Happy Deepavali
Wishing a Happy Deepavali to all Hindus as well as the rest of Malaysia celebrating along.
Click Here to Read More..
Monday, October 31, 2005
NaNoWriMo: Going for it
I got to know about the project last year as I was just setting up my blog when the Scarfer wrote and later won the challenge in 2004. It was a bit too late for me to register and participate so I thought I’d give it a try this time about just for fun though I have doubts if I could reach the 50,000 words needed to be successfully deemed completed within the time frame of a month due to commitments like lab work, girl friend and others. Truthfully I don’t consider myself a novelist, at times I don’t even know if I’m capable of setting out a story through its myriad plots and twists, creating memorable characters that people come to empathize with and connect to, give a rapt flow of ideas that will keep the reader turning page by page or generating something that will be on the next New York Times bestseller’s list. But, those are not my goals though it would be nice if at least some of them are fulfilled, just getting through and making something that is readable would be the minimal satisfactory level that I’m targeting for now.
Why write? I can’t really say. Maybe it’s just the fun fleshing out a world created from your own fertile imagination, to populate it with denizens of your own making and then determine its course - who lives, who dies, who triumphs, who are vanquished, in short Godlike. The canvas for a writer is limitless, hemmed in only by the narrowness of your mind or expansive without horizons if you will it. The other reason is the challenge, not with other participants; this is not a contest after all, but to oneself. To see if I’ve what it takes to complete something requiring you to spend an innumerable amount of time and dedication to finish. Maybe I’ve always longed to write something to call my own. Lastly it’s the fun factor, just letting yourself go wild and write and enjoying it in the process, no worries that a publisher is heckling you to finish your dateline, no worries if the next book you write will cover your paycheck to live on, no worries of writers block.
So after the commitment, comes planning. What to write? What genre to use? Who will be in it? What setting do I wish to place them? What outcome do I wish to beset this new world? After thinking it over I decided to set myself on the path of a fantasy novel. Why? Because it is a genre I am familiar with, exposed from the various fiction novels that I’ve read, inspired by the likes of Tolkein, R.A. Salvatore, Tracy Hickman and Margaret Weis, Rowling, Garth Nix and many more. The fantasy universe offers a world unrestrained by known reality, a world of infinite possibilities and probabilities, of creatures exotic and alien. Of course writing fantasy settings may also have its own pitfalls, making a world both believable and acceptable to the audience as well as to come out with an original setting and storyline unblemished by works already published by well known authors. It does not help if people say your writing resembles so and so’s work like, “Hey look that elf is so alike Legolas” or “Heck, the story reads like it was taken out from a Forgotten Realms setting”. Thus originality and substance are two things that needs to be addressed if one writing fantasy wishes to succeed, a prerequisite that I hope I am able to achieve.
I’ve already have a rough storyboard drawn up and like the rules, I’m waiting to flesh these rough drafts out in the full as the months go by. Till now I'm just winging it, nothing really solid has popped into my mind and I'm juggling concepts, characters, plots and other mundane stuff. I hope I will be able to at least accomplish something but if not then nothing much to it yeah, its all about the fun of writing and trying. Who knows one day my kids or kid's kid will stumble onto a wel molded manuscript hidden behind some junk and slowly unveils a new facinating world, if only. Wish me luck.
Click Here to Read More..
Why write? I can’t really say. Maybe it’s just the fun fleshing out a world created from your own fertile imagination, to populate it with denizens of your own making and then determine its course - who lives, who dies, who triumphs, who are vanquished, in short Godlike. The canvas for a writer is limitless, hemmed in only by the narrowness of your mind or expansive without horizons if you will it. The other reason is the challenge, not with other participants; this is not a contest after all, but to oneself. To see if I’ve what it takes to complete something requiring you to spend an innumerable amount of time and dedication to finish. Maybe I’ve always longed to write something to call my own. Lastly it’s the fun factor, just letting yourself go wild and write and enjoying it in the process, no worries that a publisher is heckling you to finish your dateline, no worries if the next book you write will cover your paycheck to live on, no worries of writers block.
So after the commitment, comes planning. What to write? What genre to use? Who will be in it? What setting do I wish to place them? What outcome do I wish to beset this new world? After thinking it over I decided to set myself on the path of a fantasy novel. Why? Because it is a genre I am familiar with, exposed from the various fiction novels that I’ve read, inspired by the likes of Tolkein, R.A. Salvatore, Tracy Hickman and Margaret Weis, Rowling, Garth Nix and many more. The fantasy universe offers a world unrestrained by known reality, a world of infinite possibilities and probabilities, of creatures exotic and alien. Of course writing fantasy settings may also have its own pitfalls, making a world both believable and acceptable to the audience as well as to come out with an original setting and storyline unblemished by works already published by well known authors. It does not help if people say your writing resembles so and so’s work like, “Hey look that elf is so alike Legolas” or “Heck, the story reads like it was taken out from a Forgotten Realms setting”. Thus originality and substance are two things that needs to be addressed if one writing fantasy wishes to succeed, a prerequisite that I hope I am able to achieve.
I’ve already have a rough storyboard drawn up and like the rules, I’m waiting to flesh these rough drafts out in the full as the months go by. Till now I'm just winging it, nothing really solid has popped into my mind and I'm juggling concepts, characters, plots and other mundane stuff. I hope I will be able to at least accomplish something but if not then nothing much to it yeah, its all about the fun of writing and trying. Who knows one day my kids or kid's kid will stumble onto a wel molded manuscript hidden behind some junk and slowly unveils a new facinating world, if only. Wish me luck.
Friday, October 28, 2005
Fragile work
A little collage Johleen made from various trnkets she collected while we were in the Philippines; the flower is made from sugar and decorated a cake we bought to celebrate three of our friend's birthday, the sand and shells were collected from Patar beach, the empty shell of the sea urchin was a discard outside a stall which served them to guests and the paper underneath is a piece of tissue paper. Still it's a nice work of art.
Click Here to Read More..
Thursday, October 27, 2005
Wednesday, October 26, 2005
Star Wreck
The Science fiction universe boasts two great series, Star Trek and Babylon 5 (okay so there’s also Battlestar Galactica, Farscape, Andromeda etc.). What happens when these two universes collide head on? You get a great spoofest courtesy of several dedicated Finnish nationals that took 7 years to make and is being distributed free. Star Wreck: in the Pirkinning is truly one of a kind. What started out as just a hobby it’s totally out of the world. In fact the quality of the scenes even rivals actual scene one would expect to find in a normal hour episode of Star Trek, photon torpedoes and all. Another plus is the actors though not professionals gives quite a show worthy of a Starfleet officer, or should I say P-fleet.The film combines elements of Star Trek; with its head captain Pirk, later emperor Pirk along with his motley crew of Dwarf (ala Worf) and Info (Data) as well as Starfleet ships and Babylon 5; Captain Sherrypie (Sheridan), Ivanovitsa (Ivanova), GaryBrandy (Garibaldi), Babel 13 (Babylon 5) and more. So a two hour laugh fest ensues with banal jokes at times and silly spoofs that will sure put you in stitches, being a fan of both helps a lot in appreciating some of the subtler jokes. Though the movie is in Finnish, an English subtitled version is available for download, did I mention it was free? Go ahead watch it and I dare you not to laugh. The site can be found at the official download site found at the official download site at www.starwreck.com. Enjoy.
Click Here to Read More..
Tuesday, October 25, 2005
Prayer urns
Giant prayer urns for the faithful to offer incense sticks, Kek Lok Si Temple, Penang, 2004.
Click Here to Read More..
Family ties
It’s always a nice scene to have the entire family clan assembled at the dinner table, everyone chatting to catch up on the latest happenings as well as gossips; telling lurid jokes and grumbling about working life; sighing about the most recent death or cooing at the latest addition in the family; eating and sharing each other’s company. Most of the time that my dad arrives in Kl this is the usual scene that greets us, all five aunts and uncles as well as their family sitting down to a nice dinner, and if we’re lucky to another the following days.
Since I can remember this has always been the norm, it even brings fond memories of my visits down Kl. I always laugh at the fact that my cousin and I who are of the same age were generally the middle in term of age among all the cousins, there are those older than us and already working else the others are all still in school. Often when the clan gathers, we would require two tables to accommodate everyone, for this fact we were always relegated to the kiddie’s table. It has it pros and cons; one we don’t have to be so stiff on protocol and restrictions such as showing respect by giving the elders first pick at the dishes or taking too much in fear of being seen as greedy; at the kiddie’s table we are often the eldest there thus often most cannot eat much thus we get the lion’s share of the food, not to mention it often looks like a battle field as we all rush in to grab as much of it as we can.
Only recently with several cousins either too busy with work out of the state or other commitments with family, that there were openings for us at the adult table. I always take this opportunity to find out what is happening in the family circle since I’m pretty much out of the loop here in Sabah and talking to Kin Voon, whom I share a close relationship since we practically grew up together throughout the years. We’d laugh at old times when we were little rascals causing much mischief to my grandmother; we’d talk about job prospects and working life that we shared; we’d discuss university issues and campus talk; gossip about what this aunt is doing or that uncle has been fooling about. My other cousins especially the guys would often be talking about games or cars, especially on Warcraft 3 DotA (Defense of the Ancients), of which after a year they’re still at it. We’re not the perfect family I must admit, we each have our peculiar habits and idiosyncrasy but that’s what makes it all the more interesting.
The only difference this time was the fact that dinner was not being hosted by my uncle the goldsmith. From the previous fallout where all of us lost out in investment in his business, his presence was noticeably missing from the usual scene, not that we’d appreciate seeing him there after what he did. His wife, my aunt was there though yet she looked a bit worn down, quieter than usual and maybe I’m wrong, sullen and ashamed. It’s sad to see her like this even as his husband is now openly fooling around with the mistress and sucking her savings dry. Even two of my cousins who would usually be present were away for various stated reasons but I suspect more. Yes, in times of good harvest, the man himself would often say that money is no objection and insists that he pay for the check, this time it fell onto others to do that. The most talked about topic was how each of the relations was hurt by his scam, how after committing cash to shift houses, pay for new cars or start a new business, to be told suddenly that our savings have been squandered. Everyone is still hurting and it shows though it seems those present is trying to put on a cheery face. Yet even such problems does not wash away the good atmosphere of just being together as a family and with the dishes pilling on and the drinks flowing, for a moment all was well and we had a great time.
Click Here to Read More..
Since I can remember this has always been the norm, it even brings fond memories of my visits down Kl. I always laugh at the fact that my cousin and I who are of the same age were generally the middle in term of age among all the cousins, there are those older than us and already working else the others are all still in school. Often when the clan gathers, we would require two tables to accommodate everyone, for this fact we were always relegated to the kiddie’s table. It has it pros and cons; one we don’t have to be so stiff on protocol and restrictions such as showing respect by giving the elders first pick at the dishes or taking too much in fear of being seen as greedy; at the kiddie’s table we are often the eldest there thus often most cannot eat much thus we get the lion’s share of the food, not to mention it often looks like a battle field as we all rush in to grab as much of it as we can.
Only recently with several cousins either too busy with work out of the state or other commitments with family, that there were openings for us at the adult table. I always take this opportunity to find out what is happening in the family circle since I’m pretty much out of the loop here in Sabah and talking to Kin Voon, whom I share a close relationship since we practically grew up together throughout the years. We’d laugh at old times when we were little rascals causing much mischief to my grandmother; we’d talk about job prospects and working life that we shared; we’d discuss university issues and campus talk; gossip about what this aunt is doing or that uncle has been fooling about. My other cousins especially the guys would often be talking about games or cars, especially on Warcraft 3 DotA (Defense of the Ancients), of which after a year they’re still at it. We’re not the perfect family I must admit, we each have our peculiar habits and idiosyncrasy but that’s what makes it all the more interesting.
The only difference this time was the fact that dinner was not being hosted by my uncle the goldsmith. From the previous fallout where all of us lost out in investment in his business, his presence was noticeably missing from the usual scene, not that we’d appreciate seeing him there after what he did. His wife, my aunt was there though yet she looked a bit worn down, quieter than usual and maybe I’m wrong, sullen and ashamed. It’s sad to see her like this even as his husband is now openly fooling around with the mistress and sucking her savings dry. Even two of my cousins who would usually be present were away for various stated reasons but I suspect more. Yes, in times of good harvest, the man himself would often say that money is no objection and insists that he pay for the check, this time it fell onto others to do that. The most talked about topic was how each of the relations was hurt by his scam, how after committing cash to shift houses, pay for new cars or start a new business, to be told suddenly that our savings have been squandered. Everyone is still hurting and it shows though it seems those present is trying to put on a cheery face. Yet even such problems does not wash away the good atmosphere of just being together as a family and with the dishes pilling on and the drinks flowing, for a moment all was well and we had a great time.
Monday, October 24, 2005
Doom the Movie
I’m wary every time they announce a movie based on a video game, usually the dynamics makes it very hard to successfully adapt one format to the other and the viewer usually ends up with bitter feelings that a favourite game has been literally trashed by its movie adaptation. Take for example past movies such as Street Fighter, Mortal Combat, Resident Evil, Mario bro., Alien vs. Predator and Tomb Raider. None can actually be said to be true box office successes, either trying to compress the game concept into a two hour stint thus giving only shallow impression of the intricate storyline or trying to cram too many of the game elements until the audience is overwhelmed.
Now Doom has at last been giving its screen time, and the verdict?
Many fans actually played Doom early in the computer revolution being one of the earliest form of first person shoot-em-ups in the market (Castle Wolfenstein being the first) to give a real gameplay experience that sends shivers down your spine and till today it is still a yardstick to be used as for the genre. So the film makers has a high yardstick to measure up to in trying to bring it to the big screen, can they give the thrill and shock of the marines being chased by hellish demons? Can they give the sense of urgency of a sudden demonic attack? Is the adrenaline pumping actions enough to make audiences gasp in their seat with back to back violence and gore?
Sadly to say that Doom suffers much of the problems its predecessors have been prone to be subjected to. For the unfamiliar Doom centers around Earth and Mars, with the discovery of a gateway (called the Ark) in the Nevada desert leading to a lost city on Mars. Soon a scientific station was set up to study the lost in habitants as well as to conduct research on the red planet. A level 5 quarantine order soon causes hell to break out (literally) and the Rapid Response Tactical Squad (2RTS) were sent in to manage the situation. What they expected and what they encountered were two entirely different scenarios.
What I never liked about the way Hollywood portrays sci-fi horror movies is that they use dark lighted scenes and sudden flashes of attacks that leave audiences unable to grasp what is actually happening in a battle scene, to me it’s a cheap trick to build suspense and to save on costs of rendering the monsters. The usual suspense build up (sudden shrieks, false scares, shadow moving in the dark, sudden appearance of monsters from nooks, etc.) and swift battles (claws flashing for a sec, head ripping, etc.) used in previous horror films are all presented here with long pauses of slow build up to a climatic scene. Acting is so so with the usual casts of characters one expect to find in such movie genre; the loud mouth know it all that often dies, the inconsequential squad members all slated for early and gory deaths for the audience pleasure, the tough guy that knows no fear, the self doubting retrospect hero that will save the day, the good looking actress that we all know is there for the sake of it and the inexperience kid. No real outstanding acting here, even from the ‘Rock’ who plays Sarge.
CGI is okay but not outstanding, if you compare Resident evil and Doom you’d swear that the same graphic department is involved in the development since both have dead human zombies and Nemesis look alike monsters. Monsters looks ok but some of the more exquisite beasts found in the game did not make an appearance. Battles look good but again nothing out of the ordinary but one part I found was a nice touch was when Marine John Grimm (Karl Urban) was going about the Earth facility and the battles were made in the style of an actual Doom game with first person perspective and actions mimicking actual battles in the game such as gun loading, squaring off with foes and setting traps.
Gamers would instantly recognize most of the features in the movie and the most poignant must be when Sarge went and handled the Big Fat Gun (BFG). The story has been change a bit but the bulk of it stays true to the game. A few of the movie plot may leave a bit of questioning though and loose ends abound like why some of the infected humans change faster than others etc. In the end Doom does not push any new milestones nor does it do justice for game movie adaptations but it isn’t too bad a film yet it’s the mediocrity that will make fans a little perturbed and leave you wanting. Watch it if you’ve ever played Doom or just for fun, its basically a no brainer, bash em up flick most likely trying to capture the Doom gamer or ‘Rock’ lover audience. My take; 5.5/10.
Click Here to Read More..
Now Doom has at last been giving its screen time, and the verdict?
Many fans actually played Doom early in the computer revolution being one of the earliest form of first person shoot-em-ups in the market (Castle Wolfenstein being the first) to give a real gameplay experience that sends shivers down your spine and till today it is still a yardstick to be used as for the genre. So the film makers has a high yardstick to measure up to in trying to bring it to the big screen, can they give the thrill and shock of the marines being chased by hellish demons? Can they give the sense of urgency of a sudden demonic attack? Is the adrenaline pumping actions enough to make audiences gasp in their seat with back to back violence and gore?
Sadly to say that Doom suffers much of the problems its predecessors have been prone to be subjected to. For the unfamiliar Doom centers around Earth and Mars, with the discovery of a gateway (called the Ark) in the Nevada desert leading to a lost city on Mars. Soon a scientific station was set up to study the lost in habitants as well as to conduct research on the red planet. A level 5 quarantine order soon causes hell to break out (literally) and the Rapid Response Tactical Squad (2RTS) were sent in to manage the situation. What they expected and what they encountered were two entirely different scenarios.
What I never liked about the way Hollywood portrays sci-fi horror movies is that they use dark lighted scenes and sudden flashes of attacks that leave audiences unable to grasp what is actually happening in a battle scene, to me it’s a cheap trick to build suspense and to save on costs of rendering the monsters. The usual suspense build up (sudden shrieks, false scares, shadow moving in the dark, sudden appearance of monsters from nooks, etc.) and swift battles (claws flashing for a sec, head ripping, etc.) used in previous horror films are all presented here with long pauses of slow build up to a climatic scene. Acting is so so with the usual casts of characters one expect to find in such movie genre; the loud mouth know it all that often dies, the inconsequential squad members all slated for early and gory deaths for the audience pleasure, the tough guy that knows no fear, the self doubting retrospect hero that will save the day, the good looking actress that we all know is there for the sake of it and the inexperience kid. No real outstanding acting here, even from the ‘Rock’ who plays Sarge.
CGI is okay but not outstanding, if you compare Resident evil and Doom you’d swear that the same graphic department is involved in the development since both have dead human zombies and Nemesis look alike monsters. Monsters looks ok but some of the more exquisite beasts found in the game did not make an appearance. Battles look good but again nothing out of the ordinary but one part I found was a nice touch was when Marine John Grimm (Karl Urban) was going about the Earth facility and the battles were made in the style of an actual Doom game with first person perspective and actions mimicking actual battles in the game such as gun loading, squaring off with foes and setting traps.
Gamers would instantly recognize most of the features in the movie and the most poignant must be when Sarge went and handled the Big Fat Gun (BFG). The story has been change a bit but the bulk of it stays true to the game. A few of the movie plot may leave a bit of questioning though and loose ends abound like why some of the infected humans change faster than others etc. In the end Doom does not push any new milestones nor does it do justice for game movie adaptations but it isn’t too bad a film yet it’s the mediocrity that will make fans a little perturbed and leave you wanting. Watch it if you’ve ever played Doom or just for fun, its basically a no brainer, bash em up flick most likely trying to capture the Doom gamer or ‘Rock’ lover audience. My take; 5.5/10.
Sunday, October 23, 2005
Friday, October 21, 2005
Painted Jeepney
One of the cheapest and most frequent form of transportation you will find in the Philippines will be the jeepney, it can be seen at every corner, parked at every curb and seen streaming through rush hour traffic with passangers tucked to the brim. The most striking feature of the jeepney must be their customability, every jeepney owner gives their beloved a personal touch with spray paints, designs, bonet decor, bells, reflectors, anything you name it they can be seen on the countless jeepneys, a testimonial to self expression and creativity. Patar Beach, Bolinao, Philippines.
Click Here to Read More..
Visiting Kuantan: Pandan Waterfalls
This little gem often goes unnoticed by those none too familiar with it as the only sign showing where to go is a small one indeed and could often be overlooked. The journey there too isn’t too well marked, requiring several turn ins and later traveling through a stretch of quarry grounds before hitting the recreation area. Yet the often hard journey there is rewarded with the pleasure of sampling one of Kuantan’s most enticing destinations, the Pandan Waterfall. Situated off the Kuantan-Gambang road and within Felda Panching, it requires a drive of 25km from town and is reachable within half an hour.
50 hectares of rainforest reserve, a 100 meters high waterfall cascade and cooling streams will greet visitors upon arrival. Recent months have seen better facilities being prepared to accommodate visitors like an expanded parking lit, walkways, rest areas, stalls selling food and drinks and bath houses. One has to disembark from the parking lot and walk a few distance through the trail snaking though the riverside. Clear water meandering lazily after the initial falls and lush greenery offers a nice picnic or rest stop for anyone appreciative of nature. Walking further, a short climb along dirt paths by the side of the river will bring you to the cataract areas where rocky beds causes the water flow to form miniature cascades and often people can be seen lying there and enjoying the flow, water pools often collect in between rocky depressions and people can be spotted playing and dipping to cool off. A little while later you’ll find yourself looking up at the imposing falls, water gushing down in torrents in multiple streams to the sandy pool below. The water is shallow and is safe for kids to paddle in or adults to place themselves below the cascades and enjoy a beating. A wooden hanging bridge spanning the Pandan river offer those walking across a lovely view of the entire expense of the falls and also beautiful photo opportunity for those inclined. Weekend getaway, relaxing dip, rest and relaxation all can be found here in what may be a slice of paradise.
Thursday, October 20, 2005
Datin Endon passed away
Malaysia's First Lady, Datin Seri Endon Mahmood, 64, passed away on Thursday after a four year battle with cancer, spoke the Star. We as Malaysian all grief at this news, condolences to the Prime Minister, Dato Abdullah Ahmad Badawi from all of us.
Click Here to Read More..
Glassy entry
Base entrance to the Menara Tun Mustapha (Formally the Yayasan Sabah Building), Kota Kinabalu, 2003.
Click Here to Read More..
Wednesday, October 19, 2005
Fururistic look
The futuristic looking booth for Samsung along Bintang Walk, Kuala Lumpur, 2004.
Click Here to Read More..
Monday, October 17, 2005
Strategy
Deep thought, hard fought battles, stumped minds, all in a day of chess playing. Likas, Sabah, 2004.
Click Here to Read More..
Friday, October 14, 2005
It could only happen to them
At times I wonder how certain things only happen to certain people and if it wasn’t the fact that you were actually there in person to witness it, you wouldn’t believe that such an incident could happen in real life. This pertains to what happened to an uncle of mine on the day before my departure back to Sabah a few weeks ago.
I was at an aunt’s place for the night playing away at ‘Fatal Frame 2’ as the morbid ghosts were trying to suck the life out of my computer character when a call came in to my aunt. There were only three of us at home, my aunt, cousin and I. She came up and said that another aunt staying near Sunway Damansara had called and in frantic tones stated that she thought there was a burglar at the back of her house and that my uncle has noticed someone crouching behind in a corner of the washing area. He tried sounding the alarm but found that it was not functioning (so much for the hundred of thousands of dollars put into securing your home), they thought the burglars had cut the wiring. So they went up the second floor and locked the door and thus their next move was to call us.
My three cousins were away at Genting enjoying themselves leaving their parents all alone and thus the large house was quieter than usual. My first thought was why they didn’t call the police and chose instead to call us, who were in no position to act upon even if there were armed men trying to break in. Secondly by the time we drove from Damansara Perdana to their place to alert the guards anything could have happened in the timeframe including murder.
Yet facing no choice my cousin soon took the Unser out and we rushed as fast as we could to their place. I went ahead and alerted the guards manning the booth at the entrance to the estate. It’s funny most people nowadays figure that if you have several uniformed guards sitting at the entry road your house is as safe as possible even if the guards are mostly just sitting there watching television and hardly check visitors coming into and leaving the premise. So the guard without even a weapon or anything to mildly threaten any intruders who might have automated weapons and firearms not to say even machetes or knives, followed to check it out. If there were a real situation I don’t think radioing headquarters to send in reinforcement is a quick enough affair to prevent intruders from fleeing the scene, if they even ever get here.
So we went and our aunt quickly rushed out to open the gate for us. The guard went ahead and checked the area where the intruders were believed to be. I told them it would be a better precaution to call the police in the event there were armed intruders and thus ask them for their address. Ok the fact that they don’t know what number to call to ask for the police already astounded me (people it’s 999 ok, and 994 for the fire department), yet after staying for years at your residence and not know your own address, please! They had to go search for a bill so that I can call in their address. Half way and already talking to the dispatch, they soon heard shouts from the suspected area, the guard even saw that there were figures hiding at the corner. Suddenly they heard shouts, ‘hai ngo ah, Ah Lok’ (It’s me Ah Lok). So they quickly asked me to cancel the report.
Soon the entire story unfolded as I was confronted with the most bizarre situation I think I will ever encounter in my life. After sorting things through it was found out that the people hiding behind the house were my uncle’s Burmese cooks, not one but both of them, who worked at their coffee shop. Why were they there at the middle of the night? That’s even harder to believe. It seems they ferried themselves by taxi (now even illegal immigrants have the luxury of this) to the place, the guards at the entrance neither asked for identification nor even stopped them from entering the housing area. There at the gate without the knowledge of my relatives, the two Indonesian stay in maids let them in by unlocking the doors for a night of lusty sexual encounter, free from the usual prying eyes of my cousins and the fact that my relatives turned in early. If it wasn’t for a fluke decision of my uncle to come down to wash some plates he wouldn’t even be aware of the amorous affair of his work helpers under his own nose. So we told the guard all was okay and it has all been a misunderstanding and also cancelled the police emergency call.
Now to me the sheer fact that your local domestic help is having sex in their employer’s house is a shocking enough fact. The second part of it is that not one but two couples were doing their business at the same time is even more amazing. Not to mention that your maid is daring enough to invite their lover into the house without the owner’s knowledge, what if it didn’t end at just mere sex, what if they came in and robbed the entire place? Seeing this episode unfold my cousin and I could only shake our heads at the absurdity if the evening’s events. We both agreed it could only happen to them.
Click Here to Read More..
I was at an aunt’s place for the night playing away at ‘Fatal Frame 2’ as the morbid ghosts were trying to suck the life out of my computer character when a call came in to my aunt. There were only three of us at home, my aunt, cousin and I. She came up and said that another aunt staying near Sunway Damansara had called and in frantic tones stated that she thought there was a burglar at the back of her house and that my uncle has noticed someone crouching behind in a corner of the washing area. He tried sounding the alarm but found that it was not functioning (so much for the hundred of thousands of dollars put into securing your home), they thought the burglars had cut the wiring. So they went up the second floor and locked the door and thus their next move was to call us.
My three cousins were away at Genting enjoying themselves leaving their parents all alone and thus the large house was quieter than usual. My first thought was why they didn’t call the police and chose instead to call us, who were in no position to act upon even if there were armed men trying to break in. Secondly by the time we drove from Damansara Perdana to their place to alert the guards anything could have happened in the timeframe including murder.
Yet facing no choice my cousin soon took the Unser out and we rushed as fast as we could to their place. I went ahead and alerted the guards manning the booth at the entrance to the estate. It’s funny most people nowadays figure that if you have several uniformed guards sitting at the entry road your house is as safe as possible even if the guards are mostly just sitting there watching television and hardly check visitors coming into and leaving the premise. So the guard without even a weapon or anything to mildly threaten any intruders who might have automated weapons and firearms not to say even machetes or knives, followed to check it out. If there were a real situation I don’t think radioing headquarters to send in reinforcement is a quick enough affair to prevent intruders from fleeing the scene, if they even ever get here.
So we went and our aunt quickly rushed out to open the gate for us. The guard went ahead and checked the area where the intruders were believed to be. I told them it would be a better precaution to call the police in the event there were armed intruders and thus ask them for their address. Ok the fact that they don’t know what number to call to ask for the police already astounded me (people it’s 999 ok, and 994 for the fire department), yet after staying for years at your residence and not know your own address, please! They had to go search for a bill so that I can call in their address. Half way and already talking to the dispatch, they soon heard shouts from the suspected area, the guard even saw that there were figures hiding at the corner. Suddenly they heard shouts, ‘hai ngo ah, Ah Lok’ (It’s me Ah Lok). So they quickly asked me to cancel the report.
Soon the entire story unfolded as I was confronted with the most bizarre situation I think I will ever encounter in my life. After sorting things through it was found out that the people hiding behind the house were my uncle’s Burmese cooks, not one but both of them, who worked at their coffee shop. Why were they there at the middle of the night? That’s even harder to believe. It seems they ferried themselves by taxi (now even illegal immigrants have the luxury of this) to the place, the guards at the entrance neither asked for identification nor even stopped them from entering the housing area. There at the gate without the knowledge of my relatives, the two Indonesian stay in maids let them in by unlocking the doors for a night of lusty sexual encounter, free from the usual prying eyes of my cousins and the fact that my relatives turned in early. If it wasn’t for a fluke decision of my uncle to come down to wash some plates he wouldn’t even be aware of the amorous affair of his work helpers under his own nose. So we told the guard all was okay and it has all been a misunderstanding and also cancelled the police emergency call.
Now to me the sheer fact that your local domestic help is having sex in their employer’s house is a shocking enough fact. The second part of it is that not one but two couples were doing their business at the same time is even more amazing. Not to mention that your maid is daring enough to invite their lover into the house without the owner’s knowledge, what if it didn’t end at just mere sex, what if they came in and robbed the entire place? Seeing this episode unfold my cousin and I could only shake our heads at the absurdity if the evening’s events. We both agreed it could only happen to them.
Thursday, October 13, 2005
Wednesday, October 12, 2005
Visiting Kuantan: Gua Charah
I often find it very difficult to find and reach the various destinations that are found in Kuantan. Most are unmarked and unless you have fore knowledge of it will often miss such places, roads leading to them are often not properly kept or neglected and tourist’s guides does not specifically market them enough. Yet their elusiveness makes them all the more alluring, akin to finding a treasure no one has chance upon before, it also makes them less crowded and truer to their original purpose. Take for example Gua Charah, a limestone formation located in the middle of an oil palm plantation that is housing a Thai Buddhist temple, one held scared because of various features in cave formation itself. Yet though you can see it miles away, be watchful for a sign before the turnoff to Sungai Lembing else you miss it because it is a single lane small tarred road leading into a vast palm oil plantation. The road itself is in bad condition and often full of holes, when two cars are headed towards each other each must give way since the road cannot accommodate both, rain often leaves muddy stretches and potholes filled with water are hidden danger and lastly lorries carrying harvested palm fronds do at times use the exit. Yet the jewel at the end is rewarding and a well kept secret.
You start you journey by being met with a metal stairway leading up to the main temple and monk’s abode. Parking is charged a nominal fee of RM2 for cars for temple maintenance. A brief registration and donation is required at the office before descending further. Here monks in orange habits carry out their daily chores, chanting and praying, doing the laundry, cooking the daily meals and taking care of the various shrines. Often the place is frequented by pilgrims wishing to make prayers but tourists are also often seen, if required a guide can be asked to accompany you up in case you need help. From the office it is a steep climb of steel stairways, rock and dirt ground, often one might need to pause to catch ones breath ever so often. Take time to see your surroundings as limestone formations are found in varying beautiful shapes and sizes and as you near the top you can see a bird’s eye view of your surrounding.
Once you get to your destination, which is a huge cave mouth a guide will take you onwards, at the ready to explain the cave’s various features and a brief history of the place. Often these are Indian lads, children of the caretakers there making some pocket money but they are fully knowledgeable with their information. The main features here are the rock formations and each has its own tale, the reclining gold Buddha at the end of the tunnel and the history of the place itself. Over the ages, rainwater has sculpted the interior cavern in myriad of forms, some resemble identifiable real life counterparts and thus makes the place ever more intriguing.
The guide will tell you that a monk from Thailand was the first one to reach the place, finding a place to meditate and pray. Noticing the various significant features here and also finding spiritual guidance he set out to found the monastery which stands today. More and more disciples soon joined him and the present monks are the current caretakers. A legend also tells that the caves are inhabited by a white snake (most probably albino) that takes on varying sizes, not often seen it is said that anyone chancing a glimpse of it is blessed and is a sign of good luck. I haven’t been fortunate enough to witness such a creature but the lad with me said he saw it himself before.
The initial entry you’ll find yourself inside a large cavern, whistling winds can be heard clearly as you walk by. Scattered throughout the caverns are various shrines to different deities or altars at significant worship sites. The first you’ll see is a stalagmite at a high ledge near the entrance, it has the shape and outline of Kuan Yin as I was told and looking up it does resemble the Goddess of Mercy in a fashion. As you walk past you can give donations at each of the stops and light incense to the various deities. Other interesting formations include a rock that resembles a fish, a cavern wall with the shape of a white elephant and a wall impression that mimics a woman with a mirror. The way is well lit though care is still needed as the floors are often covered in water pools and guano and terrain is uneven so scratch those high heels. At the end of the journey in a large cavern you’ll find the Reclining Buddha, offer prayers or just pose with it. It is said that during certain time of the year and day, a hole in the roof of the cave will shine light directly onto the Buddha’s face, if you wish to see it enquire beforehand and plan accordingly.
Thus ends your tour, take a leisure walk back down and off to the next destination.
Thus ends your tour, take a leisure walk back down and off to the next destination.
Tuesday, October 11, 2005
Worn out ball
A well played ball near the neighbourhood park, Kuantan Gardens, Kuantan, 2004.
Click Here to Read More..
By the bedside
A picture of my grandfather, nearly 10 years after he succumbed to a lenghty battle with cancer.
Walking into the room was a somber affair though everyone tried not to show it. At the end we all wish that our daily existence is not one that ends with death but a celebration on how we lived and if it was a meaningful existence we should see it as such and not face death with downcast faces but a celebration of a long and fulfilled existence. Yet one cannot but help feel that death hung around every corner, every little detail reminds you of it; the sight of the medical drip feeding into the arm; the various medication lying on the table; the wheelchair standing by the corner; the people gathered along the bedside in silence; the frail figure of a once robust personality lying prone and helpless on the bed; and the stench that reminds you of the atmosphere within a hospital ward, a sort of antiseptic feel to it.
I’m relating this to one of my relations, my grandmother’s sister to be exact, one I call ‘sam yee poh’. Recently she has been fighting a bout of cancer, undergoing various chemotherapy treatments yet to no avail since it was malignant and reoccurring. The latest I heard was that they have recently detected leukemia within her marrow and it has progressed to the stage that treatment is not an option. My dad only found out lately when another aunt was relating the events through the phone and since I was going down to Kl and dad was following we dropped by her house for a visit. Thus we gathered along the bedside knew that this might be one of the last few times we might be able to pay her a visit and thus the somber faces though we try not to show it.
She was still lucid though and my dad and aunt were talking quite fondly with her, giving her updates and what the rest of our clan has been up to, a cousin here doing her studies, another finding a job, one uncle and his antics, etc. Even in her weakened condition at least she was still able to speak albeit with a stammer and slurred voice but managing to laugh and comment once a while. A nun was by her bedside, on her own violation to give her communion as she does every week. Small paper lanterns were hung next to rosary beads near her drip, the recent reminder of the lantern festival celebrated a few weeks back, another small but thoughtful attempt to give the place a more human touch.
I many ways, it is not too sad, yes we all feel it that her time is about to pass, yet at the age of 80 she has had a long life, a good life that few of us could hope for more. Married to a tycoon, her residence resides at the Golden Triangle in Kuala Lumpur, near to the Iranian embassy thus she is not for want of money. Her children are all grown and successful in their own way and already the next generation of grandchildren is showing their mettle. In this respect it is lucky as she is able to afford the medical care that many cancer sufferers are unable to provide for themselves. She has the chance to stay at home surrounded by family and friends, provided with the best care money could offer, if not to cure then to alleviate pain and offer a modicum of comfort in her waning condition and a son who is a trained physician to offer service and advice on her case, visiting every alternate days to check up on his mother. Thus the current scene as we gathered to talk about old times, about the present and the future, yet one fact we kept from her was that the pain she feels in her bones were the cancer cells slowly eating her away, her mind should not be reminded of it as we figured as she has already battled so many other of the cancerous cells invading her body. After going through so much pain from each session, it was a fact that no more should be done and she had fought valiently.
As I mentioned, cancer is not a specter unknown to my family, in fact it is safe to say that it is a genetic propensity in our family history, already 4 of our family tree have been struck down by the disease; my grandmother’s eldest sister and the youngest are also battling the disease, my grandfather died lung cancer due to excessive smoking and drinking at the age of 65 and my other grandfather from esophagus cancer also most probably due to years of smoking and drinking. My grandfather did not have the luxury afforded to my ‘sam yee poh’, he did not have the cash for the RM400 jabs, the live in nursemaid to take care of him 24/7 nor the cash for chemotherapy treatment. In the end he spent his days at home with my grandmother, surrounded by friends and family. Cancer can be harsh, in his last hours, he stared at us with pleading eyes, maybe fear of the impending fate, his voice gone and his moving lips uttering not a sound. He died late in the night, those gathered around him sat a vigil and offered prayers.
Thus to surmise, cancer is not too uncommon a disease in our country, every year many people die from it, some after valiant battles through drugs and treatment, others without the means to do so. Many are lucky to survive and remain in remission after treatment and are living their lives reborn, many others are not so lucky. For those able to afford it, costly treatment is available and if caught early is treatable for some forms of cancer. But for the terminal patients, the only option is to ensure a meaningful, comfortable life before the end. For people able to afford it, care can be given to ensure minimal discomfort, painkillers to control pain, paid help to look after the needs such as bathing, feeding and changing, treatment to ward off the worst of the disease. For those less fortunate it could mean severe discomfort and pain every single day. I think the most cherished hope is knowing you are in the midst of your loved ones to the last moment and ending your days in your own home.
Why am I relating this? One reason, Peter Tan is organizing a campaign to help out the Penang Hospice-At-Home-Programme by cutting off his hair in an effort to gain donation support of RM5,000 for their programme, an act borne out from the help and care they had given selflessly in helping his mother and him during her time in need. This to me is a worthy cause, offering home visits of trained physicians for cancer victims at their very own home so that they can be with their family and friends and not spending their days alone in a sterile ward. Thus I am pledging RM30 to the cause, I only wish that I could give more but I hope even this small contribution would help even a single person in their time of need, then I am glad. So if you know someone suffering from cancer and understand what it is like please do help out and donate generously, a little help goes a long way. Details can be found on Peter’s blog and donation information can be gleamed here.
Click Here to Read More..
I’m relating this to one of my relations, my grandmother’s sister to be exact, one I call ‘sam yee poh’. Recently she has been fighting a bout of cancer, undergoing various chemotherapy treatments yet to no avail since it was malignant and reoccurring. The latest I heard was that they have recently detected leukemia within her marrow and it has progressed to the stage that treatment is not an option. My dad only found out lately when another aunt was relating the events through the phone and since I was going down to Kl and dad was following we dropped by her house for a visit. Thus we gathered along the bedside knew that this might be one of the last few times we might be able to pay her a visit and thus the somber faces though we try not to show it.
She was still lucid though and my dad and aunt were talking quite fondly with her, giving her updates and what the rest of our clan has been up to, a cousin here doing her studies, another finding a job, one uncle and his antics, etc. Even in her weakened condition at least she was still able to speak albeit with a stammer and slurred voice but managing to laugh and comment once a while. A nun was by her bedside, on her own violation to give her communion as she does every week. Small paper lanterns were hung next to rosary beads near her drip, the recent reminder of the lantern festival celebrated a few weeks back, another small but thoughtful attempt to give the place a more human touch.
I many ways, it is not too sad, yes we all feel it that her time is about to pass, yet at the age of 80 she has had a long life, a good life that few of us could hope for more. Married to a tycoon, her residence resides at the Golden Triangle in Kuala Lumpur, near to the Iranian embassy thus she is not for want of money. Her children are all grown and successful in their own way and already the next generation of grandchildren is showing their mettle. In this respect it is lucky as she is able to afford the medical care that many cancer sufferers are unable to provide for themselves. She has the chance to stay at home surrounded by family and friends, provided with the best care money could offer, if not to cure then to alleviate pain and offer a modicum of comfort in her waning condition and a son who is a trained physician to offer service and advice on her case, visiting every alternate days to check up on his mother. Thus the current scene as we gathered to talk about old times, about the present and the future, yet one fact we kept from her was that the pain she feels in her bones were the cancer cells slowly eating her away, her mind should not be reminded of it as we figured as she has already battled so many other of the cancerous cells invading her body. After going through so much pain from each session, it was a fact that no more should be done and she had fought valiently.
As I mentioned, cancer is not a specter unknown to my family, in fact it is safe to say that it is a genetic propensity in our family history, already 4 of our family tree have been struck down by the disease; my grandmother’s eldest sister and the youngest are also battling the disease, my grandfather died lung cancer due to excessive smoking and drinking at the age of 65 and my other grandfather from esophagus cancer also most probably due to years of smoking and drinking. My grandfather did not have the luxury afforded to my ‘sam yee poh’, he did not have the cash for the RM400 jabs, the live in nursemaid to take care of him 24/7 nor the cash for chemotherapy treatment. In the end he spent his days at home with my grandmother, surrounded by friends and family. Cancer can be harsh, in his last hours, he stared at us with pleading eyes, maybe fear of the impending fate, his voice gone and his moving lips uttering not a sound. He died late in the night, those gathered around him sat a vigil and offered prayers.
Thus to surmise, cancer is not too uncommon a disease in our country, every year many people die from it, some after valiant battles through drugs and treatment, others without the means to do so. Many are lucky to survive and remain in remission after treatment and are living their lives reborn, many others are not so lucky. For those able to afford it, costly treatment is available and if caught early is treatable for some forms of cancer. But for the terminal patients, the only option is to ensure a meaningful, comfortable life before the end. For people able to afford it, care can be given to ensure minimal discomfort, painkillers to control pain, paid help to look after the needs such as bathing, feeding and changing, treatment to ward off the worst of the disease. For those less fortunate it could mean severe discomfort and pain every single day. I think the most cherished hope is knowing you are in the midst of your loved ones to the last moment and ending your days in your own home.
Why am I relating this? One reason, Peter Tan is organizing a campaign to help out the Penang Hospice-At-Home-Programme by cutting off his hair in an effort to gain donation support of RM5,000 for their programme, an act borne out from the help and care they had given selflessly in helping his mother and him during her time in need. This to me is a worthy cause, offering home visits of trained physicians for cancer victims at their very own home so that they can be with their family and friends and not spending their days alone in a sterile ward. Thus I am pledging RM30 to the cause, I only wish that I could give more but I hope even this small contribution would help even a single person in their time of need, then I am glad. So if you know someone suffering from cancer and understand what it is like please do help out and donate generously, a little help goes a long way. Details can be found on Peter’s blog and donation information can be gleamed here.
Visiting Kuantan: Teluk Cempedak
Rocks, trees, water, sun and people that’s what you’ll find in abundance at Teluk Cempedak. For people living in Kuantan this particular destination is a familiar sight, a place to bring your family over the weekend to play, have a walk through the nice breeze, enjoy dinner at the various seaside restaurants or just to enjoy the scenery. I’m astounded that whenever I meet people from other states they often state, “So how about taking me to see Teluk Cempedak, I’ve heard they have nice beaches there”, so famous is this beach stretch to outsiders.
Teluk Cempedak has faced various trials throughout the years, having its ups and downs, from being a popular tourist destination to battling with the crowds, pollution and vandals. Yet though some of the luster has been wiped out from this jewel it still retains a charm that attracts crowds of beach goers that never fail to pay a visit. Compared to the likes of Port Dickson the beach still is relatively clean and facilities are ample for any kind of activity imaginable.
I’ve been going there like forever, from young it was the number one spot for picnics and activity holdings for clubs and societies. The long stretch of sandy soil and various conifer trees offer a breathtaking view of the South China Sea. It’s no surprise that the Hyatt Kuantan decided that this would be the ideal spot for a resort and alongside locals you can find nationals from various countries frolicking in the sand, sun and surf, sleeping on the beach, flying kites, taking brisk walks, throwing Frisbees or just enjoying the view. For the hungry visitors, Mc Donald has set up shop nearby with a drive thru and eating burgers by the seaside with the strong breeze blowing is a nice experience. Seafood restaurants, especially Restoran Pattaya offers fresh seafood dinners cooked to your specifications or for the less discerning there are various food stalls with different Malaysian fare up for grabs. Nearby too are shops with steamboats and pubs, for the shopping minded, there are lots to buy from handicrafts, beachwear, souvenirs and other paraphernalia to bring back home.
The beach is often packed on weekends and parking can be a hassle to find but not impossible. Another more guarded secret till recently is Tanjung Tokong. It is a secluded bay connecting Teluk Cempedak. It was more exclusive in the past whereby the only access route was through a brief jungle trail that winds through sheer rock ledges with spectacular view of the rock outcrops and jungle flora. Now one can just take a leisure walk through the boardwalk erected to cater for mass use with vista huts for those needing rest or to enjoy the view. Opening up Tanjung Tokong makes access easier but also looses it allure a bit as more people are utilizing it where once it was the purview of fastidious youngsters or camp scouts which finds this little niche a bit of undisturbed wilderness. For a bit of history, the cape is named after an incident where Vietnamese refugees actually landed here to seek refuge (the boat they arrive in can still be viewed as Hyatt has converted it into a drink stall near the pool), it was also the site where the Japanese also found their beachhead in their advance down the Peninsular and locals flee to escape them to this secluded spot. Remnants of this part of history is a concrete bunker that people might miss if they are not careful near the main beach, used before as a stage, shop lot but now remains unused.
There’s a lot one can do to enjoy the scene; as mentioned it is still a great beach though don’t expect to find white sandy beaches the likes of the Maldives or clear blue waters of Hawaii. Intensive use and development along the bay has caused degradation in quality, the sands are bleached a dark blackish yellow colouration, water is brownish to darkish blue and a feeder drain often belch dark stinking runoff from the various businesses directly into the sea. But certain stretches are of excellent condition, walk farther down away from the stretch fronting the shops and you’ll find lesser known beaches that are wonderful especially those nearer to the hotels. There large rock formations fronts the hills, wild monkeys are prevalent, the ocean is clear and green vegetation offers shade and a nice view. Beware of the monkeys though, they are aggressive, don’t feed at all costs and the older ones are more bold that they’ll trail you and even make a grab at your food if they have the chance. For trekkers or joggers various trails lead up to the Pelindung forests that offers scenic as well as challenging trails.
Various recreational activities are available, stalls sells or rent kites for those wanting to catch the good winds there, swimming is available for most of the year unless closed during monsoon or strong surges as indicated by a red flag, sand castle building seems to be a favourite. Picnics are still the best activity to be had here, family outings are common and there is nothing better than having dinner near to shore. Night brings its own allure as the beach is lighted up, it is a popular haunt for teenagers wanting a romantic atmosphere as well as more seedy characters which find the secluded beaches offering privacy for more insidious purposes. It was my usual haunt after a romantic dinner, walking in the cool breeze with the sound of the surf hitting the beach and the feel of sand and tide as you walk barefooted on the coast. So if you’re ever down in Kuantan this is one obvious place to give a visit. If you need more side distractions head for the nearby Teruntum mini zoo and park, or tee off at the Kuantan golf course, have a nice jog along the lake at Taman Gelora or just drive 10 minutes into town.
Monday, October 10, 2005
Dance of the Croc
One of the performers dancing with a croc, Sandakan Crocodile Farm, Sandakan, Sabah, 2004.
Click Here to Read More..
Sunday, October 09, 2005
Saturday, October 08, 2005
The journey back
I guess two weeks was a little short and as you say all good things must come to an end sooner or later. It felt like I've barely touched down and now I've to pack again to leave. It's been nice, I don't think I'll get a chance to sleep in or skip church or drive out and eat my favourite meals whenever I want anytime soon again. It was hectic I must say, within a fortnight I've had to travel up and down to the point that I'm so darn sick of it, catching the flight from Kota Kinabalu to Kuala Lumpur, flying back to Kuantan, driving down Kl and back again and tomorrow hitching the bus down to Kl again for my Sunday flight back. If anyone notices an idiot lugging around a giant Polo suit case through Masjid Jamek station tomorrow along with other bags and stuff you can be assured it's yours truly. I'm sure it is going to be hell trying to lug luggage from Pekeliling on the Star Line and later transferring to Putra to get to Taman Bahagia, I'm shuddering to figure out how I'm going to squeeze into the overloaded train carriages. Yikes, wished I had more time, time does pass by so fast to the point that I'm rushing to complete all the things I wanted to do when I got back, to the point that I've only managed to get a taste of my favourite cendol tonight, sob I'm going to miss all the good eats back here, can't really find decent rojak and stuff back in Sabah. There's still so much to do here and it's going to be a while before I return, some last minute tidying up of my room (which in my father's own words is a perpetual state of a dump) and some packing. Well so long room, so long nice comfy spring mattress, so long airconditioning (waaahhhh!!!), so long dog, etc etc. So bye for now to Kuantan.
Click Here to Read More..
Friday, October 07, 2005
Headache for travellers in Kl
One of the trains easing into the station at Taman Paramount, view of Asia Jaya and surrounding in the background. Kuala Lumpur, 2004.
It’s been a while since I’ve hit the roads of Kuala Lumpur and am instantly reminded how at times it can be a chore to drive around town. The roads of Kl are always a challenge, never really settling down as their avenues, exits and pathways constantly change leaving you with a headache in trying to decipher the mind boggling signage to reach your destination. Take for example as you enter the Batu Caves area after the toll plaza near the International Islamic University, there are three to four signs that will tell you they all lead to pusat bandaraya (the town center) yet each in actual fact will bring you to different destinations though still in the vicinity to town, take the off ramp up and you’ll find yourself headed towards Batu Caves and the Outer Ring Road towards Kepong and Jalan Kuching where you’ll find yourself deposited near Putra World Trade Center (PWTC) headed for Dataran Merdeka. Take the fork down and you’ll be going straight to Gombak where the old road to town was and a junction forking to Jalan Pahang as well as Sentul, another path leads straight to Ampang, the Mines Resort and the Seremban Highway while another path down will find you heading the direction of the Klang Gates Ridge and also towards Zoo Negara (the National Zoo).
One wrong turn and you know you’ll be in hell of a time trying to find the correct route back to your original destination. Construction also seems to be never ending with certain stretches constantly being dug up, reworked, diverted or closed to traffic. Just like the time when I was driving towards Seputeh with the intent of heading to Midvalley while trying to avoid the jam along the Federal Highway only to find they have diverted the route making it necessary to make a gigantic U turn and rerouting. It might all be well and good if the drivers weren’t all trying to get you. Driving is hectic in Kl if you haven’t really gotten used to it and after so long an absence it seems I need to fine tune my resolve in confronting drivers that would not give way for you to turn into a lane; make sudden sharp cuts into your lane in between the smallest of space without signal; dash out through the red light as you’re about to move out; drive at over 120km/h on a straight road when you’re turning and not bothering to stop; shouting and cursing you with menacing glances as if you’re at fault and threatening more sinister retributions; follow you inches from the back with no recourse in case of a sudden need to brake; not stopping at a stop look go point; parking double to triple cars abreast and turning a two lane road into a maze for two way traffic to sort out; motorbikes racing in and out without a thought, mini busses and lorries acting like king of the road and you a mere flea; usage of emergency lanes in bumper to bumper crawl; cursing and making lewd gestures; honking incessantly; leaving highlights on at night; and the list goes on.
It just takes every ounce of your concentration to keep each and every detail in focus and to avoid any incident to the point that after a long drive you just feel all drained and exhausted mentally and physically. It’s ironic that it takes two and a half hour using the new East Coast Expressway to get from Kuantan to Kl but a two hour jam to get from town to Damansara. Toll booths also seem like a too common feature everywhere, pay pay and pay, not to mention that they raised prices again.
Traveling by public transport the next few days to get from point A to point B in town is no cakewalk as well. The public transport system is in such as mess that a circuitous route with several train changes is needed to get anywhere. It doesn’t help that some of the fare prices are absurd like a single station hop from Kl Sentral to Midvalley on the Komuter costs RM1, the same that would allow you to travel from 4 stations from Putra to Kl Sentral. To get from Taman Bahagia to PWTC I had to catch the Putra line to Kl Sentral and hop onto the Komuter else take it to Masjid Jamek and then take the STAR line to PWTC station. From there I needed to get to KLCC which again I had to hop to two different train systems to do so and don’t even mention riding to Bukit Bintang which actually takes 3 lines, STAR to Putra to Kl Monorail.
To add the standard between all three lines are as different as night and day, Putra must be the most packed line I’ve known with people as squashing in with nary space to wiggle, especially for high congestion stations like KLCC and Masjid Jamek. Often even by the second station there is hardly a place to sit. STAR line is more pleasant mainly because it is underutilized, boarding from Masjid Jamek you can be assured of a seat most of the time and there are hardly need to squeeze. Komuter must be the most enjoyable ride there is, plush seating (unlike the aluminum constructs of other lines), cooling air conditioning, smooth rides and ample space for seating with corridors wide enough so that in case there is a need to stand walking is still possible. Kl Monorail also faces some of the crowding problems of the rest and the ride is quite bumpy, plus prices are a bit high comparatively. Did I mention all stations are not connected so each change of system requires you to exit one before entering the other?
Plus don’t let me start on the busses. If I need to get to Damansara Perdana I wouldn’t find anything remotely convenient to take there. Not to mention that the bus service is erratic, the drivers parking the busses and taking their sweet time before deciding to continue as people all wait. I think without a personal transport it is hard to get anywhere in Kl but then I would have to articulate on the parking problem wouldn’t I?
Click Here to Read More..
One wrong turn and you know you’ll be in hell of a time trying to find the correct route back to your original destination. Construction also seems to be never ending with certain stretches constantly being dug up, reworked, diverted or closed to traffic. Just like the time when I was driving towards Seputeh with the intent of heading to Midvalley while trying to avoid the jam along the Federal Highway only to find they have diverted the route making it necessary to make a gigantic U turn and rerouting. It might all be well and good if the drivers weren’t all trying to get you. Driving is hectic in Kl if you haven’t really gotten used to it and after so long an absence it seems I need to fine tune my resolve in confronting drivers that would not give way for you to turn into a lane; make sudden sharp cuts into your lane in between the smallest of space without signal; dash out through the red light as you’re about to move out; drive at over 120km/h on a straight road when you’re turning and not bothering to stop; shouting and cursing you with menacing glances as if you’re at fault and threatening more sinister retributions; follow you inches from the back with no recourse in case of a sudden need to brake; not stopping at a stop look go point; parking double to triple cars abreast and turning a two lane road into a maze for two way traffic to sort out; motorbikes racing in and out without a thought, mini busses and lorries acting like king of the road and you a mere flea; usage of emergency lanes in bumper to bumper crawl; cursing and making lewd gestures; honking incessantly; leaving highlights on at night; and the list goes on.
It just takes every ounce of your concentration to keep each and every detail in focus and to avoid any incident to the point that after a long drive you just feel all drained and exhausted mentally and physically. It’s ironic that it takes two and a half hour using the new East Coast Expressway to get from Kuantan to Kl but a two hour jam to get from town to Damansara. Toll booths also seem like a too common feature everywhere, pay pay and pay, not to mention that they raised prices again.
Traveling by public transport the next few days to get from point A to point B in town is no cakewalk as well. The public transport system is in such as mess that a circuitous route with several train changes is needed to get anywhere. It doesn’t help that some of the fare prices are absurd like a single station hop from Kl Sentral to Midvalley on the Komuter costs RM1, the same that would allow you to travel from 4 stations from Putra to Kl Sentral. To get from Taman Bahagia to PWTC I had to catch the Putra line to Kl Sentral and hop onto the Komuter else take it to Masjid Jamek and then take the STAR line to PWTC station. From there I needed to get to KLCC which again I had to hop to two different train systems to do so and don’t even mention riding to Bukit Bintang which actually takes 3 lines, STAR to Putra to Kl Monorail.
To add the standard between all three lines are as different as night and day, Putra must be the most packed line I’ve known with people as squashing in with nary space to wiggle, especially for high congestion stations like KLCC and Masjid Jamek. Often even by the second station there is hardly a place to sit. STAR line is more pleasant mainly because it is underutilized, boarding from Masjid Jamek you can be assured of a seat most of the time and there are hardly need to squeeze. Komuter must be the most enjoyable ride there is, plush seating (unlike the aluminum constructs of other lines), cooling air conditioning, smooth rides and ample space for seating with corridors wide enough so that in case there is a need to stand walking is still possible. Kl Monorail also faces some of the crowding problems of the rest and the ride is quite bumpy, plus prices are a bit high comparatively. Did I mention all stations are not connected so each change of system requires you to exit one before entering the other?
Plus don’t let me start on the busses. If I need to get to Damansara Perdana I wouldn’t find anything remotely convenient to take there. Not to mention that the bus service is erratic, the drivers parking the busses and taking their sweet time before deciding to continue as people all wait. I think without a personal transport it is hard to get anywhere in Kl but then I would have to articulate on the parking problem wouldn’t I?
Blue Starfish
A blue starfish clambering along the coral display at the BMRI aquarium, Kota Kinabalu, Sabah, 2005.
Click Here to Read More..
Thursday, October 06, 2005
Golden Buddha
Statue of Buddha adorning the roads fringing gravesites in Nirvana memorial park, Nilai, Seremban, 2003.
Click Here to Read More..
Wednesday, October 05, 2005
The mamak stall
To find the most colourful characters one does not need to venture further than the local kopitiam (Coffeeshop). All walks of life often congregate in places atypical as the one in the photo to indulge themselves, leaving such prejudices as race, religion and differences out as everyone enjoys a cup of kopi-o kau kau (thickly brewed black coffee). The old often sits and read the daily morning papers enjoying a fare of nasi lemak, rice cooked in coconut milk and dressed in thick sambal (chilli paste) and spattered with sprinklings of kacang (nuts) and ikan bilis (anchovies). Others would be dining down on roti canai (a cenai dough bread made by repeatedly kneeding the dough into paper thin flat slices and done over a hot skillet) served with curry; families would be eating out together, kids ooing as the server stretches his arms apart and 'pulls' milk tea from one pot to another to prepare 'teh tarik'; men from all races would be talking of current events and loudly speculating on the latest round of English football results or politics; womenfolk just back from the market would be swapping gossips over beverages; a teenager might be listening to his i-pod as he reads the latest fashion magazines. True there are more trendier spots to be in, the latest generation of coffee houses are fully air conditioned, served top class food, hygenic eateries and even offer you free wireless internet access but nothing can beat the atmosphere at an old fashion mamak stall, with their greasy tables, rickety wooden chairs, dim lighting, dank air and loud talking servers where orders are shouted across the floor, that is if you can stand the occasional rat moving across the place. These are still true Malaysian institutions and will continue on as such for quite a while.
Click Here to Read More..
Tuesday, October 04, 2005
Orchid bloom
I didn't believe this was an orchid until the stall owner told me so, it was so tiny that a single blossom was smaller than my thumb. Very unique and exotic. Gaya Street, Kota Kinabalu, 2005.
Click Here to Read More..
Monday, October 03, 2005
Comfy bed
A cage mate prove a nice comfy place to rest itself on and doze away. Gaya Street, Kota Kinabalu, 2004.
Click Here to Read More..
Reflections of Kuantan
A news vendor takes time to read his own papers while the early morning crowd is still slack, one of the few old shops that have been plying their trade along the pre-war shop houses found along Jalan Besar. Kuantan, Pahang, 2003.
Every time I return to Kuantan I am struck by how life is less hectic here as compared to elsewhere such as the likes of Kuala Lumpur, Penang or even Kota Kinabalu and that the rhythm and pulse of the city and its denizens seem to flow slowly yet steadily in the stream of progress. After all these years development hasn’t been too rampant as to cause disorientation and confusion, but at an even pace that allows you to catch you breath once in a while. Thus even with the gaps of time that precede ever leaving and return here, nothing much has really changed. True there are more buildings being erected, the empty lands beside my secondary school, once filled with wild yam, coconut palms and lalang is now being developed into a mall, Air Putih once a backwater is now turning into one of the most highly priced landed property in town, the kampungs of Galing and Bukit Sekilau are making way for double storey brick terrace houses and shop houses and even the church my family goes to where my first kindergarten was is now a new community hall. Progress won’t be stopped but maybe it’s for the best.
Though Kuantanites may not enjoy the high paced life of city dwellers, there are no high class hangouts for discos and pubs like Bangsar; the only posh coffee house is the lone Starbucks and even the local Kemaman Kopitiam; shopping is limited to several under rented malls with shops closing and reopening anew a common enough sight; cultural extravaganzas such as those held in Kl are non existent; traffic jams are not so bad as to want to make you pull your hair from your scalp but yet the town does offer a lot of other things. For one it still remains a good safe town to raise a family, crime is low, prices are not as inflated, people friendly (to a point), there are good food enough to keep your palate from wanting and if you need a break from work, the beaches are just a drive away or a visit to the local park isn’t too far off. There are no high rises or condos to mar the scenery, one which I find much appealing with the hills, Bukit Sekilau, Bukit Setongkol, and Bukit Ubi, hemming the town in and the sea so close by.
Yet for young people jobs are not always easy to find here, from my past friends and acquaintances, almost all have chose to leave Kuantan to build careers elsewhere mostly in Kl, Johor and Penang. It is ironic that I only appreciate how good life here has been only once I’ve ventured about elsewhere, I may not choose the option to work here in future, I hardly think they need a marine scientist about but it would be good to maybe return here later in life to start a family. Hopefully Kuantan will still remain as such in that distant time. Yet of all things the one thing I can be assured of is home, my room remaining intact and my family. But it also pains me to see that things are not always as it was, my dad is aging and isn't as he used to be, and my brother is touching puberty with his broken voice and disasterous pimple fiasco he calls a face. Times goes by and ever onward.
Click Here to Read More..
Though Kuantanites may not enjoy the high paced life of city dwellers, there are no high class hangouts for discos and pubs like Bangsar; the only posh coffee house is the lone Starbucks and even the local Kemaman Kopitiam; shopping is limited to several under rented malls with shops closing and reopening anew a common enough sight; cultural extravaganzas such as those held in Kl are non existent; traffic jams are not so bad as to want to make you pull your hair from your scalp but yet the town does offer a lot of other things. For one it still remains a good safe town to raise a family, crime is low, prices are not as inflated, people friendly (to a point), there are good food enough to keep your palate from wanting and if you need a break from work, the beaches are just a drive away or a visit to the local park isn’t too far off. There are no high rises or condos to mar the scenery, one which I find much appealing with the hills, Bukit Sekilau, Bukit Setongkol, and Bukit Ubi, hemming the town in and the sea so close by.
Yet for young people jobs are not always easy to find here, from my past friends and acquaintances, almost all have chose to leave Kuantan to build careers elsewhere mostly in Kl, Johor and Penang. It is ironic that I only appreciate how good life here has been only once I’ve ventured about elsewhere, I may not choose the option to work here in future, I hardly think they need a marine scientist about but it would be good to maybe return here later in life to start a family. Hopefully Kuantan will still remain as such in that distant time. Yet of all things the one thing I can be assured of is home, my room remaining intact and my family. But it also pains me to see that things are not always as it was, my dad is aging and isn't as he used to be, and my brother is touching puberty with his broken voice and disasterous pimple fiasco he calls a face. Times goes by and ever onward.
Saturday, October 01, 2005
Da Boss
Sometimes you don't need a huge sign pointing to the leader of a group, they just exude the aura that exclaim their status as 'the big head', broken arm or not, this pose is enough to show he means business and not to take him as a push over. Portrait of Fey during the Marine SOS Day, 2005.
Click Here to Read More..
Lights Out
The first time I actually known what brownouts were was when I was in the Philippines. Sure here in Malaysia blackouts do happen now and then and the worst were those during the night and you couldn't sleep due to the stuffy and hot room. But brownouts never chanced upon it before. So it was strange to see certain appliances working and others not, some plugs giving current and some not, fans working but at minimal speed and alternating houses with juice while others totally shut down. Luckily there was a generator at the Bolinao Marine Labs else things would be at a standstill.
Click Here to Read More..
IPTA R&D Expo 2005
It's hard to believe that I'm typing this at PWTC now but yeah. Today morning looked a bit drab and it did rain a little and all my dad had with him in the car was a cheap mini umbrella with floral motif that cost him less than RM3 from a China trader back in Kuantan. Thus after taking the LRT from Taman Bahagia and aligning from Masjid Jamek to catch the STAR line to PWTC I had to walk from the Mall with a light blue with pink and yellow floral pattern umbrella that hardly shielded me from the rain, lucky it wasn't too heavy and too long a distance. It did look a bit odd for me to hold such an item since I'm dress in quite drab colours, black collared shirt with tan long pants and black shoes and suddenly as if a flower was growing from this pile of dirt, my umbrella stuck out like a sore thumb, I just hope the fellow Klites didn't notice this abberation.
I must admit that I admire the preparations the organizers put up for the exhibition, upon entering registeration involved using your MyKad and you'll get a print out of your info on the registeration sheet along with a printed tag. Very sophisticated. The interior were well done, very plush with wall to wall carpeting, floral motif lights and techno looking booths. Oh yeah I'm attending the IPTA R&D expo 2005 which UMS is a participant. Renting three booths (which I was told costs a whooping RM25,000 each) with exhibits from several schools Johleen and I were assigned to be the spokesperson for IPMB. Our boss skipped town this morning leaving us high and dry though so we're stuck here for the next two days.
At least I got a free shirt for it and also a chance to look at what the other institutions are currently working on. Some are bland, others quite impressive. UM, UKM and USM are occupying the middle floor with the largest floorspace with research ranging from bone replacement transplant, tissue culture, light aircrafts and more. Other institutions are also present like UTM, KUSTEM and the rest. Ok gotta go back to duties. Signing off, more news later.
Click Here to Read More..
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)
