In 1938, the American mathematician Edward Kasner (1878-1955) asked his nine-year-old nephew Milton Sirotta to invent a name for a very large number, ten to the power of one hundred; and the boy called it a googol.
Kasner, Adrian Professor of Mathematics at Columbia University, announced the concept in his book Mathematics and the Imagination. He thought this was a number to overflow people's minds, being bigger than anything that can ever be put into words. Another mathematician then shot back with Googolplex, and defined it to be 'ten to the power of googol', proving poor old Edward wrong in an instant.
1 googol = 10,000,000,000,000,000,000,000,000,000,000,000,000,000,000,000,000,000,000,000,000,000,000,000,000,000,000,000,000,000,000,000,000,000
A googol is equal to ten duotrigintillion.
To give you an idea of its gargantuan enormity, a googol is greater than the number of particles in the known universe, which has been variously estimated from 'ten to the power of 72' up to 'ten to the power of 87'.
Since a 'googol plus 1' is the number of digits in a googolplex, it would therefore not be possible to write down or store the digits of a googolplex in decimal notation, even if all the matter in the known universe were converted into paper and ink or disk drives.
Googolplex is the second largest number with a name. The distinction of being the world's largest number with a name goes to googolplexian: a "1" followed by a googolplex of zeros.
Well, that was the case until I invented the azlanplex which is a "1" followed by a googolplexian of zeros. And then I invented the azlanplexian which is a "1" followed by an azlanplex of zeros.
The Internet search engine Google was named as a pun on the number googol. The original founders were going for 'Googol', but ended up with 'Google' due to a spelling mistake. Larry Page: "Lucas Pereira: 'You idiots, you spelled 'Googol' wrong!' But this was good, because google.com was available but googol.com was not. Now most people spell 'Googol' 'Google', so it worked out OK in the end."
Except for one tiny problem: Kasner's great-niece, Peri Fleisher, is suing Google.com, insisting that the US-based company has gained financially at the expense of the family. She said: "If we do have a legal right, we're certainly going to exercise that. And now is the time."
However, experts in intellectual property said that bringing a successful legal action would be problematic. "It would be an uphill struggle to try to assert any legitimate claim," said David Gourlay, a senior associate at the Dundas and Wilson Technology Group.
Copyright 2003-2006 Azlan Adnan Legal Notice
Friday, December 30, 2005
Wednesday, December 28, 2005
XL Condoms
A hot babe enters a pharmacy and shyly asks the sales assistant:
"Where do you display your Extra Large condoms?"
After being shown the section, she thanks the sales assistant and heads to the display.
After several hours, the young lady still hasn't made a purchase and so the sales assistant comes over and asks:
"Miss, have you decided which one to purchase?" to which she answers:
"Actually, I have no intention of making a purchase at all. I just want to meet the guys who buy them!"
Kondom XL
Seorang wanita muda yang cantik dengan malu-malu bertanya serta berbisik pada penjual sebuah pasaraya:
"Cik, bahagian yang jual kondom XL di mana?"
Setelah ditunjukkan dan mengucapkan terima kasih dia pun menuju ke bahagian tersebut.
Setelah beberapa jam, wanita tersebut tidak juga memilih salah satu kondom tersebut, maka penjual tadi bertanya ;
"Akak mahu pilih yang mana?"
Wanita itupun segera menjawab,
"Ooo... sebenarnya saya tidak mahu beli. Saya cuma ingin berkenalan dengan orang yang akan membeli kondom ini."
Copyright 2003-2006 Azlan Adnan Legal Notice
"Where do you display your Extra Large condoms?"
After being shown the section, she thanks the sales assistant and heads to the display.
After several hours, the young lady still hasn't made a purchase and so the sales assistant comes over and asks:
"Miss, have you decided which one to purchase?" to which she answers:
"Actually, I have no intention of making a purchase at all. I just want to meet the guys who buy them!"
Kondom XL
Seorang wanita muda yang cantik dengan malu-malu bertanya serta berbisik pada penjual sebuah pasaraya:
"Cik, bahagian yang jual kondom XL di mana?"
Setelah ditunjukkan dan mengucapkan terima kasih dia pun menuju ke bahagian tersebut.
Setelah beberapa jam, wanita tersebut tidak juga memilih salah satu kondom tersebut, maka penjual tadi bertanya ;
"Akak mahu pilih yang mana?"
Wanita itupun segera menjawab,
"Ooo... sebenarnya saya tidak mahu beli. Saya cuma ingin berkenalan dengan orang yang akan membeli kondom ini."
Copyright 2003-2006 Azlan Adnan Legal Notice
Risk Management for the Home
Here's a good reason to seriously consider Home Contents Insurance this time of year:
Holiday Season Safety Information
Avoid Fire Hazards This Holiday Season
The Arlington Fire Department Has Safety Instructions
Christmas trees, lights and candles help make the holiday bright. Local fire officials say they can also cause fire hazards in the home.
Each year in the United States, there are more than 12,000 candle-related fires that result in 150 deaths, 1,200 injuries and an estimated $173 million in property loss, according the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission. Christmas trees are a primary cause in most residential fires.
Copyright 2003-2006 Azlan Adnan Legal Notice
Holiday Season Safety Information
Avoid Fire Hazards This Holiday Season
The Arlington Fire Department Has Safety Instructions
Christmas trees, lights and candles help make the holiday bright. Local fire officials say they can also cause fire hazards in the home.
Each year in the United States, there are more than 12,000 candle-related fires that result in 150 deaths, 1,200 injuries and an estimated $173 million in property loss, according the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission. Christmas trees are a primary cause in most residential fires.
Copyright 2003-2006 Azlan Adnan Legal Notice
Tuesday, December 27, 2005
The Psychic Computer
Hi! Check this site out... it's very fascinating!
The Psychic Computer
It certainly freaked me out.
Copyright 2003-2006 Azlan Adnan Legal Notice
The Psychic Computer
It certainly freaked me out.
Copyright 2003-2006 Azlan Adnan Legal Notice
Single-storey Terrace House for Rent
Single-storey terrace house for rent in Kota Warisan (two minutes' drive to Salak Tinggi ERL station), available immediately.
Rent going for RM350 excluding bills.
The house has three rooms but the landlord can only let you have two as she needs one to keep all her barang-barang. She has extensively renovated the house and it comes fully furnished.
Preferrably open-minded, working professionals please. Especially strategic for aircrew as Kota Warisan is just next door to KLIA. Also suitable for government servants working in Putrajaya as there is now a toll-free four-lane highway that takes only 10-15 minutes to get there via Dengkil.
If interested or know of someone who is, send me a msg here or email to Azlan at azlan088@gmail.com
many thanks guys
warm regards
Azlan
019-282 9526
Copyright 2003-2006 Azlan Adnan Legal Notice
Rent going for RM350 excluding bills.
The house has three rooms but the landlord can only let you have two as she needs one to keep all her barang-barang. She has extensively renovated the house and it comes fully furnished.
Preferrably open-minded, working professionals please. Especially strategic for aircrew as Kota Warisan is just next door to KLIA. Also suitable for government servants working in Putrajaya as there is now a toll-free four-lane highway that takes only 10-15 minutes to get there via Dengkil.
If interested or know of someone who is, send me a msg here or email to Azlan at azlan088@gmail.com
many thanks guys
warm regards
Azlan
019-282 9526
Copyright 2003-2006 Azlan Adnan Legal Notice
Apartment for Rent
Third-storey apartment for rent in Kota Warisan (two minutes' drive to Salak Tinggi ERL station), available March 1, 2006.
Rent going for RM400 excluding bills and monthly RM55 maintenance fee.
The apartment has three rooms with front-door and kitchen grilles, curtain railings, and has ample parking space.
Preferrably open-minded, working professionals please. Especially strategic for aircrew as Kota Warisan is just next door to KLIA. Also suitable for government servants working in Putrajaya as there is now a toll-free four-lane highway that takes only 10-15 minutes to get there via Dengkil.
If interested or know of someone who is, send me a msg here or email to Azlan at azlan088@gmail.com
many thanks guys
warm regards
Azlan
019-282 9526
Copyright 2003-2006 Azlan Adnan Legal Notice
Rent going for RM400 excluding bills and monthly RM55 maintenance fee.
The apartment has three rooms with front-door and kitchen grilles, curtain railings, and has ample parking space.
Preferrably open-minded, working professionals please. Especially strategic for aircrew as Kota Warisan is just next door to KLIA. Also suitable for government servants working in Putrajaya as there is now a toll-free four-lane highway that takes only 10-15 minutes to get there via Dengkil.
If interested or know of someone who is, send me a msg here or email to Azlan at azlan088@gmail.com
many thanks guys
warm regards
Azlan
019-282 9526
Copyright 2003-2006 Azlan Adnan Legal Notice
Monday, December 26, 2005
Furnished Room to Let
Two fully furnished bedrooms in third-storey Villa Impian apartment in Kota Warisan (2 minutes' drive to Salak Tinggi ERL station), available for immediate occupancy.
2) Smaller bedroom has lovely lace curtains, bed, fan, stainless steel clothes hook behind door - come see for yourself lah. Rent going for RM200 ~ single occupancy. RM250 ~ double occupancy (non-negotiable) including maintenance fee, water and electricity. STILL AVAILABLE FOR RENT!
Share the bathroom with the room next to yours. Other common facilities include 29-inch TV, Bose radio/CD player, DVD player, parking space, stove, fridge, kettle, rice-cooker, blender.
Click here for Location Map.
Breath-taking views of green rolling hills and spectacular sunsets, three minutes' drive from Salak Tinggi KLIA Transit ERL station, two minutes' drive from primary school (SK Kota Warisan), Pasar Malam Kota Warisan every Saturday from 5 pm to 11 pm. 24 hrs security guard.
Preferably open-minded, working professionals please. Suitable for airline crew as next to KLIA. If interested or know of someone who is, call Azlan 019-282 9526 for appointment to view.
Azlan Adnan
019-282 9526
Copyright 2003-2008 Azlan Adnan Legal Notice
A View from the Eye of the Storm
by Haim Harari, Chair, Davidson Institute of Science Education.
Past President, Weizmann Institute of Science
Talk delivered by Haim Harari at a meeting of the International Advisory Board of a large multi-national corporation, April, 2004:
"As you know, I usually provide the scientific and technological "entertainment" in our meetings, but, on this occasion, our Chairman suggested that I present my own personal view on events in the part of the world from which I come.
I have never been and I will never be a Government official and I have no privileged information. My perspective is entirely based on what I see, on what I read and on the fact that my family has lived in this region for almost 200 years. You may regard my views as those of the proverbial taxi driver, which you are supposed to question, when you visit a country.
I could have shared with you some fascinating facts and some personal thoughts about the Israeli-Arab conflict. However, I will touch upon it only in passing. I prefer to devote most of my remarks to the broader picture of the region and its place in world events. I refer to the entire area between Pakistan and Morocco, which is predominantly Arab, predominantly Moslem, but includes many non-Arab and also significant non-Moslem minorities.
Why do I put aside Israel and its own immediate neighborhood? Because Israel and any problems related to it, in spite of what you might read or hear in the world media, is not the central issue, and has never been the central issue in the upheaval in the region.
Yes, there is a 100 year-old Israeli-Arab conflict, but it is not where the main show is.
The millions who died in the Iran-Iraq war had nothing to do with Israel.
The mass murder happening right now in Sudan, where the Arab Moslem regime is massacring its black Christian citizens, has nothing to do with Israel.
The frequent reports from Algeria about the murders of hundreds of civilian in one village or another by other Algerians have nothing to do with Israel.
Saddam Hussein did not invade Kuwait, endangered Saudi Arabia and butchered his own people because of Israel.
Egypt did not use poison gas against Yemen in the 60's because of Israel.
Assad the Father did not kill tens of thousands of his own citizens in one week in El Hamma in Syria because of Israel.
The Taliban control of Afghanistan and the civil war there had nothing to do with Israel.
The Libyan blowing up of the Pan-Am flight had nothing to do with Israel, and I could go on and on and on.
The root of the trouble is that this entire Moslem region is totally dysfunctional, by any standard of the word, and would have been so even if Israel had joined the Arab league and an independent Palestine had existed for 100 years.
The 22 member countries of the Arab league, from Mauritania to the Gulf States, have a total population of 300 millions, larger than the US and almost as large as the EU before its expansion.
They have a land area larger than either the US or all of Europe.
These 22 countries, with all their oil and natural resources, have a combined GDP smaller than that of Netherlands plus Belgium and equal to half of the GDP of California alone.
Within this meager GDP, the gaps between rich and poor are beyond belief and too many of the rich made their money not by succeeding in business, but by being corrupt rulers.
The social status of women is far below what it was in the Western World 150 years ago.
Human rights are below any reasonable standard, in spite of the grotesque fact that Libya was elected Chair of the UN Human Rights commission.
According to a report prepared by a committee of Arab intellectuals and published under the auspices of the U.N., the number of books translated by the entire Arab world is much smaller than what little Greece alone translates.
The total number of scientific publications of 300 million Arabs is less than that of 6 million Israelis.
Birth rates in the region are very high, increasing the poverty, the social gaps and the cultural decline.
And all of this is happening in a region, which only 30 years ago, was believed to be the next wealthy part of the world, and in a Moslem area, which developed, at some point in history, one of the most advanced cultures in the world.
It is fair to say that this creates an unprecedented breeding ground for cruel dictators, terror networks, fanaticism, incitement, suicide murders and general decline. It is also a fact that almost everybody in the region blames this situation on the United States, on Israel, on Western Civilization, on Judaism and Christianity, on anyone and anything, except themselves.
A word about the millions of decent, honest, good people who are either devout Moslems or are not very religious but grew up in Moslem families: They are double victims of an outside world, which now develops Islamophobia and of their own environment, which breaks their heart by being totally dysfunctional.
The problem is that the vast silent majority of these Moslems are not part of the terror and of the incitement, but they also do not stand up against it. They become accomplices, by omission, and this applies to political leaders, intellectuals, business people and many others. Many of them can certainly tell right from wrong, but are afraid to express their views.
The events of the last few years have amplified four issues, which have always existed, but have never been as rampant as in the present upheaval in the region.
A few more years may pass before everybody acknowledges that it is a World War, but we are already well into it.
These are the four main pillars of the current World Conflict, or perhaps we should already refer to it as "the undeclared World War III":
1. The first element is the suicide murder.
Suicide murders are not a new invention but they have been made popular, if I may use this _expression, only lately. Even after September 11, it seems that most of the Western World does not yet understand this weapon. It is a very potent psychological weapon. Its real direct impact is relatively minor. The total number of casualties from hundreds of suicide murders within Israel in the last three years is much smaller than those due to car accidents. September 11 was quantitatively much less lethal than many earthquakes More people die from AIDS in one day in Africa than all the Russians who died in the hands of Chechnya-based Moslem suicide murderers since that conflict started. Saddam killed every month more people than all those who died from suicide murders since the Coalition occupation of Iraq.
So what is all the fuss about suicide killings? It creates headlines. It is spectacular. It is frightening. It is a very cruel death with bodies dismembered and horrible severe lifelong injuries to many of the wounded. It is always shown on television in great detail. One such murder, with the help of hysterical media coverage, can destroy the tourism industry of a country for quite a while, as it did in Bali and in Turkey.
But the real fear comes from the undisputed fact that no defense and no preventive measures can succeed against a determined suicide murderer. This has not yet penetrated the thinking of the Western World. The U.S. and Europe are constantly improving their defense against the last murder, not the next one. We may arrange for the best airport security in the world. But if you want to murder by suicide, you do not have to board a plane in order to explode yourself and kill many people. Who could stop a suicide murder in the midst of the crowded line waiting to be checked by the airport metal detector? How about the lines to the check-in counters in a busy travel period? Put a metal detector in front of every train station in Spain and the terrorists will get the buses. Protect the buses and they will explode in movie theaters, concert halls, supermarkets, shopping malls, schools and hospitals. Put guards in front of every concert hall and there will always be a line of people to be checked by the guards and this line will be the target, not to speak of killing the guards themselves. You can somewhat reduce your vulnerability by preventive and defensive measures and by strict border controls but not eliminate it and definitely not win the war in a defensive way. And it is a war!
What is behind the suicide murders? Money, power and cold-blooded murderous incitement, nothing else. It has nothing to do with true fanatic religious beliefs. No Moslem preacher has ever blown himself up. No son of an Arab politician or religious leader has ever blown himself.
No relative of anyone influential has done it. Wouldn't you expect some of the religious leaders to do it themselves, or to talk their sons into doing it, if this is truly a supreme act of religious fervor? Aren't they interested in the benefits of going to Heaven? Instead, they send outcast women, naïve children, retarded people and young incited hotheads. They promise them the delights, mostly sexual, of the next world, and pay their families handsomely after the supreme act is performed and enough innocent people are dead.
Suicide murders also have nothing to do with poverty and despair.
The poorest region in the world, by far, is Africa. It never happens there. There are numerous desperate people in the world, in different cultures, countries and continents. Desperation does not provide anyone with explosives, reconnaissance and transportation. There was certainly more despair in Saddam's Iraq than in Paul Bremmer's Iraq, and no one exploded himself. A suicide murder is simply a horrible, vicious weapon of cruel, inhuman, cynical, well-funded terrorists, with no regard to human life, including the life of their fellow countrymen, but with very high regard to their own affluent well-being and their hunger for power.
The only way to fight this new "popular" weapon is identical to the only way in which you fight organized crime or pirates on the high seas: the offensive way.
Like in the case of organized crime, it is crucial that the forces on the offensive be united and it is crucial to reach the top of the crime pyramid. You cannot eliminate organized crime by arresting the little drug dealer in the street corner. You must go after the head of the "Family".
If part of the public supports it, others tolerate it, many are afraid of it and some try to explain it away by poverty or by a miserable childhood, organized crime will thrive and so will terrorism.
The United States understands this now, after September 11.Russiais beginning to understand it. Turkey understands it well. I am very much afraid that most of Europe still does not understand it. Unfortunately, it seems that Europe will understand it only after suicide murders arrive in Europe in a big way. In my humble opinion, this will definitely happen. The Spanish trains and the Istanbul bombings are only the beginning. The unity of the Civilized World in fighting this horror is absolutely indispensable. Until Europe wakes up, this unity will not be achieved.
2. The second ingredient is words, more precisely lies.
Words can be lethal. They kill people. It is often said that politicians, diplomats and perhaps also lawyers and business people must sometimes lie, as part of their professional life. But the norms of politics and diplomacy are childish, in comparison with the level of incitement and total absolute deliberate fabrications, which have reached new heights in the region we are talking about. An incredible number of people in the Arab world believe that September 11 never happened, or was an American provocation or, even better, a Jewish plot.
You all remember the Iraqi Minister of Information, Mr. Mouhamad Said al-Sahaf and his press conferences when the US forces were already inside Baghdad. Disinformation at time of war is an accepted tactic. But to stand, day after day, and to make such preposterous statements, known to everybody to be lies, without even being ridiculed in your own milieu, can only happen in this region. Mr. Sahaf eventually became a popular icon as a court jester, but this did not stop some allegedly respectable newspapers from giving him equal time. It also does not prevent the Western press from giving credence, every day, even now, to similar liars.
After all, if you want to be an anti-Semite, there are subtle ways of doing it. You do not have to claim that the holocaust never happened, and that the Jewish temple in Jerusalem never existed. But millions of Moslems are told by their leaders that this is the case. When these same leaders make other statements, the Western media report them as if they could be true.
It is a daily occurrence that the same people, who finance, arm and dispatch suicide murderers, condemn the act in English in front of western TV cameras, talking to a world audience, which even partly believes them. It is a daily routine to hear the same leader making opposite statements in Arabic to his people and in English to the rest of the world. Incitement by Arab TV, accompanied by horror pictures of mutilated bodies, has become a powerful weapon of those who lie, distort and want to destroy everything.
Little children are raised on deep hatred and on admiration of so-called martyrs, and the Western World does not notice it because its own TV sets are mostly tuned to soap operas and game shows. I recommend to you, even though most of you do not understand Arabic, to watch Al Jazeera, from time to time. You will not believe your own eyes.
But words also work in other ways, more subtle. A demonstration inBerlin, carrying banners supporting Saddam's regime and featuring three-year old babies dressed as suicide murderers, is defined by the press and by political leaders as a "peace monstration". You may support or oppose the Iraq war, but to refer to fans of Saddam, Arafat or Bin Laden as peace activists is a bit too much. A woman walks into an Israeli restaurant in mid-day, eats, observes families with old people and children eating their lunch in the adjacent tables and pays the bill. She then blows herself up, killing 20 people, including many children, with heads and arms rolling around in the restaurant. She is called "martyr" by several Arab leaders and "activist" by the European press. Dignitaries condemn the act but visit her bereaved family and the money flows.
There is a new game in town: The actual murderer is called "the military wing", the one who pays him, equips him and sends him is now called "the political wing" and the head of the operation is called the "spiritual leader". There are numerous other examples of such Orwellian nomenclature, used every day not only by terror chiefs but also by Western media. These words are much more dangerous than many people realize. They provide an emotional infrastructure for atrocities. It was Joseph Goebels who said that if you repeat a lie often enough, people will believe it. He is now being outperformed by his successors.
3. The third aspect is money.
Huge amounts of money, which could have solved many social problems in this dysfunctional part of the world, are channeled into three concentric spheres supporting death and murder.
In the inner circle are the terrorists themselves. The money funds their travel, explosives, hideouts and permanent search for soft vulnerable targets. The inner circles are primarily financed by terrorist states like Iran and Syria, until recently also by Iraq and Libya and earlier also by some of the Communist regimes. These states, as well as the Palestinian Authority, are the safe havens of the wholesale murder vendors.
They are surrounded by a second wider circle of direct supporters, planners, commanders, preachers, all of whom make a living, usually a very comfortable living, by serving as terror infrastructure.
Finally, we find the third circle of so-called religious, educational and welfare organizations, which actually do some good, feed the hungry and provide some schooling, but brainwash a new generation with hatred, lies and ignorance. This circle operates mostly through mosques, madrasas and other religious establishments but also through inciting electronic and printed media. It is this circle that makes sure that women remain inferior, that democracy is unthinkable and that exposure to the outside world is minimal. It is also that circle that leads the way in blaming every-body outside the Moslem world, for the miseries of the region. The outer circle is largely financed by Saudi Arabia, but also by donations from certain Moslem communities in the United States and Europe and, to a smaller extent, by donations of European Governments to various NGO's and by certain United Nations organizations, whose goals may be noble, but they are infested and exploited by agents of the outer circle. The Saudi regime, of course, will be the next victim of major terror, when the inner circle will explode into the outer circle. The Saudis are beginning to understand it, but they fight the inner circles, while still financing the infrastructure at the outer circle.
Figuratively speaking, this outer circle is the guardian, which makes sure that the people look and listen inwards to the inner circle of terror and incitement, rather than to the world outside. Some parts of this same outer circle actually operate as a result of fear from, or blackmail by, the inner circles. The horrifying added factor is the high birth rate. Half of the population of the Arab world is under the age of 20, the most receptive age to incitement, guaranteeing two more generations of blind hatred.
Some of the leaders of these various circles live very comfortably on their loot. You meet their children in the best private schools in Europe, not in the training camps of suicide murderers. The Jihad "soldiers" join packaged death tours to Iraq and other hotspots, while some of their leaders ski in Switzerland. Mrs. Arafat, who lives in Paris with her daughter, receives tens of thousands of dollars per month from the allegedly bankrupt Palestinian Authority, while a typical local ringleader of the Al-Aksa brigade, reporting to Arafat, receives only a cash payment of a couple of hundred dollars, for performing murders at the retail level.
4. The fourth element of the current world conflict is the total breaking of all laws.
The civilized world believes in democracy, the rule of law, including international law, human rights, free speech and free press, among other liberties. There are naïve old-fashioned habits such as respecting religious sites and symbols, not using ambulances and hospitals for acts of war, avoiding the mutilation of dead bodies and not using children as human shields or human bombs. Never in history, not even in the Nazi period, was there such total disregard of all of the above as we observe now. Every student of political science debates how you prevent an anti-democratic force from winning a democratic election and abolishing democracy. Other aspects of a civilized society must also have limitations. Can a policeman open fire on someone trying to kill him? Can a government listen to phone conversations of terrorists and drug dealers? Does free speech protects you when you shout "fire" in a crowded theater? Should there be death penalty, for deliberate multiple murders? These are the old-fashioned dilemmas. But now we have an entire new set.
Do you raid a mosque, which serves as a terrorist ammunition storage? Do you return fire, if you are attacked from a hospital? Do you storm a church taken over by terrorists who took the priests hostages? Do you search every ambulance after a few suicide murderers use ambulances to reach their targets? Do you strip every woman because one pretended to be pregnant and carried a suicide bomb on her belly? Do you shoot back at someone trying to kill you, standing deliberately behind a group of children? Do you raid terrorist headquarters, hidden in a mental hospital? Do you shoot an arch-murderer who deliberately moves from one location to another, always surrounded by children? All of these happen daily in Iraq and in the Palestinian areas. What do you do? Well, you do not want to face the dilemma. But it cannot be avoided.
Suppose, for the sake of discussion, that someone would openly stay in a well-known address in Teheran, hosted by the Iranian Government and financed by it, executing one atrocity after another in Spain or in France, killing hundreds of innocent people, accepting responsibility for the crimes, promising in public TV interviews to do more of the same, while the Government of Iran issues public condemnations of his acts but continues to host him, invite him to official functions and treat him as a great dignitary. I leave it to you as homework to figure out what Spain or France would have done, in such a situation.
The problem is that the civilized world is still having illusions about the rule of law in a totally lawless environment. It is trying to play ice hockey by sending a ballerina ice-skater into the rink or to knock out a heavyweight boxer by a chess player. In the same way that no country has a law against cannibals eating its prime minister, because such an act is unthinkable, international law does not address killers shooting from hospitals, mosques and ambulances, while being protected by their Government or society. International law does not know how to handle someone who sends children to throw stones, stands behind them and shoots with immunity and cannot be arrested because he is sheltered by a Government. International law does not know how to deal with a leader of murderers who is royally and comfortably hosted by a country, which pretends to condemn his acts or just claims to be too weak to arrest him.
The amazing thing is that all of these crooks demand protection under international law, and define all those who attack them as "war criminals," with some Western media repeating the allegations.
The good news is that all of this is temporary, because the evolution of international law has always adapted itself to reality. The punishment for suicide murder should be death or arrest before the murder, not during and not after. After every world war, the rules of international law have changed, and the same will happen after the present one. But during the twilight zone, a lot of harm can be done.
The picture I described here is not pretty. What can we do about it? In the short run, only fight and win. In the long run - only educate the next generation and open it to the world. The inner circles can and must be destroyed by force.
The outer circle cannot be eliminated by force. Here we need financial starvation of the organizing elite, more power to women, more education, counter propaganda, boycott whenever feasible and access to Western media, internet and the international scene. Above all, we need a total absolute unity and determination of the civilized world against all three circles of evil
Allow me, for a moment, to depart from my alleged role as a taxi driver and return to science. When you have a malignant tumor, you may remove the tumor itself surgically. You may also starve it by preventing new blood from reaching it from other parts of the body, thereby preventing new "supplies" from expanding the tumor. If you want to be sure, it is best to do both.
But before you fight and win, by force or otherwise, you have to realize that you are in a war, and this may takeEuropea few more years.
In order to win, it is necessary to first eliminate the terrorist regimes, so that no Government in the world will serve as a safe haven for these people.
I do not want to comment here on whether the American-led attack on Iraq was justified from the point of view of weapons of mass destruction or any other pre-war argument, but I can look at the post-war map of Western Asia. Now that Afghanistan, Iraq and Libya are out, two and a half terrorist states remain: Iran, Syria an Lebanon, the latter being a Syrian colony. Perhaps Sudan should be added to the list. As a result of the conquest of Afghanistan and Iraq, both Iran and Syria are now totally surrounded by territories unfriendly to them. Iran is encircled by Afghanistan, by the Gulf States, Iraq and the Moslem republics of the former Soviet Union. Syria is surrounded by Turkey, Iraq, Jordan and Israel. This is a significant strategic change and it applies strong pressure on the terrorist countries. It is not surprising that Iran is so active in trying to incite a Shiite uprising in Iraq. I do not know if the American plan was actually to encircle both Iran and Syria, but that is the resulting situation.
In my humble opinion, the number one danger to the world today is Iran and its regime. It definitely has ambitions to rule vast areas and to expand in all directions. It has an ideology, which claims supremacy over Western culture. It is ruthless. It has proven that it can execute elaborate terrorist acts without leaving too many traces, using Iranian Embassies. It is clearly trying to develop nuclear weapons. Its so-called moderates and conservatives play their own virtuoso version of the "good-cop versus bad-cop" game Iran sponsors Syrian terrorism, it is certainly behind much of the action in Iraq, it is fully funding the Hezbollah and, through it, the Palestinian Hamas and Islamic Jihad, it performed acts of terror at least in Europe and in South America and probably also in Uzbekistan and Saudi Arabia and it truly leads a multi-national terror consortium, which includes, as minor players, Syria, Lebanon and certain Shiite elements in Iraq. Nevertheless, most European countries still trade with Iran, try to appease it and refuse to read the clear signals.
In order to win the war it is also necessary to dry the financial resources of the terror conglomerate. It is pointless to try to understand the subtle differences between the Sunni terror of Al Qaeda and Hamas and the Shiite terror of Hezbollah, Sadr and other Iranian inspired enterprises. When it serves their business needs, all of them collaborate beautifully.
It is crucial to stop Saudi and other financial support of the outer circle, which is the fertile breeding ground of terror. It is important to monitor all donations from the Western World to Islamic organizations, to monitor the finances of international relief organizations and to react with forceful economic measures to any small sign of financial aid to any of the three circles of terrorism.
It is also important to act decisively against the campaign of lies and fabrications and to monitor those Western media who collaborate with it out of naivety, financial interests or ignorance.
Above all, never surrender to terror. No one will ever know whether the recent elections in Spain would have yielded a different result, if not for the train bombings a few days earlier. But it really does not matter. What matters is that the terrorists believe that they caused the result and that they won by driving Spain out of Iraq. The Spanish story will surely end up being extremely costly to other European countries, including France, who is now expelling inciting preachers and forbidding veils and including others who sent troops to Iraq. In the long run, Spain itself will pay even more.
Is the solution a democratic Arab world?
If by democracy we mean free elections but also free press, free speech, a functioning judicial system, civil liberties, equality to women, free international travel, exposure to international media and ideas, laws against racial incitement and against defamation, and avoidance of lawless behavior regarding hospitals, places of worship and children, then yes, democracy is the solution.
If democracy is just free elections, it is likely that the most fanatic regime will be elected, the one whose incitement and fabrications are the most inflammatory. We have seen it already in Algeria, and to a certain extent, in Turkey. It will happen again, if the ground is not prepared very carefully. On the other hand, a certain transition democracy, as in Jordan, may be a better temporary solution, paving the way for the real thing, perhaps in the same way that an immediate sudden democracy did not work in Russia and would not have worked in China.
I have no doubt that the civilized world will prevail. But the longer it takes us to understand the new landscape of this war, the more costly and painful the victory will be. Europe, more than any other region, is the key. Its understandable recoil from wars, following the horrors of World War II, may cost thousands of additional innocent lives, before the tide will turn."
Copyright 2003-2006 Azlan Adnan Legal Notice
Past President, Weizmann Institute of Science
Talk delivered by Haim Harari at a meeting of the International Advisory Board of a large multi-national corporation, April, 2004:
"As you know, I usually provide the scientific and technological "entertainment" in our meetings, but, on this occasion, our Chairman suggested that I present my own personal view on events in the part of the world from which I come.
I have never been and I will never be a Government official and I have no privileged information. My perspective is entirely based on what I see, on what I read and on the fact that my family has lived in this region for almost 200 years. You may regard my views as those of the proverbial taxi driver, which you are supposed to question, when you visit a country.
I could have shared with you some fascinating facts and some personal thoughts about the Israeli-Arab conflict. However, I will touch upon it only in passing. I prefer to devote most of my remarks to the broader picture of the region and its place in world events. I refer to the entire area between Pakistan and Morocco, which is predominantly Arab, predominantly Moslem, but includes many non-Arab and also significant non-Moslem minorities.
Why do I put aside Israel and its own immediate neighborhood? Because Israel and any problems related to it, in spite of what you might read or hear in the world media, is not the central issue, and has never been the central issue in the upheaval in the region.
Yes, there is a 100 year-old Israeli-Arab conflict, but it is not where the main show is.
The millions who died in the Iran-Iraq war had nothing to do with Israel.
The mass murder happening right now in Sudan, where the Arab Moslem regime is massacring its black Christian citizens, has nothing to do with Israel.
The frequent reports from Algeria about the murders of hundreds of civilian in one village or another by other Algerians have nothing to do with Israel.
Saddam Hussein did not invade Kuwait, endangered Saudi Arabia and butchered his own people because of Israel.
Egypt did not use poison gas against Yemen in the 60's because of Israel.
Assad the Father did not kill tens of thousands of his own citizens in one week in El Hamma in Syria because of Israel.
The Taliban control of Afghanistan and the civil war there had nothing to do with Israel.
The Libyan blowing up of the Pan-Am flight had nothing to do with Israel, and I could go on and on and on.
The root of the trouble is that this entire Moslem region is totally dysfunctional, by any standard of the word, and would have been so even if Israel had joined the Arab league and an independent Palestine had existed for 100 years.
The 22 member countries of the Arab league, from Mauritania to the Gulf States, have a total population of 300 millions, larger than the US and almost as large as the EU before its expansion.
They have a land area larger than either the US or all of Europe.
These 22 countries, with all their oil and natural resources, have a combined GDP smaller than that of Netherlands plus Belgium and equal to half of the GDP of California alone.
Within this meager GDP, the gaps between rich and poor are beyond belief and too many of the rich made their money not by succeeding in business, but by being corrupt rulers.
The social status of women is far below what it was in the Western World 150 years ago.
Human rights are below any reasonable standard, in spite of the grotesque fact that Libya was elected Chair of the UN Human Rights commission.
According to a report prepared by a committee of Arab intellectuals and published under the auspices of the U.N., the number of books translated by the entire Arab world is much smaller than what little Greece alone translates.
The total number of scientific publications of 300 million Arabs is less than that of 6 million Israelis.
Birth rates in the region are very high, increasing the poverty, the social gaps and the cultural decline.
And all of this is happening in a region, which only 30 years ago, was believed to be the next wealthy part of the world, and in a Moslem area, which developed, at some point in history, one of the most advanced cultures in the world.
It is fair to say that this creates an unprecedented breeding ground for cruel dictators, terror networks, fanaticism, incitement, suicide murders and general decline. It is also a fact that almost everybody in the region blames this situation on the United States, on Israel, on Western Civilization, on Judaism and Christianity, on anyone and anything, except themselves.
A word about the millions of decent, honest, good people who are either devout Moslems or are not very religious but grew up in Moslem families: They are double victims of an outside world, which now develops Islamophobia and of their own environment, which breaks their heart by being totally dysfunctional.
The problem is that the vast silent majority of these Moslems are not part of the terror and of the incitement, but they also do not stand up against it. They become accomplices, by omission, and this applies to political leaders, intellectuals, business people and many others. Many of them can certainly tell right from wrong, but are afraid to express their views.
The events of the last few years have amplified four issues, which have always existed, but have never been as rampant as in the present upheaval in the region.
A few more years may pass before everybody acknowledges that it is a World War, but we are already well into it.
These are the four main pillars of the current World Conflict, or perhaps we should already refer to it as "the undeclared World War III":
1. The first element is the suicide murder.
Suicide murders are not a new invention but they have been made popular, if I may use this _expression, only lately. Even after September 11, it seems that most of the Western World does not yet understand this weapon. It is a very potent psychological weapon. Its real direct impact is relatively minor. The total number of casualties from hundreds of suicide murders within Israel in the last three years is much smaller than those due to car accidents. September 11 was quantitatively much less lethal than many earthquakes More people die from AIDS in one day in Africa than all the Russians who died in the hands of Chechnya-based Moslem suicide murderers since that conflict started. Saddam killed every month more people than all those who died from suicide murders since the Coalition occupation of Iraq.
So what is all the fuss about suicide killings? It creates headlines. It is spectacular. It is frightening. It is a very cruel death with bodies dismembered and horrible severe lifelong injuries to many of the wounded. It is always shown on television in great detail. One such murder, with the help of hysterical media coverage, can destroy the tourism industry of a country for quite a while, as it did in Bali and in Turkey.
But the real fear comes from the undisputed fact that no defense and no preventive measures can succeed against a determined suicide murderer. This has not yet penetrated the thinking of the Western World. The U.S. and Europe are constantly improving their defense against the last murder, not the next one. We may arrange for the best airport security in the world. But if you want to murder by suicide, you do not have to board a plane in order to explode yourself and kill many people. Who could stop a suicide murder in the midst of the crowded line waiting to be checked by the airport metal detector? How about the lines to the check-in counters in a busy travel period? Put a metal detector in front of every train station in Spain and the terrorists will get the buses. Protect the buses and they will explode in movie theaters, concert halls, supermarkets, shopping malls, schools and hospitals. Put guards in front of every concert hall and there will always be a line of people to be checked by the guards and this line will be the target, not to speak of killing the guards themselves. You can somewhat reduce your vulnerability by preventive and defensive measures and by strict border controls but not eliminate it and definitely not win the war in a defensive way. And it is a war!
What is behind the suicide murders? Money, power and cold-blooded murderous incitement, nothing else. It has nothing to do with true fanatic religious beliefs. No Moslem preacher has ever blown himself up. No son of an Arab politician or religious leader has ever blown himself.
No relative of anyone influential has done it. Wouldn't you expect some of the religious leaders to do it themselves, or to talk their sons into doing it, if this is truly a supreme act of religious fervor? Aren't they interested in the benefits of going to Heaven? Instead, they send outcast women, naïve children, retarded people and young incited hotheads. They promise them the delights, mostly sexual, of the next world, and pay their families handsomely after the supreme act is performed and enough innocent people are dead.
Suicide murders also have nothing to do with poverty and despair.
The poorest region in the world, by far, is Africa. It never happens there. There are numerous desperate people in the world, in different cultures, countries and continents. Desperation does not provide anyone with explosives, reconnaissance and transportation. There was certainly more despair in Saddam's Iraq than in Paul Bremmer's Iraq, and no one exploded himself. A suicide murder is simply a horrible, vicious weapon of cruel, inhuman, cynical, well-funded terrorists, with no regard to human life, including the life of their fellow countrymen, but with very high regard to their own affluent well-being and their hunger for power.
The only way to fight this new "popular" weapon is identical to the only way in which you fight organized crime or pirates on the high seas: the offensive way.
Like in the case of organized crime, it is crucial that the forces on the offensive be united and it is crucial to reach the top of the crime pyramid. You cannot eliminate organized crime by arresting the little drug dealer in the street corner. You must go after the head of the "Family".
If part of the public supports it, others tolerate it, many are afraid of it and some try to explain it away by poverty or by a miserable childhood, organized crime will thrive and so will terrorism.
The United States understands this now, after September 11.Russiais beginning to understand it. Turkey understands it well. I am very much afraid that most of Europe still does not understand it. Unfortunately, it seems that Europe will understand it only after suicide murders arrive in Europe in a big way. In my humble opinion, this will definitely happen. The Spanish trains and the Istanbul bombings are only the beginning. The unity of the Civilized World in fighting this horror is absolutely indispensable. Until Europe wakes up, this unity will not be achieved.
2. The second ingredient is words, more precisely lies.
Words can be lethal. They kill people. It is often said that politicians, diplomats and perhaps also lawyers and business people must sometimes lie, as part of their professional life. But the norms of politics and diplomacy are childish, in comparison with the level of incitement and total absolute deliberate fabrications, which have reached new heights in the region we are talking about. An incredible number of people in the Arab world believe that September 11 never happened, or was an American provocation or, even better, a Jewish plot.
You all remember the Iraqi Minister of Information, Mr. Mouhamad Said al-Sahaf and his press conferences when the US forces were already inside Baghdad. Disinformation at time of war is an accepted tactic. But to stand, day after day, and to make such preposterous statements, known to everybody to be lies, without even being ridiculed in your own milieu, can only happen in this region. Mr. Sahaf eventually became a popular icon as a court jester, but this did not stop some allegedly respectable newspapers from giving him equal time. It also does not prevent the Western press from giving credence, every day, even now, to similar liars.
After all, if you want to be an anti-Semite, there are subtle ways of doing it. You do not have to claim that the holocaust never happened, and that the Jewish temple in Jerusalem never existed. But millions of Moslems are told by their leaders that this is the case. When these same leaders make other statements, the Western media report them as if they could be true.
It is a daily occurrence that the same people, who finance, arm and dispatch suicide murderers, condemn the act in English in front of western TV cameras, talking to a world audience, which even partly believes them. It is a daily routine to hear the same leader making opposite statements in Arabic to his people and in English to the rest of the world. Incitement by Arab TV, accompanied by horror pictures of mutilated bodies, has become a powerful weapon of those who lie, distort and want to destroy everything.
Little children are raised on deep hatred and on admiration of so-called martyrs, and the Western World does not notice it because its own TV sets are mostly tuned to soap operas and game shows. I recommend to you, even though most of you do not understand Arabic, to watch Al Jazeera, from time to time. You will not believe your own eyes.
But words also work in other ways, more subtle. A demonstration inBerlin, carrying banners supporting Saddam's regime and featuring three-year old babies dressed as suicide murderers, is defined by the press and by political leaders as a "peace monstration". You may support or oppose the Iraq war, but to refer to fans of Saddam, Arafat or Bin Laden as peace activists is a bit too much. A woman walks into an Israeli restaurant in mid-day, eats, observes families with old people and children eating their lunch in the adjacent tables and pays the bill. She then blows herself up, killing 20 people, including many children, with heads and arms rolling around in the restaurant. She is called "martyr" by several Arab leaders and "activist" by the European press. Dignitaries condemn the act but visit her bereaved family and the money flows.
There is a new game in town: The actual murderer is called "the military wing", the one who pays him, equips him and sends him is now called "the political wing" and the head of the operation is called the "spiritual leader". There are numerous other examples of such Orwellian nomenclature, used every day not only by terror chiefs but also by Western media. These words are much more dangerous than many people realize. They provide an emotional infrastructure for atrocities. It was Joseph Goebels who said that if you repeat a lie often enough, people will believe it. He is now being outperformed by his successors.
3. The third aspect is money.
Huge amounts of money, which could have solved many social problems in this dysfunctional part of the world, are channeled into three concentric spheres supporting death and murder.
In the inner circle are the terrorists themselves. The money funds their travel, explosives, hideouts and permanent search for soft vulnerable targets. The inner circles are primarily financed by terrorist states like Iran and Syria, until recently also by Iraq and Libya and earlier also by some of the Communist regimes. These states, as well as the Palestinian Authority, are the safe havens of the wholesale murder vendors.
They are surrounded by a second wider circle of direct supporters, planners, commanders, preachers, all of whom make a living, usually a very comfortable living, by serving as terror infrastructure.
Finally, we find the third circle of so-called religious, educational and welfare organizations, which actually do some good, feed the hungry and provide some schooling, but brainwash a new generation with hatred, lies and ignorance. This circle operates mostly through mosques, madrasas and other religious establishments but also through inciting electronic and printed media. It is this circle that makes sure that women remain inferior, that democracy is unthinkable and that exposure to the outside world is minimal. It is also that circle that leads the way in blaming every-body outside the Moslem world, for the miseries of the region. The outer circle is largely financed by Saudi Arabia, but also by donations from certain Moslem communities in the United States and Europe and, to a smaller extent, by donations of European Governments to various NGO's and by certain United Nations organizations, whose goals may be noble, but they are infested and exploited by agents of the outer circle. The Saudi regime, of course, will be the next victim of major terror, when the inner circle will explode into the outer circle. The Saudis are beginning to understand it, but they fight the inner circles, while still financing the infrastructure at the outer circle.
Figuratively speaking, this outer circle is the guardian, which makes sure that the people look and listen inwards to the inner circle of terror and incitement, rather than to the world outside. Some parts of this same outer circle actually operate as a result of fear from, or blackmail by, the inner circles. The horrifying added factor is the high birth rate. Half of the population of the Arab world is under the age of 20, the most receptive age to incitement, guaranteeing two more generations of blind hatred.
Some of the leaders of these various circles live very comfortably on their loot. You meet their children in the best private schools in Europe, not in the training camps of suicide murderers. The Jihad "soldiers" join packaged death tours to Iraq and other hotspots, while some of their leaders ski in Switzerland. Mrs. Arafat, who lives in Paris with her daughter, receives tens of thousands of dollars per month from the allegedly bankrupt Palestinian Authority, while a typical local ringleader of the Al-Aksa brigade, reporting to Arafat, receives only a cash payment of a couple of hundred dollars, for performing murders at the retail level.
4. The fourth element of the current world conflict is the total breaking of all laws.
The civilized world believes in democracy, the rule of law, including international law, human rights, free speech and free press, among other liberties. There are naïve old-fashioned habits such as respecting religious sites and symbols, not using ambulances and hospitals for acts of war, avoiding the mutilation of dead bodies and not using children as human shields or human bombs. Never in history, not even in the Nazi period, was there such total disregard of all of the above as we observe now. Every student of political science debates how you prevent an anti-democratic force from winning a democratic election and abolishing democracy. Other aspects of a civilized society must also have limitations. Can a policeman open fire on someone trying to kill him? Can a government listen to phone conversations of terrorists and drug dealers? Does free speech protects you when you shout "fire" in a crowded theater? Should there be death penalty, for deliberate multiple murders? These are the old-fashioned dilemmas. But now we have an entire new set.
Do you raid a mosque, which serves as a terrorist ammunition storage? Do you return fire, if you are attacked from a hospital? Do you storm a church taken over by terrorists who took the priests hostages? Do you search every ambulance after a few suicide murderers use ambulances to reach their targets? Do you strip every woman because one pretended to be pregnant and carried a suicide bomb on her belly? Do you shoot back at someone trying to kill you, standing deliberately behind a group of children? Do you raid terrorist headquarters, hidden in a mental hospital? Do you shoot an arch-murderer who deliberately moves from one location to another, always surrounded by children? All of these happen daily in Iraq and in the Palestinian areas. What do you do? Well, you do not want to face the dilemma. But it cannot be avoided.
Suppose, for the sake of discussion, that someone would openly stay in a well-known address in Teheran, hosted by the Iranian Government and financed by it, executing one atrocity after another in Spain or in France, killing hundreds of innocent people, accepting responsibility for the crimes, promising in public TV interviews to do more of the same, while the Government of Iran issues public condemnations of his acts but continues to host him, invite him to official functions and treat him as a great dignitary. I leave it to you as homework to figure out what Spain or France would have done, in such a situation.
The problem is that the civilized world is still having illusions about the rule of law in a totally lawless environment. It is trying to play ice hockey by sending a ballerina ice-skater into the rink or to knock out a heavyweight boxer by a chess player. In the same way that no country has a law against cannibals eating its prime minister, because such an act is unthinkable, international law does not address killers shooting from hospitals, mosques and ambulances, while being protected by their Government or society. International law does not know how to handle someone who sends children to throw stones, stands behind them and shoots with immunity and cannot be arrested because he is sheltered by a Government. International law does not know how to deal with a leader of murderers who is royally and comfortably hosted by a country, which pretends to condemn his acts or just claims to be too weak to arrest him.
The amazing thing is that all of these crooks demand protection under international law, and define all those who attack them as "war criminals," with some Western media repeating the allegations.
The good news is that all of this is temporary, because the evolution of international law has always adapted itself to reality. The punishment for suicide murder should be death or arrest before the murder, not during and not after. After every world war, the rules of international law have changed, and the same will happen after the present one. But during the twilight zone, a lot of harm can be done.
The picture I described here is not pretty. What can we do about it? In the short run, only fight and win. In the long run - only educate the next generation and open it to the world. The inner circles can and must be destroyed by force.
The outer circle cannot be eliminated by force. Here we need financial starvation of the organizing elite, more power to women, more education, counter propaganda, boycott whenever feasible and access to Western media, internet and the international scene. Above all, we need a total absolute unity and determination of the civilized world against all three circles of evil
Allow me, for a moment, to depart from my alleged role as a taxi driver and return to science. When you have a malignant tumor, you may remove the tumor itself surgically. You may also starve it by preventing new blood from reaching it from other parts of the body, thereby preventing new "supplies" from expanding the tumor. If you want to be sure, it is best to do both.
But before you fight and win, by force or otherwise, you have to realize that you are in a war, and this may takeEuropea few more years.
In order to win, it is necessary to first eliminate the terrorist regimes, so that no Government in the world will serve as a safe haven for these people.
I do not want to comment here on whether the American-led attack on Iraq was justified from the point of view of weapons of mass destruction or any other pre-war argument, but I can look at the post-war map of Western Asia. Now that Afghanistan, Iraq and Libya are out, two and a half terrorist states remain: Iran, Syria an Lebanon, the latter being a Syrian colony. Perhaps Sudan should be added to the list. As a result of the conquest of Afghanistan and Iraq, both Iran and Syria are now totally surrounded by territories unfriendly to them. Iran is encircled by Afghanistan, by the Gulf States, Iraq and the Moslem republics of the former Soviet Union. Syria is surrounded by Turkey, Iraq, Jordan and Israel. This is a significant strategic change and it applies strong pressure on the terrorist countries. It is not surprising that Iran is so active in trying to incite a Shiite uprising in Iraq. I do not know if the American plan was actually to encircle both Iran and Syria, but that is the resulting situation.
In my humble opinion, the number one danger to the world today is Iran and its regime. It definitely has ambitions to rule vast areas and to expand in all directions. It has an ideology, which claims supremacy over Western culture. It is ruthless. It has proven that it can execute elaborate terrorist acts without leaving too many traces, using Iranian Embassies. It is clearly trying to develop nuclear weapons. Its so-called moderates and conservatives play their own virtuoso version of the "good-cop versus bad-cop" game Iran sponsors Syrian terrorism, it is certainly behind much of the action in Iraq, it is fully funding the Hezbollah and, through it, the Palestinian Hamas and Islamic Jihad, it performed acts of terror at least in Europe and in South America and probably also in Uzbekistan and Saudi Arabia and it truly leads a multi-national terror consortium, which includes, as minor players, Syria, Lebanon and certain Shiite elements in Iraq. Nevertheless, most European countries still trade with Iran, try to appease it and refuse to read the clear signals.
In order to win the war it is also necessary to dry the financial resources of the terror conglomerate. It is pointless to try to understand the subtle differences between the Sunni terror of Al Qaeda and Hamas and the Shiite terror of Hezbollah, Sadr and other Iranian inspired enterprises. When it serves their business needs, all of them collaborate beautifully.
It is crucial to stop Saudi and other financial support of the outer circle, which is the fertile breeding ground of terror. It is important to monitor all donations from the Western World to Islamic organizations, to monitor the finances of international relief organizations and to react with forceful economic measures to any small sign of financial aid to any of the three circles of terrorism.
It is also important to act decisively against the campaign of lies and fabrications and to monitor those Western media who collaborate with it out of naivety, financial interests or ignorance.
Above all, never surrender to terror. No one will ever know whether the recent elections in Spain would have yielded a different result, if not for the train bombings a few days earlier. But it really does not matter. What matters is that the terrorists believe that they caused the result and that they won by driving Spain out of Iraq. The Spanish story will surely end up being extremely costly to other European countries, including France, who is now expelling inciting preachers and forbidding veils and including others who sent troops to Iraq. In the long run, Spain itself will pay even more.
Is the solution a democratic Arab world?
If by democracy we mean free elections but also free press, free speech, a functioning judicial system, civil liberties, equality to women, free international travel, exposure to international media and ideas, laws against racial incitement and against defamation, and avoidance of lawless behavior regarding hospitals, places of worship and children, then yes, democracy is the solution.
If democracy is just free elections, it is likely that the most fanatic regime will be elected, the one whose incitement and fabrications are the most inflammatory. We have seen it already in Algeria, and to a certain extent, in Turkey. It will happen again, if the ground is not prepared very carefully. On the other hand, a certain transition democracy, as in Jordan, may be a better temporary solution, paving the way for the real thing, perhaps in the same way that an immediate sudden democracy did not work in Russia and would not have worked in China.
I have no doubt that the civilized world will prevail. But the longer it takes us to understand the new landscape of this war, the more costly and painful the victory will be. Europe, more than any other region, is the key. Its understandable recoil from wars, following the horrors of World War II, may cost thousands of additional innocent lives, before the tide will turn."
Copyright 2003-2006 Azlan Adnan Legal Notice
Friday, December 16, 2005
Vincent
The Starry Night
June 1889 (Oil on Canvas, 72 x 92 cm (29 x 36 1/4 in); The Museum of Modern Art, New York
The Starry Night was completed near the mental asylum of Saint-Remy, 13 months before Van Gogh's death at the age of 37. Vincent's mental instability is legend. He attempted to take Paul Gauguin's life and later committed himself to several asylums in hopes of an unrealized cure.
Van Gogh painted furiously and The Starry Night vibrates with rockets of burning yellow while planets gyrate like cartwheels. The hills quake and heave, yet the cosmic gold fireworks that swirl against the blue sky are somehow restful.
This painting is probably the most popular of Vincent's works.Artist: Don McLean
Song: Vincent (Starry, Starry Night)
Starry, starry night.
Paint your palette blue and grey,
Look out on a summer's day,
With eyes that know the darkness in my soul.
Shadows on the hills,
Sketch the trees and the daffodils,
Catch the breeze and the winter chills,
In colors on the snowy linen land.
Now I understand what you tried to say to me,
How you suffered for your sanity,
How you tried to set them free.
They would not listen, they did not know how.
Perhaps they'll listen now.
Starry, starry night.
Flaming flowers that brightly blaze,
Swirling clouds in violet haze,
Reflect in Vincent's eyes of china blue.
Colors changing hue, morning field of amber grain,
Weathered faces lined in pain,
Are soothed beneath the artist's loving hand.
Now I understand what you tried to say to me,
How you suffered for your sanity,
How you tried to set them free.
They would not listen, they did not know how.
Perhaps they'll listen now.
For they could not love you,
But still your love was true.
And when no hope was left in sight
On that starry, starry night,
You took your life, as lovers often do.
But I could have told you, Vincent,
This world was never meant for one
As beautiful as you.
Starry, starry night.
Portraits hung in empty halls,
Frameless head on nameless walls,
With eyes that watch the world and can't forget.
Like the strangers that you've met,
The ragged men in the ragged clothes,
The silver thorn of bloody rose,
Lie crushed and broken on the virgin snow.
Now I think I know what you tried to say to me,
How you suffered for your sanity,
How you tried to set them free.
They would not listen, they're not listening still.
Perhaps they never will...
Sunday, December 11, 2005
The End
One night a guy and a girl were driving home from the movies. The boy sensed there was something wrong because of the painful silence they shared between them that night. The girl then asked the boy to pull over because she wanted to talk. She told him that her feelings had changed and that it was time to move on.
A silent tear slid down his cheek as he slowly reached into his pocket and passed her a folded note.
At that moment, a drunk driver was speeding down that very same street. He swerved right into the driver's seat, killing the boy. Miraculously, the girl survived. Remembering the note, she pulled it out and read it.
"Without your love, I would die."
Copyright 2003-2005 Azlan Adnan Legal Notice
A silent tear slid down his cheek as he slowly reached into his pocket and passed her a folded note.
At that moment, a drunk driver was speeding down that very same street. He swerved right into the driver's seat, killing the boy. Miraculously, the girl survived. Remembering the note, she pulled it out and read it.
"Without your love, I would die."
Copyright 2003-2005 Azlan Adnan Legal Notice
Is this your mobile phone number?
1) key-in the first 3 digits of your handphone number (not the 01x number) into a calculator, OR
1a) IF YOU HAVE AN 8-DIGIT HANDPHONE NUMBER, key-in the first 4 digits of your handphone number into a calculator (Singaporeans, listen up!)
2) multiply by 80
3) add 1
4) multiply by 250
5) plus last four digits of your phone number
6) plus last four digits of your phone number again
7) minus 250
8) divide by 2 at last
Is it your mobile phone number?
AMAZING ISN'T IT?
Copyright 2003-2005 Azlan Adnan Legal Notice
1a) IF YOU HAVE AN 8-DIGIT HANDPHONE NUMBER, key-in the first 4 digits of your handphone number into a calculator (Singaporeans, listen up!)
2) multiply by 80
3) add 1
4) multiply by 250
5) plus last four digits of your phone number
6) plus last four digits of your phone number again
7) minus 250
8) divide by 2 at last
Is it your mobile phone number?
AMAZING ISN'T IT?
Copyright 2003-2005 Azlan Adnan Legal Notice
A depressed man
There's a man sitting at a bar just looking at his drink. He stays like that for half an hour. Then, a big trouble-making truck driver steps next to him, takes the drink from the guy, and just drinks it all down.
The poor man starts crying. The truck driver says, "Come on man, I was just joking. Here, I'll buy you another drink. I just can't stand seeing a man crying."
"No, it's not that. This day is the worst of my life. First, I overslept this morning, and I'm late to my office. My boss, in a fit of rage, fires me. When I leave the building to my car, I find out it was stolen. The police say they can do nothing. I get a taxi to return home and when I leave my office, I remember I had left my wallet and credit cards there. The cab driver just drives away. I go home and when I get there, I find my wife in bed with the gardener. I leave home and come to this bar. And when I was thinking about putting an end to my life, and steeling myself to finally do it, you show up and drink my poison."
Copyright 2003-2005 Azlan Adnan Legal Notice
The poor man starts crying. The truck driver says, "Come on man, I was just joking. Here, I'll buy you another drink. I just can't stand seeing a man crying."
"No, it's not that. This day is the worst of my life. First, I overslept this morning, and I'm late to my office. My boss, in a fit of rage, fires me. When I leave the building to my car, I find out it was stolen. The police say they can do nothing. I get a taxi to return home and when I leave my office, I remember I had left my wallet and credit cards there. The cab driver just drives away. I go home and when I get there, I find my wife in bed with the gardener. I leave home and come to this bar. And when I was thinking about putting an end to my life, and steeling myself to finally do it, you show up and drink my poison."
Copyright 2003-2005 Azlan Adnan Legal Notice
Friday, December 09, 2005
Beware of these Women!
ANY emails you send or receive from the person you see in the photo, DO NOT go to, or come from that person. They come from another person, A SCAMMER who uses photos such as these to "entice" men into sending money. The scam itself is the: TRANSLATION/CONNECTION scam in which the girl falls in love with you, very quickly, with 3 or 4 MOSTLY PRE-WRITTEN emails, each with a sexy/pretty photo, that actually come from the scammer, pretending to be the person you see, THEN after you're "hooked," YOU WILL RECEIVE AN EMAIL SAYING THAT HER ACCOUNT IS OVER and to continue to contact her, you will have to PAY HER AGENCY. THIS SCAM is popular amongst RUSSIAN and UKRANIAN scammers that use escorts pics to perpetrate the scam. THERE ARE MANY MORE JUST LIKE IT ON THIS SITE AND OTHER SITES. WARNING: DO NOT SEND MONEY, OR YOU WILL BE TAKEN. If you do send money, you will never hear from the "girl" anyway because the scammer will have already gotten what he/she came for, YOUR MONEY. Or, the scammer WILL keep responding, keep charging you the small fee for letters, then initiate the VISA/TRAVEL scam, which will COST YOU HUNDREDS OR THOUSANDS to have the girl come to you, or you to her. IN EITHER CASE, YOU WILL NEVER REALLY SEE THE GIRL IN REAL LIFE.
REFER TO THIS SITE FOR SUBSTANTIATION:
http://www.anti-scam.org/scenario.html
Copyright 2003-2005 Azlan Adnan Legal Notice
Thursday, December 08, 2005
Latest Credit Card Scam/Ploy
WARNING... CREDIT CARD SCAM. PLEASE READ CAREFULLY.
This information is worth reading.
By understanding how the VISA & MasterCard Telephone Credit Card Scam works, you'll be better prepared to protect yourself.
One of our employees was called on Wednesday from "VISA", and I was called on Thursday from "MasterCard".
The scam works like this:
Person calling says, "This is (name), and I'm calling from the Security and Fraud Department at VISA. My Badge number is 12460. Your card has been flagged for an unusual purchase pattern, and I'm calling to verify.
This would be on your VISA card which was issued by (name of bank). Did you purchase an Anti-Telemarketing Device for $497.99 from a Marketing company based in Arizona?"
When you say "No", the caller continues with, "Then we will be issuing a credit to your account. This is a company we have been watching and the charges range from $297 to $497, just under the $500 purchase pattern that flags most cards. Before your next statement, the credit will be sent to (gives you your address), is that correct?"
"You say yes". The caller continues - "I will be starting a Fraud investigation. If you have any questions, you should call the 1- 800 number listed on the back of your card (1-800-VISA) and ask for Security. You will need to refer to this Control Number. The caller then gives you a 6 digit number. "Do you need me to read it again?"
Here's the IMPORTANT part on how the scam works. The caller then says, "I need to verify you are in possession of your card". He/She will ask you to "turn your card over and look for some numbers". There are 7 numbers; the first 4 are part of your card number, the next 3 are the security Numbers' that verify you are the possessor of the card.
These are the numbers you sometimes use to make Internet purchases to prove you have the card.
(NOTE: The callers will not ask for your card number; they already have it. What they need however, are the Security Numbers on the back of the card. Don't fall for it.)
The caller will ask you to read the 3 numbers to him. After you tell the caller the 3 numbers, he'll say, "That is correct, I just needed to verify that the card has not been lost or stolen, and that you still have your card. Do you have any other questions?"
After you say No, the caller then thanks you and states, "Don't hesitate to call back if you do", and hangs up. You actually say very little, and they never ask for or tell you the Card number.
But after we were called on Wednesday, we called back within 20 minutes to ask a question. Are we glad we did!
The REAL VISA Security Department told us it was a scam and in the last 15 minutes a new purchase of $497.99 was charged to our card. Long story made short - we made a real fraud report and closed the VISA account.
VISA is reissuing us a new number.
What the scammers want is the 3-digit PIN number on the back of the card. Don't give it to them. Instead, tell them you'll call VISA or Master card directly for verification of their conversation. The real VISA told us that they will never ask for anything on the card as they already know the information since they issued the card!
If you give the scammers your 3 Digit PIN Number, you think you're receiving a credit. However, by the time you get your statement you'll see charges for purchases you didn't make, and by then it's almost to late and/or more difficult to actually file a fraud report.
What makes this more remarkable is that on Thursday, I got a call from a "Jason Richardson of Master Card" with a word-for-word repeat of the VISA scam. This time I didn't let him finish. I hung up! We filed a police report, as instructed by VISA. The police said they are taking several of these reports daily! They also urged us to tell everybody we know that this scam is happening. Please pass this on to all your family and friends. By informing each other, we protect each other."
Copyright 2003-2005 Azlan Adnan Legal Notice
This information is worth reading.
By understanding how the VISA & MasterCard Telephone Credit Card Scam works, you'll be better prepared to protect yourself.
One of our employees was called on Wednesday from "VISA", and I was called on Thursday from "MasterCard".
The scam works like this:
Person calling says, "This is (name), and I'm calling from the Security and Fraud Department at VISA. My Badge number is 12460. Your card has been flagged for an unusual purchase pattern, and I'm calling to verify.
This would be on your VISA card which was issued by (name of bank). Did you purchase an Anti-Telemarketing Device for $497.99 from a Marketing company based in Arizona?"
When you say "No", the caller continues with, "Then we will be issuing a credit to your account. This is a company we have been watching and the charges range from $297 to $497, just under the $500 purchase pattern that flags most cards. Before your next statement, the credit will be sent to (gives you your address), is that correct?"
"You say yes". The caller continues - "I will be starting a Fraud investigation. If you have any questions, you should call the 1- 800 number listed on the back of your card (1-800-VISA) and ask for Security. You will need to refer to this Control Number. The caller then gives you a 6 digit number. "Do you need me to read it again?"
Here's the IMPORTANT part on how the scam works. The caller then says, "I need to verify you are in possession of your card". He/She will ask you to "turn your card over and look for some numbers". There are 7 numbers; the first 4 are part of your card number, the next 3 are the security Numbers' that verify you are the possessor of the card.
These are the numbers you sometimes use to make Internet purchases to prove you have the card.
(NOTE: The callers will not ask for your card number; they already have it. What they need however, are the Security Numbers on the back of the card. Don't fall for it.)
The caller will ask you to read the 3 numbers to him. After you tell the caller the 3 numbers, he'll say, "That is correct, I just needed to verify that the card has not been lost or stolen, and that you still have your card. Do you have any other questions?"
After you say No, the caller then thanks you and states, "Don't hesitate to call back if you do", and hangs up. You actually say very little, and they never ask for or tell you the Card number.
But after we were called on Wednesday, we called back within 20 minutes to ask a question. Are we glad we did!
The REAL VISA Security Department told us it was a scam and in the last 15 minutes a new purchase of $497.99 was charged to our card. Long story made short - we made a real fraud report and closed the VISA account.
VISA is reissuing us a new number.
What the scammers want is the 3-digit PIN number on the back of the card. Don't give it to them. Instead, tell them you'll call VISA or Master card directly for verification of their conversation. The real VISA told us that they will never ask for anything on the card as they already know the information since they issued the card!
If you give the scammers your 3 Digit PIN Number, you think you're receiving a credit. However, by the time you get your statement you'll see charges for purchases you didn't make, and by then it's almost to late and/or more difficult to actually file a fraud report.
What makes this more remarkable is that on Thursday, I got a call from a "Jason Richardson of Master Card" with a word-for-word repeat of the VISA scam. This time I didn't let him finish. I hung up! We filed a police report, as instructed by VISA. The police said they are taking several of these reports daily! They also urged us to tell everybody we know that this scam is happening. Please pass this on to all your family and friends. By informing each other, we protect each other."
Copyright 2003-2005 Azlan Adnan Legal Notice
Wednesday, December 07, 2005
An Irish Wish for You!
May there always be work for your hands to do;
May your purse always hold a coin or two;
May the sun always shine on your windowpane;
May a rainbow be certain to follow each rain;
May the hand of a friend always be near you;
May God fill your heart with gladness to cheer you.
Copyright 2003-2005 Azlan Adnan Legal Notice
May your purse always hold a coin or two;
May the sun always shine on your windowpane;
May a rainbow be certain to follow each rain;
May the hand of a friend always be near you;
May God fill your heart with gladness to cheer you.
Copyright 2003-2005 Azlan Adnan Legal Notice
Tuesday, December 06, 2005
Chicken Surprise!
A couple go for a meal at a Chinese restaurant and order the Chicken Surprise. The waiter brings the meal, served in a lidded cast iron pot. Just as the wife is about to serve herself, the lid of the pot rises slightly and she briefly sees two beady little eyes looking around before the lid slams back down.
"Good grief, did you see that?" she asks her husband. He didn't, so she asks him to look in the pot. He reaches for it and again the lid rises, and he sees two beady little eyes looking around before it slams down.
Rather perturbed, he calls the waiter over, explains what is happening, and demands an explanation. "Please sir," says the waiter, "What you order?" The husband replies, "Chicken Surprise."
"Ah... so solly," says the waiter, "I bring you Peeking Duck!"
Copyright 2003-2005 Azlan Adnan Legal Notice
"Good grief, did you see that?" she asks her husband. He didn't, so she asks him to look in the pot. He reaches for it and again the lid rises, and he sees two beady little eyes looking around before it slams down.
Rather perturbed, he calls the waiter over, explains what is happening, and demands an explanation. "Please sir," says the waiter, "What you order?" The husband replies, "Chicken Surprise."
"Ah... so solly," says the waiter, "I bring you Peeking Duck!"
Copyright 2003-2005 Azlan Adnan Legal Notice
Ah Beng Jokes
Act 1)
Ah Beng calls the telephone operator.
Ah Beng: "Could you please tell me the time difference between Singapore and New York?"
Operator: "Just a minute..."
Ah Beng: "Thank you."
Ah Beng got his answer and cut off the line.
Act 2)
At a bar in New York, the man sat next to Ah Beng told the bartender, "JOHNNIE WALKER, SINGLE" and his companion said, "JACK DANIELS, SINGLE."
The bartender turned to Ah Beng and asked, "AND YOU, SIR?"
Ah Beng replied: "Tan Ah Beng, MARRIED."
Act 3)
After completing a jigsaw puzzle he'd been working on for quite sometime, Ah Beng proudly shows off the finished puzzle to a friend. "It took me only 5 MONTHS to do it," Ah Beng said. "FIVE MONTHS? Why did you take so long?" the friend asked. Ah Beng replied, "No, it is not long at all, look at the box, it says it is for 4 to 7 years."
Act 4)
Ah Beng had just bought a new computer and was using it when he encountered some problems. After a few attempts, he decided to use the 'Help' command. Soon after, he became very irritated and called the computer shop for support. Ah Beng : "I pressed the 'F1' key for help... but it's been over half an hour & still nobody has come to help me..."
Act 5)
Ah Beng with two red ears went to his doctor. The doctor asked him what had happened to his ears and he answered, " I was ironing a shirt and the phone ring lor- but instead of picking up the phone, I accidentally picked up the iron and stuck it to my ear. So Kena lor!" "Oh Dear!" the doctor exclaimed in disbelief. "But, what happened to the other ear?" Ah Beng: "That stupid fellow called back again loh!"
Act 6)
Why did Ah Beng go to a movie with his 18 friends? Because according to the advertisement, below 18 is not allowed to go in.
Copyright 2003-2005 Azlan Adnan Legal Notice
Ah Beng calls the telephone operator.
Ah Beng: "Could you please tell me the time difference between Singapore and New York?"
Operator: "Just a minute..."
Ah Beng: "Thank you."
Ah Beng got his answer and cut off the line.
Act 2)
At a bar in New York, the man sat next to Ah Beng told the bartender, "JOHNNIE WALKER, SINGLE" and his companion said, "JACK DANIELS, SINGLE."
The bartender turned to Ah Beng and asked, "AND YOU, SIR?"
Ah Beng replied: "Tan Ah Beng, MARRIED."
Act 3)
After completing a jigsaw puzzle he'd been working on for quite sometime, Ah Beng proudly shows off the finished puzzle to a friend. "It took me only 5 MONTHS to do it," Ah Beng said. "FIVE MONTHS? Why did you take so long?" the friend asked. Ah Beng replied, "No, it is not long at all, look at the box, it says it is for 4 to 7 years."
Act 4)
Ah Beng had just bought a new computer and was using it when he encountered some problems. After a few attempts, he decided to use the 'Help' command. Soon after, he became very irritated and called the computer shop for support. Ah Beng : "I pressed the 'F1' key for help... but it's been over half an hour & still nobody has come to help me..."
Act 5)
Ah Beng with two red ears went to his doctor. The doctor asked him what had happened to his ears and he answered, " I was ironing a shirt and the phone ring lor- but instead of picking up the phone, I accidentally picked up the iron and stuck it to my ear. So Kena lor!" "Oh Dear!" the doctor exclaimed in disbelief. "But, what happened to the other ear?" Ah Beng: "That stupid fellow called back again loh!"
Act 6)
Why did Ah Beng go to a movie with his 18 friends? Because according to the advertisement, below 18 is not allowed to go in.
Copyright 2003-2005 Azlan Adnan Legal Notice
Largest in the animal kingdom
Just for the record, in case you were wondering, unless someone can show me a photograph of a whale's penis.
Copyright 2003-2005 Azlan Adnan Legal Notice
Monday, December 05, 2005
The perfect man
The perfect man loves you for you and not just one tiny part.
The perfect man would sacrifice everything for you.
The perfect man isn't afraid to tell you the truth.
The perfect man is kind, sweet, funny, and loving.
The perfect man can make you crumble with one glance.
The perfect man can make you feel unlike you've ever felt before.
The perfect man knows he's perfect, but won't ever admit it.
The perfect man has a smile that lights up a room.
The perfect man will admit when he's wrong.
The perfect man won't admit when he's right.
The perfect man would never say anything that makes you feel like less of a person.
The perfect man has his beliefs, but would never force them on you.
The perfect man will sit with you when you don't feel like dancing.
The perfect man will know when to take your hand.
The perfect man will know when he loves you but won't tell you until he's sure he means it.
The perfect man will make you want to be a better person.
The perfect man does not exist.
Copyright 2003-2005 Azlan Adnan Legal Notice
The perfect man would sacrifice everything for you.
The perfect man isn't afraid to tell you the truth.
The perfect man is kind, sweet, funny, and loving.
The perfect man can make you crumble with one glance.
The perfect man can make you feel unlike you've ever felt before.
The perfect man knows he's perfect, but won't ever admit it.
The perfect man has a smile that lights up a room.
The perfect man will admit when he's wrong.
The perfect man won't admit when he's right.
The perfect man would never say anything that makes you feel like less of a person.
The perfect man has his beliefs, but would never force them on you.
The perfect man will sit with you when you don't feel like dancing.
The perfect man will know when to take your hand.
The perfect man will know when he loves you but won't tell you until he's sure he means it.
The perfect man will make you want to be a better person.
The perfect man does not exist.
Copyright 2003-2005 Azlan Adnan Legal Notice
Sunday, December 04, 2005
I love you
= "gihigugma tikaw" (Bisaya)
= "obicham te" (Bulgarian)
= "ngor oi lay" (Cantonese)
= "miluji te" (Czech)
= "Ik hou van jou" (Dutch)
= "ana bahebak kawry" (Egyptian)
= "I love you" (English)
= "mita kuuluu" (Finnish/Suomi)
= "je t'aime" (French)
= "Ich liebe dich" (German)
= "szeretlek" (Hungarian)
= "ti amor" (Italian)
= "es tevi milu" (Latvian)
= "kia ora" (Maoritanga)
= "ku cinta mu" (Malay)
= "wak ai knee" (Mandarin)
= "tumse pyar ha" (Pakistani)
= "kocham Cie" (Polish)
= "Eu te amo" (Portuguese)
= "lublju ciebia" (Russian)
= "te quiero" (Spanish)
= "mama oyata ardare" (Sri Lankan)
= "mahal kita" (Tagalog)
= "nann unni kathalickiren" (Tamil)
= "phom rak khun" (Thai)
= "maih tum saih payar karta ho" (Urdu)
with many thanks to all my international girlfriends who contributed to this little project (you know who you are!)
Copyright 2003-2005 Azlan Adnan Legal Notice
= "obicham te" (Bulgarian)
= "ngor oi lay" (Cantonese)
= "miluji te" (Czech)
= "Ik hou van jou" (Dutch)
= "ana bahebak kawry" (Egyptian)
= "I love you" (English)
= "mita kuuluu" (Finnish/Suomi)
= "je t'aime" (French)
= "Ich liebe dich" (German)
= "szeretlek" (Hungarian)
= "ti amor" (Italian)
= "es tevi milu" (Latvian)
= "kia ora" (Maoritanga)
= "ku cinta mu" (Malay)
= "wak ai knee" (Mandarin)
= "tumse pyar ha" (Pakistani)
= "kocham Cie" (Polish)
= "Eu te amo" (Portuguese)
= "lublju ciebia" (Russian)
= "te quiero" (Spanish)
= "mama oyata ardare" (Sri Lankan)
= "mahal kita" (Tagalog)
= "nann unni kathalickiren" (Tamil)
= "phom rak khun" (Thai)
= "maih tum saih payar karta ho" (Urdu)
with many thanks to all my international girlfriends who contributed to this little project (you know who you are!)
Copyright 2003-2005 Azlan Adnan Legal Notice
Saturday, December 03, 2005
The Dress (and other rhymes)
The Dress
There once was a dress, none were fairer!
Appearance improved with its wearer.
On a girl it looked hot,
on a male it did not,
but certainly no sight was rarer!
Dangerously in Love
You took my heart and ran away
Forever in my heart you'll stay
No matter what you intend to do
I'm going to keep on loving you...
Love Always
She was my North, my South, East and West
She was my working week and my Sunday rest
My noon, my midnight, my talk and my song
I thought that love would last forever
I was wrong...
Riena Kangkang
Gula Prai, gula Melaka
dari Teluk Kandih ke Kajang
Betina sundal, penuh celaka
untuk wang sanggup bertelanjang
Dari Bukit Jelutong ke Tanjung Karang
dengan Khalifah, Azri dan sesiapa lagi
Sanggup berzina untuk wang
macam mana kau boleh jadi begini?
Penipu besar, berperangai curang
untuk wang mudah kangkang
Setelah puas lepas miang
kepada Jeff, bekas suamimu, kau pulang
Gutter Trash
Gutter trash with a pretty face
with the looks of an angel, but what a waste,
your slutty behaviour's such a disgrace
such a liar, in my heart you have no place.
Goodbye, My Love...
If you leave me, I won't cry,
I won't waste a single day,
But if you leave, don't look back;
I'll be running the other way.
if i'm not in love with you
by Tonette, December 12, 2005
If I'm not in love with you,
Then why do I hurt?
I ached with the pain of having to feel
And knowing what I have is just a dream
Though it seems that I'm stoned with this
Even my friend thinks it's just a bliss.
What right do I have to claim?
A man I know who won't feel the same.
He seems to be what I know of life...
The reason that I aimed to survive.
With you I've learned to love again...
To pick up the pieces...
Torn and broken.
If to love you was to hurt this much...
I'll allow my heart to bleed as such.
And with this tear that's falling now
Every drop of it is a relief...
I guess... somehow.
If I'm not in love with you...
Then why do I have to cry?
Explain it to my heart...
That's been crying all night.
I pretended to be blind...
When I saw you with her.
I now for that moment it isn't fair.
I'm just a lass who fell in love...
With someone who again I could never have.
I know now...
that to love is to hurt.
to feel its pain...
'til it tears you apart.
to let you realize...
to only love and never expect...
to bleed with the feeling...
to be numb 'til it hurts not...
to cry 'til you run dry...
to give up...
to let go...
and to never ask why.
Starting Over
I'm stepping out into the great unknown
I'm feeling wings though I've never flown
I've got a mind of my own
I'm flesh and blood to the bone
Moving On
People laugh while others cry,
some give up while others try.
Always try to do your best,
don't care about anything else.
Waiting for Love
I sit and wait
Does an angel contemplate my fate?
And do they know
the places where we go
when we're grey and old?
'Cos running through my head
I feel that love is dead
The Truth about Girls
Girls don't like boys,
girls like cars and money...
The girls with hot bodies
like boys with Ferraris
Copyright 2003-2005 Azlan Adnan Legal Notice
There once was a dress, none were fairer!
Appearance improved with its wearer.
On a girl it looked hot,
on a male it did not,
but certainly no sight was rarer!
Dangerously in Love
You took my heart and ran away
Forever in my heart you'll stay
No matter what you intend to do
I'm going to keep on loving you...
Love Always
She was my North, my South, East and West
She was my working week and my Sunday rest
My noon, my midnight, my talk and my song
I thought that love would last forever
I was wrong...
Riena Kangkang
Gula Prai, gula Melaka
dari Teluk Kandih ke Kajang
Betina sundal, penuh celaka
untuk wang sanggup bertelanjang
Dari Bukit Jelutong ke Tanjung Karang
dengan Khalifah, Azri dan sesiapa lagi
Sanggup berzina untuk wang
macam mana kau boleh jadi begini?
Penipu besar, berperangai curang
untuk wang mudah kangkang
Setelah puas lepas miang
kepada Jeff, bekas suamimu, kau pulang
Gutter Trash
Gutter trash with a pretty face
with the looks of an angel, but what a waste,
your slutty behaviour's such a disgrace
such a liar, in my heart you have no place.
Goodbye, My Love...
If you leave me, I won't cry,
I won't waste a single day,
But if you leave, don't look back;
I'll be running the other way.
if i'm not in love with you
by Tonette, December 12, 2005
If I'm not in love with you,
Then why do I hurt?
I ached with the pain of having to feel
And knowing what I have is just a dream
Though it seems that I'm stoned with this
Even my friend thinks it's just a bliss.
What right do I have to claim?
A man I know who won't feel the same.
He seems to be what I know of life...
The reason that I aimed to survive.
With you I've learned to love again...
To pick up the pieces...
Torn and broken.
If to love you was to hurt this much...
I'll allow my heart to bleed as such.
And with this tear that's falling now
Every drop of it is a relief...
I guess... somehow.
If I'm not in love with you...
Then why do I have to cry?
Explain it to my heart...
That's been crying all night.
I pretended to be blind...
When I saw you with her.
I now for that moment it isn't fair.
I'm just a lass who fell in love...
With someone who again I could never have.
I know now...
that to love is to hurt.
to feel its pain...
'til it tears you apart.
to let you realize...
to only love and never expect...
to bleed with the feeling...
to be numb 'til it hurts not...
to cry 'til you run dry...
to give up...
to let go...
and to never ask why.
Starting Over
I'm stepping out into the great unknown
I'm feeling wings though I've never flown
I've got a mind of my own
I'm flesh and blood to the bone
Moving On
People laugh while others cry,
some give up while others try.
Always try to do your best,
don't care about anything else.
Waiting for Love
I sit and wait
Does an angel contemplate my fate?
And do they know
the places where we go
when we're grey and old?
'Cos running through my head
I feel that love is dead
The Truth about Girls
Girls don't like boys,
girls like cars and money...
The girls with hot bodies
like boys with Ferraris
Copyright 2003-2005 Azlan Adnan Legal Notice
Thursday, December 01, 2005
The Difference Between Rich and Poor People...
One day, the father of a very wealthy family took his son on a trip to the country with the express purpose of showing him how poor people live.
They spent a couple of days and nights on the farm of what would be considered a very poor family.
On their return from their trip, the father asked his son, "How was the trip?"
"It was great, Dad."
"Did you see how poor people live?" the father asked.
"Oh yeah," said the son.
"So, tell me, what did you learn from the trip?" asked the father.
The son answered:
"I saw that we have one dog and they had four.
We have a pool that reaches to the middle of our garden and they have a creek that has no end.
We have imported lanterns in our garden and they have the stars at night..
Our patio reaches to the front yard and they have the whole horizon.
We have a small piece of land to live on and they have fields that go beyond our sight.
We have servants who serve us, but they serve others.
We buy our food, but they grow theirs.
We have walls around our property to protect us, they have friends to protect them."
The boy's father was speechless.
Then his son added, "Thanks Dad for showing me how poor we are."
Isn't perspective a wonderful thing? Makes you wonder what would happen if we all gave thanks for everything we have, instead of worrying about what we don't have. Appreciate every single thing you have, especially your friends!
"Life is too short and friends are too few."
N.B. Many thanks go to Iraida G. T. Dungo for kindly sharing this piece with us.
They spent a couple of days and nights on the farm of what would be considered a very poor family.
On their return from their trip, the father asked his son, "How was the trip?"
"It was great, Dad."
"Did you see how poor people live?" the father asked.
"Oh yeah," said the son.
"So, tell me, what did you learn from the trip?" asked the father.
The son answered:
"I saw that we have one dog and they had four.
We have a pool that reaches to the middle of our garden and they have a creek that has no end.
We have imported lanterns in our garden and they have the stars at night..
Our patio reaches to the front yard and they have the whole horizon.
We have a small piece of land to live on and they have fields that go beyond our sight.
We have servants who serve us, but they serve others.
We buy our food, but they grow theirs.
We have walls around our property to protect us, they have friends to protect them."
The boy's father was speechless.
Then his son added, "Thanks Dad for showing me how poor we are."
Isn't perspective a wonderful thing? Makes you wonder what would happen if we all gave thanks for everything we have, instead of worrying about what we don't have. Appreciate every single thing you have, especially your friends!
"Life is too short and friends are too few."
N.B. Many thanks go to Iraida G. T. Dungo for kindly sharing this piece with us.
Wednesday, November 30, 2005
People in our Lives
Author Unknown
Dedicated to Nor Alnaim Harun
Sometimes people come into your life and you know right away that they were meant to be there, to serve some sort of purpose, to teach you a lesson, or to help you figure out who you are, or who you might want to become.
You never know who these people may be, possibly your roommate, neighbour, professor, long lost friend, lover or even a complete stranger. You know at the moment they will affect your life in some profound way.
Sometimes things happen to you that may seem horrible, painful, and unfair at first, but, on reflection, you find that without overcoming these obstacles you would have never realized your potential, your strength, your willpower, or heart.
Everything happens for a reason. Nothing happens by chance, or by means of good luck. Illness, injury, love, lost moments of true greatness, and sheer stupidity all occur to test the limits of your soul.
Without these small tests, whatever they may be, life would be like a smoothly paved, straight flat road to nowhere. It would be safe and comfortable, but dull and utterly pointless.
The people you meet who affect your life and the success and downfalls you experience help to create who you are and who you become.
Even the bad experiences can be learned from. In fact, they probably provide the most poignant and important lessons.
If someone hurts you, betrays you, or breaks your heart, forgive them for they have helped you learn about trust and the importance of being cautious when you open your heart.
If someone loves you, love them back unconditionally, not only because they love you, but because they are teaching you to love and opening your heart and eyes to things that you would have never seen or felt without them.
Make everyday count. Appreciate every moment and take from those moments everything that you possibly can for you may never be able to experience it again.
Talk to people that you have never talked to before and actually listen.
Let yourself fall in love...
Break free, and set your sights high.
Hold your head up because you have every right to. Tell yourself you are a great individual and believe in yourself, for if you don't believe in yourself, no one else will believe in you either.
You can make of your life anything you wish. Create your own life, then go out and live it.
~ The meeting of two personalities is like the contact of two chemical substances: if there is any reaction, both are transformed.
Dedicated to Nor Alnaim Harun
Sometimes people come into your life and you know right away that they were meant to be there, to serve some sort of purpose, to teach you a lesson, or to help you figure out who you are, or who you might want to become.
You never know who these people may be, possibly your roommate, neighbour, professor, long lost friend, lover or even a complete stranger. You know at the moment they will affect your life in some profound way.
Sometimes things happen to you that may seem horrible, painful, and unfair at first, but, on reflection, you find that without overcoming these obstacles you would have never realized your potential, your strength, your willpower, or heart.
Everything happens for a reason. Nothing happens by chance, or by means of good luck. Illness, injury, love, lost moments of true greatness, and sheer stupidity all occur to test the limits of your soul.
Without these small tests, whatever they may be, life would be like a smoothly paved, straight flat road to nowhere. It would be safe and comfortable, but dull and utterly pointless.
The people you meet who affect your life and the success and downfalls you experience help to create who you are and who you become.
Even the bad experiences can be learned from. In fact, they probably provide the most poignant and important lessons.
If someone hurts you, betrays you, or breaks your heart, forgive them for they have helped you learn about trust and the importance of being cautious when you open your heart.
If someone loves you, love them back unconditionally, not only because they love you, but because they are teaching you to love and opening your heart and eyes to things that you would have never seen or felt without them.
Make everyday count. Appreciate every moment and take from those moments everything that you possibly can for you may never be able to experience it again.
Talk to people that you have never talked to before and actually listen.
Let yourself fall in love...
Break free, and set your sights high.
Hold your head up because you have every right to. Tell yourself you are a great individual and believe in yourself, for if you don't believe in yourself, no one else will believe in you either.
You can make of your life anything you wish. Create your own life, then go out and live it.
~ The meeting of two personalities is like the contact of two chemical substances: if there is any reaction, both are transformed.
Monday, November 28, 2005
Why Worry? Be Happy!
There are only two things in life to worry about:
Whether you are well
or whether you are sick.
If you are well,
then there is nothing to worry about.
But if you are sick,
there are only two things to worry about:
Whether you are going to get well
or whether you are going to die.
If you get well,
then there is nothing to worry about.
But if you die,
there are only two things to worry about:
Whether you are going to go to heaven
or whether you are going to go to hell.
If you go to heaven,
then you have nothing to worry about.
But if you go to hell,
you'll be so busy shaking hands with all your friends,
that you won't have time to worry!
So, Why Worry?
Be Happy
Do not cry if the Sun sets at the end of the day, because the tears will not let you enjoy the beauty of the Stars.
"If you cry because you can't see the sun, your tears will keep you from seeing the stars" ~ Rabindranath Tagore
Life is short, break the rules, forgive quickly, kiss slowly, love truly, laugh uncontrollably and never regret anything that made you smile!
Counteract Worry With Faith
You can actually make worry work for you. If worry attacks you, you may as well make use of it. Instead of letting worry be destructive turn it into a constructive use. Worry is an energy, a form of energy. When you worry you are using energy destructively. When you are practising faith you are using energy constructively. So make worry work for you. Make it work for you by letting it make you think straight.
To think straight is one of the greatest powers of a human being. God gave each of us a mind to use and to use properly. I believe it is as though He says to every individual, "I gave you a mind, and with it you can solve any problem you will ever have to face, and I will make you equal to anything through your mind." But if we worry the mind gets off balance. It gets hot and it will not correlate when it is hot. It needs to be cool, rational, in order to work well. So if now today, corporately and individually, we have the problem of worry and fear, the way to handle it, and to make worry work for us, is to tell ourselves that it is high time we did some sound thinking.
~ Dr Norman Vincent Peale, 1961
Every tomorrow has two handles: the handle of anxiety & the handle of faith.
Woe to the person who grabs hold of tomorrow by the wrong handle.
~ Sara
Whether you are well
or whether you are sick.
If you are well,
then there is nothing to worry about.
But if you are sick,
there are only two things to worry about:
Whether you are going to get well
or whether you are going to die.
If you get well,
then there is nothing to worry about.
But if you die,
there are only two things to worry about:
Whether you are going to go to heaven
or whether you are going to go to hell.
If you go to heaven,
then you have nothing to worry about.
But if you go to hell,
you'll be so busy shaking hands with all your friends,
that you won't have time to worry!
So, Why Worry?
Be Happy
Do not cry if the Sun sets at the end of the day, because the tears will not let you enjoy the beauty of the Stars.
"If you cry because you can't see the sun, your tears will keep you from seeing the stars" ~ Rabindranath Tagore
Life is short, break the rules, forgive quickly, kiss slowly, love truly, laugh uncontrollably and never regret anything that made you smile!
Counteract Worry With Faith
You can actually make worry work for you. If worry attacks you, you may as well make use of it. Instead of letting worry be destructive turn it into a constructive use. Worry is an energy, a form of energy. When you worry you are using energy destructively. When you are practising faith you are using energy constructively. So make worry work for you. Make it work for you by letting it make you think straight.
To think straight is one of the greatest powers of a human being. God gave each of us a mind to use and to use properly. I believe it is as though He says to every individual, "I gave you a mind, and with it you can solve any problem you will ever have to face, and I will make you equal to anything through your mind." But if we worry the mind gets off balance. It gets hot and it will not correlate when it is hot. It needs to be cool, rational, in order to work well. So if now today, corporately and individually, we have the problem of worry and fear, the way to handle it, and to make worry work for us, is to tell ourselves that it is high time we did some sound thinking.
~ Dr Norman Vincent Peale, 1961
Every tomorrow has two handles: the handle of anxiety & the handle of faith.
Woe to the person who grabs hold of tomorrow by the wrong handle.
~ Sara
Thursday, November 24, 2005
As You Travel Through Life...
Author Unknown
Dedicated to Nor Alnaim Harun with the message:
You are just one person in the world, but to me you are the world!
Friends forever...
As you travel through life there are always those times
When decisions just have to be made,
When the choices are hard, and solutions seem scarce,
And the rain seems to soak your parade.
There are some situations where all you can do
Is simply let go and move on,
Gather your courage and choose a direction
That carries you toward a new dawn.
So pack up your troubles and take a step forward ~
The process of change can be tough,
But think about all the excitement ahead
There might be adventures you never imagined
Just waiting around the next bend,
And wishes and dreams just about to come true
In ways you can't yet comprehend!
Perhaps you'll find friendships that spring from new things
As you challenge your status quo,
And learn there are so many options in life,
Perhaps you'll go places you never expected
And see things that you've never seen,
Or travel to fabulous, faraway worlds
And wonderful spots in between!
Perhaps you'll find warmth and affection and caring
And somebody special who's there
To help you stay centered and listen with interest
To stories and feelings you share.
Perhaps you'll find comfort in knowing your friends
Are supportive of all that you do,
And believe that whatever decisions you make,
They'll be the right choices for you.
So keep putting one foot in front of the other,
And taking your life day by day...
There's a brighter tomorrow that's just down the road ~
Don't look back! You're not going that way!
Dedicated to Nor Alnaim Harun with the message:
You are just one person in the world, but to me you are the world!
Friends forever...
As you travel through life there are always those times
When decisions just have to be made,
When the choices are hard, and solutions seem scarce,
And the rain seems to soak your parade.
There are some situations where all you can do
Is simply let go and move on,
Gather your courage and choose a direction
That carries you toward a new dawn.
So pack up your troubles and take a step forward ~
The process of change can be tough,
But think about all the excitement ahead
There might be adventures you never imagined
Just waiting around the next bend,
And wishes and dreams just about to come true
In ways you can't yet comprehend!
Perhaps you'll find friendships that spring from new things
As you challenge your status quo,
And learn there are so many options in life,
Perhaps you'll go places you never expected
And see things that you've never seen,
Or travel to fabulous, faraway worlds
And wonderful spots in between!
Perhaps you'll find warmth and affection and caring
And somebody special who's there
To help you stay centered and listen with interest
To stories and feelings you share.
Perhaps you'll find comfort in knowing your friends
Are supportive of all that you do,
And believe that whatever decisions you make,
They'll be the right choices for you.
So keep putting one foot in front of the other,
And taking your life day by day...
There's a brighter tomorrow that's just down the road ~
Don't look back! You're not going that way!
Sunday, November 13, 2005
Ever wonder what the common thread is between the most successful people in the world?
Lou Castillo and Anthony Robbins have spent many years studying successful people and they've found that there are four main steps to becoming and staying successful.
1) Have a compelling reason
2) Making decisions in a heartbeat
3) Taking massive action
4) Emulating successful people
Over the years they've written several books and articles about this simple but important topic.
Why?
Simply because they truly believe that being successful is a learned skill not a born trait. Anyone can be successful if they work smart and take massive action.
Please read the following quotes that Lou Castillo has pulled together over the years. People have been teaching these same principles for hundreds of years for one simple reason: it's the truth!
I hope at least one of these great quotes will inspire you to take your next successful step towards greatness!
"Determine never to be idle... It is wonderful how much may be done if we are always doing."
~ Thomas Jefferson
"There are risks and costs to a program of action. But there are far less than the long-range risks and costs of comfortable inaction."
~ John F. Kennedy
"To acquire knowledge, one must study; but to acquire wisdom, one must observe."
~ Marilyn vos Savant
"To will is to select a goal, determine a course of action that will bring one to that goal, and then hold on to that action till the goal is reached. The key is action."
~ Michael Hanson
"While one person hesitates because he feels inferior, the other is busy making mistakes and becoming superior."
~ Henry C. Link
"An executive is a person who always decides; sometimes he decides correctly, but he always decides."
~ John H. Patterson
"Success in business requires training and discipline and hard work. But if you're not frightened by these things, the opportunities are just as great today as they ever were."
~ David Rockefeller
Make DECISIONS IN A HEARTBEAT to take MASSIVE ACTION!
Decide to take the necessary steps to increase your business. Decide to make the next 30 days amazing.
Best of success and abundance,
Azlan Adnan
1) Have a compelling reason
2) Making decisions in a heartbeat
3) Taking massive action
4) Emulating successful people
Over the years they've written several books and articles about this simple but important topic.
Why?
Simply because they truly believe that being successful is a learned skill not a born trait. Anyone can be successful if they work smart and take massive action.
Please read the following quotes that Lou Castillo has pulled together over the years. People have been teaching these same principles for hundreds of years for one simple reason: it's the truth!
I hope at least one of these great quotes will inspire you to take your next successful step towards greatness!
"Determine never to be idle... It is wonderful how much may be done if we are always doing."
~ Thomas Jefferson
"There are risks and costs to a program of action. But there are far less than the long-range risks and costs of comfortable inaction."
~ John F. Kennedy
"To acquire knowledge, one must study; but to acquire wisdom, one must observe."
~ Marilyn vos Savant
"To will is to select a goal, determine a course of action that will bring one to that goal, and then hold on to that action till the goal is reached. The key is action."
~ Michael Hanson
"While one person hesitates because he feels inferior, the other is busy making mistakes and becoming superior."
~ Henry C. Link
"An executive is a person who always decides; sometimes he decides correctly, but he always decides."
~ John H. Patterson
"Success in business requires training and discipline and hard work. But if you're not frightened by these things, the opportunities are just as great today as they ever were."
~ David Rockefeller
Make DECISIONS IN A HEARTBEAT to take MASSIVE ACTION!
Decide to take the necessary steps to increase your business. Decide to make the next 30 days amazing.
Best of success and abundance,
Azlan Adnan
Tuesday, November 01, 2005
Good Reads
If you're in need for some good reads for the coming holidays, do check out the autobiographical fiction, health articles, recipes and business articles that can be found at:
www.lulu.com/azlan
Copyright 2003-2005 Azlan Adnan Legal Notice
www.lulu.com/azlan
Copyright 2003-2005 Azlan Adnan Legal Notice
Thursday, October 20, 2005
Albrecht Durer
THE STORY BEHIND THE PICTURE OF THE PRAYING HANDS
Back in the fifteenth century, in a tiny village near Nuremberg, lived a family with eighteen children. Eighteen! In order merely to keep food on the table for this mob, the father and head of the household, a goldsmith by profession, worked almost eighteen hours a day at his trade and any other paying chore he could find in the neighbourhood.
Despite their seemingly hopeless condition, two of Albrecht Durer the Elder's children had a dream. They both wanted to pursue their talent For art, but they knew full well that their father would never be Financially able to send either of them to Nuremberg to study at the Academy.
After many long discussions at night in their crowded bed, the two boys finally worked out a pact. They would toss a coin. The loser would go down into the nearby mines and, with his earnings, support his brother while he attended the academy. Then, when that brother who won the toss completed his studies, in four years, he would support the other brother at the academy, either with sales of his artwork or, if necessary, also by laboring in the mines.
They tossed a coin on a Sunday morning after church. Albrecht Durer won The toss and went off to Nuremberg. Albert went down into the dangerous mines and, for the next four years, financed his brother, whose work at the academy was almost an immediate sensation. Albrecht's etchings, his woodcuts, and his oils were far better than those of most of his professors, and by the time he graduated, he was beginning to earn considerable fees for his commissioned works.
When the young artist returned to his village, the Durer family held a festive dinner on their lawn to celebrate Albrecht's triumphant homecoming. After a long and memorable meal, punctuated with music and laughter, Albrecht rose from his honoured position at the head of the table to drink a toast to his beloved brother for the years of sacrifice that had enabled Albrecht to fulfil his ambition. His closing words were, "And now, Albert, blessed brother of mine, now it is your turn. Now you can go to Nuremberg to pursue your dream, and I will take care of you." All heads turned in eager expectation to the far end of the table where Albert sat, tears streaming down his pale face, shaking his lowered head from side to side while he sobbed and repeated, over and over, "No..no ...no ...no."
Finally, Albert rose and wiped the tears from his cheeks. He glanced Down the long table at the faces he loved, and then, holding his hands close to his right cheek, he said softly, "No, brother. I cannot go to Nuremberg. It is too late for me. Look ...look what four years in the mines have done to my hands! The bones in every finger have been smashed at least once, and lately I have been suffering from arthritis so badly in my right hand that I cannot even hold a glass to return your toast, much less make delicate lines on parchment or canvas with a pen or a brush. No, brother ... for me it is too late."
More than 450 years have passed. By now, Albrecht Durer's hundreds of masterful portraits, pen and silver-point sketches, watercolors, charcoals, woodcuts, and copper engravings hang in every great museum in the world, but the odds are great that you, like most people, are familiar with only one of Albrecht Durer's works. More than merely being familiar with it, you very well may have a reproduction hanging in your home or office.
One day, to pay homage to Albert for all that he had sacrificed, Albrecht Durer painstakingly drew his brother's abused hands with palms together and thin fingers stretched skyward. He called his powerful drawing simply "Hands," but the entire world almost immediately opened their hearts to his great masterpiece and renamed his tribute of love "The Praying Hands."
The next time you see a copy of that touching creation, take a second look. Let it be your reminder,if you still need one, that no one - no one - - ever makes it alone!
Moral:- Behind every masterpiece there is toil and hard work by a team - no one can ever make it alone and hence team spirit is very very essential.
Back in the fifteenth century, in a tiny village near Nuremberg, lived a family with eighteen children. Eighteen! In order merely to keep food on the table for this mob, the father and head of the household, a goldsmith by profession, worked almost eighteen hours a day at his trade and any other paying chore he could find in the neighbourhood.
Despite their seemingly hopeless condition, two of Albrecht Durer the Elder's children had a dream. They both wanted to pursue their talent For art, but they knew full well that their father would never be Financially able to send either of them to Nuremberg to study at the Academy.
After many long discussions at night in their crowded bed, the two boys finally worked out a pact. They would toss a coin. The loser would go down into the nearby mines and, with his earnings, support his brother while he attended the academy. Then, when that brother who won the toss completed his studies, in four years, he would support the other brother at the academy, either with sales of his artwork or, if necessary, also by laboring in the mines.
They tossed a coin on a Sunday morning after church. Albrecht Durer won The toss and went off to Nuremberg. Albert went down into the dangerous mines and, for the next four years, financed his brother, whose work at the academy was almost an immediate sensation. Albrecht's etchings, his woodcuts, and his oils were far better than those of most of his professors, and by the time he graduated, he was beginning to earn considerable fees for his commissioned works.
When the young artist returned to his village, the Durer family held a festive dinner on their lawn to celebrate Albrecht's triumphant homecoming. After a long and memorable meal, punctuated with music and laughter, Albrecht rose from his honoured position at the head of the table to drink a toast to his beloved brother for the years of sacrifice that had enabled Albrecht to fulfil his ambition. His closing words were, "And now, Albert, blessed brother of mine, now it is your turn. Now you can go to Nuremberg to pursue your dream, and I will take care of you." All heads turned in eager expectation to the far end of the table where Albert sat, tears streaming down his pale face, shaking his lowered head from side to side while he sobbed and repeated, over and over, "No..no ...no ...no."
Finally, Albert rose and wiped the tears from his cheeks. He glanced Down the long table at the faces he loved, and then, holding his hands close to his right cheek, he said softly, "No, brother. I cannot go to Nuremberg. It is too late for me. Look ...look what four years in the mines have done to my hands! The bones in every finger have been smashed at least once, and lately I have been suffering from arthritis so badly in my right hand that I cannot even hold a glass to return your toast, much less make delicate lines on parchment or canvas with a pen or a brush. No, brother ... for me it is too late."
More than 450 years have passed. By now, Albrecht Durer's hundreds of masterful portraits, pen and silver-point sketches, watercolors, charcoals, woodcuts, and copper engravings hang in every great museum in the world, but the odds are great that you, like most people, are familiar with only one of Albrecht Durer's works. More than merely being familiar with it, you very well may have a reproduction hanging in your home or office.
One day, to pay homage to Albert for all that he had sacrificed, Albrecht Durer painstakingly drew his brother's abused hands with palms together and thin fingers stretched skyward. He called his powerful drawing simply "Hands," but the entire world almost immediately opened their hearts to his great masterpiece and renamed his tribute of love "The Praying Hands."
The next time you see a copy of that touching creation, take a second look. Let it be your reminder,if you still need one, that no one - no one - - ever makes it alone!
Moral:- Behind every masterpiece there is toil and hard work by a team - no one can ever make it alone and hence team spirit is very very essential.
Wednesday, October 19, 2005
NOVEMBER 15, 2005
AKAN DIBUKA NOV 15, 2005
POS MINI KOTA WARISAN
6 Jalan Airport City 2
(berhampiran Stesen ERL KLIA Transit Salak Tinggi)
43950 SEPANG
PERKHIDMATAN YANG DISEDIAKAN
Perkhidmatan Pos Malaysia (bermula 15hb Nov 2005)
Kedai Alatulis (disediakan sekarang)
Insuran Am, AHA/AIG (disediakan sekarang)
Insuran Hayat, AIA/AIG (disediakan sekarang)
Perkhidmatan Jualbeli Hartanah (disediakan sekarang)
Pembaruan Insuran Kereta, dan Cukai Jalan (disediakan sekarang)
Insuran Perjalanan, AHA/AIG (disediakan sekarang)
Insuran Kemalangan Diri, AHA/AIG (disediakan sekarang)
Insuran Perubatan, AIA/AHA/AIG (disediakan sekarang)
Insuran Penyakit Kritikal, AIA/AHA/AIG (disediakan sekarang)
Insurance Kebakaran, AHA/AIG (disediakan sekarang)
Insuran Kandungan Rumah, AHA/AIG (disediakan sekarang)
Insuran Berkait-Pelaburan, AIA/AIG (disediakan sekarang)
Perancang Harta Islam, as-Salihin Trustee Berhad
Pinjaman Rumah Kadar Tetap (faedah 6.25%) (disediakan sekarang)
Sila telefon 019-28-AZLAN 019-28-29526 untuk membuat mendapatkan keterangan selanjutnya. Tiada obligasi!
Pengusaha: AZLAN ADNAN 019-28-AZLAN 019-28-29526
JAWATAN KOSONG
1. Kerani Pos Mini
2. Jurujual Kedai Alatulis
3. Pelatih Insuran Am
4. Wakil Insuran Hayat
Untuk temuduga sila hubungi
Encik Azlan Adnan
Pos Mini Kota Warisan, 6 Jalan Airport City 2
Kota Warisan, 43950 SEPANG
Tel 019-28-AZLAN 019-28-29526
Copyright 2003-2005 Azlan Adnan Legal Notice
POS MINI KOTA WARISAN
6 Jalan Airport City 2
(berhampiran Stesen ERL KLIA Transit Salak Tinggi)
43950 SEPANG
PERKHIDMATAN YANG DISEDIAKAN
Perkhidmatan Pos Malaysia (bermula 15hb Nov 2005)
Kedai Alatulis (disediakan sekarang)
Insuran Am, AHA/AIG (disediakan sekarang)
Insuran Hayat, AIA/AIG (disediakan sekarang)
Perkhidmatan Jualbeli Hartanah (disediakan sekarang)
Pembaruan Insuran Kereta, dan Cukai Jalan (disediakan sekarang)
Insuran Perjalanan, AHA/AIG (disediakan sekarang)
Insuran Kemalangan Diri, AHA/AIG (disediakan sekarang)
Insuran Perubatan, AIA/AHA/AIG (disediakan sekarang)
Insuran Penyakit Kritikal, AIA/AHA/AIG (disediakan sekarang)
Insurance Kebakaran, AHA/AIG (disediakan sekarang)
Insuran Kandungan Rumah, AHA/AIG (disediakan sekarang)
Insuran Berkait-Pelaburan, AIA/AIG (disediakan sekarang)
Perancang Harta Islam, as-Salihin Trustee Berhad
Pinjaman Rumah Kadar Tetap (faedah 6.25%) (disediakan sekarang)
Sila telefon 019-28-AZLAN 019-28-29526 untuk membuat mendapatkan keterangan selanjutnya. Tiada obligasi!
Pengusaha: AZLAN ADNAN 019-28-AZLAN 019-28-29526
JAWATAN KOSONG
1. Kerani Pos Mini
2. Jurujual Kedai Alatulis
3. Pelatih Insuran Am
4. Wakil Insuran Hayat
Untuk temuduga sila hubungi
Encik Azlan Adnan
Pos Mini Kota Warisan, 6 Jalan Airport City 2
Kota Warisan, 43950 SEPANG
Tel 019-28-AZLAN 019-28-29526
Copyright 2003-2005 Azlan Adnan Legal Notice
Monday, October 10, 2005
Stationery Shop Now Open at Kota Warisan
(opening after Raya)
Stationery Shop & Insurance Agency open now!
6 Jalan Airport City 2
Airport City Business Centre
Kota Warisan
43950 SEPANG
Manager: Azlan Adnan
Tel: 019-28-AZLAN
Tel: 019-28-29526
SERVICES PROVIDED
Postal Services, Pos Malaysia (commencing after Hari Raya)
Stationery supplies (available now)
General Insurance, AHA/AIG (available now)
Life Insurance, AIA/AIG (available now)
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Copyright 2003-2005 Azlan Adnan Legal Notice
Wednesday, October 05, 2005
Selamat Menyambut Ramadhan
Hello Friends!
AL-QAYYUM,
AL-MAJID,
AL-WAHID,
AL-WAJID,
AL-AHAD,
AL-SAMAD,
AL-QADIR,
Please send this seven names of allah to seven people, [INSYALLAH] your one wish will be fulfilled.
1 Minute for Allah
Step 1:
Say with your heart and tongue:
*SUBHANA'LLAH
*ALHAMDULI'LLAH
*LA I LAHA ILLA'LLAH
*ALLAHU AKBAR
*ASTAGHFIRU'LLAH
*LA ILAH ILLA'LLAH, MUHAMMADUN RASULU'LLAH
*ALLAHUMMA SALLY WA SALLEM WABAREK ALA SAYYEDINA MUHAMMAD
Step 2:
Contemplate in their meaning sentence by sentence and word by word
Step 3:
Forward this email onto at least seven other people
Result 1:
Within hours you have caused a multitude of people to remember, praise and glorify The Almighty ALLAH
Result 2:
Within hours you have caused a multitude of people to Salute, pray for and glorify the Prophet (P.B.U.H.)
Result 3:
Within hours at least seven people would have prayed for you with Angels saying AMEEN, INSHA'A'LLAH
NOW... Sit back and watch the power of ALLAH work in your life for doing the thing that you know HE loves.
Copyright 2003-2005 Azlan Adnan Legal Notice
AL-QAYYUM,
AL-MAJID,
AL-WAHID,
AL-WAJID,
AL-AHAD,
AL-SAMAD,
AL-QADIR,
Please send this seven names of allah to seven people, [INSYALLAH] your one wish will be fulfilled.
1 Minute for Allah
Step 1:
Say with your heart and tongue:
*SUBHANA'LLAH
*ALHAMDULI'LLAH
*LA I LAHA ILLA'LLAH
*ALLAHU AKBAR
*ASTAGHFIRU'LLAH
*LA ILAH ILLA'LLAH, MUHAMMADUN RASULU'LLAH
*ALLAHUMMA SALLY WA SALLEM WABAREK ALA SAYYEDINA MUHAMMAD
Step 2:
Contemplate in their meaning sentence by sentence and word by word
Step 3:
Forward this email onto at least seven other people
Result 1:
Within hours you have caused a multitude of people to remember, praise and glorify The Almighty ALLAH
Result 2:
Within hours you have caused a multitude of people to Salute, pray for and glorify the Prophet (P.B.U.H.)
Result 3:
Within hours at least seven people would have prayed for you with Angels saying AMEEN, INSHA'A'LLAH
NOW... Sit back and watch the power of ALLAH work in your life for doing the thing that you know HE loves.
Copyright 2003-2005 Azlan Adnan Legal Notice
Tuesday, October 04, 2005
Please donate blood during Ramadan
Please donate blood during Ramadan
~ there's always a shortage every year.
The blood banks are open in the evenings during Ramadan.
Photo Caption: A first-time donor donating whole blood on Sept 26, 2005 at Pusat Darah Negara.
I donated platelets that day. I have also donated whole blood and plasma ~ altogether a total of 37 times already!
Copyright 2003-2005 Azlan Adnan Legal Notice
Sunday, October 02, 2005
Mental health situation in Malaysia
On mental health, the Malaysian Health Ministry's Parliamentary Secretary, Lee Kah Choon, said the level of awareness of the problem among Malaysians was worrying with statistics showing that on average, seven people with mental stress committed suicide daily.
Last year alone, over 2,000 people took their own lives and most of them resorted to that extreme option due to lifestyle changes, he said.
He said studies had also shown that every suicide caused mental anguish to 20 other family members.
"We want Malaysians to be aware of the importance of taking care of their mental health because physical health will be meaningless if the person is mentally unwell," he said. Malaysians, he said, should take care of their mental health and consult psychiatrists or counsellors if problems they faced caused pressures to their lives.
Lee said depression should be considered a dangerous illness and those experiencing it should quickly seek specialist treatment to prevent them from committing undesirable actions.
He said 27 hospitals with 85 psychiatrists and 56 counsellors nationwide presently provided psychiatric service to people with such problems.
"Besides, 754 Health Clinics also render services to safeguard mental health and until to 2004, 40 family health specialists and 135 medical assistants have also been trained to help treat people with depression," he said.
Copyright 2003-2005 Azlan Adnan Legal Notice
Last year alone, over 2,000 people took their own lives and most of them resorted to that extreme option due to lifestyle changes, he said.
He said studies had also shown that every suicide caused mental anguish to 20 other family members.
"We want Malaysians to be aware of the importance of taking care of their mental health because physical health will be meaningless if the person is mentally unwell," he said. Malaysians, he said, should take care of their mental health and consult psychiatrists or counsellors if problems they faced caused pressures to their lives.
Lee said depression should be considered a dangerous illness and those experiencing it should quickly seek specialist treatment to prevent them from committing undesirable actions.
He said 27 hospitals with 85 psychiatrists and 56 counsellors nationwide presently provided psychiatric service to people with such problems.
"Besides, 754 Health Clinics also render services to safeguard mental health and until to 2004, 40 family health specialists and 135 medical assistants have also been trained to help treat people with depression," he said.
Copyright 2003-2005 Azlan Adnan Legal Notice
Pantun Budak Jahat
by Maliesa
Found this tragic love poem on the Internet. I like it because it reiterates why we should express our feelings to those we love on a daily basis. When you keep your feelings to yourself, you deny both yourself and your loved one of the truth and sometimes its too late to tell them you love them as you may never get the chance again...
Hari tu kita gaduh
Saya main-main
Awak ingat betul-betul
Tak tau nak buat macam mana lagi
Lantak awak lah
Semalam kita berselisih...
Saya buat dunno
Awak pandang saya
Saya buat dunno jugak
Degilnya saya...
Saya nampak awak
Saya nak panggil
Tapi awak tak toleh
Sebab saya panggil awak dalam hati
Bodohnya saya...
Awak tegur saya
Saya buat dunno
Tapi awak tak tahu happynya saya
Saya dengar awak cerita
Awak kata dah jatuh cinta
Sedihnya saya
Awak keluar tengok wayang
Saya pun
Awak keluar dengan dia
Saya tengok aje
Awak call saya
Mengacau betul
Tengah tidur lah
Saya layankan aje
Awak cakap awak dah putus
Saya senyum sampai ke telinga
Tapi awak tak nampak
Saya cakap...
Kesiannya awak...
Hipokritnya saya
Hari ni hari jadi saya
Tapi awak lupa
Saya sedih.
Tapi takpe, awak bukannya sesiapa
Awak mintak maaf
Saya senyum aje
Saya kata tak kisah
Awak belanja tengok national treasure
Isk tak romantiknya
Tapi best apa
Saya dapat bunga
Cantik. Suka sangat
Tapi tak tahu siapa pengirimnya
Awak nampak
Awak terus balik
Saya panggil awak
Tapi awak tak toleh
Saya cuma nak bagi tahu awak
!!!!!LORI!!!!!!!!!
Saya kejar awak
Awak terus jalan
Saya tolak awak
Awak jatuh.
Saya nampak lori
Betul-betul depan saya
Kalau sempat
Saya nak bagi tahu awak...
SAYA SAYANG AWAK
Copyright 2003-2005 Azlan Adnan Legal Notice
Found this tragic love poem on the Internet. I like it because it reiterates why we should express our feelings to those we love on a daily basis. When you keep your feelings to yourself, you deny both yourself and your loved one of the truth and sometimes its too late to tell them you love them as you may never get the chance again...
Hari tu kita gaduh
Saya main-main
Awak ingat betul-betul
Tak tau nak buat macam mana lagi
Lantak awak lah
Semalam kita berselisih...
Saya buat dunno
Awak pandang saya
Saya buat dunno jugak
Degilnya saya...
Saya nampak awak
Saya nak panggil
Tapi awak tak toleh
Sebab saya panggil awak dalam hati
Bodohnya saya...
Awak tegur saya
Saya buat dunno
Tapi awak tak tahu happynya saya
Saya dengar awak cerita
Awak kata dah jatuh cinta
Sedihnya saya
Awak keluar tengok wayang
Saya pun
Awak keluar dengan dia
Saya tengok aje
Awak call saya
Mengacau betul
Tengah tidur lah
Saya layankan aje
Awak cakap awak dah putus
Saya senyum sampai ke telinga
Tapi awak tak nampak
Saya cakap...
Kesiannya awak...
Hipokritnya saya
Hari ni hari jadi saya
Tapi awak lupa
Saya sedih.
Tapi takpe, awak bukannya sesiapa
Awak mintak maaf
Saya senyum aje
Saya kata tak kisah
Awak belanja tengok national treasure
Isk tak romantiknya
Tapi best apa
Saya dapat bunga
Cantik. Suka sangat
Tapi tak tahu siapa pengirimnya
Awak nampak
Awak terus balik
Saya panggil awak
Tapi awak tak toleh
Saya cuma nak bagi tahu awak
!!!!!LORI!!!!!!!!!
Saya kejar awak
Awak terus jalan
Saya tolak awak
Awak jatuh.
Saya nampak lori
Betul-betul depan saya
Kalau sempat
Saya nak bagi tahu awak...
SAYA SAYANG AWAK
Copyright 2003-2005 Azlan Adnan Legal Notice
HUMOUR: of Onions and Christmas Trees
A family is sitting around the supper table. The son asks his father, "Dad, how many kinds of breasts are there?"
The father, surprised, answers, "Well, son, there are three kinds of breasts. In her twenties, a woman's breasts are like melons: round and firm. In her thirties to forties, they are like pears, still nice but hanging a bit. After fifty, they are like onions."
"Onions?"
"Yes, see them and they make you cry."
This infuriated the wife and daughter so the daughter said, "Mum, how many kinds of willies are there?"
The mother, surprised, smiles and looks at her daughter and answers, "Well dear, a man goes through three phases. In a man's twenties, his willy is like an oak tree, mighty and hard. In his thirties and forties, it is a birch, flexible but reliable. After his fifties, it is like a Christmas tree."
"A Christmas tree?"
"Yes, dead from the root up and the balls are for decoration only!"
Copyright 2003-2005 Azlan Adnan Legal Notice
The father, surprised, answers, "Well, son, there are three kinds of breasts. In her twenties, a woman's breasts are like melons: round and firm. In her thirties to forties, they are like pears, still nice but hanging a bit. After fifty, they are like onions."
"Onions?"
"Yes, see them and they make you cry."
This infuriated the wife and daughter so the daughter said, "Mum, how many kinds of willies are there?"
The mother, surprised, smiles and looks at her daughter and answers, "Well dear, a man goes through three phases. In a man's twenties, his willy is like an oak tree, mighty and hard. In his thirties and forties, it is a birch, flexible but reliable. After his fifties, it is like a Christmas tree."
"A Christmas tree?"
"Yes, dead from the root up and the balls are for decoration only!"
Copyright 2003-2005 Azlan Adnan Legal Notice
Saturday, October 01, 2005
HUMOUR: The Newly Weds
A couple had only been married for two weeks. The husband, although very much in love, couldn't wait to go out on the town and party with his old drinking buddies. So, he said to his new wife, "Honey, I'll be right back."
"Where are you going, Coochy Coo?" asked the wife.
"I'm going to the bar, Pretty Face. I'm going to have a beer."
The wife said, "You want a beer, my love?" She opened the door to the refrigerator and showed him 25 different kinds of beer, brands from 12 different countries: Germany, Holland, Japan, India, Malaysia, Thailand, Australia, Belgium, and etc.
The husband didn't know what to do, and the only thing that he could think of saying was, "Yes, Lollipop... but at the bar... you know... they have frozen glasses... "
He didn't get to finish the sentence, because the wife interrupted him by saying, "You want a frozen glass, Puppy Face?"
She took a huge beer mug out of the freezer, so frozen that she was getting chills just holding it.
The husband, looking a bit pale, said, "Yes, Tootsie Roll, but at the bar they have those hors d'oeuvres that are really delicious... I won't be long. I'll be right back. I promise. OK?"
"You want hors d'oeuvres, Poochie Pooh?" She opened the oven and took out five dishes of different hors d'oeuvres: chicken wings, caviar, mushroom caps, grilled prawns and smoked salmon.
"But my sweet honey... at the bar... you know there's swearing, dirty words and all that..."
"You want dirty words, Cutie Pie?...
"LISTEN UP DICKHEAD! SIT DOWN, SHUT THE HELL UP, DRINK YOUR DAMN BEER IN YOUR DAMN FROZEN MUG AND EAT YOUR FRICKING HORS D'OEUVRES BECAUSE YOUR MARRIED ASS ISN'T GOING TO A FRICKING BAR! THAT SHIT IS OVER... GOT IT, ASSHOLE?"
and, they lived happily ever after. Isn't that a sweet story?
Copyright 2003-2005 Azlan Adnan Legal Notice
"Where are you going, Coochy Coo?" asked the wife.
"I'm going to the bar, Pretty Face. I'm going to have a beer."
The wife said, "You want a beer, my love?" She opened the door to the refrigerator and showed him 25 different kinds of beer, brands from 12 different countries: Germany, Holland, Japan, India, Malaysia, Thailand, Australia, Belgium, and etc.
The husband didn't know what to do, and the only thing that he could think of saying was, "Yes, Lollipop... but at the bar... you know... they have frozen glasses... "
He didn't get to finish the sentence, because the wife interrupted him by saying, "You want a frozen glass, Puppy Face?"
She took a huge beer mug out of the freezer, so frozen that she was getting chills just holding it.
The husband, looking a bit pale, said, "Yes, Tootsie Roll, but at the bar they have those hors d'oeuvres that are really delicious... I won't be long. I'll be right back. I promise. OK?"
"You want hors d'oeuvres, Poochie Pooh?" She opened the oven and took out five dishes of different hors d'oeuvres: chicken wings, caviar, mushroom caps, grilled prawns and smoked salmon.
"But my sweet honey... at the bar... you know there's swearing, dirty words and all that..."
"You want dirty words, Cutie Pie?...
"LISTEN UP DICKHEAD! SIT DOWN, SHUT THE HELL UP, DRINK YOUR DAMN BEER IN YOUR DAMN FROZEN MUG AND EAT YOUR FRICKING HORS D'OEUVRES BECAUSE YOUR MARRIED ASS ISN'T GOING TO A FRICKING BAR! THAT SHIT IS OVER... GOT IT, ASSHOLE?"
and, they lived happily ever after. Isn't that a sweet story?
Copyright 2003-2005 Azlan Adnan Legal Notice
HUMOUR: Maude and Claude
Maude and Claude, both 91, lived in a retirement community. They met in the social centre and discovered over time that they enjoyed each other's company.
After several weeks of meeting for coffee, Claude asked Maude out for dinner and, much to his delight, she accepted. They had a lovely evening. They dined at the most romantic restaurant in town. Despite his age, Claude was still a charmer. Afterwards, Claude asked Maude to join him at his place for an after-dinner drink.
Things continued along a natural course and age being no inhibitor, Maude soon joined Claude for a most enjoyable roll in the hay. As they were basking in the glow of the magic moments they'd shared, each was lost for a time in their own thoughts.
Claude was thinking: "If I'd known she was a virgin, I'd have been gentler."
Maude was thinking: "If I'd known he could still do it, I'd have taken off my pantyhose."
Copyright 2003-2005 Azlan Adnan Legal Notice
After several weeks of meeting for coffee, Claude asked Maude out for dinner and, much to his delight, she accepted. They had a lovely evening. They dined at the most romantic restaurant in town. Despite his age, Claude was still a charmer. Afterwards, Claude asked Maude to join him at his place for an after-dinner drink.
Things continued along a natural course and age being no inhibitor, Maude soon joined Claude for a most enjoyable roll in the hay. As they were basking in the glow of the magic moments they'd shared, each was lost for a time in their own thoughts.
Claude was thinking: "If I'd known she was a virgin, I'd have been gentler."
Maude was thinking: "If I'd known he could still do it, I'd have taken off my pantyhose."
Copyright 2003-2005 Azlan Adnan Legal Notice
THE 2006 BUDGET SPEECH
by YAB DATO' SERI ABDULLAH BIN HAJI AHMAD BADAWI PRIME MINISTER AND MINISTER OF FINANCE
"STRENGTHENING RESILIENCE, MEETING CHALLENGES"
Mr. Speaker Sir,
I beg to move the bill entitled "An Act to apply a sum from the Consolidated Fund for the service of the year 2006 and to appropriate that sum for the service of the year" be read a second time.
INTRODUCTION
In the name of Allah the most gracious and the most merciful.
2. Praise be to Allah for enabling me to present the National Budget for 2006 in this Honourable House. The 2006 Budget is the first annual budget for the Ninth Malaysia Plan and the second phase of Vision 2020. The Government is currently formulating major policies and strategies towards achieving the objectives of Vision 2020. Insya Allah, I will table the Ninth Malaysia Plan in this Honourable House early next year.
3. The 2006 Budget focusses on a number of specific measures to generate greater quality growth in the near term that can contribute towards laying a strong foundation for long-term sustainable growth. The theme of the 2006 Budget theme is "Strengthening Resilience, Meeting Challenges". This Budget emphasies various measures to enhance national resilience and our ability to meet emerging external challenges, arising from escalating oil prices, higher interest rates and increasing global competition.
4. The Government will undertake proactive measures, including the development of physical infrastructure, especially in less developed areas. In addition, special emphasis will be given to the development of the rural economy in line with the Government's objective to improve the quality of life in rural areas through the provision of adequate roads, water and electricity as well as improved educational facilities. Focus will be given to the development of s6ft infrastructure, including human capital capability as well as management and organisational systems. The need for a business-friendly environment to increase national competitiveness will also be addressed in this Budget. With these measures, we are confident that the economy will continue to remain strong as well as generate income and wealth so as to improve the well-being of Malaysians in the context of building a peaceful, prosperous and united nation.
ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENTS
5. The Malaysian economy remained resilient in the first half of the year, despite slower world growth and sharply rising international oil prices. The Gross Domestic Product (GDP) of the economy grew by 4.9% in the first half of 2005, largely driven by private sector activities. Private consumption and investment continued to increase on the basis of improved investor confidence. Gross foreign direct investment totalled RM8 billion in the first half of 2005.
6. We are fortunate that, within a short period of seven years after the 1997 financial crisis, the economy has fully recovered to achieve sustainable growth. GDP grew at an annual average rate of 5.4% during the period. Despite the less than favourable external environment, growth is estimated at 5% for 2005.
7. Economic growth was achieved in an environment of stronger balance of payments and manageable inflation as well as full employment. The surplus in the balance of payments remains high, averaging 12% of Gross National Product (GNP) during the last 6 years and is expected to increase to 15.7% this year, arising from significant increases in exports. The strong economic performance and fundamentals have enabled Malaysians to enjoy higher income and purchasing power. Per capita income is expected to increase to RM17, 741 in 2005 compared with RM16, 616 in 2004. Our purchasing power parity increased from US$9,630 to US$10,323 during the same period.
8. Global economic Prospects are expected to be more challenging, following persistent sharp increases in oil prices and the less accommodative monetary stance of developed countries, particularly in the US. It is inevitable that global developments will have an impact on the Malaysian economy. However, the Government is confident that, with the measures in this Budget, growth will remain strong at 5.5% in 2006.
9. The task of nation building does not rest on the Government alone. Every Malaysian has an equally important role in ensuring the nation achieves further progress and prosperity. An important force that has brought the rapid pace of development thus far has been the strong support, sacrifice and dedication of all Malaysians. Moving forward, our ability to succeed in an environment marked by greater external vulnerabilities and challenges depends on our agility to make changes to our lifestyle, our determination to work harder, our ability to be innovative and creative, and more importantly, our willingness to make short term sacrifices for long term benefits. These commitments will provide us with the strength and opportunities to emerge from this environment much the stronger.
BUDGET STRATEGY 2006
10. The 2006 Budget strategies will focus on the following:
First: Implementing proactive Government measures, to accelerate economic activities;
Second: Providing a business-friendly environment;
Third: Developing human capital; and
Fourth: Enhancing the well-being and quality of life of Malaysians.
FIRST STRATEGY: IMPLEMENTING PROACTIVE GOVERNMENT MEASURES TO ACCELERATE ECONOMIC ACTIVITIES
11. The Government has succeeded in lowering the budget deficit from 5.6% of GDP in 2002 to an estimated 3.8% for this year. More importantly, the reduction of the deficit has been achieved without sacrificing economic growth. For 2006, the fiscal deficit will be further reduced to 3.5%. Given the low level of deficit, the Government has now a greater degree of flexibility to focus on developmental efforts in order to sustain the growth momentum.
12. I propose a sum of RM136.8 billion to be appropriated in 2006 Budget, an increase of 5% compared to 2005. Of this, a total of RM101.3 billion is for Operating Expenditure and RM35.5 billion for Development Expenditure, which is 13% higher than this year's allocation.
13. Under the allocation for Operating Expenditure, a total of RM55 billion or 54.3% is for Fixed Charges and Grants, RM23.6 billion for Emoluments, RM20.6 billion for Supplies and Services, RM1.6 billion for Purchase of Assets and RM500 million for other expenditures.
14. For Development Expenditure, the largest allocation is for the economic sector amounting to RM14.4 billion, namely for the agriculture, industry and infrastructure sectors. A sum of RM9.9 billion is provided for the social sector encompassing education, health and housing. The security sector is allocated RM5.6 billion and RM3.6 billion is allocated for administration.
Accelerating Rural Development
15. The Government aspires to provide balanced and comprehensive development to all Malaysians. In line with the Government's objective to further improve the economy and infrastructure in the rural areas, an allocation of RM5.7 billion is provided for this purpose. A substantial portion of the allocation of RM2.7 billion is for the implementation of agriculture projects, particularly value added activities that can generate higher income for the farmers, RM 1.2 billion is allocated for education, RM581 million for the construction and upgrading of roads and RM299 million for water and electricity supply.
16. The Government is aware of complaints of inadequate basic infrastructure facilities, particularly in rural areas. I am saddened by reports of fatal accidents involving school children while crossing dilapida1ed bridges. As a nation with world-class infrastructure such incidents should not occur.
17. I urge the Honourable Members of Parliament, together with State Development Officers and District Officers to identify the list of basic infrastructure needs, such as small bridges, that are urgently required in every Parliamentary constituency. This list is to be submitted to the Implementation Coordination Unit (ICU) in the Prime Minister's Department before the end of November to facilitate implementation. To expedite the completion of these projects, local contractors, particularly small Bumiputera contractors will be appointed to undertake them.
Optimising the Utilisation of Existing Infrastructure
18. The nation has achieved a high level of development, particularly in physical infrastructure. We have world-class infrastructure facilities, including highways, international airports as well as ports. While we will continue to build and improve our physical infrastructure, there is also a need to focus on optimising the utilisation of these facilities. Hence, the Government will emphasise the development of soft infrastructure, which includes human capital, management and organisational systems and a culture of maintenance.
19. The maintenance culture has to be more thoroughly inculcated. To supplement the allocation of RM4.3 billion provided to agencies for maintenance, the Government will provide a special allocation of RM1 billion for the maintenance of public facilities for next year. In 2005, the Government has provided RM500 million that is enabling nearly 9,000 maintenance works to be undertaken by class F contractors, in addition to the allocation to Government agencies amounting to RM4.1 billion.
20. Efforts to upgrade human capital will be intensified through education and training to enable the people to master knowledge and skills, particularly in science and technology. For this purpose, a sum of RM29 billion or one-fifth of the 2006 Budget allocation is provided for education and training to benefit 5.7 million students. Of this, a sum of RM24 billion is for Operating Expenditure, with the remaining RM5 billion for Development Expenditure.
Improving Further the Government's Delivery System
21. The public sector plays a vital role as an enabler and facilitator to private sector initiatives by providing a more efficient delivery system and customer-friendly service. An area, which often results in delay in implementing projects, is the late issuance of sub-warrants from ministries to their agencies. Such late issuance must be avoided. In this regard, all ministries are required to issue sub-warrants authorising expenditure by their agencies, not later than the end of March of each year. The Cabinet will monitor this matter closely.
22. The strengthening of public delivery system will continue to be the main agenda. Besides increasing the capacity, work processes will also be improved. The capacity of the flying squad of the Ministry of Natural Resources and Environment will be strengthened with an additional 600 personnel. Emphasis will now be given to revenue collection, land conversion, sub-division and partition. Among others, the process of issuing strata titles will be simplified based on the issuance of Certificate of Completion.
23. A total of 334 posts will be established to facilitate one-stop centres in all local authorities in expediting the processing of licences and permits, as well as payment of assessment fees and fines. The capacity of the Malaysia Intellectual Property Office will be increased to expedite the approval for registration of applications for patent and trademark certifications.
24. Malaysia aspires to be a regional hub, especially in the services sector and knowledge-based industries. Therefore, it is important that we facilitate the travel of knowledge workers and business travellers to Malaysia. In this regard, the Ministry of Home Affairs is taking measures with the view to facilitating and expediting the issuance of visas, particularly for knowledge workers and professionals in the fields of ICT, financial services and high-technology industries. In addition, the Expatriate Committee and Inspectorate Units of the Immigration Department will be strengthened.
25. A Health Tourism Unit will be established under the Ministry of Health to improve the quality of health services to attract more foreigners to seek private health services in Malaysia. In addition, efforts will be focussed on obtaining international recognition and promoting local private hospitals.
26. In line with the move to enhance the delivery system, financially autonomous statutory bodies will be allowed to determine their own schemes of service. This flexibility will enable them to plan and manage their manpower as well as increase organisational productivity. The statutory bodies that have been identified are the Employees Provident Fund (EPF), Lembaga Urusan dan Tabung Haji. Lembaga Tabung Angkatan Tentera, SOCSO and Bank Simpanan Nasional. Meanwhile, Kumpulan Wang Amanah Pencen will also be converted into a statutory body with similar flexibility.
27. The use of ICT to facilitate dealings between the public and Government agencies will be expanded. In this regard, e-Payment transactions using credit cards at counters and online will be implemented at the Royal Malaysia Police Force (PDRM), Road Transport Department, Immigration Department and EPF as well as hospitals. This will expedite and facilitate payments and receipts as well as promote the use of e-Payment nationwide.
Improving Government Procurement System
28. The Government Procurement System will be improved through the introduction of new modalities in efforts to reduce cost, enhance transparency and ensure value for money. Towards this end, an e-Bidding system or reverse auction is being piloted in some agencies with the view of implementing this new approach to the public sector and some government-linked companies (GLCs).
SECOND STRATEGY: PROVIDING A BUSINESS-FRIENDLY ENVIRONMENT
29. The private sector has an important role in generating economic growth. In order to facilitate the private sector's role, the Government will ensure business-friendly policies and measures, as well as promote a more conducive environment.
Reducing Cost of Doing Business
30. The Government continues to undertake measures to further reduce the cost of doing business to allow companies to grow and remain competitive, especially in the regional and international markets. For this purpose, the Government has implemented several tax and non-tax measures, and remains committed to further increase and improve incentives to enhance the nation's competitiveness.
31. The Malaysian corporate landscape increasingly consists of large groups of companies that comprise many subsidiaries. The Government recognises that venturing into high-risk projects requires large capital outlay and there could be losses during the initial years of operation. Such potential losses could discourage companies from undertaking investments, which are beneficial to the economy in the long run. The Government, therefore, proposes to provide group relief to companies within a group, with a minimum of 70% ownership between them. The group relief allows 50% of a company's current year losses to be offset against the profits of other companies in the same group. In addition to reducing the cost of doing business, this measure is expected to increase the nation's competitiveness, as well as encourage more investments.
32. Pioneer Status has been granted to many companies, including multinationals, to attract investors to Malaysia. The main sectors that have already been granted with this incentive, in addition to the Multimedia Super Corridor (MSC), include the manufacturing and tourism sectors. To further enhance the effectiveness of this incentive, the Government proposes that accumulated losses and unabsorbed capital allowances during the pioneer period be allowed to be carried forward and be deducted from the post-pioneer income.
33. Although many areas in the Eastern Corridor have been developed, there remain several areas in the Corridor that have not. Therefore, to attract more investments to the Eastern Corridor, including Sabah and Sarawak, the existing tax incentives for projects located in this Corridor will be extended for a further 5 years until 31 December 2010.
34. In addition, the Government proposes the following tax incentives to further reduce the cost of doing business:
First: income from investment activities of investment holding companies listed on Bursa Malaysia be treated as business income and therefore, expenses of these holding companies would no longer be restricted for purposes of tax deduction. However, losses and unabsorbed capital allowances are not allowed to be carried forward;
Second: recognising the importance of corporate compliance, audit fees will be allowed tax
deductions;
Third: given that revenues and profits are subject to fluctuations due to varying business conditions, the Government intends to provide greater flexibility in tax estimation. Presently, companies are required to provide estimates of current year tax payable which are not less than the revised estimates for the preceding year. With this flexibility, companies will be allowed to estimate their tax payable at a level not less than 85% of the preceding year's tax estimates compared with 100% currently;
Fourth: simplify book keeping for small value assets. Presently, capital allowances on assets are amortised over a period of time. With this measure, companies will be allowed to claim full capital allowances in the year of acquisition for a total amount not exceeding RM10,000. However, the value of individual items for this purpose must not exceed RM1,000; and
Fifth: to further encourage developers to construct low-cost houses, estimated losses on low-cost houses will be allowed to be offset against estimated profits of other real property development projects for purposes of tax.
Strengthening the Capital Market
35. The capital market has expanded rapidly and plays an important role in providing cost effective financing to the corporate sector. This has reduced dependence on borrowings from commercial banks to finance their investments. Corporates have also benefitted from capital market financing through the issuance of equity and bonds. The size of the national bond market has increased almost three-fold from RM137 billion in 1997 to RM363 billion in 2004, with corporate bonds constituting 51 % of the total. Meanwhile, the total equity raised amounted to RM66 billion during the same period. The rapid pace of expansion in the bond and equity markets has led to a vibrant capital market, which will further assist and facilitate the private sector to spearhead the growth of the economy.
36. The Government recognises the need to further enhance the quality of companies listed on Bursa Malaysia. In this context, one of the measures is to encourage mergers and acquisitions (M&As) with the objective of enabling companies to expand operations, increase liquidity, enhance their capital base and achieve better economies of scale. To encourage M&As, the Government proposes to exempt stamp duty and real property gains tax on mergers and acquisitions of companies listed on Bursa Malaysia. These exemptions are given for M&As that are approved by the Securities Commission (SC) from 1 October 2005 until 31 December 2007.
37. In addition. the Government also proposes to abolish Section 132G of the Companies Act 1965 to facilitate and provide greater flexibility to companies to undertake M&As and restructure their business. Section 132G was introduced in 1992, aimed at prohibiting asset shuffling whereby shareholders of listed companies could inject newly acquired assets into listed companies at excessively high value, thereby adversely affecting the interests of minority shareholders.
38. However, since the establishment of the SC in 1993, a number of regulatory measures have been formulated to prohibit asset shuffling. These include ensuring fair valuation of assets and consideration in the transactions. At the same time, several regulations pertaining to related party transactions requiring shareholders approval as well as the Code of Corporate Governance, have been implemented. Therefore, Section 132G is no longer required to serve the purpose of protecting the minority interest.
39. Over the years, the SC has undertaken various measures to expedite approvals for corporate proposals. To further facilitate and expedite corporate proposals, prospectuses received by the Securities Commission will be reviewed on a post-vetting basis beginning 3 October 2005. This will allow companies to issue a prospectus within two weeks upon lodgment with the SC. However. SC will ensure that companies and their advisers conduct due diligence and provide accurate information in their prospectus. In addition to reduce the time to market, companies involved in takeovers will be required to issue offer documents containing detailed conditions within 21 days from the date of notice of takeover compared to 35 days currently.
40. Business efficacy must be balanced with better enforcement. Therefore, the capacity and effectiveness of-SC's enforcement in dealing with corporate misconduct will be enhanced. SC will continue to enforce laws to ensure investor confidence in the capital market. Any offence, under any laws, including the Companies Act and Penal Code, uncovered in the course of SC's investigations will be prosecuted.
41. To provide skilled managers and directors with integrity, especially for GLCs, a Management Leadership and Directors Academy will be established as a centre of leadership excellence. The Academy will produce competent directors and senior management who possess effective leadership qualities. The Academy will collaborate with world-class management institutions.
42. The issuance of Real Estate Investment Trusts or REITs is a mechanism that will enhance the liquidity of real estate companies with large fixed assets. It will also facilitate product diversification for investors. To encourage more REITs, the Government proposes to allow tax deductions on legal, valuation and consultancy expenses.
43. To further promote the corporate bond market, the Government proposes that corporates issuing bonds will be allowed tax deductions for discounts on an accrual basis for the period until the maturity date of the bonds. At present, tax deductions are only allowed upon the maturity of bonds.
Developing New Sources of Growth
44. To further strengthen and diversify the sources of economic growth, the Government will intensify its efforts to encourage the private sector to venture into new areas with high growth potential and competitive edge. These include modern methods for agriculture, biotechnology, nanotechnology, high-technology manufacturing as well as services, especially ICT, education and tourism.
Modernising the Agriculture Sector
45. As I have often emphasised, the agriculture sector should become a more dynamic sector. One way of achieving this is by increasing productivity and competitiveness through higher value added activities and utilisation of modern technology. The agriculture sector is allocated a sum of RM2.8 billion for development expenditure, primarily for agriculture, animal husbandry, fishery and forestry. To further increase effectiveness in implementing agriculture programmes, the Agriculture Department will be restructured and provided with an additional 255 new posts. In addition, Agriculture Counsellor Offices will be established abroad to promote Malaysia's agricultural products.
46. We have the potential to develop a viable and competitive halal industry at the global level. In this regard, research institutions like Malaysian Agricultural Research and Development Institute (MARDI), Malaysian Palm Oil Board (MPOB) and institutions of higher learning must aggressively promote R&D in halal products and establish joint ventures with research institutions abroad. The food safety and quality laboratories of the Ministry of Health will be streamlined and strengthened to provide more effective testing services to exporters.
47. The Government will also give priority to efforts to increase productivity and improve the quality of food production to ensure adequate supply and enhance export of food items. The Fund for Food (3F) will be further increased by RM300 million to ensure sufficient funding for the food production industry. A major portion of the Fund will continue to be provided for commercialisation of food production activities, including processing, packaging and marketing.
48. The Government will continue to modernise and diversify fishery activities to increase the income of fishermen and those involved in aquaculture. A sum of RM160 million is allocated for the development of fishery programmes, including upgrading of extension services, research and training, fish farming, fish breeding, deep sea fishing and ornamental fish.
49. Reafforestation is essential to ensure the sustainability of the nation's forest resources. The Government will establish a new company with an initial funding of RM200 million to develop forest plantations commercially. This is in line with the Government's strategy to produce timber on a sustainable basis.
50. The Government will continue to encourage GLCs, especially those involved in the plantation sector, to become the catalyst in the commercialisation of the agriculture sector, including smallholder activities. Priority will be given to projects that generate economies of scale, increase competitiveness and develop new technologies. For this purpose, the Government will provide an additional allocation of RM400 million to finance agricultural projects of GLCs.
51. Khazanah Nasional will establish the National Agriculture and Food Corporation with a capital of RM500 million, which will become a centre of excellence in agricultural supply chain management. Functions of the Corporation include matching and management of production, processing, marketing, distribution and related logistics. Focus" will be given to activities such as commercialisation, branding, R&D, production standard setting and logistics as well as establishment of high-technology plantations. Facilities which will be provided include Collection, Processing and Packaging Centres as well as a network of cold rooms.
52. Cooperatives play an important role in the development of small businesses. The Government has launched the National Cooperative Policy to spearhead the development of this sector. In addition, measures to further empower cooperatives will be formulated in the Ninth Malaysia Plan.
Developing the Biotechnology Sector
53. The Government launched the National Biotechnology Policy in April 2005 to outline strategies and initiatives to develop biotechnology in Malaysia. The areas of biotechnology that have been selected as strategic fields include agricultural biotechnology, health biotechnology and industrial biotechnology. To encourage the participation of the private sector, various fiscal incentives will be provided.
54. The Government has established the Malaysian Biotechnology Corporation to spearhead the development of biotechnology in an integrated manner to implementation the National Biotechnology Policy. The Corporation successfully organised the 2005 Round Table Biotechnology Meeting in the United States recently, which I chaired and which was attended by noted scientists, academics, entrepreneurs and venture capitalists. The meeting produced various ideas, views and recommendations that will contribute to our efforts to further develop this critical technology.
55. The Government is committed to develop biotechnology and is currently formulating various plans that will be implemented in the near future. The various projects that are being developed, include enhancing the capability of institutions such as MARDI, MPOB and Institute of Medical Research, as well as launching biotechnology excellence centres in agriculture, health and genomics. Meanwhile, a Bioproducts Validation Centre costing RM30 million will be established in Johor Bahru. The Government will also set up a special fund, Malaysian Life Sciences Capital Fund under the management of Malaysian Technology Development Corporation for investment in biotechnology. The Fund will pool investments from various institutions, such as GLCs. The Fund will be launched with a RM100 million contribution from the Government. In addition, the Malaysian Biotechnology Corporation will collaborate with other agencies and ministries to attract more investments and joint ventures among local and foreign biotechnology companies.
Intensifying the ICT Sector
56. MSC was established to be a catalyst of economic growth based on knowledge and intellectual property. We must fully capitalise on the strengths of MSC, which has succeeded in attracting the outsourcing and shared services industry. To further enhance the development of Cyberjaya, which is a key component of MSC, the following measures will be implemented:
First: the Cyberjaya development guidelines, including plot ratio, will be amended to facilitate the construction of more affordable homes;
Second: public transport will also be improved, particularly in terms of providing bus services to cater for the requirements of shared services and outsourcing companies which operate 24 hours a day;
Third: to encourage more office space for MSC-status companies, the Government proposes that the Industrial Building Allowance (IBA) for a period of ten years be given to owners of new buildings occupied by MSC-status companies in Cyberjaya; and
Fourth: an ICT Development Institute will be established to increase the supply of knowledge workers by providing the skill sets required by the ICT industry, especially shared services and outsourcing companies.
57. Presently, multimedia companies operating outside of Cybercities (Cyberjaya, Kuala Lumpur City Centre, Technology Park Malaysia, Bayan Lepas in Pulau Pinang and Kulim HiTech Park in Kedah) do not enjoy tax incentives given to MSC-status companies. To further encourage ICT and multimedia activities including Regional Shared Services Centres, throughout the country, the Government proposes Pioneer Status of 50% income tax exemption for 5 years or Investment Tax Allowance of 50% be given to qualifying companies operating outside Cybercities. This incentive will only be extended to companies endorsed by the Multimedia Development Corporation (MDC).
58. The Government wishes to encourage Malaysian ICT companies to grow and penetrate global markets. MDC will work together with Permodalan Nasional Berhad (PNB) and Khazanah to identify and match leading MSC status companies with suitable GLCs to test bed their products. These GLCs will become reference sites to showcase the products of MSC-status companies when marketing to prospective customers globally.
Encouraging Research and Development (R&D)
59. The development of science and technology as well as R&D will continue to be encouraged to generate new sources of growth. An allocation of RM868 million is provided under the Ministry of Science, Technology and Innovation. The R&D Grant Scheme will focus on biotechnology, advanced manufacturing, advanced materials, ICT, nanotechnology and alternative sources of energy, including solar, to encourage innovation among local companies and developing new products.
Strengthening Small and Medium-Enterprises
60. I had announced the establishment of the SME Bank at the beginning of the year. Subsequently, the roles and functions of Bank Industri dan Teknologi Malaysia Berhad (BITMB) and Bank Pembangunan dan Infrastruktur Berhad (BPIMB) have been rationalised, following which, two separate banks have been established under one group. Firstly, Bank Pembangunan Malaysia Berhad (BPMB) will be the holding company focussing on financing of capital-intensive and high-technology industries, maritime and infrastructure. Secondly, the SME Bank has been established and will commence operations on 3 October 2005.
61. To finance the expansion of BPMB's lending activities, including the SME Bank, a sum of RM9 billion will be raised from the capital market. Part of this financing will be used to increase the paid-up capital of the SME Bank to RM1 billion.
62. The SME Bank will provide financial facilities and advisory services to SMEs, besides enhancing their competitiveness in the domestic and international markets.
63. The SME Bank will also set up a venture capital fund of RM1 billion to finance SMEs which plans and are capable of undertaking business expansion. SMEs with strong growth and competitive edge will be provided capital injection.
64. Following the rationalisation of the functions of BITMB and BPIMS, the Export Import Bank Malaysia (EXIM Bank) will absorb the functions of Malaysia Export Credit Insurance Berhad. EXIM Bank will be placed under the Ministry of Finance. It will be strengthened and its scope expanded to play an important role in assisting and encouraging local entrepreneurs, especially Bumiputera entrepreneurs, to venture abroad. The facilities provided include trade financing, overseas projects financing and credit insurance guarantee. For this purpose, a Fund totalling RM1 billion will be established.
65. To further reduce the cost of financing of SMEs, the Government proposes SMEs be given stamp duty exemption of 50% on documents for loans not exceeding RM1 million.
66. PROSPER has played an important role in the development of viable Bumiputera SMEs in the retail sector. PROSPER has approved 770 applications involving 1,600 Bumiputera entrepreneurs. In 2006, an additional 250 new applications are expected to be approved. In addition, to increase the number of viable Bumiputera SMEs in strategic industries, the scope of PROSPER will be widened to include wholesale businesses. The development of Bumiputera entrepreneurs in the wholesale business will assist Bumiputera small contractors to source their supplies in a more effective manner, particularly in the construction industry.
Enhancing Bumiputera Participation in the Property Sector
67. Efforts at increasing Bumiputera wealth and participation in the corporate sector have, thus far, focussed mainly on equity shareholding, particularly in listed companies. However, this measure alone may not be sufficient to increase Bumiputera ownership of the nation's economic cake. It is also important that efforts be pursued to increase their ownership of properties, including commercial properties. Investments in real estates in particular those located in prime commercial areas, require large capital outlay. Therefore, to further promote Bumiputera wealth accumulation, there is a need to facilitate Bumiputera ownership of properties, particularly commercial properties. For this purpose, a Bumiputera property trust foundation, Yayasan Amanah Hartanah Bumiputera, will be established with an initial capital of RM2 billion for purchasing commercial properties, especially in major towns, with the objective of increasing Bumiputera commercial property ownership in strategic locations and providing greater opportunities for prime business locations for Bumiputera entrepreneurs. The Yayasan will be chaired by the Prime Minister. Details of Yayasan Pelaburan Hartanah Bumiputera will be announced by the Ministry of Finance shortly.
THIRD STRATEGY: DEVELOPING HUMAN CAPITAL
68. Human resource development must be enhanced to ensure the nation remains competitive and resilient, particularly in a global economy where knowledge, science and technology are highly valued. In this respect, quality education will be emphasised to equip Malaysians with knowledge skills and positive values to become a workforce imbued with a culture of high performance. Quality education will also ensure that they remain relevant to meet current market requirements to face the increasingly competitive international environment. A total of RM5 billion is allocated for education and training under development expenditure, including RM1.3 billion for pre-school, primary and secondary schools and matriculation, RM1.4 billion for higher education, RM1.1 billion for training and RM1.2 billion for ICT, curriculum development, hostels and teachers' quarters.
69. Emphasis will be given to skills training and technical expertise. A sum of RM493 million is allocated for the enrolment of students in technical, vocational and skills training, which will be increased from 72,000 students for this year to 98,000 in 2006. In addition, an allocation of nearly RM1 billion is provided for trade and industrial training at Institut Kemahiran MARA, Pusat Giat MARA, Institut Kemahiran Selia Negara, Industrial Training Institutes and Advanced Technology Training Centres.
70. To maximise the utilisation of training centres, the double-shift programme introduced in 2005 will be expanded. An allocation of RM63 million is provided for 47 existing training centres to participate in the programme, which will cater for an additional 9,300 trainees. The Workforce Technical Transformation Programme implemented by state Skills Training Centres and Institut Kemahiran MARA will be further enhanced with an allocation of RM175 million to train 12,000 students. The enrolment of polytechnic students will be increased from 78,000 students for this year to 80,000 in 2006. This will enable school-Ieavers with Sijil Pelajaran Malaysia qualifications to obtain skills training.
71. At present, the Government provides tax relief of up to RM4,OOO for each child studying in local institutions of higher learning based on actual expenses. The Government proposes that the tax relief of RM4,000 be given automatically. In addition, the Government proposes to widen the scope of this relief to the following:
First: children studying at recognised institutions of higher learning abroad; and
Second: disabled children studying at institutions of higher learning. Taking into account the current tax relief of RM5,000 for each disabled child, parents will be eligible for a total relief of RM9,000.
72. To encourage lifelong learning, the scope of courses that qualify for tax relief of RM5,000 to individual tax payers will be broadened. Presently, tertiary level courses in technical, vocational, industrial, science and technology skills are tax exempted and this will be extended to professional qualifications and for courses in accounting and law.
73. Private institutions of higher learning (I PTS) play an important role in providing opportunities for more students to obtain tertiary education. IPTS also contribute towards the nation's objective of becoming a regional educational hub. As at end 2004, there were almost 6,000 foreign students in public institutions of higher learning (IPTA) and 26,000 foreign students in IPTS. To further increase their enrolment, the Ministry of Higher Education will set up a special unit to assist IPTS in obtaining accreditation and recognition overseas.
74. As an incentive for IPTS to introduce new courses, it is proposed that the expenditure for the development and regulatory compliance for new courses by IPTS be given tax deduction to be amortised over 3 years. In addition, to increase the number of local scientists, the Government proposes that IPTS specialising in science courses be given Investment Tax Allowance of 100% for 10 years.
75. To assist unemployed graduates to participate in economic activities, the Government will implement several programmes as follows:
First: a Young Entrepreneurs' Scheme will be implemented by the Ministry of Entrepreneur and Cooperative Development in fields, such as ICT, tourism, ha/al products as well as food processing and packaging;
Second: Skills Training Centres at the state level will increase their intake of students and introduce new courses under the Industrial Skills Enhancement Programme. A sum of RM100 million is allocated for training of 4,800 trainees; and
Third: the PROSPER Graduate Programme will be implemented to encourage graduates to become entrepreneurs. Initially in 2006, a total of 200 graduates will be assisted in setting up businesses, with financing up to RM50,000 each.
76. To encourage companies to provide job opportunities for unemployed graduates, listed companies under the supervision of the SC that provide allowances to participants under the Unemployed Graduates Training Programmes will be given double tax deduction for a period of 3 years. These programmes need to be endorsed by the SC. It is expected that at least 1,000 unemployed graduates will be trained under this programme by listed companies in the PNB and Khazanah groups.
77. The Government recognises the need to elevate the status of the .teaching profession. Measures have been taken to enhance the selection of potential teachers and their training and improve their career prospects and working environment. To further strengthen the measures taken, the Government proposes to upgrade the teachers' colleges to Teachers' Training Institutes (IPG). The Government will improve the level of training and curriculum, including attracting cooperation and expertise from foreign institutions. I am confident that with this measure, IPGs will produce graduate teachers who can meet the needs and challenges in our schools. In addition, the target of providing secondary schools with 100% graduate teachers and 50% in primary schools will be met by 2010.
FOURTH STRATEGY: ENHANCING THE WELL-BEING AND QUALITY OF LIFE OF THE RAKYAT
Reducing Financial Burden of Malaysians
78. Since mid-2004, the prices of crude oil have risen sharply in the world market. Oil prices had surged to US$71 per barrel on 29 August 2005 compared to US$37 per barrel in June 2004 on the basis of rising demand, especially from China, India and the US. In addition, concerns over supplies, geo-political tensions in some major oil producing countries as well as adverse weather in the Gulf of Mexico have contributed to the price increase.
79. Given the impact of escalating international crude oil prices on domestic prices, tile Government continues to provide sales tax exemption and subsidy for petrol, diesel and liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) to reduce the burden of Malaysians. Without tax exemptions and subsidy, the domestic price of petrol would have been RM2.80 per litre, RM2.15 per litre for diesel and RM2.50 per kg for cooking gas. These prices are about 70% higher than current retail prices. The Government is estimated to incur losses in tax revenue and subsidy amounting to RM16 billion for this year. This level is almost three times higher than the RM6.6 billion in 2003 and almost one and a half times higher than RM11.9 billion in 2004.
80. Apart from the Government's price subsidy, Petronas also subsidises gas prices for electricity generation, amounting to RM9 billion. As such, the Government's total subsidy this year amounts to RM25 billion or RM1,000 for each Malaysian citizen.
81. The Government has insulated consumers from large increases in petroleum prices. Over a two-year period, from 2004 and 2005, the Government has absorbed 80%
Fifth: supplying electricity to about 550 schools and water to 260 schools. Upon completion, full coverage of electricity and water supply for schools will be achieved; and
Sixth: allocating RM 104 million to improve the standard of living of Orang Asli.
86. In the context of improving the welfare of children in rural areas, through the provision of nutritional and balanced food, the contribution for TABIKA under KEMAS will be increased from 60 sen to RM1.50 daily per student. In addition, a sum of RM10 million will be provided for the balanced meal programme, which will benefit 20,000 rural hardcore poor households. The Government will also increase reading facilities for students in rural areas. The Special Programme for Rural Libraries, which was allocated a sum of RM30 million to provide 200 libraries in 2005, will be aliocatedRM85 million for the construction of an additional 400 rural libraries and the purchase of reading materials in 2006.
Providing Comfortable Homes
87. The Government will continue to enhance efforts to provide houses for low-income families. A sum of RM2.1 billion will be allocated for this purpose. Of this, RM1 billion is allocated to build 21,600 units of low-cost houses, encompassed in the housing programmes, namely, Program Perumahan Rakyat Dimiliki, Program Perumahan Rakyat Disewa and Program Perumahan Rakyat Bersepadu.
88. The Government will provide more housing for teachers and uniformed personnel, such as the armed forces, police, firemen and customs officers. A sum of RM1.1 billion is allocated for the provision of 26,000 units of quarters in 2006. In addition, the Government will also implement the PDRM 3-bedroom quarters project nationwide costing RM2.5 billion on a build-lease-transfer basis. The construction work will mainly be undertaken by Bumiputera small local contractors.
89. Efforts to encourage the use of Industrialised Building System (lBS) will be continued in order to achieve the objective of reducing dependency on unskilled labour as well as foreign workers. In this Budget, I propose capital expenditure on moulds to manufacture IBS components be given accelerated capital allowance to be claimed for 3 years. This measure will reduce the cost of building components such as pillars, beams, walls and floors. The Government will ensure that the IBS components meet the Malaysia Standard MS 1064. The adoption of the Standard will ensure quality and will also control construction costs.
Instilling Good Family Values
90. The Ministry of Women, Family and Community Development is allocated RM488 million to continue efforts in assisting women, family institutions, the disabled, elderly and single mothers.
91. Currently, the option of exemption on Real Property Gains Tax (RPGT) for a residential property is given to the husband, even if the property is owned by the wife. To ensure equitable tax treatment, the Government proposes that the option for RPGT exemption be given to the owner of the residential property, irrespective whether it is the husband or the wife. Instead of only one claim for each married couple, the Government proposes to allow a husband and wife to each claim one property for exemption of RPGT on a once in a life-time basis.
Upholding National Culture And Heritage
92. The Government recognises the importance of preserving our heritage and culture, given that Malaysia is a multi-racial society with unique traditions and customs. In order to encourage more Malaysians to undertake artistic works, the Government proposes:
First: tax exemptions on income derived from royalty or payment in respect of artistic works or recording discs and tapes be increased from RM6,000 annually up to RM10,000 annually;
Second: exemptions on import duty and sales tax be given to equipment. used in the performing arts industry; and
Third: income derived by non-resident professionals who train Malaysians in the fields of performing arts and creative crafts as well as related technical fields be exempted from withholding tax.
93. The Heritage Apprenticeship Scheme under the Malaysian Handicraft Development Corporation will be enhanced to enable more youths to become apprentices to practitioners with expertise in culture and arts, including carving and weaving. In addition, the Tunas Mekar programme, in which people with expertise and training in management, accounting and business are matched with skilled craftsmen and SMEs, will be enhanced. The collaboration can produce contemporary products, inject technology and modernise small and medium industries, as well as increase the marketability of products.
Promoting Healthy Living
94. Promoting healthy living will continue to be an important focus of the Government's efforts. For 2006, a sum of RM 1.3 billion is allocated for development expenditure to the Ministry of Health. Among others, RM85 million is to complete the construction of hospitals in Alor Setar and Cameron Highlands and RM229 million for the building and upgrading of clinics nationwide. In addition, hospital laboratories and equipment will also be upgraded with an allocation of RM131 million.
95. To encourage Malaysians to adopt a healthy lifestyle, the Government proposes that tax on liquor and cigarettes be increased. Overall, the average increase in tax for liquor is 9%, whereas the average increase for cigarettes is 13%.
96. To curb social problems such as drug addiction, AIDS and crimes, PEMADAM will review rehabilitation methods and streamline programmes in rehabilitation centres. More aggressive campaigns will be organised by state governments, NGOs and individuals to curb drug abuse.
97. To carry out prevention, treatment and rehabilitation programmes as well as the management of 29 rehabilitation centres, a sum of RM207 million is allocated for the National Anti-Drug Agency.
98. The number of HIV/AIDS positive cases has risen to 65,000 persons this year. To overcome the problem, an advisory panel will be established in the Ministry of Health, comprising representatives of NGOs, including Malaysian AIDS Council and PENGASIH, as well as other Government agencies. The Panel will, among others, assist in formulating an integrated action plan to address HIV/AIDS, including conducting more HIV/AIDS awareness and prevention programmes as well as providing programmes for HIV/AIDS patients.
99. To ensure that the young spend their time productively, more community development activities will be carried out, including reviving Rukun Tetangga in all residential areas to curb crimes. In addition, an allocation of RM101 million is provided for Rakan Muda programme and RM600 million for the National Service Training programme. A total of 95,000 youths from all races will be trained under the National Service Training programme in 2006 compared to 65,000 in 2005.
100. The Government appreciates the contribution of NGOs in carrying out various activities to achieve Government policies and programmes. A sum of RM138 million is allocated to assist them in implementing these activities, including welfare organisations for the elderly, children, disabled as well as associations for sports and youths.
Enhancing Environmental Quality
101. The physical development of the nation will be balanced with environmental preservation to ensure sustainable development. A sum of RM1.9 billion is allocated for the implementation of environmental preservation projects. A sum of RM40 million is provided to prevent erosion of coastal areas, while RM370 million is allocated for drainage and flood mitigation nationwide as well as RM114 million for improvement of rivers and river estuaries. A sum of RM991 million is provided for repair of existing sewerage plants as well as construction of new plants. The solid waste management programme is allocated a sum of RM363 million.
Improving Public Transportation in the Klang Valley
102. To promote the use of public transport, the Government has taken measures to improve the efficiency of public transportation in the Klang Valley. In this regard, RAPID KL has commenced operations at the end of 2004. Currently, measures are being taken to acquire new buses to replace the aging fleet. A total of 250 new buses will be in operation at the end of this year. The present fleet replacement programme will be continued with an addition of 600 buses in 2006, including buses which utilise natural gas (NGV). Meanwhile, 120 existing buses will be refurbished.
103. In addition, Touch n Go, which is currently used in all rail transport, will be expanded to bus services. To improve the ticketing system, the Government will implement a single integrated ticketing system that can be used in all forms of public transportation in the Klang Valley. The new ticketing system will facilitate travel and provide cost-savings to consumers.
104. To expand the public transportation system in the Klang Valley, a study has been undertaken to identify the new rail routes in high density areas. In addition, a total of 10 new routes for buses has been implemented. The network of buses and rail will be integrated to ensure more efficient utilisation and its cost-effectiveness to consumers.
Diversifying Energy Sources
105. Given that crude oil resources will eventually be depleted, we must focus our efforts on measures to reduce our dependency on oil, particularly through the development of alternative energy resources, such as natural gas, biodiesel and solar. This initiative will also contribute towards environmental conservation.
106. Malaysia has gas reserves of 85 trillion square feet. Since gas is an environmental friendly fuel, its usage must be encouraged. To facilitate vehicle owners to use gas, the number of retail gas stations currently totalling 51 will be doubled by 2007. To encourage trucks and buses to utilise gas, it is proposed that import duty and sales tax exemption be given on chassis with engines of monogas trucks and buses as well as conversion kits. A grant of RM50,000 per bus will also be provided for each monogas bus acquired until the end of 2008. Tax incentives will be given for the expansion of the gas reticulation network.
107. Biofuel based on palm oil can reduce the nation's dependence on petroleum and also has lucrative export potential. The Government is currently formulating a policy to encourage the widespread production and use of biofuel. The policy is also aimed at encouraging commercialisation efforts in biofuel technology by local research institutions. As a start, the Government will set the biofuel mix at 5% of processed palm oil and 95% of diesel on a pilot basis. The standard for the "new diesel" will be developed by SIRIM. The Government, together with the private sector will set up 3 palm oil biodiesel commercial plants with a total capacity of 180,000 tons, principally for export. Before year end, the Government will formulate a National Biofuel Policy, which will encompass the formulation of a national industrial biofuel act as well as the provision of various incentives to encourage private sector involvement. The biofuel Act will be tabled in Parliament next year.
108. Presently, companies generating energy from environmental-friendly renewable resources, such as biomass, hydropower not exceeding 10 megawatts and solar energy are eligible for tax incentives. The Government proposes that the existing incentives for production of energy from renewable resources be enhanced by increasing the level of tax exemption under Pioneer Status from 70% to 100% for 10 years. and the rate of Investment Tax Allowance from 60% to 100% for five years. The period to apply for these tax incentives is to be extended until 31 December 2010. In addition, import duty and sales tax on equipment used for these activities, which will expire on 31 December 2005, will also be extended until 31 December 2010.
Energy Efficiency
109. Higher crude oil prices will result in higher subsidies for fuel and also for other sources of energy, such as electricity. We must not be wasteful in our consumption of energy. At the same time, we cannot rely on subsidies to maintain our competitiveness and thus should be more energy efficient in our production processes. In due course, electricity tariffs will need to be adjusted to promote greater energy efficiency and discourage wasteful and excessive consumption. However, the Government is committed to ensuring that there will be no additional burden, particularly for the lower income group, in meeting the minimum level of required consumption.
110. The Government will take the lead in energy conservation. I strongly believe that there is much scope for us to save energy. All Government agencies will be required to target a 10% savings in energy consumption for 2006. We are being wasteful if we keep our offices air-conditioned at excessively low temperatures and leave the lights on when no one is at work.
111. Beyond reducing consumption, the Government intends to further encourage investments in energy conservation. The Government proposes to extend the existing incentives given to companies providing energy conservation services for another 5 years until 2010. In addition, the, Government proposes to provide building owners with an Investment Tax Allowance of 60% on capital expenditure for improving energy conservation. Going forward, building development guidelines will need to promote 'smart buildings' which optimise building efficiency.
Regional Development
112. In the context of balanced growth, I would like to touch on the development of Sabah and Sarawak. The Government will continue to implement specific measures in these two states to further develop infrastructure and public amenities as well as various programmes to generate income. Sabah has been allocated RM2.3 billion in the 2006 Budget for the construction of roads, provision of water and electricity supply as well as for education and health projects. The major projects include the Sapulut to Kalabakan and Sipitang to Tenom roads and upgrading of Kota Kinabalu airport as well as the expansion of Universiti Malaysia Sabah and Queen Elizabeth Hospital.
113. For Sarawak, RM2 billion has been allocated in the 2006 Budget. Among the major projects to be undertaken are the construction of a road from Serdeng to Bawang Assam, the expansion of Kuching Airport, the development of the Sarawak Federal Administrative Centre and the expansion of Universiti Malaysia Sarawak. In addition, RM 112 million is provided for water and electricity supply as well as roads for the rural areas. The total allocation of the RM2 billion does not include the Bakun hydroelectric project, which will cost RM6.1 billion for the period 2006 to 2009.
Strengthening the Police Force
114. The Report of the Royal Commission to Enhance the Operations and Management of Royal Malaysia Police was published on 16 May 2005. The Report, among others, recognises the need to enhance the capability of the police force in the context of preserving law and order. The Government has commenced the implementation of several recommendations, including the building of more police stations and quarters, as well as the provision of better equipment. In this regard, a sum of RM3.5 billion is allocated for operational expenditure of PDRM and RM493 million for development expenditure. This is in addition to the RM2.5 billion provided for the construction of quarters by way of Build-Lease-Transfer.
115. The Report also recommends improvements in a number of allowances, some of which have already been implemented, including incentive for detectives, uniform allowances for senior officers and claims on mobile phone bills. In addition, I wish to announce further measures to be implemented with effect from 1 January 2006, as follows:
First: reimbursement for the cost of tailoring of uniforms for lower ranked police personnel up to RM1 00 per uniform for 3 uniforms per year;
Second: increase in incentive payments for bomb disposal unit from RM50 to RM100 per operation; and
Third: incentive for divers currently enjoyed by .the Armed Forces of Malaysia, Fishery Department, and National Science Centre will also be extended to PDRM as well as Fire and Rescue Services Department personnel. The incentive will be increased from RM50 to RM100 per month for divers and from RM150 to RM250 per month for clearance divers.
Assistance for Living Expenses for Civil Servants
116. In the light of rising cost of living, the Government will provide assistance for living expenses for Government servants in Grades 1 to 54, except for those living in quarters or receiving regional allowance, as follows: .
i. RM150 a month for those working in Kuala Lumpur, Putrajaya, Ampang Jaya, Kajang, Klang, Selayang, Shah Alam, Subang Jaya, Petaling Jaya, Johor Bahru, Georgetown and Butterworth;
ii. RM100 per month for those working in 26 other towns; and
iii. RM50 per month for those working in other areas.
117. The implementation of assistance for living expenses will commence on 1 January 2006.
118. Apart from the above assistance, several existing allowances will be improved and extended as follows:
i. the civil service fixed allowance (ITKA) will be streamlined. As a result, the ITKA for all officers in Grades 4.1 and 42 as well as Grade 45 for lecturers will be fixed at RM300 per month;
ii. allowance for AI-Quran and Fardhu Ain Classes (KAFA) supervisors will be increased from RM500 to RM750 per month;
iii. allowance for KAFA teachers will be fixed at RM500 per month. Previously, the maximum allowance was RM288 per month for Peninsular Malaysia and RM336 per month for Sabah and Sarawak;
iv. incentive payment of RM60 per month for nursing tuberculosis and leprosy patients will be extended to laboratory and medical technologists, medical laboratory assistants and hospital attendants working in the laboratories at the National Tuberculosis Centre and National Leprosy Centre; and
v. incentive allowance of RM100 per month paid to workers at mortuaries will be extended to medical health assistants and health attendants working in mortuaries.
119. In appreciation of civil servants' contribution in meeting national objectives, the Government will pay a bonus for 2005. Civil servants earning up to RM1,000 a month will be paid a bonus of one and a half months salary and those earning more than RM1,000 a month will be paid a bonus of one month salary subject to a minimum of RM1,500. To assist Government staff in meeting additional expenses for the coming festive seasons at the end of the year as well as expenses for school-going children at the beginning of next year, the bonus will be paid in two equal instalments in October and November 2005. In addition, the Government will make a special payment of RM200 for pensioners in October 2005.
120. I do not want traders to take advantage of the payment of bonus and the raise in allowances of civil servants to reap excessive profits. In fact, even without increasing prices, traders stand to benefit. The higher disposable income of civil servants will increase demand for goods and services, thus benefitting traders, suppliers and manufacturers. As such, they must be responsible and honest.
121. The Government will take additional measures to curb price increases of essential items during festive seasons, namely October 2005 to February 2006. Details will be announced by the Ministry of Domestic Trade and Consumer Affairs. The capacity of the enforcement staff to monitor prices will be further enhanced with an additional 745 personnel. The Government will take firm action against profiteering, including the withdrawal of licences. In addition, enforcement by the Ministry of Domestic Trade and Consumer Affairs, local authorities, Customs, PDRM and Inland Revenue Board will be better coordinated, including joint operations. The public must cooperate and play an active role to curb profiteering. The Government remains committed to provide a stable economic environment, particularly in the context of protecting the public from short-term fluctuations in the prices of essential goods and to provide assistance as well as support to the lower income group.
122. Smuggling activity has resulted in leakages where subsidised diesel is sold to those who are not entitled and also to neighbouring countries. The Government will continue to step up enforcement and act firmly against smugglers. The provision of diesel subsidy will be closely monitored to ensure it benefits the target groups.
123. Malaysia cannot be completely insulated from adverse global economic developments. Nevertheless, the Government will continue to take the necessary measures to minimise its impact on our economy. The burden of adjustment will, however, need to be shared between the Government and the rakyat. In this context, the higher price of oil arid other goods, for example, will require all Malaysians to make adjustments and sacrifices. This will include the necessary changes in consumption pattern. The higher oil price must serve as a wake-up call to diversify our energy resources, improve energy efficiency and productivity as well as enhance innovation and creativity.
124. All of us - individuals, families, traders and entrepreneurs - must be prudent in spending and avoid extravagance. We must increase and diversify our sources of revenue and income. We should constantly seek to increase knowledge so as to improve ourselves in the context of ensuring cost-effectiveness and efficiency as well as achieving progress. We should also strive to sustain our physical, spiritual and emotional well-being, as this, among others, will help reduce expenditure on medicine and treatment. If this becomes our way of life, we will become a nation that is successful, resilient and capable of overcoming challenges.
CONCLUSION
125. We are indeed grateful to Allah S.W.T for His guidance and blessings. The economy continues to remain resilient and we are able to maintain stability as well as strengthen harmony and unity. This achievement is the outcome of determined efforts from all Malaysians who have provided steadfast support to the Government to successfully implement development policies and strategies. The strong foundation of the economy will enable the nation to move forward with confidence into the second phase of Vision 2020. Let us all pledge to increase our efforts towards making Malaysia a developed nation.
126. As we move forward, we will face many challenges from the domestic and external fronts. In the context of the fast changing international environment, we cannot afford to be complacent. Indeed, we must be strong and resolute to continue to manage the success that we have achieved and aim for greater excellence, glory and distinction.
Mr. Speaker Sir, I beg to propose.
"STRENGTHENING RESILIENCE, MEETING CHALLENGES"
Mr. Speaker Sir,
I beg to move the bill entitled "An Act to apply a sum from the Consolidated Fund for the service of the year 2006 and to appropriate that sum for the service of the year" be read a second time.
INTRODUCTION
In the name of Allah the most gracious and the most merciful.
2. Praise be to Allah for enabling me to present the National Budget for 2006 in this Honourable House. The 2006 Budget is the first annual budget for the Ninth Malaysia Plan and the second phase of Vision 2020. The Government is currently formulating major policies and strategies towards achieving the objectives of Vision 2020. Insya Allah, I will table the Ninth Malaysia Plan in this Honourable House early next year.
3. The 2006 Budget focusses on a number of specific measures to generate greater quality growth in the near term that can contribute towards laying a strong foundation for long-term sustainable growth. The theme of the 2006 Budget theme is "Strengthening Resilience, Meeting Challenges". This Budget emphasies various measures to enhance national resilience and our ability to meet emerging external challenges, arising from escalating oil prices, higher interest rates and increasing global competition.
4. The Government will undertake proactive measures, including the development of physical infrastructure, especially in less developed areas. In addition, special emphasis will be given to the development of the rural economy in line with the Government's objective to improve the quality of life in rural areas through the provision of adequate roads, water and electricity as well as improved educational facilities. Focus will be given to the development of s6ft infrastructure, including human capital capability as well as management and organisational systems. The need for a business-friendly environment to increase national competitiveness will also be addressed in this Budget. With these measures, we are confident that the economy will continue to remain strong as well as generate income and wealth so as to improve the well-being of Malaysians in the context of building a peaceful, prosperous and united nation.
ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENTS
5. The Malaysian economy remained resilient in the first half of the year, despite slower world growth and sharply rising international oil prices. The Gross Domestic Product (GDP) of the economy grew by 4.9% in the first half of 2005, largely driven by private sector activities. Private consumption and investment continued to increase on the basis of improved investor confidence. Gross foreign direct investment totalled RM8 billion in the first half of 2005.
6. We are fortunate that, within a short period of seven years after the 1997 financial crisis, the economy has fully recovered to achieve sustainable growth. GDP grew at an annual average rate of 5.4% during the period. Despite the less than favourable external environment, growth is estimated at 5% for 2005.
7. Economic growth was achieved in an environment of stronger balance of payments and manageable inflation as well as full employment. The surplus in the balance of payments remains high, averaging 12% of Gross National Product (GNP) during the last 6 years and is expected to increase to 15.7% this year, arising from significant increases in exports. The strong economic performance and fundamentals have enabled Malaysians to enjoy higher income and purchasing power. Per capita income is expected to increase to RM17, 741 in 2005 compared with RM16, 616 in 2004. Our purchasing power parity increased from US$9,630 to US$10,323 during the same period.
8. Global economic Prospects are expected to be more challenging, following persistent sharp increases in oil prices and the less accommodative monetary stance of developed countries, particularly in the US. It is inevitable that global developments will have an impact on the Malaysian economy. However, the Government is confident that, with the measures in this Budget, growth will remain strong at 5.5% in 2006.
9. The task of nation building does not rest on the Government alone. Every Malaysian has an equally important role in ensuring the nation achieves further progress and prosperity. An important force that has brought the rapid pace of development thus far has been the strong support, sacrifice and dedication of all Malaysians. Moving forward, our ability to succeed in an environment marked by greater external vulnerabilities and challenges depends on our agility to make changes to our lifestyle, our determination to work harder, our ability to be innovative and creative, and more importantly, our willingness to make short term sacrifices for long term benefits. These commitments will provide us with the strength and opportunities to emerge from this environment much the stronger.
BUDGET STRATEGY 2006
10. The 2006 Budget strategies will focus on the following:
First: Implementing proactive Government measures, to accelerate economic activities;
Second: Providing a business-friendly environment;
Third: Developing human capital; and
Fourth: Enhancing the well-being and quality of life of Malaysians.
FIRST STRATEGY: IMPLEMENTING PROACTIVE GOVERNMENT MEASURES TO ACCELERATE ECONOMIC ACTIVITIES
11. The Government has succeeded in lowering the budget deficit from 5.6% of GDP in 2002 to an estimated 3.8% for this year. More importantly, the reduction of the deficit has been achieved without sacrificing economic growth. For 2006, the fiscal deficit will be further reduced to 3.5%. Given the low level of deficit, the Government has now a greater degree of flexibility to focus on developmental efforts in order to sustain the growth momentum.
12. I propose a sum of RM136.8 billion to be appropriated in 2006 Budget, an increase of 5% compared to 2005. Of this, a total of RM101.3 billion is for Operating Expenditure and RM35.5 billion for Development Expenditure, which is 13% higher than this year's allocation.
13. Under the allocation for Operating Expenditure, a total of RM55 billion or 54.3% is for Fixed Charges and Grants, RM23.6 billion for Emoluments, RM20.6 billion for Supplies and Services, RM1.6 billion for Purchase of Assets and RM500 million for other expenditures.
14. For Development Expenditure, the largest allocation is for the economic sector amounting to RM14.4 billion, namely for the agriculture, industry and infrastructure sectors. A sum of RM9.9 billion is provided for the social sector encompassing education, health and housing. The security sector is allocated RM5.6 billion and RM3.6 billion is allocated for administration.
Accelerating Rural Development
15. The Government aspires to provide balanced and comprehensive development to all Malaysians. In line with the Government's objective to further improve the economy and infrastructure in the rural areas, an allocation of RM5.7 billion is provided for this purpose. A substantial portion of the allocation of RM2.7 billion is for the implementation of agriculture projects, particularly value added activities that can generate higher income for the farmers, RM 1.2 billion is allocated for education, RM581 million for the construction and upgrading of roads and RM299 million for water and electricity supply.
16. The Government is aware of complaints of inadequate basic infrastructure facilities, particularly in rural areas. I am saddened by reports of fatal accidents involving school children while crossing dilapida1ed bridges. As a nation with world-class infrastructure such incidents should not occur.
17. I urge the Honourable Members of Parliament, together with State Development Officers and District Officers to identify the list of basic infrastructure needs, such as small bridges, that are urgently required in every Parliamentary constituency. This list is to be submitted to the Implementation Coordination Unit (ICU) in the Prime Minister's Department before the end of November to facilitate implementation. To expedite the completion of these projects, local contractors, particularly small Bumiputera contractors will be appointed to undertake them.
Optimising the Utilisation of Existing Infrastructure
18. The nation has achieved a high level of development, particularly in physical infrastructure. We have world-class infrastructure facilities, including highways, international airports as well as ports. While we will continue to build and improve our physical infrastructure, there is also a need to focus on optimising the utilisation of these facilities. Hence, the Government will emphasise the development of soft infrastructure, which includes human capital, management and organisational systems and a culture of maintenance.
19. The maintenance culture has to be more thoroughly inculcated. To supplement the allocation of RM4.3 billion provided to agencies for maintenance, the Government will provide a special allocation of RM1 billion for the maintenance of public facilities for next year. In 2005, the Government has provided RM500 million that is enabling nearly 9,000 maintenance works to be undertaken by class F contractors, in addition to the allocation to Government agencies amounting to RM4.1 billion.
20. Efforts to upgrade human capital will be intensified through education and training to enable the people to master knowledge and skills, particularly in science and technology. For this purpose, a sum of RM29 billion or one-fifth of the 2006 Budget allocation is provided for education and training to benefit 5.7 million students. Of this, a sum of RM24 billion is for Operating Expenditure, with the remaining RM5 billion for Development Expenditure.
Improving Further the Government's Delivery System
21. The public sector plays a vital role as an enabler and facilitator to private sector initiatives by providing a more efficient delivery system and customer-friendly service. An area, which often results in delay in implementing projects, is the late issuance of sub-warrants from ministries to their agencies. Such late issuance must be avoided. In this regard, all ministries are required to issue sub-warrants authorising expenditure by their agencies, not later than the end of March of each year. The Cabinet will monitor this matter closely.
22. The strengthening of public delivery system will continue to be the main agenda. Besides increasing the capacity, work processes will also be improved. The capacity of the flying squad of the Ministry of Natural Resources and Environment will be strengthened with an additional 600 personnel. Emphasis will now be given to revenue collection, land conversion, sub-division and partition. Among others, the process of issuing strata titles will be simplified based on the issuance of Certificate of Completion.
23. A total of 334 posts will be established to facilitate one-stop centres in all local authorities in expediting the processing of licences and permits, as well as payment of assessment fees and fines. The capacity of the Malaysia Intellectual Property Office will be increased to expedite the approval for registration of applications for patent and trademark certifications.
24. Malaysia aspires to be a regional hub, especially in the services sector and knowledge-based industries. Therefore, it is important that we facilitate the travel of knowledge workers and business travellers to Malaysia. In this regard, the Ministry of Home Affairs is taking measures with the view to facilitating and expediting the issuance of visas, particularly for knowledge workers and professionals in the fields of ICT, financial services and high-technology industries. In addition, the Expatriate Committee and Inspectorate Units of the Immigration Department will be strengthened.
25. A Health Tourism Unit will be established under the Ministry of Health to improve the quality of health services to attract more foreigners to seek private health services in Malaysia. In addition, efforts will be focussed on obtaining international recognition and promoting local private hospitals.
26. In line with the move to enhance the delivery system, financially autonomous statutory bodies will be allowed to determine their own schemes of service. This flexibility will enable them to plan and manage their manpower as well as increase organisational productivity. The statutory bodies that have been identified are the Employees Provident Fund (EPF), Lembaga Urusan dan Tabung Haji. Lembaga Tabung Angkatan Tentera, SOCSO and Bank Simpanan Nasional. Meanwhile, Kumpulan Wang Amanah Pencen will also be converted into a statutory body with similar flexibility.
27. The use of ICT to facilitate dealings between the public and Government agencies will be expanded. In this regard, e-Payment transactions using credit cards at counters and online will be implemented at the Royal Malaysia Police Force (PDRM), Road Transport Department, Immigration Department and EPF as well as hospitals. This will expedite and facilitate payments and receipts as well as promote the use of e-Payment nationwide.
Improving Government Procurement System
28. The Government Procurement System will be improved through the introduction of new modalities in efforts to reduce cost, enhance transparency and ensure value for money. Towards this end, an e-Bidding system or reverse auction is being piloted in some agencies with the view of implementing this new approach to the public sector and some government-linked companies (GLCs).
SECOND STRATEGY: PROVIDING A BUSINESS-FRIENDLY ENVIRONMENT
29. The private sector has an important role in generating economic growth. In order to facilitate the private sector's role, the Government will ensure business-friendly policies and measures, as well as promote a more conducive environment.
Reducing Cost of Doing Business
30. The Government continues to undertake measures to further reduce the cost of doing business to allow companies to grow and remain competitive, especially in the regional and international markets. For this purpose, the Government has implemented several tax and non-tax measures, and remains committed to further increase and improve incentives to enhance the nation's competitiveness.
31. The Malaysian corporate landscape increasingly consists of large groups of companies that comprise many subsidiaries. The Government recognises that venturing into high-risk projects requires large capital outlay and there could be losses during the initial years of operation. Such potential losses could discourage companies from undertaking investments, which are beneficial to the economy in the long run. The Government, therefore, proposes to provide group relief to companies within a group, with a minimum of 70% ownership between them. The group relief allows 50% of a company's current year losses to be offset against the profits of other companies in the same group. In addition to reducing the cost of doing business, this measure is expected to increase the nation's competitiveness, as well as encourage more investments.
32. Pioneer Status has been granted to many companies, including multinationals, to attract investors to Malaysia. The main sectors that have already been granted with this incentive, in addition to the Multimedia Super Corridor (MSC), include the manufacturing and tourism sectors. To further enhance the effectiveness of this incentive, the Government proposes that accumulated losses and unabsorbed capital allowances during the pioneer period be allowed to be carried forward and be deducted from the post-pioneer income.
33. Although many areas in the Eastern Corridor have been developed, there remain several areas in the Corridor that have not. Therefore, to attract more investments to the Eastern Corridor, including Sabah and Sarawak, the existing tax incentives for projects located in this Corridor will be extended for a further 5 years until 31 December 2010.
34. In addition, the Government proposes the following tax incentives to further reduce the cost of doing business:
First: income from investment activities of investment holding companies listed on Bursa Malaysia be treated as business income and therefore, expenses of these holding companies would no longer be restricted for purposes of tax deduction. However, losses and unabsorbed capital allowances are not allowed to be carried forward;
Second: recognising the importance of corporate compliance, audit fees will be allowed tax
deductions;
Third: given that revenues and profits are subject to fluctuations due to varying business conditions, the Government intends to provide greater flexibility in tax estimation. Presently, companies are required to provide estimates of current year tax payable which are not less than the revised estimates for the preceding year. With this flexibility, companies will be allowed to estimate their tax payable at a level not less than 85% of the preceding year's tax estimates compared with 100% currently;
Fourth: simplify book keeping for small value assets. Presently, capital allowances on assets are amortised over a period of time. With this measure, companies will be allowed to claim full capital allowances in the year of acquisition for a total amount not exceeding RM10,000. However, the value of individual items for this purpose must not exceed RM1,000; and
Fifth: to further encourage developers to construct low-cost houses, estimated losses on low-cost houses will be allowed to be offset against estimated profits of other real property development projects for purposes of tax.
Strengthening the Capital Market
35. The capital market has expanded rapidly and plays an important role in providing cost effective financing to the corporate sector. This has reduced dependence on borrowings from commercial banks to finance their investments. Corporates have also benefitted from capital market financing through the issuance of equity and bonds. The size of the national bond market has increased almost three-fold from RM137 billion in 1997 to RM363 billion in 2004, with corporate bonds constituting 51 % of the total. Meanwhile, the total equity raised amounted to RM66 billion during the same period. The rapid pace of expansion in the bond and equity markets has led to a vibrant capital market, which will further assist and facilitate the private sector to spearhead the growth of the economy.
36. The Government recognises the need to further enhance the quality of companies listed on Bursa Malaysia. In this context, one of the measures is to encourage mergers and acquisitions (M&As) with the objective of enabling companies to expand operations, increase liquidity, enhance their capital base and achieve better economies of scale. To encourage M&As, the Government proposes to exempt stamp duty and real property gains tax on mergers and acquisitions of companies listed on Bursa Malaysia. These exemptions are given for M&As that are approved by the Securities Commission (SC) from 1 October 2005 until 31 December 2007.
37. In addition. the Government also proposes to abolish Section 132G of the Companies Act 1965 to facilitate and provide greater flexibility to companies to undertake M&As and restructure their business. Section 132G was introduced in 1992, aimed at prohibiting asset shuffling whereby shareholders of listed companies could inject newly acquired assets into listed companies at excessively high value, thereby adversely affecting the interests of minority shareholders.
38. However, since the establishment of the SC in 1993, a number of regulatory measures have been formulated to prohibit asset shuffling. These include ensuring fair valuation of assets and consideration in the transactions. At the same time, several regulations pertaining to related party transactions requiring shareholders approval as well as the Code of Corporate Governance, have been implemented. Therefore, Section 132G is no longer required to serve the purpose of protecting the minority interest.
39. Over the years, the SC has undertaken various measures to expedite approvals for corporate proposals. To further facilitate and expedite corporate proposals, prospectuses received by the Securities Commission will be reviewed on a post-vetting basis beginning 3 October 2005. This will allow companies to issue a prospectus within two weeks upon lodgment with the SC. However. SC will ensure that companies and their advisers conduct due diligence and provide accurate information in their prospectus. In addition to reduce the time to market, companies involved in takeovers will be required to issue offer documents containing detailed conditions within 21 days from the date of notice of takeover compared to 35 days currently.
40. Business efficacy must be balanced with better enforcement. Therefore, the capacity and effectiveness of-SC's enforcement in dealing with corporate misconduct will be enhanced. SC will continue to enforce laws to ensure investor confidence in the capital market. Any offence, under any laws, including the Companies Act and Penal Code, uncovered in the course of SC's investigations will be prosecuted.
41. To provide skilled managers and directors with integrity, especially for GLCs, a Management Leadership and Directors Academy will be established as a centre of leadership excellence. The Academy will produce competent directors and senior management who possess effective leadership qualities. The Academy will collaborate with world-class management institutions.
42. The issuance of Real Estate Investment Trusts or REITs is a mechanism that will enhance the liquidity of real estate companies with large fixed assets. It will also facilitate product diversification for investors. To encourage more REITs, the Government proposes to allow tax deductions on legal, valuation and consultancy expenses.
43. To further promote the corporate bond market, the Government proposes that corporates issuing bonds will be allowed tax deductions for discounts on an accrual basis for the period until the maturity date of the bonds. At present, tax deductions are only allowed upon the maturity of bonds.
Developing New Sources of Growth
44. To further strengthen and diversify the sources of economic growth, the Government will intensify its efforts to encourage the private sector to venture into new areas with high growth potential and competitive edge. These include modern methods for agriculture, biotechnology, nanotechnology, high-technology manufacturing as well as services, especially ICT, education and tourism.
Modernising the Agriculture Sector
45. As I have often emphasised, the agriculture sector should become a more dynamic sector. One way of achieving this is by increasing productivity and competitiveness through higher value added activities and utilisation of modern technology. The agriculture sector is allocated a sum of RM2.8 billion for development expenditure, primarily for agriculture, animal husbandry, fishery and forestry. To further increase effectiveness in implementing agriculture programmes, the Agriculture Department will be restructured and provided with an additional 255 new posts. In addition, Agriculture Counsellor Offices will be established abroad to promote Malaysia's agricultural products.
46. We have the potential to develop a viable and competitive halal industry at the global level. In this regard, research institutions like Malaysian Agricultural Research and Development Institute (MARDI), Malaysian Palm Oil Board (MPOB) and institutions of higher learning must aggressively promote R&D in halal products and establish joint ventures with research institutions abroad. The food safety and quality laboratories of the Ministry of Health will be streamlined and strengthened to provide more effective testing services to exporters.
47. The Government will also give priority to efforts to increase productivity and improve the quality of food production to ensure adequate supply and enhance export of food items. The Fund for Food (3F) will be further increased by RM300 million to ensure sufficient funding for the food production industry. A major portion of the Fund will continue to be provided for commercialisation of food production activities, including processing, packaging and marketing.
48. The Government will continue to modernise and diversify fishery activities to increase the income of fishermen and those involved in aquaculture. A sum of RM160 million is allocated for the development of fishery programmes, including upgrading of extension services, research and training, fish farming, fish breeding, deep sea fishing and ornamental fish.
49. Reafforestation is essential to ensure the sustainability of the nation's forest resources. The Government will establish a new company with an initial funding of RM200 million to develop forest plantations commercially. This is in line with the Government's strategy to produce timber on a sustainable basis.
50. The Government will continue to encourage GLCs, especially those involved in the plantation sector, to become the catalyst in the commercialisation of the agriculture sector, including smallholder activities. Priority will be given to projects that generate economies of scale, increase competitiveness and develop new technologies. For this purpose, the Government will provide an additional allocation of RM400 million to finance agricultural projects of GLCs.
51. Khazanah Nasional will establish the National Agriculture and Food Corporation with a capital of RM500 million, which will become a centre of excellence in agricultural supply chain management. Functions of the Corporation include matching and management of production, processing, marketing, distribution and related logistics. Focus" will be given to activities such as commercialisation, branding, R&D, production standard setting and logistics as well as establishment of high-technology plantations. Facilities which will be provided include Collection, Processing and Packaging Centres as well as a network of cold rooms.
52. Cooperatives play an important role in the development of small businesses. The Government has launched the National Cooperative Policy to spearhead the development of this sector. In addition, measures to further empower cooperatives will be formulated in the Ninth Malaysia Plan.
Developing the Biotechnology Sector
53. The Government launched the National Biotechnology Policy in April 2005 to outline strategies and initiatives to develop biotechnology in Malaysia. The areas of biotechnology that have been selected as strategic fields include agricultural biotechnology, health biotechnology and industrial biotechnology. To encourage the participation of the private sector, various fiscal incentives will be provided.
54. The Government has established the Malaysian Biotechnology Corporation to spearhead the development of biotechnology in an integrated manner to implementation the National Biotechnology Policy. The Corporation successfully organised the 2005 Round Table Biotechnology Meeting in the United States recently, which I chaired and which was attended by noted scientists, academics, entrepreneurs and venture capitalists. The meeting produced various ideas, views and recommendations that will contribute to our efforts to further develop this critical technology.
55. The Government is committed to develop biotechnology and is currently formulating various plans that will be implemented in the near future. The various projects that are being developed, include enhancing the capability of institutions such as MARDI, MPOB and Institute of Medical Research, as well as launching biotechnology excellence centres in agriculture, health and genomics. Meanwhile, a Bioproducts Validation Centre costing RM30 million will be established in Johor Bahru. The Government will also set up a special fund, Malaysian Life Sciences Capital Fund under the management of Malaysian Technology Development Corporation for investment in biotechnology. The Fund will pool investments from various institutions, such as GLCs. The Fund will be launched with a RM100 million contribution from the Government. In addition, the Malaysian Biotechnology Corporation will collaborate with other agencies and ministries to attract more investments and joint ventures among local and foreign biotechnology companies.
Intensifying the ICT Sector
56. MSC was established to be a catalyst of economic growth based on knowledge and intellectual property. We must fully capitalise on the strengths of MSC, which has succeeded in attracting the outsourcing and shared services industry. To further enhance the development of Cyberjaya, which is a key component of MSC, the following measures will be implemented:
First: the Cyberjaya development guidelines, including plot ratio, will be amended to facilitate the construction of more affordable homes;
Second: public transport will also be improved, particularly in terms of providing bus services to cater for the requirements of shared services and outsourcing companies which operate 24 hours a day;
Third: to encourage more office space for MSC-status companies, the Government proposes that the Industrial Building Allowance (IBA) for a period of ten years be given to owners of new buildings occupied by MSC-status companies in Cyberjaya; and
Fourth: an ICT Development Institute will be established to increase the supply of knowledge workers by providing the skill sets required by the ICT industry, especially shared services and outsourcing companies.
57. Presently, multimedia companies operating outside of Cybercities (Cyberjaya, Kuala Lumpur City Centre, Technology Park Malaysia, Bayan Lepas in Pulau Pinang and Kulim HiTech Park in Kedah) do not enjoy tax incentives given to MSC-status companies. To further encourage ICT and multimedia activities including Regional Shared Services Centres, throughout the country, the Government proposes Pioneer Status of 50% income tax exemption for 5 years or Investment Tax Allowance of 50% be given to qualifying companies operating outside Cybercities. This incentive will only be extended to companies endorsed by the Multimedia Development Corporation (MDC).
58. The Government wishes to encourage Malaysian ICT companies to grow and penetrate global markets. MDC will work together with Permodalan Nasional Berhad (PNB) and Khazanah to identify and match leading MSC status companies with suitable GLCs to test bed their products. These GLCs will become reference sites to showcase the products of MSC-status companies when marketing to prospective customers globally.
Encouraging Research and Development (R&D)
59. The development of science and technology as well as R&D will continue to be encouraged to generate new sources of growth. An allocation of RM868 million is provided under the Ministry of Science, Technology and Innovation. The R&D Grant Scheme will focus on biotechnology, advanced manufacturing, advanced materials, ICT, nanotechnology and alternative sources of energy, including solar, to encourage innovation among local companies and developing new products.
Strengthening Small and Medium-Enterprises
60. I had announced the establishment of the SME Bank at the beginning of the year. Subsequently, the roles and functions of Bank Industri dan Teknologi Malaysia Berhad (BITMB) and Bank Pembangunan dan Infrastruktur Berhad (BPIMB) have been rationalised, following which, two separate banks have been established under one group. Firstly, Bank Pembangunan Malaysia Berhad (BPMB) will be the holding company focussing on financing of capital-intensive and high-technology industries, maritime and infrastructure. Secondly, the SME Bank has been established and will commence operations on 3 October 2005.
61. To finance the expansion of BPMB's lending activities, including the SME Bank, a sum of RM9 billion will be raised from the capital market. Part of this financing will be used to increase the paid-up capital of the SME Bank to RM1 billion.
62. The SME Bank will provide financial facilities and advisory services to SMEs, besides enhancing their competitiveness in the domestic and international markets.
63. The SME Bank will also set up a venture capital fund of RM1 billion to finance SMEs which plans and are capable of undertaking business expansion. SMEs with strong growth and competitive edge will be provided capital injection.
64. Following the rationalisation of the functions of BITMB and BPIMS, the Export Import Bank Malaysia (EXIM Bank) will absorb the functions of Malaysia Export Credit Insurance Berhad. EXIM Bank will be placed under the Ministry of Finance. It will be strengthened and its scope expanded to play an important role in assisting and encouraging local entrepreneurs, especially Bumiputera entrepreneurs, to venture abroad. The facilities provided include trade financing, overseas projects financing and credit insurance guarantee. For this purpose, a Fund totalling RM1 billion will be established.
65. To further reduce the cost of financing of SMEs, the Government proposes SMEs be given stamp duty exemption of 50% on documents for loans not exceeding RM1 million.
66. PROSPER has played an important role in the development of viable Bumiputera SMEs in the retail sector. PROSPER has approved 770 applications involving 1,600 Bumiputera entrepreneurs. In 2006, an additional 250 new applications are expected to be approved. In addition, to increase the number of viable Bumiputera SMEs in strategic industries, the scope of PROSPER will be widened to include wholesale businesses. The development of Bumiputera entrepreneurs in the wholesale business will assist Bumiputera small contractors to source their supplies in a more effective manner, particularly in the construction industry.
Enhancing Bumiputera Participation in the Property Sector
67. Efforts at increasing Bumiputera wealth and participation in the corporate sector have, thus far, focussed mainly on equity shareholding, particularly in listed companies. However, this measure alone may not be sufficient to increase Bumiputera ownership of the nation's economic cake. It is also important that efforts be pursued to increase their ownership of properties, including commercial properties. Investments in real estates in particular those located in prime commercial areas, require large capital outlay. Therefore, to further promote Bumiputera wealth accumulation, there is a need to facilitate Bumiputera ownership of properties, particularly commercial properties. For this purpose, a Bumiputera property trust foundation, Yayasan Amanah Hartanah Bumiputera, will be established with an initial capital of RM2 billion for purchasing commercial properties, especially in major towns, with the objective of increasing Bumiputera commercial property ownership in strategic locations and providing greater opportunities for prime business locations for Bumiputera entrepreneurs. The Yayasan will be chaired by the Prime Minister. Details of Yayasan Pelaburan Hartanah Bumiputera will be announced by the Ministry of Finance shortly.
THIRD STRATEGY: DEVELOPING HUMAN CAPITAL
68. Human resource development must be enhanced to ensure the nation remains competitive and resilient, particularly in a global economy where knowledge, science and technology are highly valued. In this respect, quality education will be emphasised to equip Malaysians with knowledge skills and positive values to become a workforce imbued with a culture of high performance. Quality education will also ensure that they remain relevant to meet current market requirements to face the increasingly competitive international environment. A total of RM5 billion is allocated for education and training under development expenditure, including RM1.3 billion for pre-school, primary and secondary schools and matriculation, RM1.4 billion for higher education, RM1.1 billion for training and RM1.2 billion for ICT, curriculum development, hostels and teachers' quarters.
69. Emphasis will be given to skills training and technical expertise. A sum of RM493 million is allocated for the enrolment of students in technical, vocational and skills training, which will be increased from 72,000 students for this year to 98,000 in 2006. In addition, an allocation of nearly RM1 billion is provided for trade and industrial training at Institut Kemahiran MARA, Pusat Giat MARA, Institut Kemahiran Selia Negara, Industrial Training Institutes and Advanced Technology Training Centres.
70. To maximise the utilisation of training centres, the double-shift programme introduced in 2005 will be expanded. An allocation of RM63 million is provided for 47 existing training centres to participate in the programme, which will cater for an additional 9,300 trainees. The Workforce Technical Transformation Programme implemented by state Skills Training Centres and Institut Kemahiran MARA will be further enhanced with an allocation of RM175 million to train 12,000 students. The enrolment of polytechnic students will be increased from 78,000 students for this year to 80,000 in 2006. This will enable school-Ieavers with Sijil Pelajaran Malaysia qualifications to obtain skills training.
71. At present, the Government provides tax relief of up to RM4,OOO for each child studying in local institutions of higher learning based on actual expenses. The Government proposes that the tax relief of RM4,000 be given automatically. In addition, the Government proposes to widen the scope of this relief to the following:
First: children studying at recognised institutions of higher learning abroad; and
Second: disabled children studying at institutions of higher learning. Taking into account the current tax relief of RM5,000 for each disabled child, parents will be eligible for a total relief of RM9,000.
72. To encourage lifelong learning, the scope of courses that qualify for tax relief of RM5,000 to individual tax payers will be broadened. Presently, tertiary level courses in technical, vocational, industrial, science and technology skills are tax exempted and this will be extended to professional qualifications and for courses in accounting and law.
73. Private institutions of higher learning (I PTS) play an important role in providing opportunities for more students to obtain tertiary education. IPTS also contribute towards the nation's objective of becoming a regional educational hub. As at end 2004, there were almost 6,000 foreign students in public institutions of higher learning (IPTA) and 26,000 foreign students in IPTS. To further increase their enrolment, the Ministry of Higher Education will set up a special unit to assist IPTS in obtaining accreditation and recognition overseas.
74. As an incentive for IPTS to introduce new courses, it is proposed that the expenditure for the development and regulatory compliance for new courses by IPTS be given tax deduction to be amortised over 3 years. In addition, to increase the number of local scientists, the Government proposes that IPTS specialising in science courses be given Investment Tax Allowance of 100% for 10 years.
75. To assist unemployed graduates to participate in economic activities, the Government will implement several programmes as follows:
First: a Young Entrepreneurs' Scheme will be implemented by the Ministry of Entrepreneur and Cooperative Development in fields, such as ICT, tourism, ha/al products as well as food processing and packaging;
Second: Skills Training Centres at the state level will increase their intake of students and introduce new courses under the Industrial Skills Enhancement Programme. A sum of RM100 million is allocated for training of 4,800 trainees; and
Third: the PROSPER Graduate Programme will be implemented to encourage graduates to become entrepreneurs. Initially in 2006, a total of 200 graduates will be assisted in setting up businesses, with financing up to RM50,000 each.
76. To encourage companies to provide job opportunities for unemployed graduates, listed companies under the supervision of the SC that provide allowances to participants under the Unemployed Graduates Training Programmes will be given double tax deduction for a period of 3 years. These programmes need to be endorsed by the SC. It is expected that at least 1,000 unemployed graduates will be trained under this programme by listed companies in the PNB and Khazanah groups.
77. The Government recognises the need to elevate the status of the .teaching profession. Measures have been taken to enhance the selection of potential teachers and their training and improve their career prospects and working environment. To further strengthen the measures taken, the Government proposes to upgrade the teachers' colleges to Teachers' Training Institutes (IPG). The Government will improve the level of training and curriculum, including attracting cooperation and expertise from foreign institutions. I am confident that with this measure, IPGs will produce graduate teachers who can meet the needs and challenges in our schools. In addition, the target of providing secondary schools with 100% graduate teachers and 50% in primary schools will be met by 2010.
FOURTH STRATEGY: ENHANCING THE WELL-BEING AND QUALITY OF LIFE OF THE RAKYAT
Reducing Financial Burden of Malaysians
78. Since mid-2004, the prices of crude oil have risen sharply in the world market. Oil prices had surged to US$71 per barrel on 29 August 2005 compared to US$37 per barrel in June 2004 on the basis of rising demand, especially from China, India and the US. In addition, concerns over supplies, geo-political tensions in some major oil producing countries as well as adverse weather in the Gulf of Mexico have contributed to the price increase.
79. Given the impact of escalating international crude oil prices on domestic prices, tile Government continues to provide sales tax exemption and subsidy for petrol, diesel and liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) to reduce the burden of Malaysians. Without tax exemptions and subsidy, the domestic price of petrol would have been RM2.80 per litre, RM2.15 per litre for diesel and RM2.50 per kg for cooking gas. These prices are about 70% higher than current retail prices. The Government is estimated to incur losses in tax revenue and subsidy amounting to RM16 billion for this year. This level is almost three times higher than the RM6.6 billion in 2003 and almost one and a half times higher than RM11.9 billion in 2004.
80. Apart from the Government's price subsidy, Petronas also subsidises gas prices for electricity generation, amounting to RM9 billion. As such, the Government's total subsidy this year amounts to RM25 billion or RM1,000 for each Malaysian citizen.
81. The Government has insulated consumers from large increases in petroleum prices. Over a two-year period, from 2004 and 2005, the Government has absorbed 80%
Fifth: supplying electricity to about 550 schools and water to 260 schools. Upon completion, full coverage of electricity and water supply for schools will be achieved; and
Sixth: allocating RM 104 million to improve the standard of living of Orang Asli.
86. In the context of improving the welfare of children in rural areas, through the provision of nutritional and balanced food, the contribution for TABIKA under KEMAS will be increased from 60 sen to RM1.50 daily per student. In addition, a sum of RM10 million will be provided for the balanced meal programme, which will benefit 20,000 rural hardcore poor households. The Government will also increase reading facilities for students in rural areas. The Special Programme for Rural Libraries, which was allocated a sum of RM30 million to provide 200 libraries in 2005, will be aliocatedRM85 million for the construction of an additional 400 rural libraries and the purchase of reading materials in 2006.
Providing Comfortable Homes
87. The Government will continue to enhance efforts to provide houses for low-income families. A sum of RM2.1 billion will be allocated for this purpose. Of this, RM1 billion is allocated to build 21,600 units of low-cost houses, encompassed in the housing programmes, namely, Program Perumahan Rakyat Dimiliki, Program Perumahan Rakyat Disewa and Program Perumahan Rakyat Bersepadu.
88. The Government will provide more housing for teachers and uniformed personnel, such as the armed forces, police, firemen and customs officers. A sum of RM1.1 billion is allocated for the provision of 26,000 units of quarters in 2006. In addition, the Government will also implement the PDRM 3-bedroom quarters project nationwide costing RM2.5 billion on a build-lease-transfer basis. The construction work will mainly be undertaken by Bumiputera small local contractors.
89. Efforts to encourage the use of Industrialised Building System (lBS) will be continued in order to achieve the objective of reducing dependency on unskilled labour as well as foreign workers. In this Budget, I propose capital expenditure on moulds to manufacture IBS components be given accelerated capital allowance to be claimed for 3 years. This measure will reduce the cost of building components such as pillars, beams, walls and floors. The Government will ensure that the IBS components meet the Malaysia Standard MS 1064. The adoption of the Standard will ensure quality and will also control construction costs.
Instilling Good Family Values
90. The Ministry of Women, Family and Community Development is allocated RM488 million to continue efforts in assisting women, family institutions, the disabled, elderly and single mothers.
91. Currently, the option of exemption on Real Property Gains Tax (RPGT) for a residential property is given to the husband, even if the property is owned by the wife. To ensure equitable tax treatment, the Government proposes that the option for RPGT exemption be given to the owner of the residential property, irrespective whether it is the husband or the wife. Instead of only one claim for each married couple, the Government proposes to allow a husband and wife to each claim one property for exemption of RPGT on a once in a life-time basis.
Upholding National Culture And Heritage
92. The Government recognises the importance of preserving our heritage and culture, given that Malaysia is a multi-racial society with unique traditions and customs. In order to encourage more Malaysians to undertake artistic works, the Government proposes:
First: tax exemptions on income derived from royalty or payment in respect of artistic works or recording discs and tapes be increased from RM6,000 annually up to RM10,000 annually;
Second: exemptions on import duty and sales tax be given to equipment. used in the performing arts industry; and
Third: income derived by non-resident professionals who train Malaysians in the fields of performing arts and creative crafts as well as related technical fields be exempted from withholding tax.
93. The Heritage Apprenticeship Scheme under the Malaysian Handicraft Development Corporation will be enhanced to enable more youths to become apprentices to practitioners with expertise in culture and arts, including carving and weaving. In addition, the Tunas Mekar programme, in which people with expertise and training in management, accounting and business are matched with skilled craftsmen and SMEs, will be enhanced. The collaboration can produce contemporary products, inject technology and modernise small and medium industries, as well as increase the marketability of products.
Promoting Healthy Living
94. Promoting healthy living will continue to be an important focus of the Government's efforts. For 2006, a sum of RM 1.3 billion is allocated for development expenditure to the Ministry of Health. Among others, RM85 million is to complete the construction of hospitals in Alor Setar and Cameron Highlands and RM229 million for the building and upgrading of clinics nationwide. In addition, hospital laboratories and equipment will also be upgraded with an allocation of RM131 million.
95. To encourage Malaysians to adopt a healthy lifestyle, the Government proposes that tax on liquor and cigarettes be increased. Overall, the average increase in tax for liquor is 9%, whereas the average increase for cigarettes is 13%.
96. To curb social problems such as drug addiction, AIDS and crimes, PEMADAM will review rehabilitation methods and streamline programmes in rehabilitation centres. More aggressive campaigns will be organised by state governments, NGOs and individuals to curb drug abuse.
97. To carry out prevention, treatment and rehabilitation programmes as well as the management of 29 rehabilitation centres, a sum of RM207 million is allocated for the National Anti-Drug Agency.
98. The number of HIV/AIDS positive cases has risen to 65,000 persons this year. To overcome the problem, an advisory panel will be established in the Ministry of Health, comprising representatives of NGOs, including Malaysian AIDS Council and PENGASIH, as well as other Government agencies. The Panel will, among others, assist in formulating an integrated action plan to address HIV/AIDS, including conducting more HIV/AIDS awareness and prevention programmes as well as providing programmes for HIV/AIDS patients.
99. To ensure that the young spend their time productively, more community development activities will be carried out, including reviving Rukun Tetangga in all residential areas to curb crimes. In addition, an allocation of RM101 million is provided for Rakan Muda programme and RM600 million for the National Service Training programme. A total of 95,000 youths from all races will be trained under the National Service Training programme in 2006 compared to 65,000 in 2005.
100. The Government appreciates the contribution of NGOs in carrying out various activities to achieve Government policies and programmes. A sum of RM138 million is allocated to assist them in implementing these activities, including welfare organisations for the elderly, children, disabled as well as associations for sports and youths.
Enhancing Environmental Quality
101. The physical development of the nation will be balanced with environmental preservation to ensure sustainable development. A sum of RM1.9 billion is allocated for the implementation of environmental preservation projects. A sum of RM40 million is provided to prevent erosion of coastal areas, while RM370 million is allocated for drainage and flood mitigation nationwide as well as RM114 million for improvement of rivers and river estuaries. A sum of RM991 million is provided for repair of existing sewerage plants as well as construction of new plants. The solid waste management programme is allocated a sum of RM363 million.
Improving Public Transportation in the Klang Valley
102. To promote the use of public transport, the Government has taken measures to improve the efficiency of public transportation in the Klang Valley. In this regard, RAPID KL has commenced operations at the end of 2004. Currently, measures are being taken to acquire new buses to replace the aging fleet. A total of 250 new buses will be in operation at the end of this year. The present fleet replacement programme will be continued with an addition of 600 buses in 2006, including buses which utilise natural gas (NGV). Meanwhile, 120 existing buses will be refurbished.
103. In addition, Touch n Go, which is currently used in all rail transport, will be expanded to bus services. To improve the ticketing system, the Government will implement a single integrated ticketing system that can be used in all forms of public transportation in the Klang Valley. The new ticketing system will facilitate travel and provide cost-savings to consumers.
104. To expand the public transportation system in the Klang Valley, a study has been undertaken to identify the new rail routes in high density areas. In addition, a total of 10 new routes for buses has been implemented. The network of buses and rail will be integrated to ensure more efficient utilisation and its cost-effectiveness to consumers.
Diversifying Energy Sources
105. Given that crude oil resources will eventually be depleted, we must focus our efforts on measures to reduce our dependency on oil, particularly through the development of alternative energy resources, such as natural gas, biodiesel and solar. This initiative will also contribute towards environmental conservation.
106. Malaysia has gas reserves of 85 trillion square feet. Since gas is an environmental friendly fuel, its usage must be encouraged. To facilitate vehicle owners to use gas, the number of retail gas stations currently totalling 51 will be doubled by 2007. To encourage trucks and buses to utilise gas, it is proposed that import duty and sales tax exemption be given on chassis with engines of monogas trucks and buses as well as conversion kits. A grant of RM50,000 per bus will also be provided for each monogas bus acquired until the end of 2008. Tax incentives will be given for the expansion of the gas reticulation network.
107. Biofuel based on palm oil can reduce the nation's dependence on petroleum and also has lucrative export potential. The Government is currently formulating a policy to encourage the widespread production and use of biofuel. The policy is also aimed at encouraging commercialisation efforts in biofuel technology by local research institutions. As a start, the Government will set the biofuel mix at 5% of processed palm oil and 95% of diesel on a pilot basis. The standard for the "new diesel" will be developed by SIRIM. The Government, together with the private sector will set up 3 palm oil biodiesel commercial plants with a total capacity of 180,000 tons, principally for export. Before year end, the Government will formulate a National Biofuel Policy, which will encompass the formulation of a national industrial biofuel act as well as the provision of various incentives to encourage private sector involvement. The biofuel Act will be tabled in Parliament next year.
108. Presently, companies generating energy from environmental-friendly renewable resources, such as biomass, hydropower not exceeding 10 megawatts and solar energy are eligible for tax incentives. The Government proposes that the existing incentives for production of energy from renewable resources be enhanced by increasing the level of tax exemption under Pioneer Status from 70% to 100% for 10 years. and the rate of Investment Tax Allowance from 60% to 100% for five years. The period to apply for these tax incentives is to be extended until 31 December 2010. In addition, import duty and sales tax on equipment used for these activities, which will expire on 31 December 2005, will also be extended until 31 December 2010.
Energy Efficiency
109. Higher crude oil prices will result in higher subsidies for fuel and also for other sources of energy, such as electricity. We must not be wasteful in our consumption of energy. At the same time, we cannot rely on subsidies to maintain our competitiveness and thus should be more energy efficient in our production processes. In due course, electricity tariffs will need to be adjusted to promote greater energy efficiency and discourage wasteful and excessive consumption. However, the Government is committed to ensuring that there will be no additional burden, particularly for the lower income group, in meeting the minimum level of required consumption.
110. The Government will take the lead in energy conservation. I strongly believe that there is much scope for us to save energy. All Government agencies will be required to target a 10% savings in energy consumption for 2006. We are being wasteful if we keep our offices air-conditioned at excessively low temperatures and leave the lights on when no one is at work.
111. Beyond reducing consumption, the Government intends to further encourage investments in energy conservation. The Government proposes to extend the existing incentives given to companies providing energy conservation services for another 5 years until 2010. In addition, the, Government proposes to provide building owners with an Investment Tax Allowance of 60% on capital expenditure for improving energy conservation. Going forward, building development guidelines will need to promote 'smart buildings' which optimise building efficiency.
Regional Development
112. In the context of balanced growth, I would like to touch on the development of Sabah and Sarawak. The Government will continue to implement specific measures in these two states to further develop infrastructure and public amenities as well as various programmes to generate income. Sabah has been allocated RM2.3 billion in the 2006 Budget for the construction of roads, provision of water and electricity supply as well as for education and health projects. The major projects include the Sapulut to Kalabakan and Sipitang to Tenom roads and upgrading of Kota Kinabalu airport as well as the expansion of Universiti Malaysia Sabah and Queen Elizabeth Hospital.
113. For Sarawak, RM2 billion has been allocated in the 2006 Budget. Among the major projects to be undertaken are the construction of a road from Serdeng to Bawang Assam, the expansion of Kuching Airport, the development of the Sarawak Federal Administrative Centre and the expansion of Universiti Malaysia Sarawak. In addition, RM 112 million is provided for water and electricity supply as well as roads for the rural areas. The total allocation of the RM2 billion does not include the Bakun hydroelectric project, which will cost RM6.1 billion for the period 2006 to 2009.
Strengthening the Police Force
114. The Report of the Royal Commission to Enhance the Operations and Management of Royal Malaysia Police was published on 16 May 2005. The Report, among others, recognises the need to enhance the capability of the police force in the context of preserving law and order. The Government has commenced the implementation of several recommendations, including the building of more police stations and quarters, as well as the provision of better equipment. In this regard, a sum of RM3.5 billion is allocated for operational expenditure of PDRM and RM493 million for development expenditure. This is in addition to the RM2.5 billion provided for the construction of quarters by way of Build-Lease-Transfer.
115. The Report also recommends improvements in a number of allowances, some of which have already been implemented, including incentive for detectives, uniform allowances for senior officers and claims on mobile phone bills. In addition, I wish to announce further measures to be implemented with effect from 1 January 2006, as follows:
First: reimbursement for the cost of tailoring of uniforms for lower ranked police personnel up to RM1 00 per uniform for 3 uniforms per year;
Second: increase in incentive payments for bomb disposal unit from RM50 to RM100 per operation; and
Third: incentive for divers currently enjoyed by .the Armed Forces of Malaysia, Fishery Department, and National Science Centre will also be extended to PDRM as well as Fire and Rescue Services Department personnel. The incentive will be increased from RM50 to RM100 per month for divers and from RM150 to RM250 per month for clearance divers.
Assistance for Living Expenses for Civil Servants
116. In the light of rising cost of living, the Government will provide assistance for living expenses for Government servants in Grades 1 to 54, except for those living in quarters or receiving regional allowance, as follows: .
i. RM150 a month for those working in Kuala Lumpur, Putrajaya, Ampang Jaya, Kajang, Klang, Selayang, Shah Alam, Subang Jaya, Petaling Jaya, Johor Bahru, Georgetown and Butterworth;
ii. RM100 per month for those working in 26 other towns; and
iii. RM50 per month for those working in other areas.
117. The implementation of assistance for living expenses will commence on 1 January 2006.
118. Apart from the above assistance, several existing allowances will be improved and extended as follows:
i. the civil service fixed allowance (ITKA) will be streamlined. As a result, the ITKA for all officers in Grades 4.1 and 42 as well as Grade 45 for lecturers will be fixed at RM300 per month;
ii. allowance for AI-Quran and Fardhu Ain Classes (KAFA) supervisors will be increased from RM500 to RM750 per month;
iii. allowance for KAFA teachers will be fixed at RM500 per month. Previously, the maximum allowance was RM288 per month for Peninsular Malaysia and RM336 per month for Sabah and Sarawak;
iv. incentive payment of RM60 per month for nursing tuberculosis and leprosy patients will be extended to laboratory and medical technologists, medical laboratory assistants and hospital attendants working in the laboratories at the National Tuberculosis Centre and National Leprosy Centre; and
v. incentive allowance of RM100 per month paid to workers at mortuaries will be extended to medical health assistants and health attendants working in mortuaries.
119. In appreciation of civil servants' contribution in meeting national objectives, the Government will pay a bonus for 2005. Civil servants earning up to RM1,000 a month will be paid a bonus of one and a half months salary and those earning more than RM1,000 a month will be paid a bonus of one month salary subject to a minimum of RM1,500. To assist Government staff in meeting additional expenses for the coming festive seasons at the end of the year as well as expenses for school-going children at the beginning of next year, the bonus will be paid in two equal instalments in October and November 2005. In addition, the Government will make a special payment of RM200 for pensioners in October 2005.
120. I do not want traders to take advantage of the payment of bonus and the raise in allowances of civil servants to reap excessive profits. In fact, even without increasing prices, traders stand to benefit. The higher disposable income of civil servants will increase demand for goods and services, thus benefitting traders, suppliers and manufacturers. As such, they must be responsible and honest.
121. The Government will take additional measures to curb price increases of essential items during festive seasons, namely October 2005 to February 2006. Details will be announced by the Ministry of Domestic Trade and Consumer Affairs. The capacity of the enforcement staff to monitor prices will be further enhanced with an additional 745 personnel. The Government will take firm action against profiteering, including the withdrawal of licences. In addition, enforcement by the Ministry of Domestic Trade and Consumer Affairs, local authorities, Customs, PDRM and Inland Revenue Board will be better coordinated, including joint operations. The public must cooperate and play an active role to curb profiteering. The Government remains committed to provide a stable economic environment, particularly in the context of protecting the public from short-term fluctuations in the prices of essential goods and to provide assistance as well as support to the lower income group.
122. Smuggling activity has resulted in leakages where subsidised diesel is sold to those who are not entitled and also to neighbouring countries. The Government will continue to step up enforcement and act firmly against smugglers. The provision of diesel subsidy will be closely monitored to ensure it benefits the target groups.
123. Malaysia cannot be completely insulated from adverse global economic developments. Nevertheless, the Government will continue to take the necessary measures to minimise its impact on our economy. The burden of adjustment will, however, need to be shared between the Government and the rakyat. In this context, the higher price of oil arid other goods, for example, will require all Malaysians to make adjustments and sacrifices. This will include the necessary changes in consumption pattern. The higher oil price must serve as a wake-up call to diversify our energy resources, improve energy efficiency and productivity as well as enhance innovation and creativity.
124. All of us - individuals, families, traders and entrepreneurs - must be prudent in spending and avoid extravagance. We must increase and diversify our sources of revenue and income. We should constantly seek to increase knowledge so as to improve ourselves in the context of ensuring cost-effectiveness and efficiency as well as achieving progress. We should also strive to sustain our physical, spiritual and emotional well-being, as this, among others, will help reduce expenditure on medicine and treatment. If this becomes our way of life, we will become a nation that is successful, resilient and capable of overcoming challenges.
CONCLUSION
125. We are indeed grateful to Allah S.W.T for His guidance and blessings. The economy continues to remain resilient and we are able to maintain stability as well as strengthen harmony and unity. This achievement is the outcome of determined efforts from all Malaysians who have provided steadfast support to the Government to successfully implement development policies and strategies. The strong foundation of the economy will enable the nation to move forward with confidence into the second phase of Vision 2020. Let us all pledge to increase our efforts towards making Malaysia a developed nation.
126. As we move forward, we will face many challenges from the domestic and external fronts. In the context of the fast changing international environment, we cannot afford to be complacent. Indeed, we must be strong and resolute to continue to manage the success that we have achieved and aim for greater excellence, glory and distinction.
Mr. Speaker Sir, I beg to propose.
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