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Saturday, July 04, 2009, 08.35 AM
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Saturday, July 04, 2009, 08.35 AM |
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EARTH HOUR: Nothing farcical about it
I REFER to the letter by Dr Mohd Peter Davis, "Earth Hour is a total farce" (NST, April 3).
SNATCH THEFT VICTIM: Think of own safety first
THERE are times when some of us resort to doing the unthinkable, even though it may be life-threatening, without any regard to the consequences.
MOLEST CASE: Change attitude of these kids
THE Women's Centre for Change (WCC) is shocked to learn of the incident where a group of schoolboys allegedly forced two girls into a classroom and tried to molest them ("Schoolboys molest girls in classroom" -- NST, Feb 16).
EX-ADDICTS: Give them jobs to become useful again
ONE of the difficulties faced by ex-addicts who have been discharged after undergoing rehabilitation is the reluctance of employers to employ them and thereby absorb them into mainstream society.
Healthcare: Equitable system disappearing
THE Federation of Malaysian Consumer Associations (Fomca) has been wary of various developments in healthcare tourism of late.
Religious freedom: 'Allah' part of Iban prayers
VIEWS attributed to influential personalities, including Minister in the Prime Minister's Department Datuk Seri Ahmad Zahid Hamidi, prohibiting the use of the word "Allah" by non-Muslims are very disturbing -- including for those of us whose mother tongue is Iban.
ABANDONED HOUSING PROJECTS: It shows failure of present system
I REFER to the abandoned housing projects situation and would like to delve into the reasons why this phenomenon is plaguing the country.
MYANMAR DISSIDENTS: World leaders must move to free Suu Kyi
THE Myanmar Ethnic Rohingyas Human Rights Organisation Malaysia (Merhrom) strongly condemns the recent arrest of Aung San Suu Kyi by the military regime.
MAIDS: It's shameful
THE announcement by Indonesia that it will stop sending maids to Malaysia is a major blow to this country's reputation ("Jakarta suspends maid service"-- NST, June 26). It is a shame that we are still debating whether a worker should be granted a day off a week.
TEACHERS: No time to do their job properly
IN her letter on where the teaching profession is headed ("Losing sight of the job description"-- NST, June 25), Marisa Demori of Ipoh gave us a detailed description of what it means to be a teacher.
DISPENSING MEDICINE: Proposed ruling will cause more problems to patients
I REFER to the letters from J.L. Phenix of Ampang, Selangor ("Dispensing medicine: Additional cost for patients" -- NST, June 23) and Narinder Pal Singh of Shah Alam ("Get public opinion first" -- NST, June 23 ).
H1N1: Use of right masks crucial
IT is not unusual to see people wearing surgical masks to protect themselves against influenza A (H1N1). However, according to the World Health Organisation, the benefits of wearing masks have not been established.
SCIENCE & MATHS: Ministry took note of all views
THE Education Ministry refers to the letter on the teaching of Science and Mathematics in English (PPSMI) from Samuel Padman of Parit Buntar ("Apply ruling from Year One" -- NST, June 2).
FIC GUIDELINES: This will provide more jobs
I REFER to reports that the government will soon announce measures to liberalise the Foreign Investment Committee (FIC) guidelines.
USM’S LIST: Places for most
WE refer to the letters on Universiti Sains Malaysia's admission list for this year from M.G. Segaran of Kluang, M.D. of Ipoh, Jeremiah Tan of Kuala Krai, P. Kaliappan of Butterworth and Jayaraj K.G.S. of Sitiawan (NST, June 3 and 4).
MICHAEL JACKSON: Gentle soul who died after his heart was broken
MICHAEL Jackson awed me when I was 16 and he 8. I first saw him on the Ed Sullivan Show.
BUS TERMINAL: Complete all such abandoned projects
THE government is proposing to limit the use of the Puduraya bus terminal to city buses to solve the traffic chaos in the area.
MOTORCYCLISTS: Who is accountable for the deaths?
I REFER to the report "Boy killed in collision" (NST, June 18) where it was reported that a 14-year-old motorcyclist died on the spot when he crashed into another motorcyclist.
HOCKEY: We are not producing enough top players
CONGRATULATIONS, Johor Baru, for a well-organised and successful Junior World Cup hockey tournament co-hosted with Singapore.
MAIDS: Employers are being selfish
THOSE who are against the proposed weekly day off for Indonesian maids are petty and selfish. So many reasons were given as to why maids should not be given a day off. Yes, some reasons are valid, but there are also many reasons why a day off should be given.
LITTLE NYONYA: Our film makers need a national vision
THE story of The Little Nyonya has received tremendous response from the TV viewers of Singapore and south Johor.
SHOP THEFT: Don't judge by dress alone
I DO not mean to be disrespectful but appearances can be deceiving and wrong opinions are often formed on the basis of the beholder's apparent perceptions ("Tudung woman makes off with RM10,000 chain" -- NST, Feb 4).
MONA LISA: It's a big letdown to art lovers
LOCAL art lovers could not believe their ears and happily gave their thumbs-up to the Unity, Culture, Arts and Heritage Ministry upon hearing that its minister, Datuk Seri Mohd Shafie Apdal, had "invited" the "Mona Lisa" to Malaysia ("'Mona Lisa' is coming to town" -- NST, Jan 30).
CROSSOVERS: Party hopping is an injustice to voters
IT is incredible how the Malaysian people are being taken for a ride by "frogs" in our political system.
USM GLITCH: Maintain a sense of balance
THE 4,574 applicants to Universiti Sains Malaysia (USM) who were mistakenly informed that they had been accepted went through ecstasy and agony in the course of a few hours. Our hearts go out to them and their parents.
USM GLITCH: Be cautious
IN today's world of high-tech equipment, it pays to be cautious. Information typed should be checked and even after printing out copies, they should be scrutinised again. In this way, typing errors can be reduced and the final copy (the Universiti Sains Malaysia admission list, in this case), can be termed "flawless".
GOVERNMENT OFFICIALS: Mokhtar has proven track record
I WONDER why Parti Keadilan Rakyat leaders in Penang are riled up over the appointment of Mokhtar Jait as the Seberang Prai Municipal Council president. Why boycott the swearing-in ceremony of a legally appointed person?
SNATCH THIEF: What m-cyclists must do with handbags
LAUNDERETTE assistant Mazlina Nawang, 45, has become the latest snatch theft victim ("A snatch thief did this" -- NST, May 29).
CRIME PREVENTION: Make our cities safe and liveable
SINCE crime has become a major issue in the country, the Malaysia Crime Prevention Foundation (MCPF) calls on those in the building industry, such as developers, builders, planners and architects to implement crime prevention through environmental design (CPTED).
TAX REFUND: Not the only cheque mess
YOUR report "Tax refund cheques recalled over glitch" (NST, June 5) is cause for concern. This is apparently not the first time the Inland Revenue Board has recalled its refund cheques.
PARENTS’ CHORES Simplify school sign-up rules
THIS was the second time I was registering a child at a Sekolah Kebangsaan.
ALCOHOL: Stop sale of liquor at these shops
THE Consumers Association of Penang views with concern comments by certain officials that consumers wishing to buy liquor at 7-Eleven outlets may be required to show their identity cards. We do not expect any real enforcement of this ruling, when none has been apparent before.
HOSPITAL VISIT: Helping hand from a stranger
I ACCOMPANIED my mother to the specialist centre of the Tuanku Jaafar Hospital two weeks ago.
PUBLIC TRANSPORT: CVLB should look to RapidKL for the answers
MINISTER in the Prime Minister's Department Datuk Seri Mohamed Nazri Abdul Aziz recently visited Kuala Lumpur's Chinatown area, taking a look at public transport problems at Jalan Silang, the Klang bus stand and other areas.
ROOF COLLAPSE: Is the local authority trying to pass the buck?
IT is not necessary to call in foreign experts for a second opinion into the cause of the collapse of the roof of the Sultan Mizan Zainal Abidin Stadium ("PWD informed a year ago" -- NST, June 4).
Dengue alert: 10 minutes daily to win war war
I REFER to the letter from Mariam Mokhtar of Ipoh ("Local councils could do more" -- NST, Feb 13) on the role of residents and local councils in fighting dengue.
USE OF ENGLISH: No excuses
ANY teacher who wants to teach any subject in English must know something about "The 2,000 Most Frequently Used Words of the English Language". A good learners' dictionary gives this word list.
HELPING HAND: Cooperatives in trouble also need support
I REFER to the report "RM250b business lifeline" (NST, March 24) in which Datuk Seri Najib Razak was reported as saying that the government has RM250 billion in its coffers to help local entrepreneurs cope with the present economic crisis.
MIC: His services are still needed
I WAS annoyed with your editorial ("The liability of longevity" -- NST, March 24) on the election of Datuk Seri S. Samy Vellu as the president of the Malaysian Indian Congress.
ISA DETAINEE: Allow them their own doctors
IT was distressing to read the report "ISA detainee may lose leg, says wife" (NST, Feb 16), about the health of P. Uthayakumar.
MIC: One party ignored
I REFER to the New Straits Times interview with Minister in the Prime Minister's Department in charge of Islamic affairs Datuk Seri Ahmad Zahid Hamidi. The interview was very revealing and frank.
SCHOOL BULLIES: Punish them without fear or favour
I REFER to your report on the Form Three student who had his arm branded with a hot electric iron because he refused to buy cigarettes for his seniors ("Student kept mum despite assault by bully with hot iron" -- NST, March 4).
SCHOOL BULLIES: Wise decision
EXPELLING the Form Four student who stabbed a fellow student from SMK Tok Janggut, Pasir Putih, was the right thing to do by the state Education Department ("Five face music over stabbing" -- NST, March 9). I am all for the department's decision.
Stray Dogs: Everyone pitches in abroad
YOUR report "Rounding up stray dogs" (NST, Jan 29) touched on the issue of stray dogs in Kuching.
Sparking Coupons: Perak leads by example
YOUR report "One coupon system for parking in Perak" (NST, Jan 23) highlights a laudable effort by the state Local Government Committee chairman Nga Kor Ming.
Malaysian Football: Give it a kick in the back
LOOK at the sorry state of football in this country.
Policemen: The majority do their best
WITH all the criticism that the police are receiving, I would like to say a few positive things about them.
Employment: Not the time to be picky
THE call by Prime Minister Datuk Seri Abdullah Ahmad Badawi to unemployed Ma-laysians not to be too choosy when picking jobs, especially during the current economic conditions, could not have come at a better time.
Suing Rulers: A duty to heed ruler's decision
I REFER to your report "It's not treason, says expert" (NST, Feb 12) where I am quoted as saying that rulers had always been subject to be challenged in court since Merdeka.
Judicial Panel: Cast net a little wider
I REFER to your report on the appointment of members of the Judicial Appointments Commission ("Chief justice heads JAC" -- NST, Feb 12).
Shoe Thrower: Keep the rostrum area safe
IT was reported that China's Prime Minister Wen Jiabao experienced the same fate as former US president George W. Bush at a gathering at Cambridge University on Feb 4, when a protester threw a shoe at him.
Snatch Thieves: Help rid Island Glades of petty crime
THIS is a plea for help on behalf of my family as well as other residents of Island Glades in Penang who have been hit by a wave of petty crime.
Bonds: Bank flouting interest rule
BON Simpanan Merdeka Malaysia, issued by Bank Negara, provides an opportunity for pensioners and senior citizens to earn higher yields from a portion of their savings to offset the massive interest rate cut by the central bank from fixed deposits. The allocation for the bond is on a first- come, first-served basis.
SMOKERS: 14-stick packs
THE Consumers Association of Penang welcomes the news that graphic warnings on cigarette packs and in dailies are working.
S.M.E. products: Hypermarts have only themselves to blame
WE refer to your report on the sale of products from small and medium-sized enterprises in hypermarkets ("SMEs not consistent in supply of stocks to hypermarkets" -- NST, March 5).
Welfare case: Clarify the amount given
PLEASE allow me to highlight a problem an old woman faces every month in receiving welfare aid on behalf of her daughter in Pendang, Kedah.
Children & crime: Limit exposure to violence
THE Consumers Association of Penang is concerned at the violence that seems to have taken root in our society. It is all the more disturbing when youngsters are involved.
Police efficiency: Summons comes after seven years
I RECEIVED a summons for an alleged parking offence on Oct 7, 2002. The postmark on the envelope showed the date, "19 Feb, 2009".
Power rates: More to it than just oil prices
WE thank C.Y.F. of Kuala Lumpur ("Give the customer a tariff break" -- NST, March 4) for bringing up the subject of electricity tariff rates, a perennially contentious issue.
Police work: Crying need for reform
I REFER to recent reports in the New Straits Times on the death of Kugan Ananthan on Jan 20 while in custody at the Subang Jaya police station.
Maps: Outdated latest edition
I RECENTLY purchased a map of Malaysia (item code L4010) from the Department of Survey and Mapping (Jupem).
DENGUE ALERT: Use bottles to trap mosquitoes
I REFER to the report, "Dengue 'a matter of luck' for some" (NST, March 18) where it was reported that a survey by Synovate Sdn Bhd showed that a large number of Malaysians living in high-rise buildings in urban areas did not take preventive measures to address the problem of Aedes mosquitoes.
MEDICAL HOUSEMEN: Junior docs need support
I REFER to your report "Housemen lack basic know-how" (NST, Jan 31).
EXPATRIATE TEACHERS: Still waiting for Immigration reply
I MISSED the original report on how the Malaysia My Second Home programme is being repackaged to attract more big spenders and experts in various fields ("It pays to set up home here" -- NST, Jan 26), so my only reference is the letter from M. Ganeshadeva ("Why British teachers might be better" -- NST, Feb 3).
BSN Deposits: Customers' savings not at risk
I REFER to the letter "Anxious moments over 'withdrawn deposits'" (NST, Feb 11) by B.M.D.M. of Port Dickson.
Reading Habit: Stimulate the young
I REFER to your report "Ungku Aziz reveals secrets to success" (NST, Feb 13). As pointed out by him, one can achieve success just by reading books. But, how many of us read nine books a year? Statistics show Malaysians are poor readers.
Bank Negara: Stability sign of a well-run system
THE 50th anniversary of Bank Negara Malaysia (BNM) on Feb 8 was a good occasion to reflect on the achievements of our central bank.
Mumbai Attacks: Pakistan needs to do more
I REFER to the letter on the Mumbai terror attacks "Resist these hasty conclusions" (NST, Feb 12) from Qamar Bashir, press attache, High Commission of Pakistan in Kuala Lumpur.
Lift Traps: Regular safety checks crucial
THE prime minister was reported to have been trapped in a lift for 30 minutes on Feb 12 on his way to deliver a speech. What is shocking is that it happened at the Putrajaya International Convention Centre.
Express bus: Passengers not a priority
CHEE Peik of Chemor is right when she says that the express bus service between Ipoh and Teluk Intan needs to be improved ("Competition will improve service" -- NST, Feb 12).
RM100 Trick: Beware of hustler tourists
I LOST RM100 to a conman and his woman companion. I later found out that several friends had been duped in a similar manner. I hope by bringing this to the attention of readers, more people could be prevented from becoming victims.
Bukit Larut: Strike balance in progress
I REFER to "Scrap the cable car plan" from Abdullah Hussein of Malacca (NST, Jan 30) and "Don't let it become another white elephant" by Datuk Abdul Mutalib Razak of Kuala Lumpur (NST, Jan 26) on the development relating to the proposed cable car project at Bukit Larut, Perak.
1988 Judicial Crisis: A-G must live up to public's trust
"LET bygones be bygones" from Noramtaz Abdullah of Petaling Jaya (NST, Jan 21) would be an ideal theme of discussion if what happened in the past is no foundation to build the future.
Sri Lanka War: Combatants must protect civilians
I REFER to the report, "Concern for the civilians as Tigers face the end" (NST, Jan 28), in which United Nations Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon expressed concern about the estimated 250,000 civilians trapped in the war zone in northern Sri Lanka.
Buy Malaysian: Spend wisely to boost economic activity
THE government launched the Buy Malaysian campaign on Jan 16. Consumers should support this campaign to minimise the impact of the global economic crisis on workers and consumers.
PARLIAMENT VIOLATED: Fracas a blot on security in house
YOUR front-page picture on Friday said it all. Now we understand what the Selangor police chief meant when he said that crime was spiking in the country and that it was difficult to control.
PARLIAMENT VIOLATED: Condemn thugs
THE reported incident at Parliament involving a group of Umno Youth members who confronted DAP leader Karpal Singh is most despicable.
CITY FLOODS: Authorities must get cracking
AS a motorist who works in Kuala Lumpur city, I was one of the many drivers stuck in the massive traffic jam in Jalan Ipoh on March 3 after yet another flood.
PUSPAKOM: Make security the top priority
IT was disturbing to read about the lack of security at Puspakom ("Kelantan royal's RM1.4m Porsche stolen from Puspakom" -- NST, March 6).
SCIENCE AND MATHS: Most non-Malays don't learn in BM
FROM what I gather, those Malaysians who do not want Science and Mathematics to be taught in English have four fundamental objections:
SPM EXAM: Better As needed, not more As
THE 2008 Sijil Pelajaran Malaysia examination results are out. They are said to be better than those of 2007. Three students scored 1A in all 16 subjects, two scored 1A in 15 subjects and six scored 1A in 14 subjects.
SPM EXAM: Optional subjects
WHAT is the point of making History and Moral Education compulsory subjects for the Sijil Pelajaran Malaysia examination ?
SPM EXAM: Why the long wait?
I REFER to the report "'No' to shorter waiting period" (NST, March 13), saying that the Education Ministry will maintain the three-month wait for the Sijil Tinggi Persekolahan Malaysia and Sijil Pelajaran Malaysia examination results.
NATIONAL SERVICE: Great experience
AS a National Service trainee who has just graduated from Desaru Camp in Kota Tinggi, Johor, I would like to share my experience with all the youths out there.
FOREIGN WORKERS: Home minister's move unjust
I REFER to the announcement by the Bangladesh High Commission's labour counsellor that 70,000 of his countrymen would soon be in Malaysia, the call by Malaysian Trades Union Congress vice-president A. Balasubramaniam to revoke the work visas (calling visas) issued to the 70,000 workers, and Home Minister Datuk Seri Syed Hamid Albar's statement that his ministry had only approved visas for 55,147 workers and that the visas for these workers would be revoked with immediate effect.
MUSIC EDUCATION: Hoping for minister's intervention
POOR music education in public schools is one of the main causes for the many ills that we see in the music scene in Malaysia.
MOHD ALI RUSTAM: Gentleman who will not betray the party
IT was most unfortunate that Malacca Chief Minister Datuk Seri Mohd Ali Rustam has been barred from contesting the post of Umno deputy president after the disciplinary board decided he was guilty of being associated with agents involved in money politics.
CHOICE OF SCHOOL: Go local, Madihah
I WRITE in support of the view expressed in "Madihah can get the best here" (NST, March 19) by A.K.J.K. of Segamat.
SNATCH THEFTS: Give top priority to end this scourge solving
PUBLIC order is called into question when, within days, two pregnant women going about their daily chores have been killed by snatch thieves. In another case, an 86-year-old woman died trying to defend her 57-year-old daughter from snatch thieves at their home.
SNATCH THEFTS: Not safe
IF concrete walkways can be provided so that pedestrians can walk safely with plants separating the pavements from the roads, instead of having to walk on tarred roads as we do now, there would be fewer incidents of motorcycle riders snatching handbags of pedestrians.
SNATCH THEFTS: Drug menace
ACCORDING to eyewitnesses, the deaths of two pregnant women recently were caused by snatch thieves.
SNATCH THEFTS: Declare 'war'
WITH the worsening snatch theft problem in Kuala Lumpur and elsewhere, it is time for a full-scale war to be declared against snatch thefts, involving the police, local authorities and all segments of the population.
STATE PARK: Please gazette remaining areas
A FEW years ago, there was a report that the Selangor state government was initiating a study to create a state park.
TV SHOW: Reschedule soap opera to a better time slot
ON behalf of many ardent viewers of the popular programme The Bold & The Beautiful, I would like to appeal to TV2 to reschedule this programme to a more reasonable time slot.
ROUTE TO VARSITY: Better to take STPM exam first
I REFER to the news report, "Making the transition from school to college" (NST, April 18), on enabling students to take charge after SPM or STPM on which route to take and which course to enrol for.
1Malaysia: Turn this slogan into reality
I WAS pleased to read "Govt works for all, says DPM" (NST, May 3) and "1Malaysia plan achievable" (NST, May 4) quoting MCA chief Datuk Seri Ong Tee Keat.
FOREIGN WORKERS: Recognise their contributions
J.D. LOVRENCIAR'S letter, ("Are we promoting slavery?" NST, May 5), would have touched a chord in the hearts of Malaysians and others who lead comfortable lives in this progressive country.
COUNCIL SERVICE: Let's elect our Datuk Bandar
CITY Hall is going after defaulting assessment payers -- sealing off properties and selling moveable items to collect arrears. This is good.
DIPLOMATS: Don't penalise them for poor English
I REFER to Balan Moses' article "Reclaiming our image and esteem" (NST, May 2) in discussing Wisma Putra's present state of health.
SERVICE SCHEME: Don't forget pensioners
PRIME Minister Datuk Seri Najib Razak announced the allocation of RM170.4 million to improve the service schemes of support-group workers, effective July.
PKFZ PROJECT: Will anyone be held responsible in the end?
I MUST congratulate the present administration for pursuing the Port Klang Free Zone (PKFZ) issue, which received a lot of attention after it was first reported by the media some years back.
SWIFTLETS: Have laws to stop this growing nuisance
I HAVE lost count of the number of complaints (in Muar as well as other towns) about the proliferation of swiftlet motels that have made their presence (mostly unwelcome) felt to such an extent that they are quite difficult to dislodge.
Use of English: The key is training teachers
I REFER to the letter "Let's work with the ministry" (NST, March 3) from Noor Azimah Abdul Rahim of the Parents Action Group for Education (Page).
MB's salary: Too many eyes on the kitty
AS the spat between the two governments in Perak is in political deadlock, I wonder who is rightfully entitled to the monthly salaries and allowances of the menteri besar and staff.
SCHOOL DISCIPLINE: Make use of ad hoc panels
SCHOOLS have rules and regulations to help prevent, contain, control and curb indiscipline among their students. Yet, student disciplinary problems continue to hound school authorities, district education offices (DEO), state education departments (SED) and the Education Ministry. Every now and then, "shocking" cases of student indiscipline are revealed by the media. It is also believed that many other cases are covered up.
JOB TRAINING: Apply direct to ministry for courses
I REFER to the letter, "In the dark on those courses" (NST, May 22) from S.M.D. of Petaling Jaya.
AH LONG: Zero in on printers of the ads
THE indiscriminate defacing of signboards and the unsightly advertisements nailed on trees and attached to fences, etc, are the work of Ah Long and have reduced our urban environment into a messy one.
SCIENCE & MATHS: Decision should hinge on what's best for kids
WITH reference to your report "Decision will meet objectives of national education policy" (NST, May 27), I hope the government will make the right decision in choosing the language to be used in teaching Maths and Science. In my opinion, teaching Maths and Science in English has helped students improve their English language skills.
SPORTS TELECASTS: Too much focus on football
WITH reference to Lee Choong Khay's defence of Astro's policy on sports telecasts ("Too many events to handle in one evening" -- NST, May 29), I think there is too much football on Astro's sports programmes. To give priority to football matches in the Spanish and Italian leagues over the final of a major tennis tournament, the Mutua Madrid finals, cannot be justified. Astro seems to have little understanding of tennis; I have seen tie-breaks rudely interrupted by advertising.
NATIONAL SCHOOLS: Keep religion out of it
AS a student in a national secondary school, I agree completely with the views put forth by Chok Suat Ling in her commentary "The problem lies with national schools" (NST, May 28).
ANTI-SMOKING CAMPAIGN: Target adult smokers first
DESPITE the government's aggressive and expensive anti-smoking campaigns, Malaysians still smoke 20 billion sticks a year. Cigarette advertisements have been banned and the price of cigarettes raised in every budget -- yet the reports and statistics on the effectiveness of these measures have not been encouraging.
CRUELTY TO ANIMALS: Put off by deejays' humour
I WOULD like to share with others the conversation I heard between Sinar FM deejays Salih Yaakob and Khairil with a listener calling in on Thursday to share his story on the topic of the day: "an incident I can't forget".
VISITOR FACILITIES: Accommodation in Malacca a big let-down
AFTER returning from a long service abroad, my family and I often spend our weekends at some of the famous "Cuti-cuti Malaysia" destinations. Our favourite for now is Malacca. We can never get enough of its many historical and gastronomic attractions, but sadly we found it to be lacking in decent accommodation.
PERAK DEBACLE: Let voters decide who governs state
I REFER to Jason Leong's letter, "A tale of very sore losers" (NST, May 20), on the ongoing political crisis in Perak.
PSD AWARDS: Provide aid for as many as possible
I REFER to the letter "Do a fair job evaluation" (NST, May 27) by Roslan Sharif of Liverpool.
ELIZABETH WONG: Catch the culprit quickly
IT appears that the ultimate aim of the unscrupulous person who distributed indecent pictures of Elizabeth Wong was to ruin her political career.
I-CARD: Sorry for the inconvenience
THE Immigration Department wishes to apologise to H.S. of Petaling Jaya for the inconvenience experienced while trying to get the I-Card for a foreign worker ("A very elusive I-Card" -- NST, Feb 17).
BANKING INDUSTRY: Loosen conditions for foreign banks
BANK Negara's forthcoming blueprint to further liberalise the banking industry is most timely and appropriate.
SMOKING BAN: Deny smokers jobs in govt service
THE Consumers Association of Penang welcomes the news that the Penang government is going to beef up enforcement against smokers in public places -- beginning with civil servants in government departments and agencies.
TELCO SOLUTION: Bring to book these offenders
STICKERS of various sizes promoting a variety of products and services, from body massage to financial salvation, are seen plastered on every public and private structure.
TEACHING OF SCIENCE & MATHS: Care for our children's future
AFTER six years of the successful implementation of the PPSMI (Pengajaran dan Pembelajaran Sains dan Matematik dalam Bahasa Inggeris, or teaching of Science and Maths in English) programme, there are now several pressure groups determined to see it abandoned.
MISSION SCHOOLS: They truly deserve allocation
DEPUTY Prime Minister Datuk Seri Najib Razak's announcement of the RM50 million allocation to mission schools for upgrading works and other projects has been well received and had been long awaited.
BABY DUMPING: Sex education is the key
YET another abandoned new-born has been found, this time in Nilai ("Month-old baby abandoned at flats" -- NST, Feb 4).
COST OF INSURANCE: Big rise in theft, injury claims
I REFER to the letter "Insurance cost dilemma" (NST, Feb 6) from S.M. Mohamed Idris of the Consumers' Association of Penang.
GUANTANAMO: US must respect Cuba's integrity
PRESIDENT Barack Obama should return the US naval base at Guantanamo to Cuba without preconditions.
MALAYSIAN FOOTBALL: Go back to the schools
THE sacking of B. Sathianathan as the coach of the Malaysian football team is a harsh decision. Given the resources available, even Sir Alex Ferguson would struggle to get results out of the team.
BATU CAVES: Help the disabled to make their devotions
BATU CAVES has been recognised as a leading tourist destination. But would you believe it does not have a disabled-friendly toilet or other facilities for the disabled?
VOTERS: BN must win over the young
THE results of the last two by-elections in the peninsula -- in Bukit Gantang and Bukit Selambau -- show that Barisan Nasional and its principal component, Umno, are indeed in dire straits. If nothing bold and radical is done, as pointed out by a columnist recently, Datuk Seri Najib Razak may well be the last prime minister from BN for a long time.
DR M’S COMMENTS: Don't plant that seed of doubt in our heads
I REFER to your report "Dr M: Cabinet more or less graft-free" (NST, April 9).
BY-ELECTIONS: Utter waste of time and money
THE time has come for all political parties in Malaysia to come to an agreement that when an elected seat is vacated, for whatever reason at all, there should be no by-election. Instead, the seat should be filled by the political party that has caused it to be vacated. Such an agreement may or may not involve a constitutional amendment.
PLACE NAMES: Please do not 'mess' with Little India
HERE we go again. This time, it is another branding exercise by the Klang Municipal Council to rename Little India.
MIC: Limit term of office like MCA
I REFER to your report that Malaysian Indian Congress (MIC) veteran Datuk M. Muthupalaniappan has secured enough nominations to take on MIC chief Datuk Seri S. Samy Vellu in the presidential election on April 12 ("Samy Vellu's challenger claims he has enough nominations" -- NST, March 18).
MOTORCYCLISTS: Please use indicator lights
I WAS driving towards a T-junction near my housing estate recently and stopped to allow some vehicles to pass. There were no vehicles coming from the left side but there were several on the right. The last vehicle was a motorcycle.
Poetry Day: Why was Rajendra not there?
I WRITE with reference to the poetry recital held in Penang on March 21 to mark the UN World Poetry Day and Unesco's recognition of George Town as a heritage site.
Use of English: Focus on improving teaching of language instead
MONTHS of debate on the teaching of Science and Mathematics in English (PPSMI) have not yet led to any decision by the Education Ministry.
Rough ride: Woes of having road in disrepair
I WRITE about the terrible condition of the road that serves as the only direct link between Bakong and Lapok Bridge in Sarawak.
SPORTS AWARDS: Recognition will serve to motivate young athletes
DATUK Nicol Ann David, the nation's squash darling, was crowned the 2008 National Sportswoman of the Year -- her sixth sportswoman award and her fourth in a row since 2005.
SEX EDUCATION: Educate them from young
THANK you for the report "Sex on their minds" (NST, March 26) on a subject that has troubled many parents and educationists as well.
ABDULLAH’S ADMINISTRATION: PM has contributed to greater transparency
I REFER to your report on the Umno general assembly "Changing times" (NST, March 25). It is sad to note that Datuk Seri Abdullah Ahmad Badawi will soon be stepping down as prime minister.
ROLE MODEL: A salute to the man in blue
RECENTLY, I drove from Singapore to Johor Baru with a Singaporean friend to visit her terminally ill relative at a private hospital.
FREE KITCHEN: Good way for everyone to come together
IT was a joy to read the letter from Bulbir Singh of Seremban on food as a factor of unity in Malaysia ("All welcome at gurdwara -- NST, March 25)
MALAYSIAN POLICE: Provide more funds for cops to face challenges
THE Royal Malaysian Police has just commemorated its 202nd anniversary. An institution as old as this should be given due recognition given its important role in eradicating crime and maintaining law and order.
MALAYSIAN POLICE: They need a cure, not new slogans
THE Royal Malaysian Police, which celebrated its 202nd anniversary last week, has come up with new slogans.
USE OF ENGLISH: Settle this issue quickly
THE arguments James Gonzales of Kuala Lumpur has mustered to support the policy of teaching Mathematics and Science in English ("Master English or lose out" -- NST, March 26) must be given their due weight since they are based on his lifetime's experience as a teacher.
EARTH HOUR: The first step to awareness
AS a conservationist, I am proud and thankful that so many of my fellow Malaysians have voiced their concern about climate change.
EARTH HOUR: Efforts paid off handsomely
WE are a group of children, aged 5 to 15, living in Section 12, Petaling Jaya.
LEGAL AID: Govt also provides it
I THANK Bulbir Singh of Seremban for his comments on the Legal Aid Bureau ("No help over legal aid office" -- NST, April 9). How many people have gone without help for not knowing where the legal aid centre is?
FLU: Isolate suspected cases
THE influenza A outbreak has taken the world by storm. Someone who is suspected of having contracted the disease is advised to report to the nearest hospital as soon as possible.
CRIME PREVENTION: Unfair to point finger at police
I REFER to the letter "Always give priority to our safety" by J.E. Ampang (NST, April 27).
1MALAYSIA: Be united regardless of race
THE 1Malaysia concept espoused by Prime Minister Datuk Seri Najib Razak is a step in the right direction. It is long overdue and every right-thinking Malaysian should support it.
VISION 2020: Can't we all just get along?
I DON'T seem to hear about Vision 2020 now. Are we still thinking about it or has it faded into oblivion? Vision 2020 is not about using high-technology gadgets or building skyscrapers so that we can boast about it. Vision 2020 comes from our heart.
MAT REMPIT: The law must nip offence in the bud
I AGREE with M. Ganeshadeva ("Activities help" -- NST, May 1) about the need to organise more activities for youths in order to keep them away from anti-social activities such as illegal racing.
CONVERSION: What state enactments say
THE law relating to conversion to Islam is dealt with under provisions of the various states' Administration of Islamic Law Enactments.
CONVERSION: Sane proposals
THE proposals made by the cabinet last Wednesday pertaining to conversion, the religion of a child one of whose parents has converted to another religion, and the responsibilities that a convert will have to fulfil in relation to his or her spouse and children, should be welcomed by all Malaysians.
SIGNS OF DISASTER: Hopefully, it's not a bad omen
THE head of the Fisheries and Aquaculture Science Department at Universiti Malaysia Terengganu, Prof Sakri Ibrahim, said it was rare to find squid in shallow water. They are normally found in water about 10m deep as they don't move around much unless their habitat is changing.
PERAK CARS: Stop this game of one-upmanship
THE Perak government's decision to auction off the 16 Toyota Camrys used by the previous administration is cause for concern.
THE Toyota Camrys bought by the previous Pakatan Rakyat government are barely two months old but the present Barisan Nasional government wants to get rid of them.
INCEST & SEXUAL ABUSE: Stop these cases happening
YOUR report "Father paid her RM1 every time they had sex" (NST, April 24) was shocking but it has done a wonderful job of highlighting the issue of incest and sexual abuse at home.
PENSION ELIGIBILITY: Widow does not qualify under rules
I REFER to the letter "Service counts for nought" (NST, April 2).
MALACCA: Make Chinatown pedestrian zone
I READ the letter "City becoming far too crowded" (NST, April 24) with interest.
TOILETS: Gross sight at govt dept
I WAS at the Putrajaya Immigration Department on Tuesday.
PROSTITUTION: Help put end to vice
I STAY in Desa Damai, Bukit Mertajam, a multiracial community where there is respect and cooperation among our neighbours.
TEACHERS’ AWARDS: Not so excellent any more
SINCE its inception years ago, the Excellent Teacher (Guru Cemerlang) Award has lost much of its original shine.
DEMONSTRATIONS: No right to disturb others
I REFER to the comments by Supt Rasdi Ramli from the police public relations branch ("Security has priority in permit issue" -- NST, March 17) in response to an earlier letter from Bulbir Singh ("People with grievances have the right to be heard" -- NST, March 12).
DEMOCRACY TREE PLAQUE: An insult to the people
I SALUTE the Ipoh mayor for making the right move by having the so-called "Democracy Tree" plaque removed from the land that belongs to the Ipoh City Council.
PARLIAMENT VIOLATED: Lack of ethics
THE confrontation between made by a group of 22 men claiming to be Selangor Umno Youth members and DAP opposition parliamentarians just outside the Parliament tower block on Thursday was uncalled for.
SCHOOL VIOLENCE: Is it just the tip of the iceberg?
IT was frightening to read of the attack on Jamilah Mohamed ("School denies not helping attacked mum" -- NST, Feb 26).
P.T.A. ACTIVISTS: Someone is always watching us
IN Seremban, there is only one school for the deaf and blind.
MAWI NO-SHOW: Mum's illness the reason
I REFER to the letter on TV3's talent show MyStarz LG from Mohd Faizal Abdullah of Kuala Lumpur ("Mawi's no show is a letdown" -- NST, Feb 27).
CROSSOVERS: Resign first
ELECTED representatives who switch parties should be principled enough not to betray their constituents as they were elected based on what they could do for their constituencies and through the political parties they represent. If for some reason they cannot perform as a member of parliament under an earlier mandate, then the next best thing to do is to resign as an MP.
CREDIT-CARD CHARGES: Banks squeezing customers again
I RECEIVED my monthly statement for my credit card and was shocked to read that, "Effective 1st April, 2009, a one per cent administrative fee will be imposed on overseas transactions".
RUBBISH COLLECTION: Alor Star city council must act now
LOCAL councils have a bigger role to play in ensuring mosquitoes are kept at bay than going around imposing fines on unsuspecting residents ("Local councils could do more" -- NST, Feb 13).
PUBLIC TRANSPORT: Just 2 types of taxis will do
I REFER to the recent discussion between three ministries and the bus and taxi operators.
LAWYERS’ ARREST: They must respect the law
I REFER to your report, "Bar Council submits memo" (NST, May 21) about the Bar Council submitting a memorandum to the Human Rights Commission on the arrest of five lawyers at the Brickfields police station on May 7.
STUDENTS’ SAFETY: Precautionary steps important
I WAS saddened to read about the gas leak beside a primary school that affected the health of the teachers and students.
SRI LANKA: Focus must now be on unity, progress
WITH the death of Tamil Tigers supremo Prabhakaran Vellupillai, the Sri Lankan government says that it has put an end to terrorism in that country.
DIPLOMATS: They can't depend on conversation skills alone
I REFER to three letters in the New Straits Times on Ma-laysian diplomats -- "Diplomats -- Don't penalise them for poor English" from Hassan Talib (May 14), "Select those of right calibre" from Mohd Yusoff Ishak and "Officers are not up to the mark" from George Koshy (May 20).
SPM EXAMS: It's right to limit papers taken
THE statement from Education Minister Tan Sri Muhyiddin Yassin regarding the number of papers a student can sit in the Sijil Pelajaran Malaysia examination is most welcome.
SPM EXAMS: It's fair to all
I REFER to your report "Govt ponders limit on number of SPM subjects" (NST, May 22).
OIL PALM: New 'super palm' will bring other benefits, too
SIME Darby has declared itself as "the first in the world to completely sequence, assemble and annotate the oil palm genome" ("Sime to invest RM100m more in oil palm genomics" -- NST, May 13).
PUBLIC SERVICE: Heed Najib's call to serve
I REFER to the report "Najib: My job is to serve the people" (NST, May 21) where it was reported that Prime Minister Datuk Seri Najib Razak sees his position as a means to serve the people and steer the country in the right direction.
CURBING CRIME: Always give priority to our safety
LAST week, my office in Wangsa Maju was burgled and all the computers carted away. Prior to this, unsuccessful attempts to break into the office also occurred.
HOSPITAL FIRE: Typical case of poor upkeep
IT was disheartening to read about the recent fire at the Putrajaya Hospital.
LIGHTNING: Get proper equipment to fight surges
THE fire at the Putrajaya Hospital on April 11, which was attributed to lightning, must not be dismissed as an isolated incident.
TV GAMES: Bring back good shows
WHAT'S exciting about television game shows is that they can draw the attention of viewers who can take part by guessing the participants' answers.
Fighting Dengue: Good idea but it won't work
I REFER to the letter ("Need to rethink strategies" -- NST, Jan 26) from S.M. Mohamed Idris of the Consumers Association of Penang.
SOCSO BENEFITS: Hospitals can handle cases
THE Consumers Association of Penang (CAP) applauds Human Resources Minister Da-tuk Dr S. Subramaniam for highlighting that workers are losing out on Socso claims because doctors do not link diseases and health problems to workers' jobs.
LOCAL GOVERNMENT: Residents suffering but still no action
IT was reported that the Penang Municipal Council (MPPP) is taking action to demolish illegal stalls near the "tourist complex" in Batu Feringghi. Supporting the MPPP's action, Local Government Committee chairman Chow Kon Yeow said the law was being enforced following numerous complaints from hoteliers and residents about the illegal structures.
NUDE PHOTOS: Love of your life today is the enemy tomorrow
THE New Straits Times reported on Thursday the predicament of a nurse threatened by an ex-boyfriend that he would make public nude pictures of her if she left him ("Worried over nude photo threat by ex-boyfriend" -- NST, Feb 26).
OBAMA’S SURGE: Military action not the answer
AMERICAN President Barack Obama is reported to have decided to send 17,000 more troops to Afghanistan on top of the 33,000 already deployed there.
POLICEMEN’S ROLE: Proud to be part of the force
I REFER to the letter "Show police some appreciation" (NST, Feb 25) from Dr M.A. Nair of Bandar Muadzam Shah. I thank Dr Nair for the support shown to the police force.
POLICEMEN’S ROLE: Kind words
ON behalf of the Royal Malaysia Police, we would like to express our deepest appreciation to Dr M.A. Nair of Bandar Muadzam Shah for the letter "Show police some appreciation" (NST, Feb 25).
SCIENCE AND MATHEMATICS: Stick to national language
CONCERNED citizens and parents have been following the debate on the teaching of Science and Mathematics in English for months.
PERAK ASSEMBLY: Apex court has the right to decide case
DISAPPOINTED with the Federal Court decision last week to lift the suspension of the Perak menteri besar and six Barisan Nasional executive council members by the Perak assembly speaker, Perak DAP chairman Ngeh Koo Ham said the political crisis was far from over.
DOUBLE-DECKERS: They aren't meant for highways
I COULDN'T agree more with S. Param's suggestion that the authorities investigate the use of double-decker buses on our roads, particularly highways ("Are these buses built for our roads?" -- NST, April 16).
ETHNIC AFFAIRS: Do away with racial politics
PRIME Minister Datuk Seri Najib Razak pointed to one of the stark realities of Malaysian life when he said that most Malaysians seemed to be more concerned about their own community ("Break away from ethnic prison, urges Najib"-- NST, April 16).
DRAMA: Stage good plays in major towns, too
THE Tamil play Iruvar 2 (Couples) by director S.T. Bala was staged at Taman Budaya a week ago and before that for a week last month at Istana Budaya.
ATTITUDES: Think before you speak, YB
THERE was a discussion on Astro Awani about the new cabinet. At the end of the programme, one of the panellists had this advice for the new prime minister and the rest of the cabinet: "Don't insult the intelligence of the people. Don't take them for granted."
FOR VIPs ONLY: Schools roll out red carpet for bigwigs
AHMAD Sirajudin of Terengganu ("There is no place for all that pomp" -- NST, April 9) complained about politicians, bureaucrats and others in public office who put on airs and lose touch with the common folk. It reminded me of what happened at my son's school recently.
SMOKERS: Denying them jobs is going too far
CONSUMERS Association of Penang president S.M. Mohamed Idris is so obsessed with his anti-smoking campaign that he has come out with the most ridiculous of ideas by suggesting that the Federal Government deny smokers jobs in government service ("Deny smokers jobs in govt service" -- NST, April 13).
ELIZABETH WONG: I won't support her even if she is the victim
THE Pakatan Rakyat Selangor government's decision to retain Bukit Lanjan assemblywoman Elizabeth Wong in its administration despite the release of revealing pictures of her shows that the opposition coalition practises double standards.
COUGH TABLETS: Find out who is supplying this controlled drug
I REFER to your report "Getting high on cough tablets" (NST, April 8) on the businessman who sold up to 50,000 controlled cough tablets a month to students for 50 sen a piece.
Islamic Studies: More books in English
ENGLISH is not only for those who aspire to be doctors and engineers but also useful for those who want to go deeper into Islamic studies because they can easily access Islamic knowledge through English as opposed to Arabic.
Najib's team: Reduce number and overlap
IT is important for Prime Minister Datuk Seri Najib Razak to make his mark and dictate a new modus operandi for his administration. He should take the good from the past and include better things for the future. Revolutionise the way things are done.
ROHINGYAS: Asean leaders must do more to settle issue
THE Myanmar Ethnic Rohingyas Human Rights Orga-nisation Malaysia (Merhrom) is concerned over the increase in human rights abuses against Rohingyas in the Arakan state of Myanmar in recent months, especially after the international media highlighted the plight of the Rohingya boat people late last year.
PIRACY FINES: RM1m fine for two women too harsh
THE report "2 women fined RM1m each for pirated DVD possession" (NST, April 1), for having 520 pirated discs not only shell-shocked the two but would have scared the living daylights out of many people.
HOUSEMEN: Don't turn them into zombies
THE other day when I was admitted to hospital, a houseman came to me to put a butterfly needle into my arm.
ILLEGAL BANNERS: Rid city of Ah Long poster menace
NOT so long ago, the Majlis Bandaraya Johor Baru (MBJB) mounted a campaign against illegal banners, particularly Ah Long banners, as they were classified as illegal and did not conform with the local council ordinance.
1MALAYSIA: Focus on planting the seeds of unity
IN his Wesak Day message recently, Prime Minister Datuk Seri Najib Razak called on Malaysians to focus on similarities and be part of the solution and not the problem.
MAT REMPIT: Set up dept to oversee their affairs
THE problem of Mat Rempit must be addressed immediately and without compromise. The police and other enforcement agencies have found it impossible to tackle the menace simply because it has been allowed to fester.
TOILETS: Remedial action will be taken
WITH reference to the letter from A.R.B. of Kluang ("Gross sight at government department" -- NST May 4), the Immigration Department wishes to apologise for the inconvenience experienced by members of the public while using the department's public toilets.
SCIENCE & MATHEMATICS: Get feedback from students
MANY people said a lot of things about teaching Mathematics and Science in English. I would like to provide a student's perspective on the matter.
SCIENCE & MATHEMATICS: Make it optional
I REFER to the debate on the language medium for the teaching of Mathematics and Science.
SCIENCE & MATHEMATICS: Clock is ticking
IT is now May. A whole year has passed and there is still no news on the decision of whether to teach Science and Mathematics in English.
EDUCATION LOAN: Lower the service charge now
SOME time last year, I read in the papers that the National Higher Education Fund Corporation (PTPTN) was reducing its service charge from three per cent to one per cent to encourage those who had taken loans to pay back in full.
INCOME TAX: Kudos to Ipoh IRB for efficient service
I WENT to the Inland Revenue Board in Ipoh to do e-filing of my income tax on Wednesday, April 29.
STUDY GRANTS: Cap on age doesn't help
ONE of the areas that the mini-Budget recently announced by the government focuses on is human resource development.
ISLAND PROJECT: Govt's decision good for Tioman
WORLD Wide Fund for Nature Malaysia (WWF-Malaysia) lauds the Transport Ministry's decision to halt the airport project on Pulau Tioman.
By-elections: Nit-picking is the least productive path
I DISAGREE with DAP secretary-general Lim Guan Eng that it would be difficult for Pakatan Rakyat to campaign due to a lack of resources ("DAP slams EC over polling date" -- NST, March 5).
GREEN TECHNOLOGY: Timely move to unleash this power
I AM pleased to note the prime minister's newly named Ministry of Energy, Green Technology and Water, where the term "green technology" makes an appearance.
TOLLED HIGHWAYS: Seek solutions to benefit all quarters
I AM a motorist who travels regularly on a number of tolled roads in the Klang Valley.
DENGUE: Use DDT against mosquitoes
I REFER to your report "Losing the war against dengue -- Health Ministry blames private hospitals and clinics" (NST, June 11).
LIVE MUSIC: The culture is facing a slow death
I AM amused by advertisements that proclaim live band performances in hotels, clubs or lounges. What I see most often is a band that comprises three female singers front-lining and another man or woman behind a keyboard with a laptop at the side.
AH LONG: Bar their phone numbers
I AM really glad that enforcement agencies are doing something to get rid of Ah Long posters and advertisements that have become such a blot on the environment.
SISTERS IN ISLAM: An attack on all who fight injustice
THE Women's Candidacy Initiative (WCI) condemns Pas' call to ban Sisters in Islam and to "rehabilitate" its members.
POACHERS: Cooperation is essential
I REFER to the letter on wildlife protection from Suzalina Manja Bidin of Mycat ("Hit the tiger poachers hard" -- NST, June 4).
THE As ISSUE: Quality matters, not quantity
THERE has been much talk about too many students getting too many As in their Sijil Pelajaran Malaysia examination. We have hundreds of students with 10 As, 12 As and 17 As. Each year, candidates are taking more subjects in the hope of getting a scholarship and even setting a record. What else?
MATHS & SCIENCE: Make them understand the subject
ENGLISH, Mathematics, and Science are three different subjects. Will students acquire better proficiency in English as a result of the current policy of teaching Science and Mathematics in English?
PSD AWARDS: It is done after consulting professionals
THE Public Service Department (PSD) refers to the letter on the department's study awards from S.C. of Canberra ("Provide aid for as many as possible" -- NST, June 1).
TOWN COUNCILS: Merger not a practical move
THE proposal to merge Majlis Perbandaran Seremban (MPS) and Majlis Perbandaran Nilai is not practical.
ENGLISH: Accept challenge and change now
TAN Sri Muhyiddin Yassin may have been only thinking aloud on the place of English in the Sijil Pelaran Malaysia examination set-up ("English pass a must for SPM?" -- NST, June 9), but I regard it as a wake-up call on the declining standard of English among many Malaysian students.
ENGLISH: Move is long overdue
NO one who agrees that English is a global language can have anything against making it a compulsory language for the Sijil Pelajaran Malaysia examination.
H1N1: Pandemic's unsung heroes
I REFER to your report on the 17-year-old Petaling Jaya girl who has influenza A (H1N1) ("Scramble to contain first locally-transmitted H1N1 case" -- NST, June 18).
H1N1: Who will enforce rules?
I REFER to the report on the health form rules announced by Deputy Prime Minister Tan Sri Muhyiddin Yassin on Thursday ("Compulsory to fill health form" -- NST June 19).
VACCINE TRIALS: It is for a different strain
IN response to the question raised by S. Param of Ipoh ("Take care in vaccine trials" -- NST, June 11), it is worth noting that the H1N1 vaccine that will be used in the trial on pigs is of a different strain than that of the novel H1N1 influenza A that is currently causing outbreaks among humans worldwide.
HIGHWAY OPERATORS: Find alternative solution to woes
I REFER to a report suggesting that nationalising the highway concessionaire PLUS would cost RM30 billion.
3RD BRIDGE: Use Second Link instead
THE idea mooted by Prime Minister Datuk Seri Najib Razak for a third bridge to Singapore has apparently been well received by the Singapore side. But why is there a need for a third bridge when the Second Link (in southwest Johor) is under-utilised?
TEACHERS: No chance to serve
I WAS surprised at the comments of the vice-chancellor of Universiti Pendidikan Sultan Idris, Prof Datuk Dr Aminah Ayob ("Teacher dilemma: Non-Malays and men just not interested" -- NST, June 11). I am keen to know where she got her facts and figures from.
ENGLISH: Simply the language of the world
SOME 40 years ago, I made one of my better decisions by studying Mandarin for I knew that one day I would be doing business in China.
ENGLISH: Right move
I WOULD like to thank Education Minister Tan Sri Muhyiddin Yassin for taking note of the dramatic decline in the standard of English in schools and for initiating a countrywide debate on whether a pass in English should be compulsory in the Sijil Pelajaran Malaysia examination.
SCIENCE & MATHS: Simpler to teach in English
ANY scientist or mathematician would agree that learning Science and Mathematics in English is quite different from learning the English language.
INSURANCE: Car owners stranded
OVER the past year or so, insurance companies have refused to provide third-party insurance coverage for vehicles that are 20 years or older.
TOBACCO HABIT: Ban packs of fewer than 20
CONGRATULATIONS to the Health Ministry for having successfully implemented compulsory graphic health warnings on cigarette packs from this month.
DOCTOR’S REWARDS: Frustrated by selection process
I AM a specialist doctor who has just resigned after being in the public service for 12 years. I did so after being unable to tolerate the idiosyncracies, promotional delays and difficulties associated with serving in government hospitals, although I owe a major part of my training to these hospitals, for which I am thankful.
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