4 October-December 2013 PP 16376/08/2012 (030849) A New Starting Line!

THE NEW LEADERSHIP MAH DETERMINED TO RESTORE PARTY’S FORTUNES GERAKAN CALLS FOR THE ABOLISHMENT OF THE DEATH PENALTY

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GM_2012_02JulOct(3)_v4.indd 1 1/3/2014 6:48:16 PM Contents 3 The New Leadership EDITORIAL BOARD 编辑部 Mah determined to revive party’s fortunes Publicity, Information & Communication Chairman 宣传、资讯及通讯局主任 4 & 5 民政党将继续在国阵扮演监督角色 - Dr Dominic Lau Hoe Chai 刘华才博士 马袖强：民政党改革破釜沉舟

Editor 编辑 - Ivanpal Singh Grewal Post GE13 Political Trending: The Quest 6, 7, 8 & 9 to restore Political Integrity in Malaysian Sub Editor 助编 Politics - Lim Shi Hou 林诗豪 - Lee Chun Hung 李俊鸿 10 42nd Gerakan National Delegate Conference - Tan Aik Mund 陈毅民 Gerakan Hari Deepavali Open House 2013 Layout & Design 美术编辑 11 - Lim Shi Hou 林诗豪 2013-õ ¬ñÊý ¦¸Ã¡ì¸¡ý ¾£À¡ÅÇ¢ ¦ÀÕ¿¡û ¾¢Èó¾ þøÄ ¯ÀºÃ¢ôÒ Address: Level 5, Tower 1, Menara PGRM, No. 6 & 8, Jalan Pudu Ulu, Issued-based politics the lifeline for Gerakan? 56100 Cheras, Kuala Lumpur 12 & 13 Tel: 03-9287 6868 Fax: 03-9287 8866 14 人权与死刑 —— 梁德明 Website: www.gerakan.org.my 2014 New Year Message Gerakan matters! would like to invite members to send 15 & 16 in your views. Please send your feedback to 《民意》欢迎任何意见或投稿， 2014年新年献词 请电邮至《民意》电子邮箱: Gerakan in the News [email protected] 17

Disclaimer 负责声明 Gerakan Revamps Website To Reach Out To Youths, The publisher, PGRM, and its editors cannot be held Grassroots responsible for any errors and consequences arising 18 from the use of information contained in this magazine. 提升改进吸引年轻人 民政党及其编辑不为本刊内容的准确性和完整性承担 民政推介新网站 任何责任。 19 Gerakan calls for the abolishment of the death penalty Published by 民政党促废除死刑 Parti Gerakan Rakyat Malaysia 3个月收集10万签名 Level 5, Tower 1, Menara PGRM, No. 6 & 8, Jalan Pudu Ulu, 56100 Cheras, Kuala Lumpur. Back Gerakan Youth obkjects massive salary hike Chinese New Year Open House 2014 Printed by SWAN Printing Sdn Bhd Lot 5429, Jalan BS7/1, Kawasan Perindustrian Bukit Serdang, 43300 Seri Kembangan, Selangor.

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GM_2012_02JulOct(3)_v4.indd 2 1/3/2014 6:48:16 PM The New Leadership

President: Dato’ Mah Siew Keong

Advisor: Dato’ Chang Ko Youn

Deputy President: Dr Cheah Soon Hai

Dato’ Teo Kok Chee, A. Kohilan Pillay, Dr Asharuddin Ahmad Vice President: Dato’ Tan Lian Hoe, Tan Keng Liang, Datuk Raymond Tan Shu Kiah Tan Sri Liew Yun Fah, Dr Dominic Lau Hoe Chai

Secretary-General: Liang Teck Meng

Deputy Secretary-General: Dr Thor Teong Gee

Treasurer: Datuk Lim Si Pin Deputy Treasurer: David Ang Chin Tat Speaker: Dato’ Gooi Hoe Hin Deputy Speaker: Syed Abd. Razak Bin Syed Long Alsagoff

Lau Hoi Keong, Jayanthi Devi Balaguru, Lau Chin Hoon

Peter Pang En Yin, David Chong Vee Hing, Dato’ See Tean Seng

Dato’ Vincent Hooi Wy-Hon, Datuk Ng Siew Lai, Yap Kim Heng

Parameswaran A/L Ganason, Baljit Singh A/L Jigiri Singh Committee Members: Ch’ng Boon Chye, Dato’ Ng Keong Chye, Teoh Hang Chong Dato’ Dr Chee See Choke, Azmar Bte Md Ilias, Dato’ K. Sabaratnam

Dato’ Dr Lim Thuang Seng, Dato’ Lum Weng Keong

Datuk Gordon Leong Vui Cheung, Datuk Au Kam Wah

Dr Lee Chee Peng, Teng Chang Yeow, Datuk Yap Kea Ping

Dato’ Lim Heng Tee, Dato’ Chang Khee Cheong, Datuk Lee Ah Fat Observers: Tan Sri Soong Siew Hoong, Tan Sri Dr Chin Fook Weng, Wee Chong Yan Dato’ Ou Kwee Hua

Invitees: Ong Khang Woon, Dato’ Ching Su Chen, Leo Chan Hon Weng

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GM_2012_02JulOct(3)_v4.indd 3 1/3/2014 6:48:17 PM Mah determined to revive party’s fortunes Clad in his white Gerakan party uniform, the recently elected party president Mah Siew Keong 52, greets The Star Online with a smile at his office at the party headquarters.

“I joined the party 20 years ago, when it was still growing at the grassroots level. I was then asked to contest for the Teluk Intan state seat, a seat that was never won by Barisan Nasional and my luck was such that I did.”

Mah, a native of Teluk Intan, acknowledges that the party’s fortunes at its lowest since its formation in the late 1960s.

“Since I have taken on the party presidency, I have received multiple remarks on the net and the media on how Gerakan as a party has become irrelevant, and it is sad considering the fact that just six years ago, we had one Minister, three deputy ministers, a chief minister, 10 MP’s and 30 state assemblymen. At present we only have one parliamentary seat and three state seats, and I understand that the party is weak and it is about time we re-strategise,” he said.

Mah himself served as Deputy Minister for the Ministry of Trade and Industry as well as the Ministry of Agriculture explained that the key for him is to continue working hard and serving the people even when the party does do well in the election.

“I am aware that the organisation as a whole is not strong, and we are looking to recruit more members of the Gen Y. This is important because Gen Y has become more and more relevant and in many ways influence the decisions of the Gen X. Therefore, I am currently targeting that at least 70 to 80 percent of candidates are in their thirties and fourties in upcoming elections as compared to the 50 percent in the precious election” he added.

He said that the party had failed to engage the people well and will work towards strengthening their approach through the internet.

“One of the many things we can be proud about is the fact that none of our leaders were corrupted. Not one Gerakan leader was ever involved in a corruption scandal and not once were they ever accused of corruption. These are one of the many assets of the party we are looking to build on,” he said.

Mah said that he would give attention to drive the party to become a more multi-racial party than it currently is.

“Presently, our three vice presidents are Chinese, Indian and Malay and I believe our members will come together in reaching out and spreading our influence to the people,” he said adding that it will also work as a medium for the people to reach to the party.

In sharing his expectations for the future, Mah said they are hoping to win some seats, especially in Penang.

“Our presence there would be good for the state as the opposition leaders are the ones who said we always need check and balance and we can work as the constructive opposition.”

He added that as president he takes full responsibility in recreating the image of the party and possibly enhance it even further to be able to make some positive difference for in the political arena in the country.

Despite having a degree in Law and Management Sciences as well as a Masters in Business Administration (MBA), his passion has always been for politics.

“We will also train our younger leaders to further sharpen their skills in terms of public speaking. This is to make known that the party can stand up for its causes and acknowledge issues concerning the people.

“There are a lot of things I am looking to do and I hope that everyone will stand by me in this endeavor to bring this party back to its glory days,” he said.

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GM_2012_02JulOct(3)_v4.indd 4 1/3/2014 6:48:17 PM 民政党将继续在国阵扮演监督角色 马袖强：民政改革破釜沉舟 民政党主席马袖强表示该党立下决心自强，希望选民给 马袖强指 民政党一个机会，那么，该党代表人民向政府争取任何 出，领导 东西时“声音可以大一点”。 （Leadership ）不是指职位 承认民政“微弱”事实 或头衔，而是 要以行动和 另一方面，马袖强承认现在的民政党“微弱”，该党承 典范去表现出领导的价值。因此，他毅然决定来届全国 认和面对这个事实，但他指出，民政党的前途还是美好 大选放弃在霹雳州安顺国会选区上阵。 的，而新的领导层将深入探讨其缺点和作出改进，该党 要以自强来重新获得人民的支持。 争取民心消除负面印象

他承认这艘船有很多漏洞，所以领导层的当务之急是亡 马袖强促请政府加强反贪的决心，以实际的行动令人民 羊补牢，然后再换引擎和招揽年轻的水手加入。 信服和消弭人民的负面印象。

在国阵扮演监督角色 他以《总稽查司报告》为例，尽管每年揭发不少的纰漏 事件，但至今都没有疏于职守的公务员被开除或被控上 针对民政党在国阵内的地位问题，马袖强说，该党会对 法庭。 事不对人，它将在国阵内扮演监督的角色。 “涉及的公务员只是被调职，这难以服众，政府应该严 他强调，不管是国阵成员党或反对党犯错，民政党会无 惩他们。” 畏惧地挺身而出，针砭时弊。 他说，尽管政府开源节流，包括实行消费税以扩大税收 他说，各个成员党都有本身的角色，他不认为民政党因 基础和合理化津贴架构，但如果不遏止贪污舞弊的歪 大选成绩欠佳而需要显得“卑微”，相反的，该党一定 风，浪费公帑的问题依然会令人民感到不满。 要以人民和国家利益为前提，为正确的事而斗争。 促赋反贪会更大权力 “大选候选人须年轻化” 他也建议政府检讨现有的法令，赋予反贪污委员会更大 马袖强指出，该党要在来届全国大选有所作为，候选人 的权力和确保它是真正独立的机构。 阵容年轻化是有必要的。 他也说，民政党于1969至2008年领导槟城州政府逾40 他设下目标，希望来届全国大选中，该党候选人 年，都没有发生过贪污舞弊丑闻。 中，70%至80%的年龄为50岁以下者。 他指出，民政党是一个清廉的政党，该党没有“好康 他认为仅靠旧有的“服务牌”已经无法保证能获得选民 头”给党员和领袖，党员甚至要出钱出力。 的支持，因此，该党必须在为民服务和赢取议席两者之 间取得平衡。 促政治人物推动国家发展

民政改革须破釜沉舟 马袖强呼吁朝野的政治人物停止玩弄政治把戏，必须放 下歧见，重于推动国家的发展计划。 他说，根据统计，2013年505大选，该党42名候选人的 平均年龄为48岁，50%是超过50岁者。 “我发现505大选后，一个马来西亚理念已经澹化了， 部分巫统领袖对这个理念不再热衷，所以希望首相不要 他希望得到他们的谅解和支持，因为民政党要在来届大 因为国阵的505大选成绩不尽理想而放弃这个理念。” 选有所作为，必须採取破釜沉舟的改革。 他说，只要首相坚持这个理念，相信下一届大选，各族 “选民都希望看到新面孔，我没有否定资深基层领袖作 选民都会回流。 出的巨大贡献，但我们在一个选区内若只提供有效率和 良好的服务，但在大选中没有交出成绩也是枉然。”

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GM_2012_02JulOct(3)_v4.indd 5 1/3/2014 6:48:17 PM Post GE13 Political Trending: The Quest to restore Political Integrity in Malaysian Politics Lee Chun Hung Deputy Executive Director, SEDAR Institute We are entering the year end all-too-familiar seasonal politicking in the country as all major political parties are undergoing party elections that will produce new leadership after the intensely fought 13th General Election (GE13). Political parties from both sides of the political divide are undergoing intra- party power shifting and realignment as the final quarter of the election year 2013 serves as a timely constitutional opportunity for each political party to readjust party offices with names or faces that enjoy popular support of the day.

The renewed post-GE13 political landscape witnesses the decreasing support for Barisan Nasional (BN), while Pakatan Rakyat (PR) had managed to increase its political weight with more parliamentary seats captured and growing popular votes that slightly overtook BN for the first time in Malaysian electoral history. Although PR failed in its ambitious bid to wrest Putrajaya away from the ruling BN which looks increasingly unsettled and more susceptible to political setbacks, the tripartite political coalition did jolt the ruling BN with a promising demonstration of its political viability as its nationwide popularity among the public is steadily on the rise.

In spite of pre-GE13 eventfulness, hassling and fervency that were generally experienced by urban citizens and virtual netizens that harboured the fighting chance to finally deny BN a new mandate; the people were forced to accept the political reality as reflected in the GE13 results by the end of the fateful day. In fact, the ardent and new age voters who were mostly anti-establishment and saw the GE13 as a golden opportunity to replace BN with PR were utterly disappointed with the electoral anticlimax. Many failed to see it coming as pre-GE13 hardcore politicking, overabundance of information and the complexity surrounding a multidimensional socio-political scenario at that time had even sent some of the prominent political pundits and scholars on a wild-goose chase. The politics of optimism remains for now an idealistic projection sourced from political rhetoric and partisan indoctrination in a heavily politicised and polarised society that is tantamount to a socio-political minefield with many taboos and sensitivities.

As the public still rue over the near miss and cry foul over a string of allegations of electoral frauds, one certain trend is that the much debated two-party system is now a more realistic model than ever before as it has endured the baptism of fire in the recent GE13 and trumpeted its presence in style. The two-front system as commonly referred in the country has announced its coming of age in a convincing fashion supported by strong facts and figures as both BN and PR have demonstrated their electoral prowess strongly and dominance that left little room for unaligned independent candidates.

As expected, both BN and PR have made a clean sweep of almost all 222 parliament seats and 505 state seats across the country save a few insignificant exceptions in the case of party renegades in Kadamaian and Luyang in Sabah in the aftermath of GE13 and an unimportant victory by State Reform Party in Bingkor, Sabah. For parliament seats, both sides of the political divide garnered a total of 10,861,017 votes out of 11,257,147 who have voted in the recent GE13, which is a whopping 96.48%. For state seats, both BN and PR received 9,393,696 votes out of 9,742,254 votes or 96.42% for all 505 state seats contested with exception to 71 state seats in Sarawak who held its state election on 16 April 2011.

The idea of an intensifying polarisation and bipolar trending in Malaysian politics as a consequent of the maturation of the two-front system is growing stronger each day as it is widely accounted to the seemingly incessant and excessive politicking by both sides of the political divide in recent years.

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GM_2012_02JulOct(3)_v4.indd 6 1/3/2014 6:48:17 PM The phenomenon has led to a critical and tumultuous society that immersed itself in an intense and cantankerous issue-based politics with variables stemmed familiarly from racial, religious, poor governance, malpractices and other outstanding issues that remain unresolved because of all sorts of hurdles and remain a festering concern. Shrewd and career-wise politicians particularly seasoned and well-experienced veterans commonly aware and adhere to the unspoken rules in Malaysian politics as they carefully manoeuvre in harmony with implicit assumptions of socio-political mores and practices to avoid committing political suicide or social faux pas that could put an end to their political careers in instant.

These ambiguous rules and values are not explicitly voiced but yet they are in conformity with underlying agreements, understanding or consensus that have been in place ever since the dawn of nationhood, for instance the social contract. Superficially as it may seem, it is almost undeniable that this is the political culture that shapes the very basic of socioeconomic network, interpersonal relationship and characteristic of the nation which also gives a good account on the political agitation, disquiet and anti- establishment sentiment that now increasingly distinguishing itself as the social trend of the decade for Malaysia after the conspicuous display in the last two general elections.

It is increasingly clear that the seemingly conforming and realistic practices in the local political arena by various political actors including non-governmental organisations and pressure groups apart from the traditional politicians, politicking for sheer political reasons or ends in promoting oneself, one’s policies or political party has taken center stage judging by contemporary trends with little disagreement. In this sense, the adaptability of political parties in this competitive, realistic and somewhat ruthless post GE13 political environment has come to the forefront with growing importance in recognizing the political realism that can be easily understood with the intensity and uncontrolled politicking in everyone’s mind.

Although one may argue that politicking is the very nature of politics as various political actors engage themselves in discussion and activities that primarily and ultimately aim towards acquiring power and influence or achieving one’s goals, there is always room for political criticism, contention and pessimism. Political discourse in politics is elementary and omnipresent as it is important in pulling our feet back on the ground reminding us about the political reality without being carried away easily by ambitious and opaque ideology that is rudimentary and the staple reference in partisan indoctrination and rhetoric. In the context of Malaysian politics, the intensifying politicking is widely felt by all quarters of the society from political elites down to every ordinary layman. Malaysians are undoubtedly the seasoned audience on the grandstand seats in watching the farcical political soap opera.

The intensifying politicking in recent years has opened up a new chapter in the history of Malaysian politics as we witness a string of mudslinging in local politics, it is hugely unfortunate that this negative campaigning is burgeoning and shows no signs of subsiding even in the aftermath of GE13. It is clear that BN and PR are trying to win a political advantage and mass support by referring to negative aspects or policy of the opponent rather than emphasizing one’s own positive attributes or preferred policies. This aggressive politicking has contributed to the thriving of political rhetoric, unfounded claims and distorted fallacies in largely ad hominem manner as constructive ideas and sensible discourses have been subdued. Although it is generally agreed in Political Science that intense politicking is the norm in all political venues, the depressing situation also gives rise to a myriad of socio-political issues much to the dismay of the people. The playing field in Malaysian politics has now been changed from contest of ideas to personal attacks, smear campaign and fear mongering. Consequently, this intense politicking has opened our eyes to the worrying emergence of political extremism, McCarthyism, Balkanism and gutter politics that fast becoming the dismissive hallmark of the day in local mainstream politics. As we helplessly gaze upon the discouraging situation, we cannot help but to question and ponder over the political integrity of today’s politicians in a largely judgemental and pessimistic outlook.

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GM_2012_02JulOct(3)_v4.indd 7 1/3/2014 6:48:17 PM Political integrity means upholding honesty or sincerity with trustworthiness when entering the political arena; it gives meaning to an experience in politics that depends on the principles of transparency, wholeness and responsibility. Without a doubt, the concept of integrity is clearly central to the conception of a properly functioning political system and the professionals who work within it. However, the precise nature of the political integrity is difficult to characterise or measure as the term is more readily put about than understood. Nonetheless, it is still generally agreed that no matter how vague or ambiguous the concept as it may seem, the concept still weighs heavily and needs to be instilled amongst local politicians as a clean and noble political practice must be adhered by every level of the society.

It is important to know that a high level of political integrity among politicians is necessary to ensure that democracy is best fostered and the honour of our constitution is well preserved. Political leaders who uphold political integrity will be the very same ones who will safeguard the sovereignty of the institutions of Parliament and State Legislative Assemblies as well as becoming the vanguards of humanity. In this regard, a sense of urgency and awareness among local political actors must be prevailed to pave the way for rehabilitation in restoring the absent and much needed political integrity in a lofty aim to develop a healthy, ethical, mature and democratic political culture that is unique and accustomed to our multiracial society. We need to bring back the glory days when politics was invariably regarded as clean, pure and noble where involvement in politics was seen as a righteous way to fight for people’s rights and contribute to nation building.

The role and function of institutions that are established under the current political system are paramount in serving the purpose to restore political integrity which in turn will also lead to the maturity of the country’s democratic system and bring a positive change to the political culture. Institutions and committees crucial in reintroducing and establishing the concept of political integrity in Malaysian politics are the Election Commission (EC), the judiciary, the media, Special Parliamentary Select Committee on Integrity and the Public Accounts Committee. These are the cornerstone of the nation’s parliamentary democracy as the electoral system; constitutional monarchy and administrative machinery are the backbone of a strong national polity. We must ensure integrity is upheld in all these institutions as they are important for the management of power in nation development apart from the traditional focus on the integrity level of individual politicians.

From Greek philosopher Aristotle to French Enlightenment political philosopher Baron de Montesquieu who preach the importance of check and balance in the concept of separation of powers, the same fundamental concept under a two-front system is apparently under siege by political paradoxes as the very core values of political practice have been put to test with questionable political integrity among the political leaders. Elections in the country are first and foremost the most important aspect in its objective to galvanize and strengthen the representative institutions in the country. Hence, it is hugely important for EC to be on the right track and uphold the principles of justice and freedom which also strengthen the nation’s political integrity. The level of transparency and validity found in the elections and its results elementally mirrors the principle of ‘free choice’ and the process itself is essential in ensuring political integrity of the nation.

The Public Accounts Committee and the Special Parliamentary Committee for Integrity also play crucial roles in the effort to strengthen political integrity. The neutrality and outspokenness of the committees in questioning and exposing cases of mismanagement and abuses without fear or favour is instrumental in consolidating integrity in the political system of the country which also ensuring the actual practice of ‘check and balance’ in the midst of a tense two-party system political competition between BN and PR. The presence of a fair and independent judiciary and media is also paramount in maintaining a high level of political integrity in the country as it is known that both are closely intertwined with politics and have a profound influence over the mass which in this respect perceived as high ground in the act of

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GM_2012_02JulOct(3)_v4.indd 8 1/3/2014 6:48:17 PM politicking. Nonetheless, the principles and uncompromising nature of a fair and independent judiciary is certain, while the media as the main channel for information must also be ensured of its freedom and responsibility in a wholesome effort to consolidate political integrity.

The greatest challenge for a politician or a political party in the muddy and cunning business of partisan politicking is to strengthen political integrity while trying to fulfil the public’s growing expectations which both BN and PR politicians find themselves juggling both aspects in an increasing difficulty. People now are more aware of their rights and thus more vocal and demanding towards a cleaner and accountable government for the overall improvement of the society. Politicians and parties are inevitably facing a constant and evaluative scrutiny from the public. It is a no-brainer that many Malaysians perceive politicians as untrustworthy with questionable level of integrity or even corrupted en masse as the political arena is seen as badly contaminated further aggravated by intense and morally distorted politicking. Prevailing political apathy, cynicism and pessimism among the people are ensued as the situation shows no signs of reversing or healing on its own.

As we move towards the rehabilitation and restoring of political integrity in Malaysian politics, the intransience of the Federal Constitution and the country’s political system must be ensured along with the sovereignty and immovability of Parliament as the institution that legislates the laws of the land. It is also important to promote the practice of political integrity and the development of a healthy, ethical, mature and democratic political culture according to our own mould while strengthening the principles of transparency, responsibility and good governance in all aspects of the country. It is hopeful that the political rehabilitation to restore political integrity can attain social justice, competency and provide opportunities for all quarters of the society to benefit from the political development and achieving a better democratic system.

The politics and politicking in the country are largely dependent on issues arise, but the crux of the problem is whether the playing field allows the necessary freedom, justice and ethics to be present in the game. Therefore, it is the primary objective of this rehabilitation effort is to ensure that there is a fair playing ground for all participants with necessary ethical standards and professionalism while resisting the emotionally intense and morally distorting politicking of a two-front system in Malaysian politics. It is a constant reminder for all politicians that their role or attitude will ultimately be the focus and talking point of the people, good conduct will be praised while abusing the trust of the people and cheating will see them censured. Political leaders who are in power must lead by example and show necessary level of integrity while assuming their political roles in safeguarding the people’s interest; they must be vigilant not to fall disparagingly into the acts of populism and demagogue. The responsibility in upholding political integrity must override any other individual interests or desires while the uncompromising principles and guidance as enshrined in the Federal Constitution, elections, national institutions and committees as well as a fair and independent judiciary must always be defended coupled with an open and responsible media. In its simplest sense, political integrity means just plain honesty in politics; it should be the maxim for all political actors without a slightest doubt.

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GM_2012_02JulOct(3)_v4.indd 9 1/3/2014 6:48:18 PM 42nd Gerakan National Delegate Conference

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GM_2012_02JulOct(3)_v4.indd 10 1/3/2014 6:48:29 PM Gerakan Hari Deepavali Open House 2013

On 17th November 2013, Gerakan organised a Hari Deepavali Open House at the Kompleks Rakan Muda in Puchong which attracted around 2,000 members of the public who came to enjoy the food and performances.

The event took off at 11am with a welcoming speech from Organising Chairman of the event, Sdr. Kohilan PIllay followed by newly elected party president, Sdr. Mah Siew Keong. Kohilan in his speech said he hoped that through such events, party members and the general public will enjoy better communication to strengthen the relationship between both parties. While Mah said that every culture and race represents an integral part of Malaysia and we must share the benefits and difficulties together to preserve the harmony we enjoy.

After that, Mah, together with the organising chairman and other party leaders proceeded with the cake-cutting ceremony.

The open house event, an annual affair for Gerakan was attended by other senior leaders including Vice- Presidents Sdr. Asharuddin Ahmad, Sdr. Dominic Lau Hoe Chai, Wanita Chairman Sdri. Tan Lian Hoe, Wanita Secretary General Sdri. Jayanthi Devi Balaguru, Central Committee member Sdr. Lau Hoi Keong, Youth Chief Sdr. Tan Keng Liang and BN Secretary-General Tengku Adnan. 2013-õ ¬ñÊý ¦¸Ã¡ì¸¡ý ¾£À¡ÅÇ¢ ¦ÀÕ¿¡û ¾¢Èó¾ þøÄ ¯ÀºÃ¢ôÒ

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¾¢Èó¾ þøÄ ¯ÀºÃ¢ôÒ, ¦¸Ã¡ì¸¡É¢ý ÅÕ¼¡ó¾¢Ã ¿¢¸ú×. ¯¾Å¢ò ¾¨ÄÅ÷¸û º§¸¡. «º¡åÊý «¸ÁÐ, º§¸¡. §¼¡Á¢É¢ì Ä¡ù §†¡ º¡ö, Á¸Ç¢÷ À¢Ã¢×ò ¾¨ÄÅ¢ º§¸¡¾Ã¢ ¼¡ý Ģ¡ý §†¡, Á¸Ç¢÷ ¦À¡Ðî ¦ºÂÄ¡Ç÷ º§¸¡¾Ã¢ ¦ƒÂó¾¢ §¾Å¢ À¡ÄÌÕ, Áò¾¢Â ¦ºÂüÌØ ¯ÚôÀ¢É÷ º§¸¡. Ä¡ù §†¡ö ¸¢§Â¡í, þ¨Ç»÷ À̾¢ ¾¨ÄÅ÷ º§¸¡. ¼¡ý ¦¸í Ģ¡í, §¾º¢Â Óýɽ¢Â¢ý ¦À¡Ðî ¦ºÂÄ¡Ç÷ ¦¾íÌ «ðÉ¡ý ¯ðÀ¼ ¸ðº¢Â¢ý þ¾Ã ãò¾ ¾¨ÄÅ÷¸Ùõ þ¾¢ø ¸ÄóÐ즸¡ñÎî º¢ÈôÀ¢ò¾É÷.

October - December 2013 | 11

GM_2012_02JulOct(3)_v4.indd 11 1/3/2014 6:48:34 PM Issue-based politics the lifeline for Gerakan? By SEDAR Institute In the current era, we are witnessing numerous turmoils in countries around the world no matter the system of government practiced. From monarchy to democracy, revolutions are happening as we speak. This was factored on not only the internet, but also the current global economic climate together with the birth of a more educated generation we have ever seen. Hence, any government misdeeds or scandals can be spread widely and swiftly by merely clicking our fingers.

Such technological advancement has made even the slightest spark having the potential to trigger a revolution such as the Arab Uprising which originated from Tunisia with a young man self-immolating and brought down the government and then Eygpt’s Mubarak to Libya’s Gahdaffi. Even in Europe, the decision made by the Ukrainian government to abandon joining the European Union, seeking closer ties with Russia in the process has brought riots which saw the destruction of a historical Vladimir Lenin statue. While critics can argue that the countries mentioned above are somewhat totalitarian regimes but what about Thailand, a nation located in northern Malaysia currently in turmoil due to the fact that Yingluck Shinawatra’s government proposal to introduce an amnesty bill to forgive all political figures from 2004 -2013 which includes Thaksin, her brother who is currently in exile after a 2006 coup. We have to admit that the democracy system in Thailand is more apparent than Malaysia where since independence has only been ruled by the Barisan Nasional (BN) party.

However, the winds of change also descended on our shores in 2008 where the ruling government saw its two-thirds majority in parliament reduced to a simple majority. Gerakan, a component party in the ruling coalition suffered a body blow which saw it losing its bastion in Penang while its numbers of Members of Parliament’s being reduced to a pitiful figure. The swing towards the opposition did not stopped in 2008, instead it served as a catalyst of an even devastating tsunami for the Barisan Nasional during the 13th General Election in 2013 which saw Chinese based BN parties including Gerakan almost wiped out despite UMNO still standing tall together with the PBB from Sarawak.

With factors causing both tsunamis in 2008 and 2013 are such as corruption, crime, cost of living and education, Gerakan has to seriously consider remodeling itself into an issue- based if it wants to restore its political fortunes.

Now what are issue-based politics? It can be interpreted as politics being fought based on current issues affecting the public. Throughout the years, major political parties were mostly founded based on ideology. Parties in the Soviet Union, China and Cuba were generally based on communism in a bid to achieve social utopia with no classes between the people. Moving across the Pacific, Liberalism was known to be the ideology for the Democratic Party in the United States, evident by Woodrow Wilson’s call for a League of Nations or organisation to preserve world peace. This is in contrast of the Republican Party who instead took a realist or conservative stand which opined that security must be the states responsibility alone. During the period where Republicans hold the White House, the military budget tends to soar together with the government’s debt evident during the presidency of Ronald Reagan (1980-1988) and George W. Bush (2001-2009).

With the world becoming increasingly connected and globalised, problems originating from one country has the ability to spread with devastating effect. Examples can be seen during the Great Recession in 2008 which saw the collapse of several major US banks such as Lehman Brothers and Merrill Lynch affected Europe and the world, causing massive currency depreciation and certain countries to declare themselves as bankrupt such as Greece and Iceland while Spain and Portugal are facing massive unemployment especially among the youths. Since these issues can be considered as bread and butter issues, Gerakan should realise that trying to gain votes in such situation by preaching its ideology will less likely work for those are not the main concerns of the voters.

While ideology should remain, it must not be a main guideline for how a party approaches issues for there is a possibility of conflict between ideology and approach. Furthermore, the younger generation are mainly bornand raised in a materialistic society where wealth accumulation is all that matters, causing them to be interested in what can be delivered into their pockets instead of ideology.

Supporting examples for an issue-based party can be looked at the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) better known as the Common Man’s Party in the Dehli state of India. The AAP was founded in 2012 by political activist Arvind Kejriwal who had its roots from the popular ‘India Against Corruption’ movement which fought for the introduction of an independent

12 | www.gerakan.org.my

GM_2012_02JulOct(3)_v4.indd 12 1/3/2014 6:48:34 PM body to investigate corruption cases under the Jan Lokpal Bill, which was a push for an ombudsman to tackle India’s chronic corruption problem. Corruption has been one of the major endemics plaguing India where massive amount of bribes were paid, causing various scandals such as the 2010 Commonwealth Games where facilities were not completed on time prompting safety concerns among the athletes, a major embarrassment for the country.

Other than corruption, issues that were a major concern to the public are such as crime especially against women particularly rape. The previous incident where a medical student was raped on a moving bus by several men has caused public uproar and demonstrations calling for the death sentence towards the perpetrators.

Poverty is another problem that is affecting the world’s second largest population nation where the United Nations in 2010 estimated that 32.7% of India fall below the international poverty line of USD 1.25 per day while 68.7% scraped through less than USD 1 daily. The problem seems to be never-ending to the extent that the Indian government has to introduce a free lunch programme at schools to encourage children to continue going to school instead of earning a living for their families.

Since the Congress Party and Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) seemed unable to tackle those problems, the AAP proceeded to portray itself as a knight in shining armour at a point where the people had lost faith in politics and it became a dirty word. In the AAP’s election manifesto, it promised to provide 50% cheaper electricity, the dencentralisation of power together with the introduction of the Dehli Lokpal Bill and the control over the police will be brought under the state government. Consequently, in the recently concluded Dehli state election, the AAP managed to do well by winning 28 seats out of 69 contested despite the initial prediction of it winning 15-20 seats only. The BJP won 32 seats while the incumbent ruling party, Congress saw its 43 seats being reduced to a humiliating 8 seats. By gaining 28 seats, the AAP has not only announced its arrival with a bang but also caused a hung assembly where no party has the outright majority form a government. As for the turnout, it was at a historical 66%.

Now what does this got to do with Gerakan? If we look at history, the party was actually founded based on socialism that is a grassroots party. The six founders were Syed Hussein Alatas, David Tan Chee Khoon, J.B.A Peter, Lim Chong Eu, Wang Gungwu and V. Veerapan. Gerakan’s purpose was not only to achieve an egalitarian Malaysian society but to provide equal opportunity and wealth distribution to the people to prevent wealth concentration. This was due to the fact that during the 60s, it was a turbulent era where Malaysia’s economy failed to grow exceptionally while most of its population remained in poverty especially the Bumiputeras. With wealth concentrated in just a few elites, this triggered mass dissatisfaction among the different communities which ultimately brought the May 13 disaster in 1969.

Following the tragic incident, Gerakan decided to participate in the newly found Barisan Nasional coalition in an effort to seek reconciliation. However, the drawback of joining BN was that Gerakan ceded the moral high ground and soon became a supporter of capitalism. After all the years playing the role of a small brother, Gerakan met its Waterloo in the 12th and 13th General Election. Therefore, it is fundamental for the party leadership to steer Gerakan back to its roots which are actually grassroots engagement instead of dwelling on ideology.

By becoming an issue-based party, Gerakan has the opportunity to offer Malaysian voters what other parties especially its BN partners have not. Issue-based politics demonstrates that the party is attentive to the current needs instead of stubbornly sticking to its ideology which might be outdated or a step too far. Keep in mind that the Communist Party of the Soviet Union met its demise due to its stubbornness to adapt for the sake of holding on to its ideology and pride as the ‘big brother’ in communism. Major issues in Malaysia such as low wages, high cost of living, crime and especially corruption are the key for regaining votes. Since politics is all about giving hope as we have seen what the slogan ‘Ubah’ has brought so much benefit to the Pakatan Rakyat especially the DAP, Gerakan has to try creating a relevant hope for the general public. Nevertheless, despite being able to transform itself into an issue-based party, the party still faces major obstacles.

One of the major disadvantages suffered by Gerakan as it has been pointed out countless times previously was that it is not the ‘big brother’ in the Barisan Nasional. With UMNO naturally dominating the coalition, it has to be the instigator for real instead of token reforms in order for BN to thrive in the general election. The emergence of an increasingly critical and educated voting class, political parties, Gerakan included has to take heed that transforming into an issue- based party is inadequate as it does not translate into votes. Instead, it has to have a consistent performance as an issue-based party by being brave enough to speak up without considering the fact that such actions will surely ruffle some feathers in UMNO. Merely playing issue-based politics is not enough, ultimately it depends on the party itself to make sure that it is not being selectively practiced.

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GM_2012_02JulOct(3)_v4.indd 13 1/3/2014 6:48:34 PM 人权与死刑 梁德明

最近民政党发起“废除死刑”簽名运动，希望收集到足够簽名，提呈给 部长，让政府进一步探讨和辩论废除死刑。

死刑是个极严肃的课题，当我们讨论此课题时，应当撇开政治立场，因为这关系到人的 生命。

废除死刑与否，非常具争议性，我也曾触及过这个课题。

当时是因为有关杨伟光和刘秋成的报导，牵引出讨论。我当时提到，法律学里有所谓的 deterrence和retributivism，即“阻遏”及“以暴制暴”。

法律的最终目的，是阻止人再犯罪。可是仔细想想，即使我国执行最严厉的死刑，依然 有人铤而走险走私毒品，那些人在飞机上听见广播，为何还是愿意带毒品闯关？显见， 死刑没起到阻遏作用。有人或许会说，毒品祸害那么多人，不判罪犯死刑，便宜了他 们。可是，死刑会比坐一辈子牢好吗？

不能拿走別人生命

我曾和中国一位资深最高法院院长聊过天，他说，他一生当中只下判过一次死刑。也因 为那次下判，他后来的刑罚都改为终身监禁。他说，他的一个动作，就取走一个人的生 命，他在心里告诉自己，他没有这种权力，虽然法律赋予他权力。我们可以想像，如果 我们坐上他的位子，一声令下就可把一条生命终结，换作我也做不了。

中华文化历史极具教育意义，《三字经》是现在许多小学采纳的教育读物。《三字经》 第一句就是“人之初，性本善”。我们呱呱落地时，都是善良的。再可恶的恶人，当初 出世，也是人见人爱的娃娃。

人在受到不良环境改变后，就会变得险恶。这个逻辑，表示人可以从善变恶，自然地， 也可以从恶变善。根据人权主义，我们不能拿走属于別人的东西：生命。

此课题牵引出的另一课题是，人在晚年时刻，受到多种顽疾折磨时，是否有权利让自己 死去？撇开政治立场，想想吧。

中国报《心德分明》专栏

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GM_2012_02JulOct(3)_v4.indd 14 1/3/2014 6:48:34 PM 2014 New Year Message 2013 is a year that will certainly and honest effort for reconciliation improving social be remembered as one of the by building political consensus that welfare, basic most eventful in recent memory by transcends boundaries in order to needs and Malaysians. It was a year of many face the daunting task of nation socioeconomic trials, challenges and changes for the building together and lift our country condition of the nation. to new heights. Hence, I again call on nation as a whole all political parties to work together in the New Year Early in 2013, Malaysians were across the partisan lines and STOP by stressing on the need for human shocked by the bloody events of exploiting the fault lines of divisive development. the Lahad Datu standoff where the racial and religious politics. sovereignty and the peace of our The second half of the year 2013 nation itself was challenged. Ironically, In 2014, my hope is that more also saw changes in top leadership this much-regretted incident also Malaysians will come out and make a of various political parties. Gerakan offered a timely reminder to each stand for humanity and work together itself had also undergone our of us to look deep into ourselves for a better, fairer and progressive party elections and our members and re-examine ourselves in the Malaysia. I am certain that this will be have installed an entire new line of face of various political, religious a blessing to the nation and will be leadership that promises rejuvenation and economic disagreements that warmly welcomed by all Malaysians. and rebuilding for the party. has divided our multiracial society These Malaysians will be our Heroes in recent years. The current social for 2014. We admit that Gerakan has had apathy, mistrust and cynicism, if left challenging times recently but as long unchecked, could potentially lead Throughout the year 2013, I note with as there is a need to fight for a better us astray from our ambitious path of concern that Malaysians have been Malaysia, Gerakan will continue to be nation building. constantly troubled and unsettled by relevant. prevailing issues. Hence, it is certainly my wish to I firmly believe that we must continue see all Malaysians display their Gerakan deeply shares your to hold firm to our ideology and aspire patriotism and love for their country concerns and we acknowledge these to our beliefs with strong conviction. at all times and not just in times of problems and like you, we feel that Gerakan has a lot more to offer and crisis or tribulation, as our love, our these problems must be addressed we certainly have a critical role to sense of duty and our contribution urgently. Gerakan remains committed play in Malaysian politics which we for the country is the very foundation to our critique of various issues and it have proven to the public over the that underpins our nation’s peace, is our solemn plea to the government decades. stability and continued growth. and those in power to carry out their responsibilities with honesty, integrity In the New Year, Gerakan will Looking back at 2013, to me, it has and competency in policy making continue to move forwards at greater been a more challenging year than I and governance with the necessary pace. You can expect Gerakan to had envisaged. The much-anticipated professionalism and pragmatism. come out with many new positive 13th General Election (GE13) that fell ad measurable initiatives and ideas on 5 May again showed the rise of While cost-of-living increases is that will directly benefit Malaysians. political temperature due to incessant inevitable and every country in the We are not standing still and we will and excessive politicking by both world is experiencing the same accelerate our momentum. You will sides of the political divide before and problem, it may be time that the see a much bolder, a more positive after the general election. government and the Corporate and a more action-oriented Gerakan Malaysia take a closer and more caring in the New Year. The unabating divisiveness deeply outlook and uplift the welfare of the worries me, as it showed no signs wage-earning ordinary Malaysians Each and every Rakyat is entitled to of subsiding even in the aftermath and ease their pressures, not by expect and look forward to Malaysia of GE13 where an unending series increasing subsidies but by sharing a moving ahead in the right direction of various demonstrations continues bigger piece of our economic growth and we at Gerakan are committed to to be held throughout the year in with the loyal employees and small play our part in serving the country response to various issues. businesses. to the best of our ability as we move forward together. I strongly believe that it is now high I call on all relevant parties to pursue Mah Siew Keong time that all parties make a noble an honest and realistic aim of Gerakan National President

October - December 2013 | 15

GM_2012_02JulOct(3)_v4.indd 15 1/3/2014 6:48:36 PM 2014年新年献词 2013年对国民来说肯定是充满变 我坚信，各方是时候通过构建一 而是与员工和小型企业分享经济 故的一年，经历许多考验、挑战 个跨越鸿沟的政治共识，作出高 成长的成果。 和改变。 尚和诚实的努力，达致和解，以 一起面对艰辛的国家建设，使我 我呼吁所有相关者在新的一年里 2013年初，拿笃流血事件震惊国 国达到另一个新里程碑。 通过着重在人类发展的需求，奉 人，同时国家的主权与和平都受 行诚实与务实，以改善社会福 到挑战。虽然最终我国英勇的卫 激烈的第13届全国大选已结束超 利、基本需求和国家社会经济状 士成功挫败入侵者，但9名马来 过半年，同时大多数政党也已结 况。 西亚卫士却在与苏禄军队直接对 束各自的党选。因此，我再次呼 抗中丧失了性命。这起事件使全 吁所有政党共同合作，跨越党派 2013年的下半年也看到各政党领 国伤心欲绝，但却能提醒国民必 界线，停止利用分裂种族和宗教 导层的改变。民政党也经历了党 须时常保持警惕，并感激我国所 的政治模式。 选，而我们的党员也已选出承诺 拥有的和平与安全。 复兴和重建党的领导层。 展望2014年，我希望更多国民能 我们的卫士在沙巴长达一个月的 站出来，共同合作，以创建一个 我们承认民政党最近面对艰难时 僵持中所显示的英勇行为与责任 美好、公平和进步的马来西亚。 刻，只要有需要为美好的马来西 感，唤起了我们的爱国之心。他 我敢肯定，这对国家而言会是一 亚斗争，民政党将继续合时宜。 们的牺牲不会是徒劳的，我们一 件好事，同时也将受到所有国民 定会永远记得他们的名字及功 的欢迎。那些国民将会是我们 我坚信我们必须继续秉持我们的 绩。 2014年的英雄。 理念，并以坚定信念追求我们的 信条。民政党仍然可作出很多贡 讽刺的是，这起遗憾事件也提醒 综观2013年，我注意到国民所关 献，而我们无疑的在马来西亚政 了我们必须深入检讨自己，并重 心的是一直困扰，并无法解决的 治中扮演着重要的角色，在过去 新审视近几年会分裂多元种族社 课题。 几十年中我们已证明。我再次重 会的各种政治、宗教及经济分 申新民政党将致力于促进多元种 歧。如果我们任由目前的社会冷 民政党深入分担国民的关心与难 族社会的中庸和包容。 漠、不信任及犬儒主义发展，这 题，我们承认这些问题的存在， 可能会带领国家建设误入歧途。 并如同国民一样，认为这些问题 在新的一年，民政党将继续向前 必须紧急解决。民政党将维持对 迈进，你们可期望民政党将推出 因此，我希望看见所有国民在任 于各种课题的批评，这是我们对 更多直接惠及国民的积极、可衡 何时候都展现他们的爱国精神， 政府的诉求，当权者必须履行其 量的举措及想法。我们不会停滞 而不是仅在危机或灾难时刻，因 职责，诚实、正直及有能力地制 不前，反而会加速动力。你们将 为我们的爱、责任感和对国家的 定政策，同时也必须务实和敬业 会在新一年看到更大胆、积极和 贡献是巩固国家和平、稳定及持 地治理。 以行动为主的民政党 续成长的基础。 我们即将结束2013年，马来西亚 所有国民都可以期望和期待马来 回顾2013年，是比我想象中更具 继续转型举措，我发现马来西亚 西亚在正确的方向前进，民政党 挑战性的一年。由于大选前后 股票交易所指股票指数达到历史 承诺将会尽我们的能力，服务国 双方政党持续和过度的政治活 新高，而公司的利润普遍持续上 家，共同前进。 动，5月5日的第13届全国大选再 升，生活成本加剧国民的压力。 次引发政治温度上升。 生活成本增加是必然的，世界所 分歧的加深使我感到担心，即使 有国家都经历相同的问题。 现 第13届全国大选后，这些分歧丝 在或许是时候政府与马来西亚公 马袖强 毫没有消退的迹象，为回应各种 司更仔细与关心国民收入的前景 民政党全国主席 课题，永不止息的各种示威活动 与提升人民的福利，要减轻人民 持续举行。 的压力，并不是通过增加津贴,

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GM_2012_02JulOct(3)_v4.indd 16 1/3/2014 6:48:36 PM Gerakan in the News Gerakan for ‘unified’ varsity entrance exam (Free Malaysia Today, 26 July 2013) Gerakan Education Bureau Chairman Lau Chin Hoon said that the present dual system for entry to local universities, namely the STPM and matriculation, has become a source of discontentment for some despite a more merit based intake.

He said without a unified entrance exam, people would always perceive there to be a lack of transparency in the selection process as there were no immediately available percentages of intake from each system. Firearms last resort, not ‘first’ – Gerakan (The Malaysian Times, 8 Oct 2013) Gerakan Vice-President, A. Kohilan Pillay has deplored the recent remarks made by the Home Minister, Datuk Seri Zahid Hamidi that the police would ‘shoot first’ and ask questions only later when dealing with criminals.

“The utilising of firearms should be seen as a last resort by the police to apprehend the suspect instead of being the easy way out to solve a case,” stressed Kohilan.

He added that the reason why Gerakan and other parties were skeptical of more powers for the police was because there was a fear of abuse. Stop your ‘bullying’, Gerakan tells Mukhriz (Malaysiakini, 11 October 2013) Gerakan Secretary-General Mah Siew Keong has returned fire at the criticism levelled against the party by Kedah Menteri Besar Mukhriz Mahathir, stating it will not “stand for bullying” or “vindictive politics”.

“Certain UMNO leaders have been constantly bullying its coalition partners in BN and concomitant to that is the loss of support amongst Malaysians as Gerakan and even MCA are seen as weak and supine. Gerakan, he said, will not stand for any attempt to bully any Malaysian community and will continue to speak up against what he deemed as “vindictive politics”.

“In 1999, when the Malays voted against BN because of the Anwar Ibrahim factor, Umno did not relentlessly attack the Malay community, in fact they sought to understand the concerns of the Malay community and studied the loss of support and made amends,” he said.He questioned why the same treatment is not accorded to the Malaysian Indian and Chinese communities, following the results of the recent general election.

Gerakan slams Chua for remarks (Malaysiakini,12 October 2013) Gerakan leaders are peeved with MCA president Dr Chua Soi Lek’s remarks that the party would be another Gerakan if it goes under the leadership of his deputy Liow Tiong Lai.

Its acting president Chang Ko Youn blasted Chua for dragging Gerakan into MCA’s internal fracas, where the latter is engaged in an open squabble with Liow.

“Chua should step down and be responsible for MCA which caused Gerakan’s loss (in the general elections),” said Chang.

October - December 2013 17

GM_2012_02JulOct(3)_v4.indd 17 1/3/2014 6:48:36 PM Gerakan Revamps Website To Reach Out To Youths, Grassroots Gerakan revamped its website by featuring new pages comprising of its ideology, stand on issues and links to social media sites.

Party president Mah Siew Keong admitted that communication through social media such as Facebook, Twitter and YouTube is needed and it has not been used to reach out to the youths and those at grassroots-level.

“This website is now comprehensive whereby, we will also continuously update our activities, press statements and news, in addition to creating a platform to foster interaction with our members and the rakyat,” he told reporters after launching the new image of its website at Gerakan headquarters.

Also present were party Vice-President Dr Dominic Lau, who is also Publicity, Information and Communication Bureau Chairman, and other central committee members.

The website would also act as a tool to represent Gerakan’s transparency to the public, as well as disseminate factual, reliable and fair information, without fear or favour, said Mah.

The website can be accessed at www.gerakan.org.my where there are also direct links to Facebook pages, Twitter, YouTube and e-mail addresses. 提升改进吸引年轻人 民政推介新网站 民政党推介新网站，全面提升及改进网站内容，以期吸引年轻人浏览，并让公众提岀意见与建议的平台。

民政党主席马袖强说，网站将纠正坊间不正确的信息，并勇于对国家社会发生的诸多课题发言。他形容改 革后新网站非常全面，内容也很充实，今后将更能与党员及社会民众交融，让人民知道各项课题的实际情 况。

“我们将会表达党的立场与看法，并希望上网的民众特别是年轻人也能够反映他们的意见，让他们成功搜 集意见与回馈，从而达到互相交流的目的。

同时，刘华才也表示，现代年轻人很少阅读报章，因此，民政党把争取新一代人认同与支持焦点放在网站 是完全必要的，并表示将计划日后让人们直接上网注册为党员。”

“人民可以对不同的网站作岀比较，然后凭自己的智慧分析。”

Gerakan Social Media

Website: http://www.gerakan.org.my Facebook:: http:/ /www.facebook.com/ partigerakan Twitter: http:twitter.com/partigerakan Google +: http:/ /plus.google.com/ /108314949419607783401/posts Youtube: http:/ /www.youtube.com/user/ partigerakan

18 | www.gerakan.org.my

GM_2012_02JulOct(3)_v4.indd 18 1/3/2014 6:48:38 PM Gerakan calls for the abolishment of the death penalty

Gerakan launched its anti-death penalty campaign in a bid to abolish the controversial law in Malaysia.

Party president Mah Siew Keong said his party aimed to collect at least 100,000 signatures against capital punishment.

“Many studies have shown that the death penalty does not deter crime effectively. We are involved in this petition because the need to have political will against the death penalty and we believe this is the way forward,” he added. Mah pointed out that Malaysia is one of several countries which still practices capital punishment despite the United Nation’s call to abolish the death penalty.

He acknowledged that the abolition of the law was not a straightforward mission, but believed that with enough support, it would put significant pressure on Parliament to repeal the law.

“We will definitely ask our partners in BN to join us. When it comes to decision making, it involves the whole government,” he said. Gerakan National Organising Secretary Lau Hoi Keong said the party would submit the signatures along with a memorandum to the Attorney-General’s chambers as well as Prime Minister’s Office.

“We want to bring it to their attention that there is a lot of support for the abolition of the death penalty in this country,” he said. “Our aim is to respect life, and guarantee all aspects of humanity and justice.”

The party proposed that the death penalty should instead be replaced with life imprisonment, with or without parole. 民政党促废除死刑 3个月收集10万签名 民政党配合12月10日联合国世界人权日，推介废除死刑 签名运动，目标是在3个月内收集10万个签名。

民政党主席马袖强说，现今许多国家早已废除死刑， 目前全球只有约58个国家仍保留此刑罚，我国就是其中一个。

他说，早前在与民众谈及对死刑的看法，普遍反应是保留死刑。但是，很多数据显示，死刑无法有效 降低犯罪率。他说，我国共有约900名死囚，因此首要任务是改变人们对死刑的看法。

“废除死刑与人权课题紧紧相连，因此各界不应只谈论政治课题，反而应专注在更重要的课题。”

他指出，该党将与其他国阵成员党商讨希望获得他们的支持，同时也不排除与民联各政党在这方面合 作。

此外，组织局秘书刘开强也指出，当签名运动结束后，该党将会联同一份备忘录及签名呈交予总检察 署及相关政府部门。

July - September 2013 | 19

GM_2012_02JulOct(3)_v4.indd 19 1/3/2014 6:48:39 PM Gerakan Youth objects massive salary hike Gerakan Youth Chief, Tan Keng Liang recently led a group of National Youth Committee members and Selangor State Youth to hand over a memorandum to Tan Sri Khalid Ibrahim, the Selangor Menteri Besar regarding the Pakatan Rakyat’s pledge on free education should take precedence over the salary and allowance increment of the Speaker and Exco members announced on 3 December 2013. The memorandum was received by the Special Officer of Exco Member, YB Ean Yong Hian Wah. On a related occasion, Gerakan Youth has also organised a forum titled ‘Janji Pendidikan Percuma Atau Kenaikan Gaji Diri Yang Mana Lebih Penting’ on 14 December 2013 at Wisma BU 8. The forum kicked off at 2pm and was moderated by Y.Bhg Dato’ Gooi Hoe Soon. While speakers such as Tan Sri Khalid Ibrahim, the Selangor MB, Puan Hannah Yeoh, the Selangor DUN Speaker and Tuan Nik Nazmi Nik Ahmad the Deputy Speaker of Selangor DUN were unable to be present, the forum was still attended by individuals such as Sdr Tan Keng Liang, Sdr Ivanpal Singh Grewal, the Executive Director of SEDAR Institute, and Sdr Chai Ko Ting, the Selangor State Youth Secretary.

GM_2012_02JulOct(3)_v4.indd 20 1/3/2014 6:48:46 PM