MORE PICS & Video - The New Duli Yang Teramat Mulia Raja Puan Besar Perak Darul Ridzuan, Tuanku Zara Salim after proclaimed as Raja Puan Besar Perak

Go Bottom of page for the Video Clip (57 sec) - Part II -Proclamation as Raja Puan Besar Perak

or Jump to the Final Part III- Bersanding Ceremony Video , Go H E R E

2007/05/18; (Bernama) NST

KUALA KANGSAR, FRI.: Tuanku Zara Salim, who married Raja Muda of Perak Raja Nazrin Shah yesterday, has been proclaimed Raja Puan Besar Perak at a ceremony in Istana Iskandariah, Bukit Chandan, here this morning.

= = = = == = = == = == = = = =

ABOVE: The Zara Salim Davidson "hormat" the seated Sulltan and Raja Permaisuri Perak Tuanku Bainun and BELOW: handing over the letter of proclamation

The proclamation was followed by the call of “daulat, daulat, daulat" by the guests present. Tuanku Zara is the great-granddaughter of the 24th Sultan of Kedah, Sultan Abdul Hamid Halim Shah. The title of Raja Puan Besar Perak had been vacant in the last two decades. The proclamation ceremony that began at 10.05am, was attended by close members of the Perak royalty and 150 dignitaries at the Bilik Istiadat (Ceremonial Room) of the palace, with Orang Kaya Temenggong Paduka Raja, the Territorial Chief of Kuala Kangsar Datuk Seri Wan Fathir Wan Hussain reading out the proclamation before Perak’s Sultan Azlan Shah.

The conferment of the title was made under Section 2, Article 35 (1) of the Perak State Constitution which empowers the Perak Sultan to bestow the title on the consort of the Raja Muda. After reading out the proclamation, Wan Fathir cried out “daulat” three times followed by those present and the sound of the nobat (royal court music ensemble). Accompanied by Tunku Soraya Sultan Abdul Halim and Datuk Seri Noraini Jane, Tuanku Zara who was clad in a golden French lace long kebaya, appeared before Sultan Azlan Shah to receive the letter of proclamation. Tunku Soraya is the daughter of the Sultan of Kedah and wife of Raja Kechil Sulung of Perak Raja Datuk Seri Iskandar Dzulkarnain Almarhum Sultan Idris, while Noraini Jane is the wife of the Raja Kechil Tengah Raja Datuk Seri Ashman Shah.

With the proclamation, Tuanku Zara is now addressed as Duli Yang Teramat Mulia Raja Puan Besar Perak Darul Ridzuan, Tuanku Zara Salim. At the ceremony, Sultan Azlan Shah also bestowed Tuanku Zara with the Darjah Kerabat Seri Paduka Sultan Azlan Shah Perak Yang Dihormati (DKSA), the highest award specially given to a member of the royal family. The ceremony was also witnessed by Raja Permaisuri Perak Tuanku Bainun, the Raja Muda, Raja Dihilir Perak Raja Datuk Seri Jaafar Raja Muda Musa, Tuanku Zara’s parents Salim Davidson and Sharifah Azaliah Tan Sri Syed Omar Shahabudin, and Perak Menteri Besar Datuk Seri Mohd Tajol Rosli Ghazali and his wife.

ABOVE: The Sultan adjusting the slash and BELOW: bestowing the DK award

The title of Raja Puan Besar Perak which is meant for the consort of the Raja Muda Perak had been vacant since two decades ago following the demise of the Raja Muda then, Raja Ahmad Siffuddin Sultan Iskandar Shah, in April 1987. It was last held by Raja Ahmad Siffuddin’s consort Raja Nor Izan Raja Abdul Rashid for three years and after his demise, she used the title of Yang Teramat Mulia. Raja Nor Izan died on July 14, 1998. Tuanku Zara, 34, the youngest of four siblings, graduated in chemical engineering from Nottingham University and had served with Petronas subsidiary Petlin (M) Sdn Bhd as product manager. She had also been vice-president (Partnerships & Alliances) of technology-based Formis (Malaysia) Berhad, listed on Bursa Malaysia.

Before marrying the Raja Muda, Ipoh-born Tuanku Zara was managing director of Kuala Lumpur-based Forthwave Consulting Sdn Bhd which is involved in software development and hydrocarbon technical engineering. The only daughter of well-known lawyer Salim Davidson and Sharifah Azaliah, the sports-loving Tuanku Zara was a Perak state swimmer. Sharifah Azaliah is the daughter of Kedah’s third Menteri Besar and Tunku Aminah Sultan Abdul Hamid Halim Shah, who was the sister of Malaysia’s first Prime Minister Tunku Abdul Rahman Putra Al-Haj. The marriage of Tuanku Zara and Raja Nazrin will strengthen the already close Kedah-Perak royal ties.

Watch the 57 sec Video Clip on

Tuanku Zara Salim being proclaimed Raja Puan Besar Perak – 18 May 07; now addressed as Duli Yang Teramat Mulia Raja Puan Besar Perak Darul Ridzuan, Tuanku Zara Salim

ABOVE: Before the proclamation, known as Zara Salim Davidson

= = == = = = = = =

= = = == = == = == =

ABOVE: After being proclaimed, now addressed as Duli Yang Teramat Mulia Raja Puan Besar Perak Darul Ridzuan, Tuanku Zara Salim.

At the ceremony, Sultan Azlan Shah also bestowed Tuanku Zara with the Darjah Kerabat Seri Paduka Sultan Azlan Shah Perak Yang Dihormati (DKSA), the highest award specially given to a member of the royal family.

= = == UPDATE

Sultans Of Kedah, Selangor To Attend Raja Nazrin's 'Bersanding'

May 18, 2007 19:26 PM

KUALA KANGSAR, May 18 (Bernama) -- The Sultan of Kedah Sultan Abdul Halim Mu'adzam Shah and Sultan of Selangor Sultan Sharafuddin Idris Shah will be attending the bersanding ceremony of the Raja Muda of Perak Raja Dr Nazrin Shah and his consort, Raja Puan Besar Perak Tuanku Zara Salim, at Istana Iskandariah in Bukit Chandan, tomorrow evening. The Kedah Sultan, who is also the Deputy Yang di-Pertuan Agong, will be accompanied by his consort Sultanah Hamimah Hamidun. The wedding which is being held on a moderate scale, will be attended by the two Sultans because they are related to the royal couple.

Prime Minister Datuk Seri Abdullah Ahmad Badawi and his deputy Datuk Seri Najib Tun Razak and wife are also among the 800 royal guests, dignitaries and others invited to the ceremony, which is the culmination of the three-day wedding celebrations that began with the `akad nikah' (solemnisation of marriage) on Thursday and the proclamation of Tuanku Zara as the new Raja Puan Besar Perak today. As for the Cabinet ministers, only those from Perak or those who received their Datukship from the state were invited. Among them are Works Minister Datuk Seri S. Samy Vellu, Energy, Water and Communications Minister Datuk Seri Dr Lim Keng Yaik, Housing and Local Government Minister Datuk Seri Ong Ka Ting, International Trade and Industry Minister Datuk Seri Rafidah Aziz, and Rural and Regional Development Minister Datuk Seri Aziz Shamsuddin.

The royal wedding of the year will also be attended by the Raja Muda's close friends from within the country and abroad, including former Indonesian Minister of Environment Nabil Makarim who was Raja Nazrin's colleague at Harvard University in the United States. The bersanding ceremony which is expected to start at 8.50pm, will begin with the arrival of the three Sultans, followed by the royal court attendants bearing the royal regalia and the ladies-in-waiting bearing candles.

The royal couple dressed in traditional royal attire will then make an entrance and head towards the royal dais for the bersanding ceremony followed by the `merenjis' (blessing) ceremony which will begin with the Sultan of Kedah and his consort, Sultan of Perak and Tuanku Bainun and the Sultan of Selangor, followed by the eldest brother of the Sultan of Perak, Raja Datuk Seri Baharum Shah. Seven rounds of canon shot will be fired to mark the occasion at this time. Abdullah, Najib and Datin Seri Rosmah Mansor will then continue with the `merenjis' followed by Tuanku Zara's parents, Salim Davidson and Sharifah Azaliah Tan Sri Syed Omar Shahabudin. Meanwhile, in Kuala Kangsar's town centre, a feast for 5,000 sponsored by the people's prince Raja Nazrin, will be held at the Arena Square in addition to the Pesta Panjut (Oil Lamp Festival) and an impressive fireworks display.

= = == = Go H E R E for the Last Post (Final Part III) of the Royal Wedding - the Berstanding on 19th May 2007

MORE PICS & Video – Royal Wedding ends in Glittering “Berstanding” Ceremony - Steeped in royal customs; 800 guests - Royalties, Ministers & Datuks Graced Ceremony

MORE PICS & Video – Royal Wedding - Raja Muda Perak Raja Dr Nazrin Shah married Zara Salim Davidson - 17 May 07 at Istana Iskandariah in Bukit Chadan

If you have read the following, now Go to th next Post H E R E ON PART II

MORE PICS & Video - Tuanku Zara Salim proclaimed Raja Puan Besar Perak – 18 May 07; now addressed as Duli Yang Teramat Mulia Raja Puan Besar Perak Darul Ridzuan, Tuanku Zara Salim

= = = == = == = = = =End of PART I (May 17 2007)

May 19, 2007 11:55 AM

Bernama Not In Partnership With Any Telco On Royal Wedding Video Clips

KUALA LUMPUR, May 19 (Bernama) -- Bernama today clarified that it is not in any partnership with any telecommunications company to offer video clips of the royal wedding between the Raja Muda of Perak, Raja Dr Nazrin Shah, and Raja Puan Besar Tuanku Zara Salim. Commenting on a news report on a purported offer by a telecommunications company on the event, Bernama General Manager Datuk Azman Ujang said Bernama's management had not sanctioned the release of the footages via mobile devices or the Internet. He said Bernama would like to apologise for any confusion arising from the purported offer.
= = == == == = == =

Celcom Offers Exclusive Clips Of Raja Nazrin-Zara Wedding

UPDATE: May 18 2007

May 18, 2007 12:08 PM

KUALA KANGSAR, May 18 (Bernama) -- Celcom, in partnership with Bernama, the national news agency, is offering customers video clips of the three-day royal wedding of the Raja Muda of Perak, Raja Dr Nazrin Shah, and Raja Puan Besar Tuanku Zara Salim, which will culminate with the bersanding ceremony at Istana Iskandariah on Saturday. Seven clips, each two-minute long, will be made available after Saturday, Celcom said in a statement today. In addition, it will also offer two video streaming clips between 10 and 15 minutes long.

The video clips will include the "Akad Nikah" (solemnisation of marriage vows and "menyarung cincin" (wearing of the ring) ceremony which was held on Thursday, the proclamation of Tuanku Zara as the Raja Puan Besar Perak today and the "bersanding" (sitting in state) ceremony tomorrow. The clips can be accessed via the Channel X WAP portal at http://wap.channelX.com.my. The can be found under the videos&more menu. Customers will be charged 50 sen for the two-minute clips and 99 sen for streaming clips. The new mobile content Channel X also gives customers access to music, games and movies.According to Celcom, it now has the widest network coverage for both 2G, 3G and HSDPA in the country.

= = = =
Go mid Bottom to View the Video CVlip - 1 min 37s

May 17, 2007 11:33 AM

Raja Muda Perak And Zara Tie The Knot

ROYAL COUPLE… Raja Muda Perak Raja Dr Nazrin Shah slips a diamond ring over his bride’s finger.

= = == = = == = =

ABOVE: Ring for her and BELOW: Ring for him

ABOVE : Raja Muda Perak Raja Dr Nazrin Shah and Zara Salim Davidson after the “exchange of rings” in a solemnization ceremony are now Husband & Wife

KUALA KANGSAR, May 17 (Bernama) -- Raja Muda Perak Raja Dr Nazrin Shah and were married in a simple ceremony yet steeped in Perak royal custom, at Istana Iskandariah in Bukit Chandan here this morning.

The marriage was solemnised by Perak Mufti Datuk Seri Harussani Zakaria (ABOVE) and witnessed by Sultan of Perak Sultan Azlan Shah, Raja Permaisuri Perak Tuanku Bainun, other members of the Perak royal family and Zara's family at the Balai Istiadat (Ceremonial Hall) of the palace.



At 11am, Raja Nazrin, 50, who cut a dashing figure in a white baju Melayu with matching sampin, calmly pronounced the marriage vow once watched by about 300 guests. His younger brother Datuk Seri Raja Ashman Shah, who is the Raja Kecil Tengah of Perak, and Datuk Seri Mohd Salleh Ismail, the husband of Raja Nazrin's younger sister Datuk Seri Raja Azureen, were the witnesses for the akad nikah (marriage solemnisation). Zara's father, Salim Davidson (BELOW) had delegated the role of wali (guardian who gives away the bride) to Harussani for the marriage solemnisation with the signing of the letter of representation held at the palace yesterday.

The ceremony was also witnessed by Zara's mother Sharifah Azaliah Tan Sri Syed Omar Shahabudin and brother Jeffri. Zara is the great-granddaughter of the 24th Sultan of Kedah, Sultan Abdul Hamid Halim Shah, and granddaughter of Tunku Aminah and Syed Omar, Kedah's third Menteri Besar. After the marriage solemnisation, Harussani read the doa (thanksgiving prayer) followed by reciting of the Salawat Nabi (praises to the Prophet) by the Haqqani Maulud Ensemble. Sultan Azlan Shah and Tuanku Bainun then left the Balai Istiadat while Raja Nazrin went over to the next room where Zara, 34, was waiting for the bridegroom to slip the wedding ring over her finger.

ABOVE: Radzuan, the designer of Zara's wedding gown (BELOW)

Zara looked lovely and resplendent in a contemporary long kebaya of French lace liberally sprinkled with sparkling crystals and beads, teamed with matching chiffon sarong in ivory hue, and a three-metre veil of French netting adorned with crystals. The exquisite bridal ensemble is the creation of well-known local fashion designer, Kuala Kangsar-born Radzuan Radziwill. After being slipped the diamond ring by the bridegroom, Zara slipped a silver ring over Raja Nazrin's finger. She then kissed his hand and he kissed her forehead. The marriage solemnisation ceremony began with the Orang Kaya Temenggong Paduka Raja Datuk Seri Wan Fathir Wan Hussain paying homage to Sultan Azlan Shah to seek his permission to begin the ceremony.

Then royal court attendants brought in nine trays of gifts (ABOVE) from Raja Nazrin for his bride which included the `mas kahwin' (dowry) of 250 grammes of gold coins and a diamond ring. The bride's delegation, led by Datuk Tunku Hamdy Tunku Ahmad Tajuddin, handed over 11 trays bearing gifts, including a silver ring, to Raja Ashman for Raja Nazrin. The exchange of gifts was preceded by the presentation of a silver `tepak sirih' with gold trimmings bearing a five-tiered arrangement of betel leaves and cream roses and white hydrangeas.

ABOVE: One for the album before the ceremony starts; BELOW: Sultan of Perak Sultan Azlan Shah, Raja Permaisuri Perak Tuanku Bainun, other members of the Perak royal family and Zara's family at the Balai Istiadat (Ceremonial Hall) of the palace.

= = == == = =

ABOVE: Zara congratulated by a family member

Watch the Video Clip (1min 37 s);

= == = === = == =

= = = == = = = ==

Royal Bridal Gifts, Symbol Of Rich Cultural Heritage

May 17, 2007 17:47 PM

CULTURAL HERITAGE… (ABOVE) Zara's gifts to Raja Nazrin comes on 11 silver trays with gold trimmings, lined with yellow velvet and adorned with white roses.

KUALA KANGSAR, May 17 (Bernama) -- The exchange of bridal gifts between the Raja Muda of Perak Raja Dr Nazrin Shah and Zara Salim Davidson at Istana Iskandariah here today displayed a rich Malay cultural heritage. Raja Nazrin's gifts to his bride were placed on nine gold-plated trays lined with yellow velvet and decorated with gold and crystal flowers. Zara's gifts to Raja Nazrin came on 11 silver trays with gold trimmings, also lined with yellow velvet and adorned with white roses. The bride also received a diamond ring and 250 grammes of gold coins engraved in romanised and Jawi calligraphy with the words "Majlis Pernikahan Diraja Perak 17 Mei 2007" (Perak Royal Marriage Ceremony May 17, 2007). Raja Nazrin's gifts were brought into the Balai Istiadat (Ceremonial Hall) by royal court attendants in traditional attire and placed before Zara's family members. The gifts comprised an ornate `tepak sirih' (box for areca nut and betel leaves), a three-tiered `sirih junjung' (betel leaf arrangement), a jewellery set including a tiara and `kerongsang' (brooch), `bunga rampai' (potpourri) in crystal containers, prayer attire and hand fan, a set of clothes, handbag and a set of fragrance.

Zara's gifts to Raja Nazrin included a silver `tepak sirih' with gold trimmings, five-tiered `sirih junjung', Quran, prayer mat and prayer beads, a turquoise set of baju Melayu with matching woven sampin from Terengganu, a set of stone-studded buttons for the baju Melayu, two pieces of batik silk, a watch, floral-shaped fruit candy, `wajik' (glutinous rice sweetmeat) and two-tiered cake with royal icing, and potpourri.

Zara also gave a silver wedding band to Raja Nazrin. The exchange of gifts was followed by the solemnisation of marriage with Raja Nazrin seated on a yellow velvet `cior' (flat cushion) beautifully embroidered with gold threads, to pronounce the marriage vow. Perak Mufti Datuk Seri Harussani Zakaria solemnised the marriage before Sultan Azlan Shah and Tuanku Bainun, the bridegroom's parents, who were seated on the royal dais in the hall and watched by some 300 guests.

= = == =

MALAY HERITAGE… Datin Seri Zubidahtul Radthuan Muhammad Ali Piah sits before the specially constructed dais of her creation.

KUALA KANGSAR, May 17 (Bernama) -- While Raja Muda Perak Raja Dr Nazrin Shah was pronouncing his marriage vow at the Istana Iskandriah here today, the royal bride, Zara Salim Davidson, sat serenely on a specially constructed dais that captured the rich heritage of the Malays. It was specially made by Datin Seri Zubidahtul Radthuan Muhammad Ali Piah, the wife of Datuk Seri Mansur Raja Razman, who is the Comptroller of the Perak royal household.

Zubidahtul, who is also a member of the Perak nobility, said the triangle top of the dais was a gold-plated carving from Terengganu while the gold embroidered cloth background was from Kelantan. The square gold embroidered cushions with orchid motifs and yellow round pillow used to decorate the dais were made by craftsmen in Perak, she said. "I have had the idea for a long time, but it took me a week to complete it," she told Bernama here today. Placed on the left and right of the dais were gold-plated vases specially brought in from Kelantan to further add to the glitter of the wedding ceremony.

Zubidahtul said the design was unique and showcased the rich Malay heritage. She was also responsible for making the special cushion on which the Raja Muda sat when pronouncing his marriage vow. Zubidahtul, who also loves cooking, had also been part of the Malaysian delegation that was led by celebrity chef Redzuawan Ismail, better known as Chef Wan, to the "Gourmand World" in France in 2004 and was given the responsibility to introduce Perak royal dishes there. At today's ceremony, she also designed a special display showcasing Perak royal dishes.

= = =NB All pictures at this site have been enhanced for exposure, brightness, contrast & color. Surprisingly, the photos dished out by Bernama are ALL on the darker side and so is their Videos

= = == =

Now Go to th next Post Part II H E R E ON

MORE PICS & Video - Tuanku Zara Salim proclaimed Raja Puan Besar Perak – 18 May 07; now addressed as Duli Yang Teramat Mulia Raja Puan Besar Perak Darul Ridzuan, Tuanku Zara Salim

and then the link to the last Part III (Bersanding)

MORE PICS & Video - Protest by Enraged Women - Hell hath no fury like a woman scorned; NO Apology Yet from 2 BN Sexist MPs; Friday Meet with Shahrizat

Shahrizat to tackle 'bocor' MPs

Husna Yusop, Pauline Puah and R. Manirajan; SUN

KUALA LUMPUR (May 16, 2007): The Cabinet discussed the "bocor" issue today and mandated Women, Family and Community Development Minister Datuk Seri Shahrizat Jalil to handle the matter. Shahrizat has since arranged a meeting on Friday (May 18) morning with MPs Datuk Bung Mokhtar Radin (BN-Kinabatangan), who made the "bocor" remarks in the Dewan Rakyat, and Datuk Mohd Said Yusof (BN-Jasin), who supported him. In a statement after the cabinet meeting today, Shahrizat said the press would be informed of any press conference after that.

The statement deflated an anticipation by women non-governmental organisations of some form of decisive action by the Cabinet on this matter which had enraged women. This morning, an English newspaper (not theSun) had sent out SMS alerts (before Shahrizat's statement) saying Bung Mokhtar and Mohd Said had apologised to Batu Gajah MP Fong Po Kuan and all Malaysian women over the sexist remarks. Last week, during a heated exchange about the ceiling leakage in Parliament, Bung Mokhtar was quoted saying "Mana ada 'bocor'? Batu Gajah pun 'bocor' tiap-tiap bulan juga (Where is the leak? Batu Gajah MP also leaks every month)." Fong, who reviewed the video recording of the proceedings, said Mohd Said had supported Bung Mokhtar, saying: "When I wanted to debate on the serious issue, there was this scuffle and shouting."

Contacted, Bung Mokhtar (ABOVE) said he was not going to say anything pending the meeting with Shahrizat. On the SMS news alert, he said he withdrew the apology statement for the time being. He had also told the Sun in the morning he apologised to women "if he actually hurt their feelings". "Let me brief Shahrizat first on what actually transpired during the debate. Being a good listener and a good leader, I will comply by the Cabinet's decision," he said.

Mohd Said (ABOVE)called for a press conference in Parliament at 3pm today, purportedly to explain his side of the story but cancelled it after being informed of the Cabinet's decision. Bung Mokhtar said he had experienced a similar situation before when an opposition MP had called him 'binatang' and he had objected and asked for the statement to be withdrawn. "I did not make the remark to all women, I only addressed it to Fong. But since it concerned the DAP, they made a big thing out of a small matter," he said.

ABOVE: Batu Gajah MP pointing her finger at whom?

Asked on the matter in a function in the Defence Ministry, Deputy Prime Minister Datuk Seri Najib Abdul Razak, who is also the BN chief whip, said the two MPs had not intended to hurt or insult women. "They uttered the words during a debate as they were angry with the speech made by the Batu Gajah MP (Fong) (ABOVE)," he said. On whether the two MPs should make a public apology, he said the meeting on Friday should be allowed to go on first before any other decision is made. Minister in the Prime Minister's Department Datuk Seri Mohd Nazri Abdul Aziz felt it was unnecessary for the two MPs to apologise as it would be difficult for MPs to debate in the House in future. "You cannot control people's emotions all the time. This (Parliament) is not a place where you have academic exercise," he said in a press conference.

"These are all unguarded moments. I don't think the two have (an) agenda against Po Kuan, but it's the unguarded moments. I don't condone, but they all human beings." However, he said the duo owe an explanation to the women who had been offended by the reports, adding that the cabinet had no directive on how the duo should deal with the situation.

= = = = = == = = == = ==

Wednesday May 16, 2007; the STAR;

MPs apologise for sexist remarks
KUALA LUMPUR MPs Datuk Mohd Said Yusof (Jasin – BN) and Datuk Bung Mokhtar Radin (Kinabatangan – BN) have apologised to all Malaysian women for making the now infamous bocor remarks in Parliament last week. The remarks caused a nationwide furore, leading various women’s groups to protest against the two MPs outside the Women, Family and Community Development Ministry on Tuesday. "I am very sorry. I apologise to all women. It was a slip of the tongue, said in the heat of the moment," said Mohd Said, adding, "I respect all women and the liberation of women."

In Kota Kinabalu, Bung Mokhtar also expressed his apology to all women for his "unintended remarks." "It was not my intention to hurt any woman. "I said it in the heat of an argument with DAP members, who were calling me binatang (animal) and accusing the Barisan Nasional of corruption. "I strongly feel that women's feelings should be respected," he told The Star. Both MPs got into hot soup when they remarked, "mana bocor? Batu Gajah pun bocor setiap bulan" (Where is the leak, Batu Gajah [MP Fong Po Kuan] also leaks every month) during a heated argument last week over a leaked ceiling.

= = == = = == = = = == = == =

Angry women demand apology from sexist MPs

By : June Ramli, NST; 2007/05/16
Some of the protesters who gathered at the Women, Family and Community Development Ministry to highlight their anger at the sexist remarks made by the two MPs in parliament.
KUALA LUMPUR: They fumed, they shouted and they demanded an apology from two members of parliament who had uttered sexist remarks. More than a hundred women gathered at the Women, Family and Community Development Ministry yesterday to urge action against the MPs for the remarks made in parliament. They only left when the minister, Datuk Shahrizat Abdul Jalil, came out to calm them and accept a statement of protest. Shahrizat, who spent about five minutes talking to the protesters, said: "Please don’t be over emotional, we know that it is very important to be gender sensitive and that sexist remarks should not be made in parliament. I will bring it up to the cabinet."

Backbenchers Datuk Radin Bung Mokhtar (BN-Kina- batangan) and Datuk Mohd Said Yusuf (BN-Jasin) are said to have passed sexist remarks to Fong Po Kuan (DAP-Batu Gajah). "Where is the leak, the member for Batu Gajah also leaks once a month," they were alleged to have said. Since then, both MPs have come under fire from various groups and individuals., remained in front of the ministry from 10.30am to noon. The banners screamed words such as "Unthinking Male MPs", "More Women MPs less MCPs", and "Hina Wanita tak layak Jadi Pemim- pin" (Those who degrade women do not deserve to be leaders). The protesters, from various non-governmental organisations and political parties, called themselves the Joint Action Group for Gender Equality (JAG). Leaders of the various organisations addressed the gathering. Maria Chin Abdullah, the executive director of Women’s Development Collective, who spoke on behalf of JAG, called for a public apology from the MPs.

MCA Cheras division branch head Felicia Ling said: "Just because the sexist remarks were said by two Barisan Nasional MPs it does not mean that the BN is not gender sensitive. "We want the minister and the government to take the necessary action and I want to tell them that 50 per cent of the population (all the women) is behind you on this so there is nothing to be afraid of."

Sisters In Islam executive director Zainah Anwar said the situation was not funny any more. "I would like to say that Mokhtar, Said, Datuk Mohamad Aziz (Sri Gading-BN), Abdul Fatah Harun (Rantau Panjang-Pas) and Datuk Badruddin Amirulddin (Jerai-BN) should not be selected to contest in the next general election. "And if they are selected, I urge the voters to reject them. We will also campaign to enlighten their voters as to why we think they are not fit to be elected," she said. Women’s Aid Organisation president Meera Samanther said MPs should not utter such remarks. Other groups which took part in the protest included the All Women Action Society, Women’s Centre for Change, Malaysian Trades Union Congress and the DAP.

ABOVE: From Malaysiakini 30 s Video Clip H E R E

Watch Video Clip (2min) - Protest by Enraged & Scorned Women - Hell hath no fury like a woman scorned; NO Apology Yet from the 2 BN Sexist MPs; Friday Dressing down by Shahrizat?
Shahrir: Apologise outside Parliament; Nazri; Beyond Control:Najib Wait for outcome

= = == = == =


= = = == = = =

ABOVE: From Malaysiakini - 5 min Video Clip HERE

MORE Pics & Video: ABDULLAH ALIVE & KICKING; Tired Condition Due to Heat Exhaustion; Rumors in the Net that he had “Fainted” Spread like Wire Fire

May 14, 2007 17:46 PM

Blogger Can Be Hauled Up For Slander
KUALA LUMPUR, May 14 (Bernama) -- The blogsite operator who reported that Prime Minister Datuk Seri Abdullah Ahmad Badawi fainted at a function in Lumut, Perak, Sunday could face action including being charged under the Sedition Act if the article contained elements of slander.

Deputy Minister of Energy, Water and Communications Datuk Shaziman Abu Mansor (ABOVE) said the ministry was studying the report before deciding on the type of action to be taken against the blogger.

"I have not read the report in the blogsite but if there are elements of slander, action can be taken under the Penal Code. This comes under the Internal Security Ministry," he told reporters at the parliament lobby here today. He was commenting on a report in a blogsite that Abdullah fainted at the function in Lumut. The Prime Minister has since denied the report and regretted its inaccuracy.

Shaziman said his ministry would cooperate with the Internal Security Ministry in identifying the blogger. In addition, the blogger could also be charged under the Communications and Multimedia Commission Act 1998, and if found guilty could be fined RM50,000 or one years' jail or both. Asked whether the government would control blogsites to prevent a recurrence, Shaziman said the government was holding on to the "bill of guarantee" under the Act which did not allow censorship of the Internet. However, action could be taken against bloggers under other Acts.

Meanwhile, Umno information chief Tan Sri Muhammad Mohd Taib (ABOVE) described the report in the blogsite as inaccurate and "naughty" and made by certain people out to destabilise Umno and the government. "Bloggers always want to confuse the people by reporting untruths, and their postings are usually inclined towards the Opposition. They hope to create panic and adverse effects on certain sectors," he added. Muhammad hoped the government would take stern action against bloggers who pose a threat to peace and national security.

= = == = ==
In a news breaking story, Malaysiakini at 9.34 pm on Friday 13th May 2007, had a report that PM Abdullah had collapsed. The story was rife in the internet that he had fainted in a function. Bernama came out with a denial at 8.38 pm (see below) and the internet rumors was amended that he “almost collapsed”. But he appeared in time with TV3 to show that he is alive and kicking with a testimony from his doctor. But for how long can he last with his punishing schedule at his age? Will he slow down for the GE and let his deputy do the right thing?

ABOVE: Alive and kicking on late TV3 - 13th May 2007; Lack of Sleep or Unable to Sleep? Not enough "wine & song" & a companion to relax?

Watch the Video Clip (1m 22s)

= = = = == = = == =


= = = == = == = = =
I'm fine,says PM : Abdullah dismisses speculation about his health
By : M. Husairy Othman; NST;
007/05/14
LUMUT: A hale and hearty Datuk Seri Abdullah Ahmad Badawi yesterday dismissed reports on the Internet that he was ill and had fainted during a function in Teluk Batik near here. "I am fine, don't worry," the prime minister said. Abdullah said a series of tests had been carried out after he lost his balance during a presentation of keys for a housing project for the poor. The tests, including an electrocardiogram (ECG), revealed he was in good health.

"Maybe I was tired, and the weather was extremely hot. Furthermore, I did not have enough sleep the previous night," he said. He expressed relief that the test results showed nothing negative and criticised bloggers for inaccurate reporting. Abdullah says it was hot and he was tired "What did they see?" he asked. Abdullah was speaking at a hastily arranged press conference at the Damai Laut Resort after rumours spread on the Internet that he had "collapsed" during the ceremony. He said that at the function yesterday, Perak Menteri Besar Datuk Seri Tajol Rosli Ghazali remarked that he did not look well. "My speech was not that long and when they asked me to present the mock keys, I heard the MB's remark, and I sat down," he said. His personal physician, Dr Sanjiv Joshi, who was present at the press conference, stressed that basic baseline investigations showed there was nothing wrong with the prime minister.

"In fact, he is as healthy as he can be. "He wanted to play golf but I was the one who stopped him," he said. Dr Joshi said that it was just a case of heat exhaustion, which could happen to anyone. After the press conference, Abdullah headed for Pangkor Laut to attend a Barisan Nasional Backbenchers Club dinner. He was in a jovial mood and was seen having a conversation with a Pakistani couple and exchanging jokes. Later, at the dinner, Abdullah reminded BN representatives to take good care of their health, despite their hectic lifestyles. He quipped that there might be many more by-elections if the BN representatives were not healthy
= = == = = = = == = = =

Abdullah Says Not To Worry, He's Alright

LUMUT, May 13 (Bernama) -- "I am well. Don't worry," said Prime Minister Datuk Seri Abdullah Ahmad Badawi, refuting a claim spread through the Internet that he had fainted while attending a people's feast at the launching of the Hadhari Square in Teluk Batik here Sunday afternoon. "I will continue with the programmes that been arranged for me," he told reporters here Sunday night.

"The doctor had conducted several tests on me including ECG, blood and blood pressure and these were found to be normal," added Abdullah who was examined by his personal physician Dr Sanjiv Joshi. Earlier when presenting the keys to nine recipients of houses built under the Barisan Nasional Backbenchers Club (BNBBC) community service programme, at the people's feast, Abdullah appeared to be losing balance and almost collapsed but was held by Perak Menteri Besar Datuk Seri Tajol Rosli Ghazali and BNBBC acting chairman Datuk Raja Ahmad Zainuddin Raja Omar. Abdullah who arrived in Perak this morning to close the BNBBC community programme, had earlier joined the BNBBC members in building homes for three families in Kampung Tanjung Burung in Ujung Pasir, Pantai Remis.

The Prime Minister continued with the gotong-royong by planting trees at Kampung Batu 4, Segari, near here, before moving on to Teluk Batik to close the community programme and join the people's feast. Abdullah said his condition could be due to the heat as the weather was very hot and his lack of sleep last night. "I'm relieved now (after the doctor's examination). At first I was worried too. I thank the Almighty that I'm alright," he added.

He recalled that after giving his speech, he sat on stage and when handing over the house-keys to the recipients, he felt terribly tired. Meanwhile, Dr Sanjiv said Abdullah's condition was due to heat exhaustion. "From the medical examination, his health condition is found to be good and there's nothing to worry about," he added. Dr Sanjiv said the heat exhaustion could hit anybody as the temperature was reported to be at 44 degrees Celcius.

"The Menteri Besar noticed that I appeared unwell. So I sat down and when I felt better I continued handing over the keys to the recipients," Abdullah said, adding that he was then examined by his personal doctor. Asked by reporters whether he felt he was going to faint, he said he did not. And on how he was feeling now, he said: "I'm alright. Don't worry, I take care of my health. I will continue with tonight's programme.

"Raja Ahmad Zainuddin said he was at the function and the claim that the Prime Minister had fainted was not true. "I was on stage too. The Prime Minister did not faint as claimed by the blogs. He just sat down for a while as he was tired as the heat was at 44 degrees Celsius. "I'm surprised how the rumour could be spread through the Internet," he added. Tonight, Abdullah attended the closing of the BNBBC 2007 Retreat programme and scheduled to return to Kuala Lumpur tomorrow. The three-day programme involved 100 BN Members of Parliament and Perak assemblymen. The activities included looking at the development in Perak, dialogue with BN leaders, community service programme and sports.

Meanwhile, speaking at the closing of the BNBBC Retreat programme at the Pangkor Laut Resort, near here, Abdullah also related what happened to him earlier in the day. Abdullah said following the medical examination, the doctor advised him not to play golf after the afternoon function although he felt okay. "The doctor said to me, `you have to rest as you've worked hard'," he added. In light of this, Abdullah asked the elected representatives to work smart by spending quality time with the people, listening to their problems and seriously solving them as it was their responsibility. "At the same time, you must take care of your health. Otherwise, there'll be a by-election," he said in jest. The Prime Minister will hold a closed-door dialogue with the BNBBC members at the resort tomorrow morning.
= = = == = =
May 13, 2007 20:38 PM

PM Denied Rumours Spread In Internet That He Collapsed

LUMUT, May 13 (Bernama ) -- Prime Minister Datuk Seri Abdullah Ahmad Badawi denied rumours spread in the internet that he collapsed while attending a people feast and officating Dataran Hadhari at Teluk Batik, Lumut at noon

= = == See also H E R E on

More protest and outrage against the sexist remarks by the 2 BN MPs. DAP lead by Lim Guan Eng and others submitted a memo to the Deputy Premier and Najib’s reply:

“Up to Parliament to decide; I don’t want to pass judgment. They said it…. not to be taken seriously. take it with a sense of humour,... but people are making a BIG MEAL out of this issue”

.Watch the video Clip – Sack the 2 BN Sexist MPs” (1m 37s) on the Protest, Najib’s reply and Datuk Wong Kam Hoong, Deputy Culture, Arts and Heritage Minister dressing down of the 2 BN MPs in the Dewan Negara and pictures of Actual Parliament water leakages and other details