Blair embarks on inter-faith understanding ...

The war on Iraq must have been traumatic for former British Prime Minister Tony Blair who is now busy promoting inter-faith dialogue.
He says the dialogue does address the root causes of terrorism for it lessens ignorance and promotes greater understanding among people of different religions.
We had asked him if inter-faith dialogue could address the root causes of terrorism since Western governments had failed to do so despite repeated calls by the Islamic world since the 9/11 terror attacks.
Blair was the British prime minister when the US-British coalition force invaded Iraq in 2003. He retired in June last year after 10 years in office.
Blair, who is on his first visit to Malaysia to give a lecture on the Rule of Law at the 22nd Sultan Azlan Shah Law Lecture today, said he was actually disappointed that he had just discovered the country.
"After some days (in Malaysia), I find it's a wonderful country, really beautiful country, (with) very warm people. Very lively, actually.
"In cultural terms and every other sense and there is a lot going on which you can rightly be proud. This is my first visit, I hope it won't be my last, I'm sure it won't be," said the casually-dressed Blair.
He admitted during the interview that he was a fan of Newcastle United FC.
"I know many people out here who are either Manchester United or Arsenal fans," he said.

Opening up to a wireless world ....

Since his appointment as Information Minister in the Cabinet formed after last March General Elections, Shabery Cheek has brought much improvement. He is bold to open up even in areas considered 'taboo' before the election.
Two days after holding office, he directed officials to installed 'Wi-Fi' within the ministry's vast Angkasapuri complex.
"It's illogical to block anyone from accessing the Internet when Kuala Lumpur is moving towards becoming a wireless city," he said last night at a forum to discuss ways of improving RTM's news bulletins.
In line with his 'openness', Shabery has invited bloggers -- previously regarded as 'nuisance' to appear on prime-time weekly slot to talk about their blogs.
Even known government and BN critics have had their fair share of glamour appearing live on the 20-minute show that could be extended in view of its growing popularity.
Despite reservations from several colleagues on live TV coverage of parliamentary sessions, Shabery managed to convince them on the need to allow public viewing access to matters that concern them.
More changes are in store as Shabery keeps his heart and mind open to views on how the ministry could deliver effectively.