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• Lessons in violence nurture shame and more violence for children
KUALA LUMPUR, 6 October 2008 – Corporal punishment in schools harms children and damages their education highlights the United Nations World Report on Violence Against Children. According to the Report, lessons in violence have little positive disciplinary value, teaching students that violence is an acceptable solution when dealing with problems.

“A formula of scoldings, beatings and other physical and psychological punishments end with students feeling angry and humiliated,” says the United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF) Representative to Malaysia Mr. Youssouf Oomar.. “There is little value for the child or the community as students who experience violence become withdrawn from academic pursuit and less motivated to succeed.”

The World Report was conducted through five years of intensive consultation including nine regional consultations involving governments, civil society, and children; thematic consultations with relevant experts; field visits; as well as questionnaires to 133 governments, including Malaysia.

Released two years ago in October 2006, the landmark Report exposes the shocking scope of violence against children and documents its devastating effects on children, their families, their communities, and broader society.

Children, more often than not, experience violence at the hands of the very individuals responsible for protecting them, underlines the Report, and in spaces meant to be safe for their growth and development. Schools were cited as one such location where children experience violence, both from their teachers in the form of corporal punishment as well as from their peers in the form of bullying.

The Report suggests that children who are physically punished at school may become less likely than other children to internalise moral values, and may become depressed or aggressive.

“Corporal punishment erodes students’ trust in their teachers and their schools. It can lead to students feeling disrespectful and angry toward their educators. It also negates a child’s capacity to respond to reason,” explains Mr. Youssouf. “Antisocial, aggressive and depressed children have unforgiving costs to society as it brings about demanding social and health problems well into their adult live.”

In Malaysia, corporal punishment in schools is generally viewed as disciplinary action to control students who misbehave. While serious disobediences such as stealing, smoking, gangsterism and bullying are some reasons for the appearance of the cane or wooden ruler in the classroom, minor transgressions such as incomplete homework have also been dealt with physical punishment.

UNICEF believes that corporal punishment should be abolished because it is both abusive and ineffective. It also infringes on the right to education. The United Nations Convention on the Rights of the Child prohibits the use of cruel, inhuman, or degrading treatment, regardless of circumstance.

Stressing the importance of building a nurturing environment for children, Mr. Youssouf recommends that alternative forms of discipline be used in place of corporal punishment to respond better to student’s educational and psychological needs.

“Students, teachers, and parents alike share the goal of orderly, disciplined classrooms in which students can learn. Hence, there is a pressing need to replace corporal punishment with positive discipline, which encourages children to develop self-control, confidence and respect for others through an ongoing educational process using non-violent approaches”, he stresses.

The Ministry of Education, HELP University College and UNICEF’s “Teacher Education Project” is one such alternative that aims to equip teachers in Malaysia with the knowledge and skills necessary to manage and discipline their classes without the use of physical and psychological violence.

A follow-up of a previous project that ran from 2006 to 2007 titled “Increasing Psychosocial Wellbeing in Schools through Bully Prevention”, this current project will look into the preparation of materials as well as training for teachers to use alternative models of discipline instead of corporal punishment as a means of disciplining students, while conducting bullying intervention programs.

Children will correct themselves if you engage them in positive reinforcement,” Mr. Youssouf affirms. “With the right resources and approaches, schools can find effective alternatives to corporal punishment that will bring benefits to children and the society they live in”.

UNITE FOR CHILDREN

Indra Kumari Nadchatram
Communication Specialist
United Nations Children’s Fund
Malaysia Country Office
• Malaysia Wins!
Zandvoort, the Netherlands, 05 October 2008

It was the perfect start to the new season of the A1GP World Cup of Motorsport for A1 Team Malaysia in Zandvoort, Netherlands today. Fairuz Fauzy dominated the Sprint race, coping with torrential rain, in the new A1GP Powered by Ferrari car, to take the first spoils and claim an excellent maiden win of the season for his nation.

The opening round of the ten event A1GP Series finally got underway today at the Dutch circuit. Despite heavy rain, a packed racing venue watched Fauzy drive to his first A1GP victory. The Malaysian team started from fourth on the grid after a strong qualifying performance yesterday. The safety car was used for the start of the race due to the bad weather but green flag racing started after two laps.

Fauzy picked up one place after the Irish car spun at the start, but lost out to a charging Switzerland a few laps later. Fauzy then fought back, reclaiming the place to lie third at half distance. Showing great maturity and bravery Fauzy then made a sweeping pass on second placed Netherlands to claim the runner up spot. With just four laps to go Fauzy then hunted down leader, New Zealand and made a perfect overtaking manoeuvre to take the lead and drive away from his trailing rivals. He took the chequered flag, returned to the pits and immediately celebrated with his team before stepping onto the top step of the podium to hear the Malaysian national anthem and lift the winner’s trophy above his head.

Fauzy said of winning his first A1GP race today, “I am so happy to take this win. It was very difficult on the track today and made even more challenging with the lack of experience we have with this new car, but we have worked really hard as a team and now we have a fantastic win. We start from pole position for the next race as well, so I hope we can have more success, but if the weather stays like this it will be another huge challenge for everyone. I’m looking forward to it!”

Jack Cunningham, Chief Executive, A1 Team Malaysia added, “It’s a tremendous win for the team today. Everyone has put so much effort into preparing the car and being ready for this event, so to take the win makes it a very special occasion. Fairuz drove superbly, in some of the most difficult weather we’ve seen, and I’m delighted for everyone in the team and for our commercial partners who have been so supportive.”

The Feature race can be seen live on www.a1gp.com at 3.00pm local time.

A1 Team Malaysia
• Tengku Razaleigh's Statement, Sep 23, 2008
Statement by Tengku Razaleigh Hamzah
September 23, 2008

I write this as a Malaysian, as someone who, over forty seven years of political life, has had the privilege of playing some small part in the formation our country, the building of its institutions, and our achievement of a degree of economic sufficiency. I write out of deep concern about the present state of our country.

In the lives of nations as of individuals, there come moments of profound possibility, when the potential for self-transcendence and for self-destruction are simultaneously present.

As before some critical examination in our youth, we come to the daunting realization that we hold our future in our hands, when how we will fare many years hence, and whether we shall flourish or languish, will depend on how we conduct ourselves now, in this small window of time.

We are in a political impasse that threatens to metastasize into a Constitutional crisis. Political crises come and go, but the present crisis might well be the beginning of a cascade of failures leading to long-term instability and destruction.

1. Our impasse occurs at a time of heightened economic, political and security challenges. The global economy faces the prospect of a meltdown on a scale last seen in the Great Depression of the last century. As a trading nation, we are strongly exposed to its effects. Meanwhile, while we seem to have slept, the global economy is undergoing an epic transformation that we must either adapt to or are
marginalized by.

2. This year's ground-shfiting General Election result signaled a public sentiment that cannot be ignored. Malaysians want fundamental change, and they want it now, whether from within the ruling coalition or from outside it. The Malaysian demographic has changed dramatically over the last fifty years. We have seen the birth of a more sophisticated, demanding electorate that has rightly lost patience with incompetence and dishonesty.

3. The grievances of Sabah and Sarawak, which found only partial expression in the General Elections, remain unaddressed. This risks the very integrity of our Federation.

4. Misunderstandings over race and religion are ripe for political exploitation, with potentially disastrous consequences.

Post election promises notwithstanding however, the government now commands even less confidence than it did post March 8.

The public is in near despair over the prospects for change from within the ruling party. Rather than share the public's sense of urgency, our present office-holders have redoubled efforts to frustrate renewal, cut off reform, and silence criticism. These efforts only underscore the weakness of the administration and its will to change.

We can no longer deny that in its present form, and under present leadership, the government, led by the party to which I have given my life, is now structurally and inherently incapable of providing the direction and confidence that the country needs, whether over the long or short term. The indications are there for all to see:

1. The government has been unable to respond to the economic crisis with even a basic plan of action. Business confidence has plummeted as capital flees the country. Our economic policy remains as uncoordinated and directionless as it has been in since the beginning of this administration.

2. The recommendations of two Royal Commissions of Inquiry have been ignored or watered down into insignificance.

3. In this context, Umno's constitutional provision for the renewal of its leadership by triennial elections might have been expected to provide some hope of renewal. Instead of embracing this opportunity, however, the leadership of the party has retreated into the fantasy world of a transition plan which rides roughshod over the party's constitution and the rights of its members. This risible attempt to treat public office and party trust as a private bequest between two individuals, one of whom wishes to hold office beyond his democratic mandate and the other to ascend without one, and the continuing effort to force feed the country with this notion, fools no one. Instead, and against background of rampant money politics, it kills the public's hope of national renewal via Umno. Behind the babble about a transition plan the Prime Minister continues to be subverted by members of his own cabinet and subjected to thinly cloaked power plays to force his resignation.

This resort to a transition plan betrays a disturbing failure to grasp the meaning and purpose of public office. In the more mature society into which we aspire to grow, persons who demonstrate and moreover propagate such disregard for constitutional and democratic process would long ago have been disqualified from public life, let alone from national leadership. The news appears not to have sunk in that the public rejects leaders who shun the open light of democratic contest in favour of staged plays and backroom plots.

Given Umno's core role in national politics, this is a dangerous state of affairs. Meanwhile the Opposition has made undeniable gains in the number of parliamentarians it commands. Beyond the hype and inflation, and regardless of whether Pakatan Rakyat now has the numbers to command a majority, what we cannot doubt is that support for the governing majority continues to erode, and that this erosion continues so long as there is no hope of real change in the type of leadership Umno provides. There is now a credible threat that the present government may at some time fall by a vote of no confidence, or by some otherwise constitutionally legitimate demonstration of parliamentary majority. After fifty-one years of rule by a single party, this is not a possibility that is well understood. It is justifiably viewed with trepidation. Neither sheer denial on the one hand, or inflated claims on the other, help the situation.

To all appearances, we are beginning to lose grip of the rule of law. The use of the Internal Security Act and of Sedition Laws to target particular individuals further erodes the credibility of the government. Our actions exacerbate rather than calm the fear that stokes civil and racial strife. In the present context of a leadership struggle within Umno and against a strong Opposition it is impossible to dispel the notion that these extreme measures are calculated to maintain certain individuals in power rather than to address verifiable threats to national security. Nothing does more to undermine the legitimacy of a government than plainly unjust acts. The ridiculous justifications given for some of these detentions has further undermined public confidence that the awesome powers of state are in safe hands.

We cannot afford to allow these disturbing trends to play out their destructive course while we suffer a de facto leadership vacuum, and while the rule of law is uncertain and the Constitution not upheld.

Against this background I appeal to all parties to come together in humility, beyond party politics, to hold an honest discussion, in the spirit of shared citizenship and with the gravest attitude of common responsibility towards a longsuffering rakyat, about what is happening to our country and how we might agree together on a peaceful way beyond our impasse. We need to come together to find unity and direction out of this dangerous situation. In doing so, we might turn our crisis into an opportunity and renew our unity and sense of direction as Malaysia.

Tengku Razaleigh Hamzah
31 Jalan Langgak Golf
55000 Kuala Lumpur
• FusionExcel Supports World Rally Champion Karamjit Singh
Press Release - For Immediate Release

Petaling Jaya, 18th September 2008: FusionExcel International teamed up with winning Malaysian rally driver Karamjit Singh in a special sponsorship deal today. The company handed RM 20,000 in cash and RM 3000 worth of products to Karamjit and his navigator at the company's headquarters in Petaling Jaya.

At the press conference, Mr Paul Ting, CEO of Fusion Excel International, said: We are proud to be co-sponsor for Karamjit's remaining rounds at this year's Malaysian Rally Championship. This is in line with our active and continuous support of Malaysian and international sports teams and individuals.

He added: In Karamjit's case, we are also responding to the government's call for the corporate sector to step forward to assist Malaysia's one and only World Rally Champion.

According to Karamjit, the relationship is especially meaningful as he has been using FusionExcel's Quantum Science products all along. He revealed: In 2005, my car overturned during competition and I suffered from persistent back pains as a result. A year later, I was introduced to FusionExcel's wellness products. After wearing it, my pains disappeared and I was able to focus on winning again. The products not only enhance my physical well-being but also the mental stamina required during the grueling competition rounds.

For more information, please visit:
www.fusionexcel.com
• Pakatan Rakyat has the numbers - Press Statement by Anwar Ibrahim
--- PRESS STATEMENT FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE---Press conference

PETALING JAYA, MALAYSIA, 16 SEPTEMBER 2008

Today Malaysians celebrate Malaysia day – the day our country became whole and our people become united. This day has a new meaning. After years of struggle, after fighting against a system that is corrupt and unjust—we affirm that victory is finally at hand. Our vision of rebuilding this country and bringing its people together, as the founding fathers envisioned, is within reach.

The economy is in turmoil with runaway inflation and joblessness creating widespread discontent. Racial tensions have been rising, exacerbated by the propaganda spread in the government owned mainstream media. The administration has offered no vision to steer the nation out of this quagmire and there is manifest erosion in confidence in the current government.

We in Pakatan Rakyat believe we can save Malaysia from economic ruin and the dangerous politics of racism. We will do so prudently, legally and in doing so we will not jeopardize the security and stability of the country and the safety of its people.

We have received firm commitments from members of Parliament in excess of the number required to form a new government, and our government will reflect the diverse makeup of Malaysian society.

It has been our concern to ensure a peaceful transition of power. We do not wish to see a repeat of what transpired in the Selangor and Perak State governments, where following the victory of Pakatan Rakyat on March 8th, documents were shredded and removed by the outgoing administration.

We furthermore advise radical elements within BN against the abuse of state power to unlawfully harass and detain our supporters. The immediate investigation by the ACA of Dato Seri Yong Teck Lee after the announcement by SAPP of its intention to move a motion of no-confidence against Dato Seri Abdullah Ahmad Badawi is another example of the tactics we reject. The use of the ISA, as has happened to MP Teresa Kok, would be an unlawful impediment to the transition process.

In light these serious concerns, yesterday leaders of Pakatan Rakyat sent a letter to the Prime Minister at 2:30 PM requesting a meeting to discuss the future course of the nation’s leadership and to seek his assurance on the following important matters:

1) That the BN shall not hinder or prevent their BN MPs from acting in accordance with their conscience, constitutional rights and independent judgment;

2) That the BN government shall not invoke the Internal Security Act to detain any of the MPs who will join Pakatan Rakyat, or any of the present 82 Pakatan Rakyat MPs;

3) That the BN government shall not invoke emergency or police powers, or suspend the constitution, or dissolve parliament in response to our intention to form a new government;

4) That the Barisan Nasional government shall not impose road-blocks and impede the MPs from gaining access to the House of Parliament and the institutions of government.


We believe the Prime Minister will share Pakatan Rakyat’s concerns for the welfare of the people and security of the nation. We are confident he will ensure the BN will act constitutionally and democratically to ensure that the transition will be peaceful, and there will be no actions taken to sabotage the wishes of the people or play on racial tensions in the country.

We appeal to all quarters in Malaysian society to understand our intentions are for the betterment of Malaysian society. The mainstream media, in particular, should accept the reality of these historic times and report fairly, accurately and without bias. The irresponsible tact that is used by the media to obfuscate issues, attack opposition supporters and instigate racial tensions must end immediately.

Following our meeting with the Prime Minister we intend to proceed within the framework established by the Federal Constitution in the formation of a new government, with the assent of the Yang di-Pertuan Agong.


ANWAR IBRAHIM
Leader of Opposition
De-facto leader, Keadilan
• World number ones to battle it out in Penang
Kuala Lumpur, September 5th: For the first time ever a team event will be played between the two leading continents in tennis. America and Europe will face each other in Penang, Malaysia, on the 14th to 16th of November 2008. Kings of Tennis will be held annually and only players to have been ranked as world number ones in Men’s Singles are eligible for play.

The objective of King’s of Tennis is to create the first, biggest and best annual team event for the World number ones in tennis. The first year eight former stars will take part, but in the future, active dominants of the game will also battle out for individual and team glory.

Kings of Tennis will be played over three days and will consist of a number of singles and doubles matches. The singles matches will be played in best of three sets with a Match Tiebreak in lieu of the final set. The doubles matches will be played in the same format, except for the no-ad scoring which will be employed.

Kings of Tennis Club

There have been 24 world number ones in Men’s Singles since the introduction of the computer rankings on the 23rd of August in 1973. These players are eligible for play in Kings of Tennis. The players are presented below in chronological order.

Ilie Nastase, Europe

John Newcombe, Australia

Jimmy Connors, North America

Bjorn Borg, Europe

John McEnroe, North America

Ivan Lendl, (now) North America

Mats Wilander, Europe

Stefan Edberg, Europe

Boris Becker, Europe

Jim Courier, North America

Pete Sampras, North America

Andre Agassi, North America

Thomas Muster, Europe

Marcelo Rios, South America

Carlos Moya, Europe

Yevgeny Kafelnikov, Europe

Patrick Rafter, Australia

Marat Safin, Europe

Gustavo Kuerten, South America

Lleyton Hewitt, Australia

Juan Carlos Ferrero, Europe

Andy Roddick, North America

Roger Federer, Europe

Rafael Nadal, Europe

********************

For further information please visit www.kingsoftennis.com or contact

Urban Johansson, Tournament Director, 0046 (0) 70 416 95 00

Malaysia representative: Arianna Teoh, for Kings Of Tennis.

Ariannateoh@gmail.com

Tel 012 321 7226. Fax 7956 8411
• Courts Announces Liverpool FC sponsorship
Singapore, 5 September 2008 – Courts (Singapore) Limited today announced a significant marketing tie-up with Liverpool Football Club.

The partnership, brokered by Total Sports Asia, heralds a new era in Liverpool FC’s corporate partnerships. Regional Marketing Partners of Liverpool FC who wish to leverage the Club's appeal in their marketing campaigns are offered tailored solutions in specific regions around the world. The partnership with Courts is territory exclusive to Singapore and Malaysia. The deal encompasses a wide range of benefits and assets including use of IP, online presence, access to hospitality and tickets, and the opportunity for the retailer to produce a range of LFC-licensed merchandise. The Courts relationship will enhance the profile of Liverpool FC in Singapore and Malaysia - two Asian markets where Liverpool FC is already extremely popular.

Rick Parry, Chief Executive of Liverpool Football Club said, “We're delighted to have the opportunity to work with one of Asia's foremost retailers. Whilst we expect that the programme of activity we have planned with Courts will drive new business and enhance their offering to customers, we also believe the relationship allows us to interact with our active fanbase in Singapore and Malaysia. Courts has developed an extensive customer base and network of outlets in these territories, and as a result, we expect to engage with more potential supporters. The relationship is significant for Liverpool Football Club as it demonstrates that we can offer localised marketing solutions to companies around the world. We fully expect to expand our Regional Marketing Partnership initiative with a handful of targeted organisations in the coming months.”

Terry O’Connor, Regional Chief Executive Officer, Courts (Singapore) Limited added, “This deal brings together two successful brands that are pervasive in their fields and presents a real opportunity for exciting new merchandise, promotions and community engagement.”

Courts Malaysia has planned a list of exciting events through out the promotion period which continues until January 2009. While LFC licensed merchandise is expected to be in-store to add to the European Premier League excitement, there will also be exclusive screening of Liverpool FC matches, competitions to win exclusively signed merchandise by Liverpool FC players as well as a regional competition giving away 12 tickets to Liverpool matches at Anfield.

About Courts Malaysia

Courts is the largest consumer electronics and furniture retailer in Malaysia with a network of 50 stores nationwide and a staff strength of 1,500. Courts has been serving customers in Malaysia for 21 years. Courts’ mission is to “To be the most customer orientated, profit focused retailer making aspirational home products easily affordable.” Courts first large format retail outlet- Courts Megastore, Mutiara Damansara is listed in the Malaysia Book of Records for having the “Biggest TV Display”. Courts is also a winner of the Brandlaureate Award for Best Brand in Home Furnishing & Electronics. For more information please visit www.courts.com.my
• PETRONAS Syntium Team heads for the 5th round of the 2008 Super Taikyu Endurance Series
Kuala Lumpur / Tokyo (Japan), 5 September 2008 – Barely a week after securing a fourth place finish at the PETRONAS Primax 3 Merdeka Millennium Endurance race* at the Sepang International Circuit, it’s business as usual for the PETRONAS Syntium Team as they head to the fifth round of the 2008 Super Taikyu Endurance Series. Taking place at the Okayama International Circuit in Mimasaka in the Okayama Prefecture in Japan, the round will adopt the 500km race format, similar to the first two rounds at Suzuka and Sendai.

Formerly known as the TI Circuit Aida, the 3.7km circuit in the southern part of Honshu Island was originally built in the early 1990s as a private race track. Not long after, the circuit began hosting bigger events, including two seasons in the Formula One championship.

With Suzuka hosting the other round, Japan was one of only five countries to have ever hosted more than one Formula One event in the same year. A change of ownership in 2003 saw the circuit renamed to the Okayama International Circuit.

This weekend’s outing will see the PETRONAS Syntium Team revert to their competition numbers 28 and 50. Taking to the wheels of the No. 28 BMW Z4M Coupe is the duo of Nobuteru Taniguchi and Tatsuya Kataoka. Meanwhile, after an extensive medical examination following his accident at the MME race last weekend, Malaysian Fariqe Hairuman will sit out the Okayama round as a precaution due to the risk of another impact. Taking over his seat at the No. 50 alongside Masataka Yanagida is Japanese youngster Hiroki Yoshida. Yoshida was part of the team’s trio of drivers to take the team’s first win at the curtain raiser round at Suzuka in April.

Fariqe comments after the decision: ''Of course I am disappointed that I am not able to be with my teammates for the race at Okayama this weekend. I think almost every race car driver wants to return to racing immediately especially after an accident. But I respect the decision as the risk was too much in case I had another impact. So, I will rest at home and would like to wish Hiroki and the team all the best for this weekend.''

David Wong, Team Principal, PETRONAS Syntium Team: ''In addition to being another classic race track, Okayama is also a memorable round for the team. It is where we achieved our very first podium in the Super Taikyu Endurance Series last year! It was at this point where our season really started to take off. This year, we return to Okayama with the two BMW Z4M Coupes, on the back of our recent outing at the Merdeka Millennium Endurance race in Malaysia last week. Unfortunately, Fariqe will not be able to join us this weekend. Although he is in good condition, we could not take that risk of another impact so soon after Sepang. As a result, Hiroki Yoshida will take Fariqe’s place at the No. 50 BMW Z4M Coupe. He has settled in quite well and has proven his ability on track. Although there is still a lot of work to do to prepare for this race, we are headed in the right direction and we hope for another good race here this weekend.''

Masataka Yanagida (JPN, Car 50): ''Okayama has a very difficult corner, which we call the ‘Fariqe corner’. It is a very high speed corner and the reverse banking is quite steep and slippery. Fariqe went off there last year in quite a spectacular fashion, which is why we have renamed that corner! A clockwise circuit, it is not really a fast circuit, but everything is interconnected from the first corner to the last. A mistake at any point of a lap will be a costly one. It is quite a narrow track with very little run-off area, which also means even fewer overtaking opportunities.''

Tatsuya Kataoka (JPN, Car 28): ''I must admit that the Okayama circuit is not on my list of favourite circuits. I call it a Mickey Mouse circuit with its small corners and slow speeds. I think overtaking will be quite challenging especially as we running with the cars from the other classes on a circuit that is quite narrow. Nevertheless, I am hopeful that we can get a good result from this weekend and I will try my best.''

Round 5 of the Super Taikyu Endurance Series at the Okayama International Circuit will take place from 5th to 7th September.

For details on the championship, visit the official series website at www.so-net.ne.jp/s-taikyu. Information on the team and the series is also online at www.teampetronas.com or www.petmos.com.my
• Asia needs to focus on Leadership Development to sustain its growth
Singapore, 5 September 2008 – CEOs in Asia expressed a willingness to develop the next generation of leaders in their respective organisations, but very few of them are proactive and strategic in doing so. The absence of a strategic focus on leadership development will make it even more difficult for the next generation of leaders in the region to successfully assume senior leadership roles. This is according to a recent study conducted by The Gallup Organization and the University of Nebraska’s Global Leadership Institute. The study is commissioned by the Ministry of Manpower, Singapore.

2. To harness the burgeoning talent in the region, organisations need to be more proactive in strengthening its leadership bench strength. They also need to implement more strategic leadership development and mentorship programmes at all levels. Organisations also have to look at new ways to effectively groom new Asian leaders to lead and manage in dynamic environments which they currently operate in, and will continue to do so in the foreseeable future. Such initiatives are imperative for Asia to further sustain its rapid growth.

3. Conducted this year, the study evaluated leadership profiles of leaders in six Asian cities: Bangalore, Beijing, Hong Kong, Mumbai, Shanghai and Singapore. Extensive survey data was collected from more than 300 employees in each of these respective cities, who either worked directly or indirectly for top corporate leaders. 40 top CEOs in Singapore, Beijing and Bangalore were also interviewed for their perceptions on leadership, and on their leadership focus, preferences and styles. Detailed findings of the study will be presented at the inaugural Singapore Human Capital Summit (SHCS), which will be held on 22 - 24 October 2008.

4. According to the study, while 89% of the CEOs provided mentorship when asked by their employees, only 23% had formal mentoring programmes in place. Mentorship from these Asian CEOs ranged from taking employees to lunch to listening and providing advice on employees’ problems. Very few of these CEOs were driving a strategic mentoring programme in their respective organisations.

5. The interviews also revealed that a majority of the organisations in the region do not have comprehensive leadership development strategies in place for grooming top talent. Most of the leaders who are in their current position were given the role without any formal grooming and training.

6. Commenting on The Gallup Organization findings, Mr Leo Yip, Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Manpower, said: ''The findings reinforce the need for companies in Asia to take a more strategic and proactive approach towards their leadership development efforts. This will be a key issue for discussion at the Singapore Human Capital Summit.''

7. Mr Ong Ye Kung, Chief Executive, Singapore Workforce Development Agency, said: ''Organisational leaders may spend 90% of their time running their organisations, and 10% of their time identifying and grooming the next leader. But often it is the latter 10% of the effort that will help solve 90% of our future problems. There are different models to developing leaders, and it will be interesting to hear the experiences of leaders across different Asian countries and cultures at the Singapore Human Capital Summit.''

Perception of Leadership-Shaping Factors

8. Key findings from the recently completed study include:

Two-thirds of the sample group believed that leadership is 'made' and not 'born'. A majority of the CEOs believed that job rotations and cross-cultural exchanges are more valuable career milestones as compared to more traditional formal classroom leadership training.

In describing events that shaped their leadership potential, many of the CEOs described career anchoring events such as downsizing a department and taking a stand on controversial issues early in their career as milestones that helped in shaping their values and beliefs that guide their current leadership orientation.

Most employees in the six cities surveyed were optimistic about their CEOs' leadership, ranking them favourably against leadership qualities such as the ability to adapt to rapid changes, emphasis on development and mentoring, ethical standards, the degree to which they were inspirational and embraced diversity and creativity.

Across all six cities, employees were more confident in leaders who spent more time and energy promoting diversity in their organisations. Increasing and embracing diversity were also shown to be related to instilling employee confidence in the future of the organisation.

9. The survey study also highlighted areas that Asian leaders could improve upon. Given the diversity of Asia, employees’ perception of these areas of improvement varied across the six cities. For example:

Employees in Singapore, Hong Kong, Shanghai, Mumbai and Bangalore hope that their leaders could respond more effectively to adversity, and recover more effectively from it.

Employees in Beijing, on the other hand, would like their leaders to take on a more optimistic outlook in order to inspire and motivate their people.

Employees in Shanghai, Beijing, Hong Kong, Mumbai and Bangalore felt that their leaders could be more people focused, and should do more to develop their staff.

Employees in Singapore felt that their leaders could do more to challenge employees to be independent thinkers.

10. Mr Peter Ong, Managing Partner, The Gallup Organization, commented: ''Our studies show that many organisations fail to grow rapidly and strongly because they have poorly prepared their leadership bench strength to sustain rapid growth. The current approach to leadership development in Asia needs to change. Leadership development must be more strategic, proactive and intentional. It is not too late for us to start thinking how we can deal with this leadership challenge but we will have to move swiftly if Asia is to sustain and accelerate its growth. If this is not addressed, Asia may lose the global war for leadership talent.''

11. Details of The Gallup Organization's and the University of Nebraska's study, including the full employee and CEO survey responses, will be presented at the Singapore Human Capital Summit 2008. As a strategic platform for the discussion and sharing of best practices on human capital development and management in Asia, the Summit presents an opportunity for top-level executives to enhance their people strategies and take their companies to the next level of organisational excellence.

************

Ministry of Manpower

The Ministry of Manpower aspires to develop a globally competitive workforce and a great workplace, for a cohesive society and a secure economic future for all Singaporeans. For more information, please visit www.mom.gov.sg.

Singapore Workforce Development Agency

The Singapore Workforce Development Agency (WDA) enhances the competitiveness of our workforce by encouraging workers to learn for life and advance with skills. In today's economy, most jobs require not just knowledge, but also skills. WDA collaborates with employers, industry associations, the Union and training organisations, to develop and strengthen the Continuing Education and Training system that is skills-based, open and accessible, as a mainstream pathway for all workers - young and older, from rank and file to professionals and executives - to upgrade and advance in their careers and lives.

For more information or media queries, please contact:

Elaine Tan

TQPR Malaysia for WDA

Tel: 03-2092 4300

Email: elainet@tqpr.com
• Showdown In Thailand To Decide Inaugural Champion
Kuala Lumpur (Sept 4 2008): After 10 intense rounds, veteran driver Faidzil Alang and his protégé Syafiq Ali have two races to decide the inaugural winner of the Asian Touring Car 1500 Max Series.

The showdown between the two Team Proton Axle drivers will take place at The Bira circuit in Pattaya, Thailand this weekend with just eight points separating them at the top of the standings. Faidzil leads with 115 points after an exciting match-up in Thailand last month gave him the edge.

Faidzil, a father of two and the oldest driver on the grid at 37, was supposed to play a supporting role in assisting the up-and-coming Syafiq. However, he has used all his experienced and guile to score more podium finishes than his teammate.

What an intense season and it all boils down to this weekend's races. It's just an amazing achievement for our team, who were only formed earlier this year, said team Principal Alex Yoong.

Faidzil has done brilliantly in the series and has a great chance of winning the title. We didn't put ant restrictions on our drivers as we wanted both to challenge for the title.

There are no team orders and Faidzil has shown his mettle with some great drivers. Syafiq has been a little unlucky as he had a few problems with his car but has still managed to keep in touch with his older teammate.

Alex, Malaysia's only Formula 1 driver added: ''It is going to be another tough weekend as the Toyotas, Hondas and Mitsubishis will be giving us a run for our money.

''It would be nice if one of our drivers could seal the championship and take a race win or two.''

For the uninitiated, the 1500Max is a competition for normally aspirated cars below 1599cc, such as the Honda Jazz, Peugeot 206, Toyota Vios, Proton Neo, Suzuki Swift, Chevrolet Aveo and the like.

Regulations ensure equality between the different makes while a strict power to weight ratio has been worked out, so that all cars will have an equal chance of winning. This will ensure that nobody can gain an advantage and will keep the action close and exciting.

For more information, please go to: www.protonaxleracing.com
• Olympus Malaysia Targets Strong Earnings In 2008 Via New Models
September 3: Olympus, the world’s leading brand in powerful imaging products, is set to captivate Malaysians’ interest via its line-up of six brand new models of compact digital cameras, ready to roll out from September onwards

Pegged at exceptionally attractive prices and armed with an amazing array of features, the ultra-sleek, ultra-slim new models are a far cry from what Olympus has offered in recent years.

“With the coming festivities and holiday season, Olympus (Malaysia) Sdn Bhd is ever confident of chalking strong earnings for 2008,” remarked Mr Tan Tick Boon, managing director of Olympus Malaysia, at a media briefing session to introduce the new range of compact digital cameras.

“The power of Innovative Technology drives achievements and is the key towards successful products and business performances. Olympus’ R&D is on a constant drive to introduce new features and new models, striving to produce the best, always.

“Armed with superior imaging devices which deliver satisfaction and performance pegged to lifestyle promise, Olympus Malaysia successfully ended its last fiscal year ending March 2008 on a high note, surpassing its goal of the RM100 million sales target to close at RM105 million.

“Olympus’ highly exclusive µ(mju) SW (shockproof, weatherproof) series and the affordable FE (fun and easy) series are in a league of their own, armed with many innovative features and tagged at remarkably attractive prices. Customers will definitely find reasons and excuses to own one of these new models, with their sleek, slim casings and fashionable colours, finding excuses to upgrade and replace their existing ones.

“Olympus is ranked a strong third in the current brand performance within the compact digital camera segment,” remarked Mr Tan.

Olympus introduced six brand new models, namely the µ1050 SW, µ1060, µ1040, SP-565UZ, FE-370 and FE-360, with the most affordable model priced at only RM599 and the most expensive tagged at only RM1,499.

With its slim, stylish casing that is also 5 ft shockproof and waterproof up to a depth of 10 ft (3m) underwater, the Olympus µ1050 SW continues to excel, capturing photographs and videos in extreme conditions previously considered difficult.

Almost as sleek as a mobile telephone, the µ1050 SW’s stylish sliding lens barrier coupled with elegant new colours of silver, gold and black make it a sophisticated gadget not only for outdoors but also as a favourite companion to capture moments at fashionable and formal events.

Check out the newly developed Olympus 'Tap Control' mode for enhanced shooting fun and convenience. Just tap the body of the camera, shoot and view the image without having to manoeuvre any buttons. Also included are the Shadow Adjustment Technology (SAT) and high-performance TruePic III image processor.

The Olympus 10 megapixel, µ1040 is currently rated as the thinnest model in the μ(mju) series with a super-slim 16 mm body. With face detection and SAT combined, the newly-introduced Intelligent Auto (i Auto) mode, which replaces the Auto mode in earlier models, capture every scene perfectly. Five scenes are recognized automatically, them being portrait, landscape, night, macro and sports.

Olympus µ1060, also another slim model, offers powerful 7x optical zoom and also the new i Auto mode together with dual image stabilization. Colours available are silver and black.

Explained Mr Tan, “Olympus has a choice array of models equipped with new and unique features that customers are sure to appreciate. I foresee it is time for most users to upgrade to this current line-up that exudes an aura of fashionable lifestyle and sophistication.

“Cameras are no longer viewed as functional items, rather more as fashion accessories associated with one’s background and lifestyle preferences. Olympus has created waves in this new range, each exuding that persona to fit one’s individual needs.

“For 2008, we have allocated seven per cent (7%) of our annual budget towards advertising and promotion campaigns, covering a good choice of TV commercials, print, online advertisements, road shows and even product workshops on a nationwide scale. Our strong base of 200 dealers nationwide have helped contribute towards our current success.

“From April to June 2008 of our 2008/09 fiscal year, we achieved RM27.5 million worth of sales. Thanks to the continued innovation of Olympus, FE-320 was ranked as number 1 of the top 20 selling models within Malaysia’s compact digital camera range. Olympus stands to become everyone’s best digital companion,” concluded Mr Tan.

By mid-September 2008, Olympus will be ready to roll out the µ 1050SW, µ 1060, µ 1040, SP-565UZ, FE-370 and FE-360. Prices are RM1,299 for µ 1050SW, RM1,399 for µ 1060, RM899 for µ 1040, RM1,499 for SP-565UZ, RM799 for FE-370 and RM599 for FE-360. Olympus products are retailed at major departmental outlets and dealers nationwide.

Asia PR
• We Won! - Press Statement By Anwar Ibrahim
We won! And our victory is decisive and overwhelming.

I share in the joy felt by all Malaysians on this historic day. This is a victory for the people. And it’s great to be back!

On March 8th Malaysians voted for a New Dawn. Today, on the eve of our independence day, we have reasserted that call. We celebrate our nation’s independence in the spirit that our founding fathers intended - a nation of one and a people united.

In the face of the greatest adversity, our campaign focused on the issues that matter to Malaysians. Our calls for national unity, good governance and a vibrant democracy have silenced the voices of racist chanting, those who profit from the abuse of power and exploit the politics of fear and deceit.

We have promised a New Dawn for Malaysia and we will deliver on our promise. We will forge ahead on our Malaysian Economic Agenda to revive the economy, and to uplift the poor and the marginalized of all races. We will restore the integrity of the judiciary, fight corruption and build a truly unified nation.

We will be a government that is totally committed to realizing the people’s aspirations.

With the success of the eight of March and tonight’s resounding victory, I daresay we are indeed ready to face the challenges of the future, together.

We could not have won without the firm, unwavering support of our friends in the Pakatan Rakyat and the tens of thousands of Malaysians – Malays, Chinese, Indians, Ibans, Kadhazans - who have come to Permatang Pauh to work hard for this victory. I truly appreciate your courage, conviction and valour; and congratulate your commitment to our shared principles of freedom, justice and democracy.

This may be one small step for Permatang Pauh but one giant leap for the people of Malaysia.

ANWAR IBRAHIM
• GoMobile 2008 – The Ultimate Mobile Lifestyle Event of the Year
Kuala Lumpur, 13 August 2008: GoMobile 2008, Malaysia’s first and most comprehensive mobile lifestyle event encompassing the GoMobile Expo (consumer exhibition), the 2nd Asia Pacific M-Learning and Edutainment Conference 2008 and the Mobile World Star Awards and Gala Dinner; today announced its official launch and unveiled Maxis Communications Bhd (Maxis) as Pinnacle Sponsor and Multimedia Super Corridor (MSC) Malaysia and Open University of Malaysia (OUM) as key strategic partners.

The event, organized by LTT Global Communications Sdn Bhd in partnership with Mobile World magazine, will take place on November 20 to 23, 2008 at the Putra World Trade Center (PWTC) Kuala Lumpur.

''We are very excited and proud to be able to create a space for the mobile industry to come together in offering its services and products as well as forging ahead with innovative ideas and we believe it will act as a catalyst for the entire mobile ecosystem to move forward, benefitting everyone from consumers to developers and vendors alike,'' said Mr. Wemel Cumavoo, CEO of LTT Global Communications Sdn Bhd.

''Events such as GoMobile is in line with MSC Malaysia’s strategic intent to spur the ICT industry particularly for the content development cluster. This is certainly an avenue for our local talents and companies to seek the opportunities and possibilities in the robust Malaysian mobile industry.'' said En. Kamil Othman, Vice-President, Multimedia Development Corporation (MDeC) - the organization responsible to drive MSC Malaysia.

''We are pleased to be the Pinnacle Sponsor of GoMobile 2008,” said Maxis Head of Strategy and Head of New Businesses, Dr. Nikolai Dobberstein at the launch event. “Maxis has consistently set the pace for mobile innovation in Malaysia. Many of our products and services have been global, regional and national ‘Firsts’. At this event, we look forward to sharing our pioneering mobile services with the Malaysian public.''

''Malaysians rank amongst the most advanced mobile consumers in the world today. Over 33 percent of Maxis’ subscribers are active mobile Internet users. They are using their phones to browse the internet on the go for information, social networking and entertainment. As such, the GoMobile expo comes at the right time for Malaysian mobile users,'' he added.

Kashminder Singh, the Managing Editor of Mobile World believes that GoMobile 2008 is the perfect place for Malaysians to see what the future mobile lifestyle will be like. ''The mobile revolution is transforming the world. New services and innovations are emerging daily but consumers have largely been unaware of the exciting possibilities of an increasingly mobile world. At GoMobile 2008, they will see firsthand how much more these new mobile technologies can add to their lives''.

As the Pinnacle Sponsor of the event, Maxis will demonstrate the latest in mobile data services such as mobile internet browsing and mobile services developed locally through the Maxis Developer Programme. Visitors to the expo can also experience new technologies such as mobile payment using Near Field Communications (NFC) and a range of Maxis Broadband products. Mobile learning services will also be on display by Maxis Academy, Maxis’ in-house learning centre.

GoMobile 2008 is partnered and endorsed by the Ministry of Energy, Water and Communications (KTAK), Ministry of Science, Technology and Innovation (MOSTI), Malaysian Communications and Multimedia Commission (SKMM), Open University of Malaysia (OUM), Tourism Malaysia and the Ministry of Youth and Sports.

To date, Mobile Wallet and NOKIA are Gold Sponsors of GoMobile 2008 and XiMAX, MicXon and Money Tree International have come on board as Silver Sponsors.

The GoMobile 2008 Expo – with space for up to 224 booths - will see an exciting lineup of exhibitors offering products ranging from mobile phones and accessories to notebooks and UMPCs as well as mobile services and solutions. It is expected to draw in a crowd of 100,000 to the three-day expo, running from November 21 – 23, 2008.

Four unique zones – Devices and Accessories, Innovation, Learning and Entertainment will be set up. Visitors can find the hottest in mobility-themed products at the Devices and Accessories Zone; the latest mobile technology solutions at the Innovation Zone; learning and education through mobile devices at the Learning Zone and the most trendy mobiles games, music and entertainment in the Entertainment Zone.

Apart from being the most comprehensive showcase of mobile devices and solutions, visitors can also expect fantastic deals from exhibitors. Lots of fun and enjoyable programmes are also lined up to further enhance visitors’ experience to GoMobile 2008 Expo.

The 2nd Asia Pacific M-Learning and Edutainment Conference, taking place on November 20 and 21, 2008 (a day earlier from the GoMobile Expo) at PWTC, will lend its share in making GoMobile 2008 a total mobile lifestyle experience of the year.

The two-day event will feature high-powered keynote addresses from leading lights in the mobile industry in Malaysia and other countries. Sessions will cover issues of content creation and innovation, opportunities and challenges for the global mobile content industry, the fusion of edutainment in television, music and games development and many more.

The conference is aimed at driving mobile learning adoption and innovation, making it an important networking venue for experts, practitioners and newcomers from all over the world and at the same time enabling participants to develop multinational and cross-industry contacts and partnerships, as well as to enhance their knowledge, expertise, and abilities.

“Last year’s conference was a huge success with participants from 13 countries. We received very positive feedback from the participants. This year the conference and workshop plan is more exciting and we are expecting 1000 delegates from all over the world including the United States of America, Hong Kong, United Kingdom, South Africa and Australia,” said Wemel.

The Mobile World Star Awards and Gala Dinner complete the total mobile lifestyle concept of GoMobile 2008; recognizing and celebrating the outstanding achievements, contributions and innovations in the mobile industry. The celebratory dinner which promises exciting performances and entertainment will be attended by the movers and shakers of the mobile industry.

About GoMobile:

GoMobile is Malaysia’s first mobile lifestyle event which consists of three components; the GoMobile Expo – a trade and sales exhibition; the Asia Pacific M-Learning and Edutainment Global Summit; and the Mobile World Star Awards and Gala Dinner.

Organized by LTT Global Communications Sdn Bhd and in partnership with Mobile World magazine, the event is jointly endorsed by MSC Malaysia and OUM.

For media enquiries, please contact:

Name: Simon Yap

Tel: +603-7877 7023

Mobile: +6012-65 666 15

Email: simon@gomobile.my

For exhibitors / visitors’ enquiries, please contact:

The Secretariat: +603-7877 7023

Email: info@gomobile.my

URL: www.GoMobile.my
• SIS statement against the disruption of Bar Council Forum
Sisters in Islam (SIS) strongly protests the extreme actions by Muslim NGOs and political parties in halting the Bar Council Forum on Conversion to Islam : Article 121 (1A) of the Federal Constitution: Subashini and Shamala Revisited held on 9 August 2008.

SIS also strongly condemns the violent actions of throwing Molotov cocktails at the former residence of the President of the Bar Council, now the residence of Dato' Seri Shahrizat Jalil's family, and for the planting of two kerosene bombs in front of the Bar Council office.

Such violent acts only give a bad image of Muslims and Malaysian society surely does not tolerate these extremist or terrorist actions.

Government leaders should have helped to allay the fears of Muslims by giving proper explanations to the public. If the government anticipated any untoward incidents, the government should have taken the necessary measures to ensure the forum could proceed smoothly without any disruptions.

The police should not have bowed to the aggressive tactics that forced for the abrupt termination of a peaceful and mature dialogue.

The Muslim NGOs and political parties that caused the cancellation of the forum should realize that there were many Muslim lawyers and Muslim participants who supported the dialogue and did not regard the forum as insulting or challenging Islam.

The Malaysian Bar Council has duly informed several religious bodies about the forum. In fact, two religious officers – Tuan Dr. Haji Naim Haji Mokhtar (Syarie Prosecutor for federal territory's Islamic Affairs Department & former Syariah High Court judge) and Dr. Wan Azhar Wan Ahmad (Director of the Syariah Law and Political Science Centre / Senior Fellow of the Institute for Islamic Understanding of Malaysia (IKIM)) have initially agreed to be the panelists for the said forum. It was unfortunate that both pulled out at the eleventh hour.

The fact was that based on the programme, three of the five panelists were Muslims.

SIS is of the position that Malaysian citizens have every right to discuss any national laws and policies that affect the rights of the people. In view that the Shamala and Subashini cases impact on the rights of non-Muslim spouses, non-Muslims have every right to discuss how to deal with conflicts in matrimonial and family matters such as divorce, alimony, custody and maintenance.

At the same time, the media reported an inter-faith dialogue organized in Universiti Malaya at the end of July 2008, amongst the government religious agencies, academicians, the Allied Coordinating Committee of Islamic NGOs (ACCIN) and the Malaysian Consultative Council of Buddhism, Christianity,Hinduism, Sikhism and Taoism (MCCBCHST). Amongst the resolutions was for more dialogues to be held in discussing inter-religious issues in Malaysia including apostasy, conversion to Islam and its impact on matrimonial and family matters such as divorce, alimony, custody and maintenance.

SIS thus is at a loss at to why the government, political parties and the Muslim NGOs did not support the dialogue organized by the Bar Council.

SIS is disappointed that political parties which have been championing human rights, the voice of the people and citizens' rights in airing their opinions etc, have obviously failed in practicing what they preach; in fact, they have acted against their own manifesto promised to the people in the last General Elections.

SIS hopes for all parties to respect the rights of all Malaysians in airing their views on issues that affect citizens' rights.

Sisters in Islam (SIS)
• Learn The Right Response To An Emergency
The Citizen’s Action in Response to Emergencies (CARE), will host a free training session on Wednesday, August 23, 2008 @ 2.30 p.m. on how to deliver first aid and take appropriate measures during emergency situations.

Organized by the Federation of Private Medical Practitioners’ Association of Malaysia (FPMPAM) and St. John’s Ambulance Malaysia (SJAM) in conjunction with its 100th Anniversary, the session will also give special emphasis on managing various situations that require emergency intervention like a person who is choking, unconscious, bleeding and in shock.

ADMISSION IS FREE

VENUE: Marriot Hotel; Putra Jaya

DATE: Saturday, August 23, 2008

TIME: 2:30 p.m.

To participate, the public can contact The Care Program Secretariat at 03 - 2093 0100/0200.

Federation of Private Medical Practitioners’ Association of Malaysia (FPMPAM) & St John’s Ambulance Malaysia (SJAM)



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