Category Archives: On the Beat

Malaysia is all about us

A scene of "Citizen Liow". A National Day video has sent out a stark reminder to all that we must work towards making Malaysia a better home for all. NO MCA politician has generated this kind of buzz on social […] Continue Reading

Stand up for Team Rimau

The world is divided by well-meaning doers and self-serving whiners, so we should try to remain on the right side of that divide and not be plagued by negativity.   LET’S be honest and look at the bigger picture. Most Malaysians […] Continue Reading

Disciplining kids begins at home

A vicious cycle: Bullying, gangsterism, drug abuse and other problems persist due to the inability to stem the tide. HERE we go again, talking about so-called “hotspot” schools tainted by disciplinary problems, like bullying, gangsterism and drug abuse. A list […] Continue Reading

For the love of Malaysia

Come SEA Games time, we couldn’t care less for our athletes’ skin colour or beliefs. We are only interested in the colours of our Jalur Gemilang. There will be cries of jubilation and groans of despair, all in unison. Let’s […] Continue Reading

This is the real Malaysia

A voter in Pulau Banggi casting his vote. – Filepic by RAPAEE KAWI I HATE discussing politics with strangers, especially if it’s at a wedding dinner. As much as I accept this as an occupational hazard, I try my best […] Continue Reading

Polls likely next year?

  Too many events are on the cards this year, especially from now on, with the SEA Games and Budget just round the corner. SIMILAR to how it is for other journalists, I am also frequently asked if I know […] Continue Reading

Phrase that again, please?

Many writers and even some officials fall into this trap – using the same expressions over and over again, it’s almost automatic. Ten worst clichés used by journalists (and maybe officials) in their news reports (and at press confe­rences): 1. […] Continue Reading

All in a day’s words in politics

Some phrases have become jargon for lawmakers. Many have been overused, and in most cases misused, by this category of people.  Ten most incredible remarks by our (or any other) politicians: 1. Playing politics – One politician accusing another politician […] Continue Reading

Tale of two ‘hippie’ cities

Penang has some things in common with San Francisco – the island, too, is unconventional in many ways. IT’S summer time in San Francisco but it is no ordinary season. Yes, this is the 50th Summer of Love – so […] Continue Reading

The Trenglish way to better English

I CAN’T remember the last time I went to Kuala Terengganu. It must have been decades ago. The occasional trips to Berjaya Resort in Redang by air from Subang do not count, I guess. But I am glad I went […] Continue Reading