This entire week has been one hell of a roller coaster ride for me. From KLFW to chasing containers ships, it's been a chaotic and character building week. I guess I can't complain much cause it has been a hell of a learning experience, especially from the KLFW stint. It certainly brings up my portfolio one notch up, not too mention the contacts that comes along with the shoulder rubbing sessions.
Now that all the craze has died down, it's time to reflect and ponder what and how we could have done better if such an opportunity arises again. It would be great if I can also incorporate some of the ideas I did to someone's home. There has been a steady stream of home projects coming in till the end of the month and early Dec. So, I guess I can kiss goodbye to my vacation lah. At this moment, we are already in the planning stage for a couple of homes that will only be ready by end next year.
My seamstresses have demanded for 2 whole days of rest after I turned the "battle station"' into a sweat shop for 2 whole weeks to cater for KLFW. They truly deserved the rest. Hope they won't run away when they see the other orders in hand....
Tuesday, November 21, 2006
Monday, November 20, 2006
What I Learned from KLFW 06
Here are what I've learned from the recent KL Fashion Week:
1. NEVER believe a fashion designer when they say that the dateline is end of the month. It means tomorrow.
2. Always be prepared for unexpected twists in their requirements on a daily basis. Example: Designer's think that curtains can be shrunk today and miraculously grow in length tomorrow.
3. Designers are super fickle minded. Please refer to no. 2.
4. You can always use someone's writing table to add height to your inadequate ladder for those hard to reach places.
5. Photo shoots are done at night and and it is IMPARATIVE to hang every piece of curtain up before they start shooting. Otherwise, be prepared to wait for 4 hours before they decide to take a break so you can finish your job.
6. Lunch, tea and dinner do not exist in the fashion industry. No wonder the people here are super skinny. Please refer to no. 5.
7. Models CAN be nice and polite.
8. The job is NOT FINISHED until the show and party is over. They expect you to entertainment them on a daily basis.
9. Designers can be kiam siap and expects lotsa freebies to get their business. And then they charge thousands for their dresses.
10. You have to chase designers for your payment at clubs because they are nocturnal and do not rise during day time.
11. It only takes 1/4 of the time to remove what we have put up.
Will I do another KLFW? I'll make sure I get a good team the next round.
1. NEVER believe a fashion designer when they say that the dateline is end of the month. It means tomorrow.
2. Always be prepared for unexpected twists in their requirements on a daily basis. Example: Designer's think that curtains can be shrunk today and miraculously grow in length tomorrow.
3. Designers are super fickle minded. Please refer to no. 2.
4. You can always use someone's writing table to add height to your inadequate ladder for those hard to reach places.
5. Photo shoots are done at night and and it is IMPARATIVE to hang every piece of curtain up before they start shooting. Otherwise, be prepared to wait for 4 hours before they decide to take a break so you can finish your job.
6. Lunch, tea and dinner do not exist in the fashion industry. No wonder the people here are super skinny. Please refer to no. 5.
7. Models CAN be nice and polite.
8. The job is NOT FINISHED until the show and party is over. They expect you to entertainment them on a daily basis.
9. Designers can be kiam siap and expects lotsa freebies to get their business. And then they charge thousands for their dresses.
10. You have to chase designers for your payment at clubs because they are nocturnal and do not rise during day time.
11. It only takes 1/4 of the time to remove what we have put up.
Will I do another KLFW? I'll make sure I get a good team the next round.
Wednesday, November 15, 2006
The story of a boy named Khairy
The name says it all. This is the name of a future leader. Rather, a future leader wanabe, that is. This young lad HAD a lot of potential. He won the hearts of many with his charismatic attitude, polished words and an education from a prestigious university to boot. He was the nouveau Malay. Someone whom we expected with enthusiasm who might lead with fresh ideas and forward thinking. But alas, he has succumbed to the dark side. For being too impatient, to climb up the ever colorful world of Malaysian politics.
It is of mind boggling wonder why a person with so much potential fall back to such cheap political games filled with chewy racial and controversial remarks? Was it due to the constant pressure of winning the lack luster votes and trust of the average (and below average) majority? But then again, for a person of his caliber, he should have known how to chew his words before delivering it in an effective manner to his intended audience. To put it one step further, he should have also thought of the consequences from his remarks. Then again, perhaps all this controversial remarks were intended to be there in the first place to win some publicity space with the media. There were just too many theories linked to his actions.
He is a magnet to controversies, from the Penang Malay issue right up to his involvement in a particular GLS. The most recent remark that would cause further furor is his recent speech in the recent party general assembly. His remarks with regards to the NEP as well as the ASLI reports leaves nothing to be desired, unless if you are one of the many millions of Bumiputeras living from cronyism hand-outs. Winning stars on his report card, you would say? Perhaps... but will it last? Don't forget, as much as we need the majority to win, it is the intellectuals as well as the cash cows that makes the winning possible. As much as I would hate to say it, but it's the ugly truth.
To those who are care enough to read through the speech, the depth of his words are pretty insulting to one's intelligence. There will be plenty of drama that is yet to unfold from the Khairy saga. But I doubt I can stomach the ending of his story.
It is of mind boggling wonder why a person with so much potential fall back to such cheap political games filled with chewy racial and controversial remarks? Was it due to the constant pressure of winning the lack luster votes and trust of the average (and below average) majority? But then again, for a person of his caliber, he should have known how to chew his words before delivering it in an effective manner to his intended audience. To put it one step further, he should have also thought of the consequences from his remarks. Then again, perhaps all this controversial remarks were intended to be there in the first place to win some publicity space with the media. There were just too many theories linked to his actions.
He is a magnet to controversies, from the Penang Malay issue right up to his involvement in a particular GLS. The most recent remark that would cause further furor is his recent speech in the recent party general assembly. His remarks with regards to the NEP as well as the ASLI reports leaves nothing to be desired, unless if you are one of the many millions of Bumiputeras living from cronyism hand-outs. Winning stars on his report card, you would say? Perhaps... but will it last? Don't forget, as much as we need the majority to win, it is the intellectuals as well as the cash cows that makes the winning possible. As much as I would hate to say it, but it's the ugly truth.
To those who are care enough to read through the speech, the depth of his words are pretty insulting to one's intelligence. There will be plenty of drama that is yet to unfold from the Khairy saga. But I doubt I can stomach the ending of his story.
Monday, November 13, 2006
Project Runway
OMG!!! Can't believe time is really running out and I'll probably be slaughtered alive at the sacrificial table from my already irritated customers (Singaporeans....ARRRRGGGHHHHH!!!!)
I never know how I get myself into all these mess!!! First, it was only a simple and innocent quote and supply for tracks to a new salon in a shopping centre. The next thing you know, there is 1001 things needed for the salon, to make in time for KL Fashion Week 2006!!! Stupid contractors always love to give people a heart attack! I didn't even know that the salon is going to be participating for the KL Fashion Week!!! So, for the past 1.5 weeks, I've been torturing my seamstresses with rolls and rolls of French velvet, chiffon and satin curtains and backdrops to be used for the photo shoots and deco. Tomorrow is going to be a living hell putting up all these material 14 feet high. Lets hope no one trips over all those cloth without falling over and breaking their neck. My guys have to be out of town to finish other projects that we intentionally delayed for this project. I guess it I would have to be doing all that solo tomorrow!!! Argghhhh!!!!!
I never know how I get myself into all these mess!!! First, it was only a simple and innocent quote and supply for tracks to a new salon in a shopping centre. The next thing you know, there is 1001 things needed for the salon, to make in time for KL Fashion Week 2006!!! Stupid contractors always love to give people a heart attack! I didn't even know that the salon is going to be participating for the KL Fashion Week!!! So, for the past 1.5 weeks, I've been torturing my seamstresses with rolls and rolls of French velvet, chiffon and satin curtains and backdrops to be used for the photo shoots and deco. Tomorrow is going to be a living hell putting up all these material 14 feet high. Lets hope no one trips over all those cloth without falling over and breaking their neck. My guys have to be out of town to finish other projects that we intentionally delayed for this project. I guess it I would have to be doing all that solo tomorrow!!! Argghhhh!!!!!
Wednesday, November 08, 2006
We are equal...but we are not
Yesterdays news report from DPM clarifying the status of "Bangsa Malaysia" is just plain disturbing, dumb, stupid, etc... He said the term "Bangsa Malaysia" is solely a state of mind for all citizens of Malaysia but it will NEVER include the special quotas, rights, and assistance that were reserved for the Malays. If that is the case, why bother with having that term anyway? I'm expected to love, serve and die for my nation as a "step child?" Is this what our Govt. is trying to imply to all non-Bumis? Sounds like it. It's just that they don't have the balls to say it to our face. I'm a third generation Malaysian. My great grandfather made Malaya his home when he first set foot on these shores. After more than a century, I'm still an "outsider" in the eyes of our govt. Sad isn't it? Imagine if my great grandfather's ship went off course and landed in California instead. I would probably have the same rights as any other American today, regardless of my race and color. Not that I hadap sangat to be an American, but that would have been a pretty good example on what's lacking in this otherwise prosperous nation, isn't it?
The newspaper's full of surprises lately with these colourful comments and showing dirty politicians getting away scott free with their evil doings. I wonder what's next? All non-Bumi citizenships will be revoked? Hmm.... maybe that's not such a bad idea after all.
The newspaper's full of surprises lately with these colourful comments and showing dirty politicians getting away scott free with their evil doings. I wonder what's next? All non-Bumi citizenships will be revoked? Hmm.... maybe that's not such a bad idea after all.
Monday, November 06, 2006
The Parent Club
Have you ever lost friends after they get married or started to have kids? It normally starts of with the phone calls getting shorter, and the meetings getting lesser and lesser. Pretty soon, you guys just get on with each other's lives, oblivious about each other's existence. I can't help but immediately put a picture in my head on a couple of people whom I used to be rather close or hang out a lot with. I guess there is some truth in it, because once they get married, it is quite natural that they would want to spend more time with their spouse (otherwise, why get hitched, right?) And then there's the filial duties to the in-laws and the entire string of attached clauses and funtions that comes with this package called marriage. Like they say, when you get married, you marry the entire family. Hence, there is less time for us singletons.
When the little ones come along, the topic evolves into further complex discussions in the light of strollers, diapers and nappy rash. These topics will normally go on in full swing when a flock of parents happens to sit together in a party. Again, us singletons will be lost in this world of post procreation saga. As we have less and less things in common to talk about, it's quite natural that we grew further apart. It's a pity though, coz I remember how we used to have so much fun going out clubbing, or just hang out at each other's place watching movies, stuffing ourselves with junk food and puffing our lungs out. Now we can't even have a decent conversation for a minute before the little one starts to demonstrate how powerful her lungs are. But I guess, that's how we humans evolved once we pass a certain stage in our life. Well, until I am ready to cross over to that side of the world, I think I'm quite contented with the DVD player, my Cheezels and pack of smokes. Cheerios!
When the little ones come along, the topic evolves into further complex discussions in the light of strollers, diapers and nappy rash. These topics will normally go on in full swing when a flock of parents happens to sit together in a party. Again, us singletons will be lost in this world of post procreation saga. As we have less and less things in common to talk about, it's quite natural that we grew further apart. It's a pity though, coz I remember how we used to have so much fun going out clubbing, or just hang out at each other's place watching movies, stuffing ourselves with junk food and puffing our lungs out. Now we can't even have a decent conversation for a minute before the little one starts to demonstrate how powerful her lungs are. But I guess, that's how we humans evolved once we pass a certain stage in our life. Well, until I am ready to cross over to that side of the world, I think I'm quite contented with the DVD player, my Cheezels and pack of smokes. Cheerios!
Monday, October 30, 2006
Justice is served...FINALLY!!!
WOOOO HOOO!!!!!! There is a GOD!!!! Finally, we are able to see justice served in its full view and glory. I've been following intently on the illegal "Palace" that was built in Kampung Idaman, Pandamaran by the local town councillor. These are the people that I'd love to have a steam roller running over them. Scums who walk on the surface of earth and throwing their weight around using brute and force. They think that they will get away from all their wrong doings just because they have "strong connections?" Hello???!!!!! This is definitely the epitome of wake up calls too all you politician "bullies" who likes to publicly show your ill-gotten wealth and throw your fat ass weight around.
The article written by Wong Chun Wai (The Star, 30 October, 2006) could not have described my feelings (and I'm sure of many layman Malaysians as well) any better. Actually, the sad thing about this case is not how he has abused the power bequeathed upon him years ago, but how he actually managed to get away with it despite the public as well as the entire political circle knowing his true colors and horrendous personality!
"WHEN Datuk Z walked into the Bilik Mengadap, the audience room of the Istana Bukit Kayangan, for his meeting with the Sultan of Selangor, he must have noticed the newspaper clippings spread on a table. They were all about the controversial Port Klang assemblyman and Klang municipal councillor who had built his four-storey mansion without council approval..." This is only the tip of the iceberg.
"Others included his failure to pay assessment for his current house for 12 years as well as the non-payment of assessment of the Port Klang Umno office and the Kampung Idaman Umno branch buildings for at least 10 years..." And that's how you get the moolah to build a humongous mansion!!!
"He also wanted to know how the DZ Satay Restaurant belonging to Datuk Z was sitting on government land. Again, with no council approval..." It's easy when you are sitting at the top post isn't it?
From the excerpts of the newspaper article, it is clearly shown that this person has no respect for the law that he is suppose to be governing. No wonder Klang is such a cowboy town, filled with crime and lawbreakers!!! Like the Malay pepatah, "Bapa kencing berdiri, anak kencing berlari," he has definitely lived up to this saying. But then, are the people in Klang that blind to follow a person with such low mentality and exhuberates arrogance and rude behavior in public?
"The Ruler had another advice - bersopan santun and berbudi bahasa (be polite and courteous) - in an apparent reference to complaints that Datuk Z was rude and arrogant..." Hah! He didn't even bother to show up at the palace when he was first summoned by the Sultan!
Though all is not lost, his immediate boss has requested for his resignation by the 2nd week of Nov. Again, why only now? This man has been on his rampage for 6 years before anyone noticed his follies! Then again, let's not forget that he is one of many politicians who has years of experience in lacing their poison with sugar to the simple layman.
The truth is, all the tyranny are mere show of pomp and splendour. In actual fact, this guy's balls probably shrunk to the size of raisins when he was summoned to the palace by the Sultan. Even then, he ran away into hiding in pretext of being ill. How lame can his excuses be?
Lets also not forget about his cronies who happen to be his own son and daughter in-law. How ironic and coincidental can it be that both his next of kin be elected as Klang councillors, with him heading the circus? How stupid does he think the rakyat is? His days are numbered and if has any dignity left in him, he should leave his position, political career as well as public life gracefully.
"No Umno councillors contacted by the press were prepared to respond to the advice given to Datuk Z for fear that they would offend him. His reputation certainly precedes him..."
"The fact is Datuk Z has become a political liability, not just to Umno but the Barisan Nasional..."
"Datuk Z is no stranger to controversies. In 2000, he allegedly slapped Bandar Klang assemblyman at the state assembly building..."
"In 2001, Datuk Z was among 13 Umno members who were found guilty by the Umno disciplinary board for breaching party ethics during the party polls. He was issued with a warning..."
"On the local level, the people of Klang still cannot forget how a group of councillors, including Datuk Z, backed a RM10.4mil project, which has now been scrapped following public protests. The plan called for 1.2ha of a 10.3ha field to be developed into a complex with three to five storey buildings housing 60 units of offices and shop lots. Twenty per cent of these lots were reported to be given to the Klang Municipal Council (MPK)..."
"The Datuk Z case is no longer a local case but has gained national attention because ordinary Malaysians can no longer stomach such abuses..." Who would anyway??? It's just that we were not given the avenue to do so.
"They do not want to see civil servants and the people being bullied and intimidated by powerful war lords while some politicians prefer to "close one eye" for political expediency..." Again, who would want to be shoved around? There's a limit to every extreme you know?
"In this case, the apparent lack of strong political will at state level has led to the intervention of Sultan..." What would have happened if the Sultan didn't intervene? Would he have been let off scott free with a mere slap on the hand?
Whatever it is, I'm for one, glad that justice finally prevails. No doubt there are many more scumbags out there, at least this is a start. Lets see if this will serve as a lesson to all you dirty politicians out there who is milking the rakyat dry.
The article written by Wong Chun Wai (The Star, 30 October, 2006) could not have described my feelings (and I'm sure of many layman Malaysians as well) any better. Actually, the sad thing about this case is not how he has abused the power bequeathed upon him years ago, but how he actually managed to get away with it despite the public as well as the entire political circle knowing his true colors and horrendous personality!
"WHEN Datuk Z walked into the Bilik Mengadap, the audience room of the Istana Bukit Kayangan, for his meeting with the Sultan of Selangor, he must have noticed the newspaper clippings spread on a table. They were all about the controversial Port Klang assemblyman and Klang municipal councillor who had built his four-storey mansion without council approval..." This is only the tip of the iceberg.
"Others included his failure to pay assessment for his current house for 12 years as well as the non-payment of assessment of the Port Klang Umno office and the Kampung Idaman Umno branch buildings for at least 10 years..." And that's how you get the moolah to build a humongous mansion!!!
"He also wanted to know how the DZ Satay Restaurant belonging to Datuk Z was sitting on government land. Again, with no council approval..." It's easy when you are sitting at the top post isn't it?
From the excerpts of the newspaper article, it is clearly shown that this person has no respect for the law that he is suppose to be governing. No wonder Klang is such a cowboy town, filled with crime and lawbreakers!!! Like the Malay pepatah, "Bapa kencing berdiri, anak kencing berlari," he has definitely lived up to this saying. But then, are the people in Klang that blind to follow a person with such low mentality and exhuberates arrogance and rude behavior in public?
"The Ruler had another advice - bersopan santun and berbudi bahasa (be polite and courteous) - in an apparent reference to complaints that Datuk Z was rude and arrogant..." Hah! He didn't even bother to show up at the palace when he was first summoned by the Sultan!
Though all is not lost, his immediate boss has requested for his resignation by the 2nd week of Nov. Again, why only now? This man has been on his rampage for 6 years before anyone noticed his follies! Then again, let's not forget that he is one of many politicians who has years of experience in lacing their poison with sugar to the simple layman.
The truth is, all the tyranny are mere show of pomp and splendour. In actual fact, this guy's balls probably shrunk to the size of raisins when he was summoned to the palace by the Sultan. Even then, he ran away into hiding in pretext of being ill. How lame can his excuses be?
Lets also not forget about his cronies who happen to be his own son and daughter in-law. How ironic and coincidental can it be that both his next of kin be elected as Klang councillors, with him heading the circus? How stupid does he think the rakyat is? His days are numbered and if has any dignity left in him, he should leave his position, political career as well as public life gracefully.
"No Umno councillors contacted by the press were prepared to respond to the advice given to Datuk Z for fear that they would offend him. His reputation certainly precedes him..."
"The fact is Datuk Z has become a political liability, not just to Umno but the Barisan Nasional..."
"Datuk Z is no stranger to controversies. In 2000, he allegedly slapped Bandar Klang assemblyman at the state assembly building..."
"In 2001, Datuk Z was among 13 Umno members who were found guilty by the Umno disciplinary board for breaching party ethics during the party polls. He was issued with a warning..."
"On the local level, the people of Klang still cannot forget how a group of councillors, including Datuk Z, backed a RM10.4mil project, which has now been scrapped following public protests. The plan called for 1.2ha of a 10.3ha field to be developed into a complex with three to five storey buildings housing 60 units of offices and shop lots. Twenty per cent of these lots were reported to be given to the Klang Municipal Council (MPK)..."
"The Datuk Z case is no longer a local case but has gained national attention because ordinary Malaysians can no longer stomach such abuses..." Who would anyway??? It's just that we were not given the avenue to do so.
"They do not want to see civil servants and the people being bullied and intimidated by powerful war lords while some politicians prefer to "close one eye" for political expediency..." Again, who would want to be shoved around? There's a limit to every extreme you know?
"In this case, the apparent lack of strong political will at state level has led to the intervention of Sultan..." What would have happened if the Sultan didn't intervene? Would he have been let off scott free with a mere slap on the hand?
Whatever it is, I'm for one, glad that justice finally prevails. No doubt there are many more scumbags out there, at least this is a start. Lets see if this will serve as a lesson to all you dirty politicians out there who is milking the rakyat dry.
Monday, October 23, 2006
JINX!!!!
10:30am - Signing BLs and reminding L to pass all the documents that needs endorsements before I leave at 11.00am.
11:00am - Leave office, walk pass L and out of office.
11:05am - Reversing car...*ring..ring...* L on the phone, "Richard, can you sign this one document?" Grumble...grumble...
11:10am - Walk up 2 flight of staircase to sign document. Walk down again.
11:15am - Leave for Klang town to collect DO.
11:35am - Arrive at XYZ Shipping Line and proceed to 6th floor.
11:37am - Ring doorbell at XYZ Shipping Line.
11:39am - Still ringing doorbell. Grumble... grumble...
11:40am - Door finally open. Pass documents and cheque to DO clerk for clearance. Her face very black. Must be leave for Deepavali not approved. Better be nice to her.
11:50am - DO clerk came out and said, "Cannot release lah... this one not under telex release. Where is the original BL?"
Me: "It is under telex release. Can you please check again?"
DO clerk: "Check already, system doesn't show. I'll write to Vancouver office. But have to wait lah. It's at night now in Canada."
Me: "Oh... ok. So, cannot collect lah?"
DO clerk: "Cannot. U come back n Wednesday lah. I am working on that day."
Me: Grumble...grumble... "Ok lor."
12:10pm - Walk back to car without DO. Fish for car keys... Found them hanging in the ignition. Locked myself out of the car. #&^^%$&!!!!
12:15pm - Called G to help pick me up at Klang to go back to Kepong to get spare keys.
12:16pm - Called parents to tell them that keys got locked in the car and will be back to get the spare. Dad said to get the house keys from the neighbors coz they are going out to lunch with friends. Sigh....
12:35pm - G arrived and drove straight back to Kepong.
1:10pm - Got spare keys and rushed back to Klang.
2:00pm - Managed to open car door...sigh of relieve!
2:01pm - Car won't start... keys have been on ignition "on". $%!#%$*&^!!!!!
2:10pm - Car still won't start... got G to drive around looking for a car accesory shop to buy jump cables.
2:30pm - Found shop and bought jump cables.
2:45pm - Got back to car and jump start car.
2:50pm - Started driving back to office.
3:20pm - Got back to office. Started reviewing reports.
6:40pm - Finish reading and amending reports.
What a JINX day! Blek!!!!!
11:00am - Leave office, walk pass L and out of office.
11:05am - Reversing car...*ring..ring...* L on the phone, "Richard, can you sign this one document?" Grumble...grumble...
11:10am - Walk up 2 flight of staircase to sign document. Walk down again.
11:15am - Leave for Klang town to collect DO.
11:35am - Arrive at XYZ Shipping Line and proceed to 6th floor.
11:37am - Ring doorbell at XYZ Shipping Line.
11:39am - Still ringing doorbell. Grumble... grumble...
11:40am - Door finally open. Pass documents and cheque to DO clerk for clearance. Her face very black. Must be leave for Deepavali not approved. Better be nice to her.
11:50am - DO clerk came out and said, "Cannot release lah... this one not under telex release. Where is the original BL?"
Me: "It is under telex release. Can you please check again?"
DO clerk: "Check already, system doesn't show. I'll write to Vancouver office. But have to wait lah. It's at night now in Canada."
Me: "Oh... ok. So, cannot collect lah?"
DO clerk: "Cannot. U come back n Wednesday lah. I am working on that day."
Me: Grumble...grumble... "Ok lor."
12:10pm - Walk back to car without DO. Fish for car keys... Found them hanging in the ignition. Locked myself out of the car. #&^^%$&!!!!
12:15pm - Called G to help pick me up at Klang to go back to Kepong to get spare keys.
12:16pm - Called parents to tell them that keys got locked in the car and will be back to get the spare. Dad said to get the house keys from the neighbors coz they are going out to lunch with friends. Sigh....
12:35pm - G arrived and drove straight back to Kepong.
1:10pm - Got spare keys and rushed back to Klang.
2:00pm - Managed to open car door...sigh of relieve!
2:01pm - Car won't start... keys have been on ignition "on". $%!#%$*&^!!!!!
2:10pm - Car still won't start... got G to drive around looking for a car accesory shop to buy jump cables.
2:30pm - Found shop and bought jump cables.
2:45pm - Got back to car and jump start car.
2:50pm - Started driving back to office.
3:20pm - Got back to office. Started reviewing reports.
6:40pm - Finish reading and amending reports.
What a JINX day! Blek!!!!!
Friday, October 20, 2006
Transformers
I was caught up at a traffic junction on my way back from an appointment this morning. While waiting for the lights to turn green, I heard this really loud, growling sound. Sounded like a monster truck coming from behind. So, I looked up the rear view mirror and lo and behold, 4 "muscled up" Kancils stopped beside me. I looked with intense amusement over the details they added onto their little monsters. Full spoilers, skirtings, alloy sport rims, full black tinting and those "must have" tacky stickers with taglines that doesn't make sense to me. :-P Oh! Forgot about the stainless steel gigantic terowong type exhaust pipes. Otherwise, how to create monster truck sound, right?
Well, since this happened in Klang, seeing these cars zipping around and terrorising motorist is quite common lah. I guess the Ah Beng Syndrome is still very much in the hearts of many pure Klangites. XP
What I later found out, which further amuses me is that all the cosmetic make over on the car is well, cosmetics only. Most of the time, the engine is left untouched. Hence, no additional tuning or modification to make the car more powerful. Now, I know why I hear those loud noises, but I can still see the car crawling. I guess these Ah Bengs forgot that all the additional accesories and cosmetic face lifts also adds on weight to the car. So, with only 850 cc and 1.3 (for those Satria lovers), the car struggles to pick up speed lah! It looks really funny when you hear the engine revving so loudly but the car is crawling at snail speed!!! Hahahaha!
Another "must have" for these cars are lowered suspensions. They make the cars look really sporty and they're supposed to handle better too. More stable mah. That's what people tell me lah. But then, they also forget that Klang is the land of plenty. Plenty of potholes, that is. And also speed bumbs that can probably rival the Great Wall of China. I've trailed behind these lowered cars before and saw how stressful these drivers get trying to manouver past each speed bump so that the undercarriage (along with the skirtings and the terowong exhaust pipe) don't scrap on the speed bumps. Honestly, I really don't see the point of spending all that money to so call beef up the car and then later suffer on our wonderful roads in the Klang Valley.
One of my best friend went through a phase with his Ah Beng car as well. Added all that bling bling and of course lowered the car so low that the 16" sports rim is almost touching the wheel arch. After numerous repairs over muffler bocor and skirtings yanked off from the speed bumbs, the grand finale came in the form of a broken gear box. That was the last straw that broke the camel's back. He's now driving a Vios with all the original parts and accesories. Talk about an expensive lesson!
Anyway, to all "transformer" lovers out there, don't get angry over my musings ah! There is really nothing wrong with this passion or your need to express your individuality by having a modified car. But do it sensibly and more importantly, have safety for yourself AND others in mind. Cheers and Happy Deepavali!
Well, since this happened in Klang, seeing these cars zipping around and terrorising motorist is quite common lah. I guess the Ah Beng Syndrome is still very much in the hearts of many pure Klangites. XP
What I later found out, which further amuses me is that all the cosmetic make over on the car is well, cosmetics only. Most of the time, the engine is left untouched. Hence, no additional tuning or modification to make the car more powerful. Now, I know why I hear those loud noises, but I can still see the car crawling. I guess these Ah Bengs forgot that all the additional accesories and cosmetic face lifts also adds on weight to the car. So, with only 850 cc and 1.3 (for those Satria lovers), the car struggles to pick up speed lah! It looks really funny when you hear the engine revving so loudly but the car is crawling at snail speed!!! Hahahaha!
Another "must have" for these cars are lowered suspensions. They make the cars look really sporty and they're supposed to handle better too. More stable mah. That's what people tell me lah. But then, they also forget that Klang is the land of plenty. Plenty of potholes, that is. And also speed bumbs that can probably rival the Great Wall of China. I've trailed behind these lowered cars before and saw how stressful these drivers get trying to manouver past each speed bump so that the undercarriage (along with the skirtings and the terowong exhaust pipe) don't scrap on the speed bumps. Honestly, I really don't see the point of spending all that money to so call beef up the car and then later suffer on our wonderful roads in the Klang Valley.
One of my best friend went through a phase with his Ah Beng car as well. Added all that bling bling and of course lowered the car so low that the 16" sports rim is almost touching the wheel arch. After numerous repairs over muffler bocor and skirtings yanked off from the speed bumbs, the grand finale came in the form of a broken gear box. That was the last straw that broke the camel's back. He's now driving a Vios with all the original parts and accesories. Talk about an expensive lesson!
Anyway, to all "transformer" lovers out there, don't get angry over my musings ah! There is really nothing wrong with this passion or your need to express your individuality by having a modified car. But do it sensibly and more importantly, have safety for yourself AND others in mind. Cheers and Happy Deepavali!
Thursday, October 19, 2006
Tis the season...
It's another round of holidays around the corner and many are busy with preparations to celebrate the coming Deepavali and Hari Raya Aidilfitri. With the festivals coming up within a couple of days, the streets and malls are bustling with people shopping for new clothes, cookies, treats and home decos. I'm sure lots of people are now busy sprucing up their homes, in time for their "open house."
Amidst all the hustle and bustle of preparations, I somewhat feel that our ways of celebrating festivities have changed quite a bit over the years. I remember as a kid, Hari Raya meant going out in a big group of classmates and visiting our class teacher and some of our friends who lived in kampung nearby (Unfortunately, there's hardly any kampungs as per se in KL anymore). Raya also meant home made ketupat (real ketupat with the leaves and all, ok!), rendang and fresh lemang cooked in front of their yards. Deepavali meant zipping around the city with the same big gang (we kids always travelled in groups :-P) from bus to bus (we were champions in remembering all the bus numbes and routes), visiting friends and enjoying all the putu mayams, dosa and mutton curry we can stuff ourselves with. Christmas was about making cards and gifts for friends and admiring the dainty Christmas trees at their homes with all the decos and cotton balls (for snow mah!). Of course, Chinese New Year morning will always be welcomed with the familiar smell of gun powder and red paper confetti from all the fire cracker blasting competitions the night before. Oh, and there is the angpao collections which we happily anticipated from friends, neighbours and even strangers!
Coming back to present days, these celebrations seem to have taken several twists and turn. Mostly, these festivals have been commercialised to cater for consumer spending. They no longer carry the original essence of what the celebration is all about. Rather, it is a celebration of shopping and more shopping. Gone are the days where most people welcome guests openly into their homes for a meal during open house. With the current rising crime rate, nobody in their right mind would do that unless you are looking forward to an open house cum robbery session. Most people have resorted to invitations and rsvp's for their open houses. Meals and goodies are no longer (or very rarely) home made. There is always the convenience of top standard caterers who's able to whip up any dishes you fancy. All you have to do is just pay for it. Gone are the days of ketupat and lemang cooking on the front yard. These are replaced by commercial "nasi himpit" nicely packed and sold in the supermarket. Don't even think about trying to cook lemang on your condo balcony or terrace house "garden" unless you want to be issued a summon for open burning and fire hazard! And there's also the famous commercial "home-made" cookies from factories in Puchong or Johor Baru to cater for all the "must have" kuih muih's lining our coffee tables. Christmas trees are no longer scrawny plastic stumps with paper "needles." And, God forbid... those cotton balls!!! No way!!! These are replaced with imported "designer" trees with models that resembles different pine species. Now, you can decorate your American Pine with Bohemian Christmas themed decos from Metrojaya. Or perhaps you may fancy Sparkling Crystals on an Austrian Fir? The choices are endless, thanks to our increased spending power.
However, it's not all that bad and not all is lost. There's also lots of cultural exchange from the years of assimilation. Now angpow giving, which were quite exclusively a Chinese practice, is widely practiced among the other races as well. Perhaps the color of the packets may not be red, but nevertheless, the practice is the same. We also see rendang or curries as a regular dish in non-Malay open houses. We all exchange gifts during Christmas and some of my non-Christian friends also joined the bandwagon to purchase a Christmas tree just to join in the festivities and fun.
So, I guess there are pros and cons out of everything. Perhaps I may no longer get to enjoy home made ketupat or hear firecrackers blasting openly, but I can certainly still enjoy the retail therapy at the malls and "absorb" the festivities while I'm there. Like they say, if you can beat them, join them! See you at the malls!
Amidst all the hustle and bustle of preparations, I somewhat feel that our ways of celebrating festivities have changed quite a bit over the years. I remember as a kid, Hari Raya meant going out in a big group of classmates and visiting our class teacher and some of our friends who lived in kampung nearby (Unfortunately, there's hardly any kampungs as per se in KL anymore). Raya also meant home made ketupat (real ketupat with the leaves and all, ok!), rendang and fresh lemang cooked in front of their yards. Deepavali meant zipping around the city with the same big gang (we kids always travelled in groups :-P) from bus to bus (we were champions in remembering all the bus numbes and routes), visiting friends and enjoying all the putu mayams, dosa and mutton curry we can stuff ourselves with. Christmas was about making cards and gifts for friends and admiring the dainty Christmas trees at their homes with all the decos and cotton balls (for snow mah!). Of course, Chinese New Year morning will always be welcomed with the familiar smell of gun powder and red paper confetti from all the fire cracker blasting competitions the night before. Oh, and there is the angpao collections which we happily anticipated from friends, neighbours and even strangers!
Coming back to present days, these celebrations seem to have taken several twists and turn. Mostly, these festivals have been commercialised to cater for consumer spending. They no longer carry the original essence of what the celebration is all about. Rather, it is a celebration of shopping and more shopping. Gone are the days where most people welcome guests openly into their homes for a meal during open house. With the current rising crime rate, nobody in their right mind would do that unless you are looking forward to an open house cum robbery session. Most people have resorted to invitations and rsvp's for their open houses. Meals and goodies are no longer (or very rarely) home made. There is always the convenience of top standard caterers who's able to whip up any dishes you fancy. All you have to do is just pay for it. Gone are the days of ketupat and lemang cooking on the front yard. These are replaced by commercial "nasi himpit" nicely packed and sold in the supermarket. Don't even think about trying to cook lemang on your condo balcony or terrace house "garden" unless you want to be issued a summon for open burning and fire hazard! And there's also the famous commercial "home-made" cookies from factories in Puchong or Johor Baru to cater for all the "must have" kuih muih's lining our coffee tables. Christmas trees are no longer scrawny plastic stumps with paper "needles." And, God forbid... those cotton balls!!! No way!!! These are replaced with imported "designer" trees with models that resembles different pine species. Now, you can decorate your American Pine with Bohemian Christmas themed decos from Metrojaya. Or perhaps you may fancy Sparkling Crystals on an Austrian Fir? The choices are endless, thanks to our increased spending power.
However, it's not all that bad and not all is lost. There's also lots of cultural exchange from the years of assimilation. Now angpow giving, which were quite exclusively a Chinese practice, is widely practiced among the other races as well. Perhaps the color of the packets may not be red, but nevertheless, the practice is the same. We also see rendang or curries as a regular dish in non-Malay open houses. We all exchange gifts during Christmas and some of my non-Christian friends also joined the bandwagon to purchase a Christmas tree just to join in the festivities and fun.
So, I guess there are pros and cons out of everything. Perhaps I may no longer get to enjoy home made ketupat or hear firecrackers blasting openly, but I can certainly still enjoy the retail therapy at the malls and "absorb" the festivities while I'm there. Like they say, if you can beat them, join them! See you at the malls!
Friday, October 13, 2006
Double standard
Nothing irks me more nowadays than to read about the ever growing prominence of double standards in this country. With the current public declaration of marginalising non-Bumi's and public outcry of racial remarks, I can't help but to feel that there is nothing left to be proud of in this country. The latest news stating that some State Chief Minister defending the rights that it is not wrong to implement that only Bumi companies are allowed to supply stationeries and photocopier rentals to the government has certainly cross the line of racial harmony. They're given everything from major govt. projects and highway concessions to discounts and priority on housing. All laid down on a silver platter. So, what's next? Why not adopt a further degrading and marginalising policy that will not allow non-Bumi's salary to be more than the Bumi's! Maybe, the Mat Rempit's despatch salary should be revised to say, RM15,000 per month to compensate their dangerous and death defying acts on the road, while we, non-bumi's will slog and work our ass off for our honest to goodness RM500 per month lah!
Honestly, I don't care if anyone would want to kill me for saying this. After all, this ARE my private thoughts. The policies in this country not only goes against human rights stipulated by the United Nation, but it gives out a signal of self mockery by advertising on how incapable these people are without the help of the govt. If there are going to be strong opposition to my statements, then WHY are the non-Bumi's faring much better even with little or no help from the govt? I used to abhor feelings like this and thought that I live in the best country ever because there were little we see in each other's race or religion. They were more of an excuse to celebrate each other's festivities. We had fun then. Now, we have Ulama's saying that it is against their religion to "celebrate" festivities together. Why don't they just pack their belongings and move into a cave or something??!!!
I was nurtured from young by my parents on not to rely on our govt for a helping hand, because I don't stand a chance on that piece of pie anyway. I didn't turn out the way I am from their teachings. Rather, I saw with my own eyes how disappointed my father was, as a govt servant, working hard for 29 years, and seeing his Bumi juniors climbing one after another over him with promotions just because they are of the "right" race.
My recent inquiry for a certain license required to run an extension of my business requires a 51% bumi quota. WTF??? I have to hire additional redundant staff of the "right" race just to meet the quota so that I can serve my customers better??? What a bunch of bull crap!
I dread to see the future nowadays. I weep for our future generations who are learning how to hate because some people are not of the right color, race or religion. They are learning this very moment from their parents, teachers and leaders. No wonder we are never near our neighboring country's progress despite all the money dumped in for infrastructure. If the govt is allowing this to happen, soon, segregation of race for schools, malls and even cinemas could be inevitable. Then, let's ALL live in the past of apartheid glory and unleash the Klu Klux Klan doctrine. I'm sure we will all prosper! BAH!!!
Honestly, I don't care if anyone would want to kill me for saying this. After all, this ARE my private thoughts. The policies in this country not only goes against human rights stipulated by the United Nation, but it gives out a signal of self mockery by advertising on how incapable these people are without the help of the govt. If there are going to be strong opposition to my statements, then WHY are the non-Bumi's faring much better even with little or no help from the govt? I used to abhor feelings like this and thought that I live in the best country ever because there were little we see in each other's race or religion. They were more of an excuse to celebrate each other's festivities. We had fun then. Now, we have Ulama's saying that it is against their religion to "celebrate" festivities together. Why don't they just pack their belongings and move into a cave or something??!!!
I was nurtured from young by my parents on not to rely on our govt for a helping hand, because I don't stand a chance on that piece of pie anyway. I didn't turn out the way I am from their teachings. Rather, I saw with my own eyes how disappointed my father was, as a govt servant, working hard for 29 years, and seeing his Bumi juniors climbing one after another over him with promotions just because they are of the "right" race.
My recent inquiry for a certain license required to run an extension of my business requires a 51% bumi quota. WTF??? I have to hire additional redundant staff of the "right" race just to meet the quota so that I can serve my customers better??? What a bunch of bull crap!
I dread to see the future nowadays. I weep for our future generations who are learning how to hate because some people are not of the right color, race or religion. They are learning this very moment from their parents, teachers and leaders. No wonder we are never near our neighboring country's progress despite all the money dumped in for infrastructure. If the govt is allowing this to happen, soon, segregation of race for schools, malls and even cinemas could be inevitable. Then, let's ALL live in the past of apartheid glory and unleash the Klu Klux Klan doctrine. I'm sure we will all prosper! BAH!!!
Wednesday, October 11, 2006
Refreshed!
Ahhhh... Yesterday's break really made my day. (Big thanks to Selangor for declaring it a holiday! :D) One should never under estimate what a days break can do to a person's mind and body. Now imagine repeating this for the next two weeks...Hehehehehehe!!! Ultimate bliss!
Most people would envision me vegetating all day yesterday. However, it was more of having the chance to clean up the pad, doing laundry and catching up on my reading. I even had the luxury of preparing a nice meal! This is such a far cry from my normal routine of rushing home from work and grabbing anything that is not rotting from the fridge and throwing it into the wok. All in the name of preparing some barely edible "home cooked" meal. LOL!
I was actually quite surprised that I couldn't sit still for more than 5 minutes at home, since I originally planned to do so. It seems what I really needed was a different role play from my normal routine at work. Since I spend most of my time at work, doing something different kind of made my day. It was nice to be able to do things that do not require my phone perpetually glued to my ears, or to run around attending meetings or preparing presentations. Not forgetting the "other job" where I work closely with my trusty measuring tape and bundles of samples. So, I guess yesterday really worked out fine for me.
Now that I am refreshed, I can go out and conquer the world again! Big bad world, here I come!!! **Puts on face mask before dashing out through the front door**
Most people would envision me vegetating all day yesterday. However, it was more of having the chance to clean up the pad, doing laundry and catching up on my reading. I even had the luxury of preparing a nice meal! This is such a far cry from my normal routine of rushing home from work and grabbing anything that is not rotting from the fridge and throwing it into the wok. All in the name of preparing some barely edible "home cooked" meal. LOL!
I was actually quite surprised that I couldn't sit still for more than 5 minutes at home, since I originally planned to do so. It seems what I really needed was a different role play from my normal routine at work. Since I spend most of my time at work, doing something different kind of made my day. It was nice to be able to do things that do not require my phone perpetually glued to my ears, or to run around attending meetings or preparing presentations. Not forgetting the "other job" where I work closely with my trusty measuring tape and bundles of samples. So, I guess yesterday really worked out fine for me.
Now that I am refreshed, I can go out and conquer the world again! Big bad world, here I come!!! **Puts on face mask before dashing out through the front door**
Monday, October 09, 2006
Silent
Have anyone of you had days where you just don't want to deal with anyone? You just don't want to talk to anyone? Even the first ring on the phone annoys the hell out of you? These are the days that you just silently walk into you office and close the door behind you and hope the day will end in a blink of an eye. Yep... one of those days.
I don't know... Is it the haze? (After all, IT IS by far the worst today!!!) Is it the lack of quality sleep lately? Is it because I really needed a break? I dunno...
I'm not angry with anyone. It's just that I don't want to talk to anyone today. Is this wrong? Am I rude? All I wanted is silence for the entire day. No phones ringing, no meetings, no appointments, no "to-do" list... nothing.
I think I need to get out of KL.
I don't know... Is it the haze? (After all, IT IS by far the worst today!!!) Is it the lack of quality sleep lately? Is it because I really needed a break? I dunno...
I'm not angry with anyone. It's just that I don't want to talk to anyone today. Is this wrong? Am I rude? All I wanted is silence for the entire day. No phones ringing, no meetings, no appointments, no "to-do" list... nothing.
I think I need to get out of KL.
Thursday, October 05, 2006
Beautiful homes
Since it's the peak period for curtains and blinds this time of the year, I have the privilege to yet again, explore some of the most amazing homes while working (that's why I love this job!) To date, I have entered countless homes and have personally seen the gradual changes from pre-renovation till the final touches is being done. I've done little studio apartments to palatial mansions. Every job has it's own interesting character (as well as job hazards!!!). I remember having to balance precariously over a banister on the second floor trying to hang up a pair of curtains that were 2 storey high!!! Whatever difficulties we face though, the final results always gives me a safisfaction high, especially when a client's appreciation and satisfaction shows through their approving nods and smile.
It's also the owner's character of each home that makes the home interesting as well. I remember a pleasant surprise when the diva actress cooked dinner for our entire crew since we were installing curtains at her home till late at night. And I will never forget the covergirl model who partied so hard the night before that she forgot about our appointment in the morning. We knocked on her door for close to an hour before she got up from bed. She was nice enough to apologise though. Then there's the "cool" Pak Haji who wanted linen drapes to complement his modern zen art pieces. There were also the unusual requests from people insisting to do the impossible, in the name of wanting to be unique and different. Imagine, we had an order for denim curtains complete with pockets and zippers! There was also the lady who insisted on leopard and zebra prints for her drapes in the bedroom. KINKY!!! LOL!!!
I just got back from one assignment this afternoon. A double storey link house under major renovation and the interiors were done up in retro design. The owners were a young and trendy couple running a media business. It would be quite interesting sourcing for the right materials since we couldn't use conventional designs. I may be looking at materials for clothing instead.
Well, at least today was a good and productive day. Time to morph back to logistics man... have tonnes to do with all the shipments moving outbound.
It's also the owner's character of each home that makes the home interesting as well. I remember a pleasant surprise when the diva actress cooked dinner for our entire crew since we were installing curtains at her home till late at night. And I will never forget the covergirl model who partied so hard the night before that she forgot about our appointment in the morning. We knocked on her door for close to an hour before she got up from bed. She was nice enough to apologise though. Then there's the "cool" Pak Haji who wanted linen drapes to complement his modern zen art pieces. There were also the unusual requests from people insisting to do the impossible, in the name of wanting to be unique and different. Imagine, we had an order for denim curtains complete with pockets and zippers! There was also the lady who insisted on leopard and zebra prints for her drapes in the bedroom. KINKY!!! LOL!!!
I just got back from one assignment this afternoon. A double storey link house under major renovation and the interiors were done up in retro design. The owners were a young and trendy couple running a media business. It would be quite interesting sourcing for the right materials since we couldn't use conventional designs. I may be looking at materials for clothing instead.
Well, at least today was a good and productive day. Time to morph back to logistics man... have tonnes to do with all the shipments moving outbound.
Wednesday, October 04, 2006
Hocus Pocus
I was just talking to a client just now and she sort of mentioned that she needed to "mandi bunga", since her business wasn't doing too good lately. Out of curiosity, I asked her what do they do during these "mandi bunga" rituals? Well, according to this gal, she would normally call in advance and book a date and time with this "bomoh" in some far away kampung (So high class one!!! Must book in advance some more!!!). Apparently, this bomoh will need the time to enter deep into the jungles to collect several types of lime grown wild in the forest plus 11 herbs and spices for the ritual. :-D Ok, I made the last part up. It was some wild betelnut leaves and some flowers to fulfill the potion lah. Anyway, Mr. Bomoh have to go into trance and fast for dunno how many days before this ritual can be done. Come mandi day, she would have to mandi berkemban at the entrance of the Mr. Bomoh's house with the concoction made with all the original recipe made by Mr. Bomoh himself. Then, as a symbolic ritual, the batik used to cover herself has to be discarded (like getting rid of all the bad luck lah).
Anyway, I did ask her how effective is this ritual? She said that it works and she normally does it once in several months to buang sway. I personally wouldn't know lah. After all, the cost of each ritual was quite expensive when I asked. RM400-500 wor!!! To me, it's more of a psychological euphoria one gets from each ritual because you may think that since all the bad karma has been washed away during this cleansing ritual, you start with a fresh slate. Hence, you tend to perform better in your work. A simple way to explain is probably likening the effect with a relaxing vacation or a day at the spa.
Would I give it a try? I don't know...Nevertheless, my guess is many Malaysian's still strongly believe in this ritual, be they young or old. I guess it's no harm as long one need not be nude or have the bomoh handling your body in any ways lah. We've heard enough news published on bagus bomoh's raping ladies seeking their help. What do you think?
Mandi bunga = cleansing ritual
Kampung = village
Bomoh = witch doctor
Mandi = bath
Berkemban = to wrap oneself around with a piece of cloth, towel, etc...
Batik = local handprinted cloth
Buang sway = get rid of bad karma
Anyway, I did ask her how effective is this ritual? She said that it works and she normally does it once in several months to buang sway. I personally wouldn't know lah. After all, the cost of each ritual was quite expensive when I asked. RM400-500 wor!!! To me, it's more of a psychological euphoria one gets from each ritual because you may think that since all the bad karma has been washed away during this cleansing ritual, you start with a fresh slate. Hence, you tend to perform better in your work. A simple way to explain is probably likening the effect with a relaxing vacation or a day at the spa.
Would I give it a try? I don't know...Nevertheless, my guess is many Malaysian's still strongly believe in this ritual, be they young or old. I guess it's no harm as long one need not be nude or have the bomoh handling your body in any ways lah. We've heard enough news published on bagus bomoh's raping ladies seeking their help. What do you think?
Mandi bunga = cleansing ritual
Kampung = village
Bomoh = witch doctor
Mandi = bath
Berkemban = to wrap oneself around with a piece of cloth, towel, etc...
Batik = local handprinted cloth
Buang sway = get rid of bad karma
Tuesday, October 03, 2006
Another day pass again.
Nothing spectacular happened or caught my attention today. I was bombarded with reports to read, reply and loads of paperwork. Good also lah. Today passed by like a whizz. Tomorrow will be a different story altogether. 4 more days till my new furniture arrives... hehehehehehe Chiao!
Monday, October 02, 2006
Burp.... skews me....
Yesterday was yet another gastronomical experience. No wonder my pants are getting extremely snug lately. xD
Last nite, SP was craving for some good food to reward herself over something she acomplished. (We're always finding reasons to reward ourselves with food...:PpPpPpP) Anyway, it has been a while since our roast duck and wine extravaganza, I thought, why not?
This time, we went to Anjappar's in Bangsar for some good Southern Indian food. It's really an eye opener for me when I flipped through the menu since the furthest I've ever ventured for Indian food is a roti canai (prata) or a dosa. Here, there were more than 20 types of rotis, idli's and dosa's and items that I've never heard before. I left the ordering to SP since she's the one who has all the relavant exposure from her stints in India. We ordered palak paneer (spinach with cottage cheese), gobi 65 (cauliflower deep friend in massala batter), a crispy dosa, some roti which I can't pronounce and a set of thin putus. The meals came with sambar (dhall curry), coconut chutney and a very spicy tomato chutney. All in all, my favourite was the palak paneer, gobi 65 and dosa. The spinach was creamed very well and the little cubes of paneer was delicious. It taste and has a texture similar to tau kua. Absolutely yummy! The gobi 65 was surprisingly crunchy and full of flavour. The dosa was very crispy and done very well. SP later told me that Anjappar's is actually one of many chain restaurants from Chennai. Even the staff they hired were from India, including the restaurant captain. We finished off the meal with a cup of delicious massala tea, which we have to tarik ourselves!!! That was some experience and kinda fun too!
After dinner, we walked towards the pasar malam nearby to look-see-look-see. We found the DVD shop along that row opened, so we thought that we could go in and pick out some good movies (pirated ones..hehehehehe) Halfway through selecting, suddenly there was this commotion and the next thing we knew, the shutters came down the front door and locked all of us in! Apparantly, the big bro of the shop said that the authorities are just around the corner. Since we were all trapped inside, we decided to continue selecting our DVD's lah. I guess these guys and their patrons are so used to this cause no one panicked at all. In fact, most customers just coolly sat on the chairs and waited till the coast is clear. After 1/2 an hour, we were "released" through the back door. That was some experience and we had such a good laugh over it. SP thought that it would have been a cool experience if we were all arrested and hauled up into the truck. Err... having my face splashed all over newspaper front pages in a round up??? I don't think so!
Anyway, we walked further up to make sure we arrive at Matthias on time before they closes. FYI, this is one place that sells the WORLD'S BEST GELATO!!!! I kid you not. Where in the entire Klang Valley can you find homemade gelato from a famous pastry chef for the price of RM5.50 for 2 scoops???!!!! I know that I am kiam siap, but at least I am kiam siap with class ok? Well, we decided to have Mascarpone and Rasberry this time. The combination was sinfully delicious! The taste of creamy mascarpone cheese in every bite works wonders when combined with the tangy sorbet-like rasberry gelato. We fought for the occasional chunks of rasberry. Guess who won? :-P All-in-all, it was a delactable experience.
It was indeed a fun 0uting, albeit over eating this time round. The indigestion at the later part wasn't that fun.
BTW, SP messaged me this morning to tell me that she would like to have another round of duck and wine before she leaves for India again next month. Keep this up and I'll be a fat rolly polly in no time!!!
Tau kua = firm tofu
Kiam siap = stingy, cheap
Last nite, SP was craving for some good food to reward herself over something she acomplished. (We're always finding reasons to reward ourselves with food...:PpPpPpP) Anyway, it has been a while since our roast duck and wine extravaganza, I thought, why not?
This time, we went to Anjappar's in Bangsar for some good Southern Indian food. It's really an eye opener for me when I flipped through the menu since the furthest I've ever ventured for Indian food is a roti canai (prata) or a dosa. Here, there were more than 20 types of rotis, idli's and dosa's and items that I've never heard before. I left the ordering to SP since she's the one who has all the relavant exposure from her stints in India. We ordered palak paneer (spinach with cottage cheese), gobi 65 (cauliflower deep friend in massala batter), a crispy dosa, some roti which I can't pronounce and a set of thin putus. The meals came with sambar (dhall curry), coconut chutney and a very spicy tomato chutney. All in all, my favourite was the palak paneer, gobi 65 and dosa. The spinach was creamed very well and the little cubes of paneer was delicious. It taste and has a texture similar to tau kua. Absolutely yummy! The gobi 65 was surprisingly crunchy and full of flavour. The dosa was very crispy and done very well. SP later told me that Anjappar's is actually one of many chain restaurants from Chennai. Even the staff they hired were from India, including the restaurant captain. We finished off the meal with a cup of delicious massala tea, which we have to tarik ourselves!!! That was some experience and kinda fun too!
After dinner, we walked towards the pasar malam nearby to look-see-look-see. We found the DVD shop along that row opened, so we thought that we could go in and pick out some good movies (pirated ones..hehehehehe) Halfway through selecting, suddenly there was this commotion and the next thing we knew, the shutters came down the front door and locked all of us in! Apparantly, the big bro of the shop said that the authorities are just around the corner. Since we were all trapped inside, we decided to continue selecting our DVD's lah. I guess these guys and their patrons are so used to this cause no one panicked at all. In fact, most customers just coolly sat on the chairs and waited till the coast is clear. After 1/2 an hour, we were "released" through the back door. That was some experience and we had such a good laugh over it. SP thought that it would have been a cool experience if we were all arrested and hauled up into the truck. Err... having my face splashed all over newspaper front pages in a round up??? I don't think so!
Anyway, we walked further up to make sure we arrive at Matthias on time before they closes. FYI, this is one place that sells the WORLD'S BEST GELATO!!!! I kid you not. Where in the entire Klang Valley can you find homemade gelato from a famous pastry chef for the price of RM5.50 for 2 scoops???!!!! I know that I am kiam siap, but at least I am kiam siap with class ok? Well, we decided to have Mascarpone and Rasberry this time. The combination was sinfully delicious! The taste of creamy mascarpone cheese in every bite works wonders when combined with the tangy sorbet-like rasberry gelato. We fought for the occasional chunks of rasberry. Guess who won? :-P All-in-all, it was a delactable experience.
It was indeed a fun 0uting, albeit over eating this time round. The indigestion at the later part wasn't that fun.
BTW, SP messaged me this morning to tell me that she would like to have another round of duck and wine before she leaves for India again next month. Keep this up and I'll be a fat rolly polly in no time!!!
Tau kua = firm tofu
Kiam siap = stingy, cheap
Friday, September 29, 2006
Kahwin
This week is certainly one heck of a character building week. God must really want to test my patience since I've always been seeking His guidance for patience. "Ask and you shall receive." I've never thought that this "test" would hit me like a truck.
As I've mentioned earlier, it started with the computer server. Then, it was the business management, staff issues and now this??? Alright, I really do not need THIS! In case you guys out there are looking dumbfounded on what the hell I'm talking about, it's the topic on marriage.
I knew this topic of me not beeing married is going to creep up sometime but I was expecting it from my immediate family or at least from my closest buddies. Not some ex-colleagues that I've not seen or kept in touch for like 6 years or so. This was really unexpected and to a certain extend, I felt that my privacy was invaded by these people.
It all started this morning amidst the chaos of phones ringing and trying to get urgent emails sent out from a semi-comatose server. I happened to receive a call from an ex-colleague which I've not seen or spoken for quite some time. Mind you, I've changed 4 different companies since we were last working together. Anyway, after exchanging "hello"s and updating each other, she asked,
"So, are you married?"
Naturally, I replied, "Nope." Like I usually do.
Then, it came... "Well, actually so and so from the accounts department was asking, when are you getting married?"and "So and so from this and that department was also asking when can they receive your wedding invitation?"
It turned out that this call was actually made specifically because the entire office was asking when I was going to get married! I was dumb founded for a while...And I kept on thinking why should anyone who has not seen me for 3/4 of a decade is pushing me to get married? I'm not sure whether it is just human nature to be kay po, or is it such a heinous crime that one should be thrown into fiery pits of fire from hell because he/she is not married?
I have no objections or anything against the sanctity of marriage. But, I believe that one should marry when he/ she is truly ready and commited to each other. At this moment, I'm not sure whether I am ready for this type of commitment. Pets and plants? Yes. But marriage??? That is such a BIG word! I do admit that I may have some commitment issues, but can you blame a person who has had past relationships that were traumatic enough to scar a person for life? At this moment, I am quite contented to be single. In fact, I kinda enjoy it. Lotsa people think that I'm wierd because I chose to be single for the moment. But again, is it a crime?
It seems like at my age, everyone is expecting me to be hitched or at least be a "serial dater." Come on!!! I mean, I've not reached the stage where people are so desperate that they would have to join reality shows that features 20 guys wooing 1 girl. That's what you call desperate!!!
To be honest, I do enjoy going out dating once in a while. It's sort of like making up for lost time during my teenage years since I was put in an all boys school and my parents were super strict about dating policies (that means no gf's when you are in school). But at this moment, I would like it to remain as just that.
So, to those of you who's thinking about asking me THAT question again? Don't bother cause I may just give out your number to a dating agency and let you have a feel what it's like to be in the broiler, OK??? Blek!!!
Alright, I've got work to do. Shoo!!! shoo!!!
As I've mentioned earlier, it started with the computer server. Then, it was the business management, staff issues and now this??? Alright, I really do not need THIS! In case you guys out there are looking dumbfounded on what the hell I'm talking about, it's the topic on marriage.
I knew this topic of me not beeing married is going to creep up sometime but I was expecting it from my immediate family or at least from my closest buddies. Not some ex-colleagues that I've not seen or kept in touch for like 6 years or so. This was really unexpected and to a certain extend, I felt that my privacy was invaded by these people.
It all started this morning amidst the chaos of phones ringing and trying to get urgent emails sent out from a semi-comatose server. I happened to receive a call from an ex-colleague which I've not seen or spoken for quite some time. Mind you, I've changed 4 different companies since we were last working together. Anyway, after exchanging "hello"s and updating each other, she asked,
"So, are you married?"
Naturally, I replied, "Nope." Like I usually do.
Then, it came... "Well, actually so and so from the accounts department was asking, when are you getting married?"and "So and so from this and that department was also asking when can they receive your wedding invitation?"
It turned out that this call was actually made specifically because the entire office was asking when I was going to get married! I was dumb founded for a while...And I kept on thinking why should anyone who has not seen me for 3/4 of a decade is pushing me to get married? I'm not sure whether it is just human nature to be kay po, or is it such a heinous crime that one should be thrown into fiery pits of fire from hell because he/she is not married?
I have no objections or anything against the sanctity of marriage. But, I believe that one should marry when he/ she is truly ready and commited to each other. At this moment, I'm not sure whether I am ready for this type of commitment. Pets and plants? Yes. But marriage??? That is such a BIG word! I do admit that I may have some commitment issues, but can you blame a person who has had past relationships that were traumatic enough to scar a person for life? At this moment, I am quite contented to be single. In fact, I kinda enjoy it. Lotsa people think that I'm wierd because I chose to be single for the moment. But again, is it a crime?
It seems like at my age, everyone is expecting me to be hitched or at least be a "serial dater." Come on!!! I mean, I've not reached the stage where people are so desperate that they would have to join reality shows that features 20 guys wooing 1 girl. That's what you call desperate!!!
To be honest, I do enjoy going out dating once in a while. It's sort of like making up for lost time during my teenage years since I was put in an all boys school and my parents were super strict about dating policies (that means no gf's when you are in school). But at this moment, I would like it to remain as just that.
So, to those of you who's thinking about asking me THAT question again? Don't bother cause I may just give out your number to a dating agency and let you have a feel what it's like to be in the broiler, OK??? Blek!!!
Alright, I've got work to do. Shoo!!! shoo!!!
Thursday, September 28, 2006
Time management
Alright... I am in trouble!!! I've overbooked my schedule again! There's got to be a way to do this better. You see, running several business portfolio isn't exactly an easy feat.
Last weekend, I thought that I would be able to catch my breath with most issues taken care of. Come Monday, all hell break loose with system problems and indecisive client's wanting to do the impossibles within the constrains of local and international laws. To top it up I totally forgot that Ramadhan has started and that means, soft material and interior business is ON AGAIN!!! Now, I've to balance my time precariously on thin ice. One minute solving some logistical issues and the next, measuring windows and giving out opinion on what material looks good on them.
It's not the job that kills me, I love my job. It's just that sometimes, the distance on running around North to South and East to West in one day is taking the toll on my energy & sanity. Thank God my trusty "taxi" is able to take my battering all these 6 years. **muaks!!**
I hope that I can push along this month before losing my head. Happy pill, happy pill please!!!!!!!!!!
Last weekend, I thought that I would be able to catch my breath with most issues taken care of. Come Monday, all hell break loose with system problems and indecisive client's wanting to do the impossibles within the constrains of local and international laws. To top it up I totally forgot that Ramadhan has started and that means, soft material and interior business is ON AGAIN!!! Now, I've to balance my time precariously on thin ice. One minute solving some logistical issues and the next, measuring windows and giving out opinion on what material looks good on them.
It's not the job that kills me, I love my job. It's just that sometimes, the distance on running around North to South and East to West in one day is taking the toll on my energy & sanity. Thank God my trusty "taxi" is able to take my battering all these 6 years. **muaks!!**
I hope that I can push along this month before losing my head. Happy pill, happy pill please!!!!!!!!!!
Tuesday, September 26, 2006
Watudu?
The office has gone chaotic again when the goddamn server kaput again. Sigh... this time it is the accounting system. Apparently the system was corrupted. Every now and then, the server will shut itself down like it has a life of its own. **Imagine** work...work...work... time for siesta...shut down....
It's been like this the whole month. Apparently, the software guy told me that it would be best not to share the accounting server with the internet server. Wah!!! I was just imagining more $$$ flying out as he was babbling in lightning speed using languages that I have never heard before. Anyway, I told him that I would think about it lah. Not that I knew very much what he was saying anyway. :-P
For the time being, my poor CS would have to prepare her invoicing manually first lah. I can see how "black" her face is right now but like I said, watudu??? I need to put in some serious thought before giving a go-a-head to buy another server. No need money one meh???
Ginseng too tired to think d... wanna go home and hibernate.
It's been like this the whole month. Apparently, the software guy told me that it would be best not to share the accounting server with the internet server. Wah!!! I was just imagining more $$$ flying out as he was babbling in lightning speed using languages that I have never heard before. Anyway, I told him that I would think about it lah. Not that I knew very much what he was saying anyway. :-P
For the time being, my poor CS would have to prepare her invoicing manually first lah. I can see how "black" her face is right now but like I said, watudu??? I need to put in some serious thought before giving a go-a-head to buy another server. No need money one meh???
Ginseng too tired to think d... wanna go home and hibernate.
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