Amid an escalating war between Israel and Hamas, in which more than 8,000 people have been killed so far, the kingdom did not choose sides – it condemns both Israel and Hamas. While it slammed Israel for its military action in Gaza, it also condemned Hamas for targeting civilians.

Why is that so? As far as the Gulf states are concerned, Hamas is another terrorist group, the same way the Arab League declared the Lebanese Shia Muslim movement Hezbollah a terrorist organization in 2016. Hamas is a spin-off of the Palestinian branch of the Muslim Brotherhood, which gave birth to the Arab Spring uprisings – threatening Saudi, United Arab Emirates, Kuwait, Bahrain, Qatar and Oman monarchies.

Like a broken record, the Arab World led by Saudi will express its support for the Palestinian people whenever they are being hammered by the Israeli forces. They will donate some loose change like the recently US$2 million to the United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees  (UNRWA) in the wake of the Israel-Hamas War. But that’s about it. They won’t send military forces to fight the Jews.

Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim was much cleverer, or so he thought. He had no idea that Hamas and Palestinians are two different things altogether. When Israel declared war against the Hamas and started pounding the Gaza Strip, he proudly told all and sundry about his good relationship with the terror group, bragging about his phone calls with Hamas political bureau head Ismail Haniyeh.

Mr Anwar is the only state leader, besides the regime in Tehran, to publicly declare Hamas terrorists as brothers. Instead of condemning the slaughtering of Israeli women, children and babies by Hamas, he has instead defended the terrorism based on the argument that Hamas won the elections in Gaza, conveniently ignored the fact that the last election there was in 2007.

Exactly where was Anwar when Saudi, leading a coalition of nine countries from West Asia and North Africa, launched attacks in Yemen, which has been ongoing since 2015 and killed over 150,000 people? And why Anwar kept quiet when Iran fired cruise missiles on Saudi oil facility? Ah, that’s because Anwar can’t find non-Muslim to blame in the conflicts involving Muslims slaughtering Muslims.

For 16 years, Hamas seized complete control of Gaza and has ruled without an election since 2007. The best part is while the people in the impoverished Strip face death in the new war provoked by Hamas, Anwar’s buddy Haniyeh lives a luxury life some 2,000 kilometres away in Qatar. Haniyeh’s wealth was derived from his control of Gaza’s economy while serving in the Hamas government.

Senior Hamas leaders, including Haniyeh, reportedly levied a 20% tax on all trades passing through the tunnels built in Gaza. According to the Arab Weekly, the Hamas regime’s taxes on imports, exports, businesses and tobacco has been opposed by Palestinian civilians who complained that it adds to their misery, but the protests have been cracked down by Hamas security forces.

In 2010, Haniyeh purchased a plot of land for US$4 million on the Gazan beachfront near the Shati refugee camp, which he registered under his son-in-law’s name. He also owns dozens apartments, villas and buildings in the Gaza Strip, registered under some of his 13 children’s names. Haniyeh’s son Maaz, known as “The Father of Real Estate” in Gaza, has a Turkish passport, allowing free travelling abroad.

Condemning Israel’s “barbaric” acts in bombing Palestinians in Gaza, hypocrite Anwar disagreed with western countries to also condemn Hamas’ “barbaric” acts in butchering Israelis. Heck, to show he is a much bigger supporter of Palestinians, Anwar has pledged a whopping RM100 million, dwarfing Saudi’s US$2 million, in humanitarian aid for Gaza.

As someone who was not pro Israel, my heart is broken, and the last few weeks have changed my mind. How is such barbarism even allowed to exist, let alone our colleges allow to side with Hamas or Palestine in protests. Imagine if they actually did the same in the US! Shame on you! US for allowing colleges behave this way! Time for me to change and be with our Ally Israel.

The guy is doing the right thing now, because when she has the baby & gets divorced from him right after she’s feeling better after the birth, she will take him for his money & there is nothing he could do about it then but if he does it now he has the law behind him so he doesn’t have to pay for two other people for 16+ years, it’s hard enough just paying for yourself in this day & age, get rid of that "entitled woman", if you can even call her that.

The pair also discuss how as President Vivek would act in the Ukraine-Russia conflict and whether he would give Vladimir Putin a deal, plus Piers asks if his opinion of Donald Trump has changed at all. "War and our involvement in it, is never a preference, it would only ever be a necessity." It's nice to finally hear a candidate speak publicly about the facets of war and the economic costs.

Knowing that the only real job of the President is commander and chief of the executive branch and foreign relations, Vivek would be the only candidate right now that I can see myself voting for, and I'm by no means a conservative. I appreciate the level head he has in regards to foreign policy and conflict.

What a intelligent lady. If only we the BBC had journalists like her. He's admitted he doesn't care about the Palestinians. If it had been western media, he would be praised. She’s a true journalist and I hope she has a great career. When Saudi media are more balanced than the BBC .... you know you've got problems. "Hamas does not focus attacks on civilians" his words, which are blatent lies, bare faced lies...completely destroys any credibility and makes every word he says unbelievable... Reading between the lines says he will sacrifice anyone and everyone for the cause.

Hindus should get united and make pseudo political parties and secular parties stop appeasement politics. Shameless kCongress gave money and peace prize to Arafart, what to expect from these creatures. Totally agree with the risk we are exposed to.... Hamas has to be banned...

Murray Hunter : Bright lights and promises.

Anwar’s Madani government has fallen into self-destruct mode. Over the last eleven months, the realties of Anwar and his government’s performance has become very evident, where even the staunchest supporters are becoming more disappointed. The hopes of promised reforms have been replaced with disillusionment.

The stability of the Madani government is not as sound as it appears on paper. Technically, Anwar’s government has a two-thirds majority in the Dewan Rakyat. However, the reality would be very different, if any contentious legislation was put to the vote.

Pakatan Harapan (PH) gained 82 seats in the last general election in the federal parliament. This was 30 seats short of a majority. With the support of Barisan Nasional, PH-BN had 112 seats, and could form a government. When Sarawak’s GPS joined the coalition, this added another 23 seats and a comfortable working majority. With more support from Sabah based parties, the coalition became known as the ‘unity government’. The current Agong lent his support to this coalition, which swayed the Borneo parties in.

Cracks in the ‘unity government’

However, the events of the last week have publicly exposed some internal cracks within the ‘unity government’. The Sarawak government bulked at two decisions made by Anwar’s administration. The first was the use of Bahasa Malaysia as the language of government, and the second was the proclamation of a Palestine Solidarity Week to be held in schools across the country.

These were rejected by the Sarawak State Government, which is the first time the state government had publicly rejected federal edicts. This indicates that Anwar didn’t consult with the Sarawak State Government beforehand, and was insensitive to the thoughts and ideas of a major coalition partner. This also shows that GPS with its 23 seats in the Dewan Rakyat may not give rock solid support to the Anwar administration upon issues it doesn’t agree with.

Secondly, the DAP leader Anthony Loke made a public statement over the Palestine Solidarity Week issue. Loke admitted this was discussed in cabinet and appears to have broken cabinet solidarity. This is a major rebuke to the prime minister in a Westminster system, which would normally see the resignation of those who break cabinet solidarity.

In addition, 12 state and federal MPs in Anwar’s own Parti Keadilan Rakyat (PKR) also spoke out against the Palestinian Solidarity Week. This is reflective upon a bigger dissatisfaction within the party over the direction Anwar is taking the government. Anwar has made a cardinal mistake in intra-coalition politics – NEVER MAKE DECISIONS COALITION PARTNERS WILL NOT AGREE WITH. This will lead to future disputes in public as a precedent has been set.

The Israel-Palestinian crisis is much more complex than US-China competition for primacy within the Indo-Pacific region. Malaysia got it right through taking a neutral position between the two superpowers. The Palestinian issue is an extremely emotional one, especially within the Malay cohort of voters that Anwar will need to win over next election to survive as prime minister. The domestic effect of any stand upon the Israeli-Palestine crisis will influence party politics and support.

Anwar recently made the revelation that he was threatened by certain ‘western’ powers’ for his outspoken advocacy for the Palestinian people, and to refrain from criticism of Israel. Dr. Musa Mohd. Norden, a well-known supporter of Anwar, directed protestors last week in stop showing placards that criticised Israel and its leadership, at a rally last week. This was met with much anger by net-citizens. There is every chance this was to appease Malaysians, and put them behind Anwar.

Anwar is also heavily criticised for declaring “Palestinian Solidarity Week’ in schools across Malaysia. The Sarawak government has stated they will not comply with the directive in their schools. There is fear that such a program will provide an unbalanced view of the conflict and only build up unnecessary hate. Some critics go as far as saying this is a sign of a crack in the Unity coalition.

Anwar recently admitted that the war will get worse, and it is difficult for him to do anything. He would if he could. Under different circumstances Anwar could have.

Paradox is becoming dilemma

Over the last two decades, Anwar has developed close relationships with leaders and policy-makers across Europe and the United States. Anwar has also kept close relationships with the leaders of the radicalized Islamic would. This flows from his days of his presidency of the ABIM Muslim Youth League, which was strongly influenced by the doctrines of the Muslim Brotherhood, at the time.

Anwar has a strong rapport with a number of leaders across the world.

School students were recently seen carrying toy guns during Palestine Solidarity Week. There were even photos showing teachers dressed as guerrilla fighters and very young kids were encouraged to stomp on an Israeli flag.

The political reaction to this has had clear contrasts.

While DAP supports the government speaking out on Palestine, it opposes programmes that exhibit elements of armed violence in schools.

DAP secretary-general Anthony Loke also urged the Education Ministry to "reconsider" the solidarity week to instead foster a love for universal peace, humane values and "cross-cultural relationships".

Later, 12 PKR elected representatives, all of Chinese ethnicity, also called to "review" the programme to clear it of "elements of hatred and violence."

That all sounds reasonable yes? Who can be against love and peace? As Mahatma Gandhi said, “An eye for an eye will leave the whole world blind.” (Personally speaking, Mahatma Gandhi was an idiot he deserved to be shot!)

As a proud English man I say look after your family and friends, because you know what is coming. Anybody that still has some passion for this country won't let it happen, we'll ll probably be arrested for trying to stop it. We can not allow this new Islamic political party to take a foothold on English soil.

All religions and nationalities who migrate, usually to a tolerant, wealthy, Western, Christian Country, integrate and settle, living in relative harmony with the natives of the country where they've migrated to - APART from Muslins, no matter which country they have originated from they will not integrate, they continue to live in a separate parallel society, sticking to their own culture, beliefs and customs !

I am a Black South African I totally agree with you the South African government are so enamored with China 🇨🇳 and Russia sometimes I think that South Africa 🇿🇦 is a province of China 🇨🇳. We even have Chinese police stations in South Africa 🇿🇦. Dear Mamjor, the first time Netanyahu was elected as prime minister of Israel, he pledged that he would go after anyone who harms a Jew, that he would respond with equal measure. One must remember that he himself was a descendant of a holocaust victim.

Hitler himself claimed that all misfortunes of Germany was caused by the Jews, even the defeat of WW1 and the Treaty of Versailles which barred Germany's rearmament. He became famous by blaming the Jews for all Germany's failures. I can't imagine , having lost 6 million precious human lives ,while the Western world watched, would Israel ever trust anyone for support?. Major I'm for one happy to hear your support for Israel.

Ironically, General Nikephoros Bryennios the Elder, who fought at Manzikert (on Romanos IV's left flank and held out as long as he could to save the encircle Emperor), would become known by scholars as one of the greatest Byzantine tacticians (later historian in the 11th century) and would play a role in the growing rise & reigns of Michael VII, Nicephorus III Botaniates and Alexios Komnenos I.

During Michael's reign, he was the "Doux" or supreme general of Byzantine forces & governor in Bulgaria until he was disgusted with Michael's treaty with the Sejlks in 1077 after this massive defeat at Manzikert that led to the annexation of Anatolia alongside multiple civil wars in various parts of the empire. Bryennios attempted to take the title of emperor with the backing of most of his available troops, but Constantinople's defenses still proved impossible to breach, even to domestic rebellions.

He was offered the title of "Ceasar" by Bontanites, who later obtained the title of emperor over the empire after Bryennios failed to oust Michael while besieging Constantinople. Still, he refused to submit to Nicephorus's authority, considering a former minister named Nikephoritzes under Michael VII tried to assassinate him (which was the cause of making his move on Michael's throne in late 1077), and the new emperor Nicephorus still considered him a potential threat. Later, Bryennious faced the early stardom of General Alexios I (the future emperor during the First Crusade). He was subsequently defeated & taken prisoner by Alexios despite having a superior army at the battle of Kalavrye in 1078.

He was blinded in both eyes by the orders of Nicephorus. However, the emperor later pitied the already-beaten Bryennios and decided to restore his rank & family's fortune. Despite being badly handicapped & retired from the army, he later successfully helped lead & defend the city of Adrianople during Alexios's Pecheneg campaign against a Cuman rebel attack in 1094/5, led by a pretender who claimed to be Constantine Diogenes, the son of Romanos IV Diogenes, who had died in 1073. Thus ensuring the longevity of Alexios's reign, the brief restoration of Byzantine land & prestige, and the empire's stability.

In this video, we look at the unspeakable things that happened in the Armenian Incident and how its complicated legacy is still hotly debated today. If you appreciate these videos, leave a like to show your support and subscribe to A Day In History for more content like this.

Setting the Stage

Nestled in the Caucasus Mountains on the border between Europe and Asia, Armenia’s long history has seen it caught between countless empires. By the late 19th century, Western Armenia was firmly under the control of the Ottoman Empire while a smaller Eastern portion was controlled by the Russians. The Armenians of the Ottoman Empire faced many obstacles. As a Christian minority in a Muslim-majority Empire, they were subject to legal discrimination and higher taxes. Over time, racial ideologies that privileged ethnic Turks opened new opportunities for anti-Armenian discrimination.

Another significant obstacle was their role as a middleman minority. A middleman minority is an ethnic group that is overrepresented in occupations like bankers, merchants, and bureaucrats relative to their small overall population. Other middleman minorities around the world included the Chinese in Southeast Asia, the Gujaratis in India, and most famously the Jews in Europe and the United States. Although only a small percentage of Armenians worked in these lucrative jobs, all Armenians were subject to discrimination that described them as parasites, thieves, and leeches who were stealing the wealth of the rest of the population.

This caused outbreaks of violence and persecution throughout the late 19th century. The Ottoman government regularly seized Armenian land to redistribute to Muslim and Kurdish settlers and the Kurdish Hamidian regiments were given free reign to raid Armenian villages as part of their resettlement.

Alongside the more famous Armenian genocide and that of the Greeks, hundreds of thousands of Assyrians lost their lives in racially and religiously motivated atrocities at the command of the Ottoman government between 1914 and 1918. The struggle of the Assyrians is easily overlooked, but it contains tales of incredible brutality and of admirable resistance.

Today on A Day In History, we look at how the atrocities of the Sayfo unfolded, the deplorable ways that the Ottomans deceived their victims, and the stories of the men who took up arms to defend themselves from those who would exterminate them. Don’t forget to like this video to show your support and subscribe for more dives into overlooked historical events like this Prelude The Assyrians are an ethnic group united by their shared languages which derive from ancient Aramaeic, Christianity

They are also thorougly Christian although split between several denominations, of which the largest are the Orthodox Assyrian Church of the East and Syrian Orthodox Church, and the Chaldean Catholic Church. Unlike the Armenians, the Assyrians have never been politically unified - there is no real link between the ancient Assyrian empire and the modern Assyrian people - and they were treated as a loose ethnic group with no fixed territory.

Like other Christian minorities in the Ottoman Empire, they faced sporadic violence and persecution for decades before the genocide. In 1895, Assyrians were among the victims of the waves of violence that killed thousands of Christians across the Empire and they faced regular discrimination in law and public life.

Violence from Turkish authorities and Kurdish raiders continued throughout the early 20th century with land seizures, forced conversion, and mob violence becoming regular features of life. Things changed with the rise of Turkish ethno nationalism and the First World War. The Empire’s new ruler Talaat Pasha envisioned an ethnically Turkish empire where minorities were excluded, or eliminated.

Political Zionism is concerned about having a homeland, and protecting the (nation) for the Jewish people. Political Zionism hypothesizes that Jews are the chosen people by Allah (Yahwah), a word that originated in the Hebrew Bible. Thus, the Jews are the supreme race, and have first preference over land, economy, and prosperity, over other races.

This is reflected in their approach to security, survival, and economy. The three major tenants of Political Zionism are religion, economics, and political governance. Thus, religion is orthodox, the economy is designed to benefit the Jews, and the government is run by a group of the Jewish elite. The segregation and repression of the Palestinian people is a consequence of Political Zionism.

Moron

The Palestinians have suffered from land grabs, which displaced them, restrictions to business, and restricted political control. This is akin to colonization, or as some say, an imprisonment of the Palestinians. I taught in UKM for 10 years, Fadhlina hits back at PN MP | Free Malaysia Today (FMT) Education Minister Fadhlina Sidek a pro-Hamas supporter?

Celebrating death and destruction. Has she caused a major split within the ‘unity government’? This is something Malaysians are absolutely appalled by. The Jewish state is hated for everything it stands for. However, Ketuanan Melayu (Malay Supremacy) has many outward similarities with Political Zionism.

In the Malaysian Constitution Malays have been defined as Bumiputeras, and the rightful people of the Peninsula they live upon. In practice, the rights of Malays exceed other Bumiputeras, through the use of bureaucratic bodies. The Orang Asli have been regularly evicted from their traditional lands to make way for land developments of crony corporations.

Union home minister Amit Shah also spoke to Kerala chief minister Pinarayi Vijayan and took stock of the situation.

Terming the incident very unfortunate, Vijayan said that all top officials are there in Ernakulam and they are taking it very seriously. "I have spoken to DGP. We need to get more details after the investigation," Vijayan said.

- Norman G Finkelstein, author of ‘Beyond Chutzpah: On the Misuse of Anti-Semitism and the Abuse of History’

COMMENT | As someone who has been on the receiving end of the muzzle of an automatic weapon pointed at him by a child soldier in Sri Lanka, the sight of school children walking around with toy guns proudly sanctioned by adults was, to put it mildly, distasteful.

Adults in conflict zones all over the world put guns in the hands of young children. They exploit the bodies and minds of young children with drugs, or worse, and give them the feeling of control, with a loaded weapon in their hands.

The world knows very little about Israel and the unity that exists between IDF men of mixed ethnic & religious groups. Revelations of this kind brings tears to my eyes. My most sincere salute to the men involved in this fire-fight and heart felt greetings & condolences to all affected by the heinous Hamas attack.

According to reports, the PAS-led pro-Palestine rally started around 1.45pm on Jalan Binjai, Persiaran KLCC, marching a short distance to Jalan Tun Razak, the closest they were allowed by authorities to get to the US Embassy building. PAS Youth chief Afnan Hamimi Taib Azamudden cited a crowd of more than 10,000 protesters.

“The gathering today is held after increasing brutalities of the Zionist regime, bombing hospitals, killing innocent civilians.

OCT : PAS has participated in many rallies and protest against so many world issues. Some of them had handed memorandums demanding action presented by them. However, none of them yield any results. PAS should realised that rallies and protest will not resolved any world problems.

PAS can organise as many rallies with large crowd but it means nothing to the big boys. It is syiok sendiri and jaguh Kampung concept. If rallies and protest can resolve world issue, there won't be any war in this world. Malaysia is the only country that keeps protesting whereas other countries have moved on.

These energetic protestors should channel their energy and focus in helping our native brothers and sisters who are living at abject poverty and helping to reduce our national debts so that our RM can rise instead nose dive. There is no way Malaysia cry and solidarity support can be heard by Palestinians who are scrambling to safety or frightens Isreal to end their war on Hamas the next day.

PAS voice is too far and soft to be heard in Palestine. PAS shouldn't organise rally for the sake of rally when nobody takes notice and act upon it. Balek rumah and watch Astro on a hot day to cool the anger is much better. Know your limits PAS. In the eyes of the world, PAS is a small fly without any clout and of no concern or threat to the big boys.

bright light : Why protest on USA where many Arab states allow USA troops station at their country to defend against whom ? ? Google N check out the countries involved

Krabian : I thought Hadi Awang will despatch his PAS road show brigade to Gaza to face off the IDF. That band of comedians were chest thumping on the streets with spears and shield defending Islam and whatever.

LimePanda2878 : Picture this. You country got overrun by an enemy who is hell bend to destroy you; what ever the cost. The are so proud of their atrocity they don't even have one ounces of consciousness over their demonic & evil actions.

No legitimate country worth their salt will seat idle doing nothing to allow its citizens to continue to be murdered, rape and kidnapped. If YOU stand in "solidarity" with such scumbag, you are no different from them. PERIOD.

BlueHornet3160 : Should condemn hamas for starting the fight all the time by shooting rockets over the border. Should condemn hamas for killing 1000 civilians first.

What would you do, if neighboring country come across the border to kill 1000 civilians who has nothing to do with the government policies. That means hamas is fighting like a coward.

Gerard Lourdesamy : Go on. Keep protesting and shouting. Why not go to Gaza and fight the IDF there? Nothing is going to change on the ground. The UNGA resolution is not worth the paper it is written on because 59 of the world's major countries refused to support the resolution.

wiseman_wallace : What about the innocent women and children Hamas is holding as hostages? They have done nothing wrong yet you call Palestine to be free? Say one thing do another?

Anti Stupidity : Hopefully the same fervour to protest at Arab Saudi, Iran, Sudan, Afghanistan, Syria embassy too for genoside among Muslims too.

Jeyakumar disputed the claims by saying that the use of Section 425 of the National Land Code was inappropriate in this instance, as it covers the occupation of state land without permission from the appropriate authorities. "We disagree with this claim because Section 425 can only be used against trespassers who do not have permission to use government land.

"The farmers have established themselves in this area dating back to 70 years ago and were allowed by the colonial administration and also by the Malaysian government until two weeks ago. Therefore, we have ‘implied consent’,” he explained in a statement. 

"We are here with the knowledge and permission of the administrator. Kanthan farmers have been given help by the Department of Agriculture in the form of fertilisers before and the Perak State Development Corporation (PKNP) once offered a lease for the land we worked on in 2012.

"This means that they know we are indeed based here and at that time they wanted to maintain our presence here, so the use of Section 425 against us is lawfully wrong," said the former Sungai Siput MP. He also mentioned that Section 425 does not give the right for the Perak Land and Mines Office (PTG) to trespass into farmlands, push, injure people and destroy plants.

"Such actions are more the behaviour of gangs, not a prudent administration that respects the people and the laws of the country," he added.

Unsuitable for cultivation

Jeyakumar also questioned the claim that the state government was committed to a Food Security Action Plan in an effort to make the state the hub of national food production.

"In relation to the ‘Food Security Action Plan’ mentioned by the Perak MB (Saarani Mohamad), is he aware that less than 30 percent of the area in the six areas of Permanent Food Production Parks (TKPM) created in Perak since 2010 are being cultivated?

"And more than 50 percent of the cultivated area is planted with palm oil instead of vegetables. The six TKPM areas that were created are not a substitute for the Kanthan area that supplies 60 tonnes of vegetables every day," he said.

He went on to challenge the account that the state government through the Perak State Development Corporation (PKNP) had provided an alternative site in Changkat Kinding that had been gazetted as an agricultural zone, in an attempt to resolve the 11-year-old issue. "It is true that a group of farmers from the ‘C’ area in Kanthan were taken to visit the resettlement site in Kampung Kolam, Changkat Kinding, in May 2021.

"This site was identified and developed without involving the farmers in the process of determining the replacement site or getting the opinion of the farmers regarding the suitability of the site for vegetable cultivation.

"When the C area farmers were taken for a site visit, they found that the area was hilly and there was no sufficient water source for vegetable cultivation,” Jeyakumar continued in the statement.

JazliSalleh : Madani concept is supposed to be all inclusive and even help the downtrodden and in this case the poor farmers. You can't shout out slogans but do the exact opposite. What a sad situation for the poor?

Koel : Perak MB, this suggests that you have lied about this case. Worse still, the article suggests that you are ignorant about the decreasing amount of land available for growing food in your state. It also suggests that you have hidden the facts about the nature of the land where these farmers were legitimately growing food crops and even getting help from Dept of Agriculture.

Do your lies and your ignorance mean that you dont care about food security for the people of Perak. Do you care that they will probably start paying more for food being brought in from other states or imported? Is that because your privileged life as an MB means this problem does not affect you and your family, so you dont care?

You dont care that the largest vegetable producing farm on public land in Perak is no longer able to produce food for the people of the state? What urgent alternatives have you arranged for the people's consumption? Hopeless leaders like you are some reasons that people continue to suffer from hardship and high food prices. You deserve to get kicked out for your apathy and your failure.

Kilimanjaro : Dr Jayakumar has been consistent in hi fight for the downtrodden all his political life. I met him once when he was MO in a Govt Hospital. A very polite and a down-to-earth gentleman. He had waged these "wars" at a huge personal cost.

But the people vote in those who have little or no sympathy and based on the colour of the skin. Politicians like Jayakumar transcend race and religion and fights for all. But these are the very factors voters consider when voting. What a world is this?

Steven Ong : There seem to be a sinister agenda as like the solidarity with hate campaign in schools. Until now still not clear why the state government wants to chase the farmers away? For what purpose and reason are they evicting the farmers who supply our vegetables?

Like many in Malaysia many had been trained to act like they are lords over the people and can do no wrongs as like the headmaster of a school in Klang to allow his students to act in a war of hatred carrying toy guns. And he is still free to enjoy his pension one day.

Malaysiakini : DAP is very disturbed over the organisation of a programme in a primary school that included elements of violence and extremism with the use of replica weapons and is calling for strict disciplinary action against those responsible.

Gerard Lourdesamy : DAP should have spoken much earlier especially for a party with 40 seats in Parliament. The DAP must also remember that from 1974 until 2018 the DAP was always in the Opposition. In fact prior to 1999, the DAP and PAS were the sole Opposition parties in Parliament in the face of strong BN governments.

Going back to the Opposition should not be a problem for the DAP and the vast majority of the non-Malay voters. So far, since Anwar become PMX almost 1year ago I do not see any material or significant differences in government policies and economic direction compared to the previous PN/BN/GPS governments between 2020 and 2022.

The economy is not doing well, prices are still high, wages have stagnated and the ringgit is at its lowest against the US dollar. Institutional and legal reforms are dead. And after Anwar's injudicious remarks on the Israeli-Hamas conflict and his open support for Hamas and its atrocities on 7 October, I doubt that foreign investors and fund managers are going to look at Malaysia with favour.

Anwar has failed to stem the tide of rising Islamic fundamentalism and extremism in Malaysia. This was created and ecouraged by him and Mahathir in the 1990s to counter PAS. The strident public comments from Malay/Muslim political leaders and NGOs since the conflict started is bordering on hate, incitement and blatant anti-semitism.

Anwar seems to be galavanting around the world just to look important when in reality he has lost all goodwill in many Western countries and he is widely regarded as an insignificant player in the wider Arab and Muslim world other than in Turkey, that too due to his close personal relationship with the controversial Erdogan.

Anwar still behaves like a radical ABIM youth leader and not like a head of government. Frankly, he is not leadership material. There is paralysis in government because of his inability to make tough decisions, his proclivity to play politics all the time even with his coalition partners and his posturing on many issues depending on his audience.

At present Anwar's priority is not the well being of the people and the economy but rather his milking of the war in Gaza in order to become popular with the Malay voters. Sadly, his efforts are not working as most of them prefer PAS. Anwar has not changed fundamentally since his UMNO days. His mentality is that of a top political operative not a leader.

He has used the Chinese and Indian voters to get to the top, something he has been wishing for since 1998. But now he seems to be taking them for granted. I doubt this UG will last until 2027 if Anwar continues like this. In fact, if Najib is released on a royal pardon the political dynamics will change again.

The DAP must play its proper role in the UG. Do not become MCA 2.0. The DAP will never get much Malay support no matter what it says and does. In politics, principles are also important especially when your top leader is like a chameleon. The DAP must play the check and balance role in the cabinet. Otherwise in GE17, it will also get decimated like PKR and Amanah.

As it stands, many non-Malay voters are thinking of staying at home rather then vote for either side in the next elections. Like the people in Gaza, we are used to being ignored, neglected and marginalised by the majority and their supremacy doctrine since the NEP was implemented. In summary, the UG is as bad as PN. Anwar has turned out to be a major disappointment.

Read it all here.....

“We are looking at the seriousness of dragging school children into becoming part of the global, adult world of protest and not subject young minds to getting embroiled in this Middle East Crisis,” a group of NGOs said. But did anyone listen? It went through one ear and came out of another of the powers that be.

The Education Ministry, in espousing the misjudged belief that the government knows what’s best for our children, ignored the protests and justified its decision.

PETALING JAYA: The government has been urged to stop holding Palestine solidarity programmes in schools following reports of students and teachers carrying toy guns at the events.

Parent Action Group for Education (PAGE) chairman Noor Azimah Abdul Rahim said there were concerns over the appropriateness of such programmes in schools. 

She said the photos and videos of children carrying guns were an example of what could go wrong with such events. One 55-second video that went viral showed what appeared to be a man pointing a toy rifle at students while leading a group of teachers waving Palestinian flags into an assembly.

There were also photos of children at a separate school wearing bandanas bearing the words “Save Palestine” and carrying toy guns. “Students are being used. Such programmes should be stopped immediately,” Noor Azimah told FMT.

Yesterday, Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim called for better control of Palestine solidarity programmes in schools to avoid causing any issues.

Just this week we have seen the usual suspect: Kanthan farmers. Sabah and Sarawak thumbing their nose at PMX announcement that all letters to Government must be in Bahasa. The falling, falling falling ringgit. Non-Malay Malaysian citizens unable to get scholarships but opportunities given to Palestinians instead at UNITEN.

MP Parit Buntar wants bantuan kerajaan for 2,3,and 4 wife. ecetera ecetera...and to end this already giddy week, the mother of all bloopers - the Solidarity with Palestine week in schools : A sick, totally and utterly disgusting idea any which way you want to look at it!

What is the rationale of getting teachers to walk around with guns? Idiots playing at ....at what? Being terrorists? Being Hamas? Are they representing the IDF - Israel Defence Force?

Why shut the stable doors after the horses have bolted.

Why was not some thought put into the possible ramification of such an event?

Are those people in the Ministry of Education dungus...biul...idiots ...who are unable to understand what doing these things in front of impressionable primary school kids can and will do to their brains? Was not the minister of education apprised of these things? She must have known. Off with her head!

All roads in Putrajaya leads to the PMO's office - so why has PMX not stopped the "Solidarity With Palestine" week in school when it was first mooted? The buck stops with PMX.

The Chameleon

He said the government encourages schools to organise a Palestinian solidarity week, but it is not compulsory and activities held must also be controlled. This includes children's use of toy guns or other mock weapons.

"On the Palestine solidarity week, we have discussed it in cabinet earlier (today). Firstly, we encourage the Palestine solidarity week.  "We are not forcing any schools... it must be controlled so it does not become a problem.

"That (bringing toy guns) must be controlled," Anwar told reporters in Dengkil today. The premier was commenting on images of schoolchildren carrying toy guns while donning headbands voicing support for Palestine, as well as the black and white “Palestinian scarf”.

GreenRusa4781 : PMX says " bringing toy guns must be controlled".This must be the most stupid statement by a PM.What control is the PMX talking about.

His response should be as follows - " there should be no carrying/displaying of toy guns/any other toy weapons as well", period.This is what you get from an islamic scholar because of his very limited intelligence.

Vijay47 : You might believe, Anwar Ibrahim, that strutting about making fiery speeches, organizing unbelievable events like School Palestine Solidarity Week, and wearing a scarf enhances your standing in the Muslim and wider world.

You could not be more wrong, they only depreciate your already-diminished image, you only prove that you are nothing but a smooth-talking hate-monger. And you are Malaysia’s prime minister! How you could allow in schools a celebration of animosity and venom is beyond the understanding of any sane person.

We can only watch in horror the goings-on you have unleashed among young school children. You seem to have lost your senses, proud to have roped in children to embellish the infamy you have earned around the globe. Would anyone view you with respect and admiration, as a paragon of diplomacy and as the voice of peace?

Would anyone hold you with the same esteem they have Mandela and Gandhi? Even the Arabs ultimately will see you with only contempt for what you have visited upon your own schoolchildren. History will never forgive you for this. Beware, Anwar Ibrahim, you might think that riding the tiger is an act of heroic daring.

That expectation would only work with those of your rabid mentality. Remember, Anwar Ibrahim, that when you dismount, far from controlling it, that very tiger will devour you. It would be an eventuality for which not many would shed a tear.

He also shared several screenshots of social media posts made by a teacher whom he claimed worked in a school in Klang. The photos featured schoolchildren carrying toy guns and machine guns - while donning headbands voicing support for Palestine, as well as the black and white “Palestinian scarf”. 

"This is exactly what we (NGOs) were worried about. This is wrong, and we object (to it) very strongly. Teachers are not trained (to conduct such programmes). "The programmes should be a solidarity event, premised on humanity, as wars are happening everywhere, and not be so Palestine-centric," Shashi Kumar told Malaysiakini.

He also called on Putrajaya to focus on issues affecting Malaysia - such as the free-falling ringgit, the lukewarm economy and the skyrocketing cost of living. "Don't misunderstand me, helping Palestinians is not wrong but there are better things for the government to do now.

"(Also), what are we teaching the children (with such programmes)? Turn them into extremists? The Education Ministry should immediately stop this nonsense," he added. The rakyat, he said, are becoming increasingly tired of the government’s indifference over pressing issues and failure to heed criticism will turn the administration into a “failed government”.

White Tiger 2020 : Fadhlina binti Sidek - Please RESIGN !!!!!!

Come on man : PMX and his cabinet members - please say something and tell us in no certain ways, you all reject all these nonsense. What in the world are these children bringing (toy) guns to school?

What are we trying to inculcate into their feeble young minds? I really think, PMX and his team, you have lost the plot to win and maintain the support of ordinary Malaysians. And yes, the EDUCATION Minister is clueless.

A153 : What has this country become? DAP without a doubt, you are the New Eunuchs. The Education Minister should resign. A useless and dangerous Prime Minister. This is shocking and shameful. This country is in deep deep trouble.

Ranjit Singh Malhi : Dear Education Minister, if you have any self-respect or dignity left, please resign immediately. You have now put Malaysia on the world map for the wrong reasons.

Koel : Education Minister, Fadlina, congratulations to you on turning our schools into some third world camp for developing child soldiers. This is beyond belief and has no wisdom or dignity. You are an absolute disgrace and should step down. That is what a more honourable person would do.

Very interesting narration about the ancient history of Jewish migration to Kerala, establishment of Synagogues, again relocation due severe floods in Periyar river in 1341 and destruction of Muzris Port City at Kodungalloor. Once again due to attack of the Mysore Sultan Tippu, and destruction of their places of worship, they had to relocate their places of worship places of residences in Malabar region. Happy to note that those Jews who returned to Israel during 1950s to 1960s and those left thereafter to Israel got settled there comfortably.

“The people of Gaza are oppressed for so long - they had to endure siege, they had to endure violence and many wars for the sake of Hamas’ lust for power.” Hamas has been fighting Israel, on and off, since 2006.