Friday, May 22, 2009

通过改变领导

周美芬雪隆海南会馆大专之夜--开幕词
21/5/09 , 天后宫

听闻海南会馆属下拥有一个以专业背景会员组成的队伍已有一段时间,没想到今天有机会和大家见面并针对今天大会的主题:《通过改变领导》分享一些个人的看法。

各位,我不是经济专才无法和您分享在经济领域上我们应该通过怎样的改变以达到更大的进步。 但在个人的历程上,尤其是经历过了人生起落,生死一线的过程,同时预期未来将面对更多的挑战的现在,我想对于人生为什么必须改变以顺应、回应或超越眼前的一切,我已有了一定的体悟!

我今天想和大家谈的是我国政坛在过去这几年来的变化,让我们回顾伯拉2003年接棒成为我国第5任首相,并于2004年带领国阵赢得了前所未有的胜利的时候,当时的国阵为什么会赢得辉煌的胜利?因为经历了敦马22年的领导之后,人们开始对现况感觉到不满了,开始怀疑如果国家依旧如此由同一个领导带领,我们还会有什么不同的创建或什么不同的改变和改进吗? 看了22年,感受了22年,过去的22年来我们确实从一个落后的国家发展到今天先进的荣景,但这种荣景还能维持多久?我们在进步,但周遭是否还有更多的国家正以比我们更为快速的步伐在进步?因此,大家都期望有新的气息,有新的元素或甚至新的刺激,因此, 当伯拉在大家对敦马的领导开始觉得沉闷的时候出现,同时提出了许多人民心中所想看到的远景,许下了许多人们希望看到落实的承诺的时候,伯拉给了人们无限的希望与为当时的国家注入了无限的活力!

2008年,经历了五年伯拉的领导后,人们从当初的欣喜到后来的愤怒与失望,从当初的期待到最后的失落与失望,如果我们说伯拉当初只是为了赢取选票而没有改变的诚意的话,我想对伯拉来说是非常不公平的!我们只能说伯拉的改革魄力抵不住既得利益集团的压力,使得他的改革必须延迟到他从最高跌到最低的谷底,决定退位而无所畏惧的时候才得以推行,而当他全力推行的时候,人们再也不稀罕了,因为人民对他的领导已无所期待。。。。

今天,我们的第6任首相上台了,他提出了一个全民马来西亚的口号,一个大家感觉蛮好,但概念尚不很清晰的理念,但可以确定的是,我们的首相他已收到了来自民间的声音,他开始尝试摆脱种族政治的束缚,尝试以民为本,以全民为本!他上台后的第一个良好施政是改教的政策!这个政策让他受尽来自于回教党和宗教极端分子的抨击,把它说成了违反宪法者; 他开放27个领域的股权,也导致他被批判为改变其父亲新经济政策的不肖子!我们现任的首相,他的上台和伯拉不同,他的上台是带着沉重的个人与政党抱负的,环绕于他个人的案件虽然对方无法出示任何的证据证明他涉及,但依旧如鬼魅附身,挥之不去;国家政局纷乱,国阵政权受到前所未有的挑战!他要走出个人的困境,他要带领国阵走出明天,明显的,他不得不带动改变,而这种改变必须是大刀阔斧的,必须是强而有力,而且是能够让人民感觉兴奋的!尤其是在目前这种人为政治纷乱的局势之中,改变如果不大,他将引不起注意,引不起注意也就失去了政治的效应!

然而,各位,改变是要付出代价!纳吉刚上台的几项政策获得普遍好评!但也同时惊醒了捍卫种族与宗教主权的“猛虎”,我们虽然口口声声的说国内已没有了种族政治,但直到成绩揭晓那一天,没有人知道会有什么样的效果!就如308大选,我们虽然知道反风很强,但没有人会知道它强到哪一个级别,以我自己为例,我由于了解自己选区选民的心态,我老早已做好准备可能会败选,但依旧有许多人在选前一天仍然在赌我赢9千票,有同志告诉我说,我就不相信8年的耕耘会因为一阵风而毁于一旦!但事实就是如此,即使在成绩出现后,有一位电台的DJ告诉我,她连续问了她的上司近10次:“周美芬输了吗?”,事实还是无法改变!人民求变,要变的心愿是很强的!

以我们大家的SHUKIKOH 拿督斯里翁诗杰为例,他向来给人的印象是敢怒敢言,最近面对马来权威组织(PERKASA)的严辞批评,他依然不改本色直接回应!他坚持对于道德价值的评断,他坚持原则,对于某些事情他不妥协就是不妥协,这和以往那种为了党内和谐不惜招“安”,即使有关的“安”一点也不安的领导风格是一种极大的改变,而这种改变,也使得他受尽了批评!

再以我们马华公会前任总会长拿督斯里黄家定为例,为了避免恋权、滥权,他是第一位限制总会长任期的政党领袖,他喊出了:“堂正做人,清白做官,踏实做事”的口号,他要打造健康政治文化,他其实在308大选之前就已看到了症结所在,他知道如果政治文化不改,滥权贪腐迟早会使我们一败涂地,可惜的是,马华独自的改,改变不了整个国阵的政治形态,马华的改赶不上人民求变的速度,所以马华改了几年到最后还是输掉了大半壁的江山!

所以各位,总结以上,改变是必须的,即使我们可能因此必须付出代价,而且改变必须及时,必须要快,太慢的改变无济于事,太迟的改变必须花更长的时间重新赢回,无论如何只要愿意改变,并做出改变,即使被击败,那也只是暂时的失败,至少根基还是稳的,反扑的时机还是会来到!

在改变到来前已带动改变的人,将永远领导,
在需要改变的时候改变的人,可以稳住阵脚,不至於后退,
在改变到来后才如梦初醒做出改变的人,还有重新站起来的机会,
改变已到来却冥顽不灵的人,将永远落寞失败!
一成不变是沉闷的,改变是必须的,也是大家所期待的!“改变”是我们求取进步与卓越的座右铭!

仅以以上和大家共勉!并以愉快的心情宣布今天的讲座会正式开幕。

谢谢。

Leading Through Change

Speech By Chew Mei Fun @ Hainan Pro Nite
on 21/5/09 @Thean Hou Temple

I have heard of a professional group under the umbrella of the association of Hainan for quite some time. However, I did not expect to have the opportunity today to meet you and to share some personal views for today's theme of "LEADING THROUGH CHANGE". Thank you for inviting me to officiate your seminar today.

Ladies and gentlemen, I am not an economist. I cannot tell you how we could change in the economic arena to achieve greater progress. However, from the perspective of an individual, in particular, after experiencing ups and downs of life, the uncertainties in life, and at the same time expecting to face more challenges in the future, I think I have a certain amount of understanding on what must be changed in order to respond to situations or to look beyond current success or failures!

What I want to talk about today is the changes in the Malaysian political arena over the past few years. Let us look into Pak Lah taking over the premiership in 2003 to become the 5th prime minister and in 2004 led the National Front to an unprecedented victory. At that time, why the National Front won brilliantly? Because having experienced 22 years of leadership by Tun Dr Mahathir, people began to feel dissatisfied with the situation then, and began to wonder if the State were still to be led by the same leadership, would we will experience any difference or will there be any changes and improvements? Looking back, in the past 22 years, we rose up from an underdeveloped country to achieving economic boom and development, but how long can this boom last? Yes, no doubt that we're making progress, are our neighbouring countries progressing more rapidly than us? Therefore, we all look forward to a new life, a new idea, or even to a new stimulus. Pak Lah took over at the time when people started to feel bored with Tun Mahathir’s leadership. And when people wanted to see implementation of commitments, Pak Lah succeeded in giving the people boundless of hopes and injected vitality into the country at that time particularly with the tagline “Work with me and not for me”!

By 2008, the people had experienced Pak Lah ‘s five years of leadership. The initial joy of hope turned into anger and disappointment. If we were to say that Pak Lah was not committed to change and was just out to win votes, I would say it is very unfair to Pak Lah! We could only say that the reform mission of Pak Lah could not cope with the mounting pressure of vested interests group, which eventually forced him to delay reform until the time he fell to the pit from the highest point. And finally when he decided to step down and fearlessly implemented some reform, unfortunately by then the people were not expecting anything from his leadership.

Today, the 6th prime minister took office, he raised a slogan of “One Malaysia”, which gives a feel good feeling of inclusiveness, sense of belonging and sense of togetherness. Although some may feel that this is merely a concept, but the certainty is that our Prime Minister was prepared to listen and has heard the voices of civil society, and thus began to shake off the shackles of ethnic politics and to be people-oriented! He came to power with good directives premised on change and in the interest of all. Subsequent to the policy on religion of children in the event one parent converts to Islam, he suffered and was even attacked by the Islamic Party and the religious fundamentalists. They accused the directive as a violation of the Constitution. The opening up of 27 fields of equity has also led to criticism of him as an unfilial son changing the economic policies of his late father! Our current prime minister came into power with a heavy personal and political burden. He is also surrounded by accusations and allegations although there is no proven evidence produced but still possessed, like ghosts and refused to go away. In addition, he also has to face up to the country's political instability. BN has suffered an unprecedented array of challenges! In the interest of all, he is leading the National Front on a path to the future, thus obviously, Najib has to drive change, and this change must be big, bold, and exiting! Particularly in the current man-made political chaos, if change were not bold enough, he would not garner attention nor support and would certainly lose out in terms of political mileage!

However, that change has a price to pay! Najib came to power with a few policies which were generally well received! But at the same time it has awakened the ethnic and religious "Tigers" to defend their sovereignty. While we have repeatedly claimed that there is no more communal politics, however until the day of announcement of the results, no one knew the effects of communal politics! As we can observe from the 308 general election, we knew as a fact that there was a strong current. However, no one knew exactly the extent of it. Take for instance my own experience: I understand the mentality of the voters in my constituency; as a result I am ready for defeat. But even until the day before the election, there were many who still favoured me to the extent of speculating a majority of 9 thousand votes. There were comrades who told me that they did not believe that 8 years of hard work can just destroyed by a gust of wind! But the fact remains. Even after the results, a radio DJ told me that she asked her boss repeatedly in disbelief: "Chew Mei Fun lost it?”. One can not change the fact! People change, the desire to change is strong!

Let’s take SHUKIKOH Datuk Seri Ong Tee Keat as an example; he always gives us the impression of being outspoken. Recently when the Malay organization (PERKASA) sternly criticised him, he still did not change his colour in responding in a very direct manner! He insisted on the moral values, he insisted on the principle, he will not compromise on things which cannot and should not be compromised. His leadership style is a great deal of change to some, and such a change, also caused him to suffer from some severe criticism!

Our former MCA president Datuk Seri Ong Ka Ting proposed a term limit for party leader. He was the first president to introduce such policy based on the rationale that holding onto a position for too long may result in abuse of power. In fact, he initiated the slogan "Integrity, Fair and just, commitment in discharging duties". He wanted to create a healthy political culture. He actually understood the crux of the matter before the 308 election, he knew that if there were no change in political culture, corruption and abuse of power will permeate the party and failure would await. However, it is a pity while MCA is changing, we can not quite change the whole political culture of the National Front. Unfortunately, despite MCA undergoing change in the last few years, MCA could not catch up with the speed of change of the people, thus resulting in the loss of more than half of the seats contested by MCA.

Ladies and gentlemen, as a conclusion, change is necessary, even if we must pay the price. Change must be timely and must be fast. It would be pointless to change at a low speed. Delay in changing, may result in us having to spend a longer period time to win back and regain trust. Thus, in any case as long as there is will to change and make a change, even if one were to be defeated, that would only be a temporary failure- for at least once the foundation is solidly build, it would be good enough to make a comeback!

A leader who drives to change the people before changes come, will always be in need. A leader who changes when people change, can still hold her ground. Leaders, who wake up only when changes are needed, still have the opportunity to stand up again. However, a leader who is stubborn when there is a need for change, will always be a lonely failure! Therefore, Change is necessary, “Change" is our motto to make progress and to strive for excellence!

With that, I would now announce the official opening of the seminar, thank you.

Tuesday, May 19, 2009

男女比例10對1‧婦女感染愛滋大增

星洲日報/大都會‧2009.05.16

周美芬(右2)向寫作培訓營成員講解如何寫部落格;左起為溫素婷、葉琰明、江雪霞、蔡鳳玲;右是王妤珊。(圖:星洲日報)

(吉隆坡)婦女、家庭及社會發展部副部長拿汀巴杜卡周美芬表示,該部對婦女感染愛滋病及帶病毒,有逐漸上升的趨勢感到擔憂。

她指出,1993年的數據顯示男女愛滋病及帶病毒的比例是70對1,但目前有關數據已增加至10對1。

2008年數據顯示,大馬有超過8萬4000人感染HIV病毒,其中女性患者達7538人,而年齡13歲以下兒童則有812人。

“愛滋病和帶病毒不僅是一種生理上的疾病,也涉及患者的個人行為和生活價值,政府已制定國家愛滋病策略藍圖,以遏止愛滋病蔓延、減低感染和死亡率,和減少對個人、家庭和社會所帶來的影響。”

她表示,婦女部會和非政府組織合作,包括提供輔導咨詢服务和主辦培訓課程等讓患者參與。

周美芬週六(5月16日)出席粉紅三角基金會(PT Foundation)所主辦的“2009世界愛滋紀念日”活動後,在新聞發佈會上如此表示。

周美芬:有需要勿遲疑‧殘疾學生速申請援助

星洲日報/大北馬‧2009.05.17

(玻璃市‧加央)婦女、家庭及社會發展部副部長拿汀巴杜卡周美芬說,目前婦女部正在尋找貧戶,以在貧戶計劃下提供援助。

因此她希望來自貧困家庭的學生家長,若需要幫助,不要遲疑向福利局申請援助。

她週五(5月15日)在亞婁華益學校禮堂會見及協助此校殘疾學生申請福利時,這麼說。

每月撥90萬助4900貧戶

她說,政府每個月撥出90萬令吉福利金給玻州4900名貧戶,有關受惠者長期享有的福利金。

周美芬在會見及協助華益學校3名殘疾學生,即六年級視障學生楊曉薇,三年級失聰學生周連傑和經常面對假左眼球掉落的一年級生黃成丰申請福利金後說,視障學生若要取得援助金,必須提呈醫藥證明書及眼睛估價單,560令吉的眼鏡將在1個月內交給有關學生的父母。

出席者包括周美芬的高級機要秘書林柏森、州議員傅子初、州特別助理李思清、市議員梁瑞蓮及馬華玻州聯委會署理主席拿督黃雅蘭。

在華益學校董事長陳開平、校友會主席蔡天喜、秘書黃國生、理事黃華忠、校長林土和副校長莊彩妮的陪同下,周美芬也巡視及瞭解此校發展計劃及新籃球場地段,以便能為此校申請撥款充作學校發展基金。

Monday, May 18, 2009

周美芬:去年349人受訓85單親媽媽投身社會

中国报 17/5/09

(八打靈再也17日訊)家庭及社會發展部副部長拿汀巴社卡周美芬說,據該部資料顯示,去年共有349名單親媽媽受訓,目前已有85人投身中小型企業服務。

她說,這項設立于全國11州,包括登嘉樓、檳城、彭亨、聯邦直轄區和森美蘭的單親媽媽短期訓練課程,計有美容、烹飪、裁縫、手工藝品、保姆及導遊等,旨在提供免費訓練,提升單親媽媽的生活技能。

她說,這也是第9大馬計劃下消除貧窮,尤其為單親媽媽所做出的特別計劃。若單親媽媽有任何需要尋求協助,可撥該部熱線15999。

周美芬今日受邀出席屈臣氏(Watsons)、高雅國際美容集團及Maybelline聯辦的彩繪化妝參加人數最多而列入大馬紀錄大全的儀式上,這么指出。出席者包括大馬屈臣氏總經理古威打、高雅創辦人拿汀徐高雅、Maybelline總經理柯廷豐及大馬紀錄大全總執行長拿督黃罕榮。

另外,高雅國際美容集團也派出來自各地學院100名美容師,臨場為女性彩繪化妝,同時慶祝母親節。

彩繪化妝參加人數列入大馬紀錄大全

周美芬(中)主持彩繪化妝參加人數最多列入大馬紀錄大全儀式。
Utusan Malaysia 18/5/2009
Program I-KIT bantu 85 ibu tunggal berniaga

PETALING JAYA 17 Mei - Seramai 85 daripada 349 ibu tunggal di seluruh negara berjaya memulakan perniagaan secara kecil-kecilan selepas menamatkan kursus latihan melalui Program Inkubator Kemahiran Ibu Tunggal (I-KIT) tahun lalu.

Timbalan Menteri Pembangunan Wanita, Keluarga dan Masyarakat, Senator Datin Paduka Chew Mei Fun berkata, program I-KIT diperkenalkan melalui Rancangan Malaysia Kesembilan (RMK-9) dan diuruskan oleh agensi di bawah kementeriannya iaitu Jabatan Pembangunan Wanita (JPW).

"JPW telah bekerjasama dengan beberapa pertubuhan bukan kerajaan (NGO) dan syarikat swasta untuk menawarkan latihan kepada ibu tunggal dalam bidang jahitan, kecantikan, masakan, kraf tangan, asuhan kanak-kanak dan pelancongan.

"Ibu-ibu tunggal juga berpeluang menceburi bidang keusahawanan dengan memasarkan produk keluaran mereka selepas menamatkan kursus latihan mereka," katanya.

Beliau berkata demikian kepada pemberita selepas merasmikan acara solekan anjuran bersama Watsons Personal Care Stores Sdn. Bhd., Clara International Beauty Group dan Maybelline New York di sini hari ini.

Acara tersebut menyasarkan lebih 1,600 peserta agar ia mampu dicatatkan dalam Malaysia Book of Records (MBOR) sebagai acara solekan terbesar di negara ini.

Mei Fun berkata, kerajaan sentiasa prihatin terhadap kebajikan ibu tunggal di negara ini dan mahu membantu mereka meningkatkan taraf ekonomi diri dengan menceburi bidang keusahawanan.

"Selain itu, ibu tunggal yang berpendapatan di bawah RM720 sebulan layak memohon geran sebanyak RM2,700 daripada JPW untuk memulakan perniagaan secara kecil-kecilan," katanya.

Terdahulu, beliau dalam ucapannya berkata, isu-isu ibu tunggal memerlukan perhatian segera dan khusus daripada pelbagai pihak supaya golongan itu berupaya menempuh cabaran dalam kehidupan seharian.

"Antara isu yang sedang diteliti oleh pihak kementerian adalah kesihatan fizikal dan mental ibu tunggal serta bagaimana mereka hendak menyara kehidupan anak-anak termasuk masalah perundangan.

"Bagaimanapun, masalah utama yang kami hadapi dalam menyelesaikan isu-isu tersebut adalah kekurangan data berkenaan keperluan spesifik golongan ibu tunggal dan kesesuaian antara polisi sedia ada dengan program bantuan yang telah dirancangkan," katanya.

Surge in women HIV carriers

The Star News Sunday May 17, 2009

KUALA LUMPUR: More Malaysian women are being infected by HIV (Human Immunodeficiency Virus) through unprotected sex than needle sharing.

Deputy Women, Family and Community Development Minister Datin Paduka Chew Mei Fun said this could be observed from the rapid surge in the number of women HIV carriers.

She said the ratio between women and men infected with HIV was 1:70 in 1993 but now it is 1:10.


Raising AIDS consciousness: PT Foundation senior programme manager Mitch Yusmar (left) taking Chew for a tour after she opened the Multi-Faith Community Gathering in Kuala Lumpur on Saturday.

“Although the total number of AIDS patients has dropped, more women and children have been infected.

“We are very worried about the unstoppable spread of HIV in the country,” she said, adding that as of last year, Malaysia recorded some 84,000 HIV carriers. Last year alone, 3,692 new cases were reported and 900 people died of AIDS, she said.

Of the new cases, 48 were children and 704 women, Chew said after opening a Multi-Faith Commu- nity Gathering in conjunction with International AIDS Memorial Day at PT Foundation yesterday.

She praised the volunteers of PT foundation for their efforts and dedication to HIV/AIDS work that had led the non-profit body to win the Best NGO of the Year Award.

“You all have helped over 16% of the people under the Positive Living programme return to full-time em- ployment,” she said.

PT Foundation is a community-based organisation providing HIV/AIDS education and care programmes for marginalised communities, mainly sex workers, transsexuals and family members of AIDS patients.

Later at Wisma MCA, Chew, who is also MCA Wanita chief, opened a Blog and Writing Skills Seminar attended by 60 Wanita members.

On an unrelated issue, Chew said the wing’s Women and Children Aid Unit was expected to begin operation next month.

“We realised that many women and children who need assistance do not know the proper channels for seeking guidance or have no access to them,” she said.

Saturday, May 16, 2009

国阵前路坎坷

拨云见日(53)

当首相纳吉表示国阵可能不参加本南地的补选时,民联与民间都说这是因为国阵怕输;

当霹雳州政权胶着,人民呼吁解散州议会还政于民,国阵向法庭提出上诉时,民联与民间再次说这是因为国阵怕输!

敦马老人家在这个时候出来发声说,他认为,霹雳州不必重新举行选举,而是应该召开州议会对民联大臣尼查投下不信任票。原因是:

· 召开州选举不但浪费公款,而且民联也是稳操胜券。
· “选民早前已经做出选择,只不过是他们选出了一些跳槽者。这有何办法?”

敦马对于霹州如果再次举行州选所可能出现的成绩所做的预测,目前恐怕国阵民联双方人马都不会有太大的异议!这也就意味着还未上战场,大家都已认定如果举行选举,国阵将会输!

其实,从国阵在308大选输掉大半壁江山后,无法及时沉着应战,反而被安华的夺权虚招一再的玩弄于指掌之间,随安华916夺权计划起舞,搞得党内外鸡犬不宁,国阵议员避游台湾,蔡天强等人作状赴台撬脚开始,国阵在这场政治的谋略战中就已尽处下风!

然而,安华万万预料不到自己夺权不成,凡遭夺权!起因正是民联中出现了三位离队投敌的议员!

有人说,如果当初国阵是通过议会对尼查投不信任票取得政权的话,目前的情况不会出现;

我认为,未必!以西华主持会议一再否决动议的方式看来,要提呈投不信任动议可能也会遭他否决。

以目前民情一面倒,民间连民联一再刻意制造补选都可以接受、连蔡天强把回教国问题比喻为清道夫的课题都没有什么反应、连回教党反对国阵政府的改教政策都能静若寒蝉,行动党从不谴责回教党的极端言论却不受责难看来,霹州政权对国阵而言虽然重要但已非首要,更重要的是如何扭转民心,而扭转民心必须靠好的施政,好的施政还得要在一片祥和的气氛下才能让人民感受得到!看来,霹雳政权事件即使解决,民联食髓知味,在行动党与回教党的前呼后拥下,好大喜功的安华还会不断的在国内刻意的制造不同的课题,一方面让反国阵的情绪保温,迫使国阵分心应对,另一方面则分散人民的注意力让人民忽略国阵的良好施政!国内出现了安华这类为权而不是为政的政客,国阵前路坎坷,国内政局从此多事矣!

周美芬
15/5/09

Thursday, May 14, 2009

周美芬:政府贊助課程‧免費技術培訓少人知

星洲日報‧2009.05.13

周美芬(左2)和美容師證書課程學員合照;左為謝秀卿。(圖:星洲日報)

(雪蘭莪‧八打靈再也)婦女、家庭及社會發展部副部長拿汀巴杜卡周美芬今日(週三,5月13日)表示,許多政府部門贊助私人企業開辦免費的技術培訓課程,但由於缺乏宣傳而鮮為人知。
她鼓勵有意參加各種技術培訓課程的人士,可多從互聯網、媒體及親朋好友獲取相關資訊。

“至少我們可以肯定的是,技術培訓課程的畢業生有一技之長,除非他們很懶惰,否則日後不會向福利局尋求協助,也可減輕政府負擔。”

她在Beaubelle美容學院總部召開新聞發佈會時表示,共建社會安全網不僅是婦女部的責任,每個政府部門及民眾也有責任一起建設社會。

也是馬華婦女組主席的她表示,繼4月和Beaubelle美容學院聯辦“美容就業與創業機會計劃”獲得熱烈反應後,決定再次開辦政府贊助免費的美容治療課程。

謝秀卿:獲贊助150個學額
此院董事經理謝秀卿表示,有關課程獲得人力資源部贊助150個學額,上課時間長達6個月。

課程開放給18至45歲的單親媽媽、失業者及年輕女性參加,除提供住宿及交通外,上課期間學員不僅無須繳付學費,每月還可以獲得政府500令吉津貼。

“新課程將在6月1日開課,符合資格者可提出申請,學院也提供實習機會,學員從中可另外賺取額外收入。”

有關課程詳情可聯絡Beaubelle美容學院03-78808118。

廖中萊接見留台聯總‧允助承認台醫學系

星洲日報‧2009.05.12



(吉隆坡)在家庭及社會發展部副部長拿汀巴社卡周美芬的安排下,留台聯總會長姚迪剛率領署理會長林明才、副會長馬秋南、秘書何宗榮及學位承認組主任甄裕暢等會見了衛生部長拿督斯里廖中萊,深入探討台灣醫學相關科系學位承認的問題。

廖中萊對台灣醫學相關科系的專業水平給予高度的評價,並認同再進一步承認台灣各科系的必要性。

甄裕暢提出,留台聯總分別在2005年及2008年兩度提呈國防醫學院及中國醫藥大學的藥劑系文憑承認申請書給公共服務局,2007年也曾經提呈給衛生部,但至今都未有下聞。

姚迪剛也在周美芬的見證下,再度把這兩所大學藥劑系文憑承認申請書呈交給衛生部長,部長也應允跟進,協助儘早日給予承認。

台3大學藥劑系學位受承認
目前,藥劑系學位受承認的台灣各大專院校有3所,即台灣大學醫學院,台北醫學大學及高雄醫學大學。

此外,目前台灣醫學系受承認的學校有8所,即台灣大學醫學院、國防醫學院、陽明大學醫學院、成功大學醫學院、台北醫學大學、中國醫藥大學、中山醫學大學及高雄醫學大學。留台聯總將在近日提呈慈濟大學,長庚大學及輔仁大學的醫學系資料,希望政府也能一併給予承認。

牙醫科系則有七所大學受承認,即台灣大學醫學院、國防醫學院、陽明大學醫學院、台北醫學大學、中國醫藥大學、中山醫學大學和高雄醫學大學。

健康檢查‧打預防針‧救災演習‧子宮頸癌醒覺運動踴躍

转载自星洲日報/大霹靂‧2009.05.10

曾國安(右4)贈送水果禮籃給開幕人周美芬;左起:警方代表羅善妮、王少玉、陳進明;右起:阿茲山、宋偉釗、王賽芝;中是李志亮。(圖:星洲日報)
消防拯救局出動消防車,示範動用雲梯射水救火。(圖:星洲日報)

現場出動流動診療所提供診療服務。 (圖:星洲日報

(霹靂‧怡保)馬華志工團主辦“子宮頸癌醒覺運動及健康檢查”活動,週日(5月10日)在怡保舊街場近打組屋舉行,舊街場、近打組屋居民和市民踴躍出席。

活動節目包括健康檢查、注射子宮頸癌預防針、展覽、防火演習和子宮頸癌醒覺運動講座、消防局和警察之友講解,現場也出動一輛充作流動診療所的巴士。

在防火演習中,消防拯救局在近打組屋7樓發出火警進行演習,同時出動消防車和動用雲梯和射水,示範救火和拯救火災傷者。

主辦當局也點起火,由馬華志工團團長兼婦女、家庭及社會發展部副部長拿汀巴杜卡周美芬、馬華霹州副主席兼外交部副部長拿督李志亮、霹州婦女組主席兼新聞、通訊、藝術及文化部副部長王賽芝等人主持滅火。

出席者包括馬華霹州志工團團長曾國安、怡保西區區部主席拿督陳進明、怡保東區婦女組主席王少玉、怡保中央醫院婦產科及人工受孕專科醫生譚尚偉,怡保消防拯救局主任阿茲山。

周美芬:災難時可投入就災盼有志者加入志工團
周美芬主持開幕致詞,希望有興趣的人也加入馬華的志工團,以便一旦發生災難時投入救災工作。

她說,任何人包括任何種族、女性、老少和沒有受過教育的人,都可加入志工團。

她表示,這個志工團也成立社區防災委員會,以在有潛能發生災難的地區,鑑定可能發生災難的地方、鑑定疏散中心、各政府部門機構、雜貨店,以便在災前作好準備、災時進行疏散、動員支援等減災工作、災後進行重建等。

助尋找貧苦人士
她說,志工團將在婦女、家庭及社會發展部展開的尋找計劃下尋找貧苦人士,協助他們進行註冊和登記,以便向他們提供援助,因此需要各類人士加入,以便在發生災難時提供援助。

周美芬指出,志工團今年推行子宮頸癌醒覺運動,在婦女中推動注射子宮癌預防針,這項疫苗注射服務獲得補貼,比外面和診療所的價格廉宜二三十巴仙,而打3支預防針可以節省四五百令吉。

她說,志工團至今舉行了四五場子宮頸癌醒覺運動,至今在補貼價格下注射預防針而受惠的女性,已有三四百名。

Siblings to meet their mums

The Star NEws Friday May 8, 2009

GEORGE TOWN: The seven siblings of a seven-year-old disabled girl whose skeletal remains were found in a shallow grave recently, will get to meet their mothers, who were released by police on Wednesday.

Deputy Women, Family and Community Development Minister Datin Paduka Chew Mei Fun said she met three of the children at Rumah Kanak-Kanak Taman Bakti (Kepala Batas) yesterday and they appealed to her to be allowed to see their mothers during weekends.

She said three boys were placed at the Rumah Kanak-Kanak Lelaki Serendah in Selangor and the seventh, a girl, was at the Rumah Kanak-Kanak Perempuan in Arau, Perlis.

Hello: (From left) Chew and Tan speaking to some of the children at the Asrama Paya Terubong near George Town Thursday.

“We will try to get the mothers to meet the children who are below 12 first, while the state Welfare Department will also make efforts to allow the mothers to visit the other four children.

“When I met the three yesterday, they repeatedly told me that their wish was to see their mothers on Saturdays and Sundays,” she told reporters after visiting the Asrama Paya Terubong near here yesterday, adding that they also “promised not to cry”.

Also present was state Wanita MCA chief Tan Cheng Liang and state Welfare Department director Arfan Sulaiman.

The girl’s disabled father, a 41-year-old odd-job worker, was arrested on April 28, on suspicion of outraging the modesty of his three other daughters.

One of the three victims later revealed how the father also allegedly abused her disabled sister, killed and buried her in 2006.

Her remains were exhumed from the shallow grave in an open field in Jalan Kampung Pisang. Police later picked up the man, one of his sons, and his two wives, aged 31 and 37, who are believed to be sisters.

George Town OCPD Asst Comm Azam Abd Hamid said the 16-year-old boy and the wives were released on police bail on Wednesday. He said police were considering extending the remand order on the 41-year-old man which ends today.

Chew said the Welfare Department, with the permission of the police, would try to get the mothers to meet the children as soon as possible.

“I believe that the children should not be separated from their mothers and once the department has concluded with its investigations, we hope the children will be able to stay with their mothers,” she said.

On another matter, Chew said the Federal Government had allocated RM22mil to help those in need, including the poor, elderly, children and the disabled. She said the state government only spent about RM3.3mil for such needy people.

“The 740 poor families in Penang have already received aid from the Federal Government, and what the state government had done was to just top up the amount,” she added.

Monday, May 11, 2009

大年志工團巡邏隊贏讚賞‧周美芬:值得他區仿傚

星洲日報/大北馬‧2009.05.07

周美芬(坐者左三)與吉打州及雙溪大年志工團展開交流會後合影。(圖:星洲日報)

(吉打‧雙溪大年)馬華志工團總團長拿汀巴杜卡周美芬說,雙溪大年區會志工團屬下的拼治安巡邏隊成立1年,就已經獲得當地人士的讚賞及認同,這是值得鼓勵,值得其他地區仿傚的工作。

她說,雙溪大年志工團巡邏隊的表現有目共睹,但是她對當地警區主任沒有充份配合深感遺憾及無奈,並表示要見吉打警方提出建議,讓警方接納及合作。

周美芬週四(5月7日)前來雙溪大年馬華區會,與志工拼治安巡邏隊進行交流時,這麼說。

盼與警攜手打擊罪案
她說,社會治安問日趨嚴重,掠奪匪猖狂尋找獵物,奪命事件一再發生,這也促使當地市民各自成立治安巡邏隊,為了自身安全與警方攜手打擊罪案。

她說,志工團過去不曾成立巡邏隊,雙溪大年區會基於治安問題首開先河,的確發揮其效用。

吉打州志工團長林文議說,志工團所實行的任務並不簡單,更是不計回報的不停付出,而且經常面對很多問題。

雙溪大年志工團長王維新說,志工團巡邏隊是義務性質,希望市民能夠體恤他們的任務。

周美芬:發揚好的價值觀‧馬華續辦各種溫馨晚宴

星洲日報/大北馬‧2009.05.07

為了慶祝母親節的到來,大會準備了大蛋糕,並由周美芬(左六)、馬興中(左七)、陳燕珠(右三)及林美嬌(右二)一同主持切蛋糕儀式。(圖:星洲日報)


周美芬贈送一束漂亮鮮花於陳亞蓮(坐者),並祝福她母親節快樂。(圖:星洲日報)

(吉打‧雙溪大年)婦女、家庭與社會發展副部長拿汀巴杜卡周美芬說,民聯政府一直都不贊成馬華舉辦的各種溫馨晚宴,可是,馬華深信好的價值觀就應該要推動及發揚。

她說,子女孝順父母的最基本的條件既是讓他們安心、開心及欣慰。

周美芬前晚(6日)在老街場華小出席由雙溪大年馬華婦女組舉辦的“好婆媳”聯歡宴會上致詞時,這麼說。

她說,在308大選後,馬華婦女組在雙溪大年沒有停下腳步,沒有放棄舉辦這樣好價值觀的“好婆媳”宴會,深信一定會重獲人民支持。

馬興中:市民受益良多
馬華雙溪大年區部主席拿督馬興中說,馬華一向樂於主辦有助健康,有助家庭及富有教導性的活動,市民受益良多。

馬華雙溪大年區部婦女組主席陳燕珠說,如果婆媳關係處理得好,會讓一個人的婚姻生活更加美滿穩定,如果處理不當,相等於給婚姻埋下了定時炸彈。

16對好婆媳重演當年事
儀式上,有16對好婆媳相處逾10年,被邀請上台舉行敬茶儀式,從新展現當年嫁入婆家的一幕。
出席嘉賓尚有馬華吉打州婦女組主席拿督林美嬌、莪侖區州議員梁榮光醫生及馬青雙溪大年區團長王維新。

Saturday, May 9, 2009

问题总要解决!

拨云见日(52)

昨天突访KEPALA BATAS TMN BAKTI孤儿院亲自探访了因父母兄长涉嫌“父親殺女埋尸”案,而被送往照顾的三位小朋友,喜见他们情况良好,精灵可爱!从陌生到熟络,和他们在一起的短短廿卅分钟里,小小年纪的他们不断地重复着要求会见母亲,并一再的保证只想在周末和周日会见母亲,同时肯定不会哭!

由于不了解案情发展,对其父母到底会被延扣多久没有概念,因此只有安慰他们将尽量向警方申请,只要获得批准将带他们会见母亲! 可是从他们专注的眼光中却看到了他们对答案的不满意! 幸运的是我离开该孤儿院不久后,就接获了他们的母亲已被释放的消息,他们会见母亲的愿望很快就可以实现了!

重回妇女、家庭及社会发展部,重新接触社会上的弱势群体,尤其是当接触了部门在改变策略,化被动为主动推展了“寻找贫户计划”,许多隐藏在社会许多阴暗角落,孤苦贫困的人士是被“挖掘”出来,而各报章竟然依旧有报道不完的社会悲歌后,不得不接受福利工作是不可能完成、赤贫或贫穷是不可能完全消除的事实!能做到只是如何减少或让它趋“零”!

有人陶侃妇女、家庭及社会发展部只管妇女福利,其实只要您是家庭或社会的一份子,包括男女老少,贫贱富贵,只要一掉入了“vulnerable” 即“脆弱,易遭伤害的”的群体,几乎就已多多少少,直接或间接和这个部门有关。

然而什么才叫福利呢?

有些人认为,只要解决了有关人士金钱上的需求,让他享有基本的,至少是解决了食物上的需求就已算是福利,但是:

(1) 对上述三位小朋友来说,亲情和母爱才是他们最需要的;
(2) 对身体强健但缺乏求生技能的人士来说,如何通过有效的培训以便自力更生才是脱离贫困的管道,毕竟长贫难顾,政府的税收不应也不宜用于不断的支助这类贫户;
(3) 对面对生活甚或家庭、情感打击的人士来说,福利是如何通过辅导让他/她重建心灵,获得慰藉;
(4) 对灾民来说,安定心灵,收拾心情,重建家园才是重点。。。。


换句话说,福利涵盖了方方面面,包括了非生产性的福利和生产性的福利!

但掌管全民福利的妇女、家庭及社会发展部却不是万能的,它需要其他许多个人、单位与部门的协助! 好的教育可以减少社会问题、好的人力资源与经济政策可以消除贫穷、有效的执法可以减少滥权。。。举例说:

有妇女致电本人助理告诉她:“你们是妇女部,我买的房子发展商已停建数年,我是妇女,您们应该帮忙解决!”- 她哑口无言!

有残障人士致电说:“我的印尼女佣回印尼了,家里没人照顾,因此要入院,但医院不收,你们福利部照顾残障人士,请叫医院收我入院!”- 他误会了医院的功能,他要找的是照护中心而不是医院!

家有ASTRO应该享有福利金吗?- 重点在于有关福利金的受惠者是因为真的有钱还是不会如何用钱?

有些要求虽然“特别”,但不管直接或间接和本部门有关,问题总要解决!因此,如何有效的为弱势群体提供非生产性的福利和生产性的福利服务是本部门的一大挑战,而如何促使各单位、各部门协助提供相关的基建、服务与援助,以完善化国家福利工作,则是我们更大的挑战!

周美芬
9/5/09

Thursday, May 7, 2009

波各先那老人院‧求助周美芬撥款建樓

星洲日報/大北馬‧2009.05.06


莊國雄(右二)向周美芬(中)介紹老人院的發展藍圖;左一起是黃錦盛、林美嬌,右一為王孫文。(圖:星洲日報)

(吉打‧亞羅士打)波各先那老人院理事會向家庭、婦女及社會發展部副部長拿汀巴杜卡周美芬求助,以尋求該部門撥款增建擁有20房間的新建築物。

此院理事會主席拿督莊國雄說,這幢新建築物將建在老人院後方的空地,面積約0.25公頃,可容納20名老人。

他說,老人院現有空間原只能容納20名老人,可住進17男4女共21名老人家,但是老人院空位需求殷切,還有許多人聯絡理事排隊等著住進老人院。

莊國雄週三(5月6日)接待周美芬到訪時,向對方傳達老人院未來發展概況,以及急需政府的資助。

他也有向周美芬反映福利局每月發出援助金給老人院。

周美芬允協助爭取撥款
周美芬答應返回部門上班後,會積極協助老人院向有關單位爭取撥款。

另一方面,周美芬提醒老人院理事會,除了注意院內老人的健康,也不可忽視他們的感受,要聆聽老人的意見。

“老人家到了一定年齡性情變化很大,要服務老人須方方面面,關注他們的想法和感受,他們與年輕人、有家庭的老人是不一樣的。”

Deputy minister’s surprise visit to home

The Star News : Thursday May 7, 2009

WOMEN, Family and Community Development deputy minister Senator Datin Paduka Chew Mei Fun paid a surprise visit to the Pokok Sena Old Folks Home near Alor Setar.

She was welcomed by the home’s management committee chairman Datuk Dr Ch’ng Kok Heong who described the visit as “historic”.

“This is the first time a high-ranking ministry officer has set foot in the home since it was established in 1955,” he said.

Dr Ch’ng said the committee was planning to pay a visit to the ministry to request for financial aid for its RM1mil building fund.

“We are pleasantly surprised that she has come to visit us instead,” he said.

Chew said she was impressed with the way the home was being run and praised the committee for doing an excellent job.

“I’m satisfied with the conditions and environment of the home.

“The folk look happy and cheerful. It’s nice to see the residents dwelling in cottages in a resort-like atmosphere and they are free to move about,” she said.

She later gave away goodie bags to the residents of the home.


Caring act: Chew giving a goodie bag to Khor Kui Poo, 62, one of the residents of the old folk's home.

Chew urged the committee to submit a written request to her ministry for the building fund.

“My ministry in turn will make its recommendations to the Finance Ministry.

“My ministry has never given such assistance and it is not within my powers to do so,” she said.

Dr Ch’ng said the committee planned to develop a 2ha plot of land at the back of the home for an additional building.

He said the development plan which incorporated twenty rooms with attached toilet and kitchen facilities for each room had been submitted to the local authority and was pending approval.

“The building is estimated to cost about RM1mil and we will be inviting the tender next week.

“The committee is proposing a ringgit to a ringgit donation from the ministry to ease the strain on the committee to collect the funds,” he said.

There are 17 men and four women staying at the home.

Present at the welcoming ceremony were Pokok Sena MCA division chief Goh Chin Cheung, Kedah Wanita MCA chief Datuk Lim Bee Kau and Kedah MCA Youth chief Ong Soon Boon.

周美芬:為貧病申請援助金‧“尋找計劃”一月內須審批

文字转载自星洲日報‧2009.05.04


(圖:CFL)

(柔佛‧新山)周美芬在擔任副部長之後,首次南下新山巡視位於新山拉慶拿汀哈麗瑪,由福利部所管轄的“希望之光收容所”(Taman Sinar Harapan Jubli)。她繼新山之後,將往北馬一帶與其所屬部門單位交流或進行“突襲檢查”,以確保所屬單位官員認真辦公。

(图:CFL)

殘障人士中心副主席哈努娜週一早上向周美芬匯報時指出,此處擁有160名年齡介於14歲至35歲的女學員,惟現今所開設的學習課程主要由負責管理宿舍的數名官員兼任,中心目前嚴缺專職教師。

也是馬華全國婦女組主席的周美芬於匯報會結束之後,在哈努娜、新山縣福利局主任莫哈默法依札,以及其他官員的陪同下,巡視殘障中心。陪同周美芬出席匯報會的馬華婦女組代表,包括:馬華柔佛州婦女組主席曾亞英、秘書吳惠萍、財政陳蓮、州委潘瑞萍。其他出席者尚有:馬華柔佛州女青年工作坊主任陳莉芳、馬華新山區會婦女組主席蔡雅蘭,以及馬華古來區會婦女組主席郭運蘭。


(图:CFL)

希望之光收容所專收女性殘障者
“希望之光收容所”(Taman Sinar Harapan Jubli),專收容來自南馬的殘障人士,並為殘障者提供住宿和技職訓練。

上述殘障中心所提供的訓練課程,包括:縫紉課、烹飪課、烘培課、園藝課等。熱線電話:07-2361481。

柔佛州福利局分別在新山拉慶和淡杯設立了兩所殘障中心,“希望之光收容所”是專收女性殘障者的中心,而淡杯的殘障中心則專收容男性殘障者。

“尋找計劃”申請程序一個月內須完成
另一方面,在談到福利部於去年展開的“尋找計劃”時,周美芬表示,福利部要求福利官嚴格執行在一個月內完成審查和批准個案的申請程序。

她表示,除了“尋找計劃”外,福利部也要求任何獲得福利部撥款的福利單位每週提呈報告給總部,以確定撥款不被濫用。

她說,福利部去年10月推行“尋找計劃”後,從今年1月至3月,共有1780名貧病者向新山福利局申請援助金,至於振林山和士姑來皇后花園則各別有200人及300人提出申請。

此外,她透露,福利部也關注如何通過立法,來改善社會問題,如目前已進入國會一讀的“流浪漢法令”,以及正在研擬修改的“家庭暴力法令”等。

周美芬:培訓鄰近志工‧巴莪將設社區防災委會

文转载自星洲日報/大柔佛‧2009.05.03

周美芬乘坐船艇從班卒渡河到玉射,為巴莪區馬華志工團主持救生艘移交儀式。(圖:CFL)

(柔佛‧麻坡)馬華全國志工團團長周美芬週日(5月3日)在主持巴莪區馬華志工團救生艘移交儀式後透露,柔州志工團將於兩個月內在巴莪設立柔州首個“社區防災委員會”,培訓鄰近地區的志工。

她說,“社區防災委員會”將會指導志工如何在災難發生時,有效地動員當地的人力,結合各拯救單位、福利機構等的援助,再配合熟悉地形和懂得在最短時間內獲得資源的村民,更快和更全面地展開救災和疏散災民的工作。

“我將會向馬華志工團基金會申請1萬5000令吉給柔州志工團,以便在巴莪區進行社區防災訓練,並希望受過訓的志工能當負起領導的角色。”


周美芬也是婦女、家庭及社會發展部副部長。她週日下午在禮讓縣玉射村委會綜合大禮堂代表移交5艘救生艇給玉射、坤蘭烏魯、武吉哈逢、嶺嘉和老巫許的村委會,分別由楊金沙村長、施亞財村長、林清河村長、陳平和村長,以及老巫許馬華支會主席吳鐵坤代表接領。


(图:CFL)
周美芬在主持簽署移交救生艇儀式上,也特別表揚巴莪馬華志工團在2006年大水災中的英勇和奮不顧身參與拯救工作的表現。

沒受訓練威脅志工生命
她說,馬華志工團義勇救人的精神雖可嘉,但也不能讓沒有受過訓練的志工在災難發生時生命受到威脅。

她表示,逢雨必災的彭亨州林明已經展開了這項培訓計劃,柔州的志工團也從中學習到如何成立社區防災系統,而巴莪是其中一個被鑒定的防災重點區。除了巴莪之外,柔州各區也將陸續成立“社區防災委員會”。

周美芬強調,兩年前全國共動員了六、七百名志工投入水災拯救工作,馬華希望能有更多各年齡階層的各族人民加入志工行列。

她強調,推動這項社區救災計劃,也是協助馬華落實救國救民的崇高精神。

巴莪區“社區防災委員會”預料會在今年7月推動第一次的培訓,目標是100人,培訓對象會先鎖定在巴莪區6個水災重災區,包括玉射、班卒、坤蘭烏魯、武吉哈逢、嶺嘉和老巫許。

5救生艇分發5地
(图:CFL)
自從2006年南馬大水災爆發後,巴莪6個重災區的村民幾乎聞水色變,當時若非馬華志工團啟動救災機制,四處張羅船只和救災物資,並深入災區搶救,相信受影響災民的損失會更加慘重。

事隔兩年後,巴莪區雖沒發生嚴重水災,但馬華志工團並沒有因此而鬆懈,而是緊羅密鼓地籌購了5艘救生艇,分發給5個地區的村委會,以備不時之需。

受惠的5個村委會包括了玉射、坤蘭烏魯、武吉哈逢、嶺嘉和老巫許。這些新村皆獲分配一艘救生艇和各10件救生衣。

洪添丁:積極推展培訓活動
巴莪馬華志工團團長洪添丁說,在南馬大水災時期,志工團發揮了很大的救災作用,尤其是救生艇,更是水災發生時不能缺少的救生工具。

巴莪馬華志工團除了為巴莪區的水災災區籌購救生艇,同時也在華人新村積極的推展培訓活動。
林秋楊:也提供救生衣
志工團柔北協調員林秋楊說,這5艘救生艇的總值約3萬5000令吉,巴莪馬華志工團也為各受惠村委會提供救生衣。

他說,接下來巴莪志工團也會再為班卒籌購一艘救生艇,確保巴莪區內所有水災重災區,皆有救生艇以備不時之需。

顏豐守:玉射成培訓地點
巴莪馬華區會主席顏豐守說,“社區防災委員會”的培訓地點會設在玉射村委會,因為玉射靠近麻河,而村委會則有寬闊的禮堂與草場,可供志工培訓。

“我們將善用玉射的河流來訓練志工操作救生艇,同時也會安排受過訓練的專業志工,教導首批為數百人,來自6個水災重災區的志工,學習正確的救生方式,以及建立緊急動員的系統。”

他表示,各區的志工在受訓後,便可以回到各自的新村,為當地的志工提供訓練,以擴大志工網絡。

陳平和:增添救生艇村民受惠
嶺嘉村長陳平和說,鄉村早在2000年便爭取到撥款購置一艘救生艇,這艘救生艇在2006年的大水災中發揮了作用。

隨著該村再增添多一艘救生艇,陳平和相信會讓更多的村民受惠。

楊金沙:將妥善保管救生艇
玉射村長楊金沙告訴記者,玉射村現有約20名志工,其中有十人曾受過訓練。
他說,玉射村委會將妥善保管這艘救生艇,並希望有更多村民加入志工團行列。

MCA squad identifies disaster-prone areas

The Star News Monday May 4, 2009

MUAR: The MCA’s National Crisis Relief Squad (CRSM) is not waiting until things are too late.



(photo by CFL)

The squad is already identifying disaster-prone areas in the country and working out the logistics on how help could be rendered should a calamity strikes.

Rescue team: Chew (front, centre) having a light moment with Pagoh MCA division's CRSM team after presenting five boats to them yesterday. (photo: by Star)

Its chairman Senator Datin Paduka Chew Mei Fun said a training scheme was being carried out for CRSM volunteers who would be mobilised when the necessity arises.

Speaking to reporters in Grisek, near here, Chew said it was vital for the volunteers to learn skills such as driving outboard motor boats during floods.

“We have trained about 50 volunteers in Sungai Lembing in Pahang and now plan to train another 100 in Grisek.

“Besides basic survival courses, we also want the volunteers to master boat-handling, especially in dangerous waters,” she said after presenting five boats with outboard engines to the Pagoh MCA’s CRSM in Grisek yesterday.
Chew, who is also Deputy Women, Family and Community Development Minister, said besides identifying flood-prone areas, CRSM teams would also get to know the residents there.

“There could be disabled and old people among them and they should be rescued first in an emergency,” she said.

Chew said the floods, which hit Pagoh in 2006 and 2007, had taught the CRSM teams some important lessons.
“We will also rope in local leaders, including those in non-governmental organisations and temples to sit on a crisis management committee in their areas.

“We want the CRSM to be with the people all the time,” she said.

Chew: Learning about other faiths doesn’t mean conversion

The Star News : Sunday May 3, 2009

PETALING JAYA: Learning about each other’s religions should not be misconstrued as a sign of potential conversion.

Lighting up: Monks and devotees walking alongside a float at the launch of Wesak celebration at Chempaka Buddhist Lodge in Petaling Jaya.

Deputy Women, Family and Community Development Minister Datin Paduka Chew Mei Fun said it was important for people to learn and understand other religions to strengthen inter-religious ties.

“It is very important not to confine ourselves to our own religion.

“We actually need to study other religions as well to understand how they view some issues.

“To strengthen unity among Malaysians, all must be willing to learn and understand other religions.

“However, this does not mean people are seeking to convert to another religion. The purpose is just to understand it better,” Chew said after launching the Wesak Day celebrations and lighting of floats ceremony at the Chempaka Buddhist Lodge here.

周美芬:堅持改教方案‧“內閣要貫徹法理”

星洲日报 2009-05-04

(图:CFL)


衛塞節花車亮燈了,千百家佛教居士林也會于5月10日主辦花車大游行。(圖:星洲日報)

劉長發(左)、周美芬(中)和達摩拉達那長老(右)一同主持花車亮燈儀式。(圖:星洲日報)

(雪蘭莪‧八打靈再也)婦女、家庭及社會發展部副部長拿汀巴杜卡周美芬表示,儘管內閣改教方案受到一些人的反對,但內閣仍舊堅持此項決定,希望能夠通過修改法律,在法理上確實落實。

她週六(5月2日)晚上出席千百家佛教居士林衛塞節推展禮及花車亮燈儀式時指出,內閣的決定需要等待修改法律,才能在法理上貫徹下來。

她說,任何宗教都存有極端和開明兩派,回教也不例外。回教黨波各先那國會議員馬夫茲就反對此項決定,並譴責國家領導做了只照顧少數族群的決定,但內閣堅持此項決定。

她指出,內閣這項決定是長久爭取來的。很多時候,人只是站在自己的立場瞭解問題。因此,大家有必要多瞭解宗教和種族,這是雙向的,不能單方面作出主動而已。

居士林10日辦花車大遊行
與此同時,千百家佛教居士林會長劉長發表示,今年的衛塞節口號是“宗教諒解,社會和諧”,並相信佛教一定要深入民間,從家開始。若能奉行,社會和諧很快就能實現。

千百家佛教居士林也將在10日下午6時舉辦花車大遊行,此活動已經舉辦了23年,去年共有22輛花車參與其盛。今年的衛塞節花車大遊行的路線達8公里。

出席亮燈儀式的人士還包括馬來西亞佛教首座達摩拉達那長老和覺境法師。

Tuesday, May 5, 2009

Funeral aid for the poor

The Star News Tuesday May 5, 2009

THE Love and Care project by NV Multi Corporation Bhd will donate RM2mil worth of funeral services and products to benefit the poor.

“Hopefully with this plan, the poor can rest in peace in a dignified manner and their surviving family members and friends can have the opportunity to pay their respects to them here,” NV Multi Corporation Bhd group managing director Datuk David Kong said.

Some RM1mil worth of caskets will be donated for those in the Klang Valley and the remaining RM1mil comprises payments for funeral services, with a total of 3,000 urn niches available.

The plan is only applicable to citizens and non-Muslims in Malaysia with a total family income of not more than RM1,200 per month.


Good start: (From left) Chew, Kong and NV Multi Foundation chairman Tan Kean Huat lighting candles to launch the project.

All applications submitted have to be recommended by panel organisations, which include the Persatuan Kebajikan Agama Buddha Selangor, the Persatuan Penganut Agama Buddha Fo Guang Malaysia, the Persekutuan Persatuan I-Kuan Tao Malaysia, the E-able Training Institute, Grace Communities Services, the Persatuan Agama Buddha Tantrayan Chen Foh Chong Malaysia and Yayasan CRSM.

Deputy Women, Family and Community Development Minister Senator Datin Paduka Chew Mei Fun, who was present to launch the project, lauded the effort.

“In Chinese culture, both birth and death are important and this campaign can help the surviving friends and family,” she said.

For more information, call 1800-88-1818.

Friday, May 1, 2009

周美芬:將派發防豬流感宣傳品

文转载自星洲日报 2009-04-30

“關愛人間”(施棺贈葬)推介儀式 图片:CFL
(吉隆坡)馬華婦女組主席兼志工團團長拿汀巴杜卡周美芬指出,她將發動全國各州的志工團到人流量最多的地方,派發衛生部印製“如何防範豬流感”的宣傳品,以把正確訊息廣泛傳達。

“據我所知,衛生部正準備相關宣傳品,包括豬流感症狀的手冊、傳單防範措施等資訊,只要一拿到手,就會協助衛生部推動社區的醒覺運動。”

周美芬也是婦女、家庭及社會發展部副部長,她今日(週四,4月30日)主持富貴愛心基金會推行的“關愛人間”(施棺贈葬)推介儀式後,在新聞發佈會上指出,志工團必須等待官方資訊的原因是它們非這方面的專業。

“我們不希望一番熱心,結果是傳達錯誤訊息,所以一切以衛生部的資訊為准。”