PUTRAJAYA, SUN:Malaysia’s economy is largely stable even though the country is faced with global crisis such as the increase in the prices of fuel and food, Datuk Seri Abdullah Ahmad Badawi said.“It’s stable overall. Our trade sector... there is nothing to worry about. We continue to attract foreign investment and we are still a preferred investment destination,” the prime minister said.He said Malaysia’s economy also received positive feedback from other countries, most recently during the Group of Eight Islamic Developing Countries (D8) Summit in Kuala Lumpur, last week.“Our economic figures are positive. They know it,” he told Bernama and RTM Radio in an interview at Sri Perdana, the prime minister’s official residence, yesterday.The D8 comprises Indonesia, Pakistan, Iran, Bangladesh, Egypt, Nigeria, Turkey and Malaysia.Abdullah said the country’s image was also intact, saying, “Those who view Malaysia objectively, it is still good. But those connected to (Datuk Seri) Anwar (Ibrahim), they would see things differently.” Asked on what would be among his priorities from now until the handing over of power to his deputy Datuk Seri Najib Tun Razak in June 2010, Abdullah said he wanted to see the development of five economic corridors be speeded up.The five development corridors are the Iskandar Malaysia, Northern Corridor Economic Region, East Coast Economic Region, Sarawak Corridor of Renewable Energy and Sabah Development Corridor, all which would require a total investment of RM840 billion.Explaining the idea behind the development of the corridors, Abdullah said it was for the equitable distribution of quality opportunities to address imbalances of development between the urban-industralised areas and semi-urban areas.He said the new approach was different from that of the New Economic Policy, which focused on equitable distribution of income.Abdullah said the government had grappled with the issue of narrowing the development gap in the country.In the end the government felt that it was better to focus on developing the human capital and empower them with knowledge so that the people would be able to compete for the opportunities to be provided by the government, he said.“So the best option is equitable distribution of quality opportunities,” said Abdullah.He said all five economic corridors needed attention so that the development disparity between the urban and semi-urban areas could be narrowed down.Using an analogy to drive home his point, the prime minister said, “we don’t take from Ah Seng and give it to Ahmad but (what we do is) to accelerate Ahmad’s opportunity.”“If we give them money, it will be spent in no time; so we give them opportunities for productive use,” he said.To accelerate the pace of development in the five corridors, he said all implementation aspects must be properly planned by the central agencies including the Economic Planning Unit, Implementation and Coordination Unit, and Treasury.On why he chose to focus on the agricultural sector despite critics describing the move as a way backward, Abdullah said the focus was not merely on agriculture but also on the development of the country’s agro-based industry.“If we plant and consume what we have planted, we won’t be able to finish them.“That is why we need to also develop the agro-based industry to contribute to the nation’s economy,” he said.
Sunday, July 13, 2008
Restructuring of Umno necessary
NOOR HAYATI MUDA, BERNAMA
KUALA LUMPUR, SUN:Umno's efforts to cleanse the party of money politics and political corruption will be tested once again when its almost 20,000 branches convene their respective annual meetings beginning Thursday, until Aug 24.The branch meeting is the first phase in the party election process, which will conclude with the election for the top post in December.Although the code of ethics for the Umno election has been updated to curtail corrupt practices, there are quarters in the party, as well as political observers outside Umno, who feel that more need to be done to address the problem.They view the new code of ethics as not only incapable of addressing political corruption in Umno, but also open to manipulation by its members.Their suggestion to Umno, if the party is serious in wanting to eliminate political corruption, is to embark on a comprehensive approach which will include restructuring of the organisation.Among the regulations in the new code of ethics, which some quarters regard as rigid, is the prohibition of candidates from attending such events as wedding feasts and "tahlil" and for children and wife/wives of members to offer gifts and money to other members in the party.The Umno branch annual meeting and election will be followed by divisional meeting, between Oct 9 and Nov 9, and then election of the supreme council members at the party's general assembly, from Dec 16 to 20.Batu Pahat Umno divisional leader Dr Mohd Puad Zarkashi said it would be meaningless to have the new code of ethics if the regulations could not be enforced.He said this was because Umno had yet to have a special unit or body specially set up for enforcement purposes, adding that this was why the party leadership had to rely on complaints from members."To me, administering Umno is like administering a country, so it has to be done seriously, and in this case, (Umno) has to have a unit like the ACA (Anti-Corruption Agency), to monitor money politics in the party, not only when the party is facing an election, but at all times," he added.Dr Mohd Puad suggested that the Umno Disciplinary Board be strengthened and given extensive powers to also monitor the overall process of the party election, right from the grassroots level.He said Umno should also provide guidelines on the procedures for members to lodge complaints on alleged money politics in the party since the existing method was questionable and could result in reports being rejected."At present, the procedure is standard. If it involves money, (the complainant has to) photostate the money as proof...then, make a sworn declaration. That's all."Sometimes, people can say that the money is his (complainant's) own money, and that he wants to fix the other person, so the procedure must be clear," added Dr Mohd Puad.He also expressed the need for Umno to emphasise efforts to instil awareness among its members that corruption was a crime.Cheras Umno division chief Senator Datuk Syed Ali Alhabshee concurred with Dr Mohd Puad that political corruption in Umno could only be eliminated by changing the mindset of its members."Even if there are regulations, if members don't think it is wrong to indulge in money politics, it will not be effective. What is important is for the leadership to find ways to change the mentality and thinking of the members," he said.He said money politics would continue to reign in Umno for as long as party leaders and future leaders used politics for their own vested interests."During the days of our past leaders, there was no money politics. The reason is, they were sincere (in wanting) to help the Malays," added Syed Ali.Meanwhile, observers have differing views on ways to address political corruption.A lecturer at the Faculty of Social Science and Humanities, Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia, Prof Mohammad Agus Yusoff opined that Umno should have a clear definition to differentiate money politics and money for politics."Money is also needed in politics. Otherwise, how to organise activities, to campaign? What is wrong is money politics, which is money used to buy votes," he said.He said Umno should also abolish the quota system in the party election to eliminate money politics."The quota system requires members contesting for certain posts to obtain a certain number of nominations from the divisions. Does this not invite money politics?"The system should be abolished so that every member has an equal chance to contest. Money will no longer be an issue because everybody is eligible and it is up to the delegates to chose who they want as their leaders," added Mohammad Agus.His views were shared by a lecturer at Universiti Utara Malaysia, Public Management and Law Faculty, Prof Dr Ahmad Atory Hussein, who said the absence of a clear definition on money politics was the main reason that the practice was widespread in Umno."People can say, this person gives money to that person, but if the giver and the receiver don't admit, how can it be proven? Perhaps, the person gives the money to help the other person, who is in need of money to buy medicine for his sick child, etc. Is this considered money politics?," he asked.He concurred with Dr Mohd Puad and Syed Ali that it all depended on the mentality of the Umno members.For Prof Datuk Dr Zainal Kling, the root of political corruption in Umno exists due to the Malay proverb, 'orang berbudi kita berbahasa'."Let's say, a leader extends financial help to a member whose son is going for further studies. Of course, the member will be indebted and will want to repay the leader's kindness."It's like handing out gifts or money at weddings. Is this considered bribery? If (you) don't give, what will people say? This is where manipulation of the code of ethics can occur," he said.He suggested that Umno limit the amount of money which could be given as a "gift" and if it involved a large amount, the party branch or division concerned should be informed."(It's) like what the government is doing, where gifts which are worth thousands of ringgit should be handed over to the government," he added.By doing so, he said it would allow Umno to detect whether the gifts were sincerely given or that the giver expected something in return.
KUALA LUMPUR, SUN:Umno's efforts to cleanse the party of money politics and political corruption will be tested once again when its almost 20,000 branches convene their respective annual meetings beginning Thursday, until Aug 24.The branch meeting is the first phase in the party election process, which will conclude with the election for the top post in December.Although the code of ethics for the Umno election has been updated to curtail corrupt practices, there are quarters in the party, as well as political observers outside Umno, who feel that more need to be done to address the problem.They view the new code of ethics as not only incapable of addressing political corruption in Umno, but also open to manipulation by its members.Their suggestion to Umno, if the party is serious in wanting to eliminate political corruption, is to embark on a comprehensive approach which will include restructuring of the organisation.Among the regulations in the new code of ethics, which some quarters regard as rigid, is the prohibition of candidates from attending such events as wedding feasts and "tahlil" and for children and wife/wives of members to offer gifts and money to other members in the party.The Umno branch annual meeting and election will be followed by divisional meeting, between Oct 9 and Nov 9, and then election of the supreme council members at the party's general assembly, from Dec 16 to 20.Batu Pahat Umno divisional leader Dr Mohd Puad Zarkashi said it would be meaningless to have the new code of ethics if the regulations could not be enforced.He said this was because Umno had yet to have a special unit or body specially set up for enforcement purposes, adding that this was why the party leadership had to rely on complaints from members."To me, administering Umno is like administering a country, so it has to be done seriously, and in this case, (Umno) has to have a unit like the ACA (Anti-Corruption Agency), to monitor money politics in the party, not only when the party is facing an election, but at all times," he added.Dr Mohd Puad suggested that the Umno Disciplinary Board be strengthened and given extensive powers to also monitor the overall process of the party election, right from the grassroots level.He said Umno should also provide guidelines on the procedures for members to lodge complaints on alleged money politics in the party since the existing method was questionable and could result in reports being rejected."At present, the procedure is standard. If it involves money, (the complainant has to) photostate the money as proof...then, make a sworn declaration. That's all."Sometimes, people can say that the money is his (complainant's) own money, and that he wants to fix the other person, so the procedure must be clear," added Dr Mohd Puad.He also expressed the need for Umno to emphasise efforts to instil awareness among its members that corruption was a crime.Cheras Umno division chief Senator Datuk Syed Ali Alhabshee concurred with Dr Mohd Puad that political corruption in Umno could only be eliminated by changing the mindset of its members."Even if there are regulations, if members don't think it is wrong to indulge in money politics, it will not be effective. What is important is for the leadership to find ways to change the mentality and thinking of the members," he said.He said money politics would continue to reign in Umno for as long as party leaders and future leaders used politics for their own vested interests."During the days of our past leaders, there was no money politics. The reason is, they were sincere (in wanting) to help the Malays," added Syed Ali.Meanwhile, observers have differing views on ways to address political corruption.A lecturer at the Faculty of Social Science and Humanities, Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia, Prof Mohammad Agus Yusoff opined that Umno should have a clear definition to differentiate money politics and money for politics."Money is also needed in politics. Otherwise, how to organise activities, to campaign? What is wrong is money politics, which is money used to buy votes," he said.He said Umno should also abolish the quota system in the party election to eliminate money politics."The quota system requires members contesting for certain posts to obtain a certain number of nominations from the divisions. Does this not invite money politics?"The system should be abolished so that every member has an equal chance to contest. Money will no longer be an issue because everybody is eligible and it is up to the delegates to chose who they want as their leaders," added Mohammad Agus.His views were shared by a lecturer at Universiti Utara Malaysia, Public Management and Law Faculty, Prof Dr Ahmad Atory Hussein, who said the absence of a clear definition on money politics was the main reason that the practice was widespread in Umno."People can say, this person gives money to that person, but if the giver and the receiver don't admit, how can it be proven? Perhaps, the person gives the money to help the other person, who is in need of money to buy medicine for his sick child, etc. Is this considered money politics?," he asked.He concurred with Dr Mohd Puad and Syed Ali that it all depended on the mentality of the Umno members.For Prof Datuk Dr Zainal Kling, the root of political corruption in Umno exists due to the Malay proverb, 'orang berbudi kita berbahasa'."Let's say, a leader extends financial help to a member whose son is going for further studies. Of course, the member will be indebted and will want to repay the leader's kindness."It's like handing out gifts or money at weddings. Is this considered bribery? If (you) don't give, what will people say? This is where manipulation of the code of ethics can occur," he said.He suggested that Umno limit the amount of money which could be given as a "gift" and if it involved a large amount, the party branch or division concerned should be informed."(It's) like what the government is doing, where gifts which are worth thousands of ringgit should be handed over to the government," he added.By doing so, he said it would allow Umno to detect whether the gifts were sincerely given or that the giver expected something in return.
SALANG: Pakatan Rakyat's claim is nothing by hot air
PAKAN, SUN:
The Pakatan Rakyat (PR)’s aim to form the next government by this September, is nothing but hot air.Deputy Energy, Water and Communications Minister Datuk Joseph Salang Gandum said the group had spoken incessantly on the claim.“If PR is really strong and have the required numbers of elected representatives, including those assumed defectors from the Barisan Nasional camp, it should go and meet the King right away to ask to take over the government,” he told reporters today after attending a meet-the-people session organised by the Special Affairs Department at a longhouse here.But they were dilly-dallying, he said, and supposedly waiting for Parti Keadilan Rakyat advisor Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim to lead them, indicating their lack of confidence, support and preparedness.“Personally, I believe they are only making hot air and surely, Anwar is not indispensable,” said Salang, adding that the rural people in particular, should not be swayed by such claim and unwittingly give their support to the PR.He said it was easy to be swayed as the opposition was promising the luxury of a much-reduced fuel price when they formed the government.On the proposal by the Rural and Regional Development Minister to provide water and power supplies to all villages and longhouses in Sabah and the state within a 30km distance from the town, he said this would depend largely on the availability of funds.
The Pakatan Rakyat (PR)’s aim to form the next government by this September, is nothing but hot air.Deputy Energy, Water and Communications Minister Datuk Joseph Salang Gandum said the group had spoken incessantly on the claim.“If PR is really strong and have the required numbers of elected representatives, including those assumed defectors from the Barisan Nasional camp, it should go and meet the King right away to ask to take over the government,” he told reporters today after attending a meet-the-people session organised by the Special Affairs Department at a longhouse here.But they were dilly-dallying, he said, and supposedly waiting for Parti Keadilan Rakyat advisor Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim to lead them, indicating their lack of confidence, support and preparedness.“Personally, I believe they are only making hot air and surely, Anwar is not indispensable,” said Salang, adding that the rural people in particular, should not be swayed by such claim and unwittingly give their support to the PR.He said it was easy to be swayed as the opposition was promising the luxury of a much-reduced fuel price when they formed the government.On the proposal by the Rural and Regional Development Minister to provide water and power supplies to all villages and longhouses in Sabah and the state within a 30km distance from the town, he said this would depend largely on the availability of funds.
Wednesday, July 9, 2008
Malaysian's Politics
Disappearance of P. Balasubramaniam:
Najib: We’re not responsible
By : Ridzwan Abdullah and R. Sittamparam
KUALA LUMPUR: Datuk Seri Najib Razak yesterday denied charges that the authorities were behind the "disappearance" of private investigator P. Balasubramaniam and his family.The deputy prime minister shrugged off the claims as baseless.He was speaking to reporters at the launch of Ibrahim Pahlawan Melayu (Ibrahim, the Malay Warrior), a memoir narrating the life and experiences of former armed forces chief Gen (Rtd) Tun Ibrahim Ismail.Najib, who is also defence minister, was asked on an ultimatum made by the Hindu Rights Action Force (Hindraf) for the government to "release" Balasubramaniam.Hindraf coordinator S. Jayathas, at a candlelight vigil held in Brickfields on Tuesday night, said Hindraf would organise a massive rally in three days' time if Balasubramaniam and his family were not released by then.Responding to this, Najib replied: "Then I guess you have to ask them (Hindraf)."Balasubramaniam made headlines last week with a statutory declaration linking Najib with the murdered Mongolian woman Altantuya Shaariibuu, but retracted it the next day.He and his family have since gone missing and on Saturday, his nephew lodged a report at the Gombak police station.On Tuesday, however, his nephew, K. Kumaresan claimed Balasubramaniam called him from a private number. The conversation lasted two minutes.On whether the defence ministry would scale down its operational expenses following uncertainties due to rising global oil prices, Najib said 10 per cent of the original budget under the Ninth Malaysia Plan, or RM300 million, had been slashed under the mid-term review."This is part of the government's austerity drive as we are setting our priorities in line with the current economic conditions."Nevertheless, Najib said most of the ministry's existing projects would continue, including the programme to replace its 40-year-old fleet of Nuri helicopters.On reports that Singapore has shown interest in buying up to 100 of Lockheed Martin Corp's F-35 Joint Strike Fighter aircraft over the coming decades, Najib said it was too early to speculate."I cannot confirm the authenticity of the report, but at the same time, I am not sure if Singapore needs that many (F-35s)."At a separate function at the RMAF base in Subang, Air Force chief Gen Tan Sri Azizan Ariffin said the news, if accurate, was not something to be alarmed about as Singapore might only be replacing its old fleet.Ibrahim, the Malay Warrior embodies Ibrahim's struggle of constantly proving himself to the discriminating British.It also tells his experience as a prisoner of the Kempeitai, the Japanese secret police, in World War 2 (1944-1945).
Najib: We’re not responsible
By : Ridzwan Abdullah and R. Sittamparam
KUALA LUMPUR: Datuk Seri Najib Razak yesterday denied charges that the authorities were behind the "disappearance" of private investigator P. Balasubramaniam and his family.The deputy prime minister shrugged off the claims as baseless.He was speaking to reporters at the launch of Ibrahim Pahlawan Melayu (Ibrahim, the Malay Warrior), a memoir narrating the life and experiences of former armed forces chief Gen (Rtd) Tun Ibrahim Ismail.Najib, who is also defence minister, was asked on an ultimatum made by the Hindu Rights Action Force (Hindraf) for the government to "release" Balasubramaniam.Hindraf coordinator S. Jayathas, at a candlelight vigil held in Brickfields on Tuesday night, said Hindraf would organise a massive rally in three days' time if Balasubramaniam and his family were not released by then.Responding to this, Najib replied: "Then I guess you have to ask them (Hindraf)."Balasubramaniam made headlines last week with a statutory declaration linking Najib with the murdered Mongolian woman Altantuya Shaariibuu, but retracted it the next day.He and his family have since gone missing and on Saturday, his nephew lodged a report at the Gombak police station.On Tuesday, however, his nephew, K. Kumaresan claimed Balasubramaniam called him from a private number. The conversation lasted two minutes.On whether the defence ministry would scale down its operational expenses following uncertainties due to rising global oil prices, Najib said 10 per cent of the original budget under the Ninth Malaysia Plan, or RM300 million, had been slashed under the mid-term review."This is part of the government's austerity drive as we are setting our priorities in line with the current economic conditions."Nevertheless, Najib said most of the ministry's existing projects would continue, including the programme to replace its 40-year-old fleet of Nuri helicopters.On reports that Singapore has shown interest in buying up to 100 of Lockheed Martin Corp's F-35 Joint Strike Fighter aircraft over the coming decades, Najib said it was too early to speculate."I cannot confirm the authenticity of the report, but at the same time, I am not sure if Singapore needs that many (F-35s)."At a separate function at the RMAF base in Subang, Air Force chief Gen Tan Sri Azizan Ariffin said the news, if accurate, was not something to be alarmed about as Singapore might only be replacing its old fleet.Ibrahim, the Malay Warrior embodies Ibrahim's struggle of constantly proving himself to the discriminating British.It also tells his experience as a prisoner of the Kempeitai, the Japanese secret police, in World War 2 (1944-1945).
EconomiCs from MalaysiA
Several MPs surround Tan Sri Nor Mohamed Yakcop after the debate to seek clarification yesterday. Seen here are (from left) Lim Lip Eng (Segambut), Loh Gwo Burne (Kelana Jaya), Fong Po Kuan (Batu Gajah) and Fong Kui Lun (Bukit Bintang
KUALA LUMPUR: Banks will soon be coming up with ways to help housing loan borrowers.
Second Finance Minister Tan Sri Nor Mohamed Yakcop said the banks welcomed the government's suggestion that they restructure the payment plans to reduce the burden of borrowers.
Nor Mohamed said he had been informed by the banks that they would do so.
The lower repayment on loans will ease the burden of the borrowers, he said at the "second" winding-up session of the debate on the Mid-Term Review of the Ninth Malaysia Plan at the Dewan Rakyat yesterday.
On Bank Negara's decision to allow banks issuing credit cards to stop the 20-day interest-free period on the purchase of retail items, Nor Mohamed said BNM was introducing a tier-pricing structure to encourage credit card users to be more careful and smart in their spending.
He said three types of tier-pricing structures had been introduced to enable credit card holders to enjoy a lower finance charge of up to 15 per cent a year compared with 18 per cent currently.
"This tier-pricing structure will help to reduce the cost of credit card usage compared with the previous system which charged 18 per cent."
With this system, Nor Mohamed said the previous offer of 20 days repayment period without interest enjoyed by all credit card holders, without taking into account the monthly credit card payment, will be discontinued.
He said he had meetings with all banks and had asked them to review the matter and they had agreed to do this.
Nor Mohamed had wound up the debate on the Finance Ministry on Tuesday but members of parliament from both sides of the house complained that he had left many questions unanswered.
Nor Mohamed stressed that while he agreed to return to continue with his replies, he did not want this to become a precedent.
This was because his decision would "eat" into the time allocated to other ministers waiting for their turn to speak.
"I need to respect my fellow ministers. We have 19 other ministries that have yet to wind up their debates and we are very short of time."
When Nor Mohamed resumed his replies, several MPs bombarded him with questions on the fuel subsidy.
Fauziah Salleh (PKR-Kuantan) suggested a subsidy system where cards would be issued to individuals and tailored according to their financial status and needs.
Nor Mohamed said the government was working on a tiered system to ensure more effective disbursement of subsidies.
"However, at present, we do not have the appropriate data system in place for its immediate implementation.
"I assure members of the house that the government is in discussion with the relevant parties towards implementing this system," he said.
Nor Mohamed, who started speaking at 11.45am, stopped at lunch time and refused to entertain calls for an extension.
Speaking to reporters at the lobby, Nor Mohamed denied allegations by some opposition MPs that his winding-up speech on Tuesday was inadequate.
"My answers were adequate but there were lots of questions from the MPs and the time for answering all of them was limited.
"I have no problem returning. What's important is to ensure that the government policies are fully understood by the people as they are being implemented to help take care of their needs."
Nor Mohamed said there were some issues, like those related to subsidies, which many found hard to understand.
"This is the opportunity for me to explain in detail. Although there were interruptions from the opposition, I find that the members accept my explanation," he said.
news from Singapore
Singapore cuts fuel prices
BERNAMA
SINGAPORE, WED:
Petrol companies in Singapore have lowered their pump prices by four cents a litre for petrol to reflect current market conditions.
Singapore Petroleum Company Limited (SPC) announced today the pump prices for its motor gasoline across all three grades at all its service stations had been reduced by four cents per litre from 3 p.m. today.
Earlier, other petrol companies, Shell, Exxon-Mobile and Caltex started to reduce their pump prices one after another from this morning.
The new pump prices without discounts are $2.32 per litre for the 98-octane grade petrol, $2.246 per litre for the 95-octane unleaded petrol and $2.213 per litre for the 92-octane unleaded petrol.
The pump price for diesel which is currently at $2.033 per litre however is not affected by the changes.
Last Saturday, the four petrol companies had just increased their pump prices for both petrol and diesel by five cents a litre.
It was reported that the impact of a global economic slowdown on demand for oil has caused prices to fall by more than US$5 to US$136 per barrel yesterday.
BERNAMA
SINGAPORE, WED:
Petrol companies in Singapore have lowered their pump prices by four cents a litre for petrol to reflect current market conditions.
Singapore Petroleum Company Limited (SPC) announced today the pump prices for its motor gasoline across all three grades at all its service stations had been reduced by four cents per litre from 3 p.m. today.
Earlier, other petrol companies, Shell, Exxon-Mobile and Caltex started to reduce their pump prices one after another from this morning.
The new pump prices without discounts are $2.32 per litre for the 98-octane grade petrol, $2.246 per litre for the 95-octane unleaded petrol and $2.213 per litre for the 92-octane unleaded petrol.
The pump price for diesel which is currently at $2.033 per litre however is not affected by the changes.
Last Saturday, the four petrol companies had just increased their pump prices for both petrol and diesel by five cents a litre.
It was reported that the impact of a global economic slowdown on demand for oil has caused prices to fall by more than US$5 to US$136 per barrel yesterday.
Tuesday, July 8, 2008
HeaLTH
Recovery from back pain takes longer than thought
Malaysia Sun
Tuesday 8th July, 2008
(IANS)
Malaysia Sun
Tuesday 8th July, 2008
(IANS)
Recovery from lower back pain takes much longer than what popular perception believes and slower still for those with other ache variants, according to a new study.
The study showed that nearly one-third of patients did not recover from the original episode of back pain within a year.
The authors, who surveyed 973 patients, concluded that prognosis from acute lower back pain was not as favourable and challenges the common belief that 90 percent of patients recover within four to six weeks.
"These are extremely important results because they confirm that low back pain is a significant health problem and that there is substantial room for improvement in its management," said co-author Chris Maher of The George Institute.
Each patient in the study was managed by their preferred clinician; a doctor, physiotherapist or chiropractor.
About 20 percent of population suffers from low back pain at any one time. The findings show that even with treatment, after two months, only 50 percent had fully recovered.
At one year, about 40 percent reported that their back was still causing them pain.
The findings of the study have been published in The British Medical Journal.
CiViL waR
Bombs used in Karachi blasts were locally-made, finds initial probe
Malaysia Sun
Tuesday 8th July, 2008
(ANI)
Malaysia Sun
Tuesday 8th July, 2008
(ANI)
Karachi, July 8 : Initial investigation into last evening's serial blasts in Karachi has found that locally-made bombs were used in carrying out the explosions which claimed one life and injured dozens.
A high-level officer of the bomb-disposal squad told that 2-2 1/2 kg of explosives were used in the bombs used in the blasts, while all these bombs were locally-made.
According to the bomb-disposal squad, a car bomb in Hasrat Mohani Colony, an area of Bara Board and all the four bombs in Banaras Colony were exploded through remote control and the grenade thrown from motor-cycle riders was also hand-made while the car used in blast had no number plate, reported The News.
Meanwhile, the provincial government of Sindh said that a report regarding some people coming from northern areas to Karachi was received from sensitive departments but no information was given in advance regarding terrorism on large-scale.
SportS
Ponting likely to miss Champions Trophy
Malaysia Sun
Tuesday 8th July, 2008
(IANS)
Malaysia Sun
Tuesday 8th July, 2008
(IANS)
Australian skipper Ricky Ponting, who underwent a wrist surgery, may miss the Champions Trophy in September.
The surgery also put Ponting in doubt for Australia's short one-day series against Bangladesh in August.
However, Cricket Australia (CA) medical staff are confident that Ponting will be fit for the four-Test series in India during October and early November.
Ponting was forced to return home after the third one-day international in the West Indies, with Australia going on to win the last two matches under Michael Clarke. Ponting had the surgery in Melbourne Monday after being reviewed by wrist specialist Greg Hoy.
'Ricky sustained a tendon injury that required repair of tissues that hold the tendon in place,' CA doctor Trefor James was quoted as saying in The Australian.
'Ponting's recovery will be monitored in the coming weeks and a decision regarding his fitness for the upcoming series against Bangladesh and then the Champions Trophy will be made in due course.'
The timing is not all bad for Ponting, with he and wife Rianna expecting their first child in August.
Economics
Bernama - Wednesday, July 9
KUALA LUMPUR, July 8 (Bernama) -- China will have the largest pavilion at the Aseanwood-Woodtech Malaysia 2008 (WTM 2008) exhibition at the Putra World Trade Centre from Sept 24-28.
The Chinese pavilion will occupy over 900 sq metres, organiser Trade-Link Management said in a statement today.
It said industry players from the woodworking machinery, timber processing, forestry management, furniture manufacturing and supplies sector, were expected at the event.
Trade-Link said WTM 2008 would also feature national pavilions from Germany, Italy and Taiwan.
The WTM 2008 is endorsed by the Ministry of Plantation Industries and Commodities Malaysia, the Malaysian Woodworking Machinery Association, the Malaysia External Trade Development Corp and the Malaysia Furniture Industry Council. -- BERNAMA
FAY AS THS
KUALA LUMPUR, July 8 (Bernama) -- China will have the largest pavilion at the Aseanwood-Woodtech Malaysia 2008 (WTM 2008) exhibition at the Putra World Trade Centre from Sept 24-28.
The Chinese pavilion will occupy over 900 sq metres, organiser Trade-Link Management said in a statement today.
It said industry players from the woodworking machinery, timber processing, forestry management, furniture manufacturing and supplies sector, were expected at the event.
Trade-Link said WTM 2008 would also feature national pavilions from Germany, Italy and Taiwan.
The WTM 2008 is endorsed by the Ministry of Plantation Industries and Commodities Malaysia, the Malaysian Woodworking Machinery Association, the Malaysia External Trade Development Corp and the Malaysia Furniture Industry Council. -- BERNAMA
FAY AS THS
PoliTiCS
Sodomy victim dares Anwar to swear innocence
The Star/ Ann, Petaling Jaya
Mohd Saiful Bukhari Azlan who alleged he was sodomised by PKR de facto leader Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim recently is daring the latter to swear on the Quran to prove his innocence.
The challenge posted as a link in his fiancee's blog said: "Dear Anwar the hypocrite! I challenge you to swear on the Quran. Set the place and time! I will come. The truth will prevail. Falsehood will surely be exposed. I am not afraid to die. God is mighty!"
His fiancee Janna Mohd Zaki included the link from Friendster in her newest posting on her blog in conjunction with Mohd Saiful's 23rd birthday on Sunday.
The blog titled "A Step in My Pink Mary Janes" can be visited at http://jannamohdzaki.blogspot.com/.
In it she said she still looks up to Mohd Saiful as a hero despite all the public scoffing he is facing.
"In my eyes, Saiful is a hero. We have no power to make people stop making spiteful remarks about us but we know the truth will prevail some day," she said.
The Star/ Ann, Petaling Jaya
Mohd Saiful Bukhari Azlan who alleged he was sodomised by PKR de facto leader Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim recently is daring the latter to swear on the Quran to prove his innocence.
The challenge posted as a link in his fiancee's blog said: "Dear Anwar the hypocrite! I challenge you to swear on the Quran. Set the place and time! I will come. The truth will prevail. Falsehood will surely be exposed. I am not afraid to die. God is mighty!"
His fiancee Janna Mohd Zaki included the link from Friendster in her newest posting on her blog in conjunction with Mohd Saiful's 23rd birthday on Sunday.
The blog titled "A Step in My Pink Mary Janes" can be visited at http://jannamohdzaki.blogspot.com/.
In it she said she still looks up to Mohd Saiful as a hero despite all the public scoffing he is facing.
"In my eyes, Saiful is a hero. We have no power to make people stop making spiteful remarks about us but we know the truth will prevail some day," she said.
Southeast Asia Economics
AP
Malaysia, Indonesia threatened by food, oil crises
Tuesday July 8, 9:32 am ET
By Vijay Joshi, Associated Press Writer
Malaysia, Indonesia say food, oil crises are 'grave threats' to world economy
KUALA LUMPUR, Malaysia (AP) -- The leaders of Malaysia and Indonesia on Tuesday called for boosting world food production and finding a permanent solution to skyrocketing oil prices, saying the twin problems have become "grave threats" to the world economy.
"We must identity the bold measures that we need to take now in order to guarantee the well-being of our economies," Malaysian Prime Minister Abdullah Ahmad Badawi told a summit of Islamic countries.
The Developing Eight summit brings together eight developing Islamic nations -- Malaysia, Indonesia, Pakistan, Iran, Bangladesh, Egypt, Nigeria and Turkey. It coincides with the Group of Eight summit under way in northern Japan.
Abdullah said the one-day D-8 summit must "come out with a clear message on the need to boost food production in the world."
He noted global food prices have risen by more than 75 percent since 2000, leaving the "world economy ... facing grave threats to its well-being."
Abdullah said a plan to stabilize the price of oil must also be developed.
"Long-term solutions must be found for stabilizing the price of oil. For example, the international community can examine how the futures market might be organized to assist in stabilizing prices," he said, without elaborating.
Although Malaysia, Indonesia, Iran and Nigeria are oil-producing countries, their economies have been hit hard by rising fuel prices. Oil prices fell by $4 a barrel on Monday, but remain at more than $140 a barrel.
Malaysia raised gasoline prices by 41 percent and diesel by 63 percent last month. The government says inflation is likely to cross 5 percent this year, which has fueled public anger.
Indonesia, the region's biggest oil producer, is also facing public unrest because of escalating food and oil costs. It said it will quit the Organization of Petroleum Exporting Countries because of declining oil reserves and investments.
Indonesia's production of roughly a million barrels a day is at its lowest level in 30 years.
Indonesian President Susilo Bambang Yudhoyono said in a speech the challenge of food and energy security has surpassed the challenge of globalization, which he said has led to the marginalization of many poor countries.
"There is no quick fix that will sweep aside this challenge, but we must act on it at once and in concert. To delay concerted action on this great challenge of our time is to court disaster," Yudhoyono said.
The "rising price of crude oil, the scramble for alternative sources of energy, and the threat of global warming" have exacerbated the food crisis, he said.
President Mahmoud Ahmadinejad of Iran, OPEC's second largest oil producer, did not address the opening of the summit.
Malaysia, Indonesia threatened by food, oil crises
Tuesday July 8, 9:32 am ET
By Vijay Joshi, Associated Press Writer
Malaysia, Indonesia say food, oil crises are 'grave threats' to world economy
KUALA LUMPUR, Malaysia (AP) -- The leaders of Malaysia and Indonesia on Tuesday called for boosting world food production and finding a permanent solution to skyrocketing oil prices, saying the twin problems have become "grave threats" to the world economy.
"We must identity the bold measures that we need to take now in order to guarantee the well-being of our economies," Malaysian Prime Minister Abdullah Ahmad Badawi told a summit of Islamic countries.
The Developing Eight summit brings together eight developing Islamic nations -- Malaysia, Indonesia, Pakistan, Iran, Bangladesh, Egypt, Nigeria and Turkey. It coincides with the Group of Eight summit under way in northern Japan.
Abdullah said the one-day D-8 summit must "come out with a clear message on the need to boost food production in the world."
He noted global food prices have risen by more than 75 percent since 2000, leaving the "world economy ... facing grave threats to its well-being."
Abdullah said a plan to stabilize the price of oil must also be developed.
"Long-term solutions must be found for stabilizing the price of oil. For example, the international community can examine how the futures market might be organized to assist in stabilizing prices," he said, without elaborating.
Although Malaysia, Indonesia, Iran and Nigeria are oil-producing countries, their economies have been hit hard by rising fuel prices. Oil prices fell by $4 a barrel on Monday, but remain at more than $140 a barrel.
Malaysia raised gasoline prices by 41 percent and diesel by 63 percent last month. The government says inflation is likely to cross 5 percent this year, which has fueled public anger.
Indonesia, the region's biggest oil producer, is also facing public unrest because of escalating food and oil costs. It said it will quit the Organization of Petroleum Exporting Countries because of declining oil reserves and investments.
Indonesia's production of roughly a million barrels a day is at its lowest level in 30 years.
Indonesian President Susilo Bambang Yudhoyono said in a speech the challenge of food and energy security has surpassed the challenge of globalization, which he said has led to the marginalization of many poor countries.
"There is no quick fix that will sweep aside this challenge, but we must act on it at once and in concert. To delay concerted action on this great challenge of our time is to court disaster," Yudhoyono said.
The "rising price of crude oil, the scramble for alternative sources of energy, and the threat of global warming" have exacerbated the food crisis, he said.
President Mahmoud Ahmadinejad of Iran, OPEC's second largest oil producer, did not address the opening of the summit.
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