8 May 2024
On Today Show
— Ooi Kok Hin, Executive Director of BERSIH 2.0 – The Role of Parliamentary Committees in SPR Appointments
— Apai Mek from Sungai Tangap Niah – The Multi-Billion Ringgit Internet Boost: Including the Interior?
— S Arutchelvan, deputy chairperson of PSM – From Struggle to Success: Plantation Workers Secure Housing Rights
Topik Pada Hari Ini
— Ooi Kok Hin, Pengarah Eksekutif BERSIH 2.0 – Peranan Jawatankuasa Parlimen dalam Pelantikan SPR
— Apai Mek dari Sungai Tangap Niah – Lonjakan Internet Bernilai Berbilion Ringgit: Termasuk Interior?
— S Arutchelvan, naib pengerusi PSM – Dari Perjuangan ke Kejayaan: Pekerja Plantasi Memperoleh Hak Perumahan
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*Special Randau*
1. The Kuala Lumpur Sessions Court has temporarily returned the passport of former PM Muhyiddin Yassin so that he can visit a family member with cancer in Australia. Previously, Muhyiddin had surrendered his passport as part of the bail conditions in the Jana Wibawa case.
2. GPS (Gabungan Parti Sarawak) should speak up regarding the proposal to appoint members/chairmen of the Election Commission through a Special Parliamentary Committee. According to the Executive Director of BERSIH 2.0, Ooi Kok Hin, GPS certainly hopes that the redelineation of Sarawak's electoral constituencies will not be influenced by any party.
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Ooi Kok Hin, Executive Director of BERSIH 2.0
*The Role of Parliamentary Committees in SPR Appointments*
Today, in a press conference, Ooi Kok Hin stated that both the PH (Pakatan Harapan) and BN (Barisan Nasional) coalitions have twice reneged on their promises regarding the appointment of Election Commission (SPR) members.
As mentioned in the PH and BN manifestos for the 15th general election (PRU15), both parties expressed their agreement to appoint SPR members through a Special Parliamentary Committee. However, to date, two SPR members have been appointed without going through Parliament. Will PH and BN renege on their promises for the third time, when the position of SPR Chairman will be vacant at the end of this month, Ooi questioned.
Both dominant parties in this unity government accuse each other, stating that there is no joint manifesto stating agreement to appoint SPR members through a Parliamentary committee. So, the question now is whether GPS (Gabungan Parti Sarawak) opposes the proposal to appoint members through Parliament?
Ooi said that GPS should be the one wanting the appointment of the SPR Chairman to be free from government influence because the redelineation of Sarawak's electoral constituencies will begin soon, and GPS certainly wants the redelineation to be fair - not influenced by Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim, through the appointment of the SPR Chairman by the Prime Minister.
Ooi suggest GPS speak up. In addition to the appointment of SPR members through a Parliamentary committee, Ooi also suggested that the SPR be given enforcement powers and amendments to the election offenses act.
Regarding the Kuala Kubu Baharu by-election, Ooi expressed his disappointment with the old culture of announcing projects in areas involved in elections. That is why we want the SPR to have enforcement powers so that the SPR does not have to wait for police reports or MACC investigations. Through enforcement powers, the SPR will act swiftly to ensure that democracy is conducted fairly for all parties.
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Apai Mek from Sungai Tangap Niah
*The Multi-Billion Ringgit Internet Boost: Including the Interior?*
Liwan Lagang, the Utility and Telecommunication Deputy Minister, recently announced that the Sarawak government has allocated RM2.25 billion for intervention programs aimed at improving internet access and infrastructure across the state. This allocation represents an increase from the previous amount of RM1.89 billion. The goal of these programs is to address connectivity issues and benefit residents, businesses, and tourists.
Apai Mek, from Sungai Tangap Niah, highlighted the long-standing issue of poor internet access in his longhouse, located approximately 3KM from the Niah Cave. The longhouse also offers homestay services to tourists from various countries. Apai Mek expressed concern over the disappointment faced by tourists who stay at the homestay and encounter difficulties accessing the internet on their smartphones.
Apai Mek urged the Sarawak government, with its increased allocation of RM2.25 billion, to ensure that internet access is available everywhere, especially in interior areas like Sungai Tangap Niah. He emphasized the importance of reliable internet connectivity for the community's daily activities, businesses, and tourism.
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S Arutchelvan, deputy chairperson of PSM
*From Struggle to Success: Plantation Workers Secure Housing Rights*
PSM, the Plantation Workers Support Committee (JSML), and plantation workers at large are celebrating a significant victory in their 26-year struggle for housing rights. Housing and Local Government Minister Nga Kor Ming recently announced the resolution of housing issues for five estates in Hulu Selangor and Kuala Selangor.
245 workers from Ladang Mary, Ldg Sg Tinggi, Minyak, Niger Gardener, and Ladang Bukit Tagar will receive subsidised affordable landed housing, with most expenses covered by the federal and state governments. This marks a crucial step in addressing the longstanding housing woes of plantation workers.
The victory is a result of the tireless efforts of plantation workers, PSM, JSML, and other supporters, who have fought for housing rights for years. Despite facing challenges and setbacks, their perseverance has paid off, securing a brighter future for plantation workers in Selangor.
Arul, a spokesperson for PSM, emphasized the significance of this victory, noting that it sets a precedent for addressing the housing needs of plantation workers nationwide. He also highlighted the contributions of plantation workers to the nation's economy, underscoring the importance of recognizing their rights and ensuring their well-being.
The successful resolution of this housing issue demonstrates the power of grassroots movements and advocacy in bringing about meaningful change. It serves as a reminder of the importance of solidarity and perseverance in the face of adversity.