If you, like me, are
TIRED of partisan politics
and their POLITICKING,
VOTE for the Community Candidate!
TIRED of partisan politics
and their POLITICKING,
VOTE for the Community Candidate!
Decentralisation Of Power
“Cleverly Done”
Over the course of time, practically all of the powers have been cleverly and systematically centralised to the ruling party.
This brings about a very unhealthy situation where the ruling political party will now be in total control of both the national and state levels.
It Must Not Be Allowed
Hence, do not allow the phrase that says, “Absolute Power Corrupts Absolutely” to come to pass in Malaysia.
Empowering The Local & State Governments
Much like the mature democracies of the US, UK and Australia, Malaysia should strive to see its states having autonomy to determine its own laws and policies.
Federal Government Interference
Input or contributions from the federal should be to assist and compliment them and they, the federal powers shall not be allowed to interfere, dictate and impose their will on the relevant states.
Is The "Two-Party System" The Answer?
No, in a two-party system, there will still be the inherent weakness where the ruling political party will still be in control and be in a position to interfere and dictate.
Greater Checks & Balance
Therefore, there is a need for greater checks and balance in order that the political parties do not abuse their powers.
The Equilibrium!
This is where the existence of a third bloc of smaller parties and independent candidates must play that role to form an internal pressure in order to maintain balance and equilibrium.
Party Interest vs People’s Interest
An example where "majority rules" was used to propagate the interest of a certain political party was with the case of PKNS’s 10-acre redevelopment project (named the PJ Sentral Garden City).
This is one of the many projects under the Selangor State’s RM10 billion plan for urban renewal.
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| Click on image to view larger version |
This is one of the many projects under the Selangor State’s RM10 billion plan for urban renewal.
BN's Brainchild But PR's Pushing It Through
Although this project was the brainchild of the Barisan National Government, "Pre-2008", it is to be noted that "Post-2008", it was the Pakatan Rakyat Government that:
- followed through
- approved, and
- implemented this project.
Without The ADUN's Knowledge
It was most unfortunate that this project had gone through to the building approval stage without the knowledge of the then elected representative (the late Edward Lee Poh Lin) as well as the local community.
He had to learn about the project after having driven past the site (former PKNS headquarters in Section 52, PJ State / New Town) and noticed the sudden existence of MBPJ’s announcement board, proposing the intention of the applicants (Puncak Wangi Sdn Bhd and Perbadanan Kemajuan Negeri Selangor [PKNS]) to develop:
- One office block – 27 storeys
- Three office blocks/institution – between 22-37 storeys
- Two hotel blocks – 22-storeys
- Two blocks of service apartments – 22 storeys (on top of 6 a story business podium/car park area)
- Basement car park – 4 storeys
State Assemblyman Notifies Affected Residents
The late Edward Lee notified the affected residents, residents associations (RAs), rukun tetangga (RTs) and the All PJ Residents Association Coalition (APAC) about the project.
Press Notified
He then proceeded to highlight the issue in the press:
+ Stakeholders set to oppose new development in Section 52
+ Stakeholders set to oppose new development in Section 52
Assemblyman Told To “Tone Down”
He then received a call from the party leadership telling him to tone down in the press on this issue - as it was now a project undertaken by the PR Government.
Affected Parties Denied Details
This issue was then taken up by APAC, and the RAs and RTs of the affected sections who had requested for details of the project as well as traffic and environmental impact assessment reports to be made known to the public - which was denied.
References:
+ Several quarters feel projects in PJ will add more traffic woes
The Star, 27 Dec 2010
+ Objections to PJ Sentral
The Nut Graph, 22 June 2010
+ PKNS joins with DKLS for RM1.5bil project in Sec 17 PJ
The Star, 9 May 2012
+ Will PJ Sentral be as successful as KL Sentral?
The Star, 16 Feb 2013
References:
+ Several quarters feel projects in PJ will add more traffic woes
The Star, 27 Dec 2010
+ Objections to PJ Sentral
The Nut Graph, 22 June 2010
+ PKNS joins with DKLS for RM1.5bil project in Sec 17 PJ
The Star, 9 May 2012
+ Will PJ Sentral be as successful as KL Sentral?
The Star, 16 Feb 2013
No Recourse Even From The Courts
APAC then filed an application for a judicial review for the development plans and reports to be made public but was denied by the high court on the basis of not having locus standi (the right to bring an action, to be heard in court, or to address the court on a matter before it).
Rise Of The People's Voice
The concept of the community candidate is a move away from party-based politics to a people-based and people-centric politics.
Dynamic Political Landscape
It seeks to bring about a greater sense of checks and balance at the local and state levels as well as to create a dynamic political landscape through a multi-faceted system.
Return The Power To The People
The people should be given the power to determine laws and policies that would affect them on a daily basis.
I, Simon Lee, son and personal assistant to the late YB Edward Lee, former ADUN of N34 Bukit Gasing, urge you, the voters in this constituency:
- not to vote solely based on the premise that the candidate is from that certain political party; instead
- to seriously consider whether the candidate you intend to vote for, is the best candidate to represent your interest & fight for your rights in the local council & state assembly.
"Vote not just because the person is from a particular party, but because you believe that, that is the right candidate to represent you in the state assembly."
The Bukit Gasing Community Candidate
Simon Lee, the second son of the late YB Edward Lee, wants to see change for the Bukit Gasing community in the upcoming state elections.
His vision for change is to see a return to the true intentions of politics and government, where people of local communities actively work together to draw up sound government policies that are of value to the state of Selangor and its people.
He believes that politics should not be used to propel self towards personal gains.
Someone from the outside may not always be able to fully grasp the grassroots issues that truly move the community.
On the top of Simon’s list of issues most affecting the Bukit Gasing community are the conversion of land status from leasehold to freehold, council issues related to unsustainable development, operations of the municipal council and the state government, pressing issues of local security.
He has been personally affected by crime in his area and feels that although it is a federal matter, it can also be alleviated at the local level.
EXPERIENCE
Simon is no stranger to the local community when working to solve its problems.
He assisted his late father, YB Edward Lee Poh Lin, in the running of his office and service center, arranging his schedule and meetings with various community groups and residents as well as meetings with the municipal council and various state level departments. On many occasions, he had stood in proxy at meetings whenever YB Edward Lee had other engagements.
At these meetings Simon listened intently to the issues raised by local communities, and spent time discussing and tackling those issues, ensuring there was feedback and solutions provided back to them.
He also handled state welfare programs where help was given to constituents in need. Financial assistance was given to those who applied for social welfare aid.
LEASE EXTENSION
One of the predominant issues being faced by the Bukit Gasing community is the land lease issue and the expiration of leases.
One of the solutions in tackling the issue is the introduction of a RM1,000 premium lease extension scheme especially for those in the PJ Old Town area as their leases were closest to expiring, with some having as little as 3-4 years remaining on their leases.
Although this was an interim measure to the end goal of getting freehold status for residents, Simon is committed to look for a solution to this issue.
A FORWARD-THINKING CANDIDATE
Simon realises the need to engage with the community.
Apart from touching base with residents and other groups through city hall meetings and other formal and informal meetings, he also welcomes participation from younger communities on social media.
Simon dreams of members of the community coming together to help solve community problems collectively.
In his opinion, the old perspective of state representatives solving problems on their own should be abandoned for more collective efforts. Simon says,
“Together we will create political will. Typical politicians would choose who to trust. We must all walk the talk if we say we want to solve issues. We must work together.”
He believes in abandoning race-based politics and personal ideologies.Simon plans to demonstrate integrity by establishing trust with the people of the community and with those working at all levels of the government.
Ultimately, Simon envisions good governance for the community of Bukit Gasing where its people take ownership in creating a better, safer and thriving community.
GE13: Two independents share vision of being community candidates
By YVONNE LIM
Published: Saturday April 20, 2013 MYT 12:00:00 AM
http://thestar.com.my/news/story.asp?file=%2F2013%2F4%2F20%2Fnation%2F20130420000035&sec=nation&utm_source=dlvr.it&utm
Published: Saturday April 20, 2013 MYT 12:00:00 AM
http://thestar.com.my/news/story.asp?file=%2F2013%2F4%2F20%2Fnation%2F20130420000035&sec=nation&utm_source=dlvr.it&utm
PETALING JAYA: Two independent candidates say they will pool their limited resources to support each other against the big names in the general election.
Simon Lee will be contesting the Bukit Gasing state seat while Liew Wei Beng is tackling the Damansara Utama seat.
They said the mutual support was based on a shared vision of being “community candidates.”
They opted to be independents because that is how they can best represent the people's interest without being influenced by any political party.
“We are both capable independent candidates, experienced in local issues, have good working relationship with the local authority, as well as the Selangor state government.
“We believe the electorate will be objective in their choice and not be swayed by party politics alone,” they said in a joint statement.
They added that in the event of a “hung" state assembly, they will cooperate with the coalition of their constituents' choice.
On the issue of “vote splitting”, they appealed to the people to vote based on a candidate's suitability, rather than the party.
AIYOH! How la like that?
Thursday 18 April
Patrick Teoh
http://www.niamah.com/2013/04/aiyoh-how-la-like-that.html
We have all heard the line before. Mostly from the lips of Opposition politicians. "IT'S GOING TO BE THE DIRTIEST ELECTION IN MALAYSIAN ISTORY". Perhaps it will be. Perhaps not. We shall see. But in the meantime things are already happening which serve to confuse the hell out of ordinary Malaysians hoping to vote for a better future for themselves and their children and grandchildren.
The feeling is:-
Barisan Nasional is going to town with hand-outs using our money.
Pakatan Rakyat have not got their act together.
Multi-cornered fights will hand the votes to Barisan Nasional.
......and so on and so forth.
As an ordinary Malaysian voter I am increasingly getting confused, frustrated and disappointed. With Barisan Nasional for sure. But increasingly I am thinking Pakatan Rakyat may not really be the answer either. So how?
I received a message this morning which brought the whole mess to a unbearable explosion. Here it is...
Dear Sir,
As the writer said it doesn't take a genius to know that if DAP fields its own candidate to make it a 4-cornered fight it will be as good as handing the Bukit Gasing seat over to Barisan Nasional on a silver platter. Why do they want to do that? Why do they not support Simon Lee? What does this Mak hope to achieve by running as an independent?
This is just one case. I believe that throughout the country similiar situations are happening. Pakatan Rakyat tactic or Barisan Nasional strategy? Right now I just feel that I am going to be screwed again.
NIAMAH!!!
COMMENTS
1:29 PM
To PR: win the freaking majority first! Put all personal agenda behind! It is our hearts that you need to win over!
1:46 PM
Just smiles and promises are not what residents want. We want action.
I would most probably not vote.
1:53 PM
The chess game is on.
Lets hope on 20th DAP will spring up few surprises.
What we see or hear may not be real.
8:50 PM
and latest read, DAP going under PAS symbol in Peninsula and PKR symbol in E. Malaysia!
This will add more spin to the Chinese voters who may not like the moon or the mata lebam!
Boo hoo hoo, I m fit to scream, all the hard work and we still stuck with BUMNO!
2:16 AM
Patrick Teoh
http://www.niamah.com/2013/04/aiyoh-how-la-like-that.html
We have all heard the line before. Mostly from the lips of Opposition politicians. "IT'S GOING TO BE THE DIRTIEST ELECTION IN MALAYSIAN ISTORY". Perhaps it will be. Perhaps not. We shall see. But in the meantime things are already happening which serve to confuse the hell out of ordinary Malaysians hoping to vote for a better future for themselves and their children and grandchildren.
The feeling is:-
Barisan Nasional is going to town with hand-outs using our money.
Pakatan Rakyat have not got their act together.
Multi-cornered fights will hand the votes to Barisan Nasional.
......and so on and so forth.
As an ordinary Malaysian voter I am increasingly getting confused, frustrated and disappointed. With Barisan Nasional for sure. But increasingly I am thinking Pakatan Rakyat may not really be the answer either. So how?
I received a message this morning which brought the whole mess to a unbearable explosion. Here it is...
Dear Sir,
As a resident and voter, I'm dismayed at the prospects of having a 4-way fight in Bkt Gasing.
We voted in Simon's father in 2008, the late Edward Lee, who was under DAP. He was a good, selfless people's representative. After his passing, Simon, who was his father's personal assistant for 4 years, has risen up to take over the mantle. Truly, there's no one better who understand the people of Bukit Gasing and will fight for them with the same selfless passion.
However, DAP intends to field its own candidate, while a former councillor, Mak is also running independent. It doesn't take a genius to see that the only winner in this race will be BN. The anti-BN vote will be split 3 ways, and we really cannot afford that.
If you hv any connection with DAP, would you please ask them to consider backing Simon Lee for the ADUN seat. With DAP's ticket and the people's support, we can retain the Bukit Gasing seat under Pakatan Rakyat.
TQ for your time and consideration
As the writer said it doesn't take a genius to know that if DAP fields its own candidate to make it a 4-cornered fight it will be as good as handing the Bukit Gasing seat over to Barisan Nasional on a silver platter. Why do they want to do that? Why do they not support Simon Lee? What does this Mak hope to achieve by running as an independent?
This is just one case. I believe that throughout the country similiar situations are happening. Pakatan Rakyat tactic or Barisan Nasional strategy? Right now I just feel that I am going to be screwed again.
NIAMAH!!!
COMMENTS
KY 1974 said...
Hell...damn true....I'm a first time voter for Bkt Gasing....My vote ain't gonna go to BN nor PR....The 1st vote of my life will go to no political party & that's none other than SIMON LIM!!!1:29 PM
Anonymous said...
The PR should listen to the people. As the old Chinese saying goes, the person that is able to grab ppl's heart, gets the power. With all these 3/4 corner fights, it's not helping at all. I'm certain the PR high levels understand this, but the fact that they're doing otherwise, shows that another BN is building up. Sad!To PR: win the freaking majority first! Put all personal agenda behind! It is our hearts that you need to win over!
1:46 PM
Anonymous said...
DAP gasing service centre doing a poor job. Complaints not attended to.Just smiles and promises are not what residents want. We want action.
I would most probably not vote.
1:53 PM
monsterball said...
DAP and particularly under Lim Kit Siang.....he had made few calculated silly mistakes...ignoring public's opinions.The chess game is on.
Lets hope on 20th DAP will spring up few surprises.
What we see or hear may not be real.
8:50 PM
Shakirin Al-Ikram said...
YOU TELL ME! Looks like the PR trio are going pusing, just like the Gasing!and latest read, DAP going under PAS symbol in Peninsula and PKR symbol in E. Malaysia!
This will add more spin to the Chinese voters who may not like the moon or the mata lebam!
Boo hoo hoo, I m fit to scream, all the hard work and we still stuck with BUMNO!
2:16 AM
GE13: Several Independent candidates ready to contest in Selangor and KL
Thursday April 18, 2013
By THO XIN YI
http://elections.thestar.com.my/story.aspx?file=/2013/4/18/central/12984479
THE thought of losing a deposit of up to RM20,000 and spending thousands more on campaigning has not deterred a large number of independent candidates from contesting in the GE13.
While top leaders of political parties mull over the best line-up for GE13, some individuals are considering to stand as independent candidates for a number of reasons.
The most common is a desire to bring about change in the constituencies while disappointment in the elected representatives is another reason.
In the last general election, Selangor saw six independents contesting in one parliamentary seat and five state seats.
They were Billi Lim Peng Soon (Kelana Jaya parliamentary constituency), Chandrasegaran Arumugam (Rawang), Azmi Hussain (Batu Caves), Wong Kok Yew (Seri Kembangan), Nazir Mansor (Port Klang) and Ab Manap Sahardin (Sungai Pelek).
Over in the Federal Territory of Kuala Lumpur, N. Periasamy stood against Nurul Izzah Anwar and Datuk Seri Shahrizat Abdul Jalil in Lembah Pantai. However, none of the independent candidates won.
For GE13, quite a number have publicly voiced their interest to fight for the seats.
Businessman Datuk Shamsubahrin Ismail, better known for his involvement in the National Feedlot Corporation (NFC) court case, Pandan Perdana Residents’ Association chairman Lim Ah Chai and former All-Petaling Jaya Residents Association (Apac) chairman Liew Wei Beng look set to run as independent candidates.
Shamsubahrin has set up a personal website (www.shamsubahrinismail.com) and Facebook page to spread his manifesto even before Nomination Day.
He openly introduced himself as the candidate for the Bukit Bintang parliamentary seat who is “eager to serve the people of Bukit Bintang towards a prosperous city living”.
Meanwhile, Lim has also confirmed that he would be running as an independent candidate in the Teratai state seat against a DAP candidate and Gerakan’s Ben Liew.
Wei Beng, on the other hand, said he would contest for the Damansara Utama state seat. He is likely to face MCA’s Datuk C. K. Lim and newcomer Yeo Bee Yin of DAP.
While the other candidates are getting financial support from their respective political parties, Liew said he has to rely on his own resources.
However, he said independent candidates should not be underestimated.
“My strong points are my track record, hard work and commitment as a community leader for 12 years,” said Wei Beng who is 55 years old.
The former Taman Mayang Jaya and Taman Megah residents’ association chairman said friends and residents would be helping him during the campaigning period.
Wei Beng, who is now the Taman Mayang Jaya Commercial Centre Association chairman, said the elected representatives were too busy politicking instead of serving the people and addressing their problems.
“During the campaigning period and ceramah, the big guns from political parties attract huge crowds because people enjoy listening to speakers running down their opponents. But that does not necessarily transform into votes,” he said.
Kepong Community Service Centre head Yee Poh Ping said it was “very likely” that he would be standing as an independent candidate in Kepong.
He said he was confident his service for the past 16 years would speak for itself and highlight his ability as a people’s representative.
As an independent, he is planning on small-scale campaigning to reach out to voters.
“My team and I will visit every corner of Kepong to meet the people personally, right after nomination. We are focusing on the personal touch, instead of large-scale publicity,” Yee said.
The former MCA member is well-known for highlighting issues in Kepong through his community service centre and contesting without the support of a political party has not deterred Yee.
“Even without political backing, I am able to resolve people’s problems in Kepong.
“If I am given the mandate to serve, I will have more authority and allocation to develop Kepong further,” he said.
Yee added that although his financial resources was limited, his aim was to win over the hearts of voters with his “energy and spirit to work”.
He is likely to stand against incumbent Dr Tan Seng Giaw of DAP and Federal Territory PPP chief Datuk A. Chandrakumanan.
Meanwhile, Billi, who has stood and lost in the Bukit Bintang parliamentary seat in 1999 and 2004 and the Kelana Jaya parliamentary seat in 2008, said he may contest in Kelana Jaya.
His perseverance certainly fits his title as the “failure guru”, which he earned for his Dare to Fail book series. Billi said his campaign would be unique to reach out to the voters.
The Bukit Gasing state seat would be contested by two independents, Simon Lee and Mak Khuin Weng. Lee is the son of the late Bukit Gasing assemblyman Edward Lee while Mak is a former councillor of Petaling Jaya City Council.
Their opponents are Gerakan’s Juan Sei Chang and probably Kasturi Rani Patto, who is the daughter of the late DAP strongman P. Patto.
By THO XIN YI
http://elections.thestar.com.my/story.aspx?file=/2013/4/18/central/12984479
 |
| Yee: Even without political backing, I am able to resolve people’s problems in Kepong. |
While top leaders of political parties mull over the best line-up for GE13, some individuals are considering to stand as independent candidates for a number of reasons.
The most common is a desire to bring about change in the constituencies while disappointment in the elected representatives is another reason.
In the last general election, Selangor saw six independents contesting in one parliamentary seat and five state seats.
They were Billi Lim Peng Soon (Kelana Jaya parliamentary constituency), Chandrasegaran Arumugam (Rawang), Azmi Hussain (Batu Caves), Wong Kok Yew (Seri Kembangan), Nazir Mansor (Port Klang) and Ab Manap Sahardin (Sungai Pelek).
Over in the Federal Territory of Kuala Lumpur, N. Periasamy stood against Nurul Izzah Anwar and Datuk Seri Shahrizat Abdul Jalil in Lembah Pantai. However, none of the independent candidates won.
For GE13, quite a number have publicly voiced their interest to fight for the seats.
Businessman Datuk Shamsubahrin Ismail, better known for his involvement in the National Feedlot Corporation (NFC) court case, Pandan Perdana Residents’ Association chairman Lim Ah Chai and former All-Petaling Jaya Residents Association (Apac) chairman Liew Wei Beng look set to run as independent candidates.
Shamsubahrin has set up a personal website (www.shamsubahrinismail.com) and Facebook page to spread his manifesto even before Nomination Day.
 |
| Eager duo: Bukit Gasing will be contested by two independents Lee (left pic) and former MBPJ councillor Mak. |
Meanwhile, Lim has also confirmed that he would be running as an independent candidate in the Teratai state seat against a DAP candidate and Gerakan’s Ben Liew.
Wei Beng, on the other hand, said he would contest for the Damansara Utama state seat. He is likely to face MCA’s Datuk C. K. Lim and newcomer Yeo Bee Yin of DAP.
While the other candidates are getting financial support from their respective political parties, Liew said he has to rely on his own resources.
However, he said independent candidates should not be underestimated.
“My strong points are my track record, hard work and commitment as a community leader for 12 years,” said Wei Beng who is 55 years old.
The former Taman Mayang Jaya and Taman Megah residents’ association chairman said friends and residents would be helping him during the campaigning period.
Wei Beng, who is now the Taman Mayang Jaya Commercial Centre Association chairman, said the elected representatives were too busy politicking instead of serving the people and addressing their problems.
“During the campaigning period and ceramah, the big guns from political parties attract huge crowds because people enjoy listening to speakers running down their opponents. But that does not necessarily transform into votes,” he said.
Kepong Community Service Centre head Yee Poh Ping said it was “very likely” that he would be standing as an independent candidate in Kepong.
He said he was confident his service for the past 16 years would speak for itself and highlight his ability as a people’s representative.
As an independent, he is planning on small-scale campaigning to reach out to voters.
“My team and I will visit every corner of Kepong to meet the people personally, right after nomination. We are focusing on the personal touch, instead of large-scale publicity,” Yee said.
The former MCA member is well-known for highlighting issues in Kepong through his community service centre and contesting without the support of a political party has not deterred Yee.
“Even without political backing, I am able to resolve people’s problems in Kepong.
“If I am given the mandate to serve, I will have more authority and allocation to develop Kepong further,” he said.
Yee added that although his financial resources was limited, his aim was to win over the hearts of voters with his “energy and spirit to work”.
He is likely to stand against incumbent Dr Tan Seng Giaw of DAP and Federal Territory PPP chief Datuk A. Chandrakumanan.
Meanwhile, Billi, who has stood and lost in the Bukit Bintang parliamentary seat in 1999 and 2004 and the Kelana Jaya parliamentary seat in 2008, said he may contest in Kelana Jaya.
His perseverance certainly fits his title as the “failure guru”, which he earned for his Dare to Fail book series. Billi said his campaign would be unique to reach out to the voters.
The Bukit Gasing state seat would be contested by two independents, Simon Lee and Mak Khuin Weng. Lee is the son of the late Bukit Gasing assemblyman Edward Lee while Mak is a former councillor of Petaling Jaya City Council.
Their opponents are Gerakan’s Juan Sei Chang and probably Kasturi Rani Patto, who is the daughter of the late DAP strongman P. Patto.
GE13: Four-cornered fight likely in Bukit Gasing
Friday April 12, 2013
FORMER journalist Mak Khuin Weng has thrown his hat into the battle for the Bukit Gasing state seat in the 13th general election (GE13) where he will contest as an independent candidate, making it a four-cornered fight for the seat.
Other candidates tipped for the seat are Bukit Gasing Gerakan coordinator Juan Sei Chang, the late DAP strongman P. Patto’s daughter Kasturi Rani Patto, and Simon Lee, the son of the late Edward Lee Poh Lin, who will be standing as an independent.
When asked if he was contesting for Bukit Gasing, Mak said “yes” but declined to elaborate.
He was a journalist with The Star from 1996 to 2007, and this gave him exposure to various community issues in Petaling Jaya. He left the newspaper to go into politics where he became Edward Lee’s assistant and campaign coordinator in the 2008 general election. [Sic: Simon was personal assistant and to his late father the entire tenure as State Assemblyman for Bukit Gasing, while KW Mak was campaign manager to the late Edward Lee in the 2008 12th GE.]
Mak was also a councillor with the Petaling Jaya City Council from 2008 to 2012.
He has been advocating that owners of leasehold properties in Petaling Jaya be given freehold titles and transparency in new and proposed developments. According to residents, Mak might not be much of a threat to Lee, who was born and bred in the neighbourhood. For Juan, the voices on the ground say that he will have to work hard to convince the electorate that he can deliver.
On Kasturi being tipped to be DAP’s candidate, the electorate does not seem to be in support as they say “she is not local”.
It was reported that even DAP’s Petaling Jaya Selatan (PJS) division had spoken against a “parachute candidate” for Bukit Gasing.
PJS DAP liaison committee chairman Tony Cheong was reported to have said the division hoped the party would consider fielding candidates from local branches or even local councillors.
Although no names were mentioned, it is understood that the DAP division was referring to Kasturi.
Kasturi has been in Bukit Gasing for about nine months and is considered green on issues affecting the Bukit Gasing constituents.
Simon Lee eyes late father's seat
12 April 2013
http://www.nst.com.my/streets/central/simon-lee-eyes-late-father-s-seat-1.253622NOT UNDER A PARTY: Newcomer is among two independent candidates vying for the Bukit Gasing state seat
PETALING JAYA: AT least two independent candidates have confirmed that they will be vying for the Bukit Gasing state seat in the upcoming 13th General Election.
Simon Lee, 34, is the son of the late Bukit Gasing assemblyman, Edward Lee, who had won the seat in 2008 under the DAP ticket.
The other independent candidate is Mak Khuin Weng, 38.
Simon announced his candidacy at a press conference yesterday.
Unlike his father, Simon was never a DAP member and had no intention to run under any party.
He plans to start a new "dynamic situation" which will allow for more independent candidates to truly champion the people's voice, he said.
Simon aims to continue his father's legacy of championing public interests above all else.
It took him close to two years to plan for the election campaign which he said was initially meant for his late father who had expressed his intention to run as an independent candidate.
The senior Lee had felt that he could do more for the people as an independent elected representative rather than one representing a political party.
Edward, however, died on Dec 20, 2011, after an illness.
"If my dad was alive he would have contested as an independent candidate this time around and detached himself from the party.
"This was because my dad felt that his hands were tied when he was in DAP. For instance, he was not kept in the loop on the PJ Sentral project in Section 52 although he was the assemblyman for the area.
"My dad was not informed about the project although he was the assemblyman and when he called for public hearings on it, he was told to be less vocal," said Simon, who grew up in Section 5, here.
Simon added that he had initially approached Selangor DAP to present his views for the upcoming elections. However, it did not go down well with the party.
"I had officially written to the leadership of Pakatan Rakyat and DAP to announce my intention of contesting as an independent but in collaboration with Pakatan Rakyat and DAP.
"But my proposal was turned down and I was told that DAP would field its own candidate.
"The reason given was that it would start a precedent and it will not go down well with party members," he said.
Simon added he was also inspired by the Australian politics whereby more candidates chose to contest as independent candidates.
Among the areas which Simon hoped to champion is the freehold status, issues related to the local council governance and security. His main platform of campaigning will be the online medium.
Mak, who was appointed as a councillor under the DAP quota, served in the Petaling Jaya City Council from 2008 until 2011.
Mak, who is not a DAP member, said he hoped to represent the people's interests.
"My voters are the ones who will be giving me the mandate and I will serve them. I will also make sure the public is well aware of the law and their rights to be able to question any wrongdoing," he said.
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| N34 Bukit Gasing |
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| Simon Lee says he will be able to serve the people better as an independent candidate |
GE13: Late Edward Lee's son announces candidature
First Published: 12:21pm, Apr 11, 2013
PETALING JAYA (April 11): It is official. Simon Lee, 34, the son of late Bukit Gasing assemblyman Edward Lee, will contest in the Selangor state seat as an Independent candidate.
Announcing his candidature this morning here today, he said he would contest as a "community candidate" to champion issues which really affect the people of Bukit Gasing.
"What makes me different from the typical politician is that I would be freely able to represent the people without worries of attachment that comes with a political party," he said.
With this announcement, the state seat is expected to see a fight between Lee, a Barisan Nasional (BN) candidate and a DAP candidate which many have touted to be newcomer, Kasturi Patto, daughter of late DAP stalwart P Patto.
Lee's revered late father Edward, first time assemblymen himself, stood under the DAP ticket and received 15,735 votes in the 2008 general election.
He defeated Gerakan's Datuk Dr Lim Thuang Seng with a whopping 8,812-vote majority.
On the anticipated three-corner fight, Lee, a newcomer himself said he had written to Pakatan Rakyat and DAP leadership voicing his intention to contest under the DAP ticket mid last year.
However, his request to stand as a community candidate was turned down as "it would start a precedence of independent candidates running under the banner of DAP and their members will not be in favour of this".
Lee told fz.com that this campaign was initially planned for Edward who would have stood as an independent in this election. Edward passed away in December 2011.
"This entire campaign was planned for him," he said.
He added that while having the freedom to act for the people without being imposed with party restrictions, he was also mindful of how crucial this election was in retaining the Selangor state.
Lee who has indicated that he was pro-Pakatan, was not open to stating clearly which side of the divide he stood on.
But when asked if he could sway the DAP-voters merely to allow the Pakatan to retain Selangor, he said: "If they vote for the right person (me), I will put my leaning where the people will want me to put (it)”.
He said it was akin to killing two birds with one stone where issues close to the community can be worked on intently and larger state political divides can still be managed well. [Sic: Simon said, "Akin to two for the price of one (vote). The people of Bukit Gasing get an elected rep - 1) Who is able to freely represent and serve the people's interest without attachments that come along with being in a political party, and 2) Who is able lean towards the coalition who shares and subscribes to the principles and objectives of the community candidate as well as a coalition of the people's choice."]
Lee, who has been his father's personal assistant for the four years when the latter served as assemblyman, is using the fact that he understands the issues as a local resident, as leverage.
Neatly listing down the issues in his manifesto, he said among things that matter to the locals are the freehold status in Bukit Gasing and other local government-related issues.
"In Section 5 (Petaling Jaya) where I live, the land in the north is leasehold while the land in the south is freehold. So, people are very concerned because of this inconsistency " he said.
He said the point of his candidature was to bring back politics to the public and to encourage their participation to bring changes to the community.
"There is a need for ordinary people and not full time politician or career based politicians to participate in (issues close to their hearts).
"Like my father, even before coming into politics, he was an activist, a person very in touch with grassroot matters," he said.
Lee will use much of social media as a primary campaign platform. His website for his candidature is http://www.n34bukitgasing.com/
Last Updated: 1:19pm, Apr 11, 2013
http://fz.com/content/ge13-late-edward-lees-son-announces-candidature
http://fz.com/content/ge13-late-edward-lees-son-announces-candidature
 |
Simon Lee said he would contest as a"community candidate" to champion issues whichreally affect the Bukit Gasing people. |
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Simon Lee posing with his banners for theMay 5 general election. |
PETALING JAYA (April 11): It is official. Simon Lee, 34, the son of late Bukit Gasing assemblyman Edward Lee, will contest in the Selangor state seat as an Independent candidate.
Announcing his candidature this morning here today, he said he would contest as a "community candidate" to champion issues which really affect the people of Bukit Gasing.
"What makes me different from the typical politician is that I would be freely able to represent the people without worries of attachment that comes with a political party," he said.
With this announcement, the state seat is expected to see a fight between Lee, a Barisan Nasional (BN) candidate and a DAP candidate which many have touted to be newcomer, Kasturi Patto, daughter of late DAP stalwart P Patto.
Lee's revered late father Edward, first time assemblymen himself, stood under the DAP ticket and received 15,735 votes in the 2008 general election.
He defeated Gerakan's Datuk Dr Lim Thuang Seng with a whopping 8,812-vote majority.
On the anticipated three-corner fight, Lee, a newcomer himself said he had written to Pakatan Rakyat and DAP leadership voicing his intention to contest under the DAP ticket mid last year.
However, his request to stand as a community candidate was turned down as "it would start a precedence of independent candidates running under the banner of DAP and their members will not be in favour of this".
Lee told fz.com that this campaign was initially planned for Edward who would have stood as an independent in this election. Edward passed away in December 2011.
"This entire campaign was planned for him," he said.
He added that while having the freedom to act for the people without being imposed with party restrictions, he was also mindful of how crucial this election was in retaining the Selangor state.
Lee who has indicated that he was pro-Pakatan, was not open to stating clearly which side of the divide he stood on.
But when asked if he could sway the DAP-voters merely to allow the Pakatan to retain Selangor, he said: "If they vote for the right person (me), I will put my leaning where the people will want me to put (it)”.
He said it was akin to killing two birds with one stone where issues close to the community can be worked on intently and larger state political divides can still be managed well. [Sic: Simon said, "Akin to two for the price of one (vote). The people of Bukit Gasing get an elected rep - 1) Who is able to freely represent and serve the people's interest without attachments that come along with being in a political party, and 2) Who is able lean towards the coalition who shares and subscribes to the principles and objectives of the community candidate as well as a coalition of the people's choice."]
Lee, who has been his father's personal assistant for the four years when the latter served as assemblyman, is using the fact that he understands the issues as a local resident, as leverage.
Neatly listing down the issues in his manifesto, he said among things that matter to the locals are the freehold status in Bukit Gasing and other local government-related issues.
"In Section 5 (Petaling Jaya) where I live, the land in the north is leasehold while the land in the south is freehold. So, people are very concerned because of this inconsistency " he said.
He said the point of his candidature was to bring back politics to the public and to encourage their participation to bring changes to the community.
"There is a need for ordinary people and not full time politician or career based politicians to participate in (issues close to their hearts).
"Like my father, even before coming into politics, he was an activist, a person very in touch with grassroot matters," he said.
Lee will use much of social media as a primary campaign platform. His website for his candidature is http://www.n34bukitgasing.com/
Principled to a fault
http://www.mmail.com.my/story/principled-fault-40859
FRIDAY, DECEMBER 14, 2012 - 18:23
by Terence Fernandez
by Ram Anand
...
IT has been seven years since Karpal Singh was confined to a wheelchair following an accident, but the 72-year-old DAP chairman still knows how to make himself heard in the cacophony of Malaysian politics. He has delved into many controversies, even going after members of his own party. He also took aim at PAS over the hudud issue. His outspoken nature may make his own colleagues uncomfortable, but Karpal contends he has and always will be principled — even to a fault. He talks to TERENCE FERNANDEZ and RAM ANAND.
FRIDAY, DECEMBER 14, 2012 - 18:23
by Terence Fernandez
by Ram Anand
THE MALAY MAIL: What are the core issues to be discussed at your National Congress this weekend?
KARPAL SINGH: Of course the Kelantan issues, with gender segregation and what not. We need to discuss that, and of course, the forthcoming elections. We should come up with a resolution to address this matter as it is very serious you know.
The DAP has seen plenty of infighting or differences in opinion. Are you going to use the congress to tell members to close ranks?
Yes, I think whatever differences should be voiced out and resolved during the congress. It shoud serve as a rallying point for elections.
...
Talking of young leaders, The late Bukit Gasing assemblyman Edward Lee Poh Lin had said that after becoming a politician, he realised he could do more for the community as a community leader than as a politician. As such, his son Simon Lee wants to contest that seat on an independent ticket so he could do more for the community. He felt his father was confined as a DAP member. What do you say to new batch of leaders who are as idealistic as Simon?
(Laughs) Hmmm … but that is politics you know. Once you come into it, things are different from what you thought of it from the outside. Unfortunately, that is what it is. It is not easy, I think. Here, sticking to principles count. There are a lot of people out there, you know, like this.
There is a compulsion to reward loyalty even though the person might not be the best candidate …
Misplaced (loyalty) ... yes. That also happens. Some good ones are just left out.
And it's endemic to every political party?
It is. On whose side you are and so forth, you know (laughs).
Everybody has those factions, I think. You can't run away from that. Every party has it. But depends, to which extent, as long as it's done professionally.
Shouldn't DAP look at the Simon Lee's situation and say, this is Edward Lee's son, so ...
But that's a problem you see, for us not to contest a seat. Because we need the numbers, we can't take for granted, you know, that at the assembly we will have the majority. Anything can happen.
PAS President Datuk Seri Abdul Hadi Awang said that the US Presidential Election would be a good system for us to follow. Would you second that?
Ours (DAP) is different. We select out of the elect 20, and then these 20 elect the chairman. A lot of people think it's very undemocractic because it's not like other parties where the principal of this position is voted.
In 2008, we can say people just voted for anyone who was not from Barisan Nasional (BN).
Yes, that's what happened. It happened in 1969 too you know, same thing. But on a bigger scale this time.
But GE13 looks like people are going to look at the individual who is contesting.
Because that is what it should be also. Because the democratic system is not a good system if you really look at it. Like 2008, doesn't matter who was on the other side, any fellow on this side- it's a dangerous system. Of course, it depends on the electorate.
Other countries are okay, like England and all that, here our fellows, they go by sentiment.
And then they SMS something about you, and you are dead.
...
GE13: Sparring of Gen Y candidates
http://thestar.com.my/metro/story.asp?file=/2013/4/9/central/12943050&sec=central
By EDWARD R. HENRY
Three new faces: Gerakan’s Juan (left) is tipped to take on DAP’s Kasturi (centre) and independent candidate Simon Lee.
By EDWARD R. HENRY
edward@thestar.com
Three new faces: Gerakan’s Juan (left) is tipped to take on DAP’s Kasturi (centre) and independent candidate Simon Lee.
BUKIT Gasing constituents may see three new faces in the contest for the state seat as Gerakan Bukit Gasing coordinator Juan Sei Chang, 42, is tipped to take on Kasturi Rani Patto, 34, and independent candidate Simon Lee Chung Hsin, 34.
Kasturi is the daughter of the late DAP strongman P. Patto. Simon is the son of former DAP state assemblyman, the late Edward Lee Poh Lin, whose death in 2011 left the seat vacant. Lee won the seat in 2008 when he defeated Barisan Nasional’s Datuk Lim Thuang Seng with a majority of 8,812.
The three potential candidates are all constantly connected to Twitter and Facebook and keep followers updated, said All-Petaling Jaya Residents Association Coali-tion (Apac) adviser Mohd Umar Peer Mohd.
“For the 13th general election (GE13), Twitter will help disseminate information that is easy to digest and help people make decisions,” he added.
Simon plans to announce his candidacy on Thursday and for Juan, this means the former will split votes meant for Kasturi.
Bukit Gasing residents feel Simon could garner some votes based on local sentiments for his late father.
On the other hand, Juan, a former councillor with Petaling Jaya City Council (MBPJ), has been serving the people and resolved issues in various neighbourhoods, like poor garbage collection services and the deforestation of Bukit Gasing.
For the Gen X and Y voters, Juan could be their choice as he grew up in the neighbourhood.
With the GE13 so close, these two generations are bound to make a major impact on politics.
Bukit Gasing, a state seat in Petaling Jaya Selatan (PJS), Selangor has 34,645 voters now, an increase of 1,479 voters from the general election in 2008.
Gen X and Y will have an impact on the voting trends in Bukit Gasing, where there are about 8,000 voters aged 21 to 45.
It will be an interesting battle for Bukit Gasing as in this age group, the Chinese make up the majority with 23,750 voters, with Malays at 4,642, Indians at 4,780 and others at about 900.
Kasturi, a microbiologist, is new to Bukit Gasing, having been on the scene for about nine months now. She has made her presence felt by attending MBPJ’s full-board meetings as an observer and focusing on the Section 5 neighbourhood.
In Simon’s case, he is positioning himself as a “community candidate” to be the catalyst for change.
“I am here to work with the people. Collectively, we will champion our rights,” he said.
Simon was the special assistant and constituency officer for Bukit Gasing till June 2012.
Umar Peer said Gen X and Y voters were not going to vote based on logos or slogans.
“Their choice will be the candidate who can work and serve the people best,” he said.
Three-corner fight in Bukit Gasing with Edward Lee’s son as independent
http://www.themalaysianinsider.com/litee/malaysia/article/three-corner-fight-in-bukit-gasing-with-edward-lees-son-as-independent
Recently, The Malaysian Insider reported that DAP would likely field first-timer outsider Kasthuri Rani Patto, the daughter of late DAP hero P. Patto, in the Chinese-majority seat in Petaling Jaya. - File pic
KUALA LUMPUR, April 5 — The Bukit Gasing state seat in Selangor will see a three-corner fight in Election 2013, with the son of its former representative Edward Lee Poh Lin to run as an independent candidate against DAP and the Barisan Nasional (BN) coalition.
Recently, The Malaysian Insider reported that DAP would likely field first-timer outsider Kasthuri Rani Patto, the daughter of late DAP hero P. Patto, in the Chinese-majority seat in Petaling Jaya. - File picKUALA LUMPUR, April 5 — The Bukit Gasing state seat in Selangor will see a three-corner fight in Election 2013, with the son of its former representative Edward Lee Poh Lin to run as an independent candidate against DAP and the Barisan Nasional (BN) coalition.
“I’ll be running as an independent,” Simon Lee Chung Hsin told The Malaysian Insider when contacted today.
Simon, who had previously aided his late father in his duties as the Bukit Gasing state assemblyman, is expected to officially announce his candidacy in a press conference next Thursday.
DAP publicity chief Tony Pua confirmed that Simon would not be contesting under the party’s ticket as his late father did in Election 2008, where he defeated BN’s Datuk Dr Lim Thuang Seng in a massive win with a 8,812 majority.
“He will not contest on DAP’s ticket, he is an independent candidate,” Pua said.
Following Edward’s death in 2011, no by-election was held, leading to DAP’s Subang Jaya state assemblyman Hannah Yeoh’s adoption of the Bukit Gasing seat.
Recently, The Malaysian Insider reported that DAP would likely field first-timer outsider Kasthuri Rani Patto, the daughter of late DAP hero P. Patto, in the Chinese-majority seat in Petaling Jaya.
She had said that Edward’s impact continues to be felt, highlighting the “Save Bukit Gasing” campaign which he had started together with local residents in an effort to protect the Klang Valley green lung from development.
BN is seeking to regain Selangor, one of the five states that the federal opposition Pakatan Rakyat (PR) took over in Election 2008.
PR currently holds 36 seats out of the 56 state seats and 17 out of the 22 parliamentary seats in the country’s richest state.
GE13: Three-cornered fight for Bukit Gasing
Saturday April 6, 2013http://thestar.com.my/news/story.asp?file=/2013/4/6/nation/12936532&sec=nation&utm_source=TSOL_main&utm_medium=links&utm_campaign=GE13
PETALING JAYA: The Bukit Gasing state seat, that has more than 30,000 voters, will see a three-cornered fight in the general election, with Simon Lee Chung Hsin contesting as an independent against DAP's tipped candidate Kasturi Rani Patto and Gerakan's Juan Sei Chang.
Simon is the son of former DAP state assemblyman, the late Edward Lee Poh Lin, whose death in 2011 left the seat vacant.
Edward won the seat in 2008 when he defeated Barisan Nasional's Datuk Lim Thuang Seng with a majority of 8,812.
Yesterday evening, Simon as he is known among locals issued a press release confirming that he would contest in the elections, adding that he would make an official announcement next Thursday.
Roles of the Elected Respresentatives
The following links provide information on the Local Government and Roles of the Elected Representatives.
Local Government in Malaysia
Local Government Elections in Malaysia
State Legislative Assemblies
Local Government in Malaysia
Local Government Elections in Malaysia
State Legislative Assemblies
Put local govt on the election agenda
Posted on 12 March 2013 - 08:59am
Goh Ban Lee
http://www.thesundaily.my/news/634258
THE last local government election was held in 1963. Malaysians below 60 have little or no memory of what local government election campaigns were all about.
Malaysians have been denied for too long their rights to decide who they want to run the local authorities. Despite the erosion of the responsibilities of local authorities over the past few years, they still play important roles in the everyday life of Malaysians.
As the laws governing the appointment of mayors or presidents and councillors and the workings of local authorities are made in Parliament and state assemblies, local government should be an important agenda in general election campaigns.
The Barisan Nasional and Pakatan Rakyat candidates must tell voters what they have in mind about the calls for local government elections and how they are going to ensure or facilitate better urban governance.
For example, if the Barisan Nasional leaders still believe that the appointed system is good for the people and country, they should present their arguments to the voters. They should justify the appointed system vis-à-vis the quality of service rendered by local authorities. Does the liveability of the towns and cities commensurate with the economic progress of the country?
The Pakatan Rakyat candidates should state clearly their stance on local government elections. While DAP, or at least the DAP-led Penang State Government, is clear on the question of elected local authorities, PAS has been rather shy in saying anything. Although Parti Keadilan Rakyat was for local government elections, it has been rather quiet on this issue for some time.
Besides local government elections, there is also the issue of urban governance. Irrespective of whether the local councils are appointed or elected, it is time to change urban management procedures to ensure that the decision-making processes in the councils are transparent.
Candidates in the general election should state clearly their stance on transparency. For example, they should tell the voters how the local authorities can be more transparent in the management of the municipalities.
What are their views on a suggestion that all council meetings, including committee meetings, be opened to the public?
As local councils do not deal with security issues there is no need to keep taxpayers and reporters away from meetings, especially the One Stop Centre meetings that approve applications to undertake land development. There is also no need to keep ratepayers from attending all meetings dealing with annual budgets.
Municipal budgets do not contain national secrets or items that may lead to civil unrest. There is no need for secrecy.
The need for transparency is even more critical in the three federal territories, namely Kuala Lumpur, Putrajaya and Labuan. The ratepayers are in the dark how these municipalities decide on the budgets or the approvals of development projects.
In Kuala Lumpur City Hall, the mayor is the sole decision maker. It does not even have councillors, but only advisers, whose advice need not be followed.
Then there is the question of accountability. It is not possible to find out who is responsible for things done or not done. For example, the public is in the dark when no action is taken against those who break municipal laws.
Is it the negligence of the area inspector or the head of department or the secretary of the council or the president or mayor? Worse, is it the interference of state assemblymen or the state executive councillor in charge of the local government or the mentri besar or chief minister?
Generally, there are adequate municipal laws to make the towns and cities much more liveable. Unfortunately, acts of non-compliance are the main reasons why the towns are not much better places to work and bring up families.
A more accountable enforcement procedure will minimise interference in the working of the councils.
The candidates in the next general election owe it to the voters to state their stance on making the local authorities more effective.
Datuk Dr Goh Ban Lee is a senior research fellow in Penang Institute and interested in urban governance, housing and urban planning. Comments: letters@thesundaily.com
Goh Ban Lee
http://www.thesundaily.my/news/634258
THE last local government election was held in 1963. Malaysians below 60 have little or no memory of what local government election campaigns were all about.
Malaysians have been denied for too long their rights to decide who they want to run the local authorities. Despite the erosion of the responsibilities of local authorities over the past few years, they still play important roles in the everyday life of Malaysians.
As the laws governing the appointment of mayors or presidents and councillors and the workings of local authorities are made in Parliament and state assemblies, local government should be an important agenda in general election campaigns.
The Barisan Nasional and Pakatan Rakyat candidates must tell voters what they have in mind about the calls for local government elections and how they are going to ensure or facilitate better urban governance.
For example, if the Barisan Nasional leaders still believe that the appointed system is good for the people and country, they should present their arguments to the voters. They should justify the appointed system vis-à-vis the quality of service rendered by local authorities. Does the liveability of the towns and cities commensurate with the economic progress of the country?
The Pakatan Rakyat candidates should state clearly their stance on local government elections. While DAP, or at least the DAP-led Penang State Government, is clear on the question of elected local authorities, PAS has been rather shy in saying anything. Although Parti Keadilan Rakyat was for local government elections, it has been rather quiet on this issue for some time.
Besides local government elections, there is also the issue of urban governance. Irrespective of whether the local councils are appointed or elected, it is time to change urban management procedures to ensure that the decision-making processes in the councils are transparent.
Candidates in the general election should state clearly their stance on transparency. For example, they should tell the voters how the local authorities can be more transparent in the management of the municipalities.
What are their views on a suggestion that all council meetings, including committee meetings, be opened to the public?
As local councils do not deal with security issues there is no need to keep taxpayers and reporters away from meetings, especially the One Stop Centre meetings that approve applications to undertake land development. There is also no need to keep ratepayers from attending all meetings dealing with annual budgets.
Municipal budgets do not contain national secrets or items that may lead to civil unrest. There is no need for secrecy.
The need for transparency is even more critical in the three federal territories, namely Kuala Lumpur, Putrajaya and Labuan. The ratepayers are in the dark how these municipalities decide on the budgets or the approvals of development projects.
In Kuala Lumpur City Hall, the mayor is the sole decision maker. It does not even have councillors, but only advisers, whose advice need not be followed.
Then there is the question of accountability. It is not possible to find out who is responsible for things done or not done. For example, the public is in the dark when no action is taken against those who break municipal laws.
Is it the negligence of the area inspector or the head of department or the secretary of the council or the president or mayor? Worse, is it the interference of state assemblymen or the state executive councillor in charge of the local government or the mentri besar or chief minister?
Generally, there are adequate municipal laws to make the towns and cities much more liveable. Unfortunately, acts of non-compliance are the main reasons why the towns are not much better places to work and bring up families.
A more accountable enforcement procedure will minimise interference in the working of the councils.
The candidates in the next general election owe it to the voters to state their stance on making the local authorities more effective.
Datuk Dr Goh Ban Lee is a senior research fellow in Penang Institute and interested in urban governance, housing and urban planning. Comments: letters@thesundaily.com
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