Melvin Chan: @MelvinCWH

Is The Expectation for Instant Gratification Valid?

2011-08-18T18:36:00.002+08:00

I had an interesting thought yesterday when I heard a speaker in an event mentioned that today's young people don't really read long articles. He added that if a message can be summarised into a sentence, it's even better!

How true is that? Personally I beg to differ. However, my thought doesn't represent the overall Gen Y thoughts. Is it because how each of us grow up with fast moving visuals and so many choices that they shorten our attention span.

Oh yes, elder individuals always responded in unison that Gen Y individuals have shorter attention span compare to themselves and their peers, as well as their seniors. My thoughts are if processes can be shorten yet at the same time, yield similar results, isn't that reflect effectiveness? What's wrong with demanding for instant gratification when it is possible and we deserve it?

Have you ever heard and experienced any of the above where you had a discussion with probably, your bosses or immediate supervisors on the subject?

It would be great to understand the reason for this ongoing debate on the area of managing and bringing out the best in Gen Y talents.

Ahoy There! Pirates Here in Town!

2011-05-20T21:32:00.002+08:00

Would I take a mermaid back home? I would, if she's as beautiful as the one I've seen in the latest Pirates of The Caribbean installment, 'On Stranger Tides'. The actress, Alstrid-Berges Frisbey has been a captivating mermaid in the movie as Syrena the mermaid. I'm sure most of the gentlemen who have watched the movie will agree with me. Oh you just can't forget those eyes. Lol.

Courtesy of Advertlets, I am able to catch the screening of the latest Pirates of the Caribbean movie last 19th May 2011 in E@Curve's Cathay Cineplex. There are definitely mixed reviews of the movie. Some said the story-line is a little too predictable, but in my opinion, any movie with Johnny Depp will not disappoint me, and I was right.

It's definitely entertaining with the ever dynamic character of Jack Sparrow.....ehem... Captain Jack Sparrow but I have to admit that it's less ball-breaking cannon firing scenes and more showcasing of beauties instead (but hey, who mind?!).

This fourth installment of the PoTC basically tells the story of Jack Sparrow's quest for the Fountain of Youth, while being in confrontation with Blackbeard, the legendary spooky pirate with supernatural powers, feared by many other pirates too. Of course, there's no easy way getting to the legendary fountain. And for it to work requires a share amount of challenges which include encountering gentle but dangerous mermaids, Spanish armada and British ones alike (which surprising led by Captain Barbossa - if you remember him from the first installment, looking for revenge against Blackbeard). More drama unfold as they've reached the Fountain of Youth.

Can't tell too much. Gotta watch it yourself. Lol. :)

By the way, for those who are familiar with the Pirates of the Caribbean series, you will know how to stay on till the end of the credits to catch the final snippet of the movie which gives clue to the story of the upcoming installment. A little bit of patience is all we need!

Definitely looking for a better installment next.

Ahoy there!

Ready for Next Step

2011-04-02T13:55:00.005+08:00

When things evolve, we have to keep up as well. It's time for the blog to proceed to the next phase. Will be moving this blog to a proper domain with a URL of its own soon.

Guess what will the URL be? :)

Embracing the Unknowable

2011-03-28T00:54:00.005+08:00

Life has a funny way of telling you that in every crisis, there will eventually be the light at the end of the tunnel. At the end, it is all bittersweet. What can we take from there? An enriching journey to be aware of our weakness and acknowledge our strength - continuous improvement and growth.

Humans have a way of developing through experiences and as a result? Innovation. It's all about improving processes, media and ways that had created undesired outcome whether at work, personal relationships or relationship with events happening around us. It is the basis of intelligence of the human race to create solutions to various problems - and they continuously evolve - in complexity and dynamics. It is the need to be achieving the level of self-actualisation - revisit Maslow's theory that humans continue to dominate the mother Earth among all beings.

However, it starts with the courage to take the first step, as the old saying by Lao-Tzu that goes, "Journey of a thousand mile begins with the single step." How on earth did the idea of landing on the Moon come about in the 60's? Today, we are already attempting to land on the neighbouring red planet (Click here to check out more on the Mars program by NASA).

Human being will continue to evolve intelligently. What steps have you taken to improve your chances of creating an impact to the community, world and humanity which will leave a legacy to be remembered? Going back to the basics - don't let the fear of failure overshadow your passion to create tremendous value to the world. Everyone stands a chance - what's your journey going to be like?

Let's explore the unknowable.

What Does Eagle Mean to You?

2011-03-26T02:28:00.007+08:00

Went to catch a movie last Tuesday in GSC Tropicana City Mall, courtesy of Advertlets. It was definitely nice to catch up with many bloggers who I haven't met for a very long time due to hectic work schedule for the past one month.

If you didn't know, it was the screening of "The Eagle", a movie which tells a story of the journey of a young talented Roman warrior, Marcus Aquila in recovering the Roman Eagle standard of the Ninth Legion which was lost in Britain with his slave, Esca, and at the same time clearing the father's name who led the Legion and believed by the Romans themselves to allegedly gave up the Eagle without a fight.

Weird tribal languages can be heard from the movie such as Gaelics and Pictish. They just sound so foreign, it's really hard to find the connection to any familiar British accents. So besides English, get prepared to embrace a totally new language that enters the ears. Can't blame me though, never have a thing with linguistics.

The movie left some very interesting thoughts on why eagles are used as symbols since the days of Romans. In my opinion, there may be few possibilities on why an eagle is deemed as a pride of a strong empire, where eagles are also used today to represent strength and glory. Below shows how the eagles are used today to represent strong characters:

1. Symbol of a Visionary, Risk Taker and Strong Willed

Notice how the video explains "Whatever it takes...". Those are powerful words to describe the power of intention. Obviously, the intention to hunt for the snake is to provide the best food to the eaglets as babies fed on snakes "are most likely to survive in the wild". It also applies to our lives that achieving a feat is no easy task and often involves a lot of risks - risk of losing, failing and embarassment (what if I don't achieve it?). In the case of the eagle in the video, it's a matter of life and death. One mistake and it may be lethal. The Romans probably observed these characteristics and decided that it really represents their people and leaders. Hey, look at the land these Romans had conquered!

2. Authority and Power

These traits are agreed by many and especially used to represent the dominance of the eagle in the nature of its hunt for preys. Des Hunt is one person who has created a profile assessment in his book, 'What Makes People Tick?' where he categorises individuals with the trait of an eagle to be a person who wants to have the control and the freedom to get results - wants to be the boss (a decision maker). Why? Is it because the eagles tend to fly higher than any other birds and they often see further than any other birds too? Oh by the way, I did the Des Hunt's test and the result? I have a dominant trait of an eagle and followed by, ehem, peacock. :P

Think there may be many possibilities of choosing the symbol of the great eagle to represent the Roman pride. What we observed above are merely what I am aware of. What does an eagle mean to you? Would really love to hear from you. Probably with your input, we get to know the characteristic of the great eagle better. Share with me!

A Simple Song for A Break

2011-03-12T17:14:00.003+08:00

A simple and relaxing song which just played on the radio. It just makes one appreciates simple things in life.

[mv] Ã¥Å¡Â´Ã§Ë†Âµyen-j ~ Ã¦Ë†â€˜Ã¥â€“Å“Ã¦ÂÂ¡(Ã¤Â¸Â,Ã¦Ë†â€˜Ã¦â€žâ€º) wo xi huan, bu wo ai mp4 download

What's For The Sunny Days?

2010-12-08T18:57:00.006+08:00

Have been really busy with work but I have tried not to be too consumed in it. Always think it is important to take a break and read some books, magazines, or even browse the web for more information. They are really sources of inspiration to me in life, and in the way I run my business. So really, when the rain showers really heavily, just take time, slow down, turn on the wipers to slowly indulge into the sound of rain drops. It's soothing, trust me, even when stuck in traffic jams.

Talking about taking a break, browsing the web and the heavy rain, I realised I have not really missed the sun. It has always got my skin burnt. The worst was during my Redang trip couple of years ago. I know you can relate to me:

You know you got burnt when the shirt you are wearing feels irritating to the skin. Whenever the shirt or your shoulder moves a little, it just aches and uncomfortable. It got worse when it's time to shower - fair temperature water feels hot on the burnt skin and colder water sends shivers to my body. How to bathe like that...?

That was for the first night. Subsequent day, I just had to brave myself for the sea under the hot sun again. Back then, my thought was calling for a potion which would get me out of the heat! Guess what, the answer to the call came after many years while browsing the web - a sunblock by the name of Ocean Potion. Take that! Probably won't get me out of the heat but it would definitely get the pain out of the heat.

Pretty cool looking brand from the States.

Imagine a sunblock with the icy feeling. Ooo... :P

However, don't think that particular ICY sunblock is in the Malaysian market though. Will definitely go down to Watson or Guardian to check out for the other Ocean Potion's' which I came across in their Malaysian Facebook page, save it for the sunny days. Please enlighten me whether good sunblocks must contain Aloe Vera? And why?

After my hectic work schedule is slowing down, would like to travel to beaches in Sabah for a getaway. Gotta ensure that the Ocean Potion is with me all the time then. Lol. The more I talk about it, the more it sounds Harry Potter-ish, of potion and all... Well, nvm.

Alright, it's time to get back to work! Need an Office Potion pulak - save me from other "distractions". Cheers!

RM10 Goes A Long Way

2010-10-06T16:28:00.005+08:00

Looking at new calendars just remind me on how fast the time flies. 2011 is less than 100 days away from now. Just recently, I came across a beautiful calendar which I think is worth more than its price.

It's about giving hope and opportunity to shape our future generation.

Check out the calendar being sold by Shelter Home for Children in raising funds for maintaining the home's children welfare. It is definitely a must-have for homes and offices!

The front page of the Calendar which displays beautiful arts drawn by the talented John Wong.

Notice that the calendars are up to date with various holidays indication. Bottom of the calendar tells the tale of unfortunate children whose names have been changed.

Beautiful drawings by John Wong on some of the "lost" symbols of what make Malaysians.

A reminder on what we can do for the abused children - with love.

Hope everyone can make a small contribution in support of Shelter Home of Children to ensure that the children can live the life of a normal child with proper schooling and education opportunities.

With just RM10, you can get a beautiful calendar for 2011 and the value will go a long way in helping the children in many ways.

You can contact me to get the calendars - for free from yours truly or if you would also like to contribute by dropping me an e-mail at chanwh.melvin@gmail.com. Alternatively, you can contact the home directly to make your orders online or call them at the details shown in the Shelter Home for Children website.

Next Children Home - Ti Ratana in Desa Petaling. Let us know if you would like to join the TalentEDge InspirED team in our initiative to take a stand in giving equal opportunities for the underprivileged children to live a normal life too. You can call us during office hours at 03-78737534 or drop us a mail at enquiries@mytalentedge.com.

God bless.

A Child Who Grows

2010-10-06T01:37:00.009+08:00

Since young, I have always been grateful for the support and guidance my parents have shown me. Toys, books, schools, tuition classes are what make up a great child's learning. A break to travel during well deserved holiday seasons to just capture a moment of experience being able to enjoy and have fun.

It made me think whether all children in the world have been as lucky. Why are there orphanages and children homes? What happened to them that they have to be there instead with their parents? Then I realised, they too deserved the support which was shown onto me for them to grow normally and happily.

I always have a strong passion in providing the best environment and basic necessities needed by a child to grow happily and positively.

Last week, when I was browsing through a list of Children Homes which we can involve with in an upcoming fundraising project by TalentEDge, I came across Shelter Home for Children, courtesy of www.hati.org.my. It is based in PJ and managing 3 centres in Petaling Jaya and Taman OUG respectively. Immediately, I dropped an e-mail to the general e-mail address and they replied promptly. Arranged an appointment to meet Audrey, a representative from Shelter Home for Children office in Jalan Barat (above Caring Pharmacy).

Audrey, a kind lady who has offered much important information on the needs and direction by the organisation in supporting children who are abandoned, neglected and abused, as well as taking care the welfare of some refugee children has given me a lot of ideas on how we can contribute towards the welfare and development of the children in many ways - related to what I have been doing in training and fundraising projects.

After a good 1-hour chat with Audrey, the team and I moved on to visit one of the centres nearby in Section 8, better known as Shelter 3. It is where they house the teenage boys (currently 7) between the ages of 13-18.

It has a very welcoming signage which we will never miss.

The front view (from the gate) of the centre. Notice how clean the compound is!

One of TalentEDge's team mates chatting with Mr Nelson, the caretaker of the centre.

Nice play area for the boys. Spacious, but football is not allowed - you know how the ball flies. Behind the wall is the main road of Jalan Templer (near the roundabout).

Clean and well taken care dining area.

One of my favourite rooms in the Centre. The study room. It just looks inspiring.

They have vans to ferry the children for events, tuition classes, and various outdoor activities.

For more information on Shelter Home for the Children, visit www.shelterhome.org or they can be contacted at the details below:

Shelter Home for Children

No. 9, 1st Floor

Jalan Barat

46200 Petaling Jaya

Selangor Darul Ehsan.

Tel: 03-7781 4885 ( Contact Person: Ms.Audrey John)

Tel: 03-7955 0663

Fax: 03-7783 3413

Fax: 03-7956 2384

Fax: 03- 7956 3940

Let's give hope to the children of a better world.

NEXT POST: Supporting a Project by Shelter Home for Children

My New Camera

2010-10-03T10:20:00.004+08:00

I am officially a proud owner of Olympus Pen E-PL1. Great to be snapping photos again like I used to (haven't got any luck since then as I had a tendency to lose cameras - lost 2 cameras in a span of 5 years!)

Why Olympus E-PL1? Among some of the reasons which I had fallen head over heels with are (keep in mind I'm not anyone who's familiar with photography :P):

1. It's one of the best trendy mirrorless interchangeable lens camera around.

2. Ability to record 720 HD movies with a direct button.

3. Six in-camera Art Filters.

4. 19 scene select modes.

5. Simple functional buttons and keys.

6. Can be used interchangeably with Panasonic lenses (photos were awesome when taken with GF-1's Pancake lens.)

One of the shots taken with the E-PL1. Think it looks great. :P

Cheers!

Take A Break

2010-10-02T13:10:00.003+08:00

It's always refreshing to meet and catch up with great people who have touched our life in a way or another.

It is even more important when we are in the midst of a hectic work schedule, to be able to take a break and listen to others' views and opinions, whether it's directly or indirectly related to what we do. Will be really surprised to find how their words will affect and inspire us in ways we never expect and a different perspective in looking in our existing tasks and roles. Take it as a reflection moment - we just wait for magical words and *snap* images of possibilities flash in our minds.

So take a moment, grab your phone and dial the number to reach the inspiring friends whom you have neglected for the longest moment as a result of your hectic schedule.

*Toot**toot* and the first "Hello" is always heart-warming. A smile is just a wonderful automatic reaction.

Project Fitness 100

2010-08-07T09:56:00.007+08:00

Recently, I have received many comments on how I have gained weight and looked chubbier than ever. The reality finally sets in with much impact - I couldn't fit in my favourite Dockers beige pants!

Like a guy on a mission, I re-embarked on the journey to fitness which I had attempted 4 years ago, which of course, didn't turn out quite well. :P Determined, this time I will publicly declare that approximately 100 days from Monday, 9th August 2010, or by 18th November 2010, I would have:

1. Reduce 10kg of my weight from 83kg to 73kg!

2. Able to fit into my favourite Dockers pants again!

3. Six-packs body on display at the beach! :P

Will be recording all my progress alternate days in the blog and hopefully, can get your support too to keep me going!

Follow my progress on Twitter by following the hashtag #ProjectF100.

Hope you can embark with me on the journey of fitness.

Oh, just in case you're wondering where to find me on #ProjectF100, I work out in True Fitness in Pavilion KL. :) Hope to see you soon! Cheers.

Camera Please!

2010-05-21T01:04:00.003+08:00

Just realised what I have missed big time without cameras. Can't take pictures of great moments and it is even more crucial to have a camera than ever before with more programs and events lining up in the company. Was really upset earlier that we couldn't have a group photo with the client before they leave with all inspired faces at the end of our program. Those are moments to be remembered and yet, I can't capture them!

So I need a camera. Full stop.

Say, my budget will be around RM800 to RM1,800, any good cameras to recommend from brands like Canon, Olympus or Nikon?

What I have in mind? Probably something like the one below:

Canon G11

Appreciate if some of the readers here could offer good advice on getting a real good camera with reasonable price. :)

Cheers!

Ending to A Hectic Day with Laughter

2010-05-12T09:38:00.008+08:00

Last Tuesday was definitely one of the most engaging day ever. Non-stop meetings and traveling were enough to create a zombie-looking dude by evening.

Refresher?

Thai cuisine in Funky Villa at e@Curve. Tasty and yummy pineapple fried rice (Sorry, no photos. Will take more pictures during the next trip. :P)

What's nice to do after dinner? Movie of course! Courtesy of Advertlets, got myself a pair of tickets to watch The Bounty Hunter, starring a pair of hot looking couple, Jennifer Aniston as a bail-jumping reporter pursued after by her bounty hunter ex-husband, starred by Gerard Butler.

The show turned out to be so-so for two possible reasons. Reason No.1: I might be too tired as a result of a hectic day. Reason No.2: I had high expectations towards the movie because of the high-profiled actor and actress.

My favourite and most memorable scene? It's the scene where Nicole pleaded Milo to let her go by giving him $500 despite Milo stood to be rewarded with $5,000 for handing her over to the authority. Asking why, Nicole explained that her ex would be so good, he could make $5,000 or $10,000 from $500. Convinced, Milo drove straight to the casino and guess what, he won up to $5,000! However, subsequently, he lost it all. (Should notice his face after that. :P)

Well, in the end of the day, if you are looking for a light-movie with a regular laugh, the movie may be a suitable choice for the weeks to come. Check out the trailer:

Plot:

Milo Boyd (Gerard Butler), a down-on-his-luck bounty hunter, gets his dream job when he is assigned to track down his bail-jumping ex-wife, reporter Nicole Hurly (Jennifer Aniston). He thinks all that's ahead is an easy payday, but when Nicole gives him the slip so she can chase a lead on a murder cover-up, Milo realizes that nothing ever goes simply with him and Nicole. The exes continually one-up each other - until they find themselves on the run for their lives. They thought their promise to love, honor and obey was tough - staying alive is going to be a whole lot tougher.

What I had drawn from the movie? I want to get a lady who can blow onto dice and make me lucky in the casino!

Anybody?

Why is A Scheduled Meeting Necessary?

2010-05-09T11:59:00.004+08:00

It's 9.00am on an usual Monday morning. Reach the office, turn on the computer, get a cuppa and download the necessary files with important numbers prepared before work was let off either, last Friday or Sunday (depends on how committed and effective we are) and we head on straight to the meeting room.

Now some of you may find the activity above just like your usual auto-mode when reaching the office on Monday.

Now why are there weekly meetings and other sequential meetings every now and then within our colleagues and other stakeholders? It keeps important communications going around the organisation. A healthy organisation ensures that the staff be open and always talking to each other regardless of departments, levels and geographical locations.

The ability to communicate is the most important skill you can develop in your personal-being. Some people leverage on the idea of effective communication to get on to the fast track in their career. It is a point used to solve problems and make decisions, both by ourselves and with other people. A meeting will be deemed useless if we sit together and just chat about the cats and the dogs, which some organisations often do, unless you are in the cats and dogs' business.

There is a systematic approach to achieving effective problem solving and decision making in discussions. It begins with defining the challenges and needs, "where's next?" and get "locked and loaded" with ammunition of solutions.

Firstly of course, is addressing to challenges and needs by defining them in written forms. Often receive response from leaders in an organisation with this common remark, "I know these stuff. It's in my head." Many entrepreneurs have failed to get them across the heads of their subordinates and teammates. This step is so important that every team member has to get the details from the question, "What exactly is the problem?" clearly. As some experts put it, clarity of definition will resolve 50% of the issues before they go any further.

Next is to throw the questions of "Where's next?" or "Where do we go from here?" or even "What do we do from here?", not forgetting "What are our options for the future?" An important note here to remember is that be sure to focus on the future over the past. In most cases, the meetings do not seem to go anywhere as too many problem-solving discussions end up focusing all of the attention of all the people present on what happened in the past and who is to be blamed. To have control is to take responsibility of the outcome that had happened, draw quickly the lessons from the past and move on quickly to what's next.

When a gun run out of ammunitions, we don't go complaining about it to other people around and start whining on how ineffective the gun is, when it can't accommodate more bullets per round. Imagine the enemy is fast approaching. You just grab the next round of ammunition and continue the shots! Same goes in effective problem solving communications. It is for everyone in a team to talk about the solutions instead of talking about the problems. It is for everyone to keep the attention in the meeting to focus on the possible solutions and what can be done rather than what has already happened.

Here's what you can practice immediately. First, take some time to be absolutely clear about the problem that is under discussion. Give some thought to what an ideal decision or solution would accomplish. Instead of focusing on the situation as it is, talk about the situation as you would like it to be.

Second, keep the conversation focused on solutions, on what can be done in the future. The more you think and talk about solutions, the more positive and creative everyone will be and the better ideas you will come up with.

Shoe Must Be Comfortable

2010-05-05T02:18:00.011+08:00

I am one person who is very particular about the comfort of shoes I am wearing. And I am indeed a very happy person since I came to know about 2 very good brands of shoes. I have been wearing my favourite pair of boots for quite some time (and I really love 'em!) by Cole Haan. Cole Haan is a subsidiary of Nike which explains why it has one of the most comfortable semi-formal to formal shoes. Most of their shoes come with Nike Air soles and they are really comfortable, especially their black working shoes. 3.5 years ago, I bought a brown pair of boots and I never regret the purchase (though I recently repaired the shoes for cracked heels).

And just very recent, I got the opportunity to experience Crocs shoes and it has been a great pair of darling shoes to me since then. I have known the brand to be really suitable for people who have problems with spine and legs, especially for elderly people and largely recommended by medical professionals, but prior to then, I have never really lay my feet on any pair of Crocs shoes.

It was a birthday delight when a great friend of mine who is working in Crocs, invited me for a spring/summer launching event for the brand which was held in Mid Valley during the Fashion Week.

Photograph above is credited to Jeremy (BBoyRice)

You know it when a friend is sincere to share the good stuff he/she knows about something. She has definitely shown me a gem. Subsequently, I will share the great stuff that I come across to others too.

Photograph above is credited to Jeremy (BBoyRice)

These fantastic pair of Crocs have made it possible for me to walk through the city of Singapore without complaints (which previously I had, a lot of them about tiring legs!) As a result, my Crocs have looked as though they are being worn for over half a month already, because I literally walk around with the shoes at work, leisure and play for almost 12 hours a day, 7 days a week. And yes, I no longer complain about walking because it is a non-issue now.

Shopping has become nicer too.

If you have noticed in the previous blog post on "It's Super Hot Fever!", I had bad bruise near the ankle that each impact from walking brought piercing pain. However, within 2 days, the foot recovered as a result of cushioning effect from the shoes as it absorbed the impact from walking and as a result, less pressure towards the ankle. Thank God!

For the comfort it brings, the price doesn't seem to be expensive at all. The best thing about Crocs is that it provides variety of shoes designs suitable for, like I've mentioned, work, play and leisure. If you don't believe, check it out yourself!

For more information on the latest Crocs models in Malaysia, check out www.crocs.com.my.

Did I tell you that they carry kids' models as well?

Photograph above is credited to Jeremy (BBoyRice)

Very cute aren't they? I mean the shoes.

Adios 2009/2010!

2010-05-04T00:12:00.004+08:00

As the Premiership season 2009/2010 draws to an end with another remaining match to play, the excitement seems to build-up towards the last match. However, not for Liverpool this season. Still recall the same period last season, we were just 3 points apart from the Devils and was really excited and hoping for a Devils defeat while watching the last game of the season in Subang Square. So what happened?

We have serious series of tactical errors, financial mishaps, owners fall-out and etc. Not a good season indeed and would have to say, this season, if not for Torres, Benayoun and Gerrard, we won't even make it to Europa League next season.

However, a positive take from this season is that the Blues will most probably proceed as the Champions of this season instead of the Devils (Roaar!). Think most Reds fans will probably agree with me that it's better to see Chelsea emerging as Champions this season than the pathetic Devils.

Sorry Devils. 19th title? Slow slow wait. Think the Reds team also agreed with me when Gerrard decided to let Drogba capitalised on the back-pass error.

If the Reds is to seriously contend for the title next season, heavy loads of work need to be done. Good news that the Reds has got a new chairman at helm. For the team, much work to be done on the Back 4. Lack of speed and agility has been the key of many goals being conceded. Look at the set pieces' defending. The team has been vulnerable towards dead-ball and counter-attack situations.

Alonso's departure has seriously left a big gap on the fluidity of Liverpool's play. With quality of players like Lucas (a Brazilian footballer who can't pass, dribble and shoot properly), when will we ever get our 19th title?

...How long more shall we wait?

It's Super Hot Fever!

2010-04-29T11:45:00.001+08:00

I will have occasional weird high fever during the northern hemisphere summer time in every 4 years. This time, I feel it coming though it is slower than usual. The source of this weird fever is not known but definitely have something to do with... something round and bouncy. Forbidden to touch with bare hands unless you have special permission to do so. (Even these permitted people would not touch them with bare hands!) I know you are as clean as me so I will no doubt that you're thinking of... football. And yes, I will be having a serious football fever (and it's coming real fast!) because it's World Cup soon!

Feeling the heat when more logos of the World Cup, this time held in South Africa, are being noticed everywhere. Wondering what McDonald's going to do this time. By the way, last World Cup's mascots, Goleo are still sitting at the back of my car. You can probably notice my car with the full sets of lion-like soft toys facing you when you're stuck in a traffic. :P

Just recently during my visit to Singapore, noticed a huge, giant football (as though it's calling me) in Vivo City. What do you expect me to do when I saw it? Kick it of course!

As a result? A bruised ankle! And the foot of an elephant...

Nah, not really. Some of you who are following my tweets would probably know I got a knock during last Monday's futsal game. What to do? It's fever time man! Some people just got crazy and all excited when temperature rising like... El Nino!

If you are also affected by the fever, please wear a mask... and your favourite team's jersey.

Sekian, majulah bola sepak untuk dunia.

P.s.: My new Liverpool jersey has arrived from UK! Will talk about it during the next post. :D

Stay Hungry, Stay Foolish

2010-04-26T02:08:00.005+08:00

Thanks to Shanker for the sharing of a YouTube video on my Facebook wall, I suddenly recalled the moment of inspiration when listening to the speech of Steve Jobs through an audio recording in an AIESEC conference about 4 years ago. Didn't know that there's a video recording of the speech.

Would invite you to listen to this great speech which has definitely contributed to where I am today. So, stay hungry, stay foolish. :)

Uncertainty

2010-04-01T14:40:00.002+08:00

Be prepared for the unexpected as this is what it's all about in entrepreneurship. Uncertainty is the least of other extraordinary things which may happen to an entrepreneur and get ready to be faced with the fact that you won't get an outcome as expected in the venture.

A lot of entrepreneurs do not understand the point in being cautiously optimistic. Great things will come but we'll never know when and in what manner. There's one deal that looks so good, it's going to buy you the ticket to riches and next thing you know, in a month before the deal is executed and agreement is signed, the client either pulled out or tell you a thousand reasons why the deal would not be through.

As a conclusion, do not give up and keep on trying. The more frequent you meet your prospects or service your clients, the more likely you are going to strike a couple of deals. So the remedy for the challenge above is not to being too hopeful on the client that it gives you a big deal. Target more clients who can give you deals, though not significant.

At the time of this writing, I came across a quote which best express the point I am delivering in this post.

"A strong person is the one who knows how to be quiet & shed a tear for a moment & then picks up his sword & fight again." ~Unknown

Very true to those who have been hopeful but disappointed.

Cheers!

Live Interview with BFM 89.9

2010-03-20T03:59:00.003+08:00

Was just listening back to the podcast of our interview which was conducted in BFM Radio 89.9 during previous week. My head consultant, Sharif and I were sharing about our recently launched program and what's the relevance to most organisations today.

If you have missed the live sharing with their audience, you can also listen to the podcast below.

If possible, let me know what are your thoughts. Will be grateful for it.

Cheers!

The Short Term Gain

2010-03-19T15:05:00.008+08:00

Would like to write something little serious this time after being away from the blog for some time. And I also realised it's about time to build the readership of the blog.

So what's the news this time?

I just can't stop reflecting on the previous thought I had before I started venturing on my own. People said you have to know your way and work "smartly" in order to get clients to buy from you. It all depends on network and how you "pull" the strings together. So for a certain period, I bought that story though I never really give way for the "short-cut".

Instead of embracing it, I avoided it which took its toll on me. For the past 1.5 years in operations, I never had a chance to strike good deals, although there were couple of offers coming in (proposal requests), I just lack the courage to ask "what's your offer" or "how much percentage you want from here" or anything equivalent which provides additional income for them on top of their big fat salary from these big corporations. Couple of corporations shoved me off as I was insensitive to their "needs".

After a terrible and painful period, I soon found out that the critics were wrong (and proven wrong too). We do not have to have courage to do things which are against our self-values. How we know that? We recently managed to secure a deal from a large corporation (Government Linked too!), without compromising with our integrity. There are still people in organisations who are serious on genuine business relationships. Never lose faith.

Well it's called "pulling the strings" for reasons. Attachments are formed from the strings, which means that whatever happened to the other side of the string, affects our end too. Imagine that one day, the officer who you used to "feed" is now in the hands of the enforcers. All records of previous dealings are now being investigated. Would you be able to sleep peacefully? I bet your cold sweat will be able to fill a big bottle!

Be careful of whom we are pulling the strings from. Remember, "short-cut" = short term gain, long term lose (you lose yourself and the fundamental values you stand on to) but genuine, non-compromising integrity business = short term lose, long term gain.

Instead of complaining that the country is losing its credibility in terms of transparency, and at the same time, believing that we just have to adapt to the unclean way of doing business, stop and do otherwise. It really starts with the man in the mirror.

Start off with this: For once, if you are caught by a policeman for unintentionally breaking the law, stop putting the Ringgit note below the Driving license.

Cheers!

The Unpublished Words

2010-03-03T10:19:00.004+08:00

Just came across a very interesting article by inspirational Marina Mahathir. Just hope that her voice gets across to all viewers.

******

THE COLUMN THAT WASN'T

By Marina Mahathir

Folks, I'm posting here what should have been my Musings column tomorrow. The Star has refused to publish it because, after what happened to P. Gunasegaram's article which was pulled out after the Home Ministry gave them a show-cause letter, they don't want any 'sensitive' articles that may jeopardise their KDN permit.

Now I've been writing for the Star for about 20 years now, believe it or not, and although it would be much easier and freer to just blog, I maintain my column because of the discipline and because of my many loyal readers who don't necessarily read anything online. There have been other times when my column has been in danger of being censored (and very occasionally edited to sound gentler and nicer..) but still they came out when they were supposed to.

But this time they were adamant. As it happened, this evening I attended a dinner held by the MCA for NGOs. The MCA, as you may know, owns The Star. It was high irony for me to have so many people, including top MCA officials, tell me that they faithfully read my column when their own paper won't publish it tomorrow. I was seated next to Dato Sri Ong Tee Keat himself and complained about it but he wasn't keen to rock the boat, even though every time someone like me is censored, it's one point gained by the conservatives who, rather than argue things out with proper facts, would simply prefer to shut everyone up.

Of course the problem is the Publishing and Printing Presses Act itself which requires every single publication to apply for a permit every year. And no media which wants to survive can afford to get shut down.

But still there is room for courage, to stand up for freedom of speech. If we capitulate every time, then why bother publishing at all?

Indeed the space for any form of public discussion is narrowing every day, with not only the PPA being used but also police reports against anyone who puts forward the slightest alternative or opposing view. This is what keeps the cops busy these days, instead of catching snatch thieves, robbers, rapists and other real social ills.

Yet online there is room for all points of view and is it really so bad? In this blog, I allow all points of view and what I've found is that when you allow it, apart from a few stubborn ones, eventually the humanity of everybody comes through. There is a yearning to understand one another but that can't be done if there is no space for learning. Nor would you gain that insight into people if you didn't allow everyone to express themselves.

And as many have pointed out, what is the point of censoring the mainstream media when there is the freewheeling internet? The other point we should make to people like The Star is, what is the point of constantly sucking up to the Government when they can still turn around and bite you? Not everyone has to be Utusan. Self-respect is important too, no?

So anyway, here's the Column That Wasn't:

When we want to compete with anyone in any field we seek those who are better than us. And we keep going until finally we are recognized as the best. For example, a tennis player starts at the unranked bottom and tries to play and win against better players until finally there is nobody to beat. We do not however insist that everybody comes down to our level or to play badly in order for us to win. This is what puzzles me about the syariah courts in our country. In 1988 a clause was inserted into our Constitution that has been interpreted as having erected a Berlin Wall between the syariah and the civil courts. Basically Article 121(1A) said “the courts referred to in Clause (1) shall have no jurisdiction in respect of any matter within the jurisdiction of the syariah courts." This has caused untold problems because real life sometimes dictates that some issues cross over both jurisdictions. But leave that aside for a moment. Although the new clause did not say that the two separate courts were equal to one another, there are some people who are of the view that the syariah court is superior to the civil courts simply because syariah law is deemed of a higher order than civil laws. This is because apparently God made syariah laws while mere human beings made the civil laws. Never mind the fact that human beings have been changing syariah laws over the years, for instance, by loosening laws that protected women from losing all their property to their divorced husbands. Like other laws in this country, syariah laws have to be drafted, tabled and passed through our various lawmaking bodies whether at the State or Federal levels. This process leaves a lot of human fingerprints all over them. Civil laws are drafted, tabled and passed through Parliament. The difference is that at the tabling stage , they have to be debated before they are passed. The quality of the debate may be sometimes wanting but debated they are. This process provides some sort of ‘quality control’ over the laws so that they are hopefully current, reflect realities and are just. The same does not hold true of syariah laws. When they get tabled at State Excos, non-Muslims do not participate because there is the notion that they cannot partake in any such debate. That leaves only the Muslim Excos, few of whom are women. This means that if a bill affects women, the opinions of the female minority in the Exco can be ignored. Furthermore, most people are ignorant about their religion and tend to leave these matters to those they believe know best. Thus if the State Mufti or religious adviser says it’s a good law, they are unlikely to challenge him. Thus are religious laws passed unscrutinised. Until, that is, something happens such as when someone gets convicted of a syariah crime and punishment is meted out. Who knew until recently that people could get caned for drinking, or for having a baby out of wedlock until the recent cases of Kartika and the three women? Not only are these laws not debated when they are being made but they can’t be debated afterwards either, unlike civil laws. To do so, according to some people, is akin to arguing with God it seems. (There are however some who think that God welcomes such arguments just so that He can prove He is right). If one believes that syariah laws are superior to civil laws, should they not be held to higher standards? Should they not be subjected to more rigorous debate than civil laws out of fear that they may be unjust? If syariah courts are deemed superior to civil courts, should not their processes be more transparent and efficient? How is it that there are innumerable women having to undergo tremendous suffering because syariah court orders to their divorced husbands to pay child maintenance cannot be enforced? How is it also that we suddenly hear about women being caned without any information about the processes they went through? Did they have the benefit of legal representation and heard in an open court? If they did, who were their lawyers and what defense did they mount? Surely the best court of law is one that strives for justice, which shows it is fair to all parties. In this case, on whose behalf was justice served? I have no problems with syariah laws if their foundation is justice, equality and non-discrimination for all, even non-Muslims. But when their intent, processes and enforcement are unfair, they only give the impression that Islam is unjust and discriminatory. Surely to give such an image of Islam is a sin.
******

This column is not published in today's The Star.

You can also read the posting in her blog at: http://rantingsbymm.blogspot.com/2010/03/column-that-wasnt.html

Writing towards Career

2010-03-01T14:33:00.005+08:00

Just recently gather a team of enthusiastic people to work on some projects together. After a series of meetings together, we have decided yesterday to venture into publication business.

I am a lazy writer. However, I will be venturing into a publication start-up.

I wonder how will it unfold? Will only know in April 2010 when we intend to conduct our pre-launch event by then. :)

Stay tuned!

Looking for Superbike?

2010-01-28T09:19:00.003+08:00

Uncle is a superbike enthusiast, having bought 2 superbikes previously for the last 10 years. And he got them directly from Japan.

The Honda CBR954 is to be the last after continuous nagging from the wife to settle with something less fast, and more than 2 wheels, prompted the Uncle to attempt to sell off his superbike. :P Well, age caught up but being as adventurous as he is, he's going after 4WD with turbo engine now.

So therefore, I am helping him to put this online to find prospect buyers. Contact me only if you're a serious buyer. :P

Honda CBR 954 Model

Manufactured: 2003

Registered: Late 2004

1 Owner

Add-ons:

OHLINS dampers

Power commander system

Exhaust AKRAPOVIC Full system

Price: RM62,000 neg.

If you're interested, DM me on Twitter at http://twitter.com/melvincwh or FB message me at http://facebook.com/melvinchanwh.

It's a Shame

2010-01-09T02:01:00.004+08:00

Dedicated to my dear Malaysian friends who have to bear the shame caused by some quarters who still believe in "divide and conquer" situations.

Father, forgive them, for they know not what they do. (Luke 23:34)

From The Star (http://www.thestar.com.my/news/story.asp?file=/2010/1/8/nation/20100108115637&sec=nation) :

*****

Parti Rakyat Sarawak (PRS) president and state Minister Datuk Seri Dr James Masing said the issue should not have been blown out of proportion.

“Politicians should stay out of this matter and leave it to the religious bodies of the respective religions to sit down and discuss a mutually acceptable way to resolve this,” he said.

Masing said Sarawak and Sabah do not have such controversies because people of all faiths and races were mature enough to accept each others’ beliefs.

Assistant state minister Datuk Daud Abdul Rahman, from the Parti Pesaka Bumiputra Bersatu, also stressed the need for common sense to prevail, saying that the state government has always practised tolerance and acceptance when it comes to handling issues of religious and racial nature.

Keadilan Sarawak chairman Baru Bian said the usage of the word Allah became blown out of context in the peninsula because of political meddling.

He said this was a non-issue in Sarawak despite the word being used widely by all religions in the state for so many decades.

******

God bless.

A News Article and A Blog

2010-01-09T01:29:00.009+08:00

The article below is copied from the Al-Jazeera site which was blocked by Streamyx on Friday night and Saturday morning. I believe it is fair that what is known to the world should be known by the Malaysians too, to give an opportunity for us to justify or defend the truth or deny rumours of information concerning the beloved country.

Malaysian churches attacked

Protests were held against the overturning of the ban on using the 'Allah' word in Christian literature [AFP]

Four Christian churches in Malaysia have been attacked amid tensions over the use of the word "Allah" by non-Muslims in the country.

Attackers threw a molotov cocktail which failed to ignite at a church in the state of Selangor on Friday afternoon, media reports said.

The incident comes hours after a petrol bomb was thrown at a church in the capital, Kuala Lumpur, as well as attackers trying to set another two ablaze in a nearby suburb.

Police also recieved reports of cars displaying Christian symbols having their windscreens smashed in the suburb of Bangsar.

Hishammuddin Hussein, the home minister, appealed for calm and moved to assure religious groups in the country that "they are safe".

"I take the events that happened last night very seriously," he said.

"We want to assure the public that this was not a co-ordinated and well-planned action."

Ruling suspended

A Malaysian court had last week overturned a government ban on non-Muslims using the word "Allah" in their literature, allowing Roman Catholic newsletter, the Herald, to use the term to refer to God in the Malay language.

The judge has since suspended the implementation of the ruling, after the government appealed and the Roman Catholic church agreed to the suspension.

Police say they have stepped up security at churches following the two attacks [AFP]

Muslim groups held protests after prayers on Friday against the court overturning the "Allah" ban, despite a warning from Musa Hassan, the country's police chief, advising organisers to "let this be handled by the court" and that he "will take action against anyone who acts to jeopardise national security".

Muslims in Malaysia argue that the "Allah" is exclusive to Islam, and its use by Christians would confuse Muslims.

But Catholic church officials say that for Christian indigenous tribes in East Malaysia, who are the main readers of the Herald'sMalay-language edition, "Allah" is the only word they have known for God for decades.

Al Jazeera's Harry Fawcett, reporting outside a mosque in the suburb of Kampung Baru, said that protests were held within the mosque compound.

"There was a lively crowd, but not a huge one. Some of the protest organisers filed complaints to local officials over the use of the word Allah in Christian literature," he said.

Government powerless

Najib Abdul Razak, Malaysia's prime minister, earlier said his government was powerless to stop the planned protests as long as protesters did not leave their mosques.

Marina Mahathir, a board member of the Sisters in Islam organisation and the daughter of the former prime minister Mahathir Mohamad, told Al Jazeera that many Malaysians are "deeply disappointed as to how this issue has been manipulated".

"This issue goes beyond words and debate. I think many do not understand aspects of this religion, which is why there has been a lot of misinformation going around," she said.

A court ruling last week that the Herald may use the word 'Allah' has been suspended [EPA]

Fire in Friday's first incident gutted the administrative office on the first floor of the three-storey Metro Tabernacle church, shortly after midnight.

Mohamad Sabtu Osman, the Kuala Lumpur police chief, said a witness saw four people on two motorcycles breaking the glass front of the church and throwing an incendiary object inside before fleeing.

Molotov cocktails were believed to be thrown into the compounds of two other churches in Petaling Jaya, just outside Kuala Lumpur, before dawn on Friday.

The attacks on the Assumption church and the Life Chapel caused minor damage, officials said.

Osman said there were no fatalities in the attacks and police were investigating, but added that it was premature to link the attacks on the churches to protests by Muslim groups over last week's court ruling.

Heightened security

Lawrence Andrew, editor of the Herald, said many churches had employed extra security guards amid protest threats as a precaution for fear that matters "may just blow up".

And police say they have stepped up security at churches nationwide following the attacks.

Musa, the police chief, said he had "instructed all patrol cars to patrol all church areas - we are monitoring all churches".

FROM THE BLOGS

Religious tensions rise in 'One Malaysia'
By Teymoor Nabili

Najib, the prime minister, condemned the attacks "because they will destroy our country's harmony".

"The government will take whatever steps it can to prevent such acts," he said.

Salahuddin Ayub, a leader from the Islamic opposition party PAS, also condemned the attack, saying Islam does not allow followers to destroy houses of worship belonging to non-Muslims.

"Even during war, those who seek sanctuary in houses of worship cannot be killed or the buildings itself destroyed," he was quoted as saying by the Malaysian Insider website.

Azmi Sharom, a columnist and law professor at Universiti Malaya, told Al Jazeera that "the unrest is not surprising because of the fact that the government has been pandering to these kinds of people for a long time".

He said the government allowed some groups to protest when others were banned because the main ruling Umno party - which depends on the Malay/Muslim demographic to remain in power - was "unwilling to do anything which would seem to go against what they think is the Malay/Muslim desire".

"This is a noisy demographic and it is potentially dangerous for Umno to alienate them, so this will be a real test for Najib's administration," he said.

Source:

Al Jazeera and agencies

Religious tensions rise in 'One Malaysia'

By Teymoor Nabili in

Asia

on January 8th, 2010

Photo by EPA

The row over the use of the word Allah has escalated into violence:

Attackers threw a petrol bomb at church in the capital, Kuala Lumpur, and tried to set two others ablaze in a nearby suburb in the early hours of Friday.

As I write this, Muslim groups are promising to stage protest marches after Friday prayers, and have received the tacit blessing of the prime minister:

He said people could express their views as long as it was done properly and in accordance with regulations.

This last statement has already caused a degree of mirth and anger, and there will doubtless be more.

Certainly the former deputy prime minister and current member of parliament and head of the opposition coalition, Anwar Ibrahim, would be justified in asking why his reform rallies so often seem to be an exception to this ruling; the Hindu organisation Hindraf was told that their desire to deliver a petition to the prime minister of the day fell outside of the right to "express views", and suffered tear gas, water cannon and the arrest of many of its leaders when they tried; and yet Muslim rioters were defended by the home minister during the now infamous "cow's head incident" last year, despite dragging a severed cow head, an animal sacred in Hinduism, which they stomped on and spat atunder the gaze of the riot police.

The prime minster has denied accusations that the move against the Catholic church was politically motivated, but has yet to offer a plausible explanation as to why his government decided to act on the issue in the first place.

Minister in the prime minister's department, Nazri Aziz, has offered this:

We have to take into consideration the culture and nature of Malaysia. What is considered normal in the United States and Europe is not necessarily normal here.

Which fails to explain why what has indeed been normal practice in Malaysia for a very long time is suddenly deemed otherwise, or how allowing it to continue suddenly presents a threat to Muslim sensibilities and social stability.

Since taking office, Prime Minister Najib Razak has been pushing a programme he calls "1Malaysia", on the face of it a recognition of - and an attempt to resolve - the ethnic and religious tensions in the country:

1Malaysia’s goal is to preserve and enhance [the] unity in diversity which has always been our strength and remains our best hope for the future.

But his commitment to the principle has come under severe scrutiny, precisely because of events like this, and the response of government ministers and police when tensions do arise.

The opposition coalition has gone so far as to ask for a Royal Commission on religion, saying:

Malaysians have almost fallen into the boiling pot of discord and tension that was caused by manipulation of religious differences

Or, as veteran DAP politician Lim Kit Siang puts it:

What we have in Malaysia is not 1Malaysia but 2Malaysia – where there is one law for Umno and their supporters and another law for the rest.

Comments are reviewed by Al Jazeera prior to publishing, in accordance with Al Jazeera community rules and may take some time to be posted.

Courtesy of:
http://blogs.aljazeera.net/asia/2010/01/07/religious-tensions-rise-one-malaysia

We Have Wept

2010-01-07T09:40:00.003+08:00

When we were just born to the world, we don't get stamped at the head with the phrase "War with Thy Neighbour!" We grew up accepting views from family, friends, politicians, and etc. Subsequently, we started to believe, at some point of time, that all of them were in fact 'the truth'.

Came across the TED video below of a man who went across the 'alleged' conflicts brought by two nations which originally shared the same foundations until the 20th Century's partition, divided by politics. A price laid by the previous generation and paid by the following generation through blood and tears.

An inspiring presentation indeed.

About the talk:

One of a dozen Pakistanis who came to TEDIndia despite security hassles entering the country, TED Fellow Asher Hasan shows photos of ordinary Pakistanis that drive home a profound message for citizens of all nations: look beyond disputes, and see the humanity we share.

Courtesy of TED.com.

Countdown to 2010

2010-01-01T12:09:00.002+08:00

I decided that 2009's New Year's Eve to be a random day where anything goes. After traveling from Bukit Bintang's Pavilion for a movie, headed down to Jalan Ipoh and subsequently, to Ampang Jaya for a finale treat (McDonald's sundae dessert, yummy...).

Left Jalan Ipoh at 11.42pm, hoping to catch a glimpse of the fireworks when the clock struck midnight. Drove slowly along Jalan Tun Razak and it was packed with cars parked by the roadside. So for once in the year, I could sidepark on a busy main road and catch the fireworks! And the place was really good to look at the city view as it was also higher too.

When the clock struck midnight, and 1st January 2010 was here, the first glimpse of the fireworks was spotted from the area of Dataran Merdeka (notice right side of the photo, behind the lamp post).

Left shot of Jalan Tun Razak, the place where I side-parked to see fireworks. It was just about 50 metres from the exit to AKLEH expressway. Stood exactly in front of the Celcom building.

Right shot from where I was.

Most beautiful fireworks display actually (from where I was) came from the area in KLCC. The sky was literally showered with lights.

And so, that was some coverage from where I was in the midnight of 31st December 2009 and the morning of 1st January 2010. It was indeed a spectacular year of ups and downs, and seriously I love what had happened throughout the 12 months period. I knew many great friends whom I would've never met if I hadn't chosen to do what I've done then.

Now that 2010 is here. It's time to really create lemonade from lemons I have accumulated till now!

God bless you. Have a wonderful year ahead!

Love the Mother Earth!

2009-12-31T14:58:00.005+08:00

I am sure all young Malaysians love the mother earth. Nothing new in this post. Just want to know whether you are still using plastic bags for shopping. There are quite a number of hypermarkets which have stopped giving out plastic bags for free and started encouraging the use of recycled bags. More and more hypermarkets should follow suit too! (I still receive weird stares when shopping in Tesco recently by some aunties and uncles - sometimes the cashiers too...)

I am definitely looking forward to create better understanding among young Malaysians on the importance to consume and use only Bio-Degradable products to really protect the environment and have fun and look cool at the same time.

Do not use plastic bags when shopping for groceries! Use (very) colourful and nice biodegradable bags like mine. If you don't have enough I can give you some! Good things are meant to be shared, right?

However, I would really love to break some good news to Malaysians. I went to Singapore recently to see how green they were (which initially I thought they were greener). Seems like (agreed by Singaporeans) there have been much awareness and talking but actions don't seem to match them. Pretty significant contrary if you look at the new buildings coming up in Singapore. Where's the green element? See for yourself. I'm always proud to be Malaysians (though not sufficient initiatives but hell, we create plenty! Probably for Singaporeans too.) :)

Keep the Mother Earth green. Happy New Year, everyone.

Cheers and God bless!

One Bribe At A Time

2009-12-22T00:26:00.004+08:00

Shaffi Mather explains why he left his first career to become a social entrepreneur, providing life-saving transportation with his company 1298 for Ambulance. Now, he has a new idea and plans to begin a company to fight the booming business of corruption in public service, eliminating it one bribe at a time.

Courtesy of TED.com (http://www.ted.com/talks/shaffi_mather_a_new_way_to_fight_corruption.html)

Why Potong?

2009-12-21T11:20:00.003+08:00

After doing the Speedtest as below, you can't stop to wonder why to potong when Streamyx is the only ISP which offers the fastest broadband (sadly the case) among all the other players in the market.

Alternatively, I am using Digi wireless broadband for outdoor as I am always traveling around. It is convenient that now, choosing a working venue with Wifi may not be a must anymore. Saves me from the premium which I have to pay to experience Wifi with food and drinks.

During one of visit to the PC fair, someone told me that despite all the potong and tukar pitches, people still go back to Streamyx which I can't deny any further. Our dearly beloved country simply lack of the infrastructure for better broadband.

However, despite of that, it makes Streamyx less of a bully due to many options to be chosen by consumers on their competitors. Afterall, for me, I don't mind going to an ISP which gives excellent customer service if it also means I have to settle for slower broadband. I don't do frequent downloads.

So, there you go. Your choice still. :)

Cheers.

Amateur Playing with Photo Effects

2009-12-21T00:00:00.006+08:00

Just came across a photo-effect editing website called BeFunky (http://www.befunky.com/). Decided to try it as the functions are quite simple to use and really user-friendly. Suitable for graphic-idiots like myself.

You can basically select the source of graphic files from various options listed below:

Subsequently, you can choose what kind of effects which you would like to do onto your original graphic file.

Example of what I have done onto my photo. I have chosen the option for "Sunburst" and under the effect category, there are 6 more options to choose from. Interesting!

The outcome: The photo can be quite freaky to look at!

Try it out and have fun! :)

Cheers.

Immigration Outing

2009-12-18T12:21:00.004+08:00

It's the time of the year to travel to Singapore again in December and for Christmas, nevertheless (Orchard Rd, here I come again!). This year, yours truly's passport has expired and must be renewed. How was I to know, I had chosen the wrong time to do that. Seems like everyone is traveling out of the country this year. How do I know that? Look at the queue in the immigration office in Wangsa Maju which took 2 hours to collect the queue number.

Reached the immigration office at 8.45am and I had to go all the way to the back lane of the office building to start queuing. Only got to reach the counter at approximately 11am which I thought was madness. Another few more hours to wait for my turn to submit my passport renewal form. Indeed, as my number was 1369 and the last called number was 1160. 209 people to go before it would reach me.

The hours just passed by reading a book and walking in and out the office. Then, at 1.50pm, I decided to leave the place for lunch, opposite the office in a restaurant which serves spaghetti and other Italian variety. That's where I got connected to the internet via Wifi provided and by then, the last number called before I left was 1260+. Presumed my number will be called in at least an hour time as the speed was almost as slow as a person per minute. However, there were couple of times when I left the notebook at the restaurant and walked over to the office just to check on how far the called number was to the number I was holding. (Again, it was 1369. 4D anyone? :P)

Picture above was taken at approximately 2.45pm after lunch. There were still many people around and some of them (who were not in the picture) had been standing for hours!

I was back to the immigration office by 2.45pm and it was still 1350+. Reckoned it was about my time. Subsequently, by the time I submitted my form the clock was touching 3.10pm. Then, the officer told me that I have to wait for my number to be called again for payment. Another 30 minutes to go?! Nevertheless, yours truly was really in patience mode throughout the day, so wait it was!

By the time I was done with the payment, it was really about 3.45pm.

Returned the next day to collect the passport and in less than 5 minutes, I got hold of yours truly renewed passport already! Most importantly, it was collected with smiling face from the officer. It made my day indeed.

So my advice is.... do not renew your passport at the end of the year!

P.s.: After the renewal, I found out that it's better to choose the option of renewing the passport for 5 years at RM300.00! Share with you more, only per request.

Cheers.

When Mobbing Becomes Green

2009-12-17T20:37:00.004+08:00

When Catherine mentioned one fine day that she wanted to organise a rally ala FlashMob to McDonald's, I thought that was a mad, mad idea and I immediately fell for it. It is probably the best thing we can ever do to raise Malaysians' awareness towards the importance of using eco-friendly products and materials to reduce carbon emission.

Full details of the rally is as follows, courtesy of Catherine's Rebeliciousz:

Purpose

1 Creating awareness of the use of less eco-friendly materials used in McDonald during serving.

Goal

1 Capturing the reactions of everyone (especially the waiter and waitress) in the McDonald outlet during the act.

Methodology

Event Flow

1 Partcipants gathered at entrance of KL sentral for briefing at 8.00pm. 2 At 9.00pm, all proceeds to McDonald. 3 at 9.30pm, 10 orders are made at one time along with "special" demand.

Details

1 Video is taken all the way from the briefing session to the end with reactions of the waiter and waitress and those of the customers in the shop.2 Eg, "Can I have my Cheese burger on my plate?"

Resources needed

1 2 Video cams (1 to capture the waiter and waitress, 1 of the customers and crowd) 2 Editing of video

I hope you will be there to support us and join us in this rally. E-mail to myGreenomy@gmail.com with your name, contact number and e-mail address. Subsequently, we will contact you to

Should you agree to be part of GreenMob, you will be responsible for your own safety and well-being. The organiser will not be held liable for any loss, injuries, or damages caused as a result of negligence act by any party or act of God throughout the trip/rally.

How Twitter Decided on 140 Characters!

2009-11-27T05:53:00.003+08:00

Courtesy of TheNextWeb.com - Unveiled: why Twitter decided on 140 characters!
.

Show Me What's In the Bikini!

2009-11-25T09:31:00.005+08:00

Have you ever wondered that what would I sell if I have ever given away my products or things that I sell for FREE?

Honestly, when I just started the company, I was constantly looking for sales. Quite aggressively too. My objective was to ensure each and every trip I made to the prospect was ended up with sales on each and every product I have in my inventory. However, with each prospect I visited and pitched to, they never buy. Instead, Malaysians being Malaysians, they are constantly looking for free stuff.

And it's not such a bad thing at all.

I recently came across someone sharing about the bikini concept. If I am to ask you to put a percentage figure on how much flesh you can see in a lady in bikini, how much would it be? 90%? Right! And I realise business is just like that! We have to keep in mind that we should be ready to give away 90% of our stuff for FREE. Subsequently, people would be ready to pay for another 10% which may be the most "attractive" part of the..ehem..in this case business. And yes, everyone wants to see the part where the bikini doesn't reveal, and this is where the big money comes in. Forget about the small money at the beginning!

So, the mentality of the Malaysian customers are not that difficult to deal with anyway.

I hope this will stuck into your mind for the rest of your life. And this is such an interesting and easy concept to remember, isn't it? :D

Signing off.

Youth Power

2009-11-13T23:48:00.004+08:00

The Gen-Y should not be ignored further. The significance of youths today as a prominent driver to the nation's economical and political development is not a myth anymore or something we talk about in daily 'mamak' sessions.

Why did I say that? Look at the government's effort to engage youths via social media like Facebook. Firstly, there was a period of time when there was this posting about "Facebook Hour" by some prominent deputy minister. He was none other than the Deputy Minister of Higher Education, Datuk Saifuddin Abdullah (click here to link to his FB account and here to one of his initiatives done via FB).

Secondly, found out that the minister and the deputy ministers of Ministry of Youths and Sports are actively seeking members to be friends of their Facebook account. The difference between the first encounter and the second is the former maintains the account by himself while the latter's accounts are maintained by their secretaries or they call them, "setiausaha sulit" - whatever it means. Now vast difference is observed. Next question is that if they are not sincere in dealing with the youths, and creating an FB account just because it is one of the way to engage them which eventually managed by someone else, why bother?

Facebook campaign by the Ministry of Youth & Sports

The power of youths and particularly, the Gen-Y is a force to be reckoned with. Some people just have to understand that doing what the youths are doing do not make them blend well with the youths. Business wise, it is definitely a growing market and given an economic point of view - it is a generation which grow up with much spending power and willingness to spend. The closest factor I can look at is that our bunch of people grew up watching advertisements and internet, which are sources of marketers' main communications channel to create a lifestyle which money can buy. So to look good, buy the slimming or body make-over package! To be admired and awed, buy the Gucci bag!

One more example - look at the clubs around the city today compared to 20 years back. It does explain about the great opportunity in accommodating to the lifestyle of the young. A couple of my friends spend easily RM150-300 every night, every week at the club. And they do not just hang out on the much anticipated Friday night!

Have you seen other government and non-government organisations with similar initiatives to engage youths? Share with me.

Why Rainbow Connection

2009-11-11T22:57:00.004+08:00

If you have heard The Rainbow Connection and enjoyed it, you will understand what I mean as I write this post. Besides the nice music, the lyrics are darn good despite being simple.

It basically tells a story of a person who believes and has faith in something which others may ignore and tell otherwise. It is a song of the unknown and hope. Life is meaningful because we give meaning to it. Everyone may have a different view and meaning towards how we perceive certain things and events.

What is revealing about the song is the part where it sings;

Someday we'll find it, the rainbow connection,

The lovers, the dreamers and me.

Our purpose of life (I would like to believe that it is referred as rainbow in the song due to its beauty) can only be found and fulfilled with the combination of our mind and heart. Notice that lovers actually refer to something emotional, which eventually talks about the heart and dreamers in reference to the mind.

I will be nice enough to embed the YouTube so that you can just hear directly from here, without searching further for it. Sarah McLachlan's version of the Rainbow Connection is by far the best one I have heard. Enjoy the song. :)

The Rainbow Connection

Why are there so many songs about rainbows
And what’s on the other side?
Rainbows are visions, but only illusions,
And rainbows have nothing to hide.
So we’ve been told and some choose to believe it
I know they’re wrong, wait and see.
Someday we’ll find it, the rainbow connection,
The lovers, the dreamers and me.

Who said that every wish would be heard and answered
when wished on the morning star?
Somebody thought of that
and someone believed it,
and look what it’s done so far.
What’s so amazing that keeps us stargazing?
And what do we think we might see?
Someday we’ll find it, the rainbow connection,
the lovers, the dreamers and me.
All of us under its spell,
we know that it’s probably magic….

Have you been half asleep
and have you heard voices?
I’ve heard them calling my name.
Is this the sweet sound that calls the young sailors?
The voice might be one and the same.
I’ve heard it too many times to ignore it.
It’s something that I’m supposed to be.
Someday we’ll find it, the rainbow connection,
the lovers, the dreamers and me.

Time to Ponder

2009-11-10T15:34:00.003+08:00

Imagine when we are driving on a highway and the rain falls heavily. When things got blurry, we just got to slow down and look attentively and carefully. Same goes with life. When we are working or doing anything which most of the time, when we tend to overlook on what we want most in life, it is time to perhaps really take time to be away from work and the things we are doing and spend time with ourselves only.

Explore what's important to us and we should do just that. :)

Will The Tide Ever Turn?

2009-11-10T09:51:00.007+08:00

Never give up, for that is just the place and time that the tide will turn.
~ Harriet Beecher Stowe.

Came across the quote in my mailbox last week and it made me ponder. For the fact that I can see the great turn of events for the past 30 days was tremendously extraordinary.

Prior to last 30 days, there were couple of times where I felt like really quitting from what I am doing. Although I am working solely on passion and pursuing a dream which I thought would be easily achievable, it got tougher and soon the vision turned blurry. Easy way out? Look for job. Afterall, I could have persisted if I have enough money to last me till I make it, so I thought.

I hate to ask myself this question, how long could I last being broke all the time. Moment of truth came right in the mid of September, when my loyal bank accounts left with RM9 and the other with RM45. And so, I heard a loud ring! Time to send my CVs out to companies around town, hoping to hook myself a nice paying job while I planned to carry on with the business at night. And yes, at night - which subsequently I thought was ridiculous with my stamina; would have dozed off before the clock hit 9pm. The partner would have sent a C4 to my place just to wake me up. :P

What kept me going? I hope to remain as a non-quitter. Everytime I conduct a self-awareness session to youths in unicolleges, "how you do anything is how you do everything," is my favourite phrase and is frequently used. Because of the high frequency usage, I have planted it deep down into my unconscious mind. Putting it in layman term, when I started to feel like quitting, I could woke up one day (may not be subsequent day, sometimes it took me 3 days after to reach that consciousness) and thought to myself to try again - this time, some other methods and tactics. If I ever give up, I will remain a quitter in what ever I do, whether be it career, family (that's most painful), and etc.

I guess when things are not working, we just have to experiment with other ways to do stuff. Can you imagine doing the same stuff every year, expecting that the year will bear different outcome? Albert Einstein just put it in a simple word, "Insanity." Cuma orang gila yang buat kerja serupa berulang kali, harapkan hasil yang luar biasa. One of these days I should attempt to write a blog posting in Bahasa Malaysia. Who knows, the amount of readers would spike record high since the inception of this blog. :D I'm just trying something different...

I was just recently featured in Malaysia SME paper, subsequently in Malaysia Today and was invited as a guest to a midnight TV show, 8TV Nite Live - a share of fame? No. It all came

unexpectedly (I didn't ask for it, ok... LOL) and if I have made a decision to join a company prior to a month ago, where would I be? I wonder.

I am glad I have taken the action and stand. Persistence and perseverance have pulled me through. However, this is just the beginning to something great, I am sure.

Let me know if you would like to walk with me. :)

Cheers.

A Ghost Beneath The Tower

2009-11-07T00:40:00.005+08:00

Have you seen this beautiful video before?

A great song from Winston Jazz Routine. It has a very good artistic representation and the lyrics are good too.

Check it out. :)

THE GHOST BENEATH THE TOWER

What is in your mirror?
Medicine for sadness?
Postcards taped upon it?
With soap in scripted letters?

From your loving mother
Don't trade her for some other
Truth is what you see it
Sorry it just seems fit

I felt your shadow on the way home
I felt your tower again, again

What is in your closet?
Boxes stacked from left to right
Packed
You gently wrap your glassware
Place them in the
And free the ghost of

Just remember happiness
It's not some sack of polaroids

I felt your smile on the way home
I felt your tower again, again
I felt your shadow on the way home
I felt your tower again, again

Cheers.

Social Media ROI

2009-11-02T10:55:00.005+08:00

View more presentations from Olivier Blanchard.

Thanks and credit to Rachel Foong for the initial post.

Charter For Compassion - Casting for Malaysian Viral Video

2009-11-01T11:09:00.002+08:00

Casting Call: The Charter For Compassion - Malaysian team is producing a Viral Video to spread the message of the Charter. Volunteers needed:

Over the past year, the world was invited to contribute their words to the Charter for Compassion. Thousands of contributions from over 100 countries were received. Now, the Charter is complete, and we need your face to bring it to life for the November 12th unveiling.

We are seeking volunteers of all ages and ethnicities to spend a day with us reading the Charter text on camera. We would like to represent a group of people as diverse as those who participated in composing the Charter. Come have fun with us!

Shoot Date: Sunday, November 1
Shoot Time: 11 am - 2pm (You don't have to attend the entire time.)
Shoot Location: TELL MEdia Studios, 1 Jalan SS7/10, Kelana Jaya, 47310 Petaling Jaya, Selangor map

Interested?
Please head on down straight to TELL MEdia Studios today

For more information about the Charter for Compassion, visit charterforcompassion.org

For questions or more information about the casting call, contact Ija Mohan aka @spicyguy : 0162830962

Thanks and credit to Hakim Albasrawy of http://hakim.albasrawy.com/ for the initial post.

Everyone Connects?

2009-10-21T09:40:00.002+08:00

Thanks to the Tweet conversation between @joycescapade and @zhiQ, I came across a website (click the link here) which surprised me with its contents. Thought my internet was interrupted when the pixelated images appeared. And the images are meant to be pixelated - it's a teaser. A promotional gimmick of a band who sing the song, "Through My Window" (the song is played in the website too).

Honestly, they are quite good. The style reminded me of Greenday and yes, A-A-R as well. Now, given this promotional initiative of a new band, "Everyone Connects is about getting people to communicate & collaborate because when everyone’s connected, anything is possible" at the footer of the page seems (agree with ZhiQ) out of place. Doesn't sound like lyrics though...

Track it via Twitter hashtag: #ThroughMyWindow

Courtesy of @ZhiQ

How Much Is Your Website Worth?

2009-10-19T23:57:00.004+08:00

Courtesy of Whose (My_Swamp), I managed to come across a website where it measures the value of a website.

Go to BizInformation.org, and type your website URL at the designated column.

As soon as you pressed enter, the website valuation will appear with other vital stats (not sure how accurate it is).

And I was surprise to find my blog site worth $2804.90. It's up for grab, anyone wants to bid?

Hello....

No response. :P

Find out yours now and share with me by clicking at the link below:

BizInformation.org

Cheers.

Admiring Pewter

2009-10-18T10:31:00.011+08:00

When KJ was jumping with excitement on one fine day after knowing he has bagged the 2nd prize for the Take a 'Giant Mug Shot' Photo Contest, all of us in TalentEDge were invited to the Giant Tankard Homecoming Party to witness him receiving his prize, an Olympus camera from the organiser, Royal Selangor Pewter.

Honestly I have passed by the Royal Selangor gallery countless times in the past, but last weekend was the first time I stepped foot inside the visitor centre. Didn't know it looks great and spacious with rich historical facts and items inside.

Some of the currency and money used during the old days. Only seen in Sejarah textbooks till that very Saturday. Notice the animal currencies in the forms of crocodile, elephant (short nose but long tail) and turtle. And just found out that the the coins can be plugged out from the money tree on the right (as seen on BSN logo).

More animal currencies from the 19th Century. The value of the currencies are actually determined by their weights. So I wonder, how heavy must the currency be to buy a cow...chicken...(Yes, KJ. Chickens to be rear and eaten. Not something else!)

Some of the old tools and equipments used by the founder. Noticed the old wooden abacus on the left, followed by the old catalogues, account books (Yes with old ink and numbers of sales recorded) and old ledgers.

KJ with a "keluarga diraja" costume in yellow, matched with Catherine's similar costume. He was so delighted to be in that costume for the fact as mentioned. Lol.

Who says Catherine can't get rough? Ladies at work! Don't be fooled by the picture. It is actually a very delicate process at work where gentle but firm knocks are required to form the same size and horizontally aligned spots around the cup without gaps. Now, that's what I call challenge!

Guess for which client Royal Selangor produces the trophy to? It's actually one of the products where "work in progress".

And yes, all pictures are taken with my 3-year-old 3.2MP Sony Ericsson K-800 .

That's not all. After the tour we had good tarts and pies with delicious sausages to satisfy our taste buds. Oh yeah, we had fun in their games too, where I must say I my vision and conscious was briefly disturbed after the drinking game (where Heineken was used! And yes, the Royal Selangor Party served alcohol).

There are actually more great and better pictures taken from KJ's camera so stay tuned.

Signing off.

When Work Has Its Meaning

2009-10-17T11:34:00.005+08:00

When one has different priorities, we often look for extraordinary avenue to grow towards our dreams. What life is if it is just a repetition of doing things we do not enjoy doing? Recently I came across a write-up, Ya Startups, Even Boring Ones, which rang a bell to me in understanding some of the reasons why we have the dedicated teammates we have today.

Their presence has really bring great changes and impact to the company as a whole and would definitely. They are indeed the catalyst of inspirational legacy in the making.

Here I salute honourably to all the teammates, partners, affiliates and other extraordinary individuals who have been part of who have made the TalentEDge team a reality.

What Makes A Good Ppt Presentation?

2009-09-29T09:21:00.007+08:00

Some tips for doing a good PowerPoint presentation. Definitely helps boost the presentation skill a little. Good one from Guy Kawasaki.

Cheers.

Made in Malaysia

2009-09-21T11:42:00.004+08:00

I would have to say, 15Malaysia was a great project. Well done to P1 for the showcase. A lot of people used to ask what was my favourite video in 15Malaysia since a month ago. And my reply was always, "So far, all videos are quite good and unique in their very own ways. But if I'm to have a special pick, you would have to wait till all videos are released."

So, in this blog posting, I will share three of my personal favourite picks in 15Malaysia. One of them is none other than, "One Future". And seriously, I have no idea that Tian Chua can be real good actor (notice his facial expression which looks like those when we're going for auditions!). Nevertheless, Tian Chua is a good cast in the short movie which he possessed an amount of experience for. Afterall, he's been there, done that.

I am a fan of humour, and I definitely cannot miss this one. "Meter" which I personally congratulated Benji, Bahir and the team including Khairy Jamaluddin for the brilliant showcase. KJ can really act and he looks good as a taxi driver too. Perhaps he should seriously consider acting or driving taxis if he ever quit politics. A hillarious one below which portrays a normal daily life of a taxi driver who seem to be enthusiastic in sharing his thoughts and opinions about current issues. Watched it already?

My 3rd pick is one real graphically awesome one, "Rojak!". The fact that the movie is narrated in Tamil makes it really cool to watch. And it definitely sums up the whole ecological system of the Malaysian society (which is of course, real complicated) in a very interesting way - via Malaysians' favourite topic - food, in this case rojak. Must watch if you haven't done so and you can definitely watch it below.

Overall, Pete Teo deserves the highest credit in getting 15Malaysia a success. I am definitely keen to meet him in person sometime soon (when I supposed to meet him in a few occasions which I happened to pass). Be sure to watch all the videos in 15malaysia.com and share with me your thoughts which I will be glad to know.

Cheers.

Social Media Hazards

2009-09-08T09:12:00.009+08:00

It was devastating to know that one of the friends decided to damage his credibility in the social media when his job is to help certain parties to run their social media plans.

After the whole incident, it really does prove that social media really transmit messages and news faster than ever. The platform of the medium can be personal but the information can really reach the public in seconds. If one is too into it, without knowing the potential consequences, the effect can really be dangerous. Which is why, parents will still have to keep an eye on their children and their involvement in the social media.

One story that still stick in my head is about a story of a teenage girl whose parents' were out of town for couple of days. The moment she knows about it, she updated her one of the many social media's status with the statement of "my parents are AWAY for the weekend. Let's party tonight, my HOUSE!". And we all know that a teenage girl's group of friends in the network may not only consist "real" friends. Imagine the status update is transmitted to the network. With a click, as a friend, I will be able to access the personal information and there we go - address and telephone numbers. What potential danger does it lead to?

Social media may not be able to solve personal problems but it may open doors to many viable solutions. Otherwise, it may potentially jeopardise one's reputation for being a whiner. Therefore, my take from the usage of social media are:

1. Do not simply leave personal information to public. And only ensure the person we trust to be able to access our personal portal.

2. Do not rely to social media for medicine for the soul. Sometimes, it is good to call someone and talk over the phone. Humans are emotional being and voice affects emotions.

3. Do not recklessly insult and belittle somebody else over social media. I.e. Twitter, Facebook

. People just see and notice conversations. Of course, it doesn't spoil the image of others, but it makes the person who wrote the messages looks dumb. And I definitely do not want it to happen to a friend.

4. Do not rant recklessly. There are just some things we can't write and we are definitely not KINGs in cyberspace. Recently noticed a junior of mine in high school who is extremely critical of the Malaysian government. Nothing's wrong with it but we have to watch what we say. I think

cyberspace is like Twilight Zone, we may do everything we like but we will never know that "somebody's watching".

So use social media as an outlet for creativity and network. Do not misuse it as a ranting place for sensitive issues. Sensitive issues are for suitable channels and social media isn't one of them.

The Revival

2009-09-08T00:04:00.002+08:00

It is time of the year again, when I attempt to put things in place once more. This time it's gotta do with blogs. I used to own 3 blogs namely, "melvinchan.blogspot.com", "melvinchanwh.blogspot.com" and "iammelvinchanwh.blogspot.com". This blog, "melvinchan.blogspot.com" has been the outlet of sharing and it records the growing-up process of myself, with the 1st post dated back to 2005.

"melvinchanwh.blogspot.com" was created to share articles and write-ups on personal development and entrepreneurship issues affecting Malaysian individuals. Then, the blog went haywired which then paved way for the creation of "iammelvinchanwh.blogspot.com". Subsequently, "melvinchanwh.blogspot.com" was deleted recently.

After much considerations, I have decided to maintain only ONE blog. 1 blog for all and it will be sole and collective voices of me in different areas, which saves me from a lot of hassle, to think about it. And this also marks the start of the revival of "melvinchan.blogspot.com" after being "post-less" for many months now.

Anyway, there you go. If I would ask you to come back again soon for the next post anytime this week, please do. :)

Cheers and God bless.

End of Days?

2009-04-16T10:37:00.004+08:00

Came across something disturbing. In less than 10 years, NASA predicted that there will be an asteroid collision on the face of Earth. If it is true, I would really like to know what are the steps that NASA is undertaking to avoid direct collision.

(By the way, the authenticity of the below illustration, copied from an e-mail, is in doubt as I personally have not been able to retrieve similar information from the Reuters site.)

Live to the fullest, everyday! Cheers.

On the 3rd Day of CNY, the Choi San sent to me...

2009-01-30T22:27:00.004+08:00

Call me KL people, but I have not gone to Batu Caves yet..........till last Wednesday. Had always been asked to bring the AIESEC interns or visitors to that place, but had never made it in every occasion. So until last Wednesday, a bunch of AIESECers, hailed from Singapore and Taiwan, took the "first time" out of me, and in this case - to Batu Caves.

The chronology of the day began in KLCC when I met a group of AIESECers who brought some friends from Taiwan and China to visit Malaysia from Singapore for lunch. They had about 12 hours break in KL before continuing their bus journey to Penang and eventually, Langkawi before heading back to Singapore.

Mr Alvin was supposed to be the tour guide of the group that day. So initially, he suggested to head to Bukit Bintang's Times Square's indoor theme park. After lunch, I guessed they were too full to ride on any roller costers after having some big fishy meals in Manhattan Fish Market. Subsequently, Alvin thought of a brilliant idea to help with the fishy digestion - climbing Batu Caves. So there we went!

Driving there was easy. It only took about 20 minutes and the parking...was okay for RM2, and easy to find too. After all my life, I heard people talking about the toughness of climbing the stairs of Batu Caves, finally, I got to experience the steep flight of 272 steps to get into the cave...while enjoying the scenery and photographing.

Halfway climbing the many stairs of Batu Caves... on the 3rd day of CNY!

It was actually a scene of greenery...but the camera was not prepared for the sunlight.

The cave was indeed huge and great. There was a small precession in one of the temples when we were inside. Not long after, we sensed rain and we began to leave. We went to Steven's Corner in Pandan Indah to particularly, fill up my stomach as I didn't have lunch when they were in MFM. Eventually, we headed back to Carmen's house to pailin while the others took their time to rest and clean themselves before they headed to Puduraya to catch their bus at 11pm.

While for me, it was more to come. Went back home to also clean myself before zooming to Natalie's house to Fatt Choy. And er, well... it didn't end too well for me. It was nevertheless, great time for the whole day and of course, the Ong fishing session.

Cheers.

On Mission to Cambodia

2009-01-28T02:37:00.006+08:00

I have finally discovered the ultimate mission for 2009. A post related to Serv ice is the rent we pay for the space we occupy on Earth from Melvin Chan - Learning With You.

As one of the first steps to fulfill my life objective (as I might have shared with some of you), it will begin with a Cambodian mission trip.

Destination: Cambodia
Period: At least 8 weeks

Objectives:
1. To understand and gain real insight into the daily lives of suburban Cambodians.
2. To find out, if any, problems faced by people who are affected with serious income disparity in the nation.
3. To understand about the economic situation of the country.
4. To affirm needs of assistance required by suburban Cambodians in the issue of poverty, if any.
5. To find opportunities for business expansion.

Means:
1. AIESEC
2. Founding of working committee
3. Forming of NGO
4. Individual basis

This would definitely be an interesting mission. Hope to make this a reality by October 2009.

Let me know if there is anyone interested to be part of this initiative.

Cambodia, here I come!

Cheers.

Melvin's Back!

2009-01-27T11:55:00.003+08:00

Bigger and better than before..I hope. And yes, my life rocks!

It's Chinese New Year. At least some serious time off to reflect of the things that have happened for the past year. In fact, a lot of things have happened and many people whom I have crossed path with. In fact, the last 7 months were one of the brokest (any word like that...? But you know what I mean) time of my life. Undoubtedly, the best learning I have experienced in my life.

At this time of the year, I am analysing many routes that I can take to reach my goals. Before, I could only look at one or two because I was on one of them and just clearing the bushes ahead. Now, I am taking a deep breath, hoping to climb on the highest tree around and look for alternative paths that I can take which can lead me to the destination faster. Hmm...where is it ya?

Indeed, a very enlightening moment of Chinese New Year. This is where I have more moment for myself and to re-establish the conversation with myself.

Coming up, it would be more exciting on what lies ahead.

Cheers.

Caught on Camera

2008-08-13T15:01:00.003+08:00

I really salute men who can carry the character of a lady well. To be frank, I understand how do they feel as I've been there before (don't missunderstood me, I just participated in a cross-dressing competition as forced)But when things go wrong and turn awry, the beauty can be the ugliest beast mankind have ever seen.

However, sometimes when things go wrong, they turn ugly but "attractive". The "attractiveness" can even capture the man of good-breed, Tan Sri Teh Hiong Piow. The pictures below are taken from the recent annual dinner of Public Bank. The 1st picture looked awful at the first glance. However, when the 2nd picture was viewed, it tells something. Look how Tan Sri was smiling eh? It must have reminded him of AC's (don't know who's that? just ask!) ones, huh?

Lol.

See, I told you so.

Cheers.

Timothy Tiah had his share too?

2008-07-14T04:57:00.010+08:00

Surprising (at least for me) but true, Timothy, for the first time actually nanged one of my postings about tempting secretaries. Lol.

To think what draws him to the post, I then wonder, has he encountered something like that before?

Interesting.... Just joking btw, Timmy!

Cheers.

Secretary and You? Think Again...

2008-07-13T12:55:00.003+08:00

Beware of your secretary in case she acts fishy and (tempting?). Lol.

******

CONFESSION OF A DEVASTATED BOSS

Two weeks ago was my 45th birthday, and I wasn't feeling too hot that morning anyway. I went to breakfast knowing my wife would be pleasant and say "Happy Birthday," and probably have a present for me. She didn't even say "Good Morning," let alone any "Happy Birthday."

I thought, "Well, that's wives for you, the children will remember." The children came in to breakfast and didn't say a word. When I started to leave for the office I was feeling pretty low and despondent.

As I walked into my office, my secretary, Janet, said, "Good morning, boss. Happy Birthday." And I felt a little better; someone had remembered. I worked until noon.

Then, Janet knocked on my door and said "You know, it's such a beautiful day outside and it's your birthday, let's go to lunch, just you and me." I said, "By George, that's the greatest thing I've heard all day. Let's go."

We went to lunch.

We didn't go where we normally go; we went out to the country to a little private place. We had two martinis and enjoyed lunch tremendously.

On the way back to the office, she said, "You know, it's such a beautiful day. We don't need to go back to the office, do we?"

I said, "No, I guess not."

She said, "Let's go to my apartment." After arriving at her apartment she said, "Boss, if you don't mind, I think I'll go into the bedroom and slip into something more comfortable."

"Sure," I replied excitedly.

She went into the bedroom and, in about six minutes, she came out carrying a big birthday cake, followed by my wife, children, and dozens of our friends, all singing Happy Birthday.

And there I sat... on the couch... naked.

******

Cheers.

Our Future?

2008-06-02T12:14:00.003+08:00

I received an e-mail on the prediction of the future as according to one Brazillian from a friend of mine (in fact, it was a forwarded e-mail). Heard of it a bit last week when the radio actually broadcasted a brief profile of the Brazillian.

******

Prediction of the coming Disaster

Mr. Juseleeno, born in 1960(reportedly still alive in 2008), is a Brazilian who has made many predictions, and MOST have come to pass, including Princess Diana's death by car accident (which is instigated by someone near her and will probably unfortunately be written off as a car accident), 911 and the 2004 Indonesian tsunami. He sees the future in his dreams, and has an average of 3 to 9 such predictions per day. When he wakes up, he will write them down, and send warnings to those concerned.

If it concerns only a normal individual, he will write a letter to warn him/her.If it is a famous person(celebrity, politician etc.), or matters concerning the public, he will not only send it to the individual himself/herself, but also related agencies, government, and media. He urged the media to publicise these predictions, but the reply always went along the lines of rejection for fear of arousing public panic.

Future predictions:

2008, July: There will be an earthquake in Japan, which will cause a tsunami of 30 plus metres high to occur as well.

2008, 18th September: An earthquake with magnitude of approximately 9.1 will rock China , simultaneously causing a tsunami of more than 30 metres to occur, resulting in the deaths of more than 1 million people.

Although this huge earthquake will happen after the Olympics have ended, there will be a series of relatively smaller earthquakes occurring in China before the huge earthquake. The China government, which is more concerned with the success of the Olympics, will most likely neglect to employ appropriate cautionary measures, thus the high casualty rate. If the China government does not publicise the occurrence of these minor earthquakes and evacuate people, the number of deaths will be as predicted.

2008, 17th December: terrorist attack in America

2010: The temperatures in some countries of Africa could be as high as 58 degrees Celsius, and there will be a serious shortage of water.

2010, 15th June: The New York Stock Exchange market will fail, causing an international financial crisis.

2011: The research on the treatment of some cancers will be completed, but a new life-threatening virus will appear. People who are infected will die after only approx. 4 hours of coming into contact with the virus.

2013, 1st - 25th November: Research on treatment of cancers, except for brain tumors, will be completed. An earthquake, caused by volcanic eruptions, will happen on Bahama Island of the Canary Islands. A gigantic tsunami of roughly 150 metres will result. America mainlands, Brazil etc. will be affected, with the tsunami pushing into the land as far as 15 to 20 kilometres. Before the occurrence of this gigantic tsunami, the sea/ocean water levels will sink by about 6 metres, and large flocks of birds will start to migrate.

2014: A small planet that has been gradually closing in on Earth might eventually collide with Earth, and this collision, if come to pass, will affect the survival of humans as a whole.

2015: By the mid of November, the average temperature of Earth could be as high as 59 degrees Celsius. Many people will die from the overheat, and international confusion and terror ensues.

2016, April: A huge typhoon will invade China, causing massive damage. The 43rd USA president, George Walker Bush, will enter the hospital, and faces a life or death situation.

2026, July: A super earthquake will occur in San Francisco, and it will be named "The Big One". Huge damage to surrounding areas. Many volcanoes will re-activate, and the height of resulting tsunami will be more than 150 metres.

Mr. Juseleeno made known his predictions in hopes that people will take heed of his warnings, so that these disasters may be avoided. He hopes there will be a major change in the thinking of people's mindsets in the time period 2007 - 2008. One factor will be the environmental issue of global warming, which is more serious than what some meteorologists assume.

******

I wish it's only a prank... Well, better be prepared than never. We'll never know what will happen in the near future.

Cheers.

Learning With Melvin Chan

2008-05-23T20:55:00.002+08:00

I have started another blog with the title of 'Learning With Melvin Chan' at melvinchanwh.blogspot.com.

In that blog, I am looking forward to share the things that we know about in terms of career and personal development where we approach things that may be unknown to many of us, or even known but lack of clarification. Therefore, I hope to engage experts or learners to that blog to share with the rest of the viewers on the development of career or even personal experience with entrepreneurhip.

I really hope that 'Learning With Melvin Chan' will act as a platform for many young people to really learn about many things that are not taught at school.

Cheers.

I Watched Indy!

2008-05-20T22:53:00.008+08:00

Lucky me. I was one of the many first people on Earth to get to view Indiana Jones and the Kingdom of The Crystal Skull before the official screening.

Okla. Well, I was one of the viewers during the media screening in Mid Valley today. The movie was quite fun, to be honest, equipped with actions throughout the whole 2-hour show.

Indiana Jones and the Kingdom of The Crystal Skull is a show where it's about Jones vs Cold War Russians and concluded with the aliens(?) got rid of the villains. Which means, it got to the typical and common Lucas and Spielberg subject. (Remember E.T. and Star Wars?)

Came with it was a bit of psychic affairs (the actual word should be paranormal as it involves aliens and psychics) By the way, the crystal skull was in fact, the head of an alien! But it looked seriously fake, very much like a plastic than a crystal with flashing lights. Well, I'm not going to review much about the movie here as I'll rather leave some room for anxiety towards this movie to you guys. Don't want to take the suspense out of a good movie like this.

The best thing about the screening was... there wasn't any viewers who left the cinema before the show ended and it's seriously quite a good thing. (...where generally, in most media screening, there'll be at least ONE who leaves the cinema before it ends)

Besides that, I'm quite sure that the movie was actually hinting that there would be another sequel coming our way.

I would recommend this movie to everyone who wishes to have a good time-out with family members.

Rating: 4/5

Cheers.

Fishing My Way To Made Of Honor

2008-05-18T09:03:00.008+08:00

Can't believe that I was made to fish 'virtually' in order for me to obtain invites to a dinner at JW Marriott and a movie premier of Made of Honor. However, this time, I'm persevered enough to fish for the invites just to give Christine a deserved outing for being there for me during the tough hard times. As I was busy and still is, busy with the inception project, I really want to give her a treat and a great time for the night.

I realised I'm really suck in virtual fishing.... but I really want the invites for the movie(pic below)! Here I come again fishy..fishy...

If you guys want to be part of the dinner and movie premier, click here to start fishing too!

Good luck and cheers.

Independent What?

2008-05-17T08:26:00.003+08:00

Establishment of Proposed Independent Police Complaints and Misconduct Commission?

I bet the commission will be overloaded with work(complaints) and too much of them! The idea of (optimally, 60%) police being transparent and clean? It makes me want to laugh so hard and at the same time, feeling sick with that statement. The pigs are definitely much cleaner than these retards.

One specific, obvious area, for me, in the police force that is way too f**k**g corrupted that I think there's no way of turning it back around or any opportunity to be corrected is our needless 'Polis Trafik'. The only deed I ever appreciate from the traffic policemen is having those younger ones controlling the traffic at peak and busiest times.

Talking about clean road blocks? Oh, please! Stop me from laughing even harder. It's so sickening to think that they're being trained to talk too much when doing blocks... Come on, just check whatever that's necessary and if any rules or law are violated, just issue the damn summon. Just stop fishing for the ringgits in everyone's wallet. I think these retards can be better salesmen (Oh yeah, it reminded me of one direct-selling company with quite a number of ex-policemen or policemen in the network and worst of all, they think they can 'fight' really well too by intimidating other people or companies like gangsters - I give them a big "L" on my forehead! F*** Off!)

For my recent experience being involved in the accident in early May, (I've so promised myself that I'm going to review your f****ng name in my blog!) one of the many retards, this Rais guy, a don't-know-where-you-learn-driving 'sarjan' from the Serdang/Sri Kembangan traffic police station had arguably questioned my driving technique after being rammed from the back?! I was so gonna tell him straight in the face when I was in his room that he could go back to the jungle and stay with the monyet for not having basic common sense! Of course I didn't coz if I did, I'll never make it to my next plan (friends were waiting for me to go to PD outside the room) instead I'll just sit there and make a big fuss, just like the retard (and of course, I'm not a retard! Lol).

Later in the afternoon on the same day, the workshop people gave me a ring and said that they had "settled" already. And guess what, he asked for money?! And eventually they paid him in order for him to issue a summon to the other party so that I could claim on 3rd party? Is this necessary? Isn't it obvious that there's no need for that? F*** him for creating a mess for me when I really had to rush to somewhere!

If you ask me who will be the first in my mind that I'm going to get rid of if let's say I'm given an opportunity to be in the commission, it would definitely be no other than.....

.....Tan Sri Musa Hassan! Failed his job terribly and perhaps, may even be involved in corruption? Who knows?

Cheers.

Watch Out!

2008-05-17T00:48:00.003+08:00

A new concept of talent reach for the young and corporations will be hitting the institutions near you...

Cheers.

Sucky Interviews...

2008-05-15T16:33:00.002+08:00

I'm wondering my mind is playing games with me now.

Since the inception of the "newborn", I've not been able to perform well in various job interviews I've been in lately. Okay, may be not really bad but it's been a whirlwind kind of performance. In some part of an interview, when I was about to impress the interviewers, I screwed up with the sequel answers. Frustrating...

First, it was Deloitte and then, BAT (in a way la.... For some, they know what I mean).

Is it because I realised that I'm certainly not the 'employee' type of person? Or I just don't have the speed to adress to questions effectively anymore. I wonder...

Cheers.

A Strength Survey

2008-05-07T11:02:00.003+08:00

Last Sunday, Ren Chang shared with the gang on discovering the top 5 strengths of an individual. For that, we've to answer a 240-question survey which takes about 10-20 minutes to complete, depending on the speed and how much you understand yourself.

If interested, you can register and complete the survey for FREE! Go to:
For AIESEC members and alumni,
http://www.authentichappiness.sas.upenn.edu/AIESEC/Default.aspx

For non-AIESEC members,
http://www.authentichappiness.sas.upenn.edu/Default.aspx

I've done mine and my top 5 strengths as follow:
Your Top Strength
Bravery and valorYou are a courageous person who does not shrink from threat, challenge, difficulty, or pain. You speak up for what is right even if there is opposition. You act on your convictions.

Your Second Strength
Capacity to love and be lovedYou value close relations with others, in particular those in which sharing and caring are reciprocated. The people to whom you feel most close are the same people who feel most close to you.

Your Third Strength
Creativity, ingenuity, and originalityThinking of new ways to do things is a crucial part of who you are. You are never content with doing something the conventional way if a better way is possible.

Your Fourth Strength
Curiosity and interest in the worldYou are curious about everything. You are always asking questions, and you find all subjects and topics fascinating. You like exploration and discovery.

Your Fifth Strength
Hope, optimism, and future-mindednessYou expect the best in the future, and you work to achieve it. You believe that the future is something that you can control.

Shortly after I've shared the outcome with the gang, I received an e-mail from Ren Chang.

*******

What do you think?? Do you think it reflects you?

Bravery – the description says courages – so I think still fits
And with Hope, Optimism & Future Mindedness as another strength -> so obvious that it’s so you to go into setting up your own business!

The thing which surprises me is “Capacity to love and be loved” – haven’t really seen much of that side of you yet I guess.

*******

Cheers.

LFC Home Kit 2008/2010

2008-04-26T23:15:00.001+08:00

Liverpool FC has launched its home kit for season 2008/10!

My comment is...

I still the think the previous home kit looks nicer than the new one. Lol.

Cheers.

A Tribute to A Great Organisation

2008-04-26T08:43:00.006+08:00

This posting is a tribute to the great organisation with diversity and great people. Throughout my employment term in HP, I've learned that big companies or MNCs are not that complicated and tough afterall. They don't really give headaches and nightmares (although the customers did...). I've heard concerns of office politics in a huge organisation but I don't see that in HP. People there are really helpful and fun.

Along the way, I made friends with really down-to-earth people who do not treat you only as co-workers but friends who've known for a long time. The sincerity really shows in their eyes when they spend time with you, even during office hours.

Okay...maybe I am naive. Or am I really that naive?...Lol.

Most of all, I'm gonna miss their daily breakfast and free-flow of Milo and tea during the 9 hours in the office. For a person as lazy as me, it feels so good to just press a button and the drink is made readily prepared for you.

I'm also gonna miss the managers and supervisors who're really friendly and always trying to help although they're burdened by hectic work schedules and workloads.

And the bench engineers and coordinators, wish you all the best in your future undertakings and you guys have been great mates!

Special thanks to Mr. YK Tee, he's really a great manager I've ever known who really looks after the welfare of his employee with care. The guidance and assistance shown are deeply appreciated.

I wish I could have written more but I think some things are best to be left in the memory than being bored in words.

Cheers.

Excitement

2008-04-16T14:44:00.003+08:00

For the past few weeks, life has become meaningful again along with the whirlwind of ideas and new inputs poured along the way. My brain just can't stop thinking and the feeling of innovation fills myself again, since my early days in AIESEC. Except it's totally different story now, and it's against the cruel world outside.

Never been so intensed before in my life, that I'm reading a lot to gain insights of related issues which I wished to be involved in. Overall, I'm totally opened to new things now. I've never felt like this for a very long time.

Although in dilemma, all choices of path leads to interesting and exciting journey. Just have to choose the most suitable for myself. I'm just so bloody excited!

At least, everything that's happening now makes me feel alive.

* This posting is 'hanging' a bit I know as it's only expressing my feeling right now. But a post of what's actually happening will be published later. So stay tuned.*

Cheers.

Oral Care Day

2008-04-10T16:01:00.004+08:00

It's been so long since I drop by at the dental clinic.

Today, with limited choice (after in pain and not being able to sleep due to toothache), I've to call for help from Dr Chuah, the dentist in his clinic opposite Puduraya. Although the clinic looked quite scary from the outside as it is located on the ground floor among the row of old shoplots directly opposite the bus station, going in brought me back the warm feeling of seeing a dentist. He was the only dentist I know who is really caring about his patients where in most cases, dentists tend to have aura that keeps people away, haha (at least for me!) All in all, I like the way he talks throughout the process where it makes one feels comfortable with a dentist.

And seriously, it was really warmly of the visit and this brought me back to the memory when I was last there. I had a surgery to extract my baby tooth. Although it was a surgery, it was really no sweat. Instead of becoming a dentist who is just working on your tooth and that's all, he takes the fear of cutting the gum and drilling the tooth out of you. It has been about 5 years since then. A bit regret for not going to the dentist regularly. Now, I'm in deep trouble.

It took me about an hour to patch two teeth and did root canal on another two teeth. Overall, the process of performing root canal cost me RM1000. Well, I believe, rather than removing the teeth, paying for root canal is more worth it. As money can be earned again, but extracting the tooth will mean permanent loss.

Well, at least Dr Chuah was kind enough to give me discounts where supposedly, the cost will looked like this (standard price set by the dental governing body for private clinics):

Root canal (2nd Molar) - RM800 and above

Root canal (1st Molar) - RM600 and above

Patching (2 Teeth) - RM80

Total: RM1480 and above

Yet, he just charged me RM1000 nett. And to my relief, he allowed me payment via installment.

Will have to see him again for another 2 more sessions. Root canal is not done in only one visit where assessment and follow up are required within 4 weeks. Don't mind la... Parking is not a problem, that's what important!

Cheers.

Remind of Self

2008-04-02T16:41:00.002+08:00

Newborn

2008-04-01T00:50:00.003+08:00

I'm expecting, to say the least.

It's started casually and from then, the fundamental was formed. In a couple of months, a product of then will come to the real world.

Capability to create is God gift. And it doesn't happen many times in a lifetime. I don't call it an 'accident'. Why waste time contemplating on the right timing?

If it has to happen, it has to happen.

It'll be born for sure. We're doing the best to prepare ourselves for the extremely good news.

Stay tune for updates on the preparation before the birth.

Cheers.

My Birthday Wishlist

2008-04-01T00:04:00.007+08:00

After Devil Queen was chased after for her wishlist, in turn, she's bugging me for my wishlist. Pity them for figuring out my birthday gift for so long. Christine was not much help, I know, lol.

Thank you in advance then.

Ready? Here goes...

1. A brand new HP or Compaq notebook
2. HP Business Navigator iPAQ 612 that looks like this...

(to this point, I can hear out loud that the members from the gila gang of mine begin to scream hysterically...)

Okay, relieve you guys a bit,
3. Sneakers - I really need a pair of sneakers as my 4-year-old Adidas is wearing out. Btw, I wear US size 9.5.

4. Liverpool FC original jersey
5. A pair of jeans - Waist 33 or 34
6. A suit/jacket (Preferably tan or brown)
7. Watch

That's all for now.

Hope for a finalised plan to Genting on my birthday *wink wink* next week. No news since last month when we initiated. In case anybody want to join us, kindly welcome them too. Just do not forget the exemption clause, like what Devil Queen posted: must can tahan our gila-ness!

Cheers.

Anxious

2008-03-29T09:38:00.003+08:00

I entered the Thursday class as usual, being late after rushing from the office. Sat down and turned my listening mechanism at the head on. I thought I heard the word 'exam' being uttered from the mouth of my tutor. So, I paid deep attention to what she was saying and I was shocked! Mid sem examination for the CFTP subject is on coming Tuesday! And it's already Thursday and I still have to work on the next day!

What about ICF? One on Monday and another on Tuesday?! I'll drop dead. Stressed enough, my listening mechanism failed. I couldn't pay attention in the tutorial anymore.

Then, the angel sitting next to me told me, "Actually, the CFTP mid sem has been brought forward a week earlier."

What?! Without any delay, I went out to contact my buddies from the ICF subject during the interval break and reconfirmed whether ICF will be on the following week. To my relief, it's on the Monday after next. Alright, it is still a challenge for me though for CFTP, as I only have approximately 2 days(?) to study from Lecture 1-5.

Just when I thought it's still okay, an unimagineable thing happened. The student resources portal, Blackboard, was closed down beginning yesterday, Friday! Now I'm stuck as I need the questions from the portal to study!

Now I've to work even harder! From getting the resources ready from the internet, I've to search every inch from the textbook. That would definitely give me headache. But better than none. Okay, I'm hoping for the best. Let's see how is the preparation going to work out like...

Cheers.

Alcohol, My Friend

2008-03-26T22:55:00.002+08:00

Since Jayden was so skeptical about whether I could walk the talk for achieving my fitness target, I've since invited him to join me along the fitness ring. But I doubt so he'll have time for work out. Apprarently, his reaction towards my earlier post on 'Lose Fat Pleaaseee!' was "OMG!". *Sweat*

To Jayden, better work some of your muscles and don't keep your fitness level low - there's definitely a reason for us to call you Uncle Soo. Lol!

I realised that alcohol did a great job to one's health too (if it's not over-consumed or otherwise, it'll leave a 3-month bulge at the belly). I was feeling tired easily and although I started exercising regularly, I couldn't feel myself at the peak of fitness as I felt tired oftenly. So, I had my none other than my favourite bottle in room - the Chivas Regal whiskey. Hell yeah!

It feels great. It might be misleading to some of the experts but seriously, I felt better. I no longer wake up with sleepy eyes in the morning. It feels like I'm always ready for the go. And I'm so pretty darn sure, alcohol is playing a part here.

After this, I should try with a glass of red wine. As the experts reported, a glass a day really does increase antioxidants in the body to prevent cancerous cell growth. Afterall, I need to make sure my body is in most top condition.

Cheers.

Fatigued

2008-03-24T23:57:00.008+08:00

I'm getting used to the new role in the company. I've just been moved to case management from call management. The colleagues called it an 'upgrade' while I call it 'less significant'. But no doubt, I'm enjoying it as the work is pretty simple and it only requires me to get in touch with key accounts and planning.

I realised that it's pretty draining to be working and studying at the same time. By the time I finish working half day, rush for classes, I'll be too tired to absorb information from lectures and tutorials. In particular, the CFTP subject as it takes place on Tuesdays and Thursdays every week in the afternoon. Both at the same time which is after lunch. Shortage of nutrient in the body may be a factor too.

Can imagine rush to classes straight from work? Where got time for lunch man...?

Well, getting used to it though. I'm very sure I'll be applying for leave days during the study week. If not then, it's never.

In conclusion, I have no choice but to work hard and smart. The effort I put in have got to be more than everyone else because of the pressure from juggling with both studies and work. That's the price I knew 2 years ago that I have to pay. At least I'll learn to enjoy the final days of being a student. It happens in the flash of light. One moment you're studying for the exam, next you'll be sitting in an interview room applying for a job. No notice for the last day of student life.

Again, least I know the days are coming to an end. Did you?

"The way to do is to be. - Lao Tzu"

Lose Fat Pleaaseee!

2008-03-24T21:52:00.002+08:00

It's that time again where I'm living an active lifestyle...yet again.

I'm trying to be optimistic here that if I carry on like this, my body will start to react to dismiss the fat from underneath the skin.

Badminton for about 3 days and workout at the gym for about 2 days and sometimes, futsal for once in a week, it's hard not to last any day in a week without sweating the hell out of the body.

So, what's left to make the dream come true?

None other than the diet regime! To eat right, it takes the strongest courage to deny fatty food. Afterall, they are the most tempting food or should I say, healthy food doesn't seem so friendly to my appetite, at least.

Okay, truth be told, I've joined the gym for 2 years and more until now, I'm not even anywhere near those with the results of 5 months training! Inconsistency may be the root of all evil in my workout attempts. Self-discipline, my friend, where are you? Come to me so that I can achieve what I've always wanted to achieve.

Belief, for me, is like a bird. It's here during the beautiful morning but disappeared when sky turns dark and grey. And then it comes back... and it flies off again. And again, and again, and again... I'm so sick of it that I want to puke!

I need the leanest body now after spending fantastic amount for the gyms since the past 2 and a half years... I hope I'm on the right track.

Cheers.

New Taikos and Taikaches for Malaysia

2008-03-19T00:05:00.004+08:00

Prime Minister
Datuk Seri Abdullah Ahmad Badawi

Deputy Prime Minister
Datuk Seri Najib Tun Razak

Ministers in the Prime Minister's Department
Tan Sri Bernard Dompok
Datuk Seri Nazri Aziz
Datuk Dr Ahmad Zahid Hamidi
Datuk Mohd Zaid Ibrahim
Datuk Amirsham Abdul Aziz

Deputy Ministers in the Prime Minister's Department
Datuk Johari Baharom
Datuk Dr Mashitah Ibrahim
K. Devamany
Datuk Hasan Malek

Finance
Minister - Datuk Seri Abdullah Ahmad Badawi
Second Finance Minister - Tan Sri Nor Mohamed Yakcop
Deputies - Datuk Ahmad Husni Hanadzlah, Datuk Kong Cho Ha

Defence
Minister - Datuk Seri Najib Tun Razak
Deputy - Datuk Wira Abu Seman Yusop

Internal Security and Home Affairs
Minister - Datuk Seri Syed Hamid Albar
Deputies - Datuk Chor Chee Heung, Senator Datuk Wan Ahmad Farid Wan Salleh

Housing and Local Government
Minister - Datuk Ong Ka Chuan
Deputies - Datuk Robert Lau, Datuk Hamzah Zainuddin

Works Ministry
Minister - Datuk Mohd Zin Mohamad
Deputy - Datuk Yong Khoon Seng

Energy, Water and Communications
Minister - Datuk Shaziman Abu Mansor
Deputy - Datuk Joseph Salang Gandum

Agriculture and Agro-based Industry
Minister - Datuk Mustapa Mohamed
Deputy - Datin Paduka Rohani Abdul Karim

International Trade and Industry
Minister - Tan Sri Muhyiddin Yassin
Deputies - Datuk Liew Vui Keong, Datuk Jacob Dungau Sagan

Foreign Affairs
Minister - Datuk Seri Dr Rais Yatim
Deputy - Datuk Seri Tengku Azlan Sultan Abu Bakar

Education
Minister - Datuk Seri Hishammuddin Hussein
Deputies - Datuk Wee Ka Siong, Datuk Razali Ismail

Higher Education
Minister - Datuk Khaled Nordin
Deputies - Dr Hou Kok Chung, Datuk Idris Harun

Transport
Minister - Datuk Ong Tee Keat
Deputy - Datuk Anifah Aman

Human Resources
Minister - Datuk Dr S. Subramaniam
Deputy - Datuk Noraini Ahmad

Women, Family and Community Development
Minister - Datuk Dr Ng Yen Yen
Deputy - Noriah Kasnon

National Unity, Culture, Arts and Heritage
Minister - Datuk Shafie Apdal
Deputy - Datuk Teng Boon Soon

Science, Technology and Innovation
Minister - Datuk Dr Maximus Ongkili
Deputy - Fadilah Yusof

Entrepreneurial and Cooperative Development
Minister - Datuk Noh Omar
Deputy - Datuk Saiffuddin Abdullah

Natural Resources and Environment
Minister - Datuk Douglas Unggah Embas
Deputy - Datuk Abdul Ghapur Salleh

Rural and Regional Development
Minister - Tan Sri Muhammad Muhd Taib
Deputy - Tan Sri Joseph Kurup, Joseph Entulu Belaun

Domestic Trade and Consumer Affairs
Minister - Datuk Shahrir Samad
Deputy - Jelaing Mersat

Plantation Industries and Commodities
Minister - Datuk Peter Chin Fah Kui
Deputy - Senator A. Kohilan

Youth and Sports
Minister - Datuk Ismail Sabri Yaacob
Deputy - Wee Jeck Seng

Health
Minister - Datuk Liow Tiong Lai
Deputy - Datuk Dr Abdul Latiff Ahmad

Information
Minister - Datuk Ahmad Shabery Cheek
Deputy - Datuk Tan Lian Hoe

Tourism
Minister - Datuk Seri Azalina Othman
Deputy - Datuk Seri Sulaiman Abdul Rahman Taib

Federal Territories
Minister - Datuk Seri Zulhasnan Rafique
Deputy - Datuk M. Saravanan

Courtesy from "The Star" (18 March 2008)

A Shameful Statement

2008-03-16T10:02:00.006+08:00

While I was reading the news today, I came upon the article, "Lim: Let NEP issue rest" in The Star. Towards the end of the article was a statement which showed how immature Penang UMNO in conceding defeats. Below are the excerpt from the article.

---------------------------------------------------------------------------
"The state Umno also challenged Lim to come up with a blueprint to help the Malay community and the lower income groups in Penang.

He also said Penang Umno would continue to urge the Federal Government to scrap all mega projects in the state.

When told that Penangites needed the second Penang Bridge, which is one of the mega projects, Azhar retorted: “Penangites do not support Barisan Nasional, so let DAP do it.” "
---------------------------------------------------------------------------
Are you sulking, Azhar? By the way, this Azhar fella stated above is the Penang State Umno liaison committee secretary Datuk Azhar Ibrahim who cannot accepts defeat just like a bunch of school kids who've lost in a kiddy football match. UMNO Penang, does this fella who sulks for being defeated represent your party in giving press statements? If yes, UMNO Penang can go back home and sleep. You're not capable in leading the voices of people, you immature bunch!

Hey Azhar buddy, look at Tan Sri Koh Tsu Koon who took the downfall of his previous government respectfully. Did he ever sulk and pledged for the government to scrap any projects which have been taking place since the previous government's helm? The ego of state Umno is higher than the junk mountain and deeper than the monsoon drain. Shame on you, Penang Umno. Get lost till you know how to be a gentlemen then you shall claim to represent the rakyat.

I'm proud to be a Malaysian.

The RAKYAT Have Spoken

2008-03-09T00:31:00.004+08:00

At this moment, I just can't stop being amused by the outcome of the 12th General Election of my beloved country, Malaysia. Look at the seats lost by BN in W.P Kuala Lumpur... *speechless*.

What does this signify?

The RAKYAT have spoken and obviously, we've pursued new hopes through our right to vote. Bravo to the opposition and crossed out hearts, we're thirsty of changes and hope that right and positive changes can be brought out from the administration of the new coalition.

We'll never stop dreaming for a better future of the country and BN should be tasting their own medicine now. We had enough...

Comedy Court

2008-03-06T00:06:00.003+08:00

I recommend comedies from Comedy Court. It's hillarious! I've been spending couple of time watching their videos in YouTube and still can't stop laughing till now.

Attached is the sample of one of their videos for everybody's laugh (One of my favourite...):

Cheers.

War Day

2008-03-05T23:52:00.002+08:00

This posting might come a bit late but better than never.

It's all about the team building event that took place in Sunway Extreme Park last 23rd February. It's an event organised for HP and HSBC team building purposes. Fun and exciting, it consisted of several tasks which each team had to complete to finish the game or even win the game. Something similar to the Amazing Race except you've to be shot here.

Our team, one of the two teams with female members out of 7 teams, won the 4th place which was awarded a RM50 Jusco voucher, yes. The other team with a female member won the 2nd runner up prize - this had proven that female members in a team really have things to offer, you gotta agree with that! I do.

Below are some of the pictures which were taken then:

Go-karting

Golf balls searching in the pool. (Notice Rhaimy with his tired face...)

One of the marshals in the briefing

Alex, the well-shot guy. (He had blue-blacks all over his body. Real brave guy!)

Btw, I got a headshot at the back of my head and it hurts so bad!

It was really fun indeed. At least, I had my first taste of paintball war game. I didn't know it was that tired and the legs just won't listen during the game. Not forgeting, I drifted on the track under high speed circumstances where the car spinned! ...and it was really cool! Lol.

Cheers.

Positive Tone?

2008-02-27T08:53:00.003+08:00

Life is wonderful. Only if it's view positively, that's of course.

Just like my previous posting, I kept on emphasizing that I had been fortunate to start my year with winning streaks. (Okay, I admit I'm really, really fortunate to win the RM3.5k travel voucher which has been redeemed for a trip for 2 in Bali. :P) Things can be viewed in either ways:
POSITIVE - Extra pocket money from winnings, even though it's only RM10. I'm happy for not losing.
NEGATIVE - Should've played with bigger amount. Can win more and then cover my 1 month expenses! Deng...

Why did I say that?

My car broke down again yesterday. Yes, AGAIN. Unfortunate? If I look at it as mentioned above, NOT really.

What happened?

I don't really know as the car is now at the workshop. After class yesterday, thought of going back straight to have late lunch in KL. Who knows, the moment I walked into the car, put my keys for ignition, the car wouldn't start! And so the car was towed from Subang Jaya to Ampang Jaya. Ther3fore, I attempted to look at things in another angle.
POSITIVE - I'll be going to Damai Laut in Lumut for holiday this weekend. It'll be unimagineable if my car goes dead there. I can foresee the cost of repairing then. Fortunately, it happened before that. Besides, this repair can save me from more breakdowns in the future (hopefully).
NEGATIVE - After a series of car break down and problems, it just can't stop giving me problems. More and more can give me headaches. Already burdened by education fees and monthly expenses, these incidental costs can make me go insane!

Now, the choice to live happily and think positively OR keep releasing stress hormones in the brain to drive self nuts?

Obviously, I want to live longer.

What's yours?

Unbelievably Me

2008-02-25T23:50:00.005+08:00

Many people have been asking for the updates for the war that happened last weekend. Unfortunately, I've been tied up with one specific activity recently. That one activity that got me so hooked up to the computer instead of the books and magazines which I should've been reading.

Gaming is so addictive.

To be frank, I only play computer games once in a blue moon, serious. But I purchased FIFA 2008 and PM'08 which got me so addicted to them. They're both football games so that explains why I'm so hoooked up.

Till I really find a good time when I'm already sick with the game, you guys will see my war picture. (Just kidding!) I'll upload them when I'm in the office. The connection is better in the office. So sit back, relax and wait.

Cheers.

It'll Be War Soon

2008-02-23T01:00:00.004+08:00

Yes, and it's sooner than everyone thinks.

Here I am, sipping a glass of whiskey while getting ready for war in 6 hours time. I'm also getting prepared for injury and of course, plenty of thrilling actions then.

It will be my first time stepping into the warzone. Will I ever pull it through?

But then, what pants am I gonna wear? Hmmm...No military pants. How ar?

I wonder.

Turning Point

2008-02-21T08:41:00.002+08:00

Today's the last day of CNY. It's already the 15th day and man, each day jumped as fast as the Jumper (yes, I watched the movie last night, btw). Overall, it has been a positive indication of the year ahead. How do I know? All my attempts to 'fatt choy' this year have been successful ones. Total gains from this CNY, only from 'fatt choy' attempts have exceeded RM100 (What to expect? RM1, RM2 or RM5 per game...) Good one.

Been searching for prospect job offers nowadays, to further prepare myself for life after graduation. Will be going to UM's Career Path later in the afternoon to scout for potential employers. Organised by AIESEC in UM, Career Path is a 3-day employment fair participated by well-known companies such as Petronas, Deloitte, Maxis and etc.

Besides opting to only search for employment offers, being me, I have been looking out for business opportunities where I can venture into probably, after graduation. It may be too quick, but why not? I've plenty of time and I've almost nothing to lose. What's the harm of trying?

All I can think of, for now, is future. It's where my life turning point is for this year. But I'm sure of a good one ahead. At least I know it'll be a year where I'll travel a lot. Already 2 trips awaiting now, one local and one international, hehe. Really have to thank HP for giving me the opportunity to fly abroad.

More to come, I guess.

Cheers.

Kick-Off Affairs

2008-02-17T10:48:00.011+08:00

To be frank, HP Kick-Off 2008 @ One World Hotel, themed 'A Night of Jazz', was the earliest dinner event I've ever attended. The registration started at 5.30pm! Attended by about 1.5k employees in the organisation, the hall was so huge, I couldn't even dare to enter and search by my own and I waited for my colleagues to arrive so they could lead me to the 'right' places.

The food was good indeed (the menu was all about Portobello mushrooms, akaka) as what some of my friends had told me about before who had prior event at the venue. Kick-Off was further graced by 2 great hosts/emcees namely a jokingly cute guy with a great voice, Melvin (co-incidently who has the same name as mine, but different surname) and Serena C, well-known celebrity (program host and Mix FM DJ).

Two hosts of the event - Melvin and Serena C

The appetizer

....And first performance by Joanne Yeoh who plays great songs through her awesome blue violin.

Joanne Yeoh, introducing herself and her title before each song

The gorgeously Joanne Yeoh, impressing the crowd with one of her favourite plays

The soup - Mushroom

After the performance by Joanne, it was game time for the crowd. We had to choose one of the lucky guys from the table to be totally made over. Ralph was the chosen one of our table. What happened was shown in the pictures below:

Theng Theng began the make-over process

Ralph, after the make-over...

Unfortunately, when Melvin began selecting the top 10 best looking 'transformed' men of the evening, our Ralph was not one of them. Tough luck! The chosen ones are shown below:

The chosen 10 best looking 'made-over' men of the evening

The Main Course...

The dessert... ice cream, yum yum.

Shing Yee, Fund Fund and I

A snapshot with Melvin and Serena C

Best dressed male and female of the night.

Next, it was Adibah Noor, the famous Malaysian comedian and singer. She was too good to be described and she just melted our hearts away with her voice serenading a couple of popular jazz titles.

Adibah Noor with her captivating performance

Fund Fund in one of the games of the evening. She was actually attempting to draw an alphabet with her...erm, back, lol.

Then, it was another performance from our great Malaysian singer, the Malaysian Idol and Asian Idol, Jacquline Victor!

Jacq in one of her singing acts.

Manage to catch Jacq for a snapshot while she's performing (when she walked towards my strategic table, lol)

Justine, participating in the final game of the evening where she did pole-dancing on Melvin.

Caught her in another position. Basically, she was like running around Melvin like a merry-go-round, haha.

Me, posing with my lucky number, 1136.

Basically, I was waiting anxiously for my lucky number to be drawn by the computer which was shown on the screen at both sides of the main stage since they started drawing in the 1st round. There was 3 rounds of lucky draw and a total of 160 prizes to be given away which include Nintendo Wiis, I-Pods, PSPs, Sony Ericsson mobiles, iPaQs, surround system, 42-inch LCD TVs and the grand price, 47-inch (LCD/Plasma?) TV.

Just when I thought it was almost the end for me when many numbes had been drawn in the final round of the lucky draw, out of nowhere, my number popped up in the screen for one of the prizes which is worth about RM3K. Unbelievable...

Shen, who made the night happen for everyone and I

Fund Fund and I posed for a picture before leaving

Ralph and I

Justine and I

Last shot before heading off, TJ and I

Overall, the event was no doubt, a success. It was the first annual company event I've ever joined and most of all, I have to thank Shen for involving me in the event and HP for the wonderful lucky draw prize. Bravo!

Cheers.

Farewell to Lucky Couple

2008-02-15T19:24:00.008+08:00

Since Lucky Girl and Lucky Guy will be leaving for Australia this coming weekend, the TBS gang had organised an outing, some sort like farewell dinner last Tuesday in Sunway Pyramid. We had Ichiban Ramen (among all restaurants... :), and man, I didn't know food there was so expensive. I mean...quite expensive.

Below are some of the pics taken after the dinner with the CNY decoration at the old wing.

The gang family photo.

What was this? Lucky guy was proposing with the giant flower but Lucky Girl wasn't that impressed... I wonder why? Akaka.

5 girls... and a guy, me? Tak tau mana sesat mari.

The girls who were present for the night.

Wei Wei (looks up to the sky): OMG! I'm gonna miss the Lucky couple.

Yasmin: Scuse me... U covered my pretty face le.

SH: I'm tired of layaning these ppl. Luckily I'm heading off soon.

The rest: Got a cute guy over there la! Looked like Mel! (Jk, hehe)

Cheers.

What's Your Number?

2008-02-15T18:51:00.001+08:00

Amazing.

Should try this out. Click on the numbers below.

Cheers.

Happy Valentine's Day

2008-02-14T20:45:00.010+08:00

First of all, it's 14th February today and of course, as everybody knows, it's Valentine's Day.

All these while Valentine's Day was celebrated as special days when love is expressed extravagantly as compared to normal days. And this year, I made a special initiative to know about this day better (Although I thought I knew something about this day since I was younger...Hmm.)

So, how did a tale of a Saint being executed during the Roman Empire...

Became a special day for lovers?

(Pictures courtesy from Wikipedia)

Therefore, I googled for the history and below was what I've found:

"One legend contends that Valentine was a priest who served during the third century in Rome. When Emperor Claudius II decided that single men made better soldiers than those with wives and families, he outlawed marriage for young men -- his crop of potential soldiers. Valentine, realizing the injustice of the decree, defied Claudius and continued to perform marriages for young lovers in secret. When Valentine's actions were discovered, Claudius ordered that he be put to death. (History.com)"

I see, but how does it relate to the romance of Valentine's Day? And I looked further.

"Valentine actually sent the first 'valentine' greeting himself. While in prison, it is believed that Valentine fell in love with a young girl -- who may have been his jailor's daughter -- who visited him during his confinement. Before his death, it is alleged that he wrote her a letter, which he signed 'From your Valentine,' an expression that is still in use today. Although the truth behind the Valentine legends is murky, the stories certainly emphasize his appeal as a sympathetic, heroic, and, most importantly, romantic figure. It's no surprise that by the Middle Ages, Valentine was one of the most popular saints in England and France. (History.com)"

Well, at least above excerption seem to make a point why Valentine was celebrated. There was more.

Excerpt above was picked from History.com.

Well, above seem more realistic. However, in the end, the idea of Valentine's Day for couples to be romantic towards each other has undoubtedly offers opportunities for problematic couples to make peace with each other, singles to grow more envy towards the attached (but only for the day la...), and provide the gift and floral business operators to make more income on this one day.

All in all, everybody's happy and glad that this day has happened when love and peace can really be felt in the whole world.

China

India

Among the rocks...?

Wah! Well trained from young!!

Happy Valentine's Day, everyone and cheers.

Type...type

2008-02-13T17:44:00.007+08:00

Fantastic!

As Christine called me to wait for her as she'll be late, I've again tried to break my typing record with all the time I could spend and below was what I've got.

78 words

Touch Typing

Well done to myself...

Cheers.

More Than Bread and Butter

2008-02-12T17:17:00.001+08:00

We don't need a research to tell us how important the economy is to the people than the politics. Dong...

Referring to the article 'Bread and butter matters' in The Star today, it was mentioned that economic situation is the prime concern of voters now. That's without a doubt, of course. Let's talk from my point of view. For myself, I've almost given hope to what the local government can do to make better changes as what I can see, the initiatives going on now resemble gimmicks of the pre-electoral drama to show that the BN is there for the people. And also propaganda to overshadow the oppositions (I'm not saying that the oppositions will do a better job...). Afterall, it's a strategy to win hearts of the people. However, in most cases, it stops there, after the election.

I don't have to look far. For instance, my housing area. Pot holes are everywhere on the road. It has been ages since I-don't-know-when. What happened to the local government? Where're the BN promises to serve the best to the people and all taxpayers? Just recently that they fixed the road, but guess what, it is only where the 'bumiputras' are staying. Can you believe it... it was so obvious that the road stretch were fixed only in front of the Umno office and after that, holes are damaging the wheels of many who stayed down the road where most are non-Bumis. I didn't know the government is this fair... How do they expect us to put any trust on them?

What I'm trying to say here is that I don't give a damn about the politics in the country. Let these 'people' do what they want regardless whether they meet their promises or not. They've already upset me by making my life difficult to register to vote. Now that I see unfulfilled promises and dramas by 'these people', all I care is whether the world offers any hope. Therefore, I only look at the other side of what happening in the world and hope for the best. If the economy is good, I believe everyone is happy regardless who is on top. But if the economy is haywired, we know 'who' to be blamed. I wish they don't screw up, hopefully. To be honest, I love my country, I love being Malaysian. And I don't wish for my beloved country to be messed up by those b*st*rds who're so damn good in acting and pocketing millions of ringgit and hope that they can escape from it unnoticed. 'Pocketing' activities are a great nuissance to the economy and many of the activities can definitely halt the flow of economy. 'Bocor' and 'overpriced' nonsenses in govt projects.... you know who you are.

Just when you about to forget, remember our beloved DZ and his palace in Klang? Being in UMNO and councillor is like being on a feasting table, huh? At least that's what he thought till he got busted.

And also if the govt close 1 eye in the illegal immigrants issue, they've without a doubt, created avenue for more crimes in Malaysia. That, a 7-year-old could tell you why...

Gotta sign off as Christine is waiting for me to pick her up from work. Meeting SH and the gang for dinner in Sunway later.

Btw I've hit a new typing speed record again...

71 words

Touch Typing online

Live From Office (Ep. IV)

2008-02-12T10:15:00.000+08:00

5th day of Lunar New Year had passed me by.

Woke up early in the morning to send Christine to work and then back home to sleep again. Been staying at home and all I was facing were screens. Both TV and notebook screens. It's in fact, the best rest I ever had since the 1st day of CNY. Hehe.

Enough rest by late afternoon, went to pick Christine up from her office and headed to 1 Utama for a movie. And at last, I've watched Jay's Kung Fu Dunk, the cantonese version. And guess what, something happened which was unbelievable to happen to GSC. It was my 1st time experiencing a delay which was more than 20 minutes before the advertisement started. Yes, advertisement and not the movie itself. Movie was scheduled at 7.30pm but the view on the screen was only lit up at about 7.50pm. However, it was worth a wait as the movie was good (humorous despite the exaggerated actions). Recommendation: A SHOULD WATCH MOVIE FOR A GOOD LAUGH AND KIND-OF-EXAGGERATED BASKETBALL ACTIONS.

Nothing much after movie. Headed straight home and slept as work commences the next day.

Today, now, at this moment, on the 6th day of the Lunar New Year, I'm back in the office. Working and on half day, fortunately. Call volume is pretty okay, manageable.

Guess what, I'm typing faster in the office. Yes! It's all about the keyboard. Dum..dum..

68 words

Touch Typing

Cheers.

I've Joined The Force?

2008-02-11T12:34:00.000+08:00

I think so...

It's somewhere in the galaxy far far away in the World Wide Web that I've encountered the AMBP, the Force. How was I to know, it's a database of human bloggers registered to the STAR online.

What do I get from being part of the force?

Seriously, I don't really know. Probably some free movie screening invites, coffee or scoial outings which I think will be fun. We'll see.

Registration was easy as I'm a Star Online member. And now I hope I'll get more when I've registered my blog.

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Blog Submission

Thank you for your entry. Your blog will be reviewed and added to the directory as soon as humanly possible.

While waiting, Padawan, why don't you add one of our buttons to your blog, y'know to confirm that you are now part of the er, Force. ;-)

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

And I'm officially an AMBP member.

Cheers.

CNY Day IV

2008-02-11T11:32:00.000+08:00

It was 4th day of Lunar New Year.

Woke up early in the morning to go to Serdang for dim sum breakfast with HY before heading to the airport to pick Christine up who came back from Sabah for the new year. We were done with breakfast by 10am and that Christine was reaching about 11am, I'd decided to go to HY's place to surf the net to spend some time while waiting and guess what, I was typing all the time to break my previous record of 65 words per minute. And HY without sweat, could easily reach 70 words per minute... which I thought, was so unlikely as she has a face that acts blur. Now I know.

WHEN I was leaving HY's house at about 10.45am, I received a call from Christine and she told me she was already at the airport! Rushed out from Serdang through Equine Park and followed the way through Putrajaya to Sepang. I thought I was lost when I saw nothing assembles any highways on the road I was traveling. But how was I to know, I was on the right way to the airport and I didn't pass any single toll booth at all!

For once I knew I'm gonna put no money into Samy Vellu's pocket when traveling to the airport.
Followed the same road back to KL (Lol), and headed to Bkt Bintang to meet my family for Karaoke session in Green Box.

GREEN BOX, SG WANG, 10 February 2008 - Video loading was really, really, really slow but the speed they took to close our session was really, really, really fast which really, really, really pissed me off. Sesssion was supposed to be from 12pm until 3pm but they stopped playing the music videos ------ sharp ------- 2.55pm. I was really put off and back in the room, I really thought of summoning the manager to talk to me but since it's a CNY, I better leave my breath to call out for a black jack later when I'm back to the playing table.

Watching movie was next in the program list of the day and guess which movie that I was supposed to go for....

But ended up watching....

After the movie, I was wondering --- does the movie come with a climax btw?

Finally, the day was wrapped up with pailin trip to JonVu's place and then to dinner, er... supper, for the rest.

Not bad a day.

Cheers.

Ex-SABians CNY Day Out

2008-02-10T03:12:00.001+08:00

The 3rd day of the Lunar New Year has past at the speed of light, which generally agreed by many that fun times past sooner than you think.

Fun day indeed. The day started with a wake up call from PM to go to Jono's place to pailin. It was about 10.15am when I heard the phone rang. Last minute call, I guess - I was always the forgotten one. Anyway, it was all about the ex-SABians gathering for the day.

And guess what, ehem... playing cards*...ehem, in every house that was visited. It started with (for me... and not the rest...) Jono's, Jacinth's, PM's, Matt's (which I never made it as I've promised my family to be there at my uncle's place) and LY's (where I caught up with the gang after showing up my face to the dearest family members).

Jono's place with the ex-SABians...

Another shot of the ex-SABians in Jacinth's place...

Had Siamese food for dinner near LY's place before heading to Tmn Connaught to have a couple of pool games and a game of Foosball(?), which I'm really suck in it. Ended the outing of the day with yamcha session in Oldtown Cheras with apparently, another group of friends.

Fun fun fun indeed.

Cheers.

Bora Ombak @ Ampang

2008-02-09T01:55:00.000+08:00

It's 2nd day of the Lunar New Year, but almost rotting at home until 10pm when I received a call from JonVu to meet at Bora Ombak in Ampang (Beside Sports Planet Ampang). Met with Big Sis from UK (Ulu Klang), the gang and some chicas from Ampang too. Bora Ombak is a fusion of Balinese cafe concept and it's a nice place to chill out with a bunch of buddies and chicas. A romantic place for couples too.

We were there until 1am when the males decided to call it off when suggested followed chill-out destination - bars are not opened and that it's also too go to any. I only have one shot for the night on the location which shows the unwanted faces of the hunks who were present just now.

And now, the time is 2.30am, I'm stuck at the computer, typing, and yes - typing not only to blog but to track the speed of my typing before hitting the sack. And guess what, as per the publishing time for the blog, 65 words per minute. Not a very good record, I guess. Fuh...

65 words

Touch Typing

Happy Chinese New Year - Live From Office (Ep. III)

2008-02-06T10:06:00.000+08:00

CNY is fast approaching. Will be having reunion dinner tonight in my grandma's place near my house. Probably most of us have already gone back to hometown to catch up with family members. Half day at the office today and already at 9.30am, received a call from Oscar to go out for drink after work with PM. Wanted to go to gym initially after work, but tak jadi la...

Woke up late today as I slept late last night as a result of "21ing" until 1.00am in Station 1, Tmn Pertama. Fortunately, the traffic was so smooth this morning that I could cruise at 100km/h at peak hour of a working day! Reached the office, turned on the computer and logging on to the internet to watch CNY videos in the office as call volume is low today.

One of them is the interesting one below:

Lastly, for those who're going back to hometown, have a safe journey home and all in all, have a prosperous CNY and Gong Xi Fa Chai!

I had my Fa Chai share last night, what about you? Lol.

Cheers.

I Want My Right

2008-02-02T10:42:00.000+08:00

I'm a Malaysian and I deserved my right to vote. I've initiated, and yet I was told off, indirectly?

As I went to the post office in 1 Utama yesterday, I was told that they've run out of SPR forms for registration of voters. Instead of telling me where I can get the forms, the Malay lady at the counter told me that most of the post offices have run out of form and afterall, it took 3 months to be registered into the database.

Which means what? I don't get to vote even the Government has not announced the offcial election date yet?

3 months for processing registration of voters? Where's the efficiency of the system. Already the Election Commission made life difficult for not going 'online', again, out of forms are seriously a funny and weird thing to happen? I would've thought they have the statistics in their mind and running out of forms agenda only happens in a poor or primary school activity planning. Shame on the Maths or they just don't care, or there's an agenda behind it. I'm thinking whether I should wear a Barisan Nasional t-shirt or bandana and announce in any BN offices that I haven't registered for voting. Would they get my name on the list in 2 weeks time?

"Efficient and transparent"?

Thanks a lot FOR the trouble, Mr Abd Rashid.