...and for something to celebrate with...
Friday, December 31, 2010
#73: The twilight of the 00s decade: A New Year Eve's Post
Saying goodbye to the year 2010 is a hard thing for some, others just treat it like any other day.
Me? I thought I am not significant enough for a say.
Just kidding.
Hmm...what to say about the year 2010? One word: busy, and another word, if I'm permitted to have, confused.
Come to think of it, it's been 11 months since I took over the Class Monitor post, and with this post, everyday is like a battle. You do not know what I meant until you are really in my class. To be honest, I am still not proud of this class, don't even mention to love it. Seeing other people writing "I (heart) 5XX" or "I'm proud of my class", I could only ponder and sighed at them, for I would not have the pleasure to do so, unless the year MMXI changes them.
(Huh, they? Changing? What a laughter!)
I try not to be despair. I try to cherish some hope. But I do not put too much hope in it. If there's miracle, let it be a surprise then.
After clubs' AGMs, I'm busier than ever. I'm now holding the Chief Coach of Taichi group post in Kelab Wushu, and the Morning Session Representative post in the English Language Society.
In my opinion, I am happy in any moment in ELS, because it's more friendly, and not much pressure and stress over there. No, not because of my position in the committee but because it is less intense.
I feel terribly stressful as Chief Coach, and things got worse for me when I didn't pass the Taichi exams. I start to regret my decision to attend that interview, and landed me with such a post (and a louse). I didn't know that I was so incompetent, so unqualified, until I am the Chief Coach. I had thoughts of resigning (and still have) but there are people calling for me not to escape from responsibilities, and there are people saying that the examinations does not necessarily indicates that you are a lousy teacher. Well, examinations indicate how good are your skills, and you need a certain level of skills to teach, right?
Whatever the turnout, we shall see in the new year.
Oh yeah, I have been busy in Yellow House and Citrawarna, which both clashed at the same period, which is dubbed by my mother, the mixture to have a fever during mid-year examinations. But nevertheless, it was an experience, and a good one.
The business didn't stop there-there was inside-school drama competition, which my team have won the first place in the morning session category (and I'm glad they split it into afternoon and morning categories). Hereby, I would like to thank all people that have involved in the preparation and also the performance of the play. Thank you very much.
The Sabak Bernam camp also became one of the business, but I regard it as an escape from a greater business (the class). It was decent, and I met quite many nice and great people there, apart from making myself known because of that seminar (Sook May, Wei Han and Jia Shin, you know what I'm talking about). There's great memories, but also not-so-great memories as well (Wei Han......) but everything has now become history.
I've been busy with outings this year. In fact, this is the first year I received an outing with friends. (Quite sad and pathetic, right?) But nevertheless, all three of them are great and enjoyable! Thanks for the invitations and the outings!
This year, although the business, and although the confusion here and there, there are still great things to be cherished, and one of them are friends. Although most of the friendships were established in previous years, but in this year they were strengthened and became stronger. Hereby I would like to thank these awesome and wonderful friends that I could have never wished anything better (in alphabetical order): Ivan, Jian Ching, Li Anne, Lionel, Sara, Ser Lyn, Sook May, Von He, Wei Han and many more. May you have a great year ahead.
It's going to be New Year in less than 20 hours. Hereby, I wish all of you, happy new year of 2011, and may the year ahead be fruitful, successful and a great one!
Me? I thought I am not significant enough for a say.
Just kidding.
Hmm...what to say about the year 2010? One word: busy, and another word, if I'm permitted to have, confused.
Come to think of it, it's been 11 months since I took over the Class Monitor post, and with this post, everyday is like a battle. You do not know what I meant until you are really in my class. To be honest, I am still not proud of this class, don't even mention to love it. Seeing other people writing "I (heart) 5XX" or "I'm proud of my class", I could only ponder and sighed at them, for I would not have the pleasure to do so, unless the year MMXI changes them.
(Huh, they? Changing? What a laughter!)
I try not to be despair. I try to cherish some hope. But I do not put too much hope in it. If there's miracle, let it be a surprise then.
After clubs' AGMs, I'm busier than ever. I'm now holding the Chief Coach of Taichi group post in Kelab Wushu, and the Morning Session Representative post in the English Language Society.
In my opinion, I am happy in any moment in ELS, because it's more friendly, and not much pressure and stress over there. No, not because of my position in the committee but because it is less intense.
I feel terribly stressful as Chief Coach, and things got worse for me when I didn't pass the Taichi exams. I start to regret my decision to attend that interview, and landed me with such a post (and a louse). I didn't know that I was so incompetent, so unqualified, until I am the Chief Coach. I had thoughts of resigning (and still have) but there are people calling for me not to escape from responsibilities, and there are people saying that the examinations does not necessarily indicates that you are a lousy teacher. Well, examinations indicate how good are your skills, and you need a certain level of skills to teach, right?
Whatever the turnout, we shall see in the new year.
Oh yeah, I have been busy in Yellow House and Citrawarna, which both clashed at the same period, which is dubbed by my mother, the mixture to have a fever during mid-year examinations. But nevertheless, it was an experience, and a good one.
The business didn't stop there-there was inside-school drama competition, which my team have won the first place in the morning session category (and I'm glad they split it into afternoon and morning categories). Hereby, I would like to thank all people that have involved in the preparation and also the performance of the play. Thank you very much.
The Sabak Bernam camp also became one of the business, but I regard it as an escape from a greater business (the class). It was decent, and I met quite many nice and great people there, apart from making myself known because of that seminar (Sook May, Wei Han and Jia Shin, you know what I'm talking about). There's great memories, but also not-so-great memories as well (Wei Han......) but everything has now become history.
I've been busy with outings this year. In fact, this is the first year I received an outing with friends. (Quite sad and pathetic, right?) But nevertheless, all three of them are great and enjoyable! Thanks for the invitations and the outings!
This year, although the business, and although the confusion here and there, there are still great things to be cherished, and one of them are friends. Although most of the friendships were established in previous years, but in this year they were strengthened and became stronger. Hereby I would like to thank these awesome and wonderful friends that I could have never wished anything better (in alphabetical order): Ivan, Jian Ching, Li Anne, Lionel, Sara, Ser Lyn, Sook May, Von He, Wei Han and many more. May you have a great year ahead.
It's going to be New Year in less than 20 hours. Hereby, I wish all of you, happy new year of 2011, and may the year ahead be fruitful, successful and a great one!
Thursday, December 30, 2010
#72: A pre-New Year's Eve post
Okay, let us set things straight a bit.
First, the Literature Component syllabus in English for SPM (to be distinguished with English Literature) is now more inferior than ever, with the novel to be used as the material for study will be Step by Wicked Step, a "children's book" by Anne Fine, according to Wikipedia. I let you all to decide for yourselves whether it's really inferior or not.
Next, the KOMSAS syallbus in Bahasa Malaysia for SPM is now more inferior than ever, with the novel to be used as the material for study for Form 5 students from 2011 onwards, will be Interlok, as the contents will be very controversial and has raised sentiments among the Indian race (but for now, Indian leaders like MIC). I let you all to decide for yourselves whether it's really inferior or not.
Third, I have set up a survey asking students about their opinions on a possible CHS Promenade 2011. The survey is independent and I'm not representing any individuals and organisations, just doing some research. The link is here: http://www.misterpoll.com/polls/512172 Do log on and fill up the survey if you are one of the Form 5 students-to-be in another 5 days.
Here's a brief report as in 11.37pm: There are 10 out of 11 are aware about previous CHS Promenades, and 36% of the 11 voters so far would definitely attend the Promenade 2011 while another 36% is still hesistating. 18% says no.
45% feels that the usual price for a prom ticket is in between RM100 and RM120, whereas 27% says it is usually at RM120 to RM150, but when it comes to an ideal price, 36% feels that it is at RM80 to RM100.
There are quite varied opinions on venue, and this is probably due to where they stay. 36% says that they prefer Kuala Lumpur City Centre, whereas 27% prefer Petaling Jaya City Centre. Speaking of a tale of two cities! One suggested Hilton Kuala Lumpur, another 1 World Hotel in Bandar Utama.
Now, about the events during Promenade. Most voters expect delicious food, over 70% voters want performances by our fellow batchmates, like KTFB (as an example). 63% of the voters wants ballroom dancing, which is something surprising.
Speaking of dances, 45% of the voters feels that slow dances are okay, whereas 27% of the voters insist on having dancing as part of the itenerary of the promenade event. Some feel that dancing is sensual, others say that they do not have partners. Throughout the survey, the votes is split between hiring a DJ or having one of the Form 5 students as the DJ, but at 11:37 pm, more wanted the latter.
When asked what kind of theme they would prefer, some wanted a masquerade ball, some wanted a Christmas/Winter-style, some wanted something hot and spicy in contrary, some just want it elegant, there's even a suggestion of 1920s theme!
When asked on formal dress code, the boys said ties and tuxedoes, some girls prefer ankle-length gown, some prefer sleeveless party dress, whereas some answer more generally: wear like going to MPO.
When it comes to priority, more wanted entertainment over food.
This is a short report about the survey at 11.37. Happy Birthday to Zhi Wei!
First, the Literature Component syllabus in English for SPM (to be distinguished with English Literature) is now more inferior than ever, with the novel to be used as the material for study will be Step by Wicked Step, a "children's book" by Anne Fine, according to Wikipedia. I let you all to decide for yourselves whether it's really inferior or not.
Next, the KOMSAS syallbus in Bahasa Malaysia for SPM is now more inferior than ever, with the novel to be used as the material for study for Form 5 students from 2011 onwards, will be Interlok, as the contents will be very controversial and has raised sentiments among the Indian race (but for now, Indian leaders like MIC). I let you all to decide for yourselves whether it's really inferior or not.
Third, I have set up a survey asking students about their opinions on a possible CHS Promenade 2011. The survey is independent and I'm not representing any individuals and organisations, just doing some research. The link is here: http://www.misterpoll.com/polls/512172 Do log on and fill up the survey if you are one of the Form 5 students-to-be in another 5 days.
Here's a brief report as in 11.37pm: There are 10 out of 11 are aware about previous CHS Promenades, and 36% of the 11 voters so far would definitely attend the Promenade 2011 while another 36% is still hesistating. 18% says no.
45% feels that the usual price for a prom ticket is in between RM100 and RM120, whereas 27% says it is usually at RM120 to RM150, but when it comes to an ideal price, 36% feels that it is at RM80 to RM100.
There are quite varied opinions on venue, and this is probably due to where they stay. 36% says that they prefer Kuala Lumpur City Centre, whereas 27% prefer Petaling Jaya City Centre. Speaking of a tale of two cities! One suggested Hilton Kuala Lumpur, another 1 World Hotel in Bandar Utama.
Now, about the events during Promenade. Most voters expect delicious food, over 70% voters want performances by our fellow batchmates, like KTFB (as an example). 63% of the voters wants ballroom dancing, which is something surprising.
Speaking of dances, 45% of the voters feels that slow dances are okay, whereas 27% of the voters insist on having dancing as part of the itenerary of the promenade event. Some feel that dancing is sensual, others say that they do not have partners. Throughout the survey, the votes is split between hiring a DJ or having one of the Form 5 students as the DJ, but at 11:37 pm, more wanted the latter.
When asked what kind of theme they would prefer, some wanted a masquerade ball, some wanted a Christmas/Winter-style, some wanted something hot and spicy in contrary, some just want it elegant, there's even a suggestion of 1920s theme!
When asked on formal dress code, the boys said ties and tuxedoes, some girls prefer ankle-length gown, some prefer sleeveless party dress, whereas some answer more generally: wear like going to MPO.
When it comes to priority, more wanted entertainment over food.
This is a short report about the survey at 11.37. Happy Birthday to Zhi Wei!
Monday, December 27, 2010
#71: Christmas with Melancholy
I'm back from Muar, my mother's hometown, where I spent Christmas and Boxing Day there.
It's quite a journey to there. My mother and I were waiting for my mother's friend in the Mines to start off this journey. After she and her green Myvi arrived, we then started the journey.
But the journey back to Muar was over 200 kilometres. A book about Classic Railway Journeys in the West and an album in my phone made great companions, and this album I'm listening to, is Illuminations by Josh Groban, another artiste from my Favourite Artistes List.
The companionship made the ride pleasantful, as the scenery outside the car window was suddenly became enjoyable because of the tunes by Josh Groban and the description of those pleasantful railway rides from the book I'm reading. The undulating mountains at far, then the lush green view of plantations, later the quiet sights of the oil palm plantations, all of them was as though creating a symphony, not those grand symphonies, not those bombastic and grandiloquent symphonies, with trumpets and horns and violins and flutes and all kinds of percussions blasting out, but those that makes your mind at peace, or makes your mind go wandering around, or make you observe the things around us more specifically. Those symphonies that made you feel really, really good, like Josh Groban's Galileo. You should go get the album.
Anyway, the melancolic part starts when I saw my grandfather just discharged from the hospital and transferred to a recovery centre for the elderly on that very day, and the condition of the centre is just next to any ordinary old folks home. Yes, there are people ready to help you, but his allocated bed is not ventilated, there were a lot of other people in the centre sharing the service, and those people made my mother and aunt and uncle who went there along begin to regret the decision.
Then, the conflict of the rationale of putting my grandfather in the recovery centre arises, and the search of an alternative to the problem's solution begins.
The sentiment kind of ruin the whole day for all of us. What a Christmas!
But otherwise, being in my grandmother's house is a fortune for me as it is cool, peaceful and quiet. It's something rare for people living in the urban area. My sister thought that was something bad, because she don't like the bathroom that is dirty in her perspective. It was satisfactory for me, in fact, going back to my grandmother's house is a treat.
Well, spending my Christmas in a different fashion is not bad at all.
It's quite a journey to there. My mother and I were waiting for my mother's friend in the Mines to start off this journey. After she and her green Myvi arrived, we then started the journey.
But the journey back to Muar was over 200 kilometres. A book about Classic Railway Journeys in the West and an album in my phone made great companions, and this album I'm listening to, is Illuminations by Josh Groban, another artiste from my Favourite Artistes List.
The companionship made the ride pleasantful, as the scenery outside the car window was suddenly became enjoyable because of the tunes by Josh Groban and the description of those pleasantful railway rides from the book I'm reading. The undulating mountains at far, then the lush green view of plantations, later the quiet sights of the oil palm plantations, all of them was as though creating a symphony, not those grand symphonies, not those bombastic and grandiloquent symphonies, with trumpets and horns and violins and flutes and all kinds of percussions blasting out, but those that makes your mind at peace, or makes your mind go wandering around, or make you observe the things around us more specifically. Those symphonies that made you feel really, really good, like Josh Groban's Galileo. You should go get the album.
Anyway, the melancolic part starts when I saw my grandfather just discharged from the hospital and transferred to a recovery centre for the elderly on that very day, and the condition of the centre is just next to any ordinary old folks home. Yes, there are people ready to help you, but his allocated bed is not ventilated, there were a lot of other people in the centre sharing the service, and those people made my mother and aunt and uncle who went there along begin to regret the decision.
Then, the conflict of the rationale of putting my grandfather in the recovery centre arises, and the search of an alternative to the problem's solution begins.
The sentiment kind of ruin the whole day for all of us. What a Christmas!
But otherwise, being in my grandmother's house is a fortune for me as it is cool, peaceful and quiet. It's something rare for people living in the urban area. My sister thought that was something bad, because she don't like the bathroom that is dirty in her perspective. It was satisfactory for me, in fact, going back to my grandmother's house is a treat.
Well, spending my Christmas in a different fashion is not bad at all.
Friday, December 24, 2010
#70: Merry Christmas!
I'm saying this that early because I'm leaving for Muar tomorrow.
Well, my recital will go on as usual, if you can remember.
Recently, I am obsessed in producing videos. Don't know why but maybe it's an interest, although it's tiring.
After Christmas, I shall be online less, and after New Year Day, this blog will go offline.
By May, (hopefully) I will go offline completely.
Till then, Merry Christmas everyone! May God bless you and your family with good health and protection wherever you are.
Before I end this post, here's two videos to share. First, a trilogy on outings, that is unfortunately, raised some dispute over the usage of music, although I have gone unlisted. Another thing is that Paramore has decided to split and members part away, which is quite sad, and now feels awkward when the song "The Only Exception" is played.
The second video is a song called "Happy Xmas (War is over)" by John Lennon, the music legend. It is sad to see that the Korean Penisular is now in an unprecedented level of tension, and war might strike any moment, as declared by the North Koreans. We only hope that they will realise their conscience and know what is truly the right thing to do. May God bless us everyone! Once again, Merry Christmas, from Agape.
Well, my recital will go on as usual, if you can remember.
Recently, I am obsessed in producing videos. Don't know why but maybe it's an interest, although it's tiring.
After Christmas, I shall be online less, and after New Year Day, this blog will go offline.
By May, (hopefully) I will go offline completely.
Till then, Merry Christmas everyone! May God bless you and your family with good health and protection wherever you are.
Before I end this post, here's two videos to share. First, a trilogy on outings, that is unfortunately, raised some dispute over the usage of music, although I have gone unlisted. Another thing is that Paramore has decided to split and members part away, which is quite sad, and now feels awkward when the song "The Only Exception" is played.
The second video is a song called "Happy Xmas (War is over)" by John Lennon, the music legend. It is sad to see that the Korean Penisular is now in an unprecedented level of tension, and war might strike any moment, as declared by the North Koreans. We only hope that they will realise their conscience and know what is truly the right thing to do. May God bless us everyone! Once again, Merry Christmas, from Agape.
#69: Have Yourself A Merry Little Christmas
At this time of the year, people will be writing about Christmas. Most of them. Perhaps.
Last year, at this time of the year, I wrote about politics.
So now, what's up with politics in this festive season?
Well, recently, Selangor Government has started the banning of the "1Malaysia" logo on advertisement billboards. Why?
Their reason is simple: No political party is allowed to display their logo or other related symbols in any billboards. (But this is with the exclusion of festive messages.)
The Federal Government, led by Barisan Nasional (National Frontline in English), is unhappy with the move. So, they started to scrutinise the move. They said all kinds of things: Pakatan Rakyat (People's Pact in English) is making unity among the rakyats more difficult, or Pakatan Rakyat is scared of this promotional tactic, or Pakatan Rakyat is losing their battle of stating that 1Malaysia is contributed by an Israeli company.
If I'm not mistaken, they even deny that the 1Malaysia logo is a political symbol from a political party.
But I'm sure that our "dear" Deputy Prime Minister, Tan Sri Muhyiddin Yassin said something like this:
By the way, this logo isn't getting much appeal from the urban rakyats, especially the urban youths. Why?
In my perspective, 1Malaysia concept is nothing but rather promotional. We all can see for ourselves, and anything that is related to 1 or community activities, there will be a 1Malaysia term in front of it or replacing the normal number '1' with the 1Malaysia logo.
1Malaysia didn't achieve national unity so far. There's still the virtual gap between races, there's still the awkwardness when integrating among races.
Tragically (not), the 1Malaysia concept has now become merely a slogan, and it's really catchy to shout, but nothing is done.
So, my dear (not) Bankrupt Nation, do not waste anymore effort, time, or money to do more promotional. It's useless, they will become waste. It's not productive, it's not giving any positive results.
But of course, deep in our heart cores, we know that it is not only Najib (or maybe it isn't) that creates this concept, just as not only him (or maybe it isn't, again) that governs this country. It is of course just only a group of cabinet ministers that assist him, right? (A satirical smile here.)
Any way, we could not be spared from this festive season. Let us all just pray to Him that Malaysia will be truly a good nation one day. Merry Christmas, from the opinion department of Constantly Varying.
Last year, at this time of the year, I wrote about politics.
So now, what's up with politics in this festive season?
Well, recently, Selangor Government has started the banning of the "1Malaysia" logo on advertisement billboards. Why?
Their reason is simple: No political party is allowed to display their logo or other related symbols in any billboards. (But this is with the exclusion of festive messages.)
The Federal Government, led by Barisan Nasional (National Frontline in English), is unhappy with the move. So, they started to scrutinise the move. They said all kinds of things: Pakatan Rakyat (People's Pact in English) is making unity among the rakyats more difficult, or Pakatan Rakyat is scared of this promotional tactic, or Pakatan Rakyat is losing their battle of stating that 1Malaysia is contributed by an Israeli company.
If I'm not mistaken, they even deny that the 1Malaysia logo is a political symbol from a political party.
But I'm sure that our "dear" Deputy Prime Minister, Tan Sri Muhyiddin Yassin said something like this:
"The 1Malaysia Concept is only conducted under the Barisan Nasional's umbrella."Hmm...speaking of not being political. With this statement, we refute any claims by the Federal Government that the 1Malaysia logo is not political, and regard any denials as just plainly denials.
By the way, this logo isn't getting much appeal from the urban rakyats, especially the urban youths. Why?
In my perspective, 1Malaysia concept is nothing but rather promotional. We all can see for ourselves, and anything that is related to 1 or community activities, there will be a 1Malaysia term in front of it or replacing the normal number '1' with the 1Malaysia logo.
1Malaysia didn't achieve national unity so far. There's still the virtual gap between races, there's still the awkwardness when integrating among races.
Tragically (not), the 1Malaysia concept has now become merely a slogan, and it's really catchy to shout, but nothing is done.
So, my dear (not) Bankrupt Nation, do not waste anymore effort, time, or money to do more promotional. It's useless, they will become waste. It's not productive, it's not giving any positive results.
But of course, deep in our heart cores, we know that it is not only Najib (or maybe it isn't) that creates this concept, just as not only him (or maybe it isn't, again) that governs this country. It is of course just only a group of cabinet ministers that assist him, right? (A satirical smile here.)
Any way, we could not be spared from this festive season. Let us all just pray to Him that Malaysia will be truly a good nation one day. Merry Christmas, from the opinion department of Constantly Varying.
Tuesday, December 21, 2010
#68: Although I didn't watch Inception (yet)...
...I have watched (some say) the next best movie of the year, The Social Network.
But, does this movie about how Mark Zuckerberg founded Facebook along with the troubles and controversies get my appeal?
Hmm...to be honest, it is decent and nice, but it feels like it is quite far from reality, although many parts are true in reality. It's like over-emphasized, for box office sales reasons.
In my opinion, everyone in this film is not evil or bad (with the exception of Sean Parker), it's just wrong decisions by wrong influences.
Still, I am anticipating 127 Hours.....
But, does this movie about how Mark Zuckerberg founded Facebook along with the troubles and controversies get my appeal?
Hmm...to be honest, it is decent and nice, but it feels like it is quite far from reality, although many parts are true in reality. It's like over-emphasized, for box office sales reasons.
In my opinion, everyone in this film is not evil or bad (with the exception of Sean Parker), it's just wrong decisions by wrong influences.
Still, I am anticipating 127 Hours.....
Friday, December 17, 2010
#67: What? Another intersection?
Life is a path full with intersections and crossroads. They give you choices, but they do not have the "undo" button. Once you decided, it will be near impossible to go back to where you are asked.
The worst of all is, the place on the path that requires you to decide is somewhat a quicksand, they don't let you to choose for long.
Yeap, yet another question about life. Life is a question, an unending question, yet you know that at the end of this sentence it will be a question mark. You cannot stare at the question and find the answer in your head. You have to go out and search for them.
Anyway, cut the "emo" part and straight to the point; I frown upon my future.
For the first time, I don't know where my interests lie.
I don't know what course to take in the future, morevoer a career.
Then, the question of possibility and rationale of choosing that specific career arises.
There are examples of people around me studying one course but end up doing something far different from what he/she studied. There's one relative of mind who studied Biotech, but end up working in a bank. A friend's father studied Social Science but end up becoming an insurance agent.
What does this prove? This prove that, you cannot really choose what you want to do in life. Even though you can choose what course you want to study, that doesn't guarantee you will do something related to what you studied earlier.
But, this is for later, for my question is not solved: what are my interests?
You say music, but it's hard and not much future in there. Plus, you must be some kind of virtuoso or maestro to be a accomplish musician.
You say politics, but guess what-I do not plan to stay here for the rest of my life, and you know that foreign migrants are not entitled to political power.
Worst of all is, even though you have degrees in either music or political science, no one (in the sense of the corporate and business world) would recognise or appreciate, or even consider your university qualifications, because both of them are just far different from what they want.
I'm not into medicine. I'm not much interested in business.
Law? People are now saying that there are too many people out there having a law degree. Furthermore, law requires you to memorise things. Am I good in memorising things? I don't know.
I don't know what other options are available. Please enlighten me.
The worst of all is, the place on the path that requires you to decide is somewhat a quicksand, they don't let you to choose for long.
Yeap, yet another question about life. Life is a question, an unending question, yet you know that at the end of this sentence it will be a question mark. You cannot stare at the question and find the answer in your head. You have to go out and search for them.
Anyway, cut the "emo" part and straight to the point; I frown upon my future.
For the first time, I don't know where my interests lie.
I don't know what course to take in the future, morevoer a career.
Then, the question of possibility and rationale of choosing that specific career arises.
There are examples of people around me studying one course but end up doing something far different from what he/she studied. There's one relative of mind who studied Biotech, but end up working in a bank. A friend's father studied Social Science but end up becoming an insurance agent.
What does this prove? This prove that, you cannot really choose what you want to do in life. Even though you can choose what course you want to study, that doesn't guarantee you will do something related to what you studied earlier.
But, this is for later, for my question is not solved: what are my interests?
You say music, but it's hard and not much future in there. Plus, you must be some kind of virtuoso or maestro to be a accomplish musician.
You say politics, but guess what-I do not plan to stay here for the rest of my life, and you know that foreign migrants are not entitled to political power.
Worst of all is, even though you have degrees in either music or political science, no one (in the sense of the corporate and business world) would recognise or appreciate, or even consider your university qualifications, because both of them are just far different from what they want.
I'm not into medicine. I'm not much interested in business.
Law? People are now saying that there are too many people out there having a law degree. Furthermore, law requires you to memorise things. Am I good in memorising things? I don't know.
I don't know what other options are available. Please enlighten me.
Tuesday, December 14, 2010
#66: Voyage of the Dawn Treader, My Version
Well, not exactly. It's just a journey going eastwards, reaching as far as a pedestrian can walk safely (highways in this context are considered not safe, seeing that there are no pedestrian bridge).
I didn't walk out the house half an inch since morning. So, I decided to travel east, and here's a map I travelled.
View Untitled in a larger map
Expanding 6.3 kilometres, I've almost reach the Hindu Temple, which I regard as the Utter East. Then, I turned right, and was doubtful whether pedestrians can pass through the road end and turn right, which turned out to be possible. After crossing the main road of SS3/29, I turned into the guarded residential area of SS3, Anne's (http://paradoxicallysadistic.blogspot.com/) place.
I almost forgot where her house was, but I remembered about the Dukong tree, so I turned right into the SS3/7 road, and then SS3/4 road. I was still hesitating after passing a few houses on the SS3/4 road, until I reached to a house that has a light-inpenetrable fence, and also the Dukong tree.
Then I continued the journey back to home, along the way, I stopped by at Lionel's old house, which he moved in 2008. The house is now occupied by a Sikh family, if I'm not mistaken.
Yes, you may say that I might be lying about this, because it is as easy as saying that I was at the White House few days ago. I have no phone nor cameras when I walked this evening, so......
Li Anne, if you are reading this, you may be startled by this findings: There was a car under the registration number WNA 6**1 (censored for your privacy) in your house at around 6.40 something in the evening. :)
I didn't walk out the house half an inch since morning. So, I decided to travel east, and here's a map I travelled.
View Untitled in a larger map
Expanding 6.3 kilometres, I've almost reach the Hindu Temple, which I regard as the Utter East. Then, I turned right, and was doubtful whether pedestrians can pass through the road end and turn right, which turned out to be possible. After crossing the main road of SS3/29, I turned into the guarded residential area of SS3, Anne's (http://paradoxicallysadistic.blogspot.com/) place.
I almost forgot where her house was, but I remembered about the Dukong tree, so I turned right into the SS3/7 road, and then SS3/4 road. I was still hesitating after passing a few houses on the SS3/4 road, until I reached to a house that has a light-inpenetrable fence, and also the Dukong tree.
Then I continued the journey back to home, along the way, I stopped by at Lionel's old house, which he moved in 2008. The house is now occupied by a Sikh family, if I'm not mistaken.
Yes, you may say that I might be lying about this, because it is as easy as saying that I was at the White House few days ago. I have no phone nor cameras when I walked this evening, so......
Li Anne, if you are reading this, you may be startled by this findings: There was a car under the registration number WNA 6**1 (censored for your privacy) in your house at around 6.40 something in the evening. :)
#65: New addition to the blog-A playlist of tunes
In the holiday spirit, I decided to put a mixpod.com playlist, consisting two Christmas songs, both from my favourite artiste, Diana Krall.
After Christmas, I will put a different playlist consisting three songs, but I will let you all check it out by then.
After Christmas, I will put a different playlist consisting three songs, but I will let you all check it out by then.
Sunday, December 12, 2010
#64: Americano
My sister keep asking me to listen to this song above, which is actually a dance version of this old Italian song below (with English translation) from the 1950s.
I prefer the old version, seriously.
But I'm not going to talk about why I prefer the old version. Instead, I'm going to talk about the contents.
I remember of writing my earliest blog posts in Breakthroughs (http://breakthroughbyks.blogspot.com/) and one of them is about Westernisation.
It is rather obvious, that America has rose into a great power nation after the World War II. Along with that, they grow strong in culture too. They eventually develop their style of English, their style of living, not to mention their favourite entertainment.
To be honest, we do not really get much influences from America, with the exception of Cola, TV shows, computer, fast food and American English (but that's a lot of influences, isn't it?). We do not really have baseball games, nor we drink beer a lot, nor spend too much of our parent's money.
But, we are now having shows imitating CSI or Grey's Anatomy, some of us use color instead of colour.
It's not wrong. I didn't say it's wrong.
What brought American culture here? Mainly, it is the (old) idiot box-television. Television stations buy shows from America, and we watch those shows. Some of us said, "Ooh, that's cool!" and followed. That also accounts for smoking culture in here.
I'm not complaining here. I'm not moaning here.
You can live an American dream as you like, but do not forget who you really are at the first place. If Americanisation or Westernisation changed you, the descendants of the race will also be changed.
Why I write this post, which might gain anti-popularity?
Well, yesterday I discovered something-my supposed generation name, or in chinese it's 字辈.
Every generation has one, and it's in the middle of the chinese name, for example, my grandfather's generation name is 甸, and his chinese name is 姚甸彩. Mine is 礼, but apparently this generation name tradition is forgotten when it comes to my generation, so no one in my generation has this centre name.
How sad, seeing this age-old tradition being forgotten. Well, at least yesterday was an enlightenment.
Wednesday, December 8, 2010
#63: Come fly away, let's fly, let's fly away...
I am back now from Genting Highlands.
Anne was back from Europe.
I signed in to Facebook.
Anne signed in to Facebook, later.
I saw Anne online. I started a conversation.
The conversation ventures from Europe trip, to Genting trip, then to Hamsa.
Here's come's the flying away part. New Zealand.
The last place on Earth that is still pure, still not polluted by industrial or cultural pollution.
Future. PR. Life.
Change. Malaysia. Future for all.
Future. Life. Retirement.
Future. For. All.
Never mind. Just get over SPM and let us just see.
Anne was back from Europe.
I signed in to Facebook.
Anne signed in to Facebook, later.
I saw Anne online. I started a conversation.
The conversation ventures from Europe trip, to Genting trip, then to Hamsa.
Here's come's the flying away part. New Zealand.
The last place on Earth that is still pure, still not polluted by industrial or cultural pollution.
Future. PR. Life.
Change. Malaysia. Future for all.
Future. Life. Retirement.
Future. For. All.
Never mind. Just get over SPM and let us just see.
Sunday, December 5, 2010
Saturday, December 4, 2010
#61: I feel that posting a video of pictures about the Petrosains excursion is a bit not sincere...
...therefore I shall put it in words.
It was that special day,
where the skies were not that gray
and everything seems to be OK,
On that morning the ship started the sail,
from all kinds of direction they have hail,
three from Kelana Jaya, another from Asia Jaya,
one took a bus, and another went with "Sir".
(Okay, now it's getting harder to rhyme about the following events. So I cut from here.)
It was that special day,
where the skies were not that gray
and everything seems to be OK,
a group of five boys and one girl
set out to find the knowledge pearl.On that morning the ship started the sail,
from all kinds of direction they have hail,
three from Kelana Jaya, another from Asia Jaya,
one took a bus, and another went with "Sir".
(Okay, now it's getting harder to rhyme about the following events. So I cut from here.)
At somewhat 10 something, everybody arrived at the front door of Petrosains, but to our horror, we couldn't buy the tickets for afternoon session due to the "buy-as-you-go-in" policy. So, we bought the ticket later.
Meanwhile, before lunch, all of us swayed ourselves into Kinokuniya bookstore, which is just opposite the centre. And then after an hour, all of us head down to Signatures food court to have lunch. Three had Subway sandwiches while other three had oriental food.
And then, it was time to go, and we went up to Level 4 again and buy the tickets. Not long after, it's time to line up for the Dark Ride. The Dark Ride is the same as that one during post-PMR, just that now it's in BM. After the ride, it was the Petrojaya, but just before that, there's the static electricity tube, where you put your hand and there's colour, but if someone touches you there's electric shock; then there's the construction of lane for the ball to travel from top to bottom. Petrojaya was nothing much but places to take photos and illusions. Don't believe me? Check these out.
 |
| Look more like a Grey's Anatomy Cast Photo for me... |
More illusions before we go into Dinotrek.
Do you still remember the singing T-Rex?
Not much can be done there, just seeing the information display and touching petroleum with you bare hands. And just before we leave the dinotrek...
Then, there was SPARKZ, the place with the earthquake simluator, grain pit and an addition-Interactive Art, where there are floating liquids, or butterflies, or pouring gold, activated by shadows! There was also Space, where some people get a bit fun about the space...
After that, the helocopter simulator (which is not much fun now), and then next, the platform, which a lot of demonstrations are faulty. After that, the section that we are here for-Speed. Many things we could do there, but because it's school holidays, it is not much luck to get on some serious ones, like the F1 car simulators, or the mind-ball-control. The slide was fun though.
Then, molecular nano world-not impressive. There's an addition at the end of the whole journey-Green Energy, and there's one simulator where you are a Minister of Energy in some country and you are required to provide energy to the country, as well as to please the people. Not very easy, come to think of it.
And then, Dark Ride II-Exit Ride=a bit cacat. Before all of us parted to our ways, we head to XPLORASI to see some potential purchase items. And then the whole thing ends.
Now, here are some more (epic) photos...
 |
| Guess who is this in the limeilght... |
Sunday, November 28, 2010
#60: Tones: An Evening on Christmas Eve II: A Little Fall of Snow?
Say that I am narcissistic or syok sendiri. It's just me playing a collection of Christmas songs, in my own home.
You are (not-very) welcomed to attend (and sit in the open air and listen from the outside of the house).
But anyway, this is roughly the program of that evening.
Tones: An Evening on Christmas Eve II: A Little Fall of Snow?
Part One: Prelude of Sunset & Nightfall
The performance of the evening begins with three slow-paced and soft tunes acting as the overture for the whole recital to welcome the dusk of Christmas Eve.
Johann Pachelbel Canon in D
Traditional The First Noel
Traditional Adeste Fideles with Variations
Part Two: The Warmth over the Fireplace
The recital continues with more modern Christmas music, from traditional to all-time favourites, all with various arrangements.
Mitchell Parish/Leroy Anderson Sleigh Ride
Traditional O Christmas Tree
Traditional Deck the Halls
Jule Styne Let it snow! Let it snow! Let it snow!
James Pierpont Jingle Bells
Mel Torme/Robert Wells The Christmas Song (Chestnuts Roasting on an Open Fire)
Hugh Martin/Ralph Blane Have Yourself A Merry Little Christmas
Frank Loesser What Are You Doing New Year's Eve?
Part Three: Reminders of Christmas
The evening comes to a finale with a few more traditional carols, singing praises to Jesus Christ being performed.
Traditional God Rest Ye Merry, Gentleman
French Carol Melody Angels We Have Heard on High
Franz Gruber Silent Night, Holy Night
G.F. Handel Joy to the World
Traditional Amazing Grace
Venue: Little Nights Philharmonic Hall
Date: December 24, 2010
Time: 1900 hours
You are (not-very) welcomed to attend (and sit in the open air and listen from the outside of the house).
But anyway, this is roughly the program of that evening.
Tones: An Evening on Christmas Eve II: A Little Fall of Snow?
Part One: Prelude of Sunset & Nightfall
The performance of the evening begins with three slow-paced and soft tunes acting as the overture for the whole recital to welcome the dusk of Christmas Eve.
Johann Pachelbel Canon in D
Traditional The First Noel
Traditional Adeste Fideles with Variations
Part Two: The Warmth over the Fireplace
The recital continues with more modern Christmas music, from traditional to all-time favourites, all with various arrangements.
Mitchell Parish/Leroy Anderson Sleigh Ride
Traditional O Christmas Tree
Traditional Deck the Halls
Jule Styne Let it snow! Let it snow! Let it snow!
James Pierpont Jingle Bells
Mel Torme/Robert Wells The Christmas Song (Chestnuts Roasting on an Open Fire)
Hugh Martin/Ralph Blane Have Yourself A Merry Little Christmas
Frank Loesser What Are You Doing New Year's Eve?
Part Three: Reminders of Christmas
The evening comes to a finale with a few more traditional carols, singing praises to Jesus Christ being performed.
Traditional God Rest Ye Merry, Gentleman
French Carol Melody Angels We Have Heard on High
Franz Gruber Silent Night, Holy Night
G.F. Handel Joy to the World
Traditional Amazing Grace
Venue: Little Nights Philharmonic Hall
Date: December 24, 2010
Time: 1900 hours
#59: An Excursion of Discovery to Petrosains
Well, it's kind of decent and nice to have a revisit to somewhere you've been with a bunch of pals.
So, the excursion went pretty well, and we're quite satisfied.
Proof and evidence? Here's a video of all the pictures (not quite all, but 95% is good enough) and background music (which I hope it will have better effect). LOL
Hopefully there will be more of this in the future. But of course, we couldn't have this next year due to SPM, but maybe after SPM, and next destinations may be decided in the future.
So, the excursion went pretty well, and we're quite satisfied.
Proof and evidence? Here's a video of all the pictures (not quite all, but 95% is good enough) and background music (which I hope it will have better effect). LOL
Hopefully there will be more of this in the future. But of course, we couldn't have this next year due to SPM, but maybe after SPM, and next destinations may be decided in the future.
Thursday, November 25, 2010
Tuesday, November 23, 2010
#57: My two cents worth in music: When Harmony and Rhythm speaks in tutti
Fron now on, any opinions about music will be labelled: When Harmony and Rhythm speaks in tutti.
(Another lame thing in this blog, huh?)
I believe that harmony can be itself, rhythm can also be itself, but they will never be completed if they don't come together. You listen to any kind of harmony, but they will remain as just harmony, chords or lines of music if there is no rhythm into it. You feel there is some kind of catchy rhythm, but without harmony over it, it will just be beatings only.
The simplest and earliest harmonies in this world has rhythm in it, even rubato is a kind of rhythm, a free rhythm. The most beautiful harmonies in this world will not be beautiful if rhythm were absent.
Strong rhythms in particular genre songs like trance, would not be that catchy if it lacks harmony. It will be mere metronome-ish beatings.
This is an introduction, and now for the opinion.
-----------------------------------------------------------------------
If someone ask you, who is your favourite artist, or what do you listen to, what would you reply?
If it's me, I would say something else than Lady Gaga, or Beyonce, or David Archuleta, or Iyaz, or Taio Cruz. It's not Justin Bieber (and forever not!), nor Bruno Mars, nor Taylor Swift, nor any latest pop star in current trend.
Why? Why not?
I realise one fact: You may follow a trend, but that's temporarily.
What genre I listen to then? Well, quite a few actually: adult contemporary, R&B, jazz and vocal.
Not pop. Not rock. Not dance pop. (Although some of them are pretty catchy...)
They give us some sense of calmness, some sense of softness, after one hectic day out there.
They let you think, let you rest, let you truly enjoy music, and not Katy Perry or Ke$ha-type of whorish tunes, out there just to woo your money.
The genres I listed above are the type of music that is worth for my money. And for sure, I will definitely buy a few of those in the future.
Here's some examples of what I'm listening to. The first one, in the spirit of Christmas, is Jingle Bells a la Diana Krall, and it's fantastic! The second one, is by Dido, which is one of my favourite singer of all time. The third one, is a rendition by our Malaysian artiste based in the U.S., her name is Zee Avi.
(Another lame thing in this blog, huh?)
I believe that harmony can be itself, rhythm can also be itself, but they will never be completed if they don't come together. You listen to any kind of harmony, but they will remain as just harmony, chords or lines of music if there is no rhythm into it. You feel there is some kind of catchy rhythm, but without harmony over it, it will just be beatings only.
The simplest and earliest harmonies in this world has rhythm in it, even rubato is a kind of rhythm, a free rhythm. The most beautiful harmonies in this world will not be beautiful if rhythm were absent.
Strong rhythms in particular genre songs like trance, would not be that catchy if it lacks harmony. It will be mere metronome-ish beatings.
This is an introduction, and now for the opinion.
-----------------------------------------------------------------------
If someone ask you, who is your favourite artist, or what do you listen to, what would you reply?
If it's me, I would say something else than Lady Gaga, or Beyonce, or David Archuleta, or Iyaz, or Taio Cruz. It's not Justin Bieber (and forever not!), nor Bruno Mars, nor Taylor Swift, nor any latest pop star in current trend.
Why? Why not?
I realise one fact: You may follow a trend, but that's temporarily.
What genre I listen to then? Well, quite a few actually: adult contemporary, R&B, jazz and vocal.
Not pop. Not rock. Not dance pop. (Although some of them are pretty catchy...)
They give us some sense of calmness, some sense of softness, after one hectic day out there.
They let you think, let you rest, let you truly enjoy music, and not Katy Perry or Ke$ha-type of whorish tunes, out there just to woo your money.
The genres I listed above are the type of music that is worth for my money. And for sure, I will definitely buy a few of those in the future.
Here's some examples of what I'm listening to. The first one, in the spirit of Christmas, is Jingle Bells a la Diana Krall, and it's fantastic! The second one, is by Dido, which is one of my favourite singer of all time. The third one, is a rendition by our Malaysian artiste based in the U.S., her name is Zee Avi.
Sunday, November 21, 2010
#56: Order in chaos?: An Open Letter to Zaid Ibrahim
If you notice, I haven't been writing about politics for a while, maybe since the 100-storey mega tower protest.
Alright then, let us get straight to the point.
--------------------------------------------------------------------
Recently, we hear news about Zaid Ibrahim pulling out from the run for vice-presidency of the PKR party, and more recently, he has decided to quit PKR on December 16.
According to him, all is to blame Anwar Ibrahim and Azmin Ali.
Now, papers all over the nation are writing about this embarassing issue that is now making the Pakatan Rakyat coalition sounding worse each day.
Dear Zaid Ibrahim, I may agree with you that PKR has dark politics, and there are circles within circles. It is not surprising, as all must be reminded the fact that many PKR members are ex-UMNO members, whom left UMNO to follow Anwar Ibrahim. I may agree with you too, that Anwar Ibrahim is bias when it comes to choosing his successor or carry any duties in the party. Even Anwar admits that too.
But dear Zaid Ibrahim, do learn from history. In the past, there are many examples of biting the bullet to get success. Just look at ancient China, there are too many examples of biting the bullet. One of them, was set in the Spring and Autumn Period, where King of the Yue state, Goujian ate food suited for peasants, forced himself to taste bile, and even sleeping on straws and sticks, to remind him about his humiliations while serving under the State of Wu when Wu defeated Yue. After years of patience and perseverence, Goujian finally got his revenge by defeating the State of Wu.
See the point? Mr. Zaid, be reminded that you joined PKR merely more than a year, and it is considered to be quite lucky to have high posts in the party in immediate effect, when compared to those who do not have such luck and chance. The political world is not the same as the legal world. It is harsher, more difficult, and darker. It is a pity to reach this point of no return because you couldn't bear the secrecy in a political party.
It is normal to have politics in a political party, and maybe that's why they call it a political organisation.
Now, you do not only smeared the good name of PKR (PKR has little good name anyway), you smeared your good name too. People will now regard you as a wimp in the political world, as you are seen as a person that cannot bear the harshness of politics (pardon me for my harshness in my language). Even if you form a new political party, chances are you will share the same fate as Dato' Onn Jaafar, forming new parties after UMNO that did not work.
But, I salute you, for you have been brave of speaking out. But then again, there are examples of Generals in Ancient China that are brave but small-witted, and end up losing battles. Please be wise in the future, and do not repeat the mistakes you've done.
The only hope that we could cherished is that an order will surface among these chaotic situation, and the people will stay strong with Pakatan Rakyat.
Alright then, let us get straight to the point.
--------------------------------------------------------------------
Recently, we hear news about Zaid Ibrahim pulling out from the run for vice-presidency of the PKR party, and more recently, he has decided to quit PKR on December 16.
According to him, all is to blame Anwar Ibrahim and Azmin Ali.
Now, papers all over the nation are writing about this embarassing issue that is now making the Pakatan Rakyat coalition sounding worse each day.
Dear Zaid Ibrahim, I may agree with you that PKR has dark politics, and there are circles within circles. It is not surprising, as all must be reminded the fact that many PKR members are ex-UMNO members, whom left UMNO to follow Anwar Ibrahim. I may agree with you too, that Anwar Ibrahim is bias when it comes to choosing his successor or carry any duties in the party. Even Anwar admits that too.
But dear Zaid Ibrahim, do learn from history. In the past, there are many examples of biting the bullet to get success. Just look at ancient China, there are too many examples of biting the bullet. One of them, was set in the Spring and Autumn Period, where King of the Yue state, Goujian ate food suited for peasants, forced himself to taste bile, and even sleeping on straws and sticks, to remind him about his humiliations while serving under the State of Wu when Wu defeated Yue. After years of patience and perseverence, Goujian finally got his revenge by defeating the State of Wu.
See the point? Mr. Zaid, be reminded that you joined PKR merely more than a year, and it is considered to be quite lucky to have high posts in the party in immediate effect, when compared to those who do not have such luck and chance. The political world is not the same as the legal world. It is harsher, more difficult, and darker. It is a pity to reach this point of no return because you couldn't bear the secrecy in a political party.
It is normal to have politics in a political party, and maybe that's why they call it a political organisation.
Now, you do not only smeared the good name of PKR (PKR has little good name anyway), you smeared your good name too. People will now regard you as a wimp in the political world, as you are seen as a person that cannot bear the harshness of politics (pardon me for my harshness in my language). Even if you form a new political party, chances are you will share the same fate as Dato' Onn Jaafar, forming new parties after UMNO that did not work.
But, I salute you, for you have been brave of speaking out. But then again, there are examples of Generals in Ancient China that are brave but small-witted, and end up losing battles. Please be wise in the future, and do not repeat the mistakes you've done.
The only hope that we could cherished is that an order will surface among these chaotic situation, and the people will stay strong with Pakatan Rakyat.
Wednesday, November 17, 2010
#55: On the Morning of Hari Raya Aidiladha......
I woke up before the azan for Maghrib prayers sounded. This was the result of 13 hours of sleep from 4.30 p.m. yesterday, after 4 days and 3 nights in Sabak Bernam. After waking up, I ran around 4 kilometres.
Now, for what-happened-during-the-leadership-camp part.
On the first day of the camp, all Petaling Utama participants were gathered at the stadium MBPJ in Kelana Jaya at around 12. We embarked the bus and started the journey at 1 p.m..
Did I mention the Wei-Han-did-not-bring-the-second-tent-because-he-thought-the-tent-is-a-spare-tent-and-not-significant-enough-to-bring incident? Oops.
The journey took 3 hours, including a stop at Sabak Bernam town, not to mention the journey is relatively bumpy too. (What the heck is wrong with the suspensions of the bus?)
In the bus, a Malay radio station broadcast was heard, some people gave forty winks, others brought along a book to read, or listen to mp3.
Upon reaching Sabak Bernam, the bus gave many dramatic pauses, which made some of us thought that we reached the place, and they were false pauses. The SBPISB (in full: Sekolah Berasrama Penuh Integrasi, Sabak Bernam) was so secluded, and hid behind plots of oil palm plantations. If you search Google Maps for this school, you will be surprised-it is located at the edge of Selangor, literally!
Anyway, we eventually reached the venue, and to our surprise, the school is HUGE. The land area of the school can accommodate two SMJK Katholik of Petaling Jaya. Wow!
So, we disembarked the bus, and waited until the Camp Commander calls us to assemble at the assembly ground, which is a wide empty car park lot in front of the administration block. We went to the activity hall for registration and sorting of groups. Then, we were required to pitch the tents.
Now, here's the unlucky part starts. (Actually, the no-luck starts when Wei Han did not bring the second tent.) We asked this two guys from SMK Sri Permata (same district), Nicholas and Zhi Quan whether they were willing to share the tent I brought and give their two men tent to Sook May and Jia Shin. They agreed. We started to pitch the tent, but to our horror, the rods were disconnected, as the elastic string is flawed. We tried to ignore this flaw, but it failed. So, the two guys got back their tent, leaving SMJK Katholik representatives having NO TENT. So, the girls have to split and sleeping at different tents, and so were me and Wei Han. Initially, Wei Han moved into Nicholas and Zhi Quan's tent, and I have nowhere to go but temporarily leaving the bag outside their tent, and went to take a bath.
After dinner, we started the ice breaking event, which we carried out activities with the group sorted. First was sitting in lines and massage and pinch the person in front in two styles, the "Counselling Teacher Style" and the "Discipline Teacher Style". Then, we were sitting in circles discussing about the group's trademark (as in cheer etc.)
Then it was bed time, and Wei Han decided to move out because the two men tent was cramp. The teacher-in-charge of the Petaling Utama district have found two tents which had vacancy. Wei Han slept in a 10 men tent, whereas I slept with two Malay guys in a 4 men tent. The guys were friendly and welcomed me into their tent.
And just as I thought I could sleep in the open air without any tent (if that's the worst case scenario), the rain came, accompanied by strong winds. The tent I slept was stable during the strong wind, but we hardly could sleep because there were noises outside. Soon, after the rain and the wind, it became silent.
Eventually, I slept until the two guys woke up to get ready for solat Subuh. Roughly 3-4 hours of sleep. When the sun lighted the place, it was clearly seen that one tent in front of Wei Han's tent collapsed, and Wei Han's tent was not in good shape either.
There were calls to ring the siren to signal the arrival of the storm, but the Camp Commander said that it was just winds only. Then, we proceeded to listening talks after morning. The first talk was dozing, the second one however, let me made known to many people. After lunch, it was a workshop to create documentation of a club/society.
After that, it was outdoor activities, where groups were competing in various "sports" events, like coconut bowling and brick-leaping events. After that, we were released for dinner. When muslims went for their solat Maghrib, we went to attend a Morale Education session, which was interrupted by the intrusion of some wasps. Then, everyone attended a talk by a police officer in the same hall, which was interesting and quite engaging.
That night, it was cold, but no strong winds.
The following morning, I woke up late (probably because they did not play the reciting of al-Quran verses like the day before) and so were the two other guys. Fortunately, the assembly time was postponed from 7.00 a.m. to 7.40 a.m.. Then, the time before lunch was rocket-production (from plastic bottles), and after lunch was rocket launching competitions. Each group were required to make two: one for accuracy, the other which has parachute function, was tested on how long could it stay on air. The first one made my group quite proud, but the second one is just plainly pathetic (imagine the rocket fall on the sky helplessly).
Then, it was time to "clean up yourselves" and muslims went for solat Maghrib after dinner, whereas non-Muslims went to attend another Morale Education session by another teacher. After that, it was Cultural Night (directly translated from Malam Kebudayaan) and groups performed performances ranging from sketches to singing to dances to even alternative music from recycled materials. My group's theme was "P. Ramlee's time" and so we made a concentrated version of Bujang Lapuk. I am the father of the daughters (which were kidnapped and later saved by three men) and also the silat instructor.
Then, it was bedtime, and this time, no rain and no winds.
Next morning, we were required to clean up the venue, pack the tents and then change into uniforms for the closing ceremony, and thus ending the whole camp.
Although the camp's duration is the same length as the excursion to Kepala Batas, not much to describe. But still, I met many people over there, and kind of gained an experience. Although it's a pity of not getting a CD which contains the images during the camp, but hopefully memories could stay in my head for a long, long time.
Hereby, I thank those who have helped me during this camp, those who were in the same group with me and those who have shared moments with me. I would like to express my deepest appreciation to Nicholas and Zhi Quan for helping to try to erect the tent although it is faulty, Rico and his partner from SMKTDH for allowing me to share the tent, Wei Han and many more. May the Lord above bless all of you and your journey in life ahead.
Now, for what-happened-during-the-leadership-camp part.
On the first day of the camp, all Petaling Utama participants were gathered at the stadium MBPJ in Kelana Jaya at around 12. We embarked the bus and started the journey at 1 p.m..
Did I mention the Wei-Han-did-not-bring-the-second-tent-because-he-thought-the-tent-is-a-spare-tent-and-not-significant-enough-to-bring incident? Oops.
The journey took 3 hours, including a stop at Sabak Bernam town, not to mention the journey is relatively bumpy too. (What the heck is wrong with the suspensions of the bus?)
In the bus, a Malay radio station broadcast was heard, some people gave forty winks, others brought along a book to read, or listen to mp3.
Upon reaching Sabak Bernam, the bus gave many dramatic pauses, which made some of us thought that we reached the place, and they were false pauses. The SBPISB (in full: Sekolah Berasrama Penuh Integrasi, Sabak Bernam) was so secluded, and hid behind plots of oil palm plantations. If you search Google Maps for this school, you will be surprised-it is located at the edge of Selangor, literally!
Anyway, we eventually reached the venue, and to our surprise, the school is HUGE. The land area of the school can accommodate two SMJK Katholik of Petaling Jaya. Wow!
So, we disembarked the bus, and waited until the Camp Commander calls us to assemble at the assembly ground, which is a wide empty car park lot in front of the administration block. We went to the activity hall for registration and sorting of groups. Then, we were required to pitch the tents.
Now, here's the unlucky part starts. (Actually, the no-luck starts when Wei Han did not bring the second tent.) We asked this two guys from SMK Sri Permata (same district), Nicholas and Zhi Quan whether they were willing to share the tent I brought and give their two men tent to Sook May and Jia Shin. They agreed. We started to pitch the tent, but to our horror, the rods were disconnected, as the elastic string is flawed. We tried to ignore this flaw, but it failed. So, the two guys got back their tent, leaving SMJK Katholik representatives having NO TENT. So, the girls have to split and sleeping at different tents, and so were me and Wei Han. Initially, Wei Han moved into Nicholas and Zhi Quan's tent, and I have nowhere to go but temporarily leaving the bag outside their tent, and went to take a bath.
After dinner, we started the ice breaking event, which we carried out activities with the group sorted. First was sitting in lines and massage and pinch the person in front in two styles, the "Counselling Teacher Style" and the "Discipline Teacher Style". Then, we were sitting in circles discussing about the group's trademark (as in cheer etc.)
Then it was bed time, and Wei Han decided to move out because the two men tent was cramp. The teacher-in-charge of the Petaling Utama district have found two tents which had vacancy. Wei Han slept in a 10 men tent, whereas I slept with two Malay guys in a 4 men tent. The guys were friendly and welcomed me into their tent.
And just as I thought I could sleep in the open air without any tent (if that's the worst case scenario), the rain came, accompanied by strong winds. The tent I slept was stable during the strong wind, but we hardly could sleep because there were noises outside. Soon, after the rain and the wind, it became silent.
Eventually, I slept until the two guys woke up to get ready for solat Subuh. Roughly 3-4 hours of sleep. When the sun lighted the place, it was clearly seen that one tent in front of Wei Han's tent collapsed, and Wei Han's tent was not in good shape either.
There were calls to ring the siren to signal the arrival of the storm, but the Camp Commander said that it was just winds only. Then, we proceeded to listening talks after morning. The first talk was dozing, the second one however, let me made known to many people. After lunch, it was a workshop to create documentation of a club/society.
After that, it was outdoor activities, where groups were competing in various "sports" events, like coconut bowling and brick-leaping events. After that, we were released for dinner. When muslims went for their solat Maghrib, we went to attend a Morale Education session, which was interrupted by the intrusion of some wasps. Then, everyone attended a talk by a police officer in the same hall, which was interesting and quite engaging.
That night, it was cold, but no strong winds.
The following morning, I woke up late (probably because they did not play the reciting of al-Quran verses like the day before) and so were the two other guys. Fortunately, the assembly time was postponed from 7.00 a.m. to 7.40 a.m.. Then, the time before lunch was rocket-production (from plastic bottles), and after lunch was rocket launching competitions. Each group were required to make two: one for accuracy, the other which has parachute function, was tested on how long could it stay on air. The first one made my group quite proud, but the second one is just plainly pathetic (imagine the rocket fall on the sky helplessly).
Then, it was time to "clean up yourselves" and muslims went for solat Maghrib after dinner, whereas non-Muslims went to attend another Morale Education session by another teacher. After that, it was Cultural Night (directly translated from Malam Kebudayaan) and groups performed performances ranging from sketches to singing to dances to even alternative music from recycled materials. My group's theme was "P. Ramlee's time" and so we made a concentrated version of Bujang Lapuk. I am the father of the daughters (which were kidnapped and later saved by three men) and also the silat instructor.
Then, it was bedtime, and this time, no rain and no winds.
Next morning, we were required to clean up the venue, pack the tents and then change into uniforms for the closing ceremony, and thus ending the whole camp.
Although the camp's duration is the same length as the excursion to Kepala Batas, not much to describe. But still, I met many people over there, and kind of gained an experience. Although it's a pity of not getting a CD which contains the images during the camp, but hopefully memories could stay in my head for a long, long time.
Hereby, I thank those who have helped me during this camp, those who were in the same group with me and those who have shared moments with me. I would like to express my deepest appreciation to Nicholas and Zhi Quan for helping to try to erect the tent although it is faulty, Rico and his partner from SMKTDH for allowing me to share the tent, Wei Han and many more. May the Lord above bless all of you and your journey in life ahead.
Saturday, November 13, 2010
#54: Love: The Latest Theme of Constantly Varying
Before I leave for Sabak Bernam for 3 nights, let me introduce to the new title: Agape.
Agape is Greek for love, and why do I choose love?
These few days, I have been busying myself in English Language Society's Valentine Day's Sale, hence the thoughts about love.
In addition to that, one of my great friend, Anne (http://paradoxicallysadistic.blogspot.com) is now in love, in which this love differs from others. She has finally received sincere love. Congrats!
But seriously, why love?
I believe that love is the greatest thing on earth. Even the bible agrees to it. In 1st Corinthians 13:13, it is said that:
The whole Chapter 13 is about love, where it is said:
And it is said:
Further on:
These are from the same chapter in 1st Corinthians. It is shown that love enriches mankind, love is valuable.
Love simply is the greatest thing on earth. It is the thing that links each and everyone of us together, it is the thing that protects the family, the nation, planet Earth etc. Love transcends all kinds of life, and all walks of life.
Love begets peace, love bring harmony.
What defines a pure love in this chapter? Well, it is said that:
However, it is a shame that many people do not comprehend and fathom the definition of love, and even more people do not appreciate love and spread this greatest gift from Him. There are prejudice, envy, war, hatred and more, which resulted from this lacking of gift.
Now, how does it relates to Constantly Varying Theme, which is the permanent theme for this blog?
Love constantly varies. Love is varied, from paternal/maternal love, to family love, to friendship love, to romantic love, and then there is love to the alma mater, love to the nation, love to certain things (pet? food? superstar?) until obsession, and even love to life. But one thing is for sure: it is there, and it is constant.
Some love constantly varies due to certain surrounding factors. For example, a romantic relationship may go bland because of distance or silence, or the contrary. It just varies.
With this, I bring to you: Agape, constantly varying through the greatest thing on earth.
Hereby I shall include two appendixes, one is the Chapter 13 in 1st Corinthians in the New International Version of the Bible, and the other is the video that introduces me to this chapter in the bible.
Agape is Greek for love, and why do I choose love?
These few days, I have been busying myself in English Language Society's Valentine Day's Sale, hence the thoughts about love.
In addition to that, one of my great friend, Anne (http://paradoxicallysadistic.blogspot.com) is now in love, in which this love differs from others. She has finally received sincere love. Congrats!
But seriously, why love?
I believe that love is the greatest thing on earth. Even the bible agrees to it. In 1st Corinthians 13:13, it is said that:
And now these three remain: faith, hope and love. But the greatest of these is love.
The whole Chapter 13 is about love, where it is said:
If I speak in the tongues of men or of angels, but do not have love, I am only a resounding gong or a clanging cymbal.
And it is said:
If I have the gift of prophecy and can fathom all mysteries and all knowledge, and if I have a faith that can move mountains, but do not have love, I am nothing.
Further on:
If I give all I possess to the poor and give over my body to hardship that I may boast, but do not have love, I gain nothing.
These are from the same chapter in 1st Corinthians. It is shown that love enriches mankind, love is valuable.
Love simply is the greatest thing on earth. It is the thing that links each and everyone of us together, it is the thing that protects the family, the nation, planet Earth etc. Love transcends all kinds of life, and all walks of life.
Love begets peace, love bring harmony.
What defines a pure love in this chapter? Well, it is said that:
4 Love is patient, love is kind. It does not envy, it does not boast, it is not proud. 5 It does not dishonor others, it is not self-seeking, it is not easily angered, it keeps no record of wrongs. 6 Love does not delight in evil but rejoices with the truth. 7 It always protects, always trusts, always hopes, always perseveres.
However, it is a shame that many people do not comprehend and fathom the definition of love, and even more people do not appreciate love and spread this greatest gift from Him. There are prejudice, envy, war, hatred and more, which resulted from this lacking of gift.
Now, how does it relates to Constantly Varying Theme, which is the permanent theme for this blog?
Love constantly varies. Love is varied, from paternal/maternal love, to family love, to friendship love, to romantic love, and then there is love to the alma mater, love to the nation, love to certain things (pet? food? superstar?) until obsession, and even love to life. But one thing is for sure: it is there, and it is constant.
Some love constantly varies due to certain surrounding factors. For example, a romantic relationship may go bland because of distance or silence, or the contrary. It just varies.
With this, I bring to you: Agape, constantly varying through the greatest thing on earth.
Hereby I shall include two appendixes, one is the Chapter 13 in 1st Corinthians in the New International Version of the Bible, and the other is the video that introduces me to this chapter in the bible.
1 Corinthians 13
1 If I speak in the tongues[a] of men or of angels, but do not have love, I am only a resounding gong or a clanging cymbal. 2 If I have the gift of prophecy and can fathom all mysteries and all knowledge, and if I have a faith that can move mountains, but do not have love, I am nothing. 3 If I give all I possess to the poor and give over my body to hardship that I may boast,[b] but do not have love, I gain nothing.
4 Love is patient, love is kind. It does not envy, it does not boast, it is not proud. 5 It does not dishonor others, it is not self-seeking, it is not easily angered, it keeps no record of wrongs. 6 Love does not delight in evil but rejoices with the truth. 7 It always protects, always trusts, always hopes, always perseveres.
8 Love never fails. But where there are prophecies, they will cease; where there are tongues, they will be stilled; where there is knowledge, it will pass away. 9 For we know in part and we prophesy in part, 10 but when completeness comes, what is in part disappears. 11When I was a child, I talked like a child, I thought like a child, I reasoned like a child. When I became a man, I put the ways of childhood behind me. 12 For now we see only a reflection as in a mirror; then we shall see face to face. Now I know in part; then I shall know fully, even as I am fully known.
13 And now these three remain: faith, hope and love. But the greatest of these is love.
Sunday, November 7, 2010
#53: New blog looks...but where's the new blog title?
First, I have no energy to write this post. I had a stomach-ache, and I vomited several times (and defecate several times too).
This post is meant as an announcement about the change of the look.
The change of the title, however, may be done tomorrow or in later time.
Until then, see you!
This post is meant as an announcement about the change of the look.
The change of the title, however, may be done tomorrow or in later time.
Until then, see you!
Monday, November 1, 2010
#52: This is possibly the last post before inviting another change in theme and title
This is something to do with transmitting messages. Or actually, it's more of communication.
A question in Yahoo! Answers: http://answers.yahoo.com/question/index;_ylt=Am_2yC3leQD4oUe3Jigt7pvty6IX;_ylv=3?qid=20101101022644AAKgu4K
Should a student advises a teacher to change her style, method and attitude of teaching? How should it be?
I am a student of a class, where this class seems like couldn't get along with this particular subject teacher.
This teacher couldn't communicate with the students, let alone for the students to get their messages across. She would exclaimed that the students have no manners when the students try to reason with her. For example, there is an assignment where the class is told to copy down the correct answers for corrections in the term papers, and there is this student who could not see the answers properly due to light reflections, hence going upfront to copy the answers. (It is normal over here for students to go upfront of the classroom as the blackboard reflects the light from outside or the fluorescent light, and most teachers allow it.) The teacher use the reason of "students changing places is prohibited and against the school rules" to tell her to go back to her original place. The student then tell her that she really cannot see, and she sees no wrong in her doings as she is changing the place for the sake of copying down the answers. The teacher insisted that she should go back and copy down, which made the student to raise her voice to get the message across that she cannot see them. The teacher then said that she has no manners, and do not deserve any marks for attitude, behaviour and homework. The teacher even questioned on the way how the student treated her parents. This sparked a very heated cold war. And the problem is, that student is not the only one that change the place for the sake of copying the answers down. There are plenty of other classmates do so, but the teacher did not pick on them.
This is only one out of many incidents that has fished out dissatisfaction of the class. There is another annoying teaching method: when discussing questions in a workbook, every 5 minutes she would stop discussing and started to scold those who are noisy, but in her scoldings there were no authority, unfortunately. This made those who are really interested in getting the questions discussed lost the interest, and eventually got fed up with this teacher. This teacher is not a new teacher-she had been teaching us for the past 8 months.
Another case of the teacher's problems with listening is as follow: There is another student who offered to photocopy exercises and questions for the teacher at a very low cost, hence reducing the class' expenditure. But the teacher refuses and insists of photocopying at the book shop in the school, which cost a lot more than the student's offer, and said that the exercises have to be given out the next day. The student said that she could do it, and other classmates said that other teachers also used her service to photocopy materials. The teacher simply turned a deaf ear to her, and that student gave up in persuading her.
These are a few examples of what we face daily, and the school year is ending in another three weeks here, and high chances are the teacher will be continuing to teach the subject in the following year, if one would follow the norm like previous badges of classes. Should someone in this class advises that teacher to change her style, method and attitude of teaching? And if so, how should this be conducted?
Additional information: This teacher occasionally boasts her 20 years of teaching experience (which is quite true), and always giving threats like deducting marks that has little impact and authority on the students.
A question in Yahoo! Answers: http://answers.yahoo.com/question/index;_ylt=Am_2yC3leQD4oUe3Jigt7pvty6IX;_ylv=3?qid=20101101022644AAKgu4K
Should a student advises a teacher to change her style, method and attitude of teaching? How should it be?
I am a student of a class, where this class seems like couldn't get along with this particular subject teacher.
This teacher couldn't communicate with the students, let alone for the students to get their messages across. She would exclaimed that the students have no manners when the students try to reason with her. For example, there is an assignment where the class is told to copy down the correct answers for corrections in the term papers, and there is this student who could not see the answers properly due to light reflections, hence going upfront to copy the answers. (It is normal over here for students to go upfront of the classroom as the blackboard reflects the light from outside or the fluorescent light, and most teachers allow it.) The teacher use the reason of "students changing places is prohibited and against the school rules" to tell her to go back to her original place. The student then tell her that she really cannot see, and she sees no wrong in her doings as she is changing the place for the sake of copying down the answers. The teacher insisted that she should go back and copy down, which made the student to raise her voice to get the message across that she cannot see them. The teacher then said that she has no manners, and do not deserve any marks for attitude, behaviour and homework. The teacher even questioned on the way how the student treated her parents. This sparked a very heated cold war. And the problem is, that student is not the only one that change the place for the sake of copying the answers down. There are plenty of other classmates do so, but the teacher did not pick on them.
This is only one out of many incidents that has fished out dissatisfaction of the class. There is another annoying teaching method: when discussing questions in a workbook, every 5 minutes she would stop discussing and started to scold those who are noisy, but in her scoldings there were no authority, unfortunately. This made those who are really interested in getting the questions discussed lost the interest, and eventually got fed up with this teacher. This teacher is not a new teacher-she had been teaching us for the past 8 months.
Another case of the teacher's problems with listening is as follow: There is another student who offered to photocopy exercises and questions for the teacher at a very low cost, hence reducing the class' expenditure. But the teacher refuses and insists of photocopying at the book shop in the school, which cost a lot more than the student's offer, and said that the exercises have to be given out the next day. The student said that she could do it, and other classmates said that other teachers also used her service to photocopy materials. The teacher simply turned a deaf ear to her, and that student gave up in persuading her.
These are a few examples of what we face daily, and the school year is ending in another three weeks here, and high chances are the teacher will be continuing to teach the subject in the following year, if one would follow the norm like previous badges of classes. Should someone in this class advises that teacher to change her style, method and attitude of teaching? And if so, how should this be conducted?
Additional information: This teacher occasionally boasts her 20 years of teaching experience (which is quite true), and always giving threats like deducting marks that has little impact and authority on the students.
Monday, October 25, 2010
#51: Now, after so many days of absence in politics......
I'm back with "You cannot make a phone call with a 2 cent coin" posts!
Recently, many Internet news portals have reported on the http://facebook.com/NoMegaTower page.
If you don't know what is this link about, let me explain.
Behold, the "1M Malaysian Reject 100-storey Mega Tower" Facebook page.
Why? Why the protest?
If you don't know, well check your old newspaper, or the internet, and search "Budget 2011 Malaysia", and you will see, that the 100-storey Warisan Merdeka Mega Tower project is under one of them, and it costs RM5 billion.
Some people think that it's cool to have a 100-storey tower, higher than the Petronas Twin Towers. Others think that it may boost tourism.
Let me tell you-it may be cool to have a tower at such height, but it's DEFINITELY NOT COOL TO USE THE RAKYAT'S MONEY TO SUPPORT A PROJECT LIKE THAT.
If the project is not going to use the public's fund, why bother to table at the parliament as in a part of the Budget?
Immediately after the budget, there are already negative response on the project. Of course, who would agree using the taxpayer's money to sustain a project which is deemed useless?
Then, there is a berhad company saying that it is their project, and they intended to have a new office building for the company. And it's not the rakyat's money to be used in this project. This company is called Permodalan Nasional Berhad, or PNB.
Ooh, not the rakyat's money. This might be the response of some, but again, let us think back on that day during the Budget Bill was tabled. Why was it there at the first place, since the project is going to be a private company's project?
Obviously, this is just a response to shut up the negative responses.
Well, if it's really PNB going to sustain the project, why there is still negative response?
Ask your father, ask your mother, about Amanah Saham, or 1Malaysia Amanah Saham, and they may know, and some of you all even buy them. These FUNDED PNB'S OPERATION, HENCE THE MONEY TO BUILD A 100-STOREY WARISAN MERDEKA.
It always goes back to the rakyat. From the cause to the effect.
Yes, you may say that the Petronas Twin Towers have attracted tourists around the world to visit, hence the boost of tourism. But what you don't know is, during the planning of the Twin Towers, there were also a lot of dissatisfaction, and then end up the budget bill is passed because the parliament is lopsided. Fortunately, it's been a highest building of the world once, if not it will be the greatest joke of the year.
Now, this building has not much features in it. It's not the highest, and it's nothing special, just one skyscraper. Who will come and see a building if nothing is special? Oh, you may say that this will be a green building, guess what, there are many, many buildings in the world have go green, so what is so special about it anymore?
Plus, the location of the tower makes the people living or working in KL suffer even more. Traffic. Yes, the infamous traffic that becomes a headache to many city dwellers. Now, with the existence of this building, the traffic will become worse. It's just a nightmare in a nightmare. Only that it is a real nightmare.
But who knows that it will fully occupied and cause a massive chaos in traffic? There are 100-storeys, and so, the PNB would not occupy all of the building space. Who will occupy the rest then? You cannot build a building and there is no tenant, that is call a loss. Even Dayabumi is not fully occupied, nor Wisma Sambathan.
See, how it becomes a waste of public fund.
RM5 billion ringgit, not RM5! Even in other countries like Switzerland, RM5 of graft is still a graft! 5 billion ringgit can do a lot of things, like upgrading educational environment, or upgrading transportation system, or upgrading lives of the indigenous living in Sabah and Sarawak below the poverty line!
But why spend on a Warisan Merdeka tower? It's not even a "warisan" (heritage) building. Come to think of it, RM5 billion could have save Bok House, could have save Pudu Jail, and might save the Sungai Buloh Leprosy Centre!
This is just one part of the whole unscruplous budget, but it already create lots of dissatisfaction. If you are on the same road with me, that thinks that this project has no beneficial value, and should be used at somewhere even beneficial, then call up your member of parliament of your constituency, express your dissatisfaction. If it's a PR MP, call him/her to be present when the voting session of the Budget Bill is held, and vote an against vote to avoid it from passing on. If it's a BN MP, don't hesitate to call him/her also to express your dissatisfaction. THEY ARE THE ONES THAT REPRESENTS YOU IN THE PARLIAMENT, REMEMBER THAT. Call him/her to either be present and against the bill, or do not be present at all to protest the Bill, like last year.
Do your action now, before last year's incident, where the Budget for 2010 is passed with MINOR MAJORITY, reoccurs this year.
Recently, many Internet news portals have reported on the http://facebook.com/NoMegaTower page.
If you don't know what is this link about, let me explain.
Behold, the "1M Malaysian Reject 100-storey Mega Tower" Facebook page.
Why? Why the protest?
If you don't know, well check your old newspaper, or the internet, and search "Budget 2011 Malaysia", and you will see, that the 100-storey Warisan Merdeka Mega Tower project is under one of them, and it costs RM5 billion.
Some people think that it's cool to have a 100-storey tower, higher than the Petronas Twin Towers. Others think that it may boost tourism.
Let me tell you-it may be cool to have a tower at such height, but it's DEFINITELY NOT COOL TO USE THE RAKYAT'S MONEY TO SUPPORT A PROJECT LIKE THAT.
If the project is not going to use the public's fund, why bother to table at the parliament as in a part of the Budget?
Immediately after the budget, there are already negative response on the project. Of course, who would agree using the taxpayer's money to sustain a project which is deemed useless?
Then, there is a berhad company saying that it is their project, and they intended to have a new office building for the company. And it's not the rakyat's money to be used in this project. This company is called Permodalan Nasional Berhad, or PNB.
Ooh, not the rakyat's money. This might be the response of some, but again, let us think back on that day during the Budget Bill was tabled. Why was it there at the first place, since the project is going to be a private company's project?
Obviously, this is just a response to shut up the negative responses.
Well, if it's really PNB going to sustain the project, why there is still negative response?
Ask your father, ask your mother, about Amanah Saham, or 1Malaysia Amanah Saham, and they may know, and some of you all even buy them. These FUNDED PNB'S OPERATION, HENCE THE MONEY TO BUILD A 100-STOREY WARISAN MERDEKA.
It always goes back to the rakyat. From the cause to the effect.
Yes, you may say that the Petronas Twin Towers have attracted tourists around the world to visit, hence the boost of tourism. But what you don't know is, during the planning of the Twin Towers, there were also a lot of dissatisfaction, and then end up the budget bill is passed because the parliament is lopsided. Fortunately, it's been a highest building of the world once, if not it will be the greatest joke of the year.
Now, this building has not much features in it. It's not the highest, and it's nothing special, just one skyscraper. Who will come and see a building if nothing is special? Oh, you may say that this will be a green building, guess what, there are many, many buildings in the world have go green, so what is so special about it anymore?
Plus, the location of the tower makes the people living or working in KL suffer even more. Traffic. Yes, the infamous traffic that becomes a headache to many city dwellers. Now, with the existence of this building, the traffic will become worse. It's just a nightmare in a nightmare. Only that it is a real nightmare.
But who knows that it will fully occupied and cause a massive chaos in traffic? There are 100-storeys, and so, the PNB would not occupy all of the building space. Who will occupy the rest then? You cannot build a building and there is no tenant, that is call a loss. Even Dayabumi is not fully occupied, nor Wisma Sambathan.
 |
| Wisma Tun Sambathan |
 |
| Dayabumi complex |
See, how it becomes a waste of public fund.
RM5 billion ringgit, not RM5! Even in other countries like Switzerland, RM5 of graft is still a graft! 5 billion ringgit can do a lot of things, like upgrading educational environment, or upgrading transportation system, or upgrading lives of the indigenous living in Sabah and Sarawak below the poverty line!
But why spend on a Warisan Merdeka tower? It's not even a "warisan" (heritage) building. Come to think of it, RM5 billion could have save Bok House, could have save Pudu Jail, and might save the Sungai Buloh Leprosy Centre!
This is just one part of the whole unscruplous budget, but it already create lots of dissatisfaction. If you are on the same road with me, that thinks that this project has no beneficial value, and should be used at somewhere even beneficial, then call up your member of parliament of your constituency, express your dissatisfaction. If it's a PR MP, call him/her to be present when the voting session of the Budget Bill is held, and vote an against vote to avoid it from passing on. If it's a BN MP, don't hesitate to call him/her also to express your dissatisfaction. THEY ARE THE ONES THAT REPRESENTS YOU IN THE PARLIAMENT, REMEMBER THAT. Call him/her to either be present and against the bill, or do not be present at all to protest the Bill, like last year.
Do your action now, before last year's incident, where the Budget for 2010 is passed with MINOR MAJORITY, reoccurs this year.
Saturday, October 23, 2010
#50: My 50th Post-A milestone?
Don't mind the title.
Here, I share with you a video, about a man, who takes picture of himself, for 6 years, from January 11, 2000 to July 31, 2006, spans a period of 2356 days. The man here, is Noah Kalina, from age 19 to 25. The music is composed by his girlfriend at that time, Carly Comando.
While watching this, I felt there is a sense of something unexplainable, and weirdly, I found it quite touching.
And how come I came across this video? Ask CIMB for their similar usage of the background music for the Golf Advertisement.
Here, I share with you a video, about a man, who takes picture of himself, for 6 years, from January 11, 2000 to July 31, 2006, spans a period of 2356 days. The man here, is Noah Kalina, from age 19 to 25. The music is composed by his girlfriend at that time, Carly Comando.
While watching this, I felt there is a sense of something unexplainable, and weirdly, I found it quite touching.
And how come I came across this video? Ask CIMB for their similar usage of the background music for the Golf Advertisement.
Thursday, October 21, 2010
#49: If you really notice, the proclamation will end tonight
Yeah, yeah. But it is not relevant anymore since I broke the proclamation earlier, don't I?
Well, let me briefly tell you what happened since I left this blog to collect dust.
Pffh...pffh (Blowing the dust away)
As you can see, Ser Lyn's birthday gathering is a blast. (Is it?) Believe it or not, you can see it for yourself. The link for the album is
Well, let me briefly tell you what happened since I left this blog to collect dust.
Pffh...pffh (Blowing the dust away)
As you can see, Ser Lyn's birthday gathering is a blast. (Is it?) Believe it or not, you can see it for yourself. The link for the album is
Other than that, what else?
Err......being to Genting Highlands twice. Does that count?
Celebrating Hari Raya with my aunt. (Yes, my aunt, as in my father's sister, whom married to a muslim.)
Examinations. (Do I hear anyone groaning now?)
Budget 2011. (Do I hear more groaning now?)
Not much. But I've started using twitter more frequently now. And started thinking of doing any coverage with GladlyCast application which lets you tweet via SMS with local SMS rate. To start with, my neighbour's wedding, at which the bachelor's party (it's actually just a buffet dinner) will be held tomorrow, and the wedding ceremony on Saturday.
What say you? Should I be (wasting money for) doing this coverage?
(It's awkward to ask a question with no viewers, or no feedback. LOL)
See you in the near future. Hopefully.
Friday, August 27, 2010
#48: I know that I already broke the proclamation, but I have to upload these photographs, especially for the birthday girl...
And last but not least, happy birthday to the birthday girl, Yip Ser Lyn.
Wednesday, August 11, 2010
#47: Proclamation of Internet Usage Restriction
Proclamation of Internet Usage Restriction
In the name of God, the Compassionate, the Merciful, Praise be to God, the Lord of the Universe and may the blessings and peace of God be upon His Messengers.
WHEREAS the time has now arrived when Blue Sky (or hereinafter referred as “B.sky”) will have to be prepared and ready to face the upcoming Year-End School Examinations.
AND WHEREAS by a decision made, it was agreed that B.sky will be restricted from using the Internet service as from 12th Day of August, 2010 till the 22nd Day of October, 2010, or until the said Year-End School Examinations end, which ever comes last.
AND WHEREAS it was agreed that B.sky is abstained for using the Internet service for any purpose with the limited exception of communication purposes (electronic mail) and reference for educational purposes usages.
AND WHEREAS by the Proclamation announced, the restriction shall be effective on 0543 hours (as in UTC +8:00), 12th Day of August, 2010. And the restriction shall be acquitted on 0000 hours (as in UTC +8:00), 22nd Day of October, 2010. By the Grace of God, the Lord of the Universe, the restriction shall be executed without any obstruction.
Somewhere on Earth
11th Day of August 2010
#46: I have now determined to do this......
I shall be fasting on the Internet...again!
Last year, I have been fasting on the Internet for PMR. This time, I will be fasting for Year-end Examinations, and also for the well-being of life.
This fasting action is also parallel to the 1.7 billion people out there fasting on food from dawn to dusk.
Well, hope that this abstinence works.
And to when I shall stop fasting, it shall be after the examinations, which is roughly mid-October if not mistaken.
This is a non-official on the announcement. An official one would be produced and posted on tomorrow's Imsak, or start of fasting, which is 5.43 a.m.. (Of course, that would be a scheduled post.)
Last year, I have been fasting on the Internet for PMR. This time, I will be fasting for Year-end Examinations, and also for the well-being of life.
This fasting action is also parallel to the 1.7 billion people out there fasting on food from dawn to dusk.
Well, hope that this abstinence works.
And to when I shall stop fasting, it shall be after the examinations, which is roughly mid-October if not mistaken.
This is a non-official on the announcement. An official one would be produced and posted on tomorrow's Imsak, or start of fasting, which is 5.43 a.m.. (Of course, that would be a scheduled post.)
Monday, August 9, 2010
#45: Tis' the season to be fasting, fa la la la la la la la la.....
Yes, the fasting month of Ramadan will be here in about 2 days (if according to Hijrah calendar, but not made official yet). And 1.57 billion people around the world (which is one-fifth of the world population), including the 60.4% of the population of Malaysia will be fasting on food from dawn to dusk.
Strangely, I kind of like this month.
Maybe the reasons are:
1. you can have shorter period of school hours;
2. there will usually be a decent documentary show called "Jejak Rasul" on TV3;
3. ?
Do you like this month?
And in the near future, there would be a great announcement made, and probably changes on the blog.
Strangely, I kind of like this month.
Maybe the reasons are:
1. you can have shorter period of school hours;
2. there will usually be a decent documentary show called "Jejak Rasul" on TV3;
3. ?
Do you like this month?
And in the near future, there would be a great announcement made, and probably changes on the blog.
Friday, August 6, 2010
#44: The preoccupation just ended
Yes. I'm now relieved with not much burdens to carry now.
And I turned to listening to things. Like those below:
And I turned to listening to things. Like those below:
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