Salty Talk

In the Midst.

2010-11-17T07:23:00.000-08:00

In the midst of everything - the clouds of confusion, uncertainty, incompetency and the like, is there anything?
Maybe.

I remember when life was simple, when life was full of short goals that could actually be seen and felt at the fingertips and without all these complications and undercurrents.
What happened to the simple life?
Or maybe the question is, what happened that made complicating things the centre of it all?
Why the complexities?

We all know that life is inevitably filled with these things, stresses, worries, more worries and fretting.
The answer? Its about managing it.

On the other hand my question is, why is there a need for stress or worrying to even happen in the first place?
Nip it in the bud is what I say.
But at this point in time, whatever I say is kinda just air in the wind. Yeah, pretty much.

Everyone's gotta start somewhere I suppose.
Sorry, I ramble.
Unstructuredly.
Without in-depth thought.
Life is such that we have to deal with things, manage it.
Managing unnecessary things.

Money, Money, Money or No Money?

2010-10-13T21:40:00.001-07:00

This world is infuriated and consumed by the incessantly endless need for more money.

Everything we do - be it from what we study to the people we befriend, its all about money.

Or is it not?

There can only be 1 master in your life. God or Money?

credits to http://doroteos2.files.wordpress.com

Think of a person who's master is Money.

Now, think of a person who's master is God.

See the difference?

The thing is, we all need money to survive and that's a fact. The more crucial question to ask is, what does 'survive' mean to you?
To some people, survive means to have a swimming pool in their own house, eat a 5 course meal for lunch and a 7 course for dinner.
To others, it simply means being able to afford to buy enough rice and potatoes to feed their family.

Bud Fox: How much is enough?
Gordon Gekko: It's not a question of enough, pal. It's a zero sum game, somebody wins, somebody loses. Money itself isn't lost or made, it's simply transferred from one perception to another.

- taken from the movie Wall Street.

Have you watched Wall Street?
If you haven't, you should - even if you don't understand all the stock market terms they use.
It's a beautiful story that depicts 2 different lives - one ruled by Money and the other not by Money (not exactly God la but oh well).

Head to the cinemas and watch the movie!

In Search of the Char Siew - Part 2

2010-10-10T03:30:00.000-07:00

Since I'm on a quest to find the best char siew, one of the better ones I've tried and something worth blogging about is ala Char Siew served from Toast & Roast @SS2.

Map to Toast & Roast

Click on the picture to enlarge :)

Are you ready for it?

Hakka Mee with Char Siew

This Char Siew is "half fat half lean" (phun fei saow) and is awesome!

The Char Siew is crispy enough and tasty plus the noodles are 'oily' enough to give it that really nice texture to accompany the char siew excellently.

I rate this 9/10 - until I find a better one (apparently there is).

Check out this beauty!

But I must say that this dish must be eaten hot and should not be 'ta-paued' :)

P.S: yes, this is non-halal :) sorry! will do a 'halal' food review soon :D

Seasons.

2010-10-09T08:48:00.001-07:00

Life has its seasons.

And mine is just about to change.

This year has been quite a ride for me - from working and studying part-time to studying full-time, to bumming and soon, full-time work (speak of changing seasons eh?)

At this point, I don't really know what to feel.

The feeling is kinda unexplainable..maybe more like neutral? I don't know.

But as the days go by, I seem and feel myself being more and more prepared for what is to come.

Good? I suppose so.

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

With all the hoo-haa that's been going on all I can say is that God has been and is so good to me.

And for all that He has done, I am truly thankful.

Some people say or call this religious-fanaticisim or over-spiritualizing things BUT I call it being grateful.

The reason why I'm so grateful is because I know that man can only do so much in our own hands, at the end of the day God is sovereign over any and all situations.

And seeing all the recent activity, I have reason to believe so.

Some people would strongly disagree with me on the point I'm about to make it but I'm gonna say it anyways - the God that I know would never do anything whereby its sole purpose would be to "destroy" or cause you harm.

God is good all the time.

And He loves us too much to do something so futile.

Anyways, He is God right? Why torture us when He can just kill us?

Have faith. Trust in the goodness of a great God :)

On a side note, I've been reading 1 Kings and the summary of my lesson? God can be provoked to anger. :O

Introducing: Malaysia's Got Talent!

2010-10-04T18:48:00.000-07:00

Remember a few months ago I wrote a post about the mahasiswa's and their right to politics (or lack of it)?

THIS is an awesome video encapsulating all that I wanna say with some humour on the side.

And just to show more of the kinda talent Malaysia's got, watch this:
I absolutely love the song! Its so catchy!

That Soft Spot.

2010-10-02T11:37:00.000-07:00

With all this time on my hands, I've been thinking about lots of things (hence why I've been so pre-occupied these days). About the past, the present and the future.

I've had a good life.

because I can make ugly pictures with Paint :D

Despite all the problems and issues I've gone through, life is still good.

Without those difficult times and moments were it was "raining" cats and dogs in my life (Murphy's law?) I wouldn't be the person I am today.

I've made my mistakes..oh, plenty of them and at times I do regret them. Yet I know that had I not gone made those mistakes, I would not have learnt from them either. Pretty much a Catch 22 I'd say.

But something that really caught my attention during this whole time is That Soft Spot.

People fall in love and they fall out of love.
But the funny thing is that even though you've fallen out of love, sometimes (and I really mean some times), there's that soft spot you have for that person. That uncontrollable "spot" in your heart - usually found when reminiscing the good times you had with that particular person.
I suppose that after having been that close once upon a time, its difficult to entirely erase any and all feelings once felt with or for that person.
Its like carving your name on a tree bark. Intially, its clearly written on the tree but as time passes and as the tree grows, the marks become less visible but its still there..regardless of how vague it may look. Anf if you chip off the outer layers of the tree bark, you'll see the carvings even clearer.

credits to photographer :)

Darn That Soft Spot.

DiGi iPhone 4 Me (Nuffnang Competition)

2010-10-01T08:02:00.000-07:00

Translating the meaning of this picture

into this..

Retina eye scan,

Awesome graphics,

Stupendous games and apps,

Productivity,

Being able to play farmville on it,

Uber coolness,

ONLY

with the iPhone 4.

DiGi iPhone 4 Play

2010-10-01T08:00:00.000-07:00

Exhilirating.

Fun-tastic.

DiGi iPhone 4 Real

2010-10-01T07:45:00.000-07:00

Yeah, its for real yo.

DiGi iPhone 4 Life

2010-10-01T07:27:00.000-07:00

DiGi iPhone 4
Always.

In Search of the Char Siew - Part 1

2010-09-25T19:56:00.000-07:00

Bright an early on a Satruday morning, my parents and I decided to go all the way to Jalan Alor to try out this supposedly amazing Char Siew featured on the TV show "Ho Chiak"

Meng Kee Char Siew.

Map to Meng Kee char siew

So, we drive drive drive through KL traffic, park the car and set off in search of this char siew place.

Initially we got a little lost - thankfully there was a woman giving out flyers saying that Meng Kee has relocated to another shop lot.

Ta daa! As seen on TV.

The Char Siew.

Doesn't look like anything extraordinary right?

The char siew was tasty but what gave away its "crispy-ness" was that you could taste the texture of sugar granules on top of the char siew, which is quite a turn-off actually.

It kinda sticks to your teeth while you eat it (some people say its good some don't really like it.)

I think out of 10-15 pieces I ate only ONE was mind-blowingly-amazing and that was because there wasn't any sugar granules + it was crispy + it was fragrant and tasty.

Noms-ed.

And steam chicken to accompany the lonely char siew.

Overall I say, there's better char siew out there.

And I know where you live..I mean, I know where to eat you.

I'm referring to the char siew of course :)

Food + Friends + Walking = Cheras Pasar Malam

2010-09-23T20:42:00.000-07:00

Introducing to you, SOME of the awesome food available at Cheras Pasar Malam

(Wednesday's from 5pm onwards)

First Stop:

Melaka-like Cendol!

they even have the Durian Cendol!

This store is located at the end of the Pasar Malam. Its the end furthest away from UCSI

(walk the opposite direction of the Smelly Tofu [Chou Tau Fu])

Noms!

Wasn't feeling like Durian the other day so I opted for the normal one. The gula melaka makes all the difference for Cendol - and this gula melaka is really fragrant and pretty similar to the one in melaka.

Beware! the gula melaka is thick and addicitve!

Second Stop:

Char Kuey Teow

master shifu..of the char kuey teow

This is located in front of PetsMore, which is the side closer to the Chou Tau Fu

(as you can tell, that's my landmark in the pasar malam - only cause there's only ONE Chou Tau Fu seller)

ta daa!

There wasn't anything special about this Char Kuey Teow le

- there's a better one near Pusat Bandar Damansara

Third Stop:

Tong Sui

Malaysian Mixed Dessert, mmm.

You can find these stalls all along the pasar malam, its usually a red truck with the name Malaysian Mixed Dessert on top.

Sorry, I can't read Chinese :P

According to a friend of mine, apparently it says "Different from any other Tong Sui"

or something like that.. hehehe.

Please don't penalize me for wrong translation! It wasn't me! :)

I likey very much!

There are a few standard combinations you can choose from their menu.

We decided to pick our own :)

(for a small one you can pick up to 5 things)

We took snow fungus, sweet potato, palm seed, jelly and the jelly pearl - really refreshing!

We also had some other stuff like the Taiwanese sausage, Takoyaki and the Thai sauce satay (pork, chicken and chicken gizzard) but I was too occupied with eating it I forgot to take pics, hehehe. By the time we finished the char kuey teow, I was stuffed!

If only I had a bigger stomach and higher metabolic rate, I would have tried all the other stuff as well.

They've got cute little homemade ice creams as well! which I didn't get to try :(

Go check it out!

Best time to go is actually in the evening, maybe around 5pm? Once it hits like 8pm it gets alittle too crowded and difficult to breathe.

Its a great place to find knick knacks, phone covers, alarm clocks, gadgets, DVDs, etc.

Signing off,

Your Truly

To Blog or Not to Blog?

2010-09-21T09:49:00.000-07:00

Have you ever gone through that "phase" where you ask yourself, 'Should I continue blogging?' and then take ages to debate with yourself over it? And maybe afterward, out of the sheer convenience of it all, not blog at all?
I have!

But since I've been so free these days, I decided to take a look at my blog archives and wow, I find some really awesome stuff there. There's something about our memory that leaves out vital parts of information, situations or memories. Which makes writing (or journalling) it down so important.

So here I am to stay, keep on blogging :) (or journalling, whichever you prefer)

Writing a few posts a year results in a lifelong worth of memories and thoughts that no one could ever write in a day or even a week or even a month.
Its something about that "moment" where you write it all down that keeps / reminds of that very same feeling you had when you wrote it. Its not the flashback or nostalgic kinda feeling but something entirely different.

Well, I gotta admit, I was inspired or reminded of this only because I read this article from ZenHabits.net.
Great advice and reminder of what's important in life. :)

Lunch @ Ipoh, Lou Wong Bean Sprout Chicken

2010-09-20T03:35:00.000-07:00

Since my mom needed to visit a friend at Ipoh the other day, we took the opportunity to eat the all-known, all-popular Bean Sprout Chicken Rice :)

Lou Wong Bean Sprout Chicken was our choice to execute our mission. Despite the deferring opinions and suggestions, we found this one pretty darn good.

Yum!

juicy, tender and fresh :)

plus, you can tell that they use Grade A soya sauce, not the cheap lousy kind you get in KL

notice how short the bean sprouts are?

harvesting the bean sprout when its young gives it a crunch when you eat it, not forgetting to mention the slight nutty after-taste I got. This just screams "Awesome!"

This was the only time I actually enjoyed eating chicken liver.

The only reason I could eat it was cause it wasn't overly mushy and it didn't have that weird smell!

Which also means that its fresh :)

And the crowd the prove its goodness

Awesome! :)

Pray or Prey?

2010-09-07T11:51:00.000-07:00

What is prayer?

Often enough people would say that prayer means asking God for something. For example, 'God, please help me to pass my CLP exams without having to re-sit'.

And true enough, that is part of prayer but its not the only meaning of the word prayer.

To me, prayer in all simplicity means - talking to God.
Its like you talking to a friend just that you can't see this friend and also, this friend happens to be the creator of the Universe - you know, He just happens to be God :)

So okay, if prayer is like talking, does God talk to?

The answer is, yes.

But the question I pose to you in return is, do you listen to God?

And I know or have known a lot of people who struggle with this concept - God? Talking? To me? Yeah right. FAQs are:
How do I know that its God speaking?
How do I tell the difference between the voice in my head and God's voice?
What if I try to listen but I can't seem to hear God?
HOW do I hear God's voice?
How does God speak?*

These are all very valid questions, questions which any person can ask.
I myself have asked these questions.
And to answer all those questions, there is of course plenty of examples and evidence in the Bible - instances where God spoke and man heard his voice. Verses you could check out: John 10:27 and Revelation 3:20

On the other hand, there is faith.
Hebrews 11:1

¹Now faith is being sure of what we hope for and certain of what we do not see.

Naturally, listening to God requires faith, so does prayer.

But more than faith, how you really and surely know that it is God's voice speaking to you is because He has given us a Holy Spirit. And if our flesh can't decipher if its God's voice, the Holy Spirit can.

John 14: 16-17

¹⁶And I will ask the Father, and he will give you another Counselor to be with you forever— ¹⁷the Spirit of truth. The world cannot accept him, because it neither sees him nor knows him. But you know him, for he lives with you and will be in you.

And so, because we believe in a living God, one who is lives in us, we can know for sure that when He speaks, it is really Him - for His sheep will listen to His voice.

So, let us pray and not prey on God for His blessings.

Seek the Giver not the gift :)

courtesy of wendsdayschild.blogspot.com

*God can speak in different ways such as - through the Bible (His written word); speaking to you directly (may be audible like when someone speaks to you OR it maybe to your spirit); through other people such as friends, pastors, leaders, speakers, etc. God can also speak to you through dreams (when you are sleeping) or through visions. These are all examples taken from the Bible and its best that you dive into your Bible and read through the many stories there to see how else God can speak to you.

I Hate You With Love.

2010-09-03T20:41:00.000-07:00

Okay I admit, my blog posts have been horrible - I apologize. I'll write better blog posts now okay? :)

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

Merdeka this year wasn't as patriotic as it used to be. There wasn't much hype about celebrating Malaysia neither did I see as many cars with Malaysian flags on it. Strange.

Then again it might due to all the political unrest and hoolabaloo that's been happening which resulted in a more..quiet Merdeka this year.

credits to shogunn chronicles

Malaysia and I have a love-hate relationship.
I love Malaysia but I dislike so many, many, many things about it - the system, the public transport, the healthcare. The reason I dislike it is firstly because of its standards. They don't seem to want to try harder to make things better when they obviously have the skills and facilities to be far better than status quo.
But what makes my blood boil all the more is that Malaysia has so much potential in terms of its resources and great minds to be so much greater than we are yet because of selfishness and greed, the rakyat are left to live in Malaysia as it is.
Hmph.

Yet I love you, Malaysia.
Because Malaysia still has culture (whatever little is left of it at least). Despite what people may say, there is racial harmony. Besides the culture, how can anyone not appreciate Malaysian food? It is aweeeesome!
But the best part about living in Malaysia is that we have a night life that doesn't involve clubbing or drinking alone. You can go out at any time of the day (or night or midnight) and still find foodstalls open and a place to hang out with friends to sit and talk.
Having been overseas, this is what I miss most about Malaysia - not being able to go out to a mamak to just chill. And it speaks volumes about Malaysia's sociological dynamics as well as culture yet so few people realize it. It speaks of bonds between people, the love and experience that people share, the community, the family that is not blood related. And some people term this as the "Mamak Culture" and rightly so.

But the most important thing about this love-hate relationship I have with Malaysia is that I must remember to have hope. To believe that Malaysia can be better than what it is and to be that the change that I want to see in this country.

Change doesn't start with the authorities, it starts with you and I.

Seperti Ikan Diluar Air.

2010-09-02T08:51:00.000-07:00

In the spirit of Merdeka and Raya :)

Salam sejahtera para hadirin yang amat dihormati. *okay okay, too formal - ahem ahem*
Sekejap lagi nak Raya!
Tapi ramai member-member aku pergi holiday, mana aku nak Raya nie? Takkanlah aku seorang-orang nak Raya kat KL kan? Tapi duduk kat KL masa Raya, takde traffic jam - shiok jugak la.

Pada hujung bulan September nie, saya akan bercuti kat Phuket! wooohoo! Tak sabar aku nak pergi ke sana la. BM aku nie memang buruk la. Haih. Cakap dalam BM tak sama dengan menulis. Tapi kalau menulis dalam format yang formal boleh tahan la, sastera pulak confrim fail!

This is what I call, fish out of water.

PHUKET!

beach holiday!

credits to photographer

This Journey We Walk

2010-08-31T01:33:00.000-07:00

I think its safe to say that most people think that being a Christian is about following the rules and principles the Bible lays down for us. After all, Christians do say that the B.I.B.L.E stands for Basic Instructions Before Leaving Earth.

But you know what, its really not (to me at least).
Yes, obedience to what the Bible says and God's commandments are important but it doesn't mean that its the only thing and everything about Christianity.

So if you take away all the rules and principles of a religion (i.e. Christianity) what are you left with?

For me, its the relationship with God.
Yup, that's right, I've got a relationship with God. (which kinda makes me polygamous since I have a boyfriend? hahaha, I'm kidding, there's no such thing).

This relationship I have with God is like a Father-daughter relationship kinda thing.
He speaks I listen, I pray He listens.
And I get to know more about God, who is and His character - like how I know that Jesus loves you and I unconditionally and He is full of mercy and grace yet at the same time, He is the same God who will ensure justice (like opening up the ground to swallow up people).

But with all the great things about having a relationship with God, I struggle.
Simply because I can neglect God so easily.
I know that He's always there and everywhere and that no matter what I do He'll always love me. But that's where I struggle - with the carnal desire to sin and be forgiven and continue sinning and the desire to live for Him entirely.
It's not an easy journey to walk - this journeying/relationship thing with God.
After all, He is God.
Its difficult because I don't see Him and it takes faith to know and believe as well as perseverance to not give up on this relationship. To keep reminding myself that its the relationship and not the religion of Christianity that makes me believe in Christ.

So yes, its difficult but I know I must walk and each day I walk with Him, I am rest assured that He is so good, in everything and anything, God is awesome.

debbeh Travels to Kluang, Johor! nom nom nom.

2010-08-25T22:47:00.000-07:00

Some friends and I travelled to Kluang from 23rd to 24th August 2010 to spend time with our pastors and to see the gem people claim Kluang to be :) And I must say, it is.

Our first stop: Tangkak Beef Noodle!

S presenting to you..Tangkak Beef Noodle!

mmmmm.

The beef noodles were awesome! The beef was tender and had little fat or tendon on it. What also made it really good was that it didn't have the "soh" smell (which is that raw-beefy smell you get if they don't cook it properly)

And of course, no one should ever miss out on Kluang Station when at Kluang!

that's right people, you gotta rock and not roll..
look at the bottom right corner, it says "Kopi Right"
This is us at the new Kluang station that recently opened - to see us at the original Kluang station, scroll down :)

Think 3-layer tea with Cendol.

The drink was a little too sweet for my liking but still very nice to drink. The gula melaka they used tasted authentic and fragrant as well - like the kind you get in Melaka :)

Mee Rebus (sorry its a half-eaten pic, hehe)

Honestly, I'm not a fan of Mee Rebus but this one tasted above average out of all the Mee Rebus's I've tried so far. Nothing really stood out for me in this dish.

Mee Siam!

A very simple style of cooking Mee Siam but its really nice! The meehoon wasn't soggy nor too hard - it was just nice. And the sambal complimented the meehoon very well!

Its the sweet sambal, not the spicy kind. Might have tasted better if it the sambal was spicier though..hmmm.

And none other than, butter kaya toast!

Their butter kaya toast comes in buns, like the round buns and not the toasted bread kind we get here in KL.

It actually tasted better cause the texture isn't as brittle and biscuit-like like the one in KL.

Its softer, lots and lots of butter which made it creamy and the kaya wasn't horribly sweet or diluted.

Good stuff I'd say!

I call this: nasi lemak without the nasi in a bread bun.

Sambal ikan bilis, with crushed hard-boiled egg and cucumber in a bun.

Surprisingly, this tasted really nice! It wasn't mushy as I suspected it to be but instead, tasted just like nasi lemak in a bun without the nasi!

And now, to present to you: the Original Kluang Station!

Real Coffee, oh I mean Rail Coffee. ;)

It's a local motion!

This place is actually right beside a KTM station - and I mean literally right beside it. The platform is like 5 steps away from this coffee shop.

Sorry no pic, I forgot :(

His-story on the walls/fence of Kluang Station.

Its very very interesting how a tiny shop like this became a business epidemic in Malaysia.

I wonder what its tipping point was...hmmm.

Btw, the cham in this place is awesome! For the first time, I can taste tea and coffee both at the same time, really really good stuff and highly recommended.

If you like local coffee, they sell packets of coffee (instant or powder) at their outlets. I'm drinking it now as I blog and I must say, its really good! Strong and it has good texture (like creamy-ish) :)

There were a lot of other places we went as well but I can't remember the name nor did I take any pictures! Sigh. Oh well, maybe next time!

Merdeka - True For Muslims Converting Out of Islam?

2010-08-21T22:13:00.000-07:00

"Merdeka! Merdeka! Merdeka!"

And yes, Malaysia has achieved its Merdeka, but what about its citizens?

courtesy and credits to the photographer.

Merdeka refers to freedom and independence from colonialism or ruling of foreigners.

But think about it for a moment, do you, as a Malaysian, have true freedom? By freedom I mean to be able to exercise the basic rights every human being should have (check out Schedule 1 of the Human Rights Act 1998 to get an idea of some rights you should have)

There are many other reasons for which I feel Malaysians have not obtained Merdeka (individually). Amongst those reasons are the right to be treated equally amongst all races/religions (to promote fairness and an equal chances - especially when it comes to grants/scholarships), the right to minimum wages, the right to proper public healthcare (e.g: ambulance arriving 45 mins late, people waiting hours at the hospital and due to that long wait, they suffer severe damage or death).

But there's one specific area I wish to blog about to highlight this matter. This is an extremely sensitive area and it is my sincere desire to not offend anyone but to merely bring to light the seriousness of this issue.

That area is the conversion of a Muslim out of Islam (to any other religion).

Here, I am referring to those who have willingly made that choice to believe in something other than Islam without anyone asking them to. Yes, I am aware that the Malaysian Constitution prohibits a person from converting a Muslim to any other religion and that a Muslim convert is likely to be ostracised from his/her family due to the conversion.

But my main concern here is not how, rather, what happens after their conversion.

The stories I've heard are alarming.

They tell about how (after their conversion to whatever religion) they were taken away to an estate far away and placed in a detention camp. At this camp, the religious leaders/people try to convince you to denounce whatever faith you have believed in and return to the Islam faith. If he/she refuses to do so, they whip you on the back, without any clothes on. And I'm not talking bout the secondary school whips, its the kind that rips your flesh off after the 3rd stroke on your back.
Alternatively, they prop their feet up on a stool and whip the sole of the feet, which causes pain at the top of the head/brain.

The worst of all, they conduct electroconvulsive therapy (ECT) on the brain of the convert - it is the administration of a strong electric current on the brain to induce convulsions or coma. In other words, they fry your brain.

I'm not here to argue whether what they are doing is right or wrong, at the end of the day, God will decide.

My sentiments are mainly for those who are suffering and by reason of them wanting to exercise their freedom of choice (and decision-making), face persecution from people who call themselves holy and righteous.

Isn't judgment something to be decided by God?

Don't these people have the right to choose? (Doesn't the Quran say that there should be no coercion when it comes to faith? 2:256)

Isn't it better to have a sincere believer than one forced to believe or one who believes out of fear for his/her own life (not fear of God)?

Correct me if I'm wrong, an apostate in the Islam faith deserves death or life imprisonment - but not persecution to the extent of having their brain fried.

These people deserve the right to freedom of religion just as much as every non-Muslim in Malaysia.

Does religion trump the Constitution?

Cause if so, then all that we have been fighting for is useless.

courtesy and credits to the photographer.

*Note:

The writer of this post sincerely apologizes if anyone has been offended by its contents.

Acknowledgement is made that the facts may not be true as it is hearsay - if it is false, all is well and good. But if it is true..then we should be made aware of this and at the same time, pray for their lives to be safe.

Sekian.

Nang-able :)

Summer Lovin' ?

2010-08-19T01:15:00.000-07:00

"Summer lovin' had me a blast,

Summer lovin' happened so fast.." ~ Grease

Well, my 'summer' has been nothing like the lyrics/song in Grease - might even be the total opposite!

How my day goes roughly:

I sleep at 4am, wake up at 12pm. (I know, my clock has gone all wonky on me)

I mop around, eat a late lunch (usually bread with whatever I can find in the fridge cause I'm too lazy to drive out and get something to eat)

Go online, watch a few movies OR read a book

Dinner

Sometimes I go out with friends, sometimes I just go to a mamak and lepak with them.

Bum around even more at home, play with the DSLR (hahaha, yeah learn some photography skills!)

Then I sleep!

What a bum I've become!

* So as you can tell, I'm no in the middle of my day where I go online/watch movies/read a book. hahaha.

Slacker!

courtesy of yournameuniversity.com

What is Love?

2010-08-17T00:55:00.000-07:00

The age old question, what is love?

Some people say its a feeling - that tugging of the heart, that ache it feels to long to see someone, that unexplainable leap of uncontrollable emotions drawing them closer to the other person regardless of how much repulsion or resistance there is.
Is that love?
Some say its that all consuming passion for someone or something. A passion or attraction that cannot be stopped no matter what.
Is that love?
Others say that its about going through everything together, the good, the bad, the rough and the laughs - to journey together through life's path even if it means risking everything.
Is that love?
Some say that its about growing each other, about accepting another's weaknesses yet encouraging him/her to be better at the same time. To be better person.
Is that love?

If all of the above is not love, then what is?

1 John 4: 7-12:

⁷Dear friends, let us love one another, for love comes from God. Everyone who loves has been born of God and knows God. ⁸Whoever does not love does not know God, because God is love.⁹This is how God showed his love among us: He sent his one and only Son^[b] into the world that we might live through him. ¹⁰This is love: not that we loved God, but that he loved us and sent his Son as an atoning sacrifice for^[c] our sins. ¹¹Dear friends, since God so loved us, we also ought to love one another. ¹²No one has ever seen God; but if we love one another, God lives in us and his love is made complete in us.[emphasis added]

When I read this passage, I totally didn't understand it (so if you don't understand it as well, don't worry bout it, its not an insult to your intelligence ;) )

After giving it much thought and reading, there are 2 main points I gather from this passage about love.

Love Comes from God.

It is not a feeling that we conjure up nor is it something that suddenly happens when your eyes meet with another's neither is it that mysterious spark caused by chemistry between 2 persons causing people to fall in love. Love comes from God because His love is perfect. And if the source or origin of love is not perfect, how can we ever know what true love is?

God is Love.

Following from the above point, the best part about love coming from God is that it also means that God is love. This is because God didn't just stop at saying, "love comes from God" but He went on to display that perfect love for us and to us - He sent His only son to be a sacrifice for us; so that we can have life.

God (Jesus Christ) came down to earth, the only Son to His Father in Heaven, and became the sacrifice for the sin of man. And He is the ultimate sacrifice for our sins because He was pure, sinless, holy and most of all, God.

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

Okay now, now, before you shoot me in the head for being silly and religious, some of you may say "Yeah, that may be true but that's love between man and God! Not man and man! DUH!"

Yes, to some extent that may be true.

But the point is to understand love in its perfect form - and we all know that love between man and man (including our understanding of it) is far from perfect.

Yet, if we take this understanding of a perfect love and apply it to how we see love between man and man (that someone would die on the cross, which means to be crucified and terribly, gruesomely tortured) then our entire perspective of love changes. No?

[1 John 4:11 - Dear friends, since God so loved us, we also ought to love one another]

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

On the other hand, some of may say, "This writer is a Christian fanatic and is taking the meaning of love to the extreme. In reality, there's no way anyone can love like that, otherwise we'd all be God!"

I have my rebuttal but I'd save it for another time :)

If that's you, have a read of this passage:

⁴Love is patient, love is kind. It does not envy, it does not boast, it is not proud. ⁵It is not rude, it is not self-seeking, it is not easily angered, it keeps no record of wrongs. ⁶Love does not delight in evil but rejoices with the truth. ⁷It always protects, always trusts, always hopes, always perseveres. - 1 Corinthians 13:4-7

Now, that's what I call Love :)

Fighting Umbrella Corporation

2010-08-16T02:02:00.000-07:00

07 September 2010

Dear Survivors of the Human Race,

The virus continues to spread every second. Every breath we take may be the last. Many of us have lost our loved ones and we live on the run, hoping to never come in contact with the virus.

We must act now. We must find the anti-virus. And there is only one place the anti-virus can be kept - the Umbrella Corporation.

3 days from now, at 1800 hours, we meet at the Grim Sky Circle. Bring all and any form of weapon you have. Gather your people. On that day, we fight. Not only for ourselves or the lives that we have lost, but to regain humanity and salvage our human race.

To steal the anti-virus, we will need all the expertise we can get.

First, we need someone who is capable of infiltrating their security system. To lock down all their exits but one so that no one leaves Umbrella Corporation until we complete our mission.

Weaponry - it has come to my knowledge that the Umbrella Corporation has stored state of the art weapons in Room 5455 Block E of the Umbrella Corporation. Once we're in the building - we have to find that room and take all the weapons we can carry.

Once we have their weapons, our aim is the anti-virus.

The anti-virus is somewhere within the Umbrella Corporation, probably a sealed room. Find that room and take the anti-virus.

See you at 1800 hours at the Grim Sky Circle 3 days from now. The time has come.

Alice.

P.S: If any of you are able to contact Jet Li, Members of Heroes, Ironman, Spiderman, Superman, Fantastic Four, The Incredibles, Powerpuff Girls, Ninja Turtles, Ultraman, the Hulk, Cicakman, Autobots, Thundercats, He-man, Dragonball - inform them of our meeting and do everything you can to convince them to fight for this cause.

400th post ya'll!

2010-08-15T07:00:00.000-07:00

This blog is.. *counts with fingers* 4 years old and on its 400th post! That's how long I've been blogging!

I started this blog with 2 purposes:
1. to express my feelings and rantings
2. to bless people with the things I learn from my walk with Jesus.

Well, as of late, the 2nd one hasn't been much - probably cause I'm a little shy and sensitive to my readers. I know that there's a good number of them who aren't Christians.
BUT
I realize its my blog and I get to say what I want. So I've decided that for every non-religious post there shall be a religious post to compliment it :D hehehe. Also cause there aren't many Christians bloggers around! Don't worry, I won't be imposing or threatening people or preach-y etc. Its gonna be real.. with all the struggles I face and how difficult it is at times to be live as a Christian. :)

And so, to start it off, I'm gonna write about the 40 days prayer and fasting organized by NECF! (40days of prayer and fasting on my 4 year old blog on its 400th post :D )

The 40 day prayer and fasting is for the churches to unite together and pray for Malaysia -

started on 8th August - 16 September 2010 (Malaysia day).

A simple explanation of what fasting is for Christians is to abstain from what our body needs/relies on so that we learn to rely on God more and use that time to pray. Matthew 4:4 "Jesus answered, "It is written: 'Man does not live on bread alone, but on every word that comes from the mouth of God.'

There are different types of fasts:
1. Daniel fast (eat only fruits and vegetables for 3 days)
2. Fast for 12 hours i.e. 6am - 6pm
3. Fast a meal (should be a meal you always eat not the one you always skip ;) )
4. Fast something you must have everyday (such as coffee, rice, chicken, beef, pork; even stuff like playing games, going on facebook)
*there's a biblical basis for this but I haven't spent time searching for the verses, sorry! If you're interested to know, leave a comment and I'll look it up for you :)

I'm fasting from pork! And honestly, its only be a week or so but I haven't really been able to keep it :( I try my best! But due to circumstances and at times when I forget, I've failed to keep it :(
BUT
I'm still gonna try to do it! Difficult, but I'm trying! God, I hope you understand.. haha. :P

Okay, tis all! happy reading :D

FREE BEER TODAY - 12th August 2010!

2010-08-11T22:06:00.000-07:00

Calling all Beer-Crazy People!

Free Beer.

12th August 2010.

Asia Cafe, Subang.

ONLY from 6pm-7pm!

who's in?

Nang if you like this post :)

The Most Unexpected People Can Be Your Angels :)

2010-08-06T22:32:00.000-07:00

An excerpt from my previous blog, dated 14 February 2006:

today has been deemed the day of blessings, for me at least.
i had to take a bus to church today in the evening.being the somewhat-spoilt-brat i am, i didnt know the price of the bus ticket.and all i had on me was 50 cents.50 CENTS.
so i got onto the Metrobus.hoping with my every breath that it'll cost 50 cents.
its not 50 cents.its 90 cents.*sweat*

bus conductor:biase lu ambik berape?
me: lima puluh sen
bus conductor:hah?pegi eastin 90 sen.
me:hah?kak, tak cukup wang lah.ade lima puluh sen je
bus conductor:hah?lima puluh sen je?
me:takde wang la kak.
bus conductor:*smiles* shhhhh..jangan cakap kuat sangat.*walks past me and sits on bar* hari nie hari jadi saye *grins*
me:sorry ye kak.thank you.
bus conductor:takpe la.hari nie birthday saye..

(conversation goes on about random things)

i was honestly shocked.like a pleasant surprise kinda thing.i always thought that bus conductors were moody, mean people.but of all days, it was her birthday and she was in a good mood.so was the bus driver actually.
sometimes the nicest people are those right under your nose.those you see everyday.in the most ordinary way.the lady who cleans the toilet.the road-side sweeper.your gardener.your maid.pleasant, ordinary, simple, nice people.who are OFTEN MISUNDERSTOOD.

im uber-duber grateful to that lady.

God is Great!

Even till today. He is the same yesterday, today and forever :)

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

Re-reading this post reminded me of how awesome and faithful God is in my life.
He's truly been amazing and so real in my life that I would be living in a fantasy to say that He isn't real.
And recently, with all the exam havoc, stress and what not have you, God has really been re-assuring me with His comforting words, "Consider My proven records".
Wow.
Such simple words but it carries such weight and assurance to my previously distressed self over the exams.
:) Oh Jesus - I'm lost for words at the wonder of Your grace and blessings.

Free Beer? Mmmm. :)

2010-08-05T22:52:00.000-07:00

Yesterday (5th August 2010) was International Beer Day!

So what's the story behind International Beer Day some might ask, well - here it is (in summary of course. Its always nice to keep things short and sweet).
From what I've discovered, there's 2 sides of the story.

The Sane and Sober Version:
In 2007, a group of friends decided that there was a need to celebrate all things beer - the brewery, the people, the drink, everything! So they gathered together, called their friends, convinced their local bar and had a jolly good time :)
Soon, they started receiving e-mails about their event and realized they need to make it International. And as of this year, they've managed to make it to 100 countries! That's a pretty good achievement for 3 years!

And then of course, there is the...

Insane and Drunk Version of the Story.

The stories that people come up with are just..amazing. Hahaha!

Lalalalala :D :D

When a Man Stares in the Mirror Longer Than a Woman

2010-08-03T22:55:00.000-07:00

Think of the character Ken in Toy Story 3.

Think of a male friend you know who absolutely will NOT let you touch a single strand of hair on his head.

Think of that guy who looks at any and every single reflection he could fine - which means mirrors, cars, doors, display windows, reflective table tops, their handphones, anything at all!

Think of the skinny guy who doesn't eat rice but chows down on chicken (protein) so he can buff up and go to the gym to body build.

okay, not necessarily this dude but he's too cute, I couldn't resist!

THAT's who I'm referring to.

I wouldn't really say that this phenomenon only begun in recent years cause I distinctly remember seeing pictures of my father with long hair, a gold chain, half un-buttoned shirt and one with him lifting weights peeking a V-shaped body. Which indicates that men have probably been vain for..ever?
(If you think about it, men wore leopard skins when they lived in caves - fashionable much don't you think?hehe.)

SO, where do we draw the line?
Well okay, to be fair - is there even a right or wrong for men to be more vain than women?

I think when a man becomes more vain than a woman, it indicates over-the-top self-indulgence / self interest / self-ness of a guy. Then again..that can be said about women as well.
Maybe the right and wrong of vanity isn't gender related but.. is morally determined by character and consequential actions?
In other words, vanity becomes morally wrong when it a person becomes self-centred and oblivious to the needs of others; resulting in un-conscientious behaviour causing hurt to many around the said person.
Okay, I've digressed.

How vain are you?

Your Life on Facebook/Twitter is Everyone's Juicy Gossip ;)

2010-08-02T10:09:00.000-07:00

Okay, time to blog!
Gawd, I've been so uber busy catching up with my social life, I have had NO time to even sit down and pen my thoughts onto my blog! That's how busy I've been! Great fun catching up with friends and hanging out - still haven't found the time to sit down and read my book, am hoping to get to that soon.

I've got so many to-dos cluttering my head I'm becoming scattered brain! GAH.

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

SOCIAL MEDIA.
That's what's been on my mind these days.

When I say Social Media I mean Friendster, MySpace, Facebook, Plurk, Twitter and the like. I'm not too sure how Social Media started.

Just to indicate the extent of what Social Media is like, here's a few pictures I took at MPH while browsing for books.

a section dedicated entirely to social network and mobile technology, hmmm..

using Twitter as a money making avenue - not surprising at all

talk about captilizing

soon, books will read "How Twitter Change My Life - What a Twit" ;)

Social Media.

Its blessed our lives tremendously by keeping us in contact with friends all over the world, allowing us to find out what's been going on in their lives without too much intrusion into their personal lives.

But little do people realize the effect it has on privacy.

Privacy is so scarce these days . Especially with the availability and accessibility of information through the internet, it really makes me wonder, what information of mine is left private?

The moment a status update goes on Twitter, within a second of clicking upload of all those pictures on FB, so much of a person's life is told - the company, the habits, the places visited, etc.

So what is really left private in your life?

Even my secrets are unsafe..

Tekken is in the Cinemas!!

2010-07-23T23:33:00.000-07:00

Okay honestly, when I hear Tekken, I think of the game and boys staring at the screen with their mouth hanging and their thumbs moving furiously on the PS2 controller.

Courtesy of the Herald

But now, Tekken is in the Cinemas!

And I seriously gotta admit, I have no clue about the characters or the storyline BUT with the help of Wikipedia I managed to find out some pretty awesome characters!

The one that really caught my eye is Christie Monteiro.

But before I post photos of her character I gotta say, her pictures that I found are like..borderline porn/treading on soft-porn kinda thing. The only reason I picked her out of all the other characters is because she fights with a Capoeira style! How cool is that!

Capoeira is a dance/fighting style from Brazil and requires lotsa flexibility and strength to master, so hey, anyone who can fight with Capoeira has seriously got style and some awesome skills.

AND

what's cooler than her fighting style is that

she is hot. *bonus points*

So yeah, here's a few decent photos of Christie!

On a side note, people should seriously not make game characters wear so little. Its like..inducing boys to salivate over half naked women at such a tender age.

I'M BACK BABY! -you know you've missed me ;)

2010-07-21T17:36:00.000-07:00

EXAMS ARE FINALLY OVER!

Its such a HUGE burden and worry off our shoulders. Finishing exams have never felt so liberating till today. Finally, life again! (Although I'm currently suffering from post-exams symptoms like waking up early).

There's so many things to do!
And one of them is to blog blog blog and blog!
oh dear me, how I've missed blogging so much. Its been such a long time since I've blogged.

For now, its party time baybee!
I've got tons of things lined up for my holidays, good and productive stuff too - which includes an active social life! muahahahahah :D YESSSS
going out without any worries is the best thing evaaah!

Speak Up?

2010-06-20T03:09:00.000-07:00

Honestly, I'm really lazy to write this post. Hahaha.

But I can't stand the thought of keeping the previous post hanging, SO.

Students should be allowed to speak as long as:

- they have their facts straight

- they don't make airy-fairy statements and have truth/facts to support their opinions

- the statements are constructive and not destructive in any manner

- tactful and void of any insults/vulgarities (if you don't have anything good to say, why bother saying it? )

- you don't end yourself up in a defamation suit and mess up your education

- be wise and think before you speak; respond instead of reacting in any given situation.

For now, that's all I have.

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

Dear Readers,

The author of this blog will be on a hiatus for a month or so.

CLP exams are 21 days away and every single minute is precious.

Therefore, the author shall only resume to blog post her CLP exams.

The author apologizes for any inconvenience cause and thanks you for your kind understanding over this matter.

Regards,

Debbeh.

Are Students Allowed Freedom of Expression? Should They Even Have It?

2010-06-10T01:19:00.000-07:00

Firstly, please click on the link below and read the article.
Silence of the Mahasiswas - Lee Lian Kong

This article was actually written by a friend of a friend and in my point of view, has excellent points raised.
Looking at the good/bad votes of the comments that were posted just goes to show the mentality of some Malaysians, which honestly is very sad.

A very quick summary of the article: Students have been prohibited by AUKU from demonstrating/ speaking their political views.
Should this be allowed?

I'm gonna withhold my comments and views at this point in time. PLEASE share with me your views on this matter.

Should students be allowed the freedom of expression or should they keep their noses in the books and focus on gaining knowledge?

Nang-able :)

Free Rocky to be Given Away! ;)

2010-06-07T23:12:00.000-07:00

On 11.11 every year, Koreans celebrate a festival called "Pepero Day".

(Pepero is basically like Rocky in Malaysia).

So, on 11.11, people give out Pepero (Rocky) to their loved ones in all shapes, sizes and designs!

Here's a few pictures :)

Not just different, lovely designs but...

also different flavours and types.

Some really really creative designs ( I believe they made these themselves)

Anyone up to celebrate Rocky Day in Malaysia in 11.11?

Nang-able :)

p.s: credits go to the photographers of each picture and belong to their rightful owners.

Villains Escape From Prison at the DiGi Break Free Party!

2010-06-05T20:53:00.000-07:00

Saturday, 29 May 2010: Ecoba, Damansara Perdana at 8pm.

Reports of an unusual crowd and wild people gathering to attend the DiGi Break Free party were made by passer-bys and residents of Damansara Perdana. The authorities believe that Cruella de Vil, who escaped from prison the night before, allegedly caused such noise and gatherings of 'people'.

Cruella de Vil

Cruella de Vil has infiltrated the society and the authorities have reasonable suspicion that the following persons were directly or indirectly involved in Cruella's escape from prison. It has also been reported by several eye witnesses that Cruella has been seen 'lepaking' with these people.

The Grim Reaper, Ninja, Cat Woman

Ms. Pirate Arrr, The Nasty Devil, Poison Ivy and Gorillalala

Incriminating pictures indicating the direct involvement of The Grim Reaper and Ninja have been found by the authorities.

The Grim Reaper and Ninja helping Cruella to break out of prison.

Conniving looks from Ninja and Cruella worry the authorities.

The authorities have also said that Cruella is suspected of illegally dealing with Bijakphones. However, there are evidences leading the authorities to believe that DiGi Telecommunications has been conspiring with Cruella to set her free from prison as well as her illegal dealings with Bijakphones.

Left: Miss Julie Woon, the alleged negotiator of Cruella's freedom.

Right: Marketing Director of DiGi seen taking pictures and giving a Bijakphone to Cruella.

Cruella seen amongst other wanted villains and discussing possible dealing of Bijakphones at the DiGi Break Free party.

A person has reported that Cruella is now disguising herself as a normal human being and is suspected to be seen at DiGi centres negotiating matters.

If anyone has seen or has any knowledge of Cruella de Vil and/or her counterparts,

please call 603-3444 3444 immediately to inform the authorities.

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

Note: The abovementioned matter is purely fictional and in no way represents any truth or suspicion whatsoever of any persons, companies and/or authorities. Sekian.

nang-able :)

virtual insaaaaanity..oh oh..

2010-06-04T01:31:00.000-07:00

I think I'm losing my cents. Wait, no. I mean sense.

I've lost focus and can barely even bring myself to read or to study! I think I need to take a break from all the studying. Next week onwards I need to start memorizing stuff.
1 subject, 1 week and then *boom!* exams are there!

I pray that the Lord be with me and be my comfort in time of great distress.
I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me! Amen!

------

Its heart-wrenching.
I can barely take this. Its like pouring beer. There's a certain angle to pour the beer into a glass to make sure that there is little or no foam. But at the slightest wrong angle, foam starts rising in the glass. And if you don't know when to stop, it'll keep rising and rising - until it reaches the very brim of the glass and you hope... hope deep down in your heart that it doesn't overflow.
I know that its wrong to ask of you yet at the same time, its killing me slowly. And to me, it is dying a slow death. And for once, I'd be more than happy to hear you say I'm wrong.
Tell me there's something. Show me that I have something to look to, maybe not something. Anything? Nah. What about..substance?
Nit-picky.
Someone please take a wrench and wrench my heart the right way.

Duit Kopi Anyone?

2010-06-01T00:07:00.000-07:00

We all know what Duit Kopi is. (of course I don't mean you Starbucks / Coffee Bean coffee fans who have money for coffee i.e. coffee money)

credit goes to the owner and photographer of this pic.

I'm not gonna talk about whether its ethical or not, whether its right or wrong or give you a guilt trip on giving bribes because I'm sure all of us know the answer already

BUT

I'm gonna proudly say this one statement:

less and LESS people are giving Coffee Money!

And yes, this is a good thing.

Its like a vicious cycle, the more citizens who are willing to pay bribes, the more "crooks" society will have.
The fact that less Malaysians are bribing simply means that more and more people are making a stand against corruption and choosing to do good and have integrity.

So yes, there is hope for Malaysia.

There is a future and that future depends on YOUR decisions today.

Small changes can make a BIG difference.

credit goes to the owner and photographer of this pic.

Nang-able here.

I WON THE HTC LEGEND from DiGi's Break Free Party!

2010-05-30T06:01:00.000-07:00

As the 12 finalist were called, my heart pounded and palpitated beyond what I could bear. The other chosen finalists looked equally good yet..evil. The strut of power displayed their dominion and will to win the prize we've all set our eyes upon. And I secretly wished my fake cigarette was a real one instead.
Soon, the last 2 contestants were chosen. The screams were almost drowned by my pounding heart. And then, my heart stopped beating momentarily.

I'VE WON THE HTC LEGEND!

Dear DiGi and Nuffnang,

Thank you for the HTC Legend and most of all, the invaluable opportunity of dressing up and having great fun! It was truly an enjoyable event :) (and I say this with sincerity)

DiGi, thank you for giving me an opportunity to break free from these chains. Looks like I'll be meeting your reps soon to negotiate the terms and conditions of my freedom.

Nuffnang, I cannot thank you enough for your efforts and hardwork for co-organizing the event, without you I would not have met my freedom fighter, DiGi.

Sincerely,
Cruella de Vil

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

Woohoo! YEAH!
I'm gonna be keeping the HTC Legend for as long as I can. And yes, I'm gonna make full use of it as a SMARTphone. Plus, I've got lots of gurus to help me out :)

The prized possession.

Truly a legend to be told.

The happy and un-cruel, un-evil Cruella

(i'm actually a really nice person without the make up and costume)

More pictures soon to come!
(sorry didn't bring my own camera. For the moment, please check out TehTarik's blog as well as Safriz's for awesome pics!)

btw, please nang this post if you like it! :)

Liverpool and Them Lot.

2010-05-23T07:49:00.000-07:00

Missing them so much.

Sigh.

The Cry of SS2's Residents

2010-05-17T08:31:00.000-07:00

Just after Tropicana City Mall (turning onto LDP) look on your left and this is what you'll see:

That was once a retaining wall, which is now..rubble.

more rubble..

and here's the kicker, its in front of a row of houses.

yes, a ROW of houses

(next to the SS2 Balai Bomba)

The reason the retaining wall is broken?

Cause they want to build a ROAD for the people soon to reside in the apartment at Tropicana City Mall.

Honestly, they should NOT be doing this.

Imagine without the retaining how noisy it is for the residents there. With the HIGHWAY right in front of their house and NO RETAINING WALL anymore, I'm sure its gonna be pretty darn noisy.

AND

(as if that's enough)

they're gonna build a ROAD right in front of their house!

So, if anyone of you who are reading CAN do something about this, please let me know. I'll be more than willing to help.

The faster the better cause there's no telling when they'll start building or demolishing more walls!

Why Do We Love?

2010-05-13T09:39:00.000-07:00

Aah, blissfully sweet.

Why do we love?

Even when it hurts us

And disappoints us,

Why do we love?

Poems, songs, dance, dramas, books, quotes

Go on and on about love

Or the lack of it.

Why is it that love is inescapable?

Its almost as if it clasps us

Either chokingly or cozily.

It fills our hearts with glee

Yet makes us vulnerable,

Even to the point of death.

So why do we love if we know

That somehow, sometime we might hurt?

Love is inescapable.

The core of our being cries out for love.

Can you live without love?

We were made to love,

And to be loved.

But can love be everlasting, painless?

picture belongs to its rightful owner.

please nang if you may.

Why Smartphones Can Be Dumbphones.

2010-05-11T10:39:00.000-07:00

Okay, first things first: spending more money on an already expensive phone = DUMB!
So with that established, let's move along!

Why, oh why, would you say that smartphones are dumbphones?!

1. It's NOT "Proof"-ed!

What do I mean by this?

I mean to say that its not water-proof, scratch-proof, fall-proof, fool-proof oh, i mean full-proof.

Here, here let me show you a fool-proofed phone

(eh, i mean full-proofed - aiya, dunno why)

TA DA!

awh..srsly, you gotta agree with me.

OH, on the same note, touchscreen phones are not cold-proof. During winter, when its -14 degrees out there, and your phone happens to be an iPhone (capacitative technology - which means that you cant use objects to touch your phone screen), taking your glove off in winter to reply a text?! Are you nuts? Its almost like you want your fingers to get frost bite and fall off (hmmm..insurance claims anyone?) .

UNLESS you get either one of these accessories!

This also means that you have to spend more money. And what does that mean? Duuuuuuuuuuumb!

Why do humans make life more complicated than it already is?

2. The Complaints (that I've heard thus far).

My friends who have smartphones all brag about how awesome their phone is. And little live in denial about its flaws. For example:

Battery life of the iPhone is horrible! I know of people who know people who i know who know people who carry iPhone chargers everywhere - in their office, car, room, briefcase, laptop bag. Srsly! They carry it everywhere they go. The longest I've heard it lasts? 1 day - without use of data. GEEZ.
BB screen is small, especially the non-touchscreen ones. No, really - don't be in denial now, admit it! How do you see stuff on such a small screen? Which also mean that this limits the users to persons below the age of ...50 on average? Otherwise they'd need to carry a magnifying glass.
Sunlight legibility? most smartphones aren't built with em' fancy shades for a screen and like hello, we live Malaysia!

3. Smartphones For Geeks

(just so you know, geeks is not a derogatory term, in fact, I think it to be a compliment.

How many people do you are uberly familiar with techy stuff hmm?)

Honestly, I know TONS of people who use their smartphones like any other normal phone but with internet.

(or should I say like how they use 'Dumbphones' but with internet?)

All they use their phone for is call, text, check e-mail, play games. What's so smart bout that?!

There's LOADS more you can do with a smartphone. But for some of these smartphones, that means you have to "jailbreak" it, which honestly, doesn't make the phone so smart after all isn't it? Its more like, the phone is smarter cause of the smart person who smartly utilizes the phone to its max.

For example: Google sync? Fring? Skype Mobile? MSN? All the fancy and useful apps - like WorldMate?

Honestly, probably 70% of you who just read that wouldn't know half the things I just mentioned.

SO, why are smartphones so smart again?

Okay, I'm assuming that everyone isn't a geek.

So what if you are and you manage to get all the majorly cool apps and maximize your phone utility?

I doubt you can use every single feature of your phone on a daily basis!

If you can, that means you must be staring at your phone almost 24/7 (except when you sleep)

[editted, sorry forgot to add this]

4. Internet!

To fully utilize smartphones you need to always be connected to the internet.

Which means, that you're either always hunting for WiFi (if you're a freeloader like me..ahem.)

opt to get the cheapest Data Plan in the market and of course, that can only be from 1 provider,

DiGi - DG Smart Plan is srsly a good deal and its undeniable.

AND

my little market survey has proven that DiGi's data plan is much faster than other Telcos.

Technically, if you contact everyone using the internet, skype, msn, gtalk, watsapp, etc etc, you'll end up only paying RM68 a month? that's cheap yo!

*Advice: Compare you current phone bill with how much you can save with a Data Plan.

5. Sociology 101
Okay, maybe I've been a little harsh on smartphones.
BUT there are undeniable impacts of smartphones and the like of such high-tech gadgets!
With smartphones and cheap data plans the world has become accessible with the tip of a finger. This allows everyone to be in constant communication on-the-go no matter where they are (as long as their battery is charged and their phone bills are paid that is).
At the same time, the world has become digitalized.
The human touch and sound even, is lacking almost everywhere.
A simple daily example of people using public transportation. Take a look at the people around you at the train station or bus stop or taxi stand, almost everyone has some kind of a tech gadget their fiddling with. And I dare say that only the lower income group would not have such gadgets (probably staring into space, digging their nose, dozing off or staring at their feet as if there is some huge mystery to be solved about toes).
Are we turning into robots?
Are we succumbing to the works of machines and gadgets and forgetting how to..interact?

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

So, in quick summary, here's what I think:

smartphone = spend more money for accessories. DUMB.

smartphone = only for geeks and the like, which in other words makes normal people look dumb. DUMB?

smartphone = less human communication = DUMB literally Dumb in the true sense of the word.

p.s: pics belong to their rightful owners! thank you for letting me use them :)

and please nang if you like the post :)

Its Momma's Day!

2010-05-09T08:24:00.000-07:00

To my dearest mommy,

Thank you for all your love and care, your tears and sweat that you have shed for me.

My love and thanks to you is beyond words, beyond expression and with the little (and the much) that these words can express for me - Thank you; I'm sorry

but most of all

I love you very much :)

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

As a token of appreciation and love to my momma, I gave her this today...

the 'gift' is on fire!

...getting some greens (and orange?) in there

aaaaand

*drum rolls*

sorry its a littleeee eaten on the side.hehe.remembered to take the pic only after i took the first bite. hehe.

wahlah!

my gift to my mommy (and family)! :)

it was (is) awesome and everyone loved it. hehe.

P.S: Secret to the recipe? TLC (Tender Loving Care)

Malaysians Have The Most Frequent Sex!

2010-05-05T03:57:00.000-07:00

Malaysia ranks No.7 amongst the countries who have the most frequent sex!

Check out the 2007 survey here.

But Malaysia also ranks No.38 as the country with the most rapes - click here.

On the other hand, after some google-ing, I've found out some really interesting facts, like:
- Brazilians have the longest sex (30mins)
- Thai's have the shortest (10mins) but is also the country that most frequently uses condoms
- People in Russia, US and France have the most frequent sex; about 130 times a year (which averages about 10-11 times a month OR 2-3 times a week)
- South Africa and Czech Republic have the youngest persons involved in sexual intercourse (average of 15 year olds)
Click here to see more.

Anyways, why the 'sex-y' post?
Honestly, I'm kinda shocked that Malaysia ranks No.7 as the country who has the most frequent sex. And I began wondering why are Malaysians having so much sex? (Yes I know its a weird thing to wonder about, but seriously!)
So, some of the reasons/excuses I have come up with are:
- they have nothing better to do/bored
- poverty, which leads to boredom and idleness
- stress
- the need to populate
- insatiable sexual desires i.e. just plain horny
- lack of sex education, which leads to curiosity

And coincidentally, the sexual offences in Malaysia have been on the rise..or is it incidental?

Hence, I support Malaysia opening up to Sex Education!

picture belongs to its rightful owner

What Motivates You?

2010-05-03T22:13:00.000-07:00

Seeing that CLP exams are 10 weeks away (yes, 10 weeks people!) I've been struck by a slight exam panic attack. Slight. Which brings me to this topic.
(I can't get over the procrastination and sleepiness for some reason. Sleeping early isn't working for me either. Ugh.)

What drives you?
What motivates you to wake up every morning and do the things you have to do - like work, study, classes, errands, obligations, etc?

--------

Is it the fear of failure that drives you?
Drives you to your wits end and scares you
Scares you to study, to do all it takes to pass, to win.
Is it the fear you want to drive you?

To be driven by fear.
When the failure becomes a reality, and
The fear consumes you from within
What happens? What will you do?

Would you let yourself be driven by someOne else?

Maybe its not the failure.
Maybe its something deeper.
The ridicule? The rejection?
The pain of seeing people look down on you?
Is that it?

If achievements make you who you are - who are you if all of that is taken away?
Yes, it can be taken away.
Who are you?
What drives you to LIVE?

What Has Become of This World?

2010-04-25T21:39:00.000-07:00

Looking at the headlines of newspaper reports today saddens me. Earthquakes, Floods, Protests, Disasters.

Today, the Thai "red shirts" are on my mind. Click here to read about its progress.

From a macro point of view and extremely concise version of the story:

The Thais wanted Thaksin out. Done.

They voted for the current PM, Abhisit Vejjajiva. Done.

Now, the Thais want to dissolve Parliament because they claim that the government took power illegitimately.

Read about the protest here for a more detailed POV, includes pictures.

How true are the claims made by the Thai Red-Shirt's? Only the Thais and the government will know.

My opinion on this matter: if the Government really cared about the people and about keeping peace in the country, they would dissolve Parliament YET at the same time form a de facto Government whom they can rely on to restore order and peace into the country.

But negotiations are over, thus, almost impossibility of forming a de facto Government.

Its reached a situation of "do or die" - literally.

I hope, with all my heart, that this does not become a similar incident to the Tianamen Square Massacre.

Please pray that the situation in Thailand does not end up in bloodshed, please. Thank you.

Behind That Smile, Wish.

2010-04-21T22:20:00.000-07:00

Words being spoken, transpired
Merely highlighted many things, much.
Oh, how times have changed.
The past we used to laugh and enjoy,
The future which we no longer share, or hold.

I wish it were different, honestly.
I wish it weren't as childish as it was, I wish.
Twas once upon time a happy bliss,
Twas then no more beyond that diss.

I wish we could trust once again.
I wish merely upon a star.
My heart is tender yet
My memory is no fool, I wish.

Though my wishes are well,
My blessings are not required.
Even in my generosity, its just a mere, wish.
And to this end, all I can say is
what if...

By-elections - MPs Who Said "Bye-Bye" and the Future.

2010-04-20T09:53:00.000-07:00

Since the General Election in March 2008, Malaysia has had a number of by-elections (11 to be precise - click here for the info). That's almost equivalent to 1 every 2-3 months. And that is quite a number!

Just to name a few by-elections that have taken place: Permatang Pauh, Bagan Pinang, Bukit Gantang, Bukit Selambau, Permatang Pasir, Hulu Selangor, Kuala Terengganu, Labuan, Sibu and the list goes on.
Ever since the epic March 2008 General Elections, the by-elections in Malaysia has been nothing else but in epic support of the epic GE2008. 11 by-elections? In 25 months (or thereabouts)? Would you say that its a coincidence? Maybe fate?
Something is happening.
And its happening now.

Let's acknowledge one fact:

Times Are Changing and Its Changing Rapidly.

The numerous accounts of the by-elections may be a coincidence. But it may also be due to the sheer fact that the leaders of yesterday are no longer young. Most of them are well-aged and have lived a fulfilled life (if I may say on their behalf). Which also means that their time is coming to an end. And the time has come for the younger generation to rise to positions of leadership.

We are the future of Malaysia.

You are.

And only a handful of us realize that our actions now are paving the way for the future generations to come.

You know that little X on the voting slip you mark? THAT will shape our future; the quality of life we will live; the consequences we will have to deal with.

All that Manglish we speak? The little emphasis we have on our education system and the things that are being taught to children? THAT will shape our future.

The question is, are we going to allow other people, other circumstances to shape our future? Will we allow the values and believes of the previous generation slide into our hands without questioning why? Do we, as the younger generation, have a belief of our own? If yes:

What are our current beliefs based on?

Is it what others say? What the 'leaders' say? Is it because its popular and happening and its what everyone else is saying? Is it because the older ones say so?

What are Your current beliefs BASED on?

The Curious Case of the Creepy Crawlies and..Ants!

2010-04-19T01:18:00.000-07:00

ants. ants. ants. ANTS!

Ever noticed how many ants there are on your table? or your wall? your floor? When you brush your teeth or wash the dishes?

ITS EVERYWHERE!

And recently, I've found them on my bed. Yes, my BED.

Now, you MUST understand that my bed is ever so so so precious to me. I <3 my bed.

I don't even eat on my bed! Hence the reason why I don't understand why there are ants on my bed. AND its only at the top of my bed!

Sigh.

I sleep in fear of ants crawling into my ear now. Yes, they can crawl into your EAR and starting eating, biting the stuff in it. Happened to my brother before - scary.

My solution?

SMACK 'em ants till it dies!

*This is apparently a screenshot of an iPhone App. Cool eh?

But this is only temporary. Until I google some kind of ant-killing method that will eliminate ALL the ants in my house, besides calling the pest control ( I think the charges for pest control are ridiculous and uber unreasonable).

:) Nang-able.

Nang! Nang? Naaaang...

2010-04-18T03:45:00.000-07:00

Whilst promo-ing my blog and the like, my friends ask me, "What's Nang?!"

What does Nang mean?

Nang = Vote

*Tadaaa! Okay, post finish. Hehe. Kidding*

To Nang a post, you must first be a Nuffnang member. When you Nang a blogger's post, it gains popularity. And the blogger's post can be the most popular by day, week or month. So, in other words, its like a fame/popularity contest :)

How do you Nang or Dang?

STEP 1: Go to www.nuffnang.com.my

Nuffnang is a blogger's community AND also an online platform for advertising. Which means that you can earn money if you join Nuffnang and place their adverts on your blog :) (pay-per-click principle - similar to Google ads).

When you join the blogger's community, there are loads of events, competitions and give-aways. And people other members of the bloggers community can Nang or Dang your post - which means that you have a chance to be a celebrity blogger ;) Woot! Why not hmm?

STEP 2: Sign Up

Fill in your details etc etc etc - the usual stuff. Please note that to Nang or Dang you have to be a Glitterati member which will automatically be done for you within 3-4 days after you sign-up with Nuffnang. If you have a blog, you can post their adverts on your blog etc if you're interested in earning some money :)

STEP 3: Nang or Dang at http://innit.nuffnang.com !

After your Nuffnang membership status has been upgraded to a Glitterati membership (once again, this is done automatically for you within 3-4 days) visit http://innit.nuffnang.com. When you enter the website, just sign up with your nuffnang ID and start nang-ing or dang-ing!

If you have a blog, you can put up any of your posts to have nuffnangers nang em' or dang em' (hopefully they all get nang-ed).

Oooookay, that's all.

Hopefully people know how to Nang my posts now :) please do so if you think its worth the Nang k?

Thank you!
although I personally don't think this post is worth nang-ing. heh. :)

VOTE FOR BN?

2010-04-15T19:09:00.000-07:00

“NO. Never. Rdiculous. *String of chineseindianmalay bad words and accusations* Are you insane? Are they paying you?”

Okay, before you jump all over this post , please don’t :)

Please read with an open mind and read what I have to say. Don’t jump to conclusions. Be objective. Think and don’t listen to what others are saying. You, this post and your thoughts. And of course, I respect your opinions and thoughts, so please respect mine :) Thank you. (Let’s practice freedom of thought and speech shall we?)

Clause 4A, Article 66(4) of the Federal Constitution [see also Article 159(3) please click here to view the Federal Constitution of Malaysia - search for 'two-third', you should find it] states that for any legislation to be passed, there must be at least two-thirds majority of Parliament present and voting for the said law to be enacted.

This then brings us to the composition of Parliament and of course, this is dependent on who you vote for to be your representative in the State and Federal Government.

Now linking the voting and passing of legislation.

If two-thirds (or more) of Parliament consists of ONE political party, it is much easier to pass the Bill [it is called a ‘Bill’ at this stage because it is still in discussion and not finalized as law yet]. And the possibility of that ONE party voting for that Bill to be passed is highly likely - even if it is for a simple reason such as loyalty to their own political party; no one wants to be seen as a betrayer to their own team right?

However, if NO ONE political party has two-thirds majority in Parliament, it can almost be said with certainty that there will be debates (yes, plural; with an S) over the Bill.

Hence, with all the speculation that is going about and the news, demonstration etc and even table-talk politics with friends, I predict (and predictions can always be wrong) that a lot of people will be voting for the Opposition.

But the one thing you should keep in mind whilst voting are two-fold: (i) Will One political party have absolute power in Parliament? (ii) Will there be impartiality and fairness?

Like I said earlier, if any ONE political party has two-thirds majority in Parliament – ANY law can be passed and I literally mean ANY. If they want us to wear freaking neon pink every Tuesday, they can pass that law because that one political party has a 2/3 majority in Parliament.

Hence the reason for the title.So how about it?

What do you say to a two-party system?

Just some food for thought.

Its time that we learned how to make informed-decisions. :)

‘Power Corrupts; Absolute Power Corrupts Absolutely’ - John Emerich Edward Dalberg Acton

*The opinion of this post does not in any way relate to whom the author will be voting for in the future. Times are ever-changing and thus, wisdom to perceive.

Why You Should NOT Be Skinny :)

2010-04-13T20:46:00.000-07:00

Fat, Fat, Fat. No matter how slim/skinny, 85% of people will say they're fat anyway (especially girls - and I have just become part of my own statistics.sigh.)

So who on earth created this social "requirement" to be skinny in the first place? Well here's a few; the media, the fashion world, friends (who are highly influences by the media and fashion world), the gym fanatics, health enthusiasts, salesmen for gyms, models or wannabe ones, your-traumatised-childhood-from-all-the-teasing-of-calling-you-fat-and-'fei chai'-and-other-horrible-names.
And hence, the reason why the world is flooded with diet plans and "lose X pounds in just 10 days!". Not to mention the 'problems' its created such as bulimia and anorexia.

Why can't people fight against these unreasonable social norms?
Possible answers: rejection, ridicule, fear.

Anyways, reasons why you should not be skinny:

Underweight, Normal Weight or Overweight?

Normal Weight of course! How do you determine that? Check the Body Mass Index (BMI). For those who wish to do so, please click here. BMI basically calculates your body mass (fat, muscle etc) according to your height and weight.

However, there is a more detailed test (I don't know the name of it) which tells you the percentage of fat (good and bad) and muscle mass in your body. Please see your regular GP for this.

Love Handles - Handles to Be Loved.
Honestly, hugging a skinny person scares me cause I'm afraid of hurting their fragile body! (Not that I'm amazingly huge or gigantic.) Hence, its always nicer to have some "meat" while hugging or being hugged. Think of it as hugging a big big big teddy bear and a small one. Which one feels more comforting? :) you know the answer to it already, don't you? ;)

'Real Women Have Curves' - this is a title of a movie btw.

Voluptuousness is attractive. Curves are sexy. And the fact is that skinny people don't have such curves cause they don't have the "fat"! Nuff said.

Men Need Presence.
I dare say, most women don't like scorny, skinny men. I guess that's the reason so many guys take protein shake these days (Btw, if you haven't noticed, it gives you kinda of a 'fake' looking body). Most women want security, their 'knight in shining armour' and I don't think protection equates to feeble. Fat is not strong. Buff is not strong. Strong is strong, okay guys? :)

Food, Glorious Food.
If (and when) you're not so uptight about being skinny all the time, you might just begin to enjoy the food that's available in the world. Might. Food is more than just taste, its culture, its day-to-day living of the people and its so telling of how the country is, its roots. I'm not just talking about Malaysian food, I'm talking international. So open your stomachs, mouths and (if possible, go overseas) taste and see the richness of food!

And with this I say: Go forth and be prosperous!

Caveat:

Skinny is not slim.

Slim is not underweight.

Not being skinny is not overweight or obesity.

Be healthy , well-nourished and LIVE!

Saving Your Cents!

2010-04-06T10:14:00.000-07:00

Student life = No money OR constantly saving money, constantly (For the most of us at least). Hence the need for this post. Its like a mental and psychological reinforcement for me to start saving too. Hmm.

So, here's a few tips to help you save money (from a woman's point of view, ahem):

1. EAT at cheap places OR eat at home! To eat outside for a cheap price and still feel full for a good 4 hours you can do either of the following:

(a) eat roti canai and order a milky drink, like teh ais or milo ais (less than RM3 on average*)

(b) eat 'chap fan' / nasi campur! when choosing your dishes, take 1 meat and 2 veges. order water for drinks or just bring your own! yes people, you should be eating your veges :) (less than RM5 on average*)

(c) banana leaf (usually vegetarian) - tambah nasi while u're at it! BUT beware, some stores charge you extra when you add rice (less than RM7 on average*)

*prices are highly dependant on location and store.

2. SHOP at budget places OR don't shop at all (I am well aware that the latter is almost impossible). A few good places to get good bargains: pasar malam (especially the one in Cheras on Wednesdays), flea market on Sundays at Mont. Kiara and the Curve, mydin (for bulk items), Times Square, Sungai Wang and of course during sales! A good site to check out for sales is www.shoppingnsales.com

Alternatively, save all your money to get that ONE thing you always wanted/needed. This way, you not only have the incentive to save but you also have the satisfaction of reaping your savings.

To not shop, ask yourself, 'Do you really NEED to buy this?' and 'If I buy it, how long will it last and how often will I use it?'

3. Going for DRINKS. Ladies, here's the trick. If you want to go for a drink or two (or get totally smashed), get a guy to ask you out for drinks. How? Flirt - its fun and to some extent, harmless :)

But if you're not the kind to flirt etc, cheapest to drink is to go during happy hour or (my personal favourite) get a bunch of friends to chip in to buy a few bottles, go to a park/house, drink and be merry! No frills at no extra cost!

4. Get a piggy bank or a Coin Jug. YES its old school but its really effective! Especially the Coin Jug. Firstly, get a nice BIG jug (beer jugs seem to be the best for these, ironically). Secondly, empty all the coins you can find into that jug. Thirdly, DO NOT TAKE ANY COINS FROM THE JUG. Fourthly, empty all your coins everyday into that jug. And once its filled to its brim, bring it to the bank to change all of it - you'd be pleasantly surprised how much you can save.

Those are the primary things you can do to start saving you cents and also to some degree, your senses :) Other, more pro-active methods of saving are, doing odd jobs such as promoters, waitressing, freelance graphic designing/videography/photography, etc. CNY does help loads too.

Something you shouldn't do, GAMBLE. Its mathematically (and probably psychologically) proven that gambling does not make you earn money. You eventually make money to cover your previous losses. And once you've made a loss, there's a higher tendency to repeatedly gamble in order to regain what was lost earlier and soon, it'll lead to compulsive gambling. So, don't start gambling. Thank you. (*Speaker buzzs and beeps* "This is a community message brought to you by...")

Start saving your cents!

ALL PICTURES BELONG TO THEIR RIGHTFUL OWNERS AND RESERVE ALL PROPRIETARY RIGHTS AND OWNERSHIP OVER EACH RESPECTIVE PHOTOGRAPH.

For You.

2010-04-03T09:24:00.000-07:00

Its dark and cold, gloomy. The body trembles at the knowledge of what is to come; "don't let this happen to me, please".
Walking towards his closest friends, he finds them asleep despite knowing that his greatest sorrow is drawing near. "Wake up! Keep watch for me." But..
Foot steps come marching.
Torches are seen.
Chains are heard.
And in that moment, he knew, the time had come.
Swiftly he was arrested, place at the mercy of those he loved dearly, an unrequited love that is. They scorned and despised him. Spat and him whilst he looked at them with loving eyes. Later, he could only look to the ground as they shamed him and humiliated him.
Knees to the ground and hands chained. Whip after whip he endured the pain. His flesh ripped from his back, blood dripping down his face, nose, eyes. He could barely see.
Forced to walk and carry his own death, he stumbled with each step. Sand in his wounds, jeers in his ears. His loved ones, murdering him.
His arms and legs were pried open, stretched beyond its limit. His wounds scrapped against the rough surface. Pinned down, he was left to bleed to death. Left to die in the open whilst his lovers continuously insulted him from below.
Yet, he still loved them, he still forgave them.
And with his last breath, he hung there - for you.

He may have never told you or you may not have listened to him but today, know this:
Jesus loves you.
The holy and righteous One died that we might be forgiven of our sins. An everlasting sacrifice - for you, that you might have life to the fullest.

Death had no power over Him. 3 days later, He rose to be with his Father. But also, to commune with us, His children, the ones He loves so dearly.

And today, You are remembered. Thank You for everything you have done and given to us.
-Written for You.

The NEM - bringing horses to the stream?

2010-04-01T03:35:00.000-07:00

Malaysia's New Economic Model 2010 (NEM) has been in the buzz for awhile now.
The question I often her is, "What is the NEM and what's so new about it?". That's the same question I ask myself and attempt to unravel here.

Firstly, have a read of what the NEM is about here. Some highlights of the NEM courtesy of NST:

* Employees Provident Fund (EPF) will be allowed to invest more in overseas assets;

* Malaysian Industrial Development Authority (MIDA) will be corporatised and renamed as Malaysian Investment Development Authority to make it more effective as an investment promotion agency;

* Government and EPF to form a joint venture to promote the development of 1,200 hectares of land (3,000 acres) in Sungai Buloh into a new hub for the Klang Valley;

* Several parcels of land in Jalan Stonor, Jalan Ampang, Jalan Lidcol in Kuala Lumpur will be tendered out and developed by private sector, failing which it will be wasteful if the assets were not developed as the government will incur cost of maintaining them;

* The land development in Sungai Buloh and development of parcels of land in the city centre is expected to generate new investments worth over RM5 billion;

* The Ministry of Finance Inc companies such as Percetakan Nasional Malaysia, CTRM Aero Composites Sdn Bhd, Nine Bio Sdn Bhd and Innobio may be privatised;

* Petronas has identified two sizeable subsidiaries with good track record to be listed this year on Bursa Malaysia, a move that will reduce government's presence in business and enhance private sector's role;

* Khazanah Nasional Bhd will divest its 32 per cent stake in Pos Malaysia Bhd through a two-stage strategic divestment process

So, Malaysia's economic plans have seemingly always consisted of 3 broad values, namely:
(a) Attracting foreign investors and investing overseas;
(b) More involvement form the private sector (such as the Private Fund Initiative (PFI) - here's a good article/summary on PFIs); and
(c) Sustainability.
The main purpose of these policies are, of course, to increase the per capita income of Malaysia. And to add, these directions aren't exactly something we haven't heard of before.
Malaysia's economy has always been striving to open up to foreign investors and to attract the private sector involvement for years and years.

Anyway, back to the NEM.
Will the NEM achieve its goals? Will it really double Malaysia's per capita income in 10 years? I must say, that is very ambitious.
Honestly, I don't think the current focus of the NEM per se will be able to do all of that. But, we've got 10 years and ALOT can happen in 10 years.

And just to highlight a matter:

"The Prime Minister also said under the NEM, no one would be left out in contributing to and sharing in the creation of wealth as the country progresses.

"Not only do I want the rakyat to earn better but they must also live better" which is why raising the quality of life is an integral part of the economic model, he said"

(click here for the full report).
Interesting that this was said in his speech. Hmmm.
Now, let's see it get walked, breathed and worked in Malaysia.

So what's my view on the NEM?
All I can say is, these values/initiatives aren't exactly the latest trends or the newest policies Malaysia has ever seen before.
BUT
its a good start. Let's not shoot them down before they can even mount the horse, shall we?
Whether the good start remains as a starting point is up to the action plans and deliverables of the Govt. Anyway, its all about KPIs now isn't it? So let's wait and see whether their KPIs are met and hope that the KPIs aren't lowered so they can meet them :)

And I will end with this quote by Albert Einstein:
"Insanity: doing the same thing over and over again and expecting the same results"

Flowers, Oh Dear Flowers, Why Do Women Love Thee?

2010-03-31T10:13:00.000-07:00

Women love flowers - well, at least most do.

[Yes, I take cognizance of the fact that there are women who are allergic to flowers/pollen. These allergies create various reactions such as chronic sneezing coughing, flu, inflamed glands and occasionally the violent tossing of flowers into rubbish bins, anger, heartbrokenness, sadness, screaming, crying, retail therapy or constant munching of junk food and chocolates.]

Oh flowers, beautiful flowers..

you may be given by a lover or a friend,

you may have been bought with a price;

you may have been picked from a garden or a field, or

grown before my eyes.

Oh, flowers, you make me smile with glee.

So why do women love flowers?

1. Their beautiful, colourful and smells wonderful (Guys must wonder about women's sense of smell)

2. They make a dull place look bright, they make a gloomy day full with sunshine.

3. Maybe, its not the flowers. Maybe its the charming act of giving and receiving.

4. Maybe women have been so entrenched with fairy tales and fictional ideologies of love that our hearts believe that to receive flowers is to be serenaded by Prince Charming and it exudes romance, charm, love and...everything nice.

Why I think men don't like giving flowers:

1. Cause it dies!

2. Cause it blooms and then dies. Such a waste of money - money I could've used to buy ciggies/alco!

3. Or the typical answer, "I dunno what flower she like la" (And I have to agree with this, if you don't know her favourite flowers, don't buy any cause you might end up buying the wrong flowers!) and hence, all the more reason men should learn the meaning of flowers!

And just one more to add to the list - yellow chrysanthemums. Their usually used in funerals, Buddhist prayers, placed on altars and used to make chrysanthemum drinks. SO guys, please don't give the girl you like/love yellow chrysanthemums, it really isn't appropriate. UNLESS she really really loves them and doesn't bother about its meaning.

Anyways, to end, love em' flowers! Its gonna grow anyway, why let it die in vain? Appreciate them and use them to charm your woman, men! :)

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

Here's a question, WHO CREATED THE MEANING OF FLOWERS IN THE FIRST PLACE?
And we go aaaaaaaaaall the way back to the Victorian era. For a more detailed meaning of flowers and the origin of its meaning, please read here.

2010-03-25T02:28:00.001-07:00

The rain and its rumblings today don't match.

*rumble rumble ROAR*

spit water falls from the sky

*GRROAR*

big drops and tiny drops fall.

apa hal doh?

And on to the real topic...*ahem ahem*

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

I've been camping at the TTDI Library for the past 2 days! I must say, its a great place to study because...

It has hugeeee tables (i like..hehe).

It also has different kinda tables at different corners..

and for those who cannot live without internet for an hour there's always

Anyways, usually you have to pay RM2 for 2 hours OR

RM6 (one-off payment) + RM10 (per annum) for membership, which allows you ingress and egress into the library as you wish.

BUT

their having a promotion until 28th March 2010 which gives you membership for free! yay! (finally somethings are really free)

So yeah, that's where I've been.

Although its a really good place to study, its quite depressing looking. I think its cause of the colour and the deco of the place. Agak depressing la. Also, I don't find it easy to browse for books at all. It'll probably take me ages to figure out where are the books I wanna read.

Other than that, there's a small cafe outside - for hungry/malas moments

(which honestly, come by quite often for me..hehe)

Any interesting fact:

The security guard walks around with a rottan tucked behind his belt.

So don't mess! or you're gonna get hurt real bad.

( Sorry no pic - I scared I get canned :( )

Also, my normal hours of sleeping are 4am-12pm now! O.o

I think my body is telling to give live somewhere in Europe. hahahah. no?

2010-03-22T22:42:00.000-07:00

In Evidence class (by Ms Mariette), we were discussing about Character Evidence - specifically, whether divorce amounts to bad character or not.

In argument against a divorcee having bad character, here are a few probable reasons :

1. No 2 persons can be forced to be together when their relationship is irreconcilable and neither party is willing make the effort to better the relationship.

2. If a party in a marriage has committed adultery, it would not be fair for the other party to "suck-it-up" and continue to be the faithful one in the marriage.

On a side note of this, I've heard men argue that its normal for men to stray away in a marriage because they've got uncontrollable desires. But when women cheat on their husbands - that's just unacceptable.

This argument to me, is utter rubbish. It takes 2 tango. Keep your 'excited-ness' in your pants and for your wife and don't treat women like we live in the Victorian era.

3. If a divorcee was previously subject to physical abuse from the other partner for whatsoever reason, its not fair to allow it to continue simply because "we're married".

4. Any many other complex reasons that may arise to cause the divorce.

However, the argument for a divorcee to be seen as having bad character is simple.

How much do you sincerely and genuinely value the vows that were uttered on your wedding day?

A sample of a marriage vow:

I, ____, take you, ____, to be my (husband/wife). I promise to be true to you in good times and in bad, in sickness and in health. I will love you and honor you all the days of my life. I, ____, take you, ____, for my lawful (husband/wife), to have and to hold, from this day forward, for better, for worse, for richer, for poorer, in sickness and in health, until death do us part.

See the last 5 words at the end? In simpler words, are you willing to (literally) give your life to your spouse? That you would love your spouse despite all the beatings, the arguments, the affairs and other problems that may occur during the marriage?

That's the seriousness of a marriage and the vows you utter.

Which leads us to a deductive reasoning that because a divorcee is unable to fulfil the marriage vow, a divorcee is seemingly an untrustworthy, unreliable, unfaithful person and of bad character.

That's why when picking your life partner, (i) pick wisely; (ii) have a pre-nuptial agreement and/or (iii) a nuptial agreement - so that everything is contractual.

Alternatively, don't say the marriage vows! Hah. Then it won't be such a serious matter isn't it?

Adversely, if you do wish to say the vows, just make sure that the ending of the vow, "until death do us part", doesn't become a goal ;) (courtesy of Achmed the Dead Terrorist, Jeff Dunham)

p.s: we happen to live in a liberal society these days, where we believe in human rights such as the Right to Life :)

2010-03-22T09:58:00.000-07:00

Here's something for you to ponder about.

Are the historical facts we learnt in school (primary and secondary) really the truth about how, what and who Malaysia is?

How certain are you that the 'historical facts' you learnt in school are the truth?

What if they weren't? What if those 'historical facts' we learnt were a bunch of tales formed, created, affirmed and possibly fabricated by the authorities to be instilled and taught to generations to come in its efforts to somehow bastardize, dilute, twist and possible change history?

Here's a quick insight to what I'm specifically referring to.

http://harismibrahim.wordpress.com/2010/03/20/a-national-history-founded-on-lies/

And so, I shall leave you to your own thoughts, conclusions and findings.

Btw, I'm not saying everything is un-true. Maybe just selected, intentional facts.

2010-03-22T01:21:00.000-07:00

Lawyers.

In a general, unofficial survey, lawyers are known for a few things:

- being lawyers because they want to make a lot of money;

- crooks/conman/swindlers (whatever you want to call them) i.e. lawyer buruk;

- womanisers (mostly male lawyers);

- drunkards (due to the enormous amount of stress and nonsense lawyers face everyday);

- anal, especially when it comes to word processing

- really smart/intellectual (not many people think of lawyers this way)

- have a good command of the English language (depends which standard your comparing it to)

and so on, so forth.

But, as you can tell, most people don't have a good impression of lawyers. I suppose its due to their experiences or previous stories that they've heard that give them a bad impression. And honestly, I don't blame them because I've come across some stereotypical lawyers that fit one or more of those descriptions.

Many people these days are cautious of lawyers and for good reason. A simple google search (type lawyers and criminal breach of trust) will verify indicate to you the statistics.

Why or how? Generally, law firms act as stakeholders for their clients i.e. they hold the deposit on trust for the client until the need to make payment. Take for example, the sale and purchase of a property. Purchaser A offers Xmillion to the owner to purchase his property. However, the owner will inevitably receive various offers from other purchasers, who may offer more than Purchaser A. Hence, to secure the purchase of property (pending the paperwork to be sorted out), Purchaser A will deposit 10% of Xmillion to the owner's lawyers pending the completion of the Sale and Purchase order.

In simple layman terms, its placing money with your lawyers to ensure you get "first dips" to purchase the property.

So, when law firms have soooooo much money in their client's account, isn't it tempting to just snag a little and go for a shopping spree? Then later on, when your next salary comes, just put it back into the account? Of course its tempting! But, it is unethical down right to the core even if it is 5 sen that you take out from your client's account.

As much as I know I'm gonna be a lawyer in the future, I've got values and principles I abide and live by. And one of them is to be trustworthy :)

Hence, unfortunately, I know that I'll never have my moment of fame (or infamous-ness rather) in the newspapers.

2010-03-15T21:39:00.000-07:00

Struggle, wrestle.

Ever since I came back from UK its been about adjusting, adapting.

But at the same time I've been busy running about and being caught up with moving on in life and making sure I didn't live in the yesteryears of the "good ol' times" I had in Liverpool. And that itself has consumed me, all of my time, my thoughts that I haven't had the chance to real sit and just embrace everything that has happened.

And so I struggle, struggle in my journey with God. I fight and wrestle to make it a conscious effort. What once used to be something natural, has now become - alien.

Nothingness, emptiness.

At some point or points in life, there is that aching nothingness and emptiness.

Its dull, its constant. And it aches, your heart beats with this ache in it. And sometimes, all you really want to do is just dwell in the sorrow - for a little while longer, just a little more. Days become weeks, weeks become months. And, the ache is still there.

We try, ever so slightly, to take that ache away. Maybe a short prayer, spending time reading the Bible once or twice in a week, going out with friends to have a good laugh. A may work - temporarily at least.

From head to heart.

In my head, I know what I need to do. I know the truth and I know very well that it will set me free. But knowing and doing it? 2 different things. Understanding and believing? 2 different things. And honestly, the journey from head to heart is taking very long. very very long.

2010-03-14T12:50:00.000-07:00

Writers block.

its 3:50am.

and i'm not asleep?

Need. Study. Evidence :(

Bah.

2010-03-11T01:35:00.000-08:00

This post is inspired by Plants vs. Zombies ending/credit song.

(click on this link to watch: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0N1_0SUGlDQ )

I'm amazed at how certain songs can have such destructive, horrifying, terrifying and baaaad lyrics but still sound so happy.

A simple example. Nursery rhymes.

"London bridge is falling down, falling down.."

"Rock a bye baby, in the treetop...When the bough breaks, the cradle will fall. And down came baby, cradle and all."

There's also: humpty dumpty (who fell off the wall); Jack & Jill (who also rolled down the hill - im not sure how they survived this) and many more.

[psst.. the one acceptable to me is twinkle, twinkle little star :D]

So anyway, I'm still amazed how it sounds so chirpy/comforting even though the lyrics are really, really not something a little baby should listen to.

2010-03-08T00:24:00.000-08:00

Prior to the continuance of me studying the hierarchy of Malaysian court, I now take a break to present to you, 'A hypothetical theory of Ramly 7-eleven's'.

p.s: pic not taken by me but by..m2mc (i suppose)

So, having made an observation based on the best ramly burger stalls I know and eat at, I've noticed how they usually open in front of 7-eleven (only those that are shoplots la; you can't possibly expect a 7-eleven in a mall to have a ramly burger stall right in front of its door - although I would presume that this may occur).

Hypothetical reasoning to support the hypothetical theory:

- if customers get thirsty, they may purchase any drink of their choice at 7-eleven

- if customers needs tissue, it is well available at 7-eleven

- while customers are waiting for their burger, they may choose to read a magazine or buy newspaper (also they may want to wait in an air-conditioned place)

- any person who stops by 7-eleven but needs something more substantial than biscuits to eat, can choose ramly burger

- if customers want to use a toilet, there is one at 7-eleven (although from experience, I will say that usually they won't let you use it. for good reason too. so don't bully them la)

- if customers feel stomach discomfort, they may purchase eno from 7-eleven :D

Hence, 7-eleven's an ramly burger stalls have a symbiotic relationship which eventually, benefits all consumers :D

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

Also, I realized over the weekend, that if I want a certain lecturer to read my blog, all I have to do is spell her name out in my blog :D wahahaha.

Maybe when I write more..worthy things of her attention I'll write her name. See if it catches her attention.

Oh, there is a dire need to study CPC and Evidence - both of which have mock exams soon!

2010-03-05T08:59:00.000-08:00

My first week of not working is complete!

However, I somehow feel like I have regressed in life. I guess its cause of the working to studying instead of working to working at/in a better job.

Anyways, YES I have been studying. Not as much as I'd like to but nonetheless, I still studied.

The good thing is that I've found a place to study! And its a pretty decent place for me to study, although it may be a little costly. I shall not reveal the place because I want it aaaaaaaaaaaall exclusively for me :D hehehehe.

(if you're nice enough to me I might just let you know) hehehe.

On the other hand, the highlight of the week is:

HAPPY BIRTHDAY JON!

(supposed to be wished on 3rd March)

We were supposed to go to Kanching Waterfalls BUT we couldn't find the place. even with Garmin we couldn't. we kinda ended deep in the nooks and crannies of Klang. Hence, the kelapa sawits surrounding us.

I must say, despite the scariness of its un-civility, its a pretty decent scenic area.

And on the side update, I'm addicted to Plants vs. Zombies!

Its such a nice game to play! :D hehehe. I cannot wait to get the full version. hehe.

2010-02-10T18:00:00.000-08:00

CHINESE NEW YEAR!

GONG HEI FATT CHOY!

Yes, its that time of the year again. And for some people it means..

collecting ang pau and more ang pau - whether to keep or to gamble!

...........................

For others, it might be about..

the dances, the decoration, the sounds, sights, smells

(food or even the lingering firecracker smell)

and mostly,

keeping with the traditions, supersistions and chinese culture :)

...........................

On the other hand, it may resemble a time of celebration, fellowship and reunion with family and friends! And of course, you cannot have any of that without...

FOOD, Glorious Food!

and more food!

oh, and i almost forgot the spirit that holds all together (or apart :P)

HAPPY CHINESE NEW YEAR everybody!

Wishing you a prosperous new year filled with God's love, peace, joy and favour :)

Let me know if you'll be in KL okay (and of course, you know me personally la)

p.s.: my personal CNY challenge is to NOT eat excessively!

2010-02-08T23:26:00.001-08:00

So, I’m in the office now. Wanting to go home and sleep cause I have this massive headache that is throbbing behind my eyes that it even hurts to open my eyes.

BUT, I cannot go home because I have to be in the office. GAH. It hurts. Badly.

Anyways, I’ve got 2 more weeks to go for work. Just 2 more and I’m DONE. No more unnecessary stress. Woopiedoo!

Well, I must say when I mentioned that work was gonna be a good exposure for me, I didn’t know it was gonna be this much exposure. I literally have been through in 6 months, all that a normal company would go through in probably..10 years? So hey, although I’ve got lots to complain about, I’ve also got lots to be thankful for.

Now, while my head continues throbbing, I hope to ease my mind alittle and rest in the office, like sleep on my chair? Pretty difficult tho considering I have to keep reminding myself to not fall off the chair. Heh.

And, I’ve got CNY shopping to do after this, so my head CANNOT continue feeling like this! Cannot cannot cannot! Work panadol, work! Come on!

Okay, tis all. :)

2010-02-04T05:04:00.000-08:00

La la la la la.

I've got a old new phone :D been playing about with it and now I'm contemplating on getting a data plan! BUT I will soon no longer have earning power, which is end of this month :( booo

but yay!

because I don't have to work. and deal with people I don't like dealing with.

AND I only have *calculates with fingers*

12 working days left!! wooohooo!

I believe I've experienced quite a fair bit already and its really time for me to hit the books and bury myself in them!

having to deal with so many things is not fun.at all.

then again, time has really flew by! its been almost 6 months working already for me! O.o

ANYWAY,

if anyone has good and practical winmo apps to recommend me, please let me know. :)

thank you.

AND

I'm cutting down on carbs i.e. rice

AND

also Starbucks - cause my purse has a HUGE hole in it now..buuuurn.

AND

I'm hoping that I will get bonus *crosses fingers* pleaseeeeeeeeeeeeeeee

2010-01-26T22:35:00.000-08:00

It’s been 27 days into 2010.

So much has happened to our nation. Times are changing, society is evolving – question is, what are we turning into?

Malaysia turns 53 this year and look at where we are. On one hand, we blame the leaders or the lack thereof. But is it really just the leaders? What about the rakyat, what about us, what about you?

For a nation to change, the rakyat must mature, evolve, understand and embrace change – not shun and criticize the first mention of change we hear (provided the change is logical and for the betterment of all facets of society).

We (including myself) can gripe on and on about the happenings in Malaysia. But I don’t want to because the nation is filled with pessimism, criticism and words without actions.

Its not enough for us to say “STOP!” or “We condemn these acts” because as much as these statements ease our troubled hearts, matter of the fact is that, it’s still happening. And us merely talking, doesn’t do or help things.

Here’s the kicker, dare we change and/or act with a positive attitude collectively towards all that is happening? Dare we, as the rakyat, knit our hearts as one for the better of Malaysia? Dare we? Dare you?

We have to stop waiting and lepaking on these issues because as rightly said by a minister, if it is not dealt with now and immediately, things will worsen – and we do NOT need to wait for ‘properties to burnt or lives to be lost’ before doing what is right.

United we stand, divided we fall.

2009-12-22T21:21:00.000-08:00

oh wow. its been a long while!

Okay, SO. major things have been happening.

my grandpa passed away on Sunday morning.

hence, the past few days have been full of funeral procedures and procession.

as much as it brings out the filiality in you, it also highlights alot of other things.

one thing i realized is that in S'pore, the funeral procedures aren't as elaborate and detailed as the one in KL. HUGE difference. altho the one in KL was way over the top, the one in S'pore was totally under the standard. really really simplified.

but i guess that it kinda comes with modernization/urbanization of a country. the culture and traditional is lost or rather..its been re-moulded to fit the character of the country.

agreeable?

and good things have come out of this funeral.

reconciliation namely.

after a long hard cold silence, warmth has finally crept back in.

and altho i wished it were strengthened by us staying longer, it was cut short.

something i don't really like. sigh.

BUT

nasi sudah menjadi bubur.

so, i cannot do much but move on and PRAY most of all for my family.

and that i will do.

anyways,

TIS THE SEASON TO BE JOLLY FA LA LA LA LA LAAA LA LA LA LA

MERRY CHRISTMAS EVERYONE!

let's celebrate the birth of Jesus and His sacrificial act of unconditional love for us this season!

2009-11-09T07:13:00.000-08:00

in need of female talk.

mayday.over.

time to shut out?

i dunno.

maybe it'll just be me and alki. hmmm.

2009-11-05T06:14:00.000-08:00

because i'm damn pissed and hungry.

you know what's terribly wrong with this world?

everyone only looks all the shit and wrongs you do rather than the good things you've done.

1 mistake eliminates 1000 rights.

well, to people who can't see past the wrong that a person does, you can shove it.

i'm absolutely sick and tired of people treating you like crap just because of one wrong thing you've done.

there's no need for sarcastic and cynical remarks when a small tiny, rectifiable mistake is done.

no need. understand?

just say, okay next time, try not to repeat it and move on with life la!

be forgiving. not judgmental.

i'm not saying i don't do it.

i'm saying we all need to work on it.

SO, work on it!

(even though i'm hungry - i'm not gonna eat)

2009-11-03T02:26:00.000-08:00

oh wow, its been awhile now.

anyways, since i have a little bit of time before class, i shall UPDATE! (like finally *rolls eyes*)

okay, so the workload has lessened considerably because the BOSS isnt around to be signing things. so, ive been having good days at work because there's less stuff to do yet enough to keep the clock ticking till i go home or go for class - usually the latter.

now that i am in class and blogging (which is strange), classes are okay la. coping i guess. need to keep up with the studying and all though.
and i am in dire need to do some assignment (as they call it), which in actual fact are just past year questions. they give the answer anyway. so all i need to do is just write them out brainlessly? if there is such a thing to begin with.

ANYWAY, on a more interesting note:
i have become BORING - with a capital B(eeeeee).
thats what the working life has in store for you people, a lifeless life where you earn money, work to climb the corporate ladder at the expense of the ex-student-bumming-sleeping-drinking-partying life!
tsk.

i r boreng.

2009-10-09T07:16:00.000-07:00

oh bloggie, its been awhile. I'm I neglected you these past few weeks - I've been so busy nonetheless its a sad pathetic excuse.

Please, forgive me bloggie.

(okay, apology accepted)

Right! on to the major stuff now. not like there's anything major major la. major major major major (Catch-22 no?)

CLP,

you are scaring the lights and nuts and monkeys out of me.

but i will not fear you.

i shall conquer you and kill you! muahahaha.

Stomach,

why art thou treating me so terribly?

why art thou disobedient and in much anguish most of the time?

is there not one day or days that you can remain happy and content?

Car my fiance,

you are so near yet so far,

i sense your breeze, your scent, your touch and feel

but you are nowhere to be found.

i hope that in a few days we will be united

as i continually long for your presence.

to my readers,

this is a sign of....(please fill in the blank) :)

2009-09-22T00:14:00.000-07:00

a year from yesterday marked the first day i stepped into Liverpool, in my new 10-month room. boy, was it a feeling.

i recall slumping down at the edge of the bed trying to hold my tears and with everything hit me at once, i burst into tears. good tears that needed to be rid of in the beginning.

it was the fact that i was an "alien" surrounded by the unknown, in a place i was absolutely clueless about - i didn't even know where the bathroom was in my own flat. (yes, it was that bad).

there was a hunt for a pillow - really, it was a "hunt".

then it was the fact that i didnt have any appetite nor did i eat on my 17 -hour plane ride.

coupled with the fact that my internet was on wireless i.e. slow and unreliable.

BUT

all was well the next day :)

there was a festival on the street opposite where i lived which DEFINITELY liven the mood.

bumped into a classmate who helped me get some essentials i.e. plates, pans etc.

went to a chinese church nearby which was well-weird for me but nonetheless gave me a little hope.

had e-mails from a contact to another church that really blessed me in the end ;)

so yes, i remember the cold hard first day of my life in Liverpool but i also cherish every moment onwards of God's blessingS in my life.

i truly enjoyed my time there and often wish i was there with my 'family', laughing, talking and eating together.

<3>

2009-09-18T10:07:00.000-07:00

work is keeping busy as you can tell from the silence of my blog. hehehe.

BUT

i am enjoying it very much.

its a job with a "cause" that i definitely support and believe in.and the best thing is that im being paid to do it - in spite of all the legal work etc.

i get to travel to! woohoo!

it is absolutely amazing to know what is gonna happen for Malaysia :) exciting indeed.

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

on a different note.

may i be liberty to say that, i was right all along! i know its not nice to say it but its a comfort for myself to know that whatever crossed my mind/my putting of different pieces of observations together has been right all along although i've been left in the dark for quite awhile.

benefit of doubt as we call it.

but anyways, thats besides the point.

the hollowness of a worldly life.

the never comprehending/understanding of peace or joy.

the running and chasing after a cloud.

the dreams that become 'were' or meaningless.

meaningless, meaningless!

is there an answer?

eternal.

2009-09-07T04:35:00.000-07:00

updating as requested by naya :)

i have started working.

working life is.. quite enjoyable actually but at the same time its really mentally tiring.

my spelling and my grammar has to be PERFECT - in English and Bm.whaliaoweh.who said BM isn't important hmm? but anyways, people are unforgiving for spelling and grammatical mistakes. how la like that? my eyes are going bonkers cause of having to face the computer all the time!

and

i'm getting my OWN car. hahaha. with a loan and everything man. talk bout growing up and being independent - comes with debts.

but the pissing off bit is that my loan is getting through! their taking ages to get the loan approved and i am pissed. cause no loan = no car = inconvenienced me. apa macam doh?!

so yes, i await patiently for my dear car.

classes start soon too. which means work, class, sleep, work, class, sleep :(

BUT raya break is like after a week of classes, yay! :D but no open house to go to also :( booo.

and i have some weird insect bites all over me! grrr.

okay tis all :D

2009-08-23T09:08:00.001-07:00

what a day.

now i truly understand the struggles that people face when people come back for overseas.

by http://www.panoramio.com/photo/2293772

time to be a conqueror rather than a complainant.

2009-08-18T23:24:00.000-07:00

i've been tweeting so much i've forgotten to post on my blog! hahaha.

well anyways, today's update is that i FINALLY tried the chilly pan mee in kota damansara. good stuff yo! altho the mountain of chili flakes on the bowl scared me in the beginning. hehe..ended up being juuuuuust nice :D

there's a plan to go swimming later but not sure how that will work out.

on a more important note, can i please request for your prayers? :)

i'm in the midst of making a very important decision, which is to work and study part-time for 6 months (i.e. until Feb). this also means that i'll have 4 solid months of revision before taking my exam in July.

the reason i want this job is because of the experience and the opportunity. its not a law firm, which i can get into after finishing my CLP - hence, the reason why the experience and opportunity is unique.

BUT this also means that i have to work double hard than the rest of the students. this also means that i have to work 9am - 6pm and go for class 630pm-930pm AND pay attention in class so i can understand what on earth is happening in class.

i think that its definitely do-able, altho it means alot of hardwork, discipline and determintation. which if i don't have, i will have to cultivate.hmm.

honestly, i really do want to take the job. but it now all boils down to whether i've got support from my dad or not. and whether i've got His blessing's in it as well. so yes, please pray for me! i need to give an answer by Friday.

(plus side of this, i'll be getting my own car ;) downside of it - i'm paying for it. hahah)

2009-08-05T23:34:00.000-07:00

"SAYA ANAK BANGSA MALAYSIA"

last year SIB(KL) had the exact same vision (called S.A.M = Saya Anak Malaysia)

and today, this is a nationwide vision or soon to be.

i've always dreamed of a Malaysian Malaysia.

dreamed of being apart of something bigger than the pre-conceived, judgemental and stereotype "Malaysia"

with the S.A.M project in SIB, it was about reaching out to communities. serving our nation in any way that we can - helping the poor and needy, teaching kids to read, playing games with them and befriending them, regardless of our race or age. and little do people realize the power of an extended hand with a big smile that is 'ikhlas' (sincere without any expectation of something in return)

all i can say is, Saya Anak Bangsa Malaysia.

walaupun kita menghadapi banyak cabaran, kita akan menghapuskan musuh kita - perbezaan bangsa, warna, status dan terutamanya, fikiran negatif kita terhadap bangsa lain.

Malaysia untuk semua!

taken from http://mt.m2day.org/2008/content/view/25312/84/

2009-08-03T23:12:00.001-07:00

hello all!

sorry for not writing here for so long but here's a few updates, enjoy :)

woot!

i've officially graduated and will be moving on to the next phase of my life.

i've always liked the feeling of starting something new. i begin with such excitement and joy of being in a new place, a new environment, new things to learn

yet at the same time, i feel awkward and melancholic over the thin

gs i used to be familiar with.

nonetheless, life is filled with such situations and the best is to keep perserving, with a full heart of what the end prize is.

and for me, that is to see Jesus glorified wherever i am, whatever i do, no matter how small it may be.

of course, there's the good food :)

and the ppl i miss so dearly.

i've been home for more than a week now.

surprisingly, i didn't suffer from jet lag; guess its because i didn't sleep at all on the plane.

adjusting to things back home hasn't been easy.so many errands to do and so many things to re-familiarize myself with. its been good being home, being with the ones i love the most

yet, i miss the life i had in Liverpool. the friends i had, the place i lived in, my surrpundings, the convenience of walking everywhere and NOT having my sinus (on a side

note: i had a terrible sinus attack yesterday, ugh. i didn't get any of it when i was overseas, so BOO to getting sinus at home)

its a really different life at home. and i can't really say which one i prefer at the moment cause i'm still bumming around now. i definitely miss being able to walk everywhere, that's about the best thing being overseas in a cool dry weather (and not getting my sinus).

(sorry i haven't seen all of you yet!)

anyways, it so good to be back in my church here!

its been refreshing to go to a church that has a solid word and worship. amazing, to know that His presence is in that place and that i can be challenged in deeper ways.

all i want to do right now is get back on track with God. i've always loved Him. loved Him even in my darkest and hardest moments. it is tough for me to spend time with Him, to discipline my prayer and devotional life. but i know that this takes time, perserverance and lots of discipline. but because i love Him, i will do it.

i'm doing a study on the Beatitudes now by John Stott and my oh my, is it insightful.

i've never really understood the Beatitudes and i've never really bothered to study it in depth anyways

but with this sutdy, i'm beginning to realize so many things that God has been teaching me in my year away. its definitely a good conclusion and opening for me in this season.

i'm only halfway through the study but i've already been so blessed. i need to continue to do the rest tho, hopefully i won't slack! haha.

and of course, my love life :)

all i can say is that, its good to be home and to be able to see him again. we've both changed in our own ways but its definitely a change for the better.

2009-07-18T12:50:00.000-07:00

*takes a deep breath*

my parents have left today for Malaysia after a 2 week holiday in Liverpool. it was awesome having them around and i love them to bits! the holiday was basically filled with food, bitters (which is also known as ale i.e something like beer), more food, SHOPPING.

there wasn't a single day that we went out and NOT buy anything. it was either food or clothes or something to bring home.

and yes, i miss my parents already :(

but i'll be seeing them pretty soon.hehe :D yay!

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

my time here has come to an end (almost).

its been an unforgettable year for me.the people that i've met, talked with, ate with, cooked with, travelled with, seen and experienced is simply amazing.

then again, life wouldn't be life if we didn't make our mistakes - and i've made some really really dumb moves in this year. many that i do regret and look back with disdainful remorse.

yet in my iniquities, You are glorified. I am but a sinner saved by Your grace. and no man can comprehend that grace.

You not only forgive me but you cleanse me of my unrighteousness. You not only forgive me but You love me unconditionally.

how can my limited human mind and heart comprehend such grace that You give me? this, i struggle with the most - my human heart cannot accept something i do not deserve.

but i know that it is because of that very fact, You are Lord of Lords and You are the one true God.

let me draw near to You once again. to be close to You and to love You more each and everyday. for You are my King, my Only King.

2009-07-03T03:54:00.000-07:00

HOLA!

I'm back from my Spanish holiday, which was really really good ;) I could almost say that I lived a fulfilled life just by being on this holiday - almost.

Aaaah, SO MUCH to tell about my Spain trip, especially Malaga! sigh.

---

So, I've moved to my new place in Liverpool and the place is amazing. Its a really beautiful place - spacious, wooden interior design, simple and the best thing is that it has a double-bed! woot! :D

The sad thing about the place is that I don't have internet access, which is the reason why I won't be able to tell you about my trip in detail :( and the worse part is that I don't have any pictures :( :(

Anyways, I'm going to make a few self-notes to remind myself of what to blog:

La Playa

menti rosso!

Paella

Sardines

Gibralfaro

Europeans

Languages

People

Culture

Politics

Similarities & Differences

Books?

2009-06-14T09:12:00.000-07:00

i'm so paranoid about missing my flight now!

not being able to find the dumb booth to validate my online boarding pass :S

i am very scared!

like..anxious and paranoid scared! HOW?!

2009-06-13T14:12:00.001-07:00

hello everyone!

i'm back from PARIS :)

it was a very good trip indeed.

very exciting, educational and suspense-filled.

DAY 1:

we arrived at Paris with dark-clouds :( went to our accommodation, checked-in, dumped our luggage in the luggage room and made our way to Versailles!

took the metro to Versailles and went into Chateau de Versailles (at this point it was raining quite heavily)

the place is absolutely beautiful! paintings were amazing. there's a few garden surrounding the chateau and the scene is so therapeutic, serene and peaceful.

despite the rain, it was definitely a good start to our trip.

when we got back to our place and went to our room, which was on the 5th floor (there were LOADS of stairs to climb! that was some major exercise for us. and the steps of the stairs were slanted! so i felt drunk everytime i walked up the or down the stairs. haha) room, showers, bathrooms were clean and definitely value for money.

NOTE: i had an anxiety attack at night! :( i was really really worried about my Malaga trip (end of June) and being alone and lost etc. i couldn't sleep peacefully cause i was worrying loads. this kinda affected my trip in some ways.

DAY 2:

the metro closest to our place was closed :( so we had to walk to 2 metro's away from us.

Eiffel Tower! the queue was like an hour and we could only go to the 2nd floor cause the top floor was under maintenance. but then, when we got to the second floor, we realized that there were people going to the top! grrr.

anyways, the scenery from the Eiffel Tower is amazing. you could see the whole of Paris. i would strongly advise that you familiarize yourself with Paris before going up the Eiffel Tower - you'd be able to appreciate the view from there much better that way.

Hop-on Hop-off bus - this took us to all the famous tourist places by bus. Eiffel Tower, Arc de Triomphe, Grand Palais, Louvre, Musee d' Orsay, Notre Dame, Trocadero, Champ de Mars, Hotel de Ville

we got off at Notre Dame to grab a bite and to take pics :) BUT we also took pics of other stuff on the way as well.

Musee d' Orsay - i seriously couldn't get enough of the place and the paintings. really good stuff and the audio guide is definitely worth getting!

Batobus (River Cruise!) its actually a boat that takes you to tourist places by river; by the time we went, it was sunset. so we got a good effect of the sun setting and managed to see Paris with its lights towards the end.

this is when we saw the Eiffel Tower lit! beautiful sight ;)

then when we wanted to take the metro back, the station closest to us didn't sell tickets! :( so we had to walk at night to another metro to get back, which we eventually managed to with a trusty map!

for 2 girls to be walking alone at night was scary okay! and plus, we had lots of problems with the metro that day for some reason. suspense much! i was worried half the time about not being able to get the metro back. imagine if we couldn't get tickets :S aaaah!

DAY 3:

we decided to take the day nice and slow.

bought croissants and macaroons - oooh, so GOOD!

went to Pere Lachaise cemetery, which is the cemetery of many famous people, Belini, Jim Morrison, Viscount Louis (architect of the Louvre), Chopin, and many others including Oscar Wilde! woohoo! there are some really good pictures of this.

made our way to the Louvre, took a quick browse through the art, saw Mona Lisa with my own eyes but that were waaaaaaaaaaay too many people there for me to actually appreciate. btw, its overrated okay.

went on our hunt for foie gras and truffle baguette at a place recommended by Lonely Planet. OHMYGAWD. it was SO WORTH all the walking, getting lost, walking back and forth, and 13 euros! so so GOOD! we could only have it take-away, so we went to Champs de Elysses to savour it.

then we walked on Champs de Elysses looking for coffee and desert. and we found a really nice place, outside in the sun and light cool breeze, small tables, french-y chairs. sat there with our cappucino and ice cream :) oooooooooh. so awesome.

visited Shephora and saw the 5 storey high Louis Vutton store (outside only la) as well.

and lastly, we went to musee de erotica. it was the only museum open past 7pm nearby us!

DAY 4:

flight back to Liverpool at 855am

HAVOC!

we nearly MISSED OUR FLIGHTS! and it wasn't entirely our faults either!

we checked-in online and printed our boarding pass already. so we went through security (they threw away my face wash, sun-block and toner!grrrrr. menyampah. waste my money only these people), immigration and then at the freaking GATE they tell us we need to go back and get a confirmation letter from some desk (she said it was on the left of dunno where). so we PANICKED like crazy. it was like 20 mins to our flight!

had sooooooooo much trouble getting our cause of tight security. ran around the airport like headless chickens. finally found the booth. got our confrimation letter. ran through everything else. and got on the plane breathless.

(whilst i was running around, i thought to myself: come on Debbie, you used to be a school runner, you can do this! hahaha.)

at this point i was fuming and swearing in my head. then i thought i had enough of self-ranting and decided to rest/sleep. so i tidur. then i woke up feeling better and laughed over it all. just imagine us running around the airport with our luggage rolling behind our every step, running out of breath.hahaha. hilarious really.

and then we arrived safely in Liverpool as an end to our Paris-trip.

will definitely want to go back again!

cost of entire trip (accommodation + food + flight etc): 220 pounds :D very happy me!

oh oh pics will go up with this post when i get them from Elaine. hehe.

2009-06-03T03:11:00.000-07:00

HAPPY BIRTHDAY NAYAHMAD!

hope you have a good birthday despite all your essays due etc.

here's to us being friends for (counts with fingers) 14 years! (wah, agak long already lo)

cause i can't be there to give you a cake, although i know you're not that fond of cakes, here's one for you!

oh and technically its not a cake la, its a meringue! :D

2009-05-24T18:22:00.000-07:00

early.

that's what it is.early, and i'm not asleep.

something is bugging me but i know its not the noise.

something is latent, brewing, subtle and..unknown.

i don't like this feeling.

tis a gloomy feeling.

------

then again, i always feel like this after exams / a few days of exams.

its like a sad, neutral feeling

but gloomy nonetheless.

------

tis so for my soul,

and a foul soul it is.

it has not been well,

no. it's been awhile

how so art thou soul?

why art thoust so foul?

i know not.

or do i?

i think i do, isn't it?

the sound of your voice, the flicker of your eye. the tone of your speech and the language of your body, speaks far louder than you ever intended it to.and honestly, its caused damage to an armour of steel or is it tin foil? i can't remember.

but i ought to know better.its not a first for me.

sadly or maybe merrily?, much will be parted, many will separate.but then, much has been experienced and it would be sad to throw it all away.maybe its been thrown away - the shied apple core.

its been awhile since i wrote like this.

its been awhile.

2009-05-23T16:00:00.001-07:00

i remember the other joke!

you know the song Lucky by Jason Mraz right?

"I'm lucky I'm in love with my best friend.."

now you know why not to get boyfriends whose best friend is their momma! ;)

disclaimer:

this does not encourage boys to not make their mom's their best friend. it just means that you shouldn't be loving your mom more than a mom.

no hanky panky kinky winky okay!

2009-05-22T05:35:00.000-07:00

oh oh i got JOKE for my readers! :D

when you come to england, you convert pounds to ringgit and everything is SO expensive.

then after you've settled down, you stop converting and you spend more.

then, when you go back to malaysia, you convert ringgit to pounds and you think, everything is so cheap, only 1 pound for char kuey teow, chicken rice, rojak - 1 pound here, 1 pound there.

its like being in POUNDLAND! (this is a name of a store btw)

*this is your cue to laugh or throw rotten veg at the screen.

okay thank you!

i had one more but i've forgotten what it is.

2009-05-22T05:28:00.000-07:00

I AM DONE WITH EXAMS!

this means various things:

- no need to study unless i want to

- no more a uni. student :( (but i am a student of life!)

- no need to stress so much anymore!

- i can sleep as much as i want

- go travelling

- LEPAK

- bum around

- SALSA! woot! hehe

- spend time with friends

AND

I HAVE A DEGREE! (LLB in particular) woohoo!

2009-05-17T12:35:00.000-07:00

last paper of my uni life in 4 days an di have little motivation to study! :(

last lap to run.

last paper to write (in uni).

last question to answer.

hopefully i do it WELL, i want to do it well!

but then..

tired la.

how like that?

2009-05-07T15:58:00.000-07:00

salsa is so enjoyable!

but then hor..no guy wanted to dance with me :( so SAD! im SAD :( :(

its so much fun and takes a lot of skill, as a girl, to not want to lead adn let the guy surprise you and lead you wherever he goes.

how la like that?

no guy want to dance with me = no practice = cannot salsa as good as i want to! :(

aiyo.

sad la.

i want to salsa WELL!

sigh.

2009-05-04T23:30:00.000-07:00

so..my day started off after a nice long 10 hour awesome sleep.

followed by a long day of studying/memorizing equity & trusts, which finished at about 3am.

then, i came home and presumed to fall asleep at about 4am.

only to my HORROR, that i CANNOT sleep!

i spent a good 2 hours rolling around in bed.and decided that maybe a shower would help.so i showered (in baby products too!) and i felt the same - stone tired but not sleepy.

so, on the laptop i go whilst reading the Bible.

then i made an omelette, ate it with bread. had an apple.

THEN i felt sleepy! but then, sudah makan tak boleh tidur. and its like 730am now! abit weird to sleep at this hour right?

if i sleep now, i'll wake up at some odd hour and feel off the rest of the day.

don't sleep, i'll waste the day cause i'd be so dead tired.

take a nap? probably the best option ..

BUT i have to wait for the food to digest now! aiyo.susah la macam ini.

2009-05-03T04:15:00.000-07:00

"I cant sing,

I cant dance,

I cant play guitar well,

but...

i can download good songs."

2009-04-30T07:27:00.001-07:00

i'm falling apart.

and there's none to catch me.

2009-04-26T17:30:00.001-07:00

songs can be related to memories and they often are.

memories of the happy and the sad, the epitome and pivot.

the laughs and the cries.

james morrison

john mayer

fiona apple

rihanna

gwen stefani

benny benassi

snow patrol

the coconut song

mr.brightside

all remind me of sweet yet painfully bitter sweet ones.most of them are during a-levels but nevertheless, they're good memories.

and what if..

what if..

things aren't they way it is now and we were given the desires of our heart when we dreamed them?

what if?

can we really say that there is no better place to be at? no better people to be surrounded by?

can we?

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

EXAMS!

acne time!

they should really make those phrases go together.

Perperiksaan Semester II

Masa Ber-jerawat

Bahasa Malaysia - Karangan

Arahan: Ber-blogging dalam Bahasa Malaysia Semasa Berjerawat

actually its getting alot better now with CLEARASIL ULTRA (it works wonders really)

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

Grey's Anatomy has become my reward! :D

I'm only at Season 3 unfortunately, due to unforeseen circumstances that cause a 1.5 year inactivity period! so sad. i missed out so much GOOD drama.

my theory:

watch dramatic shows to compensate for the lack of drama in mine :D

2009-04-21T15:53:00.000-07:00

pic taken from rossanthony.com

i've just watched RIVERDANCE!

ZOMG! i wish i could tap dance like them now T.T and the guy looked good -looking from far.haha!

but nevertheless, so full of excitement and so uberly nice!

i is happy.

i wanna go again!

2009-04-19T15:09:00.000-07:00

its been awhile since i've felt passion.

the last thing i recall feeling passionate about was salsa dancing and my trip to Spain.

but where has the rest of my passion gone to?

(noticed how i haven't talked about Him in awhile now?)

oh, passion where art thou? whither too my friend? come now and be by my side, forsake me not; forsake not my heart.

oh, passion.

---

to live passionless is not an ideal nor should it ever be one.

neither should ever be allowed to 'just happen'

to live life floating through air;

living it through the smiles and laughter of others,

living through the eyes of another,

living with the dreams that are not your own,

living with the desries of another,

the 'pushes' of others

where does it leave you standing today?

----

passion.

it must be found once again.

searching. . . . . . .

2009-04-17T05:27:00.000-07:00

studying makes you go crazy. it tires you out and somehow sends you body into overdrive, over-pumped with adrenaline.

studyin drives you nuts! ..drives, you nuts?

so after hours in the library, we decided to go to a 24-hour tesco.

mind you, when we finished it was already 3am. by the time we actually got a cab and arrive there, it was probably 330ish.

and,

the tesco was MASSIVE!

it was only one floor BUT still massive! like, there was SO many things there. so many choices too.

almost everything i bought required a good 5-10min analysis and comparison of items. but after awhile i got tired and just looked at the prices. hehe.

i am going to miss going to tesco to grocery shop.unless mommy makes me do the grocery shopping when i go back O.o hmm.shopping for 1 and shopping for 4 + 3 (my doggies!) is quite alot.

aih, i miss my dogs :(

things i do when i am stressed from studying:

- cook

- press my pimples BUT i'm trying to stop.now no pimples to press.hehe, yay!

- curl my eyelashes (HAHA)

- tidy things

- stare into space (this happens alot)

- put stuff on my face

- surf for ray bans, dresses, holiday destinations :D

which is one of the reasons why its so much easier to concentrate in the library. hah.

i don't know what happen to the cute library guy. i don't see him anymore. but oh well. the all look scruffy now cause of exam season i think.the girls still have time to be preppy.must be due to stress too.

2009-04-15T01:35:00.000-07:00

i have officially fallen sick.

after days of trying to fight it off and having it come and go, the sore throat is here to stay, for awhile at least.

i've got yellowish green phelgm! :( does that mean its infection? heaty?

ive been drinkng chrysanthemum tea for the past week!

i don't like being sick and i hardly fall sick.

meh.

AND i have to do my assignents in this condition.ergh.frust much.