap keilmuannya.

Akhirnya, dengan lafaz mulia Bismillahi rahmani rahim, saya dengan ini merasmikan seminar “Taklid, ijtihad dan talfiq: Skop, amalan dan batasan."

Show compassion, says Abdullah

2009-11-12T21:46:00.000-08:00

By Karen Arukesamy (The Sun)

PETALING JAYA (Nov 12, 2009): Former prime minister Tun Abdullah Ahmad Badawi called on Malaysians today not to fail humanity but live with compassion and love for their fellow human beings.

"All I can ask of you today, my friends, is let us not fail humanity; let us not fail ourselves. Let us live with compassion and love for our fellow human beings. For what is life without compassion? For what is life if you cannot love, forgive and care for your fellow human being?" he said.

Abdullah was speaking at the launch of the Malaysian Charter for Compassion, an idea initiated by eminent British religious scholar Karen Armstrong, who invited people from all over the world to write a Charter for Compassion in November 2008.

The launch of the charter was organised by three citizens groups -- Yayasan Budi Penyayang Malaysia, The Malaysian Interfaith Network, and the International Movement for a Just World (JUST) -- to foster understanding of compassion among people of different faiths.

Stressing the importance of being a compassionate community, Abdullah said that in today’s world, which is wracked by violence, greed and selfishness, compassion is "severely lacking".

"We seem to lack the ability to see through the eyes of the poor, hungry, oppressed, discriminated and those of whom life has not given a break," he said.

"And in being unable to see through the eyes of the less fortunate, we are unable to empathise, thus, further propelling the world into a deeper abyss of suffering and gloom."

Abdullah also pointed out that another component of compassion people tend to overlook is the ability to forgive.

Quoting the various religions on compassion, he said: "There should be no doubt that peace, mercy and compassion are the core of all religions."

"We must then ask ourselves why mercy, compassion, steadfastness, justice and benevolence, which are so central to all religions, have all but lost their importance," he said.

He said the value of compassion is ingrained in the heart of every human being but it is within them as to whether they want to practise it or not.

"Too often, we underestimate the power of a touch, a smile, a kind word, a listening ear, an honest compliment or the smallest act of caring, all of which have the potential to turn the world around," he said.

"If we are sincere, we can make the world a better place."

Apart from the official launch, a panel discussions led by religious leaders and youths, a photo exhibition, and a Wall of Compassion to enable the general public to affix their signatures, were held.

Malaysia Charter for Compassion chairman Dr Chandra Muzaffar said: "In a multi-religious society like ours, it is crucial that we dedicate ourselves to the principle and practice of compassion. It is a principle that lies at the heart of all religious, ethical and spiritual traditions."

Emphasising the importance of "treating others as we wish to be treated ourselves", he said it is a challenge to demonstrate empathy with the suffering of all human beings.

Abdullah Launches Malaysian Chapter Of Global Compassion Charter

2009-11-12T21:44:00.000-08:00

November 12, 2009 17:07 PM

PETALING JAYA, Nov 12 (Bernama) -- Former prime minister Tun Abdullah Ahmad Badawi on Thursday launched the Malaysian chapter of the worldwide 'Charter For Compassion'.

Describing the charter as a cooperative effort to restore compassionate thinking and action, he said its global launch was a noble initiative to understanding compassion among people of different faiths and providing help to the needy.

Chairman of Charter For Compassion in Malaysia Dr Chandra Muzaffar said the project was one of the most urgent tasks to build a global community where men and women of all races, nations and ideologies could live in peace.

The charter was mooted in February last year by Karen Armstrong, a former Roman Catholic nun who authored more than 20 books on common ideas in Islam, Judaism and Christianity.

-- BERNAMA

Idea baik tapi tidak mudah dilaksanakan

2009-11-10T01:02:00.000-08:00

ARKIB Utusan Malaysia : 02/11/2009

KUALA LUMPUR 1 Nov. - Bekas Perdana Menteri, Tun Abdullah Ahmad Badawi berkata, cadangan mewujudkan sekolah satu aliran merupakan idea yang baik tetapi tidak mudah untuk dilaksanakan.

Menurut beliau, rakyat seharusnya memikirkan dengan sebaik-baiknya kerana bukan mudah untuk melakukan perubahan tanpa adanya sokongan dan kesediaan untuk menerima.

"Saya dulu pun semasa menjadi Menteri Pelajaran, pernah berfikir mengenai hal ini juga.

"Tetapi perkara ini tidak mudah, kalau kita buat juga, lepas itu orang tolak, ini akan jadi kelam-kabut," katanya.

Beliau bercakap kepada pemberita selepas menghadiri majlis 'Jom Pi Raya' anjuran Persatuan Kebajikan Anak Melayu Pulau Pinang di Wilayah Persekutuan dan Selangor di sini hari ini.

Hadir sama isterinya, Tun Jeanne Abdullah; Menteri di Jabatan Perdana Menteri, Tan Sri Nor Mohamed Yakcop dan Presiden Persatuan Kebajikan Anak Melayu Pulau Pinang di Wilayah Persekutuan dan Selangor, Datuk Zainul Azman Zainul Aziz.

Semalam, Datuk Seri Najib Tun Razak berkata, kerajaan sedia melaksanakan dasar sekolah satu aliran sekiranya itu kehendak rakyat negara ini.

Tegas Perdana Menteri, dalam melaksanakan dasar itu, kehendak rakyat perlu diambil kira kerana kerajaan tidak mahu ia menyebabkan perbalahan dan kesan buruk kepada masyarakat.

Najib berkata, tiada gunanya dasar sekolah satu aliran diperkenalkan jika akhirnya ia boleh mencetuskan ketegangan dalam hubungan antara kaum.

Sementara itu, Zainul Azman berkata, majlis yang dianjurkan pada setiap tahun itu adalah untuk mengeratkan silaturrahim antara anak-anak kelahiran Pulau Pinang yang kini berhijrah di Lembah Klang.

"Kita mempunyai keahlian sebanyak 500 orang dan bergiat aktif dalam memberikan kebajikan dan biasiswa kepada golongan yang memerlukan," katanya.

Majlis turut diserikan dengan persembahan artis tanah air termasuklah Jamal Abdillah, Imuda dan Shereen.

Video Link: Pak Lah on Role of Islam in Southeast Asia

2009-11-01T08:35:00.000-08:00

NEW YORK, October 19, 2009 - Former Prime Minister of Malaysia the Honorable Tun Abdullah Badawi and Asia Society President Vishakha Desai discuss the role of Islam in Southeast Asia and how the economies of the ASEAN region are coping with the world financial crisis. (1 hr., 26 min.)

Please go to this website to watch it.

http://www.asiasociety.org/video/policy-politics/tun-abdullah-badawi-complete-0

Najib Succeeded In Inspiring Delegates: Abdullah

2009-10-25T23:55:00.001-07:00

October 16, 2009 21:17 PM

KUALA LUMPUR, Oct 16 (Bernama) -- Former Umno president Tun Abdullah Ahmad Badawi on Friday said the party president Datuk Seri Najib Tun Razak's winding-up speech on the last day of the 2009 Umno General Assembly here was very inspiring and lifted the spirits of the delegates.

He said Najib had inspired them, including party division chiefs, supreme council members, Wanita Umno, Umno Youth and Puteri Umno, to together realise the steps needed to change the party, especially those related to party constitution changes.

"What is important is that the delegates here must pass the message to all who are in their respective areas and divisions.

"If it is only they who agree and do not carry the message back to their divisions there will no change at the lower level," Abdullah told reporters after the winding-up debate on the presidential policy speech at the end of the assembly at the Putra World Trade Centre here.

He had attended the assembly today as head of the Kepala Batas Umno division and sat with the delegates.

His presence caught the attention of the apex leadership and the delegates and he was honoured by thunderous applause by those in the hall.

Abdullah said today Najib had further strengthened his policy speech delivered yesterday and urged delegates to have a change of mindset and attitude as well as implement promises made to the party's president.

"If they truly implement what had been promised to the president, God willing, there will be success," he said.

He said the passing of the amendments to the party' constitution, done unanimously yesterday, proved that Umno members were ready to accept the change called for and had one purpose.

Abdullah also said Najib, as president, had done a good job in the running of the assembly.

-- BERNAMA

Abdullah Conferred Honorary Degree By Soka University

2009-10-25T23:52:00.001-07:00

September 30, 2009 22:41 PM

KUALA LUMPUR, Sept 30 (Bernama) -- Former prime minister Tun Abdullah Ahmad Badawi was conferred the Honorary Degree of Doctor of Honoris Causa from Soka University in Tokyo, Wednesday.

In his acceptance speech, the text of which was made available to Bernama, Abdullah expressed his gratitude to the President of Soka Gakai International Dr Daisaku Ikeda for the honour.

"It was my cherished ambition as a student in school as well as a student in university that I serve my country. When I graduated I had no hesitation in enrolling in the government's administrative and diplomatic service.

"When I matured as a civil servant as well as later when I embarked upon my political career, I was determined to contribute, in whatever modest way I could, to the betterment of not only the people of my country, but also to humanity at large," he said.

He said in his various capacities as minister and also prime minister, he was able to help enrich and develop young minds, strengthen Malaysia's capacity to defend itself and play a role in forging peace and stability in the region and around the world.

"If there is anything I am most grateful for, it is that I was able to further widen the democratic space in my country, improve its system of governance and delivery, and spark the modernisation and development of the rural economy through the development corridors that I introduced," he added.

Besides his blood ties with people from Japan, he said Malaysian people always admired the achievements of the Japanese particularly on how they managed to transform their country from the ashes of war to become the second largest economy of the world in a relatively short period of time.

"To emulate Japan, the Look East Policy was introduced. Our bilateral relations has expanded and deepened. Japan became Malaysia's top trading partner after neighbour Singapore. Japan was also among the top five investors in Malaysia in the last decade," he said.

Abdullah also mentioned that the Malaysian government had given a lot of emphasis on developing and distinguishing itself through its well-defined and advanced human capital development infrastructure.

"History has clearly shown that countries which invest heavily in education have progressed well ahead of those that do not," he added.

He noted that during his administration, he also introduced Islam Hadhari or civilsational Islam which he hoped would provide a blueprint and establish a balance in the pursuit of progress and enlightment.

-- BERNAMA

Former PM Pak Lah applauds Najib's message

2009-10-25T23:49:00.000-07:00

The Star - Published: Friday October 16, 2009 MYT 8:51:00 PM

KUALA LUMPUR: Former Umno president Tun Abdullah Ahmad Badawi applauded his successor Datuk Seri Najib Tun Razak in delivering his message of change in the Umno general assembly this time around.

“Najib has successfully convinced the delegates to be together with him in the amendments that were made in the party’s constitution,” he said.

Speaking to reporters after the closing of the general assembly, Abdullah said the winding up speech had further strengthened the message that the party president had first put forward at the opening of the assembly.

Earlier, Najib said Abdullah had kept two promises he made before stepping down as Prime Minister.

“Firstly, he (Abdullah) said he would not criticise what I do and give me full support. Secondly, he asked me to do my level best, even better than him,” said Najib.

“The important thing is for change to happen in the mindset and attitude within Umno,” he added.

However, Abdullah added that the delegates must also spread Najib’s message when they go back to their respective divisions to push for change within the party grassroots.

Najib thanks Pak Lah for not meddling

2009-10-22T03:44:00.000-07:00

Malaysian Insider - By Adib Zalkapli

KUALA LUMPUR, Oct 16 – Datuk Seri Najib Razak today thanked his predecessor Tun Abdullah Ahmad Badawi for not interfering in his administration.

In his winding up speech on the last day of the Umno general assembly, the Prime Minister praised Abdullah for standing by him in all the decisions he had made.

“He had promised me two things, firstly he said he would not criticise me, but I want to make it clear today. Not only has Pak Lah not been criticising me, he has also shown his support for my decisions,” said Najib, who took over the government from Abdullah in April.

During his premiership from 2004 till last April, Abdullah had to endure constant criticism from his predecessor, Tun Dr Mahathir Mohamad.

The campaign against Abdullah's administration from within the party had partly contributed to the Barisan Nasional's (BN) decline in Election 2008.

“Pak Lah even said that if I can do better than him, his support will continue,” Najib told his party faithful today.

Abdullah, who was absent during the opening of the assembly yesterday, was in the audience today.

He joined the delegates as the Kepala Batas Umno division chief and did not take the VIP seat reserved for him.

As a division chief, Abdullah is automatically a general assembly delegate but he was also invited to attend as a guest of honour by virtue of being former party president.

“We are very lucky because at the opening of the assembly a former president was present, and today another former president is with us to witness the closing of our assembly,” said Najib, referring to Dr Mahathir's attendance during the opening of the assembly.

Abdullah’s presence was highly anticipated yesterday as it would have been a rare joint public appearance with Dr Mahathir.

He was absent yesterday because he was unwell, said an aide.

Former PM Pak Lah applauds Najib's message

2009-10-22T03:37:00.000-07:00

The Star - Friday October 16, 2009 MYT 8:51:00 PM

KUALA LUMPUR: Former Umno president Tun Abdullah Ahmad Badawi applauded his successor Datuk Seri Najib Tun Razak in delivering his message of change in the Umno general assembly this time around.

“Najib has successfully convinced the delegates to be together with him in the amendments that were made in the party’s constitution,” he said.

Speaking to reporters after the closing of the general assembly, Abdullah said the winding up speech had further strengthened the message that the party president had first put forward at the opening of the assembly.

Earlier, Najib said Abdullah had kept two promises he made before stepping down as Prime Minister.

“Firstly, he (Abdullah) said he would not criticise what I do and give me full support. Secondly, he asked me to do my level best, even better than him,” said Najib.

“The important thing is for change to happen in the mindset and attitude within Umno,” he added.

However, Abdullah added that the delegates must also spread Najib’s message when they go back to their respective divisions to push for change within the party grassroots.

Pak Lah: Party should call another EGM to choose top leaders

2009-10-10T17:58:00.001-07:00

Sunday October 11, 2009

KEPALA BATAS: The MCA should hold fresh party elections as soon as possible, former Prime Minister Tun Abdullah Ahmad Badawi said.

He said the party should consider calling for another extraordinary general meeting (EGM) to hold an election to determine the position of its top leaders.

Abdullah said he was confident that the party members would prefer this solution.

“My belief is that under the (present) circumstances, the best move is to hold a new election. But that has to be done very quickly,” he told reporters after attending a Hari Raya gathering for Kepala Batas Umno veterans at Penang Golf Resort in Bertam here yesterday.

Abdullah said the MCA central committee must make a quick decision according to the party constitution to avoid creating further problems and challenges within the party.

He noted that the EGM results could affect Barisan Nasional’s strength and influence as MCA was a big party within the coalition and the credibility of MCA’s leadership was an essential factor.

“Party members must accept wholeheartedly the decision (by the MCA central committee) and refrain from fighting among themselves again,” he said.

Amending Umno Constitution Alone Won't Strengthen Party

2009-10-10T17:57:00.001-07:00

October 10, 2009 21:21 PM

KEPALA BATAS, Oct 10 (Bernama) -- Former prime minister Tun Abdullah Ahmad Badawi said that amending the Umno constitution would not make the party stronger if there was no change in the attitude of its members.

He said the amendments proposed by the current party leadership was more on giving the party a new look to restore its image, but what was more important was the content.

The intention to amend the constitution was good because they wanted to strengthen the party structure and regulations so that Umno remained relevant and would continue to be accepted by the people and the Malays, he added.

However, he said, amending the constitution could not be regarded a solution to solve problems in the party.

"Actually, what makes us strong are party members who are sincere, trustworthy and responsible. This is important. Otherwise, we can make regulations after regulations, but it will take us no where.

"Don't make the constitutional amendments a talisman because what is important is for us to be strong in terms of spirit, morality, love for the party and the desire to continue to fight on, even if not holding high post in the party," he said at an Aidilfitri feast with Kepala Batas Umno veterans here.

Abdullah, who is former Umno president, said it was not wrong for Umno to aspire to be a strong party and to continue to helm the country's administration.

"What is important is that this intention is supported with efforts," he added.

-- BERNAMA

MCA must find new leader fast

2009-10-10T06:44:00.001-07:00

KEPALA BATAS, Oct 10 (Bernama) -- The MCA central working committee must hold a special general assembly fast to choose the new leadership following the vote of no confidence in party president Datuk Seri Ong Tee Keat, former prime minister Tun Abdullah Ahmad Badawi said.

He said the leadership struggle must be resolved immediately so that the problem would not affect the Barisan Nasional's (BN) position.

As a big component party of the BN, whatever happened in the MCA would impact on the strength and influence of the coalition as a whole, he said when asked to comment on the decision of the MCA central delegates to pass a vote of no confidence in Ong at its extraordinary general meeting in Kuala Lumpur Saturday.

The meeting also voted to reinstate suspended deputy president Datuk Seri Dr Chuah Soi Lek as a member but not to his former post.

Abdullah said those affected should accept the decision and stop fighting because the credibility of the leadership was at stake.

On the Malaysia Makkal Sakti Party, which was launched today, Abdullah, who was former BN chairman, said having many parties representing the Indian community was not a problem as long as they had the same objective and the objective was good and their actions appropriate.

-- BERNAMA

PM and Rosmah among scores at Pak Lah’s Raya do

2009-09-26T18:33:00.001-07:00

Sunday September 27, 2009 - The Star

PUTRAJAYA: Scores of people thronged the Hari Raya open house hosted by Tun Abdullah Ahmad Badawi and wife Tun Jeanne Abdullah.

Looking resplendent in green, the former prime minister and Jeanne were at hand to greet a steady stream of visitors — Cabinet ministers, former ministers, foreign diplomats and the public — some of whom arrived as early as 11am.

By midday, Dewan Seri Endon at the Puspanitapuri complex were filled with people tucking into traditional delicacies and other mouth-watering dishes and sweets.

Prime Minister Datuk Seri Najib Tun Razak and wife Datin Seri Rosmah Mansor arrived at 1.15pm.

Also present were Information, Communications and Culture Minister Datuk Seri Dr Rais Yatim, Domestic Trade, Co-operative and Consumerism Minister Datuk Seri Ismail Sabri Yaakob, Agriculture and Agro-based Minister Datuk Noh Omar, former deputy prime minister Tun Musa Hitam and former Domestic Trade and Consumer Affairs minister Datuk Shahrir Samad.

Abdullah told reporters that he was pleased to host the open house as it was an opportunity to “catch up with old friends”.

“I am happy that some (ministers) came but I understand that some could not make it as they have other commitments. This is a time for merriment, for seeking forgiveness and to be together with people you know,” he said.

Also at hand to welcome guests were Abdullah’s son Datuk Kamaluddin, daughter Nori and son-in-law Khairy Jamaluddin.

Aquaculture farm at Como Lake to come on stream next year

2009-09-23T17:32:00.001-07:00

Wednesday September 23, 2009

By R.S.N. MURALI

KUALA TERENGGANU: The world will be able to savour succulent freshwater fish reared at an aquaculture farm in Kenyir Lake, Terengganu, by next year.

The farm at Como Lake in the fringe of Kenyir is poised to produce 9,000 tonnes of patin (silver catfish), siakap (Asian seabass) and tilapia for the international market.

It is among the high impact projects launched by former prime minister Tun Abdullah Ahmad Badawi in 2007 under the purview of Terengganu Agrotech Development Corporation (TADC).

TADC chief operations officer Rosli Harun said there were parties from Saudi Arabia, Kuwait, Iran, UAE, India, Singapore and Hong Kong interested in buying the fish when production reached full capacity in the next few months.

“We have doubled the production by adding 2,000 underwater cages. Each cage can generate one tonne of fish every harvest,” he said here recently.

Harvesting was only twice a year as the fish took six to eight months to mature, depending on the species, he said.

“For each harvest, we can turn in a profit of RM10mil based on the current tilapia and patin price of RM5 per kg, and RM12 per kg for siakap,” he said.

Rosli estimated that revenue of RM20mil per annum was possible with the inclusion of the export market.

He said that buyers from UAE were keen to order three containers, equivalent to 60 tonnes, on a weekly basis.

He added that TADC was working out ways to boost production in view of the high overseas demand.

The farm released four million fries into the cages early this year to increase output, he said.

Tilapia was the favourite among foreigners, followed by siakap, Rosli added.

For the local market, he said the Como Lake farm would supply 10 tonnes to the Selayang wholesale market in Selangor from early next year.

The project also helped villagers earn supplementary incomes, said Rosli.

First Raya at home joy for ex-PM Abdullah

2009-09-21T19:08:00.001-07:00

Tuesday September 22, 2009

KEPALA BATAS: Being able to spend the first day of Syawal in his hometown was a welcome experience for former Prime Minister Tun Abdullah Ahmad Badawi.

Abdullah spent most of the past decade away from his hometown.

When he was in the Cabinet - the last five years as PM - he only got to return on the sixth day of Hari Raya.

“I’m happy to meet my constituents and old friends on the first day of Syawal,” he told reporters at his open house celebration at Pusat Budi Penyayang here on Sunday.

Abdullah noted however that the number of well-wishers who turned up for the event was not as huge as previously.

“Previously, many people used to travel from other states to Kepala Batas,” he said, noting that the crowds this year were mainly from Kepala Batas and neighbouring areas in Penang.

On the tradition of holding open house, Abdullah, who is Kepala Batas MP, said many foreign ambassadors were surprised to find no protocol or security barrier was put in place to prevent people from mingling with the VIPs.

“The host also does not have to extend an invitation to visitors.

“When people know of an open house, they are welcome to attend without a formal invite,” he said, adding that such events could help bring the various races closer.

“The forging of stronger ties among Malaysians from different ethnic groups will hopefully reduce any feeling of prejudice,” Abdullah said, adding that the open house culture embodies the 1Malaysia concept.

Varsity’s generous act

2009-09-20T09:31:00.000-07:00

Sunday September 20, 2009

IN the spirit of sharing, Open University Malaysia (OUM) hosted a breaking of fast with orphans and the physically disabled to commemorate Ramadan.

More than 50 orphans from Asrama Baitul Ummah, Setapak, and 11 physically disabled learners from rehabilitation and industrial training centre, Bangi, joined the 400 over invitees comprising guests and staff of the university for the breaking of fast.

The event was graced by former Prime Minister Tun Abdullah Ahmad Badawi and his wife, OUM Chancellor Tun Jeanne Abdullah. Guests were entertained to Nasyid performances by the orphans as well as the university’s staff.

The children also received goodies including Raya clothes, cookies, chocolates and stationery from the university’s President and vice-chancellor Prof Emeritus Tan Sri Anuwar Ali.

Apart from that, OUM staff also donated cash and other valuables to Asrama Baitul Ummah. The orphanage was established in 2004 and it now houses more than 400 orphans.

Its founder, Abdul Rahman Ramani Abdullah, who was orphaned at the age of 12, said setting up the orphanage was his way of helping the underprivileged.

He said, “My only wish is to see them succeed in life.”

The event also saw the presentation of the university’s tithe contributions totalling RM950,000 to the Federal Territory’s Pusat Pungutan Zakat (tithe collection centre or PPZ).

On behalf of the university, Jeanne presented the cheque for the amount to PPZ’s general manager Mohd Rais Alias.

The event was part of the university’s many activities to foster links with the local community.

Similar breaking of fast events were held in other states, hosted by the respective learning centres.

Also present were the university’s pro chancellor Tan Sri Azman Hashim, Senator Tan Sri Dr Jins Shamsudin and Yemeni Higher Education deputy minister, Dr Ali Kassim.

Source: http://thestar.com.my/education/story.asp?file=/2009/9/20/education/4682482&sec=education

Open House Strengthens Friendship - Abdullah

2009-09-20T09:13:00.001-07:00

September 20, 2009 16:30 PM

KEPALA BATAS, Sept 20 (Bernama) -- Former Prime Minister Tun Abdullah Ahmad Badawi wants the people to continue with the open house tradition to strengthen friendship among them.

Citing the Aidilfitri open house, he said, the tradition was capable of breaking down any prejudice among Malaysians.

"Suspicions and prejudice will result in people harbouring ill-feelings towards one another but by coming together to an open house and mixing with people of various races, the negative feelings will taper off," he said.

He was speaking to reporters at an open house hosted by him and wife Tun Jeanne Abdullah at the Kompleks Budi Penyayang here on Sunday.

He said that he hoped to see Malaysians continued to celebrate the joyous occasion in the true spirit of harmony.

"Aidilfitri is not just celebrated by Muslims but also by Malaysians," he said.

Among those who attended Abdullah's open house were Yang Dipertua Negeri Tun Abdul Rahman Abbas and wife Toh Puan Majimor Shariff as well as local leaders.

-- BERNAMA

Pak Lah: Government should consider abolishing ISA

2009-09-12T05:43:00.000-07:00

SINTOK, July 17 — The government should consider abolishing the Internal Security Act (ISA) which carries a negative perception, and replacing it with a new law which allows for preventive detention while protecting the fundamental rights of the people.

Former Prime Minister Tun Abdullah Ahmad Badawi said the ISA had given too much power and perhaps too wide a scope to the authorities to determine the threats to security.

"As the home minister then, I had signed many orders for detention without trial under the ISA, but with the present government wanting to review the effectiveness and impact of the ISA, I feel obliged to give my sincere views on the Act.

"But it should be stressed that Malaysia still needs a preventive detention mechanism in the interest of national security and the challenges we face today, such as terrorism across borders, which require a law which enables the government to undertake preventive measures."

Abdullah said this in his speech at a special convocation ceremony where he was conferred an hononary Ph.D in Democracy at Universiti Utara Malaysia (UUM) here today. The Sultan of Kedah Tuanku Abdul Halim Mu'adzam Shah presented the scroll to Abdullah.

"Whether we like it or not, the ISA has been stigmatised as a negative element to the agenda of strengthening democracy and renewal in the country. So, this calls for the government to be brave to discard the old and open a new chapter," he said.

Abdullah believed that the government must be courageous to bring about such change (abolishing the ISA) as its commitment to the agenda of democratic renewal in the country.

"I believe this is the transformation that the people are expecting, as a preventive measure should not sacrifice fundamental human rights or to be misused for a political objective.

"Perhaps one solution is to limit the scope of preventive detention to certain threats only or to draw up a new Act specifically to prevent terrorist activities, hence reducing the chances of abuse of power for a political interest," he said.

On the honorary Ph.D, Abdullah said he viewed it as recognition from the academia for the vision, approaches and methods as well as the democratic philosophy of his administration. — Bernama

Abdullah Supports Abolishment Of Quota System In Umno

2009-09-12T00:28:00.000-07:00

KEPALA BATAS, Sept 12 (Bernama) -- Former Umno president Tun Abdullah Ahmad Badawi supports the decision by the Umno Supreme Council to abolish the quota system in the party elections.

He believed the decision would be lauded not only by Umno members, but also supporters and fans of the party.

"It is a good decision. I support it. I believe the response from Umno members is overwhelming, as well as from party supporters and fans," he told reporters after handing over Hari Raya aid to 216 people in the Pinang Tunggal state constituency here on Saturday.

He said this in response to a statement by Umno president Datuk Seri Najib Tun Razak yesterday that the supreme council had agreed to abolish the quota system in the party elections and also to increase the number of delegates to the party's general assembly.

Abdullah also said he was confident that the decision would be welcomed by many people and hoped that it would curb money politics in the party.

In another development, he said the Organisation of the Islamic Conference (OIC) should step up efforts to develop the economy of the Muslim community so that they would not be plagued by hardship and poverty.

With the OIC celebrating its 40th anniversary on Sept 25, he said, it was time that it and also other Islamic non-governmental organisations to work together for the purpose.

"When I headed the organisation before, I said that it had been my aim for attention be given to developing the economy. This being that poverty and backwardness form the biggest problem to the Muslim community," he added.

Abdullah, who is former OIC chairman, said that with the current world economic situation, it was apt for OIC member countries to help one another.

The former prime minister also said that there were many challenges facing the OIC, including issues in Palestine, Afghanistan and Iraq.

At the function, Abdullah also received RM89,750 in business tithe from two banks and a company to be distributed to the needy.

http://www.bernama.com/bernama/v5/newsindex.php?id=439964

Mindset Change Crucial In Achieving Success - Abdullah

2009-09-12T00:21:00.000-07:00

NIBONG TEBAL, Sept 9 (Bernama) -- Former Prime Minister Tun Abdullah Ahmad Badawi said mindset change is crucial in achieving a world-class success particularly in the field of education.

He said that during his tenure at the helm of the country's administration, he had given top priority to education."A revolution in education is needed to take the country's human capital to greater heights," he said at the Universiti Sains Malaysia's (USM) commemorative convocation here on Wednesday.

At the ceremony, USM Chancellor Tuanku Syed Sirajuddin Syed Putra Jamalullail conferred an Honorary Doctorate in Education to Abdullah. Abdullah also spelled out challenges facing institutions of higher learning in carrying out a revolution in education, namely the need to inculcate noble values, and to function as a centre for human capital development.

"The younger generations should also continue to nurture tolerance so that they can live in harmony with other communities," he said.

http://www.bernama.com/bernama/v5/newsindex.php?id=439109

Shah Alam Temple Issue Should Have Been Resolved Much Earlier - Abdullah

2009-09-11T23:51:00.000-07:00

KEPALA BATAS, Sept 6 (Bernama) -- The Selangor government should have resolved the Shah Alam temple relocation issue much earlier to avoid racial tension, former prime minister Tun Abdullah Ahmad Badawi said.

He said the state government should realise that delay in resolving the relocation of Sri Maha Mariamman temple from Section 19 ke Section 23 would lead to trouble.

"I read in newspapers that the Menteri Besar said the Selangor government will find a new location for the temple. This should have been done much earlier," he said after presenting scholarships and hampers in conjunction with Aidilfitri here on Sunday.

Abdullah said media reports on the demonstration by Section 23 residents in Shah Alam showed that racial ties were not good and that there were religious problems. Religious issues should be resolved amicably otherwise it would lead to strong reaction and cause tension among the people, he added.

http://www.bernama.com/bernama/v5/newsindex.php?id=438449

Compromise To Settle Crisis In MCA - Abdullah

2009-09-11T23:46:00.000-07:00

KEPALA BATAS, Sept 6 (Bernama) -- Feuding groups in MCA have been urged to show responsibility by striking a compromise to settle the crisis in the party, former prime minister Tun Abdullah Ahmad Badawi said.

He said the crisis should be settled fast to prevent it from worsening as this would not only destroy MCA but also Barisan Nasional (BN).

"It is a difficult and big problem. If they feel responsible, then they need to settle it fast," he said after presenting scholarships and gifts to mark Aidilfitri organised by Yayasan Budi Penyayang here on Sunday.

MCA plunged into a crisis when deputy president Datuk Dr Chua Soi Lek was sacked by the disciplinary board last week over a sex DVD which had smeared the party's image.

Some 127 students who received offers to study at institutions of higher learning received their scholarships while 350 senior citizens and the disabled (OKU) received hampers in conjunction with Aidilfitri.

\(http://www.bernama.com/bernama/v5/newsindex.php?id=438430)

Tun Abdullah Takes Over Duties As New Ikim Chairman

2009-09-11T23:41:00.000-07:00

KUALA LUMPUR, Sept 2 (Bernama) -- Former Prime Minister Tun Abdullah Ahmad Badawi on Wednesday officially took over duties as the chairman of the Institute of Islamic Understanding (Ikim) taking over from Tun Ahmad Sarji Abdul Hamid, the former Chief Secretary to the Government.

The handing-over-of-duties ceremony was done at the Ikim chairman's office here Wednesday.

Speaking to Bernama later, Abdullah said he was all ready to do important duties to elevate understanding of Islam among Muslims and non-Muslims.

He said he will study the successes and steps of Ikim under the leadership of Ahmad Sarji.

"Further to that there may be several new moves, which God willing, I will introduce for IKIM to implement," he said.

Abdullah, who has a bachelor's degree in Islamic Studies from Universiti Malaya, said he will stick firm to discharging all his duties at the institute.

"All the successes achieved must be improved upon and I stick to what I had espoused before about 'cemerlang, gemilang dan terbilang' (excellence, glory and distinction)," he said.

Abdullah is the second chairman of Ikim after Ahmad Sarji, who held the position since the establishment of the institute 17 years ago.

His appointment was effective Sept 1.

http://www.bernama.com/bernama/v5/newsindex.php?id=437462