Footprints

Energy Drink ... NOT!

2009-01-06T16:18:00.002+08:00

Saw it in advertisements, heard about it from friends and it worked on them. Suppose to boost alertness in class...but for me, it just did not work. Why are you doing this to me, Mother??!?!!?!?

My #1 Fizzy Drink

2009-01-05T12:31:00.004+08:00

Yay! Had Dr Pepper today! My first since the last sip more 3 years ago. Now I think I am addicted...

Happy? New Year 2009

2009-01-01T01:07:00.009+08:00

Is a new year a joyous occasion? Why make resolutions for a new year? How will a new year change your life? Do think about it...

Here is how I spend the last few hours of 2008 and first few hours of 2009:

1830 Dinner with Keay Shen and Mariya at my place. I baked lasagna and fried Chinese noodles, which turned out pretty decent. We toasted the coming new year with champagne.

1937 Boarded bus#412 to the city to catch the 8.30pm fireworks by Brisbane River. Spent 20 minutes seeking for a good spot, but ended up at Southbank, where the crowd was at.

2030 Fireworks. Lame and boring.

2100 Meet up with Alan Wee and went for some Boost. "All Berry Bang" boosted my mood a bit. Stopped by Suncorp square for a glimpse of street dance and then chatted for a bit, accompanied by jazz.

2230 Watched Salsa dance at Brisbane Square. Saw someone I know (but I can't remember his name) among the dancers.

2305 Planned to call it a night, but just missed the bus. Next bus at 2336. Wondered around Queen Street and took some pictures. A surprise New Year peck on the cheek by a stranger (Isn't this place wonderful?) and lots of random New Year greetings.

2325 Walked towards the bus stop again (by now, I was alone), but bumped into Mufaro. Got dragged to watch the fireworks again. Haih!

0000 Fireworks Round Two. Lame and boring and lasted longer. Half-way through, I was pretty pissed of myself for being convinced that this would be better.

0100 Finally, boarded the Citycat.

My new favourite past time

2008-08-09T14:30:00.005+08:00

Yes, you are right. I have been polishing my culinary skills. You can follow my progress in this blog. I can guarantee that all food posted are certified to be of good quality and were tested by "professionals". The products for today are:

Fettucini with Garlic and Anchovies

Butter Cake

Oh! I forgot to mentioned that I prepared the filling for Vietnamese Spring Roll last Sunday and invited some friends over. It was so hillarious as everyone was trying to get his spring roll right. Ha hah!

Hainanese Chicken Rice in Brizzie

2008-08-02T19:59:00.002+08:00

It never occured to me that I will have the opportunity to savour this dish here in Brisbane. No, it is not that I found a restaurant that sells this. My room mate, Leon, actually cooked it tonight! Ha ha, don't be jealous. I know that it is extremely rare anyone can enjoy a home cook Hainanese chicken rice.

I really have to take my hat off to him. It was good! The chicken was good, the rice was good, the soup was good and even the chilli sauce was spot on! The meal even came with Chinese tea. Hah! And good companies - Leon, Daryl and Kit Haw.

This house is slowly turning into an eating joint. We had cakes for the last two weekends, popiah on last Wednesday and Hainanese chicken tonight. We will be attempting Vietnamese spring roll tomorrow. And possible fried kueyteow in the future!

Geez, no time for books! Except cook books! Ha hah!

Flourless Hazelnut Chocolate Cake + Agar-Agar

2008-08-02T15:31:00.000+08:00

Apricot Chocolate Chip Cake

2008-08-02T15:29:00.001+08:00

http://www.mamak.com.au/

2008-07-09T15:37:00.004+08:00

This "mamak stall" is opened by a Malaysian, an Ipohan, a Michaelian near Sydney's chinatown. The food is pretty good and the price is "good" as well. Try guessing what I ordered.

Nasi lemak with kari kambing

Nasi lemak with kari ayam

Maggi goreng

Roti pisang

Pasembur

Sandboard racing at Anna's Bay

2008-07-09T14:43:00.007+08:00

The contenders posed for a group photo. The representaive of USA is with finger problem. The other three contenders (from Melbourne, Sydney and Adelaide) are with eye complications. Only the participant from Brisbane is normal!

On your mark, get set, GO!

The race was won by the participant from Brisbane!

Sydney Invasion! Who did I meet?

2008-07-05T10:03:00.012+08:00

Kenny - An aspiring Electronics Engineer, currently studying in the University of New South Wales (UNSW). I last saw him about two years ago, when he was undertaking internship in Agilent. He still looks and behaves the same.

Sean and Kenny, overlooking Opera House

Ryan - An old friend. We have know each other for 21 years since primary one and in the same class all the way to SPM. Has always been a strong competitor in academic, topping the class numerous time but I got the last laugh in SPM. Moved to Sydney 1.5 years ago and now working hard to sell Sydney to the rest of us. I guess he needs more 'kakis' there. Hosted me for the entire week.

MJ - Another old friend, also known each other for 21 years. We studied similar course in undergraduate but in different universities and worked for the same company but in different departments. We accidentally met each other in Hard Rock Cafe San Francisco, attending similar event in Tokyo and now holidaying together in Sydney. I guess we will probably bump into each other in Europe the next time.

Yoon, MJ, Adrian, Sean, Jasmine, Alexis and Ryan, at Port Stephens

Adrian - I call him Moo. Probably know him only in form 2, when he got promoted from "M" to "S". A prefect but always get into trouble with the teachers, ha hah. A fun friend, helped me to booked the flights to/from Sydney. I tried to get to him to sponsor my tickets, but I got a few Baroccas instead. Thanks anyway. Now, working hard to build his already fit body. Girls, beware!

Yoon - Our dearest and de facto class monitor for 5 years. He always won hands down, no voting required. Loves cars. Loves to draw. I still remember a comic strip he produced for the school magazine regarding some of our teachers. It was hilarious. Currently an architect base in Adelaide, promised to design a house for me when I have a plot of land. Might be moving away from Adelaide in the next year.

Jasmine - A not so old friend, heard about the name back in secondary school, as Ryan's girl. Only met her few years back. She was from the HOT school girl in Ipoh. Apparently she knew me by name too (well, I was famous!). Now married to the high school sweetheart and a mother to Alexis. Certainly a wonderful friend, introduced me to pretty girls.

Sharon - Jasmine's ex-colleague in Price Water House. Joined us for a day to Port Stephens.

Sharon and Sean, sand dune at Anna Bay

Hwei Meen - Old friend of Yoon and Adrian. Joined us for a day around the city.

Sean and Hwei Meen, outside Mamak in the city

Brain drain - from Dr Hsu

2008-05-16T07:12:00.002+08:00

The most important asset of a country is not its natural resources, but rather human resources. This is especially true in a knowledge based economy, which of course will be the trend in future if not already the trend in most of the western countries.

To read on: http://hsudarren.wordpress.com/2008/05/14/racial-politics-and-brain-drain/

Fix You

2008-05-09T07:42:00.002+08:00

When you try your best, but you don't succeed
When you get what you want, but not what you need
When you feel so tired, but you can't sleep
Stuck in reverse

And the tears come streaming down your face
When you lose something you can't replace
When you love someone but it goes to waste
Could it be worse?

Lights will guide you home,
And ignite your bones,
And I will try to fix you,

High up above or down below
When you're too in love to let it go
But if you never try you'll never know
Just what you're worth

Lights will guide you home
And ignite your bones
And I will try to fix you

Tears stream down your face
When you lose something you cannot replace
Tears stream down on your face
And I

Tears stream down your face
I promise you I will learn from my mistakes
Tears stream down on your face
And I

Lights will guide you home
And ignite your bones
And I will try to fix you

-Coldplay-

It is different!

2008-05-08T20:07:00.002+08:00

I had been resisting this temptation since I am here, but finally, I conceeded tonight - first taste of Maggi Mee instant noodle (curry flavor). I was expecting that it is the same as back home, but OMG!, it is so different. The flavor was tremendously diluted! Ah ... I miss the Maggi Mee back home!

At this moment, I feel disappointed, betrayed and unsatisfied. And I made a pledge to myself not to indulge into Maggi Mee noodles here, which cost 6x more. Geram!!!

Banda is hot!

2008-05-07T18:57:00.002+08:00

I had so much fun dancing banda today. Awesome!

"Tan Hong Ming"

2008-05-06T11:31:00.003+08:00

The TV commercial entitled Tan Hong Ming, conceptualised and directed by local advertising creative director and filmmaker Yasmin Ahmad, has won three awards (two gold and one bronze) at the 2008 International ANDY awards in New York.

Blood drained in a caravan

2008-05-01T19:43:00.006+08:00

I think I am a "blood-donation" addict. It was such a joy yesterday, that 470ml of blood was finally drained from my veins. I know, I know. You must be thinking that I am a FREAK.

Here is where the blood donation took place, in a mobile center that is stationed in the university every month for 4 days:

And this is how how arm was bandaged. I feel it's a bit exagerated. See how happy I am!

Art of joyful management

2008-03-23T20:30:00.004+08:00

This is an article I found very meaningful, that I forwarded this to some (well, many actually) of my ex-colleagues on my last day two months ago.

Note: You might need to download this to read the contents.

What to do if your curry chicken gets too hot?

2008-03-22T11:40:00.003+08:00

My first attempt to cook curry chicken is a total failure. It is too hot, almost not consumable. What should I do (except getting rid of it)? Any idea?

Chicken Tonight

2008-03-17T19:02:00.004+08:00

Experimented new recipes, which turns out pretty good. At least my room mate says so.

Indian butter chicken with chickpeas
Fried broccoli and carrot with tofu and dried shrimp
Honey lemon

Upcoming blood donation drive

2008-03-17T14:39:00.003+08:00

Received an email today from HYS, on the upcoming blood donation drive. I might sound crazy to you, but I will miss this quarterly event dearly.

Dear Members,

The Hui Yin Seh Metta Blood Donation Group's 142th Blood Donation Campaign :

Date : 23/MAR/2008 (Sunday)
Time : 9:00am ~ 1:00pm
Venue : Hui Yin Seh
700H Jalan Lintang, Air Itam, 11500 Pg.

Donation Date : 20/4, 25/5, 29/6, 27/7, 24/8, 21/9, 19/10, 16/11, 14/12

note : a souvenir will be presented to the 30,000th pints donor.

All are welcome.

Hui Yin SehMetta Blood Donation Group

NB: Volunteers from Island Hosp is pretty GOOD.

Fun, fun, fun in Dreamworld

2008-03-16T09:24:00.008+08:00

Dreamworld is located about an hour south of Brisbane. It is a themepark, pretty similar to a combination of Six Flags and Disneyland in US (not in term of size, but the activities). URL: http://www.dreamworld.com.au/.
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Had a fun day with 7 cool mates - KC, Melissa, Joseph, Jackie, Jan-Erik, Calvin and Joshua. All from Singapore, except Jan-Erik (Norway). We started at 8.30am and bid goodbyes only at 9.00pm.

I risked my life on most of those trilling rides offered, except for The Claw. It is not that I am afraid, but extreme spinning and me just does not work. See this video:

My favourites are Tower of Terror and Wipeout.

We ended the day by having the famous pancake in Brizzy, Pancakes at the Manor. What a sweat end to an exciting day!

It was nice hanging out with you guys. Thanks!

Famous 24-hr pancake house in Brizzy

2008-03-15T22:53:00.004+08:00

Had dinner at Pancakes at the Manor along Charlotte Street. This place is recommended by many. URL: http://www.pancakemanor.com.au/.

I had "Brandied Appricot" - Two buttermilk pancakes served with apricots marinated in brandy with cream and ice cream. Yum yum! The apricots taste so goooood!

From the eyes of Citycat

2008-03-15T20:10:00.005+08:00

Some pictures I took on the Citycat this morning. Boarded from Guyatt Park at 7.51am and alighted from North Quay at 8.02am.

And here is a short video on my way back just 30 minutes ago. Party is being held on a chartered-boat along Brisbane River.

Yesterday's dinner

2008-03-15T20:01:00.004+08:00

So you think you can dance?

2008-03-12T21:16:00.002+08:00

Love this routine, and this song - Fix You by Coldplay.

http://dance.ten.com.au/video.htm?vxSiteId=9b17c1fc-fc27-4dec-a670-aef4cdbd0e81&vxChannel=Wk04SundayPerf&vxClipId=2305_D138TT090308&vxBitrate=300&CMP=LEC-DANCEgetVideoLink

Quote from Neil Khor of Malaysia Kini

2008-03-11T18:06:00.003+08:00

"Koh Tsu Koon could not even decide on who was going to lead Penang. The electorate responded and wiped out Gerakan!"
From: http://www.malaysiakini.com/letters/79573

I find the above statement so amusing, yet so true. If you remember, a little while before election, there was a debate on who from Gerakan should become the next CM. Probably too much of guessing game, is not good. The people got fed up, BN lost the state government, AND, good news for Koh - You don't have to decide!

Food, food, food ....it's all about food today

2008-03-08T18:42:00.009+08:00

Early this morning ... went to West End Market with KC and Raymond. Quite an effort, as I need to walk, take citycat, take bus and walk again. But it's worth the effort as I get to save a bit for fresh vegetables, fruits and meat. West End Market is only open on Saturdays. This morning, I think I bought 2-3 weeks of supply with $30. Here are some pictures of West End Market.

In the afternoon, I went to Sunnybanks' 小台北 with Jessica and 丁丁. I have to take 3 buses to get there. Argh. And I spent close to $70 here on Chinese sundries, e.g. red dates, herbal soups, mug beans, red beans and ingredient for "tong sui". Sounds expensive? But that's for probably 2-3 months. So, I guess it's alright. Here is a "group photo".

After all the hardwork, I cooked myself a nice, decent meal. Really happy ... and I bought some Oolong tea. Just told Yee Ping that I am enjoying the tea from my beloved tea pot that I bought from Japan. It completes me ... sounds familiar?

Malaysia Decides 2008

2008-03-07T10:27:00.005+08:00

Although I am not physically located on Malaysian soil, I do follow closely on news and happenings en-route to the big day tomorrow. And I would like to share this piece of opinion: http://www.malaysiakini.com/opinions/78994, from Malaysia Kini website. This is just part 1 of 3.

Yesterday, I attended Macroeconomics lecture, focusing on GDP and productivity. As the lecturer was going through examples on South East Asia nations, Malaysia was not one of them. We looked at Thailand, Singapore, Vietnam, Indonesia and the Philippines. And I have this question in my mind:

Back home, Malaysian economy growth for the past few decades was lauded as the best in the region, but it seems that, it is not even worth being mentioned as an example. What does that say?

Well, I know, this is lame as those are just examples. But this question just stick to my mind, until now!

Please...vote wise-rocket-ly.

Chinatown in Brissy, a disappointment

2008-03-03T16:52:00.005+08:00

Had a trip to Chinatown with some Singaporean friends yesterday.

I had a lot of expectation, as I am a fan of Chinese herbs and hoped I can get loads of them there. However, it was such a disappointment.

There were only a few Chinese herb shops and the products seem to be overpriced. And that place does not give me the "Chinatown" feel. Crap! The one in Frisco is sooooo MUCH better. Well, here's a picture of that place.

Crappy Chinatown! I hope I can get what I want in 小台北- Sunnybanks.

Short tour of my new place

2008-03-02T20:27:00.009+08:00

My bedroom (picture taken from the door). Bed and matress are supplied. I bought the pillow from Kmart at AUD7.50 (ouch!). Bedsheet and pillow case from Penang days. My parents bought that duvet from China, really warm me up during the cold nights (and days).

Still my bedroom (picture taken from my bed). Study/computer table provided. And the rest are my stuffs. Outside the door are the stairs to the bathroom (up) and to the dining area (down).
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The bathroom. I am sharing this with an Australian housemate.

Stairs to the dining area. Refrigerator at the end, dining area on the left and kitchen & laundry room on the right.

Dining area. Well, we only use two chairs, so the rest of the table is for "stuffs".

Living room. Big 52-inch HDTV from LG. Well, there is no cable TV, just 5 local channels. My favourite program to date is "You think you can dance", Australia version. Every Sunday 7.30-9.30 pm.

Kitchen (top right). It is equiped with possibly most gadjets needed to cook.

Garlic rice with ABC soup for dinner

2008-03-01T18:21:00.004+08:00

I am impressed with myself. The food not only looks nice, it tastes great! Only those who happened to travel with me to US might know. Ha ha!
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What? Want to try some? Do book the next flight out to Brizzy. I have some white peaches waiting for you as dessert! Cheers, mate!

Three "first" in Brisbane

2008-02-29T20:44:00.004+08:00

First shopping spree. Went to DFO (Direct Factory Outlet) at 1 Airport Road. A 2-hour journey, one way . It was not planned, I just suddenly decide to go after lunch because of my need for some sport apparels. After a 3-hour shopping spree, I spent AUD130 on a pair of Fila running shoes, 2 shirts, 2 shorts for sports and another 2 for classes (yes, we can wear short pants to lectures here). How I wish I was earning AUD for the past few years ... sigh.
URL: http://www.dfo.com.au/

First citycat ride at night. What's a citycat? It is a "ferry taxi" and it operates along Brisbane river near the city. I have taken citycat numerous times, but this is the first after dark. It was nice, especially when the cold wind blows over my face while the boat sped through the river. The scenery was beautiful, and it was a bit romantic, except that I was not with anyone. Well, I guess I could imagine.
URL: http://www.translink.com.au/qt/TransLin.nsf/index/ferry_main

First time eating Nando's outside Malaysia. Well, nothing much to say, as it is the same. But there is another "first" - I met my other housemate, Scott, for the first time. He just came back from holiday in Europe. While having dinner, Leon (my other housemate), invited me to a cricket game between Australia and India next Tuesday, but I can't make it. Have classes. Perhaps next time.

Cricket, I have no idea what it is. Took a crash course using Wikipedia just moments ago, but I guess I need to watch the game to understand. Well, it is one of the most popular sports in Australia. So, I better learn up.
URL: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Cricket

Boarding Air Asia at Penang Airport

2008-02-27T06:50:00.005+08:00

Such a sweet, loving couple - Teena & Ranald

2008-02-26T15:59:00.005+08:00

My first day at school

2008-02-26T15:32:00.005+08:00

Hmm, how does it feel like going back to school after 6 years? One word:

SLEEPY

Anyway, it didn't really get off a good start at the very beginning. Firstly, I have to walk to school in the raining. It's not heavy rain though, just drizzle. Then, I got lost, trying to figure out where the lecture room is. The school is a bit like a maze, probably that is what makes it amazing.

Alright, found the lecture room. However, the air-con is not working. So, it was stuffy and hot thoughout the 3 hour session. I really pity the lecturer, he was sweating so heavily. But he got my respect too, he kept lecture going.

Today is a Finance class. We were lectured about present value (PV), future value (FV) and annuity. Does it ring a bell to you?

Anyway, soon after class, I head to the library and borrow the first book, on Statistics. That's for tomorrow's lecture. And as I walked back just now, the rain hasn't stop. Haih. However, I love this temperature, a bit cooling, but minus the rain.

And I am cooking spaghetti for tonight. Yummy, I hope. Want some?

Happy Birthday Sean!

2008-02-22T10:21:00.004+08:00

Good day, mate!

Wow, it's been a month since I wrote anything. Well, I have been busy handing over stuffs at work, preparing for CNY and also getting ready for my departure. Limitation to internet connection also crippled my efforts.

I am now sitting on the floor near the Social Sciences and Humanities Library in St Lucia campus, University of Queensland. Not that I want to, but I got chased out due to a fire alarm. I am now waiting for the green light to enter the library. I am running out of battery!

I have been staying at a backpackers for 7 days now. This place is a bit dodgy but still considered clean. I usually goes out at about 9am and come back only at night, for shower and sleep. Now, a bit of update on events for the past week.

Day 1 - 16th Feb 08

Touched down at 9.30am. Reached backpackers in the city at 11.30am. No, the journey from airport to the city does not take 3 hours. You see, I booked this UQ reception service, which includes airport pick-up and transportation to accommodation. But not only me, there were other students too. Therefore, it takes time to drop everyone off. Along the way, I made my first 3 friends in Brisbane - Mark (Singapore), Karina (KL) and Geraldine (Johor).

Day 2 - 17th Feb 08

In the morning, I was walking towards the city. And on the way, I made my next four friends - KC (Ipoh), Raymond (China) and Terence & Wilson (HK).They were on their way to the city too. So, I tagged along and had my first lunch with them - Hungry Jacks (Burger King in the rest of the world).

I bought a prepaid SIM card. After conducted survey with 3 networks, I chosed 3. The others are Optus and Vodaphone. If you want my number, email me!

Later that evening, we helped Terence & Wilson to move to their new place in Sunnybanks. It is is Zone 3, a bit far for me. And it smells Indian in that house. And there are 2 pet dogs.

Day 3 to day 6 - 18th Feb 08 to 21st Feb 08

Orientation week, so has been busy attending all sort of briefings. Although some of them are boring, but I have to give credit to the university that everything was conducted very professionally. It makes me so welcomed here.

Also, during these days, I have been hunting for a place to stay for the semester. It is hardwork and exhausting because:

Rooms availability is limited. The university has a website where students post any vacant rooms for rent. That is my main reference. And it is like watching share market. Have to be quick to view the place as it can be taken up anytime.
Many other students are without accommodation. This leads to demand is higher than supply (for rooms near to university). This caused price increase. Some lessors even take advantage of this situation and accept bidding.
Dodgy queenslander house or modern townhouse. Most houses around is of the queesnlander type. Huge house, made of wood and you might hear possums running on the roof at night.
Room mates.

However, this is a great experience as I get to know the suburns and roads around St Lucia. Also good exercise, as I believe I walked more than 3 km everyday. And yes, I am slimmer now. Ha ha!

Day 7 - today

It's my 28th birthday. And I found a place to stay!

Four more days to go

2008-01-28T14:40:00.000+08:00

Hmm. How do I feel now that the count is down to 4 now? I was asked at least 5 times this morning.

Of all the feelings I am having now, being excited is the top of the list. Honestly, having a chance to start a new life in a place far, far away from home excites me. Thinking of all the new life experiences I will gain at the new place is pulling me away from where I am sitting. The fact that I need to be 101% in control of my life is something I am very much looking forward to. I just can't wait!

I am also starting to miss my dear family and all my friends. I will miss all the travellings, celebrations, hangouts, makan sessions, card/board game sessions, hiking sessions, drinking sessions and other. But I'm sure, with technology, we can be constantly in touch. Lucky for me, I can still spend Chinese New Year with my family this year.

Am I worried, about being alone at a foreign place? Not at all!

Hunt for text books

2008-01-23T13:55:00.000+08:00

Now is 1.56pm on Thaipusam Day. In Coffee Bean again, G Hotel this time. Lately, I have been contributing a lot to its business, perhaps I should own it one day. Or I should say, I will.

To get there, I inched through Scotland Road and Jalan Utama. Kind of forgot that there are possessions today, with people carrying kavadi. A bit pissed and was thinking, why can't this be done somewhere else. But come to think of it, I am the stupid one. This happens every year and I should have taken different route. Haih.

Something interesting happened here, in Coffee Bean. I ordered a chocolate chip muffin and ESPriT passion fruit drink. As I am not feeling too good, I asked for a non-chilled bottle of drink. But there was none. Guess what the waitress did?

She ran through the chilled bottle of drink over tap water! I was like "OMG". That was the last think I can imagine will happen. It's crazy, but it's funny. Ha ha. I ended up with a chilled bottle, not having a choice. I guess, I just need to take the risk.

And the muffin is GREAT! The best I had so far.

My intention to come here is to hunt for text books in MPH. I tried Borders, but no luck. And again, wish me luck.

Happy Thaipusam Day!

Pissed on a Tuesday night

2008-01-16T14:00:00.000+08:00

Went to Bar Celona in Sunway Pyramid with Jerome and friend, KC. Well, the intention is really to just have a drink and catch up on what-is-going-on-in-your-life. The crowd was light when we reach at 9.30 pm, but got heavier when approaching midnight. We left at 1am after consuming quite an amount of whisky with coke (the carbonated drink, not cocaine) FOC.

My first firefly experience

2008-01-15T18:14:00.000+08:00

At 7.00 am today, I boarded flight# FY3401 from Penang to Subang Airport. As I walked toward the Focker 50, I suddenly realized that the plane is so small. However, this may sound hard to believe, but I actually enjoy this flight more than MAS. Why?

#1. Check-in was quick. I just waited for 5 minutes
#2. Seats was assigned (mine is 4D - aisle seat)
#3. Internal condition was clean and fresh
#4. Friendly stewardess (one actually helped me with my hand-carry ... he he)
#5. Smooth take off and landing
#6. On time!

Now, some tips on public transport from Subang Airport. You may, if you are rich, take the taxi. If not, you can easily take a bus to the nearest Putra LRT station, which only cost RM1. Here are some instructions:

#1. As you come out from Terminal 3, cross the road (I think this is Jalan Lapangan Terbang)
#2. Walk towards your left (you are now facing the airport) until you come to a bus stop
#3. You can take Metrobus#9 or Rapid KL U81, ask to be dropped off at the nearest LRT station (I took Metrobus #9 and got down near Asia Jaya LRT station)

Btw, I am now in Starbucks Sunway Pyramid. Waiting to meet up with Jerome. He he.

Where have I been?

2008-01-13T18:20:00.000+08:00

Well, I guess some of you missed me ...

I haven't been updating my blog for some time as I am currently staying somewhere with no internet access. And I can't possibly update my blog at work. Haih.

Anyway, I am at Coffee Bean in Queensbay Mall now, utilizing my RM11.80 glass of "The Ultimate" by using their free hot spot service. Have you tried "The Ultimate"? Try it! I'm not much of a coffee drinker, but I just love this.

Now, what have I been up to lately? Well, nothing much really, except that I had a lot of good food. Lets re-cap some of the calories I consumed for the past two weeks:

Pasta & Pizza and German sausage at Northam Beach Cafe
Kocha Taiwanese Food (x2) and Char Kuey Kak at Burma Road
Mario's Italian Food at Batu Ferringhi
9-course dinner at Mag's Wedding Reception (Bayview Hotel)
Noodle Station at e-Gate
Sakae Sushi at Queensbay
Buffet Lunch at Equatorial Hotel
Audees at Pulau Tikus
Shinjutei at Pulau Tikus

Am I crazy? Hmm .... perhaps.

Next week, I will be out of office from Tuesday, for 4 days. I am on a very important mission, so WISH ME LUCK! I need lots of them.

Recipe of the first cake I made

2008-01-03T13:13:00.000+08:00

Guys, keep this recipe. A simple cake to melt a girls heart.

Ingredients
250 gm butter
600 gm marie biscuit
2 eggs
3/4 bowl cocoa powder
1 bowl milo powder
1/2 small can condensed milk
1 cup warm water

Steps

Melt butter (recommended to use wok)
Add cocoa powder & milo powder, while stirring
Add warm water
Add beaten eggs
Add condensed milk
Add in some biscuits and stir. Keep on adding biscuits until the "kuah" stick to the biscuits. It should look like the fruit "rojak". Make sure it is not too "wet".
Put the biscuits into a container bit by bit. Press a bit so the biscuits stick together.
Once done, put them in the fridge.
Once chilled, ready to serve.

New Year Party at Yeoh KK's

2007-12-30T14:18:00.000+08:00

Last night, I attended a pre New Year party at Yeoh's place in Springfield Condominium. There were 12 of us - Yeoh & wife, Oia & wife, Cass & bf, Chun Meng & gf, Lam, Wei Keong, Shing Wei and myself.

Since Yeoh moved into this place about 3 years ago, New Year party is an annual event. Throughout these 3 years, there are only 3 constants to this party - Yeoh, myself and the alcohol.

The party started off with a short mah-jong training session and barbeque. Yeoh & wife made all the food. There were Devil's eye, salad, barbequed ham/bacon with "kai lan" stem, chicken ball and others. Good food. Thanks Yeoh!

Wei Keong also bought some cheese cakes from Secret Recipe. There were good and my favourite is apple crumble cheesecake. I hope I got the cake name right. Thanks Wei Keong!

Later, as the girls were enjoying themselves at the mah-jong table, the guys adjourned to play "in-between"card game. I was not very lucky and always "kena tiang" and seems to be eagerly distributing my wealth.

By 11pm, after 4.5 bottles of Tiger beer and half-pint of cognac with Chinese tea, I was already pissed. In the next minute, I was already sleeping soundly on the sofa, leaving the gang to battle it out in the game.

I left slightly after 12 midnight.

Final night in 4 Lintang Delima 12

2007-12-21T21:36:00.000+08:00

Finally, I finished packing all my stuffs. In another 12 hours, I will load everything into my car and drive back to Ipoh.

I am now sitting in the middle of the room, surrounded by a large space, trying to figure out how am I feeling. A lot of thoughts are running through my mind at the same time.

And I just don't know what to write ...

Exercise your right

2007-12-19T18:11:00.000+08:00

You may check you voting details here: http://daftarj.spr.gov.my/daftarbi.asp and if you have not registered to vote, you can do so at the nearest post office.

Watch out! Bombs coming through!

2007-12-18T23:11:00.001+08:00

As I was preparing to retire last night, I was bombed. Not just one, but two, and just two weeks apart. Both were from my beloved coursemates in UTM and coincidentally, both are housemates.

Bomb#1: Margaret. This petite girl (still?) has a karate black belt. She looks tough, but she's funny. She's creative, and I still remember she can wrap a present in multiple ways without using cello-tape. Currently does programming as a living.

Bomb#2: Wai Mun. This tall girl (as tall as I am, so I'm short if she's on heels) is a high scorer, not in basketball, but in exams. She's funny as well, and helpful. I once borrow her PC for months to go online for a project. I think she does programming too.

Congratulations to both of you. Wishing you Happiness All the Way and stay pretty.

Back-to-back frustrated days

2007-12-18T21:34:00.000+08:00

This seldom happens, but I had bad days at work since yesterday. I know, I know. Pikaping warned me not to discuss about work here, but I have a point to drive through at the end. Please be patient.

Both days started off well, but things began heading south after lunch. This afternoon, I received a pretty nasty email. And the last sentence read "I cannot accept your attitude for ...". What the heck!

No worries. I wasn't upset or anything. But I have to apologize to TY though, cause I was a bit rude in responding to him as I was concentrating on "loading" my bullets and SHOOT. Sorry!

I started off my email rather decently. But my last sentence was "... and I am very displeased with your accusations". Can you guess how is it like in between?

Minutes later, I was laughing it off with my boss (our cubicles are just separated by a partition). Well, obviously she was aware of what is happening and that person deserves it.

Apart from the laughter, she mentioned something that means a lot to me, "I must train someone to be like you". How nice.

So what's my point? I am someone worth being cloned. Ha ha!

My first Christmas e-card

2007-12-18T20:57:00.000+08:00

Today I received my first Christmas e-card for this year. I was not in the best of mood then, but The Original Very Cute Bear is so adorable, it made me laugh. Ha ha.

http://www.foreverfriends.co.uk/pages/ecards.php?code=nadevbihex&action=view

Thanks Wei.

Britain's Got Talent

2007-12-17T22:39:00.000+08:00

WHAT IS YOUR DREAM THAT HAS BEEN HIDDEN BEHIND NEGATIVE THOUGHTS SOMETIMES ADMINISTERED EVEN BY OURSELVES? GO OUT ON THE EDGE AND MAKE A MOVE TO BE WHAT YOU WERE BORN TO BE! AS A MAN THINKETH SO IS HE. HOW POWERFUL IS OUR THINKING!

This is a story about a guy, like most of us, common, questioning his existence, measuring himself to others, never believing in his abilities or his worth.

Then one day, his passion outgrew his fears as he stepped onto a stage, a stage that took him to a place beyond his self imposed prison.

Watch the faces of the judges as this guy walks out on the stage. You can almost see what they're thinking as they pre-judge this guy based on his looks and the fact that he's a cell phone salesman.

Then their emotions truly engulf them.

Maybe this guy stopped believing in what people told him for so many years and ultimately started listening to his passion.

http://www.maniacworld.com/Phone-Salesman-Amazes-Crowd.html

Getting ready to move out and on

2007-12-16T20:26:00.000+08:00

Today is Sunday. But not really an eventful one for me. I spent time packing up as I will be moving out coming Thursday. I hate doing this!

Well, I segregated my stuffs into two groups. One, to bring home to Ipoh. And two, to bring over to Ker Harn's place. I will be staying with Ker Harn for the coming month.

As I was packing up, suddenly it strucked me that time flies. I didn't realize that I stayed at my current place for 1.5 years. And close to 6 years in Penang!

In another two months, I will be heading to an unfamiliar place. And guess what I need to do - pack!

Zi Wei Yuan Steamboat

2007-12-15T22:22:00.000+08:00

Just now, I went for dinner with Hock Lai.
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I have known Hock Lai for 9 years, since our university days. We went for holiday together after finishing 1st year, to Redang Island. Redang Island, back then, was not developed yet, so the surroundings were still pristine.

We had quite an adventure getting to Zi Wei Yuan. I obviously don't know the way and Hock Lai got the map in his brain. Anyway, we made it to the restaurant after an hour.

Zi Wei Yuan serves steamboat a bit differently. There are three soup base to choose from: fried fish, steam fish and normal soup. Can you guess which we chose? And there are yams in the soup. This is the specialty! The soup is heated up with charcoal instead gas stove.

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And here is the bill:

Hock Lai, don't forget Burma Road char koay kak. Next week?

Winter Festival Celebration at Boon Thai's

2007-12-15T21:18:00.000+08:00

Firstly, I need to apologize to my supporters for not posting yesterday. I was at Boon Thai's place, celebrating winter festival (冬季). It was my first time to his apartment in N-Park.

When I reach at about 8.30pm, Chee Leng, Kim Lean, Kevin, Boon Thai and two other guys (sorry, I forgot your names) were having dinner. The dishes were cooked by Boon Thai (can you believe that?). From the guests' feedback, it was a good meal.

The main activity was to make glutinous rice balls (汤圆). It was such a funny moment as everyone was trying to give ideas on how to do that. Well, in the end, we managed and 1.5 hours later, we were enjoying the delicious 汤圆.

Next, we broke into two groups: karaoke and "mah jong". Well, as usual I am in the "mah jong" team with Chiew Kh'ng, Kin Mun and Kim Lean. Finally at about 2.00pm, all of us head home.

I enjoyed this gathering a lot and I believe the others too. Why not? as we get to relax, eat, sing and gamble.

Padas River - Mount Kinabalu - Sipadan Island

2007-12-13T20:47:00.000+08:00

Another of my close friends left Penang for Singapore today. This makes me recall the time we spent together, especially those sweet memories while travelling together with the rest of the gang. You see...

The seven of us - SY, Ober, PS, JH, CT, BH and myself - went for vacations together for the past two years. Although CT ffk the rest of us for the last two trips, he did participated in the planning stage. CT, we forgive you for this.

The very first trip was really an adventure. It was a 8 days trip to Sabah, East Malaysia. We survived the wrath of Padas River, we conquered the magnificient Mount Kinabalu and we charmed the beautiful Sipadan Island.

More on our memories of this trip here, thanks to BH.

CT and SY, I miss you already...

Life can be unpredictable

2007-12-12T13:26:00.001+08:00

As I was driving across Penang Bridge on last Friday night, my friend, TY got a call. The conversation over the phone didn't sound pleasant and I was thinking something awful must have happened. And I was right. His best friend, Peter, passed away, at age 23.

Fast-forward to today. TY sent me this link: http://mybuddypeter.googlepages.com/home, which is dedicated to Peter. I browsed through this in the office and found that there is nothing much to read about, except for some condolences and pictures of Peter and friends. So, I packed and I went home.

As I was deciding what to blog about for the past 30 minutes, I visited the dedication page to Peter again. This time, I noticed that there are links to other blogs at the bottom of the page. Out of curiosity, I clicked on each link...

They are posts from Peter's friends. After going through them, I realized that Peter was very highly regarded by his friends and he touched their lives in one way or another. A good chap. And that got me thinking...

How am I in the eyes of my friends, or so-call 'friends'?

RIP Peter.

No-Eye-See

2007-12-11T20:34:00.000+08:00

As I was packing to leave the office this evening, I still do not have a topic to write on today. So, I turned over to Theng Theng, sitting two cubicles away, and asked "What should I write in my blog today?".
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And she effortlessly responded "Write about no-eye-see lo". I totally agree with her, having gone through a crappy meeting earlier. I was a bit disgusted with how some people behaved. Well, lets not get into that.
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Have you ever come upon situations at work where you decide that no-eye-see is the best policy? No? Don't lie! I'm sure you do. And when should this policy be applied?
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One, when you disagree on an issue, but are powerless to object due to pressure from higher management. No-eye-see.
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Two, when a decision is made, and you are just 'FYI'ed and assigned to carry out the work, although you don't see the point. No-eye-see.
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Three, when you see a bad judgment but no one listens to you. Well, you can't help if someone decides to dig his/her own grave. No-eye-see.
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Four, when you comment, feedback, complain multiple (x100) times but things just can't be changed. No-eye-see.
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And five. When you resigned and happily counting down to the last day. This is a definite - No-eye-see!

Now, do you SEE?

Alex & Emily - the Wedding

2007-12-10T21:59:00.000+08:00

Once I entered the hall, I can feel the warmth and sweetness of tonight's setting. Everything is mostly in lilac and the backdrop at the stage was decorated simply with Alex & Emily. Simple and nice. This is the wedding reception of my cousin brother, Alex, in Syuen Hotel, Ipoh.
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I assigned myself as one of the photographers of the night. It has become a habit of me taking pictures during weddings, farewells, gatherings and other occasions. I am not really a good photographer, but just for the fun of it. I own a Canon S2 IS.
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It was a fun night. And I am really happy for Alex. He is a fine young man, recently obtained a postgraduate degree in UK. Emily is sweet, sporting and has a charming smile.
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The fact is, Alex and I only meet probably once a year (I don't even know he is known as Alex until now). And for the past two consecutive years, we met in London. He studied there, and I was on transit during my business trip. Despite that, we remain pretty close. But next year, probably we will meet somewhere else, other than London.
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Alex & Emily, may you live happily ever after.

Blood donation at Penang Hui Yin Seh

2007-12-09T14:53:00.000+08:00

I have been donating blood regularly since my university days. To date, I made 14 donations, with the most recent being this morning.
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Today, I arrived at HYS at 9.30am, after 'squeezing' my car through the narrow alleys. I was slightly early, so there was no problem finding parking. Two things are a bit unusual though.

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One, Yee Ping's mom was standing by the road-side, sort of directing traffic. I thought that is her assignment for the day, a change from her usual ushering role, but apparently that is not the case.

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Two, Yee Ping was not at her usual position in front of the PC, busy printing certificates. Instead, she was running around aimlessly. Later only I know that she was due to give a speech during a cheque presentation ceremony by Lions Club. I missed that. Too bad!

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Anyway, I went ahead for registration, then have my blood pressure and blood type checked. Everything seems normal and got a nod to proceed with the blood donation. Found a bed at the Lam Wah Ee Hospital section, waiting to be drained.

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Many asked, aren't you afraid of the needles? Not at all! In fact, it is quite enjoyable to me. Huh? You will get an idea after viewing the below.

After losing 450 ml of blood and quite a heavy brunch, I left HYS feeling contend for my effort. Well, this might be the last time I ever step into HYS again. Good bye and thanks for the memory!

Theng Theng's Euro Bungy Adventure

2007-12-08T16:07:00.000+08:00

Footprints in the sand

2007-12-08T09:00:00.000+08:00

One night I dreamed I was walking along the beach with the Lord.

Many scenes from my life flashed across the sky.

In each scene I noticed footprints in the sand.

Sometimes there were two sets of footprints,

other times there were one set of footprints.

This bothered me because I noticed

that during the low periods of my life,

when I was suffering from

anguish, sorrow or defeat,

I could see only one set of footprints.

So I said to the Lord,

“You promised me Lord,

that if I followed you,

you would walk with me always.

But I have noticed that during the most trying periods of my life

there have only been one set of footprints in the sand.

Why, when I needed you most, you have not been there for me?”

The Lord replied,

"The times when you have seen only one set of footprints in the sand,

is when I carried you.”

- Mary Stevenson -