Stories Beyond The City of Palms

Move

2011-10-27T19:52:00.000+08:00

There are beginnings, and there are endings.

And for now, it seems like I want to end my blog here. Because I just grew up from what this blog used to be.

I may close this blog forever; or I might move things to another blog.

But whatever it is, thanks for reading. The memories in here are indeed a lot and I'll certainly cherish it.

Though I might say goodbye, doesn't mean that I stopped writing.

Goodbye blog. Thanks for the memories.

What I Did Last Holiday - Part 3

2011-01-16T23:13:00.000+08:00

The clown

The joker

The narcissistic ballerina

The silent bear

The horses in a round

The star-eyed wanderer

All these were taken at Mid Valley during the Christmas season. :)

What I Did Last Hoilday - Part 2

2011-01-16T01:39:00.001+08:00

All the above are from the buffet breakfast table of Ritz-Carlton. As you can see, there's pan seared salmon, yakitori, bread basket and assorted jams. But the last pic is actually a truffle omelette. And the truffle is a very very small piece.

Nonetheless, yummy!

The famous steamed fish at Rawang. Want to know more? Do click here!

More pics to come!

What I Did Last Hoilday - Part 1

2011-01-16T01:08:00.000+08:00

1. Stayed at the Ritz-Carlton, with courtesy from my aunt. Thank you so so much!

2. Took pics of Christmas decos of shopping centres around KL and also around places that we went at KL.

3. Went to Singapore to experience the Great Singapore Sale. (Last minute plan)

4. Went to Ikea and bought pieces to refurbish the kitchen. Such genius designs! Bless the Swedes. :)

5. Followed my bro to register for his nursing courses.

That's what I did, but the more interesting things would be the pics, no?

Stay tuned these few days for more. There'll be food pics, I promise!

A Short Message

2010-12-27T20:59:00.000+08:00

Due to some unforeseen circumstances, the Christmas Giveaway is cancelled. A great big apology to those who waited for the results.

Instead, CNY is bigger, no? Stay tuned!

Choose To Give

2010-12-05T00:58:00.000+08:00

Today when I was shopping for my mum's belated birthday gift, I saw something heart wrenching.

Amidst all the shoppers who were coming to the malls to do some Christmas shopping for the weekend, I saw this old lady holding a crying baby, sitting on the sidewalk. It's obvious she's begging because there's this empty biscuit tin with spare change in it.

And it set me thinking. It's Christmas. The season to give.

Christmas has always been a special ocassion to me, at least. I remembered having a dream that it's snowing in Kuantan and the scene was so magical!

It is also the season to give and there are those who will receive. Though I'm not a Christian (I'm Buddhist), I believe that the act of giving is selfless and always has been. As Buddha himself had said,

"There is nothing more worthy than the virtue of selflessness.

Selflessness unites people.

It is a healing herb that unifies strangers and brings families together.

It is the love for others that is higher than self-love;

It is our only hope."

So, I'm going to do a little something here. And I need help from you guys out there who is reading this!

In the comment box below, write what will you give this Christmas or what kind of selfless acts are you doing this Christmas. It can be anything. For me, this Christmas season I'll give away clothes to an orphange in my hometown. But make sure after you write it down, you better do it!

The best 5 comments will receive something that is from my heart, as a token of appreciation that you have choose to give!

To those who would like to participate in this, make sure you're from Malaysia because it would be quite hard to send the gift to you if your comment is chosen and you're from overseas. And to make it before 25th December is a challenge.

Somewhere around next week you'll have a preview of what I'm going to give. ;)

Yes, this Christmas I'm having a giveaway!

P/S : The more comments, the merrier! Remember to do what you have written in the comment box! :)

Today Is The Day

2010-12-01T15:32:00.000+08:00

Today is the day that when that somebody special in my life came to this world.

Today is the day that marks her success as being that somebody special in my life.

Her taste in fashion is always loud, excessive, glamorous. Just like me.

She may not be the most beautiful woman in the world, but she is, to me.

She gave her nine months of her life to me.

She's irreplaceable.

She's my mom.

妈咪，生日快乐！

Although I know no matter how much gifts I give her, it's irrational towards the love she has given to me.

But still, here it is!

Also, I mark today as Grandmother's Day. She's my second mum. :) I know she won't like any expensive gifts, but still if I am to give her something, it would be this.

She loves jade, why not a beautiful jade necklace?

If only I have the $$$. Ka-ching! Anyway, it's the heart that matter the most, right?

I love my mum and grandmother! :)))

P/S: Again, HAPPY BIRTHDAY, MUM!!! And to my grandmother, HAPPY GRANDMOTHER'S DAY!

This is L-O-V-E

2010-11-26T18:00:00.000+08:00

It hurts to love someone and not be loved in return, but what is more painful is to love someone and never find the courage to let that person know how you feel.

Maybe we have to meet a few wrong people before meeting the right one so that when we finally meet the right person, we will know how to be grateful for that gift.

Love is when you take away the feeling, the passion, and the romance in a relationship and find out you still care for that person.

A sad thing in life is when you meet someone who means a lot to you, only to find out in the end that it was never meant to be and you just have to let go.

When the door of happiness closes, another opens but often times we look so long at the closed door that we don't see the one which has been opened for us.

The best kind of friend is the kind you can sit on a porch and swing with, never say a word, and then walk away feeling like it was the best conversation you've ever had.

It's true that we don't know what we've got until we lose it, but it's also true that we don't know what we've been missing until it arrives.

Giving someone all your love is never an assurance that they'll love you back. Don't expect love in return, just wait for it to grow in their heart, but if it doesn't, be sure it grew in yours.

There are things you'd love to hear that you would never hear from the person whom you would like to hear from, but don't be so deaf as not to hear it from the one who says it from his heart.

Never say good-bye if you still want to try, never give up if you still feel you can go on, never say you don't love a person anymore if you can't let go.

Love comes to those who still hope although they've been disappointed, to those who still believe although they've been betrayed, need to love those who still love although they've been hurt before.

It takes only a minute to get a crush on someone, an hour to like someone and a day to love someone, but it takes a lifetime to forget someone.

Don't go for looks, they can deceive. Don't go for wealth, in the end it fades away. Go for someone who makes you smile because it takes only a smile to make a dark day seem bright.

There are moments in life when you miss someone so much that you just want to pick them from your dreams and hug them for real.

Dream what you want to dream, go where you want to go, be what you want to be, because you have only one life and one chance to all the things you want to do.

May you have enough happiness to make you sweet, enough trials to make you strong, enough sorrow to keep you human, enough hope to make you happy and enough money to buy me gifts.

Always put yourself in other's shoes. If you feel it hurts you, it probably hurts the other person too.

A careless word may kindle strife, a cruel word may wreck a life, a timely word may level stress, a loving word may heal and bless.

The beginning of love is to let those we love be just themselves, and not twist them with our own image otherwise, we love only the reflection of ourselves we find in them.

The happiest of people don't necessarily have the best of everything, they just make the most of everything that comes along their way.

Happiness lies for those who cry, those who hurt, those who have searched, and those who have tried, for only they can appreciate the importance of people who have touched their lives.

Love begins with a smile, grows with a kiss and ends with a tear.

The brightest future will always be based on a forgotten past, you can't go on well in life until you let go of your past failures and heartaches.

When you were born, you were crying and everyone around you was smiling. Live your life so that when you die, you're the one who is smiling and everyone around you is crying.

Love is an unusual game. There are either two winners or none.

If I could reinvent the alphabet, I would put U and I together.

Love doesn't make the world go 'round, it makes the ride worthwhile.

Love is what makes two people sit in the middle of a bench when there's plenty of room at both ends.

The most important thing a father can do for his children is to love their mother.

P/S : I got this from my foundation days. Pass it on to those who need it!

Into The Sea - Day 2 & 3

2010-11-16T21:11:00.000+08:00

Well, I better end this. It's been way too long I have put this off, though busy as I may be. If you haven't read about my last post about Redang, click here.

On the second day, the routine is like this;

7am-wake up
8am-breakfast
9am-diving
11am-return back for leisure time
12pm-lunch
1pm-leisure time
2pm-diving
4pm-return back for leisure time
6pm-back to room for rest and shower
7pm-dinner
8pm-leisure time
11pm-sleep

Practically it's "Drink diving, Sleep diving, Eat diving". Which I have fall in love with!

Well, there's this actual t-shirt with the quote above. For real. (ask Eten)

The marine park is great, lots of fish, lots of corals, lots of eels(?). There's this story of an eel with the length of a man's height and the width of about half a meter.

Monster eel. EEZILLA.

LOL!

Anyway, when we were there, it's the weekends and they have this beach party a.k.a dancing floor. Great to burn off calories that you have at the buffet table just now. Also, they have this bar nearby which serves beer and bottled alcoholic drinks. Really nice.

Found this lizard sun tanning just right in front of our chalet. I had a great tan too! My skin was like glowing the whole week after those few days there.

This is the scene after our snorkeling trips. Look at the pristine white sands and sea. God, I wish I'm there again.

Bought some souvenirs on the last night. The morning when we were leaving, it was raining, as if the heavens pleaded us to stay. (Chewah!! Flower language!)

The trip ended with an agonising 9 hour bus ride back to KL. Hish...

Anyway, Redang is great. Totally enjoyable with friends or couples or even families!

That sums up my trip to Redang. This end of year I'm going to Singapore! My aunt is there, so I have a place to stay. Stay in tune for my pics!

P/S: Sometimes I do wish I'm at Redang again. It's just so relaxing...

Wishlist Of The Shopaholic Boy

2010-11-16T20:21:00.000+08:00

Wishlist No. 1: Tank top

Wishlist No. 2: Slim fit pants

Wishlist No. 3: Oxfords

Wishlist No.4: Jeans

Wishlist No.5 : More polo tees

I want to shop at luxxemen! Click on it to see their store.

Before I forgot, add number 6. Underwear. The kinkier, the better.

2(x)ist! In camo too! Weeeeeee~

P/S: Thanks to my aunt, I have two thongs from Skinxwear. LVoe~

2 Years

2010-11-11T23:11:00.000+08:00

I know it's a bit late, but here it is.

HAPPY 2ND ANNIVERSARY TO MY BLOG!

Without your support my friends, my blog here will not have almost 200 readers per month.

Thank you for the support, comments and the link from your blog to mine. Hahaha...

If not for the encouraging page views and visits, I would have stop long ago.

THANKS AGAIN!

P/S: I have started blogging since November '08. How fast time flies...

Mempersiasuikan

2010-11-10T23:52:00.000+08:00

Do you know what is "mempersiasuikan"?

Chinese, "sia sui" = very embarrassing, jatuh air muka.

Malay, "memper..kan" = it's something to give a word some action... I think.

So, "sia sui" + "memper...kan" = "mempersiasuikan"

Macam mana nak guna? Example:

"Please do not mempersiasuikan diri sendiri. It's unacceptable."

"Mempersiasuikan betul. Early-early already got bun in the oven."

"Ma ci bai, why do things that mempersiasuikan yourself? So cheap and ciplak la!"

"Fucker, mempersiasuikan me only. Want die ah!?"

Hence, mempersiasuikan. HAHAHAHAHAHAHAHA

P/S: Thanks to Sunny and the gang for this new word. LOL

A Long Long Meme

2010-11-09T01:19:00.000+08:00

A - AVAILABLE: Yes
B - BIRTHDAY: Coming soon
C- CRUSHING ON: Somebody (shh)
D - DRINK YOU LAST HAD: Milk tea
E - EASIEST PERSON TO TALK TO: My brothers :)
F - FAVORITE SONG AT THE MOMENT: Timbaland ft. Katy Perry - If We Ever Meet Again
H - HOMETOWN: City of Palms (Kuantan Bandar Palma)
I - IN LOVE WITH: With my life (Thank God)
J - JUGGLE: School and assignments
K - KILLED SOMEONE: No but had dreamt about death
L - LONGEST CAR RIDE: From Terengganu to Kuala Lumpur, almost 9 hours. Feels so sore and shitty.
M- MILKSHAKE FLAVOR: Banana
N - NUMBER OF SIBLINGS: Including me, 3
O - ONE WISH: To rectify all the wrong doings of man towards Mother Earth.
P - PERSON YOU CALLED LAST: My friend, Eten
R- REASON TO SMILE: Had fun at my company's dinner!
S - SONG YOU LAST HEARD: Owl City - Vanilla Twilight
T - TIME YOU WOKE UP: 1100 hours (tired after the dinner)
U - UNDERWEAR COLOR: Red, it's Diesel!
V - VEGETABLE: All I like!
W - WORST HABIT: Procrastination
X - X-RAYS YOU'VE HAD MOST RECENTLY: A long time ago, when I was 11, I dislocated my wrist.
Y - YOYOS ARE: Something I couldn't get a grasp on
Z - ZODIAC SIGN: Horse head, Snake tail

RANDOM QUESTIONS ABOUT YOU
Your favorite number/s: lucky number 7
What color do you wear most: black, blue, white, brown
Least favorite color: Purple
What are you listening to: At the moment, Coldplay
Are you happy with your life right now: Yes
What is your favorite class in school: Chemistry in high school
Who is/are your best friend/s: Marcus
Are you outgoing: A bit too much at times
Favorite pair of shoes: Bonia, tapi sudah hilang! Limited edition pulak tu... Huhuhu...
Can you dance?: Eh... I think I have two left feet.
Can you tie a cherry stem with your mouth: Tried, but couldn't. But I LVoe maraschino cherries. ;)
Can you whistle: With no success
Cross your eyes: Yes
Walk with your toes curled: Yes

DO YOU BELIEVE IN...
Do you believe in life in other planets: Yes
Do you believe in miracles: Yes
Do you believe in magic: According to what kind of perspective. There's always two sides of a coin.
Love at first sight: Yes
Do you believe in Santa: It gives me hope, although there's none.
Do you know how to swim: Yes and I like it!
Do you like roller coasters: Terrifying. But will try again.
Do you think you could handle the stuff they eat on those reality shows: No way. Unless they're cleaned and cooked properly.
Have you ever been on a plane: No but hoped too.
Have you ever asked someone out: Eh... Who's that someone?
Have you ever been to the ocean: I stay at a city which is well-known for its beach. You say leh?
Have you ever painted your nails?: Yes I have! Hahahahaha

THE WHAT'S
What is the temperature outside?: Donno. But it's cold.
What radio station do you listen to: BFM and Fly!
What was the last restaurant you ate at: Wong Kok at SS2 (celebrating my friend's birthday there)
What was the last thing you bought: A vest from Matsuda (Gorgeous!)
What was the last thing on TV you watched: Doraemon on NTV 7 (I know it's childish but it's fun!)

THE WHO'S
Who was the last person you IM'd: I forgot. Hehe...
Who was the last person you took a picture of: Colleagues at yesterday's dinner
Who was the last person you said I love you to: I haven't got the chance to, neither the courage.

CRYING SECTION
Ever really cried your heart out: Yes
Ever cried yourself to sleep: Yes
Ever cried on your friend's shoulder: No
Ever cried over the opposite sex: No
Do you cry when you get an injury: Serious ones, maybe.
Do certain songs make you cry: Yes

HAPPY SECTION
Are you a happy person?: Definitely!

LOOK AT ME
What is your current hair color: Black. Tried dying it before, but will never will again.
CURRENTLY WEARING
What shirt are you wearing: Giordano
Pants: G A P (LVoe!!)
Shoes: Slippers from Jusco
Necklaces: My mom's gift to me, white gold.
(Jangan tersilap, saya bukan kaya)

IN A GUY/GIRL
Favorite eye color: No preference
Short or long hair: short
Height: around my height is an advantage

HAVE YOU EVER
Been to jail: No
Mooned someone: I don't know. Maybe unintentionally.
Thought about suicide: No. Life is too precious to be wasted like that.
Laughed so hard you cried: YES!!
Cried in school: Yes. I got teased by my classmates when I was around standard 5.
Thrown up in a store: No
Wanted to be a model: Is already a model for my friend's assignments. Ciplak model pun jadilah.
Seen a dead body: My grandmother on my mother's side. Namo amitabha.
Been on drugs: No
Gone skinny dipping: One of my fantasies. Hahaha

THIS OR THAT
Pepsi or Coke: Diet Coke
McDonald's or Burger King: KFC
Single or Group Dates: Single
Chocolate or Vanilla: Both
Strawberries or Blueberries: Both!
Meat or Veggies: Both!!
TV or Movie: BOTH!!!
Guitar or Drums: Guitar
Adidas or Nike: Adidas
Chinese or Mexican: Japanese. I LVoe sushi!!!

Shopaholic Boy

2010-11-06T22:46:00.000+08:00

The other day when I was going shopping for my stuff (out of necessity, some of my stuff went missing or got burned after the fire) I decided to stop by Farenheit 88 to check out Uniqlo.

If you don't know what's going on, Google it. Or go read Kennysia's blog. It's in my bloglist.

Anyway, I thought of going there to check out some clothes. But the thing is I really don't know what's going to happen.

Instead, I was greeted by this incredibly long queue JUST TO GO INSIDE THE STORE.

Uniqlo is on the first floor but the queue extends until the entrance at the ground floor. I'm like, WTF? It's only clothes, really. Why the queue?

I'm so pissed off. It's not like I don't like Uniqlo, but the queue. Although I love fashion, but as a savvy shopper, queuing is not worth it. I don't mind being the last one to buy something incredibly hip or wait for ages for something to go on sale.

Because shopping to me is like a treasure hunt. Sometimes you find treasure, sometimes junk. But you must be always on the move.

That's why I LVoe being a shopaholic. A shopaholic boy that is.

And for the record, I own a pair of Uniqlo jeans even BEFORE Uniqlo is here. And yes, I LVoe it to death.

P/S: Uniqlo is having introductory prices at the moment. If you really want it so bad, you better go early.

Inferno

2010-11-01T23:07:00.000+08:00

This happened not long ago, but just so you know. Click the video to listen to what I have to say. It's in Cantonese, but I'll explain if you don't understand.

For those who do, click and listen to what I have to say!

So chronologically, it happens like this.

4.30am - Received phone call. It's my housemate. Feeling very strange. I don't usually wake up because of a phone call, but this time I did. To make it much more strange, my housemate is staying at the opposite of my room.

4.31am - The phone call turned into a miss call. It gets even stranger. I smelled something extremely annoying. I jumped up from the bed. I opened the door.

4.32am - Smoke everywhere. It was pitch black smoke. I have trouble breathing because of the heavy smoke. Then I saw something glowing red. It's an inferno downstairs. A damn fucking fire is happening.

4.33am - Woke my roommates. We were screaming like hell. My housemate at the opposite of my room screamed out my name. I screamed out "Fire!" Me and my roommates rushed to the bathroom and soak ourselves wet. Took towels, wet them and cover ourselves.

4.38am- Tried to get out of our room using the wet towels, but it was too hot and the smoke too dense. Rushed back inside the bathroom. Heard people screaming our names.

4.43am- Screaming at the top of our lungs saying what was happening to the people outside. It gets very scary. The only exit was now a dead end and we do not know what is happening to our housemates at the the opposite of our room. I knelt down gasping for air.

4.45am- One of my roommates started to push the bathroom window, trying to break it. Then he tried to climb out to the roof through the window, which he did. He helped me and my other roommate out. That's the first time I climbed through the bathroom window, half naked. I'm only wearing shorts to sleep that day.

4.55 am- Luckily our neighbour has a ladder, so we climbed down from the roof using that. Thank God. But then our two housemates are still trapped inside. Very very worried.

5.05 am- The firefighters and police arrived. Start to put out the fire.

5.15 am- Our housemates were rescued. Thank God again.

So that's an estimated chronological story of what had happened on that fateful Sunday morning.

The cause of fire was arson. We thought of molotov cocktails, but there's no sign of glass. We deduce that the person had actually break in to our house, pour petrol and set the fire. The criminal is still on the loose.

Estimated lost of all belongings (including my housemates): RM3500.

Haiz. That's life.

P/S: Luckily the gas tank downstairs did not blow up. It's so near to the source of fire.

Semalam

2010-10-13T16:35:00.000+08:00

Semalam,
Hanya semalam,
Kenangan...Memanggil-manggil...
Pulanglah sayang, padaku.

Ku ingin... Mengubat...
Hati yang rindu.

Sudikah engkau menanti?

P/S: Semalam by Sean Ghazi. He's the nearest thing to P.Ramlee, I think. Wonderful, soothing voice. :)

Sales, Sales, Sales!

2010-09-19T02:21:00.001+08:00

Elianto has a sale going on. And a really great one too! Check it out here at everydayonsales.com

And to those ladies out there who are sushi lovers, see this!

Jogoya is having an extremely worth it promotion! Check it out here at shoppingNsales.

There's even sales on Hush Puppies! For further info, please click EverydayOnSales.

So much sales going on, but no $$$. Because Borders Times Square is having a clearance sale and I bought some books. Yet again.

Will my obsession with books ever end? I think not, because the other I'm aiming to buy is this.

David Sedaris! :)

P/S: David Sedaris is a very famous author for his short stories which are full of humour. Go google about him if you're interested.

To Laugh Or To Cry?

2010-09-15T13:13:00.001+08:00

Just finished my exams not long ago, glad its done. There's another story here today, but it's here only because it's a lesson. Not meaning to offend anyone, so please don't spread this thing around. It's only here for a good cause.

So today, this morning, was my exam. As usual, for all exams in my university, it's required to fill in an attendance slip before taking the exam. The invigilators will then collect it from the students. So I filled up mine, and I put it at the corner of my desk.

Write... Draw... Sketch... Colour... Busy busy busy... And I did not notice whether my attendance slip was taken or not.

During the last 15 minutes, one of the invigilators came over and noticed my attendance slip. It's not taken. By the way, I think this was the invigilator who also came over to my place toying with my markers. And all this while the slip is still on my desk.

Then he handed my slip to the head who is sitting in front of me. Suddenly the head's face turns ugly.

With his booming angry voice, he said:

"You should have given me this earlier." He was wagging his finger.

"I have mark you as absent."

OH MY GOD. I'M SITTING IN FRONT OF YOU.

Then my thoughts fly away. My works on the table dissolved into a black hole, sucking me into it, my markers grew fangs and claws, clawing me to death. Then everyone was so shocked that they ran away into the courtyard and the police, firefighters and ambulance come to see me growing Godzilla size and stomping everything in sight.

That was how sucky it felt at that time.

But anyway, my slip was accepted, because there are witnesses.
11.05am.The exam ended.

I was really feeling sucky, it sucks until I'm on the verge of tears. I really feel like finding the head invigilator and apologise. Which I did. Apology accepted too. Instantly, I feel so much better.

Actually there is some mistake at the examination department. There are only 125 students but they mislabel as 126 who are taking the exam. Thinking there was 2 who was absent, I only added to his frustration that I handed in my slip so late. The whole group of invigilators were recounting and recounting because of that mistake.

So now I'm laughing how silly I am. If I did not find him and apologise, I will still feel sucky now, right?

To those out there who are owing people an apology, please make it as soon as possible. Not only does it makes you and the other one involved feeling better, it also makes this world a better place.

:)

P/S: I'm really blogging a lot these days... That's a good thing!

Manicure

2010-09-14T23:13:00.000+08:00

You know, sometime back I changed my phone number. But after that I got some strange messages and calls.

I've forgotten the calls, but what I got from the messages was:

"Your electrical bill is now RM300. Please pay at etc, etc.." - This was a message from Tenaga Nasional indicating that I haven't pay my bills. The problem is, I don't own a house. Yet.

"New stock arrival at (bla bla bla) Boutique!" - I forgot the boutique's name. The problem is the boutique is selling female clothing.

The weirdest one was today's message:

"Hi, can I come at 5?"

"Excuse me, but I don't have your number. May I know who you are?" - Me replying.

"I'm XXX the manicurist."

What in the world did I order a manicurist?

I was really laughing my ass off and rolling on the floor. Literally. Anyway I got a courteous reply saying it's the wrong number.

To the lady who has changed her number, I got yours, so please inform everyone that is relevant. Thanks ya. If not your manicurist is going to mix up some contacts. Or your favourite boutique. Or TNB.

Anyway, maybe I should get a manicure. Who says I couldn't? Hahahahah....

P/S: Is this God's way for telling me to relax and get a manicure? Mojito and manicure by the beach... Wow!!

Mojito

2010-09-12T21:10:00.000+08:00

The recipe for a mojito, a Cuban cocktail that's great for some sun and waves.

1.5 oz of light rum
12 mint leaves
1/2 lime, wedged
7oz of club soda
2 tbsp of simple syrup or 4 tsp of fine sugar
ice

In a tall glass, put in the lime, mint leaves and sugar. Muddle well together, using a muddler or the back of the spoon if you don't have one. Add ice, and then the rum. Top off with club soda and garnish with some mint leaves or a lime wheel.

Now where did I put my Bacardi?

P/S: Oh, my father drank the whole bottle with 7-Up. Time to go Langkawi again. Hahaha....

After All I Planned...

2010-09-04T18:30:00.003+08:00

I'm not going back after all. My assignment due date is now extended until next Wednesday. Sigh...

So just an info over here, who's interested to go back to Kuantan from KL this Sunday, 12 Sept 2010, 11.30am, drop me a comment here. By the way, it's boarding from Pekeliling station. Yes, I'm selling off my ticket.

Also, I have this weird dream today. I am driving a car, a Satria Neo, but I'm driving on the LEFT side. Which I don't think it's weird. In real life, I suck at driving and will not attempt to drive if there is no one who can guide me, and the driver's seat are all on the RIGHT. But then I was all alone and I'm on the LEFT side. And the car was a metallic orange.

So as I was trying to park the car, a man suddenly comes up on my window and say that I cannot park here because a beehive is just beside my car. So I drove off. And all the while all these are happening, the weather is gloomy, dark and pouring like cats and dogs.

The whole experience driving the car is not pleasant. I shifted gears, it didn't move. I tried to break, it wouldn't stop. And the reverse gear is now something like a button. Weird. Anyway, I reversed and drove off to a long stretch of a dark road, with malfunctioned streetlights. And suddenly a sports car in black almost hit me. I closed my eyes and screamed. The car just drove off.

Just as I was so scared, I stopped my car and said I want to go home and I do not want to drive anymore. Suddenly, a man appeared on my right seat and comforted me. And the RIGHT seat becomes the DRIVER'S SEAT. But still, I have my STEERING WHEEL and PEDALS.

He explained to me that the car is an auto-manual, where you can control the car with a push of button on the steering wheel or you can just drive it manually like you always did before. Anyway, he drove me home.

And I woke up.

I searched for some dream interpretation, and it really is a meaningful dream. Thank you God for giving me directions.

That's all.

Home

2010-08-24T00:06:00.005+08:00

I really miss my hometown.

The reason why I called my blog "Stories Beyond The City of Palms" is because my hometown is "The City of Palms", or in Malay, "Kuantan Bandar Palma".

I bought my ticket for my trip back yesterday. How I wish that all my things can be done quickly and time will fly right to the day where I'll be back.

I miss my bed (which I have to share with my bro, he's SOOO tall that his old bed cannot fit him anymore).

I also miss my privacy. I'm staying in a share room at PJ (at Kuantan, I can sing all day long and talk so loudly that when you pass by my house, you will think that a "orang sakit jiwa" is staying there).

I miss the beach! I would really love to try plyometrics (a form of very fun exercise) and jog from one end to the other (which I've never tried before!).

I miss grandma and grandpa. And I miss whipping up spaghetti for them (my forte in cooking).

I miss everybody and everything that I love.

I am totally homesick. So sick that I call my mother the other day just to have a chat with her. Which I need to do more often.

I think I may work overseas somehow or another at some other time, or travel the whole wide world, but during the days when my end is near, I want to be at my hometown.

And hopefully, it can still maintain an old world charm amidst the constructions and progressions. Which it does now. :)

I love Kuantan!!

P/S: Pray pray pray that all these will be over soon.

Designer: Problem Solver

2010-08-18T23:49:00.003+08:00

There's too much to be done with so little time. I have 3 assignments where I'm going solo. I'm all alone. In the midst of this chaos, I did learn something.

A designer is a problem solver. Why do I say so?

Try imagine a world without design. Life would be like hell. Because there's going to be no IKEA.

No books with fancy covers and fonts, unattractive and hard to read. No magazines like Vogue, Bazaar, nor Female.

No paper system. No A4, A3 or even A1. No well organised corporate logos and identities, which means no Gucci, no Chanel, no Balenciaga.

No fashion shows. We're wearing Mao suits everywhere. (Oh Dio.)

Oh, and the suits will torture in hell with their googly eyes coming out.

No well designed cars. It's going to be an effing Kancil with plastic body. (Not I'm having any grudges with Perodua. It's an example lah. )

But you do remember those dumbos who squeezed around 7 people in a Kancil? With googly eyes too!

No art. No Cubism, no Surrealism, no Post-Impressionism. In fact, all the art movements will not exist without any design principles.

No well designed electrical appliances. It's all a big SIRIM FAIL.

Hahahahaha.

No illustrations, which means no accompanying images that break the monotones of an article in a newspaper.

No more nice newspapers. Just ink, ink, ink, and ink.

No amazing websites that can elicit a "wow" from you.

Really, with no design, life is going to be complicated and boring.

It's going to be like Science stream to the extreme. Which I am interested. *Ehem*

Can you imagine what's life like without designers then?

I bet you already can. :)

MUAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHHAHAHA

P/S: God, forgive me of my sins of doing these stupid silly googly eyes.

Wishlist

2010-08-02T00:38:00.003+08:00

Wishlist number 1:

Check out the rest here!

Wishlist number 2:

One for mother, one for me. :-)

Wishlist number 3:

Something that starts with a letter and ends with eternity.

P/S: I won't be posting for quite some time, but I'll try my best. That's it for now!

Into The Sea - Day 1

2010-07-14T02:27:00.001+08:00

I haven't ride boats before. Really, any kind of boats. Don't even mention ocean liners.

But for the trip to Redang Island, I rode a few kinds of boats. Speedboat, fisherman's boat and ferry too. And I realised one thing.

I'm not seasick! Hahaha....

Anyway, back to my trip. I wasn't expecting anything, since I haven't ride boats before, more so staying on a small island for 3 days 2 nights. We took the night bus to KT from KL, arrived there early morning, around 6. And when I say we, that would be Ah Bei, Ah Luck, Eten, Mizeen, Tony, Toong and me.

But we almost couldn't ride the bus because our tickets were printed with the wrong dates. (OMG) Lucky for us at that time, there were still some place left and the bus conductor agreed to take us in. Pure luck.

Then around 7.40am, we took a van provided by the resort's agent to the jetty.

We took the speedboat to Redang. And the result of taking pictures on a speedboat? You get this.

Anyway, it's a fun way to get there! If you're not seasick, that is. It's like a roller coaster, except this time the track is unpredictable.

We arrived at Redang around 10am. The weather is amazing, paired with wonderful sea conditions.

Paradise on earth, I dare say.

That's it for now. I'll continue at a later time. :-)

P/S: Beautiful, no? Wakakaka~~

Between There and Now

2010-07-14T01:29:00.004+08:00

Memories

Between there

And now.

A long journey.

Miles of road ahead.

Not stopping anytime soon.

Doesn't mean I don't need rests.

Memories

Between there

And now.

Time and tide

Waits for no man

And let it stay that way.

Because I feel alive

To know

That I'm creating a story

Master of my own fate

And destiny.

Memories shall not fade, time shall not stop, and hope shall be kept alive.

P/S: Thanks to Natalie for her encouraging words and care. Forever amigos. :-) Next post, long overdue Redang.

Breakdowns

2010-06-09T00:58:00.002+08:00

I'm starting to get busy, busier than ever. I wonder how I'm going to get through it.

I know that some of you out there are waiting for my post on Redang, my trip last sem break. That will have to wait, for now.

I'm broke. My PTPTN loan is not coming. My results are not up to the level. But I don't want to let that to influence me. It's already over. Time to move on.

I cried. Because my grandpa is in the hospital, suffering from cerebral haemorrhage that he is not suppose to have. Time is running short.

I'm having a breakdown.

And I'll build myself up again.

It's life. Amor fati.

P/S: I pray for my grandpa. I dare not hope for the best, but I only request that all goes well. Namo guan shi yin pu sa.

Up To The Hills

2010-05-25T14:37:00.005+08:00

Before posting my trip to Redang, let me post this. It's my trip to Broga Hill with my GD friends last 2 weeks, if I'm not wrong.

Broga Hill is situated at the borders of Selangor and Negeri Sembilan, a very rural area. It's good to have a reliable GPS to take you there. Broga Hill is near to Kampung Broga. At the foot of the hill is a palm oil plantation and across it is a rabbit farm.

But if you are following your GPS, do double check your routes to make sure that the route taken is a good one. My friends and me learn it the hard way. LOL

I'll leave the pictures here to talk themselves. That's it for now.

Hui Hui and Ella resting after a long trip uphill

Syee Wei is our model of the day

Beautiful clouds...

Somebody broke his DSLR lens...

It's very windy up there...

Beautiful sun and greens...

P/S: Somebody wore the wrong kind of clothes. You know who you are. Wakakakaka~~

WoW. Is All I Can Say.

2010-05-17T04:02:00.003+08:00

I don't play much games but I play this.

You're correct. It's World of Warcraft. If you don't know what it's about, please educate yourself a little and ask you brother/sister/boyfriend/girlfriend/uncle/aunt who's into it. Or save the hassle and google it.

Better still, learn to play it.

But be warned, this thing is addicting. You can compare it to amphetamine. (not like I have taken drugs before :-P)

And it harms your wallet too. RM120 for 60 days game time and that's not included the CD keys for the expansion sets.

I'm a dwarf in there. And I miss Ironforge as I type this.

Oh, and I'm planning to be an orc too. See below?

How I love my holidays. As short as it may seem.

Now back to Dun Morough and hunt some gnomes. Hehehe...

P/S: Redang trip later this week. Will post photos. Stay tuned!

A Long-Time-No-Do-Meme Meme

2010-05-04T02:48:00.003+08:00

1. Name one person who made you laugh last night.
Hui Hui. LOL!

2. What were you doing at 0800?
Sleeping. Slept till 12 noon today. (No class ma...)

3.What were you doing 30 minutes ago?
Surfing the net.

4. What happened to you in 2006?
Goodness, I'm still in secondary at that time!

5. What was the last thing you say out loud?
HAPPY MOTHER'S DAY!......hahahaha

6. How many beverages did you have today?
Three. Mocha, tea and water.

7. What colour is your hairbrush?
I don't own one. Comb, yes.

8. What was the last thing you paid for?
My dinner.

9. Where were you last night?
Room.

10. What colour is your front door?
My temporary house in PJ, brown. My hometown, white.

11. Where do you keep your change?
In my pocket. But I plan to buy a coin purse. Manly coin purse.

12. What's the weather like today?
Cool.

13. What's the best ice-cream flavour?
All are tasty. But couldn't decide what's best. The two best choices are:
New Zealand Natural, the one with fruits. Forgot what's the name. But it tastes so good...
OR Haagen Dazs, Strawberry. That's the best strawberry ice-cream.

14. Do you want to cut your hair?
Yes! Wait until I'm back at Kuantan.

15. Are you over the age of 25?
No.

16. Do you talk a lot?
It depends.

17. Do you watch the O.C?
No. These days I watch very little TV series.

19. Do you know anyone named Steven?
My little cousin brother.

20. Do you make up your own words?
Nope. Nicknames, yes.

21. Are you a jealous person?
Nope.

22. Name a friend whose name starts with the letter ‘A’.
Alice (Xiao Qian)

23. Name a friend whose name starts with the letter ‘K’.
Karyn.

24. Who’s the first person on your received call list?
My mum!

25. What does the last text message you received say?
"Sorry to disturb you, but can you help me? Please..."

26. Do you chew on your straw?
Nope.

27. Do you have curly hair?
Only on pubes.

28. Where’s the next place you’re going to?
Mamak.

29. Who’s the rudest person in your life?
My youngest brother. To me only, that is. LOL

30. What was the last thing you ate?
Rice and Kam Heong Fish.

31. Will you get married in the future?
If there's a chance, I definitely will.

32. What’s the best movie you’ve seen in the past 2 weeks?
Ip Man 2. Best!!

33. Is there anyone you like right now?
I do. But still friends. Meeting up very soon. Hehe...

34. When was the last time you did the dishes?
Just now.

35. Are you currently depressed?
I think so...

36. Did you cry today?
No.

37. Why did you answer and post this?
For the fun of it. Hahaha

38. Tag 5 people who would do this survey.
I'm not going to tag anyone. Anyone interested, please do.

All The Bits and Pieces

2010-04-30T18:09:00.003+08:00

I couldn't help but to wonder why these days my room are full of bits and pieces that made me remind of things. Things that I've forgotten a long time ago. Looking back at them made me smile a little, think a little.

Supposedly that's life. You leave some part of you everywhere. Hahaha...

Ah, the turtle in the living room is doing some kind of a balancing act in the aquarium. You see, it's full of water and the turtle is balancing somewhere on a border to have a breather. Nope, it's not mine, but my friend, Eten's. You can find his blog link here and it's in Chinese.

Talking about pets, Hui Hui wants a hamster and Syee Wei has a rabbit in her room. I myself want to have a dog very very much, but that will have to wait when I have a place on my own. One of my housemates is very scared of furry animals, especially cats and dogs. Hehe...

There are many activities for me in the following month. I'll be busy, busy and busier than ever. Pray that all goes well for me. It's hard but not impossible. Have faith. (quoted from Sunny... hahahaha)

I'll be moving next month. YAY!!! No more Mr. Siao, which is very kisiao. And I plan to buy some more furniture, if the budget allows. There will be a balcony at the new place, which I love very much. Imagine having pillow talks at there on a cold moonless night. Also, no more going downstairs to hang laundry!

I think these are all the bits and pieces I can collect from my mind. That's all. I'm going to write a meme post next.

P/S: I learned a lot from Mr. Wincen, Mr. Kenny, Mr. Jim and another special guest for Advertising Design II. Many thanks to you all!

UPDATE: Tak jadi nak pindah. Because the new owner STILL hasn't finish renovating his house. That day I passed by and it's still unfinished. :P

Going Gaga for Dolce & Gabbana

2010-04-28T03:54:00.004+08:00

If you had read my blog since last year, you would know that one of the brands that I looooove very much is Dolce & Gabbana. Their style for women may be a little over, but then their line for men is so chic and classic. Especially the suits. Take a look at their website if you have the time.

Also, I gravitate towards Lady Gaga these days. She needs no introduction, I think. You know, I know, everybody knows. The only thing is that she doesn't know me. (Lame joke, I know.)
"Telephone" is a very trashy song, great for shaking your head. Totally reminds me of Safari. (The one at Genting. If you know what I'm talking, you get 10 points! Ting!!)

So, what happens when you combine the both of them? You get this.

One of the frames for my storyboard.

Lady Gaga, meet Dolce and Gabbana. Dolce and Gabbana, meet Lady Gaga.

Like what Bryanboy says, "Cray, cray, cray." (crazy without the "Z")

P/S: I am so "fan jian".

Ice Kacang Puppy Love

2010-04-16T00:59:00.002+08:00

On hot sunny days
The one that I love
With its gula melaka
Cendol strips
And not forgetting
The little red beans

Melted away
Numbing my lips
Leaving only
An unforgettable taste
On hot sunny days

They say
This is how it feels
When you have
Puppy love
The very first
Experience
Of love
Unforgettable
Unattainable
Indescribable
So they say

So what is it?
Puppy love?
I don't understand
And maybe
Never will
For I have none
The chance
To love

All is fair
In love and war
They say
And I say
It's not

For I have lost my trust on love.
原来我什么都没有。

:'-(

P/S: Sorry for the emo post again, but Ice Kacang Puppy Love is showing in a cinema near you! Support Malaysian movie, for it is getting better and better.

Whimsical Days of A Mad Mad Man

2010-03-28T18:15:00.004+08:00

I'd love to be the Mad Hatter. I love hats and I'm mad, so why not? Hehehehehehe.....

Anyway, this week has been a whimsical week. Very whimsical. I had my undies turned bright pink together with other colours of the rainbow, laughing at the mystical disappearance of my rubbish bin, and generally be a fool among the crowd in a restaurant.

The Mystical Rubbish Bin: "I was written on as a jackass. Yet a jackass stole me away."

Also, the Mad Hatter has the habit of celebrating nonsense birthdays on his tea party table, to which I had done on my marble floor. Drama, singing and jokes are all part of the package. This post may seem no sense at all to you, but that's the point. Also, happy birthday to you, Ella! Wishing you many happy returns of the day, with much to have and more.

Whangadoodles me! Somethings still aren't opened yet, though the gate above may be. Like my favourite box of green eggs and ham.

For green eggs and ham are a good source of chlorophyll and protein to boost. Throw in a couple of pears and apples with an annoying orange will be a good breakfast. And I always did not have breakfast, and may have a cup of smarties everyday with bilk if I can.

What's this? The magical mushroom has landed and gave birth to jujubes which are rose cordial flavoured. For these are the tears of the sad rose below. Magical mushrooms aside, how about cheese with abalone mushrooms? Might as well fry them and add crunchy peanuts and chocolate vermicelli. In addition with green eggs and ham, there are blue strawberries and bacon.

That's why everything is mad these days. Wheeeeeeeeee!!!!!!!

Enough of this craziness. I'll end here, with a sad face that it's ending. But tomorrow will be better. Just ask my pair of Nike's who just went back yesterday with "Crocodile" syndrome. He needs a good doctor. A very good doctor.

P/S: The photos are from Mid Valley Megamall, during their promotion of the movie, Alice in Wonderland. I know this post made no sense. I'm mad these days. Wakakaka!!

I Know I Shouldn't

2010-03-25T18:17:00.003+08:00

These days, it feels like I shouldn't take Graphic Design. Yes, I love to draw, ever since I was a kid. I even have a file full of the things I've drawn when I was little and have them as a keepsake. All were my imagination and my dreams.

But then, I couldn't survive in the industry. Sleeping in the office for the weekend because of this nonsense demand of a customer? Sorry. NO WAY. I am human and I want my life back.

Yes, I love LVs, Birkins, Balenciaga and other high-end, out-of-my-reach, luxury product. But then I wonder is it worth it to work my ass off to pay for these things, and in the end having a life where all I see are paperworks and Mac?

It really feels like that these days. Not only me, everyone in my class does.

Also, it's already a year, and there's no way for me to get out of this course. I've dumped some 30k of money-in-the-future into it. Not counting the monthly expenses that my parents have to fork out. Not counting the materials for this course that I have to pay at a ridiculous price.

So, I'll stay strong and finish it. I do not want it to be a chapter in my life with a big red stamp FAIL across it. I'll finish it.

But. I'll change jobs. More to writing, possibly. I love to read, why not try to write too?

Stay tuned. More happy posts are coming soon. All my stories beyond the City of Palms.

P/S: I wonder what happened. Hope that everything goes well.

The Doctor Said...

2010-03-23T21:05:00.003+08:00

I had a headache this morning. A real, ugly, headache. My head was so heavy that I couldn't lift up from the luscious pillow beneath. It is not a hangover, but it really seems as if I had ten bottles of vodka. (make that mandarin. yum....)

So I skipped class this morning, slept until lunchtime, woke up with that same feeling. I dragged myself out of bed, had lunch, took a bus to UM Hospital. With the day's paper, of course. (it's a long wait at the clinic....)

The doctor said I have a case of tension headache. Luckily I do not have fever, or it may be serious. But then the reason of my headache is stress and lack of sleep. Which makes me think. I never had a case of such a headache before. Never in my life. And previously before this morning, it's been paining for 2 days. Whenever I sit or stand or change positions, it hurts.

Is it worth it to risk my head for a degree in Graphic Design?

I'm having sick leave for today and tomorrow. Hope that it gets better. But I couldn't believe that what I'm having now is stress induced. That's bad, for me at least.

Never will I step into the advertising world. My head proves this. Freelancing is a better option.

I need a holiday. Very very much. Danny, are you reading this? LOL.

P/S: Pain is temporary, but pride is forever. But neither I want to lost a limb.

So Alone

2010-03-13T21:43:00.004+08:00

Alone. What does this word reminds of you?

A lonely bus ride? And all you see from the window is a row of palm trees.

On top of a lonely mountain? And all you see is a blanket of mist.

On a deserted beach? And all you see is where the horizon meets the sky.

Or in a deserted park? And all you see is.... no one.

I admit that I'm a lone wolf. At times, I am happy being alone. Alone with a book, alone on the beach, alone with nothing but the bare essentials, walking on the streets of Chow Kit and Pasar Seni.

Because no matter how alone I am, I manage to keep finding something to amuse myself.

But not today. I wonder why.

Is it because of "emptiness" in some part of my life? Am I that thirsty of having a drink in Aphrodite's pool?

Maybe. Maybe not. I shall wait, and wait for time to unfold itself, for I couldn't foresee what is coming.

For now, I am alone. And a happy fool that is alone shall I be.

P/S: Next week must NOT step out of the house. I'm shopping again. Shit.

I Couldn't Stay

2010-03-06T23:30:00.002+08:00

Today I've watched Alice In Wonderland. You can call me childish, but I was amazed by the 3D effects. It's really a wonder to see your childhood story come to life. Though the storyline maybe a little old and predictable, it's a twist from the story. What makes it entertaining are the effects and the costumes. I rate it a 6 for good effort.

But what I'm trying to say here is not about the movie. What I'm trying to say is about a line from the movie.

"I couldn't stay. I have questions to answer and be answered."

Or something like that. Forgive me for my poor memory.

Nonetheless, the line hit me like a brick. Yes, I couldn't stay. I have questions to answer and be answered. Questions that I'm trying to find an answer for everyday. And new ones that pop out of the blue everyday.

Staying means that there's no progress. Humans are made to progress although it may not be their choice. There's Darwin and his theory and nature's progression, season after season. One cannot stay at a moment's time forever, no matter how good or bad the moment is. It's going to pass.

About the questions, whatever will be, will be. I can provide answers to you if you ask me to analyse, but as for me, I let them be. I rather be a fool and be happy. Knowing the truth does not mean happiness for me anymore.

But I couldn't stay here anymore.

P/S: Although I may not care about the truth, but please, don't lie to me. It hurts.

Unhappiness

2010-03-03T02:39:00.003+08:00

I apologise if my posts seems a bit emotional these days, but that's what it seems in my life these days.

I went back to Kampar the other day. On Friday, when it was a public holiday. To cut the long story short, due to poor KTM and bus services, my friends and me were delayed. But none the less, thank God we arrived. And what fun we had.

Back there, sunsets and sunrise seems more bearable. Time passes by slowly, with much to spare. Bicycle rides and long pathways. Most of all, fresh air. And friends too. A few days there is certainly not enough for me.

But then, I'm tired. I'm tired of missing it. I'm tired of not being there. And I'm tired of these helpless thoughts.

What can I do? Alas, the fate is not in my hands.

Coming back here, I tried to be open. I tried to face each day with a certain thing that keeps me going on. But none could be my saviour.

What is the use of getting high marks if you are not happy? What is the use of staying here and yet hear fears that were unheard of?

And still I must go on.

I pray that things can be a little more bearable. Yes, it can be hard but bearable. Please. My heart now sings of a sadness that no man has ever heard. For the notes and lyrics for happiness are stowed away, replaced by harsh stinging octaves of what we call life.

It's 3 in the morning. And I feel a bit better.

P/S: More cases of robbery in Section 17 these days. Please be alert. I pray no harm will fall on my bunch of friends. I can only pray.

Short and Tired Bananas

2010-02-25T02:05:00.003+08:00

It's a short post.

I am tired. Very. Thank God I'll be in Kampar for a recharge.

Bananas? Milkshake. Cake. Condom. LOL

P/S: Told you it's short. Stories will have to come later. :-p

Today with My Fireflies

2010-02-22T00:01:00.002+08:00

Today I met Ah Teng and Ah Wai. Ah Wai has certainly got fatter, but it seems normal to me. Most of his jeans couldn't fit him anymore and finds that eating is a much pleasurable activity rather than jogging. I couldn't agree more. It's the New Year and eating is inseparable.

We went to have lunch, and after that a hunt for a watch. Ah Teng said that she'd like to have a watch that's good rather than those cheap ones. Hunted down and low, finally settling on a new model of Casio. Not exactly a bargain, but it's a Casio. The price range is like that. You know what I mean.

As for me, I'm happy just to accompany them. It's been quite some time since we met but they did not change a bit. Albeit the little awkward silence when there are no topics to talk, we still get along fine.

That's what happened today.
__________________________

Owl City. Fireflies. Impressive. Imagination filled to the brim. I love. Have you heard it? If not, go YouTube and search for Owl City: Fireflies. Especially love the chorus.

I'd like to make myself believe
That planet Earth
Turns slowly

It's hard to say I'd rather stay awake than I'm asleep
Cause everything is never as it seems

Yup. Everything is never as it seems. Last time I did try to figure out what may happen if I take this action or that. But no, it's not happening or happened in another way.

Now I don't do that. I may plan, but as for the consequences of my action, I let it be. Positive or negative? Some have definite answers but others don't.

Cause everything is never as it seems.

P/S: And my dreams are bursting at the seams.

It's been a long time

2010-02-20T12:18:00.002+08:00

I know. I know. The last post was dated somewhere back in June 2009. That's half a year and more that this blog has kept quiet. I promised to write more, but in the end...

Anyway, changes are a part of my life now. I dyed my hair, got a pair of crazy pants and blue pointed shoes. It's a part of my process to find myself, I think. Or it's just a lame excuse for a shopaholic makeover?

Many things had happened. So much that it overwhelms me and I'm left gasping for air. Hopefully this new year will bring a relieve. I'm not hoping that much. But I can pray.

I've just come to realise that PJ is not a bad place to be, but it's not one of the best too. Last night when Choon Lin, another friend (LOL) Sabrina and me sat down on the road and talked, I see stars. The same one that I saw at Kampar. Shining, mesmerising, beautiful none the less. And it hit me.

This was what I did during my days in Kampar with Hong Zai, Ah Teng, Ah Wai and those who are with me.

I guess what I miss was them. Not the place that much, but the people. My friends.

How I would give all what I have to God for having this feeling again. I missed it so so much. Life is just so big and messy and tangled these days.

I need my bike back.

I need my room back.

I need my sunset with the train traveling into it gloriously back.

Most of all, I need my life back.

Then suddenly, I got a phone call. It's Ah Teng and Ah Wai and they're here in KL tomorrow.

God heard me. All I need to do was to pray. That's all He wanted. He couldn't give me back everything that I had, but he gave me back my memories.

I had forgotten them, placed it away and locked it, due to the life that I'm having now.

But I found it again. I'm overjoyed.

I couldn't wait till tomorrow comes.

Thank you God. Thank you.

P/S: This post is dedicated to K. Mentioned that it's been a long time I updated my blog. Haha...
To Hui Hui, since you're having a blog too, let's write together. Improves your English! I swear it does.

Random Thoughts

2009-06-24T16:33:00.004+08:00

It's been a month since my last post. How time flies. That time I was only a week in PJ, and now I'm already a month here. And my blog is now full of cobwebs, spiders and that musty smell of a long forgotten store room. Haha...

So, it's been a month. A month in a place that I do not like and I do not want to stay. That was my thinking last time and it still has not change for the better. For the worst, maybe. But I'll talk about this later. For now, let me indulge in some writing before heading back to my schoolwork.

Let's see, what had been happening around me since the last time I posted?

1. I bought a DSLR camera! No more handphone shots, but a crisp and clear shot until you can see unsightly things such as unclipped nose hair. Just joking. The camera is a course requirement, si?

2. I found out there's a thing called Ribena Special at Steven's Corner. I know I'm very "Katak Di Bawah Tempurung", but still, I'm new here! If not for Joe bringing us to Taman OUG for pasar malam, I will never found out this heavenly drink. With a price that is as high as the heavens too. (For me la. Student ma...)

3. Love advertising design! It's a fun subject and my lecturer/tutor is a well-seasoned guy in that field. By the way, his dressing is so out of the box. Imagine somebody wearing round glasses, jeans with metal chain, white shirt and a Spiderman tie. Let's not forget the red and blue shoes too. If you see somebody like this at Jaya One Starbucks, that is Asir.

4. OH MY GOD! Dolce & Gabbana fashion show for Spring/Summer 2010 has this wonderful leather clutch FOR MEN! And the black undershirts and pants has sequins on them! Androgynus fashion is starting to take the world by storm. But let's not forget other designers like Gucci and Bottega Venetta which emphasise very much on mens' acessories for this season.

5. OH MY GOD! My neighbour was almost robbed. Seriously. If it happens thrice, I consider moving out. Section 17/21B is not as calm as it looks. (That's why I still say I do not like it here.)

6. A(H1N1) is rampant these days. 2 more schools are closed. Must practise basic hygiene everyday!

7. I went back to Kampar for a short while before attending my friend's charity concert at Ipoh. Missed Kampar so so much! But sad to say, the people there are increased in quantity but decreased in fun. The whole hostel area is now very quiet at night, with the attitude "Mind Your Own Business". Sigh...

There are still more that hapened during the whole month of absence, but I need to get back to my schoolwork. Almost every week I need to hand in assignments. Very very busy.

So, that's all for now. If I have the time, I'll post more.

P/S: Beauty without brains is like a diamante and lace trashcan. It looks pretty, but once you open it... let's not mention the content.

PP/S: One of my shots I took with my camera. Looks good, I think. What about you?

I Don't Know

2009-05-31T13:36:00.003+08:00

It's been almost a week I'm in Petaling Jaya.

So, what's the verdict? Good or bad? I have no idea.

Yes, I admit I do not like this place. But after having a thought about it, this could be the place that I'll be staying for some time to work after completing my studies.

Pros? Lots of good food here, many entertainment, wonderful shopping malls.

Cons? Need lots of money, pollution, must need car to get around. Most of all, no stars.

I miss my stars. I miss cheap food. I miss the fresh air from the hills.

Life is simple in Kampar, far from the complexities of a big city together with carbon dioxides, monoxides and sulphides.

Thank God I have some of my friends with me. If not, I don't know how I'll go on day by day.

So, if you ask me how is Petaling Jaya, I have no idea. I just don't know.

But if only I can have a choice, I'll go back to Kampar anytime. Kuantan too.

Little Eats

2009-05-19T23:54:00.008+08:00

After posting up something that brought back fond memories of a time not so long ago, it reminds me of something that I would definitely miss. The food at Kampar. Delicious and does not burn a hole in the pocket.

I remember the time when I had a double breakfast with my housemates, Teng and Ah Wai. We cycled to Old Town from Westlake, enjoying the sun and air, with no plan as to eat what for breakfast. We had in mind to go to the Dim Sum shop, which Daniel's classmate's father owns.

Unfortunately, it's already 9am when we got there, so not much choices are left. We took what we can and that's it.

We went before here once and the first time we went choices were plenty, ranging from braised pork ribs, phoenix claws and special ones like seaweed rolls with minced pork and pork floss. There's also Hong Kong Chee Cheong Fun, which tastes darn heavenly. I really cannot understand why the Chee Cheong Fun here tastes so silky smooth. But until now, there's not a place in Perak that I couldn't find silky smooth Chee Cheong Fun. They are everywhere!

If you want to go here for a bite, get up early and be there before 8.30am, to be sure. Kampar folks rise and shine very early, so as the saying goes, "When you are in Rome, do as the Romans do."

I've forgotten what's the name of the place, but if I remember correctly, it will be in front of a restaurant called Jia Hau Yue Yuan. Ah Wai, if you are reading this, please correct me if I'm wrong.

But there's still some space left after the Dim Sum. So, we headed to the food court near the wet market which is a street away. What did we ate? Curry Chee Cheong Fun, which is quite famous around town. (Yes! Chee Cheong Fun again!) Next to the stall which sells Char Koay Teow cooked on charcoal, another famous stall. Mmmm...... And this is the Char Koay Teow.

Oh my God! Look at the queue that day. But thankfully the aunties working there are really quick in their service. Ah Wai and me do not have to wait long that day.

This is one of the aunties working there. She will cut up Chee Cheong Fun, cut your curry soaked "ja liu" that you ordered, put it in a plate, add curry, sprinkle sesame seeds and sesame oil, all in record time. A plate of Curry Chee Cheong Fun will cost you about RM2 something. I forgot the exact figure. But the more things that you add, the higher the price. As usual lah...

My, those curry soaked "ja liu" really makes me hungry. I haven't eaten anything yet today.

And that is a finished plate of curry Chee Cheong Fun. Maybe it does not look appetising to some of you, but it is a good plate of Curry Chee Cheong Fun.

And another thing that I miss besides those is this. The wonderful Ipoh White Coffee at Sun Yuan. If I remembered correctly, it's after Hai-O, after the bridge at Sungai Kinta and turn left before reaching the traffic light. Sun Yuan coffee house is nearby a very tall flat. Do have a look at VKeong's archive for a better review about this coffee.

Before having this, I also went to Funny Mountain Soya Bean stall for a bottle of soya. Both drinks are really flavourful and special. The stall is located very near to Lou Wong Nga Choi Gai. Another interesting note is that they do something like a drive-in service where drivers can drive there and order drinks without leaving the car. Good eh?

All these were savoured during a quick trip to Ipoh with my parents before heading back to Kuantan. I apologise for the photo above being sideways. Silly mistakes.

We even bought some coffee powder home, trying to relieve the experience. But I really do miss the white coffee. There is nothing like it. For me, this is incomparable to Starbucks, Grand Canyon, or whatever coffee franchise. This has a class on its own.

Hopefully I'll be able to return to Perak someday and have a food-only adventure!

Just TB3

2009-05-19T00:53:00.007+08:00

After more than a month of not updating my blog, here's a post dedicated to my wonderful friends of TB3. I know it's very late to talk about these things, but I wrote it when I was still in Kampar last time. Really sorry for not posting it up until now. And to show that it's past tense, I put them into quotation marks.

"I want to thank all of you for being my classmates and good friends. It is truly a great loss to be separated far away after this month. But every beginning sure has its end."

"We are certainly people from all walks of life, with different interests and different personalities. And to be together as a group, doing all kinds of crazy stuff, passing up assignments during the last minute and most importantly, having fun together."

"Though as much as I would like to stay, I could not. Each of us has different destinations to go, different hope, different dreams. This is only a station for us."

"But fear not of forgetting each other. There's just too much that we share among ourselves, too much of memories, so much that it made a long-lasting impression. And there's MSN."

"Even if we do forget, at least we had been together once. At least we were from TB3, Foundation in Arts, Kampar Campus, Universiti Tunku Abdul Rahman. Even if we do forget, a familiar face will sure open up the memories of yesteryears. And sometimes, that's what matter the most."

"For those of you who who are worried about me and others going to PJ, you don't have to. Humans are certainly great creations of God, that can adapt to places that have the harshest conditions. PJ is certainly a concrete jungle, but with experience, we learn to adapt. So don't be worried."

"I have a feel that our story will not end here. This is only the beginning. But who knows?"

"The past is a past. The future is unknown. But now is the present, a gift from God. I will certainly cherish every moment that I have left, the happiest moments that I have during my 19 years on this wonderful place we call Earth."

"To Hua Min, you are the very first person I meet and the least expected too. Thank you for being just a friend. I'll never forget the motor ride when passing up our assignment and during the bbq party."

"To Way Land, you are the funniest and silliest person that I've ever seen. Yet, you have nothing to hide and must express your disagreement. I agree with you. I wish you and Ah Kiet more happy times between the two of you."

"To Daniel, wonderful class rep and certainly nice meeting you. Stick to your goals, man!"

"To Jia Wei, thanks for your help when you brought me to Ipoh. I'll treat you and Yit Ying when to Yim Guk Gai when we have the time. Haha..."

"To Bunny, Mizeen and Eten, thank you for being great groupmates. If there is anything I did wrong when we were doing assignments, please forgive me."

"To the others, without all of you, there will be no TB3. I thank you. If I said or did anything wrong, please forgive me."

"Before I end, let me repeat what had been printed on our class tee."

"Teamwork is our priority,
Excitement is our game,
Assignments are nonsense,
Madness is only us."

"God bless all of you, my friends."

P/S: I know somethings have been said and repeated, so please excuse my unimaginative writings. Got any problem, you're welcome to find me. I'm willing to help and lend an ear.

PP/S: I promised myself to write more tomorrow.

The Legendary Bus Driver

2009-04-07T19:57:00.002+08:00

Once, during my trip back to Kuantan from Kampar, I met him.

The Legendary Bus Driver.

Why do I give such credit to him? Well, it usually takes 6 hours for a bus ride from Kampar to Kuantan.

For him, it is 4 hours only. Saved 2 hours for more time with my family.

Although the sky's the limit on his speedometer, he also drives safely. He makes the passengers feel safe on the bus. Also, he's as cool as a cucumber. Never heard him speak a word while driving. Damn serious and dedicated.

That's the attitude of all bus drivers should have.

Have you ever experience anything that's worth sharing about public transports? Do comment, please!

Some Things Just Doesn't Work

2009-04-07T19:15:00.002+08:00

I reminded myself to blog every weekend. But somehow, some things just doesn't work. I did not blog this weekend and now it's Tuesday. My my... So I've decided once and for all to blog every other day. At least my blog can be "alive", not "dead".

I have another week to go before the semester ends. Study week, and then exams. Then, I'll go to PJ for good. I'll be going to PJ this Saturday to look at the place that I will rent, if all works fine. See if things work out for me.

I have a lot of posts in my mind, like the day when I had two breakfasts in one row. I am getting bigger around the middle, but I don't mind. As long as it doesn't get out of control. Haha... Looks like my habit of eating somehow remains the same, no matter what I do. And I always head to the gym on Thursdays for a work out. That should balance things up.

Talking about balance, I just read a novel by Dan Brown. Not Da Vinci Code but Angels & Demons. The balance between the Church and Science. Fascinating and intriguing. I managed to borrow the illustrated edition from the library, so I get to be the armchair traveller for a moment. Looking at those beautiful works of art, I wish I was there in Vatican City. I am also anticipating the movie too. Hopefully the movie will work out.

There's another movie I want to catch too, that is Transformers. I really like the previous one, and this sequel better match up to my high expectations. If it's no good, then it just doesn't work.

Some things could work out, some things doesn't work, some things remain the same.

But some things just doesn't work.

Ipoh Nga Choi Kai & Tong Sui Kai

2009-03-30T11:04:00.006+08:00

The last post before I go to class.

It was quite some time I tried this. Yes, Nga Choi Kai or Bean Sprout Chicken. At the famous Lou Wong too! After hearing reviews and reviews about it, I finally tried it. With my two friends.

Result: The chicken is just disappointing. Even the chicken at my hometown tastes better. Really. But it's still palatable. Bean sprouts taste the same, just that the fat and short shape is cute.

Extra points: One thing is very good. That is the offal! I only eat chicken gizzard, but that day I gobbled up everything. Even the heart and liver tastes so good! Texture is firm, not at all crumbly, unlike your usual serving of chicken liver and heart.

Porkball and braised chicken feet are also good. But I like the chicken feet at another restaurant situated a few shops away from Lou Wong. Forgot the name. Heheh...

The price? It's really unbelievable. For the 3 of us, it costs about RM36. That is 3 glass of 'liong sui', a plate of rice, two bowls of 'hor fun', a plate of chicken, a plate of bean sprouts, a bowl of fishball and porkball, a plate of offal and also a bowl of braised chicken feet. I am satisfied with the pricing. Thought it will be much more expensive since tourists frequent this place.

Another extra point, the staff are very friendly. We asked this uncle about other places to have a bite in Ipoh and he introduced us to Tong Sui Kai. Explained to us how to get there. We also chatted with him about places to go in Ipoh. He even helped some foreign tourists, explaining to them some of the tourist attractions!

Summary: A decent place to have Ipoh Nga Choi Kai. But there are places to have better Nga Choi Kai. The restaurant opposite Lou Wong also serves this and it's better, the locals say. But I also forgot the name. Better ask a local for the most scrumptious Nga Choi Kai.

So after Nga Choi Kai, we headed towards Tong Sui Kai. Or Dessert Street.

Located behind Sam Tet school, there are about 80 stalls, I think. And that's not included a food court nearby, with more stalls! There are many things to eat, from pig offal porridge to a bowl of bak kut teh. But we are there only for dessert. Chinese dessert.

This is Jap Go Bing, or Mixed Iced Fruits. You've seen it in this blog before.

This is Dan Cha, or Egg Tea. Basically herbal tea boiled with a hard boiled egg.

And this is something very speacial. Iced U Wa Je Je, or Iced Bubur Cha Cha. I don't know why they call it U Wa Je Je, but it tastes good! Never heard of Iced U Wa Je Je, and this is the first time I had it. Wonderful.

Also had Pak Kor Yi Mai, or Barley and Ginko Nuts. Full of flavour. And my housemate also ordered pig offal porridge. The porridge is good, but I'm really not into it because it has coagulated pig's blood. Geli la! Though tastes like taufu.
(Pics not shown because I forgot to take them. heheh...)

Summary: Everything is heavenly. Smells good and full of flavours. And the aunty at the dessert stall is also very friendly! So if you want some dessert after food hunting at Ipoh, head on to Tong Sui Kai, Stall No.21. Chinese dessert heaven!

Ok, off to class now. See you next weekend!

P/S: Pics still sucks. Using my Nokia phone camera. haih...

Friends, Nature and a Waterfall

2009-03-29T19:25:00.003+08:00

I've never been to a waterfall before, except when I was very little. And I could not remember a thing. There's the other time when my family and I had a trip to Cameron Highlands, but they went to a waterfall without me. Why? I was fast asleep and they dare not wake me up. *toooot*(explicit language deleted)

So, out of the blue one fine Saturday afternoon, my friend suggested that we go to the nearby waterfall and enjoy ourselves. I'm definitely fine with it, and in a few minutes, we packed what is needed, away we go.

The road to the waterfall is certainly adventurous, with slopes almost hitting the 90 degree angle. Roads are snaky and narrow. And when I say narrow, I mean very narrow. Imagine you're on a road where the width is about a Proton Saga. When you open the door, all you can see is a cliff, and down there are roofs. Yes, people stay there too! I wonder how can they stand the torturous event of getting home everyday after work. Well, practice makes perfect, I think.

There are 9 of us, and guess what we are using to get there? A Kancil and a MyVi. Those cars were screaming the *toooot* out of it just to climb up those slopes.

Finally, we reached the waterfall, safe and sound. (Thank God.) But we are not exactly there yet. You see, this waterfall has many levels and we are heading up to the highest level. So, we trekked our way along a path in the forest. The funny thing is that you can hear the waterfall while trekking but you couldn't see it. So near, yet so far.

After about 15 minutes of trekking, we reached the middle level. Now things get a little dangerous. To reach the highest level, we actually have to climb up the waterfall and wade through it. When we trekked halfway, suddenly the current is very strong. Oh *toooot*.

What to do? We just have to turn back and climb down to middle level. And that's where we spent the half day away. Just so relaxing.

P/S: Thanks to Daniel and Kelvin for being the guide and driver. And the water was damn bloody *toooot* cold!

After I'm Asleep...

2009-03-29T00:13:00.002+08:00

I want to wake up to a world where people are judged equally, labels stripped.

I want to wake up to a world where politicians act like they are supposed to.

I want to wake up to a world where going green is an everyday lifestyle, not a once a year event.

And of course, I want to wake up to a better tomorrow, no matter where I go.

Good night, everyone.

Crazy Earth Hour

2009-03-28T22:30:00.003+08:00

Happened here right at Kampar! Students walking in large groups telling others to switch off lights for Earth Hour! A little crazy but fun all the way! Sorry for the dark video, but it's Earth Hour!

And my family and I also switched off lights for Earth Hour. It feels great that we can do something right together, to save our only home, Mother Earth.

Cooling...

2009-03-24T16:06:00.003+08:00

Such hot weather here! Would you like to have this?

Or would you like to go here?

Just a preview of what I'm posting this weekend!

The List of 25 Things About Me

2009-03-20T23:37:00.002+08:00

I saw this me-me passing around in blogs and Facebook, so I decided to do one too.

1. I dislike my jawbone because it's protruding too far out. I look like an ape on the side.

2. But I accepted myself as I am. Too scared to think about plastic surgery. It's just not natural!

3. Family to me is very important. I'm a family man. But I did not think about having a family of my own. Ever.

3. I hate change, but I got used to it.

4. I absolutely love good food! Who doesn't? And of course, friends to share it around with. And I know how to cook and bake!

5. It's true! I am a shopaholic! (With the recession going on, this is BAD.)

6. I own 7 pairs of shoes and 8 bags. I think that's a lot for a guy. Is it? (I really have to stop following my mom's footsteps.)

7. I will absolutely go to one faraway place just for the heck of it. You know, spontaneous? I really like spontaneous actions. You'll never know what you'll get in the end.

8. One of my dreams is to have a walk-in closet. Like Kimora Lee Simmons. Filled to the brim with branded stuff. I'm in Paradise.

9. My favourite quote from my grandma: "Money is not everything, but nothing is without money."

10. The only job I have done so far is being a promoter. I would really like to try different odd jobs for part time.

11. I was fat during my childhood and teenage years, and now I'm totally different. That day when I compared myself with an old picture I found, I really look younger. What the heck? (Not that I'm boasting, but I can show you.)

12. When I was in Form 4, I was waiting for my grandfather at the hospital one day. Sitting next to me is an Indian lady, asking me, "Who are you waiting for? Is your wife delivering your baby?" I went into 'bengong' mode after hearing it. Now I no longer get such comments.

13. I also got asked by those salesperson about credit cards. That was when I'm 13. And I'm in Singapore at that time.

14. I really couldn't think of things that I hate very much. I think I've forgiven most people whom I dislike before.

15. I did not do any sports when I was in secondary school. Come to think of it, I regretted it. Maybe because of I have a phobia for balls. I got smacked and hit by footballs during my primary school. That really scared the heck out of me. Now I'm into swimming and jogging.

16. I have no tattoos and piercings. BUT my FATHER had one before. And recently too!

17. My favourite colours are black, blue and brown.

18. My ultimate holiday would be a shopping spree at KL, with my mom. We'll go to Louis Vuitton and buy a bag for each of us!

19. I have a huge file of all the drawings that I drew from the past until now.

20. This will be my age next year.

21. I am terrible with games that needs lightning speed actions. I am a little slow. That's why I excel at Scrabble.

22. I have never board an aeroplane and any vehicle that floats on water.

23. I like being single. There's absolutely no commitments, no strings attached.

24. I love chocolate. Very very much. To the point of where a box of premium chocolates from Dubai can last me a year. It's just too precious to eat!

25. I can continue more, but alas, only 25 points. The last one: I have a very good relationship with my brothers. I love them very very much. (although sometimes they're a pain in the neck)

Finished! What do you think?

Am I A Shopaholic?

2009-03-19T23:17:00.005+08:00

Oh my God, it's been so so long since I've updated my blog. I really must make an effort to write more and stop giving excuses to myself. But it's not without reasons that I'm away for so long. Modem exploded due to lightning is one of the reasons. And spending more time with friends is also another reason. After all, I'm only here until the end of April. And it's only about 4 more weeks.

What the? I'm giving excuses again! Please, stop doing this! Arrghhhh.......

Anyway, I just read one of the books from my entitled "Confessions of a Shopaholic" by Sophie Kinsella. Yes, the one which is made into a movie and will be coming on later. Do I like it? Well, truth to be told, it's really a book made for women and men are not encouraged to read it. Seriously. Although I admit it's addicting chapter after chapter, but Becky Bloomwood's (the main character) behaviour is really frustrating! Although I love shopping, but thank God I'm not that crazy.

Which makes me think back a purchase I made a week ago.

Compare it with this ad.

Image from www.designscene.net

No, the shirt is not from Dolce and Gabbana, although with similar design. It's from Sub, another brand which I consider expensive but this shirt is 70% off! I immediately tried it and bought it. By the way, I absolutely love Dolce & Gabbana.

Total damage: RM38

Today, I bought these. With a realistic reason.

There are actually three more, but I'm not showing them because these are farewell gifts for my friends. (they do read my blog!) Except the one on the right, Mother's Day gift. (mother doesn't surf the net, no need to worry) And all these beautiful hand-painted mugs for RM5 each! And I also bought Mother's Day gift a month ahead!

Total damage: RM25

Rm50 gone. That's my weekly budget!

But it feels exhilarating to shop! Maybe I inherited my mother's behavior. She recently bought a new Bonia bag and shoes. Yet again.

So tell me, am I a shopaholic?

P/S: Men can also be a shopaholic! In a manly way of course.

Wall Of Dreams

2009-02-25T15:02:00.002+08:00

This is my wall. It's called the Wall of Dreams. Why do I say so? It's because this is where I paste all the quotes that I like, things I'd like to have and dreams that I want to achieve. All these to keep me going. To face all kinds of challenges. To remind me where I want to be someday.

Yesterday, when I was walking around my neighbourhood shopping mall, I saw a man, in his forties. He's carrying an Iphone, top to toe in Louis Vuitton and wearing Tom Ford sunglasses.

Today, I looked at my examination results and I only got a GPA of 2.933, CGPA 3.2417.

If I really want to live a life that man has, then by looking at my results, I'm not working hard enough. I've slacked off.

Time to revamp my Wall Of Dreams. To remind me what is important and what's not. To strive for a better future, my family and me.

The economic downturn has affected many. Next time it happens, I do not want to be affected.

Time to take a splash in icy cold water to awaken myself to the harsh realities of life.

My Wall Of Dreams must come true.

For The Love of Coffee: Part II

2009-02-25T02:15:00.003+08:00

I last mentioned Black Canyon in my last post, right? Well, I went there the same day after going to Kemaman. I wished to go there for quite some time already, after hearing reviews from my mum about how delicious the Thai cuisine is served there. Well, mum was hungry in the afternoon and wanted to have Thai food and suggested Black Canyon. I jumped right through the door of opportunity given. Heheh...I'm just so sinful with gluttony.

Just a little more information. Black Canyon is a franchise from Thailand, I think, serving Thai food and Western cuisine. The menu is extensive, with lots to choose from. There's the all time favourite tom yum and others like som tam together with pad thai. Steaks are also served. Price? Reasonable for a franchise, considering the set lunches and ala carte together with the location and ambience. I've read about it in VKeong's blog, and wanting to try the coffee he's talking about. Well, I ordered one of it and here it is.

It's a small cup of black coffee, with a small side dish of biscuits and a small cup of jasmine tea. When I'm introduced to it, it looks strange. Why a cup of jasmine tea beside it? When I take a sip, then I really know what's the jasmine tea for. The black coffee is the most bitter that I tasted in my life! And I sip it without any sugar or creamer. Such cleverness. That instant kick of bitterness and caffeine hit me like armageddon. On the cup it says "A drink from Paradise" but I think it's much more than Paradise. It's like the Fountain Of Youth. One sip, and all your senses are awakened and sharpened, sending a jolt through the muscles and nerves. If you like black coffee very, very much, this is Paradise.

The aroma of the coffee isn't like what it taste, but it gives a warning that this drink is going to be hard to stomach down for those who is not familliar with it. The scent is strong, wonderful, the sign of what a good cup of strong coffee should be. I wish my kitchen smells like that all the time. Hopefully I won't die from caffeine overload just by smelling it.

The biscuits are a letdown. With Paradise tagged at RM5.90, this in comparison is Purgatory. Not bad enough to go to Hell, but still not good enough to go to Heaven. And it looks like my little cousin's ABC biscuits. Or is it ABC biscuits? If only they serve homemade cornflake cookies. Then it's a match made in Heaven, or in this case, Paradise.

P/S: Black Canyon in Kuantan is at East Coast Mall. Right next to the stadium. You can't miss it.

For The Love of Coffee: Part I

2009-02-25T02:01:00.003+08:00

Kemaman is a town along the way from Kuantan to Kuala Terengganu. It's not as big as Kuantan, but still a very busy place. Lorries frequent the roads there, since Kerteh is just a stone throw away. Kerteh is where the petroleum fields are, hence the lorries. I had a chance to go there today and savour some good Kemaman coffee.

If you must know, Kemaman is the birthplace of Kemaman Kopitiam, a famous coffee shop with branches all over Kuantan and parts of Terengganu. It's like Old Town, but it rules these areas. The coffee there is good, but I must say because of comercialisation, standards dropped. No longer the same old taste that I tasted once before, where Kemaman Kopitiam can only be found in Kemaman. Ah... the good old days.

I grew up with Milo but I accepted other beverages too. For now, I'm fond of coffee. Not too bitter with lots of milk. Refreshing for breakfast. Although stops calcium absorption. Haha... Though caffeine is reported to help in some ways if taken in small doses. Now, coming back to my Kemaman trip. My mum and aunt took me there to this coffee shop called Kemaman Station. Mind you, not Kluang Station, the other one from Johor. It's Kemaman Station. Serving a type of coffee called Black and White.

Now, from the photo above, all you can see is brown. Where's the black and white colour to be found? Well, I've already stirred it and then I remembered to take a photo of it. What the...? All I can do is to describe it. When it's served, it looks like Guinness, black at the bottom and white on top. The difference is that it contains no alcohol and the white part is much more than the black part. Much much more. Can you imagine?

Tastewise, I really like it. My mum and aunt too, since they are coffee afficionados. With lots of milk and coffee that is not too bitter or sweet, it's good. This is the ideal coffee for me, costing RM2.90. Besides serving coffee, there's also curry mee and peanut butter toast. Both are good. Real authentic goodness.

The peanut butter toast is not using those commercialised bread, but old-fashioned blocks of bread that you will get in the "kampung" from the local bakery. It's the type that is sold by the "Uncle Roti", riding a motorbike with bread hanging all over from it. Remember?

With a thick layer of peanut butter on top, buttered and toasted at the bottom, it's the kind of toast that brings back those old memories. Cost around RM2+ for a trip down memory lane, if you have one.

Curry mee with taugeh, shredded chicken, half an egg, sambal and others. Other kinds of noodle are available if you do not like mee. If you cannot take anything spicy, this is a good chance to eat curry mee without panting like a dog after that. It's mild, full on flavour with a nice colour too. A word of warning, the oil floating on top maybe too much and please mix the sambal before eating. Otherwise, a good bowl to satiate cravings for RM4.50.

Ambience? Worth the price, with no taxes or service charges. There's also an interesting collection of Coca-Cola cans near the cashier, amidst antique irons and lamps. Typical of coffee shops nowadays, trying to emulate the old charm and feel. But this is not done too much or too little, just right.

Where do you find it? Just go straight up from Kuantan to Kuala Terengganu, taking either the highway from Semambu or the road from Beserah. Take the road to Kemaman town once reached the borders of Terengganu. There'll be Al-Ikhsan, a sports store, at the opposite of the shop. If you missed it, Nirwana Supermarket will be at your left side.

P/S: I don't believe in Starbucks. Seriously. I rather go to Black Canyon. Sorry Starbucks fans!

In Other Words

2009-02-20T01:22:00.002+08:00

I found you when I need someone,

I found you when all seems dark.

I found you and I laughed a little,

I found you and I cried a lot.

I found you, but there's no response,

I found you, but I'm bounded with rules.

What can I do?

Do I really want you?

Can I devote myself to you?

Or it's only a passing thought,

Like the rain clouds above me.

I asked myself, time and again,

And it feels... exhilarating.

To be in your arms. To cuddle.

To see you first thing in the morning,

And the last thing I see at night.

To dinner. To movies. To the beach.

To have great conversations together.

To be together.

In other words, I love you.

P/S: Don't blame me for being so lovey dovey. Must be the love stories and dramas that I'm getting everyday.

True Kuantan Ghost Story

2009-02-15T01:49:00.002+08:00

This is a true ghost story told by my grandmother. Enjoy!

During her younger days, my grandmother was a landlady, renting out rooms at her own flat. Most of the tenants were Malay, working at the nearby supermarket. She will usually go there to clean the place and check on the tenants, as her house is also near to the flat. My grandmother does not stay there. This was in the early 90’s, when I was only a few years old. Now, the supermarket is closed and my grandmother does not own the flat. But it is still there.

The flat is of an old design, where it has only one bathroom and toilet, and all the tenants had to share it. One day, when one of the tenants went for a shower at night, a tall black figure appeared inside the bathroom! With red glowing eyes, it staggered and swayed from side to side. The tenant was scared out of this world and ran back to tell the other tenants about it. When they went there together, nothing can be seen. The figure had vanished. Some of them dismissed the idea of seeing a ghost, telling the witness to get some rest because of the stress at work.

But the disturbances did not end there. Footsteps can be heard at the corridor leading to the bathroom after midnight. They are not even of human, but loud thumping noises as if a beast was walking on the floor. Then, there are more tenants who saw the black figure. This time, the black figure did not sway, but stood straight, piercing them with its devilish red gaze. Some fainted and had fever the next day after seeing the black figure.
After that, nobody dared to step into the bathroom or toilet at night. Those who did go there during the day were very reluctant.

All these happened in about a week and it reached my grandmothers’ ears during her usual visits to the flat. The tenants pleaded my grandmother to investigate and do something about it. My grandmother agreed.

After the day she heard about it, she went to her flat at midnight to experience it herself. Mind you, my grandmother is no coward and had experienced much terrible things. Before going up, she saw an old Malay uncle, sitting at the side of the staircase. She had met him before, as he’s the security guard at a budget hotel, right beside the flat. And today is his night shift.

“Did you hear anything strange lately?” my grandmother asked in Malay.
“What strange things? I hear nothing during my shifts,” he replied.
“Well, my tenants complained to me that they see this black figure haunting the corridor of my flat. They hear footsteps too.”
“Well, who asked them to turn on the radio so loud during the night?”

At this point, my grandmother knows that this must have something to do with him. She asked more questions and found out that it was the uncle who had set his pet genie or “jin” to do the disturbances. My grandmother apologised for all the trouble. She gave a stern warning to her tenants not to play the radio loudly again at night. From that day onwards, nothing is seen or heard again.

It has been a long time since she had seen the uncle. I wonder what happened to him and his pet genie?

A Holiday In Two Cities (Pt.4)

2009-02-15T00:50:00.003+08:00

This is a long overdue post, continuing from part 3, if you take a look at the archives. Anyway, every story has a beginning and an end. Therefore, this will be the closure of this story about my past holiday. Oh my, I took about a month and a half to end it!

But fear not of a boring ending, because this post is about food! Yes, the thing that reaches all ages and nationality, with an extremely dear placing in Malaysians' hearts. (tummies included!)

So what food am I talking about? It's this.

Chinese Special Noodle or "Dou Siok Meen" in Cantonese.

What is so special about it? The ingredients? The soup? Comes together with a sexy lady serving you spoonfuls of mee? (ahem, a little raunchy here...no offence)

Well, for those of you who knows Cantonese, you would have guessed the "specialty" of this noodle. The way it is prepared. Unfortunately, I did not manage to capture the process of making it, so I can just describe it.

Imagine a pillow, made up of dough. Kneaded perfectly with a smooth exterior. A man grabs the pillow in one hand, a metal blade at the other. With lightning speed, he swiftly slices the pillow into long thin strips. The strips fall into a pot of boiling water below, cooked to the right texture. Then sieve out the thin strips, add soup, slice of boiled egg, crabstick, seaweed and some stewed mushroom with chicken (or was it pork?) in a bowl.

There you have it, a bowl of "Dou Siok Meen", which means literally means "Knife Sliced Mee". Tastewise, I found that the stewed things are tender and flavourful, but the soup has a little too much MSG. The mee is like sliced "Meen Fan Koh" but much thicker. "Meen Fan Koh" is another type of mee made from simple dough, just in case you don't know.

Now, where can you get it? At Puchong, Selangor. Everyday Foodcourt. I do not remember the directions, but it's near IOI Mall. Just ask the locals. Price? About RM4, I think. Is it worth it? If you ask me, I just find the way to prepare it amusing.

Well, that's all. The last thing I tried during the holidays before going back to Kampar. The end.

Just Pics, Few Words

2009-02-15T00:02:00.008+08:00

Images Of Chinese New Year Past

What are you looking at? - Mr.Cat

After The Rain

A Birthday To Remember

Thanks to Eric for taking this aftermath pic

I'm planning to buy a new camera for my own use, so please bear with me about these crappy photos for the time being. And do you like the changes that I did to my blog?

P/S: Finally, a post!

A Great Big Change

2009-02-02T19:49:00.002+08:00

To those out there who are wondering why I've not been writing for the past one month, it's because I have many things to be done last month. But also, I've been lazier too. Hehehe... It's not because I do not love my blog, but I'm just tired during my free time that all I want to do is sleep.

So, a big change will be coming to this blog in terms of appearance. I'm bored with the mundane green color. I'll opt for something more exciting.

I'm still having exams, so do not expect anymore posts until after the 11 of February. You've been warned...

Today is the 8th day of the First month of the Chinese Lunar Calendar. It's still not to late for me to say Gong Xi Fatt Chai! Happy New Year in the Year of Ox! May all things go smoothly for all of you!

See you after 11 February!

A Holiday In Two Cities (Pt. 3)

2008-12-31T18:07:00.008+08:00

As I promised, in this post I will talk about food. And it's something very ordinary, but taste wise, I feel like I'm in heaven. If you like steamed chicken and hot porridge, then this is the ultimate comfort food for you. What else I'm talking about? Chicken porridge, of course!

Well, I did not like steamed chicken before, preferring the roasted ones whenever I ordered a plate of chicken rice. Somehow, when I grow up, my tastes changes. These days I love bitter gourd and steamed chicken. The silky smooth skin and tender white flesh is most appetising, cooked to perfection, but only if I eat it from this stall. I tried to cook it at home but somehow it's not the same. I wonder what is the aunty's secret...

The place of this stall is at Kong Lam, a typical Malaysian kopitiam opposite the United Overseas Bank along Jalan Besar in Kuantan. At the side of this kopitiam, there's a place called Shanghai Tan, a stall serving "dai chow", Hokkien mee and all. Kong Lam has been opened for the last 10 years and more, a family business, I think. The very unique thing about it is the opening hours. It is only opened on Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays. Very rare on the other weekdays. And they only do business in the evenings, from 7pm to about 12 midnight.

Besides selling chicken porridge, there are other things to eat. Bak kut teh, chicken rice and pork balls with your choice of noodles. Their "Sai To Yu Yun" or fishballs made from the "Sai To" fish is also very nice. Springy and fresh!

Here's the aunty that I mentioned, chopping up pieces of chicken. (I took this when she's not looking! Shhhhhhh....)

As you can see from the photo, there are waxed sausages too! Yum yum... Kidney sausages are also served there.

But what I love most is still their chicken porridge. Every time I go back home nowadays, I must go there to have a piping hot bowl. Otherwise, I feel incomplete.

We did not eat there that day, only "tapau" or takeaway. Besides "tapau" 2 chicken porridge, there's also pork balls with noodles for my brother.

If you are not sure whether they are opening that day, just pass by the kopitiam around 5 pm. If you see the gate is opened a little, it's going to be opened that day. I'm sure you're not going to miss it. It's as noticeable as a diamond among coals!

P/S: The crappy photos really did no justice to the flavours of the food! Sorry about the photos, because I do not have a proper camera with me. Next part will be about Kuala Lumpur!

Another Year...

2008-12-31T17:44:00.003+08:00

Time flies. And how fast it is! Last year, at this day, I'm still waiting for my SPM results, deciding where I'll be heading, and so and so. Today, I'm here, a student in UTAR and will be doing a degree in Graphic Design soon.

I really look forward to 2009. But I really do cherish every moment that had happened in 2008, no matter good or bad. All these moments add up to a really big change to my life. There's lesson to be learn from these experiences, and I will continue to learn, as long as I'm alive.

How about my New Year resolutions, I heard someone say? Well, my resolution is to learn as much as I can and discipline myself. I'm starting to get out of shape and my sleeping habits is changing me to become a nocturnal animal. Imagine a fat owl, with eyes wide open, and head turning 360 degrees all around. If I do not discipline myself, I think that's what I'm going to become. A crazy fat owl! Nooooooooo........

Last but not least, I'll live life to the fullest. Living as if there's no tomorrow really does help me to cope with all the stress and downsides of life.

So to everyone out there, have a Happy New Year 2009!

P/S: So many celebrations! Christmas, New Year and then Chinese New Year!

A Holiday In Two Cities (Pt. 2)

2008-12-31T01:46:00.007+08:00

It's Christmas when I'm at Kuantan. This year, Kuantan Parade is having less tacky decorations and more traditional ones. A huge Christmas tree adorn the main hall. Christmas wreaths lined up the corridors. Feels very festive indeed! But malls are not the place that I want to visit when I'm in Kuantan.

The place that I most wanted to visit is the beach, Teluk Cempedak. A beautiful place, with warm sands, blue skies and cool breeze. It's a place most dear in my heart, since this is where I always go for the Mid-Autumn Festival to see the moon. Almost all my happy memories of childhood happened there. Building sand castles and exploring the jungles at the other side of the bay.
Brings a smile to my face when I thought about it.

Although that day was just a stop there to eat Mc Donalds, I had a short walk along the beach. (Why Mc Donalds is so expensive these days? Prosperity burger set almost cost a whooping RM 20!) Many people were there that day, since it's a Friday and still a school holiday.

But somehow it feels so relaxing just to see the sea, with waves upon waves come crashing down to the shore.

I feel happy, contented and relaxed. It would be another 3 weeks before I can experience it again.

I can still remember it. The cool foamy waters lapping around my feet.

I dreamed before having a mansion by the sea, with a private beach all to myself. Hopefully, it will come true.

What's your connection with the beach?

End of the second part of my post. I'll be having a little food blog next!

A Holiday In Two Cities (Pt. 1)

2008-12-30T00:55:00.003+08:00

After a long break, it's time to update my blog with new entries about my life. Since this story is a very long one, I'll separate it into a few posts.

I had a 5 day holiday, from the 25th of December, until the 29th. Thinking that there's so many days of holiday, I decided to go back to where I came from, The City of Palms (that is Kuantan). Except this time, I'm not telling anyone.

Do you hear me?? I'm not telling my father, my mother or my grandparents.
Essentially, I'm not telling anyone!!

(accept my 2 brothers, or else how am I going to get in the house)

I tried to cover up this little surprise of mine by making up white lies about me going to Kuala Lumpur to visit my aunt and a friend. And it worked! My mother was very convinced and everything is going smoothly.

Not until I found out the bus which I'm going to board on. In Kampar, there are only two bus company which goes directly to Kuantan. One of them is Utama Ekspress and the other one is Nini, a company based in Terengganu. I had bought my ticket at a ticketing agent but I was required to exchange it with the real ticket at the main bus counters. Which bus company I will be given I do not know.

I had friends going back with me the same day, same time, and they are boarding Utama Ekspress. I hoped that when I get there, I'll be given the same ticket as they have. At least I won't be bored for the 6 hour journey, by having someone to talk to.

But to my dismay, I'm given the ticket for Nini. Ok then, at least I still can go back home. And the bus arrived as scheduled. When I boarded the bus, it is a shabby looking thing with 4 SEATS IN A ROW.

4 SEATS IN A ROW. WHAT WILL HAPPEN TO MY BUM? Thank God my bum remains unscathed.

By 4 seats in a row, I meant the old buses which have 4 seats in a row, DIVIDED by an aisle. Which makes it 2 seats on the left and another 2 on the right.

Who in their right mind nowadays would board a bus with such seats for a long, long journey? These days all buses in Malaysia are fitted with 3 SEATS IN A ROW, 2 on the left and 1 on the right, divided by an aisle. It's certainly much roomier and comfortable. Call me a spoiled brat, but when it comes to travelling, I choose comfort if I can afford it.

And another thing is that I was taking the night bus, left at 9.20pm and arrived at around 3.30 in the morning. Christmas morning, that is. All night long I could not even get forty winks, half that amount I suppose. I was as rigid as a piece of wood, with no space for me to toss and turn. Uncomfortable, yes, but at least I arrived home safely.

Then came the moment of truth, when my parents and grandparents found out that I got back home. Father and grandfather were very cool about it. "Eh, you're back home? Ok then..." that kind of response. Mother was laughing all the way and was very happy to meet me. I thought I was going to get a lecture from her because she's strict.
The funny thing is with my grandmother. She gave me this response.

"Who are you?"

Oh my God! I'm your grandson! Hello! I'm with this family for the past 18 years!

Anyway, that happened during in the early morning, approaching to dawn. The sky is still dark and I did not turn on the light. Maybe she couldn't see me so clearly, and hence that kind of response. But as a conclusion, I surprised everyone and they're happy to meet me.

End of the first part. I'll post more tomorrow.

I Saw A Rainbow

2008-12-30T00:16:00.005+08:00

That day, after class, it was raining. Heavily. My bike has to be left at the university, since I've decided to board the bus back home because of the rain. As I waited for the bus, the sun decided to come out. And the rain began to stop.

In all it glorious colours, a rainbow starts to form from the misty grey sky.

Well, some of you would say that "Ah,it's a rainbow. What's the big deal?"

For me, a rainbow represents one of the many miracles from Mother Nature, besides the beautiful auroras and snowflakes that fall from the sky. It never ceases to amaze me, no matter how many times I've seen it. With colours formed from the spectrum of light, it somehow cheers me up on that gloomy rainy day.

They say there's a pot of gold on the rainbow's end. I say it's better than a pot of gold because there's a spoonful of sugar in each moment you look at it, to help the medicine go down. The same with my grandmother, who is named "Chai Hong", or rainbow in Mandarin.

Do you always notice a rainbow? What is running through your mind when you look at it?

P/S: Finally have time to write in my blog. I know it's too late to wish Merry Christmas but I wish all of you out there a Happy New Year!

I am a boy. And you are....

2008-12-12T21:06:00.002+08:00

A few days ago, I've just completed an assignment on one of my subjects, sociology. It is about the study of social behaviour around the world. And I was given the topic, "Gender Discrimination".

After handing my assignment a day after, I recieved news that a girl was raped here, in my very own neighbourhood. I do not know who is the victim, or who is the accused. But I do know one thing. It had happened in an area which is highly guarded and I am paying exorbitant fees to the guards that are supposed to protect my own safety and also the safety of others, regardless of gender. But instead of getting assurance of that I am in a safe area, I heard somebody got raped.

Not long ago, a prominent blogger who is a woman is being snatched theft. In case you wonder who, here is the link to her blog.In her blog, she wrote that the one who had snatched theft her was not even a migrant, but our very own people. She also had read news about another woman being snatched theft but unluckily, got ran over by a three-ton-truck. Thank God nothing had happened to her.

So after being exposed to these news, I begin to think back about my assignment. And my conclusion is this.

Although gender discrimination is referring to both genders, but there are more discrimination against the opposite sex, the female. Sexual harassment and other crimes against women still happen. And this problem is going to stay as long as I live.

To the males out there, I just want to ask a question.

Do you love your wife? How about your girlfriend? Your sister? Your aunt? Your grandmother? And most importantly, do you love your mother?

So, support gender equality. Drive out all those male chauvinist, who only do more harm than good by degrading women.

I pledge to do what I can to stop gender discrimination and support gender equality, even though it may only affect the small group of people around me.

And just a small reminder. Without women, where would all of us be?

Music Of The Night

2008-12-09T21:57:00.003+08:00

As I lay on my bed,
Trying to sleep,
I hear something
From the dead of the night.

Water dripping,
Toilets flushing,
Fans spinning,
Curtains fluttering,
Cats miaow-ing,
Dogs howling,
Cars screeching,
Guys talking,
Girls laughing,
Wind whispering,
Doors banging.

As I lay on my bed,
Trying to sleep,
This is what I heard,
From the dead of the night.

Why it's so noisy when I'm trying to sleep?

P/S: My blog is now a month old! How time flies...

Going To KL

2008-11-29T21:10:00.002+08:00

Another post about KL. But this time, it's a serious matter. There is great possibility that I'm going to do my degree in Graphic Design at UTAR's PJ campus.(for me, KL and PJ is just the same) I'm just so heartbroken when I heard about this. I'm a person who does not like changes and if can, the changes must not affect my social and environmental surroundings. Moving to Kampar is already a very big step for me but to KL? This is going to eat away a very big chunk of my emotions.

I have found great friends here in Kampar as well as learning so much from the people around me. I'm exposed to all kinds of people from different backgrounds. This has made me feel very alive and a part of this big wide world, rather than being cocooned and restricted to my comfort zone. I feel all sorts of emotions that I have not felt before, and this made me sit down and think. Where have I been all this while?

Because of this reason, I have fall in love with the people of Kampar. The surroundings are just ok, but the people here varies from A to Z. That is why I do not wish to leave just yet. There are just so much to learn from the people around me.

Going to KL will be another big hurdle. I will be thrown in a totally different environment and a totally different type of people from the people here. This is just too much for me to bear. Why couldn't I just be where I like and do what I like?

I am also frustrated about the management of UTAR. At first I was told it will be half a year in PJ and then change to Kampar. Now, possibility of going KL for the whole course is very high. What is going to be next? My last year in degree done at Kampar? I wonder why the management cannot make a decision and stick to it. Could it be the change in managerial position in UTAR?

Sometimes I try not to think about it and cherish all the time I have here. But sooner or later, it will come. Oh, whatever. I'll just spend everyday here as if it's my last day on Earth.

P/S: Bus tickets for Chinese New Year from Singapore to Kuantan is sold out! So fast! I better buy my ticket soon. If not, I'll be crying all the way to my hometown!

Interview with My Shoe Named Nike

2008-11-28T21:50:00.001+08:00

Oh goodness, what a week! Filled with sleepless nights and hair raising exams, this is just what I do not want. Performance in exams was like a "motor kapchai" rather than a roaring Harley-Davidson. Eyes growing to be panda-like and movements start to slow down like a sloth. Thank God tomorrow is a rest day.

But stop! Look around. A voice is coming from the corner of my bedroom. Who is it?

"It's me lah! Nike!"

Ah, yes, Nike. Will I ever forget you with your big red tick on your side? You are my first ever branded shoe to enclose my feet with your ever soft soles.

"Enough of those flowery language lah! People read already also don't know what the heck are you saying lah!"

Watch your mouth Mr. Nike. I know that your front side has already come loose and I need to send you to the cobbler. But that's no excuse for you being a little harsh on words.

"Sorry loh! By the way ah, thank you for brushing me up after that match. I was so dirty lah, you know!"

You are welcome. Did you enjoy that match? I know you're always a little sad for being underused. That's why I lend you to my friend for that basketball match.

"I sure enjoy that match laa! They also won what! Third place also jadilah! Very happy to be on winner's feet la, of course!"

Glad you enjoyed it. Now after that match, would you like to go again some time?

"Errr... Maybe I rest first laa. After so many years in that stinky shoe box, I'm no longer young anymore laa. Faster send me to cobbler and just wear me for jalan-jalan, ok?"

That I will do. I tried asking your company for a professional cobbler to fix you but there's no response from them. Could you comment a little?

"Ya meh? Walau, how come customer service so bad one? Shameful aar! Last time when I heard from them say got replacement if rosak worr!"

That one I'm not sure. But I do not want to replace you, only getting you fixed. Is it so much for them to fix a pair of shoe?

"I don't know laa. If you ask them already and no response, like that one laa, Malaysian culture. First-class amenities, third-class service. What to do?"

Well, I sure hope they can be more customer friendly next time. You hold quite a lot of memories to me, you know? Anyway, thank you for spending a little time with me to be on my blog.

" Ya ya, you are welcome!"

And here ends the interview with my shoe named Nike. If you wonder why the Malaysian slang, it's because he heard my neighbours speaking Manglish all the time.

Bookfest @ Singapore

2008-11-19T20:51:00.004+08:00

How I wish I can go there! I've missed this year's Bookfest @ Malaysia and I really want to go there badly. But sadly, I could not because I have a replacement class on Saturday. Maybe I can ask FuSS to check out the books there.

The bookfest is until this Sunday which is 23rd of November. For more information, check out the website below:

http://www.bookfestsingapore.com

P/S: I could not blog as much because my midterm tests are around the corner and I have a lot of assignments to do!

Poem For A Friend

2008-11-13T19:54:00.007+08:00

When we were young,
A ship had been built,
Still afloat until today,
Thirteen years all the way.

Could have sunk years ago,
Could have forgotten years ago,
But still it persists,
Though we're separated far and wide.

So many times we laughed together,
Countless times we cried together,
Some times we upset each other,
But still we are together.

So walk by my side,
For if I'm in front,
I cannot lead,
And if I'm at the back,
I cannot follow.

Just be my friend,
On this wonderful ship,
A ship that I hope will last,
This friendship we have.

Dedicated to a wonderful friend who just called me today.

A Passion For Fashion

2008-11-12T15:22:00.006+08:00

After watching the basketball game yesterday, I can see how deep my friend's passion for basketball. Every move, every jump and every slamdunk is filled with energy, bursting forward like water from a dam. Although his team did not win the first match, there is another one which will determine their presence in the semi-finals. By the way, the score is 22 to 88. Very disappointing, but his opponents are really way better. They had only formed the team a few weeks ago while the other is the home team from another college. That's the reason they lost, he told me.

But I really admire his spirit till the end of the game. He never gave up, and played as well as he could although it's obvious that his team is losing. It's really something I never realised in him and also something I've never seen before. This made me think about my passion. My passion for fashion. You maybe a little shocked, but this is it.

So, how do I find this passion of mine? Well, this need a little story telling. When I was around 5, I love to take blankets and wrapped them around my waist. I would then dance around and sometimes even with my mom's heels on. I did not think it's unmanly to do that. I just enjoyed what I do at that time. How innocent I was! My grandma even made me a skirt from scraps of cloth so that I can enjoy dancing around.

Then, when I was around 8, I discovered my mom's cosmetic pouch. I like the scent it has and I will take out all sorts of cosmetics to put on my face. I'm just curious to see how I will look like when I have makeup on. This was when my mother was away. At one time she discovered me and I quickly ran to the bathroom to wash it off. I was given a stern warning but no lecture. After the incident, I sometimes would still take a peek at the pouch. These days, I really don't mind some lip balm if I do have to put it on.

My mom's occupation as a supervisor for a lingerie company (until today) also has influenced me a little. She will sometimes bring back home some unsold stock. These are then relabeled before shipping it away to another branch. I do help her with the relabeling. (Don't get me wrong, I have no other intentions) Then as I see the designs on the bra and panties, I think to myself that improvements can be made. Why a bra has to be in such boring colours like pink, white and black? Why not do patterns and fluorescent colours like shocking yellow?

After all these had happened, I was in my teenage years. This is when I found fashion magazines. The very first one that I found was in my aunt's closet, Cosmopolitan, featuring Heidi Klum wearing a pink dress designed by Michael Kors on the cover. I do not know who she is or who is the designer at that time but one thing hit my mind is that "This is someone popular." From there, I have interest in fashion magazines. My mom even bought me one seeing how interested I was. And so, I started to learn about the fashion world.

Now, as a young adult, my dream is to become a fashion designer. Sadly, my grandparents opposed my decision although my parents support me. Therefore, I decided to go into graphic design. At least I can still design and my grandparents will not be angry of me. I really do love them.

Anyway, I'm certain I won't be a graphic designer all my life. I still have my dream to achieve.
So, this is the story of my passion. What's yours?

Basketball and Me

2008-11-10T20:22:00.004+08:00

I do not like playing with a ball. No, not even once, although I'm in an all-boys-school during my primary years. The ball will somehow always manage to hit me on the stomach and even my face at one time. But I admit I have soccer fever once every four years. That's the only time I will watch people kicking around a well-made sphere. Otherwise, I don't give a kick about it.

Then, I met this person, who is now a friend of mine. His passion? Basketball. When he told me that, I was like thinking, "Oh, the sport that makes you taller." Surprisingly, he's not that tall and I ask him why. "Well, not everybody who plays basketball will make them tall. It still depends on your genes," he said. I see. How disillusioned I was. By the way, I'm happy with my height despite my two brothers being taller than me.

Then our conversation went into some very interesting facts about basketball. A standard basketball weighs from 0.56kg to 0.65kg and the circumference is from 74.9cm to 78cm. International rules for playing basketball is revised every 4 years. Also, the rules are the most complicated and very tight. There are 2 referees inside a game and they have to master all kinds of sign language when refereeing the game. Oh my, it really sounds harder than it looks like!

Team members consist of 5 person playing, 7 standbys and also the coach. The 5 person is assigned different positions which are centre, power forward, small forward, shooting guide and a point guide. There are 4 quarters in each game, 12 minute for each quarter. There are breaks in between, of course. If the game ends to a draw, the game is extended 5 more minutes until a winner is found. Another style of playing basketball is 3 on 3, or street basketball. This is where basketball becomes more exciting because the rules are looser and players can show off their talents.

After having this conversation, I certainly know more about the game but it also made me think. Somehow, those who are being schooled in normal schools love to play soccer and those in Chinese educated schools love basketball. Maybe it's my upbringing made me think like that. During my primary and secondary years, nobody played basketball. Soccer or softball is the game of the day. Now I'm in tertiary education, it's basketball. No soccer. I wonder why...

Well, my relationship with basketball is certainly improving with all these exposure. Maybe I'll learn how to play basketball although my phobia for balls still persists until today. Who knows?

For now, I'll be a spectator watching by the sidelines. I'm going to watch a basketball game tomorrow and support my friend's team!

The Adventures of Jarold

2008-11-08T20:06:00.010+08:00

This is a story sent in by an anonymous writer. If you have any comments, please write them down!

Snow falls down from the heavens, like little white petals being caressed around with a gentle breeze. Winter in London is very quiet, especially after Christmas. Poor William walks down the street, not a penny in hand, only the clothes on his back. Not many people spare a thought for this 12 year old boy.

William is a tramp, abandoned by his parents, surviving all these years with the kindness of the baker, Mr. Jones. Now that Mr. Jones has kicked the bucket right after his birthday, William is now in constant hunger for food and a person full of warmth and kindness. Mr. Jones is like a father to him. Now, the bakery is no more and he has nowhere to go. He is a diamond in the rough, waiting for the time to be polished and shine like a star.

He stopped walking and sat down on a bench, overlooking the Thames River. In the distance, he can hear Big Ben ringing. It is now 10 o’clock at night. Suddenly, a big black figure approaches him.

“Good evening, William. How’s life now?” said the figure.
Who is this stranger?
“You do not need to answer my question. Follow me,” said the figure in a gentle tone.
William starts to feel a great unease. He hesitated.
“Why should I follow you?”
“Because I know you are in dire need for help. Come,” said the figure.

The sun is blazing and the winds are blowing gently. With a few clouds in the sky, the weather seems peaceful enough. Even the sea is as calm as the eye of a storm. This is a lovely day for Fort Cuza, Kingdom of Berrylium where the air smells like pine with a hint of the sea.

As always, Bill and his daughter, Mirabell, is having a busy day at the famous tavern in town, Blue Forest. With the addition of having a beautiful weather, it seems that the taps in his tavern flows uncontrollably with beer and soda to satisfy the thirst of her customers.

The sight for today is a rare one for Cuza. One can see people dotted all over the pristine white coastline from the Blue Forest. Between gusts of wind, sounds of laughter and voices are heard, especially inside the tavern, where sounds of glasses clinking and chairs rumble. It is the most desired place in the city, with a commanding view of the sea and the place to share stories of adventure and the mystique.

Young Mirabell felt a tug at her skirt. “Let me guess, it’s Jarold and he wants a big tankard of cold beer.”
Jarold is a regular customer at the tavern, a famous storyteller there. Jarold, The Thousand Storyteller, the kids would call him. With his kind face and a big heart, many people are charmed by his wits and storytelling skills. Not just kids, but the ladies adore him too. Young, adventurous and just plain good looking, it is just too good to be true.

“Wow, you’re good, Mirabell. Where’s your dad anyway?”
“At the storeroom, taking out more barrels of beer. Same old place?”
“Yes, and do bring me a towel, please.”
“Same old place, I guess?”
“Yup, the private one at the back.”
Jarold settled down on the chair, thinking about the same thing all over. Again and again, the words played in his head, like a never ending song.

When Selene and Helios lines up together, you will find what you need.

“What are you thinking about?” asked Mirabell.
“Oh, nothing, nothing at all. Just a little tired, I guess,” said Jarold.
“Well, you better finish up your beer and have a good rest at home. Dad’s going to see you in a jiffy. Oh, here he comes,” said Mirabell.

Bill sat down and closed the curtain. Suddenly, the sitting area has a mysterious aura, a world closed off to the outside world.
“Yes, my old friend, have you found out about it?” asked Bill.
“About it? Bill, I have found out more than that,” answered Jarold.
“Well, where is it?”
“Before finding out where is it, tell me, what do you know about the Eastern Shores of Baghdead?”
“No. It could not be. It’s dangerous! It’s… You do not know what it’s like.”
“Yes, I know. I’ve been there,” said Jarold.

Night has fallen over Cuza. Stars come out and play with each other, the crescent moon hanging in the sky by an invisible thread. And a moment after that, The Great Bell, with its clangorous noise rings through the city. It is now midnight. Then, a figure runs across the empty streets, unnoticed and unheard. One should be in dreamland by now but what is it doing?

KNOCK KNOCK KNOCK !!
“Who is it banging my door in the middle of the night?! Have you have no sense of time?!” said an irritated Jarold.

In a tense second that feels so long, as if an eternity was passing by, Jarold opened the door suddenly, hoping to find the uninvited guest behind it. Instead, the stranger left a key, fashioned with the finest silver, shaped like an Aztec sun.
Beside it, a note was folded in half. Jarold picked it up and it reads:

Do not be fooled by looks alone,
For a handsome face does not hide
A golden heart,
Therefore do not judge a book by it’s cover.
You have been warned, my friend
Or you lost the treasure.

The note… the writing… the warning… All seems too familiar to Jarold. But who is it? Who is it that know of his quest, the one that he keeps so secretly to himself? No one else knows about it, just him and Bill. Unless Bill gave away the secret. No, it couldn’t be. He is an honest man, and he is bound to his words. No way he gave it away. Not even mountains of pearl, silver and gold can make him do it, thought Jarold. So who could it be? Who is the mysterious one, banging at his door at that hour? There is no memory of he could bring out to identify the person. Without wasting a moment, he put on his clothes, grabbed his coat and ran towards the famous port at Fort Cuza, Port Thrall.

Port Thrall is a very lively place. Traders come from all over the world, some even as far as Agathia, Land of Fire, where they trade their bronze and silverware for luxurious items like red tea and gold threads. One can see the statue of Thrall, founder of Fort Cuza, sitting right at the center of Port Thrall where it is the liveliest place of all. Sellers shouting their bargains and buyers argue to get the best price. But now, at the dead of the night, it is as cold as grave. The fog creeps in, giving it an eerie look. Even the moon is shielded from its view. Jarold quickens his footsteps, but as silent as a mouse. Then, he saw him. Right at the corner, William, the orphaned boy which he took in from London to this world, stood right there.

“Brother Jarold, what is it that brought you here, in the middle of the night?”
“No time to explain. Where’s the vessel that I told you to look after?”
“Turn to your right, walk straight to the very end.”
“Thank you. Could you please call Bill now? Tell him it is very urgent. And could you prepare some supplies? We are going to Agathia next thing in the morning.”
“Are we…”
“No more questions, for now. Do hurry and make haste! Go!”

The golden sun rises from the sea, spreading its’ rays to the heavens above. It is now morning. From Port Thrall, the statue of Thrall gleams in the sunlight with it’s polished marble. All seems calm with the cries of seagull, but one figure is contrasting with the calmness shown. It is Jarold, pacing up and down the boardwalk, waiting for William to arrive. At last, a silhouette can be seen walking straight to him. It is William.

“Have you prepared everything?”
“Yes, we are ready to set sail. The crew is now boarding the vessel. Bill is also there.”
“Good. Are you ready?”
“Ready as I’ve ever been, Brother.”
“Good. Let’s go now.”

And their lives will change forever since. Fort Cuza, in the middle of Kingdom of Berrylium will no longer be their home for a long, long time. Perhaps they will forget about the air from the mountains filled with a pine fresh smell. Perhaps they will forget about the white, glittering sand that covers the beach, stretching forever to the East. Perhaps they will forget Port Thrall, with the famous statue of Thrall in white marble sitting right at the center of it. Who knows, maybe they will even forget where they came from. But one thing is for sure. The journey is much more important than the destination, and that they will remember in the future.

Black and White

2008-11-06T22:46:00.008+08:00

Sometimes, all it takes to form an image or photograph is the colour black and white. Remember those old photographs which have no other colours? It gives the photo a sense of nostalgia, a fleeting moment where it seems you have traveled back through time. When there's no colour to be seen, the mind starts to imagine the colour of the background. The sky will be blue, the grass will be green, but what about the colour of clothes that the person is wearing? Is it a shade of purple or a shade of pink? Possibilities starts to imerge and imagination runs wild.

I also love the colour black and white, as well as other colours that form this world. The simplicity and contrast between the two can make a bold statement or an understatement. That's why I prefer to sketch rather than to colour a drawing. It's simple and can be finished fast for people to enjoy the result. The drawing below is from my collection, when I started to explore the possibilities of a human figure attached to an animal's head.

Because of my love of these two colours, I soon fell in love with a very popular comic book series. The comic book series from Lat.

Lat, or Datuk Mohammad Nor Khalid, was born in a village named Kota Baharu in Perak, not the Kota Bharu in Kelantan. His comics appear in local papers as far back as the 1960's, first in Berita Minggu and then in the News Straits Times (That's where I found Lat). With a great list of comic books and the successful cartoon series "Kampung Boy", Lat is a household name in Malaysia and a well-known cartoonist in Southeast Asia.

His latest book is "Dr.Who?", featuring the former Prime Minister of Malaysia, Tun Dr. Mahathir bin Mohamad. I do own three books from his collection, which are "Lat At Large", "Lat and Gang" and "With a Little Bit of Lat". The book featured above is not mine. I borrowed it from the library.

The reason why I love his comics is because it portray us, Malaysians, in a way that makes you laugh as well as think out of the box. What would happen if a Malaysian becomes an astronaut? Well, it is now a reality but certainly there will not be durian shells flying all over the place in space.

Besides that, there are also comics about his childhood in the kampung. The stories of him at the first day of school, how they bathe in the river, the broken English that he learned during his time in the kampung, all these has a universal appeal. We often reminisce about how life was so simple back then and he manage to portray all these in his comics. No wonder his comics are loved by the young and the old, including me. And these were drawn with black ink on white paper. No other colours. Magic, isn't it?

But his comics are not about colour. It is about his style, the way he characterise people into his comics, making them immortals in his world of comics. One of them is the butterfly-glassed lady, inspired from Mrs. Moira Hew, his former teacher.

Now, I finally realised what makes a drawing special. It is not the colour but the message and style that is embedded on that piece of canvas, telling a story to those who see it. After all, a picture equates to a thousand words.

That's why I adore his comics. Who agrees with me? Give me a high five!

From Kuantan to Kuala Lumpur

2008-11-05T13:31:00.004+08:00

This is just one of those days where you cannot think about anything to write about. I mean, not that I do not have any ideas but each one is vying for my attention. I'm planning to write a poem, a review about a favourite book of mine, a story about my friend's passion and...

So many things to write, so little time! What can I do?

Suddenly, I've decided on this topic. How about my relationship between the city that is only 3 hours away, Kuala Lumpur?

My relationship with Kuala Lumpur is a love hate relationship. First, all the relatives, friends and places that I'm very fond of are there. But then the things that I dislike are also there. This includes bad air, traffic jam and other bad experiences that I have. You'll just have to experience it to know how bad it is.

Although there are bad experiences, the good ones outweigh it much more. One of the good ones is food. Where else could you find hawker food just a stone's throw away from some of the best hotels and shopping complexes? Those roast chicken wings at Jalan Alor are just heavenly, together with the sights, sounds and smells.

The second best thing, shopping. I don't usually go shopping but when I do, I thoroughly enjoy the whole experience. One Utama, Sunway Pyramid and Sungai Wang are my favourites. Things get crazy when there are sales. I'll walk non-stop for a whole day even if it is just to buy one item. Window shopping is the keyword here.

Another thing I enjoy is the beauty of KL itself. At night. This is when the city lifts off the mask that it puts on during the day and everything is revealed. Every building looks entirely different, some decorated with lights galore and some stayed in the shadows with a sense of mystery. Even the people is different during the night. Faces that have never showed themselves during the day comes out to join the symphony of the night.

KL is certainly a great city, but not my choice to live in. Unless they clean up the air, clear the traffic jam and make public transport such an ease to use that I have no need to own a car.
Sounds a little too much, but that's what it takes for me to live there.

Therefore, I prefer Kuantan. At least there's a beach here for me to relax and unwind when the going gets tough.

The Good Taste, Good Living Magazine

2008-11-03T21:08:00.006+08:00

If you had viewed my profile, you'll know that one of my interests is cooking. Cooking for me is a way for me to relax. I enjoy the time that I spend at the market, choosing fresh produce, to the time I have finished cooking my dish and sharing it with families and friends. Although I am good at doing it but still I have a lot to learn. I do make mistakes, you know.

It was not until recently that I found this magazine called Flavours, a bimonthly magazine that suits my interest just fine. I was introduced to it by my aunt and I was hooked ever since. The photo above shows the Jan-Feb 2008 issue which is the red one and the other is the May-June 2008 issue. For your information, Flavours is published by Star Publications (M) Bhd and can be found at your local news stands. (sorry for the crappy photo, my camera is not with me)

What's so great about this magazine anyway? Well, the first is that the recipes included in here are quality recipes, tried and tested by real professional chefs. Instructions are clear and there are even photos showing you how to do it. Second, there are about 60 recipes in each issue and the price? Only 10 ringgit! Considering the price of good cookbooks that ranges from 30 to 50 ringgit, this is a steal. And it doesn't blow my monthly budget!

Besides mouth watering recipes to be experiment with in the kitchen, basically anything to do with food is published here. Articles on the latest restaurants, reviews of cookbooks, wonderful kitchen gadgets and stories of chefs are also published. There's even a section on reviews about wines that comes with each issue. So to wrap it all up, Flavours magazine is the magazine for food enthusiasts.

I have not bought the Nov-Dec issue and I'm looking forward to it. Christmas is a month away and hopefully there will be recipes on Christmas cakes and goodies!

Which Bookstore Do You Like?

2008-11-02T16:00:00.003+08:00

A bookstore to me is like a library. I can be there for hours, looking at the newest titles, flipping through pages and deciding not to buy anything after that. Call me cheap, but hey, I'm still a student. My textbooks already cost me a hundred over ringgit. And that's only two copies.

Enough of my ramblings. Let's get back to the main topic.

Popular
Popular is a Singapore-based bookstore company with subsidiaries in countries such as Canada, China, Malaysia, Hong Kong and Taiwan. It publishes, distributes, and retails books for the local education market. The first Popular bookstore in North Bridge Road, Singapore. That was in 1936. It is the organiser of Bookfest at Malaysia and Singapore, a Chinese-language book fair.

I've never been to Bookfest or having a Popular membership card, although a Popular bookstore is available at Kuantan's Berjaya Megamall. But I do admit they stock the most educational books and also stationery. The Popular at Kuantan is adequate, with books for each age group. Magazines are abundant as well as music CD's. To me, Popular bookstore is a place for families to buy books and stationery. Out of 10, I give it a 6.

MPH Bookstores
MPH is an acronym for Malaysian Publishing House, nothing to do with speed or cars. MPH Bookstores is the largest bookstores chain in Malaysia with 29 outlets: 19 in the Klang Valley, 3 in Johor, 2 in Negri Sembilan, 1 each in Perak, Pulau Pinang, Melaka and Kedah. (why not open one in Kuantan?) MPH Group of Companies consists of bookstore, printing, publishing, distributor and magazine.

The last time I visit an MPH Bookstore was at Ipoh, at Jusco. It is a small shop,but stocked with the latest releases and other books. Stationery is not much but this the place where you find all kinds of books that you may not find at Popular. Pricing is ok and sometimes they have sales where you can find all sorts of books at low, low price. But beware, some of these may have torn pages so check before you buy.

The MPH Bookstore that I like most is at Bandar Utama. Two storeys dedicated to what else? Books! I just love the setting there, with sofas and little corners where you can just sit and read until armageddon comes. So, I'll give it an 8 over 10. Unless they open one up at Kuantan.

Borders @ Times Square
Borders bookstore is operated by the Berjaya Corporation Berhard through a franchise arrangement with Borders Group Inc. Opened on 19 April 2005, it is the first Borders bookstore in Malaysia. The second one is at The Curve, Mutiara Damansara, opened on 1 December 2005.

I had been to Borders at Times Square and I fell in love with it once I stepped inside. So wide and so many spaces that it looked like a maze to me when I walked through the aisles. The CD's and books there cater to all kinds of people, so it will not dissapoint you. The problem is that some people misuse the place there to play puppy love. I once saw these teenage couple rubbing each other and hugging in a small little corner that you may not notice. I know the atmosphere is serene and quiet but please go somewhere more suitable than a bookstore!

Out of 10, I'll give it a 7. My last experience watching that teenage couple makes me want to puke. (sorry if I offended anyone, I'm a traditional man)

So, these are my favourite bookstores. What's yours?