On the journey to visit the lion!

Grrr..... That's how enthusiastic it may sound! Time to explore the world a lil' bit more. Until then, do keep tab with the updates at coming entries..

Let's start giving...

(This boy was kinda cute. He came from a big and destitute family. When his mother dropped by the office, he would run into my room first. I'd wash his hands slowly and give him a candy before he goes playing. Everytime I wash his hands, I realize my hands are bigger and they are getting older...ahaha. It also hit me that his hands are so small and vulnerable. I could see in his eyes that he felt so secure under this pair of bigger and older hands. It's not how big your hands can carry the heart, but how big it could touch the heart.)



When everyone was so pessimistic about their future in view of the current global situation, there is a group of people who come up to launch an event called Project Hope. I am particularly impressed when I heard about this project with the theme of THIS CHRISTMAS, DO HOPE from someone who came from a different religious background but shares the same interest, that is HOPE. It's always interesting to read Marina M's blog. This at least shows some spirit of one Malaysia, or rather many people with one spirit.

Of late, the political situation has gone downstream with people disagreeing with each other and spelling out words which literally hurt others. Deep down we are still the same, made of flesh and blood. At times I wonder, am I so different from you. At times I wonder if this is really my home. At times I asked myself why, why and why. And the reason remains unknown.

When people are busy submerging themselves in the rat race, sometimes I would take a back sit and look around. I like to observe and slowly digesting the facts of life. There is so much about life that we have yet to explore or realize. Take this for example.

The Consumers Association of Penang (CAP) says Malaysians throw away more than 10 tonnes of leftover food every day — yet others are struggling to feed the hungry during Christmas. While you are enjoying your food tonight, may you feel blessed as there are hundreds more out there who are still hungry. And I am glad that there are certain kind-hearted quarters who took the effort to feed these needy without a fee. read here. What I am more impressed is that they don't choose which skin colour to help, and that is what you really call one human spirit.

Instead of ranting about life, and complaining that there's no hope which will change your life better, why not consider of creating a hope for others. My assistant who is leaving next month told me that she was feeling embarrassed for receiving gifts and departure advice from me but has nothing done in return. But that didn't really matter at all. I told her what matters is that she would continue to work with her heart and keep the giving spirit going on. It doesn't have to be material. Just a simple hand or ears can bring such a difference to people.

So when people don't believe in miracles, try creating one for others. The cycle will go on and on and one day you will find miracle lying on your path. It's really a sad thing that grown ups believing less about miracles, unlike during childhood when santa would really bring presents to them. That's why children are a happy lot.

There are so many programs out there which support the idea of giving, including Oprah's Big Give program which was really an eye-opener. But if you choose to close your eyes and not to know or even bother of the outside world, you are actually deterring a big part of humanity in you. It's always not too late to cultivate this value.

So, at this holiday seasons, let's open our arms and embrace a better tomorrow. People ask if I really celebrate it. Well, I celebrate almost any festivals, it's not the religion part but rather to celebrate the spirit of togetherness. I have so far received 3 presents for this month, a tie from Amy, a gift from Aunt Ally which she bought during her China trip last month, Aunt Polly for her durians freshly packed and sent to the office. Ok, this has nothing to do with Xmas, just some nice gestures. And yes, none of them expect anything from me in return. Shall get them something when I return from a trip soon.

Until then, keep on giving! Hohoho....

Hello, gd morning people..

It's been quite sometime since the previous entry. After the what-is-new busy at work and some clearings to do before the coming holiday seasons, finally things are a lil bit settled. So much of moving and dusting to do. It's like a blessing to wake up in the morning and there are so ample of time to crawl on the bed and then make the way to the pc table and started browsing the net to kick start the day. A toast with a cuppa milo will serve better.


Of late, I have to admit that I am less inspired to write not mentioning to jot down whatever in the mind. There are just so many uncertainties. Let's talk abit on the work since it's kinda wrapping up for the year already. There are so many ups and downs. The ups that are some definite improvements in the office but the down is still the non-chalant behaviour of the people. Having to explained and keep on enforcing better service provision, people still stick to the 8 to 5 attitude. At times I am just simply tired because most of the people don't seem to share the same vision. That comes with a lil disappointment. As simple as answering calls within 3 ringing tone and spelling gd morning are so far reachable.


There are umpteen of times when I made calls to most departments and even the private sectors, people just don't seem to understand the phone ethics.

Example 01:

(phone tone ringing about 30s; that's a long waiting time if you started counting now)

XXX operator : Yes?

Me : Err..Gd morning?...

XXX op. : Yes? (!@#$%)

Me : XXX dept?

XXX op. : Yes...

Me : Could you put me onto 133 ext, please?

put on ext 133 without a word !@#$%


Example 2:

XXX op. : Yes?

Me : Gd Morning?...

XXX op. : Yes?

Me : Ehem, gd Morning?? (being a lil nasty)

XXX op. : Oh, gd morning. (at least he realized!)

Me : XXX Dept?

XXX op. : Yes, this is XXX dept.

Me : Could you put me onto ext 133, pls?

XXX op. : One moment pls...

(at least this is better)


The fact that I made alot of calls everyday, most of the calls not needing me to make but I'd better do it myself because you might see through 2 sun rises and yet you will not get what you wanted if you leave it to the others to do. And most of the time, people do bully each other over the calls and in the end, I had to make the calls myself. My voice has been so loud and frequent that it echoes in the mind of these people who used to answer my call, ahahaha. Now that they know how to greet but why wait only when they listen to my voice. They should be practising that everyday because they are the operators and their bread and butter is managing calls. It's like a breadseller, what happens if he sells rotten bread? It defeats the purpose, kan?


So, if I expect something from other departments, I have to do the same with my own. And yet, it seems so far reachable, ahahaha... I have no idea. Oh yea, I guess I do. People's attitude. And no, I don't have that much time to monitor all these because I have my own loads of clients to attend. Then what are the rest doing? But again, once told is lazy, twice told is careless, thrice told is st*p*d! So, you won't expect the 4th from me. Merci boucoup. Once I get a complaint from the outside people, then expect some lashings session ya.


I like reading news in the morning. But that always ended up with a heartache. It seems like a child play every corner of the country. Politicians lashing at each other. Then saying one thing at one point, and later saying another thing at other point. Gee..it's so confusing and misleading la. You cannot trust what you read on the newspaper even though they stressed that it's confirmed! The BTN la, the restriction on some religious wordings, the usage of English in Sc&Maths la, to name a few still have not come to a conclusion despite being dragged for soooo long. yawnn....


I think it's a lil too much to consume in such a quiet morning. I better get myself ready something to eat. Ciao!

Amazing boy and girl

Very impressive. Definitely have to share this with everyone. Enjoy this beautiful children act!

Shorter time with lesser work, or longer time with more work?

A couple of heartaches here and there. It really amazes me how different some people may think of doing something. Try this:

a) using a traditional 'bucket to fish' which probably catches 15 fishes nonchalantly in 8 hours.

b) using a fishing net which probably catches 15 fishes in an hour.

Choose one. Let me tell you what I think. I'd choose (b) cause it's 8 times faster than (a) and still achieving the same thing in the end of the day. That's simply more 'efficient'. Just a simpler system but could save so much time and perhaps more time can be invested in other beneficial areas.

Don't be surprised if some chose (a) cause there are people who do!

A day with Mr.Sunshine

After days of rain, the sky decided to show a tinge of sunshine. People came out to the street, seen jogging in the field, and playing water in the pool.

The morning was a busy one. Work was fun, meeting some interesting people and went to an unexpected party. All in all, the travelling that makes the body tired. Monic, a gentle lady seems to be at a lost when she was told by her physician that she had a rare medical condition. Being poor and destitute, she had no where to turn to. She had no choice but to wait for the circumstances to claim her fate. Again, life is so unpredictable. Being as innocent, she was a tough lady, a lady who listens gently and plays by the rules. But why on earth that a person who cares bout her health from the beginning has to be stricken by ill fate while the others who careless bout their health walks freely on the street? Let us believe in miracles and that she will be alright.

The evening was so lovely even though the head was throbbing pain. Went to the pool to cool down abit. There were so many kids in the pool. Seemed like summer had come back once again. Before the pool was closed, people were seen rushing to clean up. Though it was sunny, the wind was blowing so cold, sending goosebumps over the skin. Brr... quickly I grabbed the towel and left the pool.

The night is calm. Not really feeling well. Dunno whether it's because of the swim, the weather or the dinner. Nausea and headache. The magazine says that I need more probiotics. Got a deal from a Si Tau Chai (Son of a Boss). Gonna get some supplies from him. Expecting for a big discount k, hehe..

Until then, it's another night to rest.

Raining marathon

I was squeezing the brain trying to put my thoughts into words. It wasn't an easy task and eventually I realized there was actually none. Nothing in mind to write about except the rain has not stopped since morning. That's like a record breaking marathon! Ahahaha...

The moment I got home, I found myself lying on the couch like a log. Never wanted to move, not even a step. The weather is making me so slow and tired. At work I was literally operating like a snail and finished right on the dot. It was like a soulless moment. Don't ask why, but I was simply tired. Even after having 8hrs undisturbed sleep last night, the body doesn't seem to charge. I was planning to go to the stadium and run a mile but the weather didn't seem to agree with my plan.

Cozily, I am sitting on the couch, listening to the rain outside and still as hard as before. The cool shower literally woke me up, and now I feel so refreshed. You have no idea how fun it was taking cool shower on a rainy day. Don't believe? Cuba la... ahahaha..gonna dance like a frog.

I was browsing my old entries and noticed the first year of blogging was really a busy year-end and slowly things were slowing down. This year is not an exception. So, I am supposed to go for a holiday. But year-end proves to be more expensive. Let's see what's in store later.

Until then, take care..

Monday rain

The Monday rain is obviously a long one. It's wet and soggy everywhere depicting the london-like city during winter. Not only the hands are slowing down but the heart as well. Glancing out the window, the rain is not showing any sign of halting. This again reminds me of the year-end season in 2008. So chill and relaxing. The feeling to be home near family and friends is so surreal.

Recently I have watched a couple of movies. 2012 and the xmas carol, back to back. Afterall it's the holiday season where all the block busters are up on the silverscreen. The thriller that I've watched on youtube was indeed very emotional. There are parts in 2012 where they are quite emotional and interesting but the unrealistic cheating deaths (a big few times) of the main actor (cusack) is speechless. Nevermind, it's just a movie. Nevertheless, it's worth thinking what you would do today if there wasn't enough time to do tomorrow. Nonsense, but who can tell for sure.

Xmas carol has a nice graphics setting. The story was a lil scary initially but it serves to be interesting. Nice story and you will hear the kids laughing for no reason, and I was like AHAHAHA... also for no reason, just to irritate the crowd. In the end of the movie, kids were seen sleeping already, probably the movie was a lil heavy for these brats.

Yesterday the sun was really scorching hot. Being just sunbathing for 5 mins, I could feel like a hot iron bar slapped on the face. Intermittently, I had to get down to the water and dip myself to relieve the heat. The effect was tremendous. Again, the wet season is setting near. So, take every opportunity of the sun before settling on the rainy season.

A cuppa milo and some biscuits serve as the dinner in a cool evening. Relax....

New look!

Decided it's time for a new template! The long hiatus was not what expected. Just got back from a long journey. Burnt here and there. Time for a rest and perhaps, will write more when the time permits. Until then, nite nite....

The power of one's will

The pc decided to crash yesterday. All of the documents saved in the pc are now gone, gone forever with the wind. I wonder if that has to do with the provocative remarks that I made yesterday morning on why adults shouldn't be so selfish. I received an email early in the morning, an article about one who changed his life or rather the way he looks at life after a short trip from a third world country. He was especially startled after seeing a mother who chopped off her son's hand so that the son was able to beg for money/food. He was describing the helplessness in the mother's eyes and pain in the child. So the author expressed how lucky he was, not being in that situation and he decided to buy a truck of bread to supply these destitutes just for that day. He sounded like taking pride on that as others were starting to sing praises on him for helping them. So, he was contented. Or was he contented for the fact that his life is much better than these people even though at times life was sucks for him.

Hmm...it's really tough for me to read this. I have a total different view. Especially on the mother part, I am absolutely feeling so much different from what the author felt. He might feel sympathy, but for me it's utterly pathetic. A mother chopped off his son's hands was not desperate. It's selfish. The helplessness in the mother's eyes? Or because she didn't want to dirty her previous hands by chopping off her child's hands? Maybe if she was really helpless, she might wanna chop off her hands first. Where on earth a real mother would sacrifice her children for her own sake? Er...in fact this is a beastly act. And don't be surprised coz there are many many more adults who are as selfish. By getting sympathy from others, the act was acknowledged as being accepted. Thanks to the urband legends again.

Buying a truck of bread is not the solution. Fine. Take pride on that. But that simply shows how innocent this urban author thinks. It's like an 'urban legend' phenomenon. When you see something so EXTRAORDINAIRE, that's the time you wanna change life, this and that coz finally you see some reflection in yourself. Would that last for long? Yea, probably 5 days or a year, and things will be forgotten. There is a cycle where this phenomenon will continue on and on and on. The solution is to break the cycle. Everyone plays a part. Education is important. Again and again, family planning is very important. Why get so many kids to suffer when you know that life is not easy. Some even argues, well, it's a gift from the above, who are we to decide. True enough, but if you don't have sex, you won't get pregnant until proven otherwise! Tell me the logic. So, stop getting lusty if you think you are not ready to have kids. People born with lust (another gift from the above), but they are also born with brain. So, use the brain to cut all these crap.

A was from a poor background family. She married at the age of merely 15 years old. She did not get pregnant until 6 months of marriage. I asked her, why did you decide to get married at such a tender age since you are not pregnant. What's the hurry? Your parents consented? Her answer was simple. Her parents didn't care at all. Didn't care if she was married or she was studying. She was the 6th child out of 8. Perhaps she wanted to find solace in another family in this case her in-laws, that's why she wanted to marry early. Her eyes told me that she wasn't happy with her parents because she was ignored as a child.

I sat her down and look into her eyes. Now that you are pregnant, and I hope you would learn from the past. She nodded but I have no idea if she understood.

So, the budget was announced!

Well, nothing much bout the budget. A big drawback from having credit cards, though I am not having many but certainly gonna cut down one. Been years trying to avoid the service charge for the credit card, and now it seems like not gonna happen at all. So, voila.

A big gain for broadband subscription, at least tax can be relieved but that one also involved those subscriptions in 2010, meaning, only get the benefit by 2011. Er...wat else. Small perks, better than nothing. Of course, I was hoping for more, but what to do.

What else besides those mini minute things. Guess that's all. Last week I came across this foreign thai pathologist invited for a special case here. She looks so kewl. Ok, maybe too funky for others, but who cares. Like she said, the livings always criticize. But I was always a big fan of forensic pathologists especially those who were brave and stood by their findings and opinions. You don't get so much of a glamour. But that's life!

Budget Day!

Let's see what does the Budget have in store for us!

*clenching teeth*

I choose to share..

I choose to share. What bout you?

The touching moment..

The view is so scenic outside even though the after rain effect causes the place so damp,wet and soggy. It's so relaxing. While getting ready for work today, I was browsing through some of the most amazing videos that sometimes tickle our minds and touch our hearts, so that we are reminded that it's a blessing we are here sitting cozily on our couch while browsing the net. Enjoy the weekend.

Caught in the rain

The rain is still pouring hard outside. I wonder if it would stop any sooner. The rain is indeed a relief after the warm afternoon but I was caught in the rain before I could even leave the building. After the shower, things are so soothing. Resting and enjoying the whole evening.

A genuine comment

I was pretty exhausted from the work, meetings and physical activities lately. The morning was like usual but I've learnt to close one eye on things that I could never change. Thus far, the feeling was undeniably better!

So, I was a lil bit limping walking into the office, probably because of some strained muscles. I sat on the chair and started to sort things out. Later, a client came in with her lil girl. Mind you, she(the lil girl) was so talkative and energetic. Unlike other kids, she need not to be entertained coz she would help herself, ahaha. Then, the mum moved from her seat. Quickly, this bubbly girl climbed up the chair next to mine. I was so tired and non-chalantly answering to her bubbly questions occasionally. But I skipped some because I was paying attention to the report that I was writing.

The next moment, I started to take a loongggg...yawn. Before even I finished yawning, she was looking at me from the side and said, "ohhh......someone is so tired. He needs to sleep abit". I was startled almost choked at the same time amused. That was funny yet lovely. A kid telling me that I was tired. Hmm...I have underestimated her. She's probably right. Sometimes, we are so tied up with our jobs until we have disregarded our body, and look, at times kids know better than the adults!

Thus I chose to skip the swimming part today simply because I need a break and there was a small ulcer under the skin. Looking forward to the coming weekend. Yawnn.....

Durian durian....

It's durians day. Lunch durians, dinner durians. Everywhere you find durians. People keep serving you durians. That's a nice gesture though. I was eating them but hardly have the time to taste them properly.

There was a meeting today after rushing back from a travelling job in the morning. I was really tired while chairing this meeting. In between, I had other stuff to attend to. See, how busy I could be. Nevermind, speaking of work frustration, it's gonna take a long long time. It went well despite some cat fights in between. I was being neutral all the time coz I don't see much of a necessary to argue on any issues. Issues were raised and should be solved amicably. At least that was what I thought. It's like determining whether the egg comes first or the hen, you know what I mean? So, I had to be the grown up here but I am risking being seen as insensitive.

I am just too tired to care about what people think of me. Really tired. I plan to stay more in the office, concentrating on the routine work that I am supposed be doing. Too much straying away for outside work-related job is squeezing every drop of me. I can't change the world in a year, so I need to take a seat backward.

Ok, nite is late oredy. Need to sleep now. Wonder what's gonna happen tomorrow. Nite nite.

Need a masseur, anyone?

So yearning for a total body massage now.... Imagine soaked in the aromatic coconut essence oil while getting a good massage. Gee, you'd never know if you never tried. I always put on some coconut based sun lotion after a swim, and that makes the skin feeling so relaxed. Besides, I could still remember the previous time I had a body massage and I literally dozed off during the process. That's how relaxed massaging can be.

Well, just got back from a whole day-long talk. Nope, I was giving the talk besides my fellow colleagues. It was a different crowd and mind you, a huge one too. But I am satisfied with my part. It was fun, but I had to decline tomorrow's session as I am kinda occupied with my work in the office. On top of that, the result of travelling to the talk today gives me a strong motion sickness that I am still trying to recuperate now. Took some pills. That's why I said, massaging is soooo nice if I ever had one now la.

In my daughter's eyes

When her small lil fingers reached out and grabbed my index finger, I sensed a strong connection between us. Then she looked at me with a big smile. My heart went melted. She definitely knew her way on me. She was such a lil angel who came off and on to remind me that work was not all about stress but about passion. Even though she had a hole in the heart, she was generous enough to heal my heart that very moment. She was the reason why I wanted to climb higher so that I could go on protect others like her when everyone was telling me that the world won't change no matter how hard I try.

Many times parents keep telling their children how lucky they were to have parents comparing those of the orphans. Children were reminded to be grateful and be filial to their parents, no matter how bad their parents had treated them, no matter if they were abandoned at young age, they are still the parents. Children should always listen and live up to their parents' expectation because parents know all, and there's no happiness other than parents' happiness.

But how many of us who had become parents asked ourselves, if we were really lucky to have our children to be with us today. There are thousands if not millions in this world who had been trying to have kids but to no avail. Who had fought so hard to sustain the child in the womb but ended up another dead child for the third time. How many of us go to bed every night and thank God for these precious gifts of all?

To the selfless mums and dads in the world, allow me to present this song to you:

IN MY DAUGHTER'S EYES

In my daughter's eyes I am a hero
I am strong and wise and I know no fear
But the truth is plain to see
She was sent to rescue me
I see who I wanna be
In my daughter's eyes

In my daughter's eyes everyone is equal
Darkness turns to light and the
world is at peace
This miracle God gave to me gives me
strength when I am weak
I find reason to believe
In my daughter's eyes

And when she wraps her hand
around my finger
Oh it puts a smile in my heart
Everything becomes a little clearer
I realize what life is all about

It's hangin' on when your heart
has had enough
It's giving more when you feel like giving up
I've seen the light
It's in my daughter's eyes

In my daughter's eyes I can see the future
A reflection of who I am and what will be
Though she'll grow and someday leave
Maybe raise a family
When I'm gone I hope you see how happy
she made me
For I'll be there
In my daughter's eyes

Weather report

Weather report: Clouds covering most part of the places throughout the day with the occasional strong, yes extremely strong wind in the very early morning as well as in the evening.

A friend sent an sms telling me that his roof top was blown away. That I was not surprised as the staff's house was affected last week as well. It's been cooling and the aircond in the office increased its intensity. I am not sure if I preferred this weather than warmer, but I surely wouldn't like it if it's gonna affect me going to the pool. It's been a tense period at work. Need more time for recreation.

That's all from the weatherman today...

When the night has come..

The weather is kinda funny today. It was warm for the past few days until this evening when the rain poured the hardest as if 3 days of accumulated volume of liquid in the sky had finally broke its bag. And there you go.... everywhere is wet now and it's still pouring. Nevertheless, it's a cosy nite to fall asleep. Gotta wake up as early as 4 something in the morning for a long journey tomorrow. Until then, sleep tight...

Sleeping child

It's time to break the silence, yet again. Perhaps it's afterall not a quiet day. In the very morning, it's been a chaotic day. Probably the staff started to think if their boss was having a mood swing. But incompetency had actually driven me up to the wall. Don't ask why but it's so aggitating, even the smallest matter matters! Hello....why is the toilet sooo stinky? Aren't people smelling here?..

Before moving out for lunch to break the agitated mood, this boy caught my attention. His mother was carrying him outside the waiting hall under such a heated weather. It was afterall mid day. He was obviously exhausted and not well. He had been accompanying his mother the whole night in the hospital as there was no one at home to take care of him. He was 6. His other elder siblings were at home taken care by the eldest sister who had to skip school just to help out at home while the mother was away. Father was working elsewhere.

Then, gently I offered them to come into my office. The aircond certainly was very soothing at that hour of time. I offered my couch so that the boy could rest a lil bit while I made a conversation with the mother. At times I would catch a glimpse of the child and a minute later he was dozing off already. He slept so comfortably like it's been years he had not been sleeping. Not even a cry being away from the mother. The time had come where I had to go for an appointment, so I offered them to be put at another office with air cond as I needed to lock my own office but I didn't know how. Then the boy opened his eyes, and grabbing the pillow, pushing his head towards it. He laid like an innocent kitten. He looked at me. My heart broke. He certainly enjoyed so much sleeping on my couch rather than sleeping in his wooden warm house. How cruel if I would to interrupt his once luxurious sleep?

My lil heart was whispering to him. I know it's not your fault. I know it's not your wish to come into this impoverished world of yours. I know you don't have a choice. I know there are many people who are taking things for granted even this lil couch of mine, probably they would have thought twice before laying the bottoms on top. I know how you feel. But I also know you won't be asking why, because you are so innocent. If only I could give you the priviledge of other kids having, if only I could let you sleep here for the night, if only I could enlighten your parents that you are special, and all they need is a special kid and not a dozen(kids) who labour at their(parents) own expense.

But I can't coz I am just an ordinary human being who has all the shortcomings like you. I can't change a thing coz the world is like an ecology, as nature helms to take its course. I could only watch from the corner and pray, pray so that innocent people like you would one day understand the meaning of life, and never repeat the mistakes of your parents once did.

I'm not sick, Just a bit unwell

When things don't get right, many of a time we just stop there and stop pursuing what's left. While contemplating on the future, I often asked, what if it didn't turn out as planned? Do I really wanna go all out? I have no answer for that. For many instances, like last evening, I was preparing to go to the pool for a swim as the weather for the past few days was unbelievably warm. I was even all out on Thursday to check if the pool was gonna open, and it surely did.

But when the time came, the rain started to show. It was unbelievable. I waited and waited finally it stopped. Then my lil heart was whispering, shall I head to the pool? But the sane side of me was saying that nobody would care to open the pool after a rain, not especially run by these lazy morons. But I was adamant. I didn't want my plan to be screwed by the weather. I went, and ended up didn't get to swim. Speaking of life, it's so unpredictable. But should I let one event or maybe more in my case, to hinder me from going forward?

I came across an article about one courageous young woman in the country. She is Yvonne Foong. I don't particularly speak on one courageous human but this is really something raising the eyebrows. Being diagnosed with neurofribromatosis Type II and having 7 surgeries to remove tumours in the body didn't stop her from fighting for her dreams. Unlike others who lament on their handicaps and expect sympathy from others, I have respect for what she is doing, to raise her own funds for her next surgery! She is having hearing impairment and risking for visual impairment, thus needing more funds for her surgery.

She writes and sells her books in order to raise funds. Go and read on her full story here and decide if you wanna lend a hand. I have yet to read any of her books as I have just come across her story today but I'd like to know more about her. You can also go to her website: www.yvonnefoong.com

Now, who can say that they are perfect?

Back and running again..

Back from the long holiday break! Yes, very much exhausted. Gonna start working again. Until then, have a nice zzzzz....

Sailing

Come and sail with me...

The rain...

.... has once again revisited us today after a long break. It was really a welcoming weather. As much as we welcome the weather, there was so much to be done before myself taking a break to go back and see everyone. So yes, guys, I am coming back. What happened to be a holiday has become' almost' a holiday since I was asked to do some favours back home later. My choice of a holiday is being laid back by the beach or savouring a cuppa chocolate by the calm surroundings, may it be in a cafe or near the road side. OR simply backpacking around the town, stopping by the Mc D for their cheap sundae, ahaha... Oh yea, the trip of the year was in the philippines and yes, the pic above was taken there.

Whatever it is, I just want everyone to put on a smile on their faces. I am too tired to imagine how it's gonna affect me later. Today we had the choir competition again in conjunction with the English day in the office. The powerpuff girls team seemed to be more prepared and I was literally touched by their song, I am sailing....I am sailing... ( i think from rod stewart if I was not mistaken). It was the right choice and they really performed well. So, kudos...

There is still so much to do in the office. Yes, this is perhaps another channel for me to lament abit on work besides grumbling at the staff. I need a break and I know the coming one is not really a break per se. I wanna go back packing once again, maybe to a cooler climate place. Or going back to school again. Until then, keep dreaming...

People won't learn from mistakes

Boy risks life to save drowning girls. So the online news said. Irony but it's true. This article was celebrating the 12-year-old hero who went to save two drowning kids aged 5 and 4. The photo even shows the smiling faces of the kids and an adult. Wait. Before you get too absorbed at this hippy yippy thing, take a moment, and ask yourself: why in the first place the kids were drown in the river? Aged 5 and 4. Aren't any adults supposed to supervise these kids. They got it well this time, cause they met this guy. Well, we have a reason to celebrate now but what if...what if that guy who tried to save the kids was drown in that event as well? Would that change the whole headlines all together?

People never learn. Not till this story was reported in the news. How could we encourage this things to happen when it's an obvious human error/carelessness? It's portraying as if we got "2 miracle kids and a hero boy" and all that's the reason to celebrate. People who read this piece of article would definitely misguided. There's actually a lesson to learn behind this. No, not being brave. But we as an adult should play our part to keep the safety of our children away from dangers. Time and time again I went for talks, I stressed it out to people, the kids are not a burden or an item, they are our responsibilities. They don't choose to be born to this world. You brought them here. So stop smiling after looking at the kids were saved and then forget bout the whole event until the next "real" drown occur somewhere else.

People just don't learn their mistakes. I felt embarrassed when telling this to the mothers and fathers, but again it's a desperate plea. I don't know how much this will change the society's attitude but I am trying. I don't know if I was doing the right thing but it seems like people are just not interested and dunno. Trust me, I see more than many people. Life can be salvaged if you gave it a chance. I am not trying to impose any thoughts or believe in others because I myself is confused coz I just realized that something I believed all the while was actually a tale imposed by the aunty selling fish in the market. She's making up crap stories! And people started believing it and imposing them to others. What a messed up life huh? Why are we human not able to differentiate what's right and what's not? Yea, you are rite. We are just normal ordinary human. But is that an excuse good enough to prevent us to live a better life? To create a safer and better living environment for the kids and the people?

Like the theory of the sandals that I created before, the sandals can't function if the stripes were torn. It needs more people participation to make things right. This afternoon I specially arranged a talk for the fellow colleagues so we could learn something from the expert as to manage the work better. Letters were sent out. Expert was so prepared but the time came, none of the colleagues from other institution turned up. Isn't that a total let down? When things turned ugly, people would just accuse of each other but indeed, they were given the chance to standardized the system but people were just not interested.

Okla. You might start thinking, chill... take a deep breath, things will be ok. I know that. A cuppa milo since morning lasting till after office hours gets you crappy at times. And yes, I was a lil crappy, ahahahaha... the assistant who were actually fasting got so stressed out. Poor lady. Oh yea, we are having a poster competition this week. Public will start voting. Will try to post some pics later.

Weekend

It's weekend again. Another day to chil outl a bit. Sometimes being alone can be real relaxing, not having to follow anyone's pace. Yesterday while doing a jog in town, I felt so much peace. There were so many questions playing in my mind. I have this habit of thinking alot whenever I was alone doing nothing, for instance when I had a driver driving me to some far locations, jogging, lying on the beach or near the river, etc. There won't be an answer but it simply came to the conclusion to all the questions whether I like what I was doing at that moment. I guess most of the time I would put up a smile in the end of the thinking session and that's really a grateful remark.

This morning, I don't know what drew me to it, but I started reading on politics which is going on in the country. I am not a big fan of politics here. But everytime I read the local news on the internet, it breaks the heart (er... yea, it's that fragile, ahaha). What seems to be harmony 20 years ago was no more existed today. I remembered living in a multiracial neighbourhood and people were nice to each other. We played with each other and went to houses celebrating occasions together. It's just a simple neighbourhood with simple people practising simple cutures. Now, people are going even more backwards than 50 years ago. You have once again a place where there are majorities and minorities. I thought the DEB supposed to scale out all the differences and to arrange a better mixture of races in all places? Nevermind, but now there are some of these majorities not allowing the minorities to even have their own temple built in with the excuse that they are the majorities. What a shallow and selfish thought. There is just too much YOU and ME, but where's WE and US? Ok, full stop.

When I was in the kitchen this afternoon, I realized the front sandal stripe just gave way. So, basically, the sides are still intact. I tried using it as hard as I could. But it still didn't work. It's so difficult to move around! That again hit me. The leader is really important in any organization. Even how well and intact/loyal the side stripes are (the servants), without the front stripe (the leader), the sandals are useless. So, if you want to correct the roots, start from the top. If you have a lousy leaders, buy another pair of sandals, ahaha... is that easy?

Well, we had the choir session last Friday at the office in the effort to improve the English proficiency among the staff. I know I know it sounds dictatorial, but it's for everyone's welfare. I don't get paid extra to do all these extra non-working related stuff. But I am glad that everyone participated and so obedient. The purpose of this event is actually to build up the confidence and teamwork among all the staff. I always think that they could do better and I am also glad that it had fostered a better relationship among the staff. Or was it a delusion, ahahaha...

Ok, I will be off for a holiday soon. Gonna go back hometown for a while, but that doesn't mean an easy one. Usually that would be even busier than during my working time here. Thought of organizing a reunion with some old friends. See how la. Adios!

Recap on the community trip

Well guys...

Do allow me to share the experience which was gained during the community camp last weekend. Not much of a pictorial entry but let's sit back and chill while we go along with the trip. Come and follow me.... (ceh wa...., suspennyer)

We departed in the afternoon on the Saturday to meet up with the whole cruise at B area. Soon, we were divided into eleven 4WD cars to fetch us to our destinations. These 4WD drivers were voluntary workers who contributed their vehicles for this mission.


The GPS in our 4WD

Going through river and forest

The uncle who was fetching me was really so into his GPS as he explained so much almost the whole journey regarding how useful the system was until one point where the satellite literally unable to locate our location, ahhahaha... see how deep we went to. Anyways he was nice but drove very fiercely. That lil girl who was sitting at the back seat probably fell asleep during the whole journey coz it was really a long and taxing one.

The background forest

Ok, that boy certainly wasn't interested, hehe

The surroundings

Soon we arrived and were ushered at a huge compound where refreshments were ready but coffee was still not my cuppa drink. Gotta pass that. We arrived at the river side and found ourselves very isolated from other places. It was so quiet and tranquil. The water although muddy in colour, it was so calm. We walked down the stairs to take a clearer view and breathed in the fresh air you could never find in the city. The sunlight shining on the river reflecting upon us as if the river was full with diamonds and crystals.

River reflecting upon us. Pretty....

The house that we stayed in

We were assigned bedrooms and it was always nice of them to provide us a better place to lie on in that circumstances. The first night was rather smooth flowing. We prepared all the stuff for the following day. The moment I lied on the bed, I dozed off. Strange enough, I had the most vivid dreams that night, not really a nice one. Perhaps I was too tired but the rain was so soothing. You will find out why I say so.

Yup, that's the toilet cum bathroom. Cleaner than expected.

Th 4WD team picnicking obviously..

The next day was D-day. After a full breakfast, we started setting up booths. It was busy busy and busy. There were more than 300 people who came for the service. Then there were short of hands at the dispensary booth, so I went to the rescue, ahahaha... I was literally drenched in sweats as I didn't have time to even take more pictures during the event. People came from far places, young and old. Some needed to travel by the river while others walked for a distance. They were given foods and mainly medical needs. People were so fun and nice. Children were laughing and playing. We took turns for lunch and boy, the lunch was like so tasty, yummie...

The action goes on

Obviously, it seemed like a joke to someone that I was doing the dispensing. Otherwise, someone would really bruise her fingers and sore her throat. So be thankful instead k, ahaha...

Action still going strong

The weather was really hot the whole afternoon. Even during dinner time, I was like still sweating. We took a stroll around the village. The fruit trees were so tall. We had our taste on the local rambutans. Then we saw a villager proudly exhibited his captured wild piglet or boar. It was so quiet that the sound of the insects was only heard at night. Then slowly some lights coming out from the trees. These were the fireflies, so clear and bright almost mimicked an xmas tree.

View from top

Free haircut

We assembled once again in the hall. The certificate ceremony was held there. Then people were sharing their experiences of the day. Later the generator went off. The whole village became dark once again. I was told that they were using solar power most of the time. So I went back to the room. It was really an exhausting day. That night while lying on the bed, the moon became my only witness. The light just shone on my face and I could see the whole moon just lying there as if the sky and roof were so bare. As if I was lying in an open field. That feeling was so unreal. That night was really warm. We were turning left and right not really sleeping much.

Pretty morning dew

The next moment I realized, the cocks were coo coo-ing... It was just 5am. But we had another mission that morning. So I woke up early in order to use the not fully secured bathroom. The water was so cold. It came so natural to me that it was alright as this was so much we could get from this remote village. Again we had breakfast before departing down the stairs to catch the speed boats. Wang, Tey, Wing and me were at the same boat. Cruising along the river was really something. The view of nature and passing by the friendly waving people was so surreal. It was an experience not to be missed.

Boat trip in the nature

Eager people

We arrived at our second destination and set up booths again to provide the service for people of another village. It didn't take too long before most of the meds were supplied. Then we lunched abit while relaxing at the hall. Afternoon came and we gotta go back. Wing and me were following Uncle B's car. During the service, I couldn't get to know all of them coz we were so busy all the time and there were so many of us volunteering at different areas. So I gotta know more of Uncle B and his brothers when they gave us a lift home. Uncle B was saying to me, "I saw you in the paper. You were quite involved in the community service, ain't you?" I was stunned and at the same time excited coz who would read that local newspaper, let alone noticing my pics. "I do read the newspaper," he responded after looking at my puzzled look.

Trying to be funny.. didn't work well eh?

People coming

Uncle B and his two other brothers were so nice to us. We chatted quite alot and I could see his interest in community service as well. They treated us late lunch before sending us back to my car. Very nice people with the same mission. When I arrived home I went for a quick shower and then jumped into the bed and slept right away. It was the bestest feeling of all to be able to get home and lie on your own bed, hmm.... That night, Ray and I went for late supper while sharing my experience coz I overslept, hehe.

Yay, we did it again!

Overall, it was another nice experience. I like the boat ride. I like meeting new people, some are colleagues like Joseph, Wang, Tey and Wing. We didn't take lotsa pictures coz we were busy most of the time. I like living simple at times, taking time off from the outside world and keeping in touch with the selfless side of ours. Afterall, this world is not only all about me. It's about everyone and the nature!

Back to the big world again..

Woit! Just got back from the community camp. Another great experience learning about nature and people. Another bunch of new friends and lotsa traveling. We went through the forest and river while enjoying the view and beauty of the inner world. Arrived this evening and collapsed right on the bed. The journey itself was very taxing not mentioning the work but it's all worth under the name of charity!

Will post more with pics soon. Until then, enjoy a calm and chilling night.

Let's do our part

The night is once again blessed with shower. Nice and cold. Time for some reflections. "You are ahead of others!" A statement I received from the senior staff this evening. "I just came back from the course and you are already doing what they told us to do." Well, I guess it's so much easier for them as the system is already existing, just need to push the 'start' button. It's really a big compliment and relief for me, though it might not sound to others. But who cares, self satisfaction that drives you to work better.

Sometimes I go right to the root to make sure things are done coz most of the time, when the message was delivered from the top, it would probably not reach the root or perhaps that worked for a few days before things got back to normalcy. So, here we could see that going to the root does not really solve all the problems but you need to keep on driving the senior staff to do the monitoring on these people. That's how the system works I guess. Time wasting and of course manpower as well. Could you imagine how much I could do on other areas if I didn't really need to check and check if these people were doing their work. I can only conclude that a great leader is all it needed for an organization to run well. I am not saying myself but if people are really doing their job, then voila, things will run so smoothly.

That comes to my first highlight of the day. The star online today sees that the zoo in bad condition. Despite so many years of public complaints on the poor status of the national zoo, there ain't any improvement done. Not even publicity. Ask anyone of the citizen if they knew where is the national zoo. I am really afraid to hear the results. It's been years that the zoo authority kept giving the same excuses that they would improve once they got the fund from the gov. But until when would the fund be enough for your big plan to turn the zoo into a super ZOO? Are we really dreaming of one? It's so typical, people keep thinking of running before they even learn to walk. Things can be done in moderation. The image of the zoo is the first thing to get more attention from the public so that upkeeping of zoo would be one of the issues for the people. You don't make a super ZOO and not even anyone knows about this zoo? It's afterall a national entity. People should be proud of.

I was a volunteer in the zoo once upon a time back in school. I was neither impressed nor excited with the volunteering system at the zoo. That's actually a way to get free manpower when there are so many people out there who wished to contribute. But no! They sit quiet and wait till you come and approach. What's the authority up there in the zoo doing? No where? It's really a disappointment because they are dealing with animals. Not simply animals for exhibit but lives. And they play a role to enhance the awareness of caring on these wildlife and so on. Are we achieving anything? Or are we creating a lil aquarium and a cage just to satisfy our belief that what other countries have, we have. Full stop. It doesn't matter if it's of quality, at least we have something called ZOO. Duhh...so typical.

It's really an embarrassment when the writer says: Its current strategy of adding animal exhibits without first attempting to reduce animal deaths simply defies science and common sense. Which means, some people don't really know what they are doing. That highlights yet another topic of the day, so much food, so much waste. In my previous posts I've highlighted this problem of hunger. It seems like a never ending issue, and yes, we choose not to end this because we are human. It's another month where bazaar and food are abundant. Appetite increased in savouring whatever we want. But again, we are wasting. If you read the paper, you would know that there's a part in Sarawak where people are getting hungry because foods are scarce... yes, it exists in this country, so pls be real. Transportation of foods and water takes up to 11 hours journey with a cost (and that's not cheap). The residents are sending out letters to the outside world so that they could send more food and water. Up till now, I only heard the NGO is planning to do something. What about the state itself? Or some people higher?

Please ignore my innocence. I really feel puzzled why on earth do these people still stay at these places where food are so not easily available and other amenities as well. I went to several community camps with the worse which took about 5hours from the nearest town where roads are not easily accessible. I've even asked these people, why? They couldn't give me an exact answer but because they were living there their whole lives. I just think that if we don't plan to bring them out from these remote areas, why don't we bring some development to them so that things are more easily available. Even then, can we do that, or is it worth doing in view of the small population there. So, it's really up to the concerned authority and if only they were interested to pursue this matter. But people crying for hunger especially involving kids? This shouldn't be happening in this country where people are wasting so much on their food. Just not right, at least not to me.

Wow, I've been writing so much today. Well, excuse my passion on these 2 topics. Afterall everyday is a learning day.

Who's the boss...

So, it was a busy day. Traveling and rushing from one place to another. Meeting in the afternoon and lotsa talking done. Later aerobics session at the office and now, darn tired resting on the couch. Probably will be in bed very soon.

It was rather complicated to highlight my position in the organization. I didn't realize that there were so many divisions I have to talk to before bringing up a project. I thought it was like a snap of the fingers and everything would be done. NO! So I asked A to do this, and A says it's B's division. What bout that? C division. Of course they didn't say right in front of me, but kinda sending clue. Gee.. I should have called all the heads for a meeting so I dun need to make so many calls just to get things done. But again, I learnt something. So, now I have to write a letter to all the heads, to inform them about the changes that I am about to make and pls take notice and do the necessary.

On top of that, I am trying to make a lil test to see if positive reinforcement could yield any results. I am gonna organize a simple contest to bring awareness of all the staff from all divisions and stations. Of course I won't reveal now but it should be done soon. I noticed that people like to delay their decision and later it becomes stale and non-existent anymore. That's why I was so pushy at times coz I knew it's either now or never be done. The latter is so true. I want results and so, they gotta bear with this.

Ergghh...just plain tired. Had tummy colic today but it was really amazing that talking out loud in a meeting could actually improve the symptom, ahaha.. Initially wasn't feeling well but the meeting had to go on coz I was the one who called for it. That's why things are so unpredictable on my part. Whenever I feel better, I'd just continue the plans even though I dun feel like it. But if I don't do, who will? Waiting for others? Yea rite, you better wait for the cows to come home.

Newspaper today says that Penang has cancelled its national day parade to curb H1N1 and heard that also in major cities, it would not be held at large scale. So, people, becareful and remember your hygiene and cough ethics.

Finally the sky broke its water and it's been raining the whole evening. Nice feeling. Cold and comfy after 2 days of drought. Guess gonna sleep so soundly tonite. Brr....nice. The community camp is on. It's becoming an ever busy schedule, aint it?

Smell

It's gonna be a very short entry. Tired from work and aerobics session this evening. The mind is almost blank. There are lotsa work and programmes to do lately. Thus, let me just present this song to everyone who had listened to it yearssss ago. Dunno why this song just popped up from nowhere after waking up in the early morning 2 days ago and went right in front of the pc and searched for the song. Voila:



Winnie xin's Wei Dao (Smell)



Wei Dao's tune

The smell of another weekend

The morning sky was so blue. The hills were so green. It smelt freedom in the air. For the past 2 days, I was waking up with the feeling of ecstasy. It's like as if the world was so colourful and being so pre-occupied, I didn't realize it. Thus it was amazing. Looking out the windows, I could see the trees dancing. The birds joined along. I was lazying on the bed enjoying the serenity and the colour of the world.

Then of course I couldn't miss out going for a walk in town. We went to the market top to have our noodles breakfast. From the top, I could see the whole town. The scene was so well defined and picturesque. I couldn't hold myself by taking a deeper breath to smell the air of the quiet weekend. Perhaps one would question what was this ecstasy all about. It's just that being away for quite sometime and on top of that being soaked at work and not having the time to look at the surroundings, it feels so nice to find out that the surrounding is actually becoming so beautiful. Not really superbly beautiful but come to think of it, the world is so colourful!

It's afterall a relaxing weekend. Taking a back seat and enjoying the view. Next weekend gonna be away for another community stuff. Let's just see what's gonna happen.

Waiting for the morning..

With a gentle noise, the rain slowly hit the ground. While some people are looking into the dark thick sky for the impossible full moon tonight, I am sitting at home wondering when the morning will come. I have so many tasks in hand that deal with so many departments and yes, I mean going through all the bureaucracy and red tapes. I know I have to be patient but the weekend is fast approaching meaning there is only a working-day left to rush for the task before everything gets halted by the weekend.

Morning, oh morning,
when will you be coming,
cause the flight is calling,
I can't afford the waiting....

Vandalism could highlight certain issues?..

I just couln't resist to take such a meaningful piece of artwork at the subway. It makes me wonder what the painter was thinking...PS: There is this malnourished kid sitting on the beggar's lap.


Phew...it was really a long break from blogging.

Back on track again. The past week was busy with lotsa traveling and working, not mentioning outings with family and friends. Boy, three days of crabbing and now ended with a sore tongue! At least now I know which stall offers better crabs. It was also a great time catching up with friends but really, the time wasn't enough. Yup, the biggest drawback from the trip, not even having the time to go for a movie!

Getting the front seat was really so comfortable especially the leg space! Thumbs up to express boarding..


The one thing that everyone had got to say about me was : aiyo, you look so different already, thin? Yup, I am getting thinner with messy hair (planned for a haircut but hardly had time for it). The trip back wasn't a favourable one as well. The rain had caused everything wet. Then I had to rush for a dinner organized by the city/district hall. It was supposedly celebrating the independance day cum changing of the distric officer. Many local powerful people attended the dinner though it started so late. Anyways, an eye opener.

So, one more great news! Our QA(sorta research) study got 1st-runner-up at the state-level. Kinda big achievement for our lil office. It was really a nice experience though the process was grueling. I remember having to finish everything within a week-time and using up the whole weekend. And then to refurbish and redecorate the study design but hey, we pulled it off. It's like my lil baby project and I am really proud of it getting some recognitions and even better for a state-level one. We have a big trophy and a big cert and also credits to all 5 other staff who got involved in this project.

Actually there was another achievement which was our men volleyball team where we got 1st-runner-up at the district level for the very first time as well but because of some controversies over it, I just gotta drop that. I mean, I am just not interested anymore to get involved in the whole organization of the sports club here because of the hanky-panky thingy. Full stop.

Here we are at the town area...


Oh yes, I've also just got back from a trip to S'wak with a team of NGO. It was fun though the haze was like sooo thick. The bus ride was not that bad and meeting colleagues and people from other workplace was another nice experience. Lotsa photos taken but again, I don't really own a real camera.

What else. Now it's time to pay back all the workloads for being absent quite sometime. The aerobics are still on-going and this wednesday I've got 3 talks to give at an NGO meeting. Thinking of it already stressed me out coz I hardly have the time to prepare (unless I stop blogging for today, ahaha). I have so many clients to see nowadays, and I foresee this to continue for the next 2 weeks. Anticipating for another holiday. Hooray!!!

Knock knock..

Just making the presence being felt a little. Leaving for a trip sooo early coming morning. Gotta wake up at 5am. Yea, that's not a usual thing here.

Until then, let's see if we gonna have some pics after me coming back ya!

Love your children like how you expected them to love you..

Yay, getting so much better today. It's always the early morning feel that tells you whether you are getting better or otherwise. The sun was up early this morning. The throat was clear and everything just felt right. So I guess it's recovered. After the pill last night, I just collapsed on the bed. When phone calls came in, I could hardly speak any longer coz the effect kicked in so fast and yes I took a strong medicine. Glad that it works!

I have a few topics to discuss tonight. First, I was captivated by an article published online newspaper discussing about the hospitals being the dumping grounds for the elderly. When it hit the frontpage of a major newspaper nationwide, I was like others, being dismayed by what the society is growing into. Is it really that the society has gone so low that filial piety is a word only kept in the dictionary? Then I bumped into this article: All a child needs is love and affection. I can't agree more what the writer was trying to say. Simply put it here, the writer stressed that children are not insurance policy, they are the responsibilities of the parents. I could really relate what he meant and I was touched by how he vowed to care for his kids no matter what. `

Contrary to that, there was another article speaking on low birth rate in the country and men are to be blamed. How unfair. Glad that this news does not spread to the rural areas. Also both men and women made up a pair of parents and both equivocal. There are men who take care of their children and women who don't. And producing progenies according to one's capability is the right thing to do rather than giving birth to kids who suffer the consequences later. These kids do not choose to be born into this world. It's you, the adult who decided to bring them to this world. Thus, it is your responsibility bringing them up decently including providing educations. We don't want a society that stands out in quantity but not quality! Imagine a society full with crimes and famine! So, people, family planning is important.

Why still people don't understand. It's so clear. If you can afford to have a decent big family, go ahead and be my guest. But if you bring so much sufferings to these lil beings and then expecting them to care for you when you grow old, duhh... dude, that's really not fair! Nevertheless, it's a long debate if this were to go on and on and on...

Despite feeling better after the episode of flu, I am learning to be a lil more patient. I feel it's quite trying when it comes to people challenging your patience. Mmmm...let's just embrace a broaden heart and accept the fact that people who try to hurt your feelings are simply not worth your time to think of them. Contrary to that, remember and always cherish those around you who support you no matter what.


If this was how the children were left unattended, please judge for yourself if the parents deserved anything from them when they grew up?