Kelantan River Expedition

Before Departure: From Left, Back Row OPs Ong, Sham (Datuk Dr) & Aziz (Tan Sri) Kneeling, Hank


K. Lipis Rail Station: From Left, OPs Mansor(Datuk,Dr) Mr M.K.Gopala, Hank & Ratna (Datuk,Dr)


Mid-Stream, the Other Raft: Looks could be Deceiving But it Arrived Safely.


Stopover Mid-way: From Left, Back Row OPs Ismail, Sham (Datuk,Dr) Muhamad (Maj-Gen, Datuk) Syed , Mansor(Datuk Dr) Rahman ( Skipper) Front Row, Hank , Aziz (Tan Sri)


Pantai Cahaya Bulan: Pitched Tent at the Beach (2 to a tent)From Left: Hank and Ratna (Datuk Dr)


Aboard Ferry To Pasir Pekan: From Left, Rashid, Nik Anis (Capt RN) Mohd Sham (Datuk Dr) Aziz (Tan Sri) and Hank

Pasir Pekan, On the Way To OP Ghani's House: From Left, Ismail, Hank and Aziz (Tan Sri)


Back at Pantai Cahaya Bulan: From Left Hank, Ratna (Datuk Dr) Ong and Nik Anis (Capt RN)

Note: This was earlier posted on Jan 24,2010 without photos. Now it is more complete. Hopefully it now gives a better picture ( pun intended )


The Star of Jan 22, 2010 carried a news item captioned ‘Heroes recount how they saved 9’ It told of the heroic exploits of two rescuers, Saiful Azhar and fisherman Yeoh Lai Pin relating to the Dragon Boat tragedy on Jan 17 in Penang.

In the said incident, 5 students and their teacher were drowned during training for a boat race. It was a sad outcome to what was intended to be just a sporting event. We feel for the concerned families in their hour of bereavement.

I am reminded of an incident many years ago, not quite similar, but also revolved around a water activity - a white water rafting downstream. I had mentioned about wanting to narrate about this episode in a previous posting.

This happened during the Kelantan River Expedition. We were (Putras of RMC) on our Hari Raya Break (crazy) from Feb 23 till Mar 03, 1963. There were altogether about 20 of us, averaging around 18 years of age and a teacher-in-charge (‘ call me Gopala M.K.’)

On the way after leaving Gemas in the wee hours of the morning (Gemas was a hub of train change-over to the East Coast leaving @ ?0200hrs) excitement was in the air. Even though we were in the berth section of the 2nd class coach most were wide awake. Some were engrossed in empty talk listening to OP Aziz expounding his theories of a social-democrat in readiness of him going into politics (to the sceptical comments of Mr Gopala, who must be thinking ‘why politics?’ when we should be bothered with maths, geography, history etc).

It was much to the awe of those young minds around (who must be thinking OP Aziz was way ahead of his time) and to the consternation of the ticket checkers (who kept coming to our section), insisting the booked berth coaches were out-of-bounds to the 3 s.y.ts (from ?MWTC/ Tun Fatimah ) who were without seats (being pre-Hari Raya rush but invited in for a yarn by you-know-who!)

We were slated to go downstream from Manek Urai, in the upper reaches of the Kelantan river to Kota Bharu a distance of about 80km. It would take about 1 hr by road presently. We covered it in 3 days then, an enjoyable 3 days with all the excitement and drama thrown in.

When we arrived at Manek Urai there were 2 rafts all ready, waiting for us, made up of bamboos all nicely lashed up together. OP Wan Ghani had arranged for everything. (That we were told. When we later arrived in Pasir Pekan at the end of the journey, he had the whole group for lunch at his house. Great guy!).

We only had to further improvise the rafts by having our ‘ponchos’ set up tent-like, to provide cover.Otherwise they were perfect.

(Unlike on the Perak River Expedition later in the year, we had to spend 2 days to build our own rafts out of light wood and bamboo. The bamboos were already felled arranged through Kemunting Camp in Taiping.These were stacked ready in Sauk (of the weapons snatching notoriety, remember?) We loaded them up into the 3-tonners (lorry) and off to Chenderoh Dam to start lashing them and later off downstream when ready – but that’s another story!)

In Manek Urai we broke up into the 2 groups of 10 each to a raft. In my group were OPs Rahman, Mansor ( later Datuk, Dr. who at one time helmed the ITM), Aziz ( later Tan Sri, Deputy Mentri Besar, Pahang and a 2 term Senator) Mohd Sham (later Datuk , Dr.) Muhamad (later Maj-Gen, Datuk) Syed Mustffa and Ismail ( both joined the Army) yours truly Hank, plus two others I don’t quite remember now.

OP Rahman made himself out to be the skipper and was fortunately accepted readily by everyone. He christened the raft the 'Kon Tiki’ complete with the name written and stuck on a pole atop the ‘poncho’. OP Rahman is a very talented artist (you still draw and sketch? ) who speaks impeccable Queen's English that you never would realise speaking to a guy from Kelantan when he sounds every bit a polished English gentleman!

Kon-Tiki was the raft used by Norwegian explorer and writer Thor Heyerdahl in his 1947 expedition across the Pacific Ocean from South America to the Polynesian islands. It was named after the Inca sun god, Viracocha, for whom 'Kon-Tiki' was said to be an old name. Kon-Tiki is also the name of the popular book that Heyerdahl wrote about his adventures. (see Wikipedia)

It was truly a new experience for me, in fact for all of us. The raft had 2 rudders of long bamboo of about 4m one at each end. Both must be manned by one person each all the time. Both must react immediately at their ends to maneuver away from obstacles, such as floating logs or rocks along the way.

We cooked on the raft. The army-supplied fuel, made up of 2”x 2” pieces of hard candle-like material were used extensively ( 2 of those can cook a mess-tin of rice to be shared by 2 persons) We continued travelling at night keeping away from the banks lest overhanging branches hit us again. It did the first night. The raft shook, the makeshift clothes line was swept away. A PD Green uniform, some T-shirts and undies were lost. It was a frightful moment. It gave us a jolt as what to expect when rafting in the night. Visibility was poor. We could not relate to the river banks so we were not able to see that we were moving even. We only felt that we were moving. We were more careful after that. We kept to the centre and away from the banks. We were lucky it was no more serious than that.

On the next day it happened. It was mid-day. Some were cooking for lunch, while 2 were manning the rudder. We were in the centre of the free flowing waters. The other raft was about 25m downstream, more to our right. Not that far but near enough. It was hot and sunny so it must have been tempting for OP Mohd Sham.

At first he just dipped in and out by the side of the raft. Then, all of a sudden he jumped into the water and swam towards the other raft. I think he did reach it. After exchanging some pleasantries with those on the other raft he jumped back towards us. I only realized it when he was cheered on. It was not going to be easy as he was now going against the current and water flow.

'This is going to be a disaster', I thought to myself. The others didn’t notice that I pulled a life-jacket from the pile next to me and held it in my hands. I made myself ready. I took off my wallet and handed it to someone just in case if I needed to jump in.

Sure enough. One minute OP Mohd Sham was smiling happily swimming towards us but the next minute he shouted out loud, ‘help!, help!’ and waving frantically. He was about 15m away. He was exhausted. He was not going to make it. The strong currents kept pulling him back!

I got up threw the life-jacket to him. It didn’t reach him. I jumped, swam towards the life-jacket and pulled it as quickly as I could to him. It was in the nick of time! OP Mohd Sham quickly grabbed the life-jacket. If I had been a split second late, it could have been a different story.

I would have been swept downstream by the strong current clutching the life jacket. OP Mohd Sham would have been swept downstream also but without a jacket.It was close! We both held on to the life-jacket and inched our way back slowly towards our raft.

Under normal circumstances, when we approach a drowning person in the water it would be fatal to try and catch hold of him. The person would grab even a floating straw so they say. In a panic state he would grab you even before you reach him and would bring down both together.He would not be in the mood to be nice to you!

The technique is to approach him with both hands bent at 90 degrees at the elbows (with the clenched fists pointing skywards) That was fundamental in the Bronze medallion life-saving training. It could be a life and death thing. The moment the person grabs your wrists, you bring both wrists down into the water with a quick pull. His hold would be broken and he would automatically let go as his head would be bobbing in the water. You then twist him around and catch him under both armpits. It would be easy as he would be disoriented and facing the other way. That’s no way he could grab you. You then softly calm him and pull/swim backwards to safety.

In the case with OP Mohd. Sham I did away with this as I had pushed the life-jacket for him to grab. He didn’t need to grab me. I just had to calm him down after that.

We got onto the raft. The others got to OP Mohd Sham. He was ok. I got my wallet back, went to one corner to change into a dry T-shirt and only then that I realized. I forgot about my pocket diary. It was in my T-shirt pocket when I jumped in. It was still there but all wet. I had jotted some notes about the trip but they were not readily readable anymore. It was ok, that was ok, that was not the problem.

What saddened me most was that I had 2 passport-sized photos plus another slightly bigger one also in the diary and all were damaged. That was what I was sad about, but I didn’t tell anyone of them. One was of mine but the other two were of someone so dear to me then (not a photo of my loving wife, I met my wife years later) The damaged photos were for a long time with me. I dared not tell that someone they were damaged. Anyway they are not with me now. I was very sad then but I have long forgotten about them. We did not keep contact. She is definitely a grandmother by now. I just wonder!

For the next few minutes upon getting up on the raft, I reflected quietly. What if there had been some submerged rocks or floating logs or a crocodile. It frightened me suddenly. What if I had not pulled the life-jacket and held it in my hands minutes before that. What if I had hesitated and not jumped even with the life-jacket in my hands. I dread to think about it.

I only had the personal satisfaction of doing justice to my life saving knowledge, acquired 3 years earlier (which gave me the confidence) I may not have jumped in otherwise.

I was at the Victoria Institution (VI) before RMC. VI is the only school (I stand corrected) with a swimming-pool. Our swimming teacher then was Lim Heng Chek, an Olympian, rare in those days.

I joined a life savings group when I arrived at the RMC in Port Dickson (there was none since then after we moved to Sungei Besi) The beach then was just across the road from us, so training was convenient.

The life-saving test was done in mid-1960 at the Specialist Teacher's Training College pool at Cheras Road, K.L. I remember that. There were just a handful of us, less than 10. One was for an instructor's certificate while the rest were for the Bronze medallion. All got through, yes! . The lone guy got his Instructor's Certificate. The rest became qualified life savers , each awarded the Bronze Medallion from the Royal Life Saving Society of England

The Kon-Tiki made it on the morning of Feb 26. We berthed at Pasir Pekan across the river from Kota Bharu. We later pitched tent at Pantai Cinta Berahi (now Pantai Cahaya Bulan) for a few days.

We then proceeded to Kuala Trengganu and put up at an old building provided for us. Apparently it was part of the palace complex and reputed to be haunted. Anyway nothing untoward happened in the night.We had a football friendly with Sultan Sulaiman School  (not sure of the name, I stand corrected)

We made visits to the cottage industry there comprising batik and silverware factories (for which I have faint recollection) before making our way back to our College. A group proceeded to Penang from there we were told later.

OP Mohd Sham went on for medical studies in Sydney, Australia. Datuk Dr.Mohd Sham later became a very successful pediatrician while in the govt. He was also very involved in SCAN for many years after that.

Bird-watching – a new hobby?

The baby bird is seen for the first time. It must have been hatched in recent days


THe mother bird with an insect in its beak and the baby bird opening its beak expecting to be fed.


The mother bird flew in again with what looks like another insect.


This time the mother bird had something that looks like a berry or cherry. It appears the baby bird is a voracious eater.



Birds had always fascinated me. Even my blog heading is indication of my inclination towards the feathery kind. Nothing prepared me to what happened this morning though (June 01,2010). It was a rare occurrence, a rare opportunity.I had a chance to snap pictures of a mother bird feeding its young all at my front porch.

I’ve been told there’s a bird’s nest just outside the house. It was pointed out to me a few day’s ago but I didn’t give it much attention. It looked empty anyway.

However, this morning my domestic helper called out to me, excitedly ‘ Bapak, ada burung!

I rushed down and had a glimpse of it before it flew out again. I then rushed back to get my camera and stood at a strategic corner where I could see the nest and waited.

I waited for the better of 15 mins before I heard the chirping sound of the bird. It grew louder and it suddenly jumped into sight. I froze, careful not to reveal my presence. I had never stood still, upright and quiet this morning ( not since those days on the parade grounds back at the College) It was painstakingly a stiff neck posture holding the camera with unsteady hands.

It jumped about but still not nearer to its nest, apparently to make sure the coast was clear.Then suddenly it jumped into my camera’s sight and I just clicked and clicked. This happened for quite some while, it bringing little tit bits for the baby bird and I snapping every so often.

I recognize this bird. It is a ‘merbah’, not an exotic kind but an edible one. It has a crown which keeps moving when it chirps. Its lower abdomen is yellow in colour.

My late father used to go bird-hunting with his buddies before. They used air-guns with pellets the shape of a bell made of ‘timah’ (lead ) a little bit bigger than the size of a 'kacang hijau'( green beans)

The merbah birds were the most popular target. There were green pigeons and some other birds as a well. When the bounty was brought home I used to help out picking the feathers. They were tiny little things. They were cut up into 4 thumb sized pieces deep-fried , chili laced and very crunchy. I have not tasted any wild bird meat since then. Those were the days.

The air-gun? I was not growing up quickly enough to be bequeathed the air-gun. It was apparently passed over to one of my late father’s friends. I wonder if they still do bird-hunting these days.

Overstaying Your Welcome

Being a good guest we are expected to be considerate. We are not to anyway cause concern nor inconvenience to our host. It would translate to enhancing good feelings. It would mean another visit in the future that would be welcomed and even expected. It is a measure of refinement that ensures lasting relationships. So we are not to overstay our welcome. We are to leave at the appropriate time.

Can we expect the same in a political relationship. Is it not the same as in other refined relationships political or otherwise?

A case in point is the hot news in all mainstream media today May 31, 2010. The Samy Velu theatricals!

It is a culmination of the groundswell building up from GE12 when the MP for Sg Siput was no more an MP. It progressed further to the MIC presidential elections which he successfully defended for another term ending in 2012. What can we say?

He is there lording over all the underlings. Democracy is at its best in the MIC. Three who mustered some courage (read: who got out of line by asking Samy to gracefully resign immediately ) were immediately sacked themselves. The Sec-Gen a young and upcoming official who questioned the sackings also got the sack the following day.

This was made smooth and easy with the President’s absolute power allowing for immediate sackings. This brings back to memory the classic Lord Acton’s maxim that ‘Power corrupts and absolute power corrupts absolutely’. Power cannot be vested so absolutely in the hands of one person and expect it to be used discreetly. Only if is not against himself, yes, but not otherwise.

The GAS movement ( the Gerakan Anti-Samy ) which triggered the earlier 3 sackings held a meeting the weekend of May 30th, which was attended by 5000 members. They dared Samy to sack all 5000 this time.

Theoretically, if Samy continues sacking in the face of defiance from the members and contempt on his part there will come a time when he is left with only himself in the MIC.

Sacking does not signify strength or power. It is a tool. Using the tool sparingly or even not using it at all will indicate an inner strength of the leader. Samy apparently failed to see this.

Furthermore his actions cannot just impact on the MIC but the BN with the spectre of the GE13 looming ahead. A major BN component party led by a non-MP as President cannot position itself as a party of strength. No amount of sackings can reflect the strength so lacking as it is.

The saga continues…..

Reunion 2010 - Science Class of ‘64

From Left:The Organisers - OPs Teck Wah and Weng Yin with Rashid and Mun Yue

From Left:The Early Birds - OPs Yassin,Osman,Mr Leslie Fredericks ( Guest of Honour), Ah Choy and Weng Yin

From Left: Before Lunch - OPs Hank,Hamid,Osman,Ah Choy,Gear,Sin Fah and Ronald

From Left: Farewell - Front Row - OPs Weng Yin,Ain,Teck Wah,Aji,Mun Yue,Suki & Hank
Back Row - Osman,Ah Choy, Hamid, David, Rizal,Yassin,Gurdial,Sin Fah,Cecil,Rashid & Kurien

Barely a week after our Class of ’64 reunion of April 24, 2010, OP Weng Yin called. Together with OP Teck Wah he was organizing one mainly for his science classmates. However, he said he was opening it also to those likeable 'budak boys' like me as well – thank you very much! ( fondly referred to as a 'budak boy' from the Boy's Wing before but now it is a 'putera')

I had then called up a few other likeable fellas , just to help out. There was a frenzy of emails and phone calls as usual. The total confirmed no. eventually came to about 25 of a mixed science and arts guys of Class of '64. This according to OP Weng Yin should be a manageable crowd considering the venue.

Mr Leslie Fredericks our then science teacher was traced and did us proud as the Guest of Honour. He had graciously brought along his spouse as our special guest as well.

The reunion was held at the UM Academic Staff Association Club just off Jalan Universiti in Sec. 12, P.J. on May 15, 2010. Slated for a lunch gathering between 1130 – 1500 hrs we thought time was enough. No, it was not to be!

Those who had made it a point to come just couldn’t wait. At 1130 hrs itself about half the no. were already there. Some had not set eyes on each other since 1964 ie since leaving the alma mater . They just couldn’t wait. OP Ah Choy, with his gracious wife who came all the way from S’pore, came the furthest ( he is currently a Prof at the S’pore National Univ.) OP Sin Fah down from Ipoh and OP Suki from S’ban.

Those locally, trooped in as they came, caught in the lunch-time jam that began building up at that hour. Finally, 20 managed to make it.

How did it go? It was boisterous, noisy with much laughter. There were huggings from some upon arrival ( 45 yrs can you imagine? ) The huggings were not spontaneous. They approached and eyed each other quizzically. Each gave the other a onceover. ( each trying to make out from the graying hair or with no hair from how they picture each other of yesteryears) Once when they were certain would all the huggings , shouts and laughter happen – much to each other’s delight and relief! It was hilarious.

Then the ever wonderful compact cameras kept clicking . Half a dozen cameras all the time. Everyone wanted to be in, few wanted to do the clicking. The ever helpful waiters but unskilled 'photographers' had to do it. ( that explained why some photos did not show the feet but left a lot of space above the heads ) Anyway, time just passed us on and everyone had a great time and it was a great day!

How did they make out? How did the fledging adolescents make out into adult life. The no. present was not exhaustive as there were ‘absentees’ who didn’t make it to the reunion. However, looking at the 20 who came that day, let’s see. There were:

5 doctors ( all in medicine, one in semi-retirement, others still in practice)
5 engineers ( one, a Prof in S’pore while the rest have their own outfits)
3 ex-naval officers ( one was a naval architect ,now on his own, while 2 rose to high positions in the navy where 1 was a Laksamana Pertama)
2 PhDs ( one, a Prof, an LSE alumni, currently in UKM while the other is a retired top Govt civil servant)
2 lawyers ( one, a law Prof currently in Universiti Malaya while the other is a prominent corporate lawyer who had handled many high powered cases)
1 chemist and 2 others (happily retired from top management positions in the private sector)

That’s the 20 and between them, 6 had been made Datuks. But when we met on May 15, at the reunion, we were ranting, hollering and hugging like schoolboys again as though it was just like yesterday!

The American Idol … and then there were two…

The American Idol has now come to its climax, the Grand Finale. This was decided last Tuesday ( aired direct locally at 1800hrs (6.00pm) Wednesday night, the 19th May, via satellite ) when Casey James was eliminated.

From the thousands of hopefuls when they first auditioned early in the year, it is now whittled down to the last two finalists, Lee DeWyze and Crystal Bowersox (female) , a couple. The Final is slated for next week May 25th , same time and day.

Both Lee and Crystal are not just talented vocalists but also strum the guitar whenever the song demands. And besides that Crystal would also play the harmonica at the same time or play the piano. This make them way above the local ones.

Academi Fantasia, Mentor and a few of the new ones just push for ‘vocals’. Very few showed prowess in engaging an instrument, a guitar or piano and such like.

I am not into songs and dance as such but the American Idol presented itself with a lot of surprises, more so during auditions. It was just hilarious and at times dramatic ( when those who failed their auditions would curse and shout obscenities in front of the camera)

The hilarious ones remained and were appreciated for originality. One that remained imprinted in my mind was that of William Hung ( ?a naturalized Hongkie) from season 3, 2004. He was an electrical engineering student from Univ of California, Berkeley. He sang in a typical Chinese style and butchered , Ricky Martin’s ‘She Bangs’ that (even though he failed the audition) he was very ‘successsful’. He cut some song and dance routines later, got onto the charts and made lots of money despite a failure! ( His 2004 CD ‘Inspirations’ hit the Billboard Top 40 Charts and he swore he made US$1mil after ‘Idol’)

Another that left an impact was ‘Pants on the Ground’ from this year’s season 9 hopeful (who called himself ‘General’ Larry Platt ) a hobo looking’ 62 yr old coloured guy. Almost everyone, from high school kids, a politician, pub singers and others were shown later doing the same routine on TV – such was the impact! It was just plain funny, that’s why.

The lyrics did not do full justice ( should see the video) but here it is in any case.

Pants on the ground
Lookin’ like a fool with your pants on the ground
With the gold in your mouth, hat turned sideways
Pants hit the ground, call yourself a cool cat
Lookin’ like a fool, walkin’ to the town
With your pants on the ground!

Apparently at this juncture, after 9 seasons (nine years) the ratings are beginning to drop. ‘Judge’ Paula Abdul left earlier. The infusion of interesting replacements Cara and Ellen Degeneres did a lot to retain the ratings. Now, with the showy and ever critical Simon Cowell leaving next season, it would be bad. There were moves to change the format but it remains to be seen. This is typical of reality shows. The novelty of it wears away.

Donald Trump’s ‘The Apprentice’ was the rage about a decade ago. It had to adjust into some innovative spin-offs like ‘ Celebrity Apprentice’ to maintain viewer’s interests.

I remember decades ago too, seeing and hearing those older than me, discussing TV’s (black and white) popular serials (no reality shows back then) such as ‘Peyton Place’ many an evening with all the excitements. Then later there were ‘Dallas’ and a few others. I never followed them but maybe a few episodes here and there.

However, give me comedies, ‘Saturday Night Live, Everybody Loves Raymond even Friends’ or ‘chat shows’ such as those of David Letterman, Jay Leno, Jon Stewart (not Conan – he bores me! ) or even Oprah, I would stay on!

I remember, while on attachment in New York in mid 80’s, staying up through the nights just to see a young David Letterman and re-runs of the ‘club swinging’ Johnny Carson and Ed Sullivan’s shows. It was just hilarious, and plain witty of the highest order!

The Kumon Way

I have heard of it. I’ve read about it in the newspapers. I googled for it. But what is it actually? Yes, I know it has to do with learning, the Japanese way. But what is it exactly.

It says it is learning on your own. It says it builds character. More importantly, what attracts most is that those who went through the Kumon way turn out to be smart students.

I had more of the Kumon way when three little boys in my household, who are cousins, ( read : grand children) enrolled at their Kumon Centres, 2 in Kota Damansara located nearby and 1 at Melawati.

Our two boys, Norm in Std 4 while the brother Kimi in Std 2 are in Kota Damansara. They have heard about Kumon through their friends in school who are already in it. They came full of anticipation. They started on Thursday April 29, 2010 and subsequently on every Thursdays and Tuesdays for 45 mins . Their cousin, Nabil a 4 year- old had started about I month earlier in Melawati.

What and how is the Kumon way, then. Simply put, the Kumon way is solely about establishing a habit at a tender age which they would endure for life. That’s all. That’s all there is to it.

Following a briefing and a discussion with the ‘Principal’ of the centre I picked up some pointers about how they go about it.

1. Mental Strength:
Mental strength is emphasized right from day one. We used to call it mental sums. Maths worksheets are completed without finger counting and are programmed step by step. In time students would just breeze through without batting an eye-lid.
2. Concentration:
Students are expected to be disciplined in concentration. Kimi remarked that in Kumon class it is just like in the library. Every one focused in what they are doing.
3. Personal Pace:
A student works at his own pace, guided by the teacher. There is no element of force, stress, persuasion. Those attending can be of different levels at the same class but they do their own thing.
4. Programmed for each day:
Homework is set out for each day. Friday’s homework is for Friday’s, time started and time finished to be noted. Saturday's Sunday's or Monday's are not to be done on Fridays either. (You cannot eat Sat's Sun's Mon's dinner all on Fri) Students are trained to discipline their scheduling, by not leaving everything to be left for last minute cramming, neither to lump and finish everything before-hand.
5. Propensity To Study:
The end result is that the propensity to study is at a high level. The student looks forward to attend class. When at home they naturally open up to do their homework at the specific time without promptings. I’ve observed this happening within these few days of May for the two little boys. It augurs well in moulding characters and good habits. Somehow they are well motivated.

As often said there’s no end to education, how true it is for Kumon. Apparently a student can continue to come to classes when in higher Forms, even at University level, just so they feel happy and at ease by force of habit to be in the same environment.

All of the above were narrated to me of what to expect the Kumon way. The secret is in the programmed work sheets expended in class as well as for their homework. It is a tested way. (though I wonder how or are there worksheets for those at higher Forms and at the University level in view of different disciplines and specialities) This I need to get clarification just to satisfy my curiousity.

At this juncture, my only expectation is that the kids ( read: grand children) can be moulded into well adjusted individuals in their formative years with and through the Kumon way – a tested way.

A Hung Paliament and a Progressive Opposition

The British had their General Elections on May 06, 2010 and ended up with a hung paliament. Of the 649 constituencies contested, the results were Conservatives (Tories) 306, Labour 258, Liberal-Democrats (Lib-Dem) 57 and Others (smaller parties) 28.

Labour is the government of the day and the Tories were in the opposition before the elections.

It is clear then that Labour has not secured the highest number of seats. They were not readily able to form the government on their own. The Tories on the other hand at 306 is short by 20 for a simple majority. They also cannot claim to be able to wrest power unless they get the support of the Lib-Dem on their side.

It is truly therefore a hung paliament with neither side able to form a government!

This then left the Lib-Dem in a very enviable position of a king-maker. They can exploit the situation to the fullest and negotiate to their advantage because both the Tories and Labour would be wooing for their support.

A hung parliament had happened before. In all instances (1910, 1923, 1929 and 1974 ) apparently the tendency was towards a minority government and not a coalition but it had not been easy.

As expected the Lib-Dem are pinning their hopes with the Tories. The Lib-Dem leader had said that the Tories, as the biggest party, had the right to seek to form a government first.

The Tories and Lib-Dem negotiation teams were scheduled to meet yesterday, Sunday, May 09, 2010 followed by a meeting of the Tories MPs at 1800 BST on Monday, today.

The discussions would centre on points of agreements and disagreements in their respective manifestoes.

For the Tories and the Lib-Dem, there are agreements on matters relating to, Education, Environment,Civil Liberties and Tax. Points of disagreements were relating to the Economy,Defence,Immigration,the European Union and Electroral Reforms.

At this point, we need not go into details on these matters. These are domestic issues relevant to the British people. We’ll just leave it at that.

But what can we learn from this electoral process being played before our eyes .What may be of relevance to our current political situation. Are there similarities to post GE12? Let us see!

1.Manifestoes ( Britain) : All the British contenders have their respective manifestoes. They touch on national issues, they are elaborate, tested through time (they have been around) and complete with shadow cabinets.
Manifestoes (Malaysia) : Basically a similar situation (that we have been told) but may have not been tested through time for certain parties.
2.Reaction ( Britain) : Labour may not pull through. It was expected. Gordon Brown, the PM had to carry baggage inherited from Blair.
Reaction (Malaysia) :
a) . Shock! (for the BN government) It was a disaster. The exact opposite to Tun Abdullah’s 2004 triumphant showing.
b). Bigger shock! (for the opposition) The opposition won 5 states and they were bewildered, loss for words and aimless for months on end.
3.Governance ( Britain) : Cool and collected. The Lib-Dem went about to help resolve the stalemate. They appeared to be a responsible and a progressive opposition.
Governance ( Malaysia) : The BN became defensive, while the opposition changed the political climate to one never seen before, bordering on political immaturity (novices in governing) , lese majeste (Perak ex-MB’s ‘ mohon derhaka’), hooliganism ( Perak Assembly) and mass walkouts (Paliament and Perak Assembly) We have not even touched on corruption ( within just months ) which triggered off the downfall of the PAS-led government in Perak and started investigations culminating in the Teoh Beng Hock’s case in Selangor.

What is then the current situation. How has it been going?

For PM Najib and the BN it has been a turn for the better especially upon reaching the one year tenure of office recently. President Obama lauded his contributions that of a moderate Muslim state. Japan accorded its Emperor’s endorsement.

Back home PM Najib’s ratings had sky rocketed , and Ulu Selangor is safely in hand (attributed directly upon his presence on the ground in the closing stages of campaigning) Sibu due to the polls will be the coup de grace in favour of PM Najib.

What about the opposition? Lately it had never been good. Still smarting from the loss of Perak state, the loss of so many legislators ( especially MPs), loss of legal battles to delay the process of law on sodomy 2, the loss of the last two by-elections, loss all the way.

With the euphoria of winning in GE12 they came up with slogans in Penang, ‘competency, accountability and transparency ( CAT ) It remained a slogan and in one stroke Kg Buah Pala put paid to it being heard again.

Penang needs to revamp their CAT to bring it back into contention. They have to be magnanimous, orderly, understanding, service-oriented and have empathy (mouse)

Penang can then liase with other PKR states to exchange notes but then, Perak had been sent into oblivion, Kedah is teetering for survival (another Perak in the making) , Kelantan is an untouchable, always too clever by half .

So it is only with Selangor that they can exchange CAT and MOUSE stories to bring back what’s lost. It will be fun and games and it’ll keep them busy, kah! kah! kah! kah!






.

Tiger it is, he's back!

There’s a good news and a bad news. The good news is, Tiger is back! The bad news is Tiger did not come back with a ‘bang’.

It cannot be him. Tiger Woods is the numero uno, the No.1 golfer in the world. It should not have happened. It was just unthinkable! It could not happen to the best player golf had ever known. Tiger is reputed to be one such player. But it did happen. It happened Friday April 30th at the Quail Hollow Championships ( April 29 – May 02, 2010) . Yes, Tiger missed the cut!

A golf tournament runs for 4 days, from Thursday through to Sunday. At the end of the second day is the cut-off point. Only those with good scores ( those with a 2-day total of less than 145 in the case of Quail Hollow) were allowed to play for the week-end, the remaining 2 days of the tournament. Tiger had an opening round of 74 on Thursday and a 79 on Friday making a total of 153. He was 8 shots above the cut-off which was way off.

Missing the cut means the golfer is a mere spectator for Saturday and Sunday. That was what happened to Tiger. This was only his second game in a PGA tournament following his 5-month self imposed temporary lay-off (arising from his sex scandal ) Five months in the golf wilderness is a long while.

Missing the cut can only happen to lesser mortals but it did happen to Tiger. All goes to show that he's human. It is also shown that golf is a mental game as often emphasized. A golfer can be in the best of physical condition but if mentally affected for some reasons at the moment of play it would have dire consequences on his game.

Tiger is actually known to have a strong mental capacity. This advantage invariably contributed to his many winning forms previously. In fact at the US Masters ( April 08 - April 11, 2010) his first tournament after the lay-off, he came in 4th ( which was a respectable finish ). There were high hopes then that Tiger was on the mend and should do better for the 2nd tournament at Quail Hollow. But missing the cut?

He was heckled no doubt (as attested to on internet videos). Many in the crowd showed a 'thumbs-down' when he walked pass by them from tee-box to tee box. He was under tremendous pressure during the game besides the long lay-off itself, so it can be said.

However being a No. 1 golfer he is expected to be of sterner stuff, unruffled by such minor irritations. He wants to stay competitive. The golfing world wants him. Golf on the final day without Tiger in his familiar maroon coloured vest tells us something's missing.

Just as Muhammad Ali was to boxing, we would remember boxing only by remembering who fought Ali for the heavyweight title. Without Muhammad Ali the heavyweight title lost its glamour (though there was a revival with Mike Tyson but only just!)

So for Tiger, the scenario is all set for him again. He's had his warm-up in 2 tournaments (one a major). He's put his wife Erin on a stable mode ( compromised with a punitively compensated package of US$mils ). The sponsors and tournament directors are happy again - Tiger's appearance brings back the crowd. The money-making machine starts ringing again. Millions of our television audience around the globe are glued to the box again and the ratings increased fast. ( just as Ali did decades ago)

Last but not least, the bookmakers are unperturbed, likewise. Tiger is the favourite to win for the forthcoming US Open ( June 17 - 20, 2010) at Pebble Beach. Let us see if Tiger can live up to it, again!

50 years After – Reunion 2010

Aboard Luxury Coach Being Taken around the Port


Cars Awaiting Distribution


A Container Ship Streaming To Berth


Tea at the 18th Floor, From Left: Amin, Gear, Gurdial, Azzat,Bear, Hank and Hal


Tea at the 18th Floor, From Left: TSG, Bear, Hank, and Hal


Cruising Along The Coast, From Left: TSG, Gear, Bear, Gurdial, Hank, Aji, Azzat, and Chua


Disembarked at Pulau Ketam: From Left: Gurdial, Chua, and Gear


Dinner, From Left: Gurdial, Aji, Gear


Dinner, From Left: Aji, Gear, Hank, Hal, and Amin


Farewell, From Left: Hank, Gear, Aji, Bear, Gurdial, TSG, Azzat, Amin, Chua, and Hal



On April 24, 2010, we had a reunion. This came 50 years after we set eyes on each other in 1960. In fact it all started a few months earlier, sometime at the end of 1959.

We were then a group of scraggy looking kids barely 14 years old trying our best to get into one of the best schools then there was. We had come for an interview to be accepted into Form 3 of the FMC ( Federation Military College )

It seemed there were many groups of hopeful boys that came from all over the country. We came in batches. Everyone would want to join the FMC, ( later the RMC ) many could not as the number offered was very limited.
We therefore considered ourselves very lucky just to be called for an interview, the first step. We came to P.Dickson (PD) where the College was then, certainly full of hope. For 3 days we were pitted against each other, put through a rigorous regime of a medical exam, an obstacle course, and classroom academic tests. At each stage there were ‘casualties’. Only a small number ‘survived’ who had then to go through a final interview.

It was such a thrill when I received later at home the warrant ticket, ( the first of many ) a familiar pink coloured paper that entitled me to a second class KTM ticket from KL to Seremban . (Others came from as far as Kangar, Kota Bahru or JB) Together with it were the various papers containing joining instructions signed by the then adjutant Lt.Osman Zain ( later Maj-Gen ,Datuk ) with instructions to report to the Boys Wing of the FMC.

That was where we first met in PD in 1960, 50 years ago. There were altogether 35 of us new boys in Form 3 . The next year about 27 more joined in direct into Form 4 making a total of 62 Form 4 students in 1961. The number dwindled after Form 5 in 1962, the majority joined the Cadet Wing to be groomed as young officers in the Armed Forces, some others left as a natural form of attrition, and some overseas for further studies.

Only a handful were left to continue into the Lower Sixth Form, 18 in Arts and about an equal number in Science.

Now, fast forward to April 24, 2010. Of the 18 of the HSC ‘Class of ‘64’, 16 are still around and kicking, 2 had passed on and 1 somehow is untraceable (last heard had migrated overseas some where)

The 16 comprised OPs, TSG, Aji, Amin Jerry, AKBear, Dolet, Azzat, Hamzah Kalidas, Mazlan, Hank, Zawawi Emzet (all from 1960) Hal, Chua, Gurdial, Haron, Gear & Shah (all from 1961) The late Ritz & Lawrence had passed on and Ong is MIA.
TSG the Executive Chairman of Wesports hosted the reunion. However much we had endeavoured to get everyone in, only 10 were able to be present.
TSG had dispatched an Alphard to our rendezvous point in PJ where 5 climbed in and 3 followed closely in a car. AKBear decided to come by commuter from Seremban to P.Klang and was picked up on arrival and whisked to Westports direct. Nobody got lost and everything went clockwork. That’s logistics, military style. Resolve a potential problem at source and things fall into place!

We were then taken around the container terminals in a luxury coach, with a police car escorting us with lights flashing ( being a security area the auxiliary police escort is mandatory ) We spent 30 mins just looking through, stretched over 3.5km of quayside, there were then about 3 container ships berthed, some with containers stacked 8 stories high, while more containers ideally arranged on the ground awaiting movements. There were Perodua Alzas in rows due for export to East Malaysia and Mazda cars also in rows just arrived awaiting distribution locally. It appeared so orderly on the ground.

A container ship is in port 65% of the time of travel. The secret is to reduce the mph (movements per hour) of the crane speed of loading and unloading so that less time is spent idly in port instead of plying the high seas. ( the other measurement is of volume in millions of TEUs - to google ‘Westports, TEUs’ for more )

TSG, later met us at his conference room on the 18th fl and gave us a walk through of Westports. ‘It is S.E.A’s multi award-winning port, that’s leading the world when it comes to productivity’ he said. We did not argue with that because it is true!

We later had tea before TSG and all of us adjourned down to the wharf for a boat cruise. We then had a stop-over for our anniversary dinner at Pulau Ketam of fresh sea-food (of course) and came back to the mainland by 2200hrs.

Before we left , Chua exclaimed when bidding farewell ‘..well done, well done, well done..’ which best summed up our appreciation, respect and awe at one of us, namely TSG who was able to see a niche, seized the opportunity and got himself into the Malaysian Business’ ‘ List of 40 Richest Malaysians in the Country’ some years ago, all within 1 generation.

The Family Gathering – What a Day!

It was on, yes, April 17 to be exact. The first two dates earlier had to be postponed upon constraints relating to venues. Since this was going to be the first gathering following our adoption of Geni.com everyone were all excited.
The scenario was one of anticipation and awareness. This was prompted by exchanges on the Geni.com network of new-found relatives complete with their pictures but were still strangers at that point.

With this sort of feeling I had left on Friday the 16th afternoon to put up in Seremban for the night. The next morning I would just need to take a leisurely drive to Kuala Pilah for registration beginning 9.00 am. I need not have to rush.
The trouble started Friday evening itself. I suddenly felt a chill and a slight temperature that worsen as the night progressed. In the morning after prayers I still could not claim to have recovered. I told my loving wife, Shadah that we must make an appearance. “I want to be there,” I insisted. This was the Inaugural meeting. It was important to be there.

She agreed. I gulped my medication, rested awhile after breakfast then off to Kuala Pilah barely making the registration before the session began.
It commenced most appropriately with the Organising Chairman’s speech ( by my nephew Ano), doa ( by my nephew Abu ) and a walk through of the matriarch, Saamah who was fondly referred to as ‘Wan Kulu’ as what I had remembered ( which strangely was not mentioned that day)

The narration on 'Wan Kulu' ( my late father's loving mother)was done by our elder, my cousin Bang Ngah Jamal who also touched on Idris Abdullah (known fondly as Atuk Itam Oyek , my late father's loving father) and Yusof (known fondly as Datuk Dagang) both of whom were married to Saamah ( at different times, of course) thus the Family Tree of Hjh Saamah (Oyek and Tok Dagang)

( I would request Bang Ngah Jamal to get someone to transcribe the contents of his narration later as the sound system and acoustics in the hall that day left much to be desired.)

Then followed the crux of the matter - a narration of the structure of the family tree and the naming of the head of family and all decendents from top to bottom and identifying them if they were present then. This was ably done by Ano who later requested that amendments be updated and a corrected version later distributed. This took a major part of the morning.

This was necessary , being our first gathering, the information were all new knowledge heard for the first time by most of those present. There followed then a group photo snapping session of the whole family and the sub-families which took quite a while.

During this session, we the elders were seated in the front row while the crowd at the back were replaced to make way according to each respective family’s appearance as a sub-group.

It was then about 1.30pm? It was at this point that I suddenly experienced a very funny feeling. I kept yawning every other minute, my eyes watered, my head spinning and my throat dried and I felt a soreness of my muscles. It must be the heat outside, it must be the bad ventilation (only fans were running), it must be the carry-over of my fever from the night before, it must be pangs of hunger ( no appetite the night before) , just two pieces of bread before leaving that morning.
All sorts of things ran through my mind then.

After some while, it was then announced food was ready. I asked someone for directions to the ‘Gents’, when still seated. Others got up for lunch so did I. They got to the food spread, I didn’t!

The moment I got up, my head spun , my mind twirled and I heard a dull thud and I then heard nothing more ( the dull thud was my fall from a standing position on to the hard floor)

When I came to, after about 5 minutes I was lying on a row of 'folding chairs' after being picked up from the floor. The first thing I did was to touch my forehead and the back of my head (to check if my head hit the floor) I did not cushion my fall, I did not remember falling, only the dull thud. I had a black-out. Apparently I landed on my left side, my left shoulder took the brunt of the fall (still sore today, after 4 days)

A crowd built up around me. ‘give some water to drink’, ‘get a sweet drink for energy’ ( I got both drinks) ‘unbutton his shirt’, ‘take off his sandles’, ‘you need to go to the hospital’

Amidst my protestations that ‘I’m ok, no need hospital’ that we heard the wailing siren of the ambulance and within 5 mins it was parked right at the hall entrance.

I was very lucky. That day there were 2 doctors, 1 matron, a few nurses (I was told , but not fact checked) They were in the crowd and all were my waris. My cousin Azizah, even though retired still wielded strong influence and got the ambulance and an accompanying doctor in it within minutes. When I thanked her she later quoted what her father ( my late uncle Ulung Sulaiman) had wisely imparted to her, ‘ Take care as any of those signs and symptoms are impending warning signs of medical emergencies’ How true it was!.

An ambulance ride is out of this world. Even for barely 3km it put the F1 Grand Prix drivers to shame. I was tossed left then right then left and luckily was conscious enough to cling tightly on the stretcher railings for dear life.I wonder if they strap-up those who were really sick and bedridden. Otherwise they would not survive the journey.

I was put on drips at the emergency/trauma centre straightaway and later wheeled to the wards for admission.

While my ego (health ego?) took a dent ( considering I was given a clean bill of health by IJN no less, as recently as March 04, 2010) there was a sense of appreciation that it happened, though.

As to my waris, they had a real life emergency situation enacted right in front of their eyes and seen how they had rallied together in high drama, cool and composed with no panic.

It was a field day on Facebook of nephews and nieces who fished for news of the gathering but stumbled on news of my blackout, extending concern and 'get well soon' wishes.

As for me, it is a wake-up call. As my nephew Alifi had rightly said, ' it was a way of God the Almighty’s indication to show that we were extended solace and affections in sickness so that we should enhance our submissions, piety and goodness when in a healthy state'

What to make of it as an outcome ? It was recorded at the hospital as a viral infection arising from the fever the night before. It was not a stroke nor any of the current illneses making the rounds. It is just the tail-end of a fever compounded by dehydration. Nothing serious. The remedy - a round of antibiotics, salt/saline solution and paracetamol/panadol, nothing heavy nor any kind of spectacular kind of medicine - and a good rest!

I wish to extend our congratulations and record my appreciation to the Organising Chairman my nephew Ano, the committee comprising my cousin Mus, nephew, Zain, niece Nor and others not named for their excellent efforts. I was told there were projects discussed to be undertaken later. Considering, there were Doctors, Lawyers, Engineers, Professors/Lecturers, Economists, Entrepreneurs,Public Relations practitioners among us ( to 'fact check' for numbers),things look good not that far off in the ensuing years.

Here on a personal note that I wish to record my sincere appreciation to all those who helped me and showed so much concern and some later visited me during my one night sojourn at the Kuala Pilah hospital namely, my cousins Bang Ngah,Kak Ngah, Kak Limah,Mus,Azizah,OP Yusuf,my nephew Ano, niece Nor, my daughter Adura, son Hafidz, Zaf, my wife Shadah (all the while by my side), my sis Aishah and hubby Alias, my Induk Maridah (bought food), my brother Jai and wife Normah, my cousins Rohaya (brought home-cooked food) Bang Ngah Hashim – all in sequence and order of visits. And last but not least my bosom buddy OP Zam (who unfortunately came Sunday afternoon after my discharge)Thank you all!

The Ulu Selangor By-Election

The battle lines are drawn. With the announcement of the MIC candidate for the BN yesterday it is now battle stations. There’s so much at stake and so many permutations to draw on and being a by-election all eyes are focused on just this.
Not into politics, not before nor now, but it is too tempting when it comes to a by-election. I can still be an observer, why not? I don’t have to make a stand nor do I have to declare my political inclinations and sympathies but I can still have an opinion, yes, why not.
It was a strategic move to retain the MIC for the seat. In one stroke, the MIC stopped making noise, so also from the UMNO diehards. This is basic. What it means is that here’s no disagreement nor talk of non-cooperation from day one of campaigning from either. There could have been some disgruntled few from both (the MIC and UMNO) but these may just be personally inspired and may not matter.
Both then would have to show their best in the campaigning that follows. The MIC to justify why their candidate was chosen and UMNO to justify and stamp their strength with the shackles of the GE 2008 broken and is now history.
Likewise, the MCA would go in with vengeance. It is mainly to justify consolidation and unity and tell the world that their earlier troubles are now within control, not over yet but ok.
For the Gerakan, PPP and the smaller offshoots within the BN, well…just be there to show you are still alive not kicking but still around. They are not expected to be in the limelight, lest they spoil the broth. Just keep smiling as they have been doing after the GE 2008 debacle and ‘don’t say nothin’ (as the Americans would say)
As for the PR, they would have to take great pains to control the groundswell currently bothering them. The PKR especially is very vulnerable. Its their candidate and they have been getting the flax. What with the ongoing court case and the spate of resignations of their legislators (even until today there’s one) Not forgetting the Indians in Penang had not forgotten the Kg Buah Pala fiasco. There were reports of mass, en-bloc resignations of members, even. And here they are trying to woo the Indian votes!
Let’s see how the candidates stacked up. Kamalanathan, the MIC candidate is squeaky clean, up-and-coming,young, a PR person (read: Public Relations) and a blogger to boot – and with no known baggage.
The PKR’s Zaid is a high powered, and a high profiled person, used to being a ‘de facto’ Minister monetarily strong, was slapped with suspension/sacked? on money politics when in UMNO (but vehemently pleaded innocence) – with some baggage no doubt.
My take on the outcome? The MIC candidate will find solace in being a ‘local boy’ and can well relate with the younger set MIC or otherwise.
The PKR, has imposed a helicopter candidate (half the hall left when his candidature was announced) who had jumped ship ( may well be reminiscent of V. David’s answer when asked why he changed parties from Socialist Front to Pekemas and then DAP. He said that there’s nothing wrong with him but all the parties he left were wrong )

If Zaid wins it is said he may be one of the PMs-in-waiting apparently, that’s how he has styled himself (if Sg Buluh comes into the picture earlier). Of course he has to content with other contenders ( Ku Li may be?)If he loses then he may yet again jump ship out of frustrations.

My take again. Given the PM’s high ratings after one year, and his successful US trip and the woes of PKR, the BN will win hands down.

‘Many Happy Returns of the Day’, Honey Dear!

Try it! Say it out loud, ‘Honey dear! Yes, Honey dear! No, You can never say it that well. You cannot call out loud to someone dear to you when saying ‘honey’. The word has to be taken softly. The same thing with ‘love’ or ‘yang’ (short for sayang) It must be softly whispered, sometimes barely audible.

You would have to be physically close to your loved one to utter such endearment. I could never call out to my loving wife Shadah ‘honey’ or ‘ni’ when more than 5 feet away. It cannot be me in the lounge and she in the kitchen and I shout ‘honey’. No, it did not work out that way. If I have to call out to my loving wife I would have to come closer to her.

And another thing. I had never for the life of me called my loving wife ‘yang’ . Not in front of others as it sounded odd. It was embarrassing, and others hearing it would feel uneasy (meluat). But some people do and are proud to do so. At least ‘ni’ sounds like a name and sounds pleasing enough. I would always settle for ‘honey’.

Somehow ‘honey’ is universal and I very nearly always use it. It changed slightly when they came into our lives.(read: children) In front of them I would use ‘your Mama’ or call out ‘mama’ instead of honey. In our private moments it is still ‘ni’, even now.

Recently Zee Avi was in town. She’s the 23 year old Miri-born who was discovered through her ‘You Tube’ recording of her own song called ‘Poppy’. I’m saying this because one of her recent hits is called ‘Honey Bee’. On hearing it on the air, it rekindled times of togetherness with my loving wife, ever so sweetly , and it lingered on.

Zee Avi is special. I like her style. She is an acoustic guitar and an ukulele strumming singer and song-writer. Her rendition of “Honey Bee’ is plainly music to the ear, nothing pitchy, no high notes nor screams. It is so serene, innocent and peaceful. Her songs are reminiscent of Norah Jones on piano.( you can google more of her songs on You Tube)

Let’s get back to reality. Actually my loving wife’s birthday was on April 03. Yesterday, April 04, Adura and Hafidz (read: children) treated us to lunch together with their respective families . The option for lunch over dinner was prompted by the kids , Norman,Kimie,Nabil and Sarah Aishah (read: grandchildren ) who need to be early to bed. Azhar, my youngest boy chose to miss this out to attend a wedding in town instead.

As to the venue, both Adura and Hafidz chose a quaint little Korean Restaurant in One Utama that offered something different – a Korean buffet with a DIY grill-and-boil set-up (grill plus steam-boat like ) for each table. I thought it was perfect, not lavish nor overly crowded. It was ok.

It seemed to be popular with the younger set too. The attraction as opposed to a Japanese fare is pretty obvious. It is different, more savoury, spicy and hot ( akin to a Thai offering) The pickled kim chee ran out fast and was being topped up every now and then.

Last year, we had it at the Shogun, a Japanese buffet in town where it was practically twice as expensive (for the same number of us)

It is a far cry from those days , when I was in my final year and Shadah a freshie during Orientation Week. We would adjourn on my 2-wheeler to Amjal Corner (the eatery at the main entrance of MU) where RM5 could fetch 2 plates of whatever plus drinks ! ( I think it is no more there now, a sad casualty of road alignment works)

The Malaysian Grand Prix - April 4, 2010

It is now 1800 hrs ( 6.00 pm). The Malaysian Grand Prix at Sepang has just ended. I’ve not seen the write up as yet but I’ve seen the event ‘live‘ a short while ago. The race ended just after 1730 hrs or so.

It was a 1 - 2 finish for the Red Bull team. On the podium was the winner Sebastian Vettel with his team-mate, Mark Webber in second place and Nico Rosberg from Mercedes-Petronas in third.

The event did not have the high drama of the Australian Grand Prix last week in Melbourne when there was a skirmish ( was it a minor pile-up? ) as early as the first turn and some minor crashes along the way.

In this race, Vettel had pulled away right at the first turn from his team-mate who held pole position. By the 8th lap it was Vettel, Webber, Rosberg, Suttil, Hamilton in that order. Kobayashi was out of the race at Lap 9, followed by Schumacher at Lap 10.

At lap 13, the positions remained . At this point the Lotus F1 team was not anywhere in the running. They were at positions 17 ( Jarno Trulli) and 20 ( Heikki Kovalinen)

Hamilton tried his best to make his impact. In fact at Lap 33 he recorded the fastest lap at 1.37 secs but remained at 7th place. A consolation for the Lotus F1 team however was when Trulli managed to jump to position 15 at Lap 36.

At that point it was 1708 hrs and it was a very clear sky. They had talked about the rain, but the expected rain did not come. It was a clear day right until the race ended. Apparently, the heat was scorching when the race began. Vettel the winner had mentioned at the post-race briefing that he was profusely sweating. Contrary to what we had expected he said he was praying for rain. ‘It would at least cool things off’.

At the closing moments, at Lap 55, the last but one, sparks and smoke spewed from Fernando Alonso’s car and he was out. It was good fortune for the eventual winners . They chalked up good points without Alonso. Alonso who ended with zero points in this race was the winner in the season-opening Bahrain Prix and 4th in Melbourne.

As for the Lotus F1 team, they met their target of completing the race. It was a switch this time. Trulli who did not complete the previous two races came in position 20 eventually. His team-mate Kovalainen went out of the race at Lap 21.

The unhappy Tony Fernandez twittered some unsavoury remarks during the course of the race, apparently. The CEO, Riad Asmat and and the reserve driver Fairuz Fauzy took it within their strides. ‘We would have to check on the hydraulic systems of the cars before Shanghai, the next stop’ they said.

However, it is not bad for Malaysia, not bad at all. In fact it was good! No, I’m not talking of the Lotus F1 team. I’m talking of the Mercedes-Petronas team. They achieved the 2nd runner-up position. It is a podium position. Isn’t that something?

In fact at the post-race briefing, Rosburg mentioned proudly and clearly that he was ‘happy to achieve a podium finish in Malaysia, the home of Petronas”. Of course, that’s something to be proud of!

Hats Off to Jins!

A piece of wonderful news from a veteran actor. A rave in his heyday , Mohd Zain Shamsudin or Jins Shamsudin as he is popularly known has just earned himself a PhD. It was conferred on Mar 27, 2010 at the UUM’s 23rd convocation in Sintok, Kedah

The area of studies revolved around what he knows best ie 'Filem Melayu 1930-an hingga 1960-an Sebagai Citra Budaya dan Sejarah Negara' or roughly ‘Malay Films from the 30’s to the 60’s as a Cultural Heritage and National History’ ( ?for want of a better translation!)

Senator Tan Sri Dr Jins Shamsudin achieved it at age 75, probably the oldest in the history of the UUM. This capped his earlier stint at the London Film School from 1970 till 1972 where he honed his skills on the intricacies of film making. He came back with a Diploma.

This is reminiscent of the accomplishments of other men of letters before him. They were already recognized in their own fields (as writers) but went academically further for their PhDs such as Tan Sri Awang Had, Datuk MKY, and the late Datuk Atan Long among others.

For Tan Sri Dr Jins, what makes it more commendable was the fact that it was all accomplished on his own resources.

He had utilised RM30,000 part of the RM60,000 that he received when he was bestowed the coveted Seniman Negara Award before. There were no grants given nor crying or whining for financial assistance.

The Arts and Cultural scene were all the more richer as there’s a dearth of works done on this subject. It would have required extending some form of financial assistance/grants to undertake such projects which would certainly be more than the modest sum spent by Tan Sri Dr Jins.

Not just that, he had also to ply up and down the North South Highway for 2 years from KL to Sintok and back. It is no mean feat to do in your ‘golden years’.

A Frighteningly Quick Dash and A Wonderful Bundle Of Joy

Last Sat , Mar 20th, 2010 in keeping with the ‘wedding week’ normally associated with the school holidays we attended yet another wedding. This time it was proud parents Shah and Bee for their son Ijam and his charming bride in TTDI.

We were seated with Dr Ib and Zariah and were later joined by Bang Aziz and Ka’ Su. There were the usual yarn of old times and current happenings, as a way of getting connected on what events transpired lately.

Then someone asked ‘how’s Farah?’ (Farah is the darling daughter of Dr Ib and Zariah) ‘She’s back here’ , Zariah confirmed. An innocent question and a simple answer suddenly led to a flurry of other further little questions and answers on Farah.

Farah evoked a nostalgic and emotional reaction on almost everyone around the table. Farah when growing up had been so close to Bang Aziz and Ka’ Su (almost a daughter to them) that Bang Aziz quickly remarked, ‘We want to see Farah’. Zariah said ok. So we agreed to adjourn to see Farah later.

There is also an emotional attachment Farah had to my loving wife Shadah many years ago. It was on June 26th 1981, to be exact.

Shadah remembered it well. A seemingly innocuous morning, Shadah and Zariah both then were teachers at the Assunta Secondary School in Petaling Jaya. Both were graduate teachers (Zariah later acquired her Master’s from the US) They shared a common bond as most colleagues did in a school.

However, theirs was a very special bond ( a bond that Dr Ib would invariably mention whenever we had the occasion to meet)

This was what happened that morning. Shadah and Zariah were then in the Staff Room. Assunta Secondary was a model school (and still is)

With Sister Enda as the Headmistress then, it was a privilege to be part of its teaching staff. Everyone were so motivated. Teaching in Assunta was just happiness (that was what Shadah used to tell me) That explained why Zariah was still taking classes even though in an advanced stage. Yes, Zariah was due but still at school that morning (dedicated teachers are a rarity these days)

Suddenly Zariah felt it. Yes, the first of many that came (ask any mother-to-be what it means to experience contractions and she’ll swear there and then that , she’ll not have another baby, ever!)

The lingering pain continued. There was no commotion but certainly something must be done, there was no time to lose. Both Zariah and Shadah had to decide immediately on what to do. Baby just couldn’t be made to wait.

An ambulance might take time. Zariah was under the care of OP Dr Idris whose clinic was in Section 14, barely 4km away (OP stands for 'Old Putra', an old boy of the RMC ) Dr Ib was then at his office further than 4km away and would not be in time to drive them there.

So what were they to do? The two wonderful ladies took it upon themselves to do the inevitable. Yes, Shadah was to drive Zariah to OP Dr Idris’ clinic. It was settled without as much of another thought.

It was a risky but brave decision but it must be done. This they agreed. (to this day I cringe thinking what if baby was really impatient, what if baby decided that the car would do just as well for a quick delivery) I dread to think.

Shadah was then driving a Honda Civic (the old version , a 2-door that looked like the present-day Proton Satria, both in shape and size).

Both scrambled to the car, Zariah gingerly holding and leaning on to Shadah’s shoulders for support. It was a miracle how Zariah could squeeze in onto the back seat of a 2-door car, but she did!

Both ladies were of sterner stuff, they kept their head, they didn’t panic. Every inch of the way, the contractions were there, silently but surely. Zariah likewise said silent prayers, repeating silently, lying face up. Shadah kept looking back, with comforting words (which baby must have heard and decided to wait until they reached the clinic)

After what seemed ages, they arrived at the clinic, they scrambled slowly out again, up a flight of stairs to the first floor. The nurses came, it was action stations. Zariah was wheeled into the labour room. Shadah was there stroking her, comforting her, and OP Dr Idris later arrived.

After all her brave efforts, Shadah was squeamish at being in the delivery room and waited outside. She knew Zariah was now in good hands. So it was ok. She could relax now. ( She later confessed she was shivering throughout the short journey but kept her composure somehow )

Zariah was barely 20 minutes in the clinic and not a moment too soon. It was then that baby decided. It was quiet on the western front. It was time to let herself out. And OP Dr Idris was there waiting with open arms.

It was such a wonderful bundle of joy! Certainly far exceeding every anxious moments the THREE of them went through minutes earlier! It was just sheer joy especially for Zariah,the proud mum!

Yes, a pinkish little darling, Farah wonderfully came into this world, oblivious of the drama that took place a good part of the preceding 40 minutes or so ( it seemed hours to both Zariah and Shadah).

It was a great relief and a great satisfaction to Zariah, now that she had a King’s Choice (a pair now with Farid the eldest boy). It was also a great relief and a great satisfaction to my loving wife Shadah for her good deed of the day (when I asked her later how she managed to get around the normally busy traffic flow , she said 'what traffic?' - in her haste she didn’t see any!) We were thankful to God the Almighty, that gave clear passage for them when mid-morning was always very crowded.

The happy Dad Dr Ib arrived later at the clinic, equally relieved that mother and daughter were there safe and well and profusely thanking my brave wife.

I’m so proud of my loving wife, Shadah. At other times she may appear dependent and helpless but in a sticky situation, she would invariably live up to it.

Now back to the present. After the wedding, we followed Dr Ib and Zariah back to the house. Farah was out but Dr Ib managed to contact her. Farah came back and met all of us. And there we were, and what do you know!

Farah is now in the family way herself. Dr Ib and Zariah are going to be doting grand-parents come July 2010 . And this is going to be their first grand-child.
( that makes it even more special!)

Dr Farah and her hubby, Dr Andy were on a short holiday back here. Dr Farah, the pride and joy of both mum and dad
(whom Dr Ib referred fondly to as 'my princess' in his email to me) is completing her post-graduate specialist course in medicine in Dublin (so also Dr Andy - there will be 2 Consultant Paediatricians in the house in no time) They have since gone back last Monday.

Apparently Zariah has planned to be with Dr Farah,( by her side in Dublin for the big day in July) and stay on for 3 months. ( ample time to reflect on the moment in time a long time ago when little Farah co-operated very well with mummy and timed it perfectly to the dot!)

Updates: F1 Team Lotus

There you have it! Team Lotus met their goals for the 1st outing of the season at the Bahrain Grand Prix yesterday, modest as it seemed. They had set out to have 1). both the drivers finished the race (which they did) and 2). that they beat Team Virgin in the process (which they also did)

Heikki Kovalainen, the first driver was placed the 15th position while Jarno Trulli was placed 17th. It is nothing to shout about though but Datuk Tony Fernandez was elated so also the drivers. ‘Big oaks from little acorns grow’ so it is a good start just as they had set out to do.

For the records, Fernando Alonso of Team Ferrari stood on the podium as the winner and collected 25 points followed by Felipe Massa and Lewis Hamilton.

The list of the Drivers’ and Constructors’ Standings with points collected are appended below:


DRIVER STANDINGS

01 Fernando Alonso - 25
02 Felipe Massa - 18
03 Lewis Hamilton - 15
04 Sebastian Vettel - 12
05 Nico Rosberg - 10
06 Michael Schumacher - 8
07 Jenson Button - 6
08 Mark Webber - 4
09 Vitantonio Liuzzi - 2
10 Rubens Barrichello - 1
11 Robert Kubica
12 Adrian Sutil
13 Jaime Alguersuari
14 Nico Hulkenberg
15 Heikki Kovalainen
16 Sebastien Buemi
17 Jarno Trulli
18 Pedro de la Rosa
19 Bruno Senna
20 Timo Glock
21 Vitaly Petrov
22 Kamui Kobayashi
23 Lucas di Grassi
24 Karun Chandhok

CONSTRUCTOR STANDINGS

01 Ferrari - 43
02 McLaren-Mercedes - 21
03 Mercedes Benz GP - 18
04 RBR-Renault - 16
05 Force India-Mercedes - 2
06 Williams-Cosworth - 1
07 Renault
08 STR-Ferrari
09 Lotus-Cosworth
10 BMW Sauber-Ferrari
11 HRT-Cosworth
12 Virgin-Cosworth

F1 Team Lotus

The season opening Bahrain Grand Prix ( of the 2010 FIA Formula One (F1) World Championship) is on tomorrow, March 14th 2010. There are altogether 12 teams of which 3 are new entrants this season (with 24 cars/drivers on the grid)

It is of special interest to Malaysia this year for 2 reasons namely, the real presence of Malaysia in F1 racing with the debut of Malaysia’s very own Team Lotus , and the collaboration of Team Mercedes with Petronas in F1 racing.

This is therefore more than just a participation but the first foray into F1 which was announced by Prime Minister Datuk Seri Najib Tun Razak only in September last year which is now a reality.

When it was first mooted late last year, many were sceptical. Only the Principal Officer, Datuk Tony Fernandez and the Technical Head, Mike Gascoyne were positively identified together with Naza Motors as joint backers. Then there were a flurry of behind the scenes manoevering to get additional sponsors (especially with the loss of Petronas to Team Mercedes) and to naming the drivers and the management team.

The detractors spewed countless venom, mindful of the enormous financial burden to be carried by Team Lotus. Tony Fernandez ventured on anyway. Lotus at their factory in Norfolk, England came up with a new car (within 6 months) after assembling ‘80,000 components'( a report stated that in all seriousness a 99.9% perfection will still mean 80 component parts are not up to mark)

The testing must be more than perfect. It is awesome! It is no small wonder that an F1 car that made it on the starting grid can still stall at some point in the race owing to a less than perfect testing. It cannot be more perfect than that!

The Lotus T127 rolled out on a T127 chassis supporting a Cosworth 2010 engine. It went through the various precision factory tests and last month was presented on the tracks in Spain for final tests by the designated drivers.

So we have Malaysia’s very own F1 car to be driven by the named drivers, Jarno Trulli and Heikki Kovalinen with Malaysia’s own Fairuz Fauzy as the 3rd and reserve driver.

The Management Team comprised, the CEO, Riad Asmat (son of OP Tan Sri Asmat), Mia Sharizman Ismail as Head of Operations (Asia), Alex Yoong as Head of Driver Development (Asia) and Nino Judge as the Head of Driver Development (Europe).

So what is it in for Malaysia apart from the ‘novelty’ and the hype worked up for our presence on the world’s stage which is a grand PR adventure for prime movers Tony and his team.

For a start Alex Yoong and Judge will co-host a driver’s development programme with the aim of nurturing young drivers for the future. Alex’s father OP Hanipah Yoong went up against all odds singled-handedly in guiding Alex as an F1 driver before. So Alex is very much aware of the difficulties and pitfalls.

On the technical side, a team of young engineers are already in Norfolk working towards building up a core of technically experienced personnel. These would be conveniently absorbed into Proton and Naza Motors in future, I imagine.

With the impending production of the compact EMAS hybrid of Proton recently exhibited at the Geneva Motor Show, it is imperative that we need these engineers in large numbers.

There has to be a concerted effort to trigger off the multiplier effect of human capital development to meet needs of industry. A home grown F1 venture can certainly provide the platform to enhance the numbers.

On the prospects of notching up glory in this debut presence, Tony is being realistic. ‘We hope to finish each race, anything better is a bonus’ he said. He has 19 opportunities to do that as there are 19 races in the 2010 calendar. The 3rd leg in K. Lumpur will be on 4th April.

Apparently, we’ll get to see the real, the actual, the car that is going on the tracks in Bahrain tomorrow at the Pavilion in K. Lumpur when it is put up on show in early April (before its debut on our Sepang Circuit)

This is mainly because there was insufficient time to produce an additional car for exhibition purposes. So be it!

A Clean Bill of Health

I was at the IJN (National Heart Institute) for the better part of the morning today, March 03, 2010. It was the culmination of a series of tests conducted which started sometime last month and I came away smiling from ear to ear.

I got it off my chest. Yes, that’s where it all started, my chest. There was a slight tinge on my left side where the heart is. It came at odd times lasting just seconds though not that frequent, but enough to cause worry to me. The GP years ago said it was muscular. The specialist that saw me quite recently said the same thing.

I want a second opinion I said, not that it mattered to anyone. If it was anything to do with the heart, a pain would have been triggered off by a physical activity, say 'running up the stairs or rushing to catch a plane.', they said. There ought to be an exertion of some sort on your being, not when watching the TV or while having a meal.

It may not have anything to do with the heart they reasoned. So it is, I thought, but still it left me unsettled. It was unsettling and it was worrisome.

In the meantime, my blood pressure is under control through medication so also my cholesterol. I needn’t worry.

The good thing about the medical specialists looking after me were their positive attitudes. None stopped me. They encouraged me to explore the various avenues to determine what was the affliction. So started the series of tests.

First, the Stress Test on the treadmill and the accompanying ECG. I did the walk, brisk walk, slight trot, faster and faster trot and completed Level 3 within the standard time required for my age. Would I need to go on to Level 4? No, I did not have to prove anything, so I stopped there.

I then sought a reference to the IJN, the premier heart institute in the country. I mean, if you cannot trust the IJN with your heart who else would you trust.

Second, 3 weeks ago I went to the IJN for a CT Coronary Angiogram. It was a heart scan in simple terms. A ‘spiral imaging with resrospective gating was performed’ – images in colour from various angles in other words!
Results:
Aorta: - ascending aorta is normal in size with no significant atherosclerosis - descending aorta is normal in size with no significant atherosclerosis
Myocardium: - appears normal . No evidence of scar or other abnormalities
Chambers: - normal size chambers
Valves: - normal to extent visualized

(my comment: I am fascinated by the word ‘normal’ in all instances)

Third, the Pathology Report(blood test) showed all were within range, kidneys are ok and cholesterol is ok

Fourth, the Echo done this morning showed an EF of an acceptable % ( the number I shouldn’t reveal here)

All in all, it was a satisfying morning. So what’s next?

All that I’ve heard before as advised by the GP ought to be given serious adherence not just serious thoughts ie Diet and Exercise

Diet - you can eat what you want but of a smaller portion and of less frequency. Less carbohydrates and noodles but take oats and fibres. No limits on fruits and vegetables, take fish and chicken but avoid red meat and anything deep fried. So it is , simple enough (now to be religiously adhered to, yes, adhered to)

Exercise - No, not jogging. Just brisk walking around the neighbourhood. BUT do it! Yes, a regime ought to be worked out and improvements to weight shedding to be noted. (It should not have to follow the vigorous gym work of the ‘Biggest Loser’ though)

I ought to renew my ‘love affair’ again and be more demanding. Yes, my clubs are all rusty. I will have to go back to the Driving Range to hit some balls first. My ‘golf muscles’ ought to be toned up and fitness enhanced. Only then can I accept calls from my buddies to have that round of golf ‘on a regular basis’ again ( which I had declined all these while ‘on doctor’s orders’)

Last but not least, a regular medical check-up every 6 months must be done to keep in check anything untoward that might just appear undetected.

Tiger Woods has gone through rehab and ‘domestic counselling’. He is ready to take on the world again. So am I!