What to LOVE about Malaysia?

Our country's Independence Day is approaching; actually it's just next Monday(31st of August 2009) and while radio stations are promoting this year's theme and blasting those patriotic songs, I have my own way of appreciating the country....(wait till I blast all those patriotic songs as well:)

I used to remember when I went to USA during my high school days to attend a summer camp; I met youths like me from all over the world who were at the camp and they were fascinated by my homeland that I was pounded with questions.
I was dismayed that they knew about Thailand, Singapore, and even Indonesia but they have no idea where Malaysia is located.

Anyway, I was proud that I had the opportunity to put my country in their eyes and minds as I reeled on and on about the culture, races, and everything there is to brag about my country.
Since I was the only Malaysian at the camp, I guess I am in a way the country's self-appointed ambassador as well, huh?

Today, I think Malaysia has definitely gained more recognition in the eyes of the world and we can even boast of our world-class architectures and all the natural resources we have here.

In conjunction with the remarkably historic day and also to boost the patriotic feeling among everyone, I have decided to do a simple compilation of what we should be proud of and definitely stand tall to tell others about our country!:)

1. Our magnificent KL City Centre; the Petronas Twin Towers

What is there not to be proud of this world-class and one of the world's finest architectures?
It was once the TALLEST building in the world; until Taipei 101 came into the picture. However, it still remains the world's tallest twin towers.
It is home to a huge shopping mall; which is fondly known to all shoppers as Suria KLCC
Excellent view; night or day!



2. KL Tower

It is the world's fifth tallest building! Yet another record:)
It has a revolving restaurant which allows diners to enjoy the view of the city.
Wikipedia: The tower also acts as the Islamic falak observatory to look for the crescent moon to mark the beginning of Muslim month of Ramadhan, Syawal, and Zulhijjah, to celebrate fasting month of Ramadhan, Hari Raya Aidilfitri and Aidiladha.

3. Putrajaya


The latest Federal territory added to our list of states; it is the home to the country's administration; taking the shift from Kuala Lumpur due to the overcrowding and congestion in the city.
Nevertheless, KL still holds the crown as the capital of the country and Putrajaya, despite its initial administrative notion, turned out to be one of the main tourist attractions.

It was actually the brainchild of our fourth Prime Minister;Tun Dr Mahathir Mohammad (Father of Modernization) and it was named after our first Prime Minister;Tunku Abdul Rahman Putra who was known as the Father of Independence.

4. Penang Bridge

One of the longest bridges in the world; spanning for 13.5km and the main connection between the mainland to the Penang island which is also known as the Pearl of the Orient.

5. Mulu Caves
The LARGEST cave in the world, mind you!:)
Located in Sarawak; it boasts of one of the most complex and intriguing passages and structure within it.

6. The abundance of tourist islands and beaches which are just world-class and breathtakingly beautiful and serene



-Pulau Langkawi
-Pulau Pangkor
-Pulau Tioman
-Pulau Perhentian
-Pulau Redang
-Pulau Kapas
-Sipadan

7. Natural and limestone caves; which housed places of worships
-Batu Caves, Selangor (Hindu temples)

-Sam Po Tong, Perak (Buddhist temples)


8. Two cities bestowed the title of World Heritage Sites simultaneously by UNESCO!
Penang (also known as Pearl of the Orient)

Melaka (Historical City)


9. Funicular railway and tram


Penang is one of the two cities in the whole Asia to have this; and this can be found on Penang Hill!

10. Land rich with natural resources

-Rubber
-Rice
-Petroleum, Gas
-Tea
-Palm Oil
-Rattan
-Tin
-Copper
-Granite
-Limestone
-Wood/timber

I could go on and on....but that's the top 10 things for now?
Did you really know all that as well?

Maybe we shall do a quiz next post ya?

Let's pause at the moment as obviously, there's so much good things to appreciate about our country; so why dwell on the negative ones only??

MERDEKA!!!!:D


Tanah Pusaka

sungguh gemilang negeriku
yang kupuja oh tanah Malaysia
diseluruh dunia
negaraku yang berdaulat negaraku

aman makmur kaya-raya
selamanya hidup maju jaya
oh tanah pusaka
negaraku yang berdaulat dan merdeka

tanah pusaka bertuah
berbagai bangsa di dalamnya
hidup aman dan bersama
bertekun kerja untuk Malaysia

musuh melanggarku gempur
sungguh rela ku gugur kerana
kau tanah pusaka
biar putih tulang jangan putih mata
(Ahmad Merican)

Our country has 4 seasons too~

I used to wonder how snow is like
How it feels like to hava macintosh or a stylish trench coat and a thick scarf wrapped around my neck, enjoying the cool breeze while watching the falling of the leaves from the tree

I don't have to imagine Spring or Summer though; since we are living it everyday

What amazes is me the beauty of my country which makes me feel safe from natural disasters which can be life-threatening, i.e: earthquakes, volcanoes, tornadoes, typhoon, etc.

In fact, we only came to knew of tsunami a few years back and we lost so many lives as Malaysians have not even seen tsunami; let alone imagine that it would ever occur here on our peaceful coastline!
We could also feel tremors from our neighbors when they experience earthquakes once in a while, but that's about it anyway.

I thank God for the paradise place we are living in.

Some foreigners even envy the all-year long summer we have here; as they long to wear those tank tops and beach shorts and thongs and slippers and enjoy themselves by the beach; and it's funny how on the other hand, we fantasize about living in their cold countries which they can't wait to get away from during the winter season.

Well, that being said, I start to feel that there is a nice pattern spreading over our country's yearly season too; where there seems to be four periods.
Oh, we still do not have snow yet...I am not sure whether it's next to impossible since we are located so near to the Equator (but it's nice to dream, and they say dreams do come true sometimes:)

For a start, January to March always start with a warm and a bit of rain type of weather; which makes it similar to Spring.
April to June/July will be so HOT and filled with the haze that you just feel like bathing in ice...that's like Summer
Then end of July to probably September will be slightly cool and rainy.....Autumn
Finally...September to probably end of the year will be rainy (monsoon period) so it's cool to COLD....Winter

So, see, my country does have its own lovely way of separating our humid weather (rain and sun) into 4 different sections as well:)

The plus point is, we do not need to change our wardrobes every quarter; but we have everything handy so that we can just don them whenever we need them.
We don't really stock on heavy and bulk jackets either; unless we are travelling to those cold climate countries.

Furthermore, we see Spring; where the flowers bloom all year long and we don't have to worry about them withering and die unless it's man-instigated; where they burn and cause a massive haze!

Now, isn't that a nice thing to love about my country?
I am wearing my thick wool sweater now; since it's so cold these days....brrrrrr

She's cooking again!

My neighbor's cooking again; and I think it's the Indian neighbor staying all the way at the ground level.

On Tuesday, it was curry fish head.....

(*Picture taken from web; belong to someone else)
I imagined it to be this way as the spices and curry powder used highly smells of those used by Indians.
It must be an Indian-style curry.
It is a good idea huh, to have hot and steaming curry (not to mention spicy) during such cold weather:p
It was steaming and cooking with such a lovely aromatic scent emitted around the neighborhood...it makes one think of that homemade dish.

On Wednesday, she was cooking again.....early morning, this time, I am pretty sure it's French Toast...

It had that bread and egg-y scent in the air!

She's always cooking; must be a model mother like what Donna Reed used to do yeah; cooking and tending to the family's stomach at all times:)
She's definitely a good cook too..LOL~

Stop, Measure, Sign, Stick and GO!

This week, my company has initiated their preventive measure in curbing the spread of A H1N1 in the office and has given instructions to all the offices to follow the measures taken.

Employees are all to be observed on a daily basis and have their temperature and health monitored by this new practice.

We have the posters all printed out and pinned to the wall right at the main entrance where the reception or lobby is.
A highly-advanced thermometer (imported I think and costs RM399) is placed on the table at the reception; along with a log book and a set of stickers.


Now how do we go about this?

For employees/visitors, all are required to go through the same steps.
When you enter the main entrance, you should be able to see the giant posters which you should be able to see (unless you're blind or serious astigmatism issues) which yelled "STOP" and request you to perform the steps as indicated in the poster.
There is even a poster to teach you how to use the thermometer.



So, the steps are as follows:
1. Stop at the table
2. Take the thermometer and measure your own temperature
3. Record the temperature in the log book; in a way, you are also signing in your attendance each day
The normal temperature would be less than 38
5. Proceed to work

*If your temperature is higher than 38 degrees Celsius, you need to leave the office immediately and go to see a doctor.
If positive, the employee will be quarantined.
If negative, get the certification from the doctor and get the MC to rest at home to avoid spreading other viruses as well.

Actually, this would encourage some of those "slacker" employees to even have a good excuse to skip work by making their body temperature hot so that it will be above 38 degrees and then having a valid excuse to just loiter outside work for a day or two.

However, at the same time, I think it was a good move to prevent the viruses from spreading.
Even my church has started their measures by advising people to stay at home when they're not feeling well so that they do not spread viruses.
There is no holy water as well when we enter the church; and Holy Communion is to be received by hand.
It reminds me of that HFM and Coxsackie and Bird Flu last time...the same preventive measures:p

Surprisingly, I am always the one who's recorded the highest temperature of all...
Perhaps that is an indication that I am a very 'warm' person..hehe:D

Whatever, today the sticker's green....hehehe, I think it means, GO for Friday...LOL!:D

Mild Viral infection?

I've had an interesting week; and I'm sure some of you who have been following my blog have noticed my inactivity for the past few days.
Sorry about that; but fret not, as I am about to spill out whatever that's happened all at once, as long as you have the capacity to read all of it!:D

Alright, I was actually down with a mild viral infection which caused a mild fever.

It has been raining like crazy over here...and much as I like it, I was feeling cold to no ends.
Seriously, I was like shivering most of the time!
I had even turned off the fan, closed the windows, wore thicker clothes and put on thick socks and snuggled under a warm blanket to sleep.
I felt so cold still!

I knew there was something wrong as my body felt really hot while I kept shivering; it somehow reminded me of a serious fever I've had last round which was quite dangerous.

I felt so colddddd!! No exaggeration.

Furthermore, my company had just started their A H1N1 preventive measures this week...I will elaborate further in my next post on that...LOL

When I went to see the doctor, it was even more funny as I had to ask him whether I am A H1N1 negative and that he needs to certify that so that I am safe to go to office.

(Currently my company requires all the employees and visitors alike to measure their temperature at the reception and if it's higher than 38 degrees Celsius, you are required to leave to see a doctor immediately. Then you need to get the doctor to certify whether you are A H1N1 positive/negative. Well, I guess these are preventive measures anyway)

The funny part was when I told the doctor that I need him to certify, and he told me, "We don't have any certification of any sort"

I smiled and said, "It's alright, doctor. I just need an MC in that case"

Anyway, it was no major illness lar...I just had to keep warm at all times...time to get cosy with my warm wool sweaters:)

I just can't figure out why I suddenly got virus; when I was perfectly good over the weekend.
I started with a mild dry throat which felt uncomfortable, then there was a slight runny nose and then the coldddd feeling....arrgggghhhh

Perhaps there's a virus passed on to me by someone who is not well; or is someone a healthy carrier?
Sighs....I still need to be warm now...as I speak, I still feel so cold...but not unwell anymore lar:D

Why is it so slowwwwwww

I don't know what's wrong lately; but it seems that the Internet connection here is slow

At home, at work, everywhere!

What is wrong?
I heard that there was a small issue with the cables; but that's about two weeks ago already!

Furthermore, I am using wireless and 3G connections...

The haze affected the connection is it?
There's all sorts of excuses right now...

I do agree with the others now, Internet connection up north is one of the worst!
UGH!!
I am missing blogging, tweeting, fb-ing, etc.....

Please please restore the connection-LAH!

Something's cooking!~

I was in the kitchen, filling my water bottle before heading to work when I suddenly had a whiff of this really fragrant aroma, which filled up the whole kitchen.

It was a really familiar aroma; of something baking or cooking. Well, I am surrounded by family homes anyway with mothers who are still probably the likes of Donna Reed; enjoying their baking and cooking for their husbands and families.

So, what's the scent all about?

One of the neighbor's making pancakes and waffles... which one, want a guess?



But based on my intuition, I think pancake's more likely from the scent


(Photos from web; for illustration)

After that, there was another fragrant aroma which filled my nose(I do have a highly sensitive nose:)....this time, it's definite coffee...the cappucino type, brewing hot and I think with those foamy types.

Looks like some family's really having a great treat of a breakfast this morning..

How I missed having breakfast with my family/friends and loved ones!

Finally...the rain..

It finally rained yesterday; after days of scorching hot sun and hazy weather
(I wonder why the haze is back again; I thought the Sumatran fires have been put out already?)

Anyway, I clapped my hands in glee when I saw the rolling black clouds which gathered since late afternoon yesterday and finally it rained when it was after work.
The rain really know how to pick the time to make its appearance huh?

Raining at such hours will lead to massive traffic jams and people getting stuck and not being able to go home in time.
Thank God I was not part of it; but I do enjoy the lovely rain.

Too bad it did not continue to rain for the whole night until this morning...sighs...I missed those days...but I was told to expect more rain as the 7th month of the Lunar Calendar is here....

Geee, should I rejoice or what now?
At the rain or at the auspicious month's arrival?

Best friends!

I am meeting three of my best friends this week; one of them including my bestEST friend.

I am close to all three of them; with the bestie being in her own position of course (no one can beat a bestie)

The other two are also part of my close friends circle; friends or sisters whom I can confide in and vice versa.
It's like sisterhood; where you can just enjoy chatting with them anything under the sun.

It's like all of a sudden, everyone has something to share and to confide in and I am equally excited to meet up with all of them.

After all, what's not good about having a girlie day and sharing those laughs and giggles about silly and trivial girls' stuffs right?

I can't wait to meet all of them; we are going to talk so much....and speaking of the 'much', I don't think anyone can beat good ol' bestie talk yet.....we can talk till next year if no one stops us (or if there is no obstacle at all)

Best friends are always the ones whom you can count on at all times; be it good or bad times. These are not fairweather friends; in fact they have gone beyond that stage of label and have honorably stepped up the ladder in my humble opinion.

It is not easy for me to trust people; and yet, I find that I could trust this small handful of people in my life besides my own family.
Of course, there's still 2-3 more who are in my best friends' circle, there's guys too; I am not a sexist.
Girls are good confidantes but sometimes guys are also really cool to provide more opinions:)

These are not friendships which are built in a day or a year or so; but it has taken years and incidents to prove the worth. I have known all three girls for so long (longest being bestie); and yet despite the not-frequently-keeping-in-touch, we are still able to think of each other immediately when we need to share good news or bad news.
That's incredibly touching and wonderful for me:)

I am glad and proud to be considered their best friend as well; and may our friendships last forever:)

I am sure you have a best friend or someone you can just count on, right?

How proud of a Malaysian are you?

My recent post in my other blog on racism has spurned more ideas for me to write about the Malaysian lifestyle and the interesting things to know about being Malaysian.

After all, Malaysia is approaching her next celebration of independence again which is a week away only and that is enough motivation to make anyone think of the things we practise or enjoy/hate being a Malaysian!

Now, what do we like/dislike being a Malaysian...and how are we different from others?

1. We can speak a minimum of 2 languages (that is the very least)
2. We can jumble up more than 2 languages in one single sentence, and yet people understand each other
"Woi, you mau makan Char Koay Teow at that mamak stall kah?"
3. Manglish!
4. Different cuisines at any time of the day
Roti Canai for breakfast
Koay Teow Th'ng for lunch
Nyonya kueh for tea break
Nasi Kandar for dinner

5. Eating 24 hours a day (Seriously, you can find stalls open at all the odd hours!)
6. All the good food (we have so many of them; you can even find fusion!)
7. Paradise; you can find almost everything here
- Beaches, highlands, forest reserves, hills, etc
8. No natural disasters!!! - free of earthquakes, volcanoes, typhoons, storms,
9. We can see churches, temples and mosques all within the same area
10. Our driving skills (Honk (and Flash) if you are a Malaysian!:)
11. Closed banks and government offices on weekends
12. Same hair color (all Malaysians have black or dark hair; until recent years when highlights and dye are introduced..LOL!)
13. Our Democracy??
14. Summer all year long! we can wear tube tops, spaghetti straps, singlets, shorts anytime of the year
15. Two seasons in one year only; either it's hot or it's raining - cost-saving for our wardrobe upkeeping
16. Freedom of speech; you can see words of profanity or anything scribbled everywhere...bus stops, public toilets, under the flyovers, etc
17. We are friendly and hospitable folks; and we are nice towards the tourists. We are always willing to help at all times.
Tourists love us!
18. Plenty of public holidays in a year - New Year, Chinese New Year, Hari Raya Haji, Hari Raya Puasa, Awal Muharram, Deepavali, Christmas, Hari raya Qurban, Thai pusam, Nuzul Al-Quran, etc!
19. Everyone has a car in Malaysia or some form of own mode of transportation (you can't wait for the buses/trains...)
20. Bountiful natural resources - petroleum, gas, palm, coconut, water, pineapples, rice, corn, rubber, etc
21. Lots of greeneries (you can even see them on the highways)
22. Kiasu-nism among the students
23. Our ever-need-to-repair roads
24. Traffic jams caused by the traffic police...LOL!

What else?
Anything else that you like or proud of that you want to share with me?
I can add to the list accordingly......it is expandable!:D

One Summary: Multi-races living on the same land; speaking the same language and despite the differences, still living in harmony and happily with each other!:)
It is a colorful diversity and peaceful community that I love!

How proud of a Malaysian are you?

Only at my workplace...

Multi-national companies are always the best companies to work for; as most of us have been led or cultivated to believe.
After all, what is there not to like about MNCs, right?
There's the benefits, the pay, the compensation, the environment, the system, and even the name of the company itself which just makes some of us feel like they own the world when they strut out, bearing the name of So-and-so company's employee.

All the good things and even more; in my current workplace which I am sure no one else would have heard of or enjoyed elsewhere...
It is only at my workplace...

That it is okay to be non-performing for a full year; and yet not punished or even penalized.
The performing employee would be the one to be found fault with; not the non-performing one

That if you are having family problems, character issues, low self-esteem and self-confidence, transitional issues from technical to non-technical job scope, and a huge ego to deal with women, those are not classified as personal problems.
The personal issue is non of your business but these are NOT personal problems and that you should be understanding and tolerant towards the employee.
You must emphatize and sympathize with him

That the company has enough resources and capacity to accommodate non-performing employees because they care about their NON-personal concerns (refer to the previous one)

That an employee can take as long as they want to learn up the things they need on the job. One year is not enough; because the employee says he's not ready
So, there is no rush (not applicable to the rest of the employees)

That the company cannot tolerate conflict issues; and one of the employee must go if the issue remains unresolved

That it is okay to claim character issues when you are not performing as long as you remember that is not personal issue

That men have an ego and pride that women need to understand and be tolerant (even if it is already a year)

That a technical function guy needs longer time to transition to a non-technical job; and you must give him MORE time (one year is definitely not enough)

That family issues are 'None of your business' but you must understand that he has had a hard time/tough life

That no results for one year, no projects on hand and showing up at office once a month or every other month is just slacking a little bit

That an employee who has been trained twice still needs more training

That one year is too short for training an experienced employee who has worked two years in his technical job and worked in two other companies prior to this company

That someone trying to help another employee is minding others' business too much and should leave it to the employee herself/himself to settle
At the same time, we must promote teamwork and covering for each other too

That an employee who makes the mistake must admit the mistake to the boss and ask the boss to help. If not, you are committing a crime because you think you are too smart to settle it yourself. It is beyond your pay grade
But of course, you must remember to be responsible and accountable for your actions at all times

That transparency is practised and levels are not important but you must remember who is boss and what you can do at your pay grade

That helping your colleague with her workload is wrong; you must mind your own business and not do things that she is assigned to do (even if you have nothing to do)

That you must cover/shadow for each other at work; but make sure that you call that colleague whom you are covering for to solve their own issues (even if she's sick or on leave/vacation)

That the boss encourages openness for you to confide your issues but tells you to shut up if your issue is something he does not like (if he defends someone else/something else you may hit upon)

That they respect and honor your religion so much that they constantly throw it at your face when they speak to you in full sentences
"You listen to her words like gospels/Holy Bible"
"Is it a sin when you do this/that?"
"Don't worry, you will not be crucified"

That an employee who is unable to perform is because he has a good intention to want to learn EVERYTHING before doing his job. He is technically-minded and he has a GOOD intention, he is devoted to his job and you must learn from him

That the majority of the employees who raised the concern on one single employee are not seeing things clearly and that they need to be more understanding and tolerant towards that ONE employee

That an open session is closed immediately

That you are encouraged to voice your opinions but the boss has the right to disagree with you

That you are just being unreasonable if you have any concern

That if you are not really sick if you still can get up to go to see the doctor and get your Medical leave certification from the doctor

That your working status applies even if you are on leave or on sick leave

That you are not working if you are answering your cell phone

That you are not working if you are always in the office or answering your emails

That a miscommunication issue can exist even if the issue lies only in one employee (the other employees have no issue communicating with each other)

That you are reprimanded for working too much; and that you should rest more at home to learn your technical stuffs or train yourself or nurse your ego

That two staffs cannot take leave/sick leave at the same time even if they are really sick, because they may be pretending to be sick

That branch office is not the same as the head office; and the people in head office have a higher authority than those elsewhere

That taking lots of leave and sick leave means he has a hard life and tough family issues to deal with but it is none of others' business. However, if you were to do the same, you are not disciplined and not working

Ohhhh, don't you think that this is such a wonderful place to work in?
There is so MUCH love, understanding and tolerance....

Now, why would anyone not love this place, right?
I think there's plenty more benefits which I have yet to know, even....

FB is promoting stealing??

Refer back to my previous post, you will read that I am recently getting hooked onto the applications in FB...
I will grow out of it, that's for sure....:)

Anyway, there is an odd thing I noticed about FB applications as I was playing around with it

I am surprised that most of the applications actually promote activities like stealing, fighting and battling
For instance, you can actually steal crops, flowers, animals (all those ready for harvest items) from your friends to add to your points
You can also steal cash tips from your friends' restaurants!

When you visit your friends' farms and restaurants, there's even tools for you to plant weeds or put pests to kill their crops...and in the restaurant, you can put gum or RATS.....
GOSH!
What is FB seriously promoting???

In other applications, you are even encouraged to fight other people to gain more points and to battle with other friends...

Is this really the things we want to promote to the future generation?

I know that some of us are sensible to know what is reality and what is virtual...but seriously, can we guarantee that one who steals from FB do not have that streak in their personality?

I am shocked and surprised at the free flow of stealing tools and damage/battle applications available...

Call me silly or whatever...I did not even use those tools...much as I want to move up the level ladders faster or earn my cash/points/coins faster

Yes, I do not want to steal from others to move up my levels...
It's just plain dishonest and despicable

I do think FB needs to re-review all their objectives and their applications if they want to see a better nation and future generation

We definitely do not want any sadists, thieves, robbers, vandalism in our society
We've had enough of them right now...it's time to look into the containment measures and preventive actions and not promoting them!!!

What do you think? Do you agree with me?
Any one else who thinks I am just plain silly?

I don’t think so….

A stress relief treatment to an addiction?

Oh ya, I started logging into the FB for the applications and the games
I kinda wanted to release stress following the workload and the stuffs that have bothered me for the past few weeks

It's kinda fun, really, with all the farms where you can grow your crops and harvest them
The gardens where you have your flowers
The ranch to rear your own animals (and to sell them for the poultry; that's not so nice by the way!)
The pets application where you can clean, play and feed your pet
The Kungfu pets where you can train and spend quality time with your pet; preparing them for battles (that's also not too good)

There's also restaurants for you to serve your customers and cash your tips

There's even girly applications like the fashion wars and the sorority clubs where you attend events and dress up your girl to compete with other girls...

There's even mind-boggling games like jigsaw puzzle and word scramble or twister...Those are my favorites!:D

I know, maybe I am getting a little bit more hooked...surprising to those who sees me logging into FB more often than before though they hear that I am stressed

Ohhhh, that's me...when I am stressed...I tend to do a lot more things to lead my attention elsewhere and take my mind off those stressful agendas...

I read and write a lot too...
I have been blogging a lot too...tweeting too...I just love those....those are also addiction...

I am watching movies, etc...

I know I have to watch it before my ergo issues come back to haunt my hand and my shoulders....LOL!

The Power of Prayer

Prayers are not to be taken lightly
It is so powerful that it can really have miraculous results and healing power

I have personally experienced the wonderful works of prayer and I definitely believe in it

Recently my grandmother has been very sick and also suffering from pains
All of us have prayed to God (different religions and beliefs)
She was so frail and weak that she barely had energy

However, I've just seen her again recently and she has been relieved of her pains and looks better despite her ailing health
She has regained her appetite and she is more cheerful

I do know that she is still very sick; but I am thankful to God for reducing her pains and suffering

I know this is all due to the power of prayer...
It is not a promotion of religion or anything like that; whichever religion or your beliefs are, never forsake the power of speaking to God

God does indeed listen
I will continue to pray for my granny
And I thank all of you who have prayed for my granny as well....

The Blogging virus

I think I've spread the virus around...or it has become an epidemic

I used to be the only person who blogs in my office...
(Yeah, I have mentioned before how jakun things are over here...so enough said)

Then all of a sudden, some of my colleagues started asking me about blogs and told me that they want to start their own blogs
They want to write about things; blog about their lives...

I gladly helped out...

Now, even that other moron of a colleague (excuse the moron word) is planning to start his own blog (I'm sure some of you know who I am referring to)
Not to be mean, but "Hello, do you even know what is a blog?"

I can't stand his constant pestering me for my blog's URL, "Don't you get it? Even though my blog is a public blog, I just don't want to share it with you!"
Gosh...how many times does one need to say no before he gets it?

Anyway, I realized that more and more people are moving into the blogging world
It's just like a huge trend like Friendster, Facebook, Twitter, etc....

(I've had Twitter for 1-2 years now, and nobody knew about it last time, all of sudden it became a hit recently!)

I felt that I have done a good thing to have planted that interest in blogging among the people here....I honestly have no idea what they used to do...

I love blogging myself; I don't think that needs much explanation (judging by the number of blogs I have and are still planning to have)

Point is, more and more people are making their way into the blogging world; regardless of whether they know how to write or even like writing...

Sighssss.....and I remember there was a huge population who hated essay assignments back in school?
This would make their language teachers darn proud of their self-initiatives..LOLs!~

SCREAM!

Have you ever had one of those moments where you feel like you just want to scream out loud into the space and as long as you want, ignoring all the people and things around you?

I just want to do that; but sometimes I think I am held back too much by what I've been taught is right and wrong
Proper and improper behavior

It's funny how sometimes we get these funny little ideas in our head...

I bet if I were to do that right now, I would definitely freak all my colleagues in the office out
They may consider bringing me to a clinic, I suppose...

Too high of a risk....still, not bad that I do know what I am doing...

At least, I didn't consider holding a cleaver and going on a killing rampage, now that's something that moral need to take a step...

A day that doesn't seem to end

I didn't even realize the time when I was extremely busy....and it was like a blink of an eye when the day ended....

Today, I feel like the day is extremely long...
I am still working on stuffs to....wonder why it seems so long today eh?

Will we ever reach the end of the day?

Hot outside, Cold inside

It has stopped rain since yesterday...
This morning, the island is greeted with a bright and blazing hot sun which seems to say, "I am back, after the rain stole the limelight from me for the last few days!"

Anyway, I felt slightly cold when I was getting ready to go to work but thought nothing of it
I brought along my sweater as well

While I was in the office, I immediately felt cold when I was only at my desk for half an hour!
Gosh, and what's great is I've left my sweater in the basement carpark; which I don't particularly fancy going down to take it again

I am drinking lots of hot/warm water to heat my body up....but I am still so colddddd

I am puzzled; how is it that the sun looks so HOT outside, and yet I feel so cold in here?

I need my sweater.....it's the only thing on my mind for the whole morning now...
I shall go get it during my lunch break!

Wise words...

I liked this presentation which my friend sent to me titled Good Karma; and I am enlightened by most of the wise words shared in there...


Take into account that great love and great achievements involve great risk.


When you lose,
don’t lose the lesson………….


Follow the three R’s:
ØRespect for Self,
ØRespect for Others and
ØResponsibility for all your Actions.


Remember that not getting what you want is sometimes a wonderful stroke of luck. (this may be a bit hard for me.....)


Learn the rules so you know how to break them properly. - HUH?


Don’t let a little dispute injure a great relationship.


When you realize you’ve made a mistake, take immediate steps to correct it.
I do that all the time, but why people are still being unreasonable?

Spend some time alone every day.
I try.......

Open your arms to change, but don’t give up your values.


Remember that silence is sometimes the best answer.
Yeah....shut upppp

Live a good, honorable life. Then when you get older and think back, you’ll be able to enjoy it a second time.

A loving atmosphere in your home is the foundation for your life.

In disagreements with loved ones, deal only with the current situation. Don’t bring up the past.

Share your knowledge. It is a way to achieve immortality.
Means, I will live forever????

Be gentle with the Earth.
I am...ALL THE TIME!!!

Once a year, go some place you’ve never been before.
I would love to....but I need $$$!!!

Remember the best relationship is one in which your love for each other exceeds your need for each other.

Judge your success by what you had to give up in order to get it.

Approach love and cooking with reckless abandon.

Thank you Boss!

My customer sent me a retort email and I was totally flabbergasted when I read it.

The silver lining is, copying my boss in the email earlier did have its benefits as now, my boss is offering whether he is able to help in this issue.

Of course, I jumped and replied, detailing the sequence of events to provide him with the background for him to start working on it.
I directly answered that I do need his intervention in this issue as it is no longer an issue within my control or my decision authority.
I am a little disheartened by the whole issue, and I want things to go well.

However, I believe I can only do as much...
I feel like I am going crazy, blogging about it again and again....

Now, I feel like my boss is a saviour and I am thankful that he has offered to help...

Please be my guest boss...and THANK YOU boss....I know this is something you can settle!!
Yeah!

That's IT!!!

That's It.....I have finally escalated the issue, it's beyond my authorization and control anymore
I've finally reached the limit
I am about to explode

But I am not as weak as the past few days, where I am all nice and giving
That person has disappeared from me
Today I am no longer going to back down

I have offered my best solution; either you take it or leave it
That's IT!

My limits have been reached and I am no longer going to take this in anymore
It is TOO MUCH......

I DON'T CARE anymore!!!!

It's Raining, It's Raining!~

Oooo...*claps hand in glee*

It's raining again...I love the weather sooooo much although my issue is still unsolved.
I am not backing down anymore, I am not going to be worried anymore because this time the other side is being unfair already that it's really angering me right now (no more frustration)

I appreciate the rain although I am still on the run to solve this issue
However, if it remains unsolved and I am not provided with a satisfactory answer by noon today, I have no choice but to escalate from here and that's where the legal complications come in.

Whatever it is, I leave it to God whether it will be solved or not
I am really tired...

It's finally Friday, I have been a busy bee this whole week that I didn't even realize how time flies

It's raininggggggg.....I want a rainglobe or a snowglobe...yipppeeeeee!!!

Think of the Mayonnaise Jar!

I think this is a light-hearted and really meaningful and heart-warming post to share and it is such a comfort during these times...

Hope you will enjoy this much as I do...

The Mayonnaise Jar
When things in your life seem, Almost too much to handle,
When 24 Hours in a day is not enough,
Remember the mayonnaise jar and 2 cups of coffee.

A professor stood before his philosophy class



And had some items in front of him.
When the class began, wordlessly,
He picked up a very large and empty mayonnaise jar
And proceeded to fill it with golf balls.

He then asked the students, if the jar was full.
They agreed that it was.

The professor then picked up a box of pebbles and poured
them into the jar. He shook the jar lightly.
The pebbles rolled into the open areas between the golf balls.

He then asked the students again
If the jar was full... They agreed it was.

The professor next picked up a box of sand

And poured it into the jar.. Of course, the sand filled up everything else.
He asked once more if the jar was full. The students responded
With an un ani mous 'yes.'

The professor then produced Two cups of coffee from under the table
And poured the entire contents Into the jar, effectively
Filling the empty space between the sand.
The students laughed.

'Now,' said the professor, As the laughter subsided,
'I want you to recognize that this jar represents your life..
The golf balls are the important things - God, family,
children, health, friends, and favorite passions –

Things that if everything else was lost

And only they remained, your life would still be full.

The pebbles are the other things that matter Like your job, house, and car.

The sand is everything else --
The small stuff.

'If you put the sand into the jar first,' He continued,
'there is no room for the pebbles or the golf balls.
The same goes for life..

If you spend all your time and energy on the small stuff,
You will never have room for the things that are
Important to you.

So...

Pay attention to the things That are critical to your happiness.
Playwith your children.
Take time to get medical checkups.
Take your partner out to dinner.

There will always be time
To clean the house and fix the disposal.

'Take care of the golf balls first --
The things that really matter.
Set your priorities. The rest is just sand.'

One of the students raised her hand
And inquired what the coffee represented.

The professor smiled.
'I'm glad you asked'.

It just goes to show you that no matter how full your life may seem,
there's always room for a couple of cups of coffee with a friend!

Please share this with other "Golf Balls"

I just did......

Virus test only for those warded???

I read with utmost shock at the increasing death toll of A H1N1 infected patients in our country today
http://thestar.com.my/news/story.asp?file=/2009/8/6/nation/20090806132821&sec=nation

Besides the shock, I was even more shocked to read the following statement:
only warded patients will be tested for the virus while those with symptoms of influenza should rest at home and heed medical advice.

Now what is that supposed to mean????

Why only the warded patients are tested?
I think all influenza cases should be tested as well; to prevent further spread of the disease.

People with flu symptoms should immediately seek medical consultation; and not nurse themselves at home.

This is no longer a mild issue; as the death toll is increasing.
Are we waiting for the death toll to increase to hundreds before deciding that it's a cause for concern??

To people who are recently sick and having the symptoms, I hope they use their common sense and go to the clinic or hospital and get themselves checked and not going out to public, spreading their virus!

DO SOMETHING now, before it's TOO LATE!

Out of Office 101....

Out of Office; a function which we use when we are scheduled to be out of the office - either on leave, or out for a meeting (whole day) or even on sick leave.

I used to remember to set so diligently since it was a usual practice back in where I work
When I came to this new place, they don't really practise the functions of their Outlook that much and slowly, as I adapted to their culture, I started to lose touch as well...(So sad)

Then the other day, one of my colleagues sent us an email to instruct us to set our Out of Office replies when we are out of the office so that they can escalate to another person
Take note, this is different from my previous place; as you need to notify that you are out only and don't insert anyone's name as coverage (as it's none of their businesses, remember?)
So, to save yourself the trouble, you'd better just compose a simple message, perhaps need to include your cell phone number so that you can be contacted at all times, yes, even if you're sick (unless you're half-dead, as certified by doctor and is not fit to lift or talk on the cell phone, just make sure you have that certificate. Death certificate is of course, the most effective)

It was hilarious as I was sent an email with step-by-step instructions on how to use Out of Office!!!
Look at this!




Oh my!
I think I know the Outlook functions much better than anyone here... (not bragging lar, but slightly better than them only)
I just couldn't stop laughing when i saw it...

Should I also work out an email to teach them on Booking other's calendars when there is a meeting and invite everyone, as they don't seem to know how to do that, sending normal emails to everyone.
I don't think they know how to embed Accept or Reject buttons; or even block their own calendars when they are attending meetings.

Maybe I should start with "Knowing your Email 101"?

I know, that's really mean......:P

One word...and it all came back...

When I was reading my email from my good friend/buddy, my attention held at a familiar word which I used to (or most of us used to) use back then when I was working there.

It's just a simple word, 'placeholder' and it brought so much memories back to me again

A place where I used to feel that I belong so much
A place where I loved to go to every morning; no matter how crazy the early hours are
A place where your laptops are like your cellphones and are mobile everywhere you go; to meetings to another office building, etc
A place where communication takes place through the laptops (i mean, humans still talk, of course)

Where I used to stare so intently at my screen for more than 12 hours (ya, I am crazy!)
Where I used to feel so cold and curse silently at how they treat our office like a mortuary
(But I enjoyed choosing my sweaters to go with my attires each day, and my shoes, watches, bag and hankies)
Where I used to enjoy sitting in a big meeting room and IM friends (LOL, but I am still paying attention to the meeting, okayyyy)
Where I used to look forward to the quarterly update meeting to sit in a big auditorium....(That's so fun lar!) and yet, eyes and fingers still on the keyboard..yeah, we bring laptops into that meeting too
Where I only wear comfortable outfits to work; and dress casually every day like it's Friday! (jeans and sneakers)

I missed that place...and there's so much more words which can bring much more memories and yet I am afraid that I am going to forget them soon...huhuhu.....

Placeholder, placeholder
Block your calendar
Bridge..yeah bridge!! (what's the number for the bridge again? starts with the number 3....)

AR...oh how I missed this word (but I don't miss the meaning of the word la....:p)
Commonality (hahaha!)
Data owner
Schedule the meeting
Call a meeting
Book the meeting room
Check your calendar (then bow down and look at the card behind our name tag!)
What's your IP address?
May I know who just joined?
Let's do a Netmeeting/Live Meeting?
Share your desktop
Allow control
OOP
AL
EL
EE
WWID

Even Out of Office replies.....(which I will share in another blog post)

I missed everything about there...and my car which is always there earliest, first parking spot!!
Hahaha....kiasunism....

Now, this really brought a smile despite the weariness on my face....

Midway through the Battle...

I prayed and hoped that it will settle today
This morning I headed straight for the meeting and we had a long talk, negotiating and communicating both of our opinions and suggestions

It was not easy as it was clear that neither of us would back down from our stand; though it was not exactly as bad as I imagined.
We were both still educated and reasonable people; and we put forth our arguments politely and gently, in consideration of each other's sentiments and best interests

I know I have to be firm; as I also have to provide a good settlement and answer back to my HQ
At the same time, I also understand how difficult this is for my customer....but it is also my job to maintain my company's interests

I want to solve this peacefully; I want a peace settlement
I am pushing towards a win-win situation

I hope that this nightmare will end soon....

I am waiting for the final confirmation

We have agreed that we will close this by end of today or latest, tomorrow morning
This wait is longer than I thought...

I have to go through 1 or 2 more rounds of battle?

Updating of blogs

I am supposed to update my blogs; but this week I am just a little bit restless and there's tonnes of work to complete and two reports to work on

I have a long list of titles and stories which I want to share on all my blogs; from food to starry (spooky and supernatural) to travel, to women's zine and movies to review, books to add to my shelves and even tonnes of my thoughts to pen out.
In short, I have planned for the updates of every single blog I have and at the moment, looks like they've got to wait because I am about to go crazy soon if my things are not settled yet!!

I missed my blogs so much.....

I hope I don't go crazy.... this is too much of stuffs to think about in my head!!

Whose luck is worse?

Seriously, I cannot decide whose luck is worse at the moment
Mine or my customer....

First his issue already dragged until today
Now, he is also waiting for the settlement from the authorities and his third party (which makes it fourth party involved)

And the worst part is, the system is down on the fourth party's side and he had to wait for yet another day

I am getting more and more anxious now

I already thought that I am running out of luck these days because of all these unfortunate issues
I guess when one meets disaster, they just keep coming, don't they?

I guess my customer is much worse than me, since he's been worrying about his stuffs for two months now....and it is still not ready
Everything seems to be wrong right from the start, it was all delayed for him all the way then there was disrepancy in the time and date
Then disrepancy in payment charges
Now, he even has to face delay again due to the system which was so coincidentally down at the government's side

Wow......that's definitely much worse fate for him.....especially when this is his first project

I feel pity for him; and for myself for being involved in this whole thing...

Tired......luck, luck, please come back to me?

I should probably find a four-leaf clover.....anyone?

Difference of TO, CC and BCC in emails

Do you know the difference between the three functions of To, CC and BCC in your Outlook or even your normal email portals?

We may laugh out loud; and answer confidently, "WHO DOESN'T, right?"
Oh, right, but I can share with you that there are some out there who truly does not even comprehend these functions

My existing issue which I have been complaining about; was a good example to illustrate this.
The issue was withheld at a point; unable to proceed due to the email recipient who did not understand the above functions.

The alleged(let's call the person E) was copied in the CC loop during the conversation between the customer and a third party.
E was telling the customer that the company needs the customer to provide the name of their third party to handle this situation before we can proceed.
Therefore, the customer, M, copied her in the loop during her interaction with their third party.

Obviously, this is to notify E that they are working on it and the third party is responsible for it.

Naturally, the customer also assumed that she had already gotten hold of the information and will proceed.
E did not even bother to inform any of us in the site office; and when I made a call to M to request for their third party, she practically screamed that she had already done so and it is our side who withheld the progress.

My admin did a quick check with E; and guess what E told us
"Oh, she sent that email meh?"
"Yeah, she did, she mentioned she copied you in the loop!"
"Ohhhhh, now I remember. Yaya, I know, she gave the third party's name in the email mar, right?"
"Yeah, then why didn't you proceed?"
"Oh, coz, the email only CC me; not TO me mar...so, if she wants to inform me that this is the info, then she need to send an email directly TO me"
*FAINTS*

So all the information is already provided and they are arguing on the basis that they are not addressed in the right section?
I cannot decide which is more hilarious; that M cc-ed her and assumed that she understood, or E who was copied and assumed that M will email her to inform her in the To section...

It is all an issue of misunderstanding?
Right now, it has even bloomed into a bigger problem of misunderstanding

So, do remember, if you really want someone to do something, do send it to the person specifically...in the TO section, else there will never be any action taken.

Oh, and if you happen to be in the CC section, means you don't have to take note of the email seriously; it clearly does not concern you anyway.

I wonder about the BCC; can I totally delete the email? :P

But then, if you have another unique case of a colleague like mine here, X (I'm sure some of you have heard of his storiesssssss), who clearly is always MIA and does not understand anything anyway, well, it does not matter which section you addressed him in....and in the first place, the email may not be necessary also!

So, are we clear about To, CC and BCC now?
Lesson over, class adjourned!

Sun after the rain

Just like there is rain after the haze
There is also sun after the rain

Does this means that everything will be cleared after the worthless anxieties and worries?

Everything will be fine after I go through this huge blizzard at work?

I hope so; and I definitely pray for the better days after this although I know there are still a few more cliffs to climb after this...

But after the sun, isn't there also always a rainbow?
And at the end of the rainbow, there's always a pot of gold/treasure and if you're lucky/unlucky, you might even meet a leprechaun?

I'd rather have the pot of gold...

It's all part and parcel of life....acts of nature
It's all like that, we all have the rain and shine; the bad and good days, and the laugh after a big cry.....

I am waiting for my luck.... :D

Shower of Love

Yesterday the haze was really a thick version; covering almost anything that is evidently visible on the opposite.

I knew it that it would rain after; and it did pour in the wee hours of the morning today
It's as if God knows how bad the haze, and he sends the torrents of rain to clear the dirt away
Truly, a blessing shower; and a profound sign of his love for all of us which constantly made me feel glad

It is so lovely to know that there is no dead end to all the hard obstacles; no matter what it may be

This is motivating, don't you think?

An issue of Feng Shui?

I laughed when my colleague M, told me her thoughts about recent happenings

Remember that my office was also involved in a series of unfortunate incidents of late which we associated with the five elements?

Now, with my issue and also the washroom clogging issue (the most recent!), this is her suspicion

"It must be the Feng Shui"
Something is wrong somewhere...that's why all the unfortunate things happen at the same time

Feng Shui?

The Wind and water has to do with this?

There is not much wind lately and the water often brings a hot and bright shining ray too...

Or maybe it's the aircond in the office and maybe I shouldn't drink too much water each day at work?

Hahahhaa.......it must be the Feng Shui...

All by myself

I was told and taught that one's true colors always showed in times of trouble

Everyone laughs happily and pats your back in good times
But no one stays to comfort you in the bad times

I have always believed in that

Now, I am truly in that situation myself
Not that I've never been through this before, I just find that it's so sad that people could go to such extent

I don't expect everyone to be a living saint like Mother Theresa of course; but shouldn't we all treat each other with a little bit more of kindness?

I can't believe that in the huge forest like this, I am all by myself

What is work without a team?

I just realized, I don't have a team...after all

There's too many Venetian masks unveiled now...and I can no longer pretend that I see the mask and not the face behind it anymore after they are all unmasked

People like to judge but they do not like to be judged
How fair is that?

I thank God for a small bunch of people who are still standing with me; who thinks that I deserve compliment for my courage and my hard work thus far

It is so weird that one who works so hard and is so dedicated to her work is often victimized and penalized for minor things
Yet another who does not even work or is productive is ignored and not even reprimanded (frequent sick leaves, annual leaves, emergency leaves, family issues, car broke down, etc)

I find this a whole laughing matter
Does this mean that I don't have to work so hard after all?

Thick Maze of HAZE

The island is enveloped in a thick haze; making everything around me seems to look so fuzzy and unclear

Yeah, visibility is really bad today
It's like driving in a thick fog; except this is dirty dirty haze

Encumbered by the issue and other worrying matters, I am further pressed by my seasonal sinusitis and headaches
This is not good

It is really a rare scenario this year, we have haze one day; and then it's gone after the rain the next day and then it comes back thicker the next day after?
Is the rain really helping us in any way or it's just here to bring more harm?

It's like a battle of the Haze against the rain and the sun!

Do take care everyone, whether you are sensitive or not; asthma or sinus or perfectly healthy, this is still not a good weather to be out and about.

It just keeps coming

My issue is not closed yet....I am still crossing my fingers in anticipation

I am still waiting

BAM! This morning, another call to inform me that payment is an issue
I had to settle this again

I am still waiting for the confirmation

But do I dare to ask anyone for help?
Oh no, everyone is too BUSY with their work to help
Furthermore, this is NONE of THEIR business, ain't it?

I dare not dream to ask anyone for help
I think they are most interested to see how I drown in this issue

I am just so excited about the idea

This is just part of the ups and downs in life; and right now, unfortunately, I am in the down side of my life
Things keep happening, all the worries, anxieties...I hope I can be free of it soon

It's actually not a really big issue
It is a mistake, but it can be amended but everyone is making a big fuss out of it just because I was not around to fix it

I came back and I am working on this

I just find the whole thing ridiculous but I do not want to waste time hammering on the lovely people around me as I want to focus on the solution

I know that things happen and it can't be helped
Nothing is perfect and smooth sailing all the time

A silver lining is, I know who is my friend and who is my foe
I learn to mould myself and prepare myself for further similar situations
Of course, I would not hope for more future occurrences
Is there a future anymore?

For me, yes...of course....but not with this occurrence anymore

I will still grit my teeth and do my utmost best to solve the whole issue
I pray for God's blessing and strength to help me with this

To all my TRUE friends out there, thank you for the endless prayers and regards you have for me...

I will not be killed by this; in fact, on the whole, it made me stronger and even more sure of what I want to do next...

When I was sick~

When I was sick and coincidentally and simultaneously, an issue comes up at work and my admin; my good and helpful admin who helped me to deal with it had to contact the rest of the team (my colleagues)

What do they say?

A:
This is none of my business

B:
But, but this is urgent! The customer needs the reply immediately
Oh well, it's nothing that we can help. We can wait
She's on MC, and this is really urgent
Oh, we really can't do anything. Wait for her to get back from MC and settle this case
............

C:
I don't think you should get involved in this case, since it's not your concern

Why are you so anxious about? It's none of your business?

How can she make this mistake ar? She didn't check meh?




Interesting bunch of people, aren't they?
Lovely...

This colleague C was even more interesting, I remembered I had to cover for HIM when he was sick
(He is sick almost every other week anyway!)

He often sounded like he was so sick on the phone when he pleaded for help
I helped him the last round because I think it's being professional and not cancelling an urgent business meeting which involves a huge project
Did he thank me for it?

All I get is, "Don't get yourself involved in other people's business"

I am truly working in a MULTI-NATIONaliens company!