It is my latest read by Pahrol Mohamad Juoi. He claimed that his book is just a 'biasa-biasa' book but he note "carilah sesuatu yang luar biasa di sebalik buku yang biasa-biasa ini". True to his word, it is just a 'biasa -biasa' book. But I found some common characteristic of a lelaki in him and the lelaki in me.
Izinkan lelaki itu pergi
Walau kakinya bagai terpasung luka
Walau hatinya tercalar bisa
Izinkan dia melangkah jua
Tangismu tidak dia lupakan
Bukan dia tega
Bukan dia rela
Tetapi dia terpaksa
Izinkan dia pergi jua
Di hatinya ada wahyu yang merayu
Di situ tidak pernah ada tunggu
Walau terjerat... walau terikat
Dia mesti pergi jua
Ah, genderang itu telah berbunyi
Dia terpaksa pergi
Jangan kau tunggu lagi
Mari pergi bersamanya
Walau terseksa, lelaki itu kan pergi jua!
Lelakis are unstoppable creature. He will do what he wills. Along the way, he will hurt his loved ones but that doesn't mean love is not in his heart. He will cry alone in the dark when nobody is watching, but that doesn't stop him from doing what he wants. Ah, men! Full of eccentricities! (or is it me?)
Tuesday, July 21, 2009
Rindu kat Mak
Dah dekat 2 bulan I did not visit my mum. The last time (a month ago) was just a short 'drop by' which doesn't count as a visit. A visit must be at least minimum 1 night stay at her house, makan her cook dan sembang-sembang sampai tengah malam bercerita hal adik adik dan adik beradik. I admit, I am not a person who goes back balik kampong and tak tau duduk diam berkemas kawasan sekitar. That will be my younger brother, Chu. (By the way, today is Chu's 41st birthday. Happy birthday Chu!). My balik kampong means lepak-lepak kat rumah mak, baring-baring, tidur, makan, nganja-nganja dengan mak, borak-borak dengan mak, watch TV, lepak-lepak, baring-baring, lepak-lepak lagi, makan lagi, sampailah masa untuk balik KL balik. Eventhough I like that one, mak tetap sayang me one. Nantilah, I will try to balik kampong this weekend. Nak lepas rindu kat mak.
Sunday, July 19, 2009
A very dangerous article by Zainul Arifin of NSTP
A descent point of view at first, but later turn into a very dangerous racist article. How could a very senior journalist write something like this? Shame on you! So, are you suggesting that it is OK if you are a Malay, and later found dead after being interrogated by the authority, because the interrogator are Malays? Brainless. It is not about race, it is about the death of a non-suspect Malaysian who were found dead in a government agency's office after being interrogated for straight 10 hours (from 5pm). Allah has predetermined our death - when, where and how. Zainul Arifin keep that belief all the way, until when he wrote "Kenapa Menteri Besar Selangor, seorang Melayu, meragui kebolehan orang sebangsanya bertindak dengan tulus dan adil?" - he is already playing with racial flame. I don't share the same feel.
Kematian Teoh timbulkan pelbagai spekulasi politik
Oleh Zainul Ariffin
zainul@nstp.com.my
(online version here)
KEMATIAN Teoh dijadikan polemik dan isu politik tanpa mengambil kira kesedihan yang melanda anggota keluarganya.
Oportunisme boleh rampas kesedihan untuk jadi modal siasah
ADAKAH ahli dan penyokong Pakatan Rakyat saja yang berasa sedih ke atas kematian Teoh Beng Hock?
Tentu sekali jika dilihat dari muka-muka sama yang bergegas mengepalai tunjuk perasaan apabila saja ada kejadian seperti ini berlaku, beratur untuk perhatian jurugambar dan pemberita, dan di dalam kepala menghitung laba politik yang mungkin diperoleh.
Oportunisme politik boleh merampas kesedihan untuk dijadikan modal politik. Kematian boleh dijadikan pemangkin untuk naikkan kemarahan, dan juga batu hikmat menarik sokongan.
Terlalu sedikit cubaan untuk menenangkan keadaan. Di dalam kes Teoh setiap kenyataan seakan-akan berbau politik. Jika orang marah, apikan lagi. Jika bersedih, apa lagi, kenangkanlah nasib mereka dan paling penting, cari pihak yang perlu dipertanggungjawabkan.
Sudah tentulah Suruhanjaya Pencegahan Rasuah Malaysia (SPRM) perlu bertanggungjawab kerana mendiang Teoh kali terakhir berada di pejabat berkenaan dan mayat beliau dijumpai berhampiran. SPRM juga menemuduga Teoh hingga awal pagi.
Tanggungjawab SPRM ialah untuk menyiasat sepenuhnya kejadian itu, dan jika ada kesilapan atau kelemahan, atau kecuaian dan salah laku di pihaknya, tindakan perlu diambil. Ia mesti telus dan tegas.
Tetapi ia sepatutnya tidak perlu dipertanggungjawabkan untuk menangkis tuduhan yang tidak berasas, menjawab tohmahan, dan melayan agenda politik orang lain. Segala keraguan dan persoalan mesti dijawab, tetapi mestilah tidak yang bermotifkan politik.
Yang lebih penting, tanggungjawab SPRM ialah supaya ia tertumpu kepada tugasnya. Siasatan yang masih ada, termasuk terhadap ahli politik yang bertempik dan berkumpul di luar pejabatnya, yang cuba menimbulkan syak dan wasangka terhadap integriti agensi itu, mestilah diteruskan.
Kita faham ramai yang marah. Kita juga tahu ramai yang bersedih dengan kematian Teoh. Semua orang ada abang, adik, anak, suami, kawan dan faham serta simpati kepada pemergian orang muda seperti Teoh yang masa hadapannya nampak cerah.
Bukan orang Cina atau penyokong Pakatan Rakyat saja yang tahu marah dan mahukan keadilan.
Namun, elemen perkauman dimasukkan oleh beberapa ahli Dewan Negeri Selangor apabila mereka disiasat sama ada menyalahgunakan peruntukan dan kuasa oleh SPRM, walaupun anggapan ini salah kerana ada Adun Melayu disiasat juga.
Namun keraguan timbul, terutama di kalangan bukan Melayu bahawa SPRM, yang semestinya seperti agensi kerajaan lain banyak pekerja Melayu, secara selektif memilih bukan Melayu untuk disiasat.
Apabila mangsa kemalangan pula orang bukan Melayu, yang sebelumnya disiasat orang Melayu, bertambah hebatlah spekulasinya. Di alam maya internet tidak susah mencari kesimpulan berunsur perkauman.
Adakah ini politik? Peduli apa kesannya kepada negara asalkan popular. Walau dihias dengan kata-kata manis seperti hak asasi ataupun ketelusan atau keadilan, yang jelas, kadang-kadang, agenda perkauman nyata.
Kenapa perlu menanam kebencian, meniup api kemarahan terhadap agensi kerajaan yang banyak juga penyokong mereka bekerja di dalamnya? Dengar sajalah perkataan kesat yang dilemparkan kepada polis dan sebagainya?
Keadilankah yang dituntut atau kebencian digalakkan?
Adakah strategi untuk menggalakkan syak terhadap agensi kerajaan. Dulunya kehakiman kemudian polis, kini SPRM?
Apakah nilai kepemimpinan politik jika apa yang digalakkan ialah membenci dan menghasut? Di manakah fahaman politik atau ideologi mulia?
Apabila saja ada perkara seperti ini, bergegas-gegas muka yang sama mengeluarkan kenyataan yang pada asasnya menanam syak kepada institusi.
Cukuplah dengan membenci pimpinan kerajaan. Mereka orang politik, mereka boleh terima semua ini. Tetapi pegawai kerajaan bukan orang politik; mereka jalankan tugas dan arahan.
Sedarlah jika setiap kali institusi kita dicerca dan dihina, lama-kelamaan akan ada yang terlekat. Makin lama semakin tipis kepercayaan kita.
Pepatah Inggeris berkata: 'You reap what you sow' � jika ada pihak yang mahu popular dengan menabur syak wasangka kepada orang lain, lama kelamaan dia juga akan menerima kesannya.
Katalah ditakdirkan pembangkang memerintah, tidak akan reputasi institusi dan agensi yang dipijak-pijak akan kembali pulih serta merta. Apa yang runtuh sukar dibina semula. Institusi akan terus dipandang serong, kepercayaan rakyat akan tetap menipis.
Adakah kehakiman atau polis yang sentiasa dikutuk akan jadi baik tiba-tiba dan terus diterima rakyat. Hakisan tidak boleh dipatah balik, malah ia selalu membawa kepada keruntuhan.
Kenapa, contohnya perlu kerajaan Selangor mahukan pakar bedah swasta untuk siasat kematian Teoh? Adakah pakar hospital kerajaan tidak layak? Atau tidak boleh dipercayai?
Kenapa Menteri Besar Selangor, seorang Melayu, meragui kebolehan orang sebangsanya bertindak dengan tulus dan adil?
Bukankah banyak pegawai agensi atau institusi kerajaan orang Melayu? Adakah polis, hakim, guru, penyiasat, doktor, pensyarah Melayu semuanya tidak boleh dipercayai?
Percayalah, inilah yang berlaku apabila kita sama naik menabur syak pada agensi dan institusi kerajaan. Layari sahaja laman internet untuk mengetahui apa yang dikatakan mengenai institusi-institusi yang kebanyakan diketuai dan dipenuhi oleh orang Melayu.
Bukan ahli dan penyokong parti politik saja yang mahukan keadilan. Orang lain pun begitu. Tetapi jangan semua institusi diruntuh. Janganlah termakan kata-kata orang, yang agendanya kadang-kadang hendak mempersoalkan kebolehan orang Melayu.
Kematian Teoh timbulkan pelbagai spekulasi politik
Oleh Zainul Ariffin
zainul@nstp.com.my
(online version here)
KEMATIAN Teoh dijadikan polemik dan isu politik tanpa mengambil kira kesedihan yang melanda anggota keluarganya.
Oportunisme boleh rampas kesedihan untuk jadi modal siasah
ADAKAH ahli dan penyokong Pakatan Rakyat saja yang berasa sedih ke atas kematian Teoh Beng Hock?
Tentu sekali jika dilihat dari muka-muka sama yang bergegas mengepalai tunjuk perasaan apabila saja ada kejadian seperti ini berlaku, beratur untuk perhatian jurugambar dan pemberita, dan di dalam kepala menghitung laba politik yang mungkin diperoleh.
Oportunisme politik boleh merampas kesedihan untuk dijadikan modal politik. Kematian boleh dijadikan pemangkin untuk naikkan kemarahan, dan juga batu hikmat menarik sokongan.
Terlalu sedikit cubaan untuk menenangkan keadaan. Di dalam kes Teoh setiap kenyataan seakan-akan berbau politik. Jika orang marah, apikan lagi. Jika bersedih, apa lagi, kenangkanlah nasib mereka dan paling penting, cari pihak yang perlu dipertanggungjawabkan.
Sudah tentulah Suruhanjaya Pencegahan Rasuah Malaysia (SPRM) perlu bertanggungjawab kerana mendiang Teoh kali terakhir berada di pejabat berkenaan dan mayat beliau dijumpai berhampiran. SPRM juga menemuduga Teoh hingga awal pagi.
Tanggungjawab SPRM ialah untuk menyiasat sepenuhnya kejadian itu, dan jika ada kesilapan atau kelemahan, atau kecuaian dan salah laku di pihaknya, tindakan perlu diambil. Ia mesti telus dan tegas.
Tetapi ia sepatutnya tidak perlu dipertanggungjawabkan untuk menangkis tuduhan yang tidak berasas, menjawab tohmahan, dan melayan agenda politik orang lain. Segala keraguan dan persoalan mesti dijawab, tetapi mestilah tidak yang bermotifkan politik.
Yang lebih penting, tanggungjawab SPRM ialah supaya ia tertumpu kepada tugasnya. Siasatan yang masih ada, termasuk terhadap ahli politik yang bertempik dan berkumpul di luar pejabatnya, yang cuba menimbulkan syak dan wasangka terhadap integriti agensi itu, mestilah diteruskan.
Kita faham ramai yang marah. Kita juga tahu ramai yang bersedih dengan kematian Teoh. Semua orang ada abang, adik, anak, suami, kawan dan faham serta simpati kepada pemergian orang muda seperti Teoh yang masa hadapannya nampak cerah.
Bukan orang Cina atau penyokong Pakatan Rakyat saja yang tahu marah dan mahukan keadilan.
Namun, elemen perkauman dimasukkan oleh beberapa ahli Dewan Negeri Selangor apabila mereka disiasat sama ada menyalahgunakan peruntukan dan kuasa oleh SPRM, walaupun anggapan ini salah kerana ada Adun Melayu disiasat juga.
Namun keraguan timbul, terutama di kalangan bukan Melayu bahawa SPRM, yang semestinya seperti agensi kerajaan lain banyak pekerja Melayu, secara selektif memilih bukan Melayu untuk disiasat.
Apabila mangsa kemalangan pula orang bukan Melayu, yang sebelumnya disiasat orang Melayu, bertambah hebatlah spekulasinya. Di alam maya internet tidak susah mencari kesimpulan berunsur perkauman.
Adakah ini politik? Peduli apa kesannya kepada negara asalkan popular. Walau dihias dengan kata-kata manis seperti hak asasi ataupun ketelusan atau keadilan, yang jelas, kadang-kadang, agenda perkauman nyata.
Kenapa perlu menanam kebencian, meniup api kemarahan terhadap agensi kerajaan yang banyak juga penyokong mereka bekerja di dalamnya? Dengar sajalah perkataan kesat yang dilemparkan kepada polis dan sebagainya?
Keadilankah yang dituntut atau kebencian digalakkan?
Adakah strategi untuk menggalakkan syak terhadap agensi kerajaan. Dulunya kehakiman kemudian polis, kini SPRM?
Apakah nilai kepemimpinan politik jika apa yang digalakkan ialah membenci dan menghasut? Di manakah fahaman politik atau ideologi mulia?
Apabila saja ada perkara seperti ini, bergegas-gegas muka yang sama mengeluarkan kenyataan yang pada asasnya menanam syak kepada institusi.
Cukuplah dengan membenci pimpinan kerajaan. Mereka orang politik, mereka boleh terima semua ini. Tetapi pegawai kerajaan bukan orang politik; mereka jalankan tugas dan arahan.
Sedarlah jika setiap kali institusi kita dicerca dan dihina, lama-kelamaan akan ada yang terlekat. Makin lama semakin tipis kepercayaan kita.
Pepatah Inggeris berkata: 'You reap what you sow' � jika ada pihak yang mahu popular dengan menabur syak wasangka kepada orang lain, lama kelamaan dia juga akan menerima kesannya.
Katalah ditakdirkan pembangkang memerintah, tidak akan reputasi institusi dan agensi yang dipijak-pijak akan kembali pulih serta merta. Apa yang runtuh sukar dibina semula. Institusi akan terus dipandang serong, kepercayaan rakyat akan tetap menipis.
Adakah kehakiman atau polis yang sentiasa dikutuk akan jadi baik tiba-tiba dan terus diterima rakyat. Hakisan tidak boleh dipatah balik, malah ia selalu membawa kepada keruntuhan.
Kenapa, contohnya perlu kerajaan Selangor mahukan pakar bedah swasta untuk siasat kematian Teoh? Adakah pakar hospital kerajaan tidak layak? Atau tidak boleh dipercayai?
Kenapa Menteri Besar Selangor, seorang Melayu, meragui kebolehan orang sebangsanya bertindak dengan tulus dan adil?
Bukankah banyak pegawai agensi atau institusi kerajaan orang Melayu? Adakah polis, hakim, guru, penyiasat, doktor, pensyarah Melayu semuanya tidak boleh dipercayai?
Percayalah, inilah yang berlaku apabila kita sama naik menabur syak pada agensi dan institusi kerajaan. Layari sahaja laman internet untuk mengetahui apa yang dikatakan mengenai institusi-institusi yang kebanyakan diketuai dan dipenuhi oleh orang Melayu.
Bukan ahli dan penyokong parti politik saja yang mahukan keadilan. Orang lain pun begitu. Tetapi jangan semua institusi diruntuh. Janganlah termakan kata-kata orang, yang agendanya kadang-kadang hendak mempersoalkan kebolehan orang Melayu.
Wednesday, July 08, 2009
Michael Jackson
It was Friday night, March 25, 1983. The place is Pasadena Civic Auditorium, California. And I was at Arau, busy preparing for my final year Diploma study (and enjoying every minute of my super senior status in college). Magic happened that night in Motown 25. Smokey Robinson was reunited with his group, The Miracles. Jackson 5 reunited to stage a show after 8 years for a medley. And the greatest magic was Michael Jackson's brilliant show of Billie Jean, showcasing a new direction in his dancing and debuting the now signature MJ's move - the Moonwalk. I wasn't really care at that time, until I came out from college and was introduced to the 'real world'. Atras, my disco buddy was a da*n good dancer. He impersonated the Moonwalk perfectly (to my standard). I will put on my socks, gliding across and all over my living hall just to get the glide right. But I was, and never a good dancer. I couldn't do it then, and even worse now.
Last night I stayed up late, to witness the Public Memorial Service to the Greatest Entertainer that Ever Lived - Michael Jackson. The ceremony took place at Staples Centre, LA. At the age of 50, his sudden death from cardiac arrest in Los Angeles on June 25 stunned me. I was shocked. I know nothing is permanent but he is just a few days to his come back tour, This Is It. Ok, I have to admit, tears ran down on my cheek listening to the messages offered by the speaker. My mother says, people were remembered most when he died, and last night was an exhibit. However, the word from The Reverend Al Sharpton really struck my mind. He says to MJ's children "There wasn't anything strange about your daddy. It was strange what your daddy had to deal with" Nicely put! Very positive!
It was a memorium, yes it was. But if it is for The King of Pop, it wouldn't be complete without performances. Last night, one of the best performances was from a 12 year old Iranian-Welsh boy from Swansea, Shaheen Jafargholi, Britains Got Talent finalist. He sang "Who's Loving You" by The Jackson 5. A very sweet rendition from a cute little boy.
Well MJ. You never fail to mesmerised me with your dance move. I grew up with your songs. Bilie Jean, Beat It, Thriller, Smooth Criminal, I'll Be There, those are some of the songs that brings magic to your fans including me. People says you died as a Moslem. I say From Allah We Hail, To Him We Shall Return.
Last night I stayed up late, to witness the Public Memorial Service to the Greatest Entertainer that Ever Lived - Michael Jackson. The ceremony took place at Staples Centre, LA. At the age of 50, his sudden death from cardiac arrest in Los Angeles on June 25 stunned me. I was shocked. I know nothing is permanent but he is just a few days to his come back tour, This Is It. Ok, I have to admit, tears ran down on my cheek listening to the messages offered by the speaker. My mother says, people were remembered most when he died, and last night was an exhibit. However, the word from The Reverend Al Sharpton really struck my mind. He says to MJ's children "There wasn't anything strange about your daddy. It was strange what your daddy had to deal with" Nicely put! Very positive!
It was a memorium, yes it was. But if it is for The King of Pop, it wouldn't be complete without performances. Last night, one of the best performances was from a 12 year old Iranian-Welsh boy from Swansea, Shaheen Jafargholi, Britains Got Talent finalist. He sang "Who's Loving You" by The Jackson 5. A very sweet rendition from a cute little boy.
Well MJ. You never fail to mesmerised me with your dance move. I grew up with your songs. Bilie Jean, Beat It, Thriller, Smooth Criminal, I'll Be There, those are some of the songs that brings magic to your fans including me. People says you died as a Moslem. I say From Allah We Hail, To Him We Shall Return.
Tuesday, July 07, 2009
Dream Revisit
A revisit to my dream - Palm Kenyir Lodge.
The view is from the Lodge balcony. There are 3 islands across the resort - 1 big and 2 small islands. The big island is for recreational activity - horseback riding, cycling, BBQ Pit, jogging, camping, picnic or just relaxing. Shuttle boat will be provided from the lodge. The smaller islands is for a more adventurous activity. One for Paintball Island. Imagine playing paintball on an island, separated from the main land. Sounds like Falkland? The other one, no plan yet. Open for other ideas.
I am dreaming. Don't wake me up!
The view is from the Lodge balcony. There are 3 islands across the resort - 1 big and 2 small islands. The big island is for recreational activity - horseback riding, cycling, BBQ Pit, jogging, camping, picnic or just relaxing. Shuttle boat will be provided from the lodge. The smaller islands is for a more adventurous activity. One for Paintball Island. Imagine playing paintball on an island, separated from the main land. Sounds like Falkland? The other one, no plan yet. Open for other ideas.
I am dreaming. Don't wake me up!
Tuesday, June 23, 2009
Cut and Paste from Malaysian Insider
I find it very difficult to keep up with the work and at the same time doing things I like to do. One of it is updating my journal here. However, today I read a very interesting comment in The Malaysian Insider. Waterlily put it EXACTLY what I felt. Go read the following, uncut from The Malaysian Insider
written by waterlily, June 23, 2009
wkc, excuse me. Many of "us" crossed the racial lines to vote you last GE? Racial stand?written by waterlily, June 23, 2009
It works both ways. I can still see some elements in DAP that "we" dislike very much. Some elements that show disrespect towards "our" culture and boundaries.
My guess is that you're one of those who say things like "when will Malaysians be like the Americans and accept an 'Obama'". Not realizing that the only 'black' thing about Obama is his skin. His culture, his way of life is all American. Do you think they'd vote for him if he had an African accent, wore African clothes, by the life of me, if he were Muslim... or even had a beard for that matter?
We already have our own versions of 'Obama'. Nizar is half Chinese. DS Wan Azizah has mixed blood too. Dr Mahathir too. But you know what, they all live the way that makes all of us "one".
Can I imagine Karpal wearing a Malaysian traditional attire baju melayu? What's that? Baju Melayu not for non Malays? Oh, and what is the traditional clothes for 'Obama'? Go fly kites wkc. Karpal's group won't even wear a blooming songkok after the GE meet! If you want to be Malaysian, drop all this "us" talk and embrace the "local" way of life like Obama did.
Tuesday, June 09, 2009
It's Cuti Sekolah Again
Has been a week now school is off. And another week to go for my children to enjoy the holiday. I try to take a few days off from my work (and flexi hours on the other days) just to spend time with them. It is crucial years, now and ahead. The children are at their teen age, and every one of them is achieving something, which I worry will make them presumptuous and high-nosed. It is my duty to always keep them on their feet, telling them whatever achievement they make, do not forget that all those are gifts (and tests) from Allah. He tests his loved ones with tests that we couldn't think off - during good times and during bad times.
Last week, my 3 grandchildren from Perlis - Afliayana, Afzal and Afif - came for a visit. So, Tok Wan (thaaaaat's me! :-) brought them to OU, spend time shopping, playing and watch movie. I had good times, and I know they, too.
Mean while, we managed to sneakout for a few movies and outings. Last week (together with my grands) we watched Monster Vs. Alien. Last night, we went again, to watch the most awaited movie Hannah Montana The Movie. I can see the satisfaction in my children's face after the movie. My feeling that moment is indescribable. Its so fulfilling.
Now, back to work!
Last week, my 3 grandchildren from Perlis - Afliayana, Afzal and Afif - came for a visit. So, Tok Wan (thaaaaat's me! :-) brought them to OU, spend time shopping, playing and watch movie. I had good times, and I know they, too.
Mean while, we managed to sneakout for a few movies and outings. Last week (together with my grands) we watched Monster Vs. Alien. Last night, we went again, to watch the most awaited movie Hannah Montana The Movie. I can see the satisfaction in my children's face after the movie. My feeling that moment is indescribable. Its so fulfilling.
Now, back to work!
Wednesday, May 27, 2009
After a month
It has been a month since the last time I updated my journal. and it is my birthday month! Things has been going on interestingly crazy since then - new project, new tender, new contract, new ideas, new opinion, and many more that I can hardly breathe. No complaints, in fact I thank God for all this opportunity given to me. At the same time, I acknowledge that these chances and opportunities are actually tests to my team and I, whether we are thankful to all the blessings given to us. To Allah we pray and seek forgiveness! May we pass these tests.
To friends who keep on peeping into my 'private life' in this blog, I will write again ..... errrrrr.... when I write.
I love my mommy!
To friends who keep on peeping into my 'private life' in this blog, I will write again ..... errrrrr.... when I write.
I love my mommy!
Monday, April 27, 2009
Back in Malaysia
I am back in Malaysia, last Thursday actually. It was a successful trip. Many things happening since then. Came back with diarrhoea I seldom get whenever I travel. I had to be always in my sarong at home for 2 days, senang kalau melancul (hehe). My Fuzzy got herself all glued with rat glue (now she is almost like a New Zealand sheeps get shaved for their fur). Topsie turvie in the office. But most of all, I am glad to be back, back to my kids I missed so much!.
Sunday, April 19, 2009
Fatehpur Sikri and Jaipur
We depart for Jaipur after breakfast. On the way, we stop at Fatehpur Sikri, another world heritage in Agra. Fatehpur Sikri was Akbar's imperial capital, about 40 km from Taj Mahal.
(The ruins of Fatehpur Sikri)
(The entrance to Fatehpur Sikri Palace)
(Lonely!)
I arrive Jaipur, the Pink City at noon. Checked in into Holiday Inn, I am looking forward for my meetings here. I have arranged for a total of 36 meetings to be completed in 2 days.
(Room complimentary from Federation of Indian Chambers of Commerse and Industry)
After some rest, I have to rush to the City Palace for a Gala Dinner, put up by FICCI.
(The City Palace at night)
It was a fantastic dinner with traditional shows and delicious food. I tasted my first Vodka (I don't know they mixed Vodka into the juice until a friend told me). I don't feel good, I called Rajendra to pick me up and send me back to my hotel room before the event finished. They say Vodka doesn't make your head spins but I go back with spinning head, and vommitted! I guess it is a psychological effect,
(The ruins of Fatehpur Sikri)
(The entrance to Fatehpur Sikri Palace)
(Lonely!)I arrive Jaipur, the Pink City at noon. Checked in into Holiday Inn, I am looking forward for my meetings here. I have arranged for a total of 36 meetings to be completed in 2 days.
(Room complimentary from Federation of Indian Chambers of Commerse and Industry)
(The City Palace at night)It was a fantastic dinner with traditional shows and delicious food. I tasted my first Vodka (I don't know they mixed Vodka into the juice until a friend told me). I don't feel good, I called Rajendra to pick me up and send me back to my hotel room before the event finished. They say Vodka doesn't make your head spins but I go back with spinning head, and vommitted! I guess it is a psychological effect,
Saturday, April 18, 2009
Agra - Agra Fort and Taj Mahal
We depart from Delhi around 9 am. Rashpal was already at the lobby when I finished my breakfast. It is going to be long 4 hours journey to Agra, the capital of Uttar Pradesh, the land of Taj Mahal. It is my dream to see Taj Mahal in my naked eye and this is the dream come true. Along the journey, we passed through Mathura, believed to be the birthplace of Lord Krisna. We arrive in Agra quiet late. Its funny, to compare Rashpal's wreckless driving while in Delhi against his too speed limit concious while on the expressway. He drove at 80km/hour!
On arrival Agra, I checked in into Pushp Villa Hotel, a nice 3 star hotel in Agra, with revolving restaurant at the top where ones can see Taj Mahal. The whether was so hot at 42 deg celcius, we decided to wait until 3.30pm for our tour. We first visited Agra Fort, on the banks of the River Yamuna. It was said that Agra Fort, "from top to bottom the fire-red stones, linked by iron rings, are joined so closely that even a hair cannot find a way into their joints". Shah Jahan was incarcerated here, until his death gazing out at the Taj Mahal.
(The Mussaman Burj of Agra Fort - the place where Shah Jahan lay on his deathbed looking out at the Taj Mahal)
(A glimpse of Taj Mahal at the background from Agra Fort)
Then, the moment of truth. I am going to touch Taj Mahal, one of the seven wonders of the world. Taj Mahal is actually just a tomb, a tomb to Mumtaz Mahal, wife of Emperor Shah Jahan. Built between 1631 and 1648, the four minarets, which lean slightly outward so as not to fall on the main building in the event of an earthquake.
(No, it is not a poster or a picture taken by some professionals. It is real!)
(On the upperdeck of Taj Mahal, facing to the entrance gate)
(The keepers of Taj Mahal)
(Another side of the Taj Mahal upper deck)
(Sunset at Taj Mahal)
Taj Mahal membuat hatiku sayu!
On arrival Agra, I checked in into Pushp Villa Hotel, a nice 3 star hotel in Agra, with revolving restaurant at the top where ones can see Taj Mahal. The whether was so hot at 42 deg celcius, we decided to wait until 3.30pm for our tour. We first visited Agra Fort, on the banks of the River Yamuna. It was said that Agra Fort, "from top to bottom the fire-red stones, linked by iron rings, are joined so closely that even a hair cannot find a way into their joints". Shah Jahan was incarcerated here, until his death gazing out at the Taj Mahal.
(The Mussaman Burj of Agra Fort - the place where Shah Jahan lay on his deathbed looking out at the Taj Mahal)
(A glimpse of Taj Mahal at the background from Agra Fort)Then, the moment of truth. I am going to touch Taj Mahal, one of the seven wonders of the world. Taj Mahal is actually just a tomb, a tomb to Mumtaz Mahal, wife of Emperor Shah Jahan. Built between 1631 and 1648, the four minarets, which lean slightly outward so as not to fall on the main building in the event of an earthquake.
(No, it is not a poster or a picture taken by some professionals. It is real!)
(On the upperdeck of Taj Mahal, facing to the entrance gate)
(The keepers of Taj Mahal)
(Another side of the Taj Mahal upper deck)
(Sunset at Taj Mahal)Taj Mahal membuat hatiku sayu!
Friday, April 17, 2009
Delhi tour
It was 9am and I was waiting for Sanjay at the hotel lobby. We planned to go around Delhi, visiting places of interest. So, I am a tourist today! Some of the pictures I managed to snap - myself!
(Jamek Mosque - commissioned by Shahjahan in 1644)
(India Gate)
(Rashtrapati Bhavan - Presidential Palace located across India Gate)
(Lal Qila, The Red Fort with Sanjay)
(Humayun's Tomb - prototype of Taj Mahal)
At night, I had a meeting over dinner with Ishfaq, a friend from Kashmir. He took me to a restaurant near Baghwali Mosque and we had a very delicious Tandoori. Original Tandoori. Tomorrow, Rashpal will take me to Agra! Wooohooo!
(Jamek Mosque - commissioned by Shahjahan in 1644)
(India Gate)
(Rashtrapati Bhavan - Presidential Palace located across India Gate)
(Lal Qila, The Red Fort with Sanjay)
(Humayun's Tomb - prototype of Taj Mahal)Thursday, April 16, 2009
Delhi, here I come
Finally, decision made. India, here I come again. Mat sent me to the airport after saying goodbye to my children. Sad to leave them but work requires me to make this trip. Reached KLIA at around 4.15pm and I proceed to self-check-in terminal. After handing over my luggage, together with Mat, we went to have the tarik at Chatterfield. Arrived back at KLIA at 5.20pm, ready for my departure at 6.20pm via MH190. However, flight was delayed until 7.10pm. I was already at boarding area when announcement was made (at 6.15pm!) What else to do, other than switch on to my laptop and replying emails.
The journey was a smooth one, but travelling with groups of Indians is a real challenge. They have their unique behavior that many might interpret as uncool. “Please put your seat upright and fasten your seatbelt” but you can see many will seems not hearing. While take off, someone will stand up and trying to get something from the overhead compartment, without ability to wait. A young couple seated a row in front of me pressed the assistance button, requesting for white wine when the plane’s engine is struggling pulling the aircraft upward. She is very important that her request must be attended whenever she feels like wanting something. After 40 minutes, food were served. I was seated at row 38A. The stewardess served food from front to back. After serving row 35, the stewardess move to row 36, then 37 then to my row. Just about to hand over my ration, the lady in row 36 pressed the assistance button. “Can I have another bun please” OMG! I haven’t got my ration and she is asking for another bun. But, emm, she said please.
It was a smooth journey, with a little turbulence every now and then. We were suppose to arrive Delhi at 10.20pm (Delhi time) but we made it at 11.00pm. Ting tong! “Ladies and gentlemen, boys and girls. We have landed at Indra Gandhi International Airport bla…bla… You can only switch on your mobile phone once the seat belt light is switched off. Thank you for fl” The stewardess has not finished her announcement and you can hear kluk klak kluk klak everywhere, the sound of passengers unfasten their seat belt. Few moments later, toot toot and ta daa sounds is everywhere, the sound of handphone signal coming in! And the plane is still on taxi mode, moving slowly to the parking bay.
My friend, Khem was already at the arrival hall when I exit.
The journey was a smooth one, but travelling with groups of Indians is a real challenge. They have their unique behavior that many might interpret as uncool. “Please put your seat upright and fasten your seatbelt” but you can see many will seems not hearing. While take off, someone will stand up and trying to get something from the overhead compartment, without ability to wait. A young couple seated a row in front of me pressed the assistance button, requesting for white wine when the plane’s engine is struggling pulling the aircraft upward. She is very important that her request must be attended whenever she feels like wanting something. After 40 minutes, food were served. I was seated at row 38A. The stewardess served food from front to back. After serving row 35, the stewardess move to row 36, then 37 then to my row. Just about to hand over my ration, the lady in row 36 pressed the assistance button. “Can I have another bun please” OMG! I haven’t got my ration and she is asking for another bun. But, emm, she said please.
It was a smooth journey, with a little turbulence every now and then. We were suppose to arrive Delhi at 10.20pm (Delhi time) but we made it at 11.00pm. Ting tong! “Ladies and gentlemen, boys and girls. We have landed at Indra Gandhi International Airport bla…bla… You can only switch on your mobile phone once the seat belt light is switched off. Thank you for fl” The stewardess has not finished her announcement and you can hear kluk klak kluk klak everywhere, the sound of passengers unfasten their seat belt. Few moments later, toot toot and ta daa sounds is everywhere, the sound of handphone signal coming in! And the plane is still on taxi mode, moving slowly to the parking bay.
My friend, Khem was already at the arrival hall when I exit.
Wednesday, April 08, 2009
KJ ternyata bukan liabiliti
Apa dah jadi di Bukit Selambau dan Bukit Gantang? Dari kacamata saya yang buta politik (tidak dalam turutan):
- Tun M? Saya bersimpati dengan beliau. Ternyata, beliau tidak mendatangkan hasil kepada BN. Sepatutnya, faktor pleasant surprises yang beliau buat dengan berkempen disaat akhir untuk calun BN akan menjadi katalis kemenangan BN. Mungkin sangkaan beliau, bila beliau turun, PR di bawah DSAI akan tersepit dan tertekan. Ternyata, hanya angan-angan palsu beliau. DSAI lagi hebaaaat!
- Tun M (lagi)? Kembalinya anda ke dalam UMNO tidak menguatkan parti. Tapi saya rasalah, anda mempunyai agenda tersembunyi, untuk menyekat KJ dari terus menyerlah selepas Mukriz tewas dengan teruknya semasa pemilihan Pemuda. Mukriz dah besar lah! Biarlah dia berdikari. Dan KJ ada kekuatan sendiri. Walau disekat, dia tetap akan mara. Take my word!
- Siapa kata KJ menjadi penyebab kekalahan BN di Permatang Pauh dan Kuala Terengganu? On your face! KJ menjadi low profile di Bukits dan Batang, mungkin kerana desakan dalaman UMNO supaya beliau menjauhkan diri dari berkempen, supaya tidak menjadi liabiliti. KJ tak ada pun, BN kalah juga! So, Bukit Gantang dan Bukit Selambau membuktikan bahawa KJ BUKAN menjadi penyebab kekalahan BN di Permatang Pauh dan Kuala Terengganu.
- Ezam and the Gang? Modus Operandi anda sudah tidak relevant lagi, bro! Cuba fikir cara lain pulak next time, itupun kalau masih tak malu lah!
- DSAI? What shall I say. Tetap relevant, tetap berkarisma, tetap dihormati, tetap berkalibar, tetap bijak, tetap disanjung. Kalau orang kata tohmahan terhadap Najib cuma sekadar tohmahan, kenapa pula tohmahan terhadap DSAI dibenarkan? Anda tidak mendapat benefit dari DSAI? Anda adalah kawan kepada Najib? Tampi dan tenang sendiri.
- Sultan Perak secara indirectly telah dimalukan.
- Bigger majority in the 2 Bukits - kemusnahan total BN
- Samy Veloo (betul ke spelling mcm ni?) - sudah laaaah!
- HINDRAF - anda terbukti salah. Sifat perkauman anda sangat terserlah. Masyarakat India Malaysia bukan lagi masyarakat terpinggir. Mereka telah bersama-sama di dalam mainstream dan berfikiran terbuka. Mereka telah keluar dari kepompong MIC.
Tuesday, April 07, 2009
A journey worth while.
Balik kampong is always an event I am looking forward to. Last Saturday (lepas latihan kawad kaki Kakak and kak Uda), we, the whole family balik kampong - Kampong Pulau Pandan, Kuala Pilah, Negeri Sembilan. It is my kampong, where I was born about 45 years ago. The objective to balik kampong is to visit my Mak (Mak Tok to my children). Walaupun kami baru aja berjumpa two weeks ago when we celebrated her birthday kat Seremban, tapi the feeling deep inside me rasa tak sedap hati. The meeting was a very unfulfilled one with so many people around. So, I decided to go balik kampong, that we would have her all by our own!
(Some of Mak's pets.)
Suasana kampong sangat mendamaikan. I don't think there is any other kampong that is so damai and nyaman. Mak was not at home when we arrived. She was at a kenduri at a house nearby. Eventhough she canot do much at the kenduri, tapi she is a compulsory figure for every kenduri at my kampong. Lepas my father passed away, the kampong people turn to her for advise, and she never fails to deliver. Since Mak is not at home, we cannot enter the house. Tapi...jeng...jeng...jeng... hey, I lived in this house before, remember? I go around to see if my secret path is still there, holy crap! It is! LOL! After sooooo many years, I again became that cute little naughty boy, sneeking into the house using my secret path. So, when Mak's home, she did not surprised AT ALL! She knows me very well. She always say I will find my own way to get myself into anything I want. Malam tu, we watched Akademi Fantasia 7 with Mak. (Hafiz Rocks!)
The next day was cleaning up day. (read: pembakaran terbuka) I get all the children to gotong royong cleaning up the compound of mak's house. It was tiring but fun! I took the opportunity to show my children around (for the umpteenth times, hehe!). I showed them the coconut tree I grow together with my late father. (There are three trees, one each for my younger brothers Chu and Icam, and one for me. Apak cakap sebagai tanda that the kampong also belongs to me) I showed my favourite mangosteen tree where I will climbed and spent many afternoons there reading (on the tree!)
(The Mosquito's Busters)
It was a trip worth while. I got to spend quality time with Mak. We chatted until late. And oh... I present her with a few combs made of buffalo horn, I ordered from my staff who went back to Padang, Sumatera for his holiday. She had wanted it for quiet sometimes. And the bestest (hehe) thing is that she cooked me (err... my wife cooked using my mum's kitchen) my favourite lauk - Telur Itik Pucuk Ubi Masak Lemak Cili Padi! Masyaallah!
(Some of Mak's pets.)Suasana kampong sangat mendamaikan. I don't think there is any other kampong that is so damai and nyaman. Mak was not at home when we arrived. She was at a kenduri at a house nearby. Eventhough she canot do much at the kenduri, tapi she is a compulsory figure for every kenduri at my kampong. Lepas my father passed away, the kampong people turn to her for advise, and she never fails to deliver. Since Mak is not at home, we cannot enter the house. Tapi...jeng...jeng...jeng... hey, I lived in this house before, remember? I go around to see if my secret path is still there, holy crap! It is! LOL! After sooooo many years, I again became that cute little naughty boy, sneeking into the house using my secret path. So, when Mak's home, she did not surprised AT ALL! She knows me very well. She always say I will find my own way to get myself into anything I want. Malam tu, we watched Akademi Fantasia 7 with Mak. (Hafiz Rocks!)
The next day was cleaning up day. (read: pembakaran terbuka) I get all the children to gotong royong cleaning up the compound of mak's house. It was tiring but fun! I took the opportunity to show my children around (for the umpteenth times, hehe!). I showed them the coconut tree I grow together with my late father. (There are three trees, one each for my younger brothers Chu and Icam, and one for me. Apak cakap sebagai tanda that the kampong also belongs to me) I showed my favourite mangosteen tree where I will climbed and spent many afternoons there reading (on the tree!)
(The Mosquito's Busters)It was a trip worth while. I got to spend quality time with Mak. We chatted until late. And oh... I present her with a few combs made of buffalo horn, I ordered from my staff who went back to Padang, Sumatera for his holiday. She had wanted it for quiet sometimes. And the bestest (hehe) thing is that she cooked me (err... my wife cooked using my mum's kitchen) my favourite lauk - Telur Itik Pucuk Ubi Masak Lemak Cili Padi! Masyaallah!
Friday, April 03, 2009
Win together
It is a very competitive life and full of challenge. In this situation, perseverance plays a very important role. However, many of us fail to realise that winning is not everything. I strongly believe, the purpose of life is not to win. The purpose is to share and to grow together. It should not be to win, but to share the win. When we look back on all we did in life, we will come to realise that we get more satisfaction from the pleasure we have brought to other people's life than we will from the times we outdid and defeated them. Familiar with the holy word win-win situation? The formula is to add value to other people - our spouse, our team mates, our co-worker, our supplier, our customer, our children, our friends and our boss (remember the word "make the boss looks good?") By adding value, we are actually enlarging them. We can see example of good enlargers in football players. Roberto Carlos and David Beckham are two examples. Their cross passes to the penalty area give opportunity for other player to strike goals. They make other people look good while at the same time they are remembered as a superb team player who add value to their team. So, people, do not be selfish. No man is more cheated than a selfish man. Amir-Husiners - enlarge people surrounding us then we will grow (and win) together!
Thursday, April 02, 2009
Listen, or thy tounge will keep thee deaf.
It is a native American proverb. It reminds me of Richard, a friend in New Orleans. We always eat Poboy along the Bourbon Street and sometimes hang around at Jacksonville area while listening to the super talented street jazz performer. I missed New Orleans. I don't know how New Orleans looks like now since Katrina hit her badly few years ago. By the way, I remembered Richard for his empathy. He will lend me his ears on whatever occasion - and understand it. Empathy is the word. It involves understanding another's heart, mind and spirit - including their motives, backgrounds and feelings. The more empathy we have on others, the more we come to appreciate and reverence who they are. But most people do not listen with the intent to understand, rather they listen with the intent to reply. People are busy filtering everything through their own perspectives rather than trying to understand another's frame of reference. Sometimes we just want company. True. But what we really prefer is a company who understands us, or who at least do their best to understand us. I have a friend in Richard.
Sunday, March 29, 2009
Hujung minggu yang menyeronokkan.
Kakak dah register to participate in Suka Ria Astro Ceria a few weeks ago and the event is today. She registered herself, Kak Uda and Anik fo Pakaian Beragam and Telematch. The program starts at 6:30am. So, lepas subuh sepi'e tu, kami pun pergilah ke Bukit Kiara Equastrian park, where the event is to be held. Orang tak lah ramai sangat so we manage a parking space near to the entrance.
Keseluruhannya, to me, the event is not a success (if not a failure). It was not properly organised. Tak ada orang yang explain how the event is supposed to be played - the rule, the procedure, where to start, where to end, what to do, where to gather, etc. The crew was standing around not helping, or rather not knowing what to do. My kids were so frustrated. They are so used to an organised event (especially those organised by Papa, hehe) that they decided to terminate earlier. It was not what they expect when they have to be up by 5:30 in the morning. To compensate their frustration, I promised to take them to Kids Club @ One Utama later that afternoon. Yeay! (Their tricks work on me!)
(Mengantuk!! Do not mistaken the bushes at the back as a real bush. It is a family of participant with 'bush costume' yang ambik bahagian untuk pakaian beragam. Yo yo oh betul!)
(Tengok parent lain, kiasu betul nak bagi anak mereka menang, tapi Anik did it on her own! wooo hoooo!)
So, later that afternoon, after some rest, we (Teh, Kakak, Kak Uda, Anik and I) went to Kids Club. Barulah depa (read: kami) nampak seronok! While waiting, I grab a book at the nearby bookstore, sat at a corner, ordered a basket of fried potato with a cup of hot chocolate and get drowned into my own world.
What a relaxing afternoon. This is the kind of life that I enjoyed so much - take the kids out during weekends, let them play, eat ice cream, shop, read, eat some more, shop some more and do nothing else, stay inside an air-conditioning mall, no cigarette smoke and no pollution. And for this relaxed and enjoyed afternoon, it cost us only RM100. But what is more precious is the time spent with the children and listening to their laughter. Food for every parent's soul!
Keseluruhannya, to me, the event is not a success (if not a failure). It was not properly organised. Tak ada orang yang explain how the event is supposed to be played - the rule, the procedure, where to start, where to end, what to do, where to gather, etc. The crew was standing around not helping, or rather not knowing what to do. My kids were so frustrated. They are so used to an organised event (especially those organised by Papa, hehe) that they decided to terminate earlier. It was not what they expect when they have to be up by 5:30 in the morning. To compensate their frustration, I promised to take them to Kids Club @ One Utama later that afternoon. Yeay! (Their tricks work on me!)
(Mengantuk!! Do not mistaken the bushes at the back as a real bush. It is a family of participant with 'bush costume' yang ambik bahagian untuk pakaian beragam. Yo yo oh betul!)
(Tengok parent lain, kiasu betul nak bagi anak mereka menang, tapi Anik did it on her own! wooo hoooo!)So, later that afternoon, after some rest, we (Teh, Kakak, Kak Uda, Anik and I) went to Kids Club. Barulah depa (read: kami) nampak seronok! While waiting, I grab a book at the nearby bookstore, sat at a corner, ordered a basket of fried potato with a cup of hot chocolate and get drowned into my own world.
What a relaxing afternoon. This is the kind of life that I enjoyed so much - take the kids out during weekends, let them play, eat ice cream, shop, read, eat some more, shop some more and do nothing else, stay inside an air-conditioning mall, no cigarette smoke and no pollution. And for this relaxed and enjoyed afternoon, it cost us only RM100. But what is more precious is the time spent with the children and listening to their laughter. Food for every parent's soul!
Earth Hour 28 Mar 8:30pm
The clock shows 8:15pm.
Kakak: Earth hour! Earth hour!
Me (from upstairs): Alaaaa.... Papa baru nak tengok Diari Akademi Fantasia! Nak tengok Che Mah Mulut Bernanah ni!
Time ticking
Kakak: Now! Now!
Long: Lagi 2 minit!
Teh: Sekarang lah! Tengok lah jam
Long: My time is the official time! (as usual, acting as the boss. He force the kids to call him The Coolest Brother Ever!)
Suddenly - all darkness! We clapped our hands. Its 8:30pm.
EARTH HOUR! EARTH HOUR!
Friday, March 27, 2009
A week wrap-up
So many things happen in a week. Fast and furious! I am struggling to catch my breath. Business has been very busy. I am also cleaning up our back-office. Updating our reporting format. Cleaning up the backlog of claims and billing. Upgrading our data entry procedure and flow, etc. So, it's been hectic. I left a few entries in my draft box, not able to post pending my uploading of the photos. Finally, today in between Magrib and Isyak, alone in my office, I managed to post them all (Isyak? It's 10 pm now!). Summary as follows:
19 March: Happy Birthday, Teh!
20 March: Woman and Man
23 March: To my Mum, on her 76th birthday.
25 March: Ketua Pemuda UMNO: KJ
19 March: Happy Birthday, Teh!
20 March: Woman and Man
23 March: To my Mum, on her 76th birthday.
25 March: Ketua Pemuda UMNO: KJ
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