Wednesday, December 24, 2008
Hohoho! Merry Christmas!
First of all, I would like to wish everyone, Merry Christmas! I hope everyone did have a good time celebrating it..
So what Christmas means to you? Do you actually celebrate it? What this Santa Claus, Frosty the Snowman, Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer have to do with Christmas?.. If anyone of you guys know about it, do let me know.
For me, Christmas is a very peaceful festivity, where people celebrate it in a less hectic way, unlike some other festivities, when people start rushing back to their respective hometown and jam up the road everywhere. And I like the idea of Santa Claus!
I really feel inspired by this Santa Claus, though some had said that Santa Claus has become a marketing tool for people to spend more during this festive season. Yet it is still very inspiring to me: Someone so selfless that during this festive season, he go round to each house, to give out present, to bring cheers and smiles to the people. Recently there was even a Santa Claus giving out money to the people in New York, during this financial crisis in the US.
This story really inspired me, though I did not have the best of Christmas this year, as I have been bothered by the road project. Yet, I can still look forward to the coming Christmas, to really feel the joy of this unique festivity.
Thursday, December 18, 2008
The Incomplete Collection
Time really flies when the end of the year is around the corner. And coupled with procrastination, I failed to collect the complete set of James Bond cars by Shell, yet again.
And this time, I miss the BMW Z3, the one who appeared on the Bond movie of 1995, Golden Eye acted by Pierce Brosnan. Z3 is now considered to be 2 generations old, as BMW has just unveiled the latest 2010 BMW Z4. More information can be obtained from the link here. The car is really breathtaking!
But for my collection, *sigh... Incomplete!
Thursday, December 11, 2008
Free Games by Phelios
I'm sure you have experienced this before: After a certain period of work, finally, you are having holidays, the much awaited holidays. But suddenly..you found yourself to have nothing much to do.
So you decided to play computer game. You go to the store to buy some computer games. You then pay for it, install it on your computer, play it and find out that it's not really what you want, nor is it what you thought it would be... So you go back to the store and they tell you that it is too late! The store won't exchange it nor refund you...
So can we have better options, so that we can really enjoy the holiday with a nice game? I found this site, Phelios, who offered free download of games. This will gives us a taste of what the game is about, a type of 'Try Before You Buy' system.
All you have to do is to download a free version of a game to try it out, and if you really like it, you can buy the full version directly from your computer from the comfort of your own home. No more return trip to the game shop and ask for refund, or installation method, even for mac games!
Phelios is an independent developer of downloadable games for Windows and Macintosh. They offered fun and creative computer games for mac and PC, that we will get the most out of the free time playing. And the games offered are unique and can't be found in other site, as these games are created by this site. There are many genre of games offered, all kinds of games like action/arcade games, challenging, fun puzzles, and non-violent family games. One of my favourite, sparkle for mac let me use the Orb Slinger to shoot colored spheres into groups of three or more and reclaim every corner of this once vibrant forest.
If you'd like to be notified when there are new game releases, you can subscribe to the newsletter, and you'll be receiving monthly newsletter, informing you of news, updates and patches!
So you decided to play computer game. You go to the store to buy some computer games. You then pay for it, install it on your computer, play it and find out that it's not really what you want, nor is it what you thought it would be... So you go back to the store and they tell you that it is too late! The store won't exchange it nor refund you...
So can we have better options, so that we can really enjoy the holiday with a nice game? I found this site, Phelios, who offered free download of games. This will gives us a taste of what the game is about, a type of 'Try Before You Buy' system.
All you have to do is to download a free version of a game to try it out, and if you really like it, you can buy the full version directly from your computer from the comfort of your own home. No more return trip to the game shop and ask for refund, or installation method, even for mac games!
Phelios is an independent developer of downloadable games for Windows and Macintosh. They offered fun and creative computer games for mac and PC, that we will get the most out of the free time playing. And the games offered are unique and can't be found in other site, as these games are created by this site. There are many genre of games offered, all kinds of games like action/arcade games, challenging, fun puzzles, and non-violent family games. One of my favourite, sparkle for mac let me use the Orb Slinger to shoot colored spheres into groups of three or more and reclaim every corner of this once vibrant forest.
If you'd like to be notified when there are new game releases, you can subscribe to the newsletter, and you'll be receiving monthly newsletter, informing you of news, updates and patches!
Thursday, December 4, 2008
Are You An Internet Addict?
These are signs of Internet addiction as defined by Illinois Institute for Addiction Recovery:
1) Preoccupation with the Internet. (Thoughts about previous on-line activity or anticipation of the next on-line session.)
2) Use of the Internet in increasing amounts of time in order to achieve satisfaction.
3) Repeated, unsuccessful efforts to control, cut back, or stop Internet use.
4) Feelings of restlessness, moodiness, depression or irritability when attempting to cut down use of the Internet.
5) On-line longer than originally intended.
6) Jeopardized or risked loss of significant relationships, job, educational or career opportunities because of Internet use.
7) Lies to family members, therapist, or others to conceal the extent of involvement with the Internet.
8) Use of the Internet as a way to escape from problems or to relieve a dysphoric mood. (e.g., feelings of hopelessness, guilt, anxiety, depression.)
1) Preoccupation with the Internet. (Thoughts about previous on-line activity or anticipation of the next on-line session.)
2) Use of the Internet in increasing amounts of time in order to achieve satisfaction.
3) Repeated, unsuccessful efforts to control, cut back, or stop Internet use.
4) Feelings of restlessness, moodiness, depression or irritability when attempting to cut down use of the Internet.
5) On-line longer than originally intended.
6) Jeopardized or risked loss of significant relationships, job, educational or career opportunities because of Internet use.
7) Lies to family members, therapist, or others to conceal the extent of involvement with the Internet.
8) Use of the Internet as a way to escape from problems or to relieve a dysphoric mood. (e.g., feelings of hopelessness, guilt, anxiety, depression.)
Monday, December 1, 2008
Jee Juh
So how do you pronounce Jee Juh?
Well, according to the site, Jee is pronounced as in the letter "G," and Juh as in the beginning of the word jug.
So what is this Jee Juh about?
Jee Juh is a team of dedicated producers, musicians, sound engineers, and web developers who have come together to provide the best online service available for artists ready to make it big in the music industry.
Jee Juh's newest beats are made using the industry-standard DAW software, Digidesign's Pro Tools. Some of their earliest beats were made using Propellerhead's Reason 3.0.
Once you have selected the check boxes (next to the prices) for the beats you want to buy, click the white "Buy Now" button at the top right of the player. This will take you to a secure PayPal checkout page where you can choose your form of payment. Once your payment is complete, you will see a link to instantly access your download page where you can download all of your audio files.
Jee Juh beats are sold non-exclusively at much lower prices, and the songs that you make with these beats can still be sold, distributed, performed and broadcast, all royalty free. If two different people buy the same beat, they can still each copyright their own song they make with that beat, and sell, distribute, perform and broadcast that song, keeping all their own royalties.
When you purchase a beat from Jee Juh, the copyright for that beat still belongs to Jee Juh. However, the copyright for the song that you make with that beat, your lyrics combined with that beat, belongs to you. And, with the rights granted by the Jee Juh license agreement, you are allowed to sell, distribute, perform and broadcast that song, keeping all of the royalties.
To order, the steps below are to be taken:
1. Select beats to buy.
Select the checkboxes for the beats you want to buy. Then click the white "Buy Now" button at the top right of the player.
2. Buy beats.
Use any of PayPal's options (credit/debit card, eCheck, or PayPal Direct Transfer) to make your payment.
If you don't feel like buying, start earning free beat and instrumentals. You will be able to
1. Download your free beat's MP3 audio file (128 kbps).
2. Combine that free beat with your lyrics and copyright the finished song.
3. Sell, distribute, perform and broadcast that finished song publicly and for profit, keeping all the royalties.
4. You can even submit your finished song using our upload form, and if we like it, you'll become a Featured Artist!
Wanna get a feel of being an artist? visit Jee Juh now!
Well, according to the site, Jee is pronounced as in the letter "G," and Juh as in the beginning of the word jug.
So what is this Jee Juh about?
Jee Juh is a team of dedicated producers, musicians, sound engineers, and web developers who have come together to provide the best online service available for artists ready to make it big in the music industry.
Jee Juh's newest beats are made using the industry-standard DAW software, Digidesign's Pro Tools. Some of their earliest beats were made using Propellerhead's Reason 3.0.
Once you have selected the check boxes (next to the prices) for the beats you want to buy, click the white "Buy Now" button at the top right of the player. This will take you to a secure PayPal checkout page where you can choose your form of payment. Once your payment is complete, you will see a link to instantly access your download page where you can download all of your audio files.
Jee Juh beats are sold non-exclusively at much lower prices, and the songs that you make with these beats can still be sold, distributed, performed and broadcast, all royalty free. If two different people buy the same beat, they can still each copyright their own song they make with that beat, and sell, distribute, perform and broadcast that song, keeping all their own royalties.
When you purchase a beat from Jee Juh, the copyright for that beat still belongs to Jee Juh. However, the copyright for the song that you make with that beat, your lyrics combined with that beat, belongs to you. And, with the rights granted by the Jee Juh license agreement, you are allowed to sell, distribute, perform and broadcast that song, keeping all of the royalties.
To order, the steps below are to be taken:
1. Select beats to buy.
Select the checkboxes for the beats you want to buy. Then click the white "Buy Now" button at the top right of the player.
2. Buy beats.
Use any of PayPal's options (credit/debit card, eCheck, or PayPal Direct Transfer) to make your payment.
If you don't feel like buying, start earning free beat and instrumentals. You will be able to
1. Download your free beat's MP3 audio file (128 kbps).
2. Combine that free beat with your lyrics and copyright the finished song.
3. Sell, distribute, perform and broadcast that finished song publicly and for profit, keeping all the royalties.
4. You can even submit your finished song using our upload form, and if we like it, you'll become a Featured Artist!
Wanna get a feel of being an artist? visit Jee Juh now!
Sunday, November 30, 2008
五月天 你不是真正的快樂
人 群中 哭著 你只想變成透明的顏色
你再也不會夢 或痛 或心動了
你已經決定了 你已經決定了
你 靜靜 忍著 緊緊把昨天在拳心握著
而回憶越是甜 就是 越傷人了
越是在 手心留下 密密麻麻 深深淺淺 的刀割
你不是真正的快樂 你的笑只是你穿的保護色
你決定不恨了 也決定不愛了
把你的靈魂關在永遠鎖上的軀殼
這 世界 笑了 於是妳合群的一起笑了
當生存是規則 不是 你的選擇
於是妳 含著眼淚 飄飄盪盪 跌跌撞撞 的走著
你不是真正的快樂 你的笑只是你穿的保護色
你決定不恨了 也決定不愛了
把你的靈魂關在永遠鎖上的軀殼
你不是真正的快樂 你的傷從不肯完全的癒合
我站在你左側 卻像隔著銀河
難道就真的抱著遺憾一直到老了 然後才後悔著
你值得真正的快樂 你應該脫下你穿的保護色
為什麼失去了 還要被懲罰呢
能不能就讓 悲傷全部 結束在此刻 重新開始活著
你再也不會夢 或痛 或心動了
你已經決定了 你已經決定了
你 靜靜 忍著 緊緊把昨天在拳心握著
而回憶越是甜 就是 越傷人了
越是在 手心留下 密密麻麻 深深淺淺 的刀割
你不是真正的快樂 你的笑只是你穿的保護色
你決定不恨了 也決定不愛了
把你的靈魂關在永遠鎖上的軀殼
這 世界 笑了 於是妳合群的一起笑了
當生存是規則 不是 你的選擇
於是妳 含著眼淚 飄飄盪盪 跌跌撞撞 的走著
你不是真正的快樂 你的笑只是你穿的保護色
你決定不恨了 也決定不愛了
把你的靈魂關在永遠鎖上的軀殼
你不是真正的快樂 你的傷從不肯完全的癒合
我站在你左側 卻像隔著銀河
難道就真的抱著遺憾一直到老了 然後才後悔著
你值得真正的快樂 你應該脫下你穿的保護色
為什麼失去了 還要被懲罰呢
能不能就讓 悲傷全部 結束在此刻 重新開始活著
Friday, November 28, 2008
oh ya! No double standard, ok?!
http://thestar.com.my/news/story.asp?file=/2008/11/27/nation/2653945&sec=nation
After reading the link above, I really laugh out loud! ^O^ I guess the minister was right! The police did not practise double standard in arresting people attending illegal gathering. Don't believe? See the points below:
Gathering or rally can only be organised if a police permit has been obtained.
1) Anti ISA Group
- Protest against the use of ISA
- No permit has been obtained from the Police
- Outcome: Arrested
2) Pewaris
- Protest against groups who called for the ISA to be abolished
- Permit had been given by the Police
- Outcome: Free man
Ya, I guess the Police did not practised double standard when arresting people, BUT obviously, they practised double standard when approving permit. So by announcing this news to the press, do you think the citizens are dumb?
After reading the link above, I really laugh out loud! ^O^ I guess the minister was right! The police did not practise double standard in arresting people attending illegal gathering. Don't believe? See the points below:
Gathering or rally can only be organised if a police permit has been obtained.
1) Anti ISA Group
- Protest against the use of ISA
- No permit has been obtained from the Police
- Outcome: Arrested
2) Pewaris
- Protest against groups who called for the ISA to be abolished
- Permit had been given by the Police
- Outcome: Free man
Ya, I guess the Police did not practised double standard when arresting people, BUT obviously, they practised double standard when approving permit. So by announcing this news to the press, do you think the citizens are dumb?
Monday, November 17, 2008
Pictures of Happiness
If you would like get a Sony Skinny T Camera, this is your chance! They are having this contest on where you will have to submit a picture and write a slogan. The theme of the contest is "Picture Of Happiness".
So if you do have photos that, you feel is pretty and can match the theme, go ahead and give it a try. Who knows maybe lady luck is watching over you, waiting for you to submit. Besides, another picture of happiness can really bring joy to the world. I just browsed through some of the pictures that are uploaded, and I have to say that these pictures had actually brightened up my day!
Tuesday, November 4, 2008
A Step Towards the End of Racism
I solute all the Americans voters for voting for who they think is the best man to lead their country, regardless of race. And here I do not mean only those who voted for Barrack Obama, who created history to become the first black American President. I'm sure John McCain has its own appeal in getting the votes, but the main thing here is: to vote without having to consider the factor of race.
By having Barrack Obama as the American President, Americans have again proved to the world, that they are a real developed nation. A developed nation, not only has the best physical facilities, but more importantly is the mentality of their citizens. Today, American has shown that the wall of racism can be destroyed, and this historic moment will serve as the role model to the world.
Bearing in mind that,America at one stage was facing the issues of racism as well, give hopes to the people in the developing nation that issues of racism in their respective country, can one day be overcome. The day when merit, instead of race will be the sole factor in choosing leaders or personnel in the higher position.
By having Barrack Obama as the American President, Americans have again proved to the world, that they are a real developed nation. A developed nation, not only has the best physical facilities, but more importantly is the mentality of their citizens. Today, American has shown that the wall of racism can be destroyed, and this historic moment will serve as the role model to the world.
Bearing in mind that,America at one stage was facing the issues of racism as well, give hopes to the people in the developing nation that issues of racism in their respective country, can one day be overcome. The day when merit, instead of race will be the sole factor in choosing leaders or personnel in the higher position.
Wednesday, October 15, 2008
Toshiba 4GB Flash Drive
After trying in vain to claim warranty to a Toshiba 512mb flash drive that I bought 2years++ ago, I decided to buy another one. And this time, it's Toshiba again!
Actually I was left with little options, as the One IT shop is doing promotion on the Toshiba flash drive (few weeks back). So I can only hope that the Toshiba dealers in the country can offer better customer service. But nonetheless, the design this time around suits me
The spec for this 4GB TransMemory™ U2K USB Flash Drive is as below:
-Supports the ReadyBoost™ function of Windows Vista™
-Write Speed: up to 5 MBytes/s
-Read Speed: up to 16 MBytes/s
-Large storage capacity
-Downloadable password lock system ( still haven't figure out where to download it)
-5 years warranty
Actually I was left with little options, as the One IT shop is doing promotion on the Toshiba flash drive (few weeks back). So I can only hope that the Toshiba dealers in the country can offer better customer service. But nonetheless, the design this time around suits me
The spec for this 4GB TransMemory™ U2K USB Flash Drive is as below:
-Supports the ReadyBoost™ function of Windows Vista™
-Write Speed: up to 5 MBytes/s
-Read Speed: up to 16 MBytes/s
-Large storage capacity
-Downloadable password lock system ( still haven't figure out where to download it)
-5 years warranty
Thursday, September 25, 2008
The Story Continues
I was touched by this one picture to write this posting. This is a picture of two helpless-looking people, who had one of their family member sent away for indefinite period.
Can you imagine, if one day, someone just knocked on your door, and take one of your family members away for indefinite period, how would you feel? Helpless is definitely one word most appropriate to describe, as you don't even have the chance to defend yourself/your family member. Is there anything you can do? Maybe you can pray, but nothing concrete that you can do.
This "maybe you can pray, but nothing concrete that you can do" really strikes me. It sounds to me that it is a chronic disease in the final stages, where you can pray for a miracle to happened, but there is nothing that can be done to save yourself/your family member.
But the difference between it and the chronic disease is that, we do have a choice to permanently curing it once and for all, while chronic disease, no matter how advanced is the medicine field, will continue to strikes you. So why not get united and cure it now? For those who still prefer to keep it, how sure are you safe from being strike by it?
Friday, September 12, 2008
Never Ending Story
Just when I thought the racist remark issue had ended, here comes another twist of event..the reporter of the remark was caught under ISA! And also 3 newspapers were given show-cause letter: Sin Chew Daily, The Sun and Suara Keadilan.
I was like..speechless.. Can't they just leave this fella alone?..She is just doing her job, reporting what she heard and thought is the truth. Even if that is not the truth, some explanation will solve everything. Why make it all such a fuss? Is it necessary to use ISA? The most she deserve is to be sacked from his position at Sin Chew Daily and suspended for 3 years from journalism for "misquoted" someone, but now he lost his freedom indefinitely.
Is this story going to end now? Definitely no! And I suspect it's a story that will has a indefinite time period. Let us hope she will be released soon! And for those in power to do something, for god sake please do something!! Now even the DAP MP Teresa Kok is arrested, wonder what she did to merit the lost of freedom indefinitely?!
I was like..speechless.. Can't they just leave this fella alone?..She is just doing her job, reporting what she heard and thought is the truth. Even if that is not the truth, some explanation will solve everything. Why make it all such a fuss? Is it necessary to use ISA? The most she deserve is to be sacked from his position at Sin Chew Daily and suspended for 3 years from journalism for "misquoted" someone, but now he lost his freedom indefinitely.
Is this story going to end now? Definitely no! And I suspect it's a story that will has a indefinite time period. Let us hope she will be released soon! And for those in power to do something, for god sake please do something!! Now even the DAP MP Teresa Kok is arrested, wonder what she did to merit the lost of freedom indefinitely?!
Monday, September 1, 2008
Mobile Number Portability
Mobile Number Portability (MNP) was finally implemented last Friday (29 August 2008) after being taunted about for quite some time. And actually most people aren't convinced about its implementation after some delaying to it. Now, mobile phone users have the freedom to switch network service providers, while retaining their existing phone number. Therefore, from now on, no longer will the prefixes of 016 solely be that of a DiGi subscriber, or 019 be that of a Celcom number.
The initial service will be offered to Prepaid subscribers from 29 August onwards, while those on Postpaid lines will be able to join in the fun from 15 September onwards. As this limited service is launched in the Klang Valley, only selected branches or service centres your requests. The details of the branches can be referred at http://www.skmm.gov.my/
The nationwide launch for the MNP service will be in early October. Prior to the nationwide launch, each telco is only allowed to process 100 MNP applications a day. There will be a RM25 charge everytime the MNP is used to switch to a new telco. Prepaid credit will not be transferred over to your new service provider, so if you are planning to switch, finish up your credit balance 1st!
While MNP will certainly intensify competition and increase the value of the consumer's money, one problem remain is the inability of the consumers to plan their spending.
For example, as the rate for calling different network is higher than to same network, so when a person, with credit balance of 15 sen, decided to call to someone on the same network (that is according to prefix), but only found out that he/she had change network when he is being cutted off, therefore is unable to get his message across. This uncertainty is surely not good for consumers, unless the rate be made standardized, irrespective of network provider.
The initial service will be offered to Prepaid subscribers from 29 August onwards, while those on Postpaid lines will be able to join in the fun from 15 September onwards. As this limited service is launched in the Klang Valley, only selected branches or service centres your requests. The details of the branches can be referred at http://www.skmm.gov.my/
The nationwide launch for the MNP service will be in early October. Prior to the nationwide launch, each telco is only allowed to process 100 MNP applications a day. There will be a RM25 charge everytime the MNP is used to switch to a new telco. Prepaid credit will not be transferred over to your new service provider, so if you are planning to switch, finish up your credit balance 1st!
While MNP will certainly intensify competition and increase the value of the consumer's money, one problem remain is the inability of the consumers to plan their spending.
For example, as the rate for calling different network is higher than to same network, so when a person, with credit balance of 15 sen, decided to call to someone on the same network (that is according to prefix), but only found out that he/she had change network when he is being cutted off, therefore is unable to get his message across. This uncertainty is surely not good for consumers, unless the rate be made standardized, irrespective of network provider.
Monday, August 25, 2008
The Ultimate 08 Olympic!
The biggest sporting events finally come to an end in Beijing, with the next station, London, lining up anxiously to welcome the event to their soil in 4 years time.
This edition of Olympics means a lot not just to the Chinese, but also all the ethnic Chinese all around the world. I just can't helped but feel touched when I watch the Opening Ceremony of the Beijing Olympics. Especially so after overcoming obstacles like natural disaster. Witnessing all the countries walking out one by one, I can feel humanity is at the peak, and peace is near, with countries like Palestine, North Korea and Taiwan participating. Unfortunately, that is just an impression, as arms attack exchanged between Georgia and Russia.
But nonetheless, Olympic is one event that still can hold the world together, as the leaders of Russia and Georgia proved. The opening ceremony was a great spectacle! Although there are some events that actually reduce the feel good factor of the opening ceremony, for example the child singer for opening ceremony which turn out to just mouthed along while another child sing, and the used of pre-recorded fire works show, these events should not overshadow the good work done by Beijing. The Opening Ceremony was indeed a great show, direct by a great Director Zhang Yimou.
Besides Beijing's great show as host, the athletes and sportsman shown great sportsmanship. For example the Georgian boxer Revazi Mindorashvili who beat the Russian gold medal favourite Georgy Ketoev in a sporting event, not in the war field. There are also many inspiring performance like world record breakers, to name a few Michael Phelps and and the fastest man in the world, Usain Bolt.
Some of these sportsman who actually inspired me include Phelps, Bolt, Zhang Ning, Guo Jingjing, Rafael Nadal, and not to forget is our own Lee Chong Wei who won't the country's 1st medal in 12 years.
All in all, this edition of Olympic is another great success, and the world is proud of you all in China! China, and Beijing particularly showed the world that they can be a great host to such a huge event, and also their mettle in terms of sports by topping the medal tally! We will now have to wait another 4 years to witness again the World greatest sporting event! May the spirit of Olympic be instill in all the leaders in the world!
Saturday, August 23, 2008
Agenda Daily Debate: 1-1
After watching, at one go both the Agenda Daily debates, the scoreline for both side is: 1-1. I believe many would have guess right which debater I go for: yes, it's DSAI and TSKTK.
For the 1st debate, DSAI provided concrete solutions to reduce fuel price. As for his opponent, at times I'm really mad! He just don't seem to understand DSAI idea, or maybe refused to understand. And when he keep on attacking DSAI personal track record, make comparison with country in crisis, and thought that DSAI is going to ask for more money from Petronas, everyone looking at the programme should know that he lost the plot.
DSAI idea is simple. Yes, the market price is increasing, but because Malaysia is a nett exporter of oil, Petronas profit from the high market price, as proven by the sterling profit announced by Petronas not so long ago. Petronas immediately distribute a large sum of money to the federal government. DSAI's idea is to use part of this sum on subsidy, therefore the petrol price do not have to rise as much as 78 sen so suddenly. But he is not saying all the money should be spent on subsidy, or the government should ask for more money from Petronas.
The effect of the 78 sen increase is for all Malaysian to see. Inflation rise to 8.5% in July. Even if now the petrol price decrease, other items that already increase their price will not come down.
As for the 2nd debate, TSKTK had take this chance to clear his name, his image and I'm impressed with his performance. Although at times he is confrontational, and use some personal attack, he made his point clear, and I see it as a victory to him. As for LGE, i'm slightly disappointed with his debate, and keep on asking the same questions that TSKTK had replied.
In this debate, TSKTK clears his name by explaining the whole process of the RM40 million land scam. And the measures he took to overcome this mistakes which happened 40 years ago. He explained that he referred the case to the ACA twice and the ACA did not find any wrong doing in the officials involved. So he issued a warning to the officials. At this point, LGE keep on asking why officials who committed this RM40 millions mistakes are let off with just a warning.
And I want to explain to LGE is that: anyone who is not proven guilty is considered innocent. So the most TSKTK can do is to issue a warning, and also transfer the officials involve out of the department (which LGE did after taking over the government). TSKTK has the prerogative to keep any officials in any department when he is the Chief Minister, as the officials are not proven guilty.
Another point made by LGE, which I consider funny and pointless is to ask TSKTK to exposed all the land scam cases. TSKTK reply proved his mettle as a senior politician. He said if he knew of such cases, he would have acted on it.
I believe that the replies made by TSKTK during this debate is enough to silence LGE. LGE lacked points, or rather, TSKTK replied systematically, and clear the issues brought up by LGE. One point made by TSKTK at the beginning of the show which said that LGE still acts like a opposition, I totally agree at the end of debate. Perhaps, the government of the day can no longer just brought out problems and expect others to solved for them. LGE and the government have to solved it themselves.
TSKTK still has the touch and elegance of a leader, not surprising so, being the CM for 18 years. And with LGE, there is no surprise also, with his years as opposition, and only 5-month tenure as CM in his beg, still acts like an opposition.
For the 1st debate, DSAI provided concrete solutions to reduce fuel price. As for his opponent, at times I'm really mad! He just don't seem to understand DSAI idea, or maybe refused to understand. And when he keep on attacking DSAI personal track record, make comparison with country in crisis, and thought that DSAI is going to ask for more money from Petronas, everyone looking at the programme should know that he lost the plot.
DSAI idea is simple. Yes, the market price is increasing, but because Malaysia is a nett exporter of oil, Petronas profit from the high market price, as proven by the sterling profit announced by Petronas not so long ago. Petronas immediately distribute a large sum of money to the federal government. DSAI's idea is to use part of this sum on subsidy, therefore the petrol price do not have to rise as much as 78 sen so suddenly. But he is not saying all the money should be spent on subsidy, or the government should ask for more money from Petronas.
The effect of the 78 sen increase is for all Malaysian to see. Inflation rise to 8.5% in July. Even if now the petrol price decrease, other items that already increase their price will not come down.
As for the 2nd debate, TSKTK had take this chance to clear his name, his image and I'm impressed with his performance. Although at times he is confrontational, and use some personal attack, he made his point clear, and I see it as a victory to him. As for LGE, i'm slightly disappointed with his debate, and keep on asking the same questions that TSKTK had replied.
In this debate, TSKTK clears his name by explaining the whole process of the RM40 million land scam. And the measures he took to overcome this mistakes which happened 40 years ago. He explained that he referred the case to the ACA twice and the ACA did not find any wrong doing in the officials involved. So he issued a warning to the officials. At this point, LGE keep on asking why officials who committed this RM40 millions mistakes are let off with just a warning.
And I want to explain to LGE is that: anyone who is not proven guilty is considered innocent. So the most TSKTK can do is to issue a warning, and also transfer the officials involve out of the department (which LGE did after taking over the government). TSKTK has the prerogative to keep any officials in any department when he is the Chief Minister, as the officials are not proven guilty.
Another point made by LGE, which I consider funny and pointless is to ask TSKTK to exposed all the land scam cases. TSKTK reply proved his mettle as a senior politician. He said if he knew of such cases, he would have acted on it.
I believe that the replies made by TSKTK during this debate is enough to silence LGE. LGE lacked points, or rather, TSKTK replied systematically, and clear the issues brought up by LGE. One point made by TSKTK at the beginning of the show which said that LGE still acts like a opposition, I totally agree at the end of debate. Perhaps, the government of the day can no longer just brought out problems and expect others to solved for them. LGE and the government have to solved it themselves.
TSKTK still has the touch and elegance of a leader, not surprising so, being the CM for 18 years. And with LGE, there is no surprise also, with his years as opposition, and only 5-month tenure as CM in his beg, still acts like an opposition.
Friday, August 15, 2008
Costa Rica: The country of Pure Ecotourism
Costa Rica is the most visited nation in the Central American region, with 1.9 million foreign visitors in 2007. Ecotourism is extremely popular with the many tourists visiting the extensive national parks and protected areas around the country. Costa Rica is the pioneer of ecotourism, and the country is recognized as one of the few with real ecotourism.
Costa Rica is home to a rich variety of plants and animals. While the country has only about 0.1% of the world's landmass, it contains 5% of the world's biodiversity. Around 25% of the country's land area is in protected national parks and protected areas, the largest percentual of protected areas in the world.
One national park that is internationally-renowned among ecologists for its biodiversity (including big cats and tapirs) and where visitors can expect to see an abundance of wildlife is the Corcovado National Park.
In order to know more about Costa Rica, one of the best way is to get to know the people. By visiting the Costa Rica forum and Costa Rica blog, we can actually get to know the people in Costa Rica, communicate with them and get to know their cultures and traditions. Besides, if you ever need more information on the country, Costa Rica directories can help you get any information from hotels to anything needed to travel to the country. Now that is what we call All-In-One!
Costa Rica is home to a rich variety of plants and animals. While the country has only about 0.1% of the world's landmass, it contains 5% of the world's biodiversity. Around 25% of the country's land area is in protected national parks and protected areas, the largest percentual of protected areas in the world.
One national park that is internationally-renowned among ecologists for its biodiversity (including big cats and tapirs) and where visitors can expect to see an abundance of wildlife is the Corcovado National Park.
In order to know more about Costa Rica, one of the best way is to get to know the people. By visiting the Costa Rica forum and Costa Rica blog, we can actually get to know the people in Costa Rica, communicate with them and get to know their cultures and traditions. Besides, if you ever need more information on the country, Costa Rica directories can help you get any information from hotels to anything needed to travel to the country. Now that is what we call All-In-One!
Monday, August 11, 2008
Help teach the public to fill petrol tank?
I was amused when I read about a newspaper article with this same title. My first impression was, "wow, not bad! The government is teaching us method to fill petrol tank that can help us maximize our value of money". But after I read into the details, I found that is not the case at all! Maybe the recent petrol price increase has been over my mind all these while, that any news coming out from that industry, I will hope is to lessen the petrol burden of the people.
The news turn out to be that the petrol kiosk operators in Batu Pahat are asking the government to educate vehicle owner on the self service petrol filling system. Huh? Self service system not implemented 10 years ago meh? How come until today, the kiosk operator are still facing this problem? Have they forget all about the "Angkat, Tolak, Masuk and Picit"?
I'm aware that some of the petrol kiosk are not implementing the self service system because it eats up a lot of time. For one to walks over to counter, and then walks back to the car to pump petrol is a troublesome thing. And for those waiting in the line, they will feel "can't they just move faster?". So for this reason, some petrol kiosk still prefer to have an attendant, so that more customers can be attended more swiftly.
But now, these petrol kiosk are asking for education of the people from the government? I thought the government did their part. I've been pumping petrols with the self service system for the past 10 years, so how come it's again up to the government to do the education this time around?
And by the way, pumping petrol does not really require great skill. Just "Angkat, Tolak, Masuk and Picit", and done!
The news turn out to be that the petrol kiosk operators in Batu Pahat are asking the government to educate vehicle owner on the self service petrol filling system. Huh? Self service system not implemented 10 years ago meh? How come until today, the kiosk operator are still facing this problem? Have they forget all about the "Angkat, Tolak, Masuk and Picit"?
I'm aware that some of the petrol kiosk are not implementing the self service system because it eats up a lot of time. For one to walks over to counter, and then walks back to the car to pump petrol is a troublesome thing. And for those waiting in the line, they will feel "can't they just move faster?". So for this reason, some petrol kiosk still prefer to have an attendant, so that more customers can be attended more swiftly.
But now, these petrol kiosk are asking for education of the people from the government? I thought the government did their part. I've been pumping petrols with the self service system for the past 10 years, so how come it's again up to the government to do the education this time around?
And by the way, pumping petrol does not really require great skill. Just "Angkat, Tolak, Masuk and Picit", and done!
Monday, August 4, 2008
Recycle a phone, adopt a tree?
Nokia is doing his its bit to save mother nature! Recently, they come out with this meaningful program titled "Recycle a phone, adopt a tree", where Nokia users are urged to recycle their old phone in order to shield the environment from harmful substances! This offer a solutions to users where they don't really know what to do with their old phone besides keeping it, just as people do not know what to do with their old furniture. While this old phone problem is solved, I still can't figure out how to handle old furniture ;)
To recycle a phone, first you will have to find a Nokia Kiosk. According to the site, they are only available at The Curve, The Gardens and KTS Cellular. I certainly hope there will be more of these Kiosk around Malaysia! Then there are 5 simple steps to follow:
Step 1: Select "Recycling" on the screen.
Step 2: Slot in your MyKad or input your personal details.
Step 3: Collect the printed Barcode sticker and apply it onto your phone or accessory.
Step 4: Place your item with barcode sticker into the Recycling slot.
Step 5: Collect the receipt and have a great day!
Besides, Nokia also involve in a joint-venture with WWF and Equinox Publishing to replant trees in the Sebangau National Forest in Central Kalimantan, and you can adopt one as well! This innovative replanting project provides a novel way for anyone to participate by tagging selected trees with their names and monitoring its growth through geotags, that are trees labelled with precise map co-ordinates, by Google Earth. Check out Nokia's site at
http://www.nokia.com.my/nokiakiosk
So let us do our part! Save mother nature!
To recycle a phone, first you will have to find a Nokia Kiosk. According to the site, they are only available at The Curve, The Gardens and KTS Cellular. I certainly hope there will be more of these Kiosk around Malaysia! Then there are 5 simple steps to follow:
Step 1: Select "Recycling" on the screen.
Step 2: Slot in your MyKad or input your personal details.
Step 3: Collect the printed Barcode sticker and apply it onto your phone or accessory.
Step 4: Place your item with barcode sticker into the Recycling slot.
Step 5: Collect the receipt and have a great day!
Besides, Nokia also involve in a joint-venture with WWF and Equinox Publishing to replant trees in the Sebangau National Forest in Central Kalimantan, and you can adopt one as well! This innovative replanting project provides a novel way for anyone to participate by tagging selected trees with their names and monitoring its growth through geotags, that are trees labelled with precise map co-ordinates, by Google Earth. Check out Nokia's site at
http://www.nokia.com.my/nokiakiosk
So let us do our part! Save mother nature!
Tuesday, July 22, 2008
Chelsea + Nuffnang = Free passes to Chelsea's training session
Calling all Chelsea fans, Chelsea is coming to town!
And Nuffnang is giving away 100 admission passes courtesy of Samsung to Nuffnangers to watch Chelsea FC’s training session. And you only need to write in to chelsea_asia_tour@nuffnang.com with details such as your full name, your contact number, email address and the number of admission passes you would like to have. Check the Nuffnang site for details.
And are we actually going to see Kaka in a Chelsea shirt? If Roman Abramovich is really determined to sign Kaka, then no one can really stop Chelsea except for Kaka's own will!
Monday, July 21, 2008
Proton Perdana more expensive than Mercedes?
Well, to be more specific, Proton Perdana is more expensive to maintain, that is according to Terengganu MB, who spent RM3.43mil to buy 14 Mercedes E200 Kompressor cars. There are two implications to be made from this incident: either the Proton Perdana sucks, or the MB sucks.
If what is said by the MB is true, then I'm really mystified. How is it possible that owning a national car need a higher maintenance cost than the luxurious Mercedes? Ok, well, Perdana V6 is also supposed to be luxurious, but yet it is still a national car! Locally assembled, and surely contain more local equipments in the car than Mercedes, and yet costs more than the maintenance costs of Mercedes? I suppose Malaysians deserved better from Proton!
But if what is said by the MB is not entirely true, then he just show his inconsideration towards every Malaysians. Just when rising inflations has affected every Malaysians, where people fight to survive, and were asked to change their lifestyle to cope with the current hardship, the state government just spent RM3 mil on luxurious cars, and looking to sell them in a few years time (as the MB mentioned one of the reasons to buy Mercedes is the 2nd hand value of the Mercedes) is absurd! If the Terengganu state government do have such extra money, spend it on public transportation, please!
If what is said by the MB is true, then I'm really mystified. How is it possible that owning a national car need a higher maintenance cost than the luxurious Mercedes? Ok, well, Perdana V6 is also supposed to be luxurious, but yet it is still a national car! Locally assembled, and surely contain more local equipments in the car than Mercedes, and yet costs more than the maintenance costs of Mercedes? I suppose Malaysians deserved better from Proton!
But if what is said by the MB is not entirely true, then he just show his inconsideration towards every Malaysians. Just when rising inflations has affected every Malaysians, where people fight to survive, and were asked to change their lifestyle to cope with the current hardship, the state government just spent RM3 mil on luxurious cars, and looking to sell them in a few years time (as the MB mentioned one of the reasons to buy Mercedes is the 2nd hand value of the Mercedes) is absurd! If the Terengganu state government do have such extra money, spend it on public transportation, please!
Friday, July 18, 2008
Reliving the Rocketmail!
Yahoo is now offering free e-mail accounts under the domain of "rocketmail" again since its acquisition of Four11 Corp. back in 1997.
Rocketmail was one of the first major free webmail services and was a product of Four11. At one time, RocketMail battled with Hotmail for the number one spot amongst free webmail services.
Though Yahoo Mail is essentially the old RocketMail webmail system, RocketMail users carry a mark of distinction as some of the first Internet webmail users as Yahoo, until recently reserve the Rocketmail domain for their use. Another domain offered by Yahoo is "ymail".
The introduction of these new e-mail designations is being driven by the difficulty potential users are having as they try to find an appealing e-mail handle under the Yahoo domain. This is a great news for Yahoo mail users!
The difficulty of getting a nice login existed quite a long time ago, and only when I register with my full name that it is possible for me to get a Yahoo mail, and this is 7 years ago. I really can't imagine how can anyone register for Yahoo mail in this past 7 years! But at lease now, one can have more options with the reintroduction of Rocketmail and the new "ymail"!
Wednesday, July 9, 2008
If Human can talk to the Tiger
Human: Yesterday, you ate one of my cattle. Can you comment on that?
Tiger: Yes. It was delicious, thank you. I prefer venison, but the deer seem to have vanished with the forest.
Human: I apologise for that. But please, my cattle are not for you.
Tiger: I don't understand. You let your cattle wander. Dinner practically walked into my mouth!
Human: Well, I can't keep them at the village all the time. They need to graze!
Tiger: Have you never heard of a schedule? I usually work the night shift.
Human: It's funny, though, the village over the hill- no one's ever lost a cow before.
Tiger: Oh, that one. I've been there. They house their cattle in these enclosures I couldn't get into. Not that I ever tried, of course. The villagers even cleared the underbrush. There was absolutely nowhere to hide. Two years without a single ambush. It was absolute misery. I had to leave.
Human: Only to move here, of course. Now the enclosures, that's interesting. How high did you say the fences were?
Tiger: All I will say is I have no difficulty scaling the walls 2 metres high.
Human: I must admit, that's rather impressive! It's good we had this chat.
Tiger: It's been a pleasure. We'll catch up sometime.
This conversation is adopted from an advertisement by HSBC some time ago. The message of it is to love our environment! And be moderate in treating this nature, as it belongs not just to human, but every living creature.
Tiger: Yes. It was delicious, thank you. I prefer venison, but the deer seem to have vanished with the forest.
Human: I apologise for that. But please, my cattle are not for you.
Tiger: I don't understand. You let your cattle wander. Dinner practically walked into my mouth!
Human: Well, I can't keep them at the village all the time. They need to graze!
Tiger: Have you never heard of a schedule? I usually work the night shift.
Human: It's funny, though, the village over the hill- no one's ever lost a cow before.
Tiger: Oh, that one. I've been there. They house their cattle in these enclosures I couldn't get into. Not that I ever tried, of course. The villagers even cleared the underbrush. There was absolutely nowhere to hide. Two years without a single ambush. It was absolute misery. I had to leave.
Human: Only to move here, of course. Now the enclosures, that's interesting. How high did you say the fences were?
Tiger: All I will say is I have no difficulty scaling the walls 2 metres high.
Human: I must admit, that's rather impressive! It's good we had this chat.
Tiger: It's been a pleasure. We'll catch up sometime.
This conversation is adopted from an advertisement by HSBC some time ago. The message of it is to love our environment! And be moderate in treating this nature, as it belongs not just to human, but every living creature.
Monday, July 7, 2008
Dramatic 2 weeks
The past 2 weeks has been a really dramatic period for Malaysians. I believe the newspaper sales must have increase as wave after wave of stunning news "leaked" to the general public. The vote of no confidence, sodomy, murder using explosive case, Malaysian political scene has hit more headlines than ever before.
All these news certainly battered the Bursa, but to make it worse, "technical glitch" hit Bursa, and trading was halted for one full day. And now they are saying that Malaysians are getting tired of political bickering.
Well, yes to some extent, but some how, since the situation already developed into the current situation, the politicians owe the people the truth, and also for those responsible to face the consequences! Please don't expose something, yet nothing is done to those responsible like the hundred ringgit screwdrivers!
All these news certainly battered the Bursa, but to make it worse, "technical glitch" hit Bursa, and trading was halted for one full day. And now they are saying that Malaysians are getting tired of political bickering.
Well, yes to some extent, but some how, since the situation already developed into the current situation, the politicians owe the people the truth, and also for those responsible to face the consequences! Please don't expose something, yet nothing is done to those responsible like the hundred ringgit screwdrivers!
Friday, June 20, 2008
Euro 2008 format should be revised
While reading the match report of the Germany vs Portugal game, I read something about Germany's next probable opponent. The name "Croatia and Turkey" pop up, and I some how feel Germany vs Croatia is kind of familiar. Ohh ya! Croatia beat Germany in group stage, and now they are going to meet again? I was a little mystified, and I went to check out the full schedule for the competiton.
Looking at the Euro 2008 fixtures, I noticed something very wrong about the format of this prestigious competition. The teams in group A and B will never meet teams in Group C and Group D. Now I realized that to win a European Championship is not that hard after all, if a team can get favorable draw.
In the case of Germany, the teams that are considered strong in their side are Portugal (which they just disposed of), Czech Republic( which failed to qualify to the quarterfinals), Croatia( the team in their group who beat them in the 1st round, and also their most likely opponent in the semifinals). With no disrespect to Turkey, they also stand a very good chance to make it to the finals, but if they are going to face Germany in quarterfinals, not many will bet on them to win.
Never mind all those possibilities. What I want to point out here is that, a team will only need to better than those teams in their half to reach the final. If they get a favorable draw, that tasks is not the hardest. If we look at the other half, we can easily name the traditional strong teams: Holland, Italy, France, Spain, Sweden, defending champions Greece, dark horses Russia and Romania. All these 8 teams are decent team which might qualify if they are in the other half.
And after fighting out the quarterfinals, they still have to play one of these power house of football. So why don't the UEFA match the semifinals ties to the teams on the other half. For example, Germany play the winner of Italy vs Spain, or Holland vs Russia instead of Croatia vs Turkey. This will ensure teams in the same group in the 1st round will not meet again until the finals.
Also to avoid unsporting play. Lucky that Holland is a proud and sporting nation that always play to their best instead of planning their way to final. If not, ousting Italy and France will be their choice, and their one remaining obstacle is to be Spain, instead of facing Italy again, who normally start the competition slowly and get stronger during knock-out stage. UEFA should look into making the fixtures to cross over between the two half. A repeat of the same tie as in the group match will be a non-spectacle if one team is much stronger than the other. At lease in the probable event of Croatia vs Germany, Croatia had beaten the Germans in the group stage, making the tie not a one-sided event.
Looking at the Euro 2008 fixtures, I noticed something very wrong about the format of this prestigious competition. The teams in group A and B will never meet teams in Group C and Group D. Now I realized that to win a European Championship is not that hard after all, if a team can get favorable draw.
In the case of Germany, the teams that are considered strong in their side are Portugal (which they just disposed of), Czech Republic( which failed to qualify to the quarterfinals), Croatia( the team in their group who beat them in the 1st round, and also their most likely opponent in the semifinals). With no disrespect to Turkey, they also stand a very good chance to make it to the finals, but if they are going to face Germany in quarterfinals, not many will bet on them to win.
Never mind all those possibilities. What I want to point out here is that, a team will only need to better than those teams in their half to reach the final. If they get a favorable draw, that tasks is not the hardest. If we look at the other half, we can easily name the traditional strong teams: Holland, Italy, France, Spain, Sweden, defending champions Greece, dark horses Russia and Romania. All these 8 teams are decent team which might qualify if they are in the other half.
And after fighting out the quarterfinals, they still have to play one of these power house of football. So why don't the UEFA match the semifinals ties to the teams on the other half. For example, Germany play the winner of Italy vs Spain, or Holland vs Russia instead of Croatia vs Turkey. This will ensure teams in the same group in the 1st round will not meet again until the finals.
Also to avoid unsporting play. Lucky that Holland is a proud and sporting nation that always play to their best instead of planning their way to final. If not, ousting Italy and France will be their choice, and their one remaining obstacle is to be Spain, instead of facing Italy again, who normally start the competition slowly and get stronger during knock-out stage. UEFA should look into making the fixtures to cross over between the two half. A repeat of the same tie as in the group match will be a non-spectacle if one team is much stronger than the other. At lease in the probable event of Croatia vs Germany, Croatia had beaten the Germans in the group stage, making the tie not a one-sided event.
Wednesday, June 18, 2008
The Secret behind Italy's win over France
So Italy made it to the quaterfinals of Euro 2008, after 1st round exit in Euro 2004. And with Italy in danger of 1st round exit again, coach Roberto Donadoni revealed the secret behind their side crucial 2-0 win over France: A letter.
Donadoni said that a letter from a young boy who wrote to the Italian camp and is about to have a blood transfusion is the moving inspiration behind his side's victory. In the letter, the boy wrote that he wanted Italy to win as that would cheer him up.
"I told the boys the story, because they have to look beyond their golden cage so to speak, so that gives us more incentive to do what we can for this boy.
"The story touched the players", Donadoni said.
With such humane external inspiration, no wonder Italy will pull through. Hope the boy is happy now!
Italy will play Spain in the quaterfinals.
Donadoni said that a letter from a young boy who wrote to the Italian camp and is about to have a blood transfusion is the moving inspiration behind his side's victory. In the letter, the boy wrote that he wanted Italy to win as that would cheer him up.
"I told the boys the story, because they have to look beyond their golden cage so to speak, so that gives us more incentive to do what we can for this boy.
"The story touched the players", Donadoni said.
With such humane external inspiration, no wonder Italy will pull through. Hope the boy is happy now!
Italy will play Spain in the quaterfinals.
Thursday, June 12, 2008
Unexpected discovery
Italy's 3-0 crashing to Holland in the Euro 2008 game that day was unexpected. But during that game, I also discovered something unexpected.
At some point of the game, the camera move to focus on the Italian coach, Roberto Donadoni, maybe to catch a look of his disappointing expression. Looking at his expression, I feel he looks like someone else, someone that I have seen some where, but I just couldn't figure it out.
Then when the camera focus on Antonio Di Natale,the Udinese striker, the same feeling occur. I tried to ask friends around, and one of them told me, "he looks like one of the Westlife member"..ohhhhhh...ya hor!..
Though can't say is 100% similar, but seeing one of them can actually reminds me of the other says a lot of the degree of similarity.
And with the 1st question still not resolved, I tried to think about it. And suddenly a scene pop up in my mind! HOUSE!
Friday, June 6, 2008
The Hottest Topic In Malaysia Now: Petrol naik Harga!
This is not the usual "petrol naik harga" like in the past. This is the ultimate "naik harga" where Malaysians will no longer feel the cushion given by Petronas all these years!
If RM2.70 is the price per litre of petrol for the next 6 months, I feel it's not that bad, considering the market price is near RM5.00 per litre. At lease the government is still subsidizing almost half of the cost. But that is not the case. By August, the price will reach market price minus RM0.30. That will be around RM4.70, if the crude oil price remains as recently. At this rate, income of any average Malaysian will be eaten up.
Ok, so now, the average Malaysian decided to take drastic measures to cut down petrol consumption. They will use more of the the public transportation. But...besides those in the capital city, where the public transportation can still be considered fine, people in most towns in Malaysia can hardly rely on public transportation to get them to work place. So what options do these people have?
If RM2.70 is the price per litre of petrol for the next 6 months, I feel it's not that bad, considering the market price is near RM5.00 per litre. At lease the government is still subsidizing almost half of the cost. But that is not the case. By August, the price will reach market price minus RM0.30. That will be around RM4.70, if the crude oil price remains as recently. At this rate, income of any average Malaysian will be eaten up.
Ok, so now, the average Malaysian decided to take drastic measures to cut down petrol consumption. They will use more of the the public transportation. But...besides those in the capital city, where the public transportation can still be considered fine, people in most towns in Malaysia can hardly rely on public transportation to get them to work place. So what options do these people have?
Sunday, June 1, 2008
A camper’s life
For the past 7 days, I attended a camp. This is the longest period camp that I ever attended. Before this, 5 days is the record. Well, it has been quite some time since I last attended a camp.
During this 7 days period, I can feel the emotion of being a camper again. For example when faced with problems and went through a rough patch, the emotion of frustration and helpless were felt by the group, and then the came the determination to overcome the situation. People work together towards the aim to complete the tasks. The will to complete the task in a short period, reminds me of the scouting days when attending camp was a formality.
Though tired and hot, and at times windy, work had to go on, and with this will, the tasks were completed. From this camp, besides learning, I’ve also discovered my shortcomings, which I hope will be overcome in future.
It was a pretty nice experience for myself to go through this camp as a camper, but this might arguably my last camp, as far as I can see now.
During this 7 days period, I can feel the emotion of being a camper again. For example when faced with problems and went through a rough patch, the emotion of frustration and helpless were felt by the group, and then the came the determination to overcome the situation. People work together towards the aim to complete the tasks. The will to complete the task in a short period, reminds me of the scouting days when attending camp was a formality.
Though tired and hot, and at times windy, work had to go on, and with this will, the tasks were completed. From this camp, besides learning, I’ve also discovered my shortcomings, which I hope will be overcome in future.
It was a pretty nice experience for myself to go through this camp as a camper, but this might arguably my last camp, as far as I can see now.
Friday, May 23, 2008
If only every dispute can be solved this way....
So the International Court of Justice (ICJ) has ruled that Singapore has sovereignty over Pulau Batu Puteh while Malaysia owns Middle Rocks. Both countries had earlier pledged to abide by the decision of the ICJ that is final and not subject to appeal. This bring an end to this 28-year old territorial dispute between Malaysia and Singapore.
Pulau Batu Putih, which Singapore calls Pedra Branca, an isle no larger than half a football field, is about 14.3km from Tanjung Penyusop in Johor and 46.3km from Singapore.
Middle Rocks is about half a nautical mile from Pulau Batu Putih and 1.7 nautical miles from South Ledge.
As for the South Ledge, the ICJ ruled that it belongs to the state in whose territorial waters it is located.
Pedra Branca/Pulau Batu Puteh is a granite island on which Horsburgh lighthouse stands, while Middle Rocks consists of some rocks that are permanently above water. South Ledge is a low-tide elevation.
The reasoning that sovereignty over Pedra Branca/Pulau Batu Puteh belongs to Singapore are:
- In a letter dated 21 September 1953, the Acting State Secretary of Johor replied that the “Johore Government [did] not claim ownership” of the island.
- Investigation of shipwrecks carried out by Singapore within the island’s territorial waters and the permission granted or not granted by Singapore to Malaysian officials to survey the waters surrounding the island.
- The absence of reaction from Malaysia to the flying of the Singapore ensign on the island, the installation by Singapore of military communications equipment on the island in 1977, and the proposed reclamation plans by Singapore to extend the island, as well as a few specific publications and maps.
The reasoning that sovereignty over Middle Rocks belongs to Malaysia are:
Singapore’s position that sovereignty over the features goes together with sovereignty over Pedra Branca/Pulau Batu Puteh do not apply to Middle Rocks. It therefore finds that original title to Middle Rocks should remain with Malaysia as the successor to the Sultanate of Johor.
If only every dispute can be solved with sound reasoning and respect for each other like this, this world will be a better place with less blood shed.
Pulau Batu Putih, which Singapore calls Pedra Branca, an isle no larger than half a football field, is about 14.3km from Tanjung Penyusop in Johor and 46.3km from Singapore.
Middle Rocks is about half a nautical mile from Pulau Batu Putih and 1.7 nautical miles from South Ledge.
As for the South Ledge, the ICJ ruled that it belongs to the state in whose territorial waters it is located.
Pedra Branca/Pulau Batu Puteh is a granite island on which Horsburgh lighthouse stands, while Middle Rocks consists of some rocks that are permanently above water. South Ledge is a low-tide elevation.
The reasoning that sovereignty over Pedra Branca/Pulau Batu Puteh belongs to Singapore are:
- In a letter dated 21 September 1953, the Acting State Secretary of Johor replied that the “Johore Government [did] not claim ownership” of the island.
- Investigation of shipwrecks carried out by Singapore within the island’s territorial waters and the permission granted or not granted by Singapore to Malaysian officials to survey the waters surrounding the island.
- The absence of reaction from Malaysia to the flying of the Singapore ensign on the island, the installation by Singapore of military communications equipment on the island in 1977, and the proposed reclamation plans by Singapore to extend the island, as well as a few specific publications and maps.
The reasoning that sovereignty over Middle Rocks belongs to Malaysia are:
Singapore’s position that sovereignty over the features goes together with sovereignty over Pedra Branca/Pulau Batu Puteh do not apply to Middle Rocks. It therefore finds that original title to Middle Rocks should remain with Malaysia as the successor to the Sultanate of Johor.
If only every dispute can be solved with sound reasoning and respect for each other like this, this world will be a better place with less blood shed.
Sunday, May 18, 2008
Thomas Cup Final: China vs Korea
For this final, we will be seeing a lot of the negative character of the World Badminton scene. Needless to say, the Korean's strategy that put victory ahead of sportsmanship in a sports game like badminton is one of them. Though some may call it tactical brilliance, but I would call it the failure of the WBF. WBF make this tactical brilliant!
The Korean squad is on the verge of creating history by becoming the first Korean team to lift the Thomas Cup. But more interestingly, if they won, they would also be the 1st champion to lose all their group matches. How ironic isn't it?The team that finish last in Group B are on the verge of being Champions. And I'm glad the media highlighted this, as their act should not go unnoticed.
Besides that, we will also witness the World Number 1 who beat up his own coach, and trying to fight with other team's coach. Probably not the best ambassador for the sports as well.
In today's game, the Korean definitely have a chance to win it! But they must win it as soon as possible. If the tie goes into third single, China's World Number 4 Chen Jin will surely have the edge over Shon Sheung Mo.
Lin Dan also had some not so convincing result against Park Sung Hwan, and he is surely not unbeatable as he is beaten by Lee Chong Wei
As for the 1st double, the Korean is clearly stronger and have the edge. If the Korean can obtain the 1st two points, they have a great chance to win it.The Korean top doubles pair Jung Jae-sung-Lee Yong-dae are optimistic over their team’s chances of upstaging two-time defending champions China today.
South Korea's team manager Kim Jong Soo confirmed that the Koreans would retain the same line-up from the semi-finals and added that the strategy for the final would be to rattle the Chinese by taking the first two points of the tie. I certainly agree with him.
The Korean squad is on the verge of creating history by becoming the first Korean team to lift the Thomas Cup. But more interestingly, if they won, they would also be the 1st champion to lose all their group matches. How ironic isn't it?The team that finish last in Group B are on the verge of being Champions. And I'm glad the media highlighted this, as their act should not go unnoticed.
Besides that, we will also witness the World Number 1 who beat up his own coach, and trying to fight with other team's coach. Probably not the best ambassador for the sports as well.
In today's game, the Korean definitely have a chance to win it! But they must win it as soon as possible. If the tie goes into third single, China's World Number 4 Chen Jin will surely have the edge over Shon Sheung Mo.
Lin Dan also had some not so convincing result against Park Sung Hwan, and he is surely not unbeatable as he is beaten by Lee Chong Wei
As for the 1st double, the Korean is clearly stronger and have the edge. If the Korean can obtain the 1st two points, they have a great chance to win it.The Korean top doubles pair Jung Jae-sung-Lee Yong-dae are optimistic over their team’s chances of upstaging two-time defending champions China today.
South Korea's team manager Kim Jong Soo confirmed that the Koreans would retain the same line-up from the semi-finals and added that the strategy for the final would be to rattle the Chinese by taking the first two points of the tie. I certainly agree with him.
Thursday, May 15, 2008
Thomas Cup: Malaysia 2 China 3
The result is out. The current Thomas squad will not emulate the squad of 1992. It has been 16 years since Malaysia last win the cup. Though we failed to win the cup again, we as Malaysian should be proud, at lease we come down fighting, unlike the unsporting Korean.
Don't get me wrong, I hold no grudge against the Korean, but their way of planning out their route to semi final is unsporting, and should not exist in sports. But the root of the problem, I feel, lies in the competition format. They should have look into this possibility before introducing the format. If football can make a format that make every team play their best out, why Thomas Cup can't?
I hope they can learn from their mistakes, so that the next Thomas Cup can be played fair. Back to the defeat, here is the result.
Lee Chong Wei beat Lin Dan 21-12, 21-14
Koo Kien Keat-Tan Boon Heong lost to Cai Yun-Fu Haifeng 16-21, 17-21
Wong Choong Hann lost to Bao Chunlai 18-21, 7-21
Mohd Zakry Abdul Latif-Mohd Fairuzizuan Mohd Tazari beat Xie Zhongbo-Guo Zhendong 21-17, 21-15
Muhammad Hafiz Hashim lost to Chen Jin 12-21, 16-21
Don't get me wrong, I hold no grudge against the Korean, but their way of planning out their route to semi final is unsporting, and should not exist in sports. But the root of the problem, I feel, lies in the competition format. They should have look into this possibility before introducing the format. If football can make a format that make every team play their best out, why Thomas Cup can't?
I hope they can learn from their mistakes, so that the next Thomas Cup can be played fair. Back to the defeat, here is the result.
Lee Chong Wei beat Lin Dan 21-12, 21-14
Koo Kien Keat-Tan Boon Heong lost to Cai Yun-Fu Haifeng 16-21, 17-21
Wong Choong Hann lost to Bao Chunlai 18-21, 7-21
Mohd Zakry Abdul Latif-Mohd Fairuzizuan Mohd Tazari beat Xie Zhongbo-Guo Zhendong 21-17, 21-15
Muhammad Hafiz Hashim lost to Chen Jin 12-21, 16-21
Wednesday, May 7, 2008
How's your 7th day of May looks like?
The 7th day of May, 2008 just passed. I had an ordinary day, waiting for supervisor for hours, walking around, and did some applications to a certain quarter. Yesterday is always history. Historically, 7th of May is the day of birth and death of some, and also the discovery of the tomb of Herod The Great or some other great events like marriage.
It was not the best of days, but certainly not the worse. I spent some time watching drama. Ironically the title of the drama is "The Seventh Day". While watching the drama "The Seventh Day", I can't help but think: well, I had a ordinary day, but surely, there are someone who had a wonderful day, probably the best day of his/her life on the 7th of May 2008. Someone, at somewhere, at some time in the day.
Looking back, so how was your 7th day of May? Was it a day great day, ordinary or bad day?
Saturday, May 3, 2008
Reviving Komtar,
Though I am no Penangites, but I still feel for the current state of condition of Komtar. Recently Komtar has been in the news, with plans to revive it. I certainly hope they have a plan that really work.
When I was younger, I was really anxious to visit Komtar, with their tallest building status, and the majestic view of it even from far. It was the pride of not just Penangites, but also Malaysians, though I'm not sure how many people share my sentiment.
But in recent years, or maybe longer, I cannot find any reason to drop by that area anymore. I will still go to the Prangin Mall there, but certainly, that mall is not the most glamorous place that cannot be missed. And the main building... looks old, deserted, and has no match to any other shopping complex in Penang. Komtar certainly need a facelift, if not maybe they can transform it into a museum. But there are certainly some of the things that should remain, like the clock showing time of some of the major cities in the world, but at lease, with a touch of modern impression and brightness. I don't understand why it is a bit darker inside there, maybe because there are so less stalls to light up the mall.
I read from the newspaper that, Komtar masterplan was meant to prevent the inner city from becoming an urban slum. For this, I'm really impressed with former Chief Minister Tun Dr Lim Chong Eu's vision. From what I observed, urban slum happened in many major towns, but nothing has been done by those state or town council. Whether these town councilors do not have the vision of Tun Dr Lim, or it is another failed implementation of a great plan.
Wednesday, April 30, 2008
Finally I get my Ferrari!
Well..not the real Ferrari I mean. What I mean is the one selling at the Shell Petrol Station! ;)
After weeks of waiting, finally the stock have arrived! I've been to the station for a number of times, but every time I leave in disappointment. I almost give up on the thought of collecting all the Ferrari. But yesterday when my friend went to pump petrol, I decided to give it another try, and this time, finally! I get to buy one!
I bought the Ferrari F40, one of the fastest, most powerful street cars in the world! It was produced from 1987 to 1992. This is also the last car to be commissioned by Enzo Ferrari himself!
I'm looking forward to collecting more of the others. Hopefully in the end I get to collect a full set!..
After weeks of waiting, finally the stock have arrived! I've been to the station for a number of times, but every time I leave in disappointment. I almost give up on the thought of collecting all the Ferrari. But yesterday when my friend went to pump petrol, I decided to give it another try, and this time, finally! I get to buy one!
I bought the Ferrari F40, one of the fastest, most powerful street cars in the world! It was produced from 1987 to 1992. This is also the last car to be commissioned by Enzo Ferrari himself!
I'm looking forward to collecting more of the others. Hopefully in the end I get to collect a full set!..
Tuesday, April 22, 2008
Charge card?
Recently when I was asked by my friend what is this charge card all about, I said "charge card not same with credit card meh?"
"No wor, I heard is something different"..
So I decided to check out what this charge card is, and ya, I found that my concept of credit card= charge card is wrong. So what is charge card?
While the usage of the charge card is similar to other payment cards such
as credit and debit cards, i.e. you can use the charge card to make payments at
merchants displaying the same charge card brand name as that on your charge card, there are some major difference between all these cards.
1st, while Credit Card allow minimum payment of 5% of monthly outstanding balance, Charge Card don't. Outstanding balance must be settled in full by due date.
2nd, while Credit Card allow you to have outstanding balance, they charge maximum 18% per annum on outstanding balance.
3rd, for late payment charge, Charge Card normally charge a 3.0% to 3.5% per month (36% to 42% per annum) on outstanding balance or fixed minimum amount whichever is higher. For Islamic charge cards, a fixed fee is normally charged up to RM70 per month. Credit Card only charge a maximum 1% per month on outstanding balance or RM5 whichever is higher.
Examples of charge cards are American Express, Diners Club International, and HSBC Amanah Mastercard.
So, if you have ample of money around, just that you don't want to carry cash around, Charge Card can be an option. Otherwise, Credit Card will be fine. By the way, if you have the discipline, Credit Card can be used like a Charge Card as well.
"No wor, I heard is something different"..
So I decided to check out what this charge card is, and ya, I found that my concept of credit card= charge card is wrong. So what is charge card?
While the usage of the charge card is similar to other payment cards such
as credit and debit cards, i.e. you can use the charge card to make payments at
merchants displaying the same charge card brand name as that on your charge card, there are some major difference between all these cards.
1st, while Credit Card allow minimum payment of 5% of monthly outstanding balance, Charge Card don't. Outstanding balance must be settled in full by due date.
2nd, while Credit Card allow you to have outstanding balance, they charge maximum 18% per annum on outstanding balance.
3rd, for late payment charge, Charge Card normally charge a 3.0% to 3.5% per month (36% to 42% per annum) on outstanding balance or fixed minimum amount whichever is higher. For Islamic charge cards, a fixed fee is normally charged up to RM70 per month. Credit Card only charge a maximum 1% per month on outstanding balance or RM5 whichever is higher.
Examples of charge cards are American Express, Diners Club International, and HSBC Amanah Mastercard.
So, if you have ample of money around, just that you don't want to carry cash around, Charge Card can be an option. Otherwise, Credit Card will be fine. By the way, if you have the discipline, Credit Card can be used like a Charge Card as well.
Friday, April 18, 2008
When your phone ring for anything but personal..
Today I received a message from a friend, talking about life and what we up to recently. I'm really glad to receive this message, for I think it has been quite some time since I received a message of this nature.
These days..my phone no longer rings as often as before. And when it does ring.. "Your validity will expire in 3 days time, pls reload to keep it active", or crabs like contests, events that has something to do with the phone company. The closest the message received that can be deemed personal is regarding coursework, tasks and so on..
And some how when receive this kind of message really "bengang"..especially those came at early in the morning 7am.. But at lease the telco company have learned, and these days no more such "patience testing" message.
These days..my phone no longer rings as often as before. And when it does ring.. "Your validity will expire in 3 days time, pls reload to keep it active", or crabs like contests, events that has something to do with the phone company. The closest the message received that can be deemed personal is regarding coursework, tasks and so on..
And some how when receive this kind of message really "bengang"..especially those came at early in the morning 7am.. But at lease the telco company have learned, and these days no more such "patience testing" message.
Wednesday, April 16, 2008
Coffee
Addiction is so often the word to relate to when it comes to coffee, as coffee lover don't seem to get enough of it, and ya, i'm one of them, as you can see ;)
There has been a lot information regarding the consumption of coffee, some are positive, and some are negative. While these informations are released by the experts, which cannot be disregard, I believe that anything, if over-consumed or misused, will turn into harm even though the initial intention is to do good. So being moderate is the key.
Recently I come across an article by the International Coffee Organization- Positively Coffee Programme, and there are some surprising finding, which really surprise me.
1) Drinking up to 4/5 cups of coffee a day, is not harmful and may even have some health benefits.
2) Scientific studies show that caffeine intake is associated with a lower risk for Alzheimer's Disease.
3) A cup of coffee may help relieve the headaches.Substances that constrict blood vessels, like caffeine, can help counter the painful effects of blood vessel dilation in the head.
4) Coffee drinking is not addictive. Caffeine did not act on the brain areas responsible for reward, motivation and addiction in the same way as amphetamines and cocaine.
So I'm not addicted to coffee after all. But I do love my cup of coffee ;)
Friday, April 11, 2008
missing..
I have been missing my calculators for days now, or shall i rephrase "my calculator has been missing..."? Anyhow, I feel the possibility of finding it back is slim, since I can't even be sure where I left it. After that, I am lucky enough to be able to use a "spare" calculator by my friend.
But still, some how.. I feel like I want to get it back, I want to search for it! I've been using it for 4 years now, since the days of my form 6. It carries with me tonnes of memories back in the form 6, there are good ones, and bad ones. The urge to find it back certainly makes me think: why am I trying to find it back? Is it because of the calculator itself? or the memories that it brings along.
Well, after some thought, I guess the answer is quite clear. Looking back to those days, it's really hard to defined whether they are happy days or not, but there are certainly happiness in it, and for that simple reason, I will keep on looking for it...
But still, some how.. I feel like I want to get it back, I want to search for it! I've been using it for 4 years now, since the days of my form 6. It carries with me tonnes of memories back in the form 6, there are good ones, and bad ones. The urge to find it back certainly makes me think: why am I trying to find it back? Is it because of the calculator itself? or the memories that it brings along.
Well, after some thought, I guess the answer is quite clear. Looking back to those days, it's really hard to defined whether they are happy days or not, but there are certainly happiness in it, and for that simple reason, I will keep on looking for it...
Tuesday, April 8, 2008
Is life really in our hands, or in destiny's?
Again I ask this question to myself, a question that has no answer to it. I guess no human in this world have the answer to this question as well.
So often after a football game, when I saw a team who try all they can and still lost the game, I will think of this question, and again it will reminds me of a game in World Cup 2002. Argentina against a Scandinavian team (either is Denmark or Sweden, I'm not sure which). In that game Argentina attack full force, I can still remember how delightful it was to see Pablo Aimar's skills and exquisite passing. And yet they failed to break down the opposition defense, and they were sent packing in the 1st round. A team full of world class players, play delightful football, and tried all they can to score, but destined not to score on that night. Can we actually change our destiny?
Today I feel for Arsenal and their supporters. No disregard to Liverpool, they played well, but I'm not sure well enough to win 4-2. And Destiny wants a repeat to last year's fixtures: Liverpool vs Chelsea.
So often after a football game, when I saw a team who try all they can and still lost the game, I will think of this question, and again it will reminds me of a game in World Cup 2002. Argentina against a Scandinavian team (either is Denmark or Sweden, I'm not sure which). In that game Argentina attack full force, I can still remember how delightful it was to see Pablo Aimar's skills and exquisite passing. And yet they failed to break down the opposition defense, and they were sent packing in the 1st round. A team full of world class players, play delightful football, and tried all they can to score, but destined not to score on that night. Can we actually change our destiny?
Today I feel for Arsenal and their supporters. No disregard to Liverpool, they played well, but I'm not sure well enough to win 4-2. And Destiny wants a repeat to last year's fixtures: Liverpool vs Chelsea.
Saturday, April 5, 2008
it's the end of another sem...again..
Today is the start of the study week, which also signifies the end of another semester in uni. But unlike any other study week, which is a time to relax a bit and really focus on the examinations, this time it is more of another week of the semester.
How can one define it as a study week when one have to attend class on Monday and Wednesday, presentation on Wednesday, and test, interview and quiz on Friday. Further more there are 3 submissions to be made this week. Huh~~
Looking back at the time when sit for the national level test (that is the SPM and so on), one can really focus only on the examination, as if it is the most important thing in the world that need to be done. How unrealistic that was, as in reality, we must always handle a few things at one time, and uni life is just the elementary of the reality, which one must get on and adapt.
How can one define it as a study week when one have to attend class on Monday and Wednesday, presentation on Wednesday, and test, interview and quiz on Friday. Further more there are 3 submissions to be made this week. Huh~~
Looking back at the time when sit for the national level test (that is the SPM and so on), one can really focus only on the examination, as if it is the most important thing in the world that need to be done. How unrealistic that was, as in reality, we must always handle a few things at one time, and uni life is just the elementary of the reality, which one must get on and adapt.
Tuesday, April 1, 2008
Saturday, March 29, 2008
RM100 coin, anyone?
While it is common for you to see a 5sen coin, have u seen any RM100 coin before? Well, you may soon see one. Bank Negara Malaysia will commemorate its 50th Anniversary this year. In conjunction with the event, the Bank has launched a nationwide Commemorative Coin Design Competition from 10 March to 9 April 2008. The value of the coin is to be RM100.
The winning design entry will be used to mint and produce the 50th Anniversary Commemorative Coin, besides receiving a RM20,000 cash prize. Consolation prizes of RM1,000 will also be awarded to each of the 10 shortlisted entries.
Can you imagine the joy and satisfaction of winning the competition? A commemorate coin designed by you, for your country, and to be keep by the citizens of Malaysia! Your design will be everywhere, wow! That is if you win the competition lah~
For more information on the competition, visit
http://www.bnm.gov.my/index.php?ch=104&pg=672&ac=585
Thursday, March 27, 2008
Italia towards Euro 2008!
With Euro 2008 just around the corner, the friendly against Espana is a gauge of how big a challenge the Azzurri, campione del mondo, can mount in that competition.
David Villa
His spectacular volley earned Espana a 1-0 win, and losing to this goal doesn't mean all is lost for the Azzurri. Villa's strike is typically the decider between who win the cup and who's not, if this game is not a mere friendly match. He will surely be a class act to watch during the Euro, and also the whole Espana. This victory extended Spain's unbeaten streak to 14 matches. Maybe it's time they end their jinx with major competition.
The positive
While Espana enjoyed the lion's share of possession, it was the Azzurri who created the better chances.
'We had very good chances. We didn't deserve to lose,' is what Italia coach Roberto Donadoni said.
The Azzurri threat came largely from set pieces, with Pirlo floating several dangerous crosses into the area, and Luca Toni actually scored a goal, headed in a free kick early on but the goal was disallowed for offside.
The Squad: Can they win it?
The 2006 World Cup was a dream come true to all the Azzurri fans! but this time around, with them in the group of death as well, it will be another big challenge, with the fans hopeful they can capitalize their "World Champion" status to win another major competition.
The current squad still built largely around the World Cup winning team: the likes of Goalkeeper Buffon, Defender Cannavaro and Materazzi, Midfield Pirlo and Camoranesi,and Striker Toni. Notable departure include Nesta, Totti, Del Piero(still possible to make the squad), which are irreplaceable, but life goes on, we will have to look forward to more stars to come through the ranks and keep the Azzurri at the top.
The goalkeeping section looks to be in good hand. Buffon is unquestionable, while Amelia has prove himself to be capable over this few years.
The list of defenders, besides the departure of Nesta and the inclusion of Panucci, looks very much the same as 2006. If there is anything to worry about, it is the age factor, with Materazzi and Cannavaro at 34 and 33. The inclusion of Panucci in recent games, to me has been a step backward, though I wouldn't write off his contribution to the Azzuri's qualifying campaign. The likes of Andrea Barzagli is not new to the team, and I hope he can step up to the shoes when called upon.
The midfield also, still consists of many of the 2006 team, is the strength of the team, though their form will largely effect the attacking ability of the team. Pirlo will have a much bigger role to play, with Totti now retired, he will need to provide that moment of inspiration. Some interesting young lad like Aquilani is included for this friendly, and I'm sure there will be more experimenting from Donadoni before the final squad is picked.
The Forward, or Striking department is the most worrying department. Besides Toni, there are no notable strikers with enough credential to lead the forward line. Vincenzo Iaquinta has been doing ok in Juventus, while Fabio Quagliarella, Marco Borriello and Antonio Di Natale are the in-form strikers in Serie A, but whether they can step up to the International scene is big question mark, with the recent decline of standard in Serie A.
David Villa
His spectacular volley earned Espana a 1-0 win, and losing to this goal doesn't mean all is lost for the Azzurri. Villa's strike is typically the decider between who win the cup and who's not, if this game is not a mere friendly match. He will surely be a class act to watch during the Euro, and also the whole Espana. This victory extended Spain's unbeaten streak to 14 matches. Maybe it's time they end their jinx with major competition.
The positive
While Espana enjoyed the lion's share of possession, it was the Azzurri who created the better chances.
'We had very good chances. We didn't deserve to lose,' is what Italia coach Roberto Donadoni said.
The Azzurri threat came largely from set pieces, with Pirlo floating several dangerous crosses into the area, and Luca Toni actually scored a goal, headed in a free kick early on but the goal was disallowed for offside.
The Squad: Can they win it?
The 2006 World Cup was a dream come true to all the Azzurri fans! but this time around, with them in the group of death as well, it will be another big challenge, with the fans hopeful they can capitalize their "World Champion" status to win another major competition.
The current squad still built largely around the World Cup winning team: the likes of Goalkeeper Buffon, Defender Cannavaro and Materazzi, Midfield Pirlo and Camoranesi,and Striker Toni. Notable departure include Nesta, Totti, Del Piero(still possible to make the squad), which are irreplaceable, but life goes on, we will have to look forward to more stars to come through the ranks and keep the Azzurri at the top.
The goalkeeping section looks to be in good hand. Buffon is unquestionable, while Amelia has prove himself to be capable over this few years.
The list of defenders, besides the departure of Nesta and the inclusion of Panucci, looks very much the same as 2006. If there is anything to worry about, it is the age factor, with Materazzi and Cannavaro at 34 and 33. The inclusion of Panucci in recent games, to me has been a step backward, though I wouldn't write off his contribution to the Azzuri's qualifying campaign. The likes of Andrea Barzagli is not new to the team, and I hope he can step up to the shoes when called upon.
The midfield also, still consists of many of the 2006 team, is the strength of the team, though their form will largely effect the attacking ability of the team. Pirlo will have a much bigger role to play, with Totti now retired, he will need to provide that moment of inspiration. Some interesting young lad like Aquilani is included for this friendly, and I'm sure there will be more experimenting from Donadoni before the final squad is picked.
The Forward, or Striking department is the most worrying department. Besides Toni, there are no notable strikers with enough credential to lead the forward line. Vincenzo Iaquinta has been doing ok in Juventus, while Fabio Quagliarella, Marco Borriello and Antonio Di Natale are the in-form strikers in Serie A, but whether they can step up to the International scene is big question mark, with the recent decline of standard in Serie A.
Saturday, March 22, 2008
happy moments ;) Episode 2: Calming Effect
"This is an important decision to make, and if I get it wrong, I will suffer for one whole year". This sentence, I keep on telling myself. I was undecided, confused, hesitant to make a decision, and this situation bothers me. Rarely I feel so hard to make a definite decision, and as I crack my head trying to come to a definite decision, I get frustrated, I feel restless.
Then I received a message. A calming message. But no particular calming words. Just another message like any other one. Talking about recent life. Talking about how busy life can be. Talking about how one can fly to greater heights, overcome obstacles.
An ordinary message, yet it calm me down. Suddenly my analytical mind is back in its job. I started to weight the pros and cons of every options around. It's time for me to make a definite decision.
And as I talk to friends around, telling them the pros and cons of the options, each have their own perspective of the options. All these different perspectives, make me even more clear of where my decisions lies. Really thanks to all my friends around, who have listened to me, and given me suggestions. I'm glad and happy to have them around.
And to my friends who are facing difficulties, hold on, be strong and overcome it! Nothing is too hard to overcome!
Then I received a message. A calming message. But no particular calming words. Just another message like any other one. Talking about recent life. Talking about how busy life can be. Talking about how one can fly to greater heights, overcome obstacles.
An ordinary message, yet it calm me down. Suddenly my analytical mind is back in its job. I started to weight the pros and cons of every options around. It's time for me to make a definite decision.
And as I talk to friends around, telling them the pros and cons of the options, each have their own perspective of the options. All these different perspectives, make me even more clear of where my decisions lies. Really thanks to all my friends around, who have listened to me, and given me suggestions. I'm glad and happy to have them around.
And to my friends who are facing difficulties, hold on, be strong and overcome it! Nothing is too hard to overcome!
Friday, March 14, 2008
Who wants to be a billionaire? :D
this clip is hilarious! can't stop laughing :D
so do you want to be a billionaire??
1st you have to be a millionaire! wakaka!..you can be any type of millionaire, bankrupt millionaire, crony millionaire or proxy millionaire
and just in case anyone don't know what is AP...AP means Approved Permit. Issued by the government to the "worthy" people to import cars.
Let's be happy and enjoy the funny side of everything, be it positive or negative!
Tuesday, March 11, 2008
Nice song! Can't help playing it again and again! :D
Again I wanna stress I hold no grudges against the man, but the tune is just so refreshing! :D
And a 5 sen view to the man,"you should have leave when you are winning".
Friday, March 7, 2008
The MC Dilemma
I really pity my friend, MC. He has been going through a dilemma for quite some time now. He is one who really cares for the college we are staying in, and also the development of our university. As the student counsel election gets closer, he really feels undecided on who he should vote for. If not for his care and, he would have less of a headache he is having now.
People in the college has been telling him to vote for the representative of the college, saying that if he fails, our college will not have a representative in the counsel, and thus if anything happened to the college, the counsel will not be of help, and people in the college will suffer. He has been thinking for a while, and this theory is actually very logical! “Ya! No doubt I should vote for our college representative”. Just as he tries to take this as a final decision, he feels something is not right, something is amiss. For a while he thinks, and he finally figures out what is not right. “It’s the candidate!”
He knows this fella for quite some time already. He is a nice guy, no doubt, in fact too nice to be in the counsel, he feels. He never argues with people, always give in when there are conflicts going on, and even apologized to appease people even if he is in the right. After hearing this, I finally understand why MC is so undecided and restless.
He keeps on asking himself whether there must be a representative in counsel for his college, or someone who really deserve to be in the counsel to bring the university forward. Both are logical choices, and he can only choose one. I suggest that “maybe we should go with the best candidate instead, since if this fella really get into the counsel, he also wouldn’t do anything for the college”. But his response is, “it’s unthinkable not to have any rep from our college in the counsel!”
I do not know how he decides to vote in the end, but if our college keeps on choosing candidate that is not capable and do not performs, I guess MC will keep on having this dilemma year after year.
People in the college has been telling him to vote for the representative of the college, saying that if he fails, our college will not have a representative in the counsel, and thus if anything happened to the college, the counsel will not be of help, and people in the college will suffer. He has been thinking for a while, and this theory is actually very logical! “Ya! No doubt I should vote for our college representative”. Just as he tries to take this as a final decision, he feels something is not right, something is amiss. For a while he thinks, and he finally figures out what is not right. “It’s the candidate!”
He knows this fella for quite some time already. He is a nice guy, no doubt, in fact too nice to be in the counsel, he feels. He never argues with people, always give in when there are conflicts going on, and even apologized to appease people even if he is in the right. After hearing this, I finally understand why MC is so undecided and restless.
He keeps on asking himself whether there must be a representative in counsel for his college, or someone who really deserve to be in the counsel to bring the university forward. Both are logical choices, and he can only choose one. I suggest that “maybe we should go with the best candidate instead, since if this fella really get into the counsel, he also wouldn’t do anything for the college”. But his response is, “it’s unthinkable not to have any rep from our college in the counsel!”
I do not know how he decides to vote in the end, but if our college keeps on choosing candidate that is not capable and do not performs, I guess MC will keep on having this dilemma year after year.
Monday, March 3, 2008
so you think you know what is WC?
WC, or wash closet is commonly term as toilet. We all used it everyday, but how much you know about it?..
yaya, we know about the floating ball inside the cistern (the place where the water is stored), and the water will flow inside when the ball is below certain level. So what's the big deal?..If only it can be so simple and obvious!... well below and inside, every part has its own function, some you can't even imagine that it can works like that..
will post the every details later!..
yaya, we know about the floating ball inside the cistern (the place where the water is stored), and the water will flow inside when the ball is below certain level. So what's the big deal?..If only it can be so simple and obvious!... well below and inside, every part has its own function, some you can't even imagine that it can works like that..
will post the every details later!..
Friday, February 29, 2008
a touching song
I came to know this song after a few friends recommended it to me. They said that the story of the song is a reflection of reality, that it can easily relate to anyone of us. I can't agree more!
The struggle of a guy who do not know whether there are any room to go forward, yet he already can't step back. He is too involved, and already can't pull himself out.
The simple words used in the song, the story and the singing touched me.
李圣杰 - 擦肩而过
我爱着谁
爱到我有点醉
告诉我你是谁
能够把我让我变不对
你不会累
但我却爱你爱得好累
从没有为了谁
不顾安危 付出一切
*站在这平衡点
我还是觉得有点危险
或许是看不见
只能够靠感觉
他不会是个好男人
也不会是个好情人
你对我说 我们只是擦肩而过
好的男人有那么多
少了他的日子也能过
我不会再让你寂寞
也不会让你更难过
你听我说要好好学着去生活
就算未来有多少错
至少还有我的问候
我的温柔陪你度过
你听我说
你不要这么做
你不要看着我
说你已经知道怎么做
你很难受
我愿意陪你一起承受
只要你不怕痛
再多坎坷我都陪你走
**
就算未来有多少错
至少还有我的问候
我的温柔陪你度过
The struggle of a guy who do not know whether there are any room to go forward, yet he already can't step back. He is too involved, and already can't pull himself out.
The simple words used in the song, the story and the singing touched me.
李圣杰 - 擦肩而过
我爱着谁
爱到我有点醉
告诉我你是谁
能够把我让我变不对
你不会累
但我却爱你爱得好累
从没有为了谁
不顾安危 付出一切
*站在这平衡点
我还是觉得有点危险
或许是看不见
只能够靠感觉
他不会是个好男人
也不会是个好情人
你对我说 我们只是擦肩而过
好的男人有那么多
少了他的日子也能过
我不会再让你寂寞
也不会让你更难过
你听我说要好好学着去生活
就算未来有多少错
至少还有我的问候
我的温柔陪你度过
你听我说
你不要这么做
你不要看着我
说你已经知道怎么做
你很难受
我愿意陪你一起承受
只要你不怕痛
再多坎坷我都陪你走
**
就算未来有多少错
至少还有我的问候
我的温柔陪你度过
happy moments ;) Episode 1: Simple Happiness
Isn't it strange that there are times when you feel happy over some little things said or done? whether it was done by people you know, or even people you don't know? It's really amazing when you think of it, and how beautiful this world is..
During one of my many journeys to KL, I met with this girl who is seated beside me. This surely is anything but love story, as nothing romantic actually happened, but it does make me cracked a smile :) , a smile from the heart!
As usual, I feel reluctant to leave my hometown to go back to study after holidays, so then my mood is actually anything but good. When I took my seat, there was this girl who's already in her seat, sleeping. "Well, normal la..get into the car sure sleep de.."
So I get on with what I'm suppose to do also, SLEEP!..and also, once a while will have small chat with my friends. At times I will also look at her, and found her "sleep look" funny..or well...ermm..maybe cute :D
Eventually, she didn't be awake during the whole journey except during the stops in rest house along the highway. And also, her fall back sleep time is really lightning! I can't stop feeling amaze, at the same time smiling away..
The world is beautiful because we can't know what is the next thing that will make us smile, and it just can be anything, even a cutie sleep look or an amazing sleep marathon :D
During one of my many journeys to KL, I met with this girl who is seated beside me. This surely is anything but love story, as nothing romantic actually happened, but it does make me cracked a smile :) , a smile from the heart!
As usual, I feel reluctant to leave my hometown to go back to study after holidays, so then my mood is actually anything but good. When I took my seat, there was this girl who's already in her seat, sleeping. "Well, normal la..get into the car sure sleep de.."
So I get on with what I'm suppose to do also, SLEEP!..and also, once a while will have small chat with my friends. At times I will also look at her, and found her "sleep look" funny..or well...ermm..maybe cute :D
Eventually, she didn't be awake during the whole journey except during the stops in rest house along the highway. And also, her fall back sleep time is really lightning! I can't stop feeling amaze, at the same time smiling away..
The world is beautiful because we can't know what is the next thing that will make us smile, and it just can be anything, even a cutie sleep look or an amazing sleep marathon :D
something about me..and my world..
Some time ago, there is a friend, who once said that "seem only football can make u write sth ar". I wasn't aware back then, but looking back now, and I think that is quite true, as most of my posts were football-related. So maybe it's time I write something about myself, thus "something about me and my world" is created.
I used to write a diary, I "forced" the little book to share my sorrow, and remember my joyous moments. And there were times when I gave up writing diary, as there were people whom I can share with them my joy and sorrow. But as I become more and more a nerd, I think the cyber space wouldn't mind having me to voice up what is in my mind, right?
I used to write a diary, I "forced" the little book to share my sorrow, and remember my joyous moments. And there were times when I gave up writing diary, as there were people whom I can share with them my joy and sorrow. But as I become more and more a nerd, I think the cyber space wouldn't mind having me to voice up what is in my mind, right?
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