View issues with Tan Seng Giaw

Happy Dragon Year

2012-01-22T20:01:00.002+08:00

Happy Dragon Year.

Last year, the year of the Rabbit, saw the fluctuations in the world, such as the Arab Spring, the American economic slowdown and the Euro Crisis. Malaysian Finance Minister believes that the global economic depression will only affect the country's economy by 0.7%. We wish that the Dragon Year brings good tidings.

Lets hope that the Dragon Year confers happiness to all.

Malaysian judiciary must be truly independent

2012-01-11T16:10:00.001+08:00

DAP National Deputy Chairman and MP for Kepong calls on the Chief Justice Tan Sri Ariffin Zakaria to try his best to show that Malaysian judiciary is truly independent.

Malaysia's Merdeka 55years ago was supposed to usher in the indpendence of the judiciary, free from interference of the Executive (the government) and pronuoncing judgement based on the laws promulgated in parliament.

On 11.1.2012, Dr Tan comments on the acquittal of Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim from the Sodomy II case on Janauary 9..

Anwar has gone through trials and tribulations.For many years, he has been kept busy in court, first with Sodomy I and then Sodomy II. The world has been watching the Malaysian judiciary.

On January 9, 2012, the High Court judge Mohd Zabidin Mohd Diah acquitted Anwar on a charge of sodomising his former personal aide Nohd Saiful Bukhari Azlan . He said , " the court finds that it is not safe to rely on the DNA evidence , so what is left is only SPI's (Mohd Saiful) testimony."

There was a reasonable doubt on the evidence. This was so from the beginning of the case.

The Prime Minister Datuk Seri Najib Tun Razak has issued a statement from South Africa, saying, "Today's verdict shows once again that the Malaysian judiciary is an independent institution where neither politics nor politicians have any influence over the dispensation of justice." We hope he continues to pursue this concept of judicial independence.

For many years, Malaysians have doubts on the independence of Malaysian judiciary, culminating in the sacking of the then Lord President during Tun Mahathir's premiership. The charge against Anwar in Sodomy I and sodomy II cast fruther shadows as exemplified by the carting of mattress in and out of court.

One swallow does not make a summer. There are factors including political one that led to the acquittal of Anwar.

We urge Tan Sri Ariffin Zakaria to try his utmost to show that the judicairy is truly independent. We hope he can enhance the positive perception of the world at large on the country's judicairy.

Tan Seng Giaw

Happy New Year

2011-12-31T17:51:00.002+08:00

Happy New Year.

Let us hope that the new year will bring peace and happiness to all.

Tan Seng Giaw

Reduce bureaucracy & irregularities in the processing of foreign workers

2011-12-28T22:41:00.001+08:00

DAP National Deputy Chairman and MP for Kepong Dr Tan Seng Giaw calls on the Central Government to deal seriously with bureaucracy and irregularities in the processing of foreign workers.

To let foreign workers registered under the recent 6P programme to work in 10 more sectors and 11 sub-sectors is one thing. Hindrances in the processing of these workers is another.

On 28.12.2011, Dr Tan looks at the Government announcement to let 6P foreign workers to work in 10 more sectors & 11 sub-sectors for two years.

As a country progresses, it faces the increasing problems of workers in various fields. Local workers demand higher salaries for certain types of work. Definitely, it is cheaper to employ foreign workers. Millions of these workers enter Malaysia legally and illegally. Today, legal workers number over two million. The number of illegal workers is unknown. Although over a million illegals have been registered under 6P Bersih Programme, we are still in the dark about millions of unregistered illegals. 6P means Program Penyelesaian Menyeluruh Pekerja Asing dan Pendatang Asing Tanpa Izin.

The processing of 6P involves 12 government departments and agencies. The bureaucracy is seemingly insoluble. This gives rise to irregularities such as corruption. As employers need workers desperately, many are driven to pay to avoid unnecessary delay.

On 27.12.2011, Secretary-General at the Home Office, Tan Sri Mahmood Adam, made public the extra 10 sectors such as mining and 11 sub-sectors like cargo handling for 6P foreign workers. Certainly, they need more workers. But, the Secretary-General must review the difficulties faced by employers in going through the processes of getting the workers.

Tan Seng Giaw

Improve management,administration & accountability in Iskandar

2011-12-12T13:55:00.002+08:00

DAP National Deputy Chairman and MP for Kepong Dr Tan Seng Giaw believes that Iskandar Malaysia and Nusajaya have to step up their management, admistration,transparency and accountability.

On 12.12.2011, Dr Tan notices that the Prime Minister Datuk Seri Najib praises the southern corridor, Iskandar Malaysia. We do not hear him talking much about other corridors such as the northern corridor.

Yesterday, the Prime Minister mentions about investments committed to Iskandar amounting to RM 77 billion. We hope the actual investments will match the commitment.

Najib says,"I have no doubt that Iskandar will be a vanguard for Malaysia and the region in the years to come."

There is much publicity about Johore Premium Outlets (JPO) as a major shopping haven. Apparently, JPO is owned and operated by Genting Simon. This is a joint venture between Genting Plantations unit Azzon Ltd and Premium Outlets.

The Parliamentary Public Account Committee (PAC) went to Iskandar twice in the past three years, to ascertain the actual situation of the special development area. The management talked about more investments into the area.

Iskandar's strategic position is obvious. It needs to be seen to have good management, efficient administration, transparency and accountability.

Tan Seng Giaw

Lets hope the Housing Ministry help Kepong Green View Apartment

2011-12-11T13:51:00.002+08:00

DAP National Deputy Chairman and MP for Kepong Dr Tan Seng Giaw urges the Housing and Local Government Ministry to help residents at Green View Apartment, Kepong Central, to solve their problems including maintenance of the apartment.

On 11.12.2011, Dr Tan visited Green View to listen to the residents.

Malaysia has thousands of private and public apartments and condominiums. They need good management. In the last few years, over 2000 Joint Management Bodies (JMBs) have been formed in the country, collecting fees from residents to provide various types of services such as security, cleaning and car parking.

Some JMBs do well and some face difficulties. At times, residents complain about bad service, refusing to pay maintenance fees. If JMB does not receive enough payment, it cannot function. At Green View, the fee was RM65 per unit a month. Now, its JMB increases the fee to RM85. As residents are unhappy with the service, many refuse to pay.

We raise apartment and condominium issues in Parliament. The ministry amends laws to overcome the impasse face by some PMBs. We hope it can help Green View.

We have reminded the ministry that PMBs in apartments for people with medium- and low-income often face difficulties. We contact the ministry in the hope that it can assist residents of Green View.

Tan Seng Giaw

Overcome bureaucracy & other obstacles

2011-12-08T13:54:00.002+08:00

DAP National Deputy Chairman and MP for Kepong Dr Tan Seng Giaw calls on the Director-General of the Public Service Department Tan Sri Abu Bakar Abdullah to help overcome bureaucracy and irregularities in government departments.

On 8.12.2011, Dr Tan comments on the statement by Tan Sri Abu Bakar on the civil servants' pay rise of 7-13%, starting from January 1, 2012.

Yesterday, the Director-General explained how he was going to deal with the increase in salaries and staff promotion, based on heirachy, talent, experience and performance. This attracts attention. Rewarding government workers on merits is logical. If 1.3 million civil servants become more dedicated and work harder, the society benefits.

We bring these matters up in Parliament frequently. We continue to do so, because monitoring the performance of government officials in very important.

Besides wishing those civil servants who work hard and are rewarded, we would like the Director-General to review the attitude and the work done in government departments. For example, the Bersih Biometric Project has registered over 2 million foreign workers. We still do not know how many millions enter this country illegally.

It is reasonable to try to get to know the actual number of foreign workers in Malaysia. But, people continue to face bureaucracy and various obstacles. These make life difficult.

We hope all concerned look at these problems seriously. Tan Sri Abu Bakar can help to find solution to these irregularities.

Tan Seng Giaw

Deal with cases of electricity theft fairly

2011-11-30T20:43:00.002+08:00

DAP National Deputy Chairman and MP for Kepong Dr Tan Seng Giaw reiterates that Tenaga Nasional Berhad, TNB, must be fair in handling suspected cases of tampering with electric meters, especially when it is using sophisticated methods and devices to detect elctricity theft.

On 30.11.2011, Dr Tan asked Energy Minister Datuk Peter Chin supplementary question on the tampering of electricity meters di Parliament.

Malaysia has millions of electricity consumers, such as seven millions in Peninsula. According to the Minister, in 2011, there are 9,450 consumers suspected of tampering with meters. In the last few years, 27 cases of electricity theft have gone to court; 23 cases settled out of court. TNB loses some. For example, in one case, it had to compensate a consumer RM1.2 million.

TNB uses sophisticated methods and machines to detect electricity theft, including public complaints, analyses and regular checks. In 2011, it has changed 1,183,701 old meters into new ones. TNB staff members involved in this type of illegal activities are: 2007-2008 2, 2008-2009 4, 2009-2010 1 and 2010-1011 2. The real figures are unknown.

For over 10 years, TNB has collected hundreds of millions of ringgits from suspected consumers. It continues to pursue the matter.

As the company is using sophisticated methods to detect tampering of meters, we hope that it is fair in dealing with consumers who are suspected of meter tampering.

Tan Seng Giaw

Subsidies amounting to RM33bil must reach the targets

2011-11-17T16:30:00.002+08:00

DAP National Deputy Chairman and MP for Kepong Dr Tan Seng Giaw presses the Central Government to ensure that all subsidies reach the targets, but not exploited by others such as the middle men.

On 17.11.2011, Deputy Finance Minister Datuk Lim Siang Chai told the House that the total amount of subsidies was RM33 billion for 2012. The targets included paddy farmers and fishermen.

Replying to Dr Tan's supplementary question, YB Lim says that the total amount of RM33 billion subsidies includes petroleum (RM17 billion), paddy and rice, electricity for the poor, farmers and fishermen. The allowance of RM1,000 to each family with monthly income of less than RM3,000 is only one off.

Naturally, giving subsidy is easy, but withdrawing it is very difficult. It is correct to help persons who truly deserve it such as the genuinely poor. Those who are able are encouraged to be self-reliant.Problems appear when those who manage these subsidies are inefficient,deviating from the targets.

For example, syndicates abuse petroleum subsidy. There are tourists who make the best of it as there are weaknesses in the management.

We must ensure that the offering and the receiving of subsidies of RM33 billion fit into the targets. We prevent wastage and irregularities.

Tan Seng Giaw

Review the ways poor patients receive help

2011-11-16T22:05:00.002+08:00

DAP National Deputy Chairman and MP for Kepong Dr Tan Seng Giaw calls on the Health Ministry to reviews ways which are used to help patients who cannot afford the treatment in public clinics and hospitals.

Make it easier for truly deserving patients to have access to Tabung Bantuan Perubatan (Medical Aid Fund).

On 16.11.2011, Dr Tan spoke at the committee stage in Parliament on the budgetary allocation of RM18.9 billion for the Health Ministry.

Poor patients in the world cannot afford medical treatment. This is particularly true for patients with chronic ailments such as heart disease.

To get medical treatment in public and private clinics and hospitals, patients often have to borrow, amounting to perhaps thousands of ringgits. Some who can afford it refuse to pay. Many are genuinely poor.

The minister talks of various ways for deserving patients to get reduction in payment, such as paying only RM500. There is Tabung Bantuan Perubatan (Medical Aid Fund).

We hope the ministry reviews the various ways to help deserving patients.

Tan Seng Giaw

Use indelible ink in General Elections

2011-11-16T18:29:00.002+08:00

DAP National Deputy Chairman and MP for Kepong Dr Tan Seng Giaw reiterates that the Malaysian Election Commission use indelible ink to prevent irregularities such as phantom voters in general elections (GE).

On 16.11.2011, Dr Tan comments on the oral statement by the Attorney-General (AG) that the introduction of indelible ink in GE does not involve constitutional amendment, only amendment to Procedure.

General elections should be truly fair. After 54 years of Merdeka, the Central Government sets up a Parliamentary Select Committee to make recommendations to improve GE, ensuring its fairness.

One way of preventing irregularities such as phantom voters is to use indelible ink. In the 12th GE, the Election Commission did buy indelible ink;it was not used.

As there is no need to amend the Federal Constitution, the Government should amend the Procedure so that indelible ink will be used in the coming GE. Further, recommendations of the Select Committee should reflect the views of the people. The EC should then incorporate and enforce them as much as possible in GE, consistent with the wishes of Malaysians.

Tan Seng Giaw

World Diabetes Day

2011-11-14T21:57:00.002+08:00

DAP National Deputy Chairman and MP for Kepong Dr Tan Seng Giaw calls on the Central Government to take effective steps including more campaigns, discussions and education on diabetes and obesity in Malaysia.

All must pay attention to the intake of foods such as carbohydrates like sugar and rice as well as oils.

On 14.11.2011, Dr Tan asked a supplementary question in the House on alternative sugars that are claimed to contain harmful chemicals on health.

The Deputy Health Minister YB Rosnah says that 18 kinds of natural and artificial sugars in Malaysia are safe to take. Action is taken against the sale of illegal alternative sugars such as 74 and 62 samples tested positive in 2009 and 2010 respectively.

She reminds the House that today is World Diabetes Day. Malaysia has about three million diabetics. Many take excess sugar: each eating more than seven teaspoonfuls , that is, over 50 gm daily. Obesity in this country is top in ASEAN and sixth in Asia-Pacific.

We must pay more attention to diabetes and obesity in Malaysia. Besides the activities of the Health Ministry, all must be concerned. Continuous education is important. Although exercise is vital in keeping fit and healthy, it is the amount and types of food eaten that affect a person's weight. The control of intake of carbohydrates such as rice and sugar as well as oil is necessary.

Tan Seng Giaw

Greater efforts to prevent cyber crimes such as hackings.

2011-11-10T17:11:00.002+08:00

DAP National Deputy Chairman and MP for Kepong Dr Tan Seng Giaw calls on the Ministry of Science, Technology and Innovation to step up its efforts to prevent cyber crimes such as hackings.

On 10.11.2011, Dr Tan asked additional question in Parliament on Global Cyber Security Association (GCSA) which involves many organizations, public and private, internationally.

The cyber world develops very rapidly and its crimes increase proportionately, threatening the security in many fields including banking. What is powerful for good is also powerful for evil.

In 2009, the loss due to cyber crimes in Malaysia was estimated as RM13 million and in 2010 RM22 million. In the next five years, it is projected as RM2.73 billion.

Among the activities of GCSA are international platform, cooperation between private and public sectors and professionals dealing with increasing cyber threats.

Hackers can operate from within and outside the country. Malaysian hackers do not lag behind as shown in the conviction and imprisonment for 10 years of a Malaysian in America recently. The convicted person hacked into banking facilities.

Keeping up with new technology and cyber criminal activities is difficult. Besides cooperating internationally, all concerned especially the ministry have to step up the efforts to prevent and to track them.

Tan Seng Giaw

The Treasury must improve its performance

2011-11-03T16:39:00.002+08:00

DAP National Deputy Chairman and MP for Kepong Dr Tan Seng Giaw calls on the Finance Ministry to improve its performance and effectiveness including economic analysis.

Finance Minister must review all aspects of his ministry to ensure rapid economic growth, compared with the part played by Bank Negara.

On 2.11.2011, Dr Tan took part in the debate at committee stage in Parliament on the allocation of RM34.7 billion for the Finance Ministry in 2012.

The Finance Ministers and their deputies reply to questions on economy and finance in Parliament. But, the ministry shows its weaknesses in some aspects including economic analysis.

Meanwhile, the ministry is trying to make its electronic acquisition world-standard with the allocations of RM5 million and 5.5 million for electronic administration and information technology management respectively. It is correct to create world-class and sophisticated technology. We would like to know the world-class company that has been appointed.

The Treasury must improve its performance on all aspects such as economic analysis. For example, Eurozone crisis with rescue package for Greece affects world economy. China's assistance has been reported. Japan intervenes on Yen with threat to sell more of it. The US firm of MF Global with asset of US$41 billion has filed for bankruptcy. Although it is not as big as Lehman Brothers that failed, it still has deleterious effects. The implications of floods in Thailand are expected. Her manufacturing sector is badly affected. In 2010, Thailand had foreign direct investment of US$5.8 billion and Indonesia US$13.3 billion which was bigger than that in Malaysia.

Tan Seng Giaw

Housing Ministry must monitor JMBs closely

2011-10-31T20:39:00.002+08:00

DAP National Deputy Chairman and MP for Kepong Dr Tan Seng Giaw presses Housing and Local Government Ministry to improve its monitoring of Joint Management Bodies, JMB, in all highrise residential buildings.

On 31.10.2011, Dr Tan listened to the answer from the Deputy Minister of Housing on JMBs. He has to look into it further.

As society advances, more Malaysians migrate to towns especially big ones such as Kuala Lumpur. One solution to the housing problem is having more highrise buildings as seen in KL. According to the Deputy Minister, out of 1,886 developers in KL, 538 JMBs have been formed. There are over 2000 JMBs in the country.

Besides some highrise residential buildings without JMBs, those with JMBs face various problems, including residents who do not pay maintenance fees.

In Kepong, JMBs have their share of difficulties, whether low or medium cost buildings or condominiums.For example, Kestana Condominium, Kepong, has JMB which is represented by residents. These office-bearers have their respective occupations. They employ workers such as Noor Salida Ahmad who was account executive. On 3.10.11, the discovered that she used false documents to swindle them of RM253,000. The case is under police investigation.

Over five years ago, the Housing Ministry presented JMB Bill in Parliament. We listed the difficulties such as the lack of effectiveness of JMBs in the Malaysian setting. Nevertheless, the bill was passed. The Ministry must step up its surveillance of JMBs in the country.

Tan Seng Giaw

How long does it take for detailed studies of Terengganu stadium collapse?

2011-10-23T22:04:00.002+08:00

DAP National Deputy Chairman and MP for Kepong Dr Tan Seng Giaw calls on the Central Government to let us know how many years does it take for the detailed studies of the collapsed Sultan Mizan Zainal Abidin Stadium, Kuala Terengganu.

On 23.10.2011, the Terengganu Menteri Besar YAB Datuk Seri Ahmad Said says that he would repair even tomorrow if the detailed studies are completed.After over two years, these studies are not available.

On the same day, Dr Tan responds to the Menteri Besar's desire to know the technical and legal aspects of the collapsed stadium.

The RM292 million stadium was scarcely completed when its roof collapsed on 2 June, 2009. There was no casualty. A competition was supposed to take place next day.

On 15 October, 2011, I saw the stadium which was situated in a nice place. It made me wonder whether the whole complex was worth RM292 million. The Government would have to come out with the truth.

Why should detailed studies take so long? Are there special problems?

Tan Seng Giaw

Fair criteria for STPM holders to further their studies

2011-10-19T14:21:00.002+08:00

DAP National Deputy Chairman and MP for Kepong Dr Tan Seng Giaw calls on the Higher Education Ministry to come out with fair criteria for students who have passed Higher School Certificate, Matriculation and Asasi to further their studies.

Countries with similar types of examinations such as Australia, the United Kingdom and New Zealand have their system for Sixth Form holders to further their studies. Some end up in universities and some in colleges.

On 19.10.2010, Dr Tan comments on the media report that 12,000 STPM/Matriculation/Asasi holders who have not managed a place in the 20 public universities.

It is a good thing to see that thousands of Malaysian youths sit for the equivalent of Sixth Form examinations. We hope that the Education Ministry ensures that STPM, Matriculation and Asasi have equivalent Sixth Form standard. Although these examinations do not necessarily reflect the true ability of every student, candidates who take these examinations believe in education.

According to the Higher Education Ministry, 64,703 candidates with passes in STPM/Matriculation/Asasi applied for degree courses in 20 public universities; 53,216 had minimum qualifications and 41,267 had been offered places in these universities. 12,000 have not been successful.

Some suggest that 12,000 unsuccessful candidates are enrolled in private institutions. Private universities have their own criteria.

We hope that STPM (HSC), Matriculation and Asasi have equivalent standard. We know that not all who possess Sixth Form certificates will get into institutions to which they have applied. Each institution has its own criteeria. Hence, the Higher Education Ministry must come out with fair and just criteria for university intake. There must be adequate public and private institutions to cater for the need.

Tan Seng Giaw

Time-table for the abolition of ISA

2011-09-29T15:25:00.002+08:00

DAP National Deputy Chairman reiterates that the Central Government should have a time-table for the abolition of the Internal Security Act, ISA, and the promulgation of new laws such as the Anti-Terrorism Act, the contents of which should be made public.

On 28,9,2011, Dr Tan spoke at the Proham (Association for The Promotion of Human Rights) meeting at a committee room in parliament. The meeting was addressed by YB Datuk Dr HJ Wan Junaidi, the Deputy Speaker, attended by Datuk Abu Zahar Ujang, Speaker of the Senate. The meeting was moderated by Datuk Dr Denison Jayasooria.

The Proham Secretary is Datuk Michael Yeoh. Besides two MPs , YB Ngeh Koo Ham, YB Dr Dzulkifly Ahmad & YB Senator Dato PK Suppiah, I was the only MP who participated. The rest were mostly journalists.

It is a good thing to see people interested in human rights. I assume that all are genuine. I hope the discussion would not be much ado about nothing.

I started to speak on himan rights in 1976. Eleven years later, I was one of them sent to the Kamunting University uder ISA, Operation Lalang, which is recorded in the book The First 60 Days.

Internatinally, there are the United Nations Declaration of Human Rights, the UN Human Rights Charter, International Court and many Human Rights NGOs. These are good things. All human beings should have human rights. But, these rights should not be abused or misused.

For example, Sadam Hussein of Iraq, Mujahidin of Afghanistan and Gaddafi of Libya imprisoned, tortured and killed many people. But, the United States (US), European Union (EU) and others have used these and the responsibility to protect against Iraq, Afghanistan and Libya, destroying the leaders and killing many innocent people. What do the US and the EU get in return?

EU military aircratfs had over 200.000 sorties over Libya with over 7,500 strikes over Gadaffi's targets. What is the actual number?. EU soldiers trained and fought side-by-side anti-Gadaffi forces. How many people have they tortured and killed?

What is powerful for good is also powerful for evil.

Nationally, successive Prime Ministers solomnly promised against the use of ISA on politicians. I met all of them except Tun Razak. The first PM Tunku Abdul Rahman stressed that the object of ISA was to deal with communists and not with politicians. The invocation of ISA to detain people who are opposed to government policies is unjustifiable.

On 3.11.1998, I met Mr H R Hickling at a Human Rights Seminar. He drafted ISA in 1960. I told him I was detained under ISA. "Is that so.?" he asked. " Did they give you the whole works?"

Now, PM Najib has claimed credit for the intention to abolish ISA. Let us have a time-table for its abolition and the promulgation of new laws such as Anti-Terrorism Act. Lets define terrorism, preventive detention, the power of the Home Minister, the Advisory Board or its equivalent. Such a law should not be abused.

Dr Tan Seng Giaw.

General elections After electoral Reform

2011-09-26T15:45:00.007+08:00

DAP Federal Territory of Kuala Lumpur Chairman Dr Tan Seng Giaw reiterates that the BN Government must be fair and just in dealing with electoral reform such as setting up the Parliamentary Select Committee (PSC) with fair representations and holding general elections after PSC has completed fair recommendations.

On 25.9.2011, Dr Tan spoke at the DAP FT KL Convention.

Malaysians are keeping an eye on when the Prime Minister YAB Najib will announce the date of the general elections. Pakatan Rakyat (PR) including DAP must be fully prepared for the coming elections.

Our electoral system is full of irregularities such as phantom voters. Bersih 2.0 calls for clean and fair elections, receiving widespread reactions. BN Government has acted high-handedly on Bersih 2.0 and those who demand clean elections. Now Najib wants to form PSC during the parliamentary session which begins on October 3, 2011. He speaks of electoral reform.

PSC should be based on fairness and justice, starting from representations in the committee and the electoral reform. The Government has indicated that it will take six months to complete its work. General elections should only be announced after PSC has submitted fair recommendations which are accepted by the Election Commission.

DAP KL Federal Territory Chairman Dr Tan Seng Giaw believes that there must be political commitment and action to adopt effective economic measures in order to alleviate the effects of the world economic downturn.

Dr Tan Spoke at the DAP KL FT convention on 25.9.2011.

Global economy is entering a dangerous phase, Enrozone is in crisis and the US economy is not good. These have implications on other countries including Malaysia.

YAB Najib says he wants to increase investment and local demand as well as keeping prices of goods down. We need political commitment and action as well as integrity to do these. We hope that with improved investment, more jobs will be created.

For example, recently communications companies intended to ask 13 million users of prepaid hand phones to pay 6% service tax. This will be a factor in the rise of the cost of living. The Government negotiated with communications companies. Hitherto, this is not implemented. What will happen next?

The authorities must have integrity and professionalism in managing huge public funds such as the Employees' Provident Fund with assets of US$98.8 billion ( nearly RM300 bil). Prevent all forms of irregularities.

We must create a culture to nurture and keep talents in the country.

Most governments definitely say that they like to keep talented people and professionals. This is what people expect to hear. What is a talent? What does it mean to nurture and keep talents?

The nurturing and keeping of talents is very complex. This includes the system of education and administration. Selection and promotion of talents are not just based on the examination results, but also on other aspects such as special characteristics, the protection of controversies and young people.

We talk about brain drain in Malaysia. The Prime Minisrer YAB Datuk Seri Najib prattles about keeping talents; he hopes one day Malaysians will win the Nobel Prize. On 22.9.2011, Minister in the PM's Department Tan Sri Nor Mohamed repeated the statement that there are over 1 million Malaysian professionals overseas, 57% of them remaining in Singapore.

Those countries that manage to atract more inflow than outflow of talents have definite incentives including salaries and low taxes. Nurturing and keeping talents is a culture. Malaysia desperately needs one.

Even in government departments and universities such as the top university in this country, University of Malaya, really good people face difficulties. Cronyism still exists. Clever people tend to have controversies and departmental heads usually avoid controversies to protect themselves. These must be solved rationally.

DAP National Deputy Chairman and MP for Kepong

Tan Seng Giaw

It takes more than a Perdana University to stop brain drain

2011-09-13T15:37:00.002+08:00

DAP National Deputy Chairman and MP for Kepong Dr Tan Seng Giaw calls on the Prime Minister Datuk Seri Najib Tun Razak to look at brain drain in a wide perspective such as fair and just policies, not just Perdana Univerity.

On 13.9.2011, Dr Tan comments on the Prime Minister's hope that what he considers the world's best curriculum will stop brain drain. Presumably, he only means the medical field.

Just as other countries, Malaysia faces brain drain. Datuk Seri Najib repeatedly says that he wants to attract and retain talents in this country. This is logical. Besides laudable statements, he would need wider vision.

The university is a teaching medical school, a joint partners with Johns Hopkins University, USA, and the Royal College of Surgeons, Ireland.

Indeed, there are many reasons for brain drain. In advanced countries, brain gain exceeds brain drain.

Yesterday, Najib spoke at the installation ceremony of the Perdana University, making former Prime Minister Tun Dr Mahathir Mohamad the first Chancellor. He says,"I hope the chance to study the best medical curriculum in the world will encourage more of our country's top graduates to stay at home."

John Hopkins is one of the renowned universities. Whether the curriculum at Perdana University is the best in the world. It will be assessed. Only time will tell.

Apparently, by 2014 this RM2.5 bil university will have 600-bed hospital with 1,000 students. Lets hope it will perform as expected. Will it halt brain drain?

Factors such as unfair policies, bureaucracy and lower salaries result in brain drain in various fields. While looking for effective economic policy, we wish the Prime MInister concentrate on truly fair and just policies and the efforts to grapple with bureaucracy.

Tan Seng Giaw

No perverse logic for Malaysian univeristies to get better world rankings.

2011-09-06T16:15:00.001+08:00

DAP National Deputy Chairman and MP for Kepong Dr Tan Seng Giaw calls on the Higher Education Minister Datuk Seri Mohamed Khaled Nordin to help Malaysian
universities to be truly competitive. He must compare our varsities with better ones.

On 6.9.2011, Dr Tan refers to Khaled's view on the competitiveness of Malaysian universities.

That Univerisity of Malaya, UM, is ranked 167 in the QS World University Rankings 2011/12 is encouraging. Its Vice-Chancelor wants it to get to 100 by 2015. This is achievable. If Hong Kong University is nombor 22, why can't UM be at the same position gradually?

The minister talks about being compettitive as seven Malaysian univerisities are in the top 600 out of 30,000 univerisities globally. A true comparison means comparing with better-ranked univerisities.

Previously the Government used the perverse logic of devlopment programme and national priority to explain the poor rankings of Malaysian universities. Now, it appears that the minister is recognizing the need to avoid this type of perverse logic as he says the recent QS World University Rankings has shown that Malaysian varsities are competitive. Prime Minister Najib's performance indices and result oreintation mean comparing with those who are better than us.

In 1982, I asked in parliament, why the the British Medical Council withdrew its recognition of UM medical degree. The answer was that the Government had its own development programme. This type of perverse logic exists for many years. Khaled's statement shows that there is light at the end of the tunnel. At least, we hope so.

One thing the minister can do is to find out why USM, after having been awarded the Apex Status, its ranking drops from 309 to 335. Once the weaknesses are identified, it can strive to attain a better ranking.

Cambridge University tops the Rankings, followed by Harvard, MIT, Yale and Oxford. These are private universities. As the minister has said, private universities in the country should be ranked.

Tan Seng Giaw

Urban well-being for KL redevelopment projects?

2011-09-04T15:20:00.004+08:00

DAP National Deputy Chairman and MP for Kepong Dr Tan Seng Giaw reiterates that redevelopment of KL Pudu Jail site and other areas must be truly comprehensive, taking into considerations various factors including heritage, environment and traffic.

The tearing down of government buildings such as Pudu Jail leaves only the facade. This is followed by redevelopment projects. What will happen to KL as a hub to the Klang Valley?

On 4.9.2011, Dr Tan continues to comment on redevelopment projects in KL.

PM YAB Najib has added Urban Well-being to the Ministry of Federal Territories since 2008. We look forward to well-being in the city. As I have said before, uplifting Puduraya Station with RM 6 million and changing it into Pudu Sentral should really be meaningful. The station is in the middle of Pudu Road, showing the lack of planning in the 70s. The big project near the station was abandoned for many years.

Tackling the traffic conundrum by Mass Rapid Transit, MRT, is a reasonable measure. Then, the cogs in the wheel must be fitted properly, including the effective monitoring of the project and reliable corporations appointed. How do we ensure that his multi-billion project is implemented with integrity. MRT projects in Hong Kong, China and other countries go underground in city centre. But, shop owners in the middle of KL such as those in Jalan Sultan have to face the musical show of being told they need not move.

Among the government buildings destined for redevelopment is the site of Pudu Jail. There is a detailed heritage study. Besides the facade, the structure is being destroyed to be replaced by myriad of new buildings. All units will be sold at high prices.

We continue to look at various development projects of KL in terms of urban well-being. This includes the replacement of old low-cost houses for the poor with new high-rise buildings.

Tan Seng Giaw

Education Ministry must not waste money on 1Bestarinet

2011-09-01T16:08:00.002+08:00

DAP National Deputy Chairman and MP for Kepong Dr Tan Seng Giaw insists that Malaysian Education Ministry appoints a truly reliable company to implement 1Bestarinet.

The ministry is planning to implement a more comprehensive 1Bestarinet to replace Schoolnet. It is learnt that it will spend RM4.5 bil in the next 15 years, that is, RM300 mn a year.

On 1.9.2011, Dr Tan comments on 1Bestarinet project..

Countries in the world including Malaysia are trying to use modern digital technology and infrastructure. For example, Malaysia began in 2004 to introduce Scoolnet. But, seven years later, we are still in the dark about the digital technology provided and the expenditure. We shall pursue these. How many tens of millions of ringgits have been spent?

Now, the ministry is said to be planning 1Bestarinet to provide the most up-to-date digital technology to 9,924 schools in the country. It will replace Schoolnet.

It seems that the ministry opened 1Bestarinet tender from May 5 to 31,11. From the 19 companies which submitted tender, six had been shortlisted, namely, Celcom Axiata Bhd, Jaring Communications,Maxis Bhd, YTL Communications, Multimedia Synergy Corp.,Telecom Malaysia Bhd/Time DotCom Bhd.The Government must be transparent, letting the public know the companies' resources, the ability to deliver as promised and accountability. We do not want a company that has no resources and no capability, going only for profits.

Although the ministry is supposed to have a mechanism to supervise a company that is appointed, it lacks efficiency as seen in the monitoring of the Schoolnet project. The Budget Session of Parliament begins on October 3, 11. We shall bring up Schoolnet and 1Bestarnet projects.

Tan Seng Giaw

Malaysians must unite to celebrate Merdeka

2011-08-31T17:33:00.002+08:00

DAP National Deputy Chairman and MP for Kepong Dr Tan Seng Giaw calls on all Malaysians to set aside racial and religious differences. Let us unite to celebrate National Day.

Just as other countries, Malaysia faces myriad problems such as economic, racial,religious and regional issues. For example, religious issues come up, causing tension. What is the attitude of the Government? Can all concerned reduce publicizing religious issues in the media?

Lets unite to celebrate the 54th Merdeka Day.

Tan Seng Giaw

Greetings.Happy Hari Raya

2011-08-29T22:51:00.002+08:00

DAP National Deputy Chairman and MP for Kepong Dr Tan Seng Giaw sends greetings to all. Happy Hari Raya.

Lets hope that everyone is safe on the roads and at homes in kampungs, towns and cities.

Tan Seng Giaw

What is the purpose of parliamentary select committee on electoral reforms?

2011-08-20T10:10:00.003+08:00

DAP National Deputy Chairman and MP for Kepong Dr Tan Seng Giaw calls on the Prime Minister Datuk Seri Najib to explain why the Cabinet has proposed the formation of a Select Committee to discuss electoral reforms in the coming October 2011 parliamentary session especially if it intends to hold the next general election any time..

The Minister in the Prime Minister's Department Datuk Seri Nazri has been saying that the Select Committee will come out with electoral reforms to ensure a fair and clean general election and that it's recommendations will be implemented in the next general election.

On 19.8.2011, Dr Tan comments on the statement by Najib that the next general election is not bound by the work of the parliamentary select committee on electoral reforms.

Malaysians wonder what the Prime Minister means when he says that the Government would strive to implement recommendations made by the committee before the elections. Once the committee is approved by parliament in the coming October sitting, it will take time, perhaps six months or longer for it to be able to give recommendations and the election laws to be amended and enforced. If Najib declares an earlier election, how would he implement the committee's recommendations?

His minister Nazri talks of amending electoral laws before the next general elections. He is now saying that these are not bound by the work of the committee.

Malaysians are left wondering what the Prime Minister wants to do with the select committee. Is he truly sincere? Does he mean business?

Now, the Election Commission is prepared to see Bersih that has been demanding for electoral reforms in the last few years. The Government has taken action against the organization. Why does Najib have a parliamentary select committee on electoral reforms when it intends to hold the next general election any time?

Tan Seng Giaw

Need sincerity to form select committee on electoral process

2011-08-18T15:37:00.001+08:00

DAP National Deputy Chairman and MP for Kepong Dr Tan Seng Giaw stresses the need for the show of sincerity in the formation of a parliamentary select committee to discuss electoral reform in Malaysia.

There must be meaningful terms of reference, practical time limit and fair representations in the committee.

On 18.8.2011, Dr Tan comments on the Cabinet decision to set up a Parliamentary Select Committee to study the electoral process.

Minister in the Prime Minister's Department Datuk Seri Nazri Aziz says the Cabinet agrees to have the motion on the proposed Parliamentary Select Committee to be tabled at the parliamentary meeting in October, 2011.

Apparently, the committee consists of nine parliamentarians, five from Barisan Nasional, three from the Opposition and an independent. This ensures that BN's decision carries the day. Thus, the representation in the committee has already given rise to controversy.

Nazri talks about a fair and just general election, including promulgationg new laws. But, he must consider seriously the need for sincerity in the formation of such a select committee. To make sure that the Government is serious, electoral reform must take place before the next general election.

Let us have meaningful terms of reference on the setting up of the committee, the practical time limit, the scope of inquiry and the promulgation of laws on general election.

Tan Seng Giaw

Find solution for the high infant mortality in Terenggannu

2011-08-10T23:30:00.003+08:00

DAP National Deputy Chairman and MP for Kepong Dr Tan Seng Giaw insists that there is an urgent need to find out the reasons for the high infant mortality (IMR) in Terengganu, then Malacca, Kelantan and Perlis compared with other states in Malaysia.

Having found the reasons such as poverty, we should then implement an effective solution to the problem.

On 10.8.2011, Dr Tan notices the findings of the National Population and Family Development Board (LPPKN) on infant mortality in Malaysia.

The Director-General of LPPKN Datuk Aminah Abdul Rahman says that Terengganu has recorded the highest infant mortality rate in Malaysia with an average of 9.2 fatalities for every 1,000 newborns. Malacca is 8.4, while Kelantan and Perlis are 8.1. The national average is 6.2.

Why should states such as Terengganu have such high IMR? With revenues also from petroleum for many decades, the state income is relatively big. Why should there be severe poverty in the state?

We need detailed study of those states with high IMR so that we know the true causes. Then credible solution can be found.

Tan Seng Giaw

Effective monitoring of Malaysian environment

2011-08-04T13:44:00.002+08:00

DAP National Deputy Chairman and MP for Kepong Dr Tan Seng Giaw calls on the Minister of Natural Resources an Environment YB Datuk Douglas Unggah to improve the monitoring, the coordination and the enforcement of the laws on environment in the country.

On 4.8.2011, Dr Tan comments on the statement by the Sabah State Tourism, Culture and Environment Minister Datuk Masidi Manjun that there were enough guidelines for the authorities to make a difficult, but right decision.

The Prime Minister Datuk Seri Najib and his Minister Datuk Unggah have made much publicity out of the Klang River project. We wish they go all out to monitor, coordinate and enforce the laws on environment so that there is true priority to nature. We need development. But, it does not mean the destruction of nature.

Datuk Manun has been told of the clearing of nearly 4 hectares of mangrove forest and the reclamation of the wetland in Mengkabong. There are many other destructive activities. Just look at Mount Kinabalu and Sipadan. How effective is the enforcement of environmental laws? What happens to solid waste in Mt Kinabalu? How much is left of the coral reefs in Sipadan?

Let the minister show us the environmental preservation in these sites? What happen to others such as Kenyir, Bakun and the national forests?

Looking at all the dead rivers in Malaysia such as the Klang River and those in Penang and Johor, we wonder how the Prime Minister and his Minister are going to explain to us. It is true that all must cooperate. Civic consciousness must be cultivated. But, the Government must lead by example.

Dr Tan Seng Giaw

Improve the efficiency of biometric registration of foreign workers.

2011-08-02T14:56:00.002+08:00

DAP National Deputy Chairman and MP for Kepong Dr Tan Seng Giaw presses the Home Minister Datuk Seri Hishamuddin to improve the overall efficiency of biometric registration of foreign workers.

He should eradicate irregularities and reduce the inconveniences of all concerned.

On 2.8.2011, Dr Tan looks at the inconveniences suffered by people at the various immigration departments during the biometric registration under the amnesty programme.

In the last decades, millions of legal and illegal foreign workers have been earning their living in Malaysia. There are pros and cons. If we estimate the number of foreign workers as 5 million, their impact on the 28 million Malaysian population is huge.

Foreign workers constitute a developpment phenomenon of a country. It is not created by the Home Ministry. To register them is a right step. The ministry is registering them by finger-printing. To call it biometric sounds more scientific. First, record the illegals, then the legals.

Hisham seems fickle in his dealing with biometric. First, he announced registration of illegals at over 60 counters in the country. This was stopped temporarily because of what was said as technical problems. It was quickly resumed. Now, there are 198 Immigration Departments implementing the programme.

Yesterday, there were online snag and shortage of personnel, causing long queues and feeling of frustration. Apparently, there are only 700 staff members in the Immigration Deopartments in Peninsula. The shortage of staff may have contributed to the long delay.

The Government has appointed 1,600 agents to help register foreign workers. What are the criteria of these appointments? How much public fund? Why is it so difficult for foreign workers to go directly to the registration centres?

It appears that from today onwards until 14.8.2011, the registration of foreign workers under the amnesty programme is being conducted 24 hours a day. What happens after that?

The fickleness of Hisham in handling the biometric registration of foreign workers makes life difficult. The issue of foreign workers including domestic helps is complex. They come from various countries. It is not easy to solve. We hope that the overall efficiency of biometric registration under the amnesty programme will be stepped up, making life easier for all concerned. Irregularies must be eradicated.

Dr Tan Seng Giaw

Truly serious strategy to train & mentor women for higher posts

2011-07-27T15:35:00.003+08:00

DAP National Deputy Chairman and MP for Kepong Dr Tan Seng Giaw calls on the Central Government to formulate genuinely serious strategy to train and mentor women for higher posts including corporate board members. they should be given more opportunities.

As women do much better at schools and universities, it is only a matter of time before they catch up. This is happening in many fields.

On 26.7.2011, Dr Tan comments on the point made by the Deputy Prime MInister Tan Sri Muhyiddin to empower women.

The Deputy Prime Minister wants serious training and mentoring strategy to push women towards higher posts such as corporate board membership. Lets hope it is really serous.

Women are trying to achieve greater heights.

Education is essential. At schools and universities, there are more female than male students. They excel. The majority of nearly 400,000 teachers in the country are women. They dominate. Some courses in universities have more than 60% women. At times, it is difficult to get qualified male students to fill vacancies. The Higher Education Minister says that starting from 2012, his ministry would like to enrol more male students. If there are no qualified male students, the vacancies must be filled by female students.

According to Women Minister Datuk Seri Sharizat, women occupy more than 32% of the premier grade civil posts, compared with 19% in 2004. We hope the Government will publish the details.

The Government must ensure that women get there by merits without racial and religious discrimination. It is only time before women get to the top of most fields. They will overcome obstacles. Lets help them along.

Dr Tan Seng Giaw

MACC must be truly independent

2011-07-25T16:03:00.002+08:00

DAP National Deputy Chairman and MP for Kepong Dr Tan Seng Giaw reiterates that Malaysian Anti-Corruption Commission must be truly independent to improve its image.

After the two deaths at MACC's premises, Teoh Beng Hock and Sarbaini, it has had a terrible beating.

On 25.7.2011, Dr Tan comments on the Executive Transformation Committee headed by the Chief Commissioner Datuk Seri Abu Kassim to review existing standard operating procedure of the commission.

The Royal Commission of Inquiry into the death of Teoh Beng Hock on 16.7.2009 points out the aggressive, oppressive, unscrupulous and continuous interrogation of three MACC officers contribuing to the death of Beng Hock.

Hitherto, the three officers have been suspended. Now, Executive Transformation Committee is to review operating procedure. This is scarcely enough to improve the image of MACC.

The two deaths have caused so much furore that it will take a long time for the commission to recover. It must show that it has integrity in all aspects.

An important factor to improve the image and the effectiveness of MACC is to make sure that it is genuinely independent. If the Prime Minister Datuk Seri Najib means what he says about the anti-corruption role of MACC, he must consider this aspect very seriously and take meaningful step to realize it.

Dr Tan Seng Giaw

Make public the allocation to the Election Commission to install the biometric system

2011-07-24T15:19:00.005+08:00

DAP Natonal Deputy Chairman and MP for Kepong Dr Tan Seng Giaw calls on the Prime Minister Datuk Seri Najib to announce the total allocation for the Election Commission to implement the biometric system, the electoral reform and the system's effectiveness in preventing voting irregularities.

On 24.7.2011, Dr Tan comments on the statement by Najib on the previous day that the Government had given an allocation to the Election Commission to install the biometric system to verify a voter's identity. He said that if the installation was in time,it could be used in the next general election.

Since Merdeka 54 years ago, there have been controversies regarding electoral irregularities in the 12 general elections in Malaysia. In the last few years, Bersih has tried to convince the Election Commission to change for the better,culminating in the Bersih 2.0 rally on 9.7.2011.

We do not know how Najib decides to use the biometric system at the Election Commssion. Recently, the Home Minister Datuk Seri Hishamuddin introduced the system to fingerprint illegal immigrants. He suspended it for a while before resuming the system. He has not give the reasons for the suspension.

All concerned must have integrity, without which any system including biometric gives rise to concern.

As Najib has admitted, no country has used the biometric system in election. We do not understand its weaknesses. How are voters selected to give fingerprints? Who are picked and who are not?

We have yet to know whether the system is reliable for election purpose. Najib would have to answer this.

Before the system is used in general elections, the Election Commission must explain it in detalis including its effectiveness in preventing phantom votes and other irregularities.

Dr Tan Seng Giaw

Teoh Beng Hock case: MACC must be transparent & accountable

2011-07-15T15:22:00.002+08:00

DAP National Deputy Chairman and MP for Kepong Dr Tan Seng Giaw insists that Malaysian Anti-Corruption Commission (MACC) must be transparent and accountable. It is important that the Federal Government make public the Report of the Royal Commission of Inquiry (RCI) on the death of Teoh Beng Hock (TBH). Lets know the cause of death.

In the evening of 14.7.2011, Dr Tan spoke at the memorial on the second anniversary of the death of Teoh Beng Hock at the Kuala Lumpur Selangor Chinese Assembly Hall.

Tonight, all who are gathered here have something in common: the sad feeling for the death of TBH and the eagerness to know what actually happened to him on 16.7.2009. All are interested in the reason for taking so long to come out with the answer.

In the last two years, TBH's death has given rise to a series of events. For example, there have been two royal commissions, one on the technical aspect and the other on the cause of death. This is unusual. It has broken the world record, It can go into the Guiness Book of Record.

MACC aims to eradicate corruption. It must be transparent and accountable. There are sequences of events, on some of which the prosecution and the Bar Council differ. For instance, can a witness, not a suspect, be subjected to 24-hour interrogation and detention? Is it not necessary to let the witness rest between 6.30 pm and 6.30 am? Was the early morning treatment of TBH according to normal practice?

On 27.5.2011, MACC submitted a 344-page report on TBH to the RCI. On 22.6.2011, RCI presented the Yang di-Pertuan Agong with its 124-page report. The Agong would take a short time to read it. It is now three weeks. The report should be made public.

Tan Seng Giaw

Make it easy for foreign or returned experts to start work in Malaysia

2011-06-22T17:42:00.005+08:00

DAP National Deputy Chairman and MP for Kepong Dr Tan Seng Giaw calls on the Prime Minister YAB Datuk Seri Najib to ensure that specialists such as good scientists would not take a long time to get work permit such as six months.

Specialists and skilled workers of various fields move from one country to another. What is important is that there are more of them remaining and coming to Malaysia.

On 22.6.2011, Dr Tan asked a supplementary question as YAB Najib talked on Global Science & Innovation Advisory Council (GSIAC).

Having good scientists including those from the United States creating innovations such as for developing smart cities and smart villages in this country is a step in the right direction. If GSIAC projects are successfully implemented, the people can benefit from them.

There are weaknesses such as bureaucracy that must be overcome. If a good scientist or a skilled personnel applies for a work permit or returns from overseas,the duration to get all applications and formalities sorted out must be reasonable. Taking more than six months is unacceptable. An advanced country expedites these applications.

Dr Tan Seng Giaw

Need better IT facilities fo 1MPB

2011-06-10T15:26:00.000+08:00

DAP National Deputy Chairman and MP for Kepong Dr Tan Seng Giaw calls on the Domestic Trade, Cooperatives and Consumerism Ministry to get its act together including having better IT facilities for 1 Malaysia Pengguna Bijak or 1MPB portal so that millions of consumers can access it.

On 10.6.2011, Dr Tan follows the teething problems of 1MPB, hoping that the ministry improves its price watch portal.

A price watch portal such as 1MPB is a way of letting consumers check prices of goods. Since the ministry operates the portal on goods sold at 1,255 outlets in the country, there have been 3.5 million hits, paralyzing the system. Apparently, it only expected 300,000 hits. It would have to realize that there are 2.7 million Malaysians. There should be no abuse of the system.

The Minister Datuk Seri Ismail Sabri Yaakob says that his ministry will improve the www.1pengguna .com portal. Consumers expect him to be true to his words. He also wishes that the recent increase in electricy tariff does not affect the prices of goods. He has to improve his enforcement, showing that he is tough but reasonable.

The hike in electricity tariff puts pressure on inflation. His words on the cut of super-subsidy may not help unless he shows that he is fair.

As millions access 1 MPB portal, the ministry has to pull its socks up and ensure that it has the technology and the facilities to serve the people.

Dr Tan Seng Giaw

Need effective enforcement against inflation

2011-06-08T21:52:00.002+08:00

DAP National Deputy Chairman and MP for Kepong Dr Tan Seng Giaw reiterates that effective enforcement is important in controlling inflation.

On 8.6.2011, Dr Tan notes that the Ministry of Domestic Trade and Consumer Affairs has set up 1 Malaysia Pengguna Bijak (1MPB) portal for consumers to compare prices of goods in 1,255 outlets in Malaysia.

The recent increase in electricity tariff by 12.17% puts pressure on inflation in the country. Despite the Government saying that the prices of goods will not increase,the people are cautious. They are aware that inflation is due to many factors.

If consumers can look at the above-mentioned portal and compare the prices of goods, it may help. On the other hand,the Government has to be seen to be fair and to be able to enforce various measures effectively.

To have effective enforcement, we require a clean and trustworthy government. The people have an important part to play to bring about good governance.

Dr Tan Seng Giaw

Criteria for scholarships must be seen to be fair

2011-06-02T21:54:00.002+08:00

DAP National Deputy Chairman and MP for Kepong Dr Tan Seng Giaw reiterates that the new criteria for the awards of sholarships to be formulated and implemented by the Public Service Department(PSD) must be fair and seen to be so.

It is necessary to enforce the policy of merits and needs.

On 2.6.2011, Dr Tan comments on the announcement of the Cabinet decision to review the PSD scholarship scheme by YB Datuk Seri Mohamed Nazri.

The awards of scholarships give rise to various reactions, some good and some bad. Those students with excellent results in Malaysian Certificate of Education Examination (SPM) expect to get scholarships. Yesterday, the Cabinet said it would sponsor 86 such students in local universities.

Next year, the Malaysian Cabinet will review the JPA scholarship awards. It will make public the findings and the decision. It seems that only those students who are accepted by famous univeisities will be given overseas scholarships and those with good SPM results will no longer be considered.

What is important is that the Government must ensure that the standards for conferring scholarships must be fair and seen to be so.

Dr Tan Seng Giaw

Full report on National Service training

2011-05-27T14:11:00.001+08:00

DAP National Deputy Chiarman and MP for Kepong Dr Tan Seng Giaw calls on the Defence Minister Datuk Seri Dr Ahmad Zahid Hamidi to present to Parliament a full report including the expenditure on the National Service training in the country.

Let us have a debate on the merits and demerits of this type of training before actually exending the period of training to longer than three months.

On 27.5.2011. Dr Tan comments on the statement by YB Datuk Seri Dr Ahmad Zahid Hamidi.

Yesrerday, the Defence Minister said the National Service training programme's three-month period might be extended as three months was too short a time to develop noble characters and foster a sense of patriotism. The matter would be discussed at a meeting of the National Service Training Council

We regard the instillation of universal values into youths as acceptable. We have to consider the millions of ringgits spent and the effectiveness of training programmes.

The National Service Trianing Department has 3,698 contract staff. They would be given permanent employment. How good are they?

We urge Datuk Seri Dr Ahmad Zahid Hamidi to present a detailed report to Parliament on the above-mentioned training programmes, so that we can assess the nature and the effectiveness of these trainings. Are they value for money?

Dr Tan Seng Giaw

The Government must use greater efforts to overcome the problem of haze

2011-05-12T12:37:00.000+08:00

DAP National Deputy Chairman and MP for Kepong Dr Tan Seng Giaw reminds the Government again to have further discussions with Indonesian government to find solutions to recurrent haze in Malaysia, including persuading the latter to ratify the Treaty on Transboundary Haze Pollution adopted by ASEAN.

According to media reports, the haze in this country comes annually from Sumatra and Kalimantan. The Air Pollution Index(API)issued by the Department of Environment reaches over 100 in some areas. This is unhealthy.

On 12.5.2011, Dr Tan repeats his statement on the annual haze.

For many years, haze appears in Malaysia and neighbouring countries, affecting the people. For example, today the API in Klang is over 100, Banting 96, Shah Alam 84, Bukit Rambai, Melaka 82. The Department of Environment believes that this fine dust comes from Sumatra and Central Riau. Some Indonesians say that this has nothing to do with their country. Farmers clear land for cultivation by burning and plantations burn old trees to save cost.

Association of South East Asian Nations, ASEAN, has repeatedly discussed this issue. For instance, ASEAN Inter-Parliamentary Assembly, AIPA, has resolutions on the subject. Malaysian Government has frequent meetings with Indonesian Government, reaching agreements. Alas, farm burnings and forest fires persist. We have heard about Malaysian-Indonesian Joint Disaster Management Committee, Cross-Border-Fire-Fighting Operations and so forth. But, there is little effective action.

In 2002, ASEAN adopted a treaty on Transboundary Haze Pollution. Indonesia has not ratified it. This is to coordinate joint efforts to overcome farm burnings, forest fires and haze.

Tan Seng Giaw

Call on the Government to announce the details of 1 Care

2011-05-06T14:50:00.001+08:00

DAP National Deputy Chairman and MP for Kepong Dr Tan Seng Giaw calls on the Central Government to announce the details of its 1 Care programme.

On 6.6.2011, Dr Tan issues a statement concerning 1 Care.

The Government has 12 National Key Economic Areas (NKEAs) with Key Performance Indices (KPIs) and National Key Result Areas (NKRAs). By 2020 the expenditure is estimated at RM1.4 trillion, 92% being from the private sector. One of the Government Transformation Programmes (GTPs) is said to be 1 Care, rhyming with 1 Malaysia.

What is 1 Care? The Government has yet to let the public know.

Over 10 years ago, there was much talk about corporatisation of the health services involving over 3,000 hospitals, clinics and public polyclinics in Malaysia. In 1999, the then Health Minister Datuk Chua Jui Ming denied it.

Although the Government refers to the corporatisation of the National Heart Institute (IJN) since 1993 with continued subsidies, the trend of Government-Linked Companies (GLC) like Sime Darby taking over private hospitals such as Subang Jaya Medical Centre makes people search for answers. This sounds American. In 2010, President Obama promulgated Health Care Legislation,allocating USD 940 billion to cover 32 million more Americans. Does the Prime Minister Datuk Seri Najib intend to propose new Health Care Legislation?

We would like to know what GTP on health care is. We continue to seek details on 1 Care as health issue is very complicated. Can poor people afford it? What is important is that Malaysians should be treated fairly in health care.

Dr Tan Seng Giaw

Need continuous efforts to overcome racial & religious divide

2011-04-19T18:23:00.001+08:00

DAP National Deputy Chairman and MP for Kepong Dr Tan Seng Giaw reiterates the need to have greater efforts to overcome the racial and religious divide which is clearly shown in the Sarawak Elections results.

The Malay/Melanau Muslims tend to go for PBB and the Chinese and some Ibans tend to support Pakatan Rakyat.

On 17.4.2011, Dr Tan comments further on the April 16 poll in Sarawak.

The elctions results show,among others, that PBB won 35 seats, DAP 12 and PKR 3, Despite traditional media being biased towards BN, DAP managed to win 12 out of 15 seats contested. The defeat of Tan Sri Dr George Chan by DAP candidate and Datuk Peter Nyarok by PKR candidate is significant. Sarawak politics is entering a new phase of change.

Despite the Prime Minister calling for 1 Malaysia, the poll results show that Sarawak also has racial and political divide. As Datuk Seri Najib has said that he intends to correct BN's mistakes, it is interesting to see how he proposes to handle this divide.

Those who win have to work harder, including DAP. We have to prove to the people that we are prepared to sacrifice and to serve honestly. How many will misuse their positions for economic gains?

While elected representatives have to fulfill their duties and obligations, all must pay special attention to the religious and racial divide.

Dr Tan Seng Giaw

Apex university must have apex quality

2011-04-01T21:52:00.002+08:00

DAP National Deputy Chairman and MP for Kepong Dr Tan Seng Giaw calls on all 20 public universities in Malaysia to aim for higher ranking in the world including the QS system of assessment.

This includes Universiti Sains Malaysia (USM) which has been conferred Apex status that means extra funding being approved by Parliament.

On 31.3.2011, the Deputy Higher Education Minister Datuk Ho replied to my question on the performance of USM as an Apex university, saying that the Apex system and the QS system of assessment of universities is different. For example, Apex is more concerned with local potential to excel.It has only 5% foreign lecturers and students. Its world ranking is lower than University of Malaya(MU). This type of excuse is unconvincing.

Just as other universities, USM has some research fndings which are good. But, the amount and quality of research matter.

Harvard University ranks first in the world ranking. It has huge funding and good tradition. It is not fair to compare our universities such as USM and MU with this university. What univeristies like USM, MU and UKM should aim at is to get within 100 top universities in the world.

Malaysians expect USM as the Apex university to reach the apex. All 20 public universities in Malaysia should aim at improving their world ranking.

Dr Tan Seng Giaw

The Government must be fair & reasonable in issuing AP

2011-03-22T22:09:00.002+08:00

DAP National Deputy Chairman and MP Kepong Dr Tan Seng Giaw calls on the International Trade and Industry Ministry to be fair and reasonable in the offering of Approved Permit (AP) for the import of vehicles.

The minister should monitor closely for suspected irregularities associated with AP, taking appropriate action.

On 21.3.2011, Dr Tan raised the AP question in the House. The minister has given a written reply.

According to the minister, AP is categorized into Open AP and Franchised AP, both restricted by ceiling based on 10% of the number of vehicles produced the year before (TIV).

Open AP is given to 98 companies to import all kinds of new and used cars from any source outside the country except 20 brands for which import restriction has been imposed

On 28 October, 2009, the National Automotive Policy was reviewed, in which no further allocation of open AP to new companies would be considered.

Franchised AP is given to 24 companies only to import new vehicles directly from manufacturers outside the country for certain brands based on franchise agreement. There is no new brand.

I have raised the question of AP in Parliament because of complaints on the abuse of AP including the selling of AP to others. How is the price per AP?

In 2010, the total number of APs issued to companies holding Open AP and Franchised AP were 53,659 units. How many are done according to procedure? The ministry must pay attention and ensure that there are no irregularities in the issue of AP.

Dr Tan Seng Giaw

Temporary Land Title Certificate in Kepong Garden & Other Places

2011-03-14T15:37:00.000+08:00

DAP National Deputy Chairman and MP for Kepong Dr Tan Seng Giaw urges the Federal Territory Kuala Lumpur Land Office to assist residents of Kepong Garden to solve various problems such as the loss of previous land titles in order to obtain permanent land title certificates.

Dr Tan issues the statement on 14.3.2011.

On 14.3.2011, Dr Tan was at a meeting with residents at Pemadam Hall, Kepong Garden, to brief them on the latest development in the land title matter. The Action Committee plays an active part.

Kepong Garden is over 40 years old. Hitherto, 1124 house owners have only temporary land title certificates. One of the factors is no detailed survey for each lot. There are 524 units in the First Phase and 600 units in the Second Phase. The Land Office has completed 524 units in the First Phase, leaving 49 units unsolved. It is beginning to deal with the Second Phase.

The Office sends out letters for residents to get the permanent certificates. However, some residents have problems: temporary certificates are still under Kepong Garden Development Berhad, having only photocopy, loss of certificate, old registered address and the owner passed away with no will. They can contact a member of the Action Committee. To change the address, a resident has to pay RM100 to the Office.

Once the Office has sorted out the Kepong Garden land titles, we hope it will deal with similar problem in other areas in the Federal Territory such as Kepong Baru.

Tan Seng Giaw

Kepong Garden residents with only photostat copies of land titles must take action.

2011-03-06T17:19:00.002+08:00

Deputy National Deputy Chairman and MP for Kepong Dr Tan Seng Giaw calls on the residents of Kepong Garden to check whether their land title certificates are photostat copies. If so, please show them to the Ad Hoc Land Title Action Committee on 13.3.2011 at 3 pm at the Pemadam Hall, Kepong Garden. There must be follow-up action.

On 6.3.2011, Dr Tan told the media conference at the Pemadam Hall, Kepong Garden.

Some houses in Malaysia such as those in Kepong Garden are on freehold land. Because of various factors like no detailed survey of the lots, they only have temporary land title certificates.

Over 1,000 houses in Kepng Garden were built more than 40 years ago. As residents only have temporary titles, an Adhoc Land Title Action Committee has been set up. The Survey and Mapping Department must complete the survey of all lots and the Land Office prepare the permanent titles.

Last week, a resdient has visited the Land Office for the completed land title. She has found out that her temporary Land Title Certificate is a photostat copy that has been kept in her safe deposit for years. Where is the original?

Those with only photostat copies of their land titles must make a police report. After getting a Declaration, they must obtain a caveat at the land office, so that nobody can take out the original title.

Dr Tan Seng Giaw

Dealings concerning PLUS must be transparent and accountable

2011-02-24T14:41:00.002+08:00

DAP National Deputy Chairman and MP for Kepong Dr Tan Seng Giaw reiterates that the Central Government must ensure that the dealings concerning PLUS Expressways BHd are truly transparent and accountable, in the real interest of the people.

When the concession agreement between PLUS and the Government expired in January, 2009, motorists were hoping that the Governmnet would take over and that the toll rate would be reduced.

On 24.2.2011,Dr Tan expresses his concern over the RM23 bil takeover bid of PLUS Expressways BHD by UEM Group and the Employees Provident Fund (EPF) yesterday. There was a walkout of minority shareholders. Now UEM is a government-linked company (GLC).

The toll operator called for the EGM to table a takeover proposal from UEM-EPF for RM23bil, or RM4.60 per share on 23.2.2011. The EGM, which lasted about four hours, was attended by some 800 people. Independent advisors such as AmInvestment Bank BHD and Goldman Sachs endorsed the offer as credible. UEM, KHazanah and EPF abstained from voting at the EGM.

Khazanah, UEM and EPF hold a combined 67.7% stake. EPF holds a 12.3% stake in PLUS while UEM Group, together with its parent Khazanah, holds 55.4%.

Based on shareholding spread, some 1.55 billion shares, or 31% stake, are eligible to vote on the takeover offer by UEM-EPF. However, only 1.06 billion or 21% of the total PLUS shares voted at the meeting. Of the 21%, 99% were for the deal.

Although independent advisors believe the takeover offer is credible, road users are worried about the toll rate. How would the takeover of PLUS by GLC improve the life of the people?

The Government must protect the interest of the public, ensuring that all dealings concerning PLUS are transparent and accountable. How would the takeover contribute to innovations in the private sector? Would it help the national economy?

Dr Tan Seng Giaw

Regular monitoring of medical courses to ensure quality of doctors

2011-02-16T16:31:00.000+08:00

DAP National Deputy Chairman and MP for Kepong Dr Tan Seng Giaw reiterates that there should be continuous and effective monitoring of all medical courses within or outside the country.

On 16.2.2011, Dr Tan comments on Higher Education Minister Datuk Seri Mohamed Khaled Nordin's statement that the Government will check out medical courses offered by recognised universities to eliminate any doubt about their standard. Hitherto, medical degrees from about 50 foreign universities are accredited.

Malaysia requires good doctors to man hospitals and clinics. Patients have doubts on the quality of some doctors. Every year, there are over 3,500 medical graduates doing their house jobs in the country. How many have the skills and the ethics?

The Minister says that a team of officers will be sent to each of these recognised foreign universities to erase doubts about the quality and skills of their medical graduates. These include universities in Indonesia, India, Egypt, United States, England, Russia, Germany and Romania. We hope that this is done regularly not only on foreign iniversities, but also on the 10 public and 12 private medical colleges in this country.

Besides special team to monitor medical courses, there must be review of the the criteria for the selection of candidates for these courses including their suitability to become doctors. To be able to pass examinations is one thing, to be a good doctor needs something extra.

Dr Tan Seng Giaw

Lets improve the efficiency of PTP in Johor

2011-02-14T16:17:00.000+08:00

DAP National Deputy Chairman and MP for Kepong Dr Tan Seng Giaw repeats his call for improving the efficiency and security of the Port of Tanjung Pelepas in Johor.

On 14.2.2011, Dr Tan responds to the PTP statement that it has stringent measures to ensure maximum security for cargo shipments. Lets hope that these measures are truly effective, making the container port more popular.

PTP is in the top 20 of the world's container ports. It can improve further. The most important thing is never to repeat the massive scandal of the Port Klang Free Zone (PKFZ).

Apparently, the port handles about 6.5 million TEUs (containers/twenty-foot equivalent units) last year. The Port of Singapore (PS) is the world's busiest port that tranships a fifth of the world's shipping containers, over 23 million TEUs. We are not saying that PTP catches up with PS as soon as possible. PTP has attracted Maersk which is the biggest container carrier in the world. Can PTP keep the company?

Besides good measures for port security, we would like to see efficiency. For instance, if a container ship arrives at PS in the morning, the containers can be taken out of the port within 24 hours. How long would it take PTP? Is it 48 hours? Can it be as long as two weeks?

I shall follow up the performance of PTP, Port Klang, Penang Port, Kuantan Port and Pasir Gudang Port. I believe that they can do much better.

Dr Tan Seng Giaw

Comprehensive review of the quality of doctors in Malaysia

2011-02-08T16:14:00.001+08:00

DAP National Deputy Chairman and MP for Kepong Dr Tan Seng Giaw calls for a comprehensive review of the quality of doctors in the country.

The Federal Government should spell out in details its moratorium on medical courses for five years because the public is concerned about its effects.

On 8.2.2011, Dr Tan comments further on the quality of doctors in Malaysia.

The public are getting increasingly concerned about the quality of doctors in this country. It is only natural that patients are unhappy with some of the doctors in hospitals and clinics.

There are many factors that contribute to the low standard of some doctors. According to the Malaysian Medical Council (MMC), there are 24 medical schools--10 public universities, 12 local private medical colleges and two foreign medical schools. Students also study at about 50 accredited foreign universities. We are producing 3,500 to 5,000 medical graduates a year for a population of 27 million..

It is correct that the Malaysian Medical Council (MMC) continues to look at pre-university courses tied with medical degree programmes. For example, some medical colleges are reported to take in SPM-level students. While it is necessary to insist on strict entry criteria for medical schools, it is also important to ascertan the suitabllity of a candidate to be trained as a doctor.

There is a need for a comprehensive review of the quality of doctors, the ways to raise this quality and the effectiveness of MMC in monitoring it.

Dr Tan Seng Giaw

Happy New Year!

2011-02-04T18:29:00.002+08:00

In the Year of the Rabbit, Dr Tan Seng Giaw wishes all people Happy New Year.

At this auspicious time, we avoid diatribes.

There are uprisings in some parts of the world. We hope these are solved by peaceful means.

We also hope that all those in power improve human rights, democratic practices and transparency according to the situation in their respective countries. Each country has its history, tradition and culture.

We hope the Royal Commission finds the cause of Teoh's death

2011-01-27T16:00:00.000+08:00

DAP National Deputy Chairman and MP for Kepong Dr Tan Seng Giaw hopes that the Royal Commission will succeed in finding out the cause of Teoh Beng Hock's death, so that the people especially the family will know the whole truth.

On 27.1.2011, Dr Tan comments on the setting up of the Royal Commission of Inquiry anounced by the Prime MInister Datuk Seri Najib Tun Razak yesterday. The Yang di-Pertuan Agong has consented to it under the Commission of Enquiry Act, 1950. It will take three months. On 5.1.2011, Coroner Azmil Muntapha Abas returned an open verdict on Teoh's case.

The Commission, headed by Federal Court judge Tan Sri James Foong Cheng Yuen, will also inquire into Teoh’s death and the circumstances surrounding and contributing to it.

The other members of the commission are former Federal Court judge Datuk Abdul Kadir Sulaiman, former Court of Appeal judge Datuk Selventhiranathan Thiagarajah, Penang Hospital’s senior consultant forensic pathologist Datuk Dr Bhupinder Singh and Cyberjaya University College of Medical Science’s dean of medical faculty Dr Mohamed Hatta Shaharom. The Prime Minister’s Department’s Legal Affairs division director-general Datuk Saripuddin Kasim is the commission secretary.

The terms of reference of the commission is to inquire whether or not there was any impropriety in the conduct of the examination of Teoh in the course of an investigation by the MACC in relation to its standing orders and practices. It will also enquire into Teoh’s death and the circumstances surrounding and contributing to his death.

We hope the Commission succeeds in finding out the cause of death of Teoh. Once the whole truth is revealed, it will help to improve the confidence of the people towards the judiciary.

Dr Tan Seng Giaw

Natural Resources & Environment Ministry must improve the efficiency of Land Offices

2011-01-24T14:29:00.004+08:00

DAP National Deputy Chairman and MP for Kepong Dr Tan Seng Giaw urges the Natural Resources and Environment Ministry to raise its efficiency and improve its services, such as simplifying the procedure for land titles. This will help solve the problem of land titles involving 1124 houses in Kepong Garden.

In 2011, the allocation for Land Management and laws Department in the ministry is RM176 million. This money should be used effectively to improve the service in land offices in the country.

Ob 23.1.2011, Dr Tan met residents in Kepong Garden to explain the steps taken towards solving the land title problem.

For over 40 years, Kepong Garden residents have no final land titles. But, their land is freehold. Previously, it was not compulsory for a surveyor to get a licence. Neither was it compulsory for house owners to apply for final titles. Then,the developer, who is ultimately responsible for land titles, Survey and Mapping Department, City Hall and Housing and Local Government Ministry must play their parts.

There are two phases in Kepong Garden. Phase 1 consists of 524 units and Phase 2 600 units. The Survey Department must complete accurate survey before final titles can be issued by the Land Office. Hitherto, 47 units have their lots surveyed. Work is going on with the rest of the 524 units. We are going to the Survey and Mapping Department to ascertain when work will be done on the 600 units in Phase 2.

Besides Land Office and Survey and Mapping Department, City Hall, Housing and Local Government Ministry must review the problems of housing and land titles, cutting down bureaucracy and red-tape. Now, visitors to these departments see good and bad personnel. If they are lucky, they meet the good ones. Otherwise, they feel frustrated, being kicked from one place to another.

Dr Tan Seng Giaw

Land Ofice should try its best to overcome the problems of land titles

2011-01-10T13:37:00.002+08:00

DAP National Deputy Chairman and MP for Kepong Dr Tan Seng Giaw urges the Federal Territory Kuala Lumpur Land Office to try its best to help the 1124 homes in Kepong Garden to solve the problem of temporary land titles. As their lots are freehold, they should get permanent titles.

The authorities must pay greater attention to housing developers so that the latter fulfill the conditions in the contracts such as proper land titles for the buyers. Meanwhile, the Government must reduce bureaucracy and red-tape.

On 9.1.2011, Dr Tan and representatives of Kepong resdients met the media to let the public know the steps taken by the Federal Territory KL Land Office.

Over 40 years ago Kepong Development Limited started to develop Kepong Garden. Then, surveyors did not have licence and application for permanent land titles was not compulsory. The unit for each lot was per square foot. Now, it is per square metre.

On 27.12.2010, residents' representatives and I met the Deputy Director of the Land Office Encik latif Ali. The department has inherited the land title mess. We hope that it will sort it out.

Phase one, Kepong Garden, has 524 units of houses and Phase two has 600. Hitherto, 47units have had their lots in per square foot converted to per square metre.

Some developers try their best to deal with various matters including proper certificate for land titles. They fulfill their agreement.

We press all concerned to increase their vigilance over all housing projects, ensuring that all buyers get suitable land titles.

Dr Tan Seng Giaw

Adequate security for 5.4 million students in 9,943 schools.

2011-01-04T15:51:00.001+08:00

DAP National Deputy Chairman and MP for Kepong Dr Tan Seng Giaw calls on the Government to provide adequate security for 5.4 million students in 9.943 schools in the country.

Besides security, the Education Ministry must ensure the quality of nearly 400,000 teachers. It should use a fair and just system to transfer teachers from one place to another.

On 4.1.2011, Dr Tan comments on security for schools after watching students, in particular 7-year olds going to schools with their parents on 3.1.2011.

After the unusual holiday on 31.12.2010, students have been in schools for the new term since yesterday. It is good to see that parents are happy accompanying their children to schools. We must not spare any effort to ensure that these students are safe at schools.

Annually, the Central Gocernment spends over 20% of its nearly RM200 billion annual budget on education. While this is the right thing to do, there must not be wastage. Although the policy is to reduce the number of students per class to fewer than 35, many schools still have more than 35. We need greater efforts to reduce the size of each class.

Despite the Deputy Prime Minister and Education Minister Tan Sri Muhyiddin Yassin's assurance that he has courses to improve the quality of teachers, he must look seriously into the effectiveness of some 12 types of courses for this purpose. Then, his Deputy Dr Wee Ka Siong talks about transferring teachers to areas far from their hometowns as compulsory. Apparently, last year there were nearly 11,000 applications for transfer and about 4,000 were approved. We require more dedicated teachers who must be treated fairly.

The Government must make sure that there are no irregularities in the transfer of teachers. The criteria used must be fair and just to all teachers.

Dr Tan Seng Giaw

KL City Hall must use RM734 million development expenditure for 2011 effectively

2010-12-20T16:08:00.002+08:00

DAP National Deputy Chairman and MP for Kepong Dr Tan Seng Giaw calls on the Kuala Lumpur Datuk Bandar to help speed up the implementation of the bridge project at Taman Emas-Metro Prima, Kepong. This bridge crosses the Keroh River.

The bridge project will cost over RM1 million. In 2011, the total Kuala Lumpur City Hall development budget is RM734 million. The allocations must be used meaningfully, completing the projects in time, such as RM253.75 million for road development in KL.

Dr Tan issues the statement on 19.12.2010. He had a discussion with the Datuk Bandar and the Director of Public Works Department at the City Hall, Kuala Lumpur, on 17.12.2010.

Over five months ago, a bridge linking Taman Emas with Taman Metro Prima, 7 1/2 mile Kepong, collapsed after heavy rains. KL City Hall (KLCH) has found out that the bridge was not built by any government department. In fact, there was a bridge over 10 years ago. This collapsed. It was replaced by a bridge, probably by the developer. But, there was no piling for this bridge. So, recently, the second bridge can no longer be used by vehicles.

As the Director of the Public Works Department, KLCH, has said, the department has just got the money of over RM 1 million to build a new bridge with proper piling and design. From the KLCH budget for 2011 of RM2.007 billion, RM734 million will be for development.

During the discussion with the Datuk Bandar and the Director, I stressed the urgency of building the bridge. I hope that both will help to speed up the implementation of the project.

Dr Tan Seng Giaw

Ensure that police personnel don't get involved in gambling

2010-11-20T17:25:00.000+08:00

DAP National Deputy Chairman and MP for Kepong Dr Tan Seng Giaw calls on the Inspector-General of Police (IGP) Tan Sri Ismail Omar to ensure that police personnel do not involve themselves in legal and illegal gambling whether directly or indirectly.

On 20.11.2010, Dr Tan comments on IGP's mock casino at the police training centre in Cheras.

Yesterday, Tan Sri Ismail said that to catch a thief, we needed to think like a thief. Having a mock casino can enlighten police personnel on gambling activities from roulette to blackjack. Legal activities are seen in places such as Genting Highlands and Sentosa, Singapore, where some Malaysians spend their time. Illegal ones are rampant.

I hope the mini casino can truly help the 318 or more police personnel in dealing with illegal gambling activities.The part played by enforcers is essential.

Lets hope that the IGP investigate the allegations that illegal gambling activities are widespread because police personnel are hand in gloves with illegal operators. Even in legal gambling, what is the part played by the police? If he can clear this suspicion, it will help improve the credibility.

It is a human weakness to imagine that a person can become rich for doing nothing. Singapore has also capitalised on this weakness. Macau, being the biggest gambling centre in the world, has been doing it for years.

How many police personnel who are trained at the mini casino will end up as gamblers? How many are gamblers without having been in the mini casino?

Dr Tan Seng Giaw

Ensure that GLCs do not stifle the private sector

2010-11-08T18:05:00.001+08:00

DAP National Deputy Chairman and MP for Kepong Dr Tan Seng Giaw calls on the Central Government to formulate a liberal policy,ensuring that the Government-linked companies under Khazanah Nasional and other GLCs do not harm the private sector, affecting its initiatives and innovations.

In the Malaysian economy, the private sector should play a vital part. The Government should ensure stability and help the private sector, preventing irregularities such as seen in the American sub-prime fiasco.

On 8.11.2010, Dr Tan asked the Deputy Finance Minister YB Lim Siang Chai a supplementary question on the profits and losses of GLCs under Khazanah Nasional from 2006 to 2009 and the reasons for their performance.

According to the Deputy Minister in 2007 Axiata (Telecom) made profits of RM1.782 billion, 2008 RM498 million, 2009 RM1.652 bn; Mas 2006 losses RM1.36bn, 2007 profits RM851 mn, 2008 RM244 mn, 2009 RM490 mn. Proton 2006 profits RM470 mn, 2007 losses RM590 mn, 2008 profits RM1.85 bn, 2009 losses RM320 mn. He did not state the reasons for the losses or the profits

The Finance Ministry has to be transparent, making public the performance of all GLCs and the reasons for their performance, including their part in the national economy. The private sector must have the initiatives and the innovations to create vibrant economy. The Government must be vigilant, effective in its monitoring and prevention of all forms of irregularities. Fiasco such as that of the American sub-prime, should never be allowed to occur in this country.

The Central Government has announced its target of attracting RM1.3 trillion investment, 92% of which from the private sector by 2020. Then the part played by Khazanah Nasional and all GLCs should be made clear. Will they stifle initiatives and innovations in the private sector. How dominant will the Government be in the economy?

Dr Tan Seng Giaw

DPM should look at Malaysian broadband speed

2010-10-29T14:50:00.000+08:00

DAP National Deputy Chairman and MP for Kepong Dr Tan Seng Giaw calls on the Central Government including the Deputy Prime Minister Tan Sri Muhyiddin Yassin to improve greatly the Malaysian broadband speed so that the Malaysian Communications and Multimrdia Commission is able to look at the Ultrabroadband Future.

The Broadband Action Brigade should act so that Malaysia will not be lagging so far behind in broadband speed. Korea is looking for wireless broadband.

It is important for Tan Sri Muhyiddin to access his computer in the House so that he will understand what is meant by broadband penetration and download speed. Since the House installs a computer for every member of parliament over a year ago, we are constantly struggling with the snail pace of the braoadband.

On 29.10.2010, Dr Tan issues a statement believing that the Deputy Prime Minister's perception on broadband penetration in the country as surpassing the 50% target set for the end of this year has not reflected the full picture.

Even though my statement may not be accepted by the traditional media, readers can see it in the Internet.
Muhyiddin said statistics up to the middle of this month showed that the initiatives and programmes launched under the National Broadband Initiative, which included expansion through the use of technologies on various platforms, had increased broadband penetration to 53.5%.
He said the increase was a vast improvement from the 22% penetration recorded in 2008, which meant that the country was well on its way towards achieving the target of 75% broadband penetration nationwide by 2015.
“On the Universal Service Provision programme under the Malaysian Communications and Multimedia Commission (MCMC), Muhyiddin said RM800mil a year was used to buy laptop computers for needy students nationwide. There should be stringent supervision of this fund. to prevent irregularities.

South Korea's current broadband speed is 10 megabytes, increasing to 1 Gigabytes by 2012. Her download speed is 33.91 Mb/s, ranking as number one in the world compared with Malaysia's 1.94 Mb/s which is 104th in the world. Ghana is 44th, Rwanda 65th, The Phillipines 93rd and Uganda 95th. The Korea Communications Commission (KCC) is spending US24,6 billion to upgrade Korean IT infrastructure including wireless broadband.

We hope that by 2015, Malaysia's broadband penetration will reach 75% and very soon 100%. But, broadband penetration without the speed is unacceptable. Why is Malaysia lagging behind Uganda, The Phillipines, Rwanda and Ghana?

Every time I enter the House, I cannot help but think about the Malaysian broadband speed. Is it possible to have an Ultrabroadband Future?

Dr Tan Seng Giaw

Truly improve technical and vocational education

2010-10-22T16:10:00.000+08:00

DAP National Deputy Chairman and MP for Kepong Dr Tan Seng Giaw reiterates that the Federal Government must truly improve technical and vocational education, regardless of race or colour. Good technical and vocational education is one of the factors in the development of a country.

On 22.10.2010, Dr Tan continues to be concerned with the state of technical and vocational education in Malaysia.

In the June session of parliament, the Deputy Prime Minister and Education Minister Tan Sri Muhyiddin answered my question on technical and vocational education, reassuring me that the Federal Government would like to have better techinical and vocational education in the country. It is clear that in the last ten years, there has been very slow progress in this field of education. About 10% of students enrol in this. In developed countries such as Finland and Germany, the figures are 60-70%.

In Malaysia, many youths join private companies as apprentices, learning to be skilled workers.

The Education Ministry aims to get 100% enrolment in technical and vocational scools. Its Technical and Vocational Education Department will be increasing the number of courses from 6 fields to 11 fields, such as having 5 more vocational secondary schools, introducing vocational courses in state secondary schools and turning a few secondary schools into vocational schools. The Ninth Malaysia Plan allocates RM86 million for technical and vocational courses.

2011 budget intensifies training and technical courses such as allocating RM470 million to raise productivity and skills of non-graduate youths and workers. We are looking at this closely. We hope the Government will be able to make the best of this allocation.

Normally, the Government sends people to study the state of technocal and vocational education in advanced countries. Is it applying some of the methods which are suitabe for this country?

I have told Tan Sri Muhyiddin that I shall follow up this matter.

Dr Tan Seng Giaw

Accountability of GLCs

2010-10-18T13:06:00.002+08:00

DAP National Deputy Chairman and MP for Kepong Dr Tan Seng Giaw reiterates that there should be better accountability and transparency of all government-linked companies (GLC) which like Sime Darby,Guthrie, Maybank and Mas attract much public attention.

On 18.10.2010 Dr Tan listens to the reply to an oral question on GLCs in the House by Deputy Finance Minister on the good performance of G20 which consists of 19 biggest GLCs.

GLCs play an important part in the economy of the country. The aggregates of G20 rising from RM9.6 billion in 2004 to RM RM19.3 in 2008 and RM17 billion in 2009 as well as seven GLCs achieving all 51 Key Performance Indices (KPIs) appear impressive. Malaysian Airline System (Mas) made a profit of RM490 million in 2009. The Chemical Company of Malaysia incurred a loss of RM5.8 million in 2009.

It is expected that whatever a GLC does arouses the interest of the people. For example, Sime Darby, which is a big multinational Corporation, was involved in certain transaction that has been of concern. Hitherto, we have not had a full report of the transaction.

The Employment Provident Fund and Khazanah National are said to be involved in the takeover of PLUS. If it is true, it would cost multibillion ringgits. What does it mean to the public?

The Prime Minister Datuk Seri Najib Tun Razak heads a supervisory committee to oversee 31 GLCs. We hope it truly monitors the performance, the accountability and the transparency of these companies.

Dr Tan Seng Giaw

Control of e-mail and SMS?

2010-10-13T14:04:00.001+08:00

DAP National Deputy Chairman and MP for Kepong Dr Tan Seng Giaw stresses that all forms of supervision or control on e-mail, SMS, Blackberry and other services should not affect the good things that are offered by these services.

On 13.10.2010, Dr Tan comments on the reply in parliament by Information, Communications and Culture Minister YB Datuk Seri Rais Yatim concerning the control on e-mail, SMS and Blackberry Messenger.

The minister says that the Central Government has no intention of banning the services of e-mail, SMS, Blackberry Messenger and others. It uses Multimedia Communications Act, Sedition Act and Criminal Code to charge those who act against the laws. Under the laws, a guilty person can be fined up to RM50,000 or imprisoned up to a year or both.

Although Arab countries such as Dubai have taken action against Blackberry, it is only a temporary measure. They continue to allow the service.

According to Rais, there are 8 billion SMS's daily in Malaysia and billions more e-mails. It is not possible to control them.

What is powerful for good is also powerful for evil. This is a phenomenon of human earth.

It is clear that good things do come out of SMS, e-mail, Blackberry and other services. A small number of people misuse and abuse them, causing difficulties. If a government does not tell the truth, these services can provide the real pictures. Then, the government concerned may feel unhappy.

Rais talks about Research In Motion (RIM) which provides information on Blackberry. The Government doe not want to ban the service.

What is important is that all controls or supervisions should not affect the good things that come out of SMS, e-mail and Blackberry.

Dr Tan Seng Giaw

Integrity and coordination for NEPT?

2010-10-12T11:02:00.001+08:00

DAP National Deputy Chairman and MP for Kepong Dr Tan Seng Giaw calls for integrity and better coordination between the ministries in the implementation of the National Economic Transformation Programnme (NETP) and the whole New Economic Model.

On 12.10.2010, Dr Tan listened to the reply in parliament by a Deputy Minister in the Prime Minister's Department on the implementation of the New Economic Model by 2011.

The Prime Minister Datuk Seri Najib Razak sets out the roadmap to NETP to increase the per capita income of Malaysians from US$7,000 to US$15,000, hoping to attract RM1.4 trillion investments by 2020, 90% of which from the private sector.

The above-stated reply sounds good with eight ministries leading the way, 585 invesment-friendly initiatives. Would these be enough to attract investors?

There are many factors that affect the investment atmosphere. These include consistent policies, integrity, coordination, human resources and efficiency.

In Asean, countries such as Vietnam, Laos, Cambodia and Myanma are attracting investors. Why would investors come to Malaysia when the atmosphere in these countries is more conducive for them including human resources?

Besides the need to improve integrity and bureaucracy, the poor coordination between the various ministries has been affecting investments in the country.

Although the Prime Minister's Department has gathered expert in many fields to draw up the New Economic Model, it has not told us the ways to deal with integrity, bureaucracy and coordination.

Dr Tan Seng Giaw

Talent Corporation & political, economic & social changes

2010-10-05T15:50:00.002+08:00

DAP National Deputy Chairman and MP for Kepong Dr Tan Seng Giaw calls on the Prime Minister Datuk Seri Najib Razak to ensure that the setting up of the Talent Corporation is accompanied by positive changes politically, economically and socially.

The changes should include the policy on media freedom. Although there may not be such thing as absolute freedom, Najib should at last show that Malaysia's main stream media are not virtually one- sided as they are today.

For example, my suggestion to Najib on attracting and retaining talents may not be taken up by any traditional media. His people would only get it in my website, blog or twitter.

On 5.10.2010, Dr Tan takes note of the Prime Minister's announcement on the formation of Talent Corporation from Brussels where he is attending the Asia-Europe Summit (Asem).

Yesterday, Najib said that he formed Talent Corporation under the Prime Minister's Department to identify shortages in key sectors, attract and retain the necessary skilled human capital, and provide an integrated skilled human capital blueprint. We would like to know the details and the practical aspects.

The PM says,"We are creating more exciting things to attract Malaysians and foreigners to come and play a part in our next level of growth. If we can create more opportunities, some of you might want to come back and those married to Belgians can bring (your) spouses with you; they will be allowed to work.

"Our policy is to be more open because a society tha is open will thrive in the 21st century. A society that is closed will not attract the best brains, you will attract mediocre people and the good ones would have left the country and we would be a lot poorer as a result."

These have been said by others. We wish Najib well in his implementation. Apparently, the Talent Corporation will start recruiting Malaysians and foreigners overseas. from January, 2011.

There are many factors that keep talented people in other countires, including salaries, working conditions, promotional criteria and prospect for the family. Needless to say, Malaysia's salaries are much lower than those in advanced countries such as Belgium, UK and USA. Some who have returned leave very soon because of factors such as the atmosphere and the mentality.

Lets talk on the mentality and the attitude of those in an established institution such as a university. Following Najib's call, a Malaysian expert may return from England to work in an established university. While he and she may be highly regarded overseas, he or she may find that unless he or she toes the line or sucks up to the boss, he or she may not get anywhere. The conditions are neither open nor free. Frustration may set in.

I shall follow up the progress of the Talent Corporation and the ways the Prime Minister deals with those who have returned to the country.

Dr Tan Seng Giaw

Improve public transport

2010-10-04T15:45:00.001+08:00

Improve public transport

(Part of the speech by Dr Tan Seng Giaw at the DAP FT Convention on 3.10.10)

The Government is constructing a RM570 million KL Tasek Selatan Terminal for buses, connecting with Light Rail Transit, Commuter trains and other modes of transport. It has promulgated Public Land Transport Commission Act and appointed Tan Sri Syed Hamid as the commissioner.

Now, only 10% of commuters use public transport to enter KL. The figure should be 60 or 70% or more to ease the congestion. But, public transport services are abysmal. For example, KTM Berhad has 22-24 old 3-coach trains while it needs at least 26. The order of 35 new 6-coach trains from China will take at least one year to arrive. Meanwhile, passengers wait for 30 to 90 minutes, the coaches are congested and the service is poor.

We continue to follow up the situation of the public transport which should be improved. Dr Tan Seng Giaw

Be cautious on economic growth

2010-10-04T15:35:00.002+08:00

Be cautious on economic growth

(Part of the speech by Dr Tan Seng Giaw's speech at the DAP Ft Convention on 3.10.10)

Let Malaysians be cautious on reports of economic performance and growth in the country. We would like the Government to reflect the true situation.

Bank Negara predicts that 2010 economic growth is 4.5% to 5.5%. The Prime Minister and Finance Minister 1, Datuk Sri Najib Tun Razak repeatedly says that economic growth in 2011 will be 6% or higher.

According to Najib, his Economic Transformation Programme (ETP) with 131 major projects, including the Mass Rapid Transit (MRT) can help economic growth by 0.6 to 0.7%.

By 2020, ETP is projected to attract RM1.4 trillion investments, more than 80% of which will be from the private sector. In the same period, China hopes to get US$3.4 trillion investments for infrastructure.

Despite these forecasts, Malaysians should be cautious in their assessment. Now, Malaysia’s per capita incomes are US8,000 compared with US$ for Singapore. BY 2020, the Prime Minister intends to increase the per capita incomes from middle income to high income.

At peak time, Malaysia’s local and foreign investments were 37% GDP. Now, it is 10% GDP. How will ETP attract these investments?

We propose that the Government create conducive atmosphere for economic growth and investments by dealing with political, economic and social issues such as racial and religious harmony, projecting truly open and liberal economic policy.

Dr Tan Seng Giaw

Take comprehensive measures to prevent racial and religious conflicts

2010-10-04T15:25:00.001+08:00

Part of the speech by DAP National Deputy Chairman, FT Chairman and MP for Kepong Dr Tan Seng Giaw at the DAP FT Ordinary Convention on 3.10.2010

The Federal Government must take more comprehensive and dynamic measures to prevent racial and religious conflicts, such as by taking truly fair and justifiable action against anyone who incites racial or religious resentment.

Since the March 8, 2009 general elections, we have witnessed a serious of racial religious issues. The general perception is that the Government is not seen to be truly fair.

In the use of the word Allah by non-Muslims in the Peninsula, the talk of substituting it with Yaweh adds to the unhappiness. The Government would have to show that it takes everything into consideration regarding this sensitive matter.

Statements by such organizations as Perkasa have given rise to various reactions. The Government seems to be unmoved.

Recently, media reports on one headmaster in Kedah and Johore respectively, spewing racial language. Similarly, a deputy director of Biro Tatanegara is reputed to have done a similar thing. The Deputy Prime Minister and Education Minister Tan Sri Muhyiddin Yassin says that he has no power to deal with the alleged action of the two headmasters. Then, the Chief Secretary stresses that the Government does not compromise on such type of cases.

Let us have a full report of the investigation on the three cases as soon as possible. If there is evidence of an offence, the Government should let us know what punitive action it has taken.

On all sensitive racial and religious matters, the Government should not sit idly by.

Dr Tan Seng Giaw

FT Minister must explain why the current FT anthem must be replaced?

2010-10-01T15:11:00.002+08:00

DAP National Deputy Chairman and MP for Kepong Dr Tan Seng Giaw calls on the Federal Territory Minister Datuk Raja Nong Chik to explain clearly why he wants the present FT anthem to be replaced by a new one.

He should ask the FT people including 11 Members of Parliament in Kuala Lumpur, one in Labuan and one in Putrajaya about the FT anthem.

Anthem should be sung in public places. We hope as many people as possible learn it just as we are familiar with Negaraku, the tempo of which has ben upped.

Since YB Raja Nong Chik becomes the minister from March 8, 2008,his ministry has addded two more words, urban wellbeing, becoming Ministry of Federal Territory and Urban Wellbeing. If he intends to add urban wellbeing into the anthem, that can be done.

Anthem is serious. It is not a pop song. Mew pop song tops the chart. But, anthem does not usually top the chart.

If he finds that the tempo of the FT anthem is too slow to cater for the hiphop people, then experts can up the tempo.

Is it the song that does not suit the minister? Is it the tempo? Is it the lyric?

Please ask for the opinions of FT people including the MPs about the desire to drop or change the anthem.

Dr Tan Seng Giaw

Let Central Government announce the amount of taxes from gambling industry

2010-10-01T14:38:00.002+08:00

DAP Deputy National Chairman and MP for Kepong Dr Tan Seng Giaw urges UMNO to ask the Central Government the total amount of taxes from the various activities of the gaming industry such as Genting Highlands and the Four Digit. How much does each state especially Pahang get annually. How does the Government use the multibillion ringgits?

On 1.10.2010, Dr Tan answered the questions of reporters about UMNO's allegation against the Penang State Government that the funds for senior citizens and the poor were from RM2 million contribution of the Penang Turf Club.

Gaming industry, whether legal or illegal, thrives in the whole world. There are various activities of the gaming industry in Malaysia. Now, the same applies to Singapore.

Penang Government has favourable balance of the budget of RM88.2 million and RM27.3 million in 2008 and 2009 respectively. It allocates RM20 million for the senior citizens (Program Penghargaan Warga Emas)and the hardcore poor (Program Rakan Anti-Miskin)in the 2010 budget. The UMNO allegation has no basis.

On the other hand, the Central Government collects taxes from various activities of the gaming industry. UMNO must question it on the total amount it has collected yearly, including the amount received by every state especially contributions from Genting Highlands to Pahang. Then, how does the Government manage the multibillion ringgits?

Dr Tan Seng Giaw

Working hard towards world-class universities

2010-09-26T16:15:00.001+08:00

DAP National Deputy Chiarman and MP for Kepong Dr Tan Seng Giaw believes that setting up another foreign university campus such as Johns Hopkins University medical school and hospital in Malaysia provides another useful benchmark for all our universities.

Our 20 public universities including University of Malaya (UM), National University (UKM) and the Apex University, Science University (USM) have too much baggage to be able to breathe properly. How do we get rid of the baggage such as the lack of real meritocracy and political interference? UM is showing a sign to progress. We hope it can truly move forward. UKM has to work harder. Since USM has been conferred the Apex title, has it been able to shed its baggage?

Dr Tan comments on media report on the Prime Minister Datuk Seri Najib Tun Razak's statement that Johns Hopkins University will be setting up a medical school and hospital in Malaysia, providing facilities for a medical research hub in the region.

Najib was a graduate of Nottingham University, UK. Now, the university has a campus in Semenyih. We hope what Najib says about Johns Hopkins will come true.

There are many aspects of a good university. Being counted in international tables is one thing. Showing the the real achievements of academic excellence, research and practical applications in the genuine world is another. Harvard is top of the international tables. It shows excellence in many fields, not just key performance indices (KPIs)

For example, the President or Vice-Chancllor of Harvard is not a political appointee. The criteria are purely those for a world-class vice-chancellor. The US Democratic Party and Republican Party have no say in his or her appointment. Can all our universities appoint vice-chancellors strictly on non-political criteria?

I shall bring this matter up again in the Budget Session of the Dewan Rakyat.

Dr Tan Seng Giaw

Entrance of UEC holders to teachers' universities

2010-09-23T16:54:00.002+08:00

DAP National Deputy Chairman and MP for Kepong Dr Tan Seng Giaw calls on the Educaton Minister YAB Tan Sri Muhyiddin to state whether the Cabinet has truly accepted Unified Examination Certificate (UEC) as a qualification to enter teachers' universities.

Allowing UEC holders to enter teachers' universities ia a step in the right direction. The Chinese Educationists such as Dong Jiao Zhong have their own assessment of the Cabinet decision, if it is true..

On 23.9.2010, the media report that Minister in the Prime Minister's Department Dr Koh Tsu Koon and MCA President Chua Soi Lek reveal that Cabinet has agreed in principle to allow Unified Examination Certificate (UEC) holders with credits in Bahasa Malaysia in SPM and three other subjects of UEC to enter teachers' universities.

We do not know what Prime Minister Datuk Seri Najib Tun Razak and hís deputy Tan Sri Muhyiddin Yassin have said after the Cabinet meeting. I intend to ask them in the House.

Universities in other countries including those in Singapore have accepted UEC with their own conditions. They have recognized that UEC has attained certain standard. Now, the Cabinet appears to have taken a decision on UEC holders' entrance to teachers' universities.

What the Education Ministry should tell the public is whether UEC is comparable to other qualifications which enable a student to enrol in our teachers' universities. If UEC is comparable or even higher than other qualifications, it should practise the principle of meritocracy. Thís principle should be applicable to other Malaysian universities.

Dr Tan Seng Giaw

Conducive atmosphere for RM1.4 trillion investment?

2010-09-22T14:15:00.000+08:00

DAP National Deputy Chairman and MP for Kepong Dr Tan Seng Giaw calls on the Central Government to show its seriousness in promoting conducive atmopsphere for the agenda to attract RM1.4 trillion investments and to create 3.3 million jobs by 2020.

Prime Minister Datuk Seri Najib Tun Razak has to convince us that he is prepared to take firm action to make the agenda a sucess.

On 22.9.2010, Dr Tan comments on the statement by minister Datuk Idris Jala on the economic agenda the day before.

For months, the Prime Minister YAB Najib has ben talking about Malaysia becoming a high-income nation with various transformation programmes. On 21.9.2010, Datuk Idris announced the agenda of the Economic Transformation Programme (ETP), identifying 12 key sectors such as oil, gas and energy and the rivitalisation of Kuala Lumpur.

It seems that the Government attempts to raise the gross national income from US$188 billion in 2009 to US$523 billion by 2020. Malaysians are keeping an eye on the results.

Idris says,"If we continue on the current economic model, we risk getting caught in the middle-income trap and continue to lose out on talent necessary to support high-income economy."

There are many factors such as bureaucracy, corruption and ineficiency that affect our nation. The Government has yet to show its determination to overcome them.

The Government must take the lead to create a conducive atmosphere in all fields including goverment-linked companies (GLC) like Petronas and Sime Darby. They play an important part in our economy.

We continue to show our concern with the ways the Government deals with affirmative action. Investors are watching whether it has effective measures to prevent abuses. Would it be truly willing to implement the policy of merit and need?

Previous plans such as the last Malaysia Plan did not achieve the full objectives. Will the ETP agenda end up similarly?

Dr Tan Seng Giaw

Leadership by example is imp[ortant in Rukun Negara

2010-09-21T17:21:00.000+08:00

DAP National Deputy Chairman and MP for Kepong Dr Tan Seng Giaw calls on the Central Government to show leadership by example as part of the campaign to inculcate the values of Rukun Negara.

On 21.9.2010 Dr Tan notices that Information, Communications and Culture Minister Datuk Seri Rais Yatim announced the day before his intention to carry out widespread campaigns to spread the values of Rukun Negara which includes belief in God, king and country, politeness, the rule of law and national unity.

It is necessary to inculcate universal values continuously, starting from home and school. As Raise believes that Malaysians between the age of 20 to 40 are not knowledgeable about Rukun Negara, he intends to launch a big campaign to disseminate the principles of Rukun Negara. We hope that he does it well, making good use of the public fund.

One important factor in the above-stated values is leadership by example in all fields. For example, in economy the news of Port Klang Free Zone scandal, and the huge sum involved in Sime Darby, Khazanah and Pos Malaysia management have caused much concerned about the lack of these values.

The Prime Minister Datuk Seri Najib Tun Razak has repeatedly talked about national unity and the need to avoid sensitive issues and to uphold integrity. He would have to lead by example like indicating that he is prepared to make important decision and to act in the interest of integrity and unity irrespective of race, religion and party.

We hope Rais can include leadership by example in his Rukun Negara campaign. This will show that he is serious.

Dr Tan Seng Giaw

Police must show similar enthusiasm in all cases

2010-09-20T17:30:00.001+08:00

DAP National Deputy Chairman and MP for Kepong Dr Tan Seng Giaw reminds the Malaysian police that it should show similar degree of enthusiasm, thoroughness and efficiency in all cases irrespective of the status of the victims.

Get rid of the impression that when victims of murder or other cases are less well known, the police takes its sweet time in investigations and other action. No doubt the police would deny it. It has to show unequivocally that it tries its best in all cases.

Dr Tan comments on some people's perception that when it comes to the ghastly murder of millionaire Susilawati and her three associates, the police has been so quick in its action. He was at the opening ceremony of the New Kajang Branch last night.

There are crimes in human society. Some are very inhuman such as the recent murder, burning and disposal of Susilawati and three others. The police has been quick at the scene, untangling the mystery of the murder with the detention of 8 suspects including two lawyer brothers. We like to know the truth in court. The greed and cruelty of some humans are evident.

The police must show that it is as attentive and thorough in other cases. The new Inspector-General of Police Tan Sri Ismail would do well to show clearly that he is impartial. Lets wait and see.

Dr Tan Seng Giaw

More promotion for inter-religious understanding

2010-09-19T15:30:00.001+08:00

DAP National Deputy Chairman and MP for Kepong Dr Tan Seng Giaw calls on the Prime Minister Datuk Seri Najib Tun Razak to increase efforts to promote inter-religious understanding and harmony.

On 19.9.2010, Dr Tan comments on the media report of Najib's meeting the Inter-faith Working Committee in his office for 45 minutes on 14.9.2010.

It is a good thing that the Prime Minister met the Inter-faith Working Committee that was formed in Febraury this year. According to the Committee's co-ordinator Datuk Ilani Isahak, the Prime Minister said that there should be more meetings like the one they had and that it is a mechanism that can help resolve related issues and problems.

We wish Najib expresses his views directly. Anyway, finding time to meet the committee is a start.

In our multi-religious society, there are and will be issues such as the use of the word Allah, the building of mosques, temples and churches. People in Sabah and Sarawak use the word Allah for God. But in the Peninsula the word used by non-Muslims become sensitive.

There should be more efforts to promote inter-religious understanding and harmony. We hope Najib is true to his words that he is fair to all. No doubt, he will want to be seen as treating all citizens equally.

Dr Tan Seng Giaw

Healthier accountability for free milk plan?

2010-09-17T16:02:00.003+08:00

DAP National Deputy Chairman and MP for Kepong Dr Tan Seng Giaw hopes that thousands of Malaysian students can benefit from the new version of the free milk plan as announced by the Prime Minister Datuk Seri Najib Tun Razak.

On 17.9.2010, Dr Tan reads the news about the new plan. He is curious.

There is no doubt that fresh milk is good for students. But, stale or contaminated milk harm them.

Next month, free milk plan will restart. Najib says,:"This is part of the Government's efforts to build a generation of healthier and stronger Malaysians."

It is a good thing if students from nearly 10,000 schools in the country can enjoy fresh milk. Why did the previous plan fail? Obviously, there were many factors such as inefficiency that plagued the old version of the plan. The Central Government must learn from the mistake, trying to make sure that this time it is value for money.

What are the criteria for appointing Sabah International Diary Sdn Bhd as the sole distributor? Will the company help to make the best use of public fund, ensuring that the plan works?

While we are lookig forward to healthier and stronger Malaysians, we are also expecting healthier and stronger accountability, transparency and efficiency.

Dr Tan Seng Giaw

14.9.2010: Congratulations to the new IGP Tan Sri Ismail Omar

2010-09-14T14:04:00.002+08:00

DAP National Deputy Chairman and MP for Kepong Dr Tan Seng Giaw congratulates the new Inspector-General of Police (IGP)Tan Sri Ismail Omar who has vowed to carry out his duties and responsibilities in accordance with the law. He took up his post yesterday.

It would be good if he can fuilfil his promise to ensure that the plice force provide the best delivery service t the rakyat and the country in general.

The people are concerned with many issues of law enforcement such as corruption, crimes and general security that has prompted many to go for gated communities and guarded neighbourhoods.

If the new IGP can be truly impartial in carrying out his duty, he will be able to instil confidence in the police force.

Dr Tan Seng Giaw

Get rid of red-tape & bureaucracy to make Malaysia competitive

2010-09-12T14:51:00.000+08:00

DAP National Deputy Chairman and MP for Kepong Dr Tan Seng Giaw reiterates that the Prime Minister Datuk Seri Najib Razak must put in effective measures to cut down red-tape, bureaucrcy and other irregularities to make Malaysia competitive.

On 12.9.2010 Dr Tan comments on the Prime Minister's 'fairer affirmative action and making Malaysia competitive'.

After the Aidilfitri celebrations, we are back to work. Najib prattles on the New Economic Model (NEM) instead of the New Economic Policy (NEP). He Insists that the aim of NEM is to develop a more equitable society towards long-term stability.

"Affirmative action should be fairer, more transparent and market-friendly."

"If we don't make changes, if we don't reform, Malaysia will slide backwards. We are convinced about that. We will lose our competitive edge. We are doing all these because we are committed to Vision 2020," Najib added.

While Najib talks about having no less emphasis on drive against corruption, Government Transformation Programme and National Key Result Areas, he should really look into the red-tape and bureaucracy among the 1.22 million civil servants. This is an important problem that affects Malaysia's competitiveness. One indicator is to look at the efficiency of our major ports.

As we are waiting for more effective action agianst those people who were truly involved in the Port Klang Free Zone (PKFZ) scandal, we notice that it takes four to five days for containers to be cleared in Port Klang. It is about one week at Tanjung Pelepas.

If a container ship docks at Singapore Port in the morning, the containers can leave the port within 24 hours. Najib should check the actual time needed to clear containers at our major ports.

Dr Tan Seng Giaw

Effective measures to reduce dependence on foreign labour

2010-09-07T15:18:00.000+08:00

DAP National Deputy Chairman and MP for Kepong Dr Tan Seng Giaw presses the Prime Minister Datuk Seri Najib Razak to announce the details of the eight Strategic Reform Initiatives (SRIs) to drive the New Economic Models (NEM) such as developing a quality workforce and reducing dependency on foreign labour.

Although Home MInister Datuk Seri Hishammuddin Hussein says that there are 1.8 million legal foreign workers, we do not know the actual number of illegal immigrants in the country. One estimate is three to four million.

On 7.9.2010, Dr Tan looks at the media report of the SRIs revealed by Najib yesterday. We see many abbreviations like NEM, SRI, KPI,NKRA and NKEA as well as headlines. We would like to know the contents and the effective measures to achieve them,.

One initiaf is developing a quality workforce and reducing dependency on foreign labour. I have often raised this matter. For example, in June 2010, Hisham answered the question the way media have been reporting including 1.8 million legal foreign workers.

Since human beings have been on this earth, migration has been taking place. People move form villages to towns and from poor or less stable country to richer or more stable country. For over 30 years, Malaysia has been facing many legal and illegal immigrants.

Owing to various factors, locals do not like working in plantation, building site or as domestic help. Foreigners fill the gap. for every legal foreign worker, how many are illegal? In Kuala Lumpur, those who go to Chow Kit Road or Petaling Street or to markets like Selayang, can see many foreign workers.

While waiting for the contents of the 8 SRIs, we would like to know the effective steps on illegals. This includes Governemnt action against agencies which work hand in glove with syndicates for illegals or legals. As Malaysia has long shorlines and there are syndicates, how will the Government deal with them?

Dr Tan Seng Giaw

Need effective monitoring and enforcement of guidelines on gated schemes

2010-09-03T16:41:00.000+08:00

DAP National Deputy Chairman and MP for Kepong stresses that the Central Government must ensure effective monitoring and enforcement of guidelines on gated communities and guarded neighbourhoods.

That the existing gated schemes are exempted is seen as inadequate.

The most important thing is for the police to improve its integrity and efficiency so that there will be no need for such type of community and neighbourhood schemes.

On 3.9.2010 Dr Tan comments on the Deputy Prime Minister's announcement that gated and guarded neighbourhood schemes will have to follow new guidelines.

Tan Sri Muhyiddin Yassin said the guidelines were approved and endorsed by the National Council for Local Government. They would be imposed with immediate effect on new applications.

As the incidence of certain crimes increases, the public look for alternatives to protect themselves and their properties. One is to engage private security firms to form gated communities and guarded neighbourhoods. What rights have security firms to protect the securityof residents? Will the police surrender some of its power or rights to these firms?

Just as ordinary citizens, the only rights security firms have is citizen's arrest. The Deputy Prime Minister must announce to the public the actual rights security firms have to safeguard residents who have paid them. He has said that residents of guarded neighbourhoods have no right to prevent others from going to schools or playgrounds through their areas.

Dr Tan Seng Giaw

Lets hope the new IGP Tan Sri Ismail instils integrity into the police

2010-09-02T15:52:00.001+08:00

DAP National Deputy Chairman and MP for Kepong Dr Tan Seng Giaw hopes that the new IGP Tan Sri Ismail Omar will truly raise the integrity of the police, making it more effective in combatting crimes, illegal immigration and drugs.

Dr Tan notes the announcement yesterday of the Home Minister Datuk Seri Hishamuddin Hussein that on 13.9.2010, Tan Sri Ismail Omar will take over from Tan Sri Musa Hassan as the Inspector-General of Police (IGP).

Tan Sri Ismail has vowed to improve the police force and take it to greater heights. We wish him well. The public have expectations from him.

In our multiracial and multireligious country, the IGP must show truly that he is fair in discharging his duties. This is very important.

For example, it is easy to incite racial and religious hatred. Anybody who infringes on mosque, churches and temples should be dealt with firmly. Those mouthing racial insults should be sought out.

Other issues such as crimes, illegal immigrants and drugs loom large. The number of legal immigrants is about two million and that of illegal ones is unknown, probably three to four milliion. Some say that agencies that deal with immigrants including police are hand in glove with syndicates. The new IGP should investigate and take action.

We wish Tan Sri Ismail can do something concrete for the police.

Dr Tan Seng Giaw

Greater efforts to renovate 2010 schools in dire state

2010-08-30T15:18:00.002+08:00

DAP National Deputy Chairman and MP for Kepong Dr Tan Seng Giaw calls on the Education Minister Tan Sri Muhyiddin Yassin to step up the efforts to renovate 2010 schools which are in dire state in the country.

Projects to improve these schools must be given to contractors who can do the jobs. Hence, the system must be improved, including ensuring that all tenders are truly open.

On 30.8.2010, Dr Tan continues to be concerned with the 2,101 schools which are in a very bad state.

There are 9,808 primary and secondary schools in Malaysia. According to the Education Ministry, 2,101 schools are in dire state, 1,553 primary and 548 secondary. Of these, 224 primary schools are in Sarawak and 73 secondary schools are in Pahang.

We do not know what criteria are used by the ministry to assess the conditions of these schools. How many more are in various state of disrepair?

Tan Sri Muhyiddin says that the Tenth Malaysia Plan contains projects to improve the physical conditions of these schools, including building new blocks, having special cabins and maintenance. He must give the schedule of implementing these projects and the ways contrators are appointed.

Previously, some contractors were not able to complete their projects because of various factors. The ministry must identify them to ensure that only good contractors are appointed for the projects. There must be no irregularities such as endless subcontracting.

We like to see a determination to improve our schools as Malaysians celebrate Merdeka. We must stress that 24% of our RM191 billion national budget are allocated for education.

Dr Tan Seng Giaw

Effective enforcement on express bus operators

2010-08-24T16:32:00.000+08:00

DAP National Deputy Chairman and MP for Kepong Dr Tan Seng Giaw stresses that the Central Government must improve efficienciy in its monitoring and enforcement on express and tour bus operators to maintain public safety. Lets prevent accidents on expressways.

Dr Tan notices some express buses speeding along expressways, ignoring safety measures of the Department of Occupational Safety and Health.

According to the Occupational Safety and Health Act, 1994, the Department of the same name prepares safety measures. It studies the causes of accidents involving express buses including the long hours of driving and tiredness of the drivers. How does it deal with these causes?

Express bus operators play their part in providing service to tourists. But, some operators are not good in ensuring the safety of their passengers and other road users. We can see that some express buses simply ignore the rules. Smaller vehicles avoid them.

According to the Home Ministry, from 2005 to 2009, there were 12,801 cases of accidents involving express buses, of which there were128 deaths. We shall continue to follow up with the latest figures.

Besides Transport Ministry and Department of Occupational Safety and Health, Tourism Ministry should also be concerned with safety of express bus passengers. Enforcement officers of all related agencies must have integrity.

Dr Tan Seng Giaw

Kuala Lumpur must improve at all levels

2010-08-18T12:19:00.003+08:00

DAP National Deputy Chairman and MP for Kepong Dr Tan Seng Giaw believes that KL City Hall (KLCH) must raise its administrative and developmental efficiency, so that KL will become a world-class city by 2020.

One aim should be to improve KL's ranking among the cities of the world. According to an assessment, KL is 48th among world cities.

On 18.8.2010, Dr Tan notices the american Foreign Policy Magazine pegging 65 cities, New York coming first, London second, Tokyo third and KL 48th.

Malaysia's objective is to make the country world class in economic, social, political and spiritual aspects. KL's aim is to become a world-class tropical city of light. This means that she would like to reach that status in working environment, standard of living, trading atmosphere and administration.

For example, What are KL's part in the globe, benefits to city folks, workers, and tourists. The allocation of public housing, stalls during Ramadan and so forth must be fair and just.

Comparing with New York, London and Tokyo, KL is lagging behind. Obviously, KLCH has been planting more green trees in the city, making her greener. It should go further.

City dwellers, workers, tourists and investors hope that infrastructure, administration. social, cultural and societal facilities will improve.The public would not like to see that in the middle of busy traffic intersections, a building such as Puduraya sticks out like a sore thumb. A similar view can be seen in other areas like Cheras and Kepong.

Dr Tan Seng Giaw

Police must raise its efficiency to combat crimes.

2010-08-12T15:24:00.002+08:00

DAP National Deputy Chairman and MP for Kepong Dr Tan Seng Giaw reiterates that the police must improve its effciency in ensuring security such as in combatting crimes.

On 12.8.2010, Dr Tan reads the announcement of the Kuala Lumpur Police Chief Deputy Commissioner Datuk Muhammad Abtu Osman of the increase of two district police headquarters (IPD), IPD Kiaramas dan IPD Wangsa Maju in KL.

According to the Economic Planning Unit, the Malaysian crime rate increased from 3.8 in 1990 to 6.2 in 2002. This year, the Home Ministry says that the street crime rate and the crime rate in Malaysia have fallen by 39% and 15% respectively. But, Parliamentary Select Committee on Integrity says that the crime rate is worsening, particularly thefts and robberies.

In Parliament, we follow up on the correct statistics on crime rate in the country. The most important thing is for the police to improve its effectiveness in ensuring security.

To have two more IPDs in KL is a good thing. Apparently,Brickfields will come under the jurisdiction of two IPDs by the end of the year.The new IPD Kiaramas will police Taman Tun Dr Ismail, Bangsar, Travers, Mont Kiara, Sri Hartamas and Pantai.

The IPD Sentul is being divided into two, the other one being the new IPD Wangsa Maju.

We are concerned with security in all districts including Kepong. As the IPD Sentul headquarters in Jalan Ipoh is being renovated, its operations are temporarily divided between Jinjang and Kepong police stations. We hope that policing and crime prevention will not be affected.

Usually, after a complaint the police increases its patrol in say Kepong Garden, crime activities go down. On the other hand, crimes in other areas go up and vice versa. In this transitional stage, we hope the police increases its patrols and mobile stations.

Dr Tan Seng Giaw

Repeal ISA and replace it with Anti-Terrorism Act.

2010-08-09T15:05:00.002+08:00

DAP National Deputy Chairman and MP for Kepong Dr Tan Seng Giaw reiterates that the Central Government repeal the Internal Security Act (ISA), to be replaced by Anti-Terrorism Act.

Builidng new block with new cells in Kamunting and coninuing to detain people under ISA cannot be considered reasonable.

On 9.8.2010, Dr Tan comments on media report of the Central Government spending RM7 million to build a new block at the 93.3 hectare Kamunting Detention Centre.

From 1987 to 1988, we were detained under ISA, staying at the old building in Kamunting. Now, media show that the Federal Government has spent RM7 million to rebuild the old block into two-storeyed structure with 20 cells, each accommodating three detainees.

At present, there are 274 detainees, of whom 12 are under ISA.

The authority abused ISA to detain us for rehabilitation--discipline, character and skills. None was applicable. after our release in 1988, we have continued with constitutional political struggle.

Home Minister Datuk Seri Hishamuddin repeatedly talks about amendments to the ISA. But, ISA was promulgated in 1960 against communists. In December, 1989, Malayan Communist Party laid down arms. Hence, the Central Government must repeal ISA, to be replaced by Anti-Terrorism Act.

A stable society does not allow any form of extremism including terrorism such as suicide-bombing.We need Anti-Terrorism Act to deal with extremists.

Dr Tan Seng Giaw

Local governments must provide disabled friendly facilities

2010-08-07T12:24:00.002+08:00

DAP National Deputy Chairman and MP for Kepong Dr Tan Seng Giaw calls on the Central Government including 154 local governments such as KualaLumpur City Hall (KLCH)to try the utmost to provide disabled friendly facilities like ramps and modification to raodside curbs as well as low-cost houses.

On 7.8.2010, Dr Tan atalk about some of the problems faced by the disabled in the country.

This year the national budget allocates RM224 million for the disabled. How is the allocation used to benefit the disabled? The National Housing Department builds 74,000 low-cost houses to be rented in 2010. How many are specially designed for the disabled?

The Gopvernment often talks about helping the disabled. for instance, KLCH a Portal with W3C to give web accessibility initiative (WAI), accesible to disabled persons. Apparently, there are adjustable text size, colour options, text reader like IE page reader and speech engine. some disaled organizations feel that KLCH is not so sensitive about the disabled--it forms Disabled Persons Unit (DPU, which does not have a single disabled person.

We hope that the private sector also look after the disabled. For example, Maybank is reported to allocate RM16 million for nationwide projects to make its branches more disabled friendly in keeping with its corporate social responsibilities. We wish the bank implement the project.

Local governments have to install many facilites such as ramps, modified curbs and low-cost hoses fpr the disabled.Let us hope that they including KLCH really try to provide these facilities.

Dr Tan Seng Giaw

MACC should show that it is fair, just, reasonable & transparent.

2010-08-05T15:32:00.001+08:00

DAP National Deputy Chairman and MP for Kepong Dr Tan Seng Giaw reiterates that the Malaysian Anti-Corruption Commission (MACC) should be fair, just, reasonable and transparent in dealing with all cases of complaints about corruption.

Only when it is seen to be acting without fear and favour, can the public have full confidence in it.

On 5.8.2010, Dr Tan refers to the the statement yesterday by MACC Deputy Chief commissioner (Operations) Datuk Shukri Abdull that the Central Government has approved the hiring of additional 5,000 officers in the next five years. About half the officers will be doing investigation work, dealing with five to 10 cases each per year.

In 2008, MACC applied for 5,000 additional officers in the next five years. Only 33 additional posts were approved. Now, that the Central Government has given a nod, it should be able to get more personnel to do a better job.Hong Kong Independent Anti-Corruption Commission (ICAC) has 1 officer to 7,322 citizens. MACC has 1:15,225. With the new recruits the ratio should improve.

Hitherto, factors such as Teoh Beng Hock case and the lack of high-profile cases being charged do not help the image of MACC. With more dedicated staff members, we hope that it can present a more positive image. From about 1,000 cases MACC investigate annually, we expect it to show more efficiency.

We notice that MACC has stepped up its publicity image, the Chief Commisioner and his officers getting into the media more frequently. But, dealing with cases in fair, just, reasonable and transparent manner is very important.

Dr Tan Seng Giaw

Review the conditions of highrise flats and condos in the country

2010-08-02T14:38:00.004+08:00

DAP National Deputy Chairman and MP for Kepong Dr Tan Seng Giaw calls on the Housing and Local Government Ministry to review the conditions of highrise flats and condominiums in the country and to find effective solutions to the woes of these flats and condos.

We shall continue to raise the problems of highrise housing in the House. As the population increases, cities and towns will build more highrise building.

On 1.8.2010, Dr Tan comments on the minister YB Dato' Wira Chor Chee Heung criticising local building commissions.

We have often brought the problems of highrise housing to the House. The ministry's replies tend to be ministerial. It has to come out with something more effective.

We do not oppose the promulgation of laws such as the 2007 Joint Management of Property (Maintenance and Management) Act. But, the ministry must truly understand the various problems, some of which are due to human weaknesses including the lack of civic consciousness.

Besides strata titles, highrise flats face problems like water, electricity, lifts, rubbish and noise. For example, flat dwellers at Happy Court, Kepong Garden, Kepong Central and Metro Prima present endless complaints.

Local governments such as City Hall Kuala Lumpur have representatives in various agencies such as joint management agency. The monitoring of these agencies is essential. The part played by the ministry is important.

The new minister has to try harder to find solutions to the myriad problems. He may want to leave a mark.

Dr Tan Seng Giaw

Need truly effective measures to attrract FDI

2010-07-29T16:25:00.003+08:00

DAP National Deputy Chairman and MP for Kepong Dr Tan Seng Giaw reiterates that the Central Government would have to show the world that it is really serious about attracting foreign direct investment (FDI) such as RM115 billion investments annually as targeted in the Tenth Malaysia Plan (10MP).

Dr Tan looks at the International Trade and Industry Minister Datuk Seri Mustapa Mohamed's statement on Government Transformation Programme, the Economic Transformation Programme and the New Economic Model addressing the root causes of the slugish investments.

Clean & Beautiful City & Local Agenda 21

2010-07-28T15:47:00.002+08:00

DAP National Deputy Chairman and MP for Kepong Dr Tan Seng Giaw calls on the Kuala Lumpur Mayor Dato' Sri Ahmad Fuad to announce the details of the Clean and Beautiful City campaign including Local Agenda 21.

We need to improve the management of solid waste. Humans create organic and non-organic waste.

On 28/7/2010, Dr Tan responds to the Mayor's statement that the strategy for waste management system is not good enough.

Frequently, we have brought up to Kl City Hall the problems of waste disposal as we receive complaints about them regularly. The issue of solid waste is complicated including the lack of civic consciousness and its ineffective management.

On 22/7/2010,I told Dato' Sri Fuad about illegal dumpsites such as the one at Jinjang South squatter area. He mentions that the City Hall spent RM200 million to clear 33 illegal dumpsites.

KL city folks produce over 2,000 tonnes of solid waste a day, requiring RM150 million annually for waste management.

Apparently, the Government launched a solid waste awareness campaign, so that the public would avoid wastage and would separate solid waste which consists of 45% food.

KL has a Clean and Beuatiful City campaign, including the pioneer project of Local Agenda 21. This project involves collecting 14 tonnes of organic waste daily from hotels, markets and houses. Then, the waste is processed into compost.

Dr Tan Seng Giaw

Would a high-impact project at the Sungai Besi military airport be within the KL Structural Plan?

2010-07-26T16:00:00.002+08:00

DAP National Deputy Chairman and MP for Kepong Dr Tan Seng Giaw calls on the Federal Government to let us know whether the proposed high-impact project at Sungai Besi Military Airport is consistent with the Kuala Lumpur Structural Plan.

Dr Tan is concerned with the intention of the Central Government to develop high-impact projects in over 1,000 hectares of government-owned land in and around KL.

The Government has set up a multi-billion special fund to implement high-impact projects such as on one of the few vacant land in KL like the Sungai Besi Airport. Then, there are talks about 6% economic growth annually, overseas investment like Qatar and Vision 2020--to be a fully developed nation by 2020.

KL has a structural plan until 2020. This aims to make the city an international tropical garden city of light. This means that we have to preserve as much vacant land as possible, otherwise where do we have gerdens.

We must know the details of how the government propose to convert the abovementioned airport land into a growth centre with various features of a modern city--a city within the KL city.

The Government must be seen to be fair, just and transparent. The high-impact project should give equally high impact on the understanding of the people regarding the project.

Dr Tan Seng Giaw

How do operators absorb the price increase?

2010-07-20T13:29:00.000+08:00

Let the Consumer Affairs Minister YB Ismail Sabri announce how he is going to ensure that operators absorb the costs of the price increase of consumer goods such as sugar and petrol. As a resut of the recent rationalization of subsidies, the price of many types of consumer goods inreases. Naturally, the people are worried that there will be unreasonable hike in prices.

It seems that the minister has talked with various associations such as Malaysian Indian Reataurant Owners' Association to persuade them to absorb the price increase. He believes that these operators understand the situation. We hope he is right.

What we want to know is how YB Ismail Sabri ensures that over 500,000 operators will not pass the price increase to consumers. He must inform us of the ways such as the monitoring mechsnism with which he gets them to cooperate.

The nation should only spend according to its revenue except in unusual circumstances. To cut subsidies is one way. But, the Central Government would have to make it clear that other forms of assistance to big companies including Indpendent Power Producers (IPPs) is no longer applicable. The amount of softloans and bailouts amount to billions of ringgits.

Tan Seng Giaw

Concrete plan to make MACC truly independent

2010-07-05T23:59:00.003+08:00

DAP National Deputy Chairman and MP for Kepong Dr Tan Seng Giaw calls on all Malysians within and outside the country to envision and focus on the rising expectations of the people, the new perceptions, the new types of management and the new types of governance. We look for the truth and the options.

Dr Tan spoke at The Launch of Friends of Pakatan Rakyat (PR) on 4.7.2010 at the Conway Hall, 25 Red Lion Square, Holborn, London WC1R 4RL to about 350 people--Malaysian diaspora of various races. This seminar, 11 am to 5 pm, was organized by the Pro-Tem Committee headed by Brian Morais. friendsofpakatanrakyat@gmail.com http://fprlaunch.eventbrite.com

Speakers included Raja Petra Kamarudin, Zaid Ibrahim (Keadilan), YB Nurul Izzah (Keadilan), YB Dr Hatta (Pas), YB Kamaruddin (Pas).

The rising expectiations of Malaysians not only in Malaysia but also in the diaspora such as in London have given rise to new visions. 8.3.2008 saw five states taken over by PR in the general elections. In the next general elections, will the BN Federal Government be replaced by PR Federal Government? It will come. We do not know how long it will take.

In the past 53 years of Malaysian Independence (Merdeka), there have been many changes. For example, there are more physical and infrastructural development and more people are educated and exposed. How many things have gone right? How many have gone wrong?

Power corrupts. Absolute power corrupts absolutely (Lord Acton). People are aware of the irregularities like corruption, cumbersome bureaucracy, money politics and the lack of transparency and accountability. The BN depends on money politics with its ramifications. For instance, a divisional chief of Umno needs hundreds of thousands of ringgits to maintain the party activities. From where does he or she get the money? How much does a candidate spend contesting for divisional, state or national post within the party or the state or national seat during general elections?

How does Malaysian bureaucracy and 1.2 million civil servants rate compared with more advanced countries?

The end of all our exploring
Will be to arrive where we started
And know the place for the first time. T. S. Eliot

Having seen where we started, we would like to have leaders with integrity, clean and efficient. A minister is a chief executive officer (CEO). He or she should be paid a reasonable salary. If we take the average salary of a CEO from, say 50 corporations, in the country, that is the salary a minister or a top civil servant or a top police officer shoud get. But, if he or she is caught involvrd in corruption, he or she should be charged in court without fear or favour.

If the office hours begin at 8 am and end at 5 pm, a minster or a top civil servant, should be in office before and after the time. His or her facilities and amenities including transport should be within reasons, not excessive or luxurious.

A PR leader must be able to lead by example. An offender should be punished.

A truly independent MACC

When Tun Abdullah was Prime Minister, the Anti-Corruption Agency (ACA) became Malaysian Anti-Corruption Commission (MACC). This was a step in the right direction. But, all cases investigated by MACC must be submitted to the Attorney-General (AG) who has the constitutional rights to prosecute. For example, about 10 years ago a contractor built the Kepong flyover (Middle Ring Road 2, MRR2) of over RM200 million with 21 pillars. Some pillars cracked. The final repair bill was about RM60 million. MACC or ACA investigated the case. When the contractor and MACC were in court, the AG ordered the case to be posponed. We have yet to know whether the contractor will be prosecuted.

MACC is modelled on such examples as ICAC (Independent Commission Agiainst Corruption), Hong Kong (HK). In 2009, ICAC's budget was RM328.3 million, 0.34% of HK operating budget of RM95.9 billion. On the other hand, in 2010 MACC applies for an allocation of RM324.1 million. 51.61% were cut. It has RM156.8 million, 0.08% of Malaysian operating budget of RM191 billion.

In the next five years, MACC is supposed to increase its officers by 5,000, that is 1,000 annually. Now, it has to make do with the reshuffling of 53 new posts.

Usually, HK AG allows ICAC to prosecute if its has evidence in a case of corruption. Malaysian AG has his own ways. To give MACC the rights of prosecution, we have to amend the Federal Constitution. This requires two-third majority of the House.

We need a truly independent MACC. One way is to make it only responsible to Parliament.

Lies and Myths

For the great enemy of the truth is very often not the lie--deliberate, contrived and dishonest--but the myth: persistent, persuasive and unrealistic. John F. Kennedy.

For years, BN has been spreading lies and myths such as 'only BN can rule', 'recurrence of May 13' and 'only Umno is for Malays'.
The people are seeing through these. They are witnessing the PR Governments in Kedah, Kelantan, Penang and Selangor and the usurpation of PR Government by BN using money politics.

It is true that there are changes. More Malays are educated and enlightened. But, the main benefectors from the practice of patronage and cronyism of Umno are only a selected few. Where has the largesse of huge contracts such as the submarine deal gone?

We must have the policy of merits and needs without reference to race and religion. If we do not consider the needs of the aborigines (Orang Asli), where will they end up?

Concrete plan in all sectors

PR has to draw up concrete plan in all sectors including civil service, economy, education, eradication of poverty and health. In 20 minutes, I can only briefly mention PPSMI (Teaching of Mathematics and Science using English). While ensuring that Bahasa Malaysia is taught effectively in all schools (and fair treatment of Mandarin and Tamil schools), we should not have downgraded English. It has been a serious mistake. There are many ways to raise the standard of English such as a more practical curriculum.

Just as other subjects, teaching Maths and Science using English means competent teachers. While some teachers are good and dedicated, some are not up to the mark. Of the 386,000 teachers in Malaysia, how many are truly competent. The Education Minister and Deputy Prime Minister Tan Sri Muhyiddin agrees that the quality of some teachers is not good. He believes in courses to improve the quality of teachers. How effective are these?

Some choose the teaching profession as a last choice, a Hobson's choice. Their heart is in another profession.

From 2003 to 2009, the Education Ministry introduced PPSMI, spending over RM 5 billion. It failed miserably. (Malaysia spends 24% of its national budget on education, from pre-schools to universities and lifelong education. This tradition must be maintained. But, the money must be used appropriatrely, value for money.)

Dr Tan Seng Giaw

Land Tranport Department must make public whether it intends to introduce car plates with chip

2010-06-28T12:48:00.006+08:00

DAP National Deputy Chairman and MP for Kepong Dr Tan Seng Giaw calls for the Land Transport Department to announce whether it intends to introduce vehicle plate with smart chip, preceded by the amendment to the Transport Act.

On 27.6.2010, Dr Tan commented on media report on the proposed use of car plate with smart chip or chipped car plate.

Vehicular transport is essential. Hence, the Road Transport Department plays an important part. 2010 budget for land transport is RM312,386,000, from which enforcement is about RM 85 million. We hope that the department has reasonable measures to improve road transport in the country.

If smart chip is installed in car plate, the authority can extract personal data. How much will each chipped plate cost? RM150? Will an offender be fined RM2000 or banned from driving 20 years? These may cause controversy. RM150 per chipped plate may be considered too expensive. Acquisition of personal data may be deemed invasion of privacy. Will the appointment of companies that make chipped plates be based on cronyism?

If the Government has decided to implement chipped plate, it should reveal the details, avoiding guesswork by the public. Then, we can give evidence-based views.

Dr Tan Seng Giaw

Commercial Vehicle Licensing Board （CVLB) must be fair in issuing taxi licenses

2010-06-28T12:03:00.009+08:00

DAP National Deputy Chairman and MP for Kepong Dr Tan Seng Giaw stresses that CVLB must have fair and reasonable criteria in issuing taxi licenses,using good methods to treat those who earn their living by driving taxis. At the same time, it must be just in enforcing the law.

Conversely, Taxi Associations and their members must adhere to the regulations including Clients' Charter, to give good service to passengers.

On 26.6.2010, Dr Tan attended the dinner of Kepong Taxi Drivers' Associations.

The taxi occupation has a contribution to society. Hence, government departments such as CVLB, Transport Department and Domestic Trade, Cooperatives and Consumerism Ministry must treat Taxi Associations and their members fairly.

For instance, CVLB must be accountable in giving out taxi licenses, avoiding irregularities including cronyism. Singapore has two big taxi companies, taking care of their taxi drivers reasonably. Why does Malaysia need such a long time to implement fair and just policy and measures in the provision of taxi service.

The authority concerned has said that 30% taxi licenses will be awarded to women. Recently, how does the authority manage the new licences? The number is said to be 9,000.

The Tourism Board sponsors courses for taxi drivers. CVLB and Transport Department have regulations such as taxis must use: meter, not take excess fee, not refuse to take passengers, wear white shirt, dark trousers and dark shoes as well as be polite.

Clients'Charter includes treating passengers well and effective service.

I believe that most taxi drivers follow regulations and only a few flout the law. Taxi Associations must play their parts.

Once the image of taxis is raised, passengers have a good impression. This is good for the country.

Dr Tan Seng Giaw

Use the allocation of RM230 billion for 10 MP effectively?

2010-06-22T12:08:00.002+08:00

DAP National Deputy Chairman and MP for Kepong Dr Tan Seng Giaw presses the Federal Government to use the allocation of RM 230 billion for the 10th Malaysia Plan (10MP) effectively.

We must avoid irregularities and wastage.

On 21.6.2010, Dr Tan took part in the debate on the 10MP (2011-2015). As many members of parliament have not spoken, the Speaker imposes the restriction of 10 minutes per member.

10MP book cover is light green and the words are beautiful. For example, it contains the aspirations of Government Transformation Programme and New Economic Model based on high income, wide-ranging and sustainable. The words are full of policies with little details on projects planned. It seems that the Government will announce the details of these projects in September, 2010. We hope the Governmental action reflects its words.

Announce details of projects

On 3.5.2010, Works Minister Datuk Shaziman Abu Mansor said, "There are 1,673 abandoned projects under the 9MP and the Government will be reviving them.

"The Public Works Department had planned for 3,737 projects under the 9MP."

We hope that the Government will announce the number of projects completed under the 9MP, the number of projects abandoned, the original allocations and the final amount paid out for all the projects.

We shall keep an eye on the implementation of the 10MP projects and the allocation of RM230 billion for these projects.

The success of each project depends on many factors such as the type of tender, the ability of the contractor, building materials, technical scope, irregularity and weather.

Dr Tan Seng Giaw

Review of media freedom & modern media in Malaysia

2010-06-17T15:26:00.002+08:00

DAP National Deputy Chairman and MP for Kepong Dr Tan Seng Giaw proposes that the Central Government review the actual situation of the media to determine whether there is media freedom and the need of the society. Then, it should introduce a fairer media policy, consistent with the modern information technology.

Although the Central Government insists that there is media freedom, the Opposition does not agree.

On 17.6.2010, Dr Tan asked a supplementary question on media freedom. The Information, Communications and Culture Minister YB Datuk Dr Rais Yatim was answering the original question by Tebrau MP YB Teng Boon Soon on the Freedom House, U.S., for putting Malaysia at 141 in the Press Freedom Ranking (Malaysia Press Still Not Free).

Rais believes that the American organization does not understand Asian values in Malaysia. It gives an armchair reporting.

He points out that Malaysia has 76 daily newspapers, 151 TV channels, 53 radio channels and 2 million bloggers. The broadband is expanding.

In our multiracial and multi-religious society, we should avoid fanning racial and religious feeling. But, we must be able to reflect the truth with responsible media reports. in the modern technology, news and reportage are full of truth and falsehood. How do we distinguish them?

The information technology is changing the world. As soon as the Government issues a news item, the Internet such as bloggers can present differing views. Whose opinions are correct?

For example, the media carry various versions of the Port Klang Free Zone scandal and the financial problem of the conglomerate Sime Darby. What is the truth?

We require a comprehensive review of the media, the Government's media policy and the need of the society. Then we formulate a fairer policy, consistent with the reality of the modern information technology.

Dr Tan Seng Giaw

To maintain the standard of teachers is essential

2010-06-16T11:18:00.004+08:00

DAP National Deputy Chairman and MP for Kepong Dr Tan Seng Giaw reiterates that the Education Minister (EM) must take the issue of the quality of teachers very seriously, such as going all out to raise the quality of teachers in the country. At the same time, we must be able to compare the quality of Malaysian teachers with that in Singapore in various aspects, consistent with the objective of becoming an advanced nation by 2020.

On 16.6.2010, Dr Tan comments on the answer in the House yesterday by EM on the quality and performance of 386,000 teaches in the country.

In his reply, EM Tan Sri Muhyiddin Yassin says that he is naturally satisfied with the quality of teachers produced. On this, there is no compromise. From time to time, teachers in service are given in-service short- and long-term courses and guidance. Newly Qualified Teachers from Institute of Education for Teachers (IPG)are monitored by the Teachers' Education Section in the first six months of their service, guided by experienced teachers and headmasters, including the mentor-mentee method.

There are dedicated teachers. We hope that the number will increase. But, there are complaints about the quality of teachers. This may be due to many factors. As some become teachers as the last resort, EM must find out whether these complaints are true. Then, he should take appropriate steps to rectify.

We hope that EM does as he preaches. This year, the allocations for primary and secondary schools are RM 10 billion and RM 8.8 billion respectively. Let these be used correctly without unnecessary wastage.

Tan Sri Muyiddin says he pays great emphasis on the quality of teachers. But, he did not answer the comparison of the quality of our teachers with that of Singaporean teachers. How many teachers have left this country to work in Singapore? In the last 20 years, how many have resigned from government schools to work in the private sector and other countries?

We shall continue to raise the issue of the quality, treatment and working conditions of teachers. To maintain the standard of the teaching profession is essential.

Dr Tan Seng Giaw

The Central Government must explain how NKRA, KPI & Laboratory are beneficial to Malaysia.

2010-06-07T16:49:00.002+08:00

DAP National Deputy Chairman and MP for Kepong Dr Tan Seng Giaw calls on the Central Government to explain clearly how Key Performance Index (KPI), National Key Result Area (NKRA) and Laboratory are of benefit to the nation.

How do KPI and NKRA help to achieve 10.1% economic growth for the first quarter 2010 and increase of one million Light Rail Transit (LRT) passengers?

Dr Tan asked a supplementary question on the attainment of NKRA while the minister Tan Sri Koh Tzu Khoon answered the question lengthily including NKRA in transport, education, crime prevention and agriculture.

Business corporations often talk about NPI dan NKRA. These may help to assess and to improve these corporations. How do they assist Malaysia?

The 10.1% economic growth is due to several factors, not just NKRA. The same applies to the increase in the number of LRT passengers.

The people feel the effects of the economic downturn. We need to increase the number of people using public transport to enter the city and the number of schools is more than 716 monitored through NKRA.

There are 7,643 primary schools and 2,165 secondary schools in the country. The minister has said that he does not mean 716 schools,but 7,643 schools. While it is necessary to encourage good schools, it is important to help other schools to improve.

Dr Tan Seng Giaw