z u l f a d l i

2012 With Siti Nurhaliza, Family and Friends

2012-01-01T23:38:00.001+08:00

Before I begin, I would like to wish all my friends and relatives a happy new year, 2012! Hopefully this year brings the best time out of your life and may all of you prosper the way you want it to be.

I hope everyone had a blast during the countdown to new year last night because I know I did despite being worn out by my day to day camp activities. Sleep was never enough. So how did I celebrate my countdown you may ask?

Last evening I went over to Amar's and Amir's (Nizam's little twin brother) 5th birthday bash at Aloha Loyang. I was there with Fiz and I was so glad to finally meet Nizam and Fiz once again after so long! Sadly Amin wasn't there to be with us (especially me because I had to go). I would like to thank Nizam for inviting me over and I really hope you guys understand why I couldn't stay long! Siti Nurhaliza was waiting for me on stage. Heh, joking! I had to quickly change because I'd probably die of heat stroke in red dress shirt.

Last night Syaz's family and mine went over to The Float@Marina Bay to attend Celebrate 2012. Since all these while my countdown had been with my friends, I thought it would be great to celebrate this year with our family. This is indeed a good start of the year, and it somehow fulfills one of my new year resolutions - to establish a healthier relationship with my friends and family. Read my WordPress post!

The event kicked off with pre-show (before it went live on television) with performances by celebrities like These Kids Wear Crowns, Sezairi Sazali, Sylvia Ratonel, Sheikh Haikel and of course, top Malaysian singer Siti Nurhaliza. It was pretty happening, most of the songs during the pre-show were upbeat but several few really touched our hearts with slow songs from Sylvia, Sezairi and Siti. It was surprising to hear Siti Nurhaliza sing a Mandarin song that night. Accent and pronunciation aside, I'd say it's a good attempt to woo the country where majority were the Chinese.

But what really got the crowd hyped up a little bit was when the performers started singing Hollywood song like E.T, Single Ladies and Moves Like Jagger.

The show was very energetic and it got better with host like Gurmit Singh and Michelle Chia. It's as though you can never go sad when Gurmit is on stage. He is just hilarious and crazy, and I mean it in a good way!

Must I say the crowd was boring. Never mind the old people with walking stick - hey, I'm not discriminating but do you really have to stone there when the performer is not your idol? Come on, you're here to party, have a good time and enjoy all the beat but you guys are pretty much dead. Even if it's pre-show, gimme some gusto and zest! Even my mum headbanged better than you guys. You guys are not cool at all, not cool. Whatever was happening at the mosh pit, was mosh sh- - you know what, I shall stop there.

Apart from adoring our favourite personalities on stage, the highlight was definitely the eight minute pyrotechnic display on the bay. It was so beautiful and magnificent. Hands down that was my first time to see fireworks at The Float@Marina Bay. I've never celebrated National Day or other occasion there before so it's thrilling to see fireworks sprucing up the night sky.

And then comes the worse beginning of the year - to be stuck in the car park for about an hour because there were too many cars going out at once. We survived!

I was really beat when I got home. New year celebration did not end just there. It got more exciting.

The next morning, Syaz and I woke up early for celebrity hunt. Our prey was Siti Nurhaliza. It was great to see her in person and SitiZoners (it's a noun for her fans) were there to celebrate her birthday in advance. The SitiZoners got to meet her and there the SitiZoners got to enjoy the birthday cake with her! Before she left, I took a farewell picture with her before she departed to the airport.

She is such a sweet doll. I don't know about other Malay celebrities that is as hardworking as her but she really made a great start in her singing career and now, she even got an honorary title on her. Never mind what people said about the way she dress, the way she sings, the way she does things, or even the husband she picks (I don't know why personal life is involved when you're talking about people's career) she's still the Malaysian heartthrob. I can't wait to see her on Bio Channel. Coming soon!

Her latest and first English album All Your Love is awesome!

Okay moving on to a personal note, I would like to thank everyone who made my year 2011 a memorable one! Let's make the world go round and make this year a better one!

Dominique Sirop - Women's Fashion Week 2011, Singapore

2011-10-30T12:41:00.000+08:00

This weekend is a special one because apart from the exhausting sports day and the school cheer which felt like Halloween, I got to enjoy the sight of beautiful ladies in Dominique Sirop's designs in Women's Fashion Week (WFW) 2011, Singapore. It is Singapore's first large scale event solely dedicated to the artistry of haute couture and obviously this will be the first time an haute couture week is brought out of Paris. Before this, Singapore was not an air-conditioned city, that explains why we don't see people wearing this by the shopping belt. I will be surprised if I see one wearing them in this unmerciful weather.

I think by this line only half of you knows the hell I'm talking about. Haute couture is a dress made from high-quality, expensive fabric and sewn with extreme attention to detail and finished by the most experienced and capable seamstresses. If you really need to understand, just remember, jeans and tank top doesn't make a haute couture. So what's happening here is that they are bringing this in to increase Singaporean's fashion quotient because all these while we are the people of tank tops and slippers and that doesn't make do on special occasions. Otherwise how can we be top ten in the most fashionable country list, right?

Anyway, it was really great to be there because I don't only get to see dolled up models cat walking down the runway but several of my favorite art pieces were there. Mont Blanc, the official timepiece and Rolls-Royce the official automobile exhibited several of their new designs. It was a exhilarating to see shiny Rolls-Royce, sit on it to feel and smell the pure leather and let your shoes sink in the velvety car mat. You just feel like giving up everything and own just it to live in it.

I thought it was very creative to see DHL's masterpiece in creating a haute couture on the mannequins using their own labelled materials. I'd never thought of that if you were to give me a pile of DHL junks. I'd just dump it aside. Looking at them reminds me one of Carlsberg's video advertisements. Creative and attractive.

Women's Fashion Week seems to be all about style and poise. As you enter, you will be greeted and ushered in, and you will never get thirsty for there's free flow of wine, champagne and for the health conscious, orange juice for you. There were even people around to inform you when the show was about to start - no way you could be late for the show. It's all about elegance. But boys will be boys if you compare this to Men's Fashion Week, you know how hysterically fun and noisy Men's Fashion Week was.

One thing I like about the runway is the propping to make it look like spring. It gives this cozy ambiance where you don't feel too stuffy from the lighting because everything was dim before the show and it did not give the corporate video introduction like what happened in Men's Fashion Week. Instead, there was a host to introduce us to the show

I am grateful to be a part of this and I thank everybody for the wonderful opportunity to attend Women's Fashion Week 2011. You know who you are. Have a great week ahead as I'm going to prepare to pump some iron in days to come.

Zulfadli Yazab on Socializing Pleasure

2011-10-22T22:00:00.000+08:00

SPirit: Muhammad Zulfadli Bin Yazab was part of the student team that was asked to help out at ScreenSingapore, a week long international cinema event that premiered Hollywood new films and showcased Asian content to the world. The event was hosted by the Media Development Authority of Singapore (MDA).

Never mind that Zul and his team were not involved in conceptualizing this major event that brought in big names like Tom Hanks and Zhang Ziyi. A significant decision-making role like that would come in future when he becomes a professional even organiser.

For ScreenSingapore, Zul and his team were tasked to help in the media centre which gave constant updates on the event via social media platforms such as Facebook and Twitter from the official venue, Capella Singapore on Sentosa. They made the most out of their time stationed there. From the sides, they witnessed how the event organisers workd with various parties to get things done. Anything from receiving VIPs to ensuring banquet rooms were ready for presentatons.

'In just a few days, all the hard and soft skills that we learned over three years were all put to good use. Organising events takes more than just socializing with people. It's also about what you know and who you know' says the ex-student from Coral Secondary.

Of course, ScreenSingapore was not the only hands-on project Zul got involved in. Besides conceptualising and executing school events, he was also an active member of Sinema Showoff!, a thematic movie screening event that SP organises with the Sinema Old School. His role involved working with his lecturer to curate suitable films for screening.

Zul is now serving national service and he hopes to study for a degree in marketing or finance thereafter before plunging himself into the world of events, once again.

SPIRIT magazine which features the latest happenings in Singapore Polytechnic, can be obtained campus wide. Alternatively, its e-magazine and other SP publications can be reached here.

Singapore JewelFest 2011 - ECSTASY

2011-10-22T15:34:00.000+08:00

'Work hard, play harder.' That was the motto I lived by last Friday night. After a week of tough training in camp, it is good to be back into the outside world and enjoy the latest event in Singapore JewelFest 2011, ECSTASY.

This is no different than SEDUCTION party that I went last week with the models running up and down the runway and free-flow of drinks . This is just to make those who got the invitation but did not attend without valid excuse feel better because no way on earth these two events are the same!

The models, donned in Karen Miller and dolled with Shu Uemura, dazzled guests with the flamboyant blings by scintillating world class jewelers. It just got more addictive...

ECSTASY was made more addictive and scenic more than ever with the appearance of well-known Burlesque hearth-throbbing star, Dita Von Teese. I know, JewelFest 2011 is such a 'Tee-ser' (read: teaser). Of course, she was not there to striptease us in her lacy corset but she was beautifully donned in velvety purple dress that you can't take your eyes off. Her flawless skin definitely a jealousy of the girls around me and everyone was head over heels to have a photo with her. I didn't get a photo with her either! That's just sad!

Propping the event was not only Hollywood Burlesque dancer Von Teese but Singapore born designer who rose to international fame in early 2000's, Ashley Isham. Hosted by Bobby Tonelli, this event could not have been more surprising!

The attendees seems to be on cloud nine snapping photos of Ashley with Von Teese as their free takeaways. Naturally now more people will know what Singapore JewelFest is all about.

This is specially for rich, loaded-with-work business associates and executives, if you happen to be lost on where to go after the event next time, or happen to be hungry for real good food (since finger food is never bigger than our stomach), or need an accommodation right after you touch down, remember the official concierge for Singapore JewelFest 2011, Quintessentially - a concierge service created entirely to make life that much easier, that much richer and that much more fun.

They have many non-compromising quality choices of accommodation, food, events and even nightlife venues not only in Singapore but worldwide spanning from Europe, to Asia Pacific. Guess what, they even have their own Quintessentially Currency Card (MasterCard). All the more reason to say this service targets people like... Not me obviously. Haha!

I am grateful for the goody bag, not only because there's a 50ml Cointreau bottle (which I gave away to Nat) and complimentary cocktail shaker, but because there's a Shu Uemura sample in it. I love testing out products and I would say Shu Uemura lives up to its promise.

That's all I have to share this weekend. See you around, have a great break!

Singapore JewelFest 2011 - SEDUCTION

2011-10-16T00:09:00.001+08:00

A few weeks ago, Elf and I had plan to go out just the two of us hangout and have a good laugh over dinner or just sit somewhere crappy just to catch up. Several days after that, I got an invitation to Singapore JewelFest (SJF) 2011 opening party at Ngee Ann City Civic Plaza which happened last night. Finally we had a proper place to hangout.

It was a great start of the weekend because I got to see Nat and Lynno (finally we met!) and introduce myself to the world of jewelries.

Being a part of YourSingapore campaign, Singapore JewelFest 2011 kicked off last Friday with SEDUCTION party. It was magnificent. You'll dazzled by sparkling jewelries. There was an array of booths owned by local and international brands like the ones from Israel, Italy, and the States.

When I got in, I was quite lost on where to start because this was my first ever jewelry event that I have attended. This is no similar to fashion week or film festivals that I have went before. All booths are like the ones you see in NATAS fare or IT show except with items worth millions of dollars on display. At first I felt really awkward to be in the midst of everyone. There were celebrities, socialites, and known well-to-do people who could afford a piece of those but after some time, I got comfortable - after thinking that most of them are probably too drunk from the free flow drinks from the Cointreau bar, which is the official liqueur of SJF. Any thought works just to make myself feel better!

After some time basking in the delightful ambiance, the show started with a bubble show. You might think it's lame to have kids 'fetish' in a tent full of adults but lo and behold! It is not about blowing just bubbles, it's the art of blowing it really. Even I was impressed by how that water contained bubble exploded into mist. Do not drag science into this, I still want to believe it's magic!

The show did not stop there. After several sips of Perrier with dipped lemon, my attention was drawn to tall leggy models in silky dress, adroned with Louboutins and precious stones that was set to blind you with its resplendent glittery glory. I like seeing how the models show off their jewelries without coming off too strong.

I chanced upon a piece that really got my attention - it was Marco Bicego from Italy presented by TianPo Jewellery. I took the opportunity to ask about diamonds and of course the piece itself. It is an 18K yellow gold bracelet with multi-coloured gems.

In my honest opinion, it doesn't look good in pictures but in real life, the multi-coloured gem really brings your dull life to technicolor. At the price of SGD$162,160, that piece could be yours. If you think that's expensive, the dearest that I saw is about SGD$1,200,000.

There I learnt a lot of things about diamond which proves to be useful when you're shopping with your girlfriend. You could skip this if you know. Before Singapore JewelFest, I know nuts about diamond quality. All I know is that they're shiny hardest object in the world.

Irene Sim from TianPo took the liberty to introduce me to the world of girl's best friend. All thanks to Jocelyn Yip who allowed me to do a one-to-one question and answer and all my doubts about diamonds were answered. Do you know that when it comes to choosing a good piece of bling, there are four C's you have to look out for? Its colour, its carat weight, its clarity, and finally its cut. Above all, the cut that makes out its facet is the one that really determines the cost of a diamond and how glistening it would be. Naturally, it should be the main consideration when choosing a diamond.

That explains why no two twinkling diamonds are the same.

If you are a one of UOB's private banking clients, you're entitled to a special treatment in the VIP room. It is an elegant room decorated with lush carpet and cozy wallpaper and stylish upholstery by Goodrich Global. If you have one of UOB's credit card, you're entitled to privileges like discounts - they're the official credit card for SFJ 2011.

Elf and Nat suddenly got particularly interested in the food. They were 'famished' and first in line to be attacked are the servers serving banana crumble. The prawn was really nice but personally I don't think that's a sexy food to eat at a sexy event. Heh!

I just thought it could have been better if they had a small exhibition with information on transformation of jewellery like how Louis Vuitton does for their leather products. It could get appreciation on this captivating creation for some of us. Since the event is public, it always helps to educate.

For more details on Singapore JewelFest 2011, visit http://www.singaporejewelfest.com.

Passing Out Parade

2011-10-11T13:36:00.002+08:00

At the end of the day, we tell ourselves how fast time flew by. Without us knowing, we had ended an episode in our army life.

I got enlisted on the 1st August 2011. It was a remarkable date because at the same time, we started our first day of fasting in Ramadan. The challenges were abysmal and thankfully I was mentally prepared.

Days past by and there are a lot of memories to be told and today we stood by the skyline to celebrate another milestone in our life - Passing Out Parade as a trained soldier.

The trainings while we were in BMT (Basic Military Training) were tough - mainly due to extreme weather. It could be very, very hot. Other than that you spend most of the time smeared in dust, grit and dirt. Several events are still vivid in my mind like going to the rifle range, throwing of grenade, the unforgettable field camp, route marches, or even recruit's night.

On the last night in the bunk, I can't help thinking that that would be the last sleep I have as a recruit in the bunk. There were so many mixed feelings. After all, the bunk had been my second home - as much as I would want to deny it in early stages. Then comes the 24km route march to The Float@Marina Bay.

We were in high spirit, sing songs and cheer on our way there - but only for the first 4km. What comes next are just crickets laughing at us because we're too tired to open our mouth. Almost everyone started getting cranky and angsty. So it is really good if people were to really shut their mouth and not spark any anger in anyone else but I understand. We felt cheated don't we? We knew it all along our march would be more than 24km but we could close one eye to that. What is extra mile after 24km right? But what crossed us out really was the climb to Benjamin Sheares Bridge to complete that extra mile. That was like living in the line of one of our cheers...

"Up the hill, down the slope, up the slope, down the hill. Any sweat? No sweat, chicken feet!" I swear nothing was 'chicken feet'. We had one nerve left and they were getting on it.

I am grateful to be given the endurance, and high level of patience to go through this. Being talked to rudely by your comrades is the last thing you want to hear when you are tired. Know that no one is more tired than the other. All is good though, peace!

My heart bloomed with joy to see the grandstand, and everything was a bliss. Okay, not really. We had to wait for the event to start and some of us had to be repositioned for dressing because there were intervals. It was funny to see everyone sweating in the uniform, who most have abrasions and blisters and yet comfortably sleeping pillowed with rifle. Poor sergeant major (CSM) had to walk around, wake them up to shift them to a new position and then they'll go back to sleep. That was how tired everyone was. Everyone made the best out of that situation to sleep.

And then the parade started. We shall engage your eyes and ears and let the video do the talking. Here's the gist of the 2-hour event.

All I felt was joy once I tossed the cap. I think everyone felt the same. Amazing how we had that spark of energy left after tossing the cap. Remember how sleep deprived were we when that happened. This merry occasion would not felt the same without the many people whom I have to thank.

A big virtual hug and thank you goes to my family, and relatives who came for my POP (Passing Out Parade) like my cousins, aunt, uncle, and my adorable nephews. They are the catalyst of my determination and one of the reasons why I stood there putting up a show for them. Thanks to my mum and dad for their words of encouragement and well wishes. Because of them I have a purpose to look forward to toss my jockey cap. I am very grateful to have their everlasting support.

It was a surprise that two of my best friends came too! It was a pleasure to have them around to give me the morale boost. It was funny how they planned to be early and ended up right at the back of the seat. Apparently they do not follow army time - if you two realize, both of you are/were from police. That explains!

After spending nine weeks in BMT, how can I forget my fellow comrades? Brothers in arms, comrades for life! A bunch of thanks to my commanders, coy mates, platoon mates, and of course, closer to heart are my section mates. The bunk is the place we call home-sweet-home after a day of vigorous training and the only place we find comfort in. The place we eat our snacks, chat, polish our boots at the corridor in a row, do our laundry in, and whatnot. I will definitely miss the environment and the positive energy that all of you had created. This is the reason why I woke up each day knowing it would be a good day. Because of you, I held my spirit up high.

Lastly, my smooth sailing journey would not have been possible without pointers and major help from Kheed Airwalk, Haikarl Turner, and known predecessors. All of you who told me that I will miss my time in BMT, guess what, your prophecy came true.

I am grateful to the mighty Almighty for the pillar of strength given. Here's my standing ovation for all of you.

Your Highness Kneeling

2011-09-21T22:20:00.002+08:00

Ever since day one I had my heart set to give my best no matter what happens. Conscription may not have given me the luxury of time and allow me to do things the way I want but it has definitely widen my social circle.

Several weeks ago, we had one of our high key events - field camp. I did not enjoy digging the shell scrape, what's more sleeping in it and got it destroyed by heavy rain the following day - my heart sank just to see my hard work soaked with murky water! Sleeping in tent with someone you just knew about a month ago is something new and having your sleeping hours fragmented followed by sauteing yourself in sweat in the day is not funny at all. If this is a reality show however, it will not be much of a drama.

The people around me - commanders and platoon mates made life easier. At least that was what I thought. We were like the eye of the storm. Field camp was smooth sailing despite the rush and unforgiving weather.

After our route march on the first day, we were really beat and the first thing that you would want to do is to let the shower tap run above your head. Newsflash everyone, we're in the middle of a field. No toilets around. No taps to begin with. So if the jerrycans were to be stolen by while boars, I wish good luck. The weather was despicable. The sun was scorching and everyone was tired. The ground was dry and I spent a lot of time wondering how to fix the tent while we were marching. Seriously, I could have thought of something else but that kept me going. Apparently the soil was not as bad as I thought it would be. Bringing up the tent was as simple as ABC but the alignment was a nightmare. However the IC's for the day did quite an impeccable job in aligning the tents.

We spent much of the days doing movement drills and high kneeling. I was so glad that we were allowed to use knee guards. Not all were allowed since it depends on the company you're in. I wondered how it was like to high kneel without knee guards so I took the chance by taking out my knee guard and kneeled. For less than five seconds I thought my knee was gone. Imagine kneeling on those edgy rocks, it's not fun at all.

The most tiring part during the camp was to dig a shell scrape and that almost snapped my last wire of patience. On that day the weather started to get a little edgy. It was torrid at first. You have no idea how many times I refilled my water bottle while wrestling myself with the hard soil. They said mine was tad too deep and too narrow that only I can fit in. Even I was amused when I looked at it from far. I wondered how my platoon mates are going to sleep or prone in my shell scrape should they have to take over my place?

It rained momentarily while we were digging so somehow that softens the ground and digging can be expedited but by then all I was left to do is to touch up my shell scrape. I should have known and waited for the rain so that I didn't have to put in so much effort to it.

Sleeping in the shell scrape is a particular highlight in the camp. Sleeping in tent is a norm for everyone even for civilians but sleeping in a quarter-grave hole is a whole new level of experience. It rained in the wee hours of that morning and everyone thought it wouldn't be heavy but I have a premonition that says it's going to get bad and it did. I put on my Gortex before everyone else and sat there waiting for further instructions. We had to be evacuated from the area since there was lightning. Imagine this.

I was sweating on that warm night and suddenly I felt very cold due to the early morning dew so my sleep was not comfortable at all. That kept me awake until it rained. My energy level was at the lowest. I felt like being in my sleeping position and continue sleeping despite the rain but the instruction was to get out and double up to the Urban Operations (UO) building. That was the last thing that I wish I didn't have to do. With the heavy rain, muddy ground, and shell scrapes close to each other's, walking down the slope with our full battle order in the dark without slipping and falling into another shell scrape is a skill we acquired on the spot without practice. At that point of time, I really thought it was fun because our camp won't be like any other field camp at night.

At the end of the day, we had to cover up our shell scrapes but we had to clear all the water that was collected that morning before covering them. Otherwise the hole will be covered with mud instead of hard soil. Do your math on how much volume of water we had to clear within a span of several hours. The tougher and dirtier job was to clear the water but the idea of taking out my entrenchment tools from my bag and washing it up after that, I'd rather put my uniform in the washing machine. It has to be washed anyway. Whatever it was, at that point of time, you'll be too tired to think but to follow your heart instead.

How hard things were at that time, it was a memorable field camp that not all company get to experience.

Eid 2011

2011-09-18T12:23:00.001+08:00

This is probably tad too late but I'll continue.

This year's Eid celebration was 'sui generis' if not extravagant. If you hadn't known, the first day of fasting month was the first day of my enlistment and throughout, I am grateful I sustained each day with patience and willpower.

The Eid spirit was lifted and felt on the eve when I heard the Takbir and did our house decoration. Since I am away from family and the outside world 3/4 of the time this year, Eid holds on to a very special place in my heart.

Here in the light of Eid I would like to seek forgiveness from all my family members, relatives, friends and everyone that I had known for the past twenty years. We are not here forever and it is only right that I forgive you too, settle our differences and restart our relationship on a clean slate.

This year because of the exhausting and time consuming trainings, I did not have the time to visit relatives and friends however I made it a point to be out with my family as much as possible while time permits. If any of you feels neglected, please do not give up keeping in touch. I will be here. Trust me, I do read your messages!

God willing there will be a reunion soon.

Boyhood Party

2011-07-29T02:04:00.002+08:00

July was a month intended for party and let loose. With three months of military training coming up, and nineteen months being tied up to a conscription, who knows what I am up for? Definitely not a treat. So this July I had one of the most splendid month of the year. I am so grateful to everyone that made this happen and possible. To those who missed, I miss you too but there's only room for so much.

By right, I am suppose to be free, a lot of time to spare like nobody's business but being the organized person I am, I can't stand unattended days of doing just nothing. I love the days of doing nothing but that has to be planned! So late June I came up with a lot of plans, made calls, and went all out in planning for July. Of course some were impromptu - and that usually happens when that day was planned as 'Do Nothing - Be a Potato Couch'. That never happens.

Firdaus's Birthday Party
In early July one of my beloved friend had his pre-birthday BBQ at East Coast. It was a great move because everyone was there. Old friends finally meet up, and have means to keep in touch. It was ages since we met and I don't know how many mobile I've changed before we met again. Glad that he enjoyed his time and now he's operationally ready (ORD). My turn's next! Anyway, have a great 21 bud! More trips coming up hopefully.

The Last Supper
This dinner was planned ages before. It did not occur in my mind that I need to spend as much time as possible with my friends and family in July. I made a good choice in June.

As you move along in life, you will realize that nothing stays forever. This August will be the beginning of the turning point in life. I will be away for National Service (NS), and my friends are all over the place in this globe already. H and N will be set west for internship and I am so happy for them! At least I know I am not alone facing ordeals away from family! We must make plans how to catch up with each other virtually!

I can't wait for the return of N with her British accent after six months and H with his Southern African fashion after a quarter year. I on the other hand will come back obviously tanner, and probably a tad uglier with a head that reflects the moonlight. We are so going to laugh looking at each other. I am going to miss them so much!

We decided to have our final dinner at Sakura restaurant and my, my, H was famished and I made a mistake by having MacDonalds before hitting the buffet. Tempting McSpicy! It was such a bad idea. Lesson learnt, never have a meal before a buffet dinner. I thought it was a good idea that we had this dinner together - a final proper dinner, in a perfect setting to chat about anything and to entertain each other while time permits.

Visiting The Departed
Every year, just like most Muslim family, we would visit our departed beloved ones together just before or during Ramadan. Its significance is to remind ourselves that we will not be here forever, and to remember the people whom we used to have in this world that affected our lives in so many ways.

This year was a little special.

There was an arrangement to visit them together as a family but it took a turn. The following week (with all these NS stuffs coming along) was impossible so I decided to visit one of them - by myself. It was my late grandmother's.

I you had followed this blog since it was opened, you would have known how attached I am to my late grandmother. When she died, it was hard for all of us in this family because she raised us up (my brothers and I) and helped in the family in so many ways you could ever imagine.

She is pure hearted, witty, kind and benevolent, generous, funnily sarcastic and all those other qualities that no other grandmother are capable of doing and comprehend. She was like the heartbeat of the family, that runs the house, cook for us, and took care of us. For the lack of better word, she was the perfect woman that any man of his age could have asked for.

Al-fatihah.

Visiting her grave by myself, being seven feet away from her made me relive those moments I had with her on a personal level. The World Ward II stories she told me, and the times she'd bring me to the market or fetch me from pre-school, it was an experience that I wish I was old enough to understand that I was going to miss all of those.

I felt grateful to have the chance to go there by myself.

Photography Club - Guest Speaker
Woo, I'm honored to be a subject of attention to a bunch of photography amateurs. Mind you that this bunch doesn't own DSLRs and put them on auto mode forever when creating art. Calling them amateurs is like putting a mirror in front of myself albeit with confidence.

In one of the weeks I went, I was astonished to see there were juniors with sky rocket confidence. It was great!

Harry Potter and The Deathly Hallows
It's probably a Generation Y thing - to watch Harry Potter. Since its first movie, I've been following the movies closely, watched them more than once, read the book, and talked about it leisurely with friends.

The latest and final movie - Harry Potter and The Deathly Hallows (Part 2) is like my childhood film finale. For nine years, since I was 11, I looked forward to each of its movie release and I know I speak on behalf of most of you when I say this as it all started as a fantasy, kiddy, and bright film that went darker by series.

The cinematography was great despite the slow story line, probably holding on everybody's eagerness by doing it slow and steady. That was one of the reasons why I watched Harry Potter. The book is definitely more informative albeit draining for some of you.

Illys, Ward, Ras - Hangout
I wouldn't categorize this s a normal day hangout even if its done at the mall nearby because we had not met for ages. That makes it special.

It was good catching up with them, heard news about our juniors, seniors, and about the people from our own cohort. Just to know what are they up to now because we can't possibly meet each and everyone of you. Glad to know some of them are married, have babies, while some other are studying, or has started working.

Fad on Ice
I bet Pulau Tekong will be hot as the sun scorches my shiny reflective head so before I forgo my good civilian life this August, I'd better make full use of my time here by enjoying cold environment whenever possible. Shall not sweat till August!

Anyway, that day was my second time watching Harry Potter too.

Ice skating was great and I already learnt to ski backwards! Definitely a good experience after so long. Someone even thought the mall is new which it is in fact not. The mall went through a major makeover before it reopened! I love the fact that that mall is not as crowded as some other malls.

ScreenSingapore Appreciation Party
After days of hard work (I know some worked harder) with ScreenSingapore, we finally got our invitation to its appreciation tea party. The invitation didn't come without magic. We got to watch Harry Potter and The Deathly Hallows (Part 2) with the rest who were involved in ScreenSingapore, with compliments from the organizers. I had a great time with E and S. E better be grateful for the ticket I got him because he had been wanting to watch it!

Such a great time spent with them.

About S
S - Sham is a friend I met in ScreenSingapore. Lord knows that live chattering we made there. We hanged out a lot together because we can read each others mind like there's telepathy in our brain, how awesome is that!

About E
E - Elfie is a friend I met while I was in SP. At that time we weren't that close because we are in fact not from the same school. Long story short, we chatted a lot on the phone, and I decided to introduce him to S several weeks after that because before I am gone to the land of men (sounds so wrong but true) and E definitely need a friend. So the two of you, mingle and don't you single me out!

Great weekend spent with them the other day!

HSBC TreeTop Walk
I'd call last weekend the final weekend for me. Obviously after this I will be all jittery to even think that today is in fact not that the day I enlist but since the date is drawing closer, it's time to tone down on the rough activities and just relax for a while.

Last weekend was the last vigorous activity that I did as a civilian. After this, say goodbye to two years of freedom.

This trekking was a family day out and at the same time, to sweat out the toxins, and give a little warm up before the training really starts. After this week I am sure that my stamina will boost a little bit. Still hoping things go well there!

First Visit - Universal Studios Singapore
Remember the days when Universal Studios just opened and it seems almost the entire world is in Singapore to see it. Alas the main attraction: Battlestar Gallatica was not opened yet. That leaves Universal Studios open to people who don't ride roller coasters.

After some time the main attraction was opened and people like me starts flocking in. I'm as usual, slow-by-a-minute when it comes to this because I have the Singaporean mindset, and definitely cost conscious. The reasons I would give if anyone who had been to Universal Studios was this.

It's still new, the rides are new and you'll not know who will die first being the test rat on a rotating wheel.
It's still new, I bet the rides will break down halfway getting a dose of people riding. They need some getting used to before I go.
It's still new, the price of the ticket is still high, maybe it will come down! (Then I'll raise my hand and start praying, haha!)

And then after some time, it seems everything else is stable, and the price is evidently not going down, I had to come up with new reasons.

No one wants to go with me yet, it seems everyone in my contact list has been there.
It's the monsoon season now, I don't want to get wet and get my money wasted.
I'm just waiting for the right time to go. (This folks, I never lie)

The rest are just reasons to save my money and honestly, I never thought it would be worth it. So much money spent on so many rides with so little time.

I got my tickets as a gift, it is like a response to one of my reason in hoping the price would go down. In fact it did for us, I went in and just paid for the Express Pass. I decided to go before I leave for the army, on a working and schooling weekday where there's not many people, on a sunny day and majority of the patrons were Indonesians. Contrary to some thoughts saying most rides were closed on a weekday for maintenance, when I called, the rides were all open, all of them.

It seems I went at the right time, so grateful! And nobody died because it's no longer new, I got to go with all my siblings, just the three of us in different world each hour, it only rained in the morning, and wait, did I just completed all response for all the above reasons? God, yes.

I was so glad that day because that was not only my first visit to Universal Studios Singapore (USS) but first time being on the tallest dueling roller coaster! That was my first ride in USS. I felt giddy the first time I took it because I have not ridden anything that gives the adrenaline rush since secondary school. After that, I did not stop riding it. I even went back to back. After that day, I don't feel so good on top of being mute for the day.

There are seven worlds. Hollywood will be the first you will see and enter. Look out for actors dressed as Charlie Chaplin or Marilyn Monroe. Monster Rock was vibrant with pyrotechnics and live music and you must not miss this! The pre-show was even more fun. I can't stop amusing myself from looking at people rushing for empty seats only to know they are reserved - for the handicapped.

As you walk you will land in cosmopolitan world of New York where you will regret missing Lights, Camera, Action! I was so amazed by the backdrop that looks so real. It really makes you think you're on a real set. In New York, be prepared to act like Marilyn Monroe over the steaming manhole. Don't worry, it's not hot! However, standing too long on that manhole can damp your legs.

The next thing you knew, you're in the Sci-Fi City, queuing for Battlestar Gallatica (Cylon and Human). From Vivo City, I've always thought they are the same ride with different route but I was wrong. They are two different rides which has two different types of seats! If you get there, you'll have a tough choice judging which one is more thrilling.

After Sci-Fi, we stepped into the world of Ancient Egypt where I was fascinated by the man made ruins. Everything looked so real. In the Revenge of The Mummy, you will get to see props like mummy and beetles, twists and turns that you will not expect because you'll be blindfolded by darkness. Treasure Hunters was a laid back ride we took to cool down a little bit. Look out for buff men that dressed up like pharaoh's guards, and eight shaped women dressed as its mistress. Definitely photo worthy!

Being into The Lost World made me lost for a bit. Thank God there was the Studio Guide with me! Maneuvered my way through the place and we rode the Jurrasic Park Rapids Adventure. It isn't as adventurous as I thought it would be. Given a choice, I'd choose log flumes over this. The queue was long by the way. If I hadn't bought the Express Pass, I'd be crying over wasted time queuing. The queue at the Canopy Flyer was long too. We saved a lot of time indeed.

Our spirits were uplifted when we were Far Far Away. The Shrek 4-D Adventure is a sensory ride that engages you sense of sight and touch. It felt so real and the 4-D glasses doesn't bother as much as the conventional 3-D glasses. SimEx-Iwerks should add blowing warm air and synchronize it with the bellowing fire from the dragon. I was so annoyed not being able to take photos with Shrek and Fiona! I spent the entire day crying at the fountain in front of the castle. Just kidding!

Madagascar wraps up our first round in USS. The Madagascar: A Crate Adventure was uplifting but some tourist really spoiled my mood. Since when it is ever appropriate to take pictures with flash when the essence of the ride is its lighting and color? Or even, shove the bloody flash on other peoples face?

In reliving my memory as a child, my brother and took the carousel in Madagascar!

By the way, purchasing the Express Pass is SGD$30. The feeling you get when the long queue looks at you: priceless.

This probably sums up the fun packed July I had. Thank you to the high above for such a great time handed down to me! A weekend left before army starts. Wish me well!

To every single one of you, whatever you did definitely made my departure easier.

Universal Studios Singapore - 15 Tips

2011-07-28T21:32:00.002+08:00

I was back from Universal Studios Singapore last night, and here are some pointers for some of you if you want to know. It worked well for me, so hopefully for you too.

Check the local weather forecast. Avoid monsoon season no matter how cooling it is. I failed to do this and it rained in the morning. Luckily everything went well in the afternoon not long after it was opened. I managed to warm up in the gym with H though. It is a blessing in disguise.
Buy your tickets in advance online. Skip the queue and avoid disappointments.
Purchase the Express Pass. The Express Pass costs SGD$30. The feeling you get when everyone looks at you cutting queue and saving time, priceless. But check out the ride availability. As for me, I went on a weekday and the odds of having all rides open is lesser than a weekend. Luckily, all rides were opened.
Get the Studio Guide from the counter. What I did was to cross out the places I've visited to make sure I went for all. After which, I used it to find the bloody restroom. It camouflaged with the display buildings!
Save your Express Pass for peak periods - in the afternoon. The rest of the time would be useless to use it. You'll be wasting your lifeline to cut the queue. You can ask if the queue is long before using your pass.
Bring a poncho and a plastic bag. It's for wet weather, but mainly for Jurassic Park Rapids Adventure. You would not want to throw it away in case it rains or you want to ride on the Rapids Adventure again.
Bring a spare towel and a t-shirt. You will get wet even if you're not riding water rides. All the more reason to bring one if you are taking public transport. Be considerate.
Charge your camera and empty its memory. Universal Studios in its name is in fact a studio. There are wedded couples who take photos there too. There will be so many photo opportunities for your own keeping. Especially if you've not been to Egypt or a real fairytale land.
Eat well before you enter. The food there isn't cheap but neither it's expensive but definitely more worth it to eat outside in my opinion. Never say I didn't warn you but do not eat too much because you will obviously want to try out the food in there and you wouldn't want to smear digested food onto someone's face while riding the Battlestar Gallatica. We are prepared for rain, not digested food rain.
Bring an empty bottle. It lightens your bag while you're on your way there, and it's healthier to drink plain water. You can refill your bottle at the water cooler and have your own water parade. Alternatively, if you think this plan is cheap and you want to flaunt your wealth, by all means buy their drinks served in a bong-shaped bottle or any other drink.
Be there early. I know it's a little rushy to be there early in the morning and they were about to open but it is fun to see the place before it gets crowded. USS is not that big but you wouldn't want to be there for a while either. After paying that much, you would not spend as much time as possible in USS?
Be the last to leave. No, not because I'm asking you to hide as a mummy and do a planned robbery but once the crowd subsided, you will own the place with lesser people to yourselves.
Just bring a bag to fill in everything. In USS, you live like Aladdin. They have free lockers with time limit and some doesn't. So, read the labels properly. You wouldn't want to feel cheated and spoil your day.
Rest well the day before because the fun and thrilling rides involves walking before getting in. Bring your happy spirit and use it all in USS. Avoid making fun packed plans the following day, you'll be beat.
Bring a cap and a pair of shades. Photos with the actors who dress up as Marilyn Monroe or Charlie Chaplin has to be quick because there will be queues and sorry folks, Express Pass doesn't work here and you don't have the whole time in the world to touch up. So the cap is to cover your bad hair, and the shades is to cover your eyes - especially if you tend to close your eyes in pictures. And of course its dual function is to play double up by protecting your eyes from the sun and the blaring flash.

Hopefully the tips will help you enjoy the seven worlds even more!

Conscription!

2011-07-01T00:00:00.005+08:00

Today’s post brings you an important news in my life and the several things that I am grateful for. Just like any other Singaporean man, we will be conscripted by the age of 18 – but it depends on the education path that we take.

Right after graduation, my old schoolmates, friends and relatives have been asking where I am posted to for National Service and I asked myself the same question. Every single day I’d go to the letterbox to see if there was any letter that was addressed to me. There were a few then like subscription letters, or even school related letters.

I was gob smacked to go home one day to found a letter on my study table that comes in a package.

That letter bears my enlistment date and posting. So before I get conscripted for the next two years, I would like to take this opportunity to thank everyone who has made my break a worthwhile one. I have been doing odd jobs while on my break so it is hard to answer when people ask what I am doing because nothing was even temporary.

I had a great time spending 4 days teaching primary school students Malay Language as part of their compulsory third language module, this experience has enabled me to understand myself better – as a student.

Following which I did a short term service with Fairmont Hotels and Resort. It has spectacular working environment, the nice people I met from all over the world, and the knowledge imparted while I was there, I would never barter them for gold. It was a very fulfilling job, thanks to Ms Jean for the matching job she had for me. If it would not have been for my dinner there, I would not have found out the job vacancy.

Not forgetting Ms Rajes, for the ScreenSingapore experience and the wonderful people I met from there. It was such a tiring week for me but it is an experience that I will not regret taking upon. Honestly I was very, very reluctant to be a part of this until a certain point of time that my heart says go, I had to follow.

My break would not be complete without work dedicated to the ones with special needs. I would like to thank R. W for introducing RDA to me. Riding for Disabled Association provides therapeutic horse riding lessons for the mentally and physically disabled. They are very, very special people that have a special place in my heart.

Today onwards marks one month before embarking my journey in the Singapore Armed Forces. I hope all of you would wish me godspeed for my ‘holiday trip’ protecting the nation!

Wedding Galore

2011-06-17T02:26:00.002+08:00

Recently two close people in my life just tied the knot. My beloved aunt and beloved cousin. You had no idea how busy it was. I got to say, I was so, so tired I was quite thankful my Sunday appointments were cancelled. Here me out.

On the 10th I was back home late because I was partying - don't judge me. Give me some credit for being the party boy for once and not asking the cab driver to give me discount on its fare. I got home to a messy room. You have no idea my definition of messy. I can't stand any form of mess. Everything has to be in order before I sleep. The Capella paper bags, my shoes (I'm that picky for a person who doesn't have many shoes), and my jeans were lying around. What's more, I had a week's worth of laundry that was yet to be done so there's no more space for dirty laundry, and no more good stuffs to wear. After all those cleaning up, it's almost dawn and I had like what, two hours sleep?

Two hours later I was woken up to help out with the solemnization ceremony. It's so humid! Heat is one thing, humidity is totally the other. One thing about Malay wedding, which we will discuss if we have the time, it's all in the family. Malay weddings are like family business that definitely doesn't account for the annual $40 billion gross in wedding events industry. Because there's no tax imposed to account for these expenses...

Anyway, the first place I visited that morning was the mosque. It's so ironic. So, so ironic. The night before I was at Zouk clubbing away and the next morning I'm somewhere holy and sanctified. I wouldn't say it's a totally bad thing to do but it's just ironic.

First stop: my cousin's solemnization ceremony, 8am. It went smoothly and comfortable enough because the 21st century mosque is equipped with A/C unit and a lush carpet. They say it's good that solemnization ceremony is held at holy places like in this case the mosque because you're going through a sacred process in a sacred place. Alternatively, you can solemnize at home - which what most Malay Muslim couples do.

I helped out carrying the dowry gifts since I live a stone's throw away from the mosque. Even so I took the car because it seems more convenient.

After the wedding, we had breakfast at the wedding reception venue. Of course, the reception was not open yet until afternoon.

Second stop: my aunt's solemnization ceremony, 11am. It went smoothly as well. If only it would be at the same mosque, we wouldn't have to roam around! This time it was held at the multi-purpose hall. Amazing venue to have their solemnization ceremony there as well because it's big. Especially there were quite a number of golden aged people who were wheelchair bound, it's very considerate of them to have it there. Knowing Malay families, we would invite the entire country if we could because to most Malays, celebration and joy should be shared. Especially weddings.

What amazes me was the couple's Minangkabau style outfit that was made from songket! You people have no idea how thick and ithcy songket is without lining and how it tortures on a hot day. Which is why we always joked among ourselves to be glamorous with songket only on first day of Eid and don't even care about dressing up after that! But you see, because songket has connotation to wealth and status in the traditional Malay society long time ago which is why songket remains a prevalent choice of fabric till date and doesn't come cheap. Some people don't wear them but hang them in a frame instead.

After both solemnization ceremony, I really thank God it did not happen simultaneously otherwise I would need my Time-Turner to be at two places at once. See, because they are my close relatives, it's impossible to miss one and not offend the other.

It was already afternoon and weather is a little gloomy. It was raining but it's so hard to predict if it's gonna rain heavily or not. There's this belief that rain is a form of blessing.

Drove over to Sentosa Island to continue my ScreenSingapore escapade. I'm kidding! I was there to fetch Sham and Lance because I invited them to my cousin's wedding reception. They have been such a doll that week I thought it would be great if they could come and join the occasion. I was bummed that Sham was not able to make it because she has got a lot of work to do so I brought Lance. I understand S was very busy! When we were there, he asked if he can take photographs. Only Sham and I would understand.*Wink*

Sent him back after that and came back to my cousin's wedding reception. Mingled and catch up with my relatives whom we finally got to meet after so long. The wedded couple were looking great. Great to know my cousin was not dolled up like a tranny. Unfortunate things happen to some, I am so sorry.

The performances were great and wholesome must I say but I don't know whose kids were they, but they really got to behave or tied up onto the coconut tree.. I wouldn't mind kids playing but it's my taboo to be playing right in front of the wedding dais while the event was on. It just irks me really. Whatever happen to respect? To your host, and culture? It's no wonder back in the old days people would say stuffs like the dais spirit would haunt you if you do not respect and play around that area because even people in the 21st century seem uncivilized. Shame on you. Would you unleash your child and let them play near the podium while someone important is giving his speech? My late grandmother once told me a story about one of her friends who disrespected the wedding dais. Now I'm looking back into some people's life who disrespected or upsets couples on their wedding day. There is so many living example who must not be named.

After the reception, it was already night and we (my relatives, family and I) went to SIN for supper at McDonald's. It was a perfect coincidence because that night was the night Lance will be taking off for Zurich. After supper, while they were busy talking I excused myself to meet Sham and Lance for his departure.

That day was an overstretching day for me because that night I slept early, and woke up mid-afternoon. I had my dreamless deep sleep.

Here's a just for laughs. Uhuh, it happened real life. A young baby nephew got an iPad for his birthday.
"Daddy, I don't want to listen to 'Insyallah' (by Maher Zain), I want to listen to shuffle." Pfft.

ScreenSingapore: Filmmakers and Sales Agents

2011-06-16T08:34:00.001+08:00

Throughout the days in ScreenSingapore, I managed to attend some of the 'In Conversation' series and workshops organized in ScreenSingapore. These fringe events really help a lot of people in the film industry world. I personally feel that filming industry is a niche market of entertainment industry. Filming probably comprises the majority market alongside with the music industry because the music industry reaches to both consumers and film makers who needs music for their films. I don't know, let me make a disclaimer here. All these that I have are just thoughts and opinion, nothing ever factual so I don't really have any trouble of you disagreeing with me.

In one of the talks that I went (honestly I don't remember which talk was this from because there were too many and it didn't occur in my mind to share it) here are some pointers that I managed to get. The one in bold is what was said that I heard in the talk. Things were really fast and I only have two fingers to type them down in my BlackBerry. If only I know how to write shorthand...

"Small sales agent company has lesser films to market."
Small sales agencies company definitely have small number of films or rather small budget films to market because for one thing they are a small company. Naturally you would think taking your cheap film to a big sales agency would help. Just like this analogy: would you send your child to some school with low education investment(s) or low budget education when you expect your child to be a high paying lawyer or doctor? Of course not. However, the upside of getting a small sales agency may mean they have their resources targeted on those films they have. Which means their energy and efforts are concentrated on that several films they have. Back to the the 'child' analogy, because the intake would be low for that small school, they might as well concentrate their energy on their less than a handful students. Think ratio.

Sending your low budget/new movie to a big agency may be a grave mistake for your movie. One of the reasons would be you'll be paying probably more than your film production budget for marketing, and you're competing for their input with other bigger movies. It's like sending your child to an independent school, to compete with the big guys whom your child can't even beat.

In a nutshell, big or small, it does not equate to their potential to sell your film, but rather one has to choose an agency depending on their budget, storyline and casting. Getting a big sales agency does not mean your film is going to sell that well.

"Nationality of agents doesn't matter."
One must not see nationality of an agency as a hindrance when it comes to choosing a sales agency. It does not mean that the foreign company is not gonna sell your movie because of nationalism.

The sales agency will have to see the message of the story, usually something that carries a universal message. Which is probably why Titanic and Avatar remains as one of the highest grossing film. In case you don't realize, there's always 'love' involved in most of the highest grossing film. Hint: probably the most universal message.

One living example is the award winning Japanese film Departure. This film is purely Japanese. From is director, to its cast and yet managed to gross out USD$61,010,217 as of 2009, in Japan. That does not include sales from the other parts of the world! Better yet, It won the Academy Award for Best Foreign Language Film at the 81st Oscars in 2009. Their sales agency comes from the other side of the world: Britain.

"Some films are hard to sell while some are easy."
Naturally, films with a good cast, or a good storyline are easier to sell. A slow story like Eat, Pray, Love or The Tourist would sell with actresses like Julia Roberts and Angelina Jolie but would it sell if it is acted just by your pretty neighbor next door? People would still watch if they had read Eat, Pray, Love, but I personally wouldn't watch The Tourist if it had not been for Angelina Jolie.

Good storyline like Avatar or the Harry Potter series didn't have a popular casts (or that's what I thought at first for Harry Potter), in my honest opinion. Throw me eggs for all you want, but I don't know who the hell who these casts were until I watched the film. Besides, these movies are backed by dedicated producers, great effects, and demand. So in fact, most of them turn into stars because of the movie and not vice-versa. Seriously, would you know Daniel Radcliffe or Rupert Grint if it had not been for Harry Potter?

"Resources are finite."
The trouble sales agent might face are probably time and of course money. Both are vital to market the film in my opinion. They have got to pick the right time to market, and make sure they have the money they needed by the time they launch the product.

Since time is limited, sales agencies have got to ask themselves what is the proportion they are willing to give on each movie that they are going to sell because you can't concentrate all your resources on one film and abandon the others. There has got to be a balance where you put them.

Sales agent usually have a mixture of films that they hold on to. Some are good, and of course some are not. Where good films are concerned, it's clear that they may sell like hotcakes which means the input may be less compared to what they will be getting out of the film. On the other hand, extra resources may need to be pumped to movies that are not so popular but probably good enough to make sure they get some money out of it too.

What I mean by poor movies here doesn't mean they have a poor storyline. Sales agents got to make some money from the well to do films to market the poor films to the community - that has morality or universal message to bring to the world.

This is all I have for now. As I said, this is more of an opinion, observations and not facts that probably need to be backed by some data. Read with caution, thanks!

New Event, New Friends - Thank You Note

2011-06-14T02:36:00.008+08:00

In the previous post you've seen how several sponsors have made things great for this event. Now you'll hear the personal side of ScreenSingapore.

There are so many people to be thankful for for this event.

Firstly, thanks to Wai Yi for being such a nice god mother for the entire week. As a Marketing and Communications graduate, she gave Lance and I quite a great insight on writing, the do's and don'ts, and share experiences with us. Wonderful patient woman, and funny too! She's concise, and pretty clear on what she wants, so it has been a breeze and pleasure working with her at the media center. If it had not been for her introduction to Lance, I wouldn't have such a great night out every single day. I will cut apples for all of you next time! There were so many apples in the fridge it's so tempting to cut them all with the super sharp knife.

Next up, thanks to Sham because she has been my best sidekick throughout the event. Laughing, joking, and talking while doing our work is such a bliss. It was amazing how we managed to do our work on time, and at the same time had the fun we deserve after a long day at ScreenSingapore. All those night outings to find food with Lance, and those unbearable humidity walk was worth I must say. We spent time talking and laughing about weird people, our fantasies and our crushes. We were always laughing that Rajes can't help it but to join the club. Seriously, RR, go back to your counter. Haah, just kidding!

Lance was one of a character throughout the week in ScreenSingapore because he will be most of the time missing in action in the media centre, or be at some other places while we are at media conferences, but came back on time eager for the red carpet. Seriously bud, are you here only for red carpet? I'm just kidding! Your insights are great for those relevant people who missed the event. Without you, the notes section would be empty and that would probably have been my job instead. For once I'm a little glad you stole bits of my job. ;)

He is the I-want-to-do-everything kind of guy. It's only natural especially when you're in Singapore for a week for networking purposes since morning to evening, and then only to be lured by us to go to dinner, parties, and see new places in Singapore. Now you wish places of interest in Singapore is open till late, late night. It has been overwhelming for you. Trust me, you will not get caught and you have my word. I will not get into details. You are so paranomally paranoid!

I do hope you really like the gifts! Thanks for the great time, and apologies for any shortcomings while hosting. Please have a good rest when you're back.

Partying with Sham and Lance was fun to the max. Hush, I was a club virgin. The first time I went to Zouk was because I was accompanying my friend and being the underage and financially challenged us, we did not enter. Then on I received several invites to club, but it's either I missed it, or something else had been planned. Today, I'm giving away my V-card to Zouk - be honoured. The crowd was good and I thought I would love it. Don't get me wrong, once in a while, it's fun to be in a crowd but it won't be when you have to squeeze through everybody just to get out. I guess this won't be that much of my thing but should anybody worthy ask me out, it would be my pleasure thronging the place.

One of the many reasons we were reluctant to go to Zouk was because we don't know how to dance. It's so ironically funny. I saw ourselves dance, I was laughing throughout. We can't dance for nuts man. That explains why were were standing at one corner of the club. Big joke. Then again, I couldn't imagine standing in the middle of the dance floor. I might be crushed. Everyone seems so beefy, oops.

However one of the reasons was relevant enough. Zouk Club (Singapore) is the official party venue for ScreenSingapore. Therefore it is only right to see what they have got to offer. The next reason would be this Americano wants to see how Singaporeans club.

I am going to miss our outings , the epic BMW ride where Sham is never ready. She was late, and she had not put on her shoes, and I don't know what's wrong with her leggings and she forgot the tag - the most important asset when you're in the event. Thank God Wai Yi was able to walkie to Sentosa Island otherwise bye-bye girl cause I'm gonna walk the red carpet without you. Haha!

I will definitely miss the food. The fish chowder, panna cotta, croissant, cheesecake and all the luxurious catered food by Capella Singapore, as well as the tea and wonderful staff. I asked for five bottles of water to go and one of the GRO asked me what is it for. I can't help it but to crack a laugh. It was an honest mistake, even I do that. There was this one time I even said "Let me check with you." when what I meant was "Let me check for you." Please, I can't even pronounce Vueve Clicquot. It is not vu-we-ve klee-kot! That's so Malay.

My thanks goes to my juniors too for making life easy for me. I appreciate the wake up calls to make sure I've woken up which is so sweet you guys. Honestly, I don't know them that well or long enough but what I can tell is that they are very, very proactive.

The thank you finale goes to Rajes. That week was officially the week where her title as a Ms is gone. Not because she's married or anything. It's just that I can't keep her calling her Ms Rajes or at times address her as 'teacher'. Sooner or later, I'm gonna get her to give me the liberty to just call her initials: R. I can't stand saying more than one syllable names.

But really Rajes, I hank you loads!

Thanks to my parents as well for being supportive about me getting involved in this. Honestly, this is one hell of a great experience.

Golden Experience: ScreenSingapore

2011-06-13T00:16:00.007+08:00

For the past one week, Capella Singapore has been my second home and I made a new adopted family stood by people from different background. People like Wai Yi, Sham and Lance has enlightened my life amidst that busy week. Wai Yi is like my godmother, Sham is like my godsister, Lance is like my godbrother. Since the cold morning of the first day at ScreenSingapore, till the last red carpet I went, they never fail to make me look forward to each day, and not wanting this to end so soon.

Yeah right! So much for wanting not to end so quick. I've been dying throughout the week walking around trying to find worthy pictures, finding interesting stuffs, and survey the resort. That's right people, Capella Singapore is the official hotel for ScreenSingapore and that's where the media center is located: right at the heart of Sentosa Island. Being the heat intolerant I am, I spend most of the time indoors and emptying as many bottles of water as I could while snapping away.

So here's some things about Capella Singapore you might want to know.
1. Capella luxury resort is an extension of two old bungalows named Tanah Merah, where the lobby is.
2. You don't have to walk around the estate by foot. This is one of the best hotels that says your foot is not meant for walking. There is a 24/7 buggy service upon request.
3. It's almost impossible to get a mobile reception there. Don't blame on Capella Singapore, blame your service provider.
4. They have a 24/7 free WiFi service at The Club and the estate. Don't fret about internet connection. It is so reliable.
5. Parking is not cheap. Duh, but they have a shuttle service.
6. Capella Singapore has extraordinary art pieces lying around the estate. Not for grabs.
7. As luxurious as they are, they embrace wild animals by allowing peacocks to roam around. Many would have fenced them away.
8. Bang and Olufsen, and Bose is only a basic feature of the room and facility. There's more to casa de luxury.
9. Their muffins are to die for. Hard and crunchy on the outside, soft and tender on the inside.

That somehow wraps up my experience in one of the most luxurious hotel in Singapore - Capella Singapore. That explains why I love hanging around there so much because on a normal day, I could imagine that place being so serene. Just don't look too far because the downside of having a sea view is that you will see an industrial island across and tonnes of ship in between. Totally unsightly.

I was walking to the ballroom to attend the Opening Gala Party and I saw a board that has the event title on it. I thought it was high quality printing they produced and thought how much they had spend on those high quality printing. As an Events and Project Management graduate, expensive signboards and basic non-ad posters are the last thing you want to spend your money on - won't deny it is still essential for direction. I was surprised to know that Sony LCD was used because you wouldn't have any idea that that thing that you see was digital and not printed. It looked so real! Anyway, Sony is the sponsor for those LCDs that you see.

All these while I'd brag to my friends that I take the BMW to school every single day but they had no idea until I said that's an acronym for (B)us, (M)RT and (W)alk. One of the most amazing experiences I had in ScreenSingapore was to hop on to the official automobile of ScreenSingapore, the BMW. That was my first time in BMW. It feels different. Having ridden on several luxury cars, nothing compares to BMW 7-series. There was this one time I went to the BMW World Asia in 2010 at Marina Bay Sands and I was gobsmacked by the amount of energy and research that they put into their production. Today, I felt blessed being given the opportunity to get the real BMW experience. They say, nothing works and feels better than trying on it yourself.

Here's some fast facts about BMW that I found out from one of the drivers and some from personal research.
1. The blue and white color you see in the logo is of the Bavarian flag. Which brings you to the second fact.
2. BMW stands for Bayerische Motoren Werke (Bavarian Motor Works)
3. BMW is pronounce as bee-am-vee in Germany. Beemer is one of the many slangs that I'm still used to.
4. The common model series they have are 1, 3, 5, 7. Series does matter when it comes to class comparison.
5. BMW does celebrate April's Fool. Every year they come up with funny and intelligent April's Fool advert.

I kind of look forward to own a car. I am so fickle about this. Every time I walk in luxury hotels, or even furniture stores, I've always imagine of having my own home and fantasize the things that I could do like cooking, sleep on my water bed, watch television from my very own state of the art TV, and even hosting - something that I'd really love to do. Now that I've ridden on a SGD$300,000 car, I feel like owning a car now and gosh, imagine all the places I could go with it.

The movie premiers were held at different places namely Golden Village (Vivo City), Cathay Cineplexes (The Cathay), and Shaw Theaters (Lido). In one of the talks that I went, one of the speakers mentioned about giving a wholesome experience to viewers where quality should not be compromised. He's saying this in light of the causes of increasing piracy. He was talking about service, and technology and I thought he was right. I mean these days I's prefer digital format as compared to the normal one. I'd rather watch something that is crystal clear than any movie that has noise and frequent black dots appearing out of the blue. It's pretty distracting and for the same price, why not go for the one that is more pleasant for the eyes. Touche?

On my last day, I went to the VIP hospitality lounge and the make up room. It didn't occur in my mind to go there despite having the access to all areas until the organizer from the make up room came over to fetch the plate of croissant and chocolate muffins for the make up artist. While helping her out, she told me that Jason Spevack will be there. I had no idea who he was because honestly, most of the time I am oblivious of the actors and actresses name and just associate them with the cast name they are known for

Anyway, I just hanged around the make up room to see who is this Jason Spevack. Probably a haughty American actor bossing around what he wants, despite being a minor. The door bell rang and to my astonishment, I remember where I saw him before. He was one of the supporting characters in Ramona and Beezus led by Selena Gomez!

He is personally adorable, cute, and of course, white. This Canadian actor checks his BlackBerry occasionally probably for new BBMs and let the hairstylist do their job. Even when they asked royally what kind of hairstyle he wants, he's casual about it. After his hairdo and make up, I had the time to interview him before any one else from the media. He was really nice.

Throughout my journey through ScreenSingapore, I've met a lot of nice delegates, whom most might have thought them of as aggressive, not-so-nice, bossy and arrogant. In fact, they are one of the nicest (and yet important) people in the entertainment and filming industry that you will see and no, not only because they have name and pride to uphold. You can just feel the genuinity. They are not like 'some' local celebrities or producers who pays for entourage more than what they get.

It was an honor to talk to one of Greg Coote's daughter. She's so pretty! Greg Coote was one of the financiers of Avatar and was awarded the A.M (Member of the Order of Australia) for his services to the film industry and the community. Of course, there were many others like Jon Landau (one of the producers of Titanic and Avatar) and local producers like Kelving Tong, and familiar faces from Men's Fashion Week like Dr. Frank Cintamani.

If you ask me if ScreenSingapore rocks? I betcha!

"ScreenSingapore will debut as an international cinema event offering policy makers, industry buyers, sellers, producers and creative talent from all over the world a platform to exchange ideas, business opportunities and showcase their product. Leveraging on the growing interest in Asian content, the very strong theatrical marketplace and Singapore's position as a globally connected regional gateway, ScreenSingapore will reinforce Singapore's position as the global media capital."
(Adapted from: http://www.screensingapore.com.sg/)

Stay tuned because ScreenSingapore will be back in June 2012.

ScreenSingapore Bersinar, Akhirnya!

2011-06-09T13:40:00.001+08:00

Beberapa hari lalu asyik hujan di ScreenSingapore dan di tempat-tempat yang sewaktu dengannya. Akhirnya pada hari ketiga ScreenSingapore matahari terbit memancarkan cahayanya namun habanya tidak dapat aku tahan. Satu hari suntuk aku duduk di pusat media untuk mengmaskini Facebook. Jangan sangka ini kerja mudah. Macam-macam kerenah yang harus aku hiburkan, dan bukanlah aku kenal semua yang hadir untuk aku tandakan semua dalam album Facebook. Tahan aku belek-belek laporan harian untuk mencari nama-nama orang bernama. Bagaimanapun, ia tetap pengalaman yang luar biasa.

Setibanya petang, kami bertolak ke Cineleisure di Orchard Road untuk acara karpet merah. Satu-satunya sebab aku tidak suka berada di sana, panas. VIP belum tiba, keringat sudah mula. Akhirnya kami cuma berdiri di dalam Cineleisure untuk mendapatkan hawa dingin. Pelakon dari Cina dan Hong Kong seperti Liu Yang, Celina Jade, dan Nick Cheung menjalani karpet merah pada malam itu untuk pembukaan filem Treasure Inn. Akhir acara ScreenSingapore, kami langsung ke Maxwell untuk makan malam. Kebulur dibuatnya menunggu VIP-VIP yang 'fashionably late'.

Selepas makan malam, kami ke Taman Botanik Singapura untuk menikmati keheningan malam. Dengarnya, taman itu mirip taman di Amerika dan sebab itulah ramai orang putih suka mengunjung taman itu. Tidak berani aku jalan di situ sendiri. Sunyi sangat.

Sebagai penutup, kami ke Clark Quay untuk menikmati lampu-lampu dan pemandangan di sana.

Pada hari seterusnya (hari keempat), aku menghadiri bicara mengenai undang-undang dalam industri perfileman. Hairannya, statistik-statistik yang ditunjukkan mengenai Singapura sungguh memelikkan. Singapura dikadarkan 4.6 dari segi jumlah penonton wayang, yakni jumlah yang tinggi. Namun begitu, kadar cetak rompak di Singapura juga mencapai jumplah tertinggi per kapita (0.85) jika dibandingkan dengan negara-negara lain, mahupun negaraj jiran seperti Malaysia (0.32) dan Indonesia (0).

Menurut salah seorang pembicara, masalah ini berpunca daripada kepesatan teknologi di Singapura di mana filem-filem dan rancangan-rancangan televisyen mudah dimuat turun melalui P2P dan sebagainya. Maklumlah, Singapura kan negara yang global.

Selepas acara bicara anjuran ScreenSingapore di Capella Singapore, aku kembali ke pusat media untuk makan tengah hari dan sekali lagi, menaikturunkan gambar-gambar berkaitan ScreenSingapore. Aku berasa amat bertuah kerana mendapat beberapa tiket untuk pembukaan filem Super 8 pada hari itu. Oleh kerana kesuntukan masa, aku harus cepat mencari orang yang sudi mengambil lebihan tiket Super 8. Mujurlah ada yang cepat mengambilnya kalau tidak sayang tiket terbuang. Siapa yang sanggup melepaskan peluang menonton filem terbitan Steven Spielber dan arahan pengarah JJ Abrams?

Sementara menunggu masa tiba, S dan aku menemani L ke spa ikan sebab dia ingin sangat mencubanya. Tidak berani aku mencubanya sebab geli dibuatnya! Haaha! Salang dia tertawa-tawa geli-geman, apatah lagi aku? Setelah itu, kami pergi makan malam. L mencuba roti prata - makanan India yang tidak ada di tanah besar India. L juga mencuba Milo Dinosaur dan air bandung.

Sesudah itu, kami kembali ke Vivo City untuk acara kemuncak pada hari itu iaitu pembukaan filem Super 8. Super 8 dikisahkan pada tahun 1979 di mana sekumpulan remaja menjadi saksi kemalangan keretapi dan mengesyaki ia bukanlah satu kemalangan. Semenjak peristiwa itu, perkara pelik berlaku di mana ada kehilangan, dan perkara yang tidak dapat diterangkan. Anda harus menyaksikannya! Filem ini akan berada di pawagam 16 Jun 2011. Jangan ketinggalan!

Penat aku memerah otak untuk mencatat dalam Bahasa Melayu baku. Entah sempat atau tidak untuk aku terjemahkannya. Bye!

ScreenSingapore + Cosplay = Party!

2011-06-07T16:08:00.007+08:00

I thought I wouldn't have to write to you until the last day of ScreenSingapore. It seems like the second day was as surprising as the first. I did not regret pulling myself out of my possesive bed, go down and get a warm shower and relax those tense muscles I got from walking, standing and typing too much.

I reached the media centre on time, early enough to get breakfast and some others are busy cutting up snippets that has ScreenSingapore mentioned. Newspaper publishers would be richer for at least the next one week getting the extra cents from people who has interest in ScreenSingapore I bet?

Since morning to mid-afternoon I concentrated all my energy on blogging about this, uploading photographs which is not yet published until reviewed because I wouldn't want any controversies to happen! Speaking of which, I apologise for the mistake I made in ScreenSingapore Facebook page. I totally overlooked the elaborated programme sheet that was entrusted to me. There must be other mistake that I might make each day! How could this be!?

At about 3pm, Aya Omasa was at Capella Singapore for her latest movie press conference. She talked about one of her latest movies Paradise Kiss that was adapted from a comic book written by Ai Yazawa. Apart from elaborating her role in this drama romance movie which was produced by Warner Bros. Pictures, she also talked about her fashion and her casting members. She is such a doll that I wish to keep. Paradise Kiss premiered last night on the 6th of June at The Cathay.

After the conference, I took a self-proclaimed tour around Capella Singapore. I might as well do that rather than rot in the media centre waiting for things to happen. I thought it would be great to give myself a break by walking around. It was not as beautiful as it sounds. I was perspiring in the midst of humidity. It was killing me.

In the evening, I put on a fresh shirt to get ready for the red carpet gala premier and hop onto the official car of ScreenSingapore: Siebener Beemer (BMW). BMW has been a wonderful official car that has made ScreenSingapore a smooth sailing one. Never think that transporting VIPs and celebrities on time is an easy job. Throughout the ride, I learnt several new things about the chauffeur which I had no idea before!

S and I was early so we decided to go to the toilet and freshen up. While walking along this hallway I thought I saw this abandoned dolled up mannequin and I was a little terrified that I said out loud "'Oh my God, that is so freaky!"' to Sham. I looked closer and it blinked. We continued walking, doing my best to hold my laugh. I had no idea actually that was the real deal cosplay. Amazingly he did not respond to what I said. He was there even when we walked out from the washroom. Better yet, he was one of the cosplayers who walked down the red carpet. I was aghast. Totally. What I really think highly of them is how they endured the heat without perspiring much (or it seems like it at least).

May'n arrived and her fans were all in high spirits. They even waved orange stick lights into the air when she performed. Look at how loyal they are. Although they did not make the majority of the crowd, their fanatic energy spreads throughout the vicinity.

At about 9pm, we left the area and headed for our own little party. L, S and I went to Lau Pa Sat. We were famished. I felt malnutritioned. They ordered satay, and since L said he would be up for something spicy, I recommended one of my Thai favourites, Tom Yam. We ended up with Nasi Goreng Kampung (Kampong Fried Rice) instead which was as spicy. See L, I keep my word and I'm glad you love that spicy food.

We wrapped up the night by heading to Long Bar since L wanted to try Singapore Sling. I saw many reaction when they sip that Singapore Sling. You would want to give that a try. I had a blast of a great time with S and L. It is so wonderful that I met the two of you. ;)

I'm off to the next media conference now.

There's a french movie premiering tonight. See you there! More official details can be found in http://www.screensingapore.com.sg. Ta!

ScreenSingapore Premiere

2011-06-06T09:51:00.005+08:00

I set my expectations low: poor benefits for people in charge of the media like us. I expect some put out but I was wrong. Ms R and gang definitely did not trust me by asking me to come way, way early. I think Ms Ching just woke up when I pressed the door bell of the media centre.

Personally, I think Sentonsa Island has never, ever been convenient. I still don't understand why do we have to pay to enter the island once named so ironic to its modern name: Pulau Belakang Mati. Dead Back Island. Call me a complain king, but try putting on my Docs on a rainy weather. On the other hand, I'd appreciate that some parts of Singapore remains inaccesible. It gives it an exclusive edge.

My morning in ScreenSingapore started with personal briefing by Ms Y.E, which I like. I think my absence was a blessing in disguise. I'd rather have a one to one briefing, communication so that my doubts are cleared without embarrassing myself. Who knows, I'm fond of asking silly questions.

Since I am way early than anyone else. Even the shopping malls are not open yet, I headed to the buffet for breakfast. I was spoilt for choice. the dessert was cheesecake which is one of my favourtites, and the muffins are to die for. The muffin pretty sums up the day I had. Hard on the outside, soft on the inside and both ways, it's delicious.

I am the official unofficial photographer of the event. Which means officially, I am appointed as the unofficial photographer. I know right, what a totally laid back job and let all the professionals do the sweaty hard work of asking high profile people to pose for them. If you must know, I will be going around front and back scenes of ScreenSingapore and take as many candid pictures as possible. I have a lot of things in mind but digital camera is pretty much restrictive on its quality.

The highlight of the event for me was the red carpet gala premier where celebrities make their debut appearance at the Vivo City Golden Village. That was one of the most embarrassing moment I had, apart from being so underdressed. I learnt my lesson by getting something proper for the following premiers and yes, look at where the escalator is going - not to the red carpet.

Everyone was in high spirits and I saw familiar people at the gala and opening party. Bobby Tonelli, Nicholas Chee, Frank Cintamani, and even Jeremy (one of the short film directors I knew from my project last year). I didn't talk to all of them because partly I'm nervous. Shh!

It's an honour to meet film producers like Jon Landau who produced the all time high grossing film: Avatar and Titanic. I was head over heels that I was speechless on what to say but to move my fingers to snap their photos.

Okay folks, I will keep in touch with you again should any worthy updates come up. Ta!

Magic Three

2011-05-28T11:46:00.003+08:00

So here we are. I felt so happy. I feel the freedom being able to do whatever I want (as long as it is legal, duh!) when school life ends. For now.
So whatever happened in three years? The hard truths that kept myself going.

Life has been bittersweet although I spent more than about a year in an odd and amazingly awkward situation. Being seen as this and that, some even thought I'm a bully, which I'm not and some thought I am smart except that I'm lazy. Being a victim of bias acts, defamed, dethroned from being 'cool' and ruling. If you get my drift, ever since the second half of my first year till about the end of of the second, it hasn't been a smooth sail for me.

Was it self-inflicted? Probably. But if it hadn't been about what happen back then, no one would have ever known my true colors.

So let's get back to the dawn of beginning. I didn't have a good start in campus because I had sore throat, and I lost my voice during orientation. Hence, my power was taken away and handicapped me in a way it's hard for me to socialize during orientation. Being the self-conscious and 'vainpot' I was, I didn't talk much which resulted in failing myself to assimilate. Only a few days before lesson started, one person knew I wasn't that quiet kind of guy - Joanne.

Then thing's went for a blur for a while, and I remember my first few lessons when Debbie and Huiting were the best of friends. They wanted me to be in their team for Construction group work - though there weren't many group work then. When I regained my vocal power, and started talking and start assimilating with my classmates already. Things went great.

Of course I remember being late for my 8am classes with Alvena - Events Experience and thank God it was just for a few lesson because after which most of the morning lecture will be compensated on-site. Amazingly, when I was late, I wasn't as a blur.

Then on things was a blur again, though I remember some of the lessons. Photoshop lessons where the entire class wasn't listening to the lecture at all - some were on Ugly Betty, some online fashion magazine (especially Sim Qide who even mentioned he's gonna do events for Chanel), then some were on their Hong Kong dramas (the likes of Qiu Yan and Ang Huiting), and one was on her America's Next Top Model (Nadiah, you're guilty for this) and of course, the few who were really listening were people like Lingfeng and gang. Then there was Contract Law lesson which I really, really dread that even pretending to like that lesson failed to keep me awake. The lecture was the quietest because many were falling asleep, not that they're listening and at that time, not many knew the term 'skipping classes'.

Construction was the best, especially prior to exam. Apparently the lecturer is retiring and leaving on the same time as us.

Lunches were like the stressful part of the day because we were like ranch because there were so many people during lunch hours and I was simply spoilt for choice. One of the many fun moments during lunch was hitching a ride on a pickup truck that Gary drove to the train station. For once, I felt like an immigrant worker. Cheap thrill!

During the first six months of year one was great. Probably because you get to know new people, adapting to new environment and knowing new things. You don't experience 24/7 air-conditioned classroom in primary or secondary school classroom so wearing a jacket at that time was like a freshman's posture.

They say you can't get too much of the good things.

We went to Singapore Science Centre (SSC) a lot because of our Event Experience module and that was my first time doing a 'report' and of course my first report was crap and brutally rejected because I know nuts about report writing. What's more we were not given like detailed guidelines - I had no idea we had to use our own instincts. I remembered then why I failed my first paper in Literature. My hands were full when I was a freshmen. Apart from school - and after school hours activities at SSC, I took up language classes and at the same time had five tutees in hand.

Being a tutor has never occurred in my mind really. After my 'O' Levels, I don't know what part time job should I take. I went for interviews, and try out different jobs but nothing suited me. I gave up working and chose to 'rot' at home instead. It was worth it not working then because there's no such thing as living up to my own expectations that time. Some had asked why I chose to be a tutor but I can't answer them fully except to say to earn extra money for myself.

Money was not the priority. After graduating from secondary school, I've always thought of making full use of what I've learnt, especially languages. Language is a powerful tool for communication. It says for all emotions, sometimes better than a picture does. So the question was, how am I going to continue practicing and embracing what I've learnt? Hence, I landed with this job in hoping it will do better good to me, which it did. It tests my patience, and of course, broaden my knowledge and language mastery. See, because of these reasons I'm actually charging not-so-high. That's why I don't tell people my rate(s) but that does not mean quality is compromised.

One day, something happened and it got into writing. It was personal and I thought fine, things were better off written should anything more happen, you've got it in black and white. Why wasn't I surprised... Ever since then, it's like I felt like I was a black sheep. It was like being judged guilty without trial because things that was supposed to be contained was made public behind my back and I don't know what else was said but I could just feel it. It was hard to get into groups during group work, it was hard to be loud in class, it was hard to talk around in class, and it was hard getting attention. If anybody would have been in my position, they would be the one who changed class, and they would be the one who would have committed suicide. Big labels of defamation and ostracized was pasted right on my forehead whenever I entered the class.

I was even featured in a blog post. How infamous.

It was hard surviving, and I did a lot of thinking. Really, it wasn't pleasant. When people in the middle-east are stressed thinking if they could live for another day, when people in Africa are stressed thinking if they would be eaten by vultures, I was always stressed where the hell in lecture hall I want to sit because at that period of time, there was no one I could trust. With my stone-aged Nokia, the people who were communicable was Hafiz, Syaz, Nat. God knows how hard it was for me to win their hearts. I know it's not that everybody hated me but being associated with me then means risking of being hated too (it's only natural). I did get tired of all those, trust me. It was exhausting trying to suck up to a bunch of people whose mind I can't read. I was handicapped from being myself and I even got a karma threat. Should anybody wants to see my downfall, that was one hell of big great Humpty Dumpty fall.

In the end I gave up being nice and thickened my face for group work. It was awkward but desperate times call for desperate measures. I swear it's a lie if some didn't find my existence in their group awkward. Doing group work with them (Joanne's team) was a bliss because everybody gave smart contributions, Joanne was creative, and the rest was fast. They were efficient that if their bosses call me for recommendation(s), I'd fire the boss for not hiring the.

My team work with them despite being great didn't last long because towards the end of year two, my group work had been with Huiting and friends because she and Cassie were my Final Year Project (FYP) team members. So it is only wise to do other group work with them rather than being a nomad changing from one group to another, you'll just get confused on which team you belong to for which module. By that time, we had one less classmate - it's your story to tell.

A lecturer made a passing comment saying (we) were bullies.

And we had a class chalet before another term starts.

Planning the class chalet wasn't easy for me because I'm entrusted with my classmates money and organizing a party isn't cheap. Asking people for top-up was quite alright though some were reluctant and some probably didn't trust me and of course, thanks to Joanne and gang for standing up for me when it happened. Of course there were some instances harmless remarks were misunderstood.

When school reopened after that holiday, things started to pick up. Things were getting better. FYP with Rajes was a bliss though warning to all of you to record whatever she says/promises if you were to ever work with her because she tends to get very, very busy. Get my drift. She's funny. Comparable to Kumar, the stand up comedian. She even look like one from far don't you think?

Final year was another blur that went by so fast you can stop counting down like what you did for 'O' Levels. Especially when you learn new topic each week, as long as your notes get thinner at the back, it means the end is near. This is when you start worrying which university are you going for, what course to take, how many exemptions are you eligible for in a particular course, and whatnot. As for me, I'm born an Adam so the only thing that worries me now is National Service.

When the time comes we will know where and when I will I be enlisted. If you're eager to know, what's more the name bearer of the news.

SABE Dinner and Dance was awesome. Need I say more?

And now, in a blink of an eye, we're at the closing chapter of our tertiary life: graduation.

I would like to thank all the lecturers who has put in a lot of effort in our successes, all friends who gave company, fruitful opinions, wonderful memories and moral support, students and their parents who gave undivided understanding - I understand that changing in timings isn't not pleasant as it is but all my students are great. Not forgetting my parents who sent me to school and supporting what I do! This wouldn't have happened without them. Thanks with love!

Drop Shopping, Die Dining

2011-05-22T01:09:00.001+08:00

This evening I went out with H, after ages of not meeting him. Let me guess, since mid-April until this afternoon, we only communicate remotely. Touche?

We dined in Ramen Ten for dinner and walk around to window shop. I had my guilt-free shopping a day ago and I got to draw a line at that for other 'maintenance'. We intended to catch a 'stand up comedy' show - go figure. We went all the way to Holland V. and since all seats were reserved, we decided to come on another day. We're grateful it brought us here because the shopping belt is such a mayhem - especially when there's about 5 million people now, with a healthy economic growth, people are spending.

Today's my first day wearing my yellow colored shoe that I bought in Jakarta (that I've kept for two months) to match with my polo. Despite looking like banana I'm liking it because there's no reason for any vehicle to hit me. Looking back, I realize how fast time flies! It's already May!

Next week starts my four-day showbiz with some primary school students. I am so grateful that this is happening because I've been having too much of a good time doing sweet nothings. This is so gonna bring my vocal range to another whole new level.

Then comes graduation, I have to go shopping again because some things are missing and unchecked. Probably one of the days... It has been so hot lately, and take care of thyself.

I'm so beat now. It's time to think for my personal major event now that H has brought it up. It really didn't occur to me until we talked about it on our way home in the limo. We ended the night eating shaker fries. I honestly think it's time to stop, or rather pause eating fast food for a while. Ta!

How Kittens Annoy You

2011-05-10T02:07:00.004+08:00

My mum and youngest brother love cats, so do I, except for my second brother and my dad who are always irked by cats for passing by without warning and the touchy effect it has on their skin. Whatever.

Nine weeks ago (supposedly six) I fostered a pair of the most annoying kittens ever. They are annoyingly cute. I had to ask my dad for the green light if I could foster them, who cares about my second brother who tends to lock himself in his room, and my mum was simply delighted to have them and sympathized by the fact that they might be terminally sedated if no one nurtures their growth into a fine adult kitten. My youngest brother didn't really care at first.

They were named Scrumptious and Snowflake. Now, meet Gucci and Prada. Hehe!

I was extremely roiled initially. Trying to be courteous to my dad and my younger brother, I put them in my room and on their first night, they pooped on the wrong spot - on my carpet and it stank my room badly. Especially when it's air-conditioned, you wouldn't want to imagine the gag I had on my throat being awoken by that smell. For the next few days the same thing happen, and they seem to be happy about it. How can I not be annoyed and get all angsty? I had to sleep late entertaining them, and wake up early being their secretary answering to their nature calls. Life was a turmoil then.

One day I cleared all the mess in my room and got a new configuration - thanks to them but being the paranoid person I am, I imprisoned them in the toilet, only to let them out when I'm in. My kittens were very lucky when I didn't put them out while I was in the shower. But I had this thought a hidden camera was put in the kittens eye or something!

They still had their diarrhea, and it was quite persistent until some time I realized their stool are much harder than the week before. Still, they were imprisoned for committing a crime - pooping at the wrong places and creating a mess out of it.

After some time, my parents asked me to let them out, which I intended to but not too soon because naturally, kittens are territorial animals so I'd like to be sure they would make our bathroom their bathroom as well. Miraculously, they did. I'm so proud of them.

Showering them was almost impossible. I had to withstand the scratches they made from showering them, give them food the first thing in the morning, and clear the tray after pouring their feast into their bowl. It was funny how they would fight for more food and make a mess out of it and ended up eating from the floor. This hygiene freak has zero tolerance for mess - which explains why I'm rarely in the living room. After eating they will drink up, and head to the tray to dismiss its missiles. It's a routine. Imagine this on a scale, then times two - because they come in pairs.

My kittens are the most sanitized kittens I swear. Their tray in tip-top condition otherwise I wouldn't even want to step into the toilet. And that's the first thing I'd do each morning when I woke up - clear their tray. Since they are nocturnal animals (in case you don't know) their happy hour really starts at Clark Quay's happy hour period. They were having such a good life running in and out of the study room, making noises like tap-dancers chasing each other.

Some of my friends and relatives had a good play with them which is a relief because for once I can catch up with them, and get this kitten to meet new people. Otherwise they will become shy - not my type of kittens. These kittens really like to hangout on designer items hence the name Gucci for the male and Prada for the female. Despite their name, they are pretty unglamorous at times.

Whenever I cook, or bring some hot food into my room, it's like a call for their in-room dining. They started climbing on my office chair, or my jeans (when they were really young) and try to steal my food. I had to resort closing the door and let them meow in front of my room. Playing the pity card, they will sit in front of my room until I opened the door.

Gucci had lice on him. I don't know how it came about but definitely from the dusty environment he had but somehow only he has lice and not his sister. That's just odd. He started scratching himself and after like a week we realize his hair was thinning. Who knew animals could worry you so much. I'm just worried that lice might just be on me instead actually.

Now that they're familiar with the house and their surroundings, god knows how impromptu their sleeping habits are. It started questioning if my kittens here are the real territorial cats and not some kind of non-cat breed? First, they slept on the wooden chair, then under the sofa bed a few days later, then at the ironing board (it's still a wonder how they got up there), then on my table. So if you were to ask me where did they sleep, I'd say everywhere. I gave up making up their sleeping basket because they no longer sleep there.

There was this one time, Prada really freaked me out when I saw her sitting by the window ledge like a Sphinx. I got so scared I had to think how not to scare her away in case she fell of from the ledge and dropped from the penthouse. That was like her near death moment.

They were always hungry and greedy when it comes to eating and because they eat and pooped a lot, I had to make more than a trip to SPCA to collect their food and sand. I had to cab back because the items were heavy and I got really nettled because it really went against my principle not to spend a single cent on and for the kittens because we have provided a roof, and a place to stay, it's only right that everything else comes conveniently and handily but I guess I couldn't rely on that.We did buy food for the kittens for the love of the kittens after all.

I even had to send them to the vet for the vaccination and why oh why SPCA has to be so far? Thank God my dad was able to send me and these two Blackie Chans for their vet appointment.

Who knew these kittens are musically inclined, probably they heard me sing every single day. I slept with them last night since it's the last night with them and they were busy running in and out, and around the sofa bed making noises. Rubbing their body against my face, and walked on top of me, pressed the remote control and switched on the TV. It was so bright I had to get up and turn it off. Then, seeking for a spot, they sat on me, and in between my legs on the comforter. I was so restrained, I had to push them aside.

What breaks my heart beyond capacity is letting them go. Returning them to their rightful place (SPCA), having to say goodbye to two silly creatures whom I kissed every single day I when I got home, teased them, played with them, and carried them where ever I go around the house like a puppy. Laughing at their funny antics like how Gucci jumped when its tail got caught in the fan - a repercussion for climbing hazardously, and how Prada would follow a string or even skipping rope, and how they would hug each other when they sleep is just so sweet.

Even my dad and second brother plays with them after some time.

It made me cry at heart to feel so annoyed having these two rascals around and the trouble they made me go through, but at the same time, taking care of them like they were my babies, not wanting them to die, tortured, or abandoned by their future owners.

Oh well, attachment towards them is inevitable and I know this day would come where I feel sobby. Of course this despair would fade away but they are my first land creatures I have as a pet. Even tonight when I got home, it felt awkward not to have them running to the door when you get home, and it feels a little odd now that I don't have them to carry around. I've lost my Gucci and Prada!

Thanks to the many who made life taking care of them less of a burden. I owe you. This blogskin will be a memorial of them. Thanks R. Wong for the two kittens!

While William and Kate Were At It

2011-05-01T03:40:00.005+08:00

While most of you are busy reading the headlines about the upcoming GE, and while the Britons and the rest of the world are all hyped up over Prince William's wedding, Malaysia is bracing for the arrival of Prince Yours Truly. You can give me a virtual slap right this instant.

This trip is my first time being away without a chaperon, and finally had a great time with S since he's always busy with work, work, work. Such a workaholic.

I would say this trip is very laid back, and relaxing because we were there on weekdays and came back on weekend - which resulted us in being caught up in the traffic jam before hitting the highway. Since the bus played Freaky Friday, Mr. Bean and one of my favorite cartoons Tom and Jerry, I didn't mind.

We met early in the morning, and trained to our coach. Although flight would sound nice because you'll reach there earlier by about two hours, it is the most ridiculous thing to think of when it comes to backpacking. Such an adventurous trip!

Four hours in the bus reading Susan Elizabeth Phillips, listening to songs, watching movies and whatnot is so not easy, I swear. Most of the time I'd end up sleeping which is quite a good thing because I didn't sleep well the night before departure.

We reached safely. The weather was good. We checked in to our hotel. Piccolo Hotel, which sounded so wrong, but the room was alright. I would expect a ramp for my luggage when checking in. That explains why I'd say this is a backpacking trip. Heh!

Settled down and went for lunch at T.G.I.F on a Wednesday afternoon. Since it was the weekdays, all the malls were open for business - DUH! But the mall seems to be deserted, again - DUH! Wandered around The Pavilion and bought a pair of midnight movie: Source Code.

Source Code was good. It's like Vantage Point but I dare say better. Source Code was as good as my dress code. Pajamas, and hotel slippers are sure to give you comfort in the theater. It was so convenient that I throw myself on the bed right away when we came back.

The following day we intended to have breakfast at A&W but alas it was not opened until 11am then! We end up eating Macs. Pfft. So much for variety! Breakfast was sumptuous because we had Big Breakfast, Sausage McMuffin, and pancakes. They call it a family meal for about four person, but seems like two person can eat it all without leftovers. No wonder most Malaysians are so petite!

Berjaya Times Square, the home to Asia's largest indoor theme park. They have a mall which is like I-Don't-Know how many floors but I got tired on the third floor already. We didn't even complete our rounds. I had Baskin-Robbins and my God it is so delicious! BTS should really have a variety of tenant mix and a serious rearrangement of the shops. I miss riding the roller coaster at the indoor theme park! That is where my first roller coaster ride was!

We went back to get ready for the nights agenda. Dinner at Tony Roma's, followed by Thor at midnight. Since we had a lot of time in between, we sat at Starbucks for a drink and chit-chat. TMI, but nature called right before the movie started. So annoying.

Thor was a good wholesome fun. It was raining after the movie so going back from The Pavilion seems a little impossible by walking. Since our hotel is like 200m away but the rain was quite heavy, we had to wait somewhere in the middle. It takes a thick face to ask for an umbrella lift. So while waiting for the right umbrella and the right person to come, and since no one was walking in the rain, I did! Then I had to treat myself to a hot shower because I wouldn't want to get sick.

On our final day we had our free and easy - right, since when was it not free and easy? We fulfilled any last minute cravings of any food that's not available in Singapore.

Thanks to my parents for making this happen for me, and S for the bloody good times! See you around!

Retrospective: Zulfadli (Part 2)

2011-04-20T20:17:00.004+08:00

P/S: You minors who're reading this, these are not examples for you to follow but lessons for you to swallow.

By now you would have seen there are several changes to this blog. Not much but just so your navigation will be at ease, know that all the images on the right bar is functional. Click and explore.

So, what you missed in the previous entry?

How my blog and social network changed my life.
My now-already-stone-aged fashion sense.
Several funny pictures and how some people came into my life.

Here's my primary school life at a glance.

I had to change the music due to copyright issues. Pfft. There's so many things about primary school that I would like to talk about, and I don't know where to start!

When I was in primary school, we had two sessions: morning and afternoon. I always dread the afternoon session because it's too hot that I'd sweat by the time I reach school. I hate morning session because I have to wake early in the morning. I took the school bus when I was in primary one and I miss it a lot. It's so convenient! That wish didn't die out even when I was in polytechnic. Fat hope burst after graduation. I gave up hoping for anymore school bus.

I had a dream of becoming a prefect. Right, laugh at this. When I was in primary school I wish I was a prefect but I was quite notorious. What are the odds? Erhem! Well, I had a tough time. There was this one time when I was in primary two, I kissed a girl on the cheek. The news spread like flash fire and it was bad. I was like damn young! What I had in mind was this:

Photo by baby-pictures.org

But neh, it just had to backfire, just because the school ain't European enough. Clearly it would have been different if I were to be at a European boarding school or something!

Newsflash, I hope this spreads like flash fire too: I've grown up and I'm not a pervert. Let's clear the air.

Along the way, we had this annual event, Sing Singapore. Nobody does better than we do. Pasir Ris Primary School isn't only the best hub for learning in that town but we are also the hub for festivities. In 2001, the PRIME construction began and some of us had to move to temporary block. During the Sing Singapore period, we had a fund raising event selling spices (I know, it's crappy but for the better) to the neighborhood. Being the active student I was, despite not being a prefect, H (if I'm not wrong S was there too) and I made a door to door visit nearby to sell spices like cinnamon, clove and other spices. I think our cute faces and pleas made people buy our spices. It was so fun! Little did I realize, I started doing sales that young!

They have Sing Singapore up till today. Then on we would spend time rehearsing, and practicing our moves, choreograph and all. Our beloved teachers will always have this creative ideas that they apply on us, and we're like the guinea pigs. It's a wonder that we manage to have work-Sing Singapore balance. Not everybody gets to participate by the way. There's thins thing called qualifying round which will be shown during assembly prior to the season.

Newsflash: Sing Singapore isn't a waste of time and money. Apart from 'social cohesion' you're planting beautiful memories into their mind.

If anybody thinks Sing Singapore is a waste of time and energy, we are one of the best primary schools in Pasir Ris town. Oops, correction. We are the best, do thy research

The batches that participated in Sing Singapore in the final round were lucky because during that time they produce VCD for the event and that's the first. Their motive was to raise funds for the PRIME project because they decided to have the optional add-ons to the school which then require more money that what the ministry provided for. Buying the VCD was worth it.

I had to attend remedial classes because I was particularly weak in Math. That was like one of the most terrible subjects and I've always suspected it's a Malay thing. Well, we invented the angklung but not the abacus, what's left to say? I'm being impartial here but according to statistics, it is true. I have to show this valid statistic otherwise all the 'makcik' will go after me. For the record, I was one of them, but I made a breakthrough in PSLE, thank God. In primary two, my teacher called out names to recite the times table and I always avoid her eye contact by hiding behind my friends head. It won't work now because my head got a little too big than the rest so I came up with a new tactic. Hush!


*Percentage of PSLE Pupils Who Scored A-C in Mathematics**

Primary five was a lucky year for me. I got a 4th position in class in terms of academic, and I did quite alright relatively for all subjects. S said because I was in the last few classes (where most were playful). I am still glad I got an award on Prize Presentation Day.

On top of the award I receive, I was the Mr Jalan Bahtera (2002) for my primary five camp. It's like a compulsory thing for us to attend this camp. I was the quite-known one in my group (I wouldn't say popular because I'm not) - Oceania and they picked me for this challenge. So F and I were sent out to use those recycled materials as our outfit and impress the rest. Guess what, we won a plastic crown! We are the champions.

In primary six we had to attend to a lot of remedial and supplementary classes. I even had a tutor on top of that - yeah right like others didn't. Our supplementary classes would be in the afternoon usually and during the break before the class starts we went over to the mini mart and bought instant cup noodles. It's a wonder why my hair doesn't fall then. Due to the renovation, we love our temporary classrooms because it's air-conditioned! All the more reason to bring fur coats to school...

Usually during our supplementary classes, most of us will be tired by then, and naturally, we'd be sleeping with our eyes open staring into thin air. For once, we were guppies.

When we had free time after supplementary lessons, H and I would hangout at the playground which had a swing on it and we played games like Blind Mice, Ali-Pom, Marco Polo and Crocodile. Of course there were other players around and we didn't need Facebook or Friendster to make new friends. There was this one time, it was raining heavily but we continued playing. We played under the rain, wet! Try doing that now and stand a chance getting free chemical peel.

Newsflash: I participated in a singing competition when I was in primary four and I was totally nervous. That was my first solo performance! Agaknya betul cakap arwah nenek saya dulu, kalau saya nyanyi, katak pun boleh berbulu. Haha! Epic.

Honestly, if you ask when was my most bimbotic moments, it would be when I was in primary school. Looking back how I was makes me feel like shying away but doing it won't change a thing. For the love of God, revive the alumni club!

So here's the thing. Most of you would have heard about S and H a lot lately in the news. As in my news feed! Who are they? Sometimes you wonder, how did it even started? And after tough thinking I remembered mine vividly.

S: Syazwan - Social Butterfly!

I wasn't as social butterfly as I am now trust me. Making friends hadn't been the easiest thing for me at that time. Even up till now, it's hard for me to assimilate to a new crowd easily. Everybody has their own obstacle and I've always wondered how they overcome theirs.

Anyway, it was after my madrasah that morning - since my circular school is in the afternoon. Somehow I managed to pull myself away from the bed and go for my religious class and went back home. But I just had the urge to buy something at the mini mart. That's when S talked to me saying we were from the same school and Malay class and whatnot. While we were talking we realize we have the same interest, and happen to be in the same Malay class - you could imagine what could happen. I remembered we love having this multi-colored ball pen which only sells for like $1.50 and it feels good when writing. I was astonished to see the similarities in our handwriting. Big, and tidy. And we love pressing while we write to the extend the paper becomes crunchy. It really feels like braille when you touch from the back of the paper. Or rather, it feels like hard work to it.

Even when we parted during secondary school, he gave me the greatest revelation when I was in secondary one, and that brought us together again for the next four years - and counting.

Oh, speaking of crushes. It's an exclusive piece.

H: Hafiz - Holy Friend!

Well there's a reason for calling him a holy friend. Last time, when I was like primary three/four he loves teasing me and I got really, really annoyed. It stopped after some time, probably too tired running circles around me. Then we met again, and this time it was for Sing Singapore. We were from different class but because of Sing Singapore, we combined class to form a battalion or warriors to clinch the Sing Singapore cup.

Anyway I called him holy because there was this one time his head was shaven. I have no idea why because I wasn't close to him. Until after some time someone told me he performed the small haj.

In primary five, we got closer because of our similar interest. S, H and I got the same interest in music then. H and I would meet up and sing karaoke songs, and do silly parodies that you can't imagine. Don't worry, nothing obscene. This involves baby powder (I swear it's not used on us) and construction ladder and table cloth. It was mad funny and those, were the really, really good times. If I remember correctly, that was one of the year I laughed till I went breathless and couldn't control my bladder.

After primary school, we went different ways. I know, it seems like the friendship curtain is going down but neh. He was the one who kept calling after primary school to ask what I was doing, how was my school and all. My parents does that too but it's a different matter for friends.

I am indeed grateful for the wonderful company I had in primary school, from the meal worms experiment, to the terrifying myth on the haunted piano in that school, to the eye exercise we do in school after recess and to the great lasting teachers we have. Gosh, I really miss those times but most of all, thanks to S and H for such a wonderful time in primary and post primary school. You are the best! I've got your back if you need anything.

P/S: You minors who're reading this, these are not examples for you to follow but lessons for you to swallow.

Retrospective: Zulfadli (Part 1)

2011-04-18T21:51:00.088+08:00

I had a busy and quite fruitful day today. Finally I got to sit in front of this notebook and pen down something. Something that I have found for quite some time but holding it back till the right time comes. Retrospective of me, and the few of you.

Looking back at those images, I was grateful that camera was invented. At least then we know who we were before becoming what we are today. From fashion sense, to attitude, to the way your hair is done, this is gonna leave you with some bittersweet memories.

Friendster and blogging was the in thing then in early 2000's. I started mine in late 2005. That was considered slow. I remember hanging out under the main staircase in secondary school and my cliques were talking about blog and I was asking 'What blog? Which block are you staying at?' and I got answers like 'No, not block, block, but blog. It's like an online diary.' Diary writing was not my thing, what's more writing it publicly and let 7 billion potential viewers read what are you up to. So I signed up for Friendster and Blogger out of curiosity - it's almost like a package deal. I started bloghopping, adding friends. It was addictive! People lose sleep for that. Reading about other people, then started to gossip, and use it as a weapon against each other in fights, and so on. I guess this is the answer to why blogging has been spiraling down - not that people or other teens don't have the time. Amazing how much people spend time on Facebook now!

Friendster on the other hand was used for I-Don't-Know what reason but it is as good as cyber drug. You plead for friends to write you a nice testimonial, view your profile, add photos, post bulletins and be a fan of anything. At the time, I question myself why would I have Friendster when I already have friends? Facebook is just like Friendster somehow. The best part in Friendster was the number of people who viewed your profile - and you knew who they are.

So during this time I thought I was cool. Until I see myself in all the things I wear and how I was at that time, today.

The silly and awkward pose. Speechless. (2003/4)

The baggy pants and the very convenient shoe (that shoe lasted me for 5 years!) - despite being unfashionable now. I participated in a charity walk because of Photography Club - for the love of God, just do it! You'll know why I ended up in Photography Club.

The hairdo that calls for another Red Sea episode. Can you see the hidden Mickey now? I had no idea how it would turn out but there's a good story behind this. I am always annoyed with my hair because it's curly and being the Asian I am, it's not easy to maintain my hair. Naturally, with wide forehead like beloved Lee Kuan Yew, my head will look as good as the sun if it's all pushed back so I was trying to create the 'horizontal' image so that my big forehead doesn't look like Jupiter. So that explains. And with hairspray, once your hair is set, there's no turning back - especially if you're late for Eid outings. (2004/5)

The most ancient of all (2003/4) - baggy shirts, oversized jeans and the shoes. Because of global warming, it seems impractical to wear layered anymore. I don't remember what was I doing at my primary school when I have already graduated from that school? I miss being all the teachers pet. Yes people, I was the teachers pet and I love it. At that time getting good grades were not my priority and I was not that Type A control freak. Yeah, I was bullied well in primary school but that does not mean I did not bully anyone too.

I was in fact amazed with myself when I terrorized my school mate for calling me names. And how we splash syrup drinks to annoying people, and how we trash people who trashed us. We were that young and yes, immature. Even after a few years of graduation from primary school, we had remnants of us there.

I was in the Photography Club when I was in secondary school and this was at NJC. If I remember correctly, we were there to see the photography exhibition they were having or the SYPA I think. Whatever. Anyway, when I was in Secondary 1 (2004), I was in concert band for like eight months. I played the french horn - one of the toughest instrument and up till today I wonder why the hell was I appointed with that thing. I know they said because of my lips but really, I know nuts about treble clef, do-re-mi, and whatsoever. I can't even read the peanut thingy on different lines. I even had to pretend I was playing when the band was playing. I was like '!@#$%^&;*(&;^%$'

After which I changed CCA to Entrepreneur Club (2004). Though that time I didn't know who Neleh Nat really was until she came into my class. Funniest, but most annoying, but really, she's a nice woman. Very, very patient and forgiving. But then the club had to close down because there were too little members, so I ended up in Photography Club (2005), thanks to my Maths teacher then, Ms Chiam. I had a great time in Photography Club. At least this made me somehow popular don't you think?

(2006) Neoprint was another in-thing remember? I had no idea why would I put myself in a box with white light and cameras. As though personal cameras doesn't exist! But thanks to Neoprint, because of you, we have a retarded memory to recall!

Anugerah Planet Muzik (APM) is like the Grammy Awards for the Malay music industry and I was head over heels when my face came out candidly with Siti Nurhaliza. Can you find me below? Her soft hands and all... Fuh. If you must know, I have a hidden talent at events. I'm just kidding.

Not forgetting the images taken at the times that were not needed. Like at the train station? Newsworthy! By the way, I remember this, we were on our way to Ngee Ann Polytechnic Open House 2006. I hate to say this, but it's a world wonder how a midget wannabe get to grow like a long bean - this is for you H. Life is so unfair for me at the moment.

Then in 2007 - I remember vividly one of the best parties H, I and R created. Have you ever wondered, how did it started? And how it ended?

Here's the answer. After reunion party each year, my blog views statistic will be at its peak because those who missed it would want to know what's going on, and those who came wanted to know what I have to say and most of the time, hurtful. Of course, this resulted in me losing friends along the way but then this only made me realize who are the true ones who will stick through and be patient with you.

The first party was attended by five people. In late 2002, the first party was held at H's house. Attended by two of our former friends, one of my best friends S, and my two younger brothers. It started of as a 'singing competition' and we sang the same song, and the winner won crap - a beer mug. The host was the winner but I won something too! A photo frame that I had kept up till today. It was the most ridiculous one but it was all for fun.

So, prior to the event, we planned a trio that did not happen because there was a change of plan. So, watching this is like watching late Michael Jackson's rehearsal movie. There is a story behind this too, not because somebody died listening to this!

On the actual day, the competitors sang the same song, and gosh, only we can picture them. Better yet, it was won by the host, cum the mastermind. It grew and went on till 2007, which was at its peak. All those times were fun and had been an emotional roller coaster but that definitely brought our friends closer together. Some of my friends who attended the party don't even know each other during the party and turn out to be classmates, colleagues, ex's friends and whatever you can think of and realize 'Oh God, you're the guy/girl from the party!' This is one of the many reasons why I pursuit my Diploma in Integrated Events and Project Management. Should we talk about this any longer, I'd be the fireman who puts down fire with tears. The last party ended with a fight between H and I but we made up. Even so, we did not continue because we were not as rich as last time, haha!

Here's another video, that was never published before anywhere. So this is its premier!

'Slumberians' came along in 2005. We were close. Illys is my second cousin and in the family tree she's considered the elder one though we're of the same age. W on the other hand was Illys sidekick, and we got together and did all the despicable things that anyone would not have done. What we did changed the school rules, I swear. Despite all the rule breaking things that we did, we are the few bright students who always awe our teachers. We were the first to use Windows Movie Maker for our project, presented to the school assembly on our trip to Brunei and used Hey Mickey! as our background music, and many more. Those were the good times ladies.

This is it for part one because any more would bore you to tears. Have a great week ahead!

Men's Fashion Week 2011

2011-04-04T02:47:00.004+08:00

Speechless. Is all I can say for the Asia's first Men's Fashion Week. If there must be more of it, it better be in Singapore.

I was invited to attend several shows, thanks to all those who made it work and successful. You do not know how much I appreciate it.

So while I was head over heels for the shows, I was stressed out! I know, I know, you'd say it's lame to stress out but I have no idea on what to wear even if others are wearing casually or in not-so fashionable outfit, it's either they already did their best or they know nuts about fashion or they're probably fashion mogul in disguise. You'll never know but me being me, I'd rather do my best in looking as fashionable as possible.

To be real honest, I know little about style but thanks to friends and media, I have a greater exposure to fashion and styling up. Otherwise I'd walk around in baggy plain crew neck shirt that has Smurfs on it, and oversized jeans that might attract comments like 'Trying to save?' or something of that sort. Whatever.

Being the first time attending runway shows in the first Asia's Men's Fashion Week is a great honor. I felt totally like an alien like in a good way and I was scared that I might offend anybody B-y and then get into a B-h fight. Thank God I didn't but if I did, that would be a ticket for me to get the media's attention eh?

On Day 3, these are the shows that we attended to:

Fei Yue - Mainly designs beautiful lighweight canvas shoe.
G.I.L Homme - Chic design.
Dresscamp - Seems casually avant-garde to me.
Shanghai Tang - Ancient design put into 21st Century men's outfit.
Emmanuel - I really love their outfit but if I do own them, when will I wear them?

On that day I got to meet VJ Utt who was very, very nice and personally gave us invitation to the MTV Concert Rock It With Utt - which I saw being promoted via his Twitter, and Bryan Boy (one of the famous fashion blogger) who sat across us, and we got to meet the models after that and had lunch with them! Trust me, models are not as shallow or as dumb as you think. Start talking to them and they speak like Wikipedia.

I was dead beat that night, but I enjoyed myself, very, very much.

The following day I had to wake up real early to meet my mum's friend from Indonesia. We fetched them and went for lunch. I had chicken bryani and I never felt so full before. Can't wait to meet them again, hopefully real soon! It was a hot day and I had not prepared for that night's fashion show.

I was discussing with E on what to wear since H was asleep - in broad daylight, when suddenly he called me for the earlier show. Without further ado, let me introduce you to my chaotic weekend. I wasn't ready. Camera not charged, BlackBerry half alive, outfit not so confirmed yet, and to choose which shoe to wear is a dilemma. I don't even know if I should use hair wax or gel! And the kittens were playing in my room I almost accidentally kicked or stepped on them - but I didn't but it got me all freaked out especially there's a pile of laundry on the floor which was yet to be washed.

Thanks to my brother who polished my last minute shoe, opened the house door so that I can straight away go out, got me an electronic hand fan and play with the kittens while I was donning myself. So if anyone were to question my wardrobe, this explains.

So here are the shows that we attended on Day 4:

Joey Samson - Because I like black, I love their designs.
Brief Encounters - Made me feel totally unfortunate - in a good way.
A. Testoni - The performer was E's friend. Are you sure?
Canali - Wonderfully speechless.
Songzio - They always save the best for the last! Event(s) rule!

While we were having dinner at the backstage after A. Testoni's runway show, I asked a friend of mine who invited me if I could bring several friends and he said 'Sure, bring as many as you want!'

So there goes while having dinner we chatted and scrolled down my contact list and see who's not busy and could make it for the final show of the day - finale has to be grand with friends.

I am so, so grateful that they could make it. A and Z. A was my childhood friend - I remember slapping him in primary school which created a hand mark on his face for being annoying. I hope this compensates for what I did. Heh. Z on the other hand was known since two years ago, from A. So I was surprised to see her.

There was another surprise apart from bumping into my secondary school friend Z, and my Indonesian friend P. H nudged at me 'Eh, isn't that Q?' and I was like 'Where? (and when I saw his posture and face from across) Oh my god!' - in a good way. I dialed his number and turns out affirmative, it's Q. I'm so proud of H for being able to tell my friend from far. That's what friends are for - on a lookout for each other in so many ways.

I hope all of you are happy as much as I do and enjoyed each others company. I'm grateful to all of you of who're able to make it to accompany me - hopefully not accompanying for the good times only!

So there was a controversy and comments people saying the event was not well organized, or rather a flop. I don't think so but sure there would some discrepancies. If you think otherwise, climb up to the SkyPark, say your jealousy mantra and jump down - hopefully to the ground because I feel their hard work, and a venue too big doesn't mean it's an epic fail. Don't complain again if the next venue got smaller it's gonna make you sick. When people make space, appreciate it. Hey, just like you, I'm just saying. Peace out!

Fuel: E (Empty)

2011-03-30T01:31:00.003+08:00

About a week ago you read about my dinner and dance, and the night cycling and the fostering of two adorable and a handful kittens and now I'm back closing up for the third month of the year.

I just came back from Jakarta last Sunday to meet my friends from Indonesia. We got close via BlackBerry Messenger but it would have not been possible without the introduction from my mum's friend. I appreciate this friendship a lot and hope this brings us closer together!

We went there together with our parents who went with a group of friends but we separated at the airport. F and D fetched us. How awesome to be greeted by your foreign friends at the airport.

We were there mainly for sight seeing and although this is not my first time being there, the same or similar places, I did not get tired of its beautiful sight because it was raining at several places that we went - not so heavy but it was enough to change the scenery to a cooler place.

I was impressed with my friend F for being able to drive long distance without complaining being tired. Though I understand he didn't talk much probably because he was tired, he was a considerate, fast and careful driver! Salute!

What I like best is the food and one thing about going around with them at least you get to try real local food where other tourists don't really go. I do like going to places of interested but once in a while it's fun to visit uncharted areas where some would not dare to go.

So for my case we had a sumptuous meatball noodle, Martabak, and Canai. Although they may have it in a different name elsewhere in the world, trust me, food there tastes much better in their homeland. Haha, and we're not comparing fast food. I'm talking about real deal cooked food.

Finally I got to satisfy my craving for strawberries! Since strawberries here are sold at the price of a MacDonald's upsized meal at the size of a six pieces nugget box, I got there at more than half price, twice the quantity. Imagine your 'tapau' rectangular container (but 20% bigger) full of freshly plucked strawberries at 15,000 rupiah for two! Now, go to any market and check out the price and multiply by 6,900 rupiah (the current rate), I felt so cheated buying fruits here. Then again, you must understand we don't have strawberry farms here!

It is almost impossible to diet there when the food is cheap and they have a variety of food that you'll be spoilt for choice. For more details, why not book a flight there this instant and have a look for yourself? Haha.

By the time I landed in Singapore, I was very, very, very tired. Dead beat was an understatement. Toot tired to do anything but I forced myself too because my own laundry has been piling like an Everest and I missed my babies.

The following day I woke up early in the morning and ran like an Olympiad because I was very late to meet R. Felt useless at RDA and I need to catch up on my bloody sleep. I really don't see myself waking up very, very early in the morning on my break.

Rotted at RDA, though I enjoyed looking at those disabled children ride horses and they looked so happy on it.

Wasted two hours trying to sleep but I didn't dare to fall to deep asleep in case I drool, or open my mouth while asleep or snore. So I was practically half-asleep all the way and the sun was burning hot.

Headed cross borders and R and I went for horse riding, the very much anticipated activity of the week after vacation. The cab driver was awesome. We talked a lot along the way, so I felt a little less sleepy. Very charming, friendly, and courteous.

I can canter for nuts. I can't gallop but probably be galloped on, so throughout I trotted Zeba (the name of the horse). The good thing taking things steady on my first time riding on a horse, I got to enjoy the scenery, see Pulau Ubin, get away from the city buzz and fear the appearance of my pet peeve among the bushes which is a lot scarier than being afraid of falling from the horse.

We had dinner at Season's and headed back home to fetch the two bloody kittens. S pooed in the cage on the way home and I had to go through the trouble of washing up the two of them by hand - you can't simply put them in the washing machine and tumble dry them, sadly. And this happened before I even able to catch my breath and check my mails. Pfft. Well, this is part and parcel of having kids. I do really think taking care of a baby cat is as good as taking care of a human baby. It's tiring, yet fulfilling. I won't say it would be rewarding because what can you do with cat's stool?

So I heard while fetching them they had diarrhea but turns out they were both just fine (today). They had it probably because they were sent away into a new environment (again) so both of them were stressed out adapting. Now that they are back home with their papa, they are damn, damn mischievous and cute. Both had start climbing my office chair, which really get onto my nerves because either one would come up to sleep on my lap while I'm blogging this instant!

April is coming soon, have you thought of any April's Fool joke? Honestly I don't see the fun fooling people on April's Fool Day. Whatever you're planning on, just be careful. Play safe. Haha!

Newsflash: My annoyingly sick in the head neighbor who deserves to be admitted into IMH (Institute of Mental Health) and be handcuffed on bed finally moved out. The devil who came over to ask for rice (laugh all you want but he did), to torment, insult, and almost assault my family has no balls now to face reality that he and his family deserve to be ran over by an accelerated aircraft. Poor lonely house husband, non of his family members allied with him when he came over. It was one against 5 (then). Oh, that's right, the rest were all pussies. Reality check, you will always fall into the losers pit. Unseen, untouched, unwanted, and nobody cares if your house burn down to zero because you're simply and outcast.

If it had not been because of you, my late grandmother would probably have seen me graduated and see me drive.

Have fun refinancing the new roof above your head. Your funeral will be my Chingay.

To the new neighbor who will be living there (which I don't know when), conflict(s) can be settled with hostility... With you end up moving out at the end of the day. Welcome to your new neighborhood.

March to The Finale

2011-03-23T02:13:00.002+08:00

How all of you have been doing? I hope all of you are doing good because April is marching in. Now that we're done with 25% of 2011, let's have a look what have we left behind so far.

In January, I had a great countdown, it was wrapped up by a trip to Jakarta where I did a lot of interior/architectural sight seeing which made me appreciate art even more. I made several new friends whom my mum's friend introduced to me. They're very nice people with very big hearts. Grateful to have such friends.

Moving on to February, we had Valentine's Day where the gifts market gross profit increased for that particular period - especially when my birthday falls right a few days after. Double happiness. No triple. Because adding on to double was the escape from being blindfolded - like I always do best to terrify my 'minions'. The celebration wasn't long thanks to tests and upcoming examinations.

Hint, if you really want the gifts industry to boom, make me popular. Trust me. ;)

Marching in itself was March which is quite 'the month' for me this year, somehow it happens to be. Sat for dreadful examinations and burst with excitement right after the last paper. At that time I really felt like hugging any person I see but all 6 billion of you were spared because by the time I saw anyone, the excitement subsided a little bit.

One week after that was SABE Dinner and Dance which totally rocked probably because I've never had prom night or any posh occasion after exams. In primary school I know nuts about prom just like everybody else. Which is why we don't really have prom during my time because there was simply no demand. Secondary school on the other hand was a little stuck up when it comes to loss leaders events - which actually would have been beneficial for a stronger alumni. Then comes to tertiary life - which is called dinner and dance, not exactly prom but we took it in a different way. Who cares when I say 'It IS considered prom night!'

Eleven days after that was results announcement. The e-mail hit my BlackBerry on the dot - it's like wishing someone happy birthday at Cinderella's cufrew. Scroll... Scroll... Scroll... I'm so happy with my results. Ms R's prophecy was right.

The weekend before result announcement I participated in the NUSMS Night Cycling 2011, it was named brake-free and I felt cheated because I lost count on how many brakes and breaks we made. Okay, probably because of all the long distance cycling just to prepare for this expedition. Nevertheless, I really had fun because I made new friends who're are very, very nice and fun to be with. They had station games and it's all about religious stuff. I joked with my friend who didn't participate saying 'I think I've reserved a place in hell... I know nuts about anything.' Which is not true I must highlight.

Recently I watched a movie, Battle Los Angelese with my siblings. Not so bad because the last sci-fi movie I watched bore me to tears. Battle was like the movie of the month for me. The last kill-me-already movie had a lousy storyline, no fight, no plot, and poor casting. Usually they would get a good-name actor that would have done the magic to poor story lines but no. Battle Los Angeles on the other hand, had an applaudable storyline with not-so-bad casts.

Most of you would have known through Facebook and Twitter for quite some time ago, I am fostering a pair of kittens for six weeks. This is huge. I know. No spark, no fire, boom! A basket with a pair of kittens. Surprised? Hopefully you are. What's more cats are one of my dad's pet peeves.

From what heard, these abandoned kittens will be put to terminal sedation if no one fosters them because they are too young and can be a handful for SPCA - knowing the lack of volunteers because of busy people and donors who lack the knowledge/compassion. I will be fostering them until they're old enough. They are in fact a handful but I'm glad they come in pairs otherwise poor kitten will be 'lonely boy'

So here are the several weird occasions...

I accidentally regarded them as humans. Accidentally used 'dua orang' (two person) instead of 'dua ekor' (two kittens).
On the first night, I put them in their comfortable basket but they went out and jump over to my mattress to find the perfect spot. Now I have to go back to sleeping upstairs.
One of them is so greedy while eating that his sister was out of the picture. Poor molly.
They dirtied my bedroom floor once and I was so pissed. Now they have no reason not to visit their tray.
The sire is such a diva, the molly is such a butch. Now I'm really not sure if they are really male or female because I'm not good with kitten's gender.

Oh, maybe I should put them under the light and spread their legs. That should shed some light to my doubts eh?

Keep in touch, toodles!

SABE Dinner and Dance 2011

2011-03-13T04:10:00.004+08:00

The dinner and dance that was hosted by SP SABE was awesome. Though small in scale (no one would have denied that), it was fun, fulfilling and most importantly, fruitful for my class - it's like a need event for us to be bonded.

Truthfully, for three years I have seen my classmates and myself went through our rough patches among ourselves due to personality clashes, communication breakdown and misunderstanding, and then we take the sides of our cliques and thinking rationally is almost out of mind. It didn't give us much time to be as bonded, and as brotherhood as other classes have been but at least we don't resort into breaking apart and request for a change of class for a 'better life' and that makes us stronger, even better for facing through all odds.

We went on, telling ourselves, things would have been better, or it would be over real soon. After all, three years, it's a short time isn't it? It feels real short when you realize that you have finally get along just as well - just when the final year was about to end.

This has proven one of our lecturers remark was wrong. One of them told me personally our class is not as bonded as others - not the type who would die 'one for all, all for one'.

I have many to be thankful to in my tertiary education life. Lecturers who fried us like nobody's business topping the rank in the gossip list almost each day, followed by each and every one of you who has made me who I am today. Without the above mentioned, I won't be where I am now sharing this joy.

In this event I finally met those few who I've not seen for more than two years in campus! People like Iffa and the likes, I will always remember all of you for giving me a good time, bringing smile to me when I'm around you guys.

Hopefully all of you were surprised by my performance. Firework doesn't happen on its own and has its purpose. That song was dedicated to all of you. The lyrics are more important than my showmanship. It was sung right from the bottom of the heart. Just got to ignite the light and let it shine!

With this, I wish us the best in our upcoming exam results, whatever result that we get, there's a reason for it, you just got to look at the glass half full. We'll get through this, see all of you again on graduation day!

Other highlights to those who missed:

I was there before everyone else for sound check - I sounded off-tune. I almost backed out, Alvena S. was cool enough to give me some confidence boost.
The cab that I took was simply too early and he complained I was late, this was an add-on to his lousy service. Newsflash: I've start tipping for great services and you missed your opportunity.
Our class met at the lobby and we were surprised with each others outfit - beautiful dresses and jackets.
While on my way up to the ballroom, I saw Ms J. W. I was so delightedly surprised.
The food was great - from traditional fried rice to barbecued fish. They served salmon and hopefully none gets lead poisoning. Just kidding.
The lucky draw was fantastic - iPad as first prize. Newsflash, most of the prizes were grabbed by people from my class.
Can you imagine Qiu Yan playing XBOX Kinect while Kiji toasting bread (totally luck that befalls onto the wrong person), and Lingfeng snapping Huiting who'll be Swensen's overdosed using here new won camera and Huihui who'd probably turn into round Ferrero Roche if she doesn't share those chocolates with her boyfriend? Haha!
The night ended with the class heading to Chijmes to wrap up the night.
Everybody (mostly from my course) were busy taking photos because everyone is simply too well dressed to be missed out from photo op.
I performed. Watch the video in YouTube, Facebook or here. It has been embedded below.

Have a great weekend everybody!

Super Newbies

2011-02-27T23:16:00.002+08:00

So many moments in a span of two days. This post is going to be fast, I swear.

It's the first time we checked into the latest facility developed by the Las Vegas Sands.

There were so many people that I thought it's like runs on economies of scale. Many bedrooms, one entrance, and a major check in counter - with several sub counters and it was crowded. Throngs of people from mainland China, local Singaporeans and the rest were non-Asians tourists. It was at the lobby, at that time I wondered how crowded will be at the SkyPark, with hotels guests, and paying SkyPark guests. Some where amazed by the simplicity yet magnificent design of the structure, because it seems like two buildings are leaning against each other.

Got our room. My room facing the yet-to-complete Gardens by The Bay (disappointingly disgusting view but the Singapore Flyer and vast sea is like its savings grace). My uncle and family got the room facing the city. Magnificent, but they don't have the balcony. Which is a privilege for us because it's very windy.

Spent most of the time at SkyPark. The first time I went up it was about to rain, took some pictures, and went to The Shoppes for TWG, sampan ride, and window shopping. It is one of the best and biggest (to me it is) luxury mall that I've seen. Sure Vivo may be the biggest mall in Singapore but it doesn't carry as many designer label as The Shoppes does. The Sampan Ride was awesome though I have all the reason to be angry at the silly cashier for being so sarcastic. I confidently spoke to the rower in Malay because he does look like what until I heard his slang. After which we (my cousins and I) cooled off at TWG and it was so funny - especially when you dining etiquette is not at its best. One of its macarons tasted like I deserve a replacement or compensation. You can't blame my tongue really.

Went back to our room to change for swimming - mind you, it's almost eight? My mum called me to arrange for a surprise for my dad - pfft, I'm bad at surprises so I resorted calling for operator. Thank God I didn't dial for the emergency call button, which really exist on the phone. Heh. So here's a compliment - to the customer service agent.

I did ask for add-on complimentary services, and they gave me a suggestion. I swear some hotel would just say - no, we don't have it etc. But this one was quite helpful in giving a fruitful suggestion, and a transferred call. Can you imagine, my dad will be back in a few minutes, and I have to press so many buttons, and these are useful buttons. While waiting for the small-you-won't-feel-full cake my dad was stalled a little bit, and then the cake arrived, JUST IN TIME. They were like PowerPuff Girls and I will sing the the PPG anthem... "Just in time.. Trying to save the world..." Had a blast with the surprise.

Then on finally we got into our original plan of going to the pool - at night. Thank God I reminded myself and my cousins to wear a bath robe up because for one thing there were so many people (trust me, that's not the reason)

The following morning we woke up early (earlier than I wake up for school) to see the sunrise. Thanks humidity, dew, and whatnot, we can't see the real sunrise but we did have the SkyPark to ourselves until a period of time where people start thronging in. An opportunity that must not be wasted, I went to the pool the next morning. Can you imagine, Sunday morning, a weekend by the pool above all minions. People do really look like ants from high above. I should have ordered fruits to be eaten by the pool. We made some jokes about highly chlorinated pool - and for this, I won't complain their pool are chlorinated. It's more of a need than a way to save money for ionized water.

There was this silly moment, my uncle an I mistaken a water fountain for a jacuzzi.
"Eh, why is the water cold?" He started to put his feet in and search for the button to switch on the jacuzzi.
"Yeah, where's the bubble?" I asked. Thinking twice seeing some dirt in the 'pool'
One of the staff came.
"Sir, this is not a jacuzzi sir." She told my uncle.
"Oh, yeah I know..." He bluntly said and walked away.

I was so slow I didn't get the mistake I made. I thought it was foot bath until I saw the water spouting out - just like the water fountain does. This realization came a few hours later. Embarrassing!

Where are are the seals and penguins in the arctic? Oh! They're here, above!

Went to the pool again - it's a torture to be in the pool. Got hungry so easily after that, but because the view was to die for, and the opportunity that last for the next several hours then, we stayed in the pool.

Had a blast in Marina Bay Sands. I have many to thank, like my parents, my uncle and family, and one of my Malay Language teachers.

Three Series in Ten

2011-02-18T12:11:00.000+08:00

Two days ago, I had one of the best days of the year. Two decades of living, and still going strong, and there's a long, long way to go.

Thanks to my family for the cake surprise, though expected, it still surprises me. Haha.

Syaz and Khai played a risky game. They came to my house at midnight, I don't know if they pressed the bell but I was rebooting my BlackBerry and was about to head for the showers until the phone had finished rebooting and right away I got a call from Khai. Guess what, while the phone rebooted, they came across my mind and I didn't expect it because I was tired and I thought, fine, probably exams season, should cut back on celebrating. I picked up the phone anyway.

'Open the door!' She said.
'Huh? What are you doing outside?'
'Just open!'

So I opened and saw Syaz and Khai and I was like, woah! It wasn't long because I had to sleep early, thanks to test on the following day.

Test was horrible, but I know I did my best. Had lunch with Cassie, and swear that stall vendor is the most stingy vendor I've ever seen. Such a disgrace to my own community seriously.

That afternoon had a meeting Ms R for Final Year Project (FYP) report, somehow this thing still clings to us even after submission date, but it was all for the better. Suppose to meet Syaz in town at 2pm, and yours truly, being the VIP, was late.

Meeting started at noon. Report discussion till 1pm. Redid the entire report for 3 hours. See, the worse thing is to have the report, and to redo with existing report we have is harder than starting from scratch, but given the circumstances, like we have much choice? No matter, we did our best and we shall applause to our team work (Cass and Huiting). I could have excused myself from redoing it and meet my stranded friend in town but really, thank God there was Cassie to accompany him while waiting for me. I couldn't be more grateful. I felt bad then.

So, I 'limousine' down to town, and I should have taken down these two cabs plate number, complain to the media, and spam call all the cab companies to fetch me from campus and alight me at ION. Seriously, two rejected my destination. It's not even peak hour, it's not even change in shift period. Well, I didn't know they are not allowed to 'choose' passenger, especially sober ones in broad daylight until Syaz told me.

When I arrived, I saw Cass first and she passed me my gift, and Syaz was busy window shopping at one of the Topman shelves. Pffft, I look myself in the mirror, I looked horrible, unkempt.

Cass had to go to meet her date, so the two of us decided to catch Black Swan. The most awkward show ever, but the storyline was good. I even wikied Black Swan while watching to check if it's a horror or what.

Had dinner at this Indonesian restaurant, forgot its name, but the Satay was good. Played Monopoly Deal and that was my first time winning a game but I think the card was not shuffled well Syaz! Chatted about myself the entire time - and Syaz bothered to listen. Even if it's my day, I felt so conceited - which is bad. You're still the best.

Headed back and halfway through I parted with him to meet Fiz and Nat.

So much for surprises, I managed to guess where these two 'surprise whisperers' are bringing me. Mount Faber - for I don't know what reason, then Swensen's at SIN for dessert. I've escaped from my karma of blindfolding them, thank goodness. They said there'll be a second surprise, but I don't think so. Inside joke: You guys are too loaded to treat me Swensen's. How much did you guys spend again? Hah, but it was fun and for the better too right!

The day ended. Threw myself on the bed, I was so beat.

Thank you for all your wishes and gift(s). All of you are one of the best gifts I've gotten. Love you all. XO

Inter-Minions

2011-02-08T19:49:00.002+08:00

It wouldn't be right to end this music without decrescendo so we had a class gathering and work with not-so-abundant class funds. Because of public holiday, it's like having the majority of the city being asleep, even in the virtual world it happens.

We have to resort to buying our BBQ food and materials the traditional way - by using shopping cart. Not my way of shopping because you will have to browse every aisle to make sure you get what you need but do we even have much choice?

Some were stranded in school for interview, while some probably escaped (erhem!) the shopping part and just attend the party and of course some had their valid reason. It's okay, as long as you don't complain what there is not, otherwise I'd throw you into the pool nearby then.

Starting the fire isn't my cup of tea. I mean, I do know how to start the fire - if you're talking about the press-and-turn kind of gas, yes. Starting fire from fire starter and charcoal? Man, do I even live in the stone age? Kudos to the people who knows how to start the fire, I am amazed really.

The BBQ went well, though I love the ice cream (I feel like eating again, Neapolitan) more than anything else. I still like the sausages (which is not burnt unlike others I've seen) and well cooked chicken.

My class is just odd, though in even numbers. Seriously, but they're all good.

Definition of limousine: Large luxurious car; usually driven by a chauffeur. (Check them out if you don't believe me)

So, if really that 'limousine' is a limousine, I've probably been scammed because I don't feel luxurious sitting in broken PVC coated seat, and being charged at a higher price for a vehicles that runs on cheap diesel.

Opportunity Cost

2011-01-25T02:07:00.008+08:00

Hello, I'm back again. Thanks to those who read and keep going!

Last weekend I was in Jakarta. It's a crowded city. You'll probably not like Jakarta itself but it's vibrant with Kempinski, Hyatt, and other big malls that carry labels like Louis Vuitton and Chanel. It's hazy for the fact that there were so many cars and it's probably the main contributor to my mild sore throat now. The traffic jam was terrible enough though it wasn't a gridlock. Imagine if there was a gridlock jam, all the best staying on the road for more than half a day. Thankfully they have a quite efficient public transport system. Not the best but enough to get us by rather than wasting time and opportunity cost being on private transport. Cabs there are relatively cheap and uses meter without being asked to.

Visited the museum (God knows how much I learnt), the several hotel interiors that my uncle and his team designed. So he was the curator for several hotels for a moment telling us about the history of a particular mural, and the majestic view of the ballroom ceiling. I think it's inappropriate to show all of them here, but soon you'll see some. Check out Kempinski Hotel and the ballroom integrated to Grand Indonesia. Both has its distinct magnificence.

The hotel that I stayed in was not as bad as I thought it would be. I was glad that I had almost all (sauna, steam room, and swimming pool) the facilities to myself. The gym was impressive. Personally it's the best gym I've visited so far. Treadmills with television? I can run all day long. I'm really grateful I was not sick like I was in KL. The GRO was efficient enough to help me fetch my gloves and goggles from my room while I was working out.

Once we had our dinner at their Japanese restaurant, Origami and I was clueless on how the buffet works! I was overdoes with salmon. They were abundant!

The swimming pool is chlorine free, as good as the one in my campus though not Olympic sized. I had a hard time finishing my laps in campus but not for this! Fun sized pool for fun sized people like me. Then came my mum's friend with her relatives. They dropped by to swim and we had our supper at Dome.

One of the malls I went to during the trip was so crowded I can suffocate. The air-con is not as cold as the one in Mustafa Centre and I felt claustrophobic, which I have all the good reason for it. You can play "Spot The Emergency Exit Sign" and you'll lose, trust me.

I swear Jakarta is like a BlackBerry town because it's 'berryfested' with so many BlackBerry user. Imagine this, I was sitting on a bench and I looked around all of them are on their BlackBerry or at least holding on to it. When I looked at the people sitting next to me, the person who's next to the next and so on, they're all on their BlackBerrys! It's so many it probably beats the number of total iPhone users in Singapore. Although in Singapore, mostly uses iPhone with some using BlackBerry and Android, it's still relatively not as bad/good (I don't know) as compared to Jakarta. They're like 'berryholics'. Loves it. For once, I felt like I was a part of an inclusive society.

Bahasa Indonesia and Bahasa Malaysia is so different, it's just like British and American English. It will be like chicken and duck talking but both will (most of the time) end up understanding each other like chicken and duck understanding they belong to the same group in the animal kingdom.

Went out with my mum's friend and relatives on the last day for shopping. How awesome, by the time we reached back to catch our flight back home, I was so beat.

Today I went over to Illys's chalet, after a long time not meeting her, finally we get to meet! Sadly the other two were unable to go.

Anyway, food for thought here. In Jakarta, there I was, sleeping soundly under a roof, air-conditioned, away from pollution, and pressured water that flows out perfectly from the shower. Having real food like salmon and wedges for breakfast.

A few hundred meters away, lay a kid whose roof is the open sky and whose blanket made of soot. Whose breakfast, lunch and dinner rely on human compassion and sympathy. Whose dream no one knows whether it can be achieved.

Burger King and Queens

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

I didn't believe it at first but it was true, Burger King has indeed conquered my campus! How can I be so oblivious to the latest news of my school?

See, being at this age is not as easy as you think it is. It's not easy staying hip, cool and happening. You have to keep in touch with friends from the past and present (and get their latest update in case any teacher I bump were to ask me for information), get updated with current affairs around the world otherwise you'll just be an empty shell, get updated with the Hollywood entertainment news otherwise you'll be person without culture, get updated with the local entertainment news otherwise it will get sucked by black hole, and on top of all these, you have to remember what you've learned in school otherwise you're bound to fail and appear in failbook.com. And you have to stay fit throughout if you don't want to serve time in the hospital. I'm being totally lame but the point is, it's hard to achieve balance in life, so is if you're imbalanced.

So, the same question goes when I got a BB message, WhatsApp and everywhere else: what's up?

Finally I've found a good use for my discman. All these while I don't see the point of using it since I can play music on my notebook, BlackBerry and generic MP3 (I got this for my rugged activities so there will be no heart pain if it gets broken) I know it's stone age to own a discman but I'm so proud to have taken care of it since I was twelve and now even after seven years it's still working. I really got to thank my dad for this. He bought it for me when I was twelve because I want it so badly and I thank the one above for giving me good hands to take care of this vintage item. Hence, this puts all my bought albums to a good use too. Rather than suppressing them in the drawer now it has a reason to play. I guess it's not bad to be an album hoarder after all.

School has been great. I can't say I'm so stressed out neither can I say I'm so free. Most of you would have read my status in Facebook dated a week back.

A concept learnt from the working world. It's best, in my opinion to do all my school work in school and do minimal at home. In this way I can watch tonnes of Gossip Girl, Cougar Town, 90210, and whatnot. Better yet, sleep with a sound mind. This does not say I'm not watching my work like a hawk.

Recently (okay, not so recent) I was browsing through my campus website to see my own course of study. Not that I'm the vainpot who wishes to see myself inside but because the people who get in are getting (fill in the blanks, once you go down, you can never come up unless proven otherwise). I was surprised to see my group picture in that segment! If only it was bigger, I can show the world my big head. Haha, kidding. Look at me, I look like an ant! Speaking of 'vainpot', you guys were so wrong to label me as one.

I'm beat and I'm off to bed. Happy weekend!

All or Nothing.

2011-01-08T01:50:00.002+08:00

No one would ever understand. No one.

I know ever since that day, this day would come and it did. I knew it.

So much for making legacy. Whoever fault was that, you should go back into your mother's womb , come out and relearn your ABC's and 123's so you get your facts right or probably don't put false hope on people. I don't care if it's honest mistake or otherwise because grow up, we are not in a world that leaves anything to chance. Not even terrorist attack, so why should you be spared? You should be fired because what's at stake is someone else's future or at least someone else's pride. Your irresponsibility is as good as a hit-and-run case.

You'd say I'm making a big deal out of this but you probably don't care about results but I do. Or probably you're just so selfish you wouldn't stand along by my side on this principle. I'm not going to take a no-credit when I'm so related to what I did.

After spending so much time and effort into this, readjusting according to expectations, and only to know it was tweaked by some scatterbrain who was busy with something the day before over an occasion the rest don't even care, and only to get result from their empty shell who know nuts about quality and gives poor contributions, I'd rather be more grateful to those that I've silenced and feel they had done nothing but the fact they had made my life easier by letting me do my job quietly. I mean it.

I shouldn't have let anyone touch my masterpiece. No wonder museums create boundaries around their expensive art.

Page: 2011

2011-01-01T00:00:00.166+08:00

"Let's start with a clean slate."

It's a common phrase to use on 31st December prior to new year and a few days after which, the clean slate will be smeared with different kind of paintings. Wonderful or not, only the beholder knows what to do with it.

How was my yesteryear?
Dramatic.

Like the economy, it's never going up all the time. In the early stages of the year it was all good and I was happy go-lucky until a certain period of time suddenly it went down a little bit though I wasn't sure if it's me or the economic downturn in the second or third quarter of the year? Anyway, mood-wise it has always been that way for all of us so it's forgiven.

As for school, all of you would have known by now that I will be graduating soon. I'm not so sure when will I be graduating exactly but soon enough. Details will be revealed soon! My final year project report is due soon and I wish myself, my team and all other teams the best! I know we had put in a lot of effort and thanks to Ms R for all the help!

Relatives and friends have been asking what's my plan after getting my diploma and here goes.

As for studies, I have several options in mind but I can only assure myself and the rest of this in two years time. I know, I know, all of you are excited to know. So am I. The world is so vast and loaded with information it's so hard to tell which is the best to pick up.

My friend Khai was so funny.
'Eh, can you enter NUS?'
'Duh! When do you want me to come and crash in your lecture?'
'No, I mean can you even enter NUS like enter, enter?'
Followed by hysterical laugh.

Another one was Syaz. I don't remember how this came about but it did.
'I can't imagine you in prison... With your sanitizer, tonnes of packet tissues, moisturizer and whatnot...'

Khai just had to add in.
'Haha! Imagine he sleeps, he has to sleep on water bed mattress...'

And I love to go with the flow, albeit marinated in half-shame.
'My prison mate would love to sleep with me rather than sleeping on hard ground!'

Jokes aside, systematically, after getting our diploma most of us boys will spend time with rifle and probably nature for two years - also known as National Service. So gotta be prepared!

Career wise, probably I will not be doing the same thing I had done for the past three years. Would to love to try on something new! People have been questioning about my NAPFA and my medical check-up status. Who knew going for medical check up could garner you a degree of popularity? Anyway, I'm quite optimistic about this because from what I heard, you'll be well-taken care of. Speaking of hygiene and the allowances that roll in... ;)

Then comes the topic on my social circle and this is probably a period where the ratio of female and male friends are even out. For those who're probably jealous of me having more female friends than male, it's time for you to pop a bottle of champagne and celebrate your victorious, answered prayer.

If I let this 'What will happen when I'm ferried to Pulau Tekong' to continue, I might need to start a new book. So we'll see how it goes and take this step by step. Anyway, this doesn't come after graduation right away. There will be some time spared for me to do whatever I want!

So for the next two to three months, I will busy with school and other you-think-it's-trivial-but-important things. My final year project may have been submitted but the project doesn't end there. There's SPINNOVEX to attend as my project will be exhibited there and a couple of interviews. Wish me luck!

What lies ahead in 2011?
Since this is a new year, like everyone else, I want to start fresh too. This includes starting to know more people while doing my duty for the country, getting closer to friends and family and stay fit and I don't mean the gym rat way but that's mandatory to prevent obesity, but stay away from being sick. The list goes on and along the way you'll dig more.

Happy new year 2011!

Firework

2010-12-13T21:21:00.014+08:00

"Cause baby you're a firework
Come on show 'em what your worth
Make 'em go "Oh, oh, oh!"
As you shoot across the sky-y-y"

Firework - Katy Perry

This song is so inspirational to me. It's like the anthem song of the year. Sure this year there had been ups and downs in life and sometimes I'm searching for that firework in my life to continue my daily journey.

Walking through the dark tunnel waiting to see the light at the end of the tunnel, I just need light in times of darkness and this song came along. It's a revelation.

Finally my test week is over. I'm done studying for the term at least, but the marathon is far from over. Final year project report is due soon. Will continue the usual routine of studying when school reopens just before the final exams.

I love studying because I don't have to worry much about anything else in life. Here comes the 'big' question, what am I going to do during this three weeks of hiberstudy-period. I wish I could hibernate but we're just not programmed to do so! But here's the plan:

Complete the final year report before Christmas.
Read all my borrowed novels.
Holiday - Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia.

That three things to-do probably sums up everything but there's so many things I want to talk about and share right now and would like to do. Everything is going places in my mind, except for its body stranded in this bland island. As much as I love this place...

As most of you would have known through Facebook, I'm not only on Blogger and Twitter, but now on Tumblr and in the future, WordPress. Obviously all for different purposes. I'd love to delete the rest and settle on one like a portal (of me) but I'd still prefer separating them because it gives me the reason to explore the wonders of the world wide web. It's like having a bunch of movies categorized in different genre. Life is in fact a show. So here's what I'm gonna do.

Blogger
So just so we are clear, my Blogger now are for special yet personal entries like holidays, hangouts, and some rants that you would have found in any other personal blogs. Still surviving even if not updated for long time. My friends tend to ask why am I not on Livejournal. The reason is this, this blog that you are reading now has grown with me for almost seven years. At the end of the day, there's only one place to find me: here.

Twitter (micro-blog)
My Twitter is like a live feed for you guys to find out what I'm up to. Since they always prompt me 'What's happening?' in my Twitter app, so that probably answers the purpose of my Twitter. Or when there's really nothing much to say but you just feel the need to, Twitter really helps.

Tumblr (my new blog!)
Them comes Tumblr which enables you to re-blog text, images, and whatnot. So, I figured, why would anyone want to re-blog, is this for losers who always go on hiatus not knowing where to start? Obviously not. I've dedicated my Tumblr to share my valuable experiences, and online or real life encounters and of course, interesting facts and other food for thought which yours truly love to read.

WordPress (coming soon!)
Don't get me wrong. I don't gossip intentionally, neither do I pick on people and neither do I like to slander people but sometimes when one person you talk to suddenly spills out everything, everything falls into pieces or everything suddenly make sense. So this blog is it but definitely not for tit for tat. You'll know what I mean.

Since before the test week, I've drawn up what to do during the short break. I end up disposing it! Come on, it's the holidays, why tighten myself with activities which are not meant to be scheduled? I'm free! Of course I have plans but they're unplanned and I'd like to be carefree for now.

So what now, really?
Project report. I can't wait to get over and done with this. I'm short of 3000 words and its appendix.

What's after that?
Vacation. I look forward to it but I've not come up with my shopping list and my to-do's. This makes me sick.

Two days ago I was out with E and we had a great time and finally I've found my long-searched love! Although not in the color that I favor, I guess once you're blue, you're always true. Guess this matches with my mostly-blue wardrobe. I still need the red over white, and black over white.

Following day was high-tea with H. Love the food and sunset by the towers. True that people look like ants from above. After ages of not meeting one of my best friends we finally met but no-thanks to runny nose the outing has to be cut short otherwise could have watched Narnia in the theater.

On recovery today.

Currently I'm planning for my 2011, drafting out plan(s) and resolution(s). You may predict the world to end by 2012, but not mine at least.

Ready, Set, Go! In Many Ways

2010-11-26T02:08:00.003+08:00

Class Photo
If you think this is an adaptation of the Thai horror movie, Shutter, you're so wrong! Half-truth, I'm the ghost who annoyed a bunch of 19 people. I'm sorry class, I just want this to be perfect because this will be in our year book for your entire life. You wouldn't want to regret about your looks would you?

I know my annoyance was short lived and I bet everybody had fun. I know I did, at least. Once class ended we headed to Sherm's house to chill and get ready for the 'showdown' and they were busy trying dresses and putting on make up while I try to add cavity on my teeth by munching on Ferrero Roche and Kinder Buenos. Oh, and snap some preliminary round of 'acceptable' photo shots using Huiting's camera. Turns out, her camera is full of my face already.

The weather was then cloudy, we figured it would rain but we didn't expect it to be right before we go back to school. So the drizzle damped our outfit a little and going to the Admin Block worsen the situation because it was so warm with no air change and little air movement. I'd rather be in swimwear then but the phrase 'suffer for fashion' sticks with me at that time so I stick to that outfit. Hey, I look preppy okay! A look that's so hard for me to pull off or even create because I don't have time for shopping (final year simply sucks out all your free time) and with little resources I have, I manage to get a fresher (if not new) look with my stale clothes. My wardrobe is a fashion suicide. I didn't know clothes with labels expires so fast until I start wearing them again. I guess being naked is timeless after all.

So under the rain, my class pose for the year book. We braved through the rain to get the best shot. We brought class photo taking to a new frontier! I really hope no other class did what we did - standing in the rain.

Life on a See-Saw
For the past few weeks I think I've lost momentum on my daily life, especially when my favorite TV shows starts to kick back into my life. Honestly, I've lost track of shows like 90210, Gossip Girl and whatnot. Only for the past few weeks I've been catching up again otherwise I'd just be a vegetable. Full of nutrition, but not-so-nice. The final-year syndrome is so hard to avoid.

If not for all these distractions and brain-consuming work, I would have been damn disciplined with myself to do what I want to do. Some distraction is good in this case. Exceptional! Somehow my bed tend to be so possessive that I don't feel like rising from bed. It's just unhealthy to sleep so long and wake up still feeling tired. I figured something is wrong, somewhere. So I decided to go for a massage and meet my inspiring 'sifu'.

My aunt who is a professional massage therapist said I have a lot of air in my body. Orang Melayu kata badan saya banyak angin. Which is true, there's like a lot of air in my body that I keep farting and my aunt massages me as though I'm some kind of bubble wrap squeezing the air out! Thank goodness the spa was well scented that the smell over empowers my fart (if ever there's smell at that time! Hoho!) I'm gonna have a follow up soon.

PSLE Result Day
PSLE result was out yesterday and I received mixed feelings about their result. Some did well while some don't. First of all, pass or fail, it's part and parcel of life. Even the economy is not that perfect.

As far as I am concerned, whatever result that you got must have been the result of your own effort and I know all of you had done your best.

You can have the best tutor in town but ultimately you determine your own destiny. It's like no point having the best car with a reckless driver. It will just lead you to the path of destruction still. Final word, good luck!

I've gotten myself several good news these days, thanks to the Almighty.

The Funny Thingy

2010-11-15T22:38:00.002+08:00

Warning: Although no pictures, this is probably not suitable for the ones below 18. No pictures, you're not suppose to see one in the first place! This is not some dirty story though, just so you know.

I can't wait to let this off my chest. If you think this post is disgusting leave it and in no way I'm framing anyone to be silly but the situation was really in fact silly.

Ever since Adam and Eve were sent to Earth, they realize they're naked so they feel shy by putting on clothes so showing off your 'thingy' is just so awkward and just so wrong, especially on the wrong timing.

I had my medical check-up this afternoon. No phones with camera, means I have to surrender my BlackBerry hence the deprivation to Tweet, Facebook or even read the news while waiting. Apparently it was not as bad as I thought, the process went quite smoothly from one station to another until this particular station: Station 6.

I have to wait for my call number which was 9 to go. I waited so long, stuck at this station because there were only 4 rooms functioning and the number of boys there exceed the number of service providers they have. I waited for like what, 45 minutes? The came my turn. I handed my documents to the officer/doctor (whatever they are called, so hard to distinguish when they are doctors in military uniform.

'Okay, bring down your pants and underwear to your knee level.' I did just that with reluctance. Duh, who is ever comfortable with that, flasher?

'Okay, take off your clothes.' Again, reluctantly, I did that slowly and half way through, he said 'Put back your shirt.' I gave a silent sigh of relieve. Note, my pants is still down with my shirt on, half of it still covers that 'thingy'.

Then he instructed 'Put your shirt back.'

I was clueless and I thought it was my normal himbo moments and I even thought my shirt was put on inside out that he asked me to 'put back' to make it right. I checked my shirt, duh, it's put on properly!

I can't help it but to show my face of blankness. What is he talking about?

'You can put back your pants on.'
'OH! *in my mind, was that what he really meant?*'

Guess what, that took me less than a minute and I'm out from the room, completed that station. I bumped into Naim. He waited with me, and he knows how short the test was for me. I was so amused and I know I did no wrong. The 'milidoc' aka military-doctor (not a formal vocab, don't learn from me) must have been so engrossed with something else I think. Okay, I'm just kidding.

So that's that for a short update. I hope you're all amused with that silly encounter. Presentation tomorrow, heading to be dearly. Good night!

Living Royalties

2010-11-14T23:34:00.001+08:00

This week is like royalty week. Not really, I'm kidding but yes, kinda feel like it because we were served with education on a silver plate and as for weekend hangout, I played Monopoly, and not your normal five stones and hopscotch. Duh, who does that these days anyway?

How does this make me look like Barbie's Ken?

School
So let's start with the daily routine of school. Apparently today my class was canceled because she would like to declare another day of Diwali for herself. Class was canceled because our Indian lecturer here fell ill. Get well soon yeah, you have yet to see our project report. It's so great you'll cry and you'll just want us to redo (seriously, hopefully not after all those effort). I guess presentation will be next week then.

SP Career and Education Fair
Attending this site visit is like killing two birds in one stone. Exactly two birds. Knowing your future prospect of your future study, and at the same time doing your school work based on that event. We were there and our hands were already too full of brochures and freebies. We got a lot of free pen, to the extend I think I won't have to go to the bookstore for the next five years. I mean it. If I don't share my wealth of low-value item (pens), it could last for the next three generation. I have a fist of pen on my study, another fist in the drawer, another bunch in my pencil case, and another bunch under my table, put in a box. I'm like the pen whisperer. Same goes for papers. I just wish I have to do million of workings already to make use of all my resources.

BMW World Singapore 2010
As part of school project, we had a trip to BMW World Singapore. It was eye catching, breathtaking and most importantly, full of substance. I didn't know my printer was engineered by BMW too! I love everything about the event and the best part is the freebie they gave. A pen, a lanyard, and a notepad. If only they give away cars for free, I will collect them so many that I would have called the authority to build me bigger car parks!

Monopoly Hangout
Since class was canceled, I thought it's a good time to hangout to loosen up a little bit. Went over to Funan with Nat for IT shopping, and then met Fiz. We were quite clueless where to go so we landed at Parkway Parade and we ended up playing Monopoly. I was on Glee at first, then turns out Monopoly has got ghostly hands pulling me to it. Now I love playing Monopoly. It is so awesome that Nat has got an iPhone 4!

Festival of Lights
Letchu is such a good host. Thanks for inviting me over to your open house, I am so glad that I was invited. Everybody else was drunk and dance to the tune of Indian music. I wasn't drunk, in case you need to know. I can't wait to be back soon! I miss them already!

One Way, Or Another

2010-11-06T16:47:00.001+08:00

I'm in love with this ultimate stalker song: One Way, Or Another! The song was used as one of the Mean Girls soundtrack. The funniest and glorified mean girls show ever. It's like murdering someone by driving people nuts and when they walk out, BAM! they got hit by a bus. Some people are just fated to die that way.

Speaking of death, in the light of Darren Ng's murder case at Downtown East which came out in the news a few days back, I would like to express my condolences to his family. The murder is something to condemn about because no one in the right mind would have taken someone elses life freely while they can't give one to begin.

Happy Diwali!
Then comes Diwali, I would like to wish all my Indian friends a great Diwali, festival of lights.

Currently I'm watching and listening to all those old songs backdated in 2003. I realize most of my favorite song was dated around that year. Probably that's the best time where all the creative juices have to splurge out. The new songs these days either have good beat but meaningless lyrics, or meaningful lyrics without a good tune. It's music to heaven's sake. I beg you Hollywood, make a good one.

So, what have I been up to really?
As most of you would have known, and would have heard I've decided to concentrate on school work and project. Last night chatting with Fie and Jerry made me think a lot. I do need to set my priorities. Duh, all these while I did figure out my priorities but along the way it got lost, somewhere, somehow, because of one thing. Taking revenge sounds more satisfying but not promising. So I've decided that rather than taking revenge against anyone, I'd rather learn how to manage myself. Revenge sounds more fun still, but ultimately it's only one-time fun.

First Take, The Substation
I was there a few days back for a non-filming motive. I wasn't the only one. In fact most of us were there as part of our site-visit for one of our modules. One of the many perks of my study is that I get to visit a lot of events. Some free, some This event is similar to the project that I am doing for my final year so going to this short-films event is nothing for me. I used to resent short films, especially local ones but since I'm forced to watch it because it's part of my project, I kinda start liking it.

Marina Bay Sands

Again, a site-visit for another project. Here's the thing. This is not my first time visiting Marina Bay Sands, and not my first time either for First Take but I just have to go there again and snap images. If I were to look back at my photo archives, you'll see tonnes of it already. Totally pointless, but for attendance, I'll just have to show my face. On the upside, I got to ride on a miniature Rolce Royce. Awesome much!

Sinema Showoff!
Here comes the final-year Project. For my study I have to do a very short period of internship, with a dose of final year project. This is it and it's a fair-share. I'd rather be this way than having to face three months of internship. I've seen people literally die with bloodshot eyes and overdosed caffeine trying to survive through the course. It didn't happen to me probably because I'm the one causing my lecturers and supervisor the trauma of their life. It's ending soon, and for now, my team and I are working on the report, which I'm not so proud to show anyone now because it looks like salad.

NAPFA Test
Two weeks back I was at the SP Sports Complex for NAPFA Test and I would really like to thank all those well-wishers. Only the Almighty knows how happy I was to be awarded with silver. Funny thing I didn't know those who got silver in my school are entitled for a free Crumpler pouch!

Many asked what am I going to do after graduation? Seriously, do you really want to know? Here goes:

I just want to get wasted (read below, not drunk!) for once, after graduation.

In the short run, I just want to sit home and forget everything else, watch my favorite channels like Discovery Channel, National Geographic, Disney Channel, HBO and whatnot. I don't have that luxury in this state of mine because all the television in this home is monopolized by my siblings except the one in my room because there's no cable.

Then on I'm gonna indulge myself in all the best junk food like Häagen-Dazs, Chips More, Famous Amos, instant noodles and all the cereal and snack you can find at the hyper mart. If you think that I've lost my hair because of instant noodles, blame NS, they took mine away.

I'm gonna go to the library and stock up all the book that really makes me laugh and have a movie marathon, non-stop. No drama already, life is already full of it. Of course part of the weeks spent will be for social activities like going public with family or friends. Work? What work?

I'm kidding. Of course I will be working. What kind of 'wasted person' do you think I want to be? I will also have to start writing my book if I ever want it to be realized. It's so hard to write these days with writer's block and deficit in writing energy. Worse still, I need it most when I want to write my project report. Even Fie realized my blog has lost it "Umph!" a little bit. Reason due: secrecy. Somehow he's like seeing through me. Thanks for the Nasi Lemak last night anyway! Awesome much.

Then comes National Service. *Cricket sound*

After which I will continue my study. It's still under 'planning and construction'.

I'm not that wasted after all.

End of Great Things

2010-10-30T00:33:00.002+08:00

We humans create our own journey in our lives. At times, some of us know where does our road lead to, while some are not so sure if the route is suitable enough or safe enough for them for every road taken there's a risk. There are even some who are willing to take the risk without seeing the ordeals that may come but I am sure that all of us have experienced all those three 'prophecies of life'. At times we are sure, at times we are not and at times, we just feel like doing it on trial and error basis.

For the past two years, there are many things that happened to me that I've experienced personally that made me grow a little more mature than any of my own age. Some are shared, while some are just personal successes and failures.

Those days were rich with memories and experiences which I took responsibility for in every success and failure of it. At least I know, I'm answerable for every action I took. It's just a matter of wanting to answer it or not.

Let's just begin with yesterday. Last night was the final night of doing one of the many the things I love to do, enlightening someone with knowledge. It all started three years ago, and yesterday was the last one. I felt satisfied getting a chance to arm them with what they need for their war. I would like to wish all of them all the best in every aspect of their life, may they see the sunny side of life always. I know, I may not be the favorite, I may not be the nicest, that probably left some swearing, crying and whatnot, but believe me, it's for your own good, kiddos.

First week of school had been taxing, with school work piling up, and Final Year Project report that's due I don't know when, and all the site visits and events we have to attend, I've decided it's best to leave all else aside except school. For the next few months, I will be devoting myself to school. I miss getting paid just to smile to people and being well taken care of.

Despite deciding to concentrate just on school, I do have my 'life's project' that has to continue. Like other normal human being, I make plans too. I've yet to talk to my 'sifu(s)'

NAPFA this evening ached my entire body. I will be needing my recovery sleep soon. It was awesome to run in cool weather.

For every ending there's a new beginning.

Ada pepatah yang berbunyi "Sekali kena, dua kali mahu. Kedua kali cuba, hari-hari mahu." tetapi nampak gaya, bagi saya, "Sekali kena, dua kali malu. Kedua kali cuba, sudah pasti jemu."

Chocolate for the Heart

2010-10-21T23:39:00.005+08:00

It was after his work. It was after our boring day at home, rotting, not knowing what to do. But we have something for him, Hafiz.

I told him I wanted to get my boots since my parents did manage to find it in Perth. After his work, with his tired, worn out feet, he dragged himself to meet me at Marina Square. My task was to stall him while Nat comes from the back and blindfold him suddenly. That failed. Nat wandered and somehow didn't find us. It's okay, there was a backup plan. A last minute plan, uncalled for. Fiz took the bait, somehow. I don't know if he sensed anything fishy already. Since things didn't go as planned, we met Nat, and asked him to take his glasses off.

The plan was plain and simple. The catch was the blindfold. The thrill of walking a blind person is exhilarating. We did it again, only this time, on him.

We didn't reveal where we're going but he's scared out of his wits. Knocking my hand softly onto his head freaked him out while the fact is, there's nothing in front. He walked as though there's a drain on front of him, trying to figure out what's in front of him.

We faked crossing the road, faked crossing the drain, and faked walking on dirty pile of trash. The smell and sounds he heard made him believe whatever we said.

When we reached, we asked him to sit and have a taste of something we put into his mouth. Then he knew, we're at Max Brenner's! Happy birthday (though belated)! Hope you had a good surprise, heh. I'm not going pour my hearts out here, but you know what you mean to me. For 8 years already!

School Premier

2010-10-16T02:39:00.000+08:00

My school was closed since August. Now it has been about ten weeks of not schooling but it doesn't feel like I'm having a good holiday because tests and exams are spread out over three weeks and the time before that is all spent on burying myself in a pile of notes. Clearly, I'm not enjoying my holiday. What's more I'm stranded in this concrete island, that has probably lost its green appeal.

I'm quite crossed with my estate cleanliness. Bulk refuse. Dog pee. Vandalized lift. Dirty walls. Stale air in the lift. It had just been about three months since it's new paint and the hygiene is a total thumbs down. If I were to live on the lower floors, I would have skipped the lift. Jumping from a pent house is not an option.

Since primary school major exams are over, I'm laying back a little while before thinking what should I really do next since the next level in my life is more controlled by national obligations rather than what I really want to do.

This holiday was quite well spent for my case seeing my disability to really discipline myself during break period. I managed to complete my to-do list within a day most of the time! Hey, despite being 'Type A' organized freak, I do need to loosen up a little bit.

I think I will survive in the army because from what I heard, everything is so well organized and sharp. Even workout sessions, food, and activities will be organized. How cool is that! Somehow, a part of me is looking forward to all expenses paid trip to Pulau Tekong.

I'm going to miss all my movies, my books, and other 'projects' that I did during the holiday. When school resumes, my bedroom will just be like another hotel room. Neat, tidy, just for sleeping and eating and not living.

I love all the things that I do, and by that, that does not mean I love being instructed to do on what I love to do. It takes the motion of my hart to do what I love to do, so don't force on the things I love to do because then I won't love doing what I love to do.

SEX: Sleep, Eat, Excercise

2010-10-11T00:39:00.000+08:00

Read all religious text and you'll realize what you need in life is balance. Watching Eat, Pray, Love starring Julia Roberts reminds me of Dr Ernest Wong's course I went 3 years back, that tells us to have a good sleep, eat good food, and exercise in order for us to have a balanced and well-maintained body. These days, with unbearable and undecided weather, it is important to keep ourselves healthy. True?

The movie was good to me because its humour is not so intense where you can't get a break from laughing, neither a boring romance movie that bore will bore you to tears. I enjoyed myself very much especially since I'm accompanied by Fiz, and Fifi.

It was quite long though. It's like flying from Singapore to Bali. Heh. Headed to Spize Supper Club after movie and thanks for the dinner treat! Couldn't help laughing at Fifi's smeared lipstick.

Today we went over to Fifi's house for an event, and I love the buffet. Chapati, Fried Laksa, Yong Tau Fu, and fruit cocktail is so appetizing. Gosh, now I'm hungry again. When you get into her house, there's more, spring rolls, layered cakes, birthday cake, drumsticks, and some cheesy sandwich. So if you happen to be there, you'll never die of hunger. The kids were wonderful playing all the classic games like London Bridge and Musical Chair. I had a great time.

I have a busy week since it's the final week of my school holidays and my physical test is coming soon. Wish me all the best!

Double Surprises

2010-10-07T01:53:00.009+08:00

"A true leader always keeps an element of surprise up his sleeve, which others cannot grasp but which keeps his public excited and breathless."
-Charles de Gaulle

I'm not a leader, but I do have elements of surprise up my sleeve. Don't underestimate what's under these short sleeves. Kidding! Credits to one of my best friends H.Y for the jump start on what surprise should we give to one of our best friend, N.Y.

So here goes the surprise from H.Y (Hafiz) and Z.Y (myself) to N.Y (Nat). This surprise has been thought through since March. We told Nat we had thought of something and she was head over heels wanting to know what is it. But the plan was labeled "Surprise" so we kept it a secret.

Seven months later, she finally knew what her surprise was.

This afternoon she accompanied me to my interview recording at Sinema Old School. I was late. I apologize to all those affected, heh. The interview went well. It was not as lengthy as I thought.

Then on we went to Raffles Place where we met Hafiz. Told Nat I had to get a camera which I rent from a rental company, so she bought that story.

"Eh, what time are you taking your camera? You said you're late right?"
"Errr, actually, we're here for your belated birthday surprise. You have to be blindfolded, take off your glasses."

From Raffles Place to Boat Quay we walked pulling Nat, carrying her heavy stuffs. Royal treatment! All eyes were on us. Weird stares. When we were crossing the road, it's like helping the blind to cross. The best part was, Nat was petrified. She's afraid of falling into the drain or walking through the wall.

People who're drinking along Boat Quay were staring and some were saying "Girl, I'm not telling you where you are." but they were ignored by her because her ears were stuffed with Siti Nurhaliza's and Eid songs, which she don't really like. She had to dance to the tune of our music.

Even when all the aerobic participants sang her a birthday song, she was clueless. At least 200 people where right in front of her to sing her a birthday song. It's like having a surprise at every turn.

She was still blindfolded even before her surprise boat ride. We prayed hard the boat won't sink, I'm saying this in the name of joke Nat. You've beaten me enough, haaha. Everyone who took the same boat asked "Can she get onto the boat?" , "Isn't it dangerous?" I've told Nat, if she were to fall she can sue me. That was a tricky card I played to get her blindfolded!

Her second surprise was after we went to Tiffany & Co. for her open-heart bracelet. She's blindfolded again, (I ended up giving her those bandanna because it stinks of her sweat) She was turned like a gasing and she was brought around Marina Bay Sands. Again, the looks we get along Chanel, Dunhill, Gucci and everywhere else. The best part was putting her in front of Gucci store, and asked her to exclaim "I'd die for Gucci!" and she didn't know who else was in front of her after that.

Going down the escalator, we showed her a picture we just took in front of the store.

"Look, who's this?"
"Eh? Where is she?"
She turned round and round like another gasing but she's nowhere to be found.
"Nat, tell her you love her."
And she did several times. Louder each time when there's no reply. When Fazlun appeared, she was so elated to see her. They hugged. Awe!

That's a perfect end to a perfect day. I really hope she's well surprised by the two surprises she got because I'm tired pulling her.

One of my friend is running a blog shop, do support her and have a look what's in store: http://moderadar.blogspot.com or http://moderadar.livejournal.com

One Day Celebration, Celebrated a Month

2010-09-26T23:50:00.003+08:00

I've been gone from blogging world for about two weeks. Today I'm back with several news, dated since the first day of Eid, and I realize several things... It is...

The day you see color-coded families.
The first day of Eid is always cheerful with families with clothes of the similar color and it only looks good if it's traditional outfit. Try that in western outfit, you'll look totally weird. Probably because some Malay families are too big (yes, some of us are big in making babies) in this way you (i) won't lose your child (ii) identify who belongs to which family in a large group photo. Those are just for laughs, but I guess we're a breed of people who loves unity.

The day where we forgive and be forgiven.
The beauty of Eid is the cliche sentence "Selamat Hari Raya, maaf zahir dan batin." which means "Happy Eid, I seek forgiveness from physical and mental/spiritual ill-doings." What we mean by those term is that we seek forgiveness from our physical ill-doings and our hearts from keeping hatred, incitement etc. Seen or unseen ill-doings. So in a way the bond in a relationship is renewed and started on a clean slate.

The day most things are brand new.
Like Christmas, Chinese New Year and other festive celebration, we would like to renew and redeem ourselves. So most of our homes are decorated with some new furniture, new clothes and accessories. Personally, my house can't escape from new furniture due to wear and tear. Festive seasons has its purpose after all.

The day we visit old relatives, and the poor ones.
Otherwise, when will you ever step into a poor family house or old people's house? Especially when our schedule is so consumed with career, own family, and personal commitments, this is the best time to visit them.

The day your draw out your own family map.
This is when you will find who marries who, and who's doing what, and other latest updates where you can't find in social networking sites like Facebook. Who's pregnant, and who's not. Who's a live and who's dead. Of course the ultimate purpose is to find out how are you related to your relatives.

The day the economy recovers.
In a way, yes, because kids love to spend, and kids love the part where they get alms giving (money) from the elder ones. Hence, triggering the money-multiplier effect. Especially when F1 season coincides with the month of Syawal, I bet most of them will be out shopping. What's more in preparation for Eid, money is spent too!

So what have I been up to?

For the past two weeks, I've been doing the things I love, the things I've planned and the things I've wanted to do ever since before school vacation. Now that most of the time is in my hands, I have the liberty to do them! I've been reading, passing down the torch to the several important people, and of course, I can't run away from visiting friends and relatives in the light of Eid.

Last night was my open house, and I am sorry if some of you did not receive the invitation because my house isn't as big as the community center and I wouldn't want the building authority to come over to my place and do an inspection only to find out there's overcrowding! Okay, I'm just joking but because of the last minute plan, and obstruction from my other activities, I did not have the luxury to text or Facebook invite everyone. This does not mean my house is only open for a day! Once again, I apologize.

I realize for the past few Eid, my open house coincides with F1 Grand Prix. Probably the next time we shall have F1 theme around the house. Checkered black and white tiles and carpets, upholstery and checkered traditional outfit. Imagine that!

Ukhuwah Tanpa Sempadan

2010-09-10T09:53:00.000+08:00

Kabur pandangan kita dikilau usia senja. Dipancar emas, perak dan gangsa. Hidup kita dikelabui duka dan nestapa, dan dinodai arus jiwa yang lara. Ayuh kita sama-sama memeriahkan suasana raya dengan menggembleng tenaga, berjabat tangan, dan beramah mesra sesama manusia. Sepuluh jari disusun rapi, maaf dipinta kalau jiwa teruji, segala silap harap dimaafi, dari hujung rambut hingga hujung kaki. Yang baik diambil sebagai teladan, yang buruk kita ambil sebagai sempadan. Gunakan sengketa lama sebagai iktibar dah bukan mancis permusuhan.Tiada hari yang lebih murni daripada Syawal ini untuk kita membuka lembaran baru dalam kehidupan kita.

Setelah sebulan menahan lapar dan dahaga, menepis segala hawa nafsu, beribadah dan beramal untuk membantu, bermakrifat tentang kehidupan dunia dan barzakh, inilah masa yang sesuai untuk kita menyedut segala bisa dan noda kehidupan dan memulakan dengan langkah yang baru.

Sebagai ciptaan tuhan, tiada yang terlepas daripada kesilapan dan segala ketidaksempurnaan walaupun luarbiasa. Setiap perkataan yang dihembuskan, setiap langkah yang dilakukan dan setiap gerak-geri yang kita lakarkan, kita tidak akan terlepas daripada tohmahan dan sangkaan buruk orang lain. Oleh itu, mari kita gunakan hari suci ini untuk merenung kembali kesilapan yang kita lakukan, dan memperbaiki jiwa kita. Bersalah atau tidak, tidak elok kita hidup bermusuhan sedangkan lidah lagi tergigit.

Secara peribadi, saya ingin memohon maaf dari hujung rambut, hingga hujung kaki, zahir dan batin daripada keluarga, saudara-mara dan sahabat-handai. Mereka yang telah menjadi nadi dan naluri kehidupan saya dan telah menyemarakkan kehidupan saya. Sungguhpun saya tidak sempurna, mereka yang menegur dan sentiasa berdamping walaupun ditimpa hujan dan badai. Semoga ukhuwah dan persahabatan kita dapat diperutuhkan lagi. Minta maaf kalau terkasar bahasa atau tersinggung hati apabila bergurau senda.

Tidak terkecuali, maaf dipinta daripada anak-anak murid saya serta keluarga mereka. Sekiranya saya tertinggikan suara atau terlampau cara, harap dimaafkan sebab sebagai pendidik (dalam segala bidang), kita manusia yang juga membuat kesilapan.

Kepada yang lain-lain yang saya kenal tetapi jarang bertemu atau berbual, maaf juga diharapkan sekiranya kalau terserempak tidak bertegur, kalau berbual terlanjur, dipanggil tidak bersahut. Saya harap tahun ini silaturahim kita dapat dieratkan lagi.

Selamat Hari Raya Aidilfitri, maaf zahir dan batin kepada semua! Halalkan juga segala makan minum. Diharapkan bulan ini diisikan dengan pengampunan dan pengeratan silaturahim agar dapat diberkati malikuljabbar.

The 10 Things I Love

2010-09-07T02:33:00.005+08:00

I'm bored because I have free time, at this hour before I head to sleep and my mind is never empty you should know that. I just want to share the 10 things I like to do. Read if you want because I''m here in my own space to kill time before drowsiness kicks in.

1. Myself
I bet everybody does. As you grow up you'll appreciate life more especially when you think you know what the future has for you. As a teenager I don't think we can determine how bright our future will be by judging from our current position in education/work alone. It takes effort to be where you are, and so far I'm loving it because whatever effort I made comes with a reward: self-satisfaction.

2. Gym
Common place for most boys and some girls. To be honest, running rounds, carrying weights and time keeping is not something I'd love to do when working out but I think with this practice you can be more disciplined. I don't know how far you can go, but so far going the pool and gym has been fun with my mates. Good way to socialize, and at the same time get fit. It's like killing two birds with one gun. Anyway, it's the fasting month and don't think I'd laze around. Doing house chores for spring cleaning is a form of exercise too!

3. Wardrobe
My wardrobe is like Narnia... When you enter it brings you to another world: the fashion world. Okay, kidding, I was being dramatic. I have a humble collection of clothes but I do love them because this is where I see my money hanging. I have a variety of clothes, so don't judge my collections! I love seeing myself as a knight in shining Armani. LOL! Although, I'd prefer style to fashion. Style over fad.

4. FadPad
Thinking of iPad? Think FadPad. This can't get any lamer! What I mean is my bedroom. When I moved into this house, I wanted a bigger room but because of my late grandmother and siblings, I'm given a smaller room, but to myself. I can't afford my own bachelor's pad because I'm not wealthy, so getting a bedroom to myself is a privilege! I feel that a person's traits is pasted all over the walls of their home just from the looks of it and I think it's true. From the looks of my arranged bookshelves, draped curtains, non-dusty frames, what can you tell about me? This is the place I feel safe where I connect with people without getting any disease passed down, or shop without have to walk and concentrate on the things I do.

5. Notebook
My notebook is a stone age notebook but it's still as good as new. My friends and relatives would have known and commented on it because it's clean and it's shiny. What's more, it's efficient! Annoyed with several scratched though. I have this habit of checking for viruses and defragmenting my disk every now and then. Uninstall any applications not needed and delete any obsolete files. So if they say this brand I'm using is lousy, probably the user is. Just kidding!

6. Wallet
It's not fat, but it's full of beautiful membership cards and whatnot. I like flipping through my card holder and browse the Polaroid pictures given by my friends too if I'm bored. The most personal unique card I have is my license because the date I got it is exactly 10 months from my birth date.

7. Organizer
It's like a quest map for the year, month and day. I'll lose track of the things I want to do and enjoy if I don't keep and eye on it. Trust me, ignoring that book will make me wander what should I do for the day and for the next few days. Will I hangout or will I have another plan? I will feel better if I have a lot of things to do and this does not mean work, just so you know.

8. Perfumes
A collection of it for different day and occasions. My favorite is Acqua Di Gio by Giorgio Armani but I'm finishing up other bottles before getting that one again. I've smelt so many people using it, so I guess it's not only my favorite.

9. Traveling
I know! Out of all things, an interest is stuck here. It's not even a thing! The best part of traveling is the flight and sight seeing. Taking flights it's like a fetish! With traveling all other interest kicks in, DUH. Photography. Shopping. Sigh seeing. Writing. Just name it.

10.BlackBerry
Now all my social networking tools is under one roof. Text. Facebook. Twitter. Skype. MSN. Google Talk. BBM. Phone calls. Read documents. Push-mail all in one and reachable within several clicks. All I need is an internet connection. I know these days all other phone has these functions too but I know what makes mine tick! Kidding! =P

The Last Supper

2010-09-02T02:17:00.001+08:00

School Drools...
Today is simply awesome because good gracious was I late for my test but the test have not started! There was this massive jam at ECP and along Parkway Parade, it was estimated that I will reach Buona Vista in half hour. How can I not be panicked? I tried contacting school, the BE office and whatever means of communication. If only there's smoke signal and Morse code to send, saying that I'm unavoidably late... If only life is that simple.

It's the holidays, cum exam season. Tough choice!

After which my dad fetched me to choose my blinds. I think I need them because pasting newspaper on my bedroom window to prevent the direct sunlight is a 'so-not-me' thing to do but I won't deny, it's the most creative thing that I would do in times of desperation. Being the non-artistic person I am, I don't like messy stuffs like newspaper to be pasted all over my window. Neatness, cleanliness, tidiness is my thing. I'm quite square.

Once done, I headed back home and canceled on my hair appointment since people commented it's still short, and I'm tired from the 2-hour staring game with my notebook this morning. I decided to take a nap and wake up to get ready for dinner. Choosing my outfit for tonight was so troublesome. How often do we have to do wardrobe maintenance?

Then comes dinner...
This is the last grand supper for the week because the rest of the days I'll be back to square one: staying in.

One of my best friend owe me a ride but because of the last minute changes on his part, I was disappointed. I will not deny that because I didn't even bother to bring my ez-link card but loads of thanks to his dad that we managed to cabto The Grand Hyatt for our dinner. In the cab as compared to being driven by a friend: it's different experience.

In my experience when driving with my buddies, we have all the freedom to switch on our loud music and don't bother about what other people think of our music collection because there is simply no one else in the car (unless you're talking about something supernatural) whereas in the bus or in the cab, you can't say whatever you want, you can't 'curse' whoever you want and you can't listen to the music you want loudly.

Back to the dinner, finally I get to meet Fifi after ages of her missing in action. I wonder what has she been up to but tonight was three of us reunite with sumptuous buffet dinner in front of us.

We celebrated our birthdays. The belated one and the upcoming one because we didn't have the chance to celebrate it together so this is the first time having dinner together and hang out. Otherwise we would be spending our time at my house slumbering.

You know, when I'm full, I feel like I won't have to eat forever but when I'm hungry, I feel like I can eat forever. Himbotic remark but I bet this applies to all of you.

What's next?

Currently apart from blogging, I'm munching on potato wedges and fish. I just feel like munching even when I'm full! Tomorrow: Study. I hate being a cliche but as a student, I can't run away from it. I also need to tidy up and clear away some dust in my room, and freshen up the air. Need to open up the windows and let all the stale air out. I guess tonight is the pre-revision for my F&B because of the food I 'dunked' myself into. I feel like a puffer fish. You must know, buffet dinner is not a eat-it-all dining restaurant. The humor from F&B lectures still linger in my head. Till then, I'm off.

The Regimental Life

2010-08-25T01:17:00.002+08:00

If you ask me how's my life, it's the worst time to ask because to be honest, it's not the way I want it.

So it's fasting month, and life should go on as usual. Like how other days go on but no, it's different. Because there's no school, it's all study, break fast, this little thing I call meditation, and study again, then browse the net to relax for a little bit then, study again. Need I mention how many times I mentioned study? The process is slow despite sounding like I'm doing much because this week is solely dedicated to MS Project because it's my worse module ever. I would kill for anyone to do the exam for me. One mistake and all wrong. It's like a domino effect. One falls, and so will everything else.

On the upside, I'm loving it because during fasting month, I seek the betterment of this practice. I get to detox myself, and at the same time, concentrate my mind on something else, otherwise I'd keep eating, and going out. What's more I get to save money to pay my bills. Lord knows the devil's number I have to pay. I was in fact traumatized and mortified by the act of my impulsiveness but I forgive myself because I deserve to get what I've gotten.

In order to suck out all the poison in my life, I've frozen my cards like how Isla Fisher did it in her movie. Okay I'm kidding but I've put somewhere I can't really remember. Just hope it doesn't get lost somewhere into the hands on anyone else.

I can't tell you how addicted I am to my BlackBerry these days. Probably because of my domestic self-confinement, I rely a lot on it for entertainment. My notebook is kinda yester-century. I only use it for school. Otherwise, MSN, BBM, WhatsApp, Facebook, Twitter, News, E-mails and whatnot is done through my phone. Simply for one reason: it's insanely mobile. On my bed, in the toilet, in the kitchen, while sitting on top of the washing machine, I'm able to connect with people outside, watch videos and listen to songs. Blogger should come up with it's free application. It'd be the best thing ever.

I'm excited for next week's plan! Everything better goes well without a flaw. After exams I should start picking up goldmines.

"After two years of bad business, and I'm done. We need to go somewhere rich!"
- Samantha Jones, SATC Movie 2

Buyers Gone Crazy

2010-08-13T01:58:00.001+08:00

As most of you might have the luxury to break fast at home, today I don't. In fact I'd prefer breaking fast at home, or somewhere secluded for many reasons.

I was in campus this afternoon to update on the project report. Final year project is hard work. No matter what, I still like the fact that because my team mates and I did our work in our lecturer's office, we have the luxury of getting the full blast of A/C on a hot day. The weather is unpredictable these days.

My appointments after which were canceled and new appointment came up last minute. Totally could not make it for the latter because I was somewhere else far away. Met Nat and we toured Orchard Road shopping belt. Finally I've found a new belt after ages of searching for the right one!

I know, I know, once I tweeted about writing an agreement between me and myself not to shop anymore because I felt I spend too much, which I did but it's for a good cause. Things were on sale (it's fun to be cheapo), and Eid is coming soon, I won't have time for anymore shopping trips, and exams are coming up so shopping is the last thing I would want to do. I have to use this impromptu time (by waiting for people, by walking past the mall, or by writing a full list of to-buy-things) to shop. This has to stop for a while for more than one reason.

While waiting for the call for prayer to commence break fast, that's what we did. Nat and I then kept on complaining about buyers remorse. Nice. To be honest I felt a little guilty going beyond my limit but in the light of the things that happened to me recently, I think I deserve to be rewarded. It's a lesson well learnt.

Okay, I've recovered from buyers remorse.

I love fasting month not only because I can detox myself. It's a month to seek solace and peace within myself.

Remarkable Days

2010-08-10T19:30:00.006+08:00

Today is Khai's birthday, so let's wish her a big fat happy birthday! You're the best-est ever and anything-else-fails spare part. Okay, I was kidding about that, don't take my jokes too hard okay? I hope that 'expensive watch' bought with love (mostly something else) will last you like forever? Really, you should have taken all seven colors like how I suggested.

Thanks to S for the lunch treat yesterday. I still don't understand why I have to make friends with two people with their birthday so close to each other. I have to tighten my belt! For what it's worth, you guys are my pillars of strength. Khai still don't know the difference between the term 'can't afford' and 'expensive'. S has to spoil the lesson by laughing out loud. Thanks a bunch.

So here's what happen: We were shopping for her gift. Initially we wanted to get her boots. But since it will get dirty, she scrape the idea of getting boots. I couldn't agree more. We thought of getting her a watch or some other gifts. Go figure what she looks for: price tag. She's the funniest ever. Any friend would have exploited the opportunity by picking expensive gift(s), and I was giving her the chance. I ended up getting something for myself instead! Probably that's why she's in my A-list.

Did you know yesterday 100 Plus was giving away free drinks? One full can of 100 Plus. It was awesome.

I just found out today The Parliament of Italy is considered one of the worlds most expensive governments. Weird fact.

My National Day was not over the top kind of celebration as usual because the tickets are always given to non-patriotic people. Let me tell you this. If I were to get the NDP ticket(s), I would come in all red with my own army of friends parading into the Padang. I will even fake-tattoo my face with the full Singapore flag you would not have known it was me who sit beside you. I guess that's why I don't need a wake up call to be patriotic because I've always been. If you think I'm jealous because I don't get to see the fireworks, I had the full view of it with a "circle screen". I don't even have to squeeze with other people like penguins do. The Almighty have blessed me with so many good things in life. I can't thank you enough.

Fasting month starts tonight. Shall lock up all incitement, gossips, lies, vulgarities and whatnot. Scientifically it's a good way to detox and cleanse yourself spiritually. A month to start on the right foot.

August Rush

2010-08-08T12:30:00.001+08:00

Has any of you by any chance watched August Rush before? I was skeptical when my friend said it was good. Then I was wrong. We must not only not judge a book by it's cover. Don't judge a blu-ray by it's cover too!

Anyway, in this month of August with the YOG break coming up, I have my own race to do against time. Final year project is starting to take on it's toll with the reports and whatnot. Exams are coming up, which I still need to find the time to revise because MS Project is totally not user friendly. I still need time to write notes for other modules too!

A few days back was one of my best friend's birthday, Syaz. Khai and I had this last minute shopping running round the mall to find that particular shop (I don't know the name of it) and I ended up getting the gift for him from across the mall. What a waste of time, seriously. I still can't believe we took the wrong bus. Okay, not exactly. It's the right bus going to the opposite direction.

Khai was stoning. I was BBM-ing. When I look around...

"Eh, are we sure we're on the right track?"

"I don't know, that's why I ask you just now."

"Yeah this bus goes to Pasir Ris! (I saw LKY's face that says welcome to Tiong Bahru)But why this bus pass by Tiong Bahru!?"

"I don't know! (What does Khai know in the first place? Just kidding!)

So after all the commotion we talked to the driver and positive. We're on the wrong track. What an episode.

When the clock stroke 12, we entered Syaz's bedroom and sang him birthday song with a house candle on top of Ben and Jerry's ice cream. Big candles are the in thing these days ya'know. Cross fingers he was damn well surprised and not expect that at all.

Last night I was away across mainland to do some shopping for upcoming Eid. I figured I will be occupied with tonnes of work to do so I took the liberty of doing it before Ramadan. Sorry to "SALE!" I don't think I will be able to make it this year.
My relatives and I had dinner at Seoul Garden to satisfy whatever cravings we had before the constraints we will be having in Ramadan. Those who fast would have known, even after break fast you don't feel like eating much already. Going for a buffet for break fast just seems to be a bad idea.

That's that for an update. Happy National Day! (Let me wish this a day in advance.)

Cease to Exist

2010-08-02T12:46:00.001+08:00

I was in the train and happen to find out one thing. It spoils my day. Whatever happen to those good old days? I know I should not have let my heart rule my brain. It could have worked for a no-brainer but I took chances. I thought things would have changed or at least things will change but no. I felt so used. I don't believe in horoscopes because I define my own life, personality and destiny, but somehow it seems to reflect the state I was a few days back up till today. I should have never played with fire.

This is why I'd prefer to deal with what I love to deal with. No emotional turmoil because it's simply one thing: it's a non-living thing. So never argue with me why I don't get emotionally attached or whatnot. Being in those kind of situations will just bring you to extreme ends of emotions. Even some would do things that's beyond imagination. Everything will just get in my way.

However I shall be strong in facing these ordeals. Who says life was ever going to be easy. Every dark corners now I shall make it nitid for a safer path to happiness.

Nothing goes beyond this space. I don't have to elaborate. I am going to put them in imaginary chest, lock it with a lock I will never find, only taking the lessons from it, at sink it to the seabed of my past. You will never hear me speak of this again after this entry.

I won't complain forever on my life mishaps.

I had a long day yesterday. I happen to feel more pressure than any of them because as the important day approaches, they are simply unnerved! But I guess it's part and parcel of being them. I was once like them, but probably worse. Go figure how mischievous I was then.

After all those hurdles draining their energy so that they absorb the knowledge I want to impart, my relatives and family fetched me. We headed to Henderson Waves and had my own feast at the KTM Railway Station. I was famished. Even that word seems to be understatement. I went for two rounds of meal and speaking of this makes me hungry again.

The night ended with a 'needs' shopping spree at Mustafa Centre (24/7 mall is the best idea in retail) with Syaz because I had to get my sports bag and stock up urgently and I barely have the time to even hit the heartland mall. Besides, my heartland mall is deprived of men stuffs.

I'm done writing. Have a good week!

Gulp! Gulp!

2010-07-28T18:32:00.000+08:00

A little quickie before I go off and do my school work and anything related to work. As you would have known, final year is not an easy year. A lot of things to do and time is never on our side at this stage but thankfully, I managed to steal some time to go swimming with my classmate QY, since she's so engrossed about being fit and whatnot, so I figured it would be nice to have a company. After all my workout buddies are simply irregular and swimming was not in the list until last week.

After an unproductive morning in the class listening to presentation where only lecturers bother to listen (I think?) we headed to the pool. Being the newbie I am, okay not so newbie the last time I swam was 5-6 years ago so go figure my swimming skills. There are several reason why I hate swimming...

The smell of chlorine chokes me
The smell of chlorine sticks on the skin for a day even after strong smelling soap
My skin gets darker
Accidentally drink water in the pool and water gets into every opening of your senses. Your eyes, nose, ears, mouth and skin

Since my school swimming pool has no chlorine as they claimed since they use ionized water, I took their word for it and true! No chlorine smell! Although QY said there was.

I was practically struggling (swimming go bonkers!) and water was splashing everywhere, not smooth at all! I bet people from the gym or from the food court were laughing but I swallowed my pride. I don't have goggles so I bought it from Cheers nearby, really how convenient that was. I guess it was money well spent because it includes ear plug! Awesome much!

For the time being whenever I go swimming, I gotta stay by the side of the pool just in case I get too exhausted. Come on, it's Olympic pool, cut me some slack! I have to pause swimming four times to get from one end to the other. I guess my stamina is no match for QY's just yet! Hope it gets better soon!

No my body is aching all over. I need to sleep but it's not the time yet. Ciao!

Plain Malay

2010-07-26T00:08:00.004+08:00

Hari ini saya ingin menulis dalam Bahasa Melayu, sebab memang sudah lama saya tidak menulis dengan punuh dalam Bahasa Melayu.

Kebelakangan ini saya memang jarang mengunjungi laman Facebook, Twitter dan laman-laman sosial seperti Blogger sebab jadual saya amat padat. Tidak ada masa untuk saya keluar bersama teman-teman dan kadang-kadang masa untuk diluangkan bersama keluarga juga terabai. Namun, saya amat berterima kasih kepada pihak-pihak yang memahami dengan jadual dan keadaan saya.

Saya amat bersyukur sebab dengan kehadiran BB dalam kehidupan saya, saya dapat melayari aplikasi Twitter dan Facebook semasa di luar. Ini membolehkan saya mencuri sedikit waktu untuk melihat perkembangan teman-teman dan saudara-mara saya. Tidak dapat dinafikan, bukan saya sahaja yang sibuk. Malah, saya pasti anda juga terkial-kial membahagikan waktu dalam jadual seharian.

Sabagai warga negara Singapura, anda banggakah Singapura menjadi tuan rumah Sukan Olimpik Remaja? Atau anda fikir majlis ini remeh? Hmmm...

Bulan Ramadan akan menjelang tidak lama lagi. Sudahkah anda bersedia? Saya memang ghairah untuk menyambut bulan yang mulia ini sebab memang banyak rahmatnya. Alhamdulillah, saban tahun kita ditemukan dengan bulan Ramadan, amat diharapkan bulan yang datangnyea setahun sekali ini digunakan dengan baik. Maklumlah, masa itu emas.

Di sini saya ingin mengambil kesempatan untuk meminta maaf daripada kawan saya, Z kerana tidak menghadiri majlis hari keluarga anjuran syarikat dia dinaung untuk latihan industri. Saya juga ingin meminta maaf daripada rakan sekelas saya yang menunggukan saya di stesen MRT Teluk Marina.

Beberapa hari yang lalu saya berasa bingit sebab pengecas saya sudah rosak. Saya tidak dapat melakukan kerja sekolah, layari laman-laman tertentu, apatah lagi berhubung dengan rakan-rakan sekelas tentang kerja sekolah. Walaupun adanya BB untuk memasuki MSN, penggunaannya tidak sama dengan apa yang ada di komputer. Payah untuk menghantar fail, maklumat dan sebagainya.

Harap-harap esok saya mempunyai waktu untuk mendapatkan pengecas yang baru kerana saya memerlukan MS Project untuk kelas IT esok!

Antara banyak-banyak benda yang boleh rosak, mengapa pengecas saya?

Saya sudah penat. Mahu sahaja rebahkan diri saya di atas katil empuk. Kalau ada kesilapan bahasa, fahamilah bukan selalu saya blog menggunakan bahasa ibunda. Sekian, jumpa lagi.

If you ever need this article to be translated, hope this link will help you. Don't expect perfect translation though! No language is the same!

http://translate.google.com

Colours

2010-07-20T20:53:00.001+08:00

Today my life is full of colors. Red, blue, purple, magenta, yellow, orange, you name it, I saw the full spectrum of colors this afternoon with my mate Htee. We went to SGF. I was quite surprised to see the bunch of tourist and golden aged people buying their gardening needs and whatnot. Some are even wheelchair bound. How impressive that was, coming down all the way to the heart of Singapore for goodies and gardening needs.

Apparently I was early so I had time to go round Raffles City and got myself something. I missed out buying several needs but I shall go back to M&S soon. There's more than one outlet in anyway.

I was at the SGF for different reason. Nothing to do with gardening or landscaping. Someone even asked if I'm in the landscaping industry. I said no. I appreciate landscaping but it's not something I live to learn.

Sadly, not much freebies. Probably they're afraid all those "kiasu" people will just snatch and grab, and probably kidnap the guy who holds on to the freebies as well. I'm not suggesting, but you know who the main audiences are. They would kill for free stuffs. Hey, it's not a crime, but still got to be sane when snatching away free stuffs.

Apparently there was a photo booth, so we took the opportunity to have our snapshot. By the way, we were clueless where the rest of my classmates went until we were about to leave, we saw them. We went to have our dessert cum dinner. I was full by a plate of waffle. Well, my plate is never empty, thankfully, but sometimes it's more than I could chew. This calls for a bigger mouth and stomach and system.

This slipped off my mind many times, but thanks Deb & Qide for keeping my BB charger for me. Appreciate it loads!

You're the only exception.

Resort World Sentosa

2010-07-07T23:01:00.001+08:00

Somehow lifestyle of mine since the start of the second term seems to be holiday, still. Should I be happy? Probably. Worried? Forever more. On the first week of holidays I was in Redang, then a week after that in Bali, then today, I was in Resort World Sentosa (RWS). Only this time, for different motive, school!

Being shuttled and all, team mates and I went around RWS like nobody's business taking photographs (the only free thing to do there perhaps!). I felt small because the made-made marvels are obviously huge! The colors of the building made me feel like I'm in a real animation movie with turquoise roofing and the lazuli colored sky as the backdrop. You probably don't care as much as I do, but I'm loving what my eyes laid on.

Apparently the merchandise sold in Hard Rock (Singapore) is pretty much disappointing. Mainly apparels and tonnes of mugs. Even Bali has more variety like hand phone holder (I have one by my side), credit card holder, umbrella, bath robe, bath mat and other stuffs!

Since we're not suppose to be splurging our money there, hope we're not trespassing(!), we had lots of photographs by 'beach pool'. Similar concept to Bali's Hard Rock, but smaller scale. Still! I regret for not swimming there while I was in Bali! Major period!

The next time I go out to any place, I must really find out what color the organization's uniform/theme color for their staff. Here's the thing, I was at Giant Hypermart and I wore the same color tone as the staff. Then I was in Hard Rock, wearing the same tone, AGAIN! You know what I should do, I can do something like the credit card advert where the person was trying to camouflage with the theater's wall to sneak into the movies!

After RWS, I headed home and BAM! on my bed. I napped for about 3 hours. Is that even called a nap... Now I'm awake, dinner awaits. That's why I should worry if my school days feel like vacation.

I shall get started on my essays so I can free up my time to read my book! Reading makes your imagination run wild in a good way.

Boom, Boom Pow!

2010-07-05T23:55:00.003+08:00

I'm about to enter the twilight zone because of the early morning flight and jet lag. Plus all the activities done in Bali since 4 days back, I'm spent, but not wasted. I missed several days of school and thanks to a friend who helped me check my results while I was away. When I'm back my room was all dusty. So let's start from the top.

This is my first afternoon flight, with the sun right above your head. So even being sent to the airport by car does not save us from the torrid heat but at least it minimize sweating! The flight was good because AirAsia was smart enough to allocate my seat by the window, which is my utmost favorite seating spot.

It's the school holidays in Indonesia and probably some parts of Europe, US or Australia as well. That's when you get to see lots of "ang moh" around with a mix of local tourist around. The streets were jam packed at night but it's happening with loud bass music, neon lights, colorful lasers and and people with high spirits. Though some were drunk by Bintang. Minum kayak bintang, jatuh aja ke bumi kapan mabuk!

Anyway, I didn't spend the entire trip in Kuta, I went to several places I've not been to in the previous trip there but one or two of them were repeated because I like the place, the scenery, and the weather!

Initially we wanted to see dolphin but we have to wake up a about 4AM!? I'd rather sleep.

We happen to stay right at the doorstep of nightlife. So it's not easy for us to sleep because the new hotel probably didn't know that they have yet to sound proof their room. My bed was vibrating "Boom! Boom! Boom!" while we were trying to sleep because all the party animals are jumping all over across the road. Other than that the hotel was good, shower (which is important to me) was satisfying, and it comes with complimentary drinking water. I'm a little saddened we didn't get to stay at Hard Rock or somewhere around there because it's full everywhere! All due to last minute bookings!

Thought of running along Kuta beach and lay eyes on "dried fish" (inside joke) but it was getting dark and a little too late when that idea struck my mind! Sigh!

Thanks to my parents for this trip and all!

Anyway once touched down, I headed to school with heavy laptop and notes in a paper bag. My hand hurts TTM. In my return fight, AirAsia assigned me aisle seat, which is never my favorite. People passing by, rubbing their hands on my seat, rubbing their bags on my shoulders, some even have rodent smell, and I'm just afraid some clumsy bloke would drop something on my head while putting stuffs into the cabin compartment and worse, while they talk directly I will be sitting right under getting some drizzle (imagine while you eat...)

Now that I'm back, I seriously need some spanking and a major alarm for wake up call. I need to get my feet on the ground. I was in the lecture with my FYP mates while we were talking I realize in fact, like really, in reality, I'm in my final year in the campus and I will be out after that. Like in a blink of an eye. Seems like it was yesterday when I was enrolled. Seems like it was yesterday I bought my notebook! Well it still look new now, I know several friends were impressed, thanks! A lot of things happen within a span of three years but I did not expect this to feel that fast! Better yet, no Youth Day holiday for us! Why do we even have that day for youths like us in the first place when there's no vacation for us. Might as well name it Children's Day and Children's Boxing Day in the next Children's day. I have no idea what I'm talking about. *Pouts lips - Cassie and Htee, take note*

I headed home after school and I tried to sleep to catch up with my jet lag. Apparently effort gone wasted. I got off my bed to do other personal chores. Tonnes of own laundry to be done, till there's nowhere else to hang dry them, my room is handsomely tidy but dusty because of four days abandonment, my notes are all over the place, and some of my bags are wide open. Any pest can just build a nest inside (this is what I imagine!).

I was a little heated up on my way to school because the train was delayed, by not 6 minutes but about half to one hour! At almost every stop they have to keep the doors open for about 5-10 minutes and people just keep on coming in so the train turned into one gigantic canned sardines. So apart from being late which was totally not my fault because I've made my calculations I will be in school on time and target, my personal space gets smaller and smaller at each stop!

The absence of my ez-link card for the day didn't make things any better. I have to walk from station to school. I'm lack of coins for bus. They must have Standard Ticket for bus as well in the future!

Holidays are over. Over.

Holidays Gone!

2010-06-27T22:09:00.003+08:00

There was a hype about "loike" a few months back with my buddies that up till today it somehow sticks to me if I were to want to annoy anyone who gets annoyed with this phrase "I Loike!" Why would one ever want to add extra letters in words while we have been using acronyms even in our everyday speech?

Anyway, that's not the point. It was a random joke that occurred in my mind. Weekend was burnt but was fruitful. Thanks to my beloved Final Year Project lecturer Ms R for cabbing Syaz and I back to the east!

So much for holidays. I've not been getting enough rest and it doesn't feel like holiday to me but I've done fruitful activities like assignments and whatnot.
As most of you would have known my MSN Messenger will be changed with effect 1st July. Duh, this is something quite important because e-mail has been part of my mode of communication ever since BB, so if any e-mail goes to the old account without reply, there will be complications. I've done my best to let know everybody. Of course I will import contacts but in case you don't know, here's a little heads up.

A lot of people owe me money! No, actually only three. I need a "bailout". I need to watch movie! Watching Ugly Betty with Khai 2 nights ago was fun though I had insufficient sleep.

Which leads me to yesterday's event, the launch of "Bulan Bahasa" (Malay Language Campaign) where I performed playing the tambourine. The food was good. The thrill of getting pictures (more than once, not for me) with the first Singapore Idol was entertaining since we got nothing to do after that. Seriously, tak ada kerja... Only today I know the difference in tambourine and tamarind. Hands down, I was a joke. But they sound similar so I guess no one suspects my vocabulary error then!

I'm in love with the view of the skyline and MBS.

Yesterday was a launch, today it's a tournament. I owe Wardah big time for making time in spending time with me at the Katong Challenger Trophy. I'm not a fan of soccer or other contact sports but I was there to help out being the emcee. It was fun being a little impromptu at times, and doing some "damage control". It was raining heavily in the morning and the field was all muddy that the field turned into semi-mud bath. Most people just take of their slippers and walk barefooted. Better yet, some covered their shoes with plastic and they look like astronauts!

It's the first day of school tomorrow. It's that fast 2 weeks have gone.

Redang Island

2010-06-22T03:27:00.002+08:00

Right, I was in Barbados. Whoever really took my word for it, give yourself one tight slap. Okay, I'm kidding. My economy is not that "atas" (up) for such a wondrous adventure so traveling to neighboring country would be fine, just for the "feel". Laugh all you want, especially those who didn't get a chance to travel overseas for other commitments back home. Argh, cut the crap.

Redang Island is good. Clear blue sea and you can see the fishes and coral from the boat without goggles. The accommodation was terrible. Redang Lagoon Chalet is a no-no for anybody even if you think going to dirty toilet and sandy bed is an adventurous thing to do. By the looks of it I was quite disappointed already. Nevermind the facade. When I got in, the chalet has 2 floors where the top one is just bed without AC, just fan and windows. No side tables, no nothing. Did I say bed? I mean mattress. The mattress was dusty and so sandy I have to really beat up the mattress so the dust would fly out of the wooden lock defunct window. They could use a little laundry softener because the bedsheet was so rough and too crispy I could probably buff my rough soles with it. The wooden flooring and walls need some serious manicure and varnishing because it could just cut anybody's feet/fingers who's not careful.

The toilet is like dirty hell hole. Dirty, smelly and a little slimy. Not kidding. Probably that's why when you go to their website, they don't even show a picture of the toilet. The water flow is so small it took me more than my usual time to take my shower. Plus, I don't feel clean even after shower because the water flow rate is like my tears going down my cheeks. Slow and small I could cry not having a proper, satisfying shower. No mirrors in the toilet, and no shelves to put my toiletries (god knows my abundant collection of body cleaning agents). I could literally go insane in the toilet. The best part, there's no telephone to make calls or order people to clean the toilet or whatever room service.

The itinerary and activities available totally, purely a downer big time. They only have snorkeling in their itinerary list, for the 3 days 2 nights. Snorkeling at 3 different places, with no variety of activities like diving, canoeing, trekking or whatsoever. So practically that place is like one big slum with people going for snorkeling only. Imagine at least half of the chalet population goes snorkeling. It's like snorkeling pilgrim, honestly. Thank goodness the snorkeling sites are wonderful except one, due to heavy downpour and to many people at one site.

The peak took its hit when my brother lost his spare phone (how irony for spare phones to be lost) and our neighbor lost about RM1000 on top of that, my cousins RM100 was lost as well. Duh, police report has been made and probably need to call the insurance agent for the stone age phone and my stolen RM20. Here's the thing, their doors knob is the conventional bedroom door that one, anybody can breakthrough, and two, any spare/master key is available and can be duplicated. This probably happen while we were away putting down our faces in the water trying to figure out what type of fish we are looking at. So then he/they probably had their shopping spree from room to room while we were away.

The awkward thing was, stone aged phone got stolen and a RM20 from my wallet (damn you touch my Bally without permit!) except my BlackBerry that was bare beside the plug and I brought my spare "StrawBerry" phone as well just in case. Credit cards left untouched. Even my library books. (Probably they are that illiterate). So we figured they don't know how to use the high end phones or even PSP (because it was lying around naked beside the stolen phone!). Poor brother now has got no spare phone. Really, thank God my phone is not stolen because firstly, it's new, secondly, I don't intend to get Vertu (the best phone) just yet and thirdly, I will be more than pissed and bring down the entire island because I don't want my data/contacts and all to be lost. Yeah, if my Storm II is lost, Storm III is coming out right that instant.

Only one thumbs up, even so, the buffet is only one round (they don't top up) and the variety is just chicken and fish just in different dishes laid alternately. I could literally die. It's like living the life of refugee. Each morning I put both my hands up and pray "God, spare me." It's that bad. The food were not bad though.

Enough of negativity. Of course I won't put this to rest, even if it's not my property that's lost (majorly) I feel violated that my room was broken into. Zuji and friends sure will get a copy of this, though probably less explicit version. There were no safe boxes invested so I guess it won't be a place I would want to visit again and I mean Redang Lagoon Chalet. The island is fantastic!

Stayed a night in Cherating and had a dose of soft fish crackers (Keropok Lekor). Totally awesome. Now I'm so tired of it. Today I'm gonna have a full rest and probably 'detox' myself before heading full gear for a new dreadful term (for once, I'm really dreading school because of the test). How on earth can I be a good student with lousy lecturer(s) who seems to be like ineligible to teach a bunch of bimbos and himbos. School mustn't be this hard. School should be fun. The essence of it has gone. So I'm gonna be back with some roaring fun! Sigh, I hate being mean you know.

This holiday season I had lots of snacks that's full of monosodium glutamate and whatnot. Gotta fast (except water) for a week not for payback, but for health. Ciao!

P/S: FYI, the pictures are for you to see, separately from the long winded entry. Nothing related. =)

Dinner and The City

2010-06-12T01:44:00.004+08:00

We're young and we're full of hope and promises. We're the face of tomorrow.

"Look at my face (pointing to my face), I'm the face of tomorrow." I told Nat.

She said "Yeah, tomorrow will be your wrinkled face!" You're getting better making fun of me! Which reminds me, does your Juicy Couture has your size? Hehe, just kidding!

Meeting Nat was awesome, after ages since she was so occupied with school demands and as usual, yours truly is always in everybody's demand as well (can't deny, really, thanks Almighty), I still receive a lot of texts everyday via BBM, WhatsApp and by calling. I feel appreciated. Hands down, my social life is back, mugging days are over for now. Shall forget all my sorrows and start the day brand new burying deep the weird, silly and retarded past. Don't get me wrong, this is not a comeback because I've always been here. It's redemption.

I can't sleep for the past few nights. Eyes closed, mind still wandering about a lot of things. At times I just wish I can be like a mobile phone, with the power button and switch myself off when needed too. Though I might risk the chance of accidentally switching off myself like how sometimes I accidentally off my mobile. I guess this happens every test/exam season but now I've found the antidote. No, sleeping pills do wonders but I'm still afraid it might do a job too great I may not wake up on time for tomorrows paper. Reading more notes doesn't help either. In fact that keeps me more awake. Being a little self-conscious I am, I realize I've created myself a huge eye bag and puffy eyes so big that it can be sold at Polar Puffs. Even no one would want to buy these ugly puffs despite being free of charge. Now that tests are over, I can hibernate!

So back to the evening I had. Nat was punctual. Fiz was late. Damn late. Anyway we had our late lunch cum dinner at Seoul Garden. My sauteing and grilling methods are getting better and the food I ate is no longer charred. Learning more might disappoint me. I see more people around self-uglification by taking food and plates like nobody's business and spit on their plates (the bones and whatnot) without discretion. Somehow I failed to find starters around, though suddenly fries appeared in front of my face thanks to Nat! Whatever it is, dinner was awesome much. Being learner the learner, I'm still being impartial and non-judgmental. Honest!

Windowed shopping because the river does not always flow as fast as you think. Chit chatted about some TV series, and whatnot. Then we decided to have a dose of caffeine at TWG. I need sufficient but not too much caffeine to complete the F&B project. I love tea. I only drink coffee when desperate time calls for desperate measures! Even so, I try as much as I could to avoid coffee. Guess what, despite the two pots of tea I ended up visiting the loo more than being sharp. I still wonder, what does that acronym stands for?

Once home, completed the assignment, and I'm starting to pack for vacation. I hate last minute works, it's just not me. Perfection, simplicity, minimalist and being organized and fast is my thing. Of course it comes with a price: interest. Gonna clean up my dusty bedroom, and clear up some other mess. Gonna be back soon for more updates. Do check out this space!

The Best for Test

2010-06-06T23:24:00.008+08:00

It's my test week and for the entire five days I will be busy revising. Yes, I've written my notes and all because I know I will have other things to do apart from studying during weekends and what I figured indeed came into reality. So today was spent mugging and it's not easy to concentrate because it's the first paper and the engine had just started. So it's not so warmed up yet.

After this week I will get a few days rest and I will be off for my vacation. That would be so awesome because I'm in need to lay my eyes on something that is not like concrete jungle. Living in the city is fun but what are the chances of you laying your eyes on the beauty of mother nature right?

So after this vacation I will be planning my reunion party (hopefully I can pull it off this time, in the name of event student!). The guest list has been up though more things will be included soon enough. Cross fingers most of you will come! I'm quite excited for this years reunion (really hope it turns out well), so please keep your November/December as free as possible okay!

Plus, I have yet to book my flight for next year's travel plan. Fiz! Meet up soon and we'll talk into this okay! Awesome.

Wish me luck cause I really need it. Ciao!

Manifestasi 2010

2010-06-05T12:55:00.007+08:00

Last night's adaptation of 'Bujur Lalu Melintang Patah' was awesome. Just so you know, I heard it was adapted from a literature text so for those who'll be taking their A's and need some insights for better understanding, you went for the right show. For those who didn't (or went for a strip show!) I guess you'll have to study the hard way!

I drove to TPJC last night and I was told by my best friend Syaz I was not suppose to park in school so I took the liberty to park at the HDB parking nearby and sacrificed my brain cells to think on what coupon to put and how to put the coupon! It's mind boggling! Then I saw several guests car parked in school! Nice...

Anyway this year I was late, thanks to this legally black best friend, Ms K... I have to make one big turn around MJC because the other side of the field gate is closed and she couldn't make her way through. If only you're skinner, you can squeeze yourself through the gate without having me to press on the accelerator pedal. Period. Anyway, of course then she did redeem herself by allowing me to make jokes on her. Awesome. But somehow she always think whatever I said has to be a joke! Dangerous.

After the event we headed up for dinner and Zahidah joined us. Fun much! We were kinda lost on where to go after dinner and Zahidah thought it would be fun to tour the entire island (fun-fair is it!?) or go to MBS while it's already late! MBS is not even open at that hour (referring to the malls) unless you want to go gambling (no I don't think so!). End up we decided to go home and I badly wanna hit the sack then!

I guess that made my Friday. Syaz told me I was like him 5 years ago! ROFL! Signing off now. Have a great weekend! Here's (on your right) one of my old friend who's one of the most important pillars to the success of tonight's show!

Sunday Hangout

2010-05-30T20:29:00.001+08:00

Hey peeps how you doin'? Good? Yeah, I'm doing good in case you ask. It's not normal to go out on Sunday because I'm more of like indoor kind of person. I guess that makes me a little introvert, being preoccupied with my own thoughts and all. Not that I hate outdoors. I do love going out and play in the sun but it depends on the timing. I usually do those stuffs during holidays and when the sun is not so fierce! Yeah, yeah, all you people will be like "Then NS how?Cannot stand the sun uh?". You people are oh so judgmental!

Today's plan was to complete all school assignment and probably start on revision a little bit and I was suppose to meet Aunt Rit at SIN but again, change of plans. Thought of eating Popeye's because suddenly I just had this sudden crave for Popeye's. So I thought going airport would be awesome. The other week I had a craving for fried 'kuay teow' with cockles then now I want Popeye's fish and biscuit. It seems awesome eh?

The plan took it's turn when my friend Nana was online. We were chatting about going out and since I was already ready to go out we were talking about where to go. We even thought of going to Escape theme park since the entry was free but it seems like it's gonna rain. We decided to study instead since our test is around the corner!

We had an awesome catch up. I think this year our mum hang out together more often than us!

I got to make more plans to go out whenever I could otherwise my brain will shrink to the size of pea and I will lack human interaction. Online communication is killing my human touch and it's like isolating myself from the world.

Awesome!

2010-05-29T23:09:00.002+08:00

"Awesome!" seems to stick to me for the past few days. I rarely use this word or not at all until a few days back I started using it. I don't know why! It's like awesome!

My weekend has been so great so far but it's all due to all the last minute changes. Initially I was suppose to attend Breathe (living without smoking campaign) but they called me I don't have to come because they don't need so many manpower. So I was fine with it since a friend from Indonesia was here so I thought I could host her and friends. But then the plan changed again so I called up a friend to ask if he has anything for me to do, so there I was at Breathe!

It's great to make some new friends in the event and bump into one ex-school mate! Awesome! The radio they gave us is so jia-lat it can't make up its mind to go which channel. It keeps on changing by itself. How am I suppose to listen to 98.7FM then?

Thanks to my dad he lent me the car and the parking charges soared high. I saw a Malaysian Bentley broke down in front of The Hereen! Awesome! Since I get to go gaga over that car while I was standing around that area... So for that time I was taking advantage of their trouble of waiting by the road side for the tow truck! Guess what, I was there about 2pm and the Bentley was towed at 7pm! They could have just gone shopping while waiting for the tow truck. Oh wait, it's a Bentley, how can they leave it on the roadside by itself right!

For these few days I need coffee because my term test is around the corner and I need the stimulant to keep my brain activated. I realize when I study my body is switched on but brain switched off. I bet it's not only my problem but some others too. At times I feel I should just have a computer brain but Einstein did say that our brain is faster than computer. So shan't risk that!

Sex and The City 2 is out already and I'm so excited to watch it because it's set in Dubai! It's one of my favorite countries. I've always imagined life with Arabian style. Probably because one of my grandfather is an Arab so I guess it kinda stick to me? But it's kinda far fetched. Whatever. So Nat, don't give me spoilers okay!

When will the eBay items be sent to my house? I need protection for my BB! I'm gonna hate my phone if it has scratches. This is my training phone before getting any phone made from gold, sapphire or rubies. Just kidding!

School is killing me. We have to do a proposal on incentive travel at such a short notice. Submission is this coming Tuesday.Test is coming soon. Wish me all the best. Awesome. :)

Project Again!

2010-05-27T00:11:00.002+08:00

Sinema Showoff! took a blast last night featuring foreign films. Some were hilarious and some seem to sound like horror but actually it's a sad story. Whatever, kudos to all of them for putting great short film. It was a full house last night that some have to seat on the steps.

Lately I heard several never-ending feuds with people not liking each other and doing things behind each others back like backstabbing, bad mouthing and all.

I was quite crossed these few days. No I'm no women who has menstrual cycle but I have my reasons. Having my throat choked with words. Having to keep quiet due to respect. Having to be annoyed with the same thing all over. Having to deal with all the things I want to do in life. Having to adapt with something that's ever changing. Having to face and deal doubtful people who keep on reminding as though what they believe in is really happening. Having to uplift to expectations which I don't even set for myself. Having to prove something that's not worth proving. Having to do something that doesn't warrant my happiness.

I feel suppressed. Yes, that's the word I've been looking for. Probably I sound selfish. I don't care. You people are living example in the first place, hence my unhappiness. That's why I'd prefer my other "option". They don't do much talking and arguing. They give the green light to almost anything I want to do. Don't mind me if I were to ever one day be a screaming ogre. I'm no recorder but I remember, and I can't be a carbon copy like any of you out there. I acknowledge if my principles were to ever be wrong, but you can't say my opinion and personal encounters to be unrealistic, wrong or impossible. After all it did happen. Touch on culture (not racial issues) you will curl and hurl.

Try pressing the wrong button.

I don't label myself as soft on the outside but hard on the inside. Not vice versa either. I don't use force because to me they are for the weak who can't express themselves in words. They are the ones who can't come to a compromise, sit down and set things straight. Little did they know tongue is the best weapon that starts to rip their losers hearts off and the best fire to boil their blood and that makes them wanna punch you because they are just lost for words. But if duck, all they will be punching is thin air. Score board: 2-0.

This is something metaphoric you just have to crack your brain to know what I'm talking about. It's more than one thing that's for sure. It might be you I'm referring to.

Dinner at Popeye's was a blast. I need a breather.

They Come and Go

2010-05-17T21:44:00.002+08:00

You judges, don't judge this post to be an emotional one, even though I am not entirely happy right now but I'm still kinda over the moon about several stuffs.

New Bought Baby (BB)
I'm single, and I'm ready to mingle. With my new BB now I can do lots of social stuffs, be more efficient, don't get bored easily, and of course, I don't mind long journeys anymore because I have my new soul mate. I was annoyed for the first few days using it not that there's anything wrong with the phone. I just thought there was something wrong with the phone. See here's the thing, I go to school but school don't teach me stuffs like how to use my BB or how to sign up for plans and all. (So much for school preparing for our future life, just kidding). So I was a little overwhelmed with "What kind of service is this?" and when I contacted them, finally they said they had just activated my data. Nice work, very nice. I'm still trying to get use with the keys probably because my hand is too big but I'm relatively fast in typing. All in all, I'm in love with it so much now I wonder if life will ever be the same again without it. Rest assured, diminishing returns won't set it that soon for now.

Better yet! I had just bought 2 new colored casing, and a sport armband case online! Hopefully this could be my new motivation to run around my estate like merry-go-round and nobody's business, with my new BB in arm and running through the beat of the music.

On the downside, like continental cars that uses up a lot of energy, it's so synonym for this. So I guess tapping the school's electricity will be a norm for me in times to come. I even thought there was something wrong with it, AGAIN until further research. I guess I won't be selling my "ex" away because I could use Skype and talk for free for hours.

Texas Girl!
One of my best secondary school mate flew off to Texas for her holidays! I'm so green, I'm telling you. But I'm happy for her more than being green. After all that she had been through she deserve this trip and get more inspiration for her art or something! Ward! Please remember to buy and get the me the things I asked you to get like those freebies you got from SIA (Refer to list 1.0) and all the good stuffs that I asked you to get me, but please call me before purchasing it. Your Crocodile luggage better lay eggs!

I am glad I was there at her house before she flew off. Apart from meeting Neesha and Illys, I asked Ward to buy something that's kinda important before heading on for heading to the States. Which she didn't know about until I told her. Have a safe and wonderful trip!

P/S: If you happen to go to Mexico, get for me a picture of Ugly Betty and Suarez family if they're in town okay. Just kidding!

Weekend Not-Well-Spent
My definition of weekend, go out go home, sleep, do laundry, clean my ever-cleaned bedroom, do some school work, and sleep and wait for Monday to come. Okay, I'm not saying it's not-well-spent totally because I enjoyed going to RP for Forum Perdana. Enjoyed the skit because one of the cast happen to be a relative. Kinda enjoyed the food but was annoyed there was insufficient tables around (I can't use both fork and spoon, which was so enraging, especially when I'm hungry.) Other than that, it's all good. The Cultural Center was so cold!

I was so tired on Sunday I slept early, for about more than 8-hours. I'm having a breakout soon I think. So I really have to watch out.

Have a great week ya'll!

Unforgiving Times

2010-05-08T13:22:00.007+08:00

School has been fine, same old same. I realize all of our lecture are mass lecture, which means to say the concentration from one lecturer has to be spread out to about 120 students. What does that say? Go figure.

I have the car all by myself this weekend, but I have no plans just yet, except to visit someone in the hospital and go out for dinner with my relatives. Of course when I get home I need to do my 5 marks presentation with minimum of 5 slides on IT. Cheapo and almost negligible, I know. Imagine 1 mark given per slide, including my cover page, actually it's kinda good bargain. Of course I still believe my school is trying their best to give and get us better grades.

The weather here has not been forgiving. Not that we're having hurricane, tornado or anything destructive in case anybody from the other part of the world reads this. It's so, so hot, and humid. Anything could have been baked or cooked in this torrid heat. I read somewhere that the sun sooner or later will cool down but it doesn't seem like it! I have to think on what to wear everyday (in terms of color and material that absorbs minimal heat) so that I don't sweat like a leaking hose reel. For the past few nights I've been repositioning myself to sleep under the A/C, which is kinda fun to change the way I sleep in my own bedroom once in a while.

This morning after sending my parents off and before redeeming my sleeping hours back, I was blog hopping (so much time huh?) and chance upon this particular post that says:

"Mistreating another person is the equivalent of sticking your finger in a socket. There are repercussions because all humans contain a divine spark in their souls.

Today, whether it be friend or foe, family or stranger, warranted or unwarranted treat people right."

P/S: I'm still waiting for "The Call". How much longer do I have to wait?

Reality Check

2010-04-28T22:08:00.012+08:00

Time seems to fly so fast after the holidays, which is good because the pain of waiting and anticipating will be over before you know it but at the same time it seems like I don't have much time for anything else to ease the short pain. Anyway, gotta stop being one emotional wreck.

Timetable change!
This caught me off guard probably because I left the lecture hall within split seconds after lecture when the lecturer told us about the change in Friday's timetable because of lunch with Nat. Had a great time on Tuesday afternoon eating my favorite McSpicy after ages of not indulging myself into it. So Friday's timetable has been changed to a late afternoon class (I know, everybody sighed including me, I sighed the next day when I got to know about it, slow) but on the bright side you can sleep as late as you want before going for the two hours lecture and enjoy the weekend after that.

Sinema Showoff!, again!
After a month Sinema Showoff! (my Final Year Project) is back only this time the event features Malay/Indonesian directors and films. I was there again to cover the event by taking photographs which I did my best but the camera is simply stubborn to snap. No matter what, thanks Nat for lending me the camera. The event ended late so kinda grateful that my dad lent me the car to drive otherwise I will get bored to tears in the train listening to repeat telecast "If you see any suspicious looking person or article..." and occasional surprising brakes. At least by driving I can listen to songs, at the same time concentrate on something else: the road.

Dream? What dream?
Had my usual tutorial today and as the first tutorial ever with this lecturer and he doesn't know us so as a way to know each of us better, he asked us what we wanna do after poly life? When it comes to my turn somehow I turned blank but the fact is there's a lot in my mind! If I hadn't gone blank, I would probably say I wanna write. A book or something. Whatever. Even up till now I just think I could write better than I speak. Thanks to Singlish. You know after some time, there's nothing to be proud of about having this Singlish thing in Singapore. Yeah lor! Make my English go bo-chap. We don't need another new born language while our mother tongue and business language is rusted and brittle.

As I write right now, I'm enjoying Bond and some other music without lyrics. These days it feels depressing to listen to songs with lyrics. For now it's best to listen to the ones without lyrics and let my mind wander and be blank for once. Yes, sometimes when there's too much it's best to let it out here, freely. Anyway, this is my new wallpaper. I have my old school friend to accompany me half way to school on Thursday. Gotta thanks my parents for the efficient week and gotta think of ways not to bring laptop to school. Shall leave the duty of carrying heavy stuffs until I serve the nation. Just kidding!

The Premiers

2010-04-21T01:11:00.002+08:00

First Premier: First Day in School

Not everybody is looking forward to the first day of school, especially after a long 8 weeks vacation. Slacking, hanging out, some even went for courses I heard and whatever you guys did surely you will miss it. So how was my first day? It went pretty well, because the goal during the first day of school is not to sweat because it would be so unglamorous to be in the train with throngs of people and have perfume and sweat mixed up. It's no cocktail. I did not bring my laptop because I thought I could use the computers in the IT lab so apart from sitting under the air-con and enjoying the torrid heat because it's not blowing to me, I have no laptop during IT lesson. Being a Lecturer 101, checking for last minute information is not everybody's cup of tea when it comes to the first day of school. They prefer information to come to them instead. So pass on the information through the right channel if you really want none of them to miss out anything.

After school, Fiz and I headed to town and we had a great catch up talking about school.

Second Premier: Gurushetram - 24 Hours of Anger

A premier attended by President. The first Tamil film. Drama, deception, anguish, dejection and defiance all mixed up in one film with a pinch of soft comedy: Gurushetram - 24 Hours of Anger. To be honest, I have my doubts because for one thing it's the first Tamil movie in Singapore. Secondly, it's scripted in a language beyond my capability to understand but the subtitles did a great job in making me understand and relate to the movie, and good thing the subtitles were not the kind where it's directly translated and the 'feel' is off. Get my drift. Anyway, all my doubts were burnt when I watched it. The actors seems to live by the character and acted naturally. The video quality was almost impeccable. The storyline was great and rather unpredictable.

Throughout the 2 hours episode, drugs , greed, and money are friends that shatters the life of innocent children. A loving mother that falls into the trap of imminent death and deception. Blood shed to shut the righteous ones and a plan to clear the streets of bad boys. In this movie entwined the theme of care, love, and sacrifices that was made for the sake of their loved ones. Even when what was loved had gone, the sacrifice and hardship continues. What's embedded in the heart of this story is a learning point that love knows no bound, and the greed for carnal world surely leads you to the path of self-destruction.

With that said, you would probably want to check it out while it's in the theaters. It's a movie with heavy investment that would probably sell best in India. Thanks Fiz for accompanying me!

The 11th Hour

2010-04-11T03:36:00.026+08:00

Indonesia - West Java, Batavia (I love the sound if it)
Thought of going for a last minute trip? Indonesia is probably the value-for-money place to go since the exchange rate obviously put most Singaporeans in advantage. So there we went! It's a pretty short trip since it's a last minute thing and we couldn't afford last minute hotels and all, so thankfully my mum and her friend who happen to live there helped us out with our last minute arrangements for flight, transport and all. It gets more adventurous (not) with delayed flight (by the hour!) and because we were stranded in the airport for almost half a day, and I'm still not happy about that, at all. Despite being all optimistic about it, there's much (of negative stuffs) to say about cheapo-flights (not cheap after all, go figure).

So here we are in the glass house, was impressed by my mum's friend capability to get this for us! There were 2 dogs, one was a French poodle and the other is some kind of bull dog (caged because it barks whenever it sees people) and the French poodle (Pixie) was so cute because when the owner was not there, it followed us everywhere we go about in the house! Good thing it's obedient otherwise he would have jumped on my bed licking me, which can be very disgusting.

Despite being such on a short notice, we managed to meet Fiz's aunt as well, even she said time was all constrained. Thanks to my mum and her friend who helped us loads in getting us a good place to stay, and a wonderful car (I like the fact that Tanter Rit's car looks solid and undented) and thanks to Tanter Nana for bringing us around at night and for the sumptuous hilltop dinner. Also, thanks to Fiz for being such a wonderful holiday accomplice!

Back with Incidents
We landed in the afternoon and I was spent. I couldn't sleep in flight because of the noise and pressure and the people around, I just couldn't sleep. We landed safely and my dad was nice enough to fetch us back. Parents went out only to come back with news that someone nearby our apartment died committed suicide. I went to sleep and woke up to the sound of sirens from the fire engine. Parents asleep including me, woke up to that sound and lookout the window to see everyone from across the block looking through their windows as well. It must not be a false alarm eh? Within split seconds we look over and saw clouds of smoke rising up through the air. I took my phone and camera and went down. By then many had stood by the block and looked up. The flames raged it's way out through the window and trying to reach out to the houses nearby. No casualties I heard, but the flame was big from the kitchen and there was an explosion with sapphire flames that bust the windows out.

Although no one was badly hurt (I heard, except for breathing difficulties from the neighbors) sometimes I guess it pays to be more wary about fire safety including the care of electrical/electronic appliances. It burns not only your house but the things that are valuable to you like sentimental gifts, passed down items after so many generations and imagine the hassle for starting a new life all over again (despite insurance!). To add on, there's a wake in the multi-purpose hall. Probably it's time to make bigger/double storey hall to hold more wakes or probably a large ceremony to ward off all these terrible incidents.

On a Brighter Note
Alhamdulillah my 8 weeks holiday had been well spent of course with the usual high-low tide moments. Most of the things I had listed down 8 weeks ago now left with a few to go. So last few weeks was shopping, to the mall, to the zoo, and to all the places that rips off money. Now it's time to take a step back, and do more stuffs like fetching my altered clothes (face it, my measurements are unique, haaha) and jeans from different places, catching up with old friends before we depart again with hectic school work. Good news, several photographs that I took was featured in YouthSG (a youth portal established by the Ministry of Community Development, Youth and Sports) website in an article in Masala Mix!, a monthly programme that features short films from our local directors.

Here's the link:
http://www.youth.sg/content/view/7867/52/

That's all for an update. Enjoy!

Class Chalet

2010-04-01T23:47:00.006+08:00

Alhamdulillah, the class chalet that was planned ages ago has ended with a blissful ending. Although only half of the class attended, I do hope that everyone who came enjoyed themselves as much as I do with all the food and all the talking. Yes I understand that some were unsatisfied or rather unhappy about certain things, I guess it's best that one does not humiliate others in any way because that's pretty low of you to do just that. Besides, I'm no perfect man that could satisfy all parties.

Thanks to Khai and Lina for their wondrous effort in making the best of every ingredients bought to make sure everything is well utilized and that their effort in helping me with the preparations for the food and BBQ is indeed remarkable. Though there were so many things going on I forgot to bring some stuffs. No one else could ever repay the two of you except from The One above. You guys came down and woke up before the birds just to help me out! Thanks to my youngest brother too who helped me carrying the items down despite being shagged from school. Thanks to Nat as well for the extension loan for the camera! Gratitude is also extended to my team mates and Nat for helping out picking stuffs for the groceries shopping. Indeed only you people know how much I have to recalculate the sum to make sure we don't buy unnecessary items.

For those who came, thanks for contributing your effort and I'm glad that the food was cooked by trusted hands otherwise I would have died of hunger. I just don't eat burnt food, it's just unhealthy with the carbon and all. I hope all of you had a great night sleeping over and spend quality time with each other.

So the next morning was time to check-out and from the chalet I hailed for a cab but to no avail no matter how many times I pressed the "Press for Taxi" button. Probably next time, instead of having blinking lights, siren or alarm should be rung to make sure the taxis that passed by know I was there.

Once I got the cab, the driver helped me with putting the stuffs into the boot which was nice of him since not every cab driver does that. I said my address and he drove but when I've reached and had paid, he left me unloading the stuffs alone (which is still fine by me) and probably enjoying the A/C in his cab. I purposely left the door open so that he knows I'm not done unloading the stuffs. The nerve breaking moment was when I forgot to close the cab door he went out to close the door and got the cheek to say "You never close the door" with that N-shaped 'smile' he went in back into the cab and you thought I would apologize? Period. For those who have missed the episode, sorry you just have to be faster next time. :)

Saturday Night Live!

2010-03-27T22:50:00.003+08:00

Singapore Zoo
Woke up early in the morning to clean up and get ready for zoo. Turned out that those two pals of mine are having a good life sleeping while I was getting ready. So we were kinda late (according to our plans). We had our KFC breakfast in the zoo and round the exhibits only to find out there are many friends of Khai. I'm glad that Syaz and Khai seems to enjoy the zoo treat as much as I do. We shall do that again some time!

The Mall
So it was a hot day. it was unbearable. It's either the ozone is depleting, the sun is getting bigger, of the UV ray is getting stronger. It's as though the sunlight is piercing through my shades. Probably the UV protection on the glasses has depleted like the ozone or something. Probably it's time to get new shades? We headed to Orchard Road and had a good time window shopping and shopping and still wondering how to accessorize one of our 'beauty-deficit' friends. Haaha, just kidding! Anyway, thanks Syaz and Khai for the wonderful lunch/dinner and whatever food/snacks and all the things you guys treat me. I feel so indebted to you guys :)

Fifi's Birthday Party
After shopping we went back to send the car and headed to Fifi's 19th Birthday Party. I would like to thank her loads for the invitation and hope that she has a blissful life ahead of her and face all ordeals with all her strength. I heard it has been a tough year this year for her, though I believe she will pull it through no matter rain or shine. Once again, thanks for the invite. Clearly you look amazing tonight.

Class BBQ Chalet
As my classmate J and I will be hosting the class BBQ chalet, we would like to thank you guys for the co-operation in making it a possible one. Do remember to come on Wednesday and I will update you guys where the place is exactly. I am looking forward to this class gathering probably because this is the first gathering we did together outside school. Hope it will be as fruitful as planned.

SIFF and ICECE 2010

2010-03-22T02:21:00.001+08:00

23rd Singapore International Film Festival
Press conference at the 23rd Singapore International Film Festival was filled with press and film associates from different countries. The sumptuous breakfast and afternoon tea break was enough to accompany those who are still networking though I was there for different purpose. I was there to be in the press, just kidding! Camera is not working that well that day and I was recovering then, so the mood for doing things is just not there. Though thankfully I drove because I could go back in time to get enough rest before going out again on that day.

International Conference on Early Childhood Education (ICECE) 2010
I was there to help out and the food was a must-not-miss because they were so generous with their buffet lunch and tea break. You would have known that I have a big appetite which comes with high metabolism "package". So somehow I don't seem to have any worries of getting fat easily so I did have more than one serving each meal. It's suppose to be a secret because I don't want to be labeled greedy or anything of that sort! The best part for the guests was they got a 2GB thumb drive which could be very useful in keeping their work stuffs. Sadly I couldn't make it for the second day. The most epic part for me was to be that close to the Senior Minister and one of the grassroots leader.