COCK & BULL

Malaysia's tourism industry development Over the Decades.

noreply@blogger.com (alburn) — Tue, 14 Oct 2025 12:22:00 +0000

Malaysia's tourism industry development began in the 1960s, with a significant boost in organized efforts in the 1970s following the creation of the Tourism Development Corporation (TDC) in 1972 and the first Tourism Master Plan in 1975. The government focused on developing rural areas, diversifying the economy, and promoting tourism through infrastructure investment, policy implementation, and targeted marketing campaigns, leading to its status as a major economic contributor and top tourist destination.

Key Stages of Development:

1960s-1970s: The Foundation

Tourism began to emerge as a viable economic activity after independence.

The 1st Malaysian Plan (1966-1970) and the 2nd Malaysian Plan (1971-1975) incorporated tourism as a way to diversify the economy and generate foreign exchange and employment.

The establishment of the Tourism Development Corporation (TDC) in 1972, which later became Tourism Malaysia, marked a turning point for structured national efforts.

1980s-1990s: Strategic Growth & Diversification

Government support increased with more funds allocated to tourism development, leading to a dramatic rise in international visitors.

Focus shifted to developing key tourist destinations like Kuala Lumpur and Penang and promoting coastal resorts.

The Ministry of Culture and Tourism was established in 1987, later becoming the Ministry of Tourism to reflect the industry's growing importance.

2000s-Present: Consolidation & Global Positioning

The Ministry of Tourism (MoTour) was separated in 2004 to focus solely on tourism development.

Marketing efforts intensified to promote Malaysia as a top destination, highlighted by the "Malaysia, Truly Asia" campaign.

The industry diversified into niche areas like medical tourism, alongside continued development of heritage and cultural tourism offerings.

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The Malaysian tourism industry began its structured development in the 1960s and was officially formalized with the establishment of the Tourist Development Corporation (TDC) in 1972. Its growth has been a concerted effort led by the government, beginning with a greater emphasis in national development plans during the 1970s.

The 1960s: Early stages

During this period, tourism was still a small-scale industry. The Department of Tourism was first created within the Ministry of Commerce and Industry in 1959, shortly after independence. However, it received low priority in the national development strategy at the time.

The 1970s: Formalization and strategic planning

This decade marked the government's serious commitment to tourism development.

Pacific Area Travel Association (PATA) Conference: Malaysia hosted the PATA conference in 1972, a pivotal event that showcased the country's potential to the international community.

Tourist Development Corporation (TDC): Formed in August 1972, this statutory body was tasked with spearheading the development of the tourism sector.

Tourism Master Plan: The first plan was developed in 1975, outlining six integrated tourist regions in Peninsular Malaysia and prioritizing key destinations like Kuala Lumpur and Penang.

Second Malaysia Plan (1971–1975): This plan allocated significant funds for destination development, a major step up from the first national plan.

The 1980s: Expanded focus

The government's support for tourism expanded, with a strategic shift towards reducing economic dependence on commodity exports.

Dedicated Ministry: In 1987, the Ministry of Culture and Tourism was established, giving the industry a more focused administrative body.

"Visit Malaysia Year" preparation: The government began laying the groundwork for its first major international marketing campaign.

The 1990s: Major campaigns and branding

This period saw the launch of the iconic "Visit Malaysia Year" campaign, which dramatically boosted tourist arrivals.

Visit Malaysia Year 1990: Inspired by neighboring countries, this first international campaign was a huge success, attracting 7.4 million tourists and putting Malaysia on the global tourism map.

Malaysia Tourism Promotion Board (MTPB): In 1992, the TDC was reorganized and became the Malaysia Tourism Promotion Board, or Tourism Malaysia, to focus fully on marketing and promotion.

"Malaysia Truly Asia" (1999): This internationally recognized branding campaign solidified the country's image as a multicultural and diverse destination.

The 2000s and beyond: Specialization and infrastructure

Malaysia continued to invest in infrastructure and diversified its tourism products to attract different market segments.

Specialized tourism: The country developed niche sectors like medical tourism, MICE (Meetings, Incentives, Conferences, and Exhibitions), and education tourism.

Infrastructure: Significant investments were made in airports, highways, and rail networks to improve accessibility and connect major cities and tourist areas.

Digital integration: More recently, efforts have focused on "smart tourism," improving the visitor experience with online booking, e-gates, and cashless systems.

Malaysia's tourism revenue has grown significantly since the 1970s, from less than RM10 billion in the early 1980s to over RM102 billion in 2024. The industry's contribution to the economy has also increased substantially, though specific historical data from the 70s is limited, showing a boom in the sector following government recognition in the early 1970s.

Year	Approximate Revenue (RM)	Key Developments
1980	Less than RM10 billion (est.)	Government focus on tourism development begins in the 1970s, leading to the creation of the Tourism Development Corporation (TDC) in 1972.
1990	RM3.5 billion (est.)	Tourist arrivals increase significantly, reaching 4.84 million in 1989 and 7.44 million in 1990.
2000	RM17.3 billion	International tourist arrivals surpass 10 million.
2012	RM60 billion	Tourist arrivals exceed 25 million.
2013	RM158.2 billion (contribution to GDP)	Travel and tourism contribute 16.1% to GDP.
2015	RM69.1 billion	Tourist arrivals remain high at 25.7 million.
2019	RM89.13 billion (direct contribution to GDP)	Tourism is a major contributor to the economy, with a 471% increase in direct contribution to GDP since 1995.
2024	RM102.3 billion	The industry recovers to pre-pandemic levels, earning RM102.3 billion in receipts despite slight underperformance in visitor numbers compared to 2019.

Malaysia's tourism industry revenue since the 1970s
The Malaysian government started prioritizing tourism development during the Second Malaysia Plan (1971-1975). Incentives were offered to encourage hotel development in areas like the East Coast, although initial focus remained on urban areas.
From 1990 to 2005, tourist receipts increased from $1.7 billion. In 2023, the tourism industry contributed 4.5% to Malaysia's Gross Domestic Product (GDP), which is lower than the 6.8% contribution in 2019, before the COVID-19 pandemic.
The tourism industry's revenue for 2024 reached RM291.9 billion, representing a 7.4% growth from the RM271.9 billion recorded in 2023. This reflects a slowdown compared to the 10.9% growth seen in 2023.
Key influences on the Malaysian tourism industry
Government Policies and Initiatives: The establishment of the Tourism Development Corporation (TDC) in 1972 and later the Ministry of Culture, Arts and Tourism (MOTAC) in 1990 reflects increasing government attention to the sector.
Infrastructure Development: Investment in road construction projects during the Third Malaysia Plan (1976-1980) improved accessibility.
Economic Factors: Exchange rates and income levels influence tourism demand.
External Events: The COVID-19 pandemic significantly impacted the tourism sector, leading to a decrease in its contribution to the GDP. Other events like the SARS outbreak and the Gulf War in 2003 also affected tourist arrivals.

Tracing the Malaysia Tourism Lifecycle and Strategy Assessment from the First 

Malaysia Plan to Ninth Malaysia Plan

Tracing the Malaysia Tourism Lifecycle and Strategy Assessment from the First 

Malaysia Plan to Ninth Malaysia Plan

Tracing the Malaysia Tourism Lifecycle and Strategy Assessment from the First 

Malaysia Plan to Ninth Malaysia Plan

Tracing the Malaysia Tourism Lifecycle and Strategy Assessment from the First 

Malaysia Plan to Ninth Malaysia Plan

URA - RUU - Dongeng 1

noreply@blogger.com (alburn) — Tue, 26 Aug 2025 11:02:00 +0000

1) Duit Mengalir Tak Putus*

Bila semua tanah & rumah bawah “trust”, dia boleh kawal projek pembangunan.

Pemaju besar & funder luar (kapitalis + Zionist + China + kroni) akan bayar dia komisen & sponsor kempen politik dia.

Lagi banyak projek “urban renewal”, lagi banyak masuk dalam akaun parti & poket dia.

*2) Kawal Rakyat Melalui Ekonomi*

Bila rakyat tak ada tanah sendiri, mereka terpaksa menyewa.

Sewa boleh dinaikkan ikut suka, ikut standard expat. → Rakyat makin susah, bergantung 100% pada sistem yang saya control.

Bila rakyat sibuk struggle bayar rumah, mereka tak ada masa nak lawan dia.

*3) Lemahkan Identiti Islam*

Tanah wakaf, madrasah, masjid kecil — semua boleh digadai dengan alasan “pembangunan moden”.

Kalau Islam makin sempit ruangnya, lagi senang dia penuhi agenda funder yang memang nak tengok Islam hancur secara senyap.

Dia boleh guna alasan “progress, urban lifestyle” untuk halalkan semua ni.

*4) Survival Politik & Kuasa*

Dengan duit funder, dia boleh beli media, propaganda, beli MP lompat parti, control PRU.

URA ni senjata politik → selagi projek jalan, selagi itu mesin parti dia hidup.

Kalau ada rakyat bising, dia boleh spin: “ini untuk pembangunan, untuk generasi muda.” Padahal generasi muda cuma jadi hamba sewa.

*5) Agenda Zionis-Komunis*

Dia suka sebab Islam makin lemah.

Dia suka sebab rakyat jadi “tanpa harta” → semua bergantung pada kerajaan.

Dia suka sebab dia dapat kuasa + duit. Win-win untuk dia dan funder, rakyat boleh mampus.

[ Strategi mereka untuk “cover line” & jual URA kat rakyat*

*(Supaya orang nampak mereka wira, bukan perompak)*

*1) Main ayat manis*

Mereka cakap: “Ini untuk masa depan bandar kita. Kalau kita tak ubah, kawasan ni akan jadi mundur. Kita mahu transformasi bandar jadi moden, hijau, mampan.”

Hakikatnya → mereka dah set dengan developer nak naikkan condo mewah & mall.

*2) Propaganda media*

Mereka upah media arus perdana & influencers.

Naratif: “URA bantu rakyat, URA lawan rumah usang, URA tingkatkan nilai tanah.”

Kalau ada bantahan → mereka label: “ini suara minoriti yang anti-pembangunan.”

*3) Guna istilah “world class”*

Mereka bandingkan dengan Singapura, Jepun, Korea.

Cakap: “Nak maju macam mereka, kena sanggup berkorban sedikit.”

Padahal rakyat marhaen yang dikorbankan, bukan saya.

*4) Bagi gula-gula (sweetener)*

Janji rumah ganti yang kononnya lebih selesa.

Tapi tak cakap detail → rumah ganti mungkin jauh (pinggir bandar, jauh tempat kerja), atau kos tambahan tersembunyi.

*5) Serang pembangkang / NGO*

Kalau ada orang lawan, mereka kata mereka ni “anti-progress, penghalang pembangunan negara, talian hayat parti lawan.”

Mereka tuduh mereka cuba jatuhkan kerajaan, bukan jaga rakyat.

*6) Guna agama & moral*

Mereka selit ayat: “Islam suruh kita majukan bumi, jangan biar terbengkalai. Pembangunan ini amanah untuk anak cucu kita.”

Padahal amanah yang sebenar mereka jual pada developer & funder.

*7) Divide rakyat*

Mereka create naratif:

Orang muda = sokong URA sebab “moden, lifestyle, peluang kerja.”

Orang tua/bantah = kolot, takut perubahan.

Bila rakyat bergaduh sesama sendiri, mereka senang sapu projek.

URA -

noreply@blogger.com (alburn) — Tue, 26 Aug 2025 10:49:00 +0000

Ya, bentuk reformasi tanah bandar sering menggantikan golongan berpendapatan rendah, terutamanya dalam kes pembesaran bandar atau projek pembangunan semula pesat yang melibatkan pemindahan paksa, pampasan tidak adil dan penukaran penempatan tidak formal sedia ada. Projek-projek ini sering menolak penduduk yang terdedah keluar dari kawasan bandar tengah, memaksa mereka untuk berpindah ke kawasan pinggir bandar atau pinggir tanpa infrastruktur atau perkhidmatan yang mencukupi, memburukkan lagi ketidaksamaan yang sedia ada.

Sebab Perpindahan

Penempatan Semula Paksa dan Pembangunan Semula:

Peluasan bandar dan penjanaan semula kawasan bandar lama sering membawa kepada perpindahan penduduk berpendapatan rendah dari rumah dan komuniti mereka, seperti yang dilihat dalam pembandaran pesat China.

Pasukan Pasaran dan Campur Tangan Kerajaan:

Mekanisme dwi-landasan yang didorong oleh kuasa pasaran dan kuasa kerajaan boleh mengukuhkan perpindahan kumpulan yang terdedah, membawa kepada penumpuan mereka di kawasan yang kurang diingini jauh dari pusat bandar.

Kekurangan Rumah dan Tanah Mampu Milik:

Cabaran utama dalam perumahan golongan miskin bandar adalah kekurangan tanah yang sesuai pada jarak yang munasabah dari tempat kerja dan projek perumahan mampu milik.

Pasaran Perumahan Tidak Formal:

Pasaran perumahan tidak formal sedia ada, terutamanya di penempatan setinggan, boleh mewujudkan konflik kepentingan yang menghalang pembangunan semula dan membawa kepada perpindahan penduduk.

Akibat Perpindahan

Peningkatan Konflik Sosial:

Penempatan semula secara paksa boleh membawa kepada konflik sosial yang teruk dan bantahan daripada penduduk yang terjejas, selalunya disebabkan oleh pampasan yang tidak adil atau kekurangan perundingan yang sewajarnya, menurut ResearchGate.

Pinggiran bandar orang Miskin:

Penempatan semula individu dan kumpulan berpendapatan rendah ke kawasan pinggir bandar hasil daripada projek penjanaan semula bandar, yang dikenali sebagai suburbanisasi, adalah hasil biasa.

Perumahan yang Tidak Saksama dan Ketaksamaan Bandar:

Kekurangan tanah bandar yang sesuai dan mampu milik untuk golongan miskin dan perpindahan dari kawasan tengah boleh memburukkan lagi ketidaksamaan bandar.

Strategi Mitigasi

Program Pengezonan dan Perumahan Inklusif:

Melaksanakan program zon inklusif dan perumahan boleh membantu menggabungkan golongan miskin bandar ke dalam pembangunan bandar yang dirancang dengan menangani kegagalan pasaran.

Perancangan Berasaskan Komuniti:

Melibatkan komuniti yang terjejas dan menggabungkan keutamaan mereka dalam dasar perancangan spatial adalah penting untuk menyelesaikan konflik dan memudahkan pembangunan semula bandar yang inklusif.

Dasar Tanah dan Perumahan yang Diperbaiki:

Perancang bandar dan penggubal dasar boleh menggalakkan kemasukan golongan miskin bandar dengan mewujudkan dasar yang memastikan akses kepada tanah yang mampu dimiliki dan diservis dalam jarak perjalanan yang berpatutan.

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Walaupun kewujudan satu "akta reformasi bandar" yang boleh digunakan secara universal yang menggantikan kumpulan berpendapatan rendah tidak diiktiraf, anjakan tersebut merupakan kesan sampingan yang didokumentasikan dengan baik dan kerap daripada dasar pembaharuan bandar di bandar-bandar di seluruh dunia. Pengkritik kerap menuduh dasar ini menyebabkan gentrifikasi, di mana pembangunan semula meningkatkan nilai hartanah dan kos sara hidup, memaksa penduduk asal berpindah.

Faktor dalam pembaharuan bandar yang menyumbang kepada anjakan

Beberapa faktor biasa dalam dasar dan projek pembaharuan bandar dikritik kerana menyebabkan perpindahan masyarakat berpendapatan rendah:

Mengurangkan ambang persetujuan: Di sesetengah negara, seperti Malaysia, Akta Pembaharuan Bandar yang dicadangkan telah mencetuskan kontroversi kerana menurunkan kebenaran yang diperlukan daripada pemilik hartanah untuk pembangunan semula. Dengan membenarkan majoriti mengatasi minoriti yang tidak bersetuju, dasar sedemikian boleh memaksa penduduk yang tidak mahu menjual harta mereka.

Pengambilan tanah dan pampasan: Pengkritik berpendapat bahawa pampasan untuk tanah dalam pembangunan semula selalunya diserahkan kepada penilai yang dilantik oleh kerajaan dan mungkin tidak mencerminkan kadar pasaran, menyebabkan pemilik hartanah berpendapatan rendah mempunyai kuasa tawar-menawar yang kecil. Keadaan ini boleh mengakibatkan pengambilan tanah yang tidak adil dan pengusiran paksa.

Projek didorong oleh pemaju: Apabila pembangunan semula didorong oleh pemaju swasta dan bukannya agensi awam, ia boleh mengutamakan keuntungan berbanding keperluan komuniti. Ini boleh membawa kepada perobohan rumah mampu milik dan digantikan dengan unit mewah, memenuhi keperluan penduduk yang lebih kaya dan mempercepatkan gentrifikasi.

Mengabaikan konteks sosial dan sejarah: Dasar yang tertumpu terutamanya pada umur atau keadaan bangunan gagal mengambil kira struktur sosial, etnik dan budaya masyarakat. Pendekatan ini boleh memadamkan warisan kejiranan dan menggantikan populasi berakar sejarah.

Akibat kepada penduduk berpendapatan rendah

Apabila dasar pembaharuan bandar membawa kepada perpindahan, kumpulan berpendapatan rendah sering menghadapi akibat negatif yang teruk:

Kesusahan ekonomi: Dipaksa keluar dari rumah mereka, keluarga berpendapatan rendah sering ditolak ke kawasan kejiranan berpendapatan rendah dan kurang sumber. Ini boleh memburukkan keadaan kewangan mereka dan menghalang mobiliti ekonomi mereka.

Gangguan komuniti: Penempatan semula secara paksa boleh mengganggu rangkaian sosial yang mantap dan perpaduan komuniti, kerana penduduk kehilangan jiran dan sistem sokongan mereka yang telah lama.

Kepekatan kemiskinan: Perpindahan penduduk berpendapatan rendah dari pusat bandar yang digiatkan semula boleh membawa kepada peningkatan penumpuan kemiskinan di lokasi baharu, apabila orang yang dipindahkan berpindah ke kawasan kejiranan miskin yang lain.

Hakisan budaya: Projek pembaharuan bandar yang tidak mengutamakan pemeliharaan budaya boleh menyebabkan kehilangan watak dan identiti unik kejiranan, yang sering dikaitkan dengan penduduk jangka panjangnya.

Mengurangkan anjakan dalam pembaharuan bandar

Sesetengah perancang bandar dan penggubal dasar menyokong strategi untuk menjadikan pembangunan semula lebih saksama dan mencegah perpindahan:

Perancangan berfokuskan komuniti: Libatkan penduduk dan perniagaan tempatan dalam proses perancangan untuk memastikan perspektif yang pelbagai dipertimbangkan.

Utamakan rumah mampu milik: Peruntukkan sumber untuk rumah mampu milik untuk mengelakkan perpindahan dan menggalakkan kesaksamaan sosial.

Strategi pembaharuan di tapak: Daripada memindahkan penduduk, laksanakan strategi untuk menggiatkan semula dan menambah baik penempatan berpendapatan rendah di tempat.

Pembangunan pendapatan campuran: Mengintegrasikan jenis perumahan yang berbeza, termasuk unit mampu milik, ke dalam projek pembangunan semula untuk menggalakkan kepelbagaian sosial.

Mengukuhkan perlindungan undang-undang: Wujudkan perlindungan undang-undang yang lebih kukuh untuk penyewa dan pemilik rumah untuk memastikan pampasan yang adil dan proses yang wajar dalam kes pembangunan semula.

URA 2

noreply@blogger.com (alburn) — Tue, 26 Aug 2025 10:49:00 +0000

Challenging Heritage in Post-Nation Britain

This edited collection re-examines the concept of heritage in a multicultural Britain, inspired by Stuart Hall's foundational work.

The book critiques elitist notions of heritage in Britain.
It addresses the impact of populist discourses, such as Brexit and culture wars, on heritage narratives.
The authors, predominantly Black Britons, respond to systemic racism and advocate for inclusive heritage practices.
The volume is aimed at academics, culture sector practitioners, and community members, particularly those identifying as Black.

Stuart Hall's Influence on Heritage Discourse

Stuart Hall's work serves as a catalyst for rethinking heritage as a dynamic and inclusive concept.

Hall's 1999 speech "Whose Heritage?" challenged Eurocentric views of British heritage.
He emphasized the importance of recognizing diasporic traditions and creativity in heritage narratives.
Hall argued for a more culturally diverse and socially just society, holding institutions accountable for representation.
His critique remains relevant, as many issues identified over 20 years ago persist today.

The Role of Activism in Heritage

Activism plays a crucial role in addressing inequalities within the heritage sector.

The Black Lives Matter movement has intensified discussions around heritage and representation.
Activists and scholars are working to confront structural inequalities in UK public heritage bodies.
The book highlights ongoing struggles and efforts to reshape heritage narratives to be more inclusive.
It emphasizes the need for accountability and responsiveness to Black communities' needs in heritage practices.

Definitions and Language in Heritage Context

The collection navigates complex definitions of race and identity within the context of heritage.

The term "Black" is capitalized to denote racial identity, while "white" remains lowercase.
The authors grapple with the implications of using umbrella terms like "political Blackness."
There is an ongoing search for language that accurately represents diverse experiences without erasure.
The editors advocate for allowing individuals to define their identities and remain open to evolving language.

Structure and Themes of the Book

The book is organized into four thematic parts, each addressing different aspects of heritage.

Part I features Hall's original essay and its impact on heritage discourse.
Part II focuses on historical production and the institutional challenges in representing diverse narratives.
Part III explores Black representation in arts and culture, emphasizing creative practices.
Part IV presents final provocations and reflections on the future of heritage in a post-nation context.

BBC's Play for Today and Multiculturalism

The chapter discusses the BBC's Play for Today series and its role in reflecting multicultural Britain.

The series aired from 1970 to 1984 and focused on new works addressing social issues.
Barrie Keeffe's plays, "Waterloo Sunset" (1979) and "King" (1984), are highlighted as early reflections of multiculturalism.
Despite the lack of Black creatives in production roles, these works paved the way for contemporary artists like Michaela Coel and Steve McQueen.

Media Representation and Power Dynamics

Tina Gharavi examines who controls cultural representations in British film and documentary.

The chapter titled "Narrative Cannibals" interrogates power relations in cultural productions, especially in ethnography.
Gharavi discusses her documentaries, "Mother/Country" (2003) and "Tribalism Is Killing Us" (2019), as examples of new narrative strategies.
The chapter emphasizes the democratization of media and the emergence of immigrant narratives in mainstream discourse.

Teaching the Transatlantic Trade in Enslaved Africans

Beverley Prevatt Goldstein reflects on the education of the transatlantic trade in enslaved Africans in UK schools.

The chapter challenges assumptions about the inclusion of minority heritages in national narratives.
It focuses on the Caribbean diaspora's experience and the complexities of heritage portrayal.
Goldstein argues for a nuanced understanding of heritage's impact on marginalized communities globally.

Re-imagining Heritage in the UK

Etienne Joseph questions the differences between preservation and the production of new cultural works.

The chapter "Brand New Second Hand" critiques materialist approaches to heritage.
Joseph invokes Stuart Hall's concept of cultural repertoire to advocate for living engagements with the past.
The chapter encourages moving beyond established heritage paradigms through African/Diasporic cultural frameworks.

Structural Changes for a Post-nation

R.M. Lewis discusses the need for structural changes in heritage narratives to align with Hall's vision of a post-nation.

The chapter "Crisis of Authority" calls for personal and institutional actions to decolonize heritage practices.
Lewis shares her experiences in community development and the importance of intersectional perspectives.
The chapter emphasizes the role of tools like the UN's CEDAW feedback model in enacting change.

The Power of Creative Representation

Degna Stone explores the strength of creative works in expressing heritage and identity.

The chapter "The Power to Represent" connects poetry and heritage, reflecting on the intersectionality of cultural identity and race.
Stone argues against the artificial segregation of cultural identities, advocating for unity among working-class groups.
The chapter features contributions from four poets responding to themes in Hall's work, emphasizing the importance of diverse voices in heritage narratives.

Continuing the Conversation on Heritage

The volume concludes by acknowledging the ongoing challenges in representing diverse heritages.

It highlights the need for further discussions on normative ideas of heritage in the UK and globally.
The text encourages readers to engage with the question of "Whose Heritage?" to understand power relations in heritage narratives.
The authors hope to stimulate important conversations about the complexities of heritage and identity.

Historical Context of Racial Inequality in UK

The text discusses the historical and ongoing racial inequalities faced by Black communities in the UK, particularly in the cultural heritage sector.

Increased visibility of Black communities in the UK during the 1950s highlighted the dependency of British identity on marginalization.
The working class often defined itself by marginalizing its own members of color.
Caribbean immigrants faced both racial and class discrimination, leading to a unique cultural expression that challenged existing norms.
Stuart Hall's work emphasized the need for cultural spaces that reflect Black British experiences and histories.

Impact of the 'Whose Heritage?' Conference

The 'Whose Heritage?' conference aimed to address racial inequalities in the cultural heritage sector and promote inclusivity.

Stuart Hall's keynote emphasized the need to integrate marginalized voices into the national narrative.
He identified the need for resource redirection and tackling institutional resistance to achieve meaningful change.
The conference highlighted the importance of capturing migrant experiences to enrich cultural narratives.

Progress and Challenges from 1999 to 2009

The decade following the conference saw limited progress in addressing racial inequalities in the cultural heritage sector.

Initiatives included exhibitions and funding for Black community projects, but many were unsustainable.
Only £76 million of Heritage Lottery funding was allocated to Black projects out of over £4 billion.
The departure of Black staff from cultural institutions due to restructuring and institutional racism was noted.
Key barriers included lack of leadership, accountability, and diversity in governance.

Developments in the Cultural Heritage Sector (2009-2019)

The second decade saw a mix of superficial changes and ongoing challenges in racial equality within cultural institutions.

Events like Brexit and the Black Lives Matter movement brought racial inequalities to the forefront.
Interviews with cultural sector employees revealed a consensus that progress was modest and uncoordinated.
Positive developments included the appointment of Black senior staff and the establishment of networks like Museum Detox.
However, many initiatives were criticized as lacking depth and failing to create lasting change.

Barriers to Racial Equality in Cultural Institutions

Institutional racism and systemic barriers continue to hinder progress in achieving racial equality in the cultural heritage sector.

Black respondents identified institutional racism as a major barrier, particularly in governance and personnel policies.
Boards were often unrepresentative, lacking diversity and understanding of the communities they serve.
Poor human resource practices and a lack of anti-racist policies contributed to ongoing discrimination.
The workplace culture was described as toxic, with instances of both overt and subtle racism.

Future Aspirations for Racial Equality

Participants expressed a mix of cautious optimism and radical aspirations for future changes in the cultural heritage sector.

The Black Lives Matter movement was seen as a catalyst for change, prompting calls for more proactive measures.
White participants suggested reformist approaches, while Black participants advocated for radical structural changes.
There was concern that momentum from recent protests might wane without sustained action and commitment.
The need for accountability and genuine engagement with Black communities was emphasized for future progress.

Cultural Heritage Sector and Racial Inequality

The cultural heritage sector in the UK has made some progress in addressing racial inequalities, but significant challenges and institutional racism persist.

Diversity initiatives have been implemented over the last decade to address racial inequalities.
There has been an increase in Black appointments at senior levels and engagement in programming.
Both Black and white respondents feel that progress is insufficient to eliminate institutional racism.
Concerns from previous reports (2003-2009) regarding racial inequities remain relevant today.
Initiatives are often not integrated into long-term strategies and lack adequate funding.
Black employees are often brought in at the last stage of projects, leading to a disconnect in understanding cultural diversity.
Investment in training programs is high, but funds could be better allocated to create jobs for Black staff.
The sector's progress over 20 years is not commensurate with the ongoing racial inequities faced by Black communities.

Need for Systemic Change in Heritage

An abolitionist approach is necessary to dismantle existing structures and create a new anti-racist model in the cultural heritage sector.

Systemic reformist approaches have not been effective in addressing racial inequalities for three decades.
An abolitionist approach involves deconstructing existing narratives and processes to allow for new, accurate histories.
The demand for this approach has been longstanding and was notably promoted during the 2007 Bicentenary of the Abolition of the Slave Trade Act.
Cultural agencies must engage in genuine partnerships with Black communities for impactful change.
Transparent accountability and regular reporting to governmental bodies are essential for progress.
New leaders with anti-racist competencies are critical to combat complacency in the sector.

Historical Context of British Heritage

British heritage has been shaped by internal tensions and the legacy of imperialism, complicating the narrative of a unified national identity.

The conflation of British and English identities has historical roots in the colonization of Britain and the British Empire.
The notion of a culturally homogeneous Britain is a recent development that overlooks internal divisions.
The celebration of the British Empire often ignores its violent and exploitative history.
The 1990s saw a rise in English nationalism, culminating in events like Brexit.
Hall's work emphasizes that national identity is an ongoing project, constantly under construction.

The Impact of Imperialism on Heritage Objects

The status and interpretation of heritage objects in museums are deeply intertwined with colonial histories and practices of looting.

Objects in museum collections often represent imperial hoarding rather than legitimate collecting.
The Benin Bronzes serve as a prominent example of objects acquired through colonial violence and looting.
Recent movements for restitution highlight the need to address the historical injustices associated with these objects.
Museums often fail to provide adequate context for the violent histories behind their collections, leading to epistemic violence.
The interpretation of objects can perpetuate disinheritance and silence regarding their origins and significance.

Contemporary Art and Heritage Reimagining

Contemporary art can play a crucial role in addressing colonial legacies and redefining heritage practices.

Hall advocates for a contemporary art that challenges traditional narratives and engages with the colonial past.
The focus should shift from preserving historical objects to creating new works that reflect diverse experiences.
Artists like Kara Walker exemplify how contemporary practices can interrogate and reinterpret heritage.
The need for adaptability in heritage practices is essential to reflect the complexities of modern society.

Kara Walker's Artistic Exploration of Colonialism

Kara Walker's work addresses themes of race, gender, and colonial violence through ephemeral installations and sculptures.

Walker is known for her exploration of race, gender, sexuality, and identity since the mid-1990s.
Her practice critiques the preservation of art objects and the historical narratives surrounding colonial violence.
Walker's notable work, "Fons Americanus," was created for the Turbine Hall at Tate Modern in 2019.
The title "Fons Americanus" plays on the Latin word for fountain and references the cultural group Fon from Benin, linking to the Benin Bronzes.
The installation critiques the imperialist narratives of monuments like the Victoria Memorial in London.

Fons Americanus: A Critical Installation

"Fons Americanus" serves as a commentary on the historical trauma of colonialism and the complexities of heritage.

The installation is a 13-meter-tall working fountain made from cork, metal, and Jesmonite.
It symbolizes life and purification but also references violence, death, and resistance against oppression.
Key figures in the sculpture include The Captain, representing Black resistance leaders, and a Black Venus figure.
The fountain evokes the Middle Passage and the history of slavery, connecting to artworks like J.M.W. Turner’s "Slave Ship."
Walker's work critiques the limitations of traditional heritage objects and the need for new interpretations of history.

Black Lives Matter and Heritage Politics

The timing of "Fons Americanus" coincided with significant global discussions on race and heritage, particularly during the Black Lives Matter movement.

The installation's relevance intensified following the murder of George Floyd and subsequent protests against racial injustice.
Walker's work responds to the legacy of Queen Victoria and the British Empire's role in the Transatlantic Slave Trade.
The exhibition sparked debates about the future of monuments and the representation of colonial histories in public spaces.
Curators emphasized the importance of addressing the historical narratives surrounding imperialist statues.

Transience and Ephemerality in Art

Walker’s use of ephemeral materials in her sculptures critiques the traditional notions of heritage and preservation.

Walker's large-scale sculptures, like "Fons Americanus," are made from non-permanent materials and have been destroyed after the exhibition.
The impermanence of her work challenges the reliability of historical objects as truths.
Walker's art emphasizes the need to reconsider what is preserved in museums and the narratives that accompany these objects.
The dissolution of her sculptures serves as a reminder of the fragility of history and the importance of oral traditions.

Historical Methods and Heritage Dynamics

The chapter discusses how historical methodologies influence the representation of marginalized voices in heritage.

It critiques the power dynamics in history-writing and how they affect societal perceptions of belonging.
The author examines the valorization of certain histories over others, particularly regarding migration and women's roles.

URA 3

noreply@blogger.com (alburn) — Tue, 26 Aug 2025 10:49:00 +0000

Faktor dalam pembaharuan bandar yang menyumbang kepada anjakan ketidakadilan dan penyahan struktur Masyarakat Madani itu sendiri.
Beberapa faktor biasa dalam dasar dan projek pembaharuan bandar dikritik kerana menyebabkan perpindahan masyarakat berpendapatan rendah:
Mengurangkan ambang persetujuan: Di sesetengah negara, seperti Malaysia, Akta Pembaharuan Bandar yang dicadangkan telah mencetuskan kontroversi kerana menurunkan kebenaran yang diperlukan daripada pemilik hartanah untuk pembangunan semula. Dengan membenarkan majoriti mengatasi minoriti yang tidak bersetuju, dasar sedemikian boleh memaksa penduduk yang tidak mahu menjual harta mereka. Malah adanya elemen paksaan olih yang berkuasa untuk memberikan hak pegambilan alih hartanah pada peratusan yang setuju yang majoriti. Hak minoriti yang tidak bersetuju dipaksa akur. Ini bukan amalan demokrasi yang benar, lebih kepada alaman sosialist dan komunis. Inilah yang berlaku kepada perumahan lama Kg Sg Baru, Kuala Lumpur. Bila sahaja tahap persetujuan memcapai 70% pemaju pun tanpa segan silu terus menceroboh hak -hak yang tidak bersetuju.
Pengambilan tanah dan pampasan: Umumnya berpendapat bahawa pampasan untuk tanah dalam pembangunan semula selalunya diserahkan kepada penilai yang dilantik oleh kerajaan dan mungkin tidak mencerminkan kadar pasaran, menyebabkan pemilik hartanah berpendapatan rendah mempunyai kuasa tawar-menawar yang kecil. Keadaan ini boleh mengakibatkan pengambilan tanah yang tidak adil dan pengusiran paksa.
Projek didorong oleh pemaju: Apabila pembangunan semula didorong oleh pemaju swasta dan bukannya agensi awam, ia boleh mengutamakan keuntungan berbanding keperluan komuniti. Ini boleh membawa kepada perobohan rumah mampu milik dan digantikan dengan unit mewah, memenuhi keperluan penduduk yang lebih kaya dan mempercepatkan gentrifikasi atau proses di mana penduduk kawasan bandar yang miskin diganti oleh orang yang lebih kaya yang berpindah, menambah baik perumahan, dan menarik perniagaan baharu, sering menggantikan penduduk semasa dalam proses itu. Mengabaikan konteks sosial dan sejarah: Dasar yang tertumpu terutamanya pada umur atau keadaan bangunan gagal mengambil kira struktur sosial, etnik dan budaya masyarakat. Pendekatan ini boleh memadamkan warisan kejiranan dan menggantikan populasi berakar sejarah.
Akibat kepada penduduk berpendapatan rendah
Apabila dasar pembaharuan bandar membawa kepada perpindahan, kumpulan berpendapatan rendah sering menghadapi akibat negatif yang teruk:
Kesusahan ekonomi: Dipaksa keluar dari rumah mereka, keluarga berpendapatan rendah sering ditolak ke kawasan kejiranan berpendapatan rendah dan kurang sumber. Ini boleh memburukkan keadaan kewangan mereka dan menghalang mobiliti ekonomi mereka.
Gangguan komuniti: Penempatan semula secara paksa boleh mengganggu rangkaian sosial yang mantap dan perpaduan komuniti, kerana penduduk kehilangan jiran dan sistem sokongan mereka yang telah lama.
Kepadatan kemiskinan: Perpindahan penduduk berpendapatan rendah dari pusat bandar yang digiatkan semula boleh membawa kepada peningkatan penumpuan kemiskinan di lokasi baharu, apabila orang yang dipindahkan berpindah ke kawasan kejiranan miskin yang lain.
Hakisan budaya: Projek pembaharuan bandar yang tidak mengutamakan pemeliharaan budaya boleh menyebabkan kehilangan watak dan identiti unik kejiranan, yang sering dikaitkan dengan penduduk jangka panjangnya.
Mengurangkan anjakan dalam pembaharuan bandar
Sesetengah perancang bandar dan penggubal dasar menyokong strategi untuk menjadikan pembangunan semula lebih saksama dan mencegah perpindahan:
Perancangan berfokuskan komuniti: Libatkan penduduk dan perniagaan tempatan dalam proses perancangan untuk memastikan perspektif yang pelbagai dipertimbangkan.
Utamakan rumah mampu milik: Peruntukkan sumber untuk rumah mampu milik untuk mengelakkan perpindahan dan menggalakkan kesaksamaan sosial.
Strategi pembaharuan di tapak: Daripada memindahkan penduduk, laksanakan strategi untuk menggiatkan semula dan menambah baik penempatan berpendapatan rendah di tempat.
Pembangunan pendapatan campuran: Mengintegrasikan jenis perumahan yang berbeza, termasuk unit mampu milik, ke dalam projek pembangunan semula untuk menggalakkan kepelbagaian sosial.
Mengukuhkan perlindungan undang-undang: Wujudkan perlindungan undang-undang yang lebih kukuh untuk penyewa dan pemilik rumah untuk memastikan pampasan yang adil dan proses yang wajar dalam kes pembangunan semula.

Stop Whining and Stop Explaining

noreply@blogger.com (alburn) — Wed, 20 Aug 2025 12:01:00 +0000

The phrase "actions speak louder than words" means that a person's behavior and actions are a more reliable indicator of their true intentions and feelings than what they say. It emphasizes that what someone does is more significant than what they promise or claim to do.

Here's a more detailed explanation:

Focus on deeds, not just words:

The idiom highlights that actions are a more tangible and trustworthy measure of a person's character and commitment than their verbal expressions.

Actions reveal true intentions:

Someone might say they care about something or someone, but their actions demonstrate whether those words are genuine or simply empty promises.

Example:

A person might repeatedly say they will help with a task, but if they consistently avoid doing it, their actions contradict their words, making their claims less meaningful.

Application in various situations:

This idiom applies to various aspects of life, including relationships, parenting, work, and leadership, where actions are crucial for building trust and credibility.

Non-verbal communication:

The idiom also emphasizes the importance of non-verbal communication, as actions often speak louder than words in conveying messages and expressing emotions

People complain and whine for a variety of reasons, often stemming from a desire for validation, a need to express negative emotions, or a way to cope with stress and unhappiness. Complaining can be a way to connect with others, seeking empathy and understanding. However, excessive complaining can also be a sign of deeper issues, such as feeling powerless, struggling with emotional regulation, or even seeking attention.

Here's a more detailed look at the reasons:

1. Seeking Validation and Empathy:

Complaining can be a way to connect with others and feel understood.

Sharing frustrations can elicit sympathy and support from friends and family, making the individual feel less alone in their struggles, according to Calm.

2. Emotional Regulation and Stress Relief:

Expressing complaints can be a way to release pent-up emotions and relieve stress, says Calm.

It can be a coping mechanism for dealing with difficult situations or overwhelming feelings.

3. Seeking Attention and Secondary Gain:

Some individuals may complain to gain attention and sympathy from others.

This "secondary gain" can be a difficult pattern to break, requiring self-reflection and awareness of one's own behavior.

4. Underlying Distress and Lack of Coping Skills:

Chronic complainers may be dealing with deeper issues like unhappiness, feeling powerless, or struggling with negative emotions like sadness, anger, and guilt, according to Psychology Today.

They may lack the emotional regulation skills to express themselves more constructively, says Nurtured First.

5. Normalization of Complaining:

Some individuals may have grown up in environments where complaining was a common or even expected behavior, notes Quora.

This can lead to the behavior becoming ingrained and normalized, even if it is not consciously intended to be negative, adds Quora.

6. Consequences of Excessive Complaining:

While complaining can be a temporary outlet, excessive complaining can worsen mood, lead to helplessness, and foster a negative outlook on life, says Verywell Mind.

It can also create a negative feedback loop, where individuals become more prone to focusing on the negative aspects of situations, says Thriveworks.

Of Flute and fiddle in fusion fic a narrative of hatred and perception.

noreply@blogger.com (alburn) — Sun, 11 Dec 2022 01:01:00 +0000

Talking Cock - Of Flute and fiddle in fusion fic is a narrative of hatred and perception.

PRU15 baru sahaja berlalu dan mulalah mereka membina persepsi yang kadang kala amat mengecewakan rakyat Malaysia yang majoritinya berbangsa Melayu dan beragama Islam. Amat menyedihkan dan menghampakan setelah negara bebas merdeka lebih dari 6 dekad rakyat sering kali dihidangkan dengan narratif kebencian terhadap Islam. Bukankah, PAS/PN belum lagi diberi kesempatan untuk membina negara bangsa yang mereka ingin sejak lama? Bukankah telah nyata bukankah PAS/PN telah menerima ketewasan dengan penuh kesabaran? Namun kebencian dan keburukan juga yang dicanangkan tanpa ada sedikit rasa besar hati, apa lagi yang mereka mahu? (Sila rujuk kepada artikel yang disisipkan dibawah dari ratusan tulisan kebencian yang dizahirkan dipelbagai "media platform" berbahasa selain Bahasa Melayu).

(GE15 has just passed and they have started to build a perception that is sometimes very disappointing for Malaysians, the majority of whom are Malay and Muslim. It is very sad and disappointing that after more than 6 decades of independence, the people are often served with narratives of hatred against Islam. Isn't it, PAS/PN has not yet been given the opportunity to build the nation-state that they have wanted for a long time? Isn't it obvious that PAS/PN has accepted defeat with patience? But hatred and ugliness are also launched without a single sense of magnanimity, what else do they want?. (Please refer to the articles inserted below from the hundreds of hateful writings expressed on various "media platforms")

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KUALA LUMPUR (Dec 5): DAP veteran Lim Kit Siang said Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim's Cabinet must deal with the problem of disinformation and polarisation of social media, which pose an existential threat to Malaysian parliamentary democracy.

In a statement on Monday (Dec 5), the DAP elder said one of the lessons Malaysians must learn from the 22-month Pakatan Harapan government is the frightening reality about the intersection of digital technologies and the health of democracies, how digital technology could change the entire political landscape by lies, falsehoods and fake news through the social media of WhatsApp, Facebook, Twitter, podcasts, Telegram and TikTok.

“In the 15th general election (GE15), DAP was again falsely accused of being anti-Malay and anti-Islam, with the additional false accusations of DAP as communist and promoting Islamophobia, causing racial and religious fear and hatred in the land to hijack democracy.

readmore:

save Malaysia!

“Green tide phenomenon to turn Malaysia into a complete Islamic state by GE17?” By Lim Kit Siang..

Is there an irresistible “green tide” phenomenon in Malaysia that will transform the country into a complete Islamic state by 2032 when we go to the polls again for the 17th General Election (GE17)?

Such is the view of some political analysts who see Malaysia inexorably heading in that direction.

However, I am not that pessimistic, although the “green tide” phenomenon in the 15th General Election (GE15) had caught all political parties, analysts, and opinion polls by surprise.

I believe that the “green tide” phenomenon in GE15 - which had resulted in PAS emerging as the biggest parliamentary group in Parliament with 49 MPs - stood on the sand and is far from being invincible.

This is because the phenomenon came about due to the creation of toxic politics of lies, fear, and hate with race and religion thrown into the mix as well as the lowering of the voting age to 18, which had added 1.4 million new voters to the electoral row.

The outcome of GE15 isn’t always bad - on a positive note, we have witnessed the rejection of the “Bossku” phenomenon as well as the condemnation of kleptocracy. Unfortunately, GE15 also saw certain quarters succumbing to the politics of fear and hatred tactics for lack of a counter-narrative. ……Readmore

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Soalnya? siapakah yang terus-terusan meniupkan api kebencian antara kaum di Tanah air tercinta ini. Apa juga keputusan PRU15 adalah atas dasar demokrasi yang telah sejak lama diperakukan olih semua pihak dinegara Malaysia. Mengapakah disalah anggap " hempasan ombak gelombang hijau malah bolih dikatakan gelombang hijau kebiruan datang menerjah landskap politik negara diumpamakan sebagai bala besar yang melanda. Mengapa harus "histeria" dengan kebangkitan yang wajar dan sentiasa berlaku dalam ruang lingkup demokrasi?

Kepada PAS sebagai tunjang gabungan PN, teruslah dengan perjuangan. Namun dalam kekalutan mereka yang mendapat kuasa sekarang ini, bersabarlah dan teruskan usaha menyatu-padukan umat Melayu Islam dan menebar contoh kebaikan kepada yang bukan Islam yang di ajar Rasulullah SAW. Jangan disemarakan kebencian dikalangan rakyat dengan hujah-hujah yang tidak berhemah. Islam itu agama keamanan, begitu banyak contoh hikmah yang ditunjuk olih Junjungan besar Rasulullah SAW. Tawanlah hati mereka bukan perut mereka.

(The question? Who is constantly fanning the flames of hatred between races in this beloved homeland- Malaysia. Whatever the result of GE15 is on the basis of democracy which has long been recognized by all parties in Malaysia. Why is it mistakenly thought that "the wave of a green wave or even a bluish-green wave coming to hit the political landscape of the country is likened to a great force that has hit. Why should there be "hysteria" with a reasonable awakening that always happens in the scope of democracy?

To PAS as the backbone of the PN coalition, continue with the struggle. However, in the confusion of those who are in power now, be patient and continue the effort to unify Malay Muslims and spread examples of kindness to non-Muslims that the Prophet SAW taught. Don't inflame hatred among the people with imprudent arguments. Islam is a religion of peace, there are so many examples of wisdom shown by the great master of the Prophet SAW. Capture their hearts not their stomachs.)

Reminiscence the past - many not known of the genuine pariah.

noreply@blogger.com (alburn) — Mon, 19 Sep 2022 02:33:00 +0000

Just a brief paragraph to rekindle the crime of the modern mafia, now hovering over Malaysia.

Perwaja was to be the centerpiece of a state-led industrialization drive Prime Minister Mahathir Mohamad began in the early 1980s. Today, it is Malaysia's most costly industrial failure and the biggest financial fiasco to befall Dr. Mahathir's 19-year-old administration.

It's been four years since Kuala Lumpur acknowledged that Perwaja was insolvent -- undermined by mismanagement, production woes, and a mountain of debt. At the time, the government said it would swallow Perwaja's 9.9 billion ringgit ($2.61 billion) in accumulated losses and other liabilities and start over. In a controversial move, Dr. Mahathir brought in a small local steel company -- Maju Holdings Sdn. Bhd. -- to acquire and rescue Perwaja. The new managers promised profit would soon follow.

Now sold off to China -stock log and barrel..who created this shit???

Read more here

Parliament aka a House of Bedlam.

noreply@blogger.com (alburn) — Thu, 28 Jul 2022 13:04:00 +0000

Is what British politicians say a load of 'cock and bull'? That's what this show wants to find out. Nothing new, then come to the politician, birds of the same feathers flock together, even in Malaysia. Our own August House, Parliament is a House of Bedlam.

The Brawl of Bollocks in Parliament.

TO LISTEN TO a politician making a speech can sometimes be an exercise in trying to find a needle in a haystack. The needle is the point, the haystack is a load of words.

Here in Ireland, we can certainly point to politicians who are fond of a bit of bluster. But there are others, too, whose gift with words (or often, their scriptwriter’s gift) marks them out as people who have a very good point to make.

Over in the UK, a lot of attention has been laser-focused on MPs in the wake of the Brexit vote. British Prime Minister Theresa May in particular has found herself making speeches that are sometimes dreary, often boring – never explosive, unless for the wrong reasons.

Conservative words

In 2015, the award-winning British artist Nic Green found herself contemplating what politicians say, and how they say it.

Is it just a load of words that mean nothing?

She started recording these words, listening and then distilling them down, and eventually using them to create the theatre piece Cock and Bull. The work will be performed in Dublin as part of Live Collision this Saturday.

ReadMore:

The West Nation despises President Putin the rascal dictator and now Zelensky is a raging lunatic.

noreply@blogger.com (alburn) — Thu, 28 Jul 2022 12:34:00 +0000

Zelensky is a raging lunatic tyrant, drunk with power and a danger to the entire world.

It takes extreme audacity for Zelansky and his henchmen to go around the world demanding other nations send massive amounts of weapons and money to him, then try to suppress dissent in our countries by smearing journalists and citizens who question.While skimming billions of dollars from US taxpayers, Ukraine’s puppet “president” Zelensky has issued a threatening blacklist that specifically names US lawmakers and journalists as being “Russian propagandists” who should be rejected by media and society.

To the shock of many, among those names are US Senator Rand Paul, congresswoman Tulsi Gabbard and prize-winning journalist Glenn Greenwald.

That’s Funny Stuff and I would call cock n bull shit.

noreply@blogger.com (alburn) — Thu, 12 May 2022 15:46:00 +0000

That’s Funny Stuff and I would call cock n bull shit

A man boarded an airplane and took his seat. As he settled in, he glanced up and saw the most beautiful woman boarding the plane. He soon realized She was heading straight towards his seat. As fate would have it, she took the seat right beside his:

Eager to strike up a conversation he blurted out. "Business trip or pleasure?"

She turned, smiled, and said. "Business. I’m going to the Annual Nymphomaniacs of America Convention in Boston."

He swallowed hard. Here was the most gorgeous woman he had ever seen Sitting next to him and she was going to a meeting of nymphomaniacs!

Struggling to maintain his composure, he calmly asked. “What’s your Business at this convention?"

“Lecturer." She responded. "I use information that I have learned from my personal experiences to debunk some of the popular myths about sexuality."

“Really?” He spoke. “And what kind of myths are there?”

“Well.” She explained. “One popular myth is that African-American men are the most well-endowed of all men, when in fact it is the Native American Indian who is most likely to possess that trait. Another popular myth is That Frenchmen are the best lovers when actually it is men of Mexican descent who are the best. I have also discovered that the lover with Absolutely the best stamina is the Southern Redneck."

Suddenly the woman became a little uncomfortable and blushed. "I’m sorry." She said, “I shouldn't really be discussing all of this with you. I don’t even know your name."

"Tonto." The man said. "Tonto Gonzales, but my friends call me Bubba."

Another sit from Uncle Sam.

Juliane Koepcke - History on snapshot. The real survivor. Miracle?

noreply@blogger.com (alburn) — Thu, 12 May 2022 14:22:00 +0000

Juliane Koepcke

17-year-old Juliane Koepcke was sucked out of an airplane in 1971 after it was struck by a bolt of lightning. She fell 2 miles to the ground, still strapped in her seat, and survived after spending 10 days in the Amazon jungle.

After ten days, she found a boat moored near a shelter, and found the boat's fuel tank still partly full. Koepcke poured the gasoline on her wounds, which she in turn thought it helped with killing the maggots in her wounds. Out of 93 passengers and crew, Juliane was the only survivor of the Lansa flight 508 crash that took place December 24th, 1971.

PICTURE OF HAPPINESS_

noreply@blogger.com (alburn) — Thu, 12 May 2022 14:18:00 +0000

Nazim Hikmat, the great Turkish Poet, once asked his friend Abidin Dino

(Turkish artist and a well-known painter too), to draw a picture of HAPPINESS. He drew a picture of a whole family, cramped up on a broken bed, under a leaky roof, in a shabby room, but still with a smile on the face of each member !!

It goes without saying that the painting became very famous.

Yes, Happiness is not the absence of suffering but acceptance of suffering. See good around you, even in trying situations ..stop worrying about things, which are beyond your control.. stay happy...”

And everybody deserves a second chance.

noreply@blogger.com (alburn) — Thu, 12 May 2022 14:15:00 +0000

"He came into my restaurant asking me for some money. I looked at him and asked him why don’t have a job? You are strong & healthy from what it appears. And nothing was ever given to me for free.. right?

The man responded, “ I have a lot of felonies, and nobody wants to hire me because of that. I had to turn to the streets. I had to start stealing and robbing, in order to survive”

I was short-staffed that day, so I asked him.. “do you want to work”?

His eyes opened up so wide and a big smile came across his face, and he said yes!! He said I will do anything for some food.

So for two weeks now, he has been on time for his two-hour shift. He helps me with taking out the trash and doing the dishes. I pay him at the end of each shift, and you know what he decides to do? Is to spend it in the restaurant on some nice warm food.

I try to offer it to him for free, but he refuses.. so I discount it all. He told me today that he enjoys being able to finally pay for something, and that it makes him feel good inside.

The moral of this story is to do something nice for someone no matter what their situation is. Even if they are asking you for some spare change because we really don’t know their story, or what they are going through. And everybody deserves a second chance.

Live the best of life?

noreply@blogger.com (alburn) — Tue, 12 Apr 2022 05:13:00 +0000

LIVE THE BEST OF LIFE

Nobody is born into this world with a pre-written instruction manual on how to live their best life, as Muslims, we may not be able to understand Al Quran during infancy. Our parents are supposed to have the knowledge of how to tread the journey of life in this temporal world. Maybe, for most of us, all we can do is try to figure it out. And, whether we like it or not, that makes us students of the human condition.

As I grow older, my own experiences and observations of people who’re older than me have taught me that life is just a series of chapters. When you hit a new phase; 20, 30, 40, or 50 years, many things change — your body, mind, dreams, and expectations. Sometimes, you look back and think, “If only I knew then what I know now…”

The truth is you can only see the past with painful clarity once you’ve lived it or the best of remembrance on events from yesteryears. Those experiences become a trove of resources to help you navigate your next phase.

The problem is most people never really get that memo, I mean that experiences that may be valuable to guide their future life journey.

Regardless, certain lessons about life are universal, and some are so special only for you. They apply at every stage, whether you’re 18 or 65, and knowing about them can make a big impact on your life.

Walk your own path

Everyone around you wants to mold you into something, from your parents, relatives, to your teachers.

It can feel as if they have your best interest at heart. Maybe they do.

But if you listen to everyone who wants you to be something they want, you’ll wind up being someone you don’t want. You don’t want to become a copy of someone else. You want to be your own original.

Your most important assignment is to figure out who you want to be and what path you want to follow.

Finding that path and sticking to it, against the expectations of society, is an act of courage.

Remember this: Other people’s dreams should never stop you from pursuing your own unique future.

“To be yourself in a world that is constantly trying to make you something else is the greatest accomplishment.”
— Ralph Waldo Emerson

Nowadays modern sophists - arguers with the cocky talk.

noreply@blogger.com (alburn) — Mon, 11 Apr 2022 23:08:00 +0000

Devil’s advocate — Rise of the modern Sophist!

Sophism is dead! Long live Sophism!!

The original Sophists may have lived in 5th century BCE but it will be a great mistake to suppose that Sophism is dead. On the contrary, today, the popular modern culture reeks with the ideas of the Sophists, more than ever.

In 5th century Greek-speaking world, particularly at Athens, Sophists were travelling intellectuals who taught ‘Arête’ (excellence or virtue) to anyone who could pay the right fee. They were not a school of philosophers and they did not invent or follow any system of philosophy but they excelled in the art of logical argument: ‘Dialectic’ and the art of persuasive speaking : ‘Rhetoric’.

The Sophists were splendid orators, public speakers and mouths for hire!

Completely ignorant of any morality or ethics, these charismatic men dazzled everyone with their clever reasoning but usually fallacious arguments. They earned reputations as the crowd pullers who could convince anyone that good could be bad or vice versa or even that day was night!

The famous case of ‘Corax and Tisias’ …

Corax, a teacher of Rhetoric in Syracuse, Sicily around 476 BCE sued his pupil, Tisias, for not paying his tuition.

In court, Tisias argued that he should not have to pay, regardless of the outcome, because:

Either he will prove his case, and therefore not have to pay as the result of winning the suit, or he will lose the suit and that will be proof that Corax did not teach him well enough to deserve being paid his tuition.

Corax argued that he should be paid, regardless of the outcome, because:

If he wins the suit, then the court will require him to be paid, and if he loses the suit, that will be proof that he taught Tisias well enough to beat him and therefore he deserves to be paid his fee.

Who is right?

The judge shook his head in disdain and ruled, “Mali corvi, mali ovum.” — One bad thing (the bad crow, malus corvus) can only give rise to something else bad (the bad egg, malum ovum).

Eventually, their attitude, coupled with the unscrupulous pursuit of wealth, led to popular resentment against sophists and their ideas. With the rise of the philosophers like Socrates, Plato, and Aristotle, they slowly sank into oblivion and faded away.

1st century CE witnessed a very short-lived resurgence of Sophism known as the ‘Second Sophistic’.

And so it was presumed that Sophism died an unceremonious death after that. But to everyone’s astonishment, fed by capitalist society and market-driven higher education, Sophistry has risen like a phoenix from the ashes.

As described in a Financial Times article by Janan Ganesh, the elite professions in modern society - lawyers and management consultants, political advisers and advertising executives, public-relations strategists, and even certain types of investment bankers: all trade on the same skill of Sophistry!

In today’s society, lawyers are the true modern Sophists — arguers for hire. And the court is their battleground where they try to outshine each other in a dazzling show of Sophistry! An attorney is even legally obligated to argue as persuasively as they can for their client’s best interests, irrespective of his or her innocence!

Richer than Brunei's Sultan.developm's Sultan.

noreply@blogger.com (alburn) — Wed, 26 Sep 2018 14:49:00 +0000

Dr Mahathir Mohamad, former PM is richer than Brunei's SultanRicher.

Mahathir is the richest man off the record in the world.

Maybe you have read this before. Just in case you have forgotten about it just before the elections....

Malaysia has squandered an estimated RM100 billion on financial scandals under the 22-year rule of Dr Mahathir Mohamad, according to a book about the former prime minister.

According to Barry Wain, author of the ‘Malaysian Maverick: Mahathir Mohamad in Turbulent Times’, direct financial losses amounted to about RM50 billion.

This doubled once the invisible costs, such as unrecorded write-offs, were taken into account. The RM100 billion total loss was equivalent to US$40 billion at then prevailing exchange rates.

Barry, who is a former editor of the Asian Wall Street Journal, says most of the scams, which included a

Conspiracy Of A Political Megalomaniac

noreply@blogger.com (alburn) — Wed, 26 Sep 2018 14:08:00 +0000

A Conspiracy Behind Malaysia’s Political Maelstrom?

Demonstration & Rallying for Change? What Change?

Political Maelstrom ? Megalomaniac

By Askiah Adam

DETERMINED elements are trying to split Umno. Every which way one looks there is little respite for the Prime Minister with attacks coming fast and furious.

After many salvos fired in defence of the PM from various quarters, the focus has narrowed considerably.

On the official front Datuk Seri Najib Razak is facing down the allegations made against 1MDB, Malaysia’s strategic investment fund, accountable to the Finance Minister cum PM.

Here the major culprit is the British based Sarawak Report claiming to have all manner of documented evidence but yet will not surrender it to someone who has the locus standi, like DAP’s Tony Pua, to make a police report and kick start a forensic investigation, thus ending the witch hunt.

Which Malaysian is not relishing the thought of, at least, hoisting the notorious Low Taek Jho, or more popularly known as Jho Low, by his petards if the allegations against him are true?

Read More:

Mahathir and family stole billions

noreply@blogger.com (alburn) — Wed, 26 Sep 2018 13:51:00 +0000

Mahathir and family stole billions

Mahathir has a lot of explaining to do. He needs to show the source of his family’s wealth. Where did their billions come from? At the moment it looks like this is where the missing RM25.8 billion of Bank Negara’s money may have disappeared to. The only way we will know that Mahathir and family did not steal RM25.8 billion of Bank Negara’s money would be for them to prove it.

Richer than Brunei's Sultan.

noreply@blogger.com (alburn) — Wed, 26 Sep 2018 13:46:00 +0000

You’re rich and arrogant, Samy’s son attacks Mahathir’s son.

Samy Veloo Son & Mahathir Billionaires son

PETALING JAYA: MIC treasurer-general S Vell Paari today described Mokhzani Mahathir as “arrogant” for saying the 1Malaysia People’s Aid (BR1M) was nothing to shout about and that Malaysians could only be proud when they were rich.

Calling on Mokhzani to apologise to all BR1M recipients “as they do not deserve to be disrespected and ridiculed”, he said it also showed that Mokhzani had lost touch with the common people.

“Everyone in Malaysia knows how Mokhzani Mahathir made his billions. In fact Anwar Ibrahim once said that Mokhzani’s Kenchana Petroleum received most of the projects from Petronas. Dr Mahathir was also once the adviser of Petronas.”

Guan Eng - You are Stupid!! - by Netizens.

noreply@blogger.com (alburn) — Wed, 26 Sep 2018 13:27:00 +0000

Guan Eng slapped stupid by netizens on Ministry of Finance Facebook.

Yes You Are !!

“The ringgit strengthened by 10.4 per cent at RM4.062 against the US dollar in 2017 after experiencing four consecutive years of depreciation, its strongest performance in seven years, says Bank Negara Malaysia (BNM).

“In its 2017 Annual Report released on Wednesday, the central bank said the ringgit was also one of the best-performing regional currencies, despite intermittent depreciation due to “risk-off” events during the year.”

The Vindictive Mahathir

noreply@blogger.com (alburn) — Wed, 26 Sep 2018 13:19:00 +0000

Mahathir’s directive to the MACC was clear.

DS Rosmah Mansor

Datin Seri Rosmah Mansor was due to be arrested by the Malaysian Anti Corruption Commission (MACC) today on counts of having committed offences under the Anti-Money Laundering Act, Anti-Terrorism Financing Act and Proceeds of Unlawful Activities Act (Amla) 2001.

However, following a ‘special’ directive delivered by Prime Minister Dr Mahathir Mohamad to the Malaysian Anti-Corruption Commission (MACC), Rosmah will not be arrested and is now due to be produced by the anti-graft agency to the Kuala Lumpur Sessions Court on the 4^th of October 2018.

According to a person from camp Mahathir, it is the Prime Minister’s intent to deliver the impression that Rosmah and Najib conspired to siphon billions from 1MDB.

Tony Blair coming back - just like the script he wrote for Mahathir.

noreply@blogger.com (alburn) — Wed, 26 Sep 2018 13:12:00 +0000

Breaking: Blair is seeking a comeback using the exact same script he prepared for Mahathir

TTF: The news item (far below) is from the Independent, UK, and pertains a request for former British premier Tony Blair to “step forward and establish a new political party” with the intent of takin over government.

Notice how similar the modus operandi being suggested is with the methods employed by Dr Mahathir Mohamad and his UMNO surrogate, Parti Pribumi Bersatu Malaysia (PPBM), to wrest control of government from Barisan Nasional.

Trump is clearly a Zionist puppet

noreply@blogger.com (alburn) — Sun, 05 Feb 2017 11:15:00 +0000

Son's words expose the real agenda being the farce that is Donald Trump's candidacy.

The pieces of the puzzle are all falling into place now and we can get a clear picture of just what and whom is behind the election campaign of Donald Trump. We knew Trump was being financed and heavily supported by the Zionists when Sheldon Adelson spoke out in support and gave Trump a huge campaign donation. Now his son has made it even clearer that Trump is working for the Zionists by telling us that it was the Iran nuke deal that spurred his orange buffoon of a father to start his most farcical of presidential candidacies. Israel and the Zionists were absolutely furious when the Iran deal was signed, Netanyahu almost went berserk, spewing all kinds of insane rhetoric.

Unable to stop the deal, it now looks like the Zionists are trying to destroy it by injecting Trump into US politics; when Trump says things like “my number one priority is to dismantle the disastrous deal with Iran” he is really saying ‘the number one task I have been given by my Zionist controllers is to act in Israel’s best interests by destroying the Iranian nuke deal’.

Trump needs to end this election campaign not in the oval office, but in a cell along with all the other treasonous servants of Israel such as his financial backer Adelson and Rita Katz, the arch liar of the ISIS war. Hey, here’s a thought – why not make a reality TV show out of it, Trump would love that!

Trump launched presidential campaign to fight Iran deal

Republican candidate’s son reveals nuke deal was a ‘game-changer’ for him, which made him finally say ‘I’m going to give this a real shot.’

Real estate mogul Donald Trump, who currently is the Republican presidential nominee, decided to launch his campaign due to the controversial Iran nuclear deal sealed last July, according to his son Eric.

“I think, honestly, the Iran nuclear deal was one of the things that made him jump into the race,” Eric Trump told the “Cats Roundtable” radio program on AM 970 in New York on Sunday, reports the Jewish Insider.

“I think that was a game-changer for him,” Trump told the show host John Catsimatidis. “That is when he finally said, ‘Kids, I am going to do it. I am going to give this a real shot.'”

Trump has repeatedly condemned US President Barack Obama for signing the nuclear deal, and that condemnation was also heard in his speech on June 16, 2015 kicking off his campaign.

“If he makes that deal, Israel maybe won’t exist very long. We have to protect Israel,” Trump stated then less than a month before the deal was made, noting on Tehran’s open threats to wipe the Jewish state off the map.

The Republican candidate also spoke about the deal in a rally in Wisconsin last month, when he said the Iranians abused US Secretary of State John Kerry “mentally” in the nuclear deal talks, quipping that they treated him “like a child.”

“They took advantage of him like he was a baby,” he added.

Trump also made clear the Iran deal was a key priority of his during a speech at AIPAC in march, when he said, “my number one priority is to dismantle the disastrous deal with Iran.”

Democratic frontrunner Hillary Clinton, former Secretary of State for Obama, has for her part promised to maintain the Iran nuclear deal.

Why is the deal bad?

There has been great criticism over the nuclear deal for a variety of issues, with many noting that a similar deal sealed by former President Bill Clinton with North Korea in 1994 paved the regime’s path to a nuclear arsenal. The country’s first nuclear test took place in 2006.

The deal allows Iran to wait until limitations on its nuclear program expire in 15 years, at which point it could race to building a nuclear arsenal.

Alternatively, it is feared Iran can easily breach the deal which has Tehran inspect its own covert nuclear facilities such as Parchin, requiring a notice of 24 days before international inspectors can access such sites.

Another aspect that has been criticized is how the nuclear deal does not address Iran’s role as the leading state sponsor of terrorism and grants it a massive windfall in sanctions kickbacks. Tehran has shown an increasingly hostile stance towards the US since the deal, breaching UN sanctions in ballistic missile tests and briefly holding US Navy sailors hostage.

Obama’s administration for its part was recently revealed by senior White House aide Ben Rhodes as having tricked the public on the nuclear deal, using an “echo chamber” of supportive groups to sell the deal and falsely claiming the talks were launched with “moderate” Iranian President Hassan Rouhani when he came into office in 2013, when in reality they were started with hardliners a year before.

Numerous groups were paid by the Obama administration to advocate for the deal – the group that received the most was the Jewish liberal group J Street, which took $576,000 to promote the nuclear deal.

Than- how about re-location of US Embassy to Jerusalem?

Indication of one cock colour? Trump - another humpty dumpy of the Zionist... the puppet of Zionist.

Enter The New What?

noreply@blogger.com (alburn) — Sat, 21 Jan 2017 14:13:00 +0000

Whether we black, white , brown we all bled the same red blood

All our blood is all coloured red.

Whether you are born in the sprawling City of Detroit

Or in the country side of Nebraska.

We look at the same sky, Where their life infuse by the creator.

Think big and dream even bigger.

Do not accept politician who only talk no action..

Patriotism no room for Prejudice.

We will be protected , by our arm men and women.

Importantly we are protected by God.

The time for empty talk is over.

TRUMP - TALKING COCK

COCK & BULL

Malaysia's tourism industry development Over the Decades.

URA - RUU - Dongeng 1

URA -

URA 2

URA 3

Stop Whining and Stop Explaining

Of Flute and fiddle in fusion fic a narrative of hatred and perception.

Reminiscence the past - many not known of the genuine pariah.

Parliament aka a House of Bedlam.

Is what British politicians say a load of 'cock and bull'? That's what this show wants to find out. Nothing new, then come to the politician, birds of the same feathers flock together, even in Malaysia. Our own August House, Parliament is a House of Bedlam.

The West Nation despises President Putin the rascal dictator and now Zelensky is a raging lunatic.

Zelensky is a raging lunatic tyrant, drunk with power and a danger to the entire world.

That’s Funny Stuff and I would call cock n bull shit.

Juliane Koepcke - History on snapshot. The real survivor. Miracle?

PICTURE OF HAPPINESS_

And everybody deserves a second chance.

Live the best of life?

LIVE THE BEST OF LIFE

Walk your own path

Nowadays modern sophists - arguers with the cocky talk.

Richer than Brunei's Sultan.developm's Sultan.

Dr Mahathir Mohamad, former PM is richer than Brunei's SultanRicher.

Barry, who is a former editor of the Asian Wall Street Journal, says most of the scams, which included a

Read More:

Conspiracy Of A Political Megalomaniac

A Conspiracy Behind Malaysia’s Political Maelstrom?

Demonstration & Rallying for Change? What Change?

Mahathir and family stole billions

Mahathir and family stole billions

Read More:

Richer than Brunei's Sultan.

You’re rich and arrogant, Samy’s son attacks Mahathir’s son.

Samy Veloo Son & Mahathir Billionaires son

Guan Eng - You are Stupid!! - by Netizens.

Guan Eng slapped stupid by netizens on Ministry of Finance Facebook.

Yes You Are !!

“The ringgit strengthened by 10.4 per cent at RM4.062 against the US dollar in 2017 after experiencing four consecutive years of depreciation, its strongest performance in seven years, says Bank Negara Malaysia (BNM).

“In its 2017 Annual Report released on Wednesday, the central bank said the ringgit was also one of the best-performing regional currencies, despite intermittent depreciation due to “risk-off” events during the year.”

Read More:

The Vindictive Mahathir

Mahathir’s directive to the MACC was clear.

Datin Seri Rosmah Mansor was due to be arrested by the Malaysian Anti Corruption Commission (MACC) today on counts of having committed offences under the Anti-Money Laundering Act, Anti-Terrorism Financing Act and Proceeds of Unlawful Activities Act (Amla) 2001.

However, following a ‘special’ directive delivered by Prime Minister Dr Mahathir Mohamad to the Malaysian Anti-Corruption Commission (MACC), Rosmah will not be arrested and is now due to be produced by the anti-graft agency to the Kuala Lumpur Sessions Court on the 4th of October 2018.

According to a person from camp Mahathir, it is the Prime Minister’s intent to deliver the impression that Rosmah and Najib conspired to siphon billions from 1MDB.

Read More:

Tony Blair coming back - just like the script he wrote for Mahathir.

Breaking: Blair is seeking a comeback using the exact same script he prepared for Mahathir

TTF: The news item (far below) is from the Independent, UK, and pertains a request for former British premier Tony Blair to “step forward and establish a new political party” with the intent of takin over government.

Notice how similar the modus operandi being suggested is with the methods employed by Dr Mahathir Mohamad and his UMNO surrogate, Parti Pribumi Bersatu Malaysia (PPBM), to wrest control of government from Barisan Nasional.

Read more:

Trump is clearly a Zionist puppet

Enter The New What?

However, following a ‘special’ directive delivered by Prime Minister Dr Mahathir Mohamad to the Malaysian Anti-Corruption Commission (MACC), Rosmah will not be arrested and is now due to be produced by the anti-graft agency to the Kuala Lumpur Sessions Court on the 4^th of October 2018.