Zakhir's Zoo

It's probably me.....

2009-03-08T10:34:00.017+08:00

Reciprocity.That is something I learned the hard way.

Often enough, one hears the saying "Man is not an island". However, that is something not entirely true. I did feel that I am an island. Whether its by design or circumstantial, it hardly matters. Being 'marooned on an island', is good enough feeling.

We live in a life where everyone and everything is interconnected. So many people remind us not to be 'living in an island'. So, what does it mean by being interconnected?

Ever so often, we tell ourselves these sort of things. But we never learn, do we? Or is it we blind ourselves with other virtues, of which most probably means nothing to others. At least, maybe we ourselves feel strongly about it, in our own expectations on how the world should evolve.

Again, should we evolve around the world or otherwise?

I hope I will find the answer to that. As for now, I hope I will learn this time. At least, a little while longer than I should have the last time.

We face issues in life. Sometime, we could handle them. Most of these instances, we fail. More often than not, its over-bearingly too complicated for us to hold on, by ourselves. If and when that happens, what do we do? Wait for help? How would help come if people are not aware we need help? Ask for help?

What if when expected to be helped or even supported, we are put in a situation where people, whom we thought matters to us, felt they are neither in a position of convenience nor under no obligation to do so?

Should in our life, we expect some sort of extension on other people's kindness and generousity, especially at the times when we felt we need it most? Is that too much to ask, from people whom we thought 'matters to us'?

My father, for over twenty years keeps reminding me "Paddle your own boat!". This happened before and every now and then, keeps coming back. I guess, this is life. Especially in the materialism world of cosmopolitan Kuala Lumpur today.

My best friend used to remind me, "You are the sort of soldier who I want to be with in a fox hole at the front lines". Has this 'reliability' finally expired, for virtues that were never in my system?

Then again, of late, I ponder within myself on the virtues of 'loyalty', 'faith', 'sincerity' and 'expectations'. Of course, I did not find the answer. Either I am not looking hard enough or not smart enough to figure it out. I used to be resolved on the stance that I am prepared to take. Nowadays, sometime I am not sure. My confidence level now is somewhat in territories so unfamiliar.

Incidentally, I came to a junction of being 'wishful thinking'. "It is a positive trait", someone said. But it also somewhat being not true to oneself. Hypocrisy to your ownself????

In the final analysis, it comes back down to your ownself. My problem now, IF I think about myself first before my surrounding, isn't that selfish? Then again, my environment does not seem to care, when I needed it most!

So what the hell should I do now????

These are the times, Sting rendered it best. I know how Martin Riggs, despite being a fictitous character, must have felt. "Its probably me".

This is also the title track for "Lethal Weapon III".

P/S: I think Sting, Eric Clapton and Dave Grussin should do more songs together!

Attending Global Financial Crisis Forum

2009-02-05T00:03:00.003+08:00

I was given the opportunity to attend the Global Financial Crisis Forum. It was organised by National Chambers of Commerce and held at the Nirwana Ballroom, Crowne Plaza Mutiara, Kuala Lumpur. It was officiated by fourth prime minister Tun Dr. Mahathir Mohamad.

Right: With Dato' A Kadri Jasin and Tan Sri Sanusi Junid

The panels include captains of industry, major players and representative of the joint chambers of commerce. They gave an update, insight and opinion from their industry and their macro view and strategy how and what to do, for the nation to embrace and plan on and against the global financial crisis that is badly hitting the West.

Ideas ranged from stimulus package that will and should be introduced by the Government and structural changes in the economic system, to ensure that all the plans are sustainable. Criticism on the financial and banking system also include credit availability and accessibility, especially for the small businesses. Tun Dr. Mahathir confirmed that the banking system were not too interested to develop the small businesses.

Palestine poetry recital

2009-02-02T01:01:00.008+08:00

I attended a special poetry recital for the Palestinians in Gaza, now under invasion by the ruthless Zionist regime of Israel. It was held at Pena House, in Jalan Dewan Bahasa, Kuala Lumpur. The theme is "Dibawah langit Gaza" (Under the Gazan sky).

Right: The MCs were Farah (TV 9 compere) and Aziz Desa (former TV 3 MHI host)

From Left: Salahuddin, yours truly, Bang Ramli and Rocky

This event was previous discussed when Dato' Ahmad A. talib invited me for tea with Ramli "Papa Rock" Sharif few weeks ago. So many artistes, laureates, activists and celebrities showed up in support for their Gazan brothers, now under extreme hardship and pain. I see this to remind ourselves that we should do more, to alleviate the suffering of the Gazans. TV9 covered the event whilst the NSTP fund of Gaza collection box was passed around.

As usual, I am in the company of fellow bloggers Ahirudin "Rocky" Attan, Nuraina A. Samad and Salahuddin "Mao" Hisham, who previously wrote for a pro UMNO portal.

Right: The "twins"

Prepacked food was prepared. It was a very good evening indeed (Despite having the sniffles and body aches; signs of a flu attack creeping up, I still brave the discomfort to show support for an artistically humanitarian cause).

May God be with the Gazans and may the sun shine again on the land, very soon.

I & Akhramsyah in the same Astro Awani "Analisis Awani"

2009-01-18T01:14:00.007+08:00

I was invited to appear on Astro Awani's "Analisis Awani" again this evening. This time, it was about the commentary on the Kuala Terengganu P36 Parliamentary by-elections, which is polled whole day today. I was pitted with MCA Youth Dr Jeffrey Goh.

Right: I'm pointing at angle, just before the show

However, I managed to persuade my buddy Akhramsyah Muammar Ubaidah Sanusi to be in the live forum together. He instantanously agreed.

Left: Akhramsyah the bidan terjun guest who did rather well!

It was a very interesting discussion indeed, although each of us had not much to say as the show included live feed from journalist Suhaimi Sulaiman in Kuala Terengganu and phone interview with a UKM politics professor.

Having tea with the icon of spiritual rock

2009-01-14T02:56:00.004+08:00

I had an exhilarating experience this evening. I was invited to have tea with an icon of Malaysian classical rock. Former NST Editor-in-Chief Dato' Ahmad A. Talib invited me for a chat with Ramli Sharif, in Bangsar.

Right: Dato' Mat and I admiring a rock legend

When Dato' Mat called me this evening to invite, I thought it was in passing.

Left: The "twins"

Then again, when I showed up and both of them were there, I simply can't believe my eyes. I get to sit and chat up a classical rock icon, who somewhat influenced my formative adolescence years in MRSM. His music, with deep philosophical and spiritual innuendos made going through a difficult time of changing phases something slightly more meaningful. Not forgetting, landmarks to remember by.

Right: I and the "twins"

I was just starting second form when I first heard the inspiring voice of Bang Ramli rendetation and purist rock melody "Kamelia", during his Sweet Charity days. Then in third form, it was the album Penunggu. Then a year later, Batu.

A moment later, Rocky and Nuraina joined us. That brought the chat even livelier. Especially, when Rocky and Ramli looked almost like twin brothers.

Left: Nuraina and Rocky joined the chat

The chat revealed things that really unlocked some of the amazement Bang Ramli brought into my music enrichment phase of life.

Right: The legend known as 'Papa Rock'

Bang Ramli then talked about his band Sweet Charity, celebrating its 40th anniversary. They are planning a nationwide concert tour. All of us agreed that it will be a hit, especially people in our generation. Then again, Dato' Mat is also convinced that Bang Ramli's music even hit a note of people much younger than all of us at the table. Amazed and dazzled, I tend to agree with Dato' Mat. He is indeed a classical rock legend!

It was an evening to remember.

Meeting the future of NCER

2009-01-08T12:55:00.012+08:00

I was in Taiping over the last weekend. I was asked to speak to a group of 11 year old boys, under a special program to develop them into 'gentlemen'. They were carefully selected from the boondocks within the NCER and placed in top schools within Taiping. It is a pilot project where the first intake of 60 boys were admitted recently and the orientation program started pre-2009 school.

Right: The NCER boys

Left: Akram in action

The road trip was done with my good friend, Akramsyah Sanusi. We made stopovers at Kampar and Kuala Kangsar. We also hooked up with friends in Taiping. The journey all the way up and down the North South Highway was through bad, moonsoon weather.

Right: Provisions for school being systematically prepared by the NCIA officials, minus one day.

Seeing for myself how these kids are being cared for and managed is a new experience. Never before that a boarding school system in the country emphasized on total development. The attention and provisions made per capita on these boys really intrigued me. They are being exposed to almost anything a 12 year old should be exposed to.

Left: Interacting and getting first hand tips

It resembles a typical British public school system, minus the pompous attitude and snobbishness. However, this one is tailored for boys from marginally depressed areas and background. The challenge, is herculean. This something the program managers ambitiously trying to develop, prove and eventually, replicate.

Right: Giving a lecture on a typical intercontinental airliner; to give an interest on engineering for these boys

I must say, these are a bunch of promising asset for the country. They are equally inquisitive, as much as they are being who they are meant to be; eleven year olds. They are as playful and high spirited for knowledge. Of course, being boys, they are very competitive amongst themselves.

Left: The boys showing their appreciation at the end of the program

As expected, they are very responsive to things thrown at and against them. At the tender age of less than eleven years old, they inadvertently accepted challenges with confidence and zest.

Right: The boys over powering me....

I am glad I was given the opportunity to nurture these boys, with the enrichment of experience and knowledge. Of course, they are not shy to express themselves otherwise.

It was a fun afternoon indeed with these boys....

Celebrating the coming of Hijrah year in Masjid Sultan

2008-12-30T00:32:00.007+08:00

The Awal Muharram is a celebration of the coming of the new Hijrah year, in Islamic calender. It was an auspicious ocassion amongst Muslims as they pray for forgiveness at the eve of one Hijrah year and pray for wellness, when the new Hijrah year starts.

Right: Outside the east entrance of the Mosque

(By the way, the Muslim calculate the dawn of a new day from when the sunset).

Left: At the beginning of the Maghrib prayers

I was lucky to have celebrated this moment, at the infamous Masjid Sultan, North Bridge Rd., Singapore. It is by farthe most iconic symbol of Islam presence and practices in Singapore.

Right: Post Maghrib new year doa

The number of worshipers gathered in the mosque for this special doa recital actually surprised me. The congregation was like a mini Jumaat prayers.

It was a very refreshing experience indeed.

SALAM MAAL HIJRAH, 1430H

A Christmas dinner

2008-12-26T01:04:00.004+08:00

Tonight, I was invited for a Christmas dinner. My colleague, Kenneth Karnan, was kind enough to extend the invitation for the holiest day in the year for Christians.

Right: Upon arrival

So, at 800pm I and Girl-Girl had a short drive to Kepong Baru. To our suprise, it was a grand do for Ken's family. They actually closed the road to accommodate the dinner party, which was held under two tents on the street.

Left: As usual, Ken would shake the camera!

The buffet spread was sumptuous and the beverages offered befit a night of celebrations and joyous occasion. From the looks of it, they were expecting a lot of company.

Right: I and Ken in the living room

Anyway, we were thankful and glad we were invited and attended the dinner.

It was a good evening indeed!

ANSARA Dinner 2008

2008-12-22T01:33:00.008+08:00

We had our annual Ex-MRSM Alumni (ANSARA) Dinner last night. It was held at Mawar Room, PWTC. The dinner was in commemoration of the year end. Also, ANSARA needed to raise some funds. So, tables and tickets were sold to ex-MRSMers.

Right: The ticket and menu, over a bowl of sago gula Melaka.

It was the same time as last year. I missed last year's, where Astronaut Dr. Sheikh Muzaffar, an Ex-Muo, was the guest of honour. My father had his CABG surgery during that time.

There was an array of attendance to the dinner. The guest of honour is MARA Chairman Dato' Seri Idris Jusoh.

Left: With ANSARA President Mukhriz Mahathir and Muo Chapter Head Salehuddin "Hud" Hj Ahmad Khalid

Of course, ANSARA President YB Dato' Mukhriz Mahathir was there, to address the audience. He reminded members to take ANSARA to a new level. During dinner, he made time to go round the tables to socialise and catch up on chit-chats and small talks.

Its nice to see old friends, in such a warm and social environment. Of course, there were reminesences. It would be ashamed for guys and gals who bonded for years, did nostalgically 'relive' the best of thier formative years. It is surreal that the memories live on, eternally in our hearts.

Right: Me and Azha "Gell" Jalil

During dinner, an R & B group called "Infinite", which comprise some ex-MRSMers entertained the audience with their songs.

Left: Bhadharul Bahrain and I

It was a good night indeed.

A working trip to Penang, again

2008-12-09T21:58:00.005+08:00

Today started very early in the morning. I was up by 500am to catch the 730am flight to Penang from KLIA. Considering I slept at 200am this morning and it was a full day of Hari Raya Aidil Adha yesterday, getting up was near impossible. Never the less, Kenneth gave me a wake up call at 500am, to ensure I was up.

Right: Over the Malacca Straits, somewhere near Pangkor. Notice the thick clouds

Flying at daybreak is always exicting. One get to see the sun come up, from the altitude of 27,000 feet. We arrived at 830am and after a hearty breakfast, we took an airport cab to Komtar, where the nerve of the Penang State Government.

We had a quiet chat with a Special Function Officer in the Chief Minister's Office, mainly on the Penang economy and the affect from the global financial melt down and thus Penang's export, especially to the US and Western Europe.

Left: On the 53rd floor office

Then we presented the concept of cashless Penang society and the implementation of electronic payment system to one of the Excos.

Right: Lunch at Hameediyah, whilst surfing

Of course, a trip to Penang would not be complete withour nasi kandar. We had ours in Hameediyah, on Lebuh Campbell. Like always, it was something to remember.

Appearing on RTM 1

2008-12-08T03:18:00.002+08:00

Tonight, I was a guest on the RTM 1 post prime news program, Blog. I was asked by producer, Hasshim Abu Hanifah to speak on political and current issues, from the context of "Korban", since tomorrow is Hari Raya Aidil Adha or Korban.

Right: Appearing on prime news slot live on RTM 1

I was notified for this on Friday, which does not give me so much time to prepare. Moreover, I was not given neither the script nor any of questions before hand.

Left: A full view profile

It was a new experience, as RTM is the official Government electronic propaganda machinery. I must say, it felt honoured to be able to talk about having a single school system and doing away all vernacular schools.

It was indeed a very interesting experience.

Discovering Perth

2008-11-11T21:54:00.005+08:00

Today, we spent the whole day shopping, again. Mak needed to go back to Harbour Town factory outlet mall, which is the west end edge of Perth city. We spent afew hours there. Of course, the more time we spent shopping, the more things we buy.

Right: Harbour Town mall main street

Girl-Girl also had her first doner kebab today. Whilst waiting for the missus and Mak to finish their rounds, I took Girl-Girl for Adidas t-shirt shopping. Then we had more time to spare. So we parked ourselves in a west Asian cafe. So she had her first kebab, after she found mine rather "interesting".

Left: Biting into her first kebab

Later, she and Abah went for a walk along Swan river, which is a stone's throw from our apartment. They found it to be exhalirating and utterly refreshing. They walked along the banks till the causeway that link Perth to Victoria Park. It also mean they were at the banks across from Burswood Entertainment Complex, where we were on Saturday.

Right: The river of Swan river

Girl-Girl had a new discovery. Today, the first time in her life, she climbed a tree.

Left: On a tree for the first time

She is the person who had the most fun in this trip.

Experiencing main street shopping of Perth

2008-11-10T22:44:00.004+08:00

Today, I decided to take my parents to go shopping in main street Perth. They have already experienced suburban shopping on Saturday. So today, I decided to take them to Hay St. and Murray St. high street shopping, via the London Court arcade.

Right: The London Court arcade

The Christmas shopping has already started.

Left: Murray St., in front of the Forest Centre

Then slowly, we walked my parents to Hay St., then cut across David Jones departmental store to Murray St. Since it was a Monday, there was not many people in the mall between the these streets. It was a pleasant walk, although the sun was far to bright for Mak.

Right: Harbour Town factory outlet entrance

Our shopping trip ended at Harbour Town factory outlet, at the far end of the city on Wellington St.

Visiting Fremantle and west of Perth

2008-11-10T22:16:00.005+08:00

It was a typical lazy summer Sunday in Perth. I decided to take my parents, for a drive to Fremantle and experience the market there. So after a hearty breakfast, we waddle along Canning Highway towards south east coastal city of Fremantle.

Right: The colours in E Shed

Left: Fremantle, in front of the market

Our first stop was E Shed Market, on Victoria Quay, Fremantle. We got tons of souvenirs from a merchant, who is actually an Indonesian. Then a short stop at the Freemantle Maritime Museum. There is a former HMAN world war II submarine on display.

Then it was the Fremantle Market. It is an important attraction to Perth. It has been in operation since 1897. We saw some baskers, doing some street entertaining. Then it was lunch. A trip to Fremantle would be a complete failure without having fish and chips meal on the jetty, across from the Esplanade. And we did just that.

Right: Overlooking Mosman Bay (Note Perth skyscrapers in the right horizon)

Then, on the way back, we took the Stirling Highway. We passed Mosman Park. So we decided to drive around the posh area, to first hand feel what was the hype was all about. It was an amazing experience. The view was breadth taking and words were not made to describe the feeling of being there, on Bayview Street, overlooking Mosman Bay.

Left: Overlooking the cliff from Bayview Stt. Park, on top of Mosman Bay

Some people are so lucky to be able to afford homes in this area.

Mak's surprise birthday bash @ 33,000 feet

2008-11-06T21:05:00.008+08:00

The surprise of MH 125

Today is Mak's 68th birthday. Today also we took her to Perth, for a holiday. This morning, by 730am, we checked in onto MH 125 departing at 940am. So we did not have time to do anything for her.

Right: A stewardess presenting to Mak, her birtday card

Left: The two IFS on board

At KLIA, I was trotting about looking for a birtdhday cake and candle, but non avail. Upon checked in, I was introduced to a Malaysia Airlines executive, who is doing an audit on the flight. I sound it out to him that it was Mak's birthday and he said, he will do the best he can.

Right: The IFS for the flight MH 125

There it was. At 33,000 feet somewhere over Java and northern coast of continent Australia, Mr Sagadevan, along with the IFS for the flight Lazri Gunasegaran and a few of the stewardess, called on Mak, wished her "Happy Birthday", sang to her and presented a lovely adhoc birthday card. There even were desserts, as makeshitft birthday cake (minus the candles!).

Considering they had limited resources onboard, their creativity, innovation and resourcefulness should be admired.

Left: The smile tells it all!

She smiled instantly. Now after eight hours, she is still smiling!

To the crew of MH125 today, thank you! You guys really live up to the Malaysia Airlines campaign, "Malaysian Hospitality".

I, live on TV

2008-10-30T22:49:00.011+08:00

Captured as how it appeared on Astro Awani

This evening, I was on national TV. I was invited to be the guest in the forum, "Analysis Awani" on Astro Awani Ch. 501. I was interviewed live on TV by Suhaimi Sulaiman, Kamarul Bahrin and Nazri Kahar, all at once. It was a live show, which aired at 530pm.

Right: Addressing Suhaimi's question

The questions were tough and intense. Some of the questions I seriously felt shouldn't be leashed against me. One after another, I was charged with questions even experienced and seasoned politicians would find it tough to deal with. After all, I am no politician. Just an amateur political analyst, maybe.

Left: Kamarul Bahrin grilling me live on TV

It was a sureal experience indeed. The bright lights and multiple cameras aimed right to your path, added the anxiety and consciousness. Most of all, there is a large LCD screen just to my left, where all of us on the table could watch ourselves the live program as it is being aired, added more stage fright.

Right: The angle the viewers caught of me whenever I say anything on air

Regardless, I tried my best to address all the issues raised. Considering instantaneously the speed of the response I gave to some of the toughest issues raised towards me, I must say it was an experience indeed.

Experiencing Singapore

2008-10-26T23:48:00.005+08:00

Since my family ambushed me with a surprise visit in Johor Bahru, on my 41st birthday, I decided to take them to Singapore that night. We managed to get a hotel, with the right arrangements.

Right: Mama and Girl-Girl with a glimpse of the Orchard Road as the backdrop

So I had to shuttle back and forth between Orchard Road to Persada in Johor Bahru, for the M2K convention. That means I had little time for them. Only in the evenings that I get to do things with them. The get to wander of on their own. Itinerary includes shopping along Orchard Road, a visit to the Science Centre in Jurong and swimming.

Left: In the pool

Right: Lunching at Zam Zam

On Sunday, it was much better for me. I get to lunch with them at Zam Zam Restaurant (Straits Time claimed that it is the BEST nasi beriyani in the island-state).

Briefing the Minister at M2K

2008-10-25T11:37:00.019+08:00

This morning, the Domestic Trade and Industry Minister Dato' Shahrir Samad officiated the Bank Negara's Minggu Kesedaran Kewangan (M2K) in Persada Convention Centre, in Johor Bahru. In his speeh, he remided Malaysians to be cash thrift and spend on what they earn. All the major bankers and financial services players were present to chow case their products and support the central bank's awareness campaign on financial management.

Right: The Minister making his speech. Seated on the stage is Bank Negara Deputy Governor Dato' Zamani

After officiating, the Minister went for a walk-about around the exhibition and drop by to several booths. He was briefed on the latest products, especially retail and consumer financial items available in the market.

Left: The Minister being briefed on our EDC terminal, which was used for the cash card loading

One of the booth he dropped in was ours. I had the opportunity to present to him our electronic payment system and conveniently demonstrated to him how e-money is being used to pay for services and goods, which include information about registered companies procured from Suruhanjaya Syarikat Malaysia, which falls under his ministry.

Right: Kenneth demonstrating payment using MyKad on our mobile handheld unit. At the back of the Minister is Bank Negara Deputy Governor.

He was rather impressed with our developments. For this event, any parking payments made via our payment gateway would be given a RM 1.00 discount; a test of the acceptance to the usage of MEPSCASH. For the first time, a parking environment went on live via our system and it went on seamlessly. Of course, it was very encouraging indeed.

The moral support he shown this morning to us is definitely very encouraging. Accompanying him is the Bank Negara Deputy Governor Dato' Zamani Abd. Ghani.

Left: The Minister giving a full attention

It was a very good morning indeed.

Kenneth and I in our booth. On the right are our EDC terminals

First day of Bank Negara conference

2008-10-24T11:08:00.014+08:00

My day started early, way before sunrise. I woke up in the coldness of rainy Friday morning at the southern most city of continent Asia. I fekt rather squiggy all morning and was goin through half of a cheese omelette when I stopped. Later, I came back to the breakfast table with my unfinished plate being whisked away. Four cups of capucino actually added to my 'edgyness'.

Right: Ken and I at our booth

Today is the first day of conference. Like expected, it was swarmed by visitors, which include school going teenagers and kids. I am beginning to feel the pressure of the event and the meetings I have to attend.

Left: Syed Azlan loading Ben Chong's MyKad

Our strategic partner in online cybergaming merchant development, came all the way here to give support. It is important that young Malaysians be exposed and utilise the cashless habit, in built in the MyKad and common bankcard.

*Updated 430pm

Later, I took our IT Applications Manager Siti Hamimah and Corporate Communications woman Jazreen for an assam pedas lunch. They were utterly pleased with the freshly cooked snapper in rich Johorean style assam pedas.

Right: Lunch being served

On the way back to Persada Convention Centre, we dropped in on the Johor State Planning Unit and the Menteri Besar's Office. It was a follow up from our succesful meeting yesterday. Siti and Jazreen was also pleased to be in one of the oldest Government buidling in the country, which is still operational. "Its like walking through the corridors of history".

*Updated Saturday, 25 October 2008 100am

Tonight, I was given the shock of my life. At 700pm, I was unable to locate my family, who were missing from home. And no one at home could tell us where they were. I was trying to call them frantically.

To my biggest surprise, at 730pm they dropped in on me in Puteri Pan Pacific Johor Bahru. They flew in to surprise me on my 41st birthday.

Right: Birthday dinner at Danga Bay

So, all of us went out for a dinner at Danga Bay. Ken was gracious enough to buy all of us what turn out to be a gluttony-like dinner. First time, my family and team from work met each other and socialise.

This week had been a very testing period for me. Of course, I will remember today for the longest time. It was a day of too many surprises!

Bringing the troops to Johor Bahru

2008-10-23T14:34:00.007+08:00

Today, we were in Johor Bahru. It was a planned trip. This time, I had the troops here instead of just Kenneth Karnan.

We loaded somemore stuff into the Enterprise and a rented Naza Ria and pushed off a quarter to ten. It was a pleasant ride all the way.

Right: Enjoying Mee rebus, otak otak and rojak buah while ctaching up on chin-wags

The moment we reached Johor Bahru, our first order of the day was lunch. And in Johor Bahru, my trip would not be completed without Mee Rebus Hj. Wahid. By one, we were already at Plaza Angsana. To my expectations, the troops were pleased. By half past one, we were already on our way to Puteri Pacific Hotel, my usual home whilst in Johor Bahru. Siti and Kenneth were scheduled for a meeting by 2pm.

*Updated 530pm

Later, by three, we had our meeting at the State Economic Planning Unit. The Deputy Director is an old Newcastle buddy of mine, NoorAzam Osman. This was a follow up on the earlier presentation we had. The UPEN saw the merits of our proposal and want to implemented it in Johor.

Left: Presenting to Lokman

Right: Kenneth demonstrating to Lokman and Noor Azam

Then, he cordially arranged for us to meet Lokman Abu Bakar, another buddy from my England days. He is now the Principal Private Secretary to the Menteri Besar of Johor. Briefly, I presented the same proposal we did for UPEN and he also saw what the objectives are and how the State Government could benefit.

Hence, he arranged for another presentation appointment. This time for the State Government of Johor and the Menteri Besar and Excos would be there. It looks like we will be back here in Bangunan Sultan Ibrahim on the eighteenth of next month.

Left: Infront of the MB's office

We took the opportunity to capture our photograph in front of the Menteri Besar's office. Soon, this office would be vacated and the entire State Government will move to their new home in Nusajaya.

It was a very good day indeed

Remembering Mustaffa Dapat

2008-10-21T00:44:00.004+08:00

At Utah Beach, in front of an US Army Sherman tank

My best friend, Mustaffa Dapat would have been 44 today. Unfortunately for me, God Al Mighty called him back to rahmatullah on 28 August 2004, when he was in a coma in a hospital in Caen, due to a rare penicillin poisoning related ailment called Steven Johnson syndrome.

This was one of my greatest regret in life. Only Allah s.w.t. knows the wisdom why Mus was called few weeks short of his 40th birthday.

At St. Mere D'Eglise, the site where the 101st Airborne was dropped the night before invasion. For the longest times since we were roomates in MRSM, we promised ourselves that one day we will come here. We managed to do it only when at the end of his life

I still miss him dearly till present day. The only left is the remembrance of the fondest memory with my dear friend, whom I misses so much. In June 2004, he so insisted that I went to see him in Cherbourg, France, to celebrate the 60th anniversary of the D-Day landings, "Operation Overlord". Little that anyone would know, that would his last wish to meet up with me. When we parted, he hugged me in front of the submarine turned museum, Redoutable and till today, I remember and savour that moment.

One day we shall meet again. May Allah s.w.t. bless your soul.

Attending Tan Sri Muhyiddin Yassin's openhouse

2008-10-18T17:44:00.006+08:00

I was at International Trade and Industry Minister Tan Sri Muhyiddin Yassin's openhouse this afternoon. It was held at Damansara Heights. My blogging friend, Dato' Ahmad A. Talib reminded me several times to attend.

Right: With the host at his porch

Left: Explaining to Tun Siti on the my political stance this morning

At 1.58pm, I was sounded out that fourth Prime Minister Tun Dr. Mahathir Mohamad was already on his way to the Hari Raya Aidil Fitri, party with his doting wife of 62 years, Tun Dr. Siti Hasmah Mohd. Ali. As I was still on my errant run, I got the missus to drop me at Damansara Heights, to save time.

Of course, it was the peak time. Well wishers from all walks of life were there, paying homage.

Right: With Rocky, Nuraina and Endie

Later, I joined other blogging buddies, Ahirudin "Rocky" Attan, Nuraina A. Samad and Salahuddin Hj. Hisham on our usual chig-wags.

My family and Tan Sri Muhyiddin's go a long way back. We both hail from Muo.

Left: Catching Tan Sri Muhyiddin's personal thoughts

Later, after Tan Sri Muhyiddin's media conference, we had the opportunity to have a private session with him. He talked about the diversity of the Malaysian economy as compared against Singapore's, which is dependent on services sector. Singapore officially declared they are experiencing 'technical recession' after the US and Western European financial catestrophe lately.

Dinner with Darlina and Neil

2008-10-08T01:23:00.004+08:00

Last night, we had a dinner with Neil and Darlina Harris. We met at KLCC for dinner. The Harrises will be going back to their home in Bahrain on Saturday.

Right: Dee surfing on Girl-Girl's blog through my PDA phone

We caught up with chats and chin-wags. It is also the first time we met Neil since we last saw him at his place in Knuttsford, near Manchester three years ago. Neil is now the design manager for a British consulting group WS Atkins in Bahrain. He flew in two days before Hari Raya Aidil Fitri. He was his usual self; being witty and a little bit ckeeky.......

Left: Neil and I

It was deemed special as Dee would be celebrating her 4oth birthday tomorrow. This would be our last opportunity to catch up with them since they will busy with her family from tomorrow night onwards, till they leave Malaysia.

Right: As dinner being served

Tun Dr. Mahathir's Openhouse

2008-10-06T00:33:00.005+08:00

I was at fourth Prime Minister's openhouse this afternoon in Mines Resort, Seri Kembangan. It was a day to remember. I wasn't sure how many people actually turned up, but it the scores of visitors and well wishers waiting in queue to wish "Selamat Hari Raya Aidil Fitri" to the hosts were endless.

Right: With Dato' Mukhriz Mahathir

There was even a Tun Dr. Mahathir facebook fan club, who organised a trip for the Openhouse. This a manifestation of how the Statesman is very much respected and well liked, by Malaysians from all walks of life.

Left: Facebook Fan club in attendance

Fellow bloggers Ahirudin "Rocky" Attan and Nuraina A. Samad were present too. So were other usual friends of mine. Some were first timers. They all had a great time.

Right: With close blogging buddies

The Hari Raya is incomplete without wishing the hosts personally. And my friend, bloggo-photo-journo shot this.

Left: An action-kodak moment

This was a good afternoon indeed.

The last morning in Puteri Pacific Johor Bahru

2008-10-04T11:49:00.007+08:00

This is our last morning here. It has been our home for this Hari Raya Aidil Fitri, since first day Syawal. For thirteen consecutive Hari Raya we did this. It is a 'home' for us whenever we are in Johor Bahru.

Right: Second day Syawal, at the lobby

The morning started with the 'sea trials' again. We did not achieve the results we desired.

Left: Commandant of the submarine operations with HMS Si Kunit

Then back up to the room to change and packing. Soon, we will say goodbye to all the friendly frontline staffs here at Puteri Pacific Johor Bahru, who have treated us more like family rather than guests.

Right: Girl-Girl dwell into her My Space whilst Mama packs

I shall be back here again soon. Most probably by end of next week, for work. This time, half of my Business Development Team would be here as well.

Left: Bangunan Sultan Ibrahim from our window

Annual trip to Singapore

2008-10-03T19:42:00.009+08:00

Like any other Hari Raya Aidil Fitri ritual, to spend time in Johor Bahru is incomplete without a trip to Republic of Singapore. So at half past ten, we shot off across the causeway. Our first order the day would be a visit to Linda's late father's resting place at Pusara Aman, Chua Chu Kang. Hari Raya Aidil Fitri is always All Souls moment for us.

Right: Pusara Aman

Most probably this will be our last visit to this cemetry. Mohamed Said Sulaiman's remains. who has been interned here since 18 September 1979, has now been asked to be relocated to a smaller plot. This is the usual Singapore Government policy, as land is very scarce in this nation state. So they recycle cemetery plots. By January, we shall be moving the remains elsewhere. Most probably, somewhere in Malaysia.

Right: Crusing along PIE eastwards

Then, we off to do some shopping. We left Pusara Aman, along Jalan Bahar, onto PIE eastwards and then into Newton Circus via Stevens Rd. This leads right into Scotts Rd., where one can turn into Orchard Rd. However, since its weekday, the ERP is being enforced.

Right: Nasi Beriyani and Murtabak Singapura with a new view

So after some shopping, which include some basmati from Mustafa Centre in Serangoon, we headed to North Bridge Road for some very late lunch. The restaurant we frequent is right infront of the famous Masjid Sultan.

Left: Rush hour at the Singapore CIQ

Then we experienced the Friday evening rush hour at the causeway. Personally, I am intrigued at the amount of Malaysians who commute across the border for employment everyday.

Right: First 'sea trials'

As soon as we reached the hotel, its 'sea trials' for me and Girl-Girl. We bought a remote controlled submarine. Like our annual Hari Raya trip to Singapore, one of a required acquisition for her are toys. So this year is this submarine.

Left: The commander of the new submarine

She spent a great deal of fun learning through discovery about the submarine! Of course, we have to do more sea trials first thing in the morning. She needed to perfect her submarining skills.

I must say, it had been a very good day indeed.....

HMS Si Kunit

Second day of Hari Raya with old friends

2008-10-02T20:07:00.005+08:00

Today is the second day of Hari Raya Aidil Fitri in Johor Bahru. I decided to look up old schools friends.

The first thing in the morning, I dropped by my cousin's place. His quarters is nearby our hotel. Then, I went to look up Mohd. Fazil Ismail. His mother lives in Larkin. Its been sometime since we saw each other. This year marks the 28th anniversary we have known each other rather closely.

Right: At Fazil's mom

Then we popped by Abah's cousin's place in Desa Rahmat. This had been an annual agenda. Then, we went to visit Fadhil Ahmad, another ex MRSM buddy. He reside in Pulai Perdana, ever since his marriage five years ago.

Left: Catching up on a lost whole year

Fadhil and his wife Jid are ever as great hosts as they are, despite Jid is due to deliver any time now.

This was another great second day Hari Raya Aidil Fitri indeed.

Typical Hari Raya in Johor Bahru

2008-10-02T01:52:00.008+08:00

Like any other year, we will go back to Johor Bahru after all the rituals at home is done. This afternoon, after my cousin and neighbour left, we pushed off at quarter to three. We load the Enterprise up, with all the usual things we always bring with us (which include 'Super Soaker' guns!). It was a rather boring journey, as getting through Seremban was a drag.

Right: The Enterpise loaded up. Notice the 'Super Soakers', to the left of the Minnie Mouse luggage and pillows on top of it. The blue luggage is our thermal bag. The white paper bags on the bottom right side are mineral water.

The journey this year required 15% more time or 30 minutes to be precise. After Air Keroh, it was a smooth ride and the weather was fine.

Left: Commandering the Enterprise, somewhere past Simpang Ampat

My navigator, Girl-Girl, kept me company all the way. We reached mom in law's place at half past six and we had our traditional Hari Raya feast, with all the food we brought fom Kuala Lumpur. The missus prohibit the mother to cook this year because of her recent state of health.

Right: The navigator

At half past eight, we checked into Puteri Pacific Johor Bahru. This has been our annual home for the 13th consecutive Hari Raya Aidil Fitri visit. It is a place feels like home. The warmth of the people who serve us here is the key.

Left: Puteri Pacific lobby

After shower, we went to Chu's for dinner. Later, at half past eleven, its the traditional Hari Raya visit to BJ's. Usually, we'd only be back at the hotel by two. For twelve Hari Raya, we do this.

It's a good Hari Raya Aidil Fitri indeed.

Experiencing Hari Raya Aidil Fitri morning

2008-10-01T10:20:00.008+08:00

Today is 1 Syawal 1429H. Today is also Hari Raya Aidil Fitri, first day. I was up by 610 am and amazingly, by 750am, I was already at the Mujahideen Mosque in Damansara Utama for the Hari Raya Aidil Fitri ritual.

Right: Hari Raya Aidil Fitri prayers as Mujahideen Mosque

For the longest time, I have been doing this ritual. As far back as four years old, Abah took me to the mosque. Then it was Muo Jamek' Mosque. Its been almost twenty years since I offered Hari Raya prayers in the mosque. My Atuk Tina, Zaharah Mohd. Yunos passed away in June 1989. Since then, we have not been to Muo for first day Hari Raya Aidil Fitri.

Being early, I managed to get a good spot. It is important for the duration of at least 1 1/4 hours in the mosque.

The Imam reminded the congregation to preserve the faith as this is the Muslims' strongest weapon to defend themselves against all the challenges in the dynamic world. After the prayer and traditional sermon, the congregation caught up which each other, asking for forgiveness in the wake of a typical Hari Raya Aidil Fitri, as the spirit to strengthen brotherhood as neighbours and friends.

Right: Abah with Hj Rahmat

Left: Abah chatting up with Tan Sri Azman

Then back home, we asked forgiveness from each other and offer our sincere Hari Raya Aidil Fitri wishes, with love. A usual morning is never complete without the traditional breakfast. Again, like as far back as I can remember, we have ketupat with sayur masak lodeh, sambal sotong, sambal kacang and three types of rendang - beef meat, beef liver and chicken.

And the kids, they get the traditional duit raya. Its a practice the Malays have been doing ever since Abah could remember. It is something to bring cheer to the people who finds the most joy during Hari Raya Aidil Fitri; the children.

Right: Just about to eat, after a month of skipping breakfast

For this year's Hari Raya Aidil Fitri album:

Left: Our family in blue

To all the Muslims in the cybersphere;

Happy Eid Mubarak.

Buka puasa with Mukhriz

2008-09-29T00:12:00.003+08:00

UMNO Youth Exco Dato' Mukhriz Mahathir hosted a buka puasa for the media this evening. It was held at Seri Angkasa Restaurant, Menara Kuala Lumpur.

Right: Dato' Mukhriz catching up on chat with some friends and members of the media

Left: "Berani Berubah" pose

So many friends from the media came. This also include friends from alternative media.

The food was sumptous and the spread was good.

Later, he held a media conference where a barrage of questions were thrown at him, with regards to the current political scenario.

Right: Mukhriz answering the media

Meeting Alia Harris

2008-09-28T16:00:00.007+08:00

We went to see a friend, Darlina Hashim at her parents' place this afternoon. It was Aishah's and Linda's first time meeting her since last. It was the first time being introduced to Alia Saaniah Harris also. It was at Brig. Gen. Hashim's place in Ulu Kelang.

Right: Meeting Alia for the first time, at the front door

Alia Harris was born on 13 August 2008 in Gleneagles Hospital in Kuala Lumpur. Despite the Harris reside in Bahrain, Dee came back to deliver her first child here in KL. They have been residing in Manama since April last year.

Left: Alia and Mummy

Dee has been a fulltime housewife since. She's a friend from school. We've gone a long way back since our MRSM Muo days, 27 years ago. We are so glad that there is now Alia in the Harrises's life.

Right: Feeding time while the two moms exchange notes

Husband, Neil Harris will be in KL on Tuesday, the day before Hari Raya Aidilfitri. On 11 October, they will leave for the Gulf and show Alia her home, for the first time. We shall miss the Harris. By the next time we come across Alia Harris, she will be much different.

Welcome to our world....

Presenting to an old blogging buddy

2008-09-25T17:38:00.013+08:00

We were at the Chief Minister's Office at twenty to three. They occupy the entire floor of the 28th level of Komtar. The State Cabinet office and operations room is here also. We had an appointment with YB Jeff Ooi, who is the Chief of Staff at the Penang CEO's office. He is also the MP for Jelutong. We were early so we had to wait for a while as he was out of the office for official business.

Right: Waiting outside the Chief Minister's Office

We did a presentation to Jeff, as we tried to get his views and input on the implementation of Penang being a cashless state.

Left: YB Jeff Ooi listening on the concept of cashless community, via our 'shotgun' approach

He was very attentive to the presentation. Infact, he was very inquisitive and perfectly understood where we were coming from and saw the potential and benefits for Penang, be it the state and rakyat.

Right: Ken demonstrating the Xiring mobile terminal, best suited for micro collection and delivery business

Ken even showed him how his own party benefited from our payment gateway, which has been provided to them by a third party acquirer. He shown a lot of interests on the concept as a whole. However, we need to work on what ever being presented further. This means we have to come back a few more times. Personally, I am looking forward to work with a state official who is so into e commerce.

Left: Momento shot with Jeff Ooi

Soon after, we managed to catch up on each other's personal views of current political situation. Before we left, Jeff showed us the south side of Georgetown from his office window. We could also see the entire length of the Penang Bridge and the development on the Pulau Jerejak. As he walked us to the lift, we caught up with Chief Minister Dato' Lim Guan Eng.

It was a very good day indeed. Now, to plan for buka puasa....

A working trip to Penang

2008-09-25T13:48:00.010+08:00

I was in Penang today. It started like any other usual morning. Except I left home with overnight clothes (these days, things simply cropped up last minute). I popped by the office first to get some official Federal Government circulars, to show the Penangites.

Right: Looking down at Malacca Straits from the altitude of 24,000 ft

Then Ken, arrived at work and by little past ten, we pushed off to KLIA. We parked at the SUV bay (Yes, there is a special bay for 'Enterprise' alike, something I am so glad MAB offered), checked in through the stand alone kiosk and then board, at the nick of time.

Left: Ken enjoying his lunch

There were many spaces available in this flight. When we arrived in Penang International, it was lunch time. So, Ken had his lunch. It was alright since we had time to spare. We had to kill the two and half hours before our three o'clock appointment at Komtar anyway. Ken had a sumptous Kenny Spicy BBQ chicken meal set at Kenny Rogers.

Right: At the lobby of Komtar

Taking mother in law to a specialist

2008-09-21T10:48:00.008+08:00

At 1000am this morning, we picked mother in law up at her home in Stulang Baru. We took her to Johor Specialist Hospital, to see Dr Shahrom Ujang, a cardiologist. My cardiologist, Dr. Mohd. Daud Sulaiman, who was also my schoolmate once, insisted that I take her to see Dr Shahrom. This is our primary mission to Johor Bahru on this trip.

The first order of the day is the ECG.

Right: Waiting for ECG

As usual, like any other visitations to a hospital, it is the waiting game which really bog one down. The anxiety of consulting a specialist is very amplified with the waiting bit. Girl-Girl, in her own usual way, killed her boredom getting lost in a book. Today, it was the classic "Phantom of the Opera" by Gaston Leroux. I am glad she's on the classics now.

Right: Dr. Shahrom in his initial tests

When we met Dr. Shahrom, he is unable to ascertain for mother in law's real issues. The chest pain she has been experiencing could also be caused by her cough. So, he instructed more tests to be carried out. A chest x-ray is also ordered to ascertain the state of her lungs.

After the echocardiogram, Dr. Shahrom changed her hypertension medication. She has to come back tomorrow to install a device to monitor her ECG for 24 hours and come back on Tuesday to dis-install. My wife will have to fly down on Tuesday to take her to consult Dr. Shahrom again.

Left: Updating this blog whilst waiting for the echocardiogram

Mean while, I did my thing to keep myself occupied all morning long.....

Buka puasa in Johor Bahru

2008-09-20T14:42:00.008+08:00

My mother in law, Ansariah Hj Hussin has been ill all week long. She complained of chest pains. So, two days ago, we decided to go back to Johor Bahru and see how she is doing.

This morning, we pushed off from our place in Damansara Utama at 930am, with brief stopovers uploading octane 97 petrol and some of my mother in law's personal item, from her son's place in Kota Damansara.

Right: Somewhere near Alor Gajah, late morning

We entered the NKVE highway at ten past ten and headed towards Shah Alam before making a left turn towards KLIA and Nilai.

*Updated Sunday, 21 September 2008 100am

Later, we had some Mi Rebus Haji Wahid and otak-otak for buka puasa. We left our hotel in Jalan Ibrahim and rushed for Plaza Angsana, at 530pm. Then it was to Jalan Tebrau, to get a bottle of Beyh Royale for my mother in law. The final stop was to get a freshly prepared siakap cooked in rich sweet sour sauce for her. We finally reached her home in Kampung Stulang Baru seconds before Maghrib prayer call, which marks the buka puasa.

Left: The buka puasa feast, in the nick of time

Then at 930pm, we called on my aunty in Stulang Laut. Her entire family was there and we caught up on a lot of things.

By 1030pm, we had to excuse ourselves as I promised a friend to go for Moreh at a nearby hotel. We met my friend, Dato' Mukhriz Mahathir at the Moreh. He was the guest of honour, hosted by local Pemuda UMNO friends. Despite in this hectic event, we managed to catch on quite a bit, especially politics. He will be in Johor Bahru all day long tomorrow, which include another buka puasa and moreh thingy.

Right: Sharing thoughts on politics

It was good day indeed.

A working trip to Johor Bahru

2008-09-12T15:35:00.010+08:00

I was up by 430am this morning. I made a working trip to Johor Bahru, via Malaysia Airlines 725am flight from KLIA to Sultan Ismail International, Johor Bahru.

My appointment was at 1000am, at the Sultan Ibrahim Building. It is the most iconic building the South of the Peninsular. I was awed at the 80 year old majestic building as I approached it. It perched on the Bukit Timbalan and houses the State Government of Johor.

Right: Infront of the west entrace

I took entered via the west entrance, to my meeting at the second floor, also on the west wing.

The meeting I had was amazingly fruitful.

Left: With B J

Later, I managed to catch up with my old Newcastle buddy, Mohd. Noorazam "B J" Osman. Being a senior JCS officer, on a Friday, he doned the traditional baju kurung Johor.

Right: Beyh Royale; Resembles a bottle of 12 year old, isn't it?

BJ gave me a bottle of the "national drink of Johor", Beyh Royale. It was first introduced to the court of Sultan Ibrahim, the grandfather of the current Sultan of Johor.

At 1145am, I was in another meeting, in a building across the street from Bangunan Sultan Ibrahim. That turned out to br very well too.

I will have another one late in the afternoon. I hope it will be good too. Anyhow, it was a good day indeed.

Mukhriz making the effort to change

2008-09-07T09:30:00.009+08:00

I was in Titigajah, Alor Setar the better half of yesterday's afternoon. My friend, Exco Pemuda UMNO Dato' Mukhriz Mahathir announced his candidacy to contest as UMNO Youth Head at the party elections this coming December.

Right: Mukhriz is making last minute changes in his speech

Mukhriz is also BN MP for Jerlun. The last time I sat at this table was during the 8 March 2008 12th General Elections, where he stood for the first time.

Left: Merbok UMNO Youth Head Kamal and Mukhriz's Media Officer Azrin Zizal

I was there amongst friends when he finalised his announcement speech and also the final draft of the media statement was being prepared. The battle cry, "Berani Berubah" (Dare To Change) was used for this campaign.

More than 600 UMNO Youth leaders and members gathered in the grounds of his family's estate, 'Pondok Maharizan'. This include members of the press corp.

Right: Mukhriz making his announcement speech

He detailed on why he asked UMNO Youth members to support and be with his in this quest to change UMNO, the nationalist party.

This is a landmark moment. I still remember clearly the day when Mukhriz won the UMNO Youth Exco seat with the most vote in August 2004. And now, I am here as part where another history is in the making.

Left: Otherwise Mukhriz is usually light, this is a serious moment, getting the deliverance and tone right

It was a good afternoon indeed. The weather was rather cool and everyone was spiritual charged. Later, most of us went to do a special buka puasa dan terawih prayers at Masjid Tok Kepak, Lana Bulu, near Kokdiang.

Discovering Alor Setar

2008-09-06T13:20:00.008+08:00

I was in Alor Setar since late last night. We pushed of from Kuala Lumpur at the height of Friday evening rush hour traffic, an hour before sundown. Most of the journey, right from Jalan Duta Bus Terminal, all the way to Titigajah was raining. Not the drizzle rain but moonsoon like torrential downpours.

Right: The icon of the town, Masjid Zahir

This morning, I was in the heart of Alor Setar, rediscovering the town. Unlike in February/March when I was last here, this trip I had more 'R & R' time.

It was exactly as I left it, six months ago. All the warmth and cosy feeling is still there. Alor Setar is now a town I have acustomed to and feels a lot like home.

Left: Another icon, the old Police station and the Telekom tower in the background

I have a feeling I will be here, more often since March. And I did.

A much needed Merdeka spirit 'injection'

2008-09-01T00:45:00.010+08:00

On the eve of 51st Merdeka Day, I was involved in a patriotic spirit building event for the Young Professional Malays. The Sekretariat Melayu Muda organised a special talk titled "Malaysia Baru: Senario Politik Masa Kini" at Sime Darby Convention Centre, Bukit Kiara, Kuala Lumpur.

Right: The Chair, Wan Azrain Adnan, Tun Dr. Mahathir and yours truly

The keynote address was done by none other fourth Malaysian Prime Minister Tun Dr. Mahathir Mohamad. He spoke on how and what the Malays had to go through to come to this point and it was up to young Malay professionals like ourselves to step up and ensure the continuity of being a 'Bangsa Merdeka' is able to be sustained, indefinitely.

He threw a lot of perspective on the nation we now call Malaysia, through the historical thread. Earlier, former Cabinet Minister and Menteri Besar Kedah Tan Sri Sanusi Junid related on the story of what some great world leaders had to go through. The whole event was very inspirational indeed.

Left: Last minute briefing pre-event at the holding room

I had the opportunity to brief Tun Dr. Mahathir pre-event and we met him at this office to discuss on the content and approach of the much needed Merdeka spirit 'injection'. The spirit of patriotism and nationalism is a pertinent requirement, especially to my peers, in order the country's sovereignity is preserved, for our common future.

It was a good morning indeed. A speech I wrote on the importance to build and preserve the process of nation building and nationhood, was read by a childhood friend. The downside to it, as the time was pressing, he was bullet-train reading the speech.

Right: All dressy to feel the nationalism of the Merdeka weekend

I am also extremely delighted that some of my friends could make it this time. All look dashing and pretty in the pakaian kebangsaan, with utmost pride. To celebrate the zestful feeling, soon after we had a sumptous Chinese dim sum lunch at the adjacent restaurant.

All that could be said about the day at Sime Darby Convention Centre was nothing else but a total success.

MCeeing at an old friend's lair

2008-08-29T01:39:00.006+08:00

I was at the Defense University this afternoon. My alumni, ANSARA, is organising a national level blood donation campaign, in anticipation of the upcoming Ramadhan fasting month. It was supposed to be kicked of at the former Armed Forces College. The official launching would be done tomorrow, at Jaya Jusco Klang by fourth Prime Minister Tun Dr. Mahathir Mohamad.

Our President, YB Dato' Mukhriz Mahathir was scheduled to officiate this kick of at the Defense University. Despite his busy schedule, he made time to ensure that the campaign was kicked of properly.

Left: Dato' Mukhriz and Lt. Jen. Ismail visiting the donours, mainly Defense University Cadet Officers

Our host is none other than the Vice Chancellor himself, Lt. Jen. Dato' Wira Ir. Ismail Samion, TUDM. He was the first Armed Forces College Director and when the instution was alleviated to Defense University, Lt. Jen. Ismail was made the first Vice Chancellor.

I and Lt. Jen. Ismail go quite a bit. We were first introduced back in 2001, when Dato' Mukhriz made me the lead researcher and later, Director of Materials, for a national level aerospace congress. It was organised jointly by ANSARA and MIGHT. Lt. Jen. Ismail, then a Brig. Gen., was the Chief Engineer for the RMAF. So we worked closely for the congress.

Right: ANSARA Deputy President Roslan Bani Amin, VC Lt. Jen. Dato' Wira Ir. Ismail Samion and yours truly

We maintained cordial relationship since then. We met several times as aviation industry associates' offices and events.

Mej. Kalam, TUDM, who is Lt. Jen. Ismail's adjutant and also an instructor at the Defense Univeristy, asked me to MC the kick of. I told him it would be more appropriate if someone from the Defense Univerisity were to do it. However Mej. Kalam and the ANSARA organising committee insisted that I do it instead, since I was a familiar face to both ANSARA and the Defense University VC.

Left: An honour for me

It was an honour for me. Lt. Jen. Ismail will be retiring soon. I wish him the best, after serving the armed forces for over thirty years and will be remembered in history as the first VC of the Malaysian Defense University. For all intent and purpose, Lt. Jen. Ismail is the pride of the Defense University.

I, "Commander Riker"

2008-08-26T01:58:00.019+08:00

Often, I asked very close friends. Friends who observed close what sort of personality I really am. Friends who understand my moods and temperaments. What sort of management characteristics I posses?

Would I make a good leader?

Most of them, said "No". Some with a little bit of doubt. Others convincingly state their case. Most would agree I make a very good aide or lieutenant to a leader. But not the leader himself. I'd probably undertake task assigned by the Boss. But not as the Boss. One even said "You'd make a good 'Boss's boy' but a lousy 'Boys' Boss'! ".

I guess, it was enough.

Frankly, I have always thought of myself as an 'Executive Officer'. I have never seen myself as the 'Commanding Officer'. Not even a small unit. Maybe the COO. Not the CEO. Even when my CO is promoted to a bigger unit, I'd rather stay under his/her wing than be given of my own command.

Why? For a start, I'd make a darn good researcher for my leader. I' d present the case in total. However, I don't think I could put myself to be the one who makes the decision and stand by it, especially if it is a bad decision. I would rather 'advise' someone else to do it and support him or her in realising the execution, without actually fronting the full burden of responsibility.

Just like "Commander William T. Riker", the Executive Officer (XO) of NCC 1701E, "Enterprise E". He was the second-in-command of the Starfleet flagship under Captain Jean Luc Picard for many years, starting from "Enterprise D". Even when he was given the command of his own ship, USS Melbourne, he chose to remain onboard "Enterprise E" under Picard.

I see myself as Cdr. Will Riker (Obviously NEVER remotely good looking!). I see myself as Captain Matt Garth under Rear Admiral Jack Fletcher in the Midway campaign. I even see myself as Gen. George S. Patton under Gen. Omar N. Bradley in the post D-Day French expeditory campaign. In many ways, I want to be Brig. Gen. Lewis A. Armistead, in the Battle of Gettysburg, who took Lt. Gen. James "Pete" Longstreet's command and instruction. Armistead lost his life on that field, being loyal to Pete Longstreet's suicidal instruction.

Regardless what people might say, I believe I have the qualities of the XO of the "Enterprise E"; methodological, resourceful, innovative and above all, extremely loyal. In a day's work, the CO would to turn to me and say "Number One, make it so!", decisively.

P/S: Oh yes, I am a Trekkie!

An annoying habit....

2008-08-23T09:47:00.012+08:00

I have this little annoying habit that I really should shed. I tend to rest my chin on my arm, whenever I am in concentration mode, especially listening to others. I don't see it is wrong but I know this is an annoying habit that I really should do without.

Right: Moderating a forum for Dato' Ruhanie Ahmad and Dato' Sazmi Miah in Petaling Jaya, 31 May 2008

I have been captured on film doing this, even in formal functions. One was even featured on a Malay daily the day after. I guess it was my first committee meeting anywhere, ever captured in a national level newspaper.

Left: Attending UMNO Youth Secretariat meeting in PWTC, as per captured by Berita Harian on 4 June 2008

I was in Teluk Intan in late June moderating a forum for a Bagan Datoh UMNO activist. It was a very interesting experience indeed. What was more interesting is that I had to set the tone and mood of the audience for the keynote speaker, in a session right after the forum.

Right: Moderating a forum for YB Dato' Ibrahim Ali, Dato' Ruhanie Ahmad and Dato' Mazlan Harun in Teluk Intan, 25 June 2008

This one is interesting. I was in fourth Prime Minister Tun Dr. Mahathir Mohamad's office for a private discourse recently. I asked him a question on the nationalism and patriotism of the young professionals and his reply was very comprehensive and well substantiated. He articulated in angles and perspective I thought unimaginable.

Left: At Perdana Leadership Foundation, 11 August 2008

It is simply refreshing to tap the mind of the Statesman. Of course in doing so, I was lost in the process.

This one was last weekend. I moderated for former Agriculture Minister and MB Kedah Tan Sri Sanusi Junid in an ANSARA forum in PWTC. He also addressed the issue of nationalism amongst the young professionals of the day, which I find so very mind stimulating.

Right: Moderating Tan Sri Sanusi Junid

There is another forum in November, which I will be asked to moderate again. This time, for three of the most respected minds in the legal fraternity. I hope I won't be captured on film again for resting my chin on my arm.

Anyhow, I know this person who has this an incurable habit of snapping her fingers whenever something pops up in the mind. I was told, she even does it on national TV, quite recently.....

Moderating Tan Sri Sanusi Junid

2008-08-17T15:11:00.015+08:00

This morning, I was given the honour to moderate a session with former Kedah Menteri Besar and Minister of Agriculture Tan Sri Dato' Seri Sanusi Junid. My high school alumni, Alumni of Ex-MRSM (ANSARA) organised a "Sembang Sembang Coffee Corner ANSARA" session at Riverside Cafe, PWTC.

Right: Tan Sri Sanusi, the man, at the beginning of the session

Since I was moderating, I also was given the task to come up with the relevant topic and points of discussion. Therefore, on Wednesday, I met Tan Sri along with the ANSARA Deputy President Mohd. Roslan Bani Amin at his private office in Mont Kiara and we had a discussion on the New Economic Policy (NEP).

Left: Tan Sri Sanusi in articulation mode

So this morning, I asked Tan Sri Sanusi to speak on "NEP: The Perspective of Nation Building and Nationhood". He was supposed to have delivered a full blown speech at a Young Malay Professional Congress, originally planned for yesterday. Unfortunately, for some unavoidable circumstances, it was moved to November. So the organising committee decided to hold the 'Coffee Talk' session instead, to honour Tan Sri Sanusi's willingness to share his thoughts. It has been a while since ANSARA held any of these.

It was a heavy topic to discuss and he spoke at length, explaining from the historical, socio-political, socio-economical and global perspective. After a 1 3/4 hour speech, then there was the interactive session for the next 1 1/2 hours, where he took questions and opinion and elaborated further on the points he presented and pondered earlier.

Right: As Tan Sri Sanusi explained during Q & A, Roslan Bani Amin was really concentrating

Being the moderator of this session, I must admit to keep up with the points he presented was not an easy task. Especially when the issues and discussions raised and angled were very thought provocative. I personally asked Tan Sri Sanusi to dissect the issue of many Young Malay Professionals today, no longer have regards for the NEP, even though they themselves benefitted immensely under the various programs (whether they realised it or not). They just blame on the failure on the some of the wealth distribution / creation program implementation but conveniently failed to consider the many poverty eradication programs which were very succesful, especially education, infrastructure and economic development programs.

At the end of the event, I was glad that ANSARA gave me the honour.

Left: Catching up with small talk over coffee before the intellectual discourse

Earlier, before the session, we had breakfast with the recently removed President of International Islamic University Malaysia of eight years. We managed to get some small talk and he was reminiscing of the past, especially his experience whilst serving as the Cabinet Minister in charge of MARA.

He should be encouraged to chronicle his past experiences in a memoir.

Afternoon discussion with Tun Dr. Mahathir

2008-08-11T19:40:00.009+08:00

We had our scheduled afternoon discussion with former Prime Minister Tun Dr. Mahathir Mohamad at his office in Putrajaya this afternoon. I invited a diversified group of friends for the discussion, which covered a wide ranging of areas. There should have been more but due to work commitments, they are unable to attend.

Right: Tun Dr. Mahathir addressing the guys

We were as eager and anxious to hear personally what the Statesman has to say as he was also 'charged' talking a small group of professionals like ourselves.

Left: Azrin captured this whilst I was getting a feedback on an issue I raised

There were a mixture of locally and abroad graduates, doing consultancy, professional services to MNC jobs. One was even a scientist, who had her education entirely in Europe. Our common bond; all sons and daughters of the New Economic Policy and damn proud to be developed under it.

It was very inspiring to tap the most precious mind in Malaysian history, with experience and exposure as far back as for than 60 years ago, immensely contributing to society.

Right: Getting personal autographs

At the end of the session, some of us had asked for his autograph for the newly launched "Mahathir Mohamad" cartoon biography by E. Yu. I was fortunate enough to be present for the launching of the book last Friday at Sime Darby Convention Centre, to mark this year's annual Perdana Leadership Foundation CEO Lecture Series.

Left: I and Shahzad with Tun Dr. Mahathir

Some of us captured the fine moment for our eternal remembrance, including yours truly. It was a very good afternoon indeed.

Ahirudin "Rocky" Attan quoted me

2008-08-03T13:25:00.006+08:00

Primero blogger Ahirudin "Rocky" Attan, who was the Executive Editor for Malay Mail and Head Honcho for Business Times not too long ago, quoted me in his column in the Singapore's New Paper.

This was about his article on Tunku Mahkota Johor YAM Tunku Ibrahim Ismail Ibni Sultan Iskandar, the heir apparent to the Johor throne which so many Johoreans love and respect. Recently, Rocky had the opportunity to bond with the 'rakyat prince' in his annual Kembara Mahkota Johor, on Harleys.

This is not the first time Rocky quoted me. The immediate the one before this was when Rocky wrote about a 23 year old aide Mohd. Saiful Bukhari Azlan made a Police report against former Deputy Prime Minister and now PKR adviser Anwar Ibrahim last month, which caused a lot of attention. In some ways, I have been his reference in his articles so many times already.

Girl-girl is twelve today

2008-07-17T20:57:00.007+08:00

My gem of my life, Girl-Girl is twelve today.

I brought her and momma to a dinner treat at the local TGIF, in One Utama. Of course, being the birthday girl, almost the entire servers came to sing and wish her, for her most important day this year. They made her stand on her chair and insist that she gives a speech.

Right: Making a speech and she wished for her own notebook!

She's grown far from 21 inch to 5' 4", today. From a little over 3 kg, twelve years later she is over 60kg heavier.

Left: Being made to blow the single candle from three feet away

My missus's co-worker bought her a L'occitane perfume, despite against advice for a gift. Its her first perfume.

I still remember exactly twelve years ago, I held her in my arms. The first words I whispered to her ears were prayers call. Today, she is now a twelve old daughter that every father dreamed of. These past twelve years had been the most joyous moments of the both of us.

HAPPY BIRTHDAY, SAYANG....

Tun Dr. Mahathir and Tun Dr. Siti Hasmah jointly celebrating birthday

2008-07-11T21:54:00.015+08:00

Former Prime Minister Tun Dr. Mahathir Mohamad 83, celebrated birthday with the wife of 52 years, Tun Dr. Siti Hasmah Mohd. Ali who turns 82 tomorrow. A special birthday party was held in the honour of these two amazing Malaysian couple at Yayasan Al Bukhary, Jalan Perdana Kuala Lumpur.

Right: Blowing the candles of the large cake

There were sixty people who attended, which include people from the Perdana Leadership Foundation and his private office and staff. The party started at 5.00pm.

Left: Cutting the cake

Friends were invited too. Close personal friends like Tan Sri Sanusi Junid and wife were present. There was a sumptous buffet served. Top on the list is Mee Rebus Tulang Kambing. Again, this party's food was a treat.

Right: Tun Dr. Siti romantically feed her husband

They prepared a cake for them. So, its customary that the borthday boy and girl is asked to cut the cake, whilst the guests sing.

After the cake was cut, guests asked them to feed each other a small piece, just like wedding couples do it at their reception. And they were sporting enough to show affection in that fashion.

Left: Teasing Tun Dr. Siti Hasmah while she firmly held his hand to get her piece

It was a very light moment for all of us. The food was good. The company was good. The party was held at the rooftop courtyard. The 10,000 odd sq. ft. courtyard, which could double up as a multipurpose open space was actually covered with a glass dome. The whole floor has a very distinctive Central Asian Islamic art motive. I think this is the first clear glass dome with Islamic motive in the country.

Right: One of Tun Dr. Mahathir's private staff shot this photo of me and the glass dome

I was one of those lucky blokes who were invited to this little private party because I and some friends were at the Yayasan Al Bukhary since 2.45pm.

HAPPY BIRTHDAY, TUN & TUN.........

May Allah s.w.t. provide you both with lots of love, happiness and productive minds. InsyaAllah.

Birthday lunch with Tun Dr. Mahathir

2008-07-10T16:32:00.007+08:00

This afternoon, I was invited for a sumptuous fine-dining Kelantanese Malay lunch. It was held at Kelantan Delight, Sooka, Kl Sentral and it was in honour of former Prime Minister Tun Dr. Mahathir Mohamad's 83rd birthday, today.

Right: Tun Dr. Mahathir admiring the KL Sentral lane and its surrounding from the Kelantan Delight verandah

Left: A cream fruit cake was presented to him

As usual, Tun Dr. Mahathir had everyone's awed, but very pleasant response when he arrived. Even though this is a private social function. He was very light and joked with the guests, as her toured the 4300 sq. ft. restaurant. Juhaidee Ean, the owner (who is also my friend), took him to the verandah where he enjoyed the sky line of KL Sentral business district. Personally, I can't imagine ten years ago this was the KTM train yard.

I could not imagine the food that was served to us. It is fit for a Malay Sultan. It started with keropok lekor and kaduk with condiments. It was indeed a new experience for me, eating raw bettle nut look alike leaf with peanuts, fresh onions, dried shrimps (I conveniently skipped the chilly) and with a thick peanut-petis sauce.

Right: The kaduk leaves and keropok lekor

Then it was this awesome tomyam soup, served in young coconuts. Apparently, according to Juhaidee (who sat at our table), the coconut is roasted till the juice reached a boiling point. Then the flesh is skimmed out and with the juice, cooked in a tomyam broth, with sweet fresh prawns and the usual condiments like mushrooms, shallots, thyme, lime, ginger and other herbs and spices. Then the boiling hot broth is poured back into the shell and served. The full flavour of the young coconut is preserved, when served.

Of course, Tun Dr. Mahathir is required to say something. Especially after so many, spoke in his honour. He joked about not remembering his brithday this morning and how Tun Dr. Siti Hasmah always reminded him of his birthday, because conveniently, she celebrates hers two days later. Both of them looked in a lot of delight, at the party.

Standing from left: Dato' Ahmad A Talib, Ahirudin Attan, Dato' Kadir Jasin's wife, Nuraina A. Samad and yours truly

It would not be a birthday party, without photo shots. So, even small time bloggers like me, had the opportunity to capture the moment.

*Updated 600pm

Tun Dr. Mahathir and Tun Dr. Siti Hasmah were blessed by Allah s.w.t. with a 17th grand daughter @ 4.33pm

A year after the surgery that changed my life

2008-07-04T12:18:00.005+08:00

Today, is exactly a year after I did my bariatic surgery, at Damansara Sepcialist Hospital. I was a morbidly obese chap when in April last year, my cardiologist, who is a personal friend Dr. Mohd. Yusof Sulaiman out it bluntly to me and immediately, I was convinced to under go for the surgery.

Then all the test was carried out and I was prepped for the surgery. I was admitted on 30 June 2007, 4 days earlier so that the doctors could monitor all my vital statistics for the Roux-En-Y gastric by-pass surgery. Surgeon Dato' Dr. Haron Ahmad will perform the surgery, assisted by his instructor Dr. Paul Wizman, a Monteral native living in Miami. At this point, I tipped the scale in the excess of 210 kg!

My fellow obese friend Lars Olsen, a Danish living in Taman Tun Dr. Ismail, had his first surgery in the week. The surgery took 5 1/2 hours. Immediately after the surgery, Dato' Dr. Haron and Dr. Wizman came to see me. I raised the question on whether I could last that long on the OT table, under general anaestethic. That got the surgeons thinking.

Right: The night before surgery. I was already on a four day food free regime then

I raised the same question to Dr. Daud and my respritologist and chest physician Dr. Zainuddin Md. Zin. Then the anaestethist Dato' Dr. Wan Nik also visited me.

Left: First photo post surgery in ICU. Note the anesthetist got me on an incline, to help me breathe better

Then the fateful Wednesday morning came. I was wheeled out of my room at 800 am to the OT. After the prepatory work, I remembered being comforted by Dr. Ibtisam Ibrahim, who was assisting Dato' Dr. Wan Nik, as I was being strapped on the OT table. The reason that I was strapped is because the OT table will be mechanically raised so that the surgery could be carried out at a 75% incline.

Right: Vital statistics looking good post surgery in ICU

Then by 1100am, its all over. I was wheeled out to the ICU for recovery and observation. The surgery was carried out by Dr. Wizman, who had the extensive experience, and he took just under two hours to do the job.

Left: With Dr. Wizman and Abah. Note, I actually grew fatter because of the water retention around the torso area

It was a slow process of recovery for me. First it was the great discomfort of post anesthesia. I developed complications post surgery as my system was retaining water, and unlike other patients, I actually put on more weight (because of the water retention).

I was discharged on 17 July 2007, on my daughter's birthday.

After 365 days, I have lost 60kg from my original weight. Not a bad feat after all!

Meeting a sister of an old friend

2008-07-01T03:17:00.004+08:00

Last night, I was fortunate enough to be invited to Ministry of Defense "Media Night". First time, in its history, bloggers were invited. There were top notch bloggers like Rocky Bru, Nuraina A. Samad and online dailies like Agenda Daily. Small time blogger like yours truly was also invited.

I was introduced to this lady, Aznifah Ghani, who is a career diplomat with a Malaysian mission in Europe. So we had a chat and it went on a little while longer, post party. Suddenly, it just hit me!

She is the younger sister of my long lost sixth form buddy!

Lt. Col. Azlan Iskandar "Jack" A. Ghani is now a battalion commander somewhere in the Royal Malaysian Army.

Right: My friend Jinggo took this shot

It was a very pleasant surprise, indeed. I shall call my old buddy, Jack, tomorrow and surprise him. Last I heard of him, was over ten years ago. He was still a Captain in His Majesty's army.

With Tun Dr. Siti Hasmah Mohd. Ali

2008-06-27T00:38:00.005+08:00

The media conference at the 86 Floor of Tower One

This morning, I got an sms for an invitation for Former Prime Minister Tun Dr. Mahathir Mohamad's media conference. It was held at his private office in Petronas's 86th Floor, Tower One, KLCC.

Right: With an awesome lady, who is great mum

I arrived at quarter to noon. Went I got to the conference room (where the media conference will be held), TV stations' microphones were already set in the middle of the beautiful oak colour oval table. Right at the end Tun Dr. Siti Hasmah Mohd. Ali was seated.

Left: Listening carefully to Tun Dr. Mahathir's explanation

As always, I'd go to her and offer my greetings. Then she invited me to sit down and we had a chat.

My photo-journo-blogger buddy Jinggo of the "Pak Lah dozed off in public engagements" fame captured the photos.

Moderating a session of seasoned politicians

2008-06-25T00:09:00.003+08:00

I was in Teluk Intan on Sunday, to moderate a forum in an event organised by a political party. The organisers requested that I moderate the forum, after successfully moderating a similar forum in Petaling Jaya three weeks earlier.

Right: From left, Ron, yours truly, Mazlan and Ibrahim at the rostrum

The panelist of the forum were YB Dato' Paduka Ibrahim Ali, Dato' Ruhanie "Ron" Ahmad and Dato' Mazlan Harun. Ibrahim is a former Deputy Minister in PM's Department, now an independent MP is Parliament. Ron was a former Political Secretary to Deputy Prime Minister Dato' Musa Hitam and BN Back Benchers Club Chairman. Mazlan was former Selangor State Exco and Selangor football team manager, at the height of late Mokhtar "Super Mokh" Dahari sporting career.

The audience said I did well. And it managed to set the tone for a very seasoned politician, YBM Tengku Tan Sri Razaleigh Hamzah, who is said to be vying the seat of a political party Presidency in December.

Sending Tun Dr. Mahathir off

2008-06-22T12:36:00.006+08:00

Yesterday, I was in Ipoh. I attended an event organised by Tasik Belanja Sepat UMNO Branch and former UMNO President Tun Dr. Mahathir Mohamad was the keynote speaker. He flew from Subang in the morning with his doting wife, Tun Dr. Siti Hasmah Mohd. Ali.

Later we were invited to Dato' Radzi Manan's home for a sumptous lunch.

In evening, when all is over, its time for the Statesman and the missus to go home. So we tagged along to the Ipoh airport for the send off.

Right: Dato' Dr. Nasir Muda pose as the captain and sterwadess board the aircraft

We stepped up to the Petronas Gulfstreamjet GIV SP to help load up some of the stuff that Ipoh folks gave them. One of it is a large portait of them both.

Left: The large portrait being loaded up

Right: Tun Dr. Siti Hasmah getting a last minute update from Sufi Yusof

Left: Tun Dr. Mahathir Mohamad and Tun Dr. Siti Hasmah Mohd. Ali waving off to the well wishers

At the top of the city

2008-06-12T19:26:00.012+08:00

Today, I had a meeting in KLCC, the world renowned office address in Kuala Lumpur. I was fortunate, that the meeting was held on the 86th floor of one of the towers.

Right: On the 86th floor, facing the other tower

It was an amazing experience, all over again. The first time I was here, was exactly ten years ago and it was still under renovation. My MBA buddy, Paul F. Gorter was the fit-out contractor, then.

Left: On the KL 'Golden Triangle' part of the building. Note Malaysia Airlines, Chase Morgan and Promet buildings on the back (right above my head) are way down there, despite sitting on a hill! So is the top of UOA building and part of KLCC Convention Centre

It was the highest office floor in the building. It had a very commanding view of Kuala Lumpur and its surroundings. When I look out the window, I was actually perched at least a thousand feet from the street.

It was awesome!

And the weather was good. Although there was a slight haze, but still I could seem miles. The 86th floor is actually the same level as the Seri Angkasa restaurant in the Menara KL, although the communications tower is perched on Bukit Nenas Hill and KLCC is on Jalan Ampang.

Right: The KLCC Park and KLCC Convention Centre, at an elevation of at least a thousand feet from the street. Note the roof top of the 30 floor Mandarin Oriental hotel, at the bottom right hand corner.

I must imagine the employees of this particular MNC must have really great work motivation just by going to work. Especially, its International Business Division, which is on the 80th floor.

Left: Another angle of the KL main central business district. Note the KL Tower in the background. So is the Shangril-la Hotel, way down there!

*Please click on photo to see much better

Featured in a major daily

2008-06-04T19:51:00.003+08:00

That's me, on the left

A photo of I in a meeting was featured in a major daily today. Much to my surprise, I was in the photo of Berita Harian (pp.3), in living colour.

Yesterday, when I attended the inaugral meeting, there were media waiting outside and they were allowed in for a photo op. I was seated at the far end of the table. Little that I guessed, I was also in it.

Riding the KLIA Express

2008-06-02T22:56:00.006+08:00

I attended my first court session, as a witness yesterday. I was called to testify in a criminal case in Kota Bahru. So I flew immediately, (on Malaysia Airlines of course!) after the Saturday session at Crystal Crown Hotel.

Right: Me at somewhere near UPM campus, Serdang

So this morning, I flew back to Kuala Lumpur. I managed to catch the 1135am flight from KBR to KUL on Malaysia Airlines. When I arrived in KLIA at half past twelve, I decided to ride the KLIA Express to KL Sentral, since I was all by myself and its not economical to get a cab all by oneself.

Left: Mid Valley City

In 28 minutes, the train reached KL Sentral, passing through Cyberjaya, Putrajaya, UPM, Salak Tinggi and Sg. Besi. The ride cost RM 35.00 plus RM 14.00 taxi fare from KL Sentral to home. It would have cost me RM 66.00 to take an airport taxi from the airport to home.

Moderating a session for Tun Dr. Mahathir Mohamad

2008-06-01T01:09:00.006+08:00

I was given the honour to moderate a forum for Tun Dr. Mahathir Mohamad this morning. "Suntikan Semangat Satria" was held in Crystal Crown Hotel, Petaling Jaya and the fourth Prime Minister and former UMNO President, who recently gave up (with conditions) his UMNO membership spoke to 700 participants.

Right: Moderating Tun Dr. Mahathir's Q & A

At some point of time, Tun Dr. Mahathir referred to me whilst taking questions from the floor.

Left: A momento for Tun Dr. Mahathir; A book by Gersowitz

I had to take the honour of handing over the token souvenir on behalf of the organiser to the main speaker

It was a great moment indeed. Earlier, I delivered a speech for ARENA PJS 14 Chairman Mohamed Amiruddin Jumaat, who suffered from backpains and fever early this morning and was unable to address a historic moment, for both of us. So, I had to play host.

Right: Saying goodbye to Tun Dr. Mahathir, at his car

Experiencing Melbourne CBD

2008-05-27T13:40:00.008+08:00

This morning, we went into the central business district of Melbourne. We will be experiencing the hustle and bustle of the centre of a 3 million population metropolitan. We took our reliable Falcon and this time, an attempt to weave through heavy morning Melbourne traffic, in a little bit of rain. Of course, its chilly. The weather is very much typical London weather that I and the missus so accustomed of to.

Left: The Falcon and its crew

First, we stopped at Queen Victoria Market, again. We approached the Victoria Market from Flemington Rd. onto Peel St., the west side of the market. We found a 2 hour free parking zone and we waddled around the covered market in light drizzle.

Right: At the Queen Victoria Market

Then, after getting more souvenirs, we pushed of to somewhere near Swanston St. We managed to find a parking, somewhere in between buildings.

Left: Infront of the Arcade, on Bourke St.

When we got of the building above the parking, it was a Commonwealth Bank on Bourke St. The next block is the Melbourne General Post Office and Meyer and David Jones departmental stores. Across from that is the renown Melbourne Arcade.

Right: In the Arcade, infront of the Babushka Russian curiousity shop

There is a lot of nice things in the arcade. Mainly cafe, curious and specialty shops, embroderies, trinkets, jewelers etc. Its a great place to get presents for loved ones.

After waltzing along these nice shops, we exited the Arcade on Elizabeth St. Girl-Girl wanted a pair of ankle boots like her mom, so we stopped at a bargain shoe store.

Left: At the corner of Bourke and Elizabeth. Note the new ankle boots

By the time we had enough, the less than two hour parking a Wilson parking cost us AUD 29!

Right: The street were we do our daily grocery

Then we went to Macca Halal Meats on Racecourse Rd., to be some chicken. Its nearby where we stayed and my daughter has been having halal meats everynight for dinner. The Safeway mart nearby also sells Indonesian kicap manis and a lot other varieties, which include Maggi Mee.

Across from the Macca Halal Meats, there are Chinese restaurants, which serve Laksa and Chicken cooked in satay sauce as the menu.

Left: Girl-Girl on the stove

When we got back, while waiting for her mother, Girl-Girl wanted to prepare the meal so I assisted her in making her favourite Chicken Katsu.

Not bad, for her first attempt!

It is a great thing with the advancement of ICT. Nowadays I can make posting anywhere, almost real time.

An experience with Australia's past

2008-05-26T17:17:00.012+08:00

This morning I took the liberty to wake Girl-Girl up early. It is because we planned to go to Sovereign Hill, Balarat. Sovereign Hill is a themed park dedicated to Australia's gold mining past. Its located in Balarat, Victoria's gold mining city 120 km west of Melbourne. That is about 90 minutes drive from our northern Melbourne inn.

Right: Photographed, infront of the 'Photograher's Saloon' on Sovereign Hill mainstreet. The white building behind us is the 'bank'. Across its the general sundry store

We left Park Squire Inn at 9.30am and proceeded on the highway towards Tullamarine International. Then we proceeded on the city link highway and exited south of Keilor into M8 west bound highway (This highway eventually will take one to Perth, after a few days drive!). We arrived at 10.45am, after passing through some of Victoria's fams and vineyards.

Left: Just about to board the Sovereign Hill stage coach

It is a very exciting theme park indeed. We were brought into Ballarat in 1855, where the gold mining industry was just about to boom, after the the gold rush of 1851. We saw the historical Australia which brought the influx of immigrants, mainly from Europe and the development of Australia's other industries, especially agriculture.

Right: With one of the 'redcoats'

We witnessed how Australia was still part of the Empire and the 'redcoats' were Queen Victoria's official law and order enforcer, as the Troopers were made of rift-rafts, some ex-convicts. There, we saw the gold miner rebellion of 30 Dec 1854, due to exorbitant increase in gold mining license (tax), anti-productive against the income earned from the dangerous prospecting vocation. There was a re-encatment of a squad if 'redcoats' and their officer's proclamation the victory at Sevastopol, during the Crimean War.

We also saw the destruction of the first aboriginal civilisation and nation, here in Victoria. All of these were captured in the Gold Mine Museum, adjacent to the park.

Left: The Damansara Utama gold prospector

My daughter, Girl-Girl had the opportunity to experience gold prospecting, at the creek where gold-panning is encouraged. She had loads of fun. We also saw bus loads of Australian school children, came with their teachers for the excursion.

Right: Having lunch in 19th century Australia

We also had a meal in one of the restaurant. It surely have the mid 19th century ambiance. While we were having lunch, there was a street fight involving a 'gentleman' and a 'woman of pleasure'. So the 'woman' was summarily arrested by the 'Troopers' and shackled.

We have been to similar themed park in the US before, like The Knotts Berry Farm in Buena Vista, near Los Angeles a few times. However, this is much different and much more fulfilling. We definitely had a lot fondest memories here and for a long time.

The Zakhirs in mid-19th century setting

By the way, if anyone in Tanahair thought I had been in "Trouble with the law" recently, I give you this picture. Apparently mid-19th century Ballarat 'law' got me first!

Left: 'Busted' at Sovereign Hill!

Taking the Melbourne Tram experience

2008-05-25T09:15:00.014+08:00

This morning, I took the posse on the Melbourne Tram experience, although we have a rented car. We took tram no. 59 right infront of our apartment on Flemington Rd. to the Queen Victoria Market on Elizabeth Rd. Since it was a lazy Sunday, it would be too much hassle waiting and going on the tram.

Right: In the tram, infront of the Melbourne University

I must say its a rather complicated experience. One has to purchase the ticket on the tram from the machine and slot into the ticket machine. Means you have to know when you are going and choose the right options.

Left: Figuring out the rather complicated ticket machine on the trams

We bought some souvenirs at the Victoria market. It is rather a good bargain, for souvenir hunters. Also some seafood for dinner. I think the food here is rather expensive.

Right: At the seafood section

Update as at 6.30pm Melbourne time (8.30pm Kuala Lumpur time), 25 may 2008

After Victoria Market, we went back to Park Squire Inn to unload. Whilst the missus did her research how to get to Mount Martha on Mornington Peninsula, I made this posting. Then, with a planned route and she do the navigating, we drove towards Frankston, at the south east corner of the Melbourne bay.

Left: Falcon navigator

So we took a drive along the suburbs of south east Melbourne, past the eastern gates of Melbourne University campus. I was awed the size of melbourne metropolitan. We drove for 1 1/2 hours from the city and its still surburbia.

Right: The Falcon cruising along east of Melbourne moving towards Mornington Peninsula

Eventually, after two hours, we finally got to where we wanted. The missus wanted to go the beach where the beach boat houses are painted in various colours. So went looking for it.

Left: The colourful beach huts

Then on the way back, we stopped to have lunch at Schnappers point. It was a pier at the edge of Mornington town. We saw few large stingrays at the bottom of the waterbed. Also some jellyfish. First time I saw these animals in their own habitat.

Right: At Schnapper's pier

It was awesome! There were some divers about to go around under the pier, looking for fishes. The restaurant's fish and chips and scones with thick fresh cream were rather good. It cost us AUD thirty bucks, though!

Left: Fish and chips and scones. Look how thick the hot chocolate is!

Meeting some of God's amazing species

2008-05-24T17:06:00.008+08:00

This morning, I took the Rabbit and Cat Mom to the world renown Melbourne Zoo. This is one of the purpose of our visit here, this year's holidays. At 10am, after a hefty breakfast, we took a very short drive to the zoo, which is less than a mile away.

Right: Having morning coffee while waiting for the meerkat briefing

The first animal we saw was the meerkat. There was a Keeper's briefing at 11.00am and we waited for that. Next to that is the wallaby. This is smaller version of the kangaroo.

The pen across is the red panda. These are rare animals indeed.

Left: The rare red panda

After few other pens, we were at the Platypusary. We saw a couple of the amazing platypus. The egg-laying-infant-nursing mammal was swimming gracefully in the aquarium-like tank. The light was low, so photography with a basic digital camera was almost impossible as flash photography was completely prohibited.

Right: Outside the platypusary

Then it were the kangaroos. The kangaroos were allowed to roam free in their pen, with minimal fencing between them and the visitors.

Left: The Zakhirs and the Melbourne Zoo kangaroos

The Australian national bird, emu, was right next. The animal was kept in a Savannah like environment. This large bird appear on the Australian coat of arms, along with the kangaroo.

Right: At the emu pen

The more interesting species was the koala. We timed our visit there, to coincide with the Keeper's briefing. It was a really educational briefing. The eucalyptus eating marsupial was once a game animal, where it was hunted for its hide, especially for the European market. The last allowable shooting was the Open Season of 1927, where 700,000 koalas were shot in Queensland alone. That brought about a lot of notion that it should be a protected species.

Left: The koalas

Of course, we also saw the wombat.

It was a really educational and interesting experience for us. Our reason to come to Australia had met its main purpose. We saw with our eyes, the most amazing creatures indigenous only to this island-continent!

The land down under......

2008-05-23T20:43:00.014+08:00

Its time for our annual holiday again. This time, impulsively, we decided to go to Melbourne. Why? We've been everywhere, anywhere above the Equator. But never Australia, nor New Zealand. Especially South Africa and South America.

So this time, we went. We boarded, as usual, a Malaysia Airlines flight to Melbourne last night. The attraction was of course the natural wonders this island-continent has to offer, which cannot be found anywhere else.

*Left: Daybreak on the skies of Southern Victoria, 60 miles northwest of Melbourne at the speed of 450 miles per hour

I was, as always, in awe flying on my most favourite jet liner, the B777-200. It was a bumpy flight as when we flew across Indonesia, especially Java, there were turbulences. Even when the meal was served, hot beverages were not, for safety reasons.

We made friends onboard. There was a nice elderly Aussie couple on the way home after a long holiday in Sabah and Sarawak.

*Right: Our traditional monkey-face photoshot, when we do our annual holiday

We landed just before daybreak, in Tullamarine International, 15 mins ahead of schedule.

Everything was pleasant, except the Australian bureaucracy. The landing embarkation form was rather tricky and the authorities, be it the immigration or the customs, were unpleasantly sticky. Of course, they protecting Australia's major agriculture industry. Not only food and agriculture products are not allowed in, handicraft and souvenir made from wood also must be declared.

*The first signage at Tullamarine International, Melbourne

Like all our previous holidays, we prefer to self drive to the places we want to go, especially on our own pace and space.

So, the moment we left the customs, we proceeded towards the Hertz car rental. We got ourselves a rather large Australian car, Ford Falcon. The clerk at the counter offered me Toyota Aurion but I refused. I insisted on an Australian car. That's why we did not go to our traditional Thirfty car rental, which in Tullamarine only offered Japanese and Korean make.

It is not exactly the Enterprise, but the Falcon was rather impressive. Its spacious and has a very repsonsive, but smooth engine. Befits its gas-guzzling 3800cc engine.

* Behind the wheels of the Falcon

And Melbourne, being a city-on-a-grid, was rather easy to manouvre. As usual, I'd be behind the wheels while the missus do the navigating.

We went straight to the inn, where we reserved an one bedroom apartment with full kitchen facilities. Then we went grocery shopping. The apples here are simply amazing!

When the sun sets in, after a hefty self cooked lunch and everyone caught their much needed rest, I took the posse shopping. We went into the Melbourne Central Business District to a factory outlet called DFO, on Spencer Street. Of course, my posse was very happy!

*The expression of typical Malaysian shoppers

Eye opening to Judaism and anti Zionism

2008-05-15T15:29:00.005+08:00

I was fortunate enough to be acquainted to Rabbi Yishroel Dovid Weiss of Brooklynn, New York two days ago. He was accompanied by Rabbis Rosenberg and Cohen.

From left: Rabbis Weiss, Cohen, Rosenberg and yours truly

It was really an enlightenment experience. These orthodox Jews vehemently detest Zionism and the unlawful creation of the state of Israel, 60 years ago today. They consistently speak and even demonstrated against Zionism and Israel. However, non of the issues were ever published in any of the mainstream medias.

"Zionism is heretic and it is anti Judaism".

They felt that it was God's decree that the Jews were expelled from the Holyland 2,000 years ago, for their sins of impurities and they are not supposed to return to Jerusalem. However, Zionism fought for that and did atrocities to gain their objective.

Left: Rabbi Weiss showing the anti Zionism and Anti Israel campaigns and demonstrations, documented since the 1950s.

Rabbi Weiss also explained that Jews lived co-exist and complete harmony amongst the Muslims and Christians, for 1,300 years in various civilizations, namely Medina, Jerusalem, Lebanon, Syria, Turkey, Egypt, Tunisia, Morocco and Spain. It was until Zionism came 100 years and all that changed.

I also had the opportunity to socialise with them. These gentlemen observe their Kosher very strictly. They only eat food that they are completely certain and confident being prepared according to Kosher laws. So, the usually bring their own food when they travel. They appreciate the hospitality that Asians offer them and often, had to reject the 'King's Meal' prepared in the honour.

Right: Rabbi Weiss. Note the anti Israel badge on his left chest

These learned men, who observe strict teachings of the Torah and Talmud also regard Reformed Judaism as adulteration to their religion, as they pick and choose what ever is convenient and suited them best and defied the rest.

I understand their religion much better and appreciate their detest of Zionism. Many people often made the mistake of equating orthodox Jews to Zionism.

Today is Nakba remembrance day. 60 years ago, a Haganah terrorist David Ben Gurion delcared the unlawful state of Israel and saw the Palestinians live in exodus. May God end their torture, suffering and allowed to return to their rightful homes, soon.

A Famosa attack

2008-03-13T13:24:00.018+08:00

Yesterday, was one of those impulsive days I had. Out of nowhere, I told my wife and daughter that we will be going to the Water World, A Famosa, Simpang Ampat, Melaka. We even asked Sari (my daughter's friend mother) whether we could take her along as well (as she was at our home earlier in the day).

Left: From left, Hana, Aliya and Aishah

She said it was alright, if it wasn't too much trouble. So Syahana Azhari tagged along. We also took my six year old niece, Aliya Azry, was ever so eager to join the posse of these two older girls.

By 3pm, we arrived at A Famosa. The GPS on my HTC PDA-Phone, perched next to the rear-view-mirror, added a lil' bit more fun for the kids!

Right: The GPS, giving accurate info that The Enterprise is going at 92km/h and 34km before Simpang Ampat Exit

Waltzing through the entire development project, we had to pass by the Cowboy Town, playground, the equestrian pen and microlight station. The kids wanted us to drop by at every single point attraction.

Left: The kids with the Theme Park mascots

The kids settled on the opportunity to feed on a friendly baby elephant at the entrance of the Water World.

Right: Feeding the elephant a sugar cane stick

Left: Escorting the girls on their 'barge'

The first place we hit was the Wave Pool. The kids rented a float and the three of them waddled and braved the surf, which proven to be a whole loads of fun. They tremendously enjoyed the experience. Then they rain came. We took shelter at the eatery and the children had KFC and hot milo.

When the rain simmered, its time for the missus to take the girls on the Lazy River, then the slides.

Right: In between waves

We left the place at 7.50pm (after a shower; mind you, there was no hot water!). We arrived in Damansara Utama circa 9.00pm and had dinner first, before sending the girls home.

Mukhriz won in Jerlun

2008-03-12T03:39:00.019+08:00

My friend, Dato' Mukhriz Mahathir of UMNO-BN won the P005 Jerlun Parliamentary seat early Sunday morning, 9 March 2008 defeating Idris Ahmad of PAS by an increased majority to 2,205 votes. Jerlun saw a 81.95% voter turnout.

Left: Congratulating Mukhriz for his win @ SMK Air Hitam

Results were announced by the Returning Officer @ SMK Air Hitam on Sunday, 9 March 2008, 1230am.

I was in-and-out of Jerlun for 16 days, from pre-Nomination Day to the day after polling. We made Tun Dr. Mahathir Mohamad's home, Pondok Maharizan @ Titigajah, Alor Setar as Mukhriz's private office and operations room.

Right: The victorious Titigajah-team @ SMK Air Hitam

In The Enterprise, we had three notebook PCs, a Canon printer and one 3.5G PDA-phone and one GPRS PDA-Phone, which doubled up as modems, as we pumped up stories from the ground or send/receive e mails and faxes.

Saw so many actions during that time and I must say, it was a pleasant experience.

My blogger friends Ahiruddin "Rocky" Attan and Rusdi Mustapha dropped by.

Left: Rocky writting his story whilst in the phone with Mukhriz @ Titigajah

I was a dreadful and demanding sixteen days of my life. However, I enjoyed almost every minute of it. I made some new friends and strengthened old ones.

Right: Briefing Mukhriz @ Sekolah Melele on poliing day

Even though sixteen days is one hell of a long period to be away from the missus and daughter, we hardly had time to ourselves. To keep up with the campaign, we seemed to have very little time for anything. Decisions have to be made promptly and with no mistakes.

Left: Updating Tun Dr. Mahathir with some points, on polling day

Personally, I had to master the geography of Jerlun on-the-spot. Considering there is no major town within the Jerlun constituency, that makes it slightly tougher. Some of the places we went were not even marked on the GPS. Not even the roads.

Right: Attending Bernama interview with Tun Dr. Mahathir @ Titigajah

Former Prime Minister Tun Dr. Mahathir Mohamad was in Jerlun to give support to Mukhriz. Of course, whenever he is present, people there want him to say something. Then media would also persistently hound him, almost as much as when he was still in office. I was also lucky enough be given the opportunity to brief and attend some of his media conferences and interviews with members of the media, which include foreign media.

Left: With Dato' Latt Shariman in Old Town White Coffee

I even had the opportunity to met an old sixth-form buddy. Also had tea with a seasoned political writer.

Many friends made effort to come all the way from Klang Valley, to show support for a friend in North West Kedah. One actually drove up from Johor Bahru. I had another Kedahan friend, who lives in Kuching offering to fly back and help, in Mukhriz's campaign.

Right: With Carolyn Hong of Straits Times @ Kemas, Kampung Imam

I can't complain about the food though. Although we spent considerable time eating at the Old Town White Coffee in Alor Setar and a famous night-only Nasi Kandar near the old hospital, we thoroughly enjoyed the food in Jerlun too. We had some really fresh ikan kembong rebus and it was good. One night, at one of stop overs at a BN operations tent in Kuala Kerpan, they served Laksa Kedah with thick fresh fishes. It was amazingly rich in flavour!

Left: Enjoying the serenity of Kuala Sanglang

Some of the places that took us in Jerlun is really nice and serene. Jerlun is spanned over a fishermen's community at the coast and rice farming communes in the interiors. Coupled with some imagination, creativity and entrepreneurialism, Jerlun could be a really great potential for eco-tourism sector for the domestic tourism industry.

Right: Saying goodbye to Tun Dr. Siti Hasmah, 'The Jerlun's Siti' @ Titigajah, the day-after

In the end, it was well worth it. If I had to do it again, I certainly would.

Tahniah, Yang Berhormat Dato' Mukhriz Mahathir

Having lunch with the former Prime Minister

2008-02-29T15:27:00.008+08:00

I was fortunate enough, to be invited to have lunch with the former Prime Minister Tun Dr. Mahathir Mohamad, 82, at his home in Titi Gajah, Alor Star, Kedah today. He was in Alor Star to visit his son Dato' Mukhriz Mahathir's campaign, in vying for the P005 Jerlun Parliamentary seat.

Left: Briefing Tun Dr. Mahathir upon arrival in Alor Setar on Dato' Mukhriz's progress, before Friday prayers

It was a sumptuous lunch and he talked about his experience in general elections campaign, since 1964 till his last, in 1999.

Dato' Mukhriz was away on the campaign trail since this morning. Tun Dr. Mahathir will visit Kampung Kandis BN elections post at 4.00pm and UMNO Jerlun's Headquarters at 8.30pm this evening.

Right: Having lunch with him and his only surviving sister, after Friday prayers

Celebrating the year of the Rat

2008-02-10T05:32:00.000+08:00

The traditional Gong Xi Fa Chai greeting, at the gate

I went Chinese New Year visiting last night. I went to call on my fellow blogger Eric Woon and his family, in Ara Damansara. Aishah tagged along as my missus was down with flu.

Left: Aishah and Yean Yi, saying hello

We were served with a lot of cookies, usual treats and really tantalising 'chest nut' crisps (something I never had before!). Of course, Kim Woon, offered us some really juicy 'Lo Kam'.

Right: Kim Woon offering Aishah some tarts

Eric said that traditionally, people from his office would popped by on the third day, like last night, for some 'makan makan'. However, it was not for this year as Eric is still mourning of his father's recent bereavement.

It was a good evening to be joyous and celebrative. We even wore red for the evening; to bring some 'luck' (ong) into our guests' kindness. Aishah had her ong when Kim Woon gave her the traditional ang-pow, which of course made her happy!

Left: The Woons, entertaining

Eric, Kim and the Woon girls,

Thanks for having us.

Gong Xi Fa Chai

A day of swimming at the Club

2008-02-08T16:23:00.000+08:00

Chinese New Year holidays are usually spent to 'payback' all the 'sleep dues' and opportunity to catch up, what is it needed to be caught up with. We often not leave town and get caught in the massive traffic movements and premium charges that Malaysian hotels impose on their guests.

Right: Syahana, Aishah and Aliya

So we'd do things like swimming and loafing about.

Left: Getting ready to run and jump into the pool!

I promised the kids to take them swimming. It was a sunny afternoon and we zoomed the Club. And there were not many people either. So we basically had the olympic size pool, to ourselves.

Right: SPLASH!

Of course, when one is with kids and at the pool, one also must tolerate and behave all the kids like behaviours. So one, organised some 'water games', with the kids. Oh yes, why kids? I brought my daughter Aishah, her best friend from school, Syahana and one's own cheeky 6 year old niece, Aliya, to my golf club in Subang.

We had fun. At least, they had loads of fun. Loads of memories in the pool. I learnt how to swim and played the same water games, on the same pool, over thirty years ago!

Right: The kids and my sister

It was top of with the usual dinner, after the swim, at the Dog Leg Terrace. They had fried rice. By then, I was already in KLIA, sending Dato' Mukhriz off to Gaza, via Abu Dhabi and Cairo.

I only had my dinner, at circa 9.45pm.

Mukhriz lead humanitarian mission to Gaza

2008-02-07T21:48:00.000+08:00

My friend, Dato' Mukhriz Mahathir lead a nine person humanitarian mission to Gaza, this evening. The trip is being organised by Peace Malaysia, where he is the Co-ordinator. They have so far collected over RM 250,000.00 in cash and others, in kind, for the mission to help relieve the suffering of Palestinians in Gaza, currently under Isreali occupation, attack and siege.

They departed this evening onboard Etihad Arlines to Abu Dhabi, enroute to Cairo. They also carried 80kg of Famous Amos cookies and toys, collected and organised by UMNO Cheras and the consort of the Tunku Mahkota Johor, Raja Zarith Sofia Sultan Idris.

Three doctors will be part of their team and the money collected will be used to purchase medicine and other essential supplies in Cairo. They will liaise with the Gaza Red Cresent Society and UN, for handing over the supplies and be brought into Gaza.

Gong Xi Fa Chai

2008-02-07T03:37:00.000+08:00

I would like to wish Malaysians of Chinese ethnic origin; namely my friends, neighbours, business associates, fellow bloggers and blogreaders/commenters (not specifically in that order),

Happy Chinese New Year.

May 2008 bring prosperity to all.

Being 'Muhibbah' tagged, by Kerp Da Wheeler

2008-01-31T14:21:00.001+08:00

I was tagged by Danny @ Kerp Da Wheeler, for an article "Muhibbah", which was first posted by blogger A Voice of Another Brick in the World.

Okay, so here is my take, for 'Muhibbah'. I shall paint a story about how 'Muhibbah' affected my life.

I was delivered into this world through C-section by Dr. Ronald S. McCoy, to a civil servant couple. When I was a young boy, my parents took me to a paediatrician by the name of Dr. Gwendolyn Smith. Otherwise, my regular GP is Dr. David S. Mutthu and Dr. P. Cumarasamy. Once a while, my parents would take me to see Dr. S. Rajadurai. When I had my surgeries over twenty years ago, my surgeons were Dr. A. Sabapathy and Dato' Mr. S. Sreenivasen.

During the 13th May 1969 race riot, a good neighbour in front of our home, the late Mr. Charles Lee, watched over us as my father was somewhere in Pahang, enroute to Kelantan that fateful evening. He was very worried for my mother, who was 8 month pregnant then.

The only two male teachers I had as class teachers during my primary school was Mr. Robert Yong and Mr. Ong Beng Jin. Mr. Ong was a fierce man and I could not actually recall how many times I was slapped by him, let alone made to stand on the chair or outside the class. Conveniently, he was the school discipline master!

I hung around guys like Azlan Ramli, Rosihan Adi Baharuddin, Auslan Kardin, Tengku Sharafuddin, Mukhriz Fadzil, Khoo Cheng Leng, Mui Kok Peng, Ivan Yeoh, Raymond Tan (and his sister, Samantha Tan), Melvin F. Xavier and Gary Thanabalan, whilst in Sekolah Sri Petaling. In the evenings, I would play with Roger Tan and Yue Chee Kin. Of course there were the Megat and Yusof brothers and Fateh Iskandar (now Dato' FD Iskandar, Exec Director of Glomac Bhd.) and later his koleq buddy, Ahlan Nasri Nasir.

Like most of us 5A holders in the late seventies, we enrolled in boarding schools. Azlan Ramli, Rosihan Adi, Auslan Kardin, Faiz Ali, Azlin Azraii and seven others went to MCKK and Khoo Cheng Leng and Tunku Sharafuddin was trained in RMC. Another bunch enrolled in MRSMs. I went to a boarding school, it was meant for the under developed Malays from the rural areas, along with Kamaluddin Madros, Badrulhisham Muda, Ahmad Irfan, Faisal Azamuddin, Azhar Nordin and Azlina Ramli. However, the guy next to my bed for three whole years is a chap from Kampar by the name of Ng Chee Hong, who is also my Form 4 and 5 classmate. My best buddy in school is a guys of Pakistani descent. He was denied a place to do pre-medicine matriculation by MARA post-SPM because MARA did not consider him as a "Malay". Eventually, he entered UM's Medical School after obtaining good grades at STPM.

The principal of the boarding school, En. Abdul Hamid Zamburi was a typical Malay nationalist. He wanted us to understand the meaning of 'nation building'. I was fortunate enough to be admitted as an 'anak angkat' by a Felda settler, Pak Marsimon B. Sajam of Felda Sri Ledang, near Jementah, Segamat for two and half weeks, after my SRP. There I learned the life of being settler. My third form history teacher instilled my first interests in politics. He taught us the political gistory and relate it to the April 1982 General Elections (my first observation of the process of democracy, Malaysian style). I have been observing politics, ever since.

When I enrolled into my boarding school in Kuantan, 6 January 1980, my Principal is a man called Khoo Khiok Boon, even though the school is under an agency specially enacted by Parliament to the develop the Bumiputras. I had American Lester Terrence "Terry" Stretch III, English lady Susan "Puan Mariam Abdullah" (can't remember her last name) and Aussie Nikki Renshaw, as secondary English teachers. My first mathematics master is Mr. Ho Liang Koo. Then it was Mr. Khoo Soo Lee, who made additional mathematics just like "A stroll in the park". Mr. Ho taught me again in lower six and then it was Mr. Peter Croome. My economics master then was Eric Bowring. He taught me rugby. A Welshman, Mostyn Davies taught me law. I will always remember him because he always smell like whiskey, even first thing in the morning! The most memorable character of all during my sixth form was Vice Principal Matthias Franscisco De Menezes. He picked on me ever so often, whilst letting other guys get away and one day I revolted. In hindsight, I am so grateful to him! (For making a lot of fuss, thus instill some discipline into me)

My former physician is Dato' Dr. Joseph Ong. He is 'Baba' and speaks Melayu very well (with a full Southern accent). Dato' Dr. Menon was my wife's obstetrician and he delivered my daughter, 11 and half years ago. Her paediatrician is Dr. Lim Suan Tee. Three months later, my wife underwent a gallstone surgery and Mr. Liew Fah Kong performed the task. Her radiologist was Dr. Mukherjee. When I started going to Damansara Specialist Hospital in the late 90s, I saw Dr. Mahendran.

I live in a Chinese majority neighbourhood, where 90% of the homes in my street are of Chinese ethnic origin. My immediate next door neighbour is a Chinese Dato' from Johor and conveniently give me durians, few times in a year despite that I hate the smell of durian. Anyhow, I don't have the heart to reject his kindness or neither tell him "But Dato', actually I don't eat durian".

My father, for many years, was the Resident Association President (after a longtime President Petaling Jaya councilman Mr Yue Saw Him passed away to cancer in 2002), even though 85% of the members are of Chinese ethnic origin. They give him full support and also promote neighbourly activities. My father's committee members include Toi See Yan (who is also his Company Secretary), Rajes Patel (his lawyer) and Peter Chin (who is also his stockbroker) and they are always around the house, with his financial adviser, Thien Tuck Meng. Another good neighbour is Supt (Rtd) Blossom Wong. Another good neighbour down the street is Phang Ah Tong, a true-blue MIDA man.

In the nineties, my best friend is a guy name Eugene Chua. We have lunch almost everyday in the week (except weekends) and our favourite treat for lunch is either Kai Fan, Char Kuey Teow or when we have a little extra time (and of course, money), buffet Dim Sum either in Shah Alam or Kuala Lumpur City Centre. He even drove all the way down to Johor Bahru for my nikah and joined me in a short 'post nikah honeymoon' in Singapore there after (separate rooms, of course!). He moved away and now we don't hang out that much.

I even had a Cantonese name then. All my staff were of Chinese ethic origin and they call me "Feh Chai", till present day.

Once, in a phoneshop while waiting to be served, I looked around at some of phones on display, with Eugene. The shopkeeper wass serving a customer. Suddenly, a Malay delivery boy stormed in, scanned around, stepped up to me and coyly ask, "Mr. Balbir?"

"Do I look like Mr. Balbir to you?????"

Until today, Eugene calls me that!

At home, I tease my family, a little too much. I call the missus "Linda Lum" and my daughter "Tan Ai Sha", or worse still, "Aishi Sikunitsu". And in retaliation, they'd annoyingly call me back, "Mr. Balbir"!

Two of my best buddies during my ACCA days are Baldev Singh and Sudhev. I lived with a Kadazan lass, Maria Marcella Kimin for two years and later, her sister Juliana (I have forgotten her middle name!) Kimin joined us. The three of us us, Malay boys called Maria "Mom" because she takes good care of us and kept the household spotless clean.

From left: Linda Lum, Aishi Sikunitsu, Rubina Gimbad and Maria "Mommy" Kimin-Gimbad

Maria's boyfriend, Charles Gimbad, who was at the other side of the Atlantic, makes a point to visit her and we hung out. Nowadays, Sabah had been our annual holiday calender and we see them once a year.

One of my closest expatriate friend is a Derby bloke by the name of David Armstrong Jones, who was the Director for Rolls Royce. David made a point to speak Malay, ever so often. Another is my MBA mate, Paul F. Gorter. Paul is a Bostonian native and like David, he too speak Malay. I worked in a teaching hospital project once with a true-blue 'EU' guy, Paul Ravelli. Paul is British national, Scottish born to an Italian ethnic parents, worked for a French company and live in Lisbon!

When I did my MBA (I refused to do my MBA in public universities, especially in ITM, because I would imagine ALL my coursemates would be only Malays) in a private college, almost all my coursemates are of Chinese ethnic origin, with the exception of Paul and two guys from India, Madhu Bharat and Sandeep Nath. There is also a Kelabit, Bojeng Bari, who is a Sarawak native and now makes Klang Valley as his permanent home. For three and half years, 3-4 times a week I would hang around with these guys, but never without Ching Chee Kong, Ho Yoke Ming, Daniel Chan, Nicholas Chee and Barney Wong; discussing, arguing, brainstorming, researching, re-editing course works, eating, teh tariking and last but not least, Happy Hour-ing!

(There was one guy, Gan, a lecturer in TAR College. He was more of a 'lone ranger' and usually avoided hanging out with the rest of us, There is this other member of our gang, whose name eludes me at the moment).

Unfortunately, there was no ladies in our MBA, in the whole three bloody years! Our supervisor in an engineer-turned-process developer Mah Kong Howe, who is still a good friend. Being a Pudu born and bred and later went to Australia (and got hooked on refereeing Cricket!), he once shared his experience during the wedding at his wife's place in Kelantan, where almost all the guests were local Malays and they served nasi minyak instead of the usual Chinese food for the feast. Of course, everyone is the wife's family had Malay names. It was a shock for him!

Of course, I have an array of other good friends, most of them from the print media industry and most of them I made friends with, at the National Press Club. All are journalist, except lawyer Wee Choo Keong. Wee was the DAP MP for Bukit Bintang. One of them, Star political associate-editor Joceline Tan visited me while I had my surgery. So did my blogger friends, Bernard Khoo, Tony Yew, Captain Yusof Ahmad, Ahiruddin "Rocky" Attan, Nuraina Samad and the guys from MyKMU.net.

Our green grocer is a guy called Gan, who can read 'jawi' (many Malays nowadays are 'jawi' illiterate!). Our daily 'roti-man' is an Indian chap by the name of Sickander. My personal pharmacist is a sweet lady called Miss Chan. My daughter's GP-cum-paediatrician is Dr. Chan Wai Yue. My car mechanic is Kolo Chan and I go to Sunny Tan, to get my tires fixed.

Nowadays, my physicians are Dr. Zainuddin Md. Zin and Dr. Daud Sulaiman. My gastric by-pass surgeon is Dato' Dr. Haron Ahmad and when he cut me up recently, Dato Dr. Wan Nik Ahmad Mustapha and Dr. Ibtisam Ibrahim knocked me out and managed my breathing. Two days after surgery, Dr. Norhayati Mokhti x-rayed my intestine and consulted gastroenterologist Dr. Mohd. Nazim Mohamed Salleh, to ensure the surgery was successful. I also see Dato' Dr. Khalid Kadir, the eminent endocrinologist. My daughter's paediatrician is Dato' Dr. Azizee Omar and six years ago, Mr. Abdul Razak Mohamad performed appendectomy on her. My wife see Mr. Rozman Md. Idrus for her back. My father's cardiothoracic surgeons are Tan Sri Mr. Yahya Awang and Dr. Syed Mohamed Adeeb.

Now, it seemed that things have changed, over forty years.

I hope, I have fulfilled Kerp's expectations of defining my life, as 'Muhibbah' as it can get. Now I would like to tag Mob's Crib, Rikey Wattahack and Anuradha @ Galadriel.

P/S My first girlfriend was a Chinese girl from Jalan Khalidi, Muo!

Kuya's wedding

2008-01-26T23:44:00.001+08:00

This evening, I was invited to my good friend's sister's wedding. Tunku Azela "Kuya" Tunku Aziz, ended her single days by marrying Ruzaimi Sany, a bloke whom she met at an Uno club. It was held at Palace of the Golden Horses, Mines Resort City, Seri Kembangan, Selangor.

Its wonderful she is finally settled down. I have had the privilege to watch her grow from being a teenager in CBN, studying electrical engineering in Imperial College, London (when she, Badak, cousin Helmi talib and some other friends were living at Willesden Green), her days in Maxis and selling unit trusts, her humanitarian work in Mercy Malaysia and Yayasan Salam, and today, to a very fine lady as she is.

Left: Kuya at our table

I was cordially and conveniently invited by Kuya via her Facebook message. When I called Badak about it, he said it was a 'Baju Melayu' affair. Hence, how I was dressed Vs everyone else (mostly in Batik).

I rushed to pick Kenit up from her piano class in Phileo Damansara at 6.00pm to be at Seri Kembangan, by 6.30pm, as what the invitation stated. When we arrived at 6.45pm, the dinner will not start till about 2hours later and we loitered at the garden, where the "Garden Party" will be held, whilst cocktail were served.

At 7.30pm, it started raining. It was a heavy sudden downpour as it was very warm and sunny when we arrived. We saw the hotel staff, which include the Chefs, frantically tried to move to dinner party indoors. However, they were not wholesomely successful.

Right: Hotel workers franctically moving the dinner party under shades> Not the chefs also lend a helping hand

I was really sorry for Uncle Aziz and Aunty Fauziah, for this. The dismay was clearly portrayed on Tunku Azlan "Pokku @ Badak" Aziz's face.

So there was a bit of pandemonium to get the 'Plan B' of wedding started and follow through, though they don't actually have a 'Plan B' to start with. Finally, by 9.14pm, all guests present were managed to be seated and the regalia of the dinner begins.

It turned out alright, after all.

Later, as scheduled, my longtime buddy Tunku Azlan "Pokku @ Badak" Aziz gave a speech, on behalf of the family. He was being his usual self. He described his only sister, precisely and drew a lot of laughter.

Left: My friend, Ku Lan

"She studied electrical engineering in Imperial College but can't even change a plug!".

He bluntly explained his sister, within a short five minutes, which basically paint almost the whole picture of Kuya, as I personally known her all these years. It is very clear that he is very glad that Kuya finally settled down.

Kuya's wedding provided me opportunity to meet old chums, some whom I have not met in years. This include Azlina Sheikh Khalid, Maznita Mokhtar and hubby Kam and Hizmi and his missus. Also Kuya's and Badak's cousins Adnan and Ku Zai and their spouses, Nini and Suzanna.

Right: Kuya with Lina Sheikh Khalid and Girl-Girl

I am glad the wedding dinner turned out alright after all, despite the proximity of near absolute disaster. At 800pm, in the midst of heavy torrential downpour, I was personally too afraid to imagine how Kuya must have felt. God willing, Kuya, in her beautiful wedding frock and do, had her beautiful most important evening of her life, despite there was no bersanding.

This evening, the 'Princess' became the 'Queen'.

I hope Kuya and Sany, will have happiness and joy, ever after. Congratulations, "Aunty Princess" (as my daughter calls her, when she was four!)

I attended Tun Dr. Mahathir officiating "The Loaf"

2008-01-22T20:25:00.000+08:00

Former Prime Minister Tun Dr. Mahathir Mohamad officially launched his gourmet bakery and pastry restaurant, The Loaf, at The Pavilion in Jalan Bukit Bintang, this afternoon.

Left: The Loaf, from Jalan Bukit Bintang

Right: Tun Dr. Mahathir releasing the balloons upon alighting from the car, marking the launch

The restaurant, is operated under M & M Consolidated Resources Sdn. Bhd., was a venture with the son of a long time Japanese friend. He was inspired to open this bakery as he was fond of gourmet Japanese breads and pastries, whilst on visits to Japan, since 25 years ago. Since there was no such product nor restaurant here, he took the opportunity after retired from Government.

The first restaurant was opened at the foot of Gunung Mat Cincang in Langkawi and this one, commenced operations on 2 October 2007. his partner and long time friend, Jiro Suzuki will run the business. They expect to open more outlets, which include Singapore.

Left: Tun Dr. Mahathir giving his speech

During the media conference, Jiro said the investment for this was RM 3 million and they expected to recover the investment just after a year. They also anticipated that the outlet can bring in RM 1 million a month sales.

Right: Datin Norzieta Zakaria (wife of Dato' Mukhriz) in forefront where else Dato' Mohamed Abid (Dato' Mokhzani's father in law), Datin Mastissa Mohamed (Dato' Mokhzani's wife), Dato' Khalid and Dato' Siti Nurhaliza in the back

Left: An interesting 'decor', made from bread, at the entrance of the restaurant

Many of his old friends were there, which include former Transport Minister Tun Ling Liong Sik, former Chief Secretary to the Government and EPF Chairman Tan Sri Halim Ali, Emkay Chairman Tan Sri Mustapha Kamal, Naza Motor Chairman Tan Sri Sheikh Nasimuddin SM Amin, The Pavillion Chairman Tan Sri Ismail Aziz, Berjaya Chairman Tan Sri Vincent Tan, Ekran Chairman Tan Sri Ting Pek Khiing, Country Heights Chairman Tan Sri Lee Kim Yew and wife of former Finance Minister, Toh Puan Mahani Idris-Daim. Celebrities like Dato' Khalid Mohd. Jiwa and songstress Dato' Siti Nurhaliza were present too, seen socialising along with Tun 's children and one of his in laws.

Left: Salahuddin enjoying a light moment with Dato' Kadir

Some of the familiar faces, include former NST Group Editor Dato' A. Kadir Jasin and my good friend, Salahuddin Hj. Hisham were present to celebrate this joyous gastronomic occasion.

Right: Salahuddin chatting up some of the known bloggers

So were some of the usual blogger friends like Rocky, Nuraina Samad, Jeff Ooi and Soon Li Tsin. Of course Rantings-by-MM blogger, Dato' Marina Mahathir, who were there with her husband Tara and daughter, Ineza.

Left: Rocky struck a very interesting pose, during the PC

Tun Dr. Mahathir's staff from Perdana Leadership Foundation were there, too.

Right: Tun Dr. Mahathir's private secretaries Sufi and Azlin, who were present to ensure the event when smoothly

I would personally recommend the signature bread, 'Compagne Fromage' and the chocolate mouse tart for the take-aways and if you decide to sit in for a meal and enjoy the ambience on the Level VI, the carbonara spaghetti or smoke salmon sandwich is the thing to go for. They say the lamb sandwich is rather good too!

We wish success on The Loaf. Personally, I would like to see more on the menu offered.

*An update, as of 3.30am, Wednesday 23 January 2008. Photo-journo-blogger Jinggo just send me this one, via e mail.

Two months after the surgery

2008-01-22T02:01:00.000+08:00

Today is exactly two months after Abah's CABG surgery (19 November 2007). So he had his appointment to see cardiothoracic surgeon Tan Sri Mr. Yahya Awang, at his clinic. However, before the consultation, Abah was required to do a blood test. So he was at the Damansara Sepcialist Hospital by 7.30am.

Then he had some breakfast. By 9.00am, we were already waiting for the eminent cardiothoracic surgeon at his office.

Tan Sri Mr. Yahya was not really his usual self, this morning. He was gleaming with glee, since the past week, he has been going through the mixture of joy and stress, of having his first-born getting married. However, after some small chat to break the ice for the morning, it was business as usual again.

He was happy with my father's progress, especially the 'stormy' endeavour.

After done with Tan Sri Mr. Yahya, we went down to Dr. Mohd. Daud Sulaiman's office, to see him next. He was thoroughly happy with Abah's progress.

A wedding night of pomp and pageantry

2008-01-20T17:04:00.000+08:00

Last night, I was fortunate enough to be invited to Dr. Zakry Onn Yahya's wedding dinner to Dr. Natasha Ayla Ahmad Zulkiflee. It was held at The Shangrilla Ballroom. The parents of the groom, eminent cardiothoracic surgeon Tan Sri Mr. Yahya Awang and eminent dermatologist Puan Sri Datuk Dr. Suraya Hani Hussein, held the wedding in grandeur, utmost elegance and majestic celebrations.

The guest of honour was Deputy Prime Minister Dato' Seri Mohd. Najib Tun Razak and wife. Other guests of honour were former Prime Minister Tun Dr. Mahathir Mohamad, Education Minister Dato' Seri Hishamuddin Hussein, former First Ladies Tun Suhailah Mohamed Noah and Tun Rahah Mohamed Noah and former Chief of Defense Forces Tan Sri Ghazali Mohd. Seth. (Dato' Seri Najib is Puan Sri's cousin, Dato' Seri Hishamuddin is Puan Sri's younger brother, Tun Suhailah is Puan Sri's mother, Tun Rahah and wife of Tan Sri Ghazali's wife are Puan Sri's aunties). Of course, the bride's parents, Dr. Ahmad Zulkiflee Laidin and missus.

Other dignitaries include Bank Negara Governor Tan Sri Zeti Akhtar Aziz, former Penang Chief Minister Tun Lim Chong Eu, former Cabinet Minister Tun Omar Yoke Lin Ong and several Cabinet Ministers, which include Foreign Minister Dato' Seri Syed Hamid Al Bar.

There were an array of medical "who's-who" practitioners in town and Puan Sri's eminent professor of dermatology, Professor Dr. Matthew Greeves, who flew in from London. The usual consultants of Damansara Specialists Hospital were there; Dato' Dr. Azizi Omar, Dato' Dr. V. Kathiresan, Dato' Dr. Haron Ahmad, Dr. Syed Mohamed Adib, Dr. Zainuddin Md. Zin, Dr. Mohd. Daud Sulaiman, Dr. M. Tamil Selvan, Dr. Song and Dr. Mohamed Nazim Dato' Mohamed Salleh.

I was there with the missus. So were the other guests.

It was a beautiful traditional Johorean wedding. Puan Sri outdone herself. It shows that she immense effort and attention for the wedding. The theme was "Malay traditional". There were frsh flowers but the first time that I saw in a wedding of this magnitude, local flowers indigenous to these waters were used like heliconias, instead of the expected roses, carnations, chrysanthemums and tulips.

The organisation and timing was excellent. So many people were involved in systematically seating the guests. It shows that they have planned and well rehearsed for the event.

I particularly like the speeches. During dinner, the groom's younger brother and cousin, who is also the groom's best friend, entertained us with their witty speeches. Then, after dinner was the host's turn. Tan Sri Mr. Yahya was rather light, but comprehensive in his speech. The biggest surprise was at end of the evening, where the bride rendered a beautiful song, almost professionally presented.

When its time to leave, we were lucky to go off early, right after the VIPs left. It was because our table is right next to the door!

In short, it was the most beautiful wedding I ever attended.

Congratulations, Dr. Zakry and Dr. Natasha

Outing on the evening before school re-opens, 2008

2008-01-02T22:26:00.000+08:00

We did some chores for the day. I took the family to sort out some error at the Land Office. Then we did some banking and later we took my mother's maid to the doctors. She has been ill since four days ago.

Linda was on leave, as she wanted to spent time with Aishah, since most of us spent the bigger part of the past two months taking care of Abah. We had to treat Aishah for something nice, since it wasn't an enjoyable school holidays for her.

Left: The "Eye of Malaysia"

Then after the rainstorm subsided, we went to Kuala Lumpur for an evening outing, to celebrate the end of the school holidays, as school officially starts tomorrow. So I took them to the "Eye of Malaysia". Traffic was amazingly thin, at 6.00pm all the way to the city.

Right: Waiting for our turn on the 'big wheel'

When we arrived at Tasik Titiwangsa Park, there were hardly any people there. Its easy to get a carpark and there was no queue to get onto the ride. The ride cost RM 15.00 for adults and RM 8.00 for kids.

Left: On the ride, as the sun comes down, to an amazing sight

It was an amazing experience indeed. The only set back that it was rainy, so the clouds were thick and the screen was watery. Thus, the scene is not that good.

Right: The nice view of the plaza leading towards the pier when the 'big wheel' sits.

Otherwise, it is definitely a must-see attraction for Kuala Lumpur. If I am not mistaken, the "Eye of Malaysia" at Tasik Titiwangsa Park will end on Independence day, 2008. The movement is rather gentle, although the gondola does swing when the wheel turns. So if you are not heart-faint, bring the kids and old folks too.

Left: After the ride

Then, immediately after, we went dinner-hunting. After a short consultation and negotiations, we headed towards The Pavillion, for some pasta at The Loaf. Again the traffic was very light (so unlike a rainy first day of work, after a long holiday).

Right: Queueing for some bread

When we got to the gourmet bakery-restaurant, we were informed that there were no ala carte menu and there's only a set dinner menu. The festivities season was the reason given. So we decided to get some treats from the bakery and went dinner-hunting again, at the food court in the basement.

Left: A 'surprise' shot, whilst at the cashier

We went into Tony Roma's (I was dying for the renowed ribs!). Unfortunately, after grazing through the menu, there wasn't anything that Aishah would have enjoyed. So we went out around the food court again, dinner-hunting.

Right: Sweet for a sweet; scoffing down dessert, after a good meal

We finally settled at a Japanese restaurant, Ichiban Boshi, that specialized in soba. I had it with, along with some shashimis. Linda had the tempura, whilst Aishah had the chicken katsu with rice.

When we got home, we had another pleasant surprise. The signature pastry, "Campagne fromage" is really good!

It was a good evening indeed.

Good bye 2007 and welcome, 2008!

2008-01-01T23:50:00.000+08:00

HAPPY NEW YEAR

2007 was a memorable year. I could say, its a historical year for me too.

I volunteered for the Perdana Global Peace Forum III this year. I started to blog this year. I shot some questions during several PCs, when was stated in the mainstream media the next day, this year. Being a member of the ruling party, articles that I wrote were uploaded into Oppositions' 'official' websites and blogs, this year. I underwent a gastric by-pass bariatric surgery this year. I lost a record weight loss within a short span of time. An article in my blog was translated to French and uploaded in a French Navy website, this year. I was introduced to the eminent cardiothoracic surgeon Tan Sri Mr. Yahya Awang this year. Abah underwent cardiac arterial by-pass graft surgery, this year.

At the end of 2007, I decided to do a barbecue dinner for Abah (since he asked for lambchops whilst in hospital). I thought that if I had bought him some, it would have been cold and hardened, by time it got to him. That would not be too nice.

Whilst shopping for Aishah's stuff in Jaya Jusco (just before school opened) yesterday afternoon, I decided to go to the Jusco supermarket and get some stuff for the barbecue like steaks, lambchops, salmon and cod steaks, some prawns, garlic butter and a french loaf from the Delifrance across.

When I got home at 5.30pm, I started to defrost and marinate the meats. As soon as I am done, my aunty from Johor Bahru popped by, to visit my father. She and her family just came back from Gold Coast, Australia. She left the day my father went for the debridement surgery.

When I started the fire on the grill at 7.00pm, Abah had asked her to stick around for dinner. By 7.30pm, I started to cook. At just after eight, they started to eat.

Left: Enjoying dessert after a barbecue meal

I am glad they enjoyed it (although I thought I did not have enough to feast 10-11 adults) as I bought just enough meats for 5-6 diners (I made a mistake as two birds of chicken was 'accidently' left at the Jusco butcher when I had them cut and conveniently forgot about them, when I went looking for garlic butters and ice cream!).

Right: From left, Aishah, Nadene and Tanya

At almost nine, my cousin popped by with his girlfriend Nadene Osman and her friend, Tanya, on the way to Dataran Merdeka for the New Year Countdown. He was supposed to be here by 8.15pm, latest. But then again, there was this really horrible traffic on the roads in-and-out from Mutiara Damansara-Bandar Utama-Taman Tun Dr. Ismail area. Shopping malls 1 Utama and The Curve will fire up some very nice fireworks for the celebrations. There's also concerts held in these malls.

Left: My 'cheeky' cousin, Nazree Ismail (the owner of the 'famous silver BMW'!). Again, I reminded him of the 'year'!

At 9.30pm, I had to send my aunty, uncle and their daughter to their home in Mutiara Damansara as their friend Datin Hawa Mohd. Yassin is coming over. So it was a good 45 minute ride, via NKVE (exit at Kota Damansara and slowly crawl to Mutiara Damansara), of a journey which usually take 6 minutes, tops!

I only reached home at 11.15 pm and showered (I smell like chargrilled-smokey lambchops!).

So, to everyone who has been following this blog, may 2008 be a very good year for all of us.

Abah had his first hair cut in almost three months

2007-12-26T21:37:00.000+08:00

This morning started with Abah went to Damansara Specialist Hospital, right after breakfast, like every morning, by the Koi pond. We arrived at 10.00am to find cardiothoracic surgeon Mr. Syed Mohamed Adib already waiting for him. Tan Sri Mr. Yahya wanted Mr. Syed Adib to look at Abah's wound and give an independent assessment on the progress.

So he did exactly that. The young surgeon was satisfied with the progress and he is of the opinion that in a few days time, the use of antibiotic gel Elase should be changed.

Right after that, he popped by to see my sister, who is supposed to go and do MRI, for her facial pains, due to Bell's Palsy. It is a nerve ailment.

After I settled the bill for this morning, I offered to take Abah to Rahman's in Section 16 Petaling Jaya, for a hair cut. He gladly accepted. Its his first haircut in almost three months (since Ramadhan). As far as I can remember, this barber shop has been cutting my hair ever since I had hair (since the late sixties!).

Aishah had her hair shaven after the "cukur jambul", when she was three months old here, here at this shop. The barber then, Pakcik Rahman, the same guy who have been cutting Abah's and my hair, is no longer with us. He died few years ago, because of stroke.

Christmas surprise.....

2007-12-25T23:46:00.000+08:00

Today is Christmas Day. For us, its the routine trip to Damansara Specialist Hospital. Abah and Mak had some quacker oats by the Koi pond, as usual every morning. Then its off to the cardiac HDU ward on the fourth floor, for the antibiotics injection and wound dressing, by Tan Sri Mr. Yahya Awang.

Before Tan Sri Mr. Yahya came, hepabilotary surgeon Dato' Dr. Haron Ahmad dropped in to say 'Hi'. We chatted for quite a bit.

Then cardiothoracic surgeon Tan Sri Mr. Yahya Awang came and attended to Abah, just like any other mornings. He encouraged Abah to go for a drive and not being couped up, at home.

In the late afternoon, my sister went to A & E Department to complain about her unbearable pain in the face. Instead, she was admitted. So after the evening antibiotics injection, we popped by to see her. We bumped into her ENT surgeon Mr. Awal Hassan and consulted him. Apparently, he just arrived straight from Penang for a holiday.

After dinner, we did exactly what Tan Sri Mr. Yahya suggested Abah do. We went for a drive, into the Golden Triangle area, on "The Enterprise". It was exciting for him at first, when we arrived at the KLCC Park from the East approach but the moment we waddle along Jalan Bukit Bintang and got caught into a massive Christmas Day traffic jam, then I knew he wasn't too happy, even though he did not say it.

Home care visitation

2007-12-25T02:14:00.000+08:00

This morning started like any other day, post surgery. After breakfast, I drove Abah and Mak to Damansara Specialist Hospital, for cardiothoracic surgeon Tan Sri Mr. Yahya Awang to do his daily inspection and dressing of the open wound. The only difference this morning was my sister Nur Hafizah Mohamed tagged along, because she was ill. She's have difficulty to move certain part of her face/head and made an appointment to see neurologists Dr. Azmi Abdul Rashid.

Left: A silhouette shot of the eminent cardiothoracic surgeon and Abah

So I took Abah to fourth floor, where Tan Sri Mr. Yahya always meet him and Mak took Nur to Dr. Azmi's office on the consultants row at the first floor.

I took shots of the open wound, for the first time. Even Abah has no idea how his wound look like. Tan Sri Mr. Yahya is happy with the progress. However, he would want another cardiothoracic surgeon Mr. Mohamed Adib to look at it on Wednesday morning, for an independent evaluation.

Right: The open wound that requires daily 'gause pack' dressing, first time on camera

While Tan Sri Mr. Yahya attends to Abah, there is the usual small talk. I asked him whether has he read Singapore ISIS researcher Dr. Ooi Ban Kean's book on his uncle, former Deputy Prime Minister Tun Dr. Ismail Abdul Rahman "The reluctant politician".

Apparently, he shared my opinion that some of the private things mentioned in the book have no relevance to the gist of the story, to portray a man of dedication, principles and decisiveness. I told him at the book review in Valentine Wiley Gallery in Bangsar, I raised the point to the author and Mohd. Tawfik Tun Ismail.

When Abah is done, Nur has not done with her physiotherapy yet, as per ordered by Dr. Azmi. So I sent them back first and came back for Nur.

Left: SRN Paru dropping by

Later, in the midst of Christmas Eve heavy rain in the evening, we received a pleasant surprise. SRN Paru from DSH Home Care Unit dropped by at quarter past five to check on Abah.

Abah discharged and takziah to Dr. Daud

2007-12-22T23:48:00.000+08:00

I woke this morning with not so pleasant news in the phone. At 6.26am, cardiologist Dr. Mohd. Daud Sulaiman smsed to say that his 88 year old mother, Hj. Aminah Said had passed away at 5.30am in Cheras. The remains would be brought to the HUKM Surau to be bathed, covered in kapan burial shroud and prayer service will be conducted at 9.30am, before be brought back to Alor Gajah for burial after Zuhur prayers.

She was infirmed in CICU since Tuesday and later transfered to Ceria Ward at third floor.

I was at the hospital by 10.00am. I offered Abah to get some mid-morning snacks. However, he refused. I guess he was to eager to go home.

Left: Linda and Ajib helping Abah to put on the 'Binder'

Cardiothoracic surgeon Tan Sri Mr. Yahya Awang popped by just before noon and did the dressing. As expected, he was pleased enough with the progress. So Tan Sri Mr. Yahya signed the discharge papers and he was allowed home under the conditions that he has to come back for wound dressing and antibiotics injections, daily.

Of course, that brought a lot of joy and relieve to everyone. We packed the whole load of stuff, which included an Ogawa air purifier and an Elba microwave (wifey purposely bought it for this trip). I sent Abah and Mak back with Ajib and Markati at quarter to one and wanted them to have lunch at home (Abah needed the change of environment, badly!).

Right: Tan Sri Mr. Yahya giving last minute instructions

I was the last to leave the hospital. I did not leave until 4.00pm, after settling the bill and taking home the medicines.

Left: Abah walking away as Mak thanked SRN Nurul Afizah. Note the baggage trolley carrying the stuff from the room.

The hospital provided great and impeccable healthcare services, especially by the surgeons, physicians, radiologists, pathologists, nurses, radiographers, physiotherapists, F & Bers etc. They had always done their best made the recovery of patients as comfortable as they possibly can. However, the administrative people have a lot to be desired.

Back to Dr. Daud's bereavement. We would to express our deepest Takziah condolences to him and his family, in these most trying times.

A painless open wound dressing

2007-12-21T23:11:00.000+08:00

This morning, Abah was relieved. Cardiothoracic surgeon Mr. Mohamed Adib stood in for Tan Sri Mr. Yahya Awang and did the dressing on Abah. Although anesthethists Dato' Dr. Kathiresan was present, Abah was not sedated and fully conscious of the treatment. There was little pain.

Left: A pain-free wound dressing

He was utterly pleased!

The minimal pain means the wound has 'granulated' and has started healing. Soon, it will closed in. Soon afterwards, he enjoyed some steak-&-cheese 'sub' sandwich from Subway.

Soon afterwards, just before I went for Friday prayers, I encouraged Abah to do his 'walk-about', especially when he complained that he did not get good night's sleep. The blood circulation would do him good.

Aishah accompanied him and they went to the kiosk. Abah bought the latest edition of 'The Edge' while Aishah got some Disney comics.

Right: Casual reading at the main lobby

Then after the home-cooked curry fish and beef rendang lunch, Abah had a short nap.

After a successful CABG and heart valve surgery, cardiothoracic surgeon Tan Sri Mr. Yahya asked the SRN to take Abah to the cardiac HDU ward, where the wound dressings have been treated. That was almost eight.

He was happy with the progress and hope to discharge Abah by tomorrow morning.

Left: An experienced surgeon's personal touch, over small talk about 'speed reading'

That certainly called for a celebrations. I was dispatched to San Francisco Steakhouse, again to get another 300gm New York cut 'Rib eye'. In the haste of getting back to the hospital early, plus weaving through heavy Friday evening traffic in rain and the usual busy Friday evening crowd at any eatery, I accidentally left the mushroom sauce.

I know Abah was a bit disappointed without the sauce. Anyhow, he chewed down the whole 300 gm of prime beef cut!

We talked about reading and books again, for the third time. Yesterday, Tan Sri Mr. Yahya Awang passed me the Lt. Jen. (B) Jaafar Onn's book. This evening, was the third time I encouraged him to write his memoirs. His wealth of experience in cardiothoracic surgery in Malaysia is undoubtedly too valuable to not be documented. Most likely, Tan Sri Mr. Yahya have had the most cardiothoracic surgery patients in this country, since his days in the Kuala Lumpur General Hospital beginning 1983.

Right: Catching Tan Sri Mr. Yahya in the corridor

Of course, his most famous patient was then Prime Minister Dato' Seri Dr. Mahathir Mohamad, who had his CABG done in KLGH on 24 January 1989. Again, he performed another CABG on now former Prime Minister Tun Dr. Mahathir Mohamad on 4 September 2007, in the purpose built hospital, IJN.

So many young and aspiring doctors shall benefit from the memoir. So many historian buff too. Personally, I hope Tan Sri Mr. Yahya Awang will make an attempt and complete his memoir. Today, the memoir on its own will be a first, in Malaysian history.

Selamat Hari Raya Aidhil Adha, 1428H

2007-12-20T22:25:00.000+08:00

This morning, is the Hari Raya Aidil Adha for Malaysia. I woke up and went straight to the hospital, withput having the most important meal of day. This is because my wife and maid of seven years, Markati, were out doing grocery shopping and they only decided to have the traditional Hari Raya meal of nasi himpit, sayur lodeh, sambal sotong and sambal kacang, late last night. The household was not prepared for the feast as Abah was still infirmed in Damansara Specialist Hospital, after his third surgery on Monday morning within four weeks.

Left: From left, Dato' Dr. Kathiresan, Mr. Mohamed Adib and Tan Sri Mr. Yahya just before this morning's wound dressing

This morning also brought new meaning of 'joy' to Abah, after experiencing two painful mornings doing dressing on the open wound on the chest.

This morning, eminent cardiothoracic surgeon Tan Sri Mr. Yahya Awang was joined by another cardiothoracic surgeon Mr. Mohamed Adib and cardiothoracic anaesthethists Dato' Dr. V. Kathiresan. Mr. Adib worked with Tan Sri Mr. Yahya when they were in IJN.

Right: The learned gentlemen just about to 'knock'him out and dress the wound

Tan Sri Mr. Yahya decided that Abah should be under some sedative whilst he change and clean the wound. Hence his team was there. And so for fifteen minutes, he was put under mild sedative and slept. Tan Sri Mr. Yahya added a new antibiotic gel, "Elase", in the "Eusol gauze packing" to the open chest wound.

Of course, he was very happy indeed! He felt nothing. Unlike the mornings before, he was in unbearable extreme pain when the open wound was dressed, despite painkiller shots were given half an hour earlier. The painful experience actually took a toll on his moral and motivation.

Tan Sri Mr. Yahya was equally 'demoralised' when Abah had the downturn mood swing. Being an experienced medical practicioner, he would do everything possible to ensure that his patients are not bogged down with adverse psychological pressures, in the crucial period of healing. In his evening visit yesterday after attending the Lt. Jen. (B) Dato' Jaafar Onn's new book on Dato' Onn Jaafar and the struggle to galvanise the Malay support against Malayan Union, he even suggested that Abah had some steak.

Left: Tan Sri Mr. Yahya told Abah that Dato' Dr. Kathiresan would help him tomorrow morning to make the dressing 'painless'

In a flash, as soon as Tan Sri Mr. Yahya left the room, I zoomed to the San Francisco Steakhouse, which was a stone's throw from the hospital. I got Abah a 300gm well-marbled 'Rib eye' steak, with all the trimmings and embelishments not spared. In 45 minutes later (I had the weather the ultra heavy Hari Raya Korban eve traffic!), I was cutting his steak into small bites and drenching it rich mushroom sauce while Abah was enjoying it.

Earlier yesterday, when Tan Sri Mr. Yahya consulted Abah just before the dressing, it was clear that Abah was very unhappy and uncomfortable with the pain that he had to endure in the daily ritual.

Right: Abah complaining about the no longer 'bearable' pain to Tan Sri Mr. Yahya

This evening, Tan Sri Mr. Yahya and Dato' Dr. Kathiresan came by again and he was put through another dressing treatment withoit any pain. I am glad all the 'pain' issues have been 'resolved' this morning and Abah is no longer demoralised to carry on the treatment.

On behalf of my family, I would like to wish all the readers and well wishers on this blog , Tan Sri Mr. Yahya Awang, Dato' Dr. V. Kathiresan, Dr. Mohd. Daud Sulaiman, Dr. M. Tamil Selvan, Dr. Zainuddin Md. Zin, Mr. Mohamed Adib, OT, CICU, CVL and fourth floor nursing staff, A & E nursing staff, the people at 'Rehab' and 'Imaging', administrative, support and F & B staff and the customer service people of Damansara Specialist Hospital and last but never the least, family and friends for their effort, well wishes, kind thoughts and prayers to make Abah better again, my utmost sincere and deep gratitude:

THANKS A MILLION

&

SELAMAT HARI RAYA AIDIL ADHA 1428H

Abah under debridement surgery this morning

2007-12-17T22:46:00.000+08:00

I took Abah to his appointment with eminent cardiothoracic surgeon Tan Sri Mr. Yahya Awang yesterday evening (Sunday, 16 November 2007), at Damansara Specialist Hospital Accident and Emergency Department.

Left: The SRN doing the SOP upon re-admission, for the planned procedure first thing tomorrow morning

When he took a look at the chest wound, he decided that Abah needed a small debridement surgery, to clean the superficial wound which starting to be infected. This is despite that the wound is dressed twice daily and antibiotics used, initially through IV and now orally.

He also ordered that the antibiotic be adminstered through IV from now on.

Right: The posse is here, again

Like it or not, Abah has to undergo a simple and short surgery first thing in the morning. So I checked him in and after dinner, he was wheeled to his room, on the fourth floor. We kept him company till eleven, to relieve a little pressure and discomfort he had. Sunday also marked his exact four weeks since first admitted by cardiologist Dr. M. Tamil Selvan with angina pains and two days later, he did the CABG.

This morning, cardiothoracic anesthetists Dato' Dr. V. Kathiresan came early to prepare him. Then Tan Sri Mr. Yahya joined him and the promised that the surgery will be a short and painless one.

Left: Tan Sri Mr.Yahya and Dato' Dr. Kathiresan getting a consent

He was wheeled into the OT by 8.35am and by 9.25am, he was already back in the wards, wide awake.

He was allowed to have lunch and I got him 'fish-head mee hoon soup' from KGNS. Both him and Mak enjoyed the lunch.

Right: SRNs Malar and Chong giving him a jab, just before being wheeled to OT, again

At lunch, the ward staff nurse came in to tell that Tan Sri Mr. Yahya would be expecting to see me in his office at 4.00pm. So I went with Aishah and my sister Nur Hafizah tagged along. Tan Sri Mr. Yahya explained on the surgery and the treatment to drain out the puss from the under the skin infection. He said that it was a similar problem and treatment that former Prime Minister Tun Dr. Mahathir Mohamad had in October, but with lesser magnitude.

He also told us to break the news to Abah that he might spent another day or two in the wards and Tan Sri Mr. Yahya would allow him to go home and get daily treatment after the wound turn 'healthy red' again.

Right: Tan Sri Mr. Yahya and Dato' Dr. Kathiresan for a joint visit

So at a little past five, Tan Sri Mr. Yahya and Dato' Dr. Kathiresan did a joint visit on their patient. Abah was given the exact same expalantion that I had in Tan Sri Mr. Yahya's office and hour earlier.

Then at seven, cardiologist Dr. Daud Sulaiman, who had been away for the week in Taiwan to attend a heart conference, popped by. Abah had a bit of interaction with him and reviewed his medications, to suit his current stay in hospital.

Left: Dr. Daud checking in on his patient

I think Abah was glad he could see Dr. Daud's face and he thrashed a lot of issues with him. I must say his explanation gave Abah some comfort in his over a month predicament.