I was queueing at the Baskin Robbins in Subang Parade this morning as to grab the opportunity of 31% price reduction.
Luckily, it was not crowded but most favourite flavors were temporarily out of stock as the offer had started since yesterday.
While selecting my choice, I saw the flavor 'rum raisin'. I remembered a few months ago, a friend mentioned that it was her favourite flavor.
It was supported by a few other friends. It must be very tasteful then. However, one of the friends doubted on the 'halal' status due to the word 'rum'.
She even asked the persons at the Baskin Robbins counter but none could provide her on the certainty.
I had no specific answer as I had never spotted the flavor before. I told her to check with Baskin Robbins for assurance.
Since then, there was no feedback from her.
A couple of weeks ago, I read in the paper that there was issue raised by JAKIM on halal Bak Kut Teh.
A chef in a hotel had cooked halal Bak Kut Teh to cater for Muslims community in one of the food festival.
May be this was part of 1 Malaysia campaign.
However, according to JAKIM, the food should be renamed as Bak Kut Teh associated with pig and it would confuse the Muslims.
Accordingly, it was not Islamic to name anything halal based on non-halal ingredients.
As JAKIM was to exercise its right in the name of Islam, I think JAKIM also should address on other halal foods which link to non halal names, such as the one, I mentioned above.
Even though, the thing looks simple but the implication is big. For instance, if the flavor is non halal, then it should be removed from the halal compartment like what has been regulated for the alcohol beverages.
Likewise, the utensils should be segregated as well.
Thursday, December 31, 2009
Wednesday, December 30, 2009
Good News
This is about another incident related to hospital. The battle between Prita Mulyasari and the Omni International Hospital had ended when she won the libel case.
All started when she wrote e-mails to friends compalining on the wrong diagnosis by the hospital. She was diagnosed of having dengue while she was having mumps.
The e-mails was circulated through Facebook without her knowledge.
Her case got public attention and outraged the nation.
Anyway, her struggled for months was over and justice had taken place.
I like her positive statement " From the beginning, I believed that would be an end to this problem. God never sleep."
Yes, the true fact has brought the good news to her and the poor as the powerless people, either politically or economically, were always at a disadvantage as supported by a human rights lawyer, Taufik Basari.
All started when she wrote e-mails to friends compalining on the wrong diagnosis by the hospital. She was diagnosed of having dengue while she was having mumps.
The e-mails was circulated through Facebook without her knowledge.
Her case got public attention and outraged the nation.
Anyway, her struggled for months was over and justice had taken place.
I like her positive statement " From the beginning, I believed that would be an end to this problem. God never sleep."
Yes, the true fact has brought the good news to her and the poor as the powerless people, either politically or economically, were always at a disadvantage as supported by a human rights lawyer, Taufik Basari.
Tuesday, December 29, 2009
Nut
I sympathised with interior designer Tan Khai Yien who ended up with a 0.5 cm nut near her spine after underwent surgery to rectify her spine injury.
The doctor accidentally dropped the nut into her spine during operation to implant metal into her injured spine.
She was rest assured by the doctor that the nut was harmless and could be removed later together with the entire fixture in a coming surgery.
However, the doctor informed her that the nut could not be removed as it was too close to a blood vessel just a day before her scheduled removal surgery.
Once again, the doctor assured her that the nut was harmless.
In this case, either the patient goes nut or the doctor is nut...
The doctor accidentally dropped the nut into her spine during operation to implant metal into her injured spine.
She was rest assured by the doctor that the nut was harmless and could be removed later together with the entire fixture in a coming surgery.
However, the doctor informed her that the nut could not be removed as it was too close to a blood vessel just a day before her scheduled removal surgery.
Once again, the doctor assured her that the nut was harmless.
In this case, either the patient goes nut or the doctor is nut...
Monday, December 28, 2009
Man's Best Friend
A couple of dog owners are arguing about whose pet is smarter.
"My dog is so smart," says the first owner, "that every morning he waits for the paperboy to come around. He tips the kid and then brings the newspaper to me, along with my morning coffee."
"I know," says the second owner.
"How do you know?"
"My dog told me."
Sourabh Bhatia
It is really amazing to learn today that dogs are too loyal to the owners and truly a man's best friend.
2 dogs, Blacky and Tommy, belong to tailor, Teo Siang Boo, refused to leave even when fire about to engulf his shop in Macalister Road, Penang.
Firemen and neighbours had earlier tried to coax the dogs out but they refused to leave and instead continued to guard the premise.
They took cover by hiding under the toilet basin.
"My dog is so smart," says the first owner, "that every morning he waits for the paperboy to come around. He tips the kid and then brings the newspaper to me, along with my morning coffee."
"I know," says the second owner.
"How do you know?"
"My dog told me."
Sourabh Bhatia
It is really amazing to learn today that dogs are too loyal to the owners and truly a man's best friend.
2 dogs, Blacky and Tommy, belong to tailor, Teo Siang Boo, refused to leave even when fire about to engulf his shop in Macalister Road, Penang.
Firemen and neighbours had earlier tried to coax the dogs out but they refused to leave and instead continued to guard the premise.
They took cover by hiding under the toilet basin.
Sunday, December 27, 2009
Unlucky Thieves
The news on thieves failure to rob a goldsmith's in Taman Kinrara, Puchong for the third time reminded me to Afdlin Shauki movie "Baik Punya Cilok"...
In the latest incident at 12:45 pm on Saturday, 8 men on motorcycles arrived at the shop and 7 of them burst in armed with hammers, machetes and pistol.
They slashed the unarmed security guards and tried to break the glass separating them and the 4 workers at the shop.
They failed as the glass was specially reinforced. They panicked and fled when they realised one of the workers had pushed the button to close the shop's automatic steel doors.
Tough luck for the thieves as now the police are tailing after them...
In the latest incident at 12:45 pm on Saturday, 8 men on motorcycles arrived at the shop and 7 of them burst in armed with hammers, machetes and pistol.
They slashed the unarmed security guards and tried to break the glass separating them and the 4 workers at the shop.
They failed as the glass was specially reinforced. They panicked and fled when they realised one of the workers had pushed the button to close the shop's automatic steel doors.
Tough luck for the thieves as now the police are tailing after them...
Saturday, December 26, 2009
Believe it or Not
Jose Luis Rodriguez, a Spanish photographer, had won RM55000 in the Veolia Environment photographer of the year competition.
His entry of startling close-up image of an apparently wild Iberian wolf vaulting a farmer's fence had impressed the judges.
However, his triumph winning of the year's most prestigious award was facing allegation of faking fact.
He was accused of using a tame and captive model wolf called Ossian who lived at a zoological park near Madrid.
His rival photographers had sent the picture of Ossian who had unique mark of a dark, scar like sign under the right eyes.
Another opinion from wolf expert said the wolf appeared to have been trained to jump the gate because a wild specimen is likely to squeeze between the bars.
So, this matter is still under investigation to justify the genuine of the photograph.
Actually, I felt the same kind of manipulation towards recent reality show that been aired for 10 weeks.
The anti climax was felt during the selections of 2 finalists couples and the announcement of the winner.
The professional jury commented that the second place winner dancing was at par with professionals and the floor was screaming for the couples as winner even though the announcement was made that they lost to the other couple.
I was not affected either one of the couple won, but the point was the first and second seasons of the reality show seemed to have more credibility than the third one.
Well, this is all my opinion and nothing personal. Anyway, congratulations to the winner...
His entry of startling close-up image of an apparently wild Iberian wolf vaulting a farmer's fence had impressed the judges.
However, his triumph winning of the year's most prestigious award was facing allegation of faking fact.
He was accused of using a tame and captive model wolf called Ossian who lived at a zoological park near Madrid.
His rival photographers had sent the picture of Ossian who had unique mark of a dark, scar like sign under the right eyes.
Another opinion from wolf expert said the wolf appeared to have been trained to jump the gate because a wild specimen is likely to squeeze between the bars.
So, this matter is still under investigation to justify the genuine of the photograph.
Actually, I felt the same kind of manipulation towards recent reality show that been aired for 10 weeks.
The anti climax was felt during the selections of 2 finalists couples and the announcement of the winner.
The professional jury commented that the second place winner dancing was at par with professionals and the floor was screaming for the couples as winner even though the announcement was made that they lost to the other couple.
I was not affected either one of the couple won, but the point was the first and second seasons of the reality show seemed to have more credibility than the third one.
Well, this is all my opinion and nothing personal. Anyway, congratulations to the winner...
Friday, December 25, 2009
Absent Minded
Once, my primary 2 teacher told us a moral story of an absent minded kid and it's impact.
One day, while walking home from her school, Lily, the little girl bumped into a hungry little kitten.
She pitied the kitten and took it home. She fed and bathed the kitten. In return, the little fellow licked Lily and the two became inseparable.
Lily begged her mother's permission to keep the kitten as her mother was reluctant in the first place. Her mother made her promised that she would be totally responsible for the kitten.
Every night Lily, would unfold the mattress and slept with the kitten.
Days passed by and Lily was happy with her new companion.
However, one day, Lily awoke late. She rushed herself to get ready to school.
In a hurry, she folded the mattress forgotten about the little kitten completely.
After half day at school, Lily rushed home to play with her kitten.
She sensed something amiss when her little kitten was not at the door to greet her as usual.
Her mother only realised that the little kitten was not seen since this morning.
Suddenly, Lily remembered that she forgot to take out the little kitten when she folded the mattress this morning.
Immediately, she went to her room and unfolded the mattress. It was too late as the kitten was already dead due to suffocation.
Lily regretted of being absent minded which had taken the kitten's life.
Well, this moral story is not to be taken lightly as it proves it point.
In the Star today, it was reported that a student in eastern China died after allegedly being told to stand in the freezing cold as punishment by a teacher who then went out drinking and forgot the boy.
One day, while walking home from her school, Lily, the little girl bumped into a hungry little kitten.
She pitied the kitten and took it home. She fed and bathed the kitten. In return, the little fellow licked Lily and the two became inseparable.
Lily begged her mother's permission to keep the kitten as her mother was reluctant in the first place. Her mother made her promised that she would be totally responsible for the kitten.
Every night Lily, would unfold the mattress and slept with the kitten.
Days passed by and Lily was happy with her new companion.
However, one day, Lily awoke late. She rushed herself to get ready to school.
In a hurry, she folded the mattress forgotten about the little kitten completely.
After half day at school, Lily rushed home to play with her kitten.
She sensed something amiss when her little kitten was not at the door to greet her as usual.
Her mother only realised that the little kitten was not seen since this morning.
Suddenly, Lily remembered that she forgot to take out the little kitten when she folded the mattress this morning.
Immediately, she went to her room and unfolded the mattress. It was too late as the kitten was already dead due to suffocation.
Lily regretted of being absent minded which had taken the kitten's life.
Well, this moral story is not to be taken lightly as it proves it point.
In the Star today, it was reported that a student in eastern China died after allegedly being told to stand in the freezing cold as punishment by a teacher who then went out drinking and forgot the boy.
Thursday, December 24, 2009
Christmas
I found an interesting article about Christmas traditions around the world in Reader's Digest, June 2009.
According to Kenneth Davis, author of Don't Know Much About Anything, Boxing Day came about when noblemen 'boxed up' gifts for their servants on December 26.
In Spain, children leave shoes near a window on the evening of January 5, which is the eve of Epiphany, celebrating the visit of the Three Wise Men to the infant Jesus.
According to legend, the Wise Men arrive during the night before Epiphany to fill the children's shoes with small gifts.
For kids in Italy, eel is served as the traditional Christmas Eve meal. They also receive gifts from a kindly old witch called La Befana.
And in Sweden, festivities begin on December 13. The day starts with the oldest daughter of the family serving coffee and buns in bed to her family.
She would wear all white with a wreath of seven candles on her head.
Interesting right? I wonder where is the popular 'Santa and the Reindeer' who will sneak through the chimneys and distribute gifts.
According to Kenneth Davis, author of Don't Know Much About Anything, Boxing Day came about when noblemen 'boxed up' gifts for their servants on December 26.
In Spain, children leave shoes near a window on the evening of January 5, which is the eve of Epiphany, celebrating the visit of the Three Wise Men to the infant Jesus.
According to legend, the Wise Men arrive during the night before Epiphany to fill the children's shoes with small gifts.
For kids in Italy, eel is served as the traditional Christmas Eve meal. They also receive gifts from a kindly old witch called La Befana.
And in Sweden, festivities begin on December 13. The day starts with the oldest daughter of the family serving coffee and buns in bed to her family.
She would wear all white with a wreath of seven candles on her head.
Interesting right? I wonder where is the popular 'Santa and the Reindeer' who will sneak through the chimneys and distribute gifts.
Wednesday, December 23, 2009
Babies Outlet Factory
Babies for Sale. Discount up to 70%. May be we would be able to see banners like this in future if the 'Klang baby factory' was not nabbed recently...
It is still fresh in my mind, about two years ago I read a report about an Indian Singaporean doctor, who was based in Tanjung Rambutan Hospital, was arrested for illegally produced and sold babies to childless couples.
He was freed to conduct his business for more than a decade when finally he was nabbed. It all started when the babies, who seemed to be normal, started to act rather strangely after reaching 10 years.
An investigation was held and found out that this doctor had used his privilege to access his 'mental sick' patients and forced them to have sex with him.
Once, the victims were pregnant and carried the babies to full terms, he already had the buyers ready.
May be he was filthy rich from his immoral activities.
Well, it is quite hard to blame any quarters for certain reason based on supply-demand basis.
The childless couples would do anything from hiring surrogate mothers to buying babies. Babies have become another end products...but remember that they are still human with feelings and emotions.
I knew the feeling of not being able to produce your own offspring as I faced the problem of conceiving during the first eight years of my marriage. In fact, my husband and I was thinking of adoption at one point after several failure attempts to conceive.
Alhamdulillah, the lucky charm was on our side and since then been blessed with 4 precious kids.
I also knew of few couples who adopted and they really happy with their new families' members.
May be, the Government should review on the procedures to adopt legally through the Welfare Department as to my understandings, the waiting lists are quite long.
Furthermore, the childless couples prefer to own newborns or babies but normally they would get toddler (about 2 years) if they go through the legal process.
These hindrance might divert their attentions to use other channels which are illegals and costly.
It is still fresh in my mind, about two years ago I read a report about an Indian Singaporean doctor, who was based in Tanjung Rambutan Hospital, was arrested for illegally produced and sold babies to childless couples.
He was freed to conduct his business for more than a decade when finally he was nabbed. It all started when the babies, who seemed to be normal, started to act rather strangely after reaching 10 years.
An investigation was held and found out that this doctor had used his privilege to access his 'mental sick' patients and forced them to have sex with him.
Once, the victims were pregnant and carried the babies to full terms, he already had the buyers ready.
May be he was filthy rich from his immoral activities.
Well, it is quite hard to blame any quarters for certain reason based on supply-demand basis.
The childless couples would do anything from hiring surrogate mothers to buying babies. Babies have become another end products...but remember that they are still human with feelings and emotions.
I knew the feeling of not being able to produce your own offspring as I faced the problem of conceiving during the first eight years of my marriage. In fact, my husband and I was thinking of adoption at one point after several failure attempts to conceive.
Alhamdulillah, the lucky charm was on our side and since then been blessed with 4 precious kids.
I also knew of few couples who adopted and they really happy with their new families' members.
May be, the Government should review on the procedures to adopt legally through the Welfare Department as to my understandings, the waiting lists are quite long.
Furthermore, the childless couples prefer to own newborns or babies but normally they would get toddler (about 2 years) if they go through the legal process.
These hindrance might divert their attentions to use other channels which are illegals and costly.
Tuesday, December 22, 2009
Thief
Toyol? As far as I remembered Toyol was the most unscarred ghost in my dictionary as a kid as it was also resembled one except green and bald.
Furthermore, it didn't scare us like normal ghosts except steal money and fortunes.
It reminded me of Casper.
Anyway, the tale of toyol played a trick to a grandmother into parting with RM700,000 worth of inherited jewelery at her house in Bangsar.
Through the news reported in the newspaper, it was quite disbelieving that a granny would fall prey easily from a caller who relayed the story of toyol.
May be she was under somesort of spell or black magic that made her took the instructions to gather all her jeweleries in white cloth and leave it at one corner with certain leaf as to expel toyol.
Almost similar incident happened a couple of months ago to my aging neighbour in kampung while she was alone at her home.
Two men on a motorcycle dropped by her house under the pretext to ask for directions.
Within a split second, one man cut her necklace and both men fled away. The old lady was left in despair.
Sometimes, we have to be like Dana Scully, 'trust no one' and stay cautious all the time especially when we alone.
Furthermore, it didn't scare us like normal ghosts except steal money and fortunes.
It reminded me of Casper.
Anyway, the tale of toyol played a trick to a grandmother into parting with RM700,000 worth of inherited jewelery at her house in Bangsar.
Through the news reported in the newspaper, it was quite disbelieving that a granny would fall prey easily from a caller who relayed the story of toyol.
May be she was under somesort of spell or black magic that made her took the instructions to gather all her jeweleries in white cloth and leave it at one corner with certain leaf as to expel toyol.
Almost similar incident happened a couple of months ago to my aging neighbour in kampung while she was alone at her home.
Two men on a motorcycle dropped by her house under the pretext to ask for directions.
Within a split second, one man cut her necklace and both men fled away. The old lady was left in despair.
Sometimes, we have to be like Dana Scully, 'trust no one' and stay cautious all the time especially when we alone.
Monday, December 21, 2009
Forgiveness
I like on the article by Linda Lim in today's newspaper. Although the article is dedicated to Christmas gifts but actually it is applicable to our daily life.
I still remembered my 'ustaz' reminded us on the most special gift during Hari Raya was not how much the person gave you that matter (even though as a kid, I really looking forward to the monetary incentives) but the 'forgiveness'.
When I looked back, ya it was so true, the precious gift from the heart especially forgiveness was on top of the list.
As Muslims, we believe that we are granted to be in this world temporarily only and during the transition periods, we are not free from making mistakes either intentionally or not.
It is easier to ask forgiveness from Allah as we speak to Him at least 5 times a day. But what about humans?
Hmm, very hard to say ... so I always remind myself that we are not perfect, so we should always seek forgiveness from others and also forgive others misdeeds...this is better rather than we hold grudges...
I still remembered my 'ustaz' reminded us on the most special gift during Hari Raya was not how much the person gave you that matter (even though as a kid, I really looking forward to the monetary incentives) but the 'forgiveness'.
When I looked back, ya it was so true, the precious gift from the heart especially forgiveness was on top of the list.
As Muslims, we believe that we are granted to be in this world temporarily only and during the transition periods, we are not free from making mistakes either intentionally or not.
It is easier to ask forgiveness from Allah as we speak to Him at least 5 times a day. But what about humans?
Hmm, very hard to say ... so I always remind myself that we are not perfect, so we should always seek forgiveness from others and also forgive others misdeeds...this is better rather than we hold grudges...
Sunday, December 20, 2009
Avatar
Today, we ended at the Mines Shopping Mall to watch Avatar. Again, the scenario was not much different from our tripped to Ikea yesterday.
The place was jam packed especially the washrooms.
Alas, we got our privacy in the cinema. But not quite, as in between the movies, we were interrupted by kids crying or talking.
Nevertheless, the movie was a very enjoyable one and the duration close to 3 hours flew quite fast.
All my kids enjoyed the movie as well including my youngest one. Normally, he would doze off about 30 minutes of any show when he finished up the pop corns and vanilla coke.
Surprisingly, Avatar managed to break him from his normal cycle...he dozed off for a short while and continued watching till the end.
The CGI techniques seemed so real as the emotions of each character was well interpreted through facial expression, body languages and tone controls.
The director, James Cameroon, brilliantly collaborated fantasy and real life through the creation of Avatar (combination of human and native DNA).
I think this was the best movie I ever watched this year...
The place was jam packed especially the washrooms.
Alas, we got our privacy in the cinema. But not quite, as in between the movies, we were interrupted by kids crying or talking.
Nevertheless, the movie was a very enjoyable one and the duration close to 3 hours flew quite fast.
All my kids enjoyed the movie as well including my youngest one. Normally, he would doze off about 30 minutes of any show when he finished up the pop corns and vanilla coke.
Surprisingly, Avatar managed to break him from his normal cycle...he dozed off for a short while and continued watching till the end.
The CGI techniques seemed so real as the emotions of each character was well interpreted through facial expression, body languages and tone controls.
The director, James Cameroon, brilliantly collaborated fantasy and real life through the creation of Avatar (combination of human and native DNA).
I think this was the best movie I ever watched this year...
Saturday, December 19, 2009
1 Malaysia
The three days break seemed quite long as we ended up being in Klang Valley. We made a trip to Ikea and unexpectedly by 10 a.m. almost all the bays were fully utilised.
Everywhere was packed with people especially Ikea outlet itself. May be people were shopping for the coming Christmas.
Well, one thing I noticed was that all races were shopping not limited to those celebrated the festival only.
I guess the situation fitted the slogan and concept of 1 Malaysia very well.
Regardless of any festivals, all races sure would participate...
Everywhere was packed with people especially Ikea outlet itself. May be people were shopping for the coming Christmas.
Well, one thing I noticed was that all races were shopping not limited to those celebrated the festival only.
I guess the situation fitted the slogan and concept of 1 Malaysia very well.
Regardless of any festivals, all races sure would participate...
Thursday, December 17, 2009
Maal Hijrah
Alhamdulillah, I feel very thankful for being blessed with wonderful health and happy family for the past year.
I read the story of Tan Geek Koon, who had just been successfully undergone heart transplant and felt so relief with my conditions.
I just could not imagine the hard life she went through for the past 16 months after being diagnosed with heart failure when she gave birth to her youngest daughter.
Her burdened was equally shared by her husband and 4 children. Now, with the transplant, she has the second chance to lead a normal life...
Although I am not in her shoes, but I could understand her predicament as once I also went through the critical experience when my beloved husband had the open heart surgery due to hole in heart in May 1993.
The recovery process was quite long and luckily at that time we did not have any kid yet.
I had to be on and off from the office after the operation as to look after my husband. Thank you to the family from both sides who had made sacrificed and willing to look after my husband's need while I was working.
1430 Hijrah has left us with a lot of memories from good, happy, fun, excitement and tragedies...
Hopefully, the new year will be better ...
I read the story of Tan Geek Koon, who had just been successfully undergone heart transplant and felt so relief with my conditions.
I just could not imagine the hard life she went through for the past 16 months after being diagnosed with heart failure when she gave birth to her youngest daughter.
Her burdened was equally shared by her husband and 4 children. Now, with the transplant, she has the second chance to lead a normal life...
Although I am not in her shoes, but I could understand her predicament as once I also went through the critical experience when my beloved husband had the open heart surgery due to hole in heart in May 1993.
The recovery process was quite long and luckily at that time we did not have any kid yet.
I had to be on and off from the office after the operation as to look after my husband. Thank you to the family from both sides who had made sacrificed and willing to look after my husband's need while I was working.
1430 Hijrah has left us with a lot of memories from good, happy, fun, excitement and tragedies...
Hopefully, the new year will be better ...
Wednesday, December 16, 2009
Scary and Unpredicted
Beware and alert...everywhere seems to pose danger in our daily life activities including our own home sweet home, shopping mart , food outlet and latest petrol kiosk.
The incident in Kuantan at one of the petrol station was not the first case as a toddler had an over 60% burnt from head to toe due to flame from unidentified source at petrol kiosk.
The husband who was refilling the fuel tank saw the flame coming out from under his car. His immediate and fast actions had spared the worst to his wife and sister in-law.
The wife only had her hair burnt and injured her hands and legs while the sister escaped unhurt.
In both cases, the vehicle engine and handphone were off. Referring to the earlier case, if not mistaken, a study done by Petronas, claimed of static electrical charges as the petrol station was located at a remote area.
So, in this case, what would be a better explanation for the scary and unpredicted incident?
The incident in Kuantan at one of the petrol station was not the first case as a toddler had an over 60% burnt from head to toe due to flame from unidentified source at petrol kiosk.
The husband who was refilling the fuel tank saw the flame coming out from under his car. His immediate and fast actions had spared the worst to his wife and sister in-law.
The wife only had her hair burnt and injured her hands and legs while the sister escaped unhurt.
In both cases, the vehicle engine and handphone were off. Referring to the earlier case, if not mistaken, a study done by Petronas, claimed of static electrical charges as the petrol station was located at a remote area.
So, in this case, what would be a better explanation for the scary and unpredicted incident?
Tuesday, December 15, 2009
Explode and Blast...
Well, the explosion tragedy was not over yet...another one had taken place at the new Jusco Aeon Outlet in Bachang, Malacca.
The explosion occurred at the food court section on the ground floor of the three-storey complex just before 1 p.m. on Monday as workers and tenants were busy making final preparations for Thursday's grand opening.
The force of the blast caused a 2m wide hole in the building wall, showering glass and debris over a 25m radius and caused a small fire.
A supervisor was killed by flying debris, 6 in critical conditions , 8 with serious injury and 6 others received outpatient treatment.
A joint probe between Fire and Rescue Services Department, Malaysian Energy Commission and DOSH focused on the possibility of gas leakage and negligence.
However, investigations was only able to be proceeded after the centralised gas piping system in the building is purged of trapped gas to prevent another explosion.
The tragedy also caught the attention of NIOSH chairman, Tan Sri Lee Lam Thye.
I had similar working background except that the medium of fuel was natural gas. Through my experience with natural gas, there was stringent requirements and approvals from the authorities especially JBEG and JKKP required prior to any piping constructions.
Infact an officer or a representative of either department shall witness on the hydrotest of the pipings.
A final certificate (PTO) shall be obtained prior to any commissioning of the system.
It is also parts of the gas regulations that the gas company and the contractors should appoint only gas competent engineers and supervisors only.
It was sad that such tragedy took place despite the stringent enforcement from the authorities.
The explosion occurred at the food court section on the ground floor of the three-storey complex just before 1 p.m. on Monday as workers and tenants were busy making final preparations for Thursday's grand opening.
The force of the blast caused a 2m wide hole in the building wall, showering glass and debris over a 25m radius and caused a small fire.
A supervisor was killed by flying debris, 6 in critical conditions , 8 with serious injury and 6 others received outpatient treatment.
A joint probe between Fire and Rescue Services Department, Malaysian Energy Commission and DOSH focused on the possibility of gas leakage and negligence.
However, investigations was only able to be proceeded after the centralised gas piping system in the building is purged of trapped gas to prevent another explosion.
The tragedy also caught the attention of NIOSH chairman, Tan Sri Lee Lam Thye.
I had similar working background except that the medium of fuel was natural gas. Through my experience with natural gas, there was stringent requirements and approvals from the authorities especially JBEG and JKKP required prior to any piping constructions.
Infact an officer or a representative of either department shall witness on the hydrotest of the pipings.
A final certificate (PTO) shall be obtained prior to any commissioning of the system.
It is also parts of the gas regulations that the gas company and the contractors should appoint only gas competent engineers and supervisors only.
It was sad that such tragedy took place despite the stringent enforcement from the authorities.
Monday, December 14, 2009
Sinus
There was an article in the Star Two on 'fibromyalgia' which associates with headache, neck, lower back pain and legs.
On the other hand, there's also an article in Reader's Digest, Dec 2009, on 'Aching Body? Check your sinuses'.
The aches and pains in your body could be all in your head- specifically your sinuses.
It's even possible that your arthritis, fibromyalgia or chronic fatigue syndrome is a misdiagnosis of pain and tiredness resulting from recurring sinus infections, says Professor Alexander Chester of the Georgetown University Medical Center.
He estimates that half of people with chronic sinusitis have symptoms such as serious body aches and fatigue.
The pain can be all over but more pronounced in spots such as the shoulders, neck and hips.
On the other hand, there's also an article in Reader's Digest, Dec 2009, on 'Aching Body? Check your sinuses'.
The aches and pains in your body could be all in your head- specifically your sinuses.
It's even possible that your arthritis, fibromyalgia or chronic fatigue syndrome is a misdiagnosis of pain and tiredness resulting from recurring sinus infections, says Professor Alexander Chester of the Georgetown University Medical Center.
He estimates that half of people with chronic sinusitis have symptoms such as serious body aches and fatigue.
The pain can be all over but more pronounced in spots such as the shoulders, neck and hips.
Sunday, December 13, 2009
The Devastated Accident
Condolence to Mariani Cembeng who had lost two of her children in the accident at 8:45a.m yesterday at her home in Kg Batu Klawang.
A tanker carrying some 32000 litres of fuel ploughed into her house beside the Seremban - Kuala Klawang road and burst into flames, killing the siblings, Anisah Hanapiah, 15, and her brother Mohd Hafiz, 7, and the driver, Samsulkahar Bahudin, 36.
The accident zone resembled a war zone, with the inferno from the blaze even engulfing several 10m tall coconut trees nearby.
This was the second tragedy, as 5 months before, a tanker filled with latex had overturned outside her house.
The devastated accident had taken her beloved kids forever and hopefully she would remain strong mentally and spiritually facing the hurdles.
A tanker carrying some 32000 litres of fuel ploughed into her house beside the Seremban - Kuala Klawang road and burst into flames, killing the siblings, Anisah Hanapiah, 15, and her brother Mohd Hafiz, 7, and the driver, Samsulkahar Bahudin, 36.
The accident zone resembled a war zone, with the inferno from the blaze even engulfing several 10m tall coconut trees nearby.
This was the second tragedy, as 5 months before, a tanker filled with latex had overturned outside her house.
The devastated accident had taken her beloved kids forever and hopefully she would remain strong mentally and spiritually facing the hurdles.
Saturday, December 12, 2009
Privacy on Facebook
I don't really get the new setting for the Facebook privacy control when I opened it on Wednesday. I just skipped the procedure and proceeded with the normal entries.
The same notice appeared eventually I turned on the Facebook on the subsequent days. Today, I just followed the instructions without much understanding.
Anyway, I found a write up in today newspaper that slammed the revamp.
Online rights organisation Electronic Frontier Foundation (EFF) labeled aspects of Facebook's privacy change "downright ugly".
EFF lawyer Kevin Bankston said in a blog post "Facebook's new changes are obviously intended to get people to open-up more of their Facebook data to the public."
"The Facebook privacy transition tool is clearly designed to push users to share much more of their Facebook info with everyone, a worrisome development that will likely cause a major shift in privacy level for most Facebook's users, whether intentionally or inadvertently."
The same notice appeared eventually I turned on the Facebook on the subsequent days. Today, I just followed the instructions without much understanding.
Anyway, I found a write up in today newspaper that slammed the revamp.
Online rights organisation Electronic Frontier Foundation (EFF) labeled aspects of Facebook's privacy change "downright ugly".
EFF lawyer Kevin Bankston said in a blog post "Facebook's new changes are obviously intended to get people to open-up more of their Facebook data to the public."
"The Facebook privacy transition tool is clearly designed to push users to share much more of their Facebook info with everyone, a worrisome development that will likely cause a major shift in privacy level for most Facebook's users, whether intentionally or inadvertently."
Friday, December 11, 2009
The Birth
It was reported that a teenage mother was given over 100 stitches (even some without anaesthetic) after delivering her first child.
She delivered her baby boy naturally and had to endure the pain from the horrendous experience after childbirth due to the usage of wrong thread size.
Initially, she was stitched up by a lady doctor and a trainee doctor after the delivery. Later, the stitches were removed by a medical officer claiming that the wrong thread size had been used.
He re-stitched her without anaesthetic.
Worse was to come when a doctor in charge announced that the thread used by the medical officer was also incorrect. Again she had to go through the removal and restitches process.
She also claimed that during the process, one of the doctors had accidentally injured her thigh causing her to suffer a 3-inch cut.
I understand the poor lady predicament who is currently phobia of having another pregnancy which lead to another childbirth after the unpleasant experience.
Hopefully she recovers from her trauma and takes things step by step.
To the doctors and medical officers, I know that your department (gynaecologist & obstetrician), is the most busy one, but please exercise extra careful and have some mercy as you are dealing with human beings and not fishes whereby you can easily cut and stitch up to your desire...
She delivered her baby boy naturally and had to endure the pain from the horrendous experience after childbirth due to the usage of wrong thread size.
Initially, she was stitched up by a lady doctor and a trainee doctor after the delivery. Later, the stitches were removed by a medical officer claiming that the wrong thread size had been used.
He re-stitched her without anaesthetic.
Worse was to come when a doctor in charge announced that the thread used by the medical officer was also incorrect. Again she had to go through the removal and restitches process.
She also claimed that during the process, one of the doctors had accidentally injured her thigh causing her to suffer a 3-inch cut.
I understand the poor lady predicament who is currently phobia of having another pregnancy which lead to another childbirth after the unpleasant experience.
Hopefully she recovers from her trauma and takes things step by step.
To the doctors and medical officers, I know that your department (gynaecologist & obstetrician), is the most busy one, but please exercise extra careful and have some mercy as you are dealing with human beings and not fishes whereby you can easily cut and stitch up to your desire...
Thursday, December 10, 2009
2012...?
I watched the movie 2012 but not up to my expectation. To me it was just combination of 'Titanic' plus prehistorical period, 'Lost of the World' , adventures.
I am not going to comment on the film as different people have different taste and preference. Anyway, I like to touch on the 'global warming' which was the core issue touched in the film.
It was reported that a monster iceberg, twice the size of Hong Kong Island, has been spotted drifting towards Australia, precisely about 1700 km south of the country. The scientist described it as once in a century event.
Australian glaciologist, Neal Young, of Australian Antartic Divivsion said that the iceberg measured about 140sq km which was almost double of Hong Kong Island surface area which measured at 80sq km.
He added that he was unaware of such a large iceberg being found in the area since the days when 19th century clipper ships sailed between Britain and Australia.
So, could this be part of global warming phenomena? If so, we are not that too far from 2012...
I am not going to comment on the film as different people have different taste and preference. Anyway, I like to touch on the 'global warming' which was the core issue touched in the film.
It was reported that a monster iceberg, twice the size of Hong Kong Island, has been spotted drifting towards Australia, precisely about 1700 km south of the country. The scientist described it as once in a century event.
Australian glaciologist, Neal Young, of Australian Antartic Divivsion said that the iceberg measured about 140sq km which was almost double of Hong Kong Island surface area which measured at 80sq km.
He added that he was unaware of such a large iceberg being found in the area since the days when 19th century clipper ships sailed between Britain and Australia.
So, could this be part of global warming phenomena? If so, we are not that too far from 2012...
Wednesday, December 9, 2009
Silence
One by one of my family member has contacted conjunctivitis starting with my second daughter and finally me. My husband makes an exception as he is outstation for few days.
It is quite stressful to focus with soaring red eyes on the PC, so I choose to write something simple on silence (from Jewels of Practical Wisdom).
SILENCE
Those who are mature remain silent; a silence in which to attain something.
Whatever situation arises, go deep into silence in a second and see the power that comes within.
Deep internal silence allows healing of the hurt and the wounds of the past.
When there is silence, new ideas are born.
Talents are strengthened.
When there is the experience of silence, everything is accommodated easily.
It is quite stressful to focus with soaring red eyes on the PC, so I choose to write something simple on silence (from Jewels of Practical Wisdom).
SILENCE
Those who are mature remain silent; a silence in which to attain something.
Whatever situation arises, go deep into silence in a second and see the power that comes within.
Deep internal silence allows healing of the hurt and the wounds of the past.
When there is silence, new ideas are born.
Talents are strengthened.
When there is the experience of silence, everything is accommodated easily.
Tuesday, December 8, 2009
Pets Wonderland
We could have our own pets wonderland in our very own compound as discovered in a condominium unit at Desa Pandan, Kuala Lumpur. A 25 year old woman was arrested and claimed that the wildlife belonged to her male relative.
The enforcement officers from the Selangor Wildlife and National Parks made the discovery following the tip-off from the public.
The three endangered species, a young Malayan Honey Bear, a Leopard Cat and a Slow Loris were kept in individual cages in the condominium unit.
Initial investigation showed that the animals could have been bought from orang asli in Negri Sembilan and kept as pets.
If I am not mistaken, two years ago we were shocked by the fate of the two year old baby tiger, Niko. A good Samaritan has saved him just in the nick of time when he was about to be the next delicious cuisine.
What has happened to human civilization? Is this the way we show our love and interest in nature especially the wildlife?
The enforcement officers from the Selangor Wildlife and National Parks made the discovery following the tip-off from the public.
The three endangered species, a young Malayan Honey Bear, a Leopard Cat and a Slow Loris were kept in individual cages in the condominium unit.
Initial investigation showed that the animals could have been bought from orang asli in Negri Sembilan and kept as pets.
If I am not mistaken, two years ago we were shocked by the fate of the two year old baby tiger, Niko. A good Samaritan has saved him just in the nick of time when he was about to be the next delicious cuisine.
What has happened to human civilization? Is this the way we show our love and interest in nature especially the wildlife?
Monday, December 7, 2009
Freaky Accident
Normally we visit shopping malls with various intentions from window shoppings, groceries, food and beverages outlets, entertainments, hobbies and certain extend paying our bills.
How convenience the concept of all in one and never cross one's mind that the package also inclusive of automobile accidents.
It was just proven last Sunday at the KB Mall in Kelantan when 2 students were killed in the mishap. The freaky accident took place at 5p.m., two students from Masterskills College Siti Nuramira Samsuddin, 19, and Siti Nurdiana Azman, 18, were crushed to death when the car driven by Nurain Said, 17, lost control and crashed through the car park wall and plunged onto the escalator at the concourse of the shopping mall.
The initial investigation revealed that the 1.8m wall at the KB Mall was built with bricks without any reinforcement steel and would collapse subject to impact.
It was really upset that this was the second time that accident occurred due to negligence. First case was the suspension bridge in Kampar, Perak which was built not according to any building standards.
I wonder what is the role of CIDB and local authorities in this matter? Is it the contractors or architects to be totally responsible on all the accountability?
How convenience the concept of all in one and never cross one's mind that the package also inclusive of automobile accidents.
It was just proven last Sunday at the KB Mall in Kelantan when 2 students were killed in the mishap. The freaky accident took place at 5p.m., two students from Masterskills College Siti Nuramira Samsuddin, 19, and Siti Nurdiana Azman, 18, were crushed to death when the car driven by Nurain Said, 17, lost control and crashed through the car park wall and plunged onto the escalator at the concourse of the shopping mall.
The initial investigation revealed that the 1.8m wall at the KB Mall was built with bricks without any reinforcement steel and would collapse subject to impact.
It was really upset that this was the second time that accident occurred due to negligence. First case was the suspension bridge in Kampar, Perak which was built not according to any building standards.
I wonder what is the role of CIDB and local authorities in this matter? Is it the contractors or architects to be totally responsible on all the accountability?
Sunday, December 6, 2009
The Gathering
Today at 12 noon, I attended a small gathering organised by my ex-schoolmate at TGIF Subang Parade as one of our dear friends had been in town from Kedah.
We sat at one corner with round table reserved for 5 of us. The cozy environment was a good and refreshing start. I was there quite early as I was released from my official duties for the first time in 5 years.
Actually, I was yearning and longing for the moment since I left school 26 years ago.
I had lost contact with almost all of my friends after SPM as I went to pursue my tertiary education in the States. I just got reconnected through Facebook recently.
One by one greeted me, starting from Bee Koon,(last time, some naughty kids would tease her as Mee Hoon), Wan Fadzillah, Muzni (the one from Kedah) and finally Alice.
All of us were from Form 5 Science 1 except for Alice, who opted to be in the art stream after her SRP as to pursue her ambitious to be an accountant.
Under the dim lighting, I noticed that the 4 of us remained quite similar except for few wrinkles on our face, strands of white hairs and a few of extra kilos.
As for Muzni, she was really exceptional, as she used to be triple of her current size. She had shrunk so much within this past one year after her successful ovarian cancer operation.
She recovered and had to be on strict vegetarian diet for a year. Occasionally, she supplemented herself with fish.
In between conversations, we were interrupted by the waiter for taking our orders and delivering the meals.
Everyone of us had a lot to share from the past and presents. Bee Koon is currently attached to UKM as lecturer, Wan with Maybank, Muzni with JKR and Alice with Putrajaya Holdings.
They also are happily married, Bee Koon has 2 boys opposite to Wan who has 2 girls. Alice has a perfect pair and Muzni adopted 2 kids.
A lot of catching ups and updates for the days.
We sat at one corner with round table reserved for 5 of us. The cozy environment was a good and refreshing start. I was there quite early as I was released from my official duties for the first time in 5 years.
Actually, I was yearning and longing for the moment since I left school 26 years ago.
I had lost contact with almost all of my friends after SPM as I went to pursue my tertiary education in the States. I just got reconnected through Facebook recently.
One by one greeted me, starting from Bee Koon,(last time, some naughty kids would tease her as Mee Hoon), Wan Fadzillah, Muzni (the one from Kedah) and finally Alice.
All of us were from Form 5 Science 1 except for Alice, who opted to be in the art stream after her SRP as to pursue her ambitious to be an accountant.
Under the dim lighting, I noticed that the 4 of us remained quite similar except for few wrinkles on our face, strands of white hairs and a few of extra kilos.
As for Muzni, she was really exceptional, as she used to be triple of her current size. She had shrunk so much within this past one year after her successful ovarian cancer operation.
She recovered and had to be on strict vegetarian diet for a year. Occasionally, she supplemented herself with fish.
In between conversations, we were interrupted by the waiter for taking our orders and delivering the meals.
Everyone of us had a lot to share from the past and presents. Bee Koon is currently attached to UKM as lecturer, Wan with Maybank, Muzni with JKR and Alice with Putrajaya Holdings.
They also are happily married, Bee Koon has 2 boys opposite to Wan who has 2 girls. Alice has a perfect pair and Muzni adopted 2 kids.
A lot of catching ups and updates for the days.
Saturday, December 5, 2009
New Book
I come across on a new book released to public on teens issues in the NST today. Interesting enough the book title ' You Should Read This...' is a compilation of essays from Form 5 students off SMK Bandar Baru Sungai Buloh.
This book gives adults opportunity to be in their world and discover their fears and dreams. Among the topics selected are on teen pregnancies, first and unrequited love and bully.
The book is priced at RM4.90 each and available at major bookstore. I would love to have a copy as my personal collection and help me to understand my eldest better as she is approaching teenager soon...
This book gives adults opportunity to be in their world and discover their fears and dreams. Among the topics selected are on teen pregnancies, first and unrequited love and bully.
The book is priced at RM4.90 each and available at major bookstore. I would love to have a copy as my personal collection and help me to understand my eldest better as she is approaching teenager soon...
Friday, December 4, 2009
Thoughts to Ponder
One school thought insists that air conditioners are a drain on the battery and petrol.
Another claims that open windows cause aerodynamic drag, forcing the car to gulp more fuel.
Yes, while sailing along a highway, the air conditioner does steal power from the car engine, but Consumer Reports found that it amounts to only about 1.6 km per litre, worth it on scorching day.
On the other hand, open windows do cause a drag on the car, making it harder, but not by much.
Reader's Digest June 2009
Another claims that open windows cause aerodynamic drag, forcing the car to gulp more fuel.
Yes, while sailing along a highway, the air conditioner does steal power from the car engine, but Consumer Reports found that it amounts to only about 1.6 km per litre, worth it on scorching day.
On the other hand, open windows do cause a drag on the car, making it harder, but not by much.
Reader's Digest June 2009
Thursday, December 3, 2009
When Boy Meets Boy?
What has happened to this world? A lot of confusions... including gender. It is no longer the issue of when boy meets girl, but when boy meets boy or when girl meets girl...
It happened earlier during Prophet Luth where the sexes within similar genders were much practiced and the rest was history...Nobody could stop Allah punishment to those people...
Fatine or Mohammad Fadzil has been on limelight in local and international newspapers due to the controversy marriage. She failed to renew her expired visa in United Kingdom and at the same time afraid to return to Malaysia on the 'prejudice treatment' ground.
Whatever it is, I am more concern on the development of gender confusion in our society. Is it a disease or trend? Is there anything the government and society could do to educate and show them the right path?
I am really puzzle and upset of the current development.
I believe that as parents, we have gone through the phase of expecting a new member in our family and the moment the midwife/doctor exclaims that 'you got a girl/boy' is the most defining moment.
So, it is normal for the parents to feel the unacceptable and rejection later on to learn that the child claims to be born with a wrong body...sorry, I'm not talking about 'khunsa'.
Hence, where do we take on from here, who to seek for opinions and treatments rather than the normal prejudice from the community? To me, this is crucial as at the problem should be tackled during the critical period as to avoid further disaster...
It happened earlier during Prophet Luth where the sexes within similar genders were much practiced and the rest was history...Nobody could stop Allah punishment to those people...
Fatine or Mohammad Fadzil has been on limelight in local and international newspapers due to the controversy marriage. She failed to renew her expired visa in United Kingdom and at the same time afraid to return to Malaysia on the 'prejudice treatment' ground.
Whatever it is, I am more concern on the development of gender confusion in our society. Is it a disease or trend? Is there anything the government and society could do to educate and show them the right path?
I am really puzzle and upset of the current development.
I believe that as parents, we have gone through the phase of expecting a new member in our family and the moment the midwife/doctor exclaims that 'you got a girl/boy' is the most defining moment.
So, it is normal for the parents to feel the unacceptable and rejection later on to learn that the child claims to be born with a wrong body...sorry, I'm not talking about 'khunsa'.
Hence, where do we take on from here, who to seek for opinions and treatments rather than the normal prejudice from the community? To me, this is crucial as at the problem should be tackled during the critical period as to avoid further disaster...
Wednesday, December 2, 2009
Take a Break
Since, I'm too tired from the vacations? (it was for the rest of the family), I'm choked up with all the house works before, during and after the fiesta...so just want to take a short break and share this light joke on works.
Hello, is that....?
In cyberspace, they make fun of companies that keep you on hold forever. Here are a couple of messages local mental health organisations might wish to consider.
If you are obsessive-compulsive, press 1 repeatedly.
If you are co-dependent, please ask someone to press 2 for you.
If you have multiple personalities, press 3,4,5 and 6.
If you are paranoid, we know who you are and what you want, stay on the line so we can trace your call.
If you have short-term memory loss, press 9. If you have short-term memory loss, press 9. If you have short-term memory loss, press 9.
If you have low self-esteem, please hang up. Our operators are too busy to talk with you.
If you are menopausal, put the gun down, hang up, turn on the fan, lie down and cry. You won't be crazy forever.
If you are blond, don't press any buttons, you'll just mess it up.
Reader's Digest, December 2009.
Hello, is that....?
In cyberspace, they make fun of companies that keep you on hold forever. Here are a couple of messages local mental health organisations might wish to consider.
If you are obsessive-compulsive, press 1 repeatedly.
If you are co-dependent, please ask someone to press 2 for you.
If you have multiple personalities, press 3,4,5 and 6.
If you are paranoid, we know who you are and what you want, stay on the line so we can trace your call.
If you have short-term memory loss, press 9. If you have short-term memory loss, press 9. If you have short-term memory loss, press 9.
If you have low self-esteem, please hang up. Our operators are too busy to talk with you.
If you are menopausal, put the gun down, hang up, turn on the fan, lie down and cry. You won't be crazy forever.
If you are blond, don't press any buttons, you'll just mess it up.
Reader's Digest, December 2009.
Tuesday, December 1, 2009
AidilAdha
It is already December...I am unable to update this blog for a week as I went back to my husband's kampung celebrated the AidilAdha or Raya Haji on 10 Zulhijjah (27 Nov '09).
As a ritual, early morning after Subuh prayer, we took our bath (sunat AidilAdha) before proceeded to the masjid for the special Raya prayer. The 'takbir' filled up the atmosphere surrounding the masjid before and after the prayer.
The climax of the AidilAdha was the ceremony of slaughtering livestock animals such as cow and sheep as symbol of sacrificed.
This was the time of the year whereby we would see meat at every house as main dishes ranging from curry to rendang.
However, the spirit of the sacrifice was not really felt....may be those in Mecca, had to deal with all sorts of obstacles while performing the pilgrimage would have a better understanding of sacrifice...
As a ritual, early morning after Subuh prayer, we took our bath (sunat AidilAdha) before proceeded to the masjid for the special Raya prayer. The 'takbir' filled up the atmosphere surrounding the masjid before and after the prayer.
The climax of the AidilAdha was the ceremony of slaughtering livestock animals such as cow and sheep as symbol of sacrificed.
This was the time of the year whereby we would see meat at every house as main dishes ranging from curry to rendang.
However, the spirit of the sacrifice was not really felt....may be those in Mecca, had to deal with all sorts of obstacles while performing the pilgrimage would have a better understanding of sacrifice...
Tuesday, November 24, 2009
Stay tune
Wish to share this interesting joke pick up from Reader's Digest June 2009.
"Guess what?" yelled my teenage son as he burst through the door.
"I got a 100 on my Spanish quiz that I didn't even know we were having."
"That's great!" I said.
"But why didn't you know about the quiz?"
"Because our teacher told us about it in Spanish."
To my dear friend who is a bit upset on her daughter's UPSR result, hope this joke lighten you up and trust me 'our kids are special and unique in their own ways...if your kid doesn't score, it doesn't mean that he/she is not good enough...'
"Guess what?" yelled my teenage son as he burst through the door.
"I got a 100 on my Spanish quiz that I didn't even know we were having."
"That's great!" I said.
"But why didn't you know about the quiz?"
"Because our teacher told us about it in Spanish."
To my dear friend who is a bit upset on her daughter's UPSR result, hope this joke lighten you up and trust me 'our kids are special and unique in their own ways...if your kid doesn't score, it doesn't mean that he/she is not good enough...'
Monday, November 23, 2009
Picture worth a thousand words
Interesting enough to find out that having fun can be depressing. The question is since when?
Nathalie Blanchard, a Canadian, had been on leave from her job at IBM in Quebec for the past year after being diagnosed with major depression.
She received monthly sick-leave benefits from insurance giant Manulife. Everything went well as she stick to her doctor's advice "to have fun". She hanged around with friends at local bars and had a short getaways to fun destinations.
The fun activities were really good therapy and she lost her benefits once the insurance agent spotted her photos in her Facebook.
'Picture worth a thousand words' did little justice in this case......
Nathalie Blanchard, a Canadian, had been on leave from her job at IBM in Quebec for the past year after being diagnosed with major depression.
She received monthly sick-leave benefits from insurance giant Manulife. Everything went well as she stick to her doctor's advice "to have fun". She hanged around with friends at local bars and had a short getaways to fun destinations.
The fun activities were really good therapy and she lost her benefits once the insurance agent spotted her photos in her Facebook.
'Picture worth a thousand words' did little justice in this case......
Sunday, November 22, 2009
Modern Fairy Tale
Snow White, Cinderella and Bawang Merah could be wrong about their step mothers all these while...actually step mothers and step daughters could team up and be perfect buddy to plot and implement their bad intentions...
The fairy tale was revealed by 15 years old girl in Kota Kinabalu who was very friendly with her 25 years old step mother.
Anyway, the step mother played the same wicked role. She was jealous with the girl's mother, the first wife to the husband, and brilliantly plotted the murder ploy and had the girl's agreement to carry out her mission.
The 38 years old biological mother, was asleep when she was awakened by a burning sensation on her face.
She fended off her attacker and was shocked to discover that it was her own daughter. The girl attempted to kill her mother by smothering her mother with a sarong laced with formic acid (cuka getah).
The tale ended when both villains were arrested by police. In this case, it won't be the tag line 'they live happily ever after'...
The fairy tale was revealed by 15 years old girl in Kota Kinabalu who was very friendly with her 25 years old step mother.
Anyway, the step mother played the same wicked role. She was jealous with the girl's mother, the first wife to the husband, and brilliantly plotted the murder ploy and had the girl's agreement to carry out her mission.
The 38 years old biological mother, was asleep when she was awakened by a burning sensation on her face.
She fended off her attacker and was shocked to discover that it was her own daughter. The girl attempted to kill her mother by smothering her mother with a sarong laced with formic acid (cuka getah).
The tale ended when both villains were arrested by police. In this case, it won't be the tag line 'they live happily ever after'...
Saturday, November 21, 2009
Plastic Bottles
The issue of plastic bottles safety resurfaced. Earlier, there was argument that the reused of plastic bottles would pose greater risk of contacting cancer.
Anyway, the assurance by Lim Kok Boon, the chairman of Malaysian Plastics Forum (MPF) on the safety of plastic bottles (polyethylene terephthalate/PET) usage was really a relief.
His assurance was supported by the US Food and Drugs Administration (FDA) that the PET bottles met standards for food and beverages packaging for both single and repeated use.
PET bottles were subjected to the FDA review and regulations before they were allowed to be used as packaging material.
Lim also provided the report from the International Life Sciences Institute that PET is biologically inert and together with its other physical properties, it is particularly suitable for food packaging applications.
At least from now on, we could have peace of minds when we need to gulp from the PET bottles to quench ourselves........
Anyway, the assurance by Lim Kok Boon, the chairman of Malaysian Plastics Forum (MPF) on the safety of plastic bottles (polyethylene terephthalate/PET) usage was really a relief.
His assurance was supported by the US Food and Drugs Administration (FDA) that the PET bottles met standards for food and beverages packaging for both single and repeated use.
PET bottles were subjected to the FDA review and regulations before they were allowed to be used as packaging material.
Lim also provided the report from the International Life Sciences Institute that PET is biologically inert and together with its other physical properties, it is particularly suitable for food packaging applications.
At least from now on, we could have peace of minds when we need to gulp from the PET bottles to quench ourselves........
Friday, November 20, 2009
Farewell
Today is the last day of school for the year 2009. The kindergarten that my six years old son attended had organised a grand farewell party this morning.
It was packed of fun activities for the kids and a magic show by 'Hafidz Osman the great'. The kids enjoyed themselves and the magic show was really entertaining as some of the kids were called to volunteers.
Of course, party was not completed without food. It was a potluck party and every body brought home cook food ranging from pizza, spaghetti, fried chickens and varieties of desserts including ice creams.
During the party, he seemed to enjoy himself very much but it was rather upset when he returned home.
Sad to be departed from his friends (12 of them of six years old) as he is the only boys going to national school. The rest of the boy buddies will be entering vernacular school.
Similarly, my two girls ended their primary school sessions for this year minus the party. My eldest was also a bit upset as next year she would be in different class from her BFF (best friends forever). My second daughter seemed not to be affected as she simply said that she would come across new friends next year and was so eager to be a school prefect next year.
I also just bade farewell to one of my good friends last week as he was leaving for Saudi. It was not easy to say 'good bye' but every thing has to end somewhere.....
It was packed of fun activities for the kids and a magic show by 'Hafidz Osman the great'. The kids enjoyed themselves and the magic show was really entertaining as some of the kids were called to volunteers.
Of course, party was not completed without food. It was a potluck party and every body brought home cook food ranging from pizza, spaghetti, fried chickens and varieties of desserts including ice creams.
During the party, he seemed to enjoy himself very much but it was rather upset when he returned home.
Sad to be departed from his friends (12 of them of six years old) as he is the only boys going to national school. The rest of the boy buddies will be entering vernacular school.
Similarly, my two girls ended their primary school sessions for this year minus the party. My eldest was also a bit upset as next year she would be in different class from her BFF (best friends forever). My second daughter seemed not to be affected as she simply said that she would come across new friends next year and was so eager to be a school prefect next year.
I also just bade farewell to one of my good friends last week as he was leaving for Saudi. It was not easy to say 'good bye' but every thing has to end somewhere.....
Thursday, November 19, 2009
UPSR
UPSR results are out today. I've received a few good news from facebook contacts.
Anyway, I'm not going to talk about on the academic A's as they are well defined. As of this year, the year six students also need to complete the aptitude test as part of the UPSR exam.
The one-and-a-half hour test had 60 multiple questions to discover the students' performance on thinking skills, problem solving and decision making abilities.
The grade of the test was listed on the pupil's UPSR slip but does not carry any weightage to overall performance.
The analysis showed that generally the students were better on thinking skills than the other two areas.
Education director-general, Tan Sri Alimuddin Mohd Dom, said that based on the analysis, students should be given more training in the under performance areas.
However, I am a bit puzzle on the implementation process as normally aptitude test is carried out as a prerequisite or to determine placement in certain institutions.
For example, I had to sit for the aptitude test as a prerequisite test before given a placed at a university to pursue a tertiary education. Thus, I am not sure on the implication of the result to the students.
If the education ministry would like to introduce trainings or courses in these areas, they should be projected for long term objectives. The courses should not terminate once the students finish primary school as secondary and tertiary levels are deemed more crucial than primary in a later life although the primary level should serve as concrete foundations.
Personally, I think the test or analysis is more practical to be introduced starting at secondary level as the students are more mature and their experience exposure in lives are wider.
Normally, according to one article on children psychology, it mentioned that kids are not able to think rationally until they are above 12 years old.
Anyway, I'm not going to talk about on the academic A's as they are well defined. As of this year, the year six students also need to complete the aptitude test as part of the UPSR exam.
The one-and-a-half hour test had 60 multiple questions to discover the students' performance on thinking skills, problem solving and decision making abilities.
The grade of the test was listed on the pupil's UPSR slip but does not carry any weightage to overall performance.
The analysis showed that generally the students were better on thinking skills than the other two areas.
Education director-general, Tan Sri Alimuddin Mohd Dom, said that based on the analysis, students should be given more training in the under performance areas.
However, I am a bit puzzle on the implementation process as normally aptitude test is carried out as a prerequisite or to determine placement in certain institutions.
For example, I had to sit for the aptitude test as a prerequisite test before given a placed at a university to pursue a tertiary education. Thus, I am not sure on the implication of the result to the students.
If the education ministry would like to introduce trainings or courses in these areas, they should be projected for long term objectives. The courses should not terminate once the students finish primary school as secondary and tertiary levels are deemed more crucial than primary in a later life although the primary level should serve as concrete foundations.
Personally, I think the test or analysis is more practical to be introduced starting at secondary level as the students are more mature and their experience exposure in lives are wider.
Normally, according to one article on children psychology, it mentioned that kids are not able to think rationally until they are above 12 years old.
Wednesday, November 18, 2009
The Separation
Normally, separation involves emotional tense especially with the love ones, but in case of twins, Krishna and Trishna, it was something to look forward to.
The twins, would be three next month, with conjoined heads had been successfully separated in a 32 hours marathon of high risk operation by Australian surgeons.
Besides conjoined heads, the twins also shared the fate of being rescued from certain death in Dhaka orphanage. Their legal guardian, Moira Kelly, who I think has a very good heart, had took the trouble to brought the twins from Bangladesh to Australia.
As of now, there was a new development as one of the twins was showing good sign as she already started talking and behaving normally after being woken from a medically induced coma.
The other one, had to be slowly brought out of coma as the separation brought more changes to her body and brain's blood circulation.
Hopefully she would make it as the MRI scans after the operation showed no sign of brain injury. Initially, the doctors said it was a 50-50 chance that one of the girls could suffer brain damage from complicated separation.
The twins, would be three next month, with conjoined heads had been successfully separated in a 32 hours marathon of high risk operation by Australian surgeons.
Besides conjoined heads, the twins also shared the fate of being rescued from certain death in Dhaka orphanage. Their legal guardian, Moira Kelly, who I think has a very good heart, had took the trouble to brought the twins from Bangladesh to Australia.
As of now, there was a new development as one of the twins was showing good sign as she already started talking and behaving normally after being woken from a medically induced coma.
The other one, had to be slowly brought out of coma as the separation brought more changes to her body and brain's blood circulation.
Hopefully she would make it as the MRI scans after the operation showed no sign of brain injury. Initially, the doctors said it was a 50-50 chance that one of the girls could suffer brain damage from complicated separation.
Tuesday, November 17, 2009
Sweet Killer
President of Malaysian Diabetes Association, Prof Dr Ikram Shah Ismail said that diabetes posed a bigger threat than H1N1 virus or AIDS to Malaysians unless we changed to healthy lifestyles.
President of the Consumers Associations of Penang (CAP), S.M. Idris, said sugar was devoid of nutriens and 'acted more like a drug', was linked to more than 60 ailments like cancer, diabetes, obesity, heart problems, osteoporosis, kidney problems, asthma and allergies.
Reader's Digest, Nov 2009 highlighted on the 7 tips of food intake to better control the blood sugar (glucose) :
1. Choose low glycemic-index (GI) and keep carb portions moderate.
(Dense bread with wholegrains, linseed, stoneground flour and sourdough, light fruit yogurt, dried fruits and long grain white or medium grain brown rice).
2. Make three of your carb servings wholegrains
3. Eat 2 serves of fruits and 5 serves of vegetables daily
4. Eat protein at every meal
5. Favour good fats
6. Eat smaller portions
7. Add acidic food to your meals
Here are some tips on how to add acids to your meals.
1. Use mustard, which is made of vinegar instead of mayonnaise.
2. Eat pickles with sandwich.
3. Mix pickle liquid with a little olive oil and chop fresh herbs as food marinade.
4. Eat citrus fruit such as fresh grapefruit.
5. Pick sourdough bread.
Besides controlling the blood glucose, these diet also helps to lose weight.
President of the Consumers Associations of Penang (CAP), S.M. Idris, said sugar was devoid of nutriens and 'acted more like a drug', was linked to more than 60 ailments like cancer, diabetes, obesity, heart problems, osteoporosis, kidney problems, asthma and allergies.
Reader's Digest, Nov 2009 highlighted on the 7 tips of food intake to better control the blood sugar (glucose) :
1. Choose low glycemic-index (GI) and keep carb portions moderate.
(Dense bread with wholegrains, linseed, stoneground flour and sourdough, light fruit yogurt, dried fruits and long grain white or medium grain brown rice).
2. Make three of your carb servings wholegrains
3. Eat 2 serves of fruits and 5 serves of vegetables daily
4. Eat protein at every meal
5. Favour good fats
6. Eat smaller portions
7. Add acidic food to your meals
Here are some tips on how to add acids to your meals.
1. Use mustard, which is made of vinegar instead of mayonnaise.
2. Eat pickles with sandwich.
3. Mix pickle liquid with a little olive oil and chop fresh herbs as food marinade.
4. Eat citrus fruit such as fresh grapefruit.
5. Pick sourdough bread.
Besides controlling the blood glucose, these diet also helps to lose weight.
Monday, November 16, 2009
Oats
My father has been on oats diet for so many years. His habit starts early even before the claims that oats lower cholesterol level.
The first thing that most guests notice in his kitchen is his treasure of a row of "Quaker Oat" mugs nicely arrange on the shelf.
He manages to stick to oats be it rain or shine, even to the extend of breaking fast during Ramadhan. His life is incomplete without oats.
Interestingly, Reader's Digest Nov. 2009, published an article on "Oats Stand the Test of Time".
Eating oats may reduce blood concentrations of total cholesterol and low density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol without affects on levels of high-density lipoprotein (HDL) cholesterol or triglycerides - American Journal of Lifestyle Medicine.
So far, his diet couple with healthy lifestyles and activities proven to be fruitful. At 75 years, he still goes strong without serious illness like hypertension, diabetic or heart problem.
The first thing that most guests notice in his kitchen is his treasure of a row of "Quaker Oat" mugs nicely arrange on the shelf.
He manages to stick to oats be it rain or shine, even to the extend of breaking fast during Ramadhan. His life is incomplete without oats.
Interestingly, Reader's Digest Nov. 2009, published an article on "Oats Stand the Test of Time".
Eating oats may reduce blood concentrations of total cholesterol and low density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol without affects on levels of high-density lipoprotein (HDL) cholesterol or triglycerides - American Journal of Lifestyle Medicine.
So far, his diet couple with healthy lifestyles and activities proven to be fruitful. At 75 years, he still goes strong without serious illness like hypertension, diabetic or heart problem.
Sunday, November 15, 2009
Cloud Seeding
It was reported that the unusual snow storms in north-central China had claimed 40 lives. The storms also caused thousands of buildings to collapse and destroyed almost 200 000 hectares of winter crops.
Surprisingly, the heavy snowfall was induced through cloud seeding as stated in the Chinese state media.
Interestingly, this is the first news I came across highlighting on the side effect of cloud seeding. Actually, I was curious of cloud seeding as Malaysia is so prone to utilise the technology as to overcome the haze problems.
I was concerned on our safety due to the cloud seeding which could be related to the occurrence of tsunami when we interrupt the mother nature.
Since the last tsunami in 2004, scientist had done researched and reported that the movement under the sea bed was triggered faster initiated by the launching of nuclear testers and finally the outcome is tsunami.
Cloud seeding is a process of spreading either dry ice (commonly, silver iodide aerosols) into the upper parts of clouds to try to stimulate precipitation process and form rain.
In 1960's, it was reported that National Hurricane Center began series of experiments in seeding of hurricanes to reduce the their intensity. However, the experiments failed.
Although the report of this cloud seeding was still unjustifiable and not supported by scientific data and studies, at least it should caution us on the actions and reactions equation.
Surprisingly, the heavy snowfall was induced through cloud seeding as stated in the Chinese state media.
Interestingly, this is the first news I came across highlighting on the side effect of cloud seeding. Actually, I was curious of cloud seeding as Malaysia is so prone to utilise the technology as to overcome the haze problems.
I was concerned on our safety due to the cloud seeding which could be related to the occurrence of tsunami when we interrupt the mother nature.
Since the last tsunami in 2004, scientist had done researched and reported that the movement under the sea bed was triggered faster initiated by the launching of nuclear testers and finally the outcome is tsunami.
Cloud seeding is a process of spreading either dry ice (commonly, silver iodide aerosols) into the upper parts of clouds to try to stimulate precipitation process and form rain.
In 1960's, it was reported that National Hurricane Center began series of experiments in seeding of hurricanes to reduce the their intensity. However, the experiments failed.
Although the report of this cloud seeding was still unjustifiable and not supported by scientific data and studies, at least it should caution us on the actions and reactions equation.
Saturday, November 14, 2009
New Hope
I read the touching story of Wafa Sarhan, a mother of two in Gaza City, whose two sons suffered hearing loss in 2004 when the Israeli drone fired missiles at a group of militants near their home.
Since the incident, Wafa and her husband tried to get the boys treated outside the coastal strip and the nearest place for cochlear implant available was in the United Arab Emirates (UAE).
Unfortunately, Wafa could not afford to bear the treatment cost of USD60 000
(RM202 500).
She said helplessly, " If we gave them everything we own it would not cover a fourth of the price."
Her innocent kids have been the war victims and had to bear the consequences while she could not afford to treat them. This was against her wish and instinct of being a mother.
I understand her predicament as once I was so worried when my youngest son did not show any verbal sign though he was three then.
Quite a number of people consoled me that normally boys were delayed in speeches compared to girls.
I took their advise but deep in my heart, I was freaky afraid if he had hearing loss problem.
I tried a few tricks like calling his name and gave him verbal instructions just to ensure that he had no such problem.
I was happy as he responded to the commands. At one stage, I went on listing on words that he could babble and finally he started to talk at 3-1/2 years.
Today, he celebrates his 4th birthday and he is almost like a chatter box.
However, Wafa sadness had been lifted with the help of Dr Hajeri from United Emirates Arab (UAE), who was moved to provide free treatment to the kids after hearing the news aired through satellite.
Wafa was on cloud nine as her sons get new lease of life as she told reporter that her kids have been born again after the successful operations.
Dr Hajeri kindness and generosity had been extended to other 50 children to date.
Since the incident, Wafa and her husband tried to get the boys treated outside the coastal strip and the nearest place for cochlear implant available was in the United Arab Emirates (UAE).
Unfortunately, Wafa could not afford to bear the treatment cost of USD60 000
(RM202 500).
She said helplessly, " If we gave them everything we own it would not cover a fourth of the price."
Her innocent kids have been the war victims and had to bear the consequences while she could not afford to treat them. This was against her wish and instinct of being a mother.
I understand her predicament as once I was so worried when my youngest son did not show any verbal sign though he was three then.
Quite a number of people consoled me that normally boys were delayed in speeches compared to girls.
I took their advise but deep in my heart, I was freaky afraid if he had hearing loss problem.
I tried a few tricks like calling his name and gave him verbal instructions just to ensure that he had no such problem.
I was happy as he responded to the commands. At one stage, I went on listing on words that he could babble and finally he started to talk at 3-1/2 years.
Today, he celebrates his 4th birthday and he is almost like a chatter box.
However, Wafa sadness had been lifted with the help of Dr Hajeri from United Emirates Arab (UAE), who was moved to provide free treatment to the kids after hearing the news aired through satellite.
Wafa was on cloud nine as her sons get new lease of life as she told reporter that her kids have been born again after the successful operations.
Dr Hajeri kindness and generosity had been extended to other 50 children to date.
Friday, November 13, 2009
Beauty
The anti-aging ad that I'd like to see is a baby covered in cream saying,
" Ah! I've used too much!"
- Reader's Digest (Nov 2009)
I chuckled at this ticklish joke. Just to share, my 11 years old girl is not exceptional, she is influenced with the beauty of Diana Rafar who casts as "Nenek Kebaya" in the series.
Yesterday, she spent plucking and collecting fresh fragrance flowers from my garden to bathe.
Basically, beauty is not separable from female worlds back to ancient times like Cleopatra who had strict beauty regime to stick too in order to sustain her youths.
Even our traditional ancestors used 'susuk' to preserve their looks. In modern days, we have more like 'botox', slimming products and plastic surgery.
Earlier I have written two topics, "The Fair Treatment" and "Expiry Date" which touched on the same issues.
In fact today, there is another case reported on the cosmetic surgery treatment left the women with permanent scar on her right arm.
My conclusion is whatever we do to preserve our youthfulness, there is always price to it besides the monetary portion.
" Ah! I've used too much!"
- Reader's Digest (Nov 2009)
I chuckled at this ticklish joke. Just to share, my 11 years old girl is not exceptional, she is influenced with the beauty of Diana Rafar who casts as "Nenek Kebaya" in the series.
Yesterday, she spent plucking and collecting fresh fragrance flowers from my garden to bathe.
Basically, beauty is not separable from female worlds back to ancient times like Cleopatra who had strict beauty regime to stick too in order to sustain her youths.
Even our traditional ancestors used 'susuk' to preserve their looks. In modern days, we have more like 'botox', slimming products and plastic surgery.
Earlier I have written two topics, "The Fair Treatment" and "Expiry Date" which touched on the same issues.
In fact today, there is another case reported on the cosmetic surgery treatment left the women with permanent scar on her right arm.
My conclusion is whatever we do to preserve our youthfulness, there is always price to it besides the monetary portion.
Thursday, November 12, 2009
Neighbours
I guess in the modern era, it is hard to find good and caring neighbours regardless where you stay.
I live in a very quiet neighbourhood. Everybody seems to have busy and hectic life. Early in the morning, majority of the residents would rush to works and late evening or nights only coming back.
It is so stressful life after long hours spending time working and facing traffic jams. Weekends are for leisure and family days. So, most of the residents would occupy with one's activities.
I seldom see, meet and what more enjoying companies from neighbours. Normally, the maids are the messengers and pass useful information but sometimes might pose danger to the employers.
I only heard that my behind neighbours went on family vacations to Hong Kong recently through her maid.
Previously, I had a friendly neighbour living in front of my house and shared common issues as she also had small kids. I missed the moments since she moved out a few years ago.
I believe that this is a normal scenario within neighbourhoods nowadays. Anyway, I still consider myself lucky as my aging next door neighbour is not that bad.
Occasionally, I manage to talk to him and discuss on certain current affairs.
A few of Muslims from distant neighbours would organise open houses during Hari Raya Celebrations and bring chances for the neighbourhoods to meet up. Although it is kind of once in a blue moon occasion, it is better than none.
It is sad news as the neighbourhood spirits deteriorate as time progress. Actually, good neighbours can help prevent crimes and make the neighbourhood safe for our children to live in.
Interestingly, a study conducted in Chicago found that some adolescents are less likely to engage in sexual activities if they lived in neighbourhoods where adults were monitoring them closely.
Children tend to engage in healthy and positive activities if they grow up in a close-knit community. Friendly and concerned neighbours can help us raise good children.
A study conducted by researchers from Harvard Medical School who published their findings in the British Medical Journal claimed that living next to a happy neighbour could boost our own happiness.
Likewise, having a nasty and inconsiderate neighbour can be devastating to family life as reported in the Star today.
So, each and everyone of us should play the role as good neighbour to revive and promote the spirit of neighbourhoods within our communities.
I live in a very quiet neighbourhood. Everybody seems to have busy and hectic life. Early in the morning, majority of the residents would rush to works and late evening or nights only coming back.
It is so stressful life after long hours spending time working and facing traffic jams. Weekends are for leisure and family days. So, most of the residents would occupy with one's activities.
I seldom see, meet and what more enjoying companies from neighbours. Normally, the maids are the messengers and pass useful information but sometimes might pose danger to the employers.
I only heard that my behind neighbours went on family vacations to Hong Kong recently through her maid.
Previously, I had a friendly neighbour living in front of my house and shared common issues as she also had small kids. I missed the moments since she moved out a few years ago.
I believe that this is a normal scenario within neighbourhoods nowadays. Anyway, I still consider myself lucky as my aging next door neighbour is not that bad.
Occasionally, I manage to talk to him and discuss on certain current affairs.
A few of Muslims from distant neighbours would organise open houses during Hari Raya Celebrations and bring chances for the neighbourhoods to meet up. Although it is kind of once in a blue moon occasion, it is better than none.
It is sad news as the neighbourhood spirits deteriorate as time progress. Actually, good neighbours can help prevent crimes and make the neighbourhood safe for our children to live in.
Interestingly, a study conducted in Chicago found that some adolescents are less likely to engage in sexual activities if they lived in neighbourhoods where adults were monitoring them closely.
Children tend to engage in healthy and positive activities if they grow up in a close-knit community. Friendly and concerned neighbours can help us raise good children.
A study conducted by researchers from Harvard Medical School who published their findings in the British Medical Journal claimed that living next to a happy neighbour could boost our own happiness.
Likewise, having a nasty and inconsiderate neighbour can be devastating to family life as reported in the Star today.
So, each and everyone of us should play the role as good neighbour to revive and promote the spirit of neighbourhoods within our communities.
Wednesday, November 11, 2009
Is it a Blessing?
" Talent hits a target no one else can hit;
Genius hits a target no one else can see"
- Arthur Schopenhauer
It was reported in the paper that the genius ten-years-old boy, Adi Putra Abdul Ghani, is charging RM6000 per hour for lecturing at certain local universities. On top of that he is also the Chief Executive Officer (CEO) for two companies.
He has stopped schooling and studied from home. He's interested in mathematics, physics, chemistry, geography and biology but not history and politics.
He dislikes reading books but prefer to browse the Net for study materials.
Wikipedia defines genius as follows :
Genius may show itself in early childhood as a prodigy or later in life, either way, geniuses eventually differentiate themselves from the others through great originality.
Genius often have crisp, clear-eyed visions of given situations, in which interpretation is unnecessary, and they build or act on the basis of those facts, usually with tremendous energy.
Accomplished geniuses in intellectual fields start out in many cases as child prodigy, gifted with superior memory or understanding.
Howard Gardner, Harvard University Professor, had come up with hypothesis on multiple intelligence. His book 'Frames of Mind' published in 1983 stated the 7 types of intelligences.
Well, Adi is a gifted prodigy and has achieved what adults envy for. His hourly rate might be equivalent to senior lecturer paying scheme for a month.
However, is this what he really wants? What about another 10 or 20 years down the line? Will he be happy enjoying his labour of works or will he end up burn out?
We have come across earlier of a case of Sufiah, a child prodigy, studied Mathematics at Oxford University, got married, divorced and finally became a social escort to support her life.
So, is it a blessing to have or be a gifted kid?
In my opinion, they are super normal kids with high IQ and should be given opportunity to express their expertise and intelligence. However, as kids they need guidance and supervision to nurture their special gifts into proper channels.
They also need to balance up their social lives in order to minimise the gap among their peers. To me, the parents should not take advantage of the situations.
Genius hits a target no one else can see"
- Arthur Schopenhauer
It was reported in the paper that the genius ten-years-old boy, Adi Putra Abdul Ghani, is charging RM6000 per hour for lecturing at certain local universities. On top of that he is also the Chief Executive Officer (CEO) for two companies.
He has stopped schooling and studied from home. He's interested in mathematics, physics, chemistry, geography and biology but not history and politics.
He dislikes reading books but prefer to browse the Net for study materials.
Wikipedia defines genius as follows :
Genius may show itself in early childhood as a prodigy or later in life, either way, geniuses eventually differentiate themselves from the others through great originality.
Genius often have crisp, clear-eyed visions of given situations, in which interpretation is unnecessary, and they build or act on the basis of those facts, usually with tremendous energy.
Accomplished geniuses in intellectual fields start out in many cases as child prodigy, gifted with superior memory or understanding.
Howard Gardner, Harvard University Professor, had come up with hypothesis on multiple intelligence. His book 'Frames of Mind' published in 1983 stated the 7 types of intelligences.
Well, Adi is a gifted prodigy and has achieved what adults envy for. His hourly rate might be equivalent to senior lecturer paying scheme for a month.
However, is this what he really wants? What about another 10 or 20 years down the line? Will he be happy enjoying his labour of works or will he end up burn out?
We have come across earlier of a case of Sufiah, a child prodigy, studied Mathematics at Oxford University, got married, divorced and finally became a social escort to support her life.
So, is it a blessing to have or be a gifted kid?
In my opinion, they are super normal kids with high IQ and should be given opportunity to express their expertise and intelligence. However, as kids they need guidance and supervision to nurture their special gifts into proper channels.
They also need to balance up their social lives in order to minimise the gap among their peers. To me, the parents should not take advantage of the situations.
Tuesday, November 10, 2009
Love
"In the arithmetic of love, one plus one equals everything, and two minus one equals nothing"-Mignon McLaughlin
"Love is the history of a woman's life; it is an episode in man's" - Germaine De Stael
"But love is blind and lovers cannot see
The pretty follies that themselves commit;
For if they could, Cupid himself would blush
To see me thus transformed to a boy"
-William Shakesphere
True enough that love is blind and feeling in love is the masterkey to the heart that creates happiness. However, the feeling of rejections are worse as it takes the course as what happen to the elderly couples in Kuala Sungai, Kubang Rotan, Kedah.
The woman's life ended as history and the man's has started a new episode in his life followed by the dark tragedy. As he was overpowered with love, he had lost his judgment.
MasyaAllah, at the golden age, it was shocked, unbelievabled and most regretted actions. May Allah give us His guidance and be protected from all the unwanted incidents.
The 80-years-old husband could not control his emotions after series of rejections from the 73-years-old wife had decided to end the life of his estranged spouse.
The pain of rejections was unbearable as the husband tried his best to reconcile and on the fated day, he spent 1 hour to persuade the wife. His failure had turned him irrational and committed the most hideous crime.
It was really sad to see an old man in white baju melayu, pelekat sarong and 'kopiah' being handcuffed and held by policemen at the crime scene.
I believe that he must have regretted of the action too much but it was too late.
The lesson is never let your emotions control oneself and the most sacred love is the love to the Creator. He will never reject anyone at anytime.
"Love is the history of a woman's life; it is an episode in man's" - Germaine De Stael
"But love is blind and lovers cannot see
The pretty follies that themselves commit;
For if they could, Cupid himself would blush
To see me thus transformed to a boy"
-William Shakesphere
True enough that love is blind and feeling in love is the masterkey to the heart that creates happiness. However, the feeling of rejections are worse as it takes the course as what happen to the elderly couples in Kuala Sungai, Kubang Rotan, Kedah.
The woman's life ended as history and the man's has started a new episode in his life followed by the dark tragedy. As he was overpowered with love, he had lost his judgment.
MasyaAllah, at the golden age, it was shocked, unbelievabled and most regretted actions. May Allah give us His guidance and be protected from all the unwanted incidents.
The 80-years-old husband could not control his emotions after series of rejections from the 73-years-old wife had decided to end the life of his estranged spouse.
The pain of rejections was unbearable as the husband tried his best to reconcile and on the fated day, he spent 1 hour to persuade the wife. His failure had turned him irrational and committed the most hideous crime.
It was really sad to see an old man in white baju melayu, pelekat sarong and 'kopiah' being handcuffed and held by policemen at the crime scene.
I believe that he must have regretted of the action too much but it was too late.
The lesson is never let your emotions control oneself and the most sacred love is the love to the Creator. He will never reject anyone at anytime.
Monday, November 9, 2009
Be Sensitive
The Shah Alam mayor, Mazalan Md Noor, informed that 17 out of 79 7-Eleven outlets in the city located in Section 1 to 24 had decided to stop selling alcohol beverages.
The positive move shows the support and respect of the non Muslims to ensure harmony relations with the Muslims counterpart.
Earlier, there was a miscommunication on the enforcement law when MBSA offices confiscated the alcohols from 7-Eleven stores in Sect. 9. Dr. Hasan Ali has fully supported the idea to ban the sales of alcoholic drinks in the majority Muslims communities.
The issue had sparked controversy between the politicians. Selangor Mentri Besar had ruled out that stores should conduct self regulate by storing the alcohol drinks in separate refrigerators. Also, the drinks should be sold to non Muslims and above 18 years old.
At this instance, I remembered my experience in the US more than 2 decades ago. It was just a few months, the six of us, arrived in the States.
One of the lecturers had treated us to her family's Thanksgiving party cum a welcome party during the festival break.
As a tradition, Thanksgiving was not complete without a roast turkey. We were about to politely making an excuse for not eating the main dish, when the lecturer, Mrs King, had a full smile on her face.
"Ya, don't worry about the turkey. It is halal. My mother got a slaughter one."
We were so embarrassed as the 80 year old granny nodded. Mrs King went on " My mom used to study Islam during her college days. So she understands the requirements."
However, I figure out that not all non Muslims in Malaysia have the awareness and sensitive towards Muslims especially involving halal foods.
The understanding was as long as the food does not contain pork, it is halal. To certain extend, the halal certification also been questionable.
I also wish to voice my dissatisfaction on non Muslims who have dogs as pets. I am not totally against the ideas but what upset me are the way most pets' owners treat their pets.
Normally, the owners will take their lovely pets for morning or evening walks. It is annoying to see the pets are trained to urinate at specific trees and leave their droppings along the ways.
There are also cases where the owners misuse the playground facilities where as there are big signboards clearly specified 'no dog'.
The worst scenario that I experience is that the owners just keep the pets for the sake of guarding their houses. So, the dogs ransack garbages as their food staple.
So, hopefully, the non Muslims in Malaysia could have the awareness and give due respects to sensitive issues like this as a first step to visualise the 1M nations.
The positive move shows the support and respect of the non Muslims to ensure harmony relations with the Muslims counterpart.
Earlier, there was a miscommunication on the enforcement law when MBSA offices confiscated the alcohols from 7-Eleven stores in Sect. 9. Dr. Hasan Ali has fully supported the idea to ban the sales of alcoholic drinks in the majority Muslims communities.
The issue had sparked controversy between the politicians. Selangor Mentri Besar had ruled out that stores should conduct self regulate by storing the alcohol drinks in separate refrigerators. Also, the drinks should be sold to non Muslims and above 18 years old.
At this instance, I remembered my experience in the US more than 2 decades ago. It was just a few months, the six of us, arrived in the States.
One of the lecturers had treated us to her family's Thanksgiving party cum a welcome party during the festival break.
As a tradition, Thanksgiving was not complete without a roast turkey. We were about to politely making an excuse for not eating the main dish, when the lecturer, Mrs King, had a full smile on her face.
"Ya, don't worry about the turkey. It is halal. My mother got a slaughter one."
We were so embarrassed as the 80 year old granny nodded. Mrs King went on " My mom used to study Islam during her college days. So she understands the requirements."
However, I figure out that not all non Muslims in Malaysia have the awareness and sensitive towards Muslims especially involving halal foods.
The understanding was as long as the food does not contain pork, it is halal. To certain extend, the halal certification also been questionable.
I also wish to voice my dissatisfaction on non Muslims who have dogs as pets. I am not totally against the ideas but what upset me are the way most pets' owners treat their pets.
Normally, the owners will take their lovely pets for morning or evening walks. It is annoying to see the pets are trained to urinate at specific trees and leave their droppings along the ways.
There are also cases where the owners misuse the playground facilities where as there are big signboards clearly specified 'no dog'.
The worst scenario that I experience is that the owners just keep the pets for the sake of guarding their houses. So, the dogs ransack garbages as their food staple.
So, hopefully, the non Muslims in Malaysia could have the awareness and give due respects to sensitive issues like this as a first step to visualise the 1M nations.
Sunday, November 8, 2009
Watch Dog
As far as I remembered, maids were among the hot topics that been discussed among my ex-colleagues, neighbours and relatives. It was pepper hot especially for the first timer employer or 'new maid on board'.
The list went on from difficult maids, lazy maids, non-hygienic maids to stupid maids.
Once, one of my relatives was really stressed out with her maids which was categorised as stupid. She worked like a cow but eat like a horse. The employer ended up had to finish off her unfinished tasks and forked extra expenses for food and utilities.
Then, she got a difficult maid as a replacement. The maid was with her for about a month or so before she ran away. She decided to make a police report.
A surprised awaiting her at the police station when the police told her that the maid was picked up by police. The maid told the police that her employer abused her and showed all the bruises (which was self inflicted).
It did not end there, as she was slammed with RM500 fined for run away maid.
Another friend considered herself lucky and proud of her 8 years maid. She praised the maid a lot and infact the maid received a special treatment.
The maid was well dressed with branded clothings and was given a handphone as an appreciation token. The maid was totally put in charge of the house even when the employer went outstation for few days.
A few months down the line, she was miserable as she explained that the maid ran away at last. The most affected one was her youngest daughter who was so attached to the maid.
Then she kept on changing few Indonesian maids thereafter and finally given up and chose a Cambodian. The similar cycles went on as she claimed that the quality of the Cambodian maid was not much different from that of the Indonesian.
In fact, she said it was more troublesome as she faced communication break down and had to pay extra salary.
Being a working parent previously, I shared the same predicament as I had to rely on maids to look after my kids and do the house chores.
I had enough with the maids that I decided to be a stay at home mom which was an appropriate choice at that moment.
Yes, I guess my decision was right then as I have less headache nowadays.
However, cases of made being abused had got media coverage starting from Nirmala Bonat and recently Manik.
As a result, Indonesia had freezed the maids entry until few issues been resolved including the monthly raised were addressed.
To overcome the problem, the Government had decided to put officers from the Manpower Department and Home Ministry to be watch dogs and check on the maids welfare.
The employers gave mixed reactions towards the move especially the one involve securities and questions on the successful of the plan.
The list went on from difficult maids, lazy maids, non-hygienic maids to stupid maids.
Once, one of my relatives was really stressed out with her maids which was categorised as stupid. She worked like a cow but eat like a horse. The employer ended up had to finish off her unfinished tasks and forked extra expenses for food and utilities.
Then, she got a difficult maid as a replacement. The maid was with her for about a month or so before she ran away. She decided to make a police report.
A surprised awaiting her at the police station when the police told her that the maid was picked up by police. The maid told the police that her employer abused her and showed all the bruises (which was self inflicted).
It did not end there, as she was slammed with RM500 fined for run away maid.
Another friend considered herself lucky and proud of her 8 years maid. She praised the maid a lot and infact the maid received a special treatment.
The maid was well dressed with branded clothings and was given a handphone as an appreciation token. The maid was totally put in charge of the house even when the employer went outstation for few days.
A few months down the line, she was miserable as she explained that the maid ran away at last. The most affected one was her youngest daughter who was so attached to the maid.
Then she kept on changing few Indonesian maids thereafter and finally given up and chose a Cambodian. The similar cycles went on as she claimed that the quality of the Cambodian maid was not much different from that of the Indonesian.
In fact, she said it was more troublesome as she faced communication break down and had to pay extra salary.
Being a working parent previously, I shared the same predicament as I had to rely on maids to look after my kids and do the house chores.
I had enough with the maids that I decided to be a stay at home mom which was an appropriate choice at that moment.
Yes, I guess my decision was right then as I have less headache nowadays.
However, cases of made being abused had got media coverage starting from Nirmala Bonat and recently Manik.
As a result, Indonesia had freezed the maids entry until few issues been resolved including the monthly raised were addressed.
To overcome the problem, the Government had decided to put officers from the Manpower Department and Home Ministry to be watch dogs and check on the maids welfare.
The employers gave mixed reactions towards the move especially the one involve securities and questions on the successful of the plan.
Saturday, November 7, 2009
Expiry Date
The Star today highlighted that more Malaysians are considering cosmetic surgery to improve appearance. It looks like the cosmetic surgery industries are blooming despite few reports on fatality cases involving negligence or complications.
Earlier, I came across the article "It's face or figure, after all" in Reader's Digest (Nov 2009) issue.
It touched on the issue that belongs to age group over 40 revealed that a full face might be the secret to youthful looks.
President of the Australian Society of Plastic Surgery, Dr Peter Callan, said "As you get older, it tends to be a case of face or figure. If you keep your figure, and your face can end up looking gaunt."
He added " Fat on the face is like carpet beneath the skin. Without it, the face loses volumes and looks almost deflated."
A US study on identical twins found that those over 40 with a slightly higher body mass index (BMI), an average four points higher than their thinner sibling, appeared younger in the face.
In my opinion, this is may be one of the reasons why individuals turn to cosmetic plastic surgery. No pain no gain.
Believed that the advancement of science and technologies might do wonders. Is it true that you really can hide your original age through your physical appearance?
What about your internal organs...are there any booster or replacement (at the moment only transplants available, yet it's not at your own comfort)?
Or the scientists are on the way to create youthful portions...
This reminded me of the movie "Till Death Do Us Apart" in the '90s starred by Meg Ryan, Merryl Streep and Bruce Waynes.
Anyway, believe that "rules of nature", everything has expiry date....
Earlier, I came across the article "It's face or figure, after all" in Reader's Digest (Nov 2009) issue.
It touched on the issue that belongs to age group over 40 revealed that a full face might be the secret to youthful looks.
President of the Australian Society of Plastic Surgery, Dr Peter Callan, said "As you get older, it tends to be a case of face or figure. If you keep your figure, and your face can end up looking gaunt."
He added " Fat on the face is like carpet beneath the skin. Without it, the face loses volumes and looks almost deflated."
A US study on identical twins found that those over 40 with a slightly higher body mass index (BMI), an average four points higher than their thinner sibling, appeared younger in the face.
In my opinion, this is may be one of the reasons why individuals turn to cosmetic plastic surgery. No pain no gain.
Believed that the advancement of science and technologies might do wonders. Is it true that you really can hide your original age through your physical appearance?
What about your internal organs...are there any booster or replacement (at the moment only transplants available, yet it's not at your own comfort)?
Or the scientists are on the way to create youthful portions...
This reminded me of the movie "Till Death Do Us Apart" in the '90s starred by Meg Ryan, Merryl Streep and Bruce Waynes.
Anyway, believe that "rules of nature", everything has expiry date....
Friday, November 6, 2009
Unforgiven Sins
I read the news in The Daily Chilli about a 33-year old father in Mumbai, India jabbed sedatives into his eight-year-old daughter before raping her or sending her out to other men in exchange for cash (RM10) or whisky. This case was revealed by the grandfather.
I was speechless for a moment as I couldn't imagine the trauma that the little innocent girl had gone through. I just could not imagine the impact of the physical, mental and emotional abused to her life in future.
It was really sickening to learn her ordeal as the responsible person was her father, her own flesh and blood, had the heart to commit such an unforgiven sins just to fulfil his own lust.
The father was worse than animals. A father was supposed to provide love and protect her but it turned out the other way infact. I just couldn't believe that a father had such a heart to do all this to his own little girl...(please read my write-up on IVF)
As an eight-year-old girl, she was supposed to be happily going to school, socialize with other kids and playing with her friends.
I also learned that the police had called for the father be given death sentence. Even, if he's dead he had ruined a life. Hopefully, the girl would recover from her misery and trauma with the supports from the psychiatrists and other family member.
This case also reminded me to "Nurin Jazlin" and "Sharleeni" who were nine and eight years old respectively when they were abducted. Nurin's body was discovered in a bag after she was molested and murdered while "Sharleeni" was not heard off.
I was speechless for a moment as I couldn't imagine the trauma that the little innocent girl had gone through. I just could not imagine the impact of the physical, mental and emotional abused to her life in future.
It was really sickening to learn her ordeal as the responsible person was her father, her own flesh and blood, had the heart to commit such an unforgiven sins just to fulfil his own lust.
The father was worse than animals. A father was supposed to provide love and protect her but it turned out the other way infact. I just couldn't believe that a father had such a heart to do all this to his own little girl...(please read my write-up on IVF)
As an eight-year-old girl, she was supposed to be happily going to school, socialize with other kids and playing with her friends.
I also learned that the police had called for the father be given death sentence. Even, if he's dead he had ruined a life. Hopefully, the girl would recover from her misery and trauma with the supports from the psychiatrists and other family member.
This case also reminded me to "Nurin Jazlin" and "Sharleeni" who were nine and eight years old respectively when they were abducted. Nurin's body was discovered in a bag after she was molested and murdered while "Sharleeni" was not heard off.
Thursday, November 5, 2009
The Mistake
IVF (In vitro fertilization) has been successfully proven method of treatment for infertility. It gave new hopes for childless couples to have their own precious special gifts and I was one of the lucky one who benefited from the treatment.
It was still freshed in my mind, I was disbelieved when the nurse from Gleaneagles Hospital broke the promising news to me confirming that I was pregnant (probably multiple pregnancy as my HGL level reading was over 200).
I just couldn't explain my emotions at that time. Excited, happy, unbelievable and grateful were all mixed up as I had underwent series of unsuccessful fertility treatments earlier.
The news really brought happiness to my husband. He was the one who experienced all the morning sickness for few days...Alhamdulillah, finally our prayer was answered after been waiting for 8 years...
However, I was chilled after when through the StarTwo today, "Seeds of Doubt" by Maggie O' Farrel. It was reported that around 12 500 babies a year are born in Britain as a result of IVF.
However, humans are imperfect. A lot of IVF errors were reported as the frozen embryos in petri dishes were mixed up and ended up to wrong couples. The mistakes had put the unfortunate couples to go through the unnecessary emotional stress and grievances besides had to go through the stressful treatment.
Here, were few cases reported related to the incidents.
1. Carolyn Savage from Ohio, US handed over her baby to its biological parents. She had been implanted with the wrong embryo after a mix-up at a fertility clinic.
2. A couple from Cardiff, Wales were told that their last remaining frozen embryo had been mistakenly implanted in another woman, who had since had it aborted.
3. A white Northern Irish couple had given birth to a mixed-race baby, after being given the wrong sperm.
4. A Californian woman was awarded US1mil in 2004 after a fertility specialist gave her the wrong embryo and hid the mistake until the baby was 10 months old.
5. A white New Yorker gave birth to a black baby in 1998, sparkling complex, two-year wrangle between the couples for visitation rights.
Hopefully, more stringent procedures should be enforced by the fertility clinics and only reputable clinics should be allowed to carry out the procedures.
I concurred and sympathised with the unlucky couples who suffered as the process of going through the string of infertility treatments were taxing both financially and emotionally.
Also, childless couples are also bound to receive pressures from relatives and concerned societies of the conditions 'state of the art'...
It was still freshed in my mind, I was disbelieved when the nurse from Gleaneagles Hospital broke the promising news to me confirming that I was pregnant (probably multiple pregnancy as my HGL level reading was over 200).
I just couldn't explain my emotions at that time. Excited, happy, unbelievable and grateful were all mixed up as I had underwent series of unsuccessful fertility treatments earlier.
The news really brought happiness to my husband. He was the one who experienced all the morning sickness for few days...Alhamdulillah, finally our prayer was answered after been waiting for 8 years...
However, I was chilled after when through the StarTwo today, "Seeds of Doubt" by Maggie O' Farrel. It was reported that around 12 500 babies a year are born in Britain as a result of IVF.
However, humans are imperfect. A lot of IVF errors were reported as the frozen embryos in petri dishes were mixed up and ended up to wrong couples. The mistakes had put the unfortunate couples to go through the unnecessary emotional stress and grievances besides had to go through the stressful treatment.
Here, were few cases reported related to the incidents.
1. Carolyn Savage from Ohio, US handed over her baby to its biological parents. She had been implanted with the wrong embryo after a mix-up at a fertility clinic.
2. A couple from Cardiff, Wales were told that their last remaining frozen embryo had been mistakenly implanted in another woman, who had since had it aborted.
3. A white Northern Irish couple had given birth to a mixed-race baby, after being given the wrong sperm.
4. A Californian woman was awarded US1mil in 2004 after a fertility specialist gave her the wrong embryo and hid the mistake until the baby was 10 months old.
5. A white New Yorker gave birth to a black baby in 1998, sparkling complex, two-year wrangle between the couples for visitation rights.
Hopefully, more stringent procedures should be enforced by the fertility clinics and only reputable clinics should be allowed to carry out the procedures.
I concurred and sympathised with the unlucky couples who suffered as the process of going through the string of infertility treatments were taxing both financially and emotionally.
Also, childless couples are also bound to receive pressures from relatives and concerned societies of the conditions 'state of the art'...
Wednesday, November 4, 2009
The Golden Egg
I am sure as kids we were familiar with the fable story of poor farmer who had found a goose that laid a golden egg on each day. However, greedy and lust had overcome him and made him slaughtered the goose to get all the golden eggs in the stomach one shot which would definitely overturned his fortune.
However, greedy and lust did not do justice. He lost the goose and his fortune as the goose was dead with empty stomach.
Similarly, the principle applied to the Slumdog Millionaire kids stars, Azharuddin and Rubina. A lot has been reported on their ordeals after been casting in the blockbuster movie which wrapped up 8 Oscars in the Academy Awards.
Seven weeks after the Oscar, Rubina's father was arrested for attempting to sell her for USD365 000 to a London tabloid reporter. However, the charges were drop off due to lack of evidence.
The latest report was in yesterday paper,whereby the two kids were reminded not to play truancy if they would want to continue receiving their monthly allowance of US120 each from the Jai Ho Trust.
The trust had been established by the movie's British director and producer. Their noble intention was to ensure that the kids would not drop out of school and by 18, they would see their pot of gold.
Both of the kids gave the same excuses during an interview by NDTV about their truancy. "My father died and I had to go through the rituals so I couldn't attend."
Honestly, it was hard for me to take the lame excuses...I pitied the kids. The kids were victimised just to fulfill their flesh and blood greed and lust...
I believe that there are many more kids out there who shared the same destiny...
Source : Reader's Digest (October 2009) and The Star (3 Nov 2009)
However, greedy and lust did not do justice. He lost the goose and his fortune as the goose was dead with empty stomach.
Similarly, the principle applied to the Slumdog Millionaire kids stars, Azharuddin and Rubina. A lot has been reported on their ordeals after been casting in the blockbuster movie which wrapped up 8 Oscars in the Academy Awards.
Seven weeks after the Oscar, Rubina's father was arrested for attempting to sell her for USD365 000 to a London tabloid reporter. However, the charges were drop off due to lack of evidence.
The latest report was in yesterday paper,whereby the two kids were reminded not to play truancy if they would want to continue receiving their monthly allowance of US120 each from the Jai Ho Trust.
The trust had been established by the movie's British director and producer. Their noble intention was to ensure that the kids would not drop out of school and by 18, they would see their pot of gold.
Both of the kids gave the same excuses during an interview by NDTV about their truancy. "My father died and I had to go through the rituals so I couldn't attend."
Honestly, it was hard for me to take the lame excuses...I pitied the kids. The kids were victimised just to fulfill their flesh and blood greed and lust...
I believe that there are many more kids out there who shared the same destiny...
Source : Reader's Digest (October 2009) and The Star (3 Nov 2009)
Tuesday, November 3, 2009
Stay at Home Mom
Aha...thankyou the Star (Nov 3, 2009). These tips come handy just in the nick of time...Being a stay at home (without a helper) for 5 years really a tough test as I have to work 24 hours around the clock and 365 days in a year without any leave.
The worse part is that this profession is salaryless. Some of my friends envy me by calling "a woman of leisure". If only they were in my shoes than ... Well, the grass is always greener on the other side.
I am not only a stay at home mom but A to Z mom. I have to juggle my time from being a mother, chef, chauffeur, judge, gardener, nurse, babysitter, laundry lady, teacher and housekeeper. At the end of the day, I hardly have enough time for myself...
However, all the hard works seem to wash away when you see their face glowing with happiness and satisfactions especially when they get back from school...a sense of security...(just as my four-year old son cried "mama 3x" the moment he saw me fetching him and the brother from preschool).
The beauty of this profession is that it made you become tougher, tolerable, realistic and humane. It also requires extra patience...
The only set back (besides the financial constraint) of being a stay at home mom means restricting my social activities and I do feel lonely at times especially now that my kids have grown up.
So, I have restarted my baking hobby and picking up on sewing while the kids are at school as to kill times. Of course, my favourite pass time is to update my blog. I find that these are fun, enjoyable and mind challenging hobbies as well...
These are the tips listed in the Star on how to be happy as a stay-at-home mom
1. Keep a positive attitude even if you have been awakened four times throughout the night by a sick two-year-old. These days will fly by and someday you will miss such times.
2. Find something you love to do,such as baking or gardening and do it.
3. Join a mom's group to keep you connected with mom of all ages who are going through the same things that you are.
4. Remember that you are a valuable person and that you are doing the hardest work on earth.
5. If you are feeling resentful about it, take a look at your children and know that they are worth your being home and being there for them when ever they need you.
So, to all stay at home mom, do not regret on the decisions that you made up. The rewards are similar to the 'jihad' (those who were killed in the war to safeguard Islams). Alhamdulillah...
The worse part is that this profession is salaryless. Some of my friends envy me by calling "a woman of leisure". If only they were in my shoes than ... Well, the grass is always greener on the other side.
I am not only a stay at home mom but A to Z mom. I have to juggle my time from being a mother, chef, chauffeur, judge, gardener, nurse, babysitter, laundry lady, teacher and housekeeper. At the end of the day, I hardly have enough time for myself...
However, all the hard works seem to wash away when you see their face glowing with happiness and satisfactions especially when they get back from school...a sense of security...(just as my four-year old son cried "mama 3x" the moment he saw me fetching him and the brother from preschool).
The beauty of this profession is that it made you become tougher, tolerable, realistic and humane. It also requires extra patience...
The only set back (besides the financial constraint) of being a stay at home mom means restricting my social activities and I do feel lonely at times especially now that my kids have grown up.
So, I have restarted my baking hobby and picking up on sewing while the kids are at school as to kill times. Of course, my favourite pass time is to update my blog. I find that these are fun, enjoyable and mind challenging hobbies as well...
These are the tips listed in the Star on how to be happy as a stay-at-home mom
1. Keep a positive attitude even if you have been awakened four times throughout the night by a sick two-year-old. These days will fly by and someday you will miss such times.
2. Find something you love to do,such as baking or gardening and do it.
3. Join a mom's group to keep you connected with mom of all ages who are going through the same things that you are.
4. Remember that you are a valuable person and that you are doing the hardest work on earth.
5. If you are feeling resentful about it, take a look at your children and know that they are worth your being home and being there for them when ever they need you.
So, to all stay at home mom, do not regret on the decisions that you made up. The rewards are similar to the 'jihad' (those who were killed in the war to safeguard Islams). Alhamdulillah...
Monday, November 2, 2009
Winds of Change
The winds of change has brought the monsoon season to Malaysia and claimed another 3 lives of UNITAR undergraduates. The tragedy was a week apart from the earlier one when the three were drowned after been swept by strong current at the Batu Berangkai waterfall in Kampar.
The winds of change also affected the world season when Beijing, Inner Mongolia and the provinces of Jilin and Liaoning welcomed the first sighting of snow, the earliest in a decade.
The winds of change also generated new waves of thinking for the Trengganu state government. Earlier, they became the nation spotlight with the proposals of 1 toilet and free second honeymoon for the problematic couples.
This time round, they managed to identify the culprits for the marriage failures. The factors were body odour, humdrum sex and boring pyjamas.
To overcome the problems, they had come up with list of do's. One was to invite cosmetic firms to introduce exotic and sensous fragrances that can arouse sexual desire and the next move was to encourage couples to bathe together.
In one statement, Muhammad Ramli Nuh, the deputy chairman of State Religious and Information Committee mentioned that he knew a couple splitted because the spouse smelled of fish crackers.
Hey, wait a minute...fish crackers...are this referring to the keropok leko? Oh dear, my kids love this keropok leko so much and I have to replenish the stock everytime I patronise the pasar tani. Believe that many others share the same taste of buds...
Well, I don't mean to crack a joke here...but body odour (BO) is something that is hard to tolerate.
My father used to car pool with his colleagues and one of them was a single lady. She was nice looking except that she had BO. My father had a hard time cracking his head how to inform the lady by not hurting her...
There was another incident whereby my ex-officemates were talking behind the BO person. They could not tolerate the smell especially during office hours within the air condition environment.
Nevertheless, will perfume resolve the BO. As far as I know, perfume will react with body chemicals and reproduce a different smell from its original state. So, the best thing is to teach people with BO about hygenic and cleanliness. Also, check their body toxic level as normally the body will emit toxic(which produce bad smell) through sweating.
Maybe the BO individuals need to go for detoxyfication process.
The winds of change also affected the world season when Beijing, Inner Mongolia and the provinces of Jilin and Liaoning welcomed the first sighting of snow, the earliest in a decade.
The winds of change also generated new waves of thinking for the Trengganu state government. Earlier, they became the nation spotlight with the proposals of 1 toilet and free second honeymoon for the problematic couples.
This time round, they managed to identify the culprits for the marriage failures. The factors were body odour, humdrum sex and boring pyjamas.
To overcome the problems, they had come up with list of do's. One was to invite cosmetic firms to introduce exotic and sensous fragrances that can arouse sexual desire and the next move was to encourage couples to bathe together.
In one statement, Muhammad Ramli Nuh, the deputy chairman of State Religious and Information Committee mentioned that he knew a couple splitted because the spouse smelled of fish crackers.
Hey, wait a minute...fish crackers...are this referring to the keropok leko? Oh dear, my kids love this keropok leko so much and I have to replenish the stock everytime I patronise the pasar tani. Believe that many others share the same taste of buds...
Well, I don't mean to crack a joke here...but body odour (BO) is something that is hard to tolerate.
My father used to car pool with his colleagues and one of them was a single lady. She was nice looking except that she had BO. My father had a hard time cracking his head how to inform the lady by not hurting her...
There was another incident whereby my ex-officemates were talking behind the BO person. They could not tolerate the smell especially during office hours within the air condition environment.
Nevertheless, will perfume resolve the BO. As far as I know, perfume will react with body chemicals and reproduce a different smell from its original state. So, the best thing is to teach people with BO about hygenic and cleanliness. Also, check their body toxic level as normally the body will emit toxic(which produce bad smell) through sweating.
Maybe the BO individuals need to go for detoxyfication process.
Sunday, November 1, 2009
The Love
Basically, this is the reason why I quited my job 5 years ago. The love to my kids beat the odd although I knew the decision was hard for my husband to agree.
Finally, he gave the blessing for me to resign after much consideration of my arguments. Although we had to sacrifice a lot due to financial constraint but the bond between us became stronger.
The kids would have a kind of look and a lot of worries, if I sought their 'approval' should I have to go back to the industries. Well, wish to share a good write up by Nor Aliza Samad on her dilemma of being a stay at home mom. Contradict to me, she became the stay at home mom on her husband's request.
I have been staying home much too long. Now that my daughters no longer need me to wake up at 3am to feed them, I want to be back at work like my college friends, who take home handsome salaries.
(In my case, I have to leave my kids around 10pm and came back around 5am and had to go back to work by 7.30am as I was assigned to take care off night constructions after my confinement of my son. The handsome salaries I brought home could not compensate it!)
And what has he got to say about this?
"Well, that's very sensible of you. Frankly, I find working women more attractive and intellectual stimulating."
(This is true for my husband who I knew since college days. He preferred an independent female companion. But what to do, he got me the conservative person. Stimulating ehh...I had to leave for Bintulu for 3 days while I still breastfed my son. I had to endure the pain and sore of my breast during those trip...)
Wait a minute! Wasn't it you who said many moons ago that working women were selfish, individualistic and the cause of family disintegration?
"Gee, did I say that? Well, I guess you have to forgive me, I was green then."
It's very cute of you to admit the slip of the tongue. But we have two children now and had it not been for my nose, even my mother would have mistaken me for Roseanne Bar!!!
The story went on with the husband apologised and encouraged her to apply for jobs.
She broke the news to the kids and like mine, they gave that worry look...
This is the interesting part...The children were in bed. I walked to the bed. There he was, arms wide open, his eyes looking straight into mine.
"Loving you is stimulating enough," he said.
Hopefully, my husband realizes that my love is more stimulating and incomparable...
Finally, he gave the blessing for me to resign after much consideration of my arguments. Although we had to sacrifice a lot due to financial constraint but the bond between us became stronger.
The kids would have a kind of look and a lot of worries, if I sought their 'approval' should I have to go back to the industries. Well, wish to share a good write up by Nor Aliza Samad on her dilemma of being a stay at home mom. Contradict to me, she became the stay at home mom on her husband's request.
I have been staying home much too long. Now that my daughters no longer need me to wake up at 3am to feed them, I want to be back at work like my college friends, who take home handsome salaries.
(In my case, I have to leave my kids around 10pm and came back around 5am and had to go back to work by 7.30am as I was assigned to take care off night constructions after my confinement of my son. The handsome salaries I brought home could not compensate it!)
And what has he got to say about this?
"Well, that's very sensible of you. Frankly, I find working women more attractive and intellectual stimulating."
(This is true for my husband who I knew since college days. He preferred an independent female companion. But what to do, he got me the conservative person. Stimulating ehh...I had to leave for Bintulu for 3 days while I still breastfed my son. I had to endure the pain and sore of my breast during those trip...)
Wait a minute! Wasn't it you who said many moons ago that working women were selfish, individualistic and the cause of family disintegration?
"Gee, did I say that? Well, I guess you have to forgive me, I was green then."
It's very cute of you to admit the slip of the tongue. But we have two children now and had it not been for my nose, even my mother would have mistaken me for Roseanne Bar!!!
The story went on with the husband apologised and encouraged her to apply for jobs.
She broke the news to the kids and like mine, they gave that worry look...
This is the interesting part...The children were in bed. I walked to the bed. There he was, arms wide open, his eyes looking straight into mine.
"Loving you is stimulating enough," he said.
Hopefully, my husband realizes that my love is more stimulating and incomparable...
Saturday, October 31, 2009
The Secret
Three year six friends went for the swimming outings at Sungai Guar Perahu in Bukit Mertajam has ended with a tragedy when one of the boys, Cheong Sze Ling, was drowned.
His too other friends were too terrified and traumatized with the incident which made them hid the dark secret.
One of the friend skipped school and the other one broke down when revealed the ordeal to his school teacher the next day.
This was the second tragedy involved year six pupils and related to water accident. A few days ago, 3 pupils were sacrificed when the narrow suspension bridge collapsed while attending the 1M Camp in Kampar, Perak.
His too other friends were too terrified and traumatized with the incident which made them hid the dark secret.
One of the friend skipped school and the other one broke down when revealed the ordeal to his school teacher the next day.
This was the second tragedy involved year six pupils and related to water accident. A few days ago, 3 pupils were sacrificed when the narrow suspension bridge collapsed while attending the 1M Camp in Kampar, Perak.
Friday, October 30, 2009
The Fair Treatment
In this modern era, every thing seems myriad away previously is no longer a big deal. It all started with Micheal Jackson who has transformed himself from black to white.
It was reported in yesterday paper (sorry as I can't update my blog yesterday as the link was disconnected due to unforeseen heavy rain and thunderstorms) that an aspiring actress and model went for the glow and pigmentation treatment but ended up with a disfigured face.
The 'fair treatment' had taken its toll and twist the fate of the beauty. She claimed that her face now was peeling, wrinkled and covered in ugly dark spots, forcing her to move around with her face covered.
I think people are easily influenced with the beauty advertisements which claim wonders without realizing on the dangers. Even, if the unlucky lady managed to transform perfectly without complications, she still has to bear the effect of the treatment.
I believe that an exposure to sun is definitely a no-no and what a waste if we could not enjoy the gift of natures from Almighty just to enjoy the 'look' that we desire.
Beauty will not last forever as it will fade away as we get older. The inner beauty is more valuable as it will radiant and glow even if you are aging...
It was reported in yesterday paper (sorry as I can't update my blog yesterday as the link was disconnected due to unforeseen heavy rain and thunderstorms) that an aspiring actress and model went for the glow and pigmentation treatment but ended up with a disfigured face.
The 'fair treatment' had taken its toll and twist the fate of the beauty. She claimed that her face now was peeling, wrinkled and covered in ugly dark spots, forcing her to move around with her face covered.
I think people are easily influenced with the beauty advertisements which claim wonders without realizing on the dangers. Even, if the unlucky lady managed to transform perfectly without complications, she still has to bear the effect of the treatment.
I believe that an exposure to sun is definitely a no-no and what a waste if we could not enjoy the gift of natures from Almighty just to enjoy the 'look' that we desire.
Beauty will not last forever as it will fade away as we get older. The inner beauty is more valuable as it will radiant and glow even if you are aging...
Wednesday, October 28, 2009
Too Much
I've just read in today's newspaper on the news about a nine-year-old girl was slapped by her disciplinary teacher for being 10 minutes late to school.
She was late due to heavy morning traffic jam in Puchong. The mother was only been informed of the incident when she fetched her daughter after school session.
According to the mother, she was shocked to see her daughter's face swollen. Furthermore, she claimed that the school ignored her complaint and rejected her request to see the disciplinary teacher.
If this was true, personally, I felt the action was too much. The matter could be tackle differently and a lot of other disciplinary actions could be imposed.
Through my experience, normally, we would loss our temper and felt like slapping someone's else face if the other person retaliated either using abusive or harsh words. However, a normal and mentally sound human being would not easily lose one's temper especially early in the morning over a trivial matter.
Hopefully, the parties involved should clarify on the actual incident as to clear the air.
She was late due to heavy morning traffic jam in Puchong. The mother was only been informed of the incident when she fetched her daughter after school session.
According to the mother, she was shocked to see her daughter's face swollen. Furthermore, she claimed that the school ignored her complaint and rejected her request to see the disciplinary teacher.
If this was true, personally, I felt the action was too much. The matter could be tackle differently and a lot of other disciplinary actions could be imposed.
Through my experience, normally, we would loss our temper and felt like slapping someone's else face if the other person retaliated either using abusive or harsh words. However, a normal and mentally sound human being would not easily lose one's temper especially early in the morning over a trivial matter.
Hopefully, the parties involved should clarify on the actual incident as to clear the air.
Tuesday, October 27, 2009
The Power of Forgiveness
I received this beautiful poem about the journey of two friends from a friend whom I just get reconnected recently through facebook after twenty six years we had lost contact.
The poem is really touching as the power of forgiveness is the key to maintain good relationships. To my dear friend, thank you for sharing it with me.
TWO FRIENDS
TWO FRIENDS WERE WALKING
THROUGH THE DESERT
DURING SOME POINT OF THE
JOURNEY, THEY HAD AN ARGUMENT;
AND ONE FRIEND SLAPPED THE
OTHER ONE IN THE FACE!
THE ONE WHO GOT SLAPPED WAS HURT,
BUT WITHOUT SAYING ANYTHING,
WROTE IN THE SAND:
TODAY MY BEST FRIEND
SLAPPED ME IN THE FACE...
THEY KEPT ON WALKING
UNTIL THEY FOUND AN OASIS
WHERE THEY DECIDED TO TAKE A BATH
THE ONE WHO BEEN SLAPPED
GOT STUCK IN THE MIRE!
AND STARTED DROWNING
BUT THE FRIEND SAVED HIM
AFTER HE RECOVERED FROM THE NEAR
DROWNING, HE WROTE ON A STONE :
TODAY MY BEST FRIEND SAVED MY LIFE.
THE FRIEND WHO HAD SLAPPED AND
SAVED HIS BEST FRIEND ASKED HIM
'AFTER I HURT YOU, YOU WROTE ON THE SAND AND
NOW, YOU WROTE ON A STONE, WHY?'
THE FRIEND REPLIED, WHEN SOMEONE HURTS US,
WE SHOULD WRITE IT DOWN IN SAND
WHERE WINDS OF FORGIVENESS CAN ERASE IT AWAY
BUT WHEN SOMEONE DOES SOMETHING GOOD FOR US
WE MUST ENGRAVE IT IN STONE,
WHERE NO WIND CAN EVER ERASE IT.
The poem is really touching as the power of forgiveness is the key to maintain good relationships. To my dear friend, thank you for sharing it with me.
TWO FRIENDS
TWO FRIENDS WERE WALKING
THROUGH THE DESERT
DURING SOME POINT OF THE
JOURNEY, THEY HAD AN ARGUMENT;
AND ONE FRIEND SLAPPED THE
OTHER ONE IN THE FACE!
THE ONE WHO GOT SLAPPED WAS HURT,
BUT WITHOUT SAYING ANYTHING,
WROTE IN THE SAND:
TODAY MY BEST FRIEND
SLAPPED ME IN THE FACE...
THEY KEPT ON WALKING
UNTIL THEY FOUND AN OASIS
WHERE THEY DECIDED TO TAKE A BATH
THE ONE WHO BEEN SLAPPED
GOT STUCK IN THE MIRE!
AND STARTED DROWNING
BUT THE FRIEND SAVED HIM
AFTER HE RECOVERED FROM THE NEAR
DROWNING, HE WROTE ON A STONE :
TODAY MY BEST FRIEND SAVED MY LIFE.
THE FRIEND WHO HAD SLAPPED AND
SAVED HIS BEST FRIEND ASKED HIM
'AFTER I HURT YOU, YOU WROTE ON THE SAND AND
NOW, YOU WROTE ON A STONE, WHY?'
THE FRIEND REPLIED, WHEN SOMEONE HURTS US,
WE SHOULD WRITE IT DOWN IN SAND
WHERE WINDS OF FORGIVENESS CAN ERASE IT AWAY
BUT WHEN SOMEONE DOES SOMETHING GOOD FOR US
WE MUST ENGRAVE IT IN STONE,
WHERE NO WIND CAN EVER ERASE IT.
Monday, October 26, 2009
The Tragedy
Anger is fire which burn you inside out. The tragedy which claimed a life and left the daughter blinded occurred to a family of four in Penang.
It all started with heaty arguments between the couples over their daughter. The husband disagreed with the wife who let the daughter help her at the food stall and instead wanted her to spend more time studying.
The final argument ended when the husband splashed acid to the two of them and left the 17 year old schoolgirl permanently blinded and her mother death.
Eventhough the father surrendered himself, the girl's future is in bleak. Time would not return her the mother and her eye sights.
Was it worth to let your anger overcome you and spoiled all the things that you loved. So, in future think before you say or act as the consequences might be hard to swallow...
It all started with heaty arguments between the couples over their daughter. The husband disagreed with the wife who let the daughter help her at the food stall and instead wanted her to spend more time studying.
The final argument ended when the husband splashed acid to the two of them and left the 17 year old schoolgirl permanently blinded and her mother death.
Eventhough the father surrendered himself, the girl's future is in bleak. Time would not return her the mother and her eye sights.
Was it worth to let your anger overcome you and spoiled all the things that you loved. So, in future think before you say or act as the consequences might be hard to swallow...
Sunday, October 25, 2009
The Concert
No, I'm not talking about Akon concert at the Sunway Lagoon, but Elvis Presley...
My 6 years old son has impersonated the king of pop for his kindergarten concert yesterday. He was all dressed up in white long sleeve shirt with extra large sequin colar, silver glittering pants complete with necklace with letter "E" and a guitar.
Seeing him confidently performed on the stage with applauded from the floor really made me realize that my son has grown up.
He was no longer a little boy who always cried for me and could not lose me from his sights. He used to cry for the first month when first attended school.
He has developed a new horizon in his life and definitely mine too...I love you darling...
Saturday, October 24, 2009
Control your Temper
Just had a chit chat with a friend who has to tolerate with the husband's temper. So, to my dear friend hopefully you have the strength to overcome the problem and may Allah guide you in finding the solutions.
Believe that every problem has a way out...here I wish to share lines of a poem( I think so) which was shared to me by other friend.
The strength of a man
isn't in how hard he hits
It is in how tender
he touches...
The strength of a man
isn't in the weight he can lift
It is in the burdens that he can carry
I also found an article in SDK Magazine, June 2008 which hopefully benefit us in strengthening our marital relationships.
6 ways to help husbands to control their tempers
1. Positive Thinking
Husband should always think positively. Identify your anger. Isolate the work related problems and personal problems. Never let your wife be a scapegoat and throw your anger to her when it is work related issues.
2. Treat a wife as a friend
Release your tense and stress by telling your partner on your emotional status. The wife would feel appreciated as you are willing to share with her.
3. Avoid Punishing Oneself
Be rational. Don't put the blame on yourself or others. A wife is for you to care and love.
4. Tell the Truth
Honesty is the best policy. Don't hide your problem from your wife especially the one involves financial. Sit down and discuss on the problem and try to come up with solutions.
5. BedtimeUse the opportunity to thanks and apologise to your partner.
6. AblutionsPut the fire off with ablutions.
Also, it is good to look in my previous article "Taming your Temper" September 2009.
Believe that every problem has a way out...here I wish to share lines of a poem( I think so) which was shared to me by other friend.
The strength of a man
isn't in how hard he hits
It is in how tender
he touches...
The strength of a man
isn't in the weight he can lift
It is in the burdens that he can carry
I also found an article in SDK Magazine, June 2008 which hopefully benefit us in strengthening our marital relationships.
6 ways to help husbands to control their tempers
1. Positive Thinking
Husband should always think positively. Identify your anger. Isolate the work related problems and personal problems. Never let your wife be a scapegoat and throw your anger to her when it is work related issues.
2. Treat a wife as a friend
Release your tense and stress by telling your partner on your emotional status. The wife would feel appreciated as you are willing to share with her.
3. Avoid Punishing Oneself
Be rational. Don't put the blame on yourself or others. A wife is for you to care and love.
4. Tell the Truth
Honesty is the best policy. Don't hide your problem from your wife especially the one involves financial. Sit down and discuss on the problem and try to come up with solutions.
5. BedtimeUse the opportunity to thanks and apologise to your partner.
6. AblutionsPut the fire off with ablutions.
Also, it is good to look in my previous article "Taming your Temper" September 2009.
Friday, October 23, 2009
Midlife Crisis
Majority of people would agree that life begins at 40 for man. This is the turning point to see the changes either good or bad.
A good friend of mine, once advised and cautious me that her guy changed when he reached 40. She said the hubby easily sulk on small matters and she had to treat him like he used to treat her during their courtship period. I just took it lightly and hopefully mine would behave better.
Another friend told me about his father (a non smoker) started to pick smoking habits in his 40s.
I found this article about mid life crisis in reader's Digest , August 2009 and would like to share the 10 signs of midlife crisis :
1. Job Change
This is a terrifying early warning sign that meltdown is imminent. When he comes home and announces he is leaving his 30-year career in insurance to open a home-brew supply business, you know you're in bumpy ride.
2. Death-defying behaviour
And potentially widow-making. This is when he comes home and announces he is going to take up rally driving/BASE-jumping/big-wave surfing. "Life is short,"he philosophies. "I don't want to die without ever having thrown myself off a cliff."
3. Grooming
When one day he looks in the mirror and sees some old guy looking back at him. Eeeek! He panics, ditches his trusty barber for a stylist who does highlights, books in for a back wax and buys a new wardrobe and some musky man scent.
4. Reverting to twenties behaviour
This classic attempt at recapturing lost youth usually involves the sudden desire to go to music concerts, drink excessively, and live on nothing but junk food and two-minute noodles. This will ultimately undo or lead to point 5.
5. Excessive frenzy
he's at gym three mornings a week and watches his reflection in the window as he lifts the new flat-screen out of the car. One of the few MLC symptoms to be encouraged.
6. Outrages purchases
You come home from work to find a Harley- Davidson Fat Boy/Hummer parked in the driveway and a 65in flat screen TV installed in the shed. That money was supposed to last until you were 90, but it's nice to see him smiling - for a change.
7. FlirtingThe old "have I still got it?" trap. It's a nagging questions that leads many a man of a certain age to drop his voice an octave, lean casually on reception desks while flicking back his newly highlighted hair and say things like ,"Let's hook up for a Cosmopolitan," to girls younger than his own daughter. Most harmless but can lead to over-inflated egos and/or arrest.
8. Seeking out old lives
This is either in the obvious form of finding his first girlfriend on facebook , rediscovering the rush of skateboarding or digging out his old amp and bass for a jam. This is a desperate attempt at reminding himself of who he used to be and why people liked him. Can lead to bouts of self-absorbed nostalgia and using words like "cool" a lot.
9. IrresponsibilityHe gets the words "free spirit" tattooed across his shoulders, starts paying for everything on credit and stays up until 2 am watching soccer.
10. Excessive reminiscing
"Remember that time when the band played and we all stayed up all night drinking beer and talking about how one day we'd...blablabla."
A good friend of mine, once advised and cautious me that her guy changed when he reached 40. She said the hubby easily sulk on small matters and she had to treat him like he used to treat her during their courtship period. I just took it lightly and hopefully mine would behave better.
Another friend told me about his father (a non smoker) started to pick smoking habits in his 40s.
I found this article about mid life crisis in reader's Digest , August 2009 and would like to share the 10 signs of midlife crisis :
1. Job Change
This is a terrifying early warning sign that meltdown is imminent. When he comes home and announces he is leaving his 30-year career in insurance to open a home-brew supply business, you know you're in bumpy ride.
2. Death-defying behaviour
And potentially widow-making. This is when he comes home and announces he is going to take up rally driving/BASE-jumping/big-wave surfing. "Life is short,"he philosophies. "I don't want to die without ever having thrown myself off a cliff."
3. Grooming
When one day he looks in the mirror and sees some old guy looking back at him. Eeeek! He panics, ditches his trusty barber for a stylist who does highlights, books in for a back wax and buys a new wardrobe and some musky man scent.
4. Reverting to twenties behaviour
This classic attempt at recapturing lost youth usually involves the sudden desire to go to music concerts, drink excessively, and live on nothing but junk food and two-minute noodles. This will ultimately undo or lead to point 5.
5. Excessive frenzy
he's at gym three mornings a week and watches his reflection in the window as he lifts the new flat-screen out of the car. One of the few MLC symptoms to be encouraged.
6. Outrages purchases
You come home from work to find a Harley- Davidson Fat Boy/Hummer parked in the driveway and a 65in flat screen TV installed in the shed. That money was supposed to last until you were 90, but it's nice to see him smiling - for a change.
7. FlirtingThe old "have I still got it?" trap. It's a nagging questions that leads many a man of a certain age to drop his voice an octave, lean casually on reception desks while flicking back his newly highlighted hair and say things like ,"Let's hook up for a Cosmopolitan," to girls younger than his own daughter. Most harmless but can lead to over-inflated egos and/or arrest.
8. Seeking out old lives
This is either in the obvious form of finding his first girlfriend on facebook , rediscovering the rush of skateboarding or digging out his old amp and bass for a jam. This is a desperate attempt at reminding himself of who he used to be and why people liked him. Can lead to bouts of self-absorbed nostalgia and using words like "cool" a lot.
9. IrresponsibilityHe gets the words "free spirit" tattooed across his shoulders, starts paying for everything on credit and stays up until 2 am watching soccer.
10. Excessive reminiscing
"Remember that time when the band played and we all stayed up all night drinking beer and talking about how one day we'd...blablabla."
Thursday, October 22, 2009
Homicide or Suicide?
Interesting...interesting...The deceased of Teoh Beng Huat had made another headlines in local newspapers again.
Actually, I had only followed the Teoh's case in the early stage and really liked questions posted by the Teoh's family council, Gobind Singh Deo. I would consider his questions were relevant and intellectual as he gave attentions to details even to the extend at one point questioned on Teoh's shoes.
Then, the case seemed to be in "ding dong" stages similar to Altantuya case which only sparked at the beginning and went on for so long with a lot of thresholds...
However, the famous flamboyant Thai forensic pathologist Dr Pornthip Rojanasunand statement that 80% probability his death was a homicide and only 20% probability that he committed suicide recaptured my attention.
Based on her expertise, her arguments were as follows :
First, she testified that the marks on Teoh's neck looked like he had been manually strangled.
Second, She referred the anal tear Teoh suffered as a "penetrative injury" which she had never seen before in cases of a fall. She added that if it was caused by a bone protrusion, it would have come from the inside of Teoh's anus.
Third, Teoh's skull fracture was not a typical of a transferred injury due to a fall but was more compatible with a blunt force being directly inflicted to the head. Typically the impact of fall would be a ring fracture at the base of the skull around the spinal column and not a cervical fracture as suffered by Teoh.
Dr Pornthip's testimonies really stirred the case.
A bit on the background of Dr. Pornthip.
She is the director-general of Thailand's Ministry of Justices Central Institute of Forensic Science. Well known for her prowess in cracking open complicated homicide cases. Her life and work was narrated in the National Geographic documentary Crime Scene Bangkok in 2004. Author of Investigation of Corpses which sold 100 000 copies in Thailand.
May be her testimonies yet need to be approved to entangle on the mystery of the death. At this point only Teoh could explain what really happen...but of course it was impossible to talk to the death...
Actually, I had only followed the Teoh's case in the early stage and really liked questions posted by the Teoh's family council, Gobind Singh Deo. I would consider his questions were relevant and intellectual as he gave attentions to details even to the extend at one point questioned on Teoh's shoes.
Then, the case seemed to be in "ding dong" stages similar to Altantuya case which only sparked at the beginning and went on for so long with a lot of thresholds...
However, the famous flamboyant Thai forensic pathologist Dr Pornthip Rojanasunand statement that 80% probability his death was a homicide and only 20% probability that he committed suicide recaptured my attention.
Based on her expertise, her arguments were as follows :
First, she testified that the marks on Teoh's neck looked like he had been manually strangled.
Second, She referred the anal tear Teoh suffered as a "penetrative injury" which she had never seen before in cases of a fall. She added that if it was caused by a bone protrusion, it would have come from the inside of Teoh's anus.
Third, Teoh's skull fracture was not a typical of a transferred injury due to a fall but was more compatible with a blunt force being directly inflicted to the head. Typically the impact of fall would be a ring fracture at the base of the skull around the spinal column and not a cervical fracture as suffered by Teoh.
Dr Pornthip's testimonies really stirred the case.
A bit on the background of Dr. Pornthip.
She is the director-general of Thailand's Ministry of Justices Central Institute of Forensic Science. Well known for her prowess in cracking open complicated homicide cases. Her life and work was narrated in the National Geographic documentary Crime Scene Bangkok in 2004. Author of Investigation of Corpses which sold 100 000 copies in Thailand.
May be her testimonies yet need to be approved to entangle on the mystery of the death. At this point only Teoh could explain what really happen...but of course it was impossible to talk to the death...
Wednesday, October 21, 2009
Size Matter
I still remembered my primary school days in the 70's...my headmistress, the late Miss Sibert, was not an ordinary person. Her presence was noticeable not only because she emphasised on disciplinary but also her physical built up.
She seemed like walking drum barrel with jolted head since her size was XXXL, I guessed. Throughout the years she only had one designed of attires, knee length dress with short sleeves and pair of black sandals.
When she spoke everybody listened. The moment we saw her along the school corridors making her routine morning round, everybody was glued to the seat. Even the naughtiest one would behave.
When she retired in early 90's, the school teachers and kids had made special trishaw paraded for her. I just viewed the photographed from the local newspaper. She remained the same through out the years except aging...and I was truly happy for the respects she gained as she deserved it.
The reason I revealed her physical conditions was not meant to talk bad behind her back (especially when she was no longer with us) but to respond on the complaint by Joanna Gilbert Asson.
She claimed that she was discriminated by a senior officer at the Teachers Training College Rajang for being "fat". She was a business administration graduate from UNITEN and was successfully accepted to the later college after she passed the prerequisite examinations and interviewed by the college panel.
Well, if the claim was true, then in this era size does matter. Just look around us even in the music industry, those who are born with talents but lack in physical appearance, would not be credited compared to those who are gifted with beauty.
So, I wonder if Miss Sibert was born in this era, will she be able to secure her position as headmistress even though she had all the qualities ?
She seemed like walking drum barrel with jolted head since her size was XXXL, I guessed. Throughout the years she only had one designed of attires, knee length dress with short sleeves and pair of black sandals.
When she spoke everybody listened. The moment we saw her along the school corridors making her routine morning round, everybody was glued to the seat. Even the naughtiest one would behave.
When she retired in early 90's, the school teachers and kids had made special trishaw paraded for her. I just viewed the photographed from the local newspaper. She remained the same through out the years except aging...and I was truly happy for the respects she gained as she deserved it.
The reason I revealed her physical conditions was not meant to talk bad behind her back (especially when she was no longer with us) but to respond on the complaint by Joanna Gilbert Asson.
She claimed that she was discriminated by a senior officer at the Teachers Training College Rajang for being "fat". She was a business administration graduate from UNITEN and was successfully accepted to the later college after she passed the prerequisite examinations and interviewed by the college panel.
Well, if the claim was true, then in this era size does matter. Just look around us even in the music industry, those who are born with talents but lack in physical appearance, would not be credited compared to those who are gifted with beauty.
So, I wonder if Miss Sibert was born in this era, will she be able to secure her position as headmistress even though she had all the qualities ?
Tuesday, October 20, 2009
Computer Vision Syndrome (CVS)
Anyone who spends two hours or more continuously in a day in front of a computer screen is prone to CVS. Human vision system is not designed for long hours of computer viewing.
CVS symptoms range from neck aches and headaches to dry, irritated eyes and blurred or double vision.
The impact of CVS is worse for those who use PDA screen like Blackberries and iPhone.
Thus, following are a few simple measures to help those who are tethered to iPhones and Blackberries see a little easier :
1. Sharpen the image of the PDA screen with antiglare films or increase the font.
2. Supplement your diet with Omega 3's in flaxseed and fish oil to help lubricate the eyes for long term. Recommended dosage 1000 mgs/day.
3. Go for eyes test. Doctors will be able to prescribe suitable eyewear with special computer lenses to reduce eyestrain.
4. Follow the 20/20/20 rule. Every 20 minutes take a break and with each eye look at something about 20 feet away from you for 20 seconds.
5. Proper lighting.
6. Remember to blink. Blinking helps rewet the eyes and prevent dryness/irritation.
7. Clean your screen.
Source : HealthNewsDigest.com
CVS symptoms range from neck aches and headaches to dry, irritated eyes and blurred or double vision.
The impact of CVS is worse for those who use PDA screen like Blackberries and iPhone.
Thus, following are a few simple measures to help those who are tethered to iPhones and Blackberries see a little easier :
1. Sharpen the image of the PDA screen with antiglare films or increase the font.
2. Supplement your diet with Omega 3's in flaxseed and fish oil to help lubricate the eyes for long term. Recommended dosage 1000 mgs/day.
3. Go for eyes test. Doctors will be able to prescribe suitable eyewear with special computer lenses to reduce eyestrain.
4. Follow the 20/20/20 rule. Every 20 minutes take a break and with each eye look at something about 20 feet away from you for 20 seconds.
5. Proper lighting.
6. Remember to blink. Blinking helps rewet the eyes and prevent dryness/irritation.
7. Clean your screen.
Source : HealthNewsDigest.com
Monday, October 19, 2009
The Less Fortunate
Wish to express my gratitude to Ustaz Cahaya who has highlighted on the issue of Slumdog Millionaire Kids (Reader's Digest Oct 2009).
Every time my heart sank when the issue of the less fortunate been raised. I still remembered, I was six years old then, my father would put a 10 cent coin in my palm and made me handed over to a beggar if we happened to spot one whether at the clinic or roadside. Sometimes the beggars were blind, amputated and some would had two to three kids surrounding them. It was the first soul lesson I learnt.
I tried to instill the same value to my kids similar to what my father's practiced. I guessed we tend to follow suit what our parents had passed to us especially the ones involve values in raising our kids...
Noticed one common thing when I requested the kids to pass over the money to the beggars. Maybe the physical appearance of the beggars scared them off. I had to reassure them that there was nothing to be scared of as they were also humans like us.
However, I would be selective to whom I would give the money as nowadays most cases were not genuine. Some parties took advantage and made their official professions and some were plotted by syndicates.
I really could not tolerate with the syndicate that took advantage of kids to fulfill their missions. Recently, I sympathised with a baby (I guessed about 2 or 3 months old) been carried around by a foreign lady to beg at the nearby Pasar Tani. I was really put out off and dared not look into those innocent eyes...
"That baby doesn't look the mother la..." my eldest daughter scoffed off. Even, the young ones noticed...
At first, I felt like snatching off the baby and surrendered to the police but scared of the agent/syndicate which might hiding somewhere, second was to report the matter to the police and third should I give the money...
I did not proceed with option 2 as I knew the syndicate would flee off once they smelled the police and option no 3 was against my principle. I would give the money for the sake of the baby but at the end of the day, the money would still go to the syndicate's pockets. I felt so helpless...
That night I had a hard time to sleep thinking of the baby... Well, actually the existence of slumdog millionaire kids are worldwide issues since there are opportunist and greedy people willing to take advantages of the kids for their own well beings...
Every time my heart sank when the issue of the less fortunate been raised. I still remembered, I was six years old then, my father would put a 10 cent coin in my palm and made me handed over to a beggar if we happened to spot one whether at the clinic or roadside. Sometimes the beggars were blind, amputated and some would had two to three kids surrounding them. It was the first soul lesson I learnt.
I tried to instill the same value to my kids similar to what my father's practiced. I guessed we tend to follow suit what our parents had passed to us especially the ones involve values in raising our kids...
Noticed one common thing when I requested the kids to pass over the money to the beggars. Maybe the physical appearance of the beggars scared them off. I had to reassure them that there was nothing to be scared of as they were also humans like us.
However, I would be selective to whom I would give the money as nowadays most cases were not genuine. Some parties took advantage and made their official professions and some were plotted by syndicates.
I really could not tolerate with the syndicate that took advantage of kids to fulfill their missions. Recently, I sympathised with a baby (I guessed about 2 or 3 months old) been carried around by a foreign lady to beg at the nearby Pasar Tani. I was really put out off and dared not look into those innocent eyes...
"That baby doesn't look the mother la..." my eldest daughter scoffed off. Even, the young ones noticed...
At first, I felt like snatching off the baby and surrendered to the police but scared of the agent/syndicate which might hiding somewhere, second was to report the matter to the police and third should I give the money...
I did not proceed with option 2 as I knew the syndicate would flee off once they smelled the police and option no 3 was against my principle. I would give the money for the sake of the baby but at the end of the day, the money would still go to the syndicate's pockets. I felt so helpless...
That night I had a hard time to sleep thinking of the baby... Well, actually the existence of slumdog millionaire kids are worldwide issues since there are opportunist and greedy people willing to take advantages of the kids for their own well beings...
Sunday, October 18, 2009
The Lost
Amelia Lopez, 97 years old, was the oldest blogger in the cyberspace passed away last week. It was a great loss to her followers. She had shared a lot of enchanting experiences through her lives.
She started her blog 2 years ago without any knowledge about cyberspace.
She managed to attract attentions of youngsters worldwide and got connected through her blog. In other words, she managed to bridge the generation gaps.
Her efforts had been recognised by Spanish Prime Minister, Jose Luis Rodriguez Zaparto.
She started her blog 2 years ago without any knowledge about cyberspace.
She managed to attract attentions of youngsters worldwide and got connected through her blog. In other words, she managed to bridge the generation gaps.
Her efforts had been recognised by Spanish Prime Minister, Jose Luis Rodriguez Zaparto.
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