Monday, November 10, 2008

The Luxury of Politics...

I was talking just the other day with a guy I know from business - and we were talking about the politics in our country - about the MCA, about PR and about Anwar. All very common topics of the day.

However, he pointed out a very interesting story about his experiences with a guy down south. This guy is in a rather bad position right now, with his finances in disarray and dependencies and liabilities stacking up. Apparently, this gentleman has utterly no interest in politics whatsoever - yet he was a former (and probably still is) MCA member.

The reason of his lack of interest in politics is because right now - he is too busy trying to make ends meet. And he sees no way politics or the government is able to assist him in anyway. In fact, he thinks that what the government and politics in this country is doing is even detrimental to him and his family.

To him politics is a luxury - as he is more interested in fulfilling his basic needs 1st!

But is politics a luxury? Politics can effect change to the most remote of people in a country of which the government cares. Politics and political offices are caretakers of the people's collective hopes, dreams and resources. I think that politics is not a luxury - but rather we have to look at the Luxury in Politics.

Confused? Luxury in politics means the little luxuries we can have in our political systems - like having ideologies and stands on issues. I have personally identified myself as centre-right and have argued my position on issues like abortion, to economy, to small government.

This may be because from a young age I have been interested in politics and have followed Reagan, Clinton, Howard, Rudd, Thatcher, Blair, Clinton (the lady), Obama and Cameron. Political systems that have established itself over the years to be a platform of national issues and policies. Democracies of the United States, United Kingdom and Australia.

But now I realise these are luxuries in politics. It is unfortunate that in our country - our political system is so inherently flawed that issues are buried and factions and races are brought into the fore.

I have more than once declared my unease at the fundamentalist policies of PAS, the socialist policies of PKR and DAP. I have made myself clear that I identify myself with the policies of UMNO and MCA - conservative policies. Policies that I feel will benefit the people.

But I have been blind - events from yesterday once again opened my eyes. I cannot support UMNO and MCA any longer - because my adherence to conservative policies is a Luxury in Politics that our nation can ill afford.

Only when oppression, heavy handed police action and government abuse (throwing in weak leadership - e.g. MCA leaders who cannot even build his team) is overcome before we can be able to fight our fights on issues and policies.

Now we only have ONE ISSUE to fight - Justice & Equality for all the People. I want a country where I can stand shoulder to shoulder with my fellow citizens of any creed, race or denomination - as equals before the law and the government. I want a country where I could aspire to run for the highest office of the land - Not to win mind you, just the opportunity to run for the Prime Minister of this country.

I am not saying this because of the recent Obama victory in the states - I am more a Hillary supporter. I am saying this because of the symbolism of Obama's victory in the US - that it is indeed a country where all men are created equal... and I see the stark contrast of this right here in Malaysia.

I find that our foreign minister's statement supporting Obama before the US elections a mockery - for if Obama was Malaysian, he would not have even the opportunity to run for the Prime Minister of this land...

Thursday, October 30, 2008

Liverpool & Jesus

I would quote from a recent conversation I had with a few of my closest friends.

One of them was commenting that he has managed to convert two people to Liverpool but laments that he has lead no one as yet to Jesus.

Why is converting people to Liverpool 70% as good as bringing people to Christ?

*grin*

Because - before you can even comprehend God and His relationship with you... you need to realise one important thing...

YOU NEVER WALK ALONE!

This post celebrates Liverpool's victory over Chelsea and Portsmouth and signifies the writer still prays feverishly for further Red Victories!

Wednesday, October 08, 2008

The Fellowship of the Unashamed

by Dr. Bob Moorehead



I am part of the "Fellowship of the Unashamed."
I have the Holy Spirit's power.
The die has been cast.
I have stepped over the line.
The decision has been made.
I am a disciple of Jesus Christ.

I won't look back,
let up,
slow down,
back away,
or be still.

My past is redeemed,
my present makes sense,
and my future is secure.

I am finished and done with low living,
sight walking,
small planning,
smooth knees,
colorless dreams,
chintzy giving,
and dwarfed goals.

I no longer need pre-eminence,
prosperity,
position,
promotions,
plaudits,
or popularity.

I now live by presence,
lean by faith,
love by patience,
lift by prayer,
and labor by power.

My pace is set,
my gait is fast,
my goal is Heaven,
my road is narrow,
my way is rough,
my companions few,
my Guide reliable,
my mission clear.

I cannot be bought,
compromised,
deterred,
lured away,
turned back,
diluted,
or delayed.

I will not flinch in the face of sacrifice,
hesitate in the presence of adversity,
negotiate at the table of the enemy,
ponder at the pool of popularity,
or meander in the maze of mediocrity.

I am a disciple of Jesus Christ.

I must go until Heaven returns,
give until I drop,
preach until all know,
and work until He comes.

And when He comes to get His own,
He will have no problem recognizing me.

My colors will be clear.

I am not ashamed of the gospel . . . Romans 1:16

Tuesday, October 07, 2008

Missing Australia...

Just a feeling... :)

Friday, October 03, 2008

Liverpool 3 - 1 PSV Eindhoven

*Grin*
Stevie G scored his 100th Goal!


Steve Gerard Gerard...


Too Good to be True...

Friday, September 26, 2008

Acoustic Curves...

Wednesday, September 24, 2008

Bring Back Our Independence

There has been talk recently in the press and openly amongst many of my friends that the best thing Chinese based parties can do is to pull out of the national government and gives its support to the opposition to effect a transition of power that will be a "Second Independence".

While talking to a friend last week (or rather a week and a half ago), I was told that the MCA is a servant party and has always been a servant party since the beginning of the relationship between UMNO and MCA. It was said that this is reflected in the 'servant' ministries allocated to the MCA - ministries of transport, health, human resources, women & family planning - even local government. Nothing important like Defense, Finance or International Trade, always reserved for UMNO. This has been echoed by other friends and family.

I feel the need to set the record straight. The initial MCA-UMNO relationship is not that of servant-master but of equal partners. I want to share a vital piece of the puzzle - that the birth of our nation was almost a stillbirth - one that was prevented because the Malays of UMNO and the Chinese of MCA later with the Indians of MIC came together to fight for independence.

Back then, prior to independence and the existence of the MCA-UMNO Alliance, the major parties of the MCA, UMNO and the IMP (Independence of Malaya Party, a multi-racial party) each pushes its own agenda, often in conflict with one another. UMNO has its motto, Hidup Melayu! (Long Live the Malays!) much to the discomfort of the Chinese in Malaysia.

The first test of achieving self-governance leading to independence was in Kuala Lumpur. In 1952, Kuala Lumpur held its Municipal Elections. There were 12 seats that was contested and the vote was expected to be fragmented between UMNO, MCA and the IMP with no one party able to govern with a solid majority. This is because at that time, Kuala Lumpur is a Chinese majority area. UMNO, the largest Malay party at the time, decided to field 6 candidates and the MCA in response, urged it to field a multi-racial slate. Negotiations and contacts between the two parties gave birth to a MCA-UMNO alliance, as equal partners. As a result, the combined MCA-UMNO Alliance gained 9 out of the 12 seats. An MCA member was given the honour to being the Alliance leader in the council. UMNO, under Tunku changed its motto to Merdeka! (Independence!).

This Alliance (together with the MIC which joined later in 1952), using the formula formed under the Municipal Elections, went on to win election after election, culminating in winning 51 out of 52 seats in the 1st National Elections in 1955 - forming a strong united government that could demand and gained independence in 1957, a mere 2 years after the national elections and a mere 5 years after the formation of the Alliance.

The first cabinet post-independence is as follows:-

Tunku Abdul Rahman Putra -- Prime Minister, Defence, Foreign Affairs
Tun Abdul Razak Hussein -- Deputy Prime Minister, Defence (1958)
Abdul Aziz Ishak -- Agriculture and Cooperative
Tun Dr Ismail Datuk Abdul Rahman -- Trade and Security
Tun Henry Lee Hau Shik -- Finance
Tun Omar Yoke Lin Ong -- Labour and Social Welfare
Tun V.T. Sambanthan -- Health
Tan Sri Haji Sardon Jubir -- Works, Posts and Telecoms
Datuk Suleiman Datuk Abdul Rahman -- Natural Resources and Local Government
Abdul Rahman Talib -- Transport (1958)
Tun Leong Yew Koh -- Justice (1960)
Tan Sri Mohamad Khir Johari -- Education (1958)
Tun Tan Siew Sin -- Trade and Industry (1958), Finance (1960)

This composition reflect a relationship of equal partners not of master and servant! MCA was awarded the important ministries of Finance, Trade & Industry amongst others. How come the MCA today is so different? so diffident?

Why is it today supremacists can scream Hidup Melayu! a slogan that has been discarded before independence? Why is it that the Chinese can be called 'squatters' when we are equal partners in the formation of this country? Essential in the first baby steps that lead to independence? It is my opinion that if MCA did not work with UMNO, there will be no independence in 1957 and we would be under the British yoke even until the 1980s (Brunei gained independence in 1984).

We are equal partners. We are friends, co-workers and neighbours - Malay, Chinese, Indian, Kadazan, Iban and many others. We are a multi-racial society. Don't worry about the concept of a 'Second Independence' - Bring Back Our Independence!

Sunday, September 21, 2008

Tuesday, September 16, 2008

Centrist...

Well, it has been a hectic week - of running around (like a headless chicken, I might add...) for work as well as... more work, albeit of a different kind.

It is today, of all days that I have realised a role that I have been constantly called to play, be it at work, at home, with friends and on special projects.

That is the role of a centrist - and I am using the word liberally. Not so much so as a centrist in politics (although I believe my views merit me a slightly right of the center position) But rather a centrist in the sense of the person steering the center course.

I think that has made me almost like a moderator in many issues between many of my contemporaries, ranging from between my parents, my friends or between business partners. It is not a role that I relish, as I feel constantly caught in between... *sigh*

But I hope God gives me strength... if this is the role I have to play...

Monday, September 15, 2008

Of Equal Measure...

Datuk Dr Ma’amor Osman made an interesting statement today in the newspapers - of which I think merits an appearence in my thoughts...

"The detentions are proof that the Government does not remain silent in matters involving racial sensitivities and the Federal Constitution.

“Matters such as these should be viewed seriously because, if ignored, they could incite hatred in the people, especially the Malays, because their special position has often been disputed by certain quarters,” he claimed.

So my dear Datuk, I would say that in view of the greatness of this government in doing so, might we suggest that we arrest the racist nutjob of Penang? Because...

"The suspension of just 3 years by UMNO is proof that the Government remains silent in matters involving racial sensitivities and the Federal Constitution.

Matter such as the one in Penang should be viewed seriously because, if ignored, they could incite hatred in the people, especially Malaysians, because their democratic position has often been disputed by certain quarters."

Stop having different standards my dear friends, apply the law on equal measure as stipulated in Article 8, Clause (1) of the Federal Constitution or don't apply such a law at all.

Article 8 (1) All persons are equal before the law and entitled to the equal protection of the law.

And God Bless Malaysia... God bless us all...

A Babel-ical Victory!

Liverpool 2 - 1 Manchester United

A match that will surely enter the annals of the neverending Liverpool - Manchester United rivalry.

Let's just say I am very happy and contented and put it at that... A victory at Anfield, our 1st in ages vs Man Utd. Caught snippets of the match, the Tevez goal at 3 minutes, Brown's own goal thereafter and a terrific 2nd half.

Indeed...

Babel-icious :P

Image by Alex Livesey - Getty Images
Obtained from http://liverpoolfcclips.blogspot.com/

Saturday, September 13, 2008

Into the West...



Lay down,
your sweet and weary head.
Night is falling.
You have come to journey’s end.

Sleep now, and dream
of the ones who came before.
They are calling,
from across a distant shore.

Why do you weep?
What are these tears upon your face?
Soon you will see.
All of your fears will pass away.
Safe in my arms,
you’re only sleeping.

What can you see,
on the horizon?
Why do the white gulls call?
Across the sea,
a pale moon rises.
The ships have come,
to carry you home.

And all will turn,
to silver glass.
A light on the water.
All souls pass.

Hope fades,
Into the world of night.
Through shadows falling,
Out of memory and time.

Don’t say,
We have come now to the end.
White shores are calling.
You and I will meet again.
And you’ll be here in my arms,
Just sleeping.

What can you see,
on the horizon?
Why do the white gulls call?
Across the sea,
a pale moon rises.
The ships have come,
to carry you home.

And all will turn,
to silver glass.
A light on the water.
Grey ships pass
Into the West.

Tuesday, September 09, 2008

Professionalism...

I quote

"Is that professional? He (Koh) is the state BN chief and he severed ties with Umno, how can he perform (his duty) like that? Who is acting emotionally now?"

Professionalism?
Ask this monkey below if what he did was ultra professional?




Idiot in Penang...

I was initially very angry at the comments of a certain idiot from Flaghill in Penang...

Then I realised - there is no point being angry.

If a person pees on the pavement in front of your home - you have every right to be angry!
But if a dog pees on the same pavement - you don't get angry - its just a dog, probably a mongrel, a paria imported from the south pacific islands...

So - that is the spirit!
He is just a paria pendatang dog...

Tuesday, August 19, 2008

Above all...



Above all powers, above all kings
Above all nature and all created things
Above all wisdom and all the ways of man
You were here before the world began

Above all kingdoms, above all thrones
Above all wonders the world has ever known
Above all wealth and treasures of the earth
There's no way to measure what you're worth

Crucified
Laid behind a stone
You lived to die
Rejected and alone
Like a rose
Trampled on the ground
You took the fall
And thought of me
Above all

Above all powers, above all kings
Above all nature and all created things
Above all wisdom and all the ways of man
You were here before the world began

Above all kingdoms, above all thrones
Above all wonders the world has ever known
Above all wealth and treasures of the earth
There's no way to measure what you're worth

Crucified
Laid behind a stone
You lived to die
Rejected and alone
Like a rose
Trampled on the ground
You took the fall
And thought of me
Above all

Crucified
Laid behind a stone
You lived to die
Rejected and alone
Like a rose
Trampled on the ground
You took the fall
And thought of me
Above all

Like a rose
Trampled on the ground
You took the fall
And thought of me
Above all

Tuesday, August 12, 2008

Children...

Heard about the protests at a forum last week...

One comment...

Grow up you barbarians, or go back to your jungle and let the rest of us get on with civilisation...

Sunday, July 20, 2008

The comfort of the company of old friends...

“It is one of the blessings of old friends that you can afford to be stupid with them.”
Ralph Waldo Emerson, American Essayist

It has indeed been a fast paced and hectic weekend - one of my old old friends is getting hitched and there are many old old friends from way back in town to celebrate this joyous occasion. Many of us apart for many years, dwelling in various cities on different continents and timezones. So for two days, we relived old times.

It was amazing how we fell back onto the old camaderie - old jokes, dirty jokes, insults, gossip & texas hold'em poker. It is also amazing to see the changes we have since days past - weddings, engagements... new babies. And most of all - the sweet sound of laughter that continue to echo in my ears.

“The most beautiful discovery true friends make is that they can grow separately without growing apart.”
Elisabeth Foley

One other thing is the amount of comfort we get from one another as we share confidences in our current lives. I just feel grateful that after all these years, the bonds of our friendships has developed into one that we can speak freely to one another of the current issues in our lives, seek opinions from one another, sharing our worries, troubles and hopes of the future. It may be because we see each other so rarely, that we are so far removed from each other's life, that allow us to share our lives without consequence... without fear... in other words...

In total freedom.

And God, for that I am grateful... truly grateful.

“Don't walk behind me, I may not lead. Don't walk in front of me, I may not follow. Just walk beside me and be my friend.”
Albert Camus, French Author

Tuesday, July 15, 2008

Turning 100...

I have been pondering for the past one week regarding this 100th post on the blog. I wanted to post up something meaningful - not one of the 5 posting possibilities that hovered in my head at various times over the week past...

Each and every one of them a rant, each and every one of them a complaint...
Each and every one of them something that I need to get out of my system.

It is then I yearned for the past - a past where I have used this blog more to ponder and to pray. It seemed that my language then was more prose-like - more refined so to speak.

Every word of certain posts seemed to have been deliberately placed next their punctuation. Every 'i' dotted with love and every 't' crossed with a purpose. It is then I realised that that 'lost world' is something I have held close to my heart all this while.

Then I remembered my interest and a certain morbid fascination I had in a horrible movie I watched at my friend's place - a movie entitled 'Chicken Rice War'. Set in contemporary Singapore with a Romeo & Juliet-esque storyline - it nevertheless set me off into a weird feeling over the past few days.

I noticed that I went back to my Shakespeare, my Ruyard Kipling and my Arthur Conan Doyle. I picked up my well thumbed tome of Richard Adams and my creased treasure of RM Ballantyne. Things I have read in ages past... and wondered what...

...have I lost?

My language today is of commerce, in marketing plans and proposals... short emails and shorter smses. My words are no longer chosen for their beauty and poignancy but for their simplicity and directness. It seemed that I have lost something I have held dear...

the simple beauty of a well written turn of phrase...
an adjective laden sentence dripping with prose...
a paragraph filled with great expectations of what is yet to come...

So I end this post - my 100th prose with a prologue that all seems familiar with - not to set any scene of the future, but a beginning nontheless. A beginning of which I hope I can bring forth more words from the past and some from the present or the future. Not all mine own words - but others that has brought enjoyment to my eyes...

Two households, both alike in dignity,
In fair Verona, where we lay our scene,
From ancient grudge break to new mutiny,
Where civil blood makes civil hands unclean.
From forth the fatal loins of these two foes
A pair of star-cross'd lovers take their life;
Whose misadventured piteous overthrows
Do with their death bury their parents' strife.
The fearful passage of their death-mark'd love,
And the continuance of their parents' rage,
Which, but their children's end, nought could remove,
Is now the two hours' traffic of our stage;
The which if you with patient ears attend,
What here shall miss, our toil shall strive to mend.

Prologue, Romeo & Juliet, William Shakesphere

Tuesday, June 24, 2008

Greetings & Solicitations...


"先生,你好!"

Forewarned about talking to weird people on the street - I mumbled
"Don't know Chinese"
"Ohh.... Gurls u wan? Good good gurls! Top Top Qwalitee - local ones"

I walked away...
Repeat this three times in the span of 5 minutes... *sigh*

This is Nanjing Road East - Shanghai...

...Almost Shanghai-ed!

Today was an eventful morning - when we were rushing from the airport hotel to the airport to catch the flight to Shanghai.

This is the reason why I think that considering China a great country is a bit premature. Take for example our incident in the morning.

Arriving early for check-in and after lining up for 20minutes, we were served by this woman at the check-in counter. She directed us to another counter for check-in. This is when I sense the falling sandbag.

There was this lady who duly informed me in her half-baked engrish that the ticket is not valid as we did not reconfirm with them. RECONFIRM? Why? This is an issued e-ticket that clearly state that it is CONFIRMED & RESERVED. The paper happen to mention it 3 times!

So WTF?
Arguing about 10 minutes later, the rather un-apologetic woman was hereby demanded by us to see their supervisor. 10 minutes later - still no word. Here we are stranded at the airport without a flight to make it to a meeting in 4 hours (the flight takes 2 hours) with the next flight departing way too late to get us there in in (it departs 2 hours later. 2+2 = 4 hours plus travelling time is way too late)

So i went further on the offensive - and finally after a 30minute ordeal, we finally got on the plane. But by then it was less than 20 minutes for the flight and the baggage is close. So we rushed across to the oversized baggage counter to get it in - quite a long distance - making it on the minute that service is closed for the flight. Then with 10 minutes remaining - it was the mad rush thru security and to a gate verily 500+ meters away!

So in the end we made it - but I carry away a distinct feeling that one of the premier airlines i.e. China Southern nearly shanghai-ed us - either by sheer incompetence or stupidity...

It appears that the much vaunted China - does have its incompetent side... and have a long long long way to catch up. Even with Malaysia...

Monday, June 23, 2008

Sleepless in Canton...

It has been a hectic week of work work work and sick sick sick.
*sigh* *grin*

Well, it is official - I have not really slept for the past 48 hours - except 3 hours of cough wrecked sleep on Saturday night and a turbulence filled 2.5 hours on the cramped seat of an airplane.

So right now I find myself unable to go to sleep - even in a quiet hotel room in off Guangzhou. My mind is just racing around, from matters at work, matters with colleagues, leftover matters from that especially time consuming last minute causing me not to be able to sleep project, matters of what the hell I am supposed to do for the next four days as I proceed to Shanghai for meetings and more meetings.

Traveling used to be fun - and it still is. The 1st look of an approaching city from the air, the tarmac of an airport I have never before ventured, the lines at immigration and customs silently praying I have not done or brought anything wrong. I love it all... However, I am starting to develop some disenchantment with traveling so much - especially for work.

I sometimes wish just to lie on my bed, book in hand with my mind in some faraway place - be it Midkemia, Arrakis, Middle Earth or Treasure Island. But I digress - probably due to my sleep deprived state.

For those who want to be in the know on my going-ons in life, I just have lunch and is currently waiting for a talk in the evening. Tonight we will be staying at the airport hotel ready to be whisked away to Shanghai 1st thing in the morning...

Oh Canton, Canton...
I hardly know you...
But for the whispers of your character...
from the elevated highway

Oh Canton, oh Canton
People now call you...
Guangzhou, jewel of the Pearl River...
as I depart from you by the jetway

On tomorrow's morn

Sunday, June 15, 2008

Prayers...

Received this on email today... Everyone lets chip in and pray that God will remove all evil powers and potentates in our home.

Out Of Court Settlement In SIB Case Fails
Tuesday, 10 June 2008

Hearing for the SIB case over the lawfulness of confiscation of their Christian publications containing the word "Allah" finally started at the Kuala Lumpur High Court Monday (9 June) under a new judge, Justice Datuk Abdul Kadir Musa, after futile attempts to settle the dispute out of court.

The hearing of the application by the Sidang Injil Borneo (Borneo Evangelical Church) Sabah for leave to sue the Internal Security Minister Syed Hamid Albar (previously Prime Minister Abdullah Ahmad Badawi) and the Federal government over the dispute was heard in chambers but was adjourned to 7 Aug.

SIB claimed that on 15 August 2007, three boxes of its Christian educational publications from Indonesia to Sabah were unlawfully detained on transit at the Low Cost Carrier Terminal (LCCT) at Sepang. They also contend that this had infringed upon their constitutional rights and their rights to freedom of religion.
After unsuccessful attempts to get the books released, the SIB filed the application for leave to seek a judicial review by way of a Certiorari Order from the court that the minister and government was wrong in law in confiscating and detaining the publications containing the word "Allah". It also filed for a Mandamus Order for the release of the books which were meant for their children's religions education. The church is also seeking several declarations from the court on their constitutional rights to use the word "Allah" in their religious publications, among other things. In addition, SIB is applying for a stay order.

In Monday's hearing, SIB was represented by Datuk D.P. Naban and Lim Heng Seng while senior Federal Counsel Azizah Nawawi represented the respondents. SIB Sabah president Pastor Jerry Dusing and church secretary Pastor Danny Limpakan were also present.

The books were returned to SIB on 25 Jan and it is understood that the application for Certiorari and Mandamus has been overtaken by events and the focus in on submission by SIB lawyers for the remaining declaratory reliefs and stay order. They are believed to have argued that the declarations are needed to protect their clients from continued harassment by the authorities regarding the use of the word "Allah" by the church.

The application was first heard before Justice Madam Lau Bee Lan on 27 Dec 2007. SIB lawyers tendered a certificate of urgency to case but senior Federal Counsel Azizah Nawawi asked for a postponement on grounds that there were moves by third parties to resolve the dispute out of court.

On 16 Jan 2008, when the case came up for hearing again before a new judge, Justice Datuk Wan Arfah. Azizah again asked for a postponement to 27 Jan. However, two days before that, SIB was given back their books and as a result both parties agreed to another adjournment on the understanding that following the general elections on 8 March, there would be renewed attempts to resolve the matter out of court but none was forthcoming till the hearing Monday. (By BOB TEOH/ MySinchew)

Home sweet home...

Thursday, June 12, 2008

Jack of all Trades...

The funny thing about blogging (at least for me) - is that I am not compelled to do it. I never kept a consistent diary in my life, I never managed to fully use the calendar function - be it in my phone, my pda or my pc (and mac for that matter).

无事不登三宝殿

Chinese saying - basically 'if there is nothing, one will not go to the triple treasure hall' - in this case triple treasure means the temple. It is similar to what many Christians do - not pray unless we are already suffering.

Which is why there is so much ranting on the blog :P I do not come here unless I want to vent - to rant... which is why I am up at 4am here - rambling away.

Just want to say that I am tired...
Due to my work - I have been put into an unenviable position of doing many things for the many facets (and companies) I am involved in. That forces me to devote less time to everything I am involved in - and in some eyes of some idiots I work with, this is a sign that I am not 'pulling my weight'

Nevermind the extra hours I put in, nevermind the extra mile I go...
Nevermind the shortcuts I have created, the extra effort to get things out perfect

Nevermind the time I devoted in the darkest of nights
Nevermind the crazy driving from point to point, the hours I have to stay in the office

Nevermind the personal resources I put in...
My own money to complement my blood, sweat and tears.

I am sorry if this blog sometimes sound like a big vent of hot air and fury. But heck -I am indeed angry and frustrated.

So to the world out there, at 4:09 in the morning. If I just can't please you - go stick your head in your **** and **** yourself.

Cheers!

Wednesday, May 14, 2008

The fine line between White and Black...

Mr PC... meet Mr Mac!

There you have it! The cow is now walking the fine line between my dearest black PC and my new white Mac (for my office).

However, contrary to what GCB says, I will never abandon the PC! Viva la PeeCee!

Besides, I only considered Mac now that it is INTEL INSIDE :P

:)

Wednesday, April 30, 2008

Darling, how was your day today...

*spoken with a fake English accent*

Sitting on a plastic stool on a rather grubby SS2 pavement with a huge jar of syrup filled 'Lychee Special', I was duly informed (albeit in jest and without malice) that my blog is only rants punctuated by pictures and jokes, I have decided that my blog needs to have some 'human activity' - i.e. the coming and goings of my rabid cow life...

Thus,
I have decided to put more ramblings - entries that answer the perpetual "Darling, how was your day today?" question.

So here goes...

Work is hectic, juggling the interests of 4 companies is tideous at best... and confusing. The spark of the day? Dear dear Vera is questioning my sexual orientation (with good reason as I posted up in excess of 25 pictures of Greg on facebook)! *grin*

And I am travelling south again... in the evening.

Enough?
*grin*

Friday, April 11, 2008

The level of our enemies...

I have been angry of late... mostly because of the issues at work and as well as in the home front.

Actually, not angry...
just irritated...
really irritated...

the 'I have an itch at the back of my eyes and cannot scratch it unless I claw out my eyes' kinda irritated!

Needless to say, work and personal stuff aside - another irritation is actually from the political front. Yes... I know, politics is the new black on blogs. But I got riled up by a few hypocrites, a 'lets overturn the people's votes by bypassing the state tourism exco' member of government as well as other Very Irritating Politicians (VIPs).

The reason why I am putting all this here is not to create another hotbed of dissent but rather that I realised something when we get irritated... we tend to drop down to the level of our enemies...

Yesterday, I came within an inch of shooting a 'Vox Populi' email to the friendly people at Malaysiakini. I even typed up my comment and it goes along the line of - '...cut off the elected state governments again in arrogance or rather stupidity and be prepared to have a PR federal government (if and when elected) to do the same to BN held states...'

Today, I was engaged in what is best described as 'A modern practical dissertation of the tactics of an Italian prince - Nicollo Machiavelli'. Although the target of the said discussion is an hypocrite, I suddenly realised (around 10 minutes ago in the shower) that if I had went ahead with my ideas, I would have committed a grievious error - especially in the eyes of the world, and the Lord Himself.

This sudden 'revelation' has given me pause - that I have to cut through the mist of irritation and think the 'Godly' way out of things... not only on the political front - but also at work and the home front.

*grin*
Who said bad politicians have nothing to teach us...

Sunday, April 06, 2008

It's Not Easy...



I can’t stand to fly
I’m not that naive
I’m just out to find
The better part of me

I’m more than a bird...
I’m more than a plane
More than some pretty face beside a train
It’s not easy to be me

I Wish that I could cry
Fall upon my knees
Find a way to lie
About a home I’ll never see

It may sound absurd...
but don’t be naive
Even Heroes have the right to bleed
I may be disturbed...
but won’t you concede
Even Heroes have the right to dream
It’s not easy to be me

Up, up and away...
away from me
It’s all right...
You can all sleep sound tonight
I’m not crazy...
or anything…

I can’t stand to fly
I’m not that naive
Men weren’t meant to ride
With clouds between their knees

I’m only a man in a silly red sheet
Digging for kryptonite on this one way street
Only a man in a funny red sheet
Looking for special things inside of me

It’s not easy to be me...

Don't know why I suddenly felt related to this song... Not that I am trying to say I am superman or anything. *grin* However, I do have a funny red sheet...

Tuesday, March 18, 2008

Rakyat: Time is Ripe for Samy to pack up and leave

I do not presume to speak for the people, but rather this is a parody for the article by The Star entitled Samy: Time not ripe for Barisan to be a single party

Dear Mr Samy, I think your quote that "In today’s political situation, such an action will dilute the rights of the Indian community" is hollow and severely out of touch. This political situation has successfully dispelled the double edged sword that is racial politics - I think that the Indian community is well represented in the Barisan Rakyat ranks.

I further quote from the article " the smaller communities like the Indians still had to fight for their rights and this could only be done through MIC." This does shows how out of touch he is! Does the MIC have any claim that they and they alone have monopoly over the voice of the Indian community? Or rather the baton has passed to multi-racial parties like PKR or DAP?

Of all the noises coming out of BN - I am most heartened by Gerakan - echoing its call for BN to be a singular multi-racial party (as was in their AGM earlier). So what now for Gerakan if the old coalition structure remain? Would Gerakan leave BN? That is an interesting for the honourable Dr Koh to chew on. (I am still impressed on his composure and handling of the Penang handover)

In the end, I just could not resist - just a thought - maybe the people of Kepong should suggest that the MRR2 elevated highway should change its name to Lebuhraya Dr Michael Jeyakumar Devaraj. *grin*

PS: For my friends - I know that this blog is fast becoming a political rag - I promise to put up other related news and hope that we will go back to my regular staple of piccies :). Cheers!

Monday, March 17, 2008

History...

"Those who cannot learn from history are doomed to repeat it." -George Santayana

These are heady times - with new governments in many states and a new sense of unity amongst the people. As usual, the government-owned media has not managed to get this sense of unity on the ground - citing that Malaysians are divided as never before. I really do hope they are wrong, and some of my recent experiences the hope seems to be right.

I was talking to my aunt just today, about politics no less - a topic that is unusual simply that she is probably the most politically challenged person in this nation. In all honesty, this aunt of mine is rather narrow in her interpretation of race relatios - i.e. stay away from non-chinese people. Full Stop. But what was amazing is the words that was coming out of her mouth.

"Waah, this new president (it is actually MB but she ended up saying president) for Perak is good hor. Seem to be nice," she said.

"But Ah Eee, he is PAS wor. Isn't that not a good thing?" I quipped - knowing full well that like all Penangites (or rather Chinese Penangite) she has expressed her horror and disdain for the Islamist party many times.

"Aiyoh. Beh yau kin eh lar. E PAS mar PAS lor. Ha mi ma shi siang eh. Eh hiau ka wa lang teng lang ho lai ho kee mar eh sai lor." (Hokkien: Aiyou. Nevermind one - let it be PAS - so what, it is all the same. As long as he is able to work with us Chinese - that is enough)

I was flabbergasted. This was probably one of the only conversations that I have with this aunt in which she actually approved of a PAS supporter - much less a PAS MB! She went on to say that her friends back in Penang as well as some in Taiping and Pak Hai (or Seberang Prai) and our cousin in Sia Tan Ni (Sungai Petani) also have similar views (SP is in the now PAS dominated state of Kedah). I guess the people are indeed sick of race politics and are looking for an alternative - contrary to what is being presented by the press.

Now, talking about race relations - this is the reason why I titled this post of history. During election night, I was kinda forced back home around 1am because my mum was rather paranoid about potential riots. I was rather chuffed about it (I actually intended to go back to my election monitoring) and brought it up yesterday at dinner. It was then I heard a first hand account of a young girl (my mum was her teens) during the May incident.

"It was scary. At night we all switched off all the lights and crowded into one room. It is almost like a curfew. In the middle of our room we put a lot of big pots, pans and a big tangki - and we have our sticks. Someone will be awake to keep watch"

"The boys took their bamboo sticks and some of them took old hunting rifles (one of my grand-uncles was apparently a ranger) and hid in the rambutan orchard just across the road."

"The reason why the pans and pots was that if we see any lights coming - if there was a lot of lights like torches we would beat the pots and drums and the boys and men will form a barricade/blockade."

This was all new to me. And the vividness of it shows that this time must have impacted her a lot. I cannot vouch for the accuracy of the details she said (it was a long time ago) but my mum gave me a sense that this must NOT be forgotten - so that IT CAN NEVER HAPPEN AGAIN.

I am so glad that this was a peaceful transition at this critical time. I applaud PM Pak Lah for allowing this climate of change to happen - that he respected the people's wishes. Not all of our ex-prime ministers may have chosen the fair honourable way our Pak Lah has carried himself. I am aslo glad that the opposition did not goad and held their victories with grace and decorum.

In 39 years from now, our children will ask us about this election - this election that showed that this nation can move forward with peaceful change. And I will be able to tell my son or daugther that he or she has nothing to fear to party with the victors of the Malaysian General Elections 2047 (if I am alive then :P). I will tell them the day that a fair and honourable PM - who may not be the strongest or sharpest leader - who allowed this change. That Abdullah Badawi may be one of the most important leaders in the history of this nation - by simply allowing the people to be heard...

Thursday, March 13, 2008

Get on with it...

3 Days?
You have to be kidding... 3 days and the Perak government to be is already in crisis? What is happening? It is rather sad that a bright hope of a new era is now dimmed and off to a bad start.

So... I have only 1 thing to say... Get on with it! Go form your government, get down to work, dismantle the old regime and prove the biased official media wrong! You guys will probably get only one chance - don't blow it!

Wednesday, March 12, 2008

Ancient Chinese Wisdom...

Photograph taken at the Baotu Spring (趵突泉) also known as the '1st spring under heaven' (天下第一泉), Jinan, China

It seems that even after the 'political tsunami' last weekend, the MCA leadership and its press bureau - The Star has still not managed to look introspectively at the rebuke given by Malaysians of ALL RACES...

I would like to bring you to the analects - by Confucius - considering now we are talking about the MCA...


"君子周而不比, 小人比而不周"

Written almost 2,000 years ago, its philosophy is still very much relevant in the political world today. The above line states - 'The superior man (Leader) is all embracing and impartial, while the inferior man is never embracing and always partial."

In this case it is very true - take Ong Ka Chuan who just yesterday criticised the DAP of duping voters (Page N8, The Star 11/03/08). What the DAP is doing is embracing all possibilities in a new environment - by showing itself to be an all inclusive, non-race based party. It must be a hard thing for them to contemplate a PAS MB for Perak, and they would be worried about the repercussions - but kudos to them for not balking at the possibility of an Islamist MB and allow Perak to go into disarray under a minority administration. So Mr YB Ong, be a 君子, not a 小人. Because the Chinese will never support the party of inferior men - stop wagging the dog and look inwards to rebuild the trust the people had for the MCA - for no amount of distractions can change the reality that the MCA has lost our trust, our votes for it no longer represent our voice.

Also from the Analects...

哀公聞曰:「何爲則民服 」
孔子對曰:「擧直錯諸枉, 則民服; 擧枉錯諸直, 則民不服。」

Master of Ai (Duke): How can I make the people follow me?
Confucius: Go forward with upright righteousness and set aside the crooked, and the people will follow you. Go forward with crookedness and set aside the upright, and the people will not follow you.

This should also serve as a warning to the MCA, the people have left you and will not follow you until you bring back righteousness and principles to the party. It pains me for I have once supported the MCA greatly - only to be gravely disappointed. The MCA cannot be a community club or welfare society - it is a political party that needs to set the standard of leadership of the community and bring it into a multi-racial context - ranting about racial lines will only serve to belittle the people and bring MCA further into oblivion.


In the end...
子曰:「爲政以德, 譬如北辰居其所而衆星共之。」

Confucius says: "If you govern by the power of your virture, you will be like the North Star - you will stay in your place (of honour) and all the other stars will revolve around you."

Thursday, March 06, 2008

Impossible?

Its almost 5am and it has indeed been a momentous occasion...

There is a famous line from one of my favourite movies of all time...

"People should not fear their government, their government should fear the people"

I guess today we have taught our government fear...

Congratulations to all the winners of the election - on both sides. This is a chance for you all to show that you have earned the right to represent us. To the opposition, who has broken the 2/3 stranglehold - it is time for you to step up to the expectation that you will usher in a new dawn. To the government, it is time for you to renew and rebuild the trust the people have put to you for over 50 years.

And Mr Kuppusamy... I guess WE ARE ALL MALAYSIANS AFTER ALL!
P/S To the media, it is time for you to get your act together and represent the views of all Malaysians... I have posted this in 2005 and again in the last month - The biggest loser of this election is you who keep media blackouts, unfair reporting and biased editorials, You have heard the roar of the people - and the great expanse of the internet - act now of be irrelevant now and forevermore.

Sunlight

“But soft! What light through yonder window breaks?
It is the East, and Juliet is the sun!
Arise, fair sun, and kill the envious moon,
who is already sick and pale with grief that thou her maid art far more fair than she.”
- William Shakephere, Romeo & Juliet

Photograph taken in Singapore

Saturday, March 01, 2008

Cill Rìmhinn...

Recently, one of my Scottish friends told us the good news - that he has been accepted into St. Andrews in Scotland. In commemoration to that, I posted up some of the pictures I took at St. Andrews to get him excited *grin*

Well now I am going to share these pictures here...

A view from the entrance of the St Andrews Cathedral compound - looking across the cemetary

A view at ground level of the grand Cathedral entrance

Arches

View of St Andrews town from St Rule's Tower with the cathedral ruins in the foreground

Similar to the above but with more of the cathedral grounds in the foreground

Beautiful ruins of St Andrews Castle

A view of the sea from the ruins of the castle - including a pool/bath ruin in the foreground and the cathedral on the headland

A lone predator staring into the North Sea

Thursday, February 28, 2008

Proud to be Malaysian...

Whenever some nice caucasian dude asks me (and trust me I do get it a lot, especially in Australia, UK or even Ireland)... So what are you? I mean, what race are you? What nationality? What...

I usually just jump in... I am a Malaysian or rather a Malaysian Chinese (or sometimes Malaysian of Chinese descent.

This is often followed by an ahhhhh... Malaysian eh... nice country, beautiful beaches, that... what do ya call it - Pet-rones towers -wish to go there someday...
The fact that I am Chinese would not even crop up after that...

When I was an undergraduate down-under, I got myself involved in the Malaysian Student Council, a loose coalition organised by the MSD of university based Malaysian clubs. This coalition is organised at a national (in Australia) level and by state level. I had the privilege to be chairman of one such state Malaysian Student Council - and until today still extremely proud of the team I put together - Chinese, Malay and Indians working together under a common identity - being Malaysian.

In addition, looking at the larger picture nationally - I am Chinese, my counterpart in South Australia is Malay, in Queensland, an Indian. All united with one voice - being Malaysian!

You would probably be asking now - why am I bringing all this up right now? It is simple - I have been stirred by the press. I am proud to be Malaysian - Which is why I am now deeply offended by an article in the papers by a reporter, who in one fell swoop declared himself an expert in race relations in our beloved nation. In his article, this gentleman noted that Malaysia ia "a country where “Malaysians” are still rare and society is populated instead by Malays, Chinese and Indians and something called 'others'.” What in interesting insight!

This article was on The Star - Anwar reinvents himself again. It is obvious that the article is trying to analyse and point out the weaknesses of one of our opposition leaders - that he has abandoned his "twin pillars" and move on to a ground that he will never win. But in the process he revealed the dark underbelly of our national politics - if he is right, our government has failed in its grand attempt to unite us all - slogans of "Malaysia Boleh!" rings hollow, "Malaysia truly Asia" a sham, "Masyarakat Majmuk & Muhibbah" a pipe dream, our Rukunegara an empty formula hanging on the darkened walls of failed schools and broken fields... It is probably the saddest thing my eyes ever have the misfortune of reading.

It is in the deepest recesses of my mind and heart that screams out - wishing that it is not true. That being Malaysian is being in a special society... where in the night market a Malay vendor sells halal char koay teow next to a Chinese dude selling Nasi Lemak, where Chinese taxi drivers speak fluent Tamil, Malay taxi drivers swears in Cantonese and Indian taxi drivers complaining about traffic in Kelantanese Malay vernacular... A society that worships our gods and deities side by side, where D24 Durian stalls have men (and women) of all races frantically digging into our King of fruits... A society that kawans hang together as heng tais... Where the people speak in funny incomprehensible English (such as Hey Joe, mana lu pergi? or Alamak! Like that si liao)

In short - a Malaysian society... Just as it was envisioned by our government leaders 51 years ago when they got together in Alliance to form a common National Front

Friday, February 22, 2008

More laughter...

Hahhahahahha... *grin*
This morning I received an email from a friend with two songs on youtube worth sharing. I tell you - this is funny S*** *grin*



Also comments on the ongoing 'Lingam Affair'



Apparently, these guys are comedians that perform at the actors studio in Bangsar - their website is at Comedy Court. These guys are geniuses *grin*

Friday, February 15, 2008

Plague on both your houses...

It is kinda sad to say that as elections approach, I have increasingly been feeling shortchanged - by the simple fact that I am in this electorate...

I yearn to be in the electorate in the United States - whose ideas, ideals and issues driven race - even in the choosing of the party nominee excites me. I yearn to be in the electorate of Australia, where an orderly transition from one party to the next shows a generational change... All sadly absent in this country

Choosing in this upcoming election - is almost impossible as I am now faced with the choice between the devil and the deep blue sea...

On one side is a government that has indeed brought success and development to this nation I love - but has lost credibility in my eyes - especially with the announcement of the dissolution of parliament - after outright denial that it would do so. Such a behaviour had indeed left me feel deceived.

But on the other side, is an opposition - that neither have the ability or credibility to govern. In my eyes they are neither tested to lead or show a slightest hint that they will be able to deliver except to rattle the bushes and be an opposition.

*sigh*
My mind is definately not made up - and I think so are many other Malaysians out there... so shame on the both of you...

Thursday, January 24, 2008

F8 at 1/250...

Although I am a dedicated Nikon user - sometimes Canon do come up with terrific adverts. This is one perfect example *grin*

















This is one thing that will bring grief to many aspiring photographers to come - to choose between a good photograph and face the consequences or let the photo go for the moment.

I think I choose the former a bit too many times *grin*

Monday, January 21, 2008

Shattered no more...

























I have gotten back the precious...

*grin* *GRIN*

Bone tired...

*sigh*

I really wonder what it the purpose of all this at times - all this work/activity. Today I woke up feeling bruised and battered, probably due to the absolute nutcase of activity over the last weekend.

I think this was the busiest end/beginning of the year that I have ever had. Weddings, events, launches & other challenges rolled all into one. It has made me muddle headed, a bit of a wreck and wishing to be sipping pina coladas in one of the quieter islands of the world - where the pace is slower, the sunsets beautiful and the risk of being driven mad by errant drivers minimal.

The need of clearing my thoughts - take a breather so to speak is now a primal need. I have started to mention names and products of the 3 different companies I am looking after incorrectly - and them being competitors just my life a wee miserable. I have named the wrong company twice, the wrong product thrice and the wrong leader's name at least once!

I need a break... for I am tired to the bone - but looking at my schedule, I see no reprieve... *sigh*

But you know, contradictory as it may seems, I welcome opportunities to help my friends to do things that are close to my heart. In my eyes - they are attractive little portable holiday islands that come my way... now to get that alcoholic drink to wash it down.

Tuesday, January 15, 2008

On SMS Dynamics...

My smses are getting shorter?
Why?

Is it the absence of time? or rather the presence of more work?
Is it an increment of snappiness? or a reduction of grace?

I would love to think it is rather a switchback to a Nokia phone from an O2 phone...

1 phrase, 3 words...

No More Auto-Dictionary!

Saturday, January 12, 2008

Random laugther @ 2am...




Hahahhahahhahahahhahahhahhahhahah!
Hahahhahahahah!

HAHAHHAHAHHAHHAHAHAHHA!
So there!

*Note: Credit has to go to Dr Egg for her contribution.... *grin**

And then I found this... (also good and appeals more to my pharmacy side *evil grin*)



Enuff said... Then I heard this one...



I think its time for me to go to bed... *grin*
Cheers!

Tuesday, January 08, 2008

Shattered...

Spanking New Car...
Proud Owner...

Sungai Besi Highway...
Runaway Rock...

Shattered!
*sigh*

Give me a break!

Wednesday, January 02, 2008

Heavy thoughts for a new year...

Greetings to everyone out there! Happy New Year 2008...

This New Year's Eve was a rather anti-climatic affair - with some excitement (or rather poisoning) by oyster mushrooms - thus making my 1st act in 2008 a prolonged visit to the toilet *sigh*

However, this new year is different... really really different...

1) My best friend is MARRIED!!! Oh my goodness *grin* How did that happen? Well - all I can is that he is indeed a lucky man and I wish him all the best in the new journey ahead... I will definately be posting up pictures from the wedding soon! Promise!

2) A lesson on New Year's Day... For this all I can say is Sorry... I realised that I was extremely insensitive (albeit in ignorance)... even antagonists have families and my heart sincerely goes out to them for the traumatic events of recent days...