DAP and Kit Siang approaching its expiry date

The Star today reports on a blog "alleging" of abuses of funds of Selangor DAP assemblymen, and predictably Kit Siang has dismissed these allegations as a conspiracy. Just as DSAI has done whenever he's faced with similar allegations. And a quick look at his blogs show, anyone who questions LKS is a brainless UMNO brainwashed Malaysian citizen.

I absolutely abhor these unsubstantiated stereotypes. I have only voted once before in 2004, as I was a disenfranchised voter in 1999, and was a PKR party worker in 2008 for a different constituency to which I was eligible to vote in. And the only time I voted, and I am indeed very embarassed to admit, I voted for the DAP and for this old man's party.

If Kit Siang continues with his holier than the whole world attitide, and continues thsi arrogant and condescending attitude that he shares with Karpal, (which I have shared in previous blogposts before), they will only bring down the whole PR alliance. TBH's death is tragic, but the excessive attacking stance that DAP has taken in response, is revolting to me. I can't believe that all DAP assemblymen will pass a 'fit-and-proper' assessment if such a test was applied. The Perak assemblywoman was as much to be blamed for Perak's fate as Mr Postman and the other guy from PKR were, and in my eyes even more so as it was her seat which caused the swing, so what's there to prevent all these inexperienced, wide-eyed first-time assemblymen to make procedural mistakes which could be viewed as "abuses".

As long as Kit Siang attempts to cloud people's mind through these "unjustified" attacks on the still-nascent MACC by equating these to DSAI's troubles in 1998, then he is also a true-blue politician, as dishonest, arrogant, blinded from the truth as his political opponents he so enjoys to make fun of. His true colours only comes out once his party becomes part of the governing establishment. I say down to the DAP and down to this old man!

Residuals - Ekuinas

Ekuinas - Funny name as it reminds me of horse-racing. Perhaps in the spirit of MIHAS’s halal beer, we can also have halal gambling? But I digress.

Not too sure what the proposition is to create another PE funding scheme in tourism, education and O&G, but it does look like a brilliant opportunity to tap into innovations and quality management products within the larger GLCs. We could possibly deploy the funds into “real” fundamental changes rather than “financial” funded opportunities, which after the hype, slowly descends into a tormenting, lingering death when unable to find the appropriate management directions to create lasting change. Food for thought?

DAP "leaders" who are unfit to lead

If news reports are to be believed, the Kedah DAP plans to quit the Pakatan Rakyat due to several issues, amongst which is them disputing the demolition of an ILLEGAL pig abattoir in Alor Setar. Heck, DAP leaders in Kedah – are you representing pork eaters or the law? And, another thing. Let’s ferret out these numbskulls and ensure that they are removed, nay – prevented, from holding office again, ever. Lim Kit Siang, please, open your eyes. Karpal – you’re a lawyer I hear? Oh I forgot, lawyers represent their clients, not the truth. Anwar – stop all this drama about PPSMI as a treachery of the Malay language and such political trivialities. Please, you’re in a position to instill real, sustained change in Malaysia, so leave behind your personal ambitions and glory-hunting tendencies. Seek your conscience, and indulge them, please, not for your sake, but for ours.

Living in the present tense

Part of my rehabilitation as a responsible person and member of society, as well as humble servant of Allah trying to imbue concepts of habluminannaas into my psyche, yesterday was both instructive and humbling for me.

One, the bonds of brotherhood that I share during my experience in Chamberlayne endures, and I should leverage on that and allow to be utilized in the surest of ways to achieve overall Islamic objectives. There is an existing platform to use, and my existence would need that I try my best to utilise it, including helping to shape its direction as best that I can. That presumes of course, that I am the best in what I do, and would need further effort on my part. I would need to use previous blogs quoting Abu Iman’s dilemma as an inspiration to move ahead.

People I met yesterday included Azmil, Farid, Zun Arif, Ust Aziz and Dr Salmi.

Two, is the family ties that both bind and choke at the same time. Resolution would involve magnamininty and overlooking faults of others, and thereby clearing ourselves to see where we stand and what we can achieve for others.

Pak Long Safri’s daughter Mimi Mastura got married to Salmi yesterday in AU Keramat. Rather odd, but educational in terms of what “sibling” brotherhood should be like, was that due to Pak Long’s illness, wedding was helped out by Mak Long Ani’s adik beradiks – which total 11 in number. I was humbled by what I saw was my mother’s genuine familial love for her cousin, for both Pak Long, and Pak Ngah who I narrowly missed.

A note on the family relationships knowing how bad I am at remembering relations – arwah Wan Beranang’s sister, Alang Bibi married Pak Lang (ranks to Mak, it should be Wan Lang and Pak Lang to me) Hamid, parents of both Pak Long Safri and Pak Ngah Zul. Mimi is the only daughter and the eldest. The sibling I met yesterday included Izzudin in Form 4, who’s famous for the incident of screaming for a luxury toy car worth 44,000 at Mofaz’s showroom when smaller, and apparently there’s a younger one in Standard 2 who I did not meet. Another elder son I met, in true fashion, demonstrates my failing memory as I can’t remember his name now.

Whilst I’m at this, I should also note that Orang Tua Ali, who fathered Acik Tun, also fathered (Makcik) Itam Ani, who now has a daughter (?) in Cheras Perdana and remembers us from our hajj trip. For obvious reasons, Mak does not share the same sentimental love for this side of the family relations.

Where to now? Pak Long’s illness yesterday caused me to think of how I can contribute, and partly I thought of giving a job to Izzudin if I had my own company. Although again this means that I’d need to develop leadership skills to mentor people.

Now that brings me to a different tangent. Why am I always living in the future tense when we all need to live in the present. To have this balance, I’d need to think of implications of the here and now. Enjoy the life given with fullest gratitude to the Giver, think through what needs to be done for immediate impact rather than continually justifying its halo effects in the distant future, where everything is rosy.

ADDENDUM:

Pajam Initiative needs a bit more finesse now that it has transpired that PR assuming Selangor state leadership has repercussions on Kg 6 Kaki’s penghulu-ship. Rosli, entrusted with keeping Mak’s portion of arwah Wan’s house (btw the land title has been passed on to me – hence, rightfully I should be paying Rosli), is under pressure from anak Mohd Nor, who is now part of the PAS penghulu cadre. The small plot of land is now subject to childish pulling to ‘tanam serai’. Whatever Pajam Initiative looks like later, these subtle undercurrents need to be addressed as it has a direct impact on Mak Long Posah’s reputation and Angah Aluih’s memories.

Obama's Cairo speech

Obama has made many strong pronouncements in the short time he has been US President – on moving away from the destructive Bushwhacked policies, on sustainable development and green technologies, and yesterday in Cairo on Islam and the world speech. While his speech was remarkable in a very well-balanced, humanity-centred themes as opposed to the Level 4 below discussions on economics, finances and education discussion that politicians love to engage in, I tend to agree with the general assessment that it is in the actions that follow that he will be assessed on.

The world does not exist in a vacuum. The retreat from outright support to Israel, as when he mentioned his objections to Jewish settlements in Palestine, will only anger Jewish hardliners, and henceforth create an imbalance in his political support. As long as he could retain his political base, I believe he will remain strong. But the treachery of people (pardon for not conforming to Obama’s politically-correct wordings) will mean that it is quite obvious that he’ll now be facing a different kind of threat.

I wish that he could maintain this stance, and I hope that he remains safe from harm. I am reminded of Negus of Ethiopia while reading this.

I am honored to be in the timeless city of Cairo, and to be hosted by two remarkable institutions. For over a thousand years, Al-Azhar has stood as a beacon of Islamic learning, and for over a century, Cairo University has been a source of Egypt's advancement. Together, you represent the harmony between tradition and progress. I am grateful for your hospitality, and the hospitality of the people of Egypt. I am also proud to carry with me the goodwill of the American people, and a greeting of peace from Muslim communities in my country: assalaamu alaykum. (Applause.)

We meet at a time of great tension between the United States and Muslims around the world - tension rooted in historical forces that go beyond any current policy debate. The relationship between Islam and the West includes centuries of co-existence and co-operation, but also conflict and religious wars. More recently, tension has been fed by colonialism that denied rights and opportunities to many Muslims, and a Cold War in which Muslim-majority countries were too often treated as proxies without regard to their own aspirations. Moreover, the sweeping change brought by modernity and globalization led many Muslims to view the West as hostile to the traditions of Islam.

Violent extremists have exploited these tensions in a small but potent minority of Muslims. The attacks of September 11th, 2001 and the continued efforts of these extremists to engage in violence against civilians has led some in my country to view Islam as inevitably hostile not only to America and Western countries, but also to human rights. All this has bred more fear and more mistrust.

The words used most frequently by Barack Obama in his Cairo speech

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So long as our relationship is defined by our differences, we will empower those who sow hatred rather than peace, those who promote conflict rather than the cooperation that can help all of our people achieve justice and prosperity. This cycle of suspicion and discord must end.

I have come here to Cairo to seek a new beginning between the United States and Muslims around the world; one based upon mutual interest and mutual respect; and one based upon the truth that America and Islam are not exclusive, and need not be in competition. Instead, they overlap, and share common principles - principles of justice and progress; tolerance and the dignity of all human beings.

I do so recognizing that change cannot happen overnight. I know there has been a lot of publicity about this speech, but no single speech can eradicate years of mistrust, nor can I answer in the time that I have all the complex questions that brought us to this point. But I am convinced that in order to move forward, we must say openly to each other the things we hold in our hearts, and that too often are said only behind closed doors. There must be a sustained effort to listen to each other; to learn from each other; to respect one another; and to seek common ground. As the Holy Koran tells us, "Be conscious of God and speak always the truth." (Applause.) That is what I will try to do today - to speak the truth as best I can, humbled by the task before us, and firm in my belief that the interests we share as human beings are far more powerful than the forces that drive us apart.

Part of this conviction is rooted in my own experience. I am a Christian, but my father came from a Kenyan family that includes generations of Muslims. As a boy, I spent several years in Indonesia and heard the call of the azaan at the break of dawn and at the fall of dusk. As a young man, I worked in Chicago communities where many found dignity and peace in their Muslim faith.

As a student of history, I also know civilization's debt to Islam. It was Islam - at places like Al-Azhar - that carried the light of learning through so many centuries, paving the way for Europe's Renaissance and Enlightenment. (Applause.) It was innovation in Muslim communities that developed the order of algebra; our magnetic compass and tools of navigation; our mastery of pens and printing; our understanding of how disease spreads and how it can be healed. Islamic culture has given us majestic arches and soaring spires; timeless poetry and cherished music; elegant calligraphy and places of peaceful contemplation. And throughout history, Islam has demonstrated through words and deeds the possibilities of religious tolerance and racial equality. (Applause.)

I also know that Islam has always been a part of America's story. The first nation to recognize my country was Morocco. In signing the Treaty of Tripoli in 1796, our second President John Adams wrote, "The United States has in itself no character of enmity against the laws, religion or tranquility of Muslims." And since our founding, American Muslims have enriched the United States. They have fought in our wars, served in government, they have stood for civil rights, they have started businesses, they have taught at our Universities, they have excelled in our sports arenas, they have won Nobel Prizes, built our tallest building, and lit the Olympic Torch. And when the first Muslim-American was recently elected to Congress, he took the oath to defend our Constitution using the same Holy Koran that one of our Founding Fathers - Thomas Jefferson - kept in his personal library.

So I have known Islam on three continents before coming to the region where it was first revealed. That experience guides my conviction that partnership between America and Islam must be based on what Islam is, not what it isn't. And I consider it part of my responsibility as President of the United States to fight against negative stereotypes of Islam wherever they appear. (Applause.)

But that same principle must apply to Muslim perceptions of America. (Applause.) Just as Muslims do not fit a crude stereotype, America is not the crude stereotype of a self-interested empire. The United States has been one of the greatest sources of progress that the world has ever known. We were born out of revolution against an empire. We were founded upon the ideal that all are created equal, and we have shed blood and struggled for centuries to give meaning to those words - within our borders, and around the world. We are shaped by every culture, drawn from every end of the Earth, and dedicated to a simple concept: E pluribus unum: "Out of many, one."

Much has been made of the fact that an African-American with the name Barack Hussein Obama could be elected president. (Applause.) But my personal story is not so unique. The dream of opportunity for all people has not come true for everyone in America, but its promise exists for all who come to our shores - and that includes nearly seven million American Muslims in our country today who, by the way, enjoy incomes and education that are higher than average. (Applause.)

Moreover, freedom in America is indivisible from the freedom to practice one's religion. That is why there is a mosque in every state of our union, and over 1,200 mosques within our borders. That is why the United States government has gone to court to protect the right of women and girls to wear the hijab, and to punish those who would deny it. (Applause.)

So let there be no doubt: Islam is a part of America. And I believe that America holds within her the truth that regardless of race, religion, or station in life, all of us share common aspirations - to live in peace and security; to get an education and to work with dignity; to love our families, our communities, and our God. These things we share. This is the hope of all humanity.

Of course, recognizing our common humanity is only the beginning of our task. Words alone cannot meet the needs of our people. These needs will be met only if we act boldly in the years ahead; and if we understand that the challenges we face are shared, and our failure to meet them will hurt us all.

For we have learned from recent experience that when a financial system weakens in one country, prosperity is hurt everywhere. When a new flu infects one human being, all are at risk. When one nation pursues a nuclear weapon, the risk of nuclear attack rises for all nations. When violent extremists operate in one stretch of mountains, people are endangered across an ocean. When innocents in Bosnia and Darfur are slaughtered, that is a stain on our collective conscience. (Applause.) That is what it means to share this world in the 21st Century. That is the responsibility we have to one another as human beings.

This is a difficult responsibility to embrace. For human history has often been a record of nations and tribes - and yes, religions - subjugating one another to serve their own interests. Yet in this new age, such attitudes are self-defeating. Given our interdependence, any world order that elevates one nation or group of people over another will inevitably fail. So whatever we think of the past, we must not be prisoners to it. Our problems must be dealt with through partnership; progress must be shared. (Applause.)

Now, that does not mean we should ignore sources of tension. Indeed, it suggests the opposite: we must face these tensions squarely. And so in that spirit, let me speak as clearly and as plainly as I can about some specific issues that I believe we must finally confront together.

The first issue that we have to confront is violent extremism in all of its forms.

In Ankara, I made clear that America is not - and never will be - at war with Islam. (Applause.) We will, however, relentlessly confront violent extremists who pose a grave threat to our security. Because we reject the same thing that people of all faiths reject: the killing of innocent men, women, and children. And it is my first duty as President to protect the American people.

The situation in Afghanistan demonstrates America's goals, and our need to work together. Over seven years ago, the United States pursued al Qaeda and the Taliban with broad international support. We did not go by choice, we went because of necessity. I am aware that there are still some who would question or justify the events of 9/11. But let us be clear: al Qaeda killed nearly 3,000 people on that day. The victims were innocent men, women and children from America and many other nations who had done nothing to harm anybody. And yet Al Qaeda chose to ruthlessly murder these people, claimed credit for the attack, and even now states their determination to kill on a massive scale. They have affiliates in many countries and are trying to expand their reach. These are not opinions to be debated; these are facts to be dealt with.

Make no mistake: we do not want to keep our troops in Afghanistan. We seek no military bases there. It is agonizing for America to lose our young men and women. It is costly and politically difficult to continue this conflict. We would gladly bring every single one of our troops home if we could be confident that there were not violent extremists in Afghanistan and now Pakistan determined to kill as many Americans as they possibly can. But that is not yet the case.

That's why we're partnering with a coalition of 46 countries. And despite the costs involved, America's commitment will not weaken. Indeed, none of us should tolerate these extremists. They have killed in many countries. They have killed people of different faiths - but more than any other, they have killed Muslims. Their actions are irreconcilable with the rights of human beings, the progress of nations, and with Islam. The Holy Koran teaches that whoever kills an innocent, it is as if he has killed all mankind. (Applause.) And whoever saves a person, it is as if he has saved all mankind. (Applause.) The enduring faith of over a billion people is so much bigger than the narrow hatred of a few. Islam is not part of the problem in combating violent extremism - it is an important part of promoting peace.

Now, we also know that military power alone is not going to solve the problems in Afghanistan and Pakistan. That is why we plan to invest $1.5 billion each year over the next five years to partner with Pakistanis to build schools and hospitals, roads and businesses, and hundreds of millions to help those who have been displaced. And that is why we are providing more than $2.8 billion to help Afghans develop their economy and deliver services that people depend upon.

Let me also address the issue of Iraq. Unlike Afghanistan, Iraq was a war of choice that provoked strong differences in my country and around the world. Although I believe that the Iraqi people are ultimately better off without the tyranny of Saddam Hussein, I also believe that events in Iraq have reminded America of the need to use diplomacy and build international consensus to resolve our problems whenever possible. (Applause.) Indeed, we can recall the words of Thomas Jefferson, who said: "I hope that our wisdom will grow with our power, and teach us that the less we use our power the greater it will be."

Today, America has a dual responsibility: to help Iraq forge a better future - and to leave Iraq to Iraqis. (Applause.) I have made it clear to the Iraqi people that we pursue no bases, and no claim on their territory or resources. Iraq's sovereignty is its own. That is why I ordered the removal of our combat brigades by next August. That is why we will honour our agreement with Iraq's democratically-elected government to remove combat troops from Iraqi cities by July, and to remove all our troops from Iraq by 2012. (Applause.) We will help Iraq train its Security Forces and develop its economy. But we will support a secure and united Iraq as a partner, and never as a patron.

And finally, just as America can never tolerate violence by extremists, we must never alter or forget our principles. 9/11 was an enormous trauma to our country. The fear and anger that it provoked was understandable, but in some cases, it led us to act contrary to our traditions and our ideals. We are taking concrete actions to change course. I have unequivocally prohibited the use of torture by the United States, and I have ordered the prison at Guantanamo Bay closed by early next year. (Applause.)

So America will defend itself respectful of the sovereignty of nations and the rule of law. And we will do so in partnership with Muslim communities which are also threatened. The sooner the extremists are isolated and unwelcome in Muslim communities, the sooner we will all be safer.

The second major source of tension that we need to discuss is the situation between Israelis, Palestinians and the Arab world.

America's strong bonds with Israel are well known. This bond is unbreakable. It is based upon cultural and historical ties, and the recognition that the aspiration for a Jewish homeland is rooted in a tragic history that cannot be denied.

Around the world, the Jewish people were persecuted for centuries, and anti-Semitism in Europe culminated in an unprecedented Holocaust. Tomorrow, I will visit Buchenwald, which was part of a network of camps where Jews were enslaved, tortured, shot and gassed to death by the Third Reich. Six million Jews were killed - more than the entire Jewish population of Israel today. Denying that fact is baseless, it is ignorant, and it is hateful. Threatening Israel with destruction - or repeating vile stereotypes about Jews - is deeply wrong, and only serves to evoke in the minds of Israelis this most painful of memories while preventing the peace that the people of this region deserve.

On the other hand, it is also undeniable that the Palestinian people - Muslims and Christians - have suffered in pursuit of a homeland. For more than 60 years they have endured the pain of dislocation. Many wait in refugee camps in the West Bank, Gaza, and neighbouring lands for a life of peace and security that they have never been able to lead. They endure the daily humiliations - large and small - that come with occupation. So let there be no doubt: the situation for the Palestinian people is intolerable. And America will not turn our backs on the legitimate Palestinian aspiration for dignity, opportunity, and a state of their own. (Applause.)

For decades then, there has been a stalemate: two peoples with legitimate aspirations, each with a painful history that makes compromise elusive. It is easy to point fingers - for Palestinians to point to the displacement brought about by Israel's founding, and for Israelis to point to the constant hostility and attacks throughout its history from within its borders as well as beyond. But if we see this conflict only from one side or the other, then we will be blind to the truth: the only resolution is for the aspirations of both sides to be met through two states, where Israelis and Palestinians each live in peace and security. (Applause.)

That is in Israel's interest, Palestine's interest, America's interest, and the world's interest. And that is why I intend to personally pursue this outcome with all the patience and dedication that the task requires. The obligations that the parties have agreed to under the Road Map are clear. For peace to come, it is time for them - and all of us - to live up to our responsibilities.

Palestinians must abandon violence. Resistance through violence and killing is wrong and does not succeed. For centuries, black people in America suffered the lash of the whip as slaves and the humiliation of segregation. But it was not violence that won full and equal rights. It was a peaceful and determined insistence upon the ideals at the center of America's founding. This same story can be told by people from South Africa to South Asia; from Eastern Europe to Indonesia. It's a story with a simple truth: violence is a dead end. It is a sign of neither courage nor power to shoot rockets at sleeping children, or to blow up old women on a bus. That is not how moral authority is claimed; that is how it is surrendered.

Now is the time for Palestinians to focus on what they can build. The Palestinian Authority must develop its capacity to govern, with institutions that serve the needs of its people. Hamas does have support among some Palestinians, but they also have to recognise that they have responsibilities. To play a role in fulfilling Palestinian aspirations, and to unify the Palestinian people, Hamas must put an end to violence, recognize past agreements, recognise Israel's right to exist.

At the same time, Israelis must acknowledge that just as Israel's right to exist cannot be denied, neither can Palestine's. The United States does not accept the legitimacy of continued Israeli settlements. (Applause.) This construction violates previous agreements and undermines efforts to achieve peace. It is time for these settlements to stop. (Applause.)

Obama on Israeli-Palestinian 'stalemate'

And Israel must also live up to its obligation to ensure that Palestinians can live, and work, and develop their society. Just as it devastates Palestinian families, the continuing humanitarian crisis in Gaza does not serve Israel's security; neither does the continuing lack of opportunity in the West Bank. Progress in the daily lives of the Palestinian people must be a critical part of a road to peace, and Israel must take concrete steps to enable such progress.

And finally, the Arab States must recognize that the Arab Peace Initiative was an important beginning, but not the end of their responsibilities. The Arab-Israeli conflict should no longer be used to distract the people of Arab nations from other problems. Instead, it must be a cause for action to help the Palestinian people develop the institutions that will sustain their state; to recognize Israel's legitimacy; and to choose progress over a self-defeating focus on the past.

America will align our policies with those who pursue peace, and we will say in public what we say in private to Israelis and Palestinians and Arabs. (Applause.) We cannot impose peace. But privately, many Muslims recognize that Israel will not go away. Likewise, many Israelis recognize the need for a Palestinian state. It is time for us to act on what everyone knows to be true.

Too many tears have been shed. Too much blood has been shed. All of us have a responsibility to work for the day when the mothers of Israelis and Palestinians can see their children grow up without fear; when the Holy Land of three great faiths is the place of peace that God intended it to be; when Jerusalem is a secure and lasting home for Jews and Christians and Muslims, and a place for all of the children of Abraham to mingle peacefully together. (Applause.) As in the story of Isra, when Moses, Jesus, and Mohammed (peace be upon them) joined in prayer. (Applause.)

The third source of tension is our shared interest in the rights and responsibilities of nations on nuclear weapons.

This issue has been a source of tension between the United States and the Islamic Republic of Iran. For many years, Iran has defined itself in part by its opposition to my country, and there is in fact a tumultuous history between us. In the middle of the Cold War, the United States played a role in the overthrow of a democratically-elected Iranian government. Since the Islamic Revolution, Iran has played a role in acts of hostage-taking and violence against U.S. troops and civilians. This history is well known. Rather than remain trapped in the past, I have made it clear to Iran's leaders and people that my country is prepared to move forward. The question, now, is not what Iran is against, but rather what future it wants to build.

It will be hard to overcome decades of mistrust, but we will proceed with courage, rectitude and resolve. There will be many issues to discuss between our two countries, and we are willing to move forward without preconditions on the basis of mutual respect. But it is clear to all concerned that when it comes to nuclear weapons, we have reached a decisive point. This is not simply about America's interests. It is about preventing a nuclear arms race in the Middle East that could lead this region and the world down a hugely dangerous path.

I understand those who protest that some countries have weapons that others do not. No single nation should pick and choose which nation holds nuclear weapons. (Applause.) That is why I strongly reaffirmed America's commitment to seek a world in which no nations hold nuclear weapons. And any nation - including Iran - should have the right to access peaceful nuclear power if it complies with its responsibilities under the nuclear Non-Proliferation Treaty. That commitment is at the core of the Treaty, and it must be kept for all who fully abide by it. And I am hopeful that all countries in the region can share in this goal.

The fourth issue that I will address is democracy. (Applause.)

I know there has been controversy about the promotion of democracy in recent years, and much of this controversy is connected to the war in Iraq. So let me be clear: no system of government can or should be imposed upon one nation by any other.

That does not lessen my commitment, however, to governments that reflect the will of the people. Each nation gives life to this principle in its own way, grounded in the traditions of its own people. America does not presume to know what is best for everyone, just as we would not presume to pick the outcome of a peaceful election. But I do have an unyielding belief that all people yearn for certain things: the ability to speak your mind and have a say in how you are governed; confidence in the rule of law and the equal administration of justice; government that is transparent and doesn't steal from the people; the freedom to live as you choose. Those are not just American ideas, they are human rights, and that is why we will support them everywhere. (Applause.)

Now, there is no straight line to realize this promise. But this much is clear: governments that protect these rights are ultimately more stable, successful and secure. Suppressing ideas never succeeds in making them go away. America respects the right of all peaceful and law-abiding voices to be heard around the world, even if we disagree with them. And we will welcome all elected, peaceful governments - provided they govern with respect for all their people.

This last point is important because there are some who advocate for democracy only when they are out of power; once in power, they are ruthless in suppressing the rights of others. (Applause.) No matter where it takes hold, government of the people and by the people sets a single standard for all who hold power: you must maintain your power through consent, not coercion; you must respect the rights of minorities, and participate with a spirit of tolerance and compromise; you must place the interests of your people and the legitimate workings of the political process above your party. Without these ingredients, elections alone do not make true democracy. (Shout from audience.) Thank you.

The fifth issue that we must address together is religious freedom.

Islam has a proud tradition of tolerance. We see it in the history of Andalusia and Cordoba during the Inquisition. I saw it firsthand as a child in Indonesia, where devout Christians worshipped freely in an overwhelmingly Muslim country. That is the spirit we need today. People in every country should be free to choose and live their faith based upon the persuasion of the mind, and the heart, and the soul. This tolerance is essential for religion to thrive, but it is being challenged in many different ways.

Among some Muslims, there is a disturbing tendency to measure one's own faith by the rejection of somebody else's. The richness of religious diversity must be upheld - whether it is for Maronites in Lebanon or the Copts in Egypt. (Applause.) And if we are being honest fault lines must be closed among Muslims as well, as the divisions between Sunni and Shia have led to tragic violence, particularly in Iraq.

Freedom of religion is central to the ability of peoples to live together. We must always examine the ways in which we protect it. For instance, in the United States, rules on charitable giving have made it harder for Muslims to fulfil their religious obligation. That is why I am committed to working with American Muslims to ensure that they can fulfil zakat.

Likewise, it is important for Western countries to avoid impeding Muslim citizens from practicing religion as they see fit - for instance, by dictating what clothes a Muslim woman should wear. We cannot disguise hostility towards any religion behind the pretence of liberalism.

Indeed, faith should bring us together. That is why we are forging service projects in America that bring together Christians, Muslims, and Jews. That is why we welcome efforts like Saudi Arabian King Abdullah's Interfaith dialogue and Turkey's leadership in the Alliance of Civilizations. Around the world, we can turn dialogue into Interfaith service, so bridges between peoples lead to action - whether it is combating malaria in Africa, or providing relief after a natural disaster.

The sixth issue that I want to address is women's rights. (Applause.)

I know, and you can tell from this audience, that there is a healthy debate about this issue. I reject the view of some in the West that a woman who chooses to cover her hair is somehow less equal, but I do believe that a woman who is denied an education is denied equality. (Applause.) And it is no coincidence that countries where women are well-educated are far more likely to be prosperous.

Now let me be clear: issues of women's equality are by no means simply an issue for Islam. In Turkey, Pakistan, Bangladesh, Indonesia, we have seen Muslim-majority countries elect a woman to lead. Meanwhile, the struggle for women's equality continues in many aspects of American life, and in countries around the world.

I am convinced that our daughters can contribute just as much to society as our sons. (Applause.) Our common prosperity will be advanced by allowing all humanity - men and women - to reach their full potential. I do not believe that women must make the same choices as men in order to be equal, and I respect those women who choose to live their lives in traditional roles. But it should be their choice. That is why the United States will partner with any Muslim-majority country to support expanded literacy for girls, and to help young women pursue employment through micro-financing that helps people live their dreams. (Applause.)

Finally, I want to discuss economic development and opportunity.

I know that for many, the face of globalization is contradictory. The Internet and television can bring knowledge and information, but also offensive sexuality and mindless violence into the home. Trade can bring new wealth and opportunities, but also huge disruptions and change to communities. In all nations - including America - this change can bring fear. Fear that because of modernity we will lose of control over our economic choices, our politics, and most importantly our identities - those things we most cherish about our communities, our families, our traditions, and our faith.

All of us must recognize that education and innovation will be the currency of the 21st century

But I also know that human progress cannot be denied. There need not be contradictions between development and tradition. Countries like Japan and South Korea grew their economies enormously while maintaining distinct cultures. The same is true for the astonishing progress within Muslim-majority countries from Kuala Lumpur to Dubai. In ancient times and in our times, Muslim communities have been at the forefront of innovation and education.

And this is important because no development strategy can be based only upon what comes out of the ground, nor can it be sustained while young people are out of work. Many Gulf States have enjoyed great wealth as a consequence of oil, and some are beginning to focus it on broader development. But all of us must recognize that education and innovation will be the currency of the 21st Century. (Applause.) And in too many Muslim communities there remains underinvestment in these areas. I am emphasizing such investment within my own country. And while America in the past has focused on oil and gas when it comes to this part of the world, we now seek a broader engagement.

On education, we will expand exchange programs, and increase scholarships, like the one that brought my father to America. (Applause.) At the same time we will encourage more Americans to study in Muslim communities. And we will match promising Muslim students with internships in America; invest in on-line learning for teachers and children around the world; and create a new online network, so a young person in Kansas can communicate instantly with a young person in Cairo.

On economic development, we will create a new corps of business volunteers to partner with counterparts in Muslim-majority countries. And I will host a Summit on Entrepreneurship this year to identify how we can deepen ties between business leaders, foundations and social entrepreneurs in the United States and Muslim communities around the world.

On science and technology, we will launch a new fund to support technological development in Muslim-majority countries, and to help transfer ideas to the marketplace so they can create more jobs. We will open centres of scientific excellence in Africa, the Middle East and Southeast Asia, and appoint new Science Envoys to collaborate on programs that develop new sources of energy, create green jobs, digitize records, clean water, grow new crops. Today I am announcing a new global effort with the Organization of the Islamic Conference to eradicate polio. And we will also expand partnerships with Muslim communities to promote child and maternal health.

All these things must be done in partnership. Americans are ready to join with citizens and governments; community organizations, religious leaders, and businesses in Muslim communities around the world to help our people pursue a better life.

The issues that I have described will not be easy to address. But we have a responsibility to join together on behalf of the world that we seek - a world where extremists no longer threaten our people, and American troops have come home; a world where Israelis and Palestinians are each secure in a state of their own, and nuclear energy is used for peaceful purposes; a world where governments serve their citizens, and the rights of all God's children are respected. Those are mutual interests. That is the world we seek. But we can only achieve it together.

I know there are many - Muslim and non-Muslim - who question whether we can forge this new beginning. Some are eager to stoke the flames of division, and to stand in the way of progress. Some suggest that it isn't worth the effort - that we are fated to disagree, and civilizations are doomed to clash. Many more are simply sceptical that real change can occur. There is so much fear, so much mistrust that has build up over the years. But if we choose to be bound by the past, we will never move forward. And I want to particularly say this to young people of every faith, in every country - you, more than anyone, have the ability to reimagine the world, to remake this world.

All of us share this world for but a brief moment in time. The question is whether we spend that time focused on what pushes us apart, or whether we commit ourselves to an effort - a sustained effort - to find common ground, to focus on the future we seek for our children, and to respect the dignity of all human beings.

It is easier to start wars than to end them. It is easier to blame others than to look inward; to see what is different about someone than to find the things we share. But we should choose the right path, not just the easy path. There is also one rule that lies at the heart of every religion - that we do unto others as we would have them do unto us. (Applause.) This truth transcends nations and peoples - a belief that isn't new; that isn't black or white or brown; that isn't Christian, or Muslim or Jew. It's a belief that pulsed in the cradle of civilization, and that still beats in the hearts of billions around the world. It's a faith in other people, and it's what brought me here today.

We have the power to make the world we seek, but only if we have the courage to make a new beginning, keeping in mind what has been written.

The Holy Koran tells us, "O mankind! We have created you male and a female; and we have made you into nations and tribes so that you may know one another."

The Talmud tells us: "The whole of the Torah is for the purpose of promoting peace."

The Holy Bible tells us, "Blessed are the peacemakers, for they shall be called sons of God." (Applause.)

The people of the world can live together in peace. We know that is God's vision. Now, that must be our work here on Earth. Thank you. And may God's peace be upon you. (Applause.) Thank you very much. Thank you.

References to applause, from the audience in Cairo, inserted by the BBC.

PAS at crossroads

A superb encapsulation of the challenges facing PAS – inclusive-Malay-centric or exclusive-Islam equality for all, legalistic-fiqhiyyah vs openness-ijtihadiyah, comfort zone vs discomfort? In many ways, too many parallels to the various shades of dichotomies I seek to resolve now. Abu Iman’s impact on the direction PAS has been heading into in the last 10 years has been tangible – and the sincerity of what he stands for is all too obvious for those who could see. Definitely someone to watch out for and follow his thoughts.

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From: http://www.themalaysianinsider.com/index.php/opinion/breaking-views/28362-persediaan-pas-untuk-menggantikan-umno-dr-dzulkefly-ahmad-

Persediaan PAS untuk menggantikan Umno — Dr Dzulkefly Ahmad

JUN 2 — Sesungguhnya Parti Islam Se-Malaysia (PAS), sedang berada di tahap paling baik dalam 58 tahun sejarah jatuh-bangun perjuangan politiknya.

Natijah dari pelbagai dinamika politik nasional dan hasil kesediaan kepimpinan memposisi kepentingan perjuangan, PAS kini berada sekali lagi di kedudukan penting yang sekaligus menuntut parti Islam ini terus membuat beberapa pilihan strategik.

Paling kritikal, atas pilihan strategik ini pula akan ditentukan keupayaan dan kelangsungan PAS, samada untuk terus mara menempah kejayaan yang lebih besar atau berpatah balik seumpama yang disaksikan pasca-kejayaan PRU ke-10, yakni keputusan PRU ke-11 April 2004 yang mengembalikan PAS pada garis sokongan tegarnya, tidak lebih dan tidak kurang dari itu.

Maka di ambang Muktamar ke-55 ini, punya cita-cita besar bagi meletakkan seluruh kepimpinan parti, aktivis, pendukung dan pencintanya, supaya sedar dan insaf, bahawa sekali lagi, kita berada di persimpangan kritikal ini.

Umum bahkan dunia, sedang memerhatikan penampilan serta pengolahan ‘Risalah Perjuangan Parti Politik Islam’ ini, dalam persaingan mendominasi kuasa abad 21 Masihi-15 Hijrah.

Khususnya di persada pertarungan politik sebuah negara-bangsa yang punya demografi cukup plural atau majmuk, di segi pertentangan pelbagai tuntutan agama, etnik dan budaya yang bersifat 60:40 Islam:Bukan-Islamnya. Cabaran inilah yang cuba digarap dalam penulisan ini, bagi menyambung penulisan lalu “Meniti Tuntutan Perjuangan Pasca Muktamar ke-55”.

Penulis ingin pertama-tamanya merakamkan perasaan terkilannya, bahawa polemik kepimpinan Ulama-Profesional telah menelan waktu, tenaga dan penumpuan yang agak keterlaluan.

Yang lebih penting dari kesemua itu sewajarnya ialah menekuni serta mentakrifkan tuntutan perjuangan yang bakal dipikul kepimpinan yang akan dipilih.

Dengan kejelasan itu, akan terserlah gandingan pasukan kepimpinan yang diperlukan bagi memantapkan lagi kepemimpinan Presiden memacu dan melonjakkan parti ke garis prestasi ke keluk yang seterusnya.

Maka membicarakan pilihan strategik di ketika ini adalah satu yang ‘dhoruri’ dan paling tidaknya sangat dihajatkan parti dalam rangka tuntutan kebijaksanaan perjuangan.

MENGGANTIKAN KEPIMPINAN UMNO BAGI KELOMPOK ISLAM MELAYU

Seperti yang ditegaskan kepimpinan tertinggi parti umpama Pengarah JK Pilihanraya PAS Pusat, waktunya telah tiba untuk mengambil alih kedudukan Umno selaku parti politik pilihan nombor satu untuk kelompok demografi pengundi Melayu-Islam di Negara ini.

Meski pun telah acap disebut termasuk salah seorang calon Timbalan Presiden, belum ada satu kejelasan strategi yang pernah dilakarkan kearah itu.

Sementara PAS berada di tahap paling kukuh dan kuat, Umno sebaliknya sedang berada di tahap paling lemah dalam laluan usia politiknya. Sebelum kita dikatakan berkhayal, PAS (dan Pakatan) perlu mengalahkan Umno dalam pertandingan 72 kerusi parlimen yang memiliki 2/3 majoriti Melayu-Islam dan 42 kerusi di mana yang majoriti mudahnya adalah pengundi Islam-Melayu. Selebih 51 kerusi parlimen yang lain adalah kerusi majoriti Bukan-Melayu, di mana 18 adalah kerusi majoriti 2/3 dan 33 adalah kerusi majoriti mudah Bukan-Melayu.

Jumlah kerusi pertarungan di Semenanjung ialah 165. Nah, perhatikan baik-baik apa maksud untuk menumbangkan Umno sebagai parti untuk orang Melayu-Islam.

Penulis, seorang optimis tegar seperti didakwanya, yakin bahawa objektif tersebut mampu dilakukan.

Telahan para ‘pundit’ politik meramalkan Umno tidak akan dapat memugarkan atau ‘reengineer’ kembali perjuangan sehingga parti Melayu terbesar itu mengalami kekalahan kuasa di peringkat Pusat dan belajar semula selepas menjadi pembangkang untuk satu jangka waktu.

Menarik tesis tersebut. Tidak mustahil kerana kemenangan disilih gantikan Allah SWT. (al-ayat).

Pun begitu, di segi perhitungan politiknya PAS perlu mengalahkan Umno dalam pertandingan pilihanraya umum akan datang. Untuk ingatan, PAS bertanding dalam 64 kerusi parlimen di Semenanjung, sementara memenangi 27 kerusi.

Umno sebagai perbandingan, menguasai 78 kerusi di Semenanjung. Sebutan mengambil alih kedudukan Umno sebagai parti pilihan orang Islam-Melayu wajar menyedari tuntutan realitinya.

PAS dalam ukuran politik hari ini sudah melepasi kekangan prestasi tradisinya. Dulu, PAS hanya mampu menang dalam pertandingan kerusi-kerusi yang berada dalam ‘Malay Belt’ atau Kawasan Melayu di Utara dan Pantai Timur.

PAS telah memecahkan tembok ini dalam pola Politik Baru dan bersedia memenangi kerusi-kerusi campuran 60:40 bahkan lebih ‘mixed’ dari itu seperti kerusi Kota Raja. Tegasnya PAS telah menemui formula dan resepi kejayaannya.

Persoalan buat kepimpinan kini ialah: Apakah yang perlu dilakukan kepimpinan parti untuk seterusnya merealisasikan cita-cita mengambil alih kedudukan Umno? Apakah yang bakal menghalang pencapaian objektif ini?

BERSAMA MENGGANDINGKAN KEKUATAN MENJATUHKAN UMNO-BN

Muktamar ke-55 ini juga membawa erti besar untuk parti Islam yang terbesar di negara ini, sekali lagi mempertegaskan komitmennya untuk menyaksikan tumbang kuasa yang telah memerintah negara selama lebih 5 desawarsa.

Lanjutnya kuasa ini telah menafikan negara dan rakyat mengecapi kesejahteraan hidup sebenar sesuai dengan kedudukan negara yang memilikki sumber per kapita antara tertinggi di dunia kerana pelbagai kebobrokan gelagat segelintir pemerintah yang sarat rasuah, kerakusan dan mementing diri.

Amalan demokrasi rosak sementara institusi kehakiman terus reput dan badan legislatif dicekik kuasa Eksekutif.

Media Baru memerdekakan rakyat dan pengundi. Tekanan ke arah pertanggungjawaban dan ketelusan menuntut kerajaan mendedahkan segala kecurangan yang dilakukan pihak pemerintah. Terkini skandal besar PKFZ yang bakal menelan RM12.8 bilion, sebagai ‘mercu tanda’ pengurusan sarat rasuah Umno-BN.

Umno-BN sudah sampai ke penghujung usianya. Mereka wajib di kalahkan dalam PRU ke-13 bagi mengangkat martabat, maruah dan daya saing negara.

Tidak ada kemungkaran yang lebih jelek dan membinasakan watak negara-bangsa ini amnya dan ummat Islam khususnya dari kehidupan yang menjauhkan manusia dari fitrahnya untuk memakmurkan bumi dan mensejahterakan kehidupan bermasyarakat dan bernegara.

PAS bergandingan dengan komponen parti Pakatan Rakyat, KeADILan dan DAP, berupaya melakukan sesuatu yang ajaib dan bijak dalam Politik Permuafakatan atau Tahaluf Siyasi (Coalition Politics).

SINDROM TAKUT KALAH UMNO, TAKUT MENANG PAS

Di persimpangan ‘Politik Transisi’ yang serba tidak menentu ini, Umno jelas telah dihinggapi ‘Sindrom Takut Kalah’ atau ‘Atichyphobia- Fear of Failures’, sehingga sanggup memberi laluan mudah di Penanti. Umno akan terus dihantui ketakutan dahsyat ini sehinggalah dapat menjalani rawatannya.

Namun PAS juga ditanggapi menghadapi satu fenomena yang sama tetapi sedikit berlainan. Apa yang dialami PAS kini ialah ‘Sindrom Takut Kejayaan - Fear of Success’.

PAS bukan takut dikalahkan tetapi lebih takut kejayaan akan mengakibatkan parti Islam kehilangan aAl-Asolahnya’ atau ‘Ketulenan keIslamannya’ lantas curiga serta khawatir untuk menempuh ‘jalan-jalan’ yang ditanggapi bukan lebuhrayanya bahkan didakwa sesetengah pihak berpotensi membawa kelunturan, pelarutan dan penyimpangannya dari cita-cita perjuangannya.

Penulis memerhatikan bahawa di sebaliknya polemik Ulama-Profesional, tersirat secara lebih mendalam tekanan sindrom ini, khususnya kepada golongan tertentu yang tidak dapat mentasawurkan proses dan gelagat perubahan yang wajar di pacu PAS dalam persaingan di gelanggang politik pluralis yang punya matlamat yang saling bertentangan dan bersimpang-siur.

PAS sangat berhajatkan dirawat dengan tekunan ilmu yang lebih mendalam dan keberanian ijtihad para ulama harakinya untuk keluar dari bahana sindrom ini.

KESIMPULAN

Di persimpangan kritikal ini juga, PAS perlu tahu bahawa Umno bukan kawan tapi lawannya. PAS wajar menegaskan bahawa Pakatan Rakyat adalah wasilah paling bijak bertepatan dengan tuntutan waqi? dan fiqh siyasi serta berpadanan dengan maslahah perjuangannya.

PAS sangat perlu menekuni kebijaksanaan untuk menampilkan terus ‘tag-line’ – ‘PAS Untuk Semua’ dan ‘Islam Untuk Semua’ melalui program-program perjuangan yang lebih ‘Inklusif’ menggamit serta melebarkan tapak sokongan, sementara memperkukuhkan kemurnian agenda Islam bagi sokongan tegar Melayu-Islam.

Sebagai contoh kecil, sedikit waktu lalu beberapa tokoh muda ulama PAS cukup berani membicarakan tentang zakat yang harus dipanjangkan kepada golongan ‘asnaf muallaf’ termasuk yang bukan-Islam seperti yang pernah dilakukan oleh Rasulullah s.a.w.

Tegasnya, PAS wajar keluar dari kotak pemikiran terlalu ‘fiqhiy’ (legalistik) kepada paradigma pemikiran ‘Usuliy dan Maqasidiy’ (Prinsip dan Maksud) lantas berani memposisi Islam dengan lebih mantap lagi dengan hujjah tekunan ilmu Islam yang lebih ‘daqiq’ (mendalam) dan intelek yang lebih peka dengan realiti semasa.

Terlalu banyak yang perlu digarap termasuk hiburan, mua’malat kewangan-ekonomi, pembangunan sosial, pendidikan dan pertentangan perundangan itu sendiri.

Inilah antara pengisian agenda “Penampilan Agenda Politik Islam PAS” dalam persaingan era baru. PAS mengongsi Keadilan serta Kesejahteraan sistem Islam kepada semua dan Aqidah Islam kepada yang meyakini.

PAS tidak wajar mengulangi kesilapan pendekatan terlalu ‘eksklusif’ dan ‘centrik’ yang meminggir rakyat dan pengundi dan dalam kedudukan yang tidak difahami kecuali penyokong tegarnya di kawasan-kawasan tradisinya.

Kesemua ini adalah agenda kepimpinan yang wajar diperbahaskan dan dicermati dengan lebih mendetail dalam Muktamar yang mempersiapkan parti untuk menempah kejayaan yang sama-sama di ingini dan diperjuangkan.

Memang benar kejayaan bukan segala-galanya, namun segala-galanya menantikan kejayaan bagi melakasanakam cita-cita perjuangan! – harakahdaily.net

* The writer is the head of research for PAS