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20 hostages killed, 13 saved in Bangladesh restaurant attack

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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjLyFpjC-J4-NaJWmiJMkHIWeLvHU4XbBbBHgpp5ywXOhpVREns4FeXQMvsDHOrxWd8a9fCGD-ff08H5NUPaCBZocBtByshtoDQPOs7IXAHgspf__a0yxE-aHpud-RoFNba2Ay-37lh-yFU/s1600/dhaka-bakery-attack-ap_650x400_61467439336.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="392" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjLyFpjC-J4-NaJWmiJMkHIWeLvHU4XbBbBHgpp5ywXOhpVREns4FeXQMvsDHOrxWd8a9fCGD-ff08H5NUPaCBZocBtByshtoDQPOs7IXAHgspf__a0yxE-aHpud-RoFNba2Ay-37lh-yFU/s640/dhaka-bakery-attack-ap_650x400_61467439336.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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<span style="color: #444444; font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Bangladeshi forces stormed an upscale Dhaka restaurant to
end a hostage-taking by heavily armed militants early Saturday, killing six of
the attackers and rescuing 13 captives including foreigners. The military said
20 hostages were killed during the 10-hour standoff, and a survivor’s father
said the attackers spared people who could recite verses from the Quran.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="color: #444444; font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">The attack marks an escalation in militant violence that has
hit the traditionally moderate Muslim-majority nation with increasing frequency
in recent months. Previous attacks involved machete-wielding men singling out
individual activists, foreigners and religious minorities.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="color: #444444; font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">About 35 people were taken hostage Friday night when gunmen
stormed the popular Holey Artisan Bakery in Dhaka’s Gulshan area, a diplomatic
zone, during the Ramadan holy month. Two police officers were killed at the
start of the attack.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="color: #444444; font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Paramilitary troops who mounted the rescue operations in the
morning killed six attackers and recovered explosive devices and sharp weapons
from the scene, Brig. Gen. Nayeem Ashfaq Chowdhury said. He did not identify
the hostages.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="color: #444444; font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina condemned the attack, which was
claimed by the Islamic State group, and she said security officials arrested
one of the militants.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="color: #444444; font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">“Because of the effort of the joint force, the terrorists
could not flee,” Hasina said in a nationally televised speech, vowing to fight
militant attacks in the country and urged people to come forward.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="color: #444444; font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">“Anyone who believes in religion cannot do such act,” Hasina
said. “They do not have any religion, their only religion is terrorism.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="color: #444444; font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Japan’s government said a Japanese hostage was rescued with
a gunshot wound but seven others are unaccounted for. Deputy Chief Cabinet
Secretary Koichi Hagiuda said the eight were together at the restaurant during
the attack.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="color: #444444; font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">India’s External Affairs Mnister Sushma Swaraj confirmed
that a young Indian woman was among those killed in the attack.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="color: #444444; font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">“Extremely pained to share that the terrorists have killed
Tarushi, an Indian girl who was taken hostage in the terror attack in Dhaka,”
Swaraj tweeted, adding that she had spoken with the girl’s father.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="color: #444444; font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Two Sri Lankans also were rescued, said Lt. Col. Tuhin
Mohammad Masud, commander of the Rapid Action Battalion that conducted the
rescue operations. Others included an Argentine and two Bangladeshis, local
media reported.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="color: #444444; font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">The Islamic State group claimed responsibility for the
attack, according to the SITE Intelligence Group, which monitors jihadist
activity online. The Amaq news agency, affiliated with IS, also posted photos
purportedly showing hostages’ bodies. The authenticity of the images could not
be confirmed.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="color: #444444; font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">With the sound of gunfire and explosions, local TV stations
reported that the rescue operation began at 7:40 a.m. It included army
personnel with automatic weapons and at least seven armored vehicles and
ambulances. The attackers did not respond to authorities’ calls for
negotiation, Masud said.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="color: #444444; font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">The audacious attack came during Ramadan, when devout
Muslims fast during the day and eat after dark.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="color: #444444; font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">On Friday evening, many people headed to the popular bakery
and restaurant that serves Spanish food and is patronized by residents of
Gulshan, an affluent neighborhood where most of the foreign embassies are
located. The restaurant overlooks a lake and on pleasant evenings, diners often
chose to eat outdoors.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="color: #444444; font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Kitchen staffer Sumon Reza, who escaped, said the attackers
chanted “Allahu Akbar” (God is Great) as they assaulted around 9:20 p.m.
Friday, initially opening fire with blanks.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="color: #444444; font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Rezaul Karim, the father of a Bangladeshi businessman who
was rescued along with his family, said the attackers did not harm any hostage
who could recite verses from the Islamic holy book, Quran.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="color: #444444; font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Karim said his son, Hasnat, had gone to the restaurant along
with his wife and two children to celebrate the birthday of his elder daughter
when the attack happened. “He told me, ‘Please save us, please!’ And he hung
up,” he said.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="color: #444444; font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Karim said his son told him that the attackers “did not hit
people who could recite verses from the Quran. The others were tortured,” he
said.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="color: #444444; font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">“The gunmen asked everyone inside to recite from the Quran.
Those who recited were spared. The gunmen even gave them meals last night,”
Karim said.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="color: #444444; font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">He said detectives were questioning his son and his family
as part of the investigation.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="color: #444444; font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Police said the two officers died at a hospital after being
wounded in the initial gunfire. Ten of 26 people who were wounded when the
militants opened fire are in critical condition, and six were on life support,
according to hospital staff. The injuries ranged from broken bones to gunshot
wounds. Only one civilian was among the wounded.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="color: #444444; font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">The government did not directly comment on the IS claim of
responsibility but has denied in the past that the extremist group based in
Syria and Iraq has a presence in Bangladesh, instead blaming the recent attacks
on its political enemies.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="color: #444444; font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">In Washington, a White House official said President Barack
Obama was briefed on the attack by his chief counterterrorism adviser Lisa
Monaco. The president asked to be kept informed as the situation develops, said
the official, who was not authorized to speak publicly about the president’s
meetings.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="color: #444444; font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">State Department spokesman John Kirby says the U.S. is in
contact with the Bangladesh government and has offered its assistance to bring
those responsible to justice.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="color: #444444; font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">The recent attacks in Bangladesh have raised fears that
religious extremists are gaining a foothold in the country, despite its
traditions of secularism and tolerance.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="color: #444444; font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">About two dozen atheist writers, publishers, members of
religious minorities, social activists and foreign aid workers have been slain
since 2013. On Friday, a Hindu temple worker was hacked to death by at least
three assailants in southwest Bangladesh. IS and and al-Qaida affiliates have
claimed responsibility for many of the attacks.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="color: #444444; font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Hasina’s government has cracked down on domestic radical
Islamists by making scores of arrests. It has accused local terrorists and
opposition political parties — especially the main opposition Bangladesh
Nationalist Party and its Islamist ally Jamaat-e-Islami — of orchestrating the
violence in order to destabilize the nation, which both parties deny.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="color: #444444; font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">-AP</span><o:p></o:p></div>
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20 hostages killed, 13 saved in Bangladesh restaurant attack

Bangladeshi forces stormed an upscale Dhaka restaurant to end a hostage-taking by heavily armed militants early Saturday, killing six of...

Lim shouldn't burden the people with donation for his personal case - Reezal Merican

<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi5QCbWuvKxkT8tYUKa98tLKFS2LuEbUBp7f7bZxAkPCQJYEovB0IWujxAWTZakB0QxmHO3z0bAjLpFcjnl1YqQ5VaDXkT-z0jGLfoNfgHuOQSGRo8B_x4HpiRQILux5MT6_zVmTGYfPisc/s1600/rizal-maricannodonation.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="374" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi5QCbWuvKxkT8tYUKa98tLKFS2LuEbUBp7f7bZxAkPCQJYEovB0IWujxAWTZakB0QxmHO3z0bAjLpFcjnl1YqQ5VaDXkT-z0jGLfoNfgHuOQSGRo8B_x4HpiRQILux5MT6_zVmTGYfPisc/s640/rizal-maricannodonation.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: small;">Chief Minister Lim Guan Eng, who is facing two counts of
corruption, should not have burdened the people by allowing a donation drive to
raise fund to pay for his RM1 billion bail, said a Penang UMNO leader. Penang
UMNO deputy chairman Datuk Seri Reezal Merican Naina Merican said it was true
indeed that Lim did not ask for the donation himself. </span><o:p></o:p></div>
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<span style="color: #444444; font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Chief Minister Lim Guan Eng, who is facing two counts of
corruption, should not have burdened the people by allowing a donation drive to
raise fund to pay for his RM1 billion bail, said a Penang UMNO leader. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="color: #444444; font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Penang UMNO deputy chairman Datuk Seri Reezal Merican Naina
Merican said it was true indeed that Lim did not ask for the donation himself. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="color: #444444; font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">“But as a Chief Minister, Lim should be responsible and use
his own money. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="color: #444444; font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">“He could have just stopped DAP from making the collection
as the prosecution is made against him, not the party,” he added. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="color: #444444; font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Reezal Merican, who is Deputy Foreign Minister, also urged
Lim to step down as Chief Minister and give way for other DAP leaders to take
over the post. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="color: #444444; font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Previously, the opposition had been pestering Barisan
Nasional leaders who were charged in court to step down from their post, now
Lim should do the same to prove his integrity, he added. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="color: #444444; font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Lim, 56, was charged with using his position as chief
minister for his personal interest and of his wife, Betty Chew Gek Cheng, by
approving the conversion of a piece of land from agriculture to residential
status and transferring the land to a company, Magnificient Emblem Sdn Bhd. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="color: #444444; font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">He was also charged with corruptly obtaining for himself,
and his wife, a piece of land and bungalow at No 25, Jalan Pinhorn, George
Town, from a businesswoman, Phang Li Koon, at below the market value, for RM2.8
million, when the value of the properties then was worth RM4.27 million. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="color: #444444; font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">On a news portal report which said that Lim would hold
information session with the people at Dewan Sri Pinang in George Town this
Monday to explain to them the issue on his prosecution, Reezal Merican said the
people should just allow the matter to be decided by the court. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="color: #444444; font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">“Let the case be judged in the court, not on the streets,”
he added.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="color: #444444; font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"> It is learnt that the
event would also be attended by Opposition leader Datuk Seri Dr Wan Azizah
Ismail and Amanah President Mohamad Sabu. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="color: #444444; font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">-BERNAMA</span><o:p></o:p></div>
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Lim shouldn't burden the people with donation for his personal case - Reezal Merican

Chief Minister Lim Guan Eng, who is facing two counts of corruption, should not have burdened the people by allowing a donation drive to ...

Lim bowed to thank his colleagues and public, but vowed not bending his knees to persecution

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<span style="color: #444444; font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Penang Pakatan Harapan has thrown their support fully behind
embattled Chief Minister Lim Guan Eng.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="color: #444444; font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Pakatan leaders held a meeting in Komtar today and decided
that Lim need not go on leave or quit his post despite being slapped with two
corruption charges.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="color: #444444; font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">They accepted a proposal by Penang DAP chief Chow Kon Yeow
to stand united in solidarity with Lim, who is also DAP secretary-general.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="color: #444444; font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">During a press conference held after the meeting, Lim stood
up and bowed to thank his colleagues for their support, taking them by
surprise.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="color: #444444; font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Earlier, Lim was defiantly promised to put up a good fight
to protect Penang’s image, adding that no amount of humiliation would succeed
in bringing him to his knees.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="color: #444444; font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">He also thanked the public, from all walks of life, who
showed their concern and support for him and his family.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
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<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="color: #444444; font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">“I am very touched,” Lim said.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="color: #444444; font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Accompanying Lim at the event were state PKR chief Mansor
Othman and Parti Amanah Negara vice-president Mujahid Yusof Rawa.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="color: #444444; font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Mansor said PKR decided that Lim need not leave his post as
CM as the accusations against him were “politically motivated”.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="color: #444444; font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">“Besides, the CM has no links, influence or power over the
authorities like the Malaysian Anti-Corruption Commission and police,” Mansor
said.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="color: #444444; font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">“We are also convinced that the accusations against him were
politically motivated to destroy his political career.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="color: #444444; font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">“The moves against Lim were planned to undermine the
relationship and unity between the Pakatan Harapan parties in Penang and
Malaysia,” Mansor added.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="color: #444444; font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Mujahid concurred with Mansor, saying Amanah agreed to stand
with DAP and PKR on the matter.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
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<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="color: #444444; font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">“We urge Lim to continue with his duties as CM,” he said.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="color: #444444; font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Chow expressed gratefulness to Amanah and PKR for standing
by Lim in the hour of need.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="color: #444444; font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">He added that Pakatan will launch several programmes in
solidarity with Lim and these will begin after the Hari Raya celebration.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="color: #444444; font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">“We fully support the CM when he clears his name during the
trial which begins on Sept 22 until we achieve victory in court.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="color: #444444; font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Tomorrow, Lim will hold a briefing session at the Dewan Sri
Pinang at 10am to explain the matter to the public.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="color: #444444; font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">PKR president Dr Wan Azizah Wan Ismail and Amanah president
Mohamed Sabu are expected to be at the session.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="color: #444444; font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Source –Mkini-</span><o:p></o:p></div>
<br />
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Lim bowed to thank his colleagues and public, but vowed not bending his knees to persecution

Penang Pakatan Harapan has thrown their support fully behind embattled Chief Minister Lim Guan Eng. Pakatan leaders held a meeting i...

Dr M swiped at politicians not to remain in politics, if can’t stand criticism

<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiYq1qmZr5bVmAn8HsZXB5YOPfGRe2oauFqitb6wbvdf9mxCSsKeghUSXKcKwuiPPh3tBtA3s-D2xCaykswGklaJQK20f0Hkx03iIscwtA6-AC9AxFZ65f25e3TIavNwFLMnLqYS_k6WhXC/s1600/1797ac09fea56c1fdb220dd6b4a3a72c.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="360" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiYq1qmZr5bVmAn8HsZXB5YOPfGRe2oauFqitb6wbvdf9mxCSsKeghUSXKcKwuiPPh3tBtA3s-D2xCaykswGklaJQK20f0Hkx03iIscwtA6-AC9AxFZ65f25e3TIavNwFLMnLqYS_k6WhXC/s640/1797ac09fea56c1fdb220dd6b4a3a72c.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="color: #444444; font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;">Former premier Dr Mahathir Mohamad  said politicians who could not stand criticism
should not remain in politics. He was taking a swipe at actions by Najib’s
supporters and his government lately. “Being cursed, being called names, being
accused of corruption or nepotism, being asked to step down, having your portraits
being torn down” and other actions were “all to be expected”, he said.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="color: #444444; font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;">Even the government must expect to be criticised and face
rabble-rousing, but action could only be taken if laws were breached. “And
that, too, according to due process of law, not just if the committee of the
party in power decides,” he said.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="color: #444444; font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;">He  claimed today that
he had never taken action against his critics and detractors despite the many
insults and derogatory terms used against him.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="color: #444444; font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;">“I was called all kinds of names… firaun or pharoah,
mahazalim, dictator, you name it, just anything derogatory or insulting or
demeaning, and I have had it,” he said in a blog posting.<o:p></o:p></span></div><br />
<br />
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<br />

<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="color: #444444; font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;">Several police investigations have been carried out against
Dr Mahathir for a series of allegations he has made against the government of
Umno president and Prime Minister Najib Razak.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="color: #444444; font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;">Dr Mahathir’s supporters such as former Umno divisional
leader Khairuddin Hassan and lawyer Matthias Chang were detained by police
earlier this year for investigations on suspicion of carrying out economic
sabotage when they were about to go overseas to file reports against the Najib
government and 1Malaysia Development Bhd.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="color: #444444; font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;">The former premier made no direct reference to these, but
said that during his time in power he had not taken action against critics. “I
did not threaten them, I did not ask the police to question them, I did not
arrest, detain and charge them for being terrorists, for sabotaging Malaysia’s
banking system, sabotaging Malaysia’s economy. And I did not threaten to sue
them, nor did I sue them,” he said.<o:p></o:p></span></div><br />
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<br />

<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="color: #444444; font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;">Dr Mahathir pointed out that everyone was equal before the
law and “there should be no exemption or privilege for those in power”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="color: #444444; font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;">In an indirect reference to the corruption charge against
Lim Guan Eng, he said those who “openly buy votes” were not charged but other
people, accused of corruption on much smaller scale, were promptly arrested and
committed to trial.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="color: #444444; font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;">“Admittedly the law must apply even if the crime is small.
But when big crimes are allowed to go free simply because the person says he is
innocent, we must question whether the laws are equally applicable to all,” he
said.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="color: #444444; font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;">Source -FMT-</span><o:p></o:p></div><br />
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Dr M swiped at politicians not to remain in politics, if can’t stand criticism

Former premier Dr Mahathir Mohamad said politicians who could not stand criticism should not remain in politics. He was taking a swipe ...

Check PTPTN payment account statement, report if not updated

<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh2rELlxyphXxGIxfkF3ruUiamJp2jNnoV4JLLOnpnB3aWI3s1nOtIYWA7bwhaX8uFEHzr-4yV3cP36X4_GENj2epQUpzzf1Bs4cUi5ciQFuUdvfW8X6o8OCWMzhSQvAy1YtuHUKNuPdEMS/s1600/ptptn.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="398" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh2rELlxyphXxGIxfkF3ruUiamJp2jNnoV4JLLOnpnB3aWI3s1nOtIYWA7bwhaX8uFEHzr-4yV3cP36X4_GENj2epQUpzzf1Bs4cUi5ciQFuUdvfW8X6o8OCWMzhSQvAy1YtuHUKNuPdEMS/s640/ptptn.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: small;">Borrowers
who have made payments towards their National Higher Education Fund Corporation
(PTPTN) loans should check their account statements online</span></span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="color: #444444; font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Borrowers who have made payments towards their National
Higher Education Fund Corporation (PTPTN) loans should check their account
statements online. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="color: #444444; font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">PTPTN Marketing and Strategic Communications chief officer
Mastura Mohd Khalid said borrowers should lodge a complaint online if the
transactions are not updated after three working days. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="color: #444444; font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">“Complaints can be lodged at PTPTN website
http://www.ptptn.gov.my/. Borrowers need only hit the Complaint icon and follow
the instructions provided. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="color: #444444; font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">“The complaint will be attended to by PTPTN officers at
headquarters who will deal directly with the complainant until it is resolved,”
she said in a statement to Bernama here today.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="color: #444444; font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"> Mastura added that
borrowers and the public can lodge any other complaints about the corporation online.
<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<br />
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<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="color: #444444; font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">According to media reports, an ex-photography student of
Segi College in Subang Jaya, Safura Foo, claimed that she had made full payment
of RM18,449.35 in March last year. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="color: #444444; font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">However, she was stopped from leaving the country in May
last year by the Immigration Department as her name had been blacklisted
because she still had an outstanding PTPTN loan of more than RM3,000. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="color: #444444; font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Mastura reminded borrowers going overseas to check their
travel status seven days before departing to avoid any inconveniences. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="color: #444444; font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">“In order to be released from the blacklist, they must make
full payment for their loan or any outstanding amount, including the costs
incurred or make payments for the amount agreed with the PTPTN. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="color: #444444; font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">“They can also discuss with the PTPTN if they cannot make
payments according to the schedule,” she said. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="color: #444444; font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Mastura added that the blacklist can be checked through the
official PTPTN or Immigration Department portals, through the PTPTN careline
03-2080 4455 or by going to the PTPTN or Immigration Department counters. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="color: #444444; font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">--Bernama</span><o:p></o:p></div>
<br />
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Check PTPTN payment account statement, report if not updated

Borrowers who have made payments towards their National Higher Education Fund Corporation (PTPTN) loans should check their account stateme...

Saree controversial – All's well that ends well

<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhbJ-Dl65PfPCgUtk56TYNJyeL4muwzROZC7Au0Vv634eSyy6Me6OG1ZNIgzGIieJKzHKbhlYQBXpGnQ6QKzIN8oyQ0yjBBd0POBg3nL31_PJW7-208kL_P6c9BMdC8iI0iesdc__Wv4JBE/s1600/IpohCityCouncil_02072016_620_422_100.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="434" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhbJ-Dl65PfPCgUtk56TYNJyeL4muwzROZC7Au0Vv634eSyy6Me6OG1ZNIgzGIieJKzHKbhlYQBXpGnQ6QKzIN8oyQ0yjBBd0POBg3nL31_PJW7-208kL_P6c9BMdC8iI0iesdc__Wv4JBE/s640/IpohCityCouncil_02072016_620_422_100.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: small;">Zamri (second from left) and Ipoh City Council secretary
Mohd Zakuan Zakaria (left) chatting with some Indian staff dressed in sarees
during the Raya gathering. — Picture by Farhan Najib </span><o:p></o:p></div>
</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="color: #444444; font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Despite the controversial saree issue, the Ipoh City
Council’s Hari Raya Aidilfitri gathering saw Indian ladies glittering in
colourful sarees.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="color: #444444; font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">The council’s community development department assistant
director Kasturi Murugiah, 40, said she was happy the council did not prevent
Indian staff from wearing their traditional attire.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="color: #444444; font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">“The council’s initial statement, which said Indians should
not wear saree for the event, was only meant for the ground workers as they
have to continue their work after the event,” said Kasturi, who was dressed in
a blue saree.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="color: #444444; font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">“The statement had no ill intention and it was intended only
to make it easier for the workers.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="color: #444444; font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Kasturi also said the mayor had apologised.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="color: #444444; font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Last week, an image of the invitation card to the council’s
Raya gathering went viral on social media platforms.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="color: #444444; font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">The card specified Malay attendees could wear “baju
kebangsaan” (national attire) while others could wear their respective
traditional clothes, except the saree.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="color: #444444; font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Librarian Uthira Kumari, 46, said the workers were happy the
issue was resolved after a discussion with the council.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="color: #444444; font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">“The council explained the situation to us in a good manner
and we were allowed to wear the saree for this function,” she said.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
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<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="color: #444444; font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Another librarian Pathma Devi, 57, said she held no grudge
against her boss over the issue.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="color: #444444; font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">“We (the Indian staff) have no grudge against our boss as he
is a very nice person. There was also no misunderstanding with the mayor
regarding the issue,” she said.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="color: #444444; font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">“Outsiders got the situation wrong when it went viral in
social media.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="color: #444444; font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Mayor Datuk Zamri Man said he was delighted to see some of
his Indian staff clad in sarees.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="color: #444444; font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">“The important thing for me is to see them smiling and
mingling at the gathering.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="color: #444444; font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">On June 25, the initial invitation was withdrawn and the
council issued another statement on the same day, which did not specify any
particular dress code for the event as long as it adhered to the official
government dress code.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="color: #444444; font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">In the same statement, the council also apologised for the
misunderstanding.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="color: #444444; font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Source –Malay Mail Online-</span><o:p></o:p></div>
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Saree controversial – All's well that ends well

Zamri (second from left) and Ipoh City Council secretary Mohd Zakuan Zakaria (left) chatting with some Indian staff dressed in sarees dur...

Be transparent on charges, penalties, package price, Astro told

<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEikSR6U4G_OwUrohx_doL8Nwo184kPIz0Ok6DovyOOTWo7q99-ABxXwwjjrsVZVTD66SWB4snRzVWxOBH0faoejze0wpjwovwStXkb13IF_CNMzjL5z44mzhRkMca45Rl74mpBYjJxkS5d4/s1600/astro.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="364" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEikSR6U4G_OwUrohx_doL8Nwo184kPIz0Ok6DovyOOTWo7q99-ABxXwwjjrsVZVTD66SWB4snRzVWxOBH0faoejze0wpjwovwStXkb13IF_CNMzjL5z44mzhRkMca45Rl74mpBYjJxkS5d4/s640/astro.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="color: #444444; font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Astro Malaysia Holdings Bhd (Astro) must be transparent by
disclosing in detail the programme package rates, penalty charges and any
changes in prices to its customers.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="color: #444444; font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Federation of Malaysian Consumers Associations (Fomca)
deputy president Mohd Yusof Abdul Rahman said Astro could not arbitrarily set
the price of the packages or put hidden charges or penalties, thus making its
customers feel they were being short-changed.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="color: #444444; font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">"I think the government through the Malaysian
Communications and Multimedia Commission (MCMC) should act decisively by
investigating this issue and take appropriate action.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="color: #444444; font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">"MCMC had last year issued a summons to Astro for
violating the provisions of the Malaysian Communications and Multimedia Content
Code," he said in Kuala Lumpur today.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="color: #444444; font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">He was responding to a claim by Astro customer Sephia Mhd
Bhrm, via Facebook on June 29, that Astro would impose a high penalty charge on
her if she wanted to change the package and terminate the contract with the
provider of the pay television channel.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="color: #444444; font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Sephia accused Astro of issuing a notice of payment for the
sports package which was increased by RM8 and when she wanted to terminate the
subscription, she was charged RM360.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="color: #444444; font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Mohd Yusof said that other than hidden charges or penalties,
Astro should consider giving rebates or a reduction in subscription charges in
the event of disruption of the broadcast (no audio and visual) due to bad
weather.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="color: #444444; font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">"Astro should be fair to its customers for when they do
upgrade to increase the quality of the service, customers need to change the
old decoder set to the new Astro B.yond including the satellite dish ," he
said.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="color: #444444; font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Muslim Consumers Association of Malaysia chief activist,
Nadzim Johan, said the issue of consumers complaining about hidden charges or
penalties imposed by Astro was not new.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="color: #444444; font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><o:p> </o:p> </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="color: #444444; font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">"MCMC must act sternly against Astro because customers
are offered various promotions to anchor the subscription package but when they
want to reduce or terminate the programme package, customers have to pay, which
is inappropriate.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="color: #444444; font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">"The commission should issue a guideline for Astro, so
it does not trap customers with various hidden charges," he said.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="color: #444444; font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="color: #444444; font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">– Bernama</span><o:p></o:p></div>
<br />
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Be transparent on charges, penalties, package price, Astro told

Astro Malaysia Holdings Bhd (Astro) must be transparent by disclosing in detail the programme package rates, penalty charges and any cha...

China celebrates Communist Party's 95th birthday, Xi warns on graft, security

<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgmndrdbggBuL5zA55_3NGEwjL5JzTk4f3NuPagu_x3g_A0kDjTL09npzCENRFXF4QdCzbkmjOYSAnhqlOwrDoIDqziAQPG7YTvJKeORIC0X-uRgMkQCWVe-zMZ9d7q5W8woRj9ACgaSCBt/s1600/xi+jinpeng.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="422" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgmndrdbggBuL5zA55_3NGEwjL5JzTk4f3NuPagu_x3g_A0kDjTL09npzCENRFXF4QdCzbkmjOYSAnhqlOwrDoIDqziAQPG7YTvJKeORIC0X-uRgMkQCWVe-zMZ9d7q5W8woRj9ACgaSCBt/s640/xi+jinpeng.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: small;">Chinese President Xi Jinping makes a speech at the
celebration of the 95th anniversary of the founding of the Communist Party of
China at the Great Hall of the People in Beijing, China, July 1, 2016.</span><o:p></o:p></div>
</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="color: #444444; font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Chinese President Xi Jinping warned on Friday that the
biggest threat to the ruling Communist Party is corruption, as he used the
party's 95th birthday to also warn against any threats to China's security and
Taiwan independence.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="color: #444444; font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Since Xi took power more than three years ago, he has
mounted a sweeping campaign against deep-rooted graft, warning like others
before him it could threaten the party's rule, and taken a muscular approach to
protecting China's sovereignty, including its contested claims in the South
China Sea.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="color: #444444; font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">In a wide-ranging speech in Beijing's Great Hall of the
People, Xi said that history had chosen the Communist Party to lead China, but
that if they did not manage the party properly and listen to the people, then
history would discard them.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="color: #444444; font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">"As the ruling party, the biggest danger we face is
corruption," Xi told party members, in comments carried live on state
television.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="color: #444444; font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">"We must have a staunch will, not let up on our zero
tolerance attitude, investigate all cases and punish those who are corrupt, to
give corrupt elements no place to hide in the party," he added.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
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<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="color: #444444; font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Dozens of senior officials have been jailed in Xi's
anti-graft battle, including powerful former domestic security chief Zhou
Yongkang.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="color: #444444; font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">But China faces external challenges too.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="color: #444444; font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Beijing has been infuriated by a case lodged by the
Philippines at an international arbitration court over the South China Sea,
vowing neither to participate in the case nor accept the ruling, which is due
July 12.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="color: #444444; font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Without making direct reference to the South China Sea, Xi
said that while China was not a trouble maker, no foreign country should think
China would trade away its core interests.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
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<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="color: #444444; font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">"Do not expect that we will swallow the bitter fruit of
damage to our sovereignty, security and development interests," he said to
an audience including military officers, model workers and ethnic minorities.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="color: #444444; font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Vietnam, Malaysia, Brunei and Taiwan also have South China
Sea claims.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="color: #444444; font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">A further headache for Xi this year has been January's
election in self-ruled and democratic Taiwan of a president from the
pro-independence Democratic Progressive Party, Tsai Ing-wen.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="color: #444444; font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">"We will resolutely oppose Taiwan independence splitist
forces," Xi said, again without a direct mention of Tsai or her party.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="color: #444444; font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">"The 1.3 billion of China and the entire Chinese race
will never agree to any person, at any time, using any method to carry out
activities to split the country."<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="color: #444444; font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">China views Taiwan as a wayward province and has never
renounced the use of force to bring its under Beijing's control.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<o:p><span style="color: #444444; font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">

</span></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="color: #444444; font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Tsai has vowed to maintain peace with China.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="color: #444444; font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="color: #444444; font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">-Reuters-</span><o:p></o:p></div>
<br />
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China celebrates Communist Party's 95th birthday, Xi warns on graft, security

Chinese President Xi Jinping makes a speech at the celebration of the 95th anniversary of the founding of the Communist Party of China at...

RM1 million in 20 hours

<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi9ubPYLG8pHIzW0NiC7l5HbVE-6KOm8gmG7LbmEzyzV1c1mZwxc1qPox5hOHFOS3hMgALhmlPcU35ZBA22bxASLYFc0a_NZmEqHqLjDI572ic3KmogJcMC739faOOtSyo0SFcjiLtE0IP1/s1600/guan-eng+donation+success.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="364" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi9ubPYLG8pHIzW0NiC7l5HbVE-6KOm8gmG7LbmEzyzV1c1mZwxc1qPox5hOHFOS3hMgALhmlPcU35ZBA22bxASLYFc0a_NZmEqHqLjDI572ic3KmogJcMC739faOOtSyo0SFcjiLtE0IP1/s640/guan-eng+donation+success.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="color: #444444; font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Penang DAP’s campaign to collect the RM1 million paid as
bail for Chief Minister Lim Guan Eng has achieved its target – in less than 24
hours.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="color: #444444; font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">The money collected was to restore party funds used to bail
out Lim from court, after he claimed trial for two graft charges yesterday.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="color: #444444; font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">State DAP Chairman Chow Kon Yeow said the party had received
RM1,009,000 by 2pm and was thankful for the generous donations received from
the public.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="color: #444444; font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">“In less than 24 hours, we hit the target. From 6pm
yesterday till 2pm today, we have been receiving (an average of) RM51,000 per
hour.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<br />
<script async="" src="//pagead2.googlesyndication.com/pagead/js/adsbygoogle.js"></script>

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<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="color: #444444; font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">“We would like to thank Malaysians for parting with their
hard-earned money. We thank you for your sacrifice.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="color: #444444; font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">“We would like to announce that the donation campaign has
been stopped as we have hit our target,” he told reporters at the Penang DAP
headquarters in Rangoon Road here today.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="color: #444444; font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Yesterday, Penang DAP Vice-Chariman Zairil Khir Johari
launched a RM10 campaign to restore funds into party coffers, after spending
RM1 million to post Lim’s bail.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="color: #444444; font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Chow explained that RM890,000 was taken out from Penang
DAP’s accounts while the remaining RM110,00 came from the central DAP
headquarters.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="color: #444444; font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Source –FMT-</span><o:p></o:p></div>
<br />
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RM1 million in 20 hours

Penang DAP’s campaign to collect the RM1 million paid as bail for Chief Minister Lim Guan Eng has achieved its target – in less than 24 ...

Perkasa wants local Malaysian Airlines boss

<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEixgVWgAgI6ZTUAwb_smxPLcJO-gK5Q5iU-cDDMOBH03pROYLc_ishYqNEkYOrXzFofCa646bM_-ymuEY0moPU25epJ1Hgo7aEtEPQNJ-jYaoroOiYqKZUSEl-jfnjF0tGe2nXNw48EYbnj/s1600/peter+bellew+new+ceo1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="360" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEixgVWgAgI6ZTUAwb_smxPLcJO-gK5Q5iU-cDDMOBH03pROYLc_ishYqNEkYOrXzFofCa646bM_-ymuEY0moPU25epJ1Hgo7aEtEPQNJ-jYaoroOiYqKZUSEl-jfnjF0tGe2nXNw48EYbnj/s640/peter+bellew+new+ceo1.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="color: #444444; font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Malay rights group Perkasa denounced today the appointment
of Peter Bellew as Malaysian Airlines Berhad (MAB) CEO, renewing its call for a
Malaysian to assume the role.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="color: #444444; font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Perkasa’s economic bureau chairman Datuk Ruhanie Ahmad said
Bellew’s appointment goes against the voice of the Malaysian public and shows
the administration’s lack of confidence in local talent.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="color: #444444; font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">“Perkasa’s economic bureau urges the Najib administration
and Khazanah to call off Bellew’s appointment and immediately fill the vacancy
with a Malaysian citizen,” he said in a statement.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="color: #444444; font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">“Perkasa Economic Bureau Malaysia also urges the entire MAB
board of directors to resign from their posts immediately for failing to defend
the interests of the people and the government of Malaysia in MAB and MAS.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<br />
<script async="" src="//pagead2.googlesyndication.com/pagead/js/adsbygoogle.js"></script>

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<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="color: #444444; font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">He said the group was disappointed with Prime Minister Datuk
Seri Najib Razak’s decision to approve the appointment Bellew, who now also is
an MAB board member and group MD of Malaysia Aviation Group Berhad (MAG).<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="color: #444444; font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Bellew, who was MAB chief operating officer (COO), was
announced yesterday as former CEO Christoph Mueller’s replacement.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="color: #444444; font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">MAB had announced in April that Mueller, who succeeded Ahmad
Jauhari Yahya as managing director and Malaysia Airlines CEO on May 1 last
year, will step down this September, far ahead of the expiry of his three-year
contract.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="color: #444444; font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Mueller, a German aviation veteran, who had cut 6,000 jobs
and axed unprofitable routes in Malaysia Airlines, was appointed following
Khazanah Nasional Berhad launching its 12-point MAS Recovery Plan on August 29,
2014, to help return Malaysia Airlines to profitability, noting today that the
five-year plan is on schedule.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="color: #444444; font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">According to Khazanah, the decision to replace Mueller with
Bellew was was discussed and recorded at its June 21 board of directors’
meeting chaired by Prime Minister Datuk Seri Najib Razak.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="color: #444444; font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Source –Malay Mail Online-</span><o:p></o:p></div>
<br />
<br />
<script async="" src="//pagead2.googlesyndication.com/pagead/js/adsbygoogle.js"></script>

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Perkasa wants local Malaysian Airlines boss

Malay rights group Perkasa denounced today the appointment of Peter Bellew as Malaysian Airlines Berhad (MAB) CEO, renewing its call for...

Tony Fernandes, a member of Amnesty International’s Global Council now

<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi7h0DEQF15TDu8IHI81GeL-DOhZUvcd8mgTcRrteQfiPFlkAMOgyQXg6M0foLSrqSAiG7jPh5HlJUXfQWZrnJElOGNART4YqNyWI4oIf0prLusnBUaTUG5_BZA4K-vKstYuGqAthjpqI8d/s1600/amnesty_international_tony+fernandez.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="348" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi7h0DEQF15TDu8IHI81GeL-DOhZUvcd8mgTcRrteQfiPFlkAMOgyQXg6M0foLSrqSAiG7jPh5HlJUXfQWZrnJElOGNART4YqNyWI4oIf0prLusnBUaTUG5_BZA4K-vKstYuGqAthjpqI8d/s640/amnesty_international_tony+fernandez.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="color: #444444; font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">AirAsia Founder and Group CEO Tony Fernandes is joining
Amnesty International’s Global Council (AIGC), the organization announced on
Friday.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="color: #444444; font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">The Global Council was established in 2013 to help raise
public support and financial resources to fuel the organization’s expansion in
Africa, Asia, Latin America and the Middle East.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="color: #444444; font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">“It’s an honour to welcome Tony Fernandes and his
entrepreneurial spirit and creativity to our Global Council,” said Salil
Shetty, Secretary- General of Amnesty International (AI), in a statement.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="color: #444444; font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Having such a notable business figure from Asia on the
council will boost the visibility of AI, he added. “It will help boost the
human rights issues we focus on in Asia and around the world.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="color: #444444; font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Fernandes was quoted as saying in the same statement that he
joined AI when he was 13.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="color: #444444; font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">“Being a member taught me the importance of human rights to
human dignity,” he said. “I am therefore honoured to be able to give back to
Amnesty International as part of its Global Council.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<br />
<script async="" src="//pagead2.googlesyndication.com/pagead/js/adsbygoogle.js"></script>

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<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="color: #444444; font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">He went on to say that he looks forward to creating
awareness and driving engagement in Asia, particularly among Asean youth.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="color: #444444; font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">As a new member of AIGC, Fernandes will join world renowned
Brazilian author Paulo Coelho, entrepreneur Sir Richard Branson, pioneering Japanese
artist Yoko Ono, financer and philanthropist Krishna Rao, social activist
Hadeel Ibrahim and businessman Bassim Haidar.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="color: #444444; font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Global Council members serve as champions for AI within
their own networks and help the organisation’s Secretary-General identify and
engage new audiences to promote human rights.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="color: #444444; font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Fernandes is best known for AirAsia, the first low cost
airline in Malaysia.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="color: #444444; font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">He is also the co-founder of Tune Group, a leisure and
entertainment corporation.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="color: #444444; font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">In 2015, Time Magazine placed him in the Time 100, the
magazine’s annual list of the 100 most influential people in the world.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="color: #444444; font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Source –FMT-</span><o:p></o:p></div>
<br />
<br />
<script async="" src="//pagead2.googlesyndication.com/pagead/js/adsbygoogle.js"></script>

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Tony Fernandes, a member of Amnesty International’s Global Council now

AirAsia Founder and Group CEO Tony Fernandes is joining Amnesty International’s Global Council (AIGC), the organization announced on Fri...

Yellow ballon dancer not quilty of insulting PM, walks free

<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhqn2lEJ61sea_5JdhQ6DWJHfv3dZYcUCT4iolzF2a3-xbRL3FJOfTACW9j1Zrx96sCRa31yUrUIfzzX3LLsVrvJhw_WsjE2Cbs6WNH7zUZ_hYKz0ZZtQoNL0Mq8cCHh5-lvjusXmsodG9o/s1600/ballon+girl+walks+free.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="364" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhqn2lEJ61sea_5JdhQ6DWJHfv3dZYcUCT4iolzF2a3-xbRL3FJOfTACW9j1Zrx96sCRa31yUrUIfzzX3LLsVrvJhw_WsjE2Cbs6WNH7zUZ_hYKz0ZZtQoNL0Mq8cCHh5-lvjusXmsodG9o/s640/ballon+girl+walks+free.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="color: #444444; font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Dancer Bilqis Hijjas was today acquitted of insulting
behaviour by dropping yellow balloons during an official event attended by
Prime Minister Datuk Seri Najib Razak and his wife in a mall last August.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="color: #444444; font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Magistrate Muhamad Faizal Ismail said the prosecution failed
to prove a prima facie case against Bilqis, ruling that it had not shown that
her action with the balloons amounted to “insulting behaviour”.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="color: #444444; font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">He pointed out that the definition in the dictionary by the
country's leading Malay-language authority Dewan Bahasa dan Pustaka requires an
alleged “insult” to be aimed or felt by a person, but pointed out that no one
had been insulted by Bilqis's actions.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="color: #444444; font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">“This court finds that an insulting action has to be
referred to someone who felt they were insulted,” the magistrate said when
delivering his decision at the end of the prosecution's case.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="color: #444444; font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">The magistrate said three witnesses had felt that Bilqis
behaved insultingly, but noted that auxiliary police officer Irmalinda Zaimardy
could not have been insulted as she was merely carrying out her duties by
stopping the balloon-dropping, while event organiser Datin Sunita Mei-Lin
Rajakumar only found out about Bilqis's actions after it had happened and the
event had ended.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="color: #444444; font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">As for investigating officer Izwan Paijan's testimony that
Bilqis' actions were “rude”, the magistrate said it was merely the view of the
eighth and final prosecution witness in this case.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="color: #444444; font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">“The attitude of being kurang ajar dan biadap (rude) can be
said to be a moral wrong, and not a criminal offence,” he said.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="color: #444444; font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">The magistrate also found that the prosecution had failed to
prove that Bilqis had “intent to provoke” anger, noting that two security
personnel had apprehended her without having to use any force.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<br />
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<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="color: #444444; font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">“The accused also offered a balloon to the second
prosecution witness (Pavilion mall security executive Karamjit Singh Shabeg
Singh) but it was refused by the second prosecution witness and the second
prosecution witness ordered her to stop her actions.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="color: #444444; font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">“This shows that the accused has no intention to provoke
anger,” he said, again highlighting that Sunita had only discovered the
balloon-dropping after the event ended.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="color: #444444; font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">The prosecution also failed to prove the final element of
the charge, as it was shown that there was no “breach of peace” caused by
Bilqis's actions, the magistrate said.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="color: #444444; font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">“This ingredient can be seen from the prosecution witnesses,
who said there was no breach of peace, the event went on smoothly, no chaos
occurred, no one ran when the balloons fell from the fifth floor to second
floor,” he said.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<br />
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<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="color: #444444; font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">He also noted the mall's security officers testified that
they helped prevent any unwanted incident by apprehending Bilqis.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="color: #444444; font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">“The court finds that the prosecution failed to prove a
prima facie case against the accused and the court discharges the accused
without her having to enter defence,” he said.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="color: #444444; font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Charged under Section 14 of the Minor Offences Act 1955 last
September 23, Bilqis faces a maximum RM100 fine over alleged “insulting
behaviour” with the purported purpose of inciting anger that may cause a
disturbance of peace.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="color: #444444; font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">The charge did not specify who was alleged to have been
insulted.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="color: #444444; font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">In the incident last August 31 at around 3.15pm at Pavilion,
several yellow balloons printed with the words “Free media”, “Democracy” and
“Justice” were said to have been released from the mall's fifth floor to the
second floor where the Kuala Lumpur International Arts Festival's opening ceremony
was held.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="color: #444444; font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">During the trial, several of the prosecution’s witnesses had
associated the yellow colour of the balloons to the two-day Bersih 4 rally last
August 29 and August 30 by electoral reform group Bersih 2.0, where protesters
had sought the prime minister’s removal.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="color: #444444; font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Source -Malay Mail Online-</span><o:p></o:p></div>
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Yellow ballon dancer not quilty of insulting PM, walks free

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