Here we are in 2019. We made it through a tumultuous 2018 and major regime change.
Three articles to read this weekend
I usually spend some time sifting through thought-provoking analyses and commentaries. I find I learn more about Malaysia that way than by reading new reports. One of the great things about the new Malaysia – even if not everything is going our way – is that we are seeing more openness in critical thinking – and this is coming out in various writings in the media.
Why a street-level public transport system is suitable for Penang
Dr Lim Mah Hui has come up with another rejoinder for those fascinated with ultra-expensive six-lane elevated and underground highways and elevated light rail transit for Penang.
‘PTMP’ – or property play and greenwash?
It looks as if the Singapore Straits Times has cottoned on to the discontent that is brewing over the RM46bn Penang transport land reclamation and property development masterplan, which has been described by critics as a ‘property play’. Check out the video above.
Proposed elevated LRT in Penang too early and too late
The following piece by Lim Mah Hui is bang on target. I doubt the pro-elevated LRT camp will be able to refute his figures for KL ridership figures and projected LRT operational losses, no matter how much they spin to try and justify this exorbitant mega project.
Grave environmental concerns as Penang ushers in 2019
A sobering message as we usher in 2019. Wishing you all the best in the coming year. See also this Aliran statement about the need to work together to achieve the vision of a new Malaysia.
Youth Park regulars worry about breathing fumes from proposed mega overpass
Activists from Penang’s emerging green movement gathered at the Penang Youth Park this morning to display a model of an 80-foot-wide six-lane overpass that will cross over the green haven, a popular spot for exercise and recreation.
Taiping listed in Sustainable Destinations Top 100 list
Taiping has just been included in the 2018 Sustainable Destinations Top 100 list.
A Christmas tribute to the Crazy Ones
On a dark night, in a distant frontier of the oppressive Roman Empire, a child was born who would go on to proclaim Good News to the Poor and point to a new way of living, based on a different set of values.
This Christmas Day, let’s pay tribute to those who dare to be different – the ordinary people who speak truth to power, who raise awareness of a gentler, more holistic model of development that is in harmony with our environment.
Students say political rights amendment falls short
The recent vote in the Malaysian Parliament to pass amendments to three acts to allow students greater political freedom has been generally welcomed – but not everyone is happy.