Well done Champ!

Watching the match, I thought the Indonesian players were really nervous. Playing at home in front of 100,000 cheering fans can be intimidating. Add on the expectations of the more than 200 millions Indonesians, the weight must have felt extremely heavy on their shoulders. As a result, they crumbled, even missing a penalty. Having said that, take nothing away from the Malaysian players. They were excellent throughout. We can now build on from here and move on to bigger things. Suddenly, qualifying for the World Cup don't look like an impossible dream!

Tonight's the night

Can Malaysia make it tonight? From the word go, the Indonesians will be camping at our goalmouth. Will Malaysia be able to withstand the onslaught? The Indonesians will definitely be looking for an early goal. I just hope our team don't play too deep or it will be one long night of defending.

Travel chaos

From Europe to Russia to US of A, chaos is the name of the game. Thousands of stranded travelers all over the airports. One good lesson to be taken here is to never plan your travel during the Christmas period, especially to Europe. If I remember correctly, last year was much the same! A few hours of delay is already upsetting. When it become days.....the thought is enough to make me cringe!

Old family photo

While at a wedding recently, my cousin handed out this photo of my grandparents, uncles, aunties and cousins from my mother's side plus my parents, three brothers and two sisters. I am not in the picture because I was not born yet. From my estimate, this must have been taken more than sixty years ago. Most of the kids sitting at the front row are now grandparents themselves.

The end of the tunnel?

A great win for Malaysia, surpassing all expectations. Surely the trophy is in the bag now. Indonesia must know that it is very difficult to come from 0-3 down, even when playing in your own den. For Malaysia, two trophies (this one is considered won) in recent regional competitions underline our revival. So what is next? Qualifying to the Asian Championship final?

See you at Bt Jalil

Malaysia vs Indonesia, who will win? Definitely I would say Malaysia! Unfortunately, such is my knowledge on local football, I can't back that up with any statistics or any arguments, just pure sentiment. What will be the score? Malaysia to win 1-0 in KL and to draw 0-0 in Jakarta!

Our Heroes

I don't normally shed tears. Macho I guess. However, this morning while watching the CNN Heroes program, unknowingly, tears flowed from my eyes. I was moved. These are the people, by their actions, have make a difference to other people lives. They overcome tremendous odds, improving lives, giving hope and courage to thousands of people. How I wish I can do something like them!

Heathrow in chaos!

Seems like Heathrow airport is in total chaos at the moment. Heavy snow is causing flights to be canceled by the dozens, leaving thousands of travelers stranded at the airport. Worse still, they are not allowed into the airport except for those with tickets for flights leaving within four hours. Can't imagine the misery, what with the cold and snow. My family and I missed the train once from Victoria station. That night we had to camp by the roadside as they locked up the station and only opened it again early next morning. I can tell you, the cold was terrible but that was during summer! In winter...........

Having fun

After what seem like an eternity, the sun was shining again yesterday. Without much hesitation, I went jogging after being forced to give it a miss the past few days because of the rain. What an enjoyable time I had. The mind felt so free I could have run forever.

Well done Malaysia but........

Everybody can see that they had a game plan. They followed it throughout the ninety minutes and were rewarded with a place in the final. Well done but............ they need to do better in the final. I saw too many wild kicks out of defense, too many stray passes and too easily lose the ball. They need to hold the ball, take on players, pass it and not simply kick the ball and rush. As I said earlier, some of them are wonderful ball players but they need to have more confidence in their ability.

Tis the season!

Wikileaks or whatever that leaks

It has always been the case. When somebody do something and it becomes a success, there are sure to be others who will do something similar. Its the same story with Wikileaks. As soon as it became famous for whatever the reason, others leaks starts appearing. From Lebanon to Indonesia to Brussel, it is suddenly leaking everywhere!

Two sides to a coin

I have always known that 'Hari Asyura' is a day for joyous occasion. Although I didn't care to find out what it was about, I do know that it has something to do with religion. Later on I learned that 'Hari Asyura' is on the tenth of Muharram, a day where many historical events related to Islam happened. I also learned that the prophet used to fast on that day, plus the day before and the day after. Then, much much later, I discovered that it is also the day when a very significant event in the history of Islam happened. It is a day when Imam Husin, the grandson of the prophet, was brutally killed.

Two up for Malaysia

Watching the Malaysia vs Vietnam football, I kept asking myself, who's playing at home and who's playing away? Still, Malaysia scored and no matter how much the purist would like to argue, the real joy for the fans is when you stick it into the opponent's net. No use spraying countless passes, playing neat beautiful football but in your own half. Better kick and rush if that will get you the goals!

Nothing like a little money in the pocket!

Somehow this morning, smiling faces were everywhere at my office. I wondered and wondered but much to my frustration, couldn't put a finger to it. Were they on to something? How could it be that I do not know? Then it struck me..............yes! its the bonus. Today is handout day! Wow! No wonder even the canteen operator was smiling. He must be anticipating a roaring business.

'Trengganu Kite'

Travelling to the hinterland of Trengganu, came across this village with this very original name. And if you think somebody screwed up with the spelling, well, you're wrong. He is just spelling it the 'Trengganu Kite' way.

More on Trengganu once more

Back in the safety of my hotel room, I'm surfing the internet for want of something better to do. I have been reading the fiqh of Imam Jaafar Al Sadiq recently. Very interesting to read especially since it is something which we have not been exposed to. Meantime, as a result of my more than 100 metres dashed in the rain just now, my body is feeling the chill. I think I am going to get sick......

Trengganu once more

In Trengganu once again. Wanted to make it a day trip but flight unavailability forced me into staying a night. Took a walk along Pantai Batu Burok. Quite enjoyable until the rain came. Stranded for a while until I decided enough is enough and made a dash for the hotel. Needless to say, I was totally drenched.

Kite Selling

With the wind blowing ever so strong, it don't take a pro to get a kite flying

Reflections

As another year draws to a close, I am also getting closer to my next phase in life. Growing up, student days, working life and now to retirement. Soon, it will be a reality which also means the final phase is getting nearer and nearer i.e. life in the hereafter. Am I ready for it? Have I done enough? Will I be smiling when it comes?

Awesome!

Once again the All Blacks completed the Grand Slam, beating France and all the British teams i.e. England, Ireland, Wales and Scotland in their recent most tour. A complete dominance of the Northern Hemisphere teams. With South Africa and Australia blowing hot and cold, the All Blacks must be hot on favourite for the World Cup. Can they do it this time?

When three is a crowd

Proton has just announced their entry into Formula One. They are buying a stake in Reynold and the new team will be known as Lotus Reynold. At the same time, the team led by a Mr Fernandez will continue their pursuit for Formula One glory. This time they will call themselves Team Lotus. Therefore, there'll be two teams using the Lotus name for next season and Malaysians are heavily involved in both. Meantime, Petronas goes about their business as usual, sponsoring yet another team, Mercedes. Could it be that three is a crowd?

Malaysia through!

Malaysia made it to the semi final after a morale boosting 5-1 win over Laos in Palembang. With Indonesia getting the better of Thailand in Jakarta, Malaysia qualified as the second team from the group. I must admit for a long time during the match against Laos, Malaysia were again playing too defensively. Laos were dictating play with Malaysia reduced to occasional forays into enemy territory. The 5-1 scoreline cannot hide the fact that we are still lacking the self confidence necessary to win the championship.

Indonesia, the next frontier

Indonesia it seems, is a country in a hurry. Investors are flocking to it, attracted by its big domestic demand and a favourable political climate. Its the biggest Asean economy by far. Its not much affected by current economic woes as export is not its biggest contributor. In the years to come, Indonesia might just be the new frontier!

Love thy neighbour

Malaysia needs a helping hand from Indonesia tonight in order to qualify for the next round. We have to beat Laos while hoping that Indonesia, having already qualified, don't take it easy and play their reserves against Thailand. The question on everybody's mind is, can we beat Laos?

From Russia with love

Another spying scandal has broken out. This time its right in the British parliament. A Russian spy masquerading as a student while working for a British member of parliament. She denied it off course, saying its all above board but then, you never can be certain!

Malaysia 0 Thailand 0

I don't understand the game they were playing. They were staying back and defending most of the time, depending only on breakaways. Against Japan or Korea, I would understand but Thailand? Don't tell me even against Thailand, we need to play a defensive game? Surely we can match them man to man!

World Cup

World Cup host 2014 - Brazil
World Cup host 2018 - Russia
World Cup host 2022 - Qatar
World Cup host 20..?.. - Malaysia

World Cup Winners 2...? - Malaysia

Naughty kids

My buddy and me
We were neighbours at our parents rented houses in Selama, Perak. Later they each bought a house in this housing scheme, also in Selama. As such, we continued to be neighbours and remained best of friends until secondary schools when we each went to different schools in Taiping. Since then, we lost contact. Last I heard he became a pilot.

Pathetic!

Our soccer team thrashed 1-5 by Indonesia. We were brought down to earth after the high in Guangzho, or at least we thought. On hindsight, we should have known. Actually, we only won one game out of four in Guangzho. That's poor by any standard!

Two shocking results

Real Madrid thrashed 0-5 by a classy Barcelona team. A shocking result! Don't know what happened to Maurinho and his players but they were were well and truly beaten. Perhaps Maurinho was trying too much to get away from his reputation of building teams that are dour and unexciting. As a result, they play to Barca's strength and now everybody knows what happened!
Manchester United beaten 0-4 by West Ham. Another shocking result! What else is there to say!

MAHA 2010

Every year I wait in great anticipation for MAHA to come but when it comes, I never can find the time to visit it. At the moment MAHA 2010 is in full swing. Wanted to go last weekend but had so many other things to do. Also on weekends I am told the place is over crowded. A few years ago I actually went. It was the last day but went I got there, it was all but over.....sigh.

Korea on the brink

I noticed that whenever the South Koreans, or at least the ones that I met, show a map of their country, the map will inevitably be of Korea in total i.e. South and North Korea. On a few occasion, I had a to take a slightly longer time to digest because I was expecting a map showing only South Korea. In their mind maybe, Korea is just one, no North or South. With tension simmering in the Korean peninsula at the moment, it must be very hard for the Korean people. Its like a family quarrel.

Green eyed horns

Great memory Loqman. Let me test you with this one!

An outing at the alley

Some days it can be white

Which bridge to cross?

Today I have a hard decision to make. Reason being I have to be at three places at the same time. That's really tough when you have to split your body into three, so to speak. Until this very morning, I am still undecided. I guess I'II cross the bridge when the time comes......which is .......... about now!

When I was small.....

and Rambutan trees were tall..... With my younger sister. Must be when I was about 8 or 9 yrs old.

Now I am tall......

But Rambutan trees are taller.

When Kung Fu was the craze, I had people coming up to me and sang the song 'Kung Fu fighting.........' Perhaps I had some resemblance to that famous 'Kung Fu' actor. Lucky thing nobody decided to try his Kung Fu on me. Otherwise, I would be in deep trouble.

Surprises can be pleasant

The match had less than five minutes to go with India leading 3-2 when I decided I had seen enough and shut the TV. Its going to be the same old story. Beside, Mahgrib prayer was due. So imagine my surprised when later in the night, I read the news from the internet. My eyes almost popped out. 'Malaysia to meet Pakistan in hockey final' the headline screamed. Wow! what a pleasant surprise.
If only I can get surprises like this everyday of the week! How nice.

He who swims without the pants........

Overspending is a trait much encourage now. With credit easily available, people are enticed to spend more than they can afford. You don't have money, just borrow! What's the problem? None actually if you know how to count your chicken before its hatched. The problem is not many of us know! Its only when the tide recede do we know who is actually swimming without their pants on, as one billionaire famously said! By then, its too late.

Ireland money woes and Idris Jala

Its the turn of Ireland now. Before that it was USA, then Greece. Portugal and Spain are next in line if business talks are to be believed. Their stories are almost similar, a property boom that went to bust. Easy credit was the culprit with banks dishing out loans to whoever for whatever, with little or no consideration for the risks at stake.
In Malaysia, the rise and rise and rise of household debts is a cause for concern. Is it because of easy credit? Maybe so. Just this week, I rejected three offers of cash. Its the other way round now. Not the bank rejecting you but you rejecting the bank! Then there are loans for almost everything now, personal, house renovation, holiday, study etc. etc. but the ultimate must be today when I heard over the radio.....loan to do the Haj.
Maybe Idris Jala is right after all.....if we are not careful, we can go bankrupt!

Weddings a plenty

From now till the end of December and perhaps a bit of January, my weekends will be full, that much I dare say. The wedding season is back again. Invitations are piling up on my desk. I am not complaining but just need to be careful about eating too much of the nice bad food.

Who wants to be a football manager?

Being a football manager is not a profession for the weak. Its where getting the sack is so common that if you survived a few years, you are in the minority. However, if you are successful, you will be paid handsomely. If you already carry a name, getting the sack can be a blessing in disguise because the severance pay can be in the millions. I would love to be a football manager. I think I can be a success. I know I can be a success but the only problem is, the world don't know it!

A new kid is in town

Yes...that's right. After a few false start, finally another player has entered the market. Cheaper and faster too, so they said. Already, analyst are predicting an all out price war. I wait with great anticipation. Who knows, if I can save a few ringgit, switching to this new player is definitely an option.

Guess where?

Guess where?

Hari Raya Eidul Adha

Cows for the 'Korban'
As is the culture in this side of the country, Eidul Adha is celebrated on a much smaller scale compared to Eidul Fitri. Normally its just to the mosque for the morning prayer and that's it. That's what I did this year. The rest of the day was spent in the house, doing nothing much. I'm told in the East Coast, the celebration is on a much bigger scale. Must pay a visit some day to see what's its like over there.

Two different experience of doing the Haj

I first went for the Haj in 1996. I stayed seven to a room and food was not included in the package. As such, I had the opportunity to try all kind of food in different restaurants in Mekah and Madinah. In between prayers, I used to wander around the city looking for food to eat and therefore had quite a good grasped of it. Many times, I met pilgrims who had lost their way. I led them back to their hotels. It was similar in Mina as well. I also met many people in the course of doing the Haj.
The second time, in 2003, I went on a totally different package where I stayed two to a room. Food was also provided. This time around, I just followed the group. Everything was provided for. Its just to the mosque and back to the hotel most of the time. Didn't get to meet that many people as well except for those in the group.
Anyway, suffice to say that on both trips, being a guest of God is fulfillment enough.

Some days

On my way back home from work yesterday along the NPE, I noticed the jam was terrible on the opposite side. Some people have even got out of their cars and resting by the roadside, smoking cigarette or chatting with each other. In my heart, I was saying to myself, thank God I'm on this side of the road. Otherwise, don't know what time I will get home.

The Journey of a Lifetime

As the pilgrims in Mekah head for Arafah and later to Mina, my heart is with them on this spiritual journey of a lifetime. Its an experience that will be embedded forever in their hearts. To do the Haj is an honour bestowed upon us by God the Almighty. Not everybody gets to go to Mekah. I know of many who have all the requirements but yet, for some reason, have not done the Haj. Alhamdulillah, I am not one of them.

Talking Malaysian football again

Don't know if the referee was being overzealous or not but he did sent off three of our players during the match. That really created a whole lot of problem for our players and they lost 0-3. Anyway, its academic now because in the next round, Iran beat us 3-1. There are glimmers of hope but only just. We are still too far down the rank to trouble even Asia's best. I see the light but its too far away!

Horn at your own peril

In Malaysia, if you want to get your head bashed, sound the horn. In some other countries, sounding the horn is the order of the day. As soon as the driver gets into the vehicle, the first thing he'll do is sound the horn. In yet some other countries, driving is only for the brave. Its everyman for himself especially when it comes to corners and roundabouts. Funny but the different cultures of the world can be seen by just observing the vehicles on the road.

A double spy on the run

I thought the days when James Bond like spies were in fashion are long gone. Its a dying business. After all, the cold war ended a long time ago but guess what? I thought wrong. The papers today tell a story about a Russian double spy who disappeared and is now in USA. The Russians are in hot pursuit, warning that they know where he is and its only a matter of time before they get him. But then again, the Americans are saying this could be a hoax. The real double spy is someone else and that this warning is only a disguise to throw them off his track. However, the Russians replied............aah...this spy business is getting me in a tangle.

Light at the end of the tunnel

I saw the Malaysia vs Japan match yesterday. We lost 0-2. The Japanese were in control of the match throughout except for a few fleeting moments here and there. As for the Malaysians, I must say we have some players with great individual skills but collectively, were always one step behind. Still, from what I saw, all is not lost. I can see lights at the end of the tunnel. The only question is, how long is the tunnel?

Three highs!

Yes! 1526.53. That's the new high for the KLCI. Things are looking good. Can it go higher?

Yes! Our football team won the first game in the ongoing Asian games. We beat Kyrgyzstan 2-1. Its a new high for Malaysian football that has been in the doldrums for so long. Can it go further?

Yes! Torres scored a magnificent goal for Liverpool in the match against Chelsea. A curling shot from the edge of the penalty box that left the goalkeeper stranded. A high class performance from a man much maligned lately. Is he back to his best?

KLCI on the up

1524.69. That's the highest the KLCI has ever been. Will it be broken this week or will it ever? If its any indication, the Dow slids 37 points last night while stocks in Europe also were down. We wait and see! It is now at 1519 after moving up 8 points yesterday.

A lunch that was not

Its a no brainer to decide on the next restaurant after the first one was found to be closed or so you think. Its actually extremely difficult. By the time we made ours, lunch time was long gone. Yes...it took that long to decide.

The Pad or Tab or whatever you call it

I have been enjoying the tab that I bought recently. Features are almost similar to that of a smart phone but off course bigger. The part that is most handy is the e book. Just download the book you fancy from the e store and its ready to be read. How convenient. Never thought there would come a day when I will be reading from the e book!

Our football needs a saviour

Of all the sports in Malaysia, only football can draw crowds in the tens of thousand. Similarly, only football can get sponsors to the tune of millions of dollars. Yet our football is in a rut. Struggled to better the like of Cambodia or Loas and sure to be beaten by the Middle East teams such as Kuwait, Qatar and the rest. I'm not even talking of Japan and Korea yet! We remember fondly of the days when we were a team to be reckoned with but that was a good thirty to forty years ago. How come?

Keeping to the time

I am quite discipline when it comes to eating time. I will have breakfast at 7.30 am while lunch will be at 1 pm. These times are quite fixed in the sense that I follow them religiously, almost to the minute. Dinner is the only time I waver a bit, sometimes after Maghrib and sometimes after Isya. However, these happens only on weekdays. On weekends, its a different story altogether. Breakfast, lunch, dinner, the time go haywire. I know this is not good for the health but being at home, keeping to the time is furthest from the mind.

Unpopular governments

The new government in UK is fast becoming unpopular after it institute measures to curb overspending and reduced budget deficit. It is not surprising as the cuts in budget have hurt quite a few pockets. Even the queen is not spared. In US, Obama's Democrats suffered big losses in mid term elections. Apparently the measures taken by Obama to bring life to the economy is not impressing the people and they said so. It is really hard to please the people!

The right to be forgotten

In Europe, they are coming out with a cyber law that will give you 'the right to be forgotten'. What it actually means is that if some day you want to remove all your personal information from the net, all you need to do is to press a button and its gone. Not like now where information in the net lingers on some where some place even after you have deleted them. That is actually not a problem until somebody picked them and used it for less than legal purposes.

Its that time of the year again

On the way to Trengganu recently, it was raining all the way from Kuantan till almost reaching KT. They say the rainy season is just about to begin. Up the highlands in Cameron, I was told the rain is a little bit late this year. It should have been raining now but it didn't. Meanwhile, they wait for the inevitable. Today, Perlis, Kedah and Kelantan are underwater in some areas.
Looks like the North East Monsoon wind is here.....and so is the rain.

The goal that Nani scored

This must rank as one of the most bizarre goal ever. Bizarre not because of its artistry neither the skill but because of its comical nature. I can't help but laugh every time I see it. I thought this kind of things happened only in matches involving junior schoolboys but no...it happened in a professional match involving professional players. Real funny! It had to be seen to be believed.

Kelantan at last

Kelantan at last. After years and years and years of trying, Kelantan finally nailed the cup. What a night for their fans!

In need of a highway

Pantai Batu Burok

View from my room

I enjoy driving along the coastal road in the east coast of the peninsular. Idyllic villages, scenic beaches plus time that seem to last forever, the drive is never boring. However, as with all places, development is fast taking over. Now, the drive is often disturbed by traffic lights. Passing through Cukai town alone, I counted eight of them. That really gets on the nerve. A pleasant drive has become unbearable!

Where time stood still

Paul is dead!

Paul is dead! No... not the Paul you'd think but Paul, the octopus. In case you have forgotten, this is the Paul that created a little bit of magic during the World Cup by correctly picking the winner seven times, including the final. The whole of Spain must be in mourning. Pity it won't be around for the next World Cup. The bookies would have been taken to the cleaners.

The quest continues......

Lining up for the I phone at 7.00 am at KLCC.


The line gets longer as the sun rises..

Inching closer and closer ......

Keeping up with the times

Don't be shocked if you open your facebook one day and there staring right before you is a court summon. Not only that, there'll be a video with a policeman speaking, informing you about it. Its happened in Australia already. After failing to serve the summon through the normal way, they resorted to using the facebook and it worked.
Dread the day when I received my traffic summon through facebook!

Rooney.. was that your idea of a joke?

I was watching CNN when the news was flashed across the TV screen. After being bombarded with news of want away Rooney the past few days, that piece of news was quite a shocked. Anyway, I should have known. Nothing is certain until its happened.

Pictures from the closet

Young, fearless and handsome

Brighton 1974

'Teh Tarik' and 'Roti Canai' for 1 RM

Yes! That's right. For one ringgit, 'teh tarik' and 'roti canai' is yours for the taking. Its a self service restaurant in PJ. Walk in, serve yourself, find a place to sit and eat. No need to call or wait for the waiter. How convenient. At a time when prices are soaring everywhere, this restaurant is definitely value for money.

Trying not to be myself

Among other things, I walk fast. I just don't know how to walk slow. It's something natural to me. I walk so fast people always think I'm in a hurry while in actual fact, I'm just being my normal self. However, with age catching up, I really need to slow down. I have to constantly remind myself....... I'm over fifty years old. I cannot be walking like a twenty year old kid anymore. Slow down...but almost always, my natural self prevails and that means walking fast, as usual.

Wow!

Just got my hands on the Samsung Galaxy S. Wow! Great phone with friendly easy to use features. A far cry from the hand phones of yesterday. The phone nowadays has become very user friendly while at the same time, more and more features are being added. Never thought I'd see the day.

A great success story

Everybody likes a success story. The successful rescue of the miners in Chile must rank as among the very top. It went like clockwork precision, despite emotions running high. I salute the miners, the rescuers and everybody who has contributed towards the success of the rescue operation. I join in the happiness which is being felt worldwide. Words couldn't describe how we all feel. I can only say, well done, excellent job.

Instant celebrities

Sometimes tragedy can mean the beginning of better things to come. Just ask the thirty three miners in Chile. What was almost a doom situation is now a complete one hundred and eighty degrees turn. They are now celebrities, with offers of goodies to last a lifetime coming from all over the world. If they want to, the miners don't have to work anymore for the rest of their life. How I wish........

Budget day

As usual, the budget presented today produced many different reactions from many different people. As for me, growing budget deficit, increasing debts plus uncontrolled spending are causes to worry. No, I'm not talking about 'the budget' as you might think. I'm talking about my own little budget!

When I was small...

View from my hotel room
I was in Bukit Mertajam recently for a meeting. When I was small, I used to pass through this town once in a while, because the bus taking us to Penang from my hometown Selama would go through BM. Seems like quite a lot has changed but the town is still recognisable from those many years ago, at least to me. Quite a busy little town.

Ferry ride to Penang

View of Georgetown from the ferry

Decided to make a quick dash to Penang while in BM, for old time sake. After all, it has been years since I last took the ferry. Ever since the bridge came about, the ferry has been second choice all of the time. Brought back fading memories, just like the old ferries.

Testing

Tried publishing with the 'I pad'. Verdict. Computers does it better.

One gadget too many in the bag

Although my hand phone had internet connectivity, I bought a net book because internet with the phone and internet with the computer are simply miles apart, if you know what I mean. The net book was really great, especially on the shoulders, unlike the notebook. Then came the I pad. Try as I might, the temptation was too much. I had to buy one, though not exactly I pad. With this new addition, my bag now is heavier and my shoulders are feeling the strain.

An empty weekend

Don't know why but I never felt the weekend. Saturday and Sunday went by with me having this funny feeling like I'm missing something but couldn't put a finger to it! Then it strike me. Its the football off course. There were no premier league matches because of the internationals. That's why I felt incomplete...

These days...

Smart phone, net book, notebook, desk top, tablet, GPS .......... do we need them? Just a few years ago, we manage to get by with just a simple hand phone but now, all these gadgets are making us a little bit fuzzy over the eyes. What else will they think of and make it impossible for us not to have!

Almost over

As I'm writing this piece, CNN is reporting on the progress of the mine rescue effort in Chile. Within the next few hours, the drill will reach the thirty three miners who have been trapped seven hundreds metres underground for over two months. I'm keeping my fingers crossed that the rescue effort will go as planned and the miners are back with their families within the next sixty hours. Meanwhile, I will be glued to the TV watching the latest developments.

Handphone shortage

Heard the I phone 4 is already running out of stock. If that is so, my hope of buying one is dash once again. Will try tonight and see if its still available. Some HTC models are also out of stock. I have been enquiring since a month ago and till today, they are still not available. The popular models are disappearing fast and furious from the counters!

Living together peacefully

Monkeys are becoming a nuisance. They have been coming and causing damages to my property, litter the dustbin and causing fear to everybody. Don't know should I call the authorities or not. Been resisting doing so but I might not be able to resist anymore if things get worse. Driven from their habitat because of developments, the monkeys are having a hard time making a living. Can human and animals live in harmony?

Screaming away the fear

Overcoming the odds

Reading about other people overcoming tremendous odds to achieve impossible dreams gives me a lot of inspiration. When I was schooling and playing rugby, the following words used to be a great source of encouragement....when the going gets tough, the tough gets going. It really got me going during difficult times.

Arsenal woes

I saw the Arsenal vs Chelsea match. To be honest, I half expected Arsenal because that's what they have been doing the past few season when playing against their main championship rivals. Sure enough, they were beaten 2-0. Their manager's comment after that justified my thoughts. They need to start winning against the big boys. Otherwise it will be another season gone bust.

What's in a name?

The fight over the Lotus name isn't the first and will certainly not be the last. Intellectual property is the name of the game. Its worth millions. That's why people are willing to go to court just to protect their rights. In the case of Lotus, its two Malaysian outfit fighting over a name born in England. How time has changed.......

Open house

As usual, I received my fair share of invitation to 'open houses'. At offices and at houses, its the season for open houses. This weekend, the roads in KL will be busy with cars going from one house to another. Until the month of Shawal is over, this trend will continue. That's Raya, Malaysian style. On Monday, I have three invitations and all at the same time. Wow!

A timely reminder

The weariness after the ordeal yesterday hasn't quite gone yet. Still, I can't help but feel a miracle has happened, by the grace of God. All praise be to Allah. Never in my mind did I envisage such a thing happening. I was only thinking of the worse but in time of crisis, I should have known that there's always Allah, the most powerful, the most merciful. A reminder that I hope is forever embedded in me.

Miracles do happen

On the way back from JB, the rain was terrible. Don't know if that was the reason but my car suddenly went dead near Yong Peng. I couldn't restart it no matter how much I tried. Finally had to call the tow truck. He took us on a ride of some one hundred and fifty kilometres, the end result being us losing ground by about fifty kilometres cause we had to go back to Simpang Renggam. At the workshop, just as suddenly, the car came alive. After paying off the tow truck and the workshop a bit, I drove all the way to KL without any problem. Despite being delayed by almost five hours, we were just glad to be back home. Alhamdulillah.

The I phone

The I phone 4 is finally here. Wanted to get one as soon as possible but couldn't find the time what with the hectic schedule while here in Johor. Anyway, could be a blessing in disguise as it seems that the queue was eight hours long at some places. Will get one soon as we are in KL. By that time, I hope the hype has lessen a bit.

Graduation day

All smiles after the hard work

Another flew out of the cuckoo's nest

Woke up this morning feeling tired after the hectic time at Universal Studio yesterday. After breakfast and a short rest, its straight for UTM to attend my son's convocation. That's the main reason why the whole family is in Johor. Very tiring few days but worthwhile. I would do it again, anytime.

At Universal Studio

The rain couldn't put a damper to our spirit. Put on this weird looking raincoat and moved on.

Cable car ride to Sentosa Island

Universal Studio - Singapore

Enjoying the atmosphere

Tickets sold out for the day. Need to buy it beforehand or you'll be disapointed.

Fun at Universal Studio

Standing in line while waiting for Universal Studio to open

Never allow an opportunity to pass by - family photograph

My heartbeat is confusing

I went to see the doctor noon yesterday and he fixed me with a heartbeat monitor. I have to wear it for twenty four hours. Apparently, my heartbeat confused him. Sometimes it is regular while at other times, it just beats as it like, irregular. At twelve noon today, I will go back to the hospital to have it removed. I will get the result sometime next week as the family and me will be going to Johor Baru soon after that for my son's convocation this weekend.

Last Raya story for the road

I always have problem deciding when to start the six days of fasting in Shawal. After Ramadhan, all you want to do is eat. With open house invitations almost every other day, the problem is compounded. It takes a strong will and resolve or you'll never even get to the starting block. For me, most of time, I wait till the last minute until it becomes a drop dead date.
Happily this year, I managed to break the tradition and completed my fasting by the tenth day of Shawal.

What a plesant surprise!

I went jogging again just after work today. What surprised me was that I'm feeling as strong as ever. It is as if I never took a 'rest' during the fasting month. As a matter of fact I felt stronger, much stronger than before. I'm stumped. Maybe its because I lost a bit of weight during Ramadhan. Only God knows!

What technology has done to us

The technological age that we are in right now has certainly done us a world of good but it has its drawback as well. Ask me my phone number and I will have difficulty remembering it. Tell me to spell certain words and I will struggle to get it right. Computer savvy kids in Japan and China are experiencing difficulty writing out their language characters. Don't be surprise if the day comes when we won't be able to get anywhere without the GPS. Already, without my hand phone and notebook, I feel lost and vulnerable!

I'm running again

After almost two months of 'rest', I'm back jogging again. Surprisingly, I find that I have not lost that much in terms of stamina but the legs felt a bit heavy after more than twenty minutes of running. What is more important is what it did to the mind. I felt total freedom with not a bother in the world. If only I can feel like this everyday!

The problem with GPS

Having a GPS is really handy. Many times the instrument has guided me to my destination safely and quickly without which I would surely have wasted a lot of time. However, the GPS can also cause you much anxiety. The instrument has been programmed to take the shortest route possible. It cannot tell if the road it chooses is a highway or an out of the way track. A few times it has caused my heart to beat faster because the route it chose turned out to be dark, lonely, one lane full of potholes and way out of civilisation. It's really scary especially when it's night.

Nuclear or not?

Nuclear power plants are fast gaining acceptance worldwide. Countries worldwide it seem are running against the clock to build one. Malaysia will have to decide soon. Will it go nuclear?

Short trip to Seremban

At Seremban 2 Jusco store.

Went to Seremban to see our son who's working in there. I was worried about the traffic but it was smooth all the way. As usual, it never ceased to amaze me about the crowd at any supermarket. Its always there.

Seven days and still waiting

Its been seven days since my telephone line went 'kaput' and I have no idea when it will be alright again. I have complained twice. They came a few days ago, told us that a cable was burnt and said will come back in a few days. Since then, I have been waiting.......and waiting.......and waiting. Terrible!

Still on Holiday

Its the fifth day of Raya. In Malaysia, its early days yet as Raya celebrations will surely go on for a full month. Its raining outside and I'm sitting in front of the TV watching Nadal in action. Its the fourth set and he's well on his way to winning his fifth Grand Slam, barring any unforseen circumstances.
Yesterday, there were massive jams on the highway. KL folks were returning in droves after the holidays. Meanwhile, everybody's attention are fix on the senseless killings of the cosmetic millionaire. At a time when people are rejoicing, the killing has to happen. What tragic.

Raya stories

As usual, in the morning, we went to the mosque for prayer after breakfast. After a month of fasting, breakfast have never tasted better. This is I think is the fifth or sixth year that we spent Hari Raya in KL. Maybe next year, we'll do something different just for a change.

Hari Raya photos

Selamat Hari Raya Aidil Fitri

Perfect timing!

On the eve of hari raya, the internet in my house went 'kaput'. What perfect timing. After some detective work, we came to the conclusion that the telephone line is the culprit. With the hari raya holidays coming, it looks like it will be a few days before the line is corrected. Already I'm thinking how am I going to survive a few days without the internet............

One day before Hari Raya

In the morning, went hunting for new five dollar notes but ended up in vain. All the banks said they have run out of new notes. Next year don't go at the last minute.
At the market, people were busy doing last minutes shopping buying all the necessary ingredients to cook for tomorrow. I was searching for 'daun pudina' and had to ask all the vegetable sellers before I found one that still have stock.
Back home, we painted a fresh coat of paint to the wall on the left side of the house. It looks much better now after an hour of work in the blazing sun.
After that felt really thirsty. This is what it means - fasting

Last minute shopping

Busy shoppers at Shah Alam

Bargains everywhere as Raya approaches.