Is Christmas too Commercialised?

Mega sales aside, I think many are cashing in on Christmas and whilst it's true that we're celebrating Christmas in the spirit of giving, I still think that Christmas is promoted and celebrated so widely sans it's true meaning.

So, keeping it short, to those ushering Nick and counting down to the dot, be good and stay off the wheels if you're on the booze. Christmas isn't about dying. No artificial snow and climbing on passing vehicles along the Gurney Drive promenade. The central figure behind Christmas had hay for warmth and animals for company.

"Waste not, want not," says Uncle Victor.

Have an enjoyable time, be blessed, and Jesus loves you.

Russkiy Paren

The following is the translation to the song Russkiy Paren based on Westmeier's Alone in Four Walls. Although the song is titled Russkiy Paren (Русский парень) or Russian Guy, I'd go with "lad" as per the wordings from the film itself. [Download link below]

Hello my sunshine,
I'm writing to you from the battlefield.
The crows are circling overhead,
only I'm in no hurry to die.

We'll still go out together,
we'll dance under the night sky.
When I've done my service I'll come home,
and you'll tell your friends:

[Chorus]
"A Russian lad doesn't run away from bullets.
A Russian lad doesn't groan in pain.
A Russian lad doesn't burn in fire.
A Russian lad doesn't drown in water."

Our family will be gathered once again,
maybe not so soon.
We will play the guitar and sing of love,
embrace and not hide our tears.

The rocket has flown up in the sky again,
and I'm far from home.
I want you to wait for me,
I'm coming back to you, believe me.

Lyrics: Sergei Sashin, Music: Kim Breitburg

Edit 2011:  Figured I should put the song up for any interested person to get it. Link to Google Docs.
    

Sadism Intrigues

Once a while, I'd turn to the TV to see what the pandemonium's all about. And? A damsel was bitch-slapped by an evil lady. The audience on the couch went, "Ouch, that hurts. Evil." And they stayed for more. The Little Nyonya seems to be a little bit unreal owing to the constant bullying. Yes, people that time don't fight back but I think the screenwriter enjoy stretching it too.

Think again, such cruelty and bullying does keep people glued to them. What's on my screen? Tabs on Firefox with the words lynching, Litwack and more. I'm quoting and reading from Wikipedia (and not some personal sites having the tendency to be biased - whether by exaggeration or whitewashing). And crucify me for using Wikipedia. It's my preliminary source of information before an in-depth analyses of things.

Humans are capable of violence and unspeakable cruelty. History didn't prove otherwise. Besides lynching, I'm sure many have read other instances of atrocities and torture methods devised by our warped [and desperately wicked] mind [or heart]. For now, we'd keep to the history of lynchings or extrajudicial punishments if you like.

The postcard on the left shows the lynching of Jesse Washington in Texas; specifically mutilation and burning. That poor guy was treated like an animal.

The following is found in the wiki article:

The black bastard was beaten and dragged to the suspension bridge spanning the Brazos River. Thousands roared, "Burn him!" Bonfire preparations were already under way in the public square, where Washington was beaten with shovels and bricks. Fifteen thousand men, women, and children packed the square. They climbed up poles and onto the tops of cars, hung from windows, and sat on each other's shoulders. Children were lifted by their parents into the air. Washington was castrated, and his ears were cut off. A tree supported the iron chain that lifted him above the fire of boxes and sticks. Wailing, the boy attempted to climb the skillet-hot chain. For this the men cut off his fingers. The executioners repeatedly lowered the boy into the flames and hoisted him out again. With each repetition, a mighty shout was raised.

For the participants and the guilty ones, I have nothing to say except that God forgives them. But often, such things continue due to the fact that no one actually did anything. Some claimed no knowledge of any incident when forced to witness the atrocity (like the one in Dachau concentration camp during WWII). Others would stand by and enjoy the process, approving, and even allowing their kids to see it. Good parenting eh?

The photographs stretch our credulity, even numb our minds and senses to the full extent of the horror, but they must be examined if we are to understand how normal men and women could live with, participate in, and defend such atrocities, even reinterpret them so they would not see themselves or be perceived as less than civilized. The men and women who tortured, dismembered, and murdered in this fashion understood perfectly well what they were doing and thought of themselves as perfectly normal human beings. Few had any ethical qualms about their actions. This was not the outburst of crazed men or uncontrolled barbarians but the triumph of a belief system that defined one people as less human than another. For the men and women who comprised these mobs, as for those who remained silent and indifferent or who provided scholarly or scientific explanations, this was the highest idealism in the service of their race. One has only to view the self-satisfied expressions on their faces as they posed beneath black people hanging from a rope or next to the charred remains of a Negro who had been burned to death. What is most disturbing about these scenes is the discovery that the perpetrators of the crimes were ordinary people, not so different from ourselves - merchants, farmers, laborers, machine operators, teachers, doctors, lawyers, policemen, students; they were family men and women, good churchgoing folk who came to believe that keeping black people in their place was nothing less than pest control, a way of combating an epidemic or virus that if not checked would be detrimental to the health and security of the community.

- Leon F. Litwack, American historian and Pulitzer Prize winner

Surely, such atrocity exists today in other parts of the world or it has taken a new form and name. Perhaps the words racism, supremacy, superiority, and the like ring a bell?

Man is doomed. Surely. His days are numbered. And history condemns us all.

I No Understand

by James Chin
article from Malaysia Insider


We Malaysians are really on par with the developed countries.

We produce thousands of university graduates every year and our academics keep winning “gold medals” in competitions in trade fairs where the entrance fees, more or less, guarantee you a bronze prize.

When this issue was raised in parliament four years ago the then Higher Education minister said he was no longer allow these sort of things to happen again. Well guess what — this year alone the newspapers reported at least six public universities taking part in these sorts of shenanigans again. Ahhhhh, our collective memory is short....

I see that the newspapers are printing warnings about the second wave of H1N1 about to hit Malaysia.

But guess what, the same ministry warning us, is organising a lot of events for the Health Minister where all sorts of people get together, all less than one metre from each other.

Thousands of rallies and events are planned for 1 Malaysia stunts.

See what I mean — you tell people to be careful and try to avoid crowds but you organise as many events as possible to infect as many people as possible...

Improve public transport so that more people will use the buses and trains.

Really?

You have two national car companies- do you really want them to suffer? After all, they are making it as cheap as possible to own a car. Can you really promote public transport and allow the national car to suffer?

What about the mantra on “Knowledge Society”?

Yet there are so many laws restricting what you can and cannot say, publish, write, broadcast, etc. You threaten bloggers and try to shut down internet sites. It really must be “Knowledge-I-approve-Society”. Ahhhhhh, the mother of all logic.... 1 Malaysia.

Yes we are building a happy harmonious society, to borrow a term from communist China, called Malaysia.

Yet everyday, we are reminded of our ethnicity and religion. On our Mykad your race and religion are recorded on the chip, and for 60 per cent of the population your religion is printed just under your photo.

When you fill in any form, you are asked to reconfirm your race and religion. When you join a political party, they are mobilised along ethnic lines. When you read newspapers, they are full of racist columns and worse, some newspapers actually promote racial supremacy.

When you join the public service or are given a JPA scholarship, you must attend Biro Tatanegara (BTN)* which reinforced your racist indoctrination you received in government schools. You watch RTM 1 and RTM2 and you think “what can I do to defend to my race and religion today?”

Then you have politicians who constantly harped on the issue of “representing my race and religion”.

And don’t forget the “cow head” incident — and the coincidence of temples and churches only found in factory areas and industrial parks. Any politician who tries to promote a race-blind polity is actually called a racist!

You have BTN which promotes racism and at the same time you have a department of national unity.... get the logic? One cancels the other, therefore no change!

Maybe the problem is with me.

I really don’t understand the logic of living in Malaysia. The way to live in Malaysia is to accept that to live happily, you have to a hypocrite, a racist and a religious bigot. After all, since the entire system is based on hypocrisy, race and religion, you are living in paradise if you are a racist and bigot.

Has anyone told the Klu Klax Klan (sic) (KKK) about the Malaysia, My Second Home Programme?

-December 19, 2009

*National Civics Bureau

More on BTN:

Put an End to Biro Tata Negara

BTN Promotes Racial Unity?

Alone in Four Walls - Alexandra Westmeier

I made myself comfortable in bed, propped up against the headboard by two pillows, surrounded by walls where the pictures hang. The wall light is right across from where I'm sitting. To the left is a small window and a curtain. It was warm and secure.

The documentary began and it was some time before we see adults coming into the frames. I met Lyosha who just got to there, the juvenile detention centre, chronicling his new life there. He was sobbing in between the interview and said, "I just want to go home, that's all".

There's Tolya who got sent in there for murder; who spoke on his life and his wishes when he got out. Like him, many others echoed that they wish to lead a good life when they get out. The scene then changed to a scene quite similar to the ones I see on TV except that the weather is cold and windy Russian climate with rolling hills in the distance.

Parents of these boys have mixed feelings about them but they look sad and I think they really wanted them back. When I say parents, it means father and mother but in the interview, it's either the father or the mother that was interviewed. Not the ones we see often in other films/documentaries where mom and dad sat on a couch next to a table with, maybe, flowers and a beautiful wallpapered wall behind. No, the parents aren't dressed in suits and mom doesn't put on make ups nor braid their hair. She just simply tie up their hair and don something to protect against the elements.

The boys are a precocious lot. They speak in a way reflecting adults and if I didn't look at the subtitles (the language's Russian) the words they use reflect their maturity. Perhaps life brought out that thinking? I can't answer that.

I also meet Vitya, an adorable guy with puffy cheeks you'd want to pinch. According to him, the medicine he got from a mental institution gave him that puffy cheeks. Like others, I could see the little boy in him. His, when he was at the dentist's chair and when she was about to extract a tooth, he turned away and cried; reminiscence of myself. A difference is I know mom is either by my side or outside the room. The dentist (assuming that she is although she look more like a nurse from the Health Ministry, Malaysia) then played the role of mom, talking to him and then extracting the tooth and then soothing the poor boy - chin on his head and her wrist on his face.

Poignant.

Who's to blame? The system? Parents? The boys? I don't know. Everyone maybe? But I think most of the responsibility rests on the parents. It's true you have to work your posterior off but take some time off and read to your child, not in some place where you drink away and then staggering home to beat up your wife and child.

The best part of the film? When I see smiles on their face. Every once in a while, I'd see that smile; embarrassed, happy, retrospective and some hopeful. Towards the end, the boys sang Russian Lad and I'm sure they know what the wordings meant (I'll look up the English translation shortly). Not as nice as Alexei Goman but original. At the end, I see each of them smile again as the camera go from left to right. To those watching this part, would they have known these are the faces of juvenile detainees sent there for various crimes?

Everyone sees in them only criminals, and forgets that they are children. Children who never had a childhood.

Some of the inmates we meet are serving time for theft, some for murder - but filmmaker Alexandra Westmeier lets us spend enough time with them to see beyond their hard man exteriors to the scared boys within. She also provides glimpses of their home lives, and we begin to realise that, for these children, prison is often an easier place to be.
For the first time in their young lives, they no longer have to fight for their daily existence;
they can simply be what they are--children.

-Youtube video (above) info

The sun sets and I see the following:

91% of these children will end up behind bars.
This time in a prison for adults.

I Helped Built and Maintain the KL Tower

"Two tickets please," I started.
"Her you go, two tickets for the observation deck," came the reply after a while.
"How much is it?"
"76 ringgit".

I looked at her for a while before conceding to the towering (looking for puns, lame) price and hand over two notes of fifties. What 38 got for a person? A bottle of tower-shaped drinking water, a coupon to a pony ride (poor pony!), another coupon to the animal park (read reptile park) consisting mostly of reptiles and arachnids, and the F1 simulator (actually an F1 cockpit shaped from - I suspect - fibreglass with a racing wheel and a TV mounted upfront. Simulator?


The trip up was quick and really, it was nothing to shout about except for the interior of the elevator. I guess I'm used to getting up to KOMTAR back in Penang.

It's nice up there though. I circled the observation deck five times since the price I paid still hurts me. Snapped some pictures and dragged myself from the window and into the elevator for another 15 seconds trip down. Going down is always fun.

Got out and approached the booth with lots of pictures and saw mine on the board as well. Pictures of visitors are taken against a [rather beautiful] backdrop and more coupons are handed out.

"Come, have your pictures taken," the usher exclaimed with a wide grin.
"This way please," the photographer beckoned. I'm transfixed to the guys camera. "Come back later for your photos." That's the last I saw of him.

"How much?" seems to be the two words I ask more than any other day.
"Forty." They seem to have different people working together to squeeze money out from visitors (tourist included) but always with a wide, happy smile.

I smiled back and walked away. Next I headed to the F1 simulator.

"We're closed from 3 to 4 pm," and I wasn't prepared for the next line. "We're closed for refreshment." I think I heard right. Refreshment? That was the end of my trip to KL Tower. I paid so much for some unwanted services and a so-called simulator that was never meant to be.

Before heading back to Penang on a limited visibility highway due to the heavy rain, good thing I stopped by the Titiwangsa Lake Gardens (since I don't know how to get to the other one somewhere). It's nice there though a little bit deserted.

Nice eh?

Now it's back to the abattoir called university. Only here do that word applies. I've got my grant and it's time to make that bear fruit.

KL: Christmassy Sights, Sounds, and Scents

Am in KL for the MTSF research grant presentation and as always, a road trip is very much welcomed. If malls back home in Penang are all spruced up for the 25th, here in KL, it's much more elaborate and way more pines – wreaths or garlands. Not to mention giant trees everywhere. Even our former PM's (Tun Mahathir) bakery has blue lights on the vegetation surrounding the establishment at Pavillion KL.

Pavillion KL at the Bukit Bintang area; the fountain in front of the building is really beautiful

I was having a good time with the used-by-novice Kodak digital, shooting amongst the guys carrying 200 mm lens fitted to their squarish, bulky, expensive DSLRs. Man, they have gorgeous models with them too.

Experimenting with what I have, satisfied though limited

I'm surprised how far my legs carried me yesterday and today, effectively fulfilling my exercise quota for the remainder of the year. Tomorrow's D-day and I'm quite excited about the whole affair, more so the luncheon. Thereafter to KLCC and the environs, meaning another trigger-happy field day.

The Petronas Twin Towers, snapped from some housing area nearby during my aimless patrol around the city. Stunning.
   

A Quote from Sir Ralph Turner

Another Saturday afternoon and I was reading some war histories - specifically the Vietnam War - and seeing how one event (Gulf of Tonkin Incident and Resolution) could lead to war and a terrible aftermath (Khmer Rouge in Cambodia, Pathet Lao, and the Third Indochina War to name a few) when it ended in 1975.

Really, depending on how and where we read something, we'd always end with different conclusions and I've always maintained an open mind when it comes to that. I've always liked history (no, not the textbook history involving dates and nothing else) for that; it saves something for posterity, to mull over, to learn, and to decide who's who (if he or she ever wants to take sides).

War is definitely and ugly thing. It's funny how total war is outlawed in the Geneva Convention but then the act of taking lives in war seem to be legal. Figures! Man and his nature.

Crawling the web I inadvertently came upon blogs chronicling life during the Emergency and the bravery and honor of soldiers fighting for their country slash beliefs. I leave with the words of Sir Ralph Turner on the memorial of the Gurkhas:

As I write these last words, my thoughts return to you who were my comrades, the stubborn and indomitable peasants of Nepal. Once more I hear the laughter with which you greeted every hardship. Once more I see you in your bivouacs or about your fires, on forced march or in the trenches, now shivering with wet and cold, now scorched by a pitiless and burning sun. Uncomplaining you endure hunger and thirst and wounds; and at the last your unwavering lines disappear into the smoke and wrath of battle. Bravest of the brave, most generous of the generous, never had country more faithful friends than you.

-Sir Ralph Lilley Turner, MC (1888 - 1983)

Hackneyed

Sometimes I think that one should stick to routine so that things become more manageable and at other times, I support the act of doing something outrageous. Something out of the norm. And I can't tell for sure which is better and perhaps it's good to have balance between the two [with some bias towards...]

Soon, 2010 will be upon us (we've yet to build ourselves an Ark!!!) and I have come to think that what I do here seemed boring. Not that I don't enjoy writing but everything seems ordinary. Cliches abound. Overused phrases. Hackneyed theme. Expected. Too predictable.

Jaded, depressed and disillusioned?

But it's rewarding nonetheless.

Click here: I'm not saying that the same happened to President Obama though. And I enjoy his speeches more than local politicians with that smirk and derisive tone.

Tick Tock Goes the Clock

It's the year end and I suppose I deserve a break from work and the vanity of power struggles in the human world. And no, I'm not a Twilight fan; just played an accompanying chevalier (also Chevalier) to a major Edward Cullen fan. Seriously, that guy is kinda pale (guess that's what he should look like) and melancholic.

Enter Alice Cullen (Ashley Greene). When I saw her in school, things doesn't seem laid back or slow anymore. Boy, am I glad to see her again when she returned to Forks. I guess I'm eagerly waiting for June next year. Before that, Salt, Avatar, Lightning Thief, The Last Airbender...

Picture credit: twigirl4ever@glogster

And yeah, I love her hair.

I think it's always alright to escape and be captivated by what we see in the world-that-will-never-be; if that's what it takes to keep sane.

Tatakae, Julian!

Climate Summit: Make it Count

11 days to go before all the attention shifts to Copenhagen for the climate summit but I sure hope that all these preparations, demonstrations, hype do make a change for the foreseeable future. The one impediment remains, though: "small" and "developing" countries say that they need more time to adopt any stance on the betterment of the environment whilst the "big" and industrialized ones refused to take a clear stand; always steer clear of the one subject - reduce carbon emission.

After All These Years

Looking back in retrospect, we see the things we'd love to relive, the wrongs we'd have corrected or not commit, the hurts we'd love to brush aside and pretend they never did occur. Also, reflecting on the things we've [or haven't] been doing everyday will either make us proud or be ashamed. After all these years, I'm glad I feel these vibes for I am what I am; weathered by circumstances.

This and many other songs have good compositions making my past time all the more enjoyable. People may think I'm a weirdo for doing all the behold-this-is-my-past thing but different people look for an escape differently, no? Speaking of composition, it's been some time since I last lay, sprawled on the floor and scribble away on the back of a used envelope or a flyer and once done, post it here with a yellow-orange font.

And now I ask myself, after all these years, (1) what is the one thing I'm proud of doing? (2) what is the single most regretful thing I've done / not done? (3) would I make any changes / a difference given the chance to go back?

Have fun with Journey's After All These Years.

Pyramids, Mansions, and the Bird's Nest Stadium: The Impressional Excursion (2)

On my shortcomings, facilities and technology, I think it's wrong for one to say that the kind of work I produce is incomparable to those who used some stuff with some grand designs (see the post before this). Well, perhaps it's incomparable to that but that's where it ends. Seeing the field as a whole and seeing how people could produce good work sans the tongue-twisting technology, it's definitely possible to do that too. Problem? I lack strong basic foundation and creativity. Back to school, folks!

The Japanese word muzukashii means difficult. I stand corrected but I understand that it also means that something cannot be done (ability). What do I see myself? Muzukashii-difficult-in-doing-something as well as muzukashii-inability. I've got to buck up.

And lastly, the missing link called networking. Guess what? I was offered 1 Renminbi, a peculiar gift token but I appreciate it nonetheless. It doesn't bother me so much that I wish to throw myself in the path of an oncoming train but I appreciate the little conversations I had with a few people. What I like about the type of conversations I had? The one which migrated from Science to something more human. Warm.

I'm trying not to be politically incorrect here and so, the statement which follows are assumptions and generalizations based on a very small pool of statistically insignificant sample size but it is possible to correlate it with achievement and human nature. Make sense? No? Never mind that then. The Japanese are somewhat proud and unapproachable. The Americans? No luck in eliciting so much as a pathetic hello. The Chinese seems to be full of smiles and excitement. Now, before you jump to conclusions based on the relationship that pride and coldness is directly proportional to achievements, let me say that the Chinese did produce some commendable work and the word TANGIBLE below (para. 4, line 4) comes from their slides.

As for me, it's back to work and recapitulation of what I've done thus far. I'd never stop reflecting on myself because I believe that progress comes when one realizes he or she isn't moving, and realizing that honesty and critical evaluation of things past should be the way to go.

Pyramids, Mansions, and the Bird's Nest Stadium: The Impressional Excursion (1)

I'm not going to talk about architecture although I wish to note that there are pyramids in Bosnia; the first to be discovered in Europe. Read up if you haven't already knew. The International Scientific Conference about the Bosnian Valley of the Pyramids takes the acronym ICBP, the first being ICBP 2008.

Am just back from my very first conference (also an ICBP of sorts) and I must say that the amount of stuff I took in was enormous. That, among others, included food. A lot is in my mind right now and I have no idea how I'm going to let it flow nicely. Perhaps I should preserve that disorder in my mind here.

To begin with, I'd say that observing people when they interact with another of their kind is fun as it is interesting. I mean, these folks are distinguished people, authorities of their respective field of research. They smoke. They drink. They show emotions - agitated, annoyed, displeased, happy, surprise, and the expression goes on. In short, they're very much what I am - human. What differentiates people in the conference, between eminent and inconspicuous, would be 1) thinking 2) attitude 3) the right network and to a lesser but oftentimes seen 4) power plays.

I have 1, 2, missing 3 and definitely not 4 and I must remind myself never to have the last attribute. What I have is not at its fullest potential and what I lack may not necessarily stamp my downfall. It's encouraging to listen to the lectures and see for myself, tangible proof that something does work if enough creativity and effort is put into it. The conference itself is enriching as it is intimidating and if I may add, discouraging. I shall elaborate on the discouraging part shortly.

It's enriching because one listened from one source and then that was built upon by another. I took home a lot of hitherto unheard of things and certainly a lot of reading assignments for myself. It's intimidating due to the kind of work people produce, sheer creativity and ingenious use of technology.

When I say discouraged, many would jump to the conclusion that I've lost my motivation and that I dwell too much on the incomparables: low tech versus high tech. What I'm actually saying (hello, world!) is that I'm lamenting my shortcomings and the lack of useful facilities around me. I'm not saying it's the end of the world. And I've definitely not lost my direction and my aim or everything I've set out to do. Neither am I disillusioned.

You see, others may be kind enough and politely say that my work is interesting (this is an understatement, to say the least) but I don't afford myself dulcet tones of positive appraisals to the extend of being deceived by the seemingly good things. Rather, I subject myself to tough self-scrutiny lest I should rest on my laurels as they say.

I'm not being uptight but I know who I am. I want to better myself if I know I've yet to reach my limit. I have much to do and more to offer and currently, I'm just not good enough at the moment. I'm sometimes the green-eyed monster (no, it's not alright to be one) but I'm not one who slogged to achieve something blindly, or God forbid, gain something at the expense of someone else.

On resting on laurels [beds of roses or whatnot], I spoke to someone about his work and he was oh-so-excited about the results he's gotten so far that what comes out from the mouth after that borders on arrogance and selfishness. I'd just afford a wry smile.

Indigestion is quite fun

Attended a pre-conference workshop today from morning till evening and fed every 2 hours or so. Like the previous workshop where Prof John F. Leslie was invited, this one isn't going to be ordinary. We're honoured to have Prof Alexander Steinbüchel, Drs. Hideki Abe and Tadahisa Iwata. Man, big people, both status and stature, the latter especially true for Prof Steinbüchel.

Our guest from Westfälische Wilhelms-University, Münster, start off with the theme of the workshop and the conference: Bio-based polymers. Off he went about polymers. Fermenters. So far so good. Then came cyanophycin, KDPG aldolase-addiction system, and biorefineries.

Our Japanese speakers then dished out copoly(ester-amide)s, end-capped poly(L-lactide), and X-ray diffraction using their synchrotron, the SPring-8.

Wham! There I was, digesting bit by bit and making sense of every piece of information; not that their heavily-accented English helped. At the end of it, I have to give it to these men. Bright people living at the edge; the cutting edge technology. Imagine what the guys and gals in their laboratory could do. And here we have people showing off how good their research is.

I left that place enriched. Knowing that if I put my brain to good use (am doing that daily), nothing is impossible. New doors could always be open; could being the operative word here. If polyhydroxyalkanoates are but drops of water in the ocean, then chemosynthesis of new polymers would certainly paint a different picture for the environment.

Leaving that place also meant that I learned something: that is to be confident of what I'm pursuing. Start low but don't waste time. And make sure it's good science. I will remember to laugh at he or she who mocks the work of "lesser" beings, since if we're in this together how good can one be compared to the others. One thing is, I still can't see the rationale for all the competition happening right now in all possible directions.

Oh why, my fellow [still-a-lot-of-catching-up-to-do] researchers? Why?

Ah, knowledge is fulfilling and it gives me a good feeling.

National Principles, always?

WHEREAS OUR COUNTRY MALAYSIA nurtures the ambitions of:

• achieving a more perfect unity amongst the whole of her society;
• preserving a democratic way of life;
• creating a just society where the prosperity of the country can be enjoyed together in a fair and equitable manner;
• guaranteeing a liberal approach towards her rich and varied cultural traditions; and
• building a progressive society that will make use of science and modern technology.

NOW THEREFORE WE, the people of Malaysia, pledge to concentrate the whole of our energy and efforts to achieve these ambitions based on the following principles:

• BELIEF IN GOD
• LOYALTY TO KING AND COUNTRY
• THE SUPREMACY OF THE CONSTITUTION
• THE RULE OF LAW
• COURTESY AND MORALITY

I still remember the time when we're made to memorize the five principles above in school and even in scouting. The May 13 riot in '69 changed many things and these principle serve to preserve and promote unity among the people. Of course, most know that what we read in the textbook isn't entirely true based on official documents.

Today, whilst we still hold on to these principles and occasionally flash them in the television during National Day, funny we still see how some still trample on them and make a mockery out of the whole thing. But hey, these ideals and the visions of the founding fathers are reflected upon and often harped on during elections. It's the same all over the world right?

And I'm going to see the chiropractor in a day or two when the pile of stuff is gone. Killing me, both work and the pain.

Figures, Julian. Figures

Just when I thought that my contemporaries are educated and learned; able to see beyond race. Able to argue cogently. Am not going into the facts since when one chose not to accept them, why preach? I erred. And I have nothing else to add. Save, maybe, that prospects are bleak for the country with such leaders at the helm.

Need We Do More?

For the environment? Yes. Much more. And we don't need Blog Action Day to remind us.

Sarcasm works, the first time

Ungrateful Neighbour

I'm not sure if there's anything to say on the 'invasion of Malaysia' plan except that these people are as primitive as the weapon they [chose to] use, not to mention blind to the many things we've afford them. And sometimes, we're puzzled why we (represented by our leaders) seems to abjectly submit to them yet dumb enough to antagonize our other neighbours. They seem to get easy access (1.8 million 'conspirators' looks like a significant percentage, legal or otherwise) and many, citizenship.

My message? No one gives a dang if you're of the same creed in the same region.

Gather around now, people, and sing the national anthem (said to be ripped from the Indonesian anthem). Figures!

Do read the article by Philip Golingai.

God in a box

The film, Where Got Ghost, like all Singaporean comedies feted the audience with crude jokes and clever wordplay that never fail to elicit bouts of ha-ha throughout the screening. Long story short, there was this part in the film where the sons of a deceased mother decided not to worship her (ancestor worship) due to many mishaps in life. They did so after some thoughts and comparison with their well-to-do friend; apparently blessed with all the good things in life (a twist at the end leaving us all in stitches).

Now, I was like, "Wow, so conditional". Little did I know, many weeks after the show that I began to see a similarity between the characters and myself. Whilst the saying only the sick needs the doctor still stands, things are different when it comes to my walk with God.

Many times, we put the focus on the wrong things and end up feeling all odd and empty. It may be unrealistic goals fueled by selfish motives or simply putting blind faith in humans; so-called Christians or not.

I'm not sure how I'd end this one but it'd be hypocritical to end by saying that I'm all clear now: no more doubts now, and never will. I'm better off putting myself under constant reflection and not to be disheartened by the heat or tempest from every compass points.

God help me.

(Picture credit: here)

One of Many Bells

One of many wedding bells toll for Theen Kin and Yee Lin. To the newlyweds, my heartiest congratulations. I was in KL (again) to be at the most happening place in Malaysia: the dinner reception. Regretted not being able to make it for the wedding ceremony a day earlier but I'm glad they showed clips of it. My favourite? The photo shoot, without a doubt. Genuine smile and that magical look I was told to look out for many years back. And there's all to it. It put words to every shot and summed them up perfectly.

My first and am enthralled by the whole affair, although I wasn't there in person for the main event. Apart from that, it was good opportunity to catch up (imagine, I haven't met the bride for about 3 years already) with friends. Was great to see a few living the life they enjoy: doing the things that are meaningful and not for the sake of doing it. Everyone has come a long way and it's been too long since we last sat down during recess time at the school canteen. Now we meet again in a banquet hall, draped and spruced up to celebrate the union of our schoolmate with her soulmate.

Ah, I could hardly see with blurred vision now. Must be the cold, or was it?

Meeting a Friend

I can't think right at this hour. I'm preparing for an interview for a research grant tomorrow and decided to deposit a very significant moment today. I'm in Kuala Lumpur at the moment for the said interview and apparently, there was a plan to meet a friend who was out in the cold for a good nine months or so.

It's so good to meet up with someone after that period of time. The knowing smile. The unsaid gladness painted all over the face. Face gleaming. Grinning. Then came the usual what have you been up to and all went into top gear from there.

A bubbling sensation was felt when she began to share how she'd overcome the oft-encountered patronizing behaviour of the so-called men and women of science; people calling themselves scientists and academicians. I'd prefer the term politico-scientist. Never mind me, I'm thinking weird at this time.

On and on she went about the environment, about choices in life, and family members of course. Also, her preparation and application for the Chevening scholarship. Go girl! It was a rather short reunion which lasted the trip from the Institute of Medical Research to Mid Valley City (I'm not sure how far though). What I got? Great feelings and a first day cover; the latter being the (in her words) the most valuable item in her room [located in a rather old student residential hall, I may add].

Next I met up with another friend in Klang, the place one could find the famed bak kut teh or pork rib herbal soup. There were lots of food and catching up to do. Laughs and walkabout highlighted the meeting. Didn't know I'd see another down to earth and simple outlook towards life in the mean world. I've got to better myself rather than complain on and on and did nothing.

Unforgettable trip I reckon.

Trigger Happy Wanderlust

love it. not so good at it.
good eyes. lack of ideal settings though.

am seriously thinking off backpacking around the country after graduation (which is a distance away) and which means I have to start saving which I already have. speaking of which, I wanted to snap some nice photos - of places and structures and not faces.

i remembered once in my sophomore when I was asked to do a write up on my choice of archaeological sites in southeast asia -- to digress a little; archaeology lecture was fun even though its just to fill the credit quota. thoroughly informative and interesting. too bad i missed excavation and practical since they're offered for though choosing to do minor. back to photography, not sure if I'd own a DSLR or just a humble digital camera, mobile phone camera, plus GIMP to finish it. the latter seem realistic i reckon.

someone suggested writing a memoir. maybe a few more years, yeah? time to dry the wings and fly already? you bet.

good memories. disorganized compilation (this is an oxymoron, by the way)
great plans. unsure where to start.
am excited. real excited.

Strengthen harmony, learn acceptance

Prime Minister Datuk Seri Najib Tun Razak has called on Muslims and the people of Malaysia to strengthen harmony and break down any prejudice for the sake of the future generation.

"Let us make use of occasions like this to restore and strengthen relations among us Muslims and among us Malaysians," he said in his Hari Raya message.

Najib also called on the people "to repair the existing bridge and to expand it by building new ones."

"Let's break down the walls of prejudice, hatred and apathy for the sake of our children's future," he said.

More here

Another Aidilfitri (Eid ul-Fitr) address from the Prime Minister. Whilst inspiring festive messages abound through the years, can't help but think that it's only meaningful for the 15 minutes broadcast and forgotten soon after.

One should always be aware that disrespectful behaviour - whether a 'spur of the moment' thing or otherwise - could bring about feelings of discontentment and tension. Although the Eid is all about forgiving and seeking forgiveness (as are other mirthful festivals celebrated here), let not harmony be a once-a-year affair. No more senseless hollering and/or parading with an animal head. Yes, break down the walls of prejudice, hatred and apathy but don't stop and stare after the walls crumbled. Don't stare at the other guy but learn to live together; accepting and respecting his/her rights as a human being.

After 52 years, infantile screams and demands are unacceptable. Let cool heads prevail. I'm waiting to sup with my dear friends at another friend's Raya (from Hari Raya; day of festivity) open house. Ah, come soon 25th for I can't wait any longer.

And I Wish...

The festive mood is upon us again. And after countless laugh-filled fast-breaking sessions with the mates from the lab, now we get an invitation for a feast come the month of Syawal. Shout outs to Mimi, Asyura, Firdaus, Firdaus, Shameem and Farid. Not forgetting their boss Dr Zary Shariman and my boss Dr Normi; this Eid her first with her hubby.

Ah, the thought of scrumptious food...

Selamat Hari Raya Aidilfitri, Maaf Zahir dan Batin

We Remember

the billowing smoke
the lives snuffed out prematurely

the crumbling buildings
the shattered hearts

the sombre mood
the quiet cries
the inconsolable grief

we'll remember that life is precious
wherever. whenever.
to heal, reconcile and move on.

(Photo from here)

The Ever First Time I Saw Your Face

The first time I ever hugged you
and felt your heart so close to mine
the first time ever I saw your face
I just wanted to protect you
and help you through the hungry years
because you're part of me
for you are special, a miracle from above

The first time ever I carried you
I'd been waiting for the moment for years
I thought it would not come.
Gladness, joy and thanksgiving filled my heart
The first time I ever saw your face.
You're the angel from the above
only God creates such perfect love.

So be free, spread your wings
a whole new world is waiting for you

By one C. Wong in today's Heart and Soul column of the Sunday Star; inspired by the Roberta Flack song (The Ever First Time I Saw Your Face).

And I've always wondered why there exist people who couldn't appreciate life whilst others struggled to conceive.

52 Years of Independence

The country celebrates its Independence Day today, 52 years of nationhood after centuries under the rule of the Portuguese, Dutch, and of the British. It's really nice to see and reflect upon; the fact that the country is made up of not only a type of people, but many different races. Another thing is that we speak more than one language and we don't have to attend classes to be able to master them. And then there's the food. Scrumptious selection of food.

Although unity is the keyword, we've had our share of racial riots and tension. And we have communal-hero-wannabe politicians playing up racial issues. When we thought we'd be known by one name, we're given designations like Malay, Indian, Chinese and Others. In neighbouring Indonesia, they have over 30 ethnics/race yet they go around by the name Indonesians.

I've said before that unity isn't a yearly affair nor is it scripted for the silver screen. No doubt, we have some true Malaysians trying to send the message home via their short films and commercials and I don't have any problems with that. In fact, I love them and almost always touched by them, moved to tears if you like. What I'm saying when I mention silver screen and scripted in the same sentence is that we have, on one hand, politicians (sigh, again) preaching unity during some ceremonies and on the other hand sow mistrust among the people. And they have the cheek to promote the country to the world. Shame. I wouldn't invite guests to my house if I haven't tidied up.

Yes, it was a proud moment for everyone when the first Prime Minister, Tunku Abdul Rahman, proclaimed the nation's independence although I only see it in black and white clips (so I couldn't say I comprehend the whole affair fully) but are we really truly independent in the sense that we're able to self-rule and not model everything after our colonial masters? If the British employed the divide and rule strategy back then, I don't dare say we're a homogeneous society today. I don't believe that leaders of the same colour only represent their own i.e. Malay leader ensuring the rights of the Malay, the Chinese their own and the Indians too. If one is able, who cares if you're of a different hue?

Aren't there still outdated (or archaic) laws being used today? What was created yesterday for a specific purpose being used to silence the voice of dissent today. Sovereign state yes, but it seems that we're mentally shackled. Unable to make our own decisions, unable to make known what we truly wanted.

To sum it up, 52 years is a relatively long time and yet short if compared to other nations. In some ways, we can be proud of our differences but in others, it's a sad affair to see how we're still identified based on our colour and creed. The government uses the various laws to detain men and women perceived to be a threat to the nation's security / stability yet no real measures are taken to promote greater unity. Lots of speeches but no real actions. They preach tolerance but I wish to say that acceptance is the better word. No?

EVERY DAY, there is sure to be at least one news article about racism – be it to “remind” the nation to live in harmony, or a report about disrespectful behaviour towards another religion...

Read more >

Happy Independence Day!

Penny

I read forwarded mails whenever I get them. The whole week being a rather slow one, and how restless everything and everyone seem, do get me down somewhat. Clicked on it and "Hey, it's nice. A change from the usual cute Photoshop-ed piccies." Lengthy, but what the heck. I've left this space for a long time already. Here goes.

You always hear the usual stories of pennies on the sidewalk being good luck, gifts from angels, etc. This is the first time I've ever heard this twist on the story. Gives you something to think about.

Several years ago, a friend of mine and her husband were invited to spend the weekend at the home of her husband's employer.
My friend, Arlene, was nervous about the weekend. The boss was very wealthy, with a fine home on the waterway, and cars costing more than her house.

The first day and evening went well, and Arlene was delighted to have this rare glimpse into how the very wealthy live. Her husband's employer was quite generous as a host, and took them to the finest restaurants. Arlene knew she would never have the opportunity to indulge in this kind of extravagance again, so was enjoying herself immensely

As the three of them were about to enter an exclusive restaurant one evening, the boss was walking slightly ahead of Arlene and her husband.
He stopped suddenly, looking down on the pavement for a long, silent moment.
Arlene wondered if she was supposed to pass him. There was nothing on the ground except a single darkened penny that someone had dropped, and a few cigarette butts. Still silent, the man reached down and picked up the penny.
He held it up and smiled, then put it in his pocket as if he had found a great treasure.
How absurd! What need did this man have for a single penny? Why would he even take the time to stop and pick it up?

Throughout dinner, the entire scene nagged at her. Finally, she could stand it no longer. She casually mentioned that her daughter once had a coin collection, and asked if the penny he had found had been of some value.

A smile crept across the man's face as he reached into his pocket for the penny and held it out for her to see. She had seen many pennies before! What was the point of this?

"Look at it," he said. "Read what it says."
She read the words, " United States of America ."

"No, not that. Read further."

"One cent?"
"No, keep reading."

"In God we Trust?"
"Yes!"
"And?. . ."

"And if I trust in God, the name of God is holy, even on a coin. Whenever I find a coin, I see that inscription. It is written on every single United States coin, but we never seem to notice it! God drops a message right in front of me telling me to trust Him. Who am I to pass it by? When I see a coin, I pray. I stop to see if my trust IS in God at that moment. I pick the coin up as a response to God; that I do trust in Him. For a short time, at least, I cherish it as if it were gold. I think it is God's way of starting a conversation with me. Lucky for me, God is patient and pennies are plentiful!"

When I was out shopping today, I found a penny on the sidewalk. I stopped and picked it up, and realized that I had been worrying and fretting in my mind about things I cannot change. I read the words, "In God We Trust," and had to laugh. "Yes, God, I get the message!"

It seems that I have been finding an inordinate number of pennies in the last few months, but then, pennies are plentiful! And, God is patient.

Stories from My Mother

Apart from the usual 1960s childhood experience and stories from the Bible, I remembered when mum spoke to me about her experience breast-feeding me. How I prefer formula to breast milk and how I'd turn away after a moment's suckle. I guess she must have felt how I was feeling when I cuddled a baby.

I don't remember anything up until the time I was watching Thundercats (that's besides the point) but I know that I was close to her during my growing up years - toddler, adolescent. Then it's like a continental drift (was it 3 cm a year?) between us; not sure what happened though. Maybe I know but prefer keeping it under wraps.

Was the lack of eye contact to be blamed for this rickety relationship? If anyone is wondering where do eye contact fit into the picture then allow me to enlighten (if you don't already know) you from what I'd picked up from Developmental Psychology lectures: That the distance (about 9 inches) when the baby is suckling i.e. being breastfed by the mother is the distance at which the infant can best focus. It seems that eye contact is important to build that connection between mother and infant. That was reinforced by findings that mothers of blind infants express difficulty in feeling the closeness with their infant (Paton & Brown, 1991).

Guess mother had something, possibly some strong stuff during her confinement period, which came up during my mealtime. It's a loss isn't it? After years of building to see pieces of it peeling and falling off.

Picture credit: Hugo Robus, One and Another, Smithsonian American Art Museum

A Year Comes Full Circle

Convocation is around the corner and dawned upon me how fast one year passes. It was around this time last year that I graduated and now I'm out of the big picture; standing inconspicuously and observing from one corner.

I can't say I've achieved what I set out to complete but surely, it's been an eventful one year. On the surface, a lot of new things happen and old ones vanished away. At times, I'm on top of that proverbial wheel of life and sometimes at the bottom-most part, rubbing against the ground.

Another year or so and I'd be graduating again. As much as a lot has changed, I still see that some old habits do indeed die hard. Sometimes, with big status comes big headedness too. In short? I was told that life's like a wheel, sometimes I'm on top and other times, bottom. But I wasn't told that being at the bottom hurts. Gosh! People ought to come up with better analogies for life.

PS. Soon, I'd be observing another anniversary like this one.

Sadness At Six Thousand Feet

The gang (from the lab) reached Genting Highlands at about 5 in the morning and the first thing that greeted me was the gust of very cold wind. It takes some getting used to and when I'm moving freely around up there, it's time to come down. Time sure flies don't they? Especially when one doesn't get enough from the thrilling rides of the theme park.

Since we'd only be checking into the hotel at noon, we decided to do some exploration around the plaza. Of course, most shops were shut safe for some eateries and the casinos. We made our way into one of the casinos, confirmed that we're over the stipulated age for entry, and behold a small world bustling world. I was walking around the place with a hot beverage in my hand (drinks are free) observing the people my eye happen to fall on. One man has a cigarette between his index and middle fingers, one leg up on a chair and another hand tapping on the slot machine. On the screen, I could see pictures scrolling down, all neatly arranged in five columns. Throughout my few times going into the casinos there (for drinks of course), I'd see two types (or more than that if I'm wrong) of people: well-dressed affluent individuals and individuals wearing a desperate look on their faces. Looks can be deceiving, I know, but in this case I based my observations on the actions and the much overlooked subtle changes of the expression. I believe lexicographers call the latter nuance.

It saddens me to see one could gamble round the clock; downing cups of coffee in between cigarettes stopping only for to ease themselves in the restroom. From word of mouth, those coming up here to win big in the casino only go back to their room to change and bathe. I bet some don't even book a room. As much as I'm against gambling in whatever form, I respect that each individual has their own motivation and hence know what they're in for although most of the time, the desperation and addiction impairs their ability to reason. It saddens me to see how one guy kept going despite losing so much of his chips. I may not know him personally but I believe that these men and women are fathers and mothers and I stopped short of speculating the situation at home, since I'm experiencing it, it wouldn't shock me too much if we're to think of the worst. And then, the number of people at a given time gambling away shocks me. Was it entertainment? Need? Greed? Or addiction? If it isn't too much, I'd say that if one thinks gambling could open a way for riches and a comfortable life then he or she is clinging on false hope. Falsely assured by a brittle scaffold which threatens to fall apart and plunge them deeper.

I could not but if I could, I'd go up to those with a desperate look (isn't difficult to look for one, a guy even scoff at a gal whom I take to be his close companion when she tugged at his sleeve and whispered something) and tell them to pack up and leave.

Lab mates do win and that's all to it. It isn't normal to make gambling a need for quick buck. Anyway, I'd miss the time I had up there: the climate, the view, and the rides (oh yeah!!). One major turn off: the prices of food up there, sad but understandable.

Muted Oracle

Is it true that I'm but ordinary?
Been searching for answers, for assurance, daily
Is it also true then, that I've not reached into you?
From what I see, my actions and words are anything but new

For what is an embrace, if you I disgrace?
What is a kiss, when my words, your heart they miss?
What good is a smile, when the heart is away over a mile?
And why affectionate words, when they're often forced or went unheard?

Are you around only when it's lovey-dovey, cozy and mushy?
Or would you stick by even when it's sickly, drowsy, choppy and facing bankruptcy?
Pray tell, what's behind that poker face - phlegmatic and sometimes saturnine
Tell me now, tell me true or missed chances yours to rue

Gas chromatography analysis. 21 samples; three per hour

Farewell, Yasmin Ahmad. Rest in Peace

"...famed for her advertisements and films capturing the essence of racial harmony in Malaysia"

How true! The most memorable movie, for me, would be Sepet. Of course, weeks ago, my lab mates and I sat down in a circle and started discussing adverts: humorous and meaningful ones. Apart from the yellow Digi man, the memorable ones would be those by Yasmin Ahmad. Come Hari Raya (the Eid), Chinese New Year and Deepavali, one could expect to catch her latest brainchild. People remember Petronas for the adverts but not everyone knew the person behind them.

Like MJ's passing, her's was another shock to me. I was out of the house for the past 24 hours and here I am going online to see what's new. Wham! It hit me.

And I began to think how crappy life could be sometimes. The unseen at the next bend, the unexpected at the next mile. How is it that corrupt politicians and communal bigots don't just fall one after another? Unfair? Perhaps.

...Yasmin's theme of 1Malaysia which is only advocated by our prime minister recently has been in her movies and commercials for a long time...

- CHU SP, Tributes forYasmin Ahmad, The Star Online

Yasmin, may God bless your soul. I may not know you personally but it's a sad day for me and fellow Malaysians. You spoke to us through the silver screen. Some are touching and others cut through into the spirit. Each taught me what it means to be a human, as opposed to an island. And that no one is superior to the other.


Tributes here... Reading each one brought back memories and the lessons.
Another here: Rest in Peace Yasmin Ahmad - Khalisah Stevens

Life in Motion: Breaking Down

There wasn't any warning; no ember "check engine" light nor tremors associated with a break down. The engine just died and the car rolled to a stop. Dialled the highway authority's number, waited for help to arrive, and got to thinking...

Vivid pictures began forming. Not exactly static pictures, rather short clips flashing across in a disorganized manner; the kind you'd expect when you look at my half completed project in Windows Movie Maker (or any other video editing software running on any other PCs).

There I was in my green necktie during assembly. Then in a purple necktie during the varsity's orientation week. And yet another tie, this time blue with a matching light yellow during my convocation. Sometimes I'm clad in white lab coat, well, off-white over the years in service.

Cars zoomed by. A black, heavily-modded Celica. A tour bus.

"Time flies, faster than these objects doing 110 kph" I thought to myself.

So where am I in life? Have I deviated? Thrown off course? Is my goal still the same selfless decision? Or have the riches and enticing proffers of research leading me instead?

For a start, I haven't stepped on anybody's head, figuratively of course. I don't think I'd be following the men and women of science towards achieving glory; feeding on the flesh and drinking the blood of hapless fellow human beings whilst betraying who we are.

I'm still up serving people as a professional, pro bono I may add. My motivation would be simple and unadulterated. It'd be for betterment of my surrounding and for knowledge (since I've been saying that three years of varsity isn't enough, well maybe not here) and others take precedence to them.

I must be deep in thought and half dreaming about it. The burly guy shook me so hard and he was still holding oon to my shoulder when I opened my eyes. We spoke briefly before his friend got down and hook my car to the cable, chains, or whatever it's called.

Note: It's been a while since I wrote the 'Life in Motion' part. Nothing out of the ordinary I suppose.

Shamelessly Boasting?

What's there to boast when we're speaking Manglish
by Yeow Boon Kiat

WE Malaysians have always been praised by foreigners because we can speak several languages and dialects.

Most of us are able to at least master basic English and a few other languages.

We like to boast before our Chinese, Taiwanese, Japanese and Korean friends that our English is better than theirs.

We even like to make fun of their English pronunciation and we feel superior to them.

But what is there to boast when we are just speaking Manglish most of the time?

Many of us fail to improve our English because of a complacent mindset.

Read more...

Opening Up

She smiled at me the other day.

We spoke briefly over a hot dog and a glass of drink.

We all sat down over breakfast and began chatting; there I was munching away at a piece of cake.

These are situations that occur time and again. It may be at different places and involves different people but the outcome is still the same. I'd just say my hello and that's about all to it. It's different when I'm in the lab. I guess that is attributed to my seeing them everyday and we've come to be very close to one another. We'd go for food every other day (a big meal coming up 4 hours from now) and futsal every Wednesday evening. Next month, there'll be a trip to Genting Highlands although I'm not sure if I'd be heading up there.

Enough of what we do as a lab, I have problems (not really a problem since it's not disrupting my life, not yet) when meeting new people. I just froze. Never mind if I'm a chatterbox, especially in the lab, or if I'm like Sheldon of The Big Bang Theory, I'm a totally different person when it comes to the ice-breaking. Not sure what contributed to my being shy though.

There were times when I just let the opportunity pass knowing full well that something nice could develop from it. Gosh! And I regretted it thereafter. Someone suggested that I speak to myself *lol* but I think I'd do better to just go up and start wow-ing them. Never mind if I have the look of Spock.

One more thing, it happens only when I meet people of the opposite gender. Carpe diem, Julian!

Jauh Perjalanan Indah Permandangan

The Malay title of this post can be loosely translated into English as beautiful scenes (or scenery) from distant travelling. The gang of scientists and psudoscientists made their way to Sungai Siput, Perak to attend the akad nikah (Malay for marriage solemnization) between lab supervisor Dr Normi Yahaya and Prof Dr. Basyaruddin Abdul Rahman.

The gang from Lab 418, two MIA

It's a first for me, I mean the traditional Malay wedding. If we have lots of banana leaves and Hindu priests in the Indian wedding; the everything-red plus lots of food in the Chinese, here I experience first hand the event right from the beginning to the end, one so steeped in culture and religious (Islamic) values. And yeah, they have tea ceremony just like the Chinese thanks to Dr Normi's mixed parentage.

The kadi, the witnesses, the groom and the bride's dad (second from left)

The bride is lovely and the groom complemented her perfectly. There were wedding gifts spread over a part of the hall, both from the bride and the groom's family. After prayer and a short sermon by the kadi (see here for explanation; some men knowledgeable in religious matters), it proceeded with the groom accepting the mas kahwin and witnessed by the two witnesses as well as the bride's father (as the wali representing her daughter). The kadi then pronounced them as husband and wife.


Armed with my Olympus digital camera (with the light sensitivity set to the highest, ISO 640), I fought tooth and claw (not) with the pros and their DSLRs. I'm glad I got some really nice pictures. The rest, I think, is history. The food's good and the place is great. The pelamin (wedding stage) looks great and word has it that the bride's father is the master craftsman behind it.

The bride's family. From left: Daddy dearest, hubby, lil' sister, bride, mommy

The gang left the place at around 3 pm and head towards Ipoh. Some, of course, elected to head straight for home. I brought with me an unforgettable day, one filled with laughter and the grins of the newlywed. Whilst in Ipoh, I was in the bookstore and a book caught my attention. It's by Leil Lowndes with the title How to Talk to Anyone - 92 Little Tricks for Big Success in Relationships.

Behold, the following excerpt from one of the chapters; something which I will elaborate on next time.

The exact moment that two humans lay eyes on each other has awesome potency. The first sight of you is a brilliant holograph. It burns its way into your new acquaintance's eyes and can stay emblazoned in his or her memory forever.

Not sure what really happened but I think the holograph and the emblazon parts were missing in whilst we were there in the wedding reception. Yeah, the cat's tail is out of the bag. Hanging almost lifelessly from between the zippers. I met someone there.

Thinking Aloud

The Chinese man with a moustache is seen loitering outside the semi-detached house. Quiet neighbourhood and that area terminated in a circular cul-de-sac. Another Chinese bloke came out and handed a small wad of cash; in a multiples of 50 I presume. The guy with a moustache quickly left after grabbing the money.

Mr Moustache is dressed in a different colour today but it's still a polo T albeit of an inferior quality. This time, I saw him enter a much bigger house. This one has a dog with a pink nose, a black Citroen 2CV (or something similar, I'm not sure), and another 7-seater MPV. I love the interior: vases, china with dragons on them, some wooden sculptures and a shelf full of books, besides the modern electrical appliances. "An antique dealer" I thought to myself. "Not easy dealing with old pieces. After all, who buys antique items everyday?"

"But I don't have that much", the bespectacled man said.

"I need it for [unintelligible]" Mr Moustache replied, eyebrows lowered.

"Here, this is all I have. I need the rest for the week's expenses."

"Thanks, I'd be back..." I waited with bated breath. "To return the cash." He turned away, still laughing. Creep.

It's wonderful how our mind works. We'd weave the most interesting of stories or those with tear-eliciting plots. Ah, with imagination I know no bounds. I could penetrate walls. See through walls. I could even move from one point to another, both having totally different settings, the instant I wish to do so. Sometimes, true stories seemed like fiction and I couldn't believe it myself.

I see Mr Moustache again. "Son, do you have some cash?"