Limau tambun

376. KELEDANG CLUB TO PROMOTE VISIT PERAK YEAR 2012

2012-01-03T11:13:00.015+08:00

Kelab Bakti Gunung Keledang, an Ipoh based charity club famed for its community services programmes has set its sight on helping the state government promote the much publicised Visit Perak Year (VPY) 2012. The club's new president, Dato' Hj Megat Ahmad Shahrani bin Hj Megat Shahrudin said this in his accepting speech after his installation ceremony at the Installation Nite at The Crystal Ballroom, Impiana Hotel recently.

Megat felt that the beautiful serene Royal Belum national Park in Upper Perak and a clean Ipoh City would be the key to the success of VPY campaign.

"Promoting Royal Belum and keeping Ipoh city clean and tidy will be the objective club members will be pursuing in ensuring VPY a success" he added.

The club will need to work closely with Ipoh City Council to achieve the objective.

"Ipoh used to be famous for its cleanliness. The best way to bring back the glory is to garner its city dwellers support to complement the city council's effort to clean up the city through' gotong royong' programmes involving the club's members and families. Our club might be small but we can mobilise our networkings" he reiterated.

Incidentally, this so called 'Malay elite' club of 67 members is the who's who in Perak boasting the immediate past and the present Menteri Besar of Perak among its membership.

Prior to the installation ceremony, Dato' Mohd Razali Khalid, the outgoing president in his farewell speech mentioned that the club's special project for the year was the establishment of two welfare homes, Pusat jagaan Rumah Ihsan and Rumah Anak-anak Yatim Darussalam constructed on a piece of land donated by a senior member were completed and ready for occupation in 2012.

He was very appreciative of the contributions made by various corporate bodies, club members as well as private donors across the country.

DYTM Raja Muda who is the Club Patron, Raja Dr Nazrin Shah and his consort, DYTM Raja Puan Besar, Tuanku Zara Salim were the royal guests of honour at the installation dinner.

The function which started at 8.30 pm ended at 11.40 pm.

375. GOODBYE 2011 HELLO 2012

2012-01-01T00:01:00.010+08:00

Another year has just ended as we welcome the year 2012 with new hope and new aspirations with proper planning and execution to reach new frontiers.

The final hours of 2011 was not that pleasant especially watching on TV, Manchester United, my favourite soccer team, getting beaten by a young Blackburn Rovers team at Old Trafford in the EPL.

To make matters worst, I was watching the game on TV through my sore eyes!

Nonetheless, It proved that the EPL is full of surprises, exciting and joy to watch.

On an odd day even a basement team with many young players and a veteran striker could still produced a five star defensive display and through sporadic raids scored three goals... and the mighty champion went out smoking on home soil.

To Blackburn and Steve Kean, well done!

The year 2011 though recorded many historic and memorable moments in my life and I pray that 2012 will be more eventful and productive for all of us...

HAPPY NEW YEAR TO ALL LIMAU TAMBUN READERS AND VISITORS

374. ENTER THE NEW PRESIDENT...FOR OUR KELEDANG CLUB

2011-12-31T20:25:00.006+08:00

The yearly Keledang Club Installation Nite every year end is always the club's highlight. This year's event is no different. As usual, The guest of honour is the Club Patron ,DYTM Raja Muda of Perak, Raja Dr Nazrin Shah graced the occasion with his consort, DYTM Raja Puan Besar.

It is the Keledang Club tradition to elect and install a new president at every year end to head the club's main committe for the following year. Each president serve only one calendar year to be succeeded by another member.

What makes it more interesting is during the installation night, members, their families including the kids as young as 4 years old will make special presentations and shows in the form of singing, dancing, comical acts, fashion shows and musical displays to entertain the the guests.

The dances by Keledang Kids were superb and the fashion show by the Keledang Ladies was sheer magic.Sdr Dato' Hj Megat Ahmad Shahrani, the current Club's Vice President, an accomplished civil and structural contractor was elected and elevated as the new Keledang Club's President for the year 2012. He will be assisted by Sdr Dato Hj Mohd Hamdan Dato' Hj Ahmad, a well known landscape contractor as the new Vice President.

The gala nite ended near midnight with the Royal guests acknowledging the performers and the audience.

Another successful event of a string of colourful events by the Club to end another memorable year.

372.TRIP TO ROYAL BELUM FOREST RESERVE...WE CARE

2011-12-31T19:54:00.003+08:00

I have never been to the Royal Belum. In fact none in the family has set foot to this part of Northern Perak, famed for being one of the oldest rain forest in Malaysia, in fact in the world.

Perak, our home state has earmarked the year 2012 as VISIT PERAK YEAR. Royal Belum Forest Reserve, gazetted as a national heritage has been targeted as one of the premier destinations for local and world tourists.

With the objective of having a first hand look and pursuing a few community projects in the villages in the vicinity, Kelab Keledang members and families numbering 79 persons set the journey by cars on one beautiful October 2011 weekend.

to be continued...

371.DI AMBANG HIJRAH DI TAMAN MERU IPOH, PERAK

2011-11-26T18:33:00.004+08:00

SALAM HIJRAH 1433

Dari awal minggu, tiga buah khemah mega telah mula didirikan di pekarangan Masjid al Mutaqqin, Taman Meru, Ipoh.

Masjid yang jaraknya hanya 200 meter dari rumah ku telah dipilih sebagai lokasi untuk majlis sambutan diambang hijrah peringkat negeri Perak tahun ini.

Jam 1.00 tengahari ini, TNB telah siap menyediakan genset standby, kerusi-kerusi siap diatur dalam khemah dan para caterer juga kelihatan sibuk menyiapkan persediaan untuk jamuan malam ini. Jamuan buffet untuk rakyat dan jamuan berdome untuk pemimpin.

Solat Zuhur tengahari tadi masih macam biasa, hanya dua saf jemaah.

Alhamdulillah pada waktu 'Asar, jemaah dalam masjid mula penuh. Ada bas yang membawa rombongan daripada TLDM Sri Pelanduk dan ada juga bas daripada Universiti Pendidikan Sultan Idris, Tanjung Malim serta bas dari UNiKL membawa rombongan pelajar. Tak kisahlah daripada mana hadirin datang, asalkan masjid penuh dan majlis dapat diimarahkan.

Ceramah agama yang disampaikan oleh penceramah undangan menyusul diikuti dengan bacaan surah Yaasin menjelang waktu maghrib. Naskah-naskah surah Yaasin yang cantik diedarkan percuma kepada jemaah.

Tetamu undangan yang dijangkakan Menteri Besar Perak diwakili oleh Kapten Dato' Najmuddin, ADUN Batu Kurau merangkap Penasihat Agama.

Sementara menanti waktu Isyak dan Forum Perdana selepas solat Isyak , jemaah dijemput menikmati jamuan makan secara buffet. Maka bersusun panjanglah barisan beratur untuk mendapat makanan percuma.

Alangkah cantiknya jika para pemimpin pun dapat turut serta beratur menikmati makanan untuk rakyat. Baru terasa hijrahnya telah bermula...

Apa pun terima kasih lah kepada kerajaan Negeri Perak kerana sudi memilih masjid khariah ku untuk majlis di ambang hijrah.

SEMOGA ALLAH TA'ALA MEMBERI HIDAYAH KEPADA KITA SEMUA UNTUK BERHIJRAH SIKAP DAN MATLAMAT KEARAH YANG LEBIH BAIK.

p/s Sayang sekali, anggota RELA yang bertugas di pintu masuk masjid tidak berkesempatan solat 'Asar kerana katanya tidak dibenarkan meninggalkan pos....ia ke?

370. SALAM AIDILADHA

2011-11-06T00:05:00.004+08:00

Selamat Hari Raya Aidil 'Adha diucapkan kepada semua muslimin dan muslimat di seluruh Malaysia dan di mana jua blog ini dibaca.

Semoga kita terus berusaha menjalani kehidupan dalam mencari keredhaan Allah subhanahu wa ta'ala.

369. ILI KHALIDAH...CONGRATULATIONS ON THIS SPECIAL MOMENT IN LIFE...

2011-10-10T23:15:00.015+08:00

As early as 5.15 a.m today, I am up and ready to share this very special event on our academic calender this year .

October 10, 2011 is no ordinary day. I need to dress up immediately after the Subuh prayers to be in time for the 7.00 a.m journey to the Multimedia University 3rd day of this 12th MMU Convocation ceremony scheduled at 8.00 a.m even if the journey would only take 5 minutes. Our girl reminded us about the schedule on the invitation card and to be early to get the best seats though I am perfectly aware that the ceremony would start much later.

No matter, as proud parent to our youngest darling, even if the varsity were to call us for the ceremony at midnight, my wife and I would still be there.

We just wanted to register how blessed and thrilled we are to share this precious moment in our daughter's life. The day when she would be receiving her first class honours bachelor's degree in accountancy from Multimedia University, Malaysia is another milestone in our life.

Congratulations dear...luv u very much. In the strong family tradition of academic excellence, you have raised the bar of par excellence to a greater height...well done ILI KHALIDAH.

Thank you MMU...and Thank you Telekom Malaysia

368.HAPPY 'EID MUBARAK

2011-08-29T16:17:00.007+08:00

Wishing all my friends and blog visitors... A very happy Eid Mubarak and may Allah bestows prosperity, good health and taqwa to all of us.

During this joyous and special occasion, spare a thought to our fellow brothers and sisters who might not be as fortunate...

Take care...

SELAMAT HARI RAYA 'AIDILFITRI

Saya dan keluarga mengucapkan Selamat Hari Raya 'Aidilfitri kepada semua sanak saudara, sahabat handai dan semua pengunjung blog ini.

Dengan rasa rendah diri, kami pohon ampun ma'af zahir dan batin jika ada terkasar bahasa, tersalah kata dan tersinggung rasa...

Dalam masa kita merayakan hari yang mulia ini, ingatlah juga saudara-saudara seagama yang mungkin tidak sebertuah kita...

Semoga kita semua didalam peliharaan dan keberkatan Allah subhanahu wata'ala jua...

367.HARI RAYA COMES EARLY FOR DARUSSALAM KIDS

2011-08-23T13:03:00.004+08:00

It was a joyous occasion. The Keledang Club officials including The President, Vice President, Committee members, club members and their respective families descended upon The Darussalam Orphanage Home in Simpang Pulai, Ipoh to join the 57 Darussalam kids at the Iftar session last Tuesday evening.

Such event has been the yearly ritual since last year. This year was kind of special because this would be the final year we are having the Iftar at this temporary place.

The Club has adopted the whole orphanage and will be relocating them to a new modern complex in Kampong Melayu, Ipoh by end of the year, insyaallah.

The new complex will be built on a plot of land donated by a club member. The total cost of construction and facilities estimated at RM 600,000 was raised from members and well wishers contributions through Yayasan Bakti Keledang, our Club's foundation.

The evening dishes sponsored by a club member and prepared by the staff were simply delicious and tasty. All of us including the Darussalam kids had a hearty meal.

After the Maghrib prayers, it was time for our Club President to update the progress of club's project to the delight of the Darussalam kids followed by the distribution of the 'duit raya' packets.

The club's doyen, Tan Sri Ahmad Azizzuddin started the ball rolling to the joy of all. The Keledang ladies were not to be outdone.

Even Muzill, the LT Watch Gallery owner and the club's youngest member dug deep into his pocket to hand out the 'duit raya' packets. Indeed this Hari Raya comes early for this 57 Darussalam kids…

SELAMAT HARI RAYA…

366.KELAB BAKTI GUNUNG KELEDANG-AKTIVITI SEPANJANG BULAN RAMADHAN

2011-08-14T13:24:00.006+08:00

Agak lama saya tidak melaporkan aktiviti kelab dalam blog ini. Bukannya kelab tiada aktiviti tetapi sejak tidak berada dalam AJK induk, sumber maklumat aktiviti terhad kepada aktiviti-aktiviti yang mampu saya sertai atau petik daripada buletin kelab.

Seperti biasa setiap tahun kelab lebih rancak menganjurkan aktiviti kebajikan sepanjang bulan Ramadhan khusus untuk golongan anak yatim, masyarakat Orang Asli Islam dan ibu tunggal serta ibu tinggal.

Segala pembiayaan disalurkan daripada dana Yayasan Bakti Keledang yang diuruskan oleh Kelab Bakti Gunung Keledang.

Masyarakat Orang Asli
1. Mulai 01- 29 Ramadhan-Program morei untuk majlis berbuka puasa setiap petang di tiga buah Kampong Orang Asli (KOA) iaitu di KOA Kg Lalang, Jalan Cameron Highlands, KOA Kg Makmur, Tambun dan di KOA Sg Choh, Tambun.
2. Pada 17 Ramadhan-Program morei Khas disertai oleh ahli-ahli keluarga Keledang di KOA Kg Makmur untuk penduduk Gugusan Kg Makmur, Kg Batu, Kg Tonggang dan sekitarnya. Diharap pada majlis yang dijangka dihadiri oleh 600 orang penduduk dapat kemukakan masalah mereka secara langsung kepada ADUN kawasan yang akan turut hadir.
3. Kutipan sumbangan daripada ahli-ahli dan keluarga Keledang untuk mangsa-mangsa tanah runtuh di KOA Sg Ruil, Cameron Highlands sedang diusahakan. Semua sumbangan yang diterima akan disampaikan kepada mangsa-mangsa tanah runtuh tersebut sebelum Hari Raya Aidilfitri.
Rumah Anak-anak Yatim
1. Pada 03 Ramadhan-Program morei bersama anak-anak yatim Nurul Huda Budi Mulia, Tanah Hitam, Chemor. Sdr Dato' Presiden, Sdr Dato' Naib Presiden, ahli-ahli kelab dan para isteri serta ahli-ahli keluarga turut hadir.
2. Pada 09 Ramadhan-Sdr Nor Ali, Setiausaha Kehormat kelab telah sudi meraikan anak-anak yatim Darul 'Aini dan Darussalam di majlis berbuka puasa dan solat Maghrib berjemaah di Hotel Seri Malaysia, Ipoh.
3. Pada 09 Ramadhan-Sdr Dato' Ishak Hj Mohamad, ahli kelab meraikan anak-anak yatim di majlis berbuka puasa, solat Maghrib, solat Isyak dan solat Tarawih berjemaah di Kompleks anak yatim BAKIP, Meru Raya, Ipoh.
4. Pada 09 Ramadhan- Program iftar kelab bersama anak-anak yatim di Darul Hikmah, Sungai itik, Gopeng.
5. Pada 15 Ramadhan- Program iftar dan solat berjemaah bersama anak-anak yatim Darussalam, Simpang Pulai. Terima kasih kepada ahli-ahli kelab yang telah sudi menyumbang pakaian hari raya untuk penghuni rumah-rumah anak yatim.
Pembinaan Kompleks Anak yatim Darussalam Keledang, Ipoh
1. Pada 05 Ramadhan-. Pada satu majlis rengkas di kediaman Sdr Dato' Presiden, Yayasan Bakti Keledang telah menyerahkan cek bernilai RM 160,000 kepada Sdr hj Mustapha Mohamad, ahli kelab yang dipertanggungjawabkan sebagai Bendahari projek kompleks anak yatim(KAY) Darussalam.
2. Keledang Bakti Sdn Bhd telah dilantik sebagai pengurus projek KAY Darussalam yang sedang dibina diatas tapak yang di wakafkan oleh seorang ahli kelab di Kampong Melayu, Ipoh. Kompleks baru ini dengan anggaran kos RM600,000 dijangka beroperasi akhir Disember 2011.
  
  Bagi pihak kelab saya ingin merakamkan setinggi-tinggi penghargaan dan terima kasih kepada sahabat baik saya, Tuan Syed Mohri, Pelopor Kelab Peminat Jam Vintage Malaysia yang telah sudi menyumbangkan tiga biji jam tangan untuk kutipan dana pembinaan Kompleks anak yatim Darussalam yang baru.
  
  Terima kasih daun keladi Pak Habib...
Ibu Tunggal dan Ibu Tinggal
1. Beberapa kes ibu tunggal dan ibu tinggal yang perlukan bantuan telah dikenalpasti untuk disampaikan sumbangan.

Semoga segala usaha kita diberkati Allah SWT jua.

365.MARHABAN, MARHABAN YA RAMADHAN ALMUBARAK…

2011-07-31T23:52:00.007+08:00

Syukur tidak terhingga kerana masih berkesempatan sekali lagi untuk menyambut dan merasa nikmat berpuasa di bulan Ramadhan, bulan yang penuh barakah. Selesai sudah solat Tarawih berjama'ah malam pertama di masjid.

Betapa indahnya Ramadhan setiap tahun dan alangkah sedihnya jika ditakdirkan inilah Ramadhan terakhir…

Sama-sama kita tingkatkan ibadah sepanjang Ramadhan sebagai model untuk sebelas bulan berikut kearah mencari keredhaan Allah yang Maha Esa.

KEPADA SEMUA MUSLIMIN DAN MUSLIMAT, SELAMAT BERPUASA.

MAAF ZAHIR BATIN.

364. OUR HUMBLE CENDOL MAN…

2011-07-31T23:40:00.004+08:00

He is our local cendol man, smiling his way throughout his daily routine of serving bowls of cendol to his customers.

Despite recently being voted as the no. 1 cendol in the city of Ipoh, Perak by the Ipoh Echo, the local newspaper , he remained as cool and friendly s ever.

Mr Cendol Maju Maju has been serving cendol, the family delicacy for years from his bachelor days till today as a family man with his wife as his able deputy.

I’m not much into cendol but I still dropped off and on for my bowl of cendol and to have our usual chitchat.

For those who have yet to taste this cool, fresh and mouth watering serving of pandan cendol, do drop by in front of Almutaqqin Mosque, Jalan Bukit Meru, Meru Height, Ipoh, Perak.

Do’t be surprise too to see him serving his famous cendol at wedding receptions during wedding seasons around here for is very popular and likable chap.

On this holy month of Ramadhan, I pray for his continued success and may Allah bless him and his family with happiness, best of health and fortune…Amin

363. Raja Nazrin: Rulers must not be shielded from the truth

2011-07-26T08:03:00.002+08:00

Extracted from The Star

The Raja Muda of Perak, Raja Nazrin Shah said Monday rulers should not be shielded from the truth and must be told the real story.In addition, rulers should never be surrounded by people with personal interests who are willing to use them as tools.

"Rulers must have advisers who are sincere, sensitive to the people's needs and bold enough to state the truth," he said at 'Wacana Ilmu Universiti Teknologi MARA (UiTM) with the theme "The Role of Malay Rulers in Nurturing Unity" at Dewan Agong Tuanku Canselor here.

Raja Nazrin said rulers should be willing to accept the facts, no matter how bitter, as justice could not be upheld without the truth.

"Rulers can't play a meaningful role if they are given a rosy picture. The false impression is unfair as he is denied the right to carry out his responsibilities fairly."

He said that shielding rulers from the truth would only separate them from the people, making it difficult for the rulers to address issues of integrity, statehood, loyalty and unity.

"It is unwise if the nation and people choose to reject reality, blurring the vision as to real reasons that affect unity."

Raja Nazrin said stiff political competition had exploited sensitive religious and racial issues and the dissatisfaction of the people.

"In all conflicts, no one party is right all the time and no one party is wrong all the time.”

"Rulers must use wisdom to calm the situation but they do not have a "magic lamp" to keep the unity especially when the siutation has become chaotic."

Raja Nazrin said the rulers' role was to give advice privately so that it is not misinterpreted as directly interfering with the administration. - Bernama

362. A SQUEAKY CLEAN CLOCK TOWER...A REVISIT

2011-07-15T14:57:00.009+08:00

April last year I posted an article on this specific clock tower situated next to the famed Zahir Mosque, Alor Star, Kedah, Malaysia. It was overgrown with little parasitic plants overhanging the edges of the clock.

It prompted me then to submit an email followed by a letter highlighting the situation for the direct attention of the honourable Chief Minister of The Kedah State.

As I passed by the very clock tower last month, I noticed a squeaky clean tower. What a beautiful sight. So relieved and thankful that at long last the beauty has been fully restored.
Whether by coincident or vide the prompting of my letter, it is irrelevant.

The beautiful sight of this historic clock tower is a delight that everyone should cherished…

361. TUJUH WASIAT RAJA-RAJA MELAYU

2011-06-16T12:13:00.009+08:00

Semasa menghadiri acara ‘Konsert Diraja’ di Dewan Canselor, Universiti Teknologi Petronas awal bulan ini, saya tertarik dengan kandungan yang dimuatkan pada halaman 21 dalam buku aluan yang diberikan.

Berapa ramai rakyat Malaysia hari ini yang tahu dan faham akan perkara ’ 7 Wasiat’ yang tertera pada halaman tersebut?

Alangkah baiknya jika Kementerian Pelajaran mengkaji semula subjek Sejarah yang diajar di sekolah-sekolah dan meletakkan Sejarah Tanah Melayu pada perspektik yang lebih tepat seperti menyatakan dengan jelas perkara “7 Wasiat’ ini supaya pelajar-pelajar dan rakyat dari semua kalangan kaum di Malaysia faham tentang pengorbanan Duli-duli Yang Maha Mulia sembilan Tuanku-tuanku Sultan.

Saya perturunkan ‘ 7 Wasiat’ untuk tatapan bersama.

Pada tarikh 5 Ogos 1957, Duli-Duli Yang Maha Mulia sembilan Raja-Raja Melayu sebagai Raja Pemerintah dari empat "Negeri Melayu Bersekutu" dan lima "Negeri Melayu Tidak Bersekutu" telah memberikan perkenan menurunkan tandatangan persetujuan kepada pembentukan Perlembagaan Persekutuan Tanah Melayu dengan memahat Tujuh Wasiat Raja-Raja Melayu yang berbunyi:

"Kami wasiatkan kepada zuriat keturunan kami tujuh perkara yang mana jika kamu bersatu-padu dan berpegang teguh kepadanya selama itulah kamu akan aman dan damai dan selamat sejahtera"

TUJUH PERKARA ITU ADALAH:

Pertama:

Kami namakan dan kami panggil akan dia, bumi yang kamu pijak dan langit yang kamu junjung PERSEKUTUAN TANAH MELAYU (sekarang dikenali dengan nama MALAYSIA)

Kedua:

Kami isytiharkan dan kami simpan untuk kamu dan kami benarkan kamu isytihar dan simpan untuk anak cucu kamu, selain gunung-ganang, tasik dan hutan simpan, TANAH SIMPANAN MELAYU sehingga nisbah 50 peratus, selebihnya kamu rebutlah bersama-sama kaum lain.

Ketiga:

Bagi menjaga kamu dan bagi melindungi anak cucu kami serta harta hak milik kamu, kami tubuhkan REJIMEN ASKAR MELAYU selain untuk membanteras kekacauan dalam negara dan ancaman dari luar negara.

Keempat:

Kami kekalkan dan kami jamin Kerajaan dan Kedaulatan RAJA-RAJA MELAYU memerintah negara ini.

Kelima:

Kami isytiharkan ISLAM adalah Agama Persekutuan.

Keenam:

Kami tetapkan bahasa kebangsaan ialah BAHASA MELAYU.

Ketujuh:

Kami amanahkan dan kami pertanggungjawabkan kepada Raja-Raja Melayu untuk melindungi KEDUDUKAN ISTIMEWA ORANG MELAYU dan KEPENTINGAN SAH KAUM-KAUM LAIN. (Kemudian ditambah kedudukan istimewa anak negeri Sabah dan Sarawak).

Wasiat ini dihasilkan atas kehendak Raja-Raja Melayu untuk mengekalkan kesinambungan sejarah, kedaulatan dan kuasa politik Melayu (yang terletak pada Raja-Raja Melayu) kepada kesinambungan kedaulatan negara yang terletak kepada Raja-Raja Melayu serta mendapat penerimaan rakyat (consensus) melalui wakil-wakil sah yang mempunyai locus standi, maka Perlembagaan Persekutuan mempunyai fasal-fasal tertentu.

Fasal-fasal tersebut adalah Perkara 3(1), (2),(3) dan (5); Perkara 11, Perkara 12, Perkara 38(5); Perkara 152, Perkara 153 dan Perkara 181 (1). Fasal-fasal ini memerlukan izin Majlis Raja-Raja Melayu untuk sebarang pindaan perlembagaan Parlimen dibenarkan berkuat kuasa.

Renung-renungkanlah pengorbanan Raja-raja yang kita cintai dan sejauh mana wasiat tersebut di patuhi…

360. UP, UP AND AWAY…

2011-05-31T23:07:00.002+08:00

Overheard a conversation at a mamak shop:

Ah Sui: dei Sambi, yuono ah, Superman o'ready in Malaysia, mah. You know aah, that funny man with underwear outside one and always say "Up, Up and away…"

Sambi: Really ah…When he come here one?

Ah Sui: O'ready more than one year, mah. People said aah, his house in Putrajaya. He likes to play buttons. Press one button, he says, "Up, up and away".

Sambi: Huh? Never heard la, Tipu la, Ah Sui…

Ah Sui: What tipu? I never tipu one…sumpah potong ayam ohhhh.

Ah Sui: You know aah Sambi, last month this fella up sugar, some more up petrol. This month upped again electricity and up gas. Next month dunno what up some more?

Sambi: (Gigling ala Eric Leong's) oh dat fella uh, Okay, okay, understood…Never mind la…complain also no use. He's Superman.

Ah Sui: Ai Sambi, where to buy pelita ayam, aah ? I wanna to buy two.

Sambi: What for, Sui?

Ah Sui: I wanna give to Superman. Must help him maa. After this aah, all gelap in town, maybe his house also padam lampu, jeemattt maa... So, when he stays at home or when flies he can use pelita ayam.

Sambi: Citt, you're so smart one. Eh, give me two also la Ah Sui, I want to use pelita ayam for my toilets.

Ah Sui: Oii Sambi, one enough la, why two? Gila ka…

Sambi: One for small job, two for big job …hehehe

Ah Sui: huh?

Sambi: Dei, Ah Sui, what are you drinking aah? Smells nice la…

Ah Sui: oh this one huh? Special from Arab maa. Try la Sambi…syiok ooo…

Ah Sui: Aboo, kasi lagi dua botol… halal beer.

Samba: Malaysia bole…

# I supposed, the above dialogue has no relation to anybody dead or alive.

359. Rupa-rupanya ramai ahli keluarga 'anak yatim'!

2011-05-25T14:29:00.004+08:00

Jarang saya membaca Utusan Malaysia tetapi berita hari ini yang saya petik melalui 'The Malaysian Insider' menarik perhatian.

Semasa sesi kunjungan ke rumah-rumah anak yatim, saya selalu terfikir apakah benar mereka adalah anak-anak yatim atau di'yatim'kan oleh ibu bapa yang bercerai berai atau keluarga yang sengaja mencari selesa meletakkan anak-anak tersebut dibawah jagaan ustaz dan ustazah yang sememangnya sukakan anak-anak.

Artikel Utusan Malaysia hari ini seperti petikan berikut seolah-olah memjawab sebahagian persoalan berkenaan.

Utusan Malaysia

25 MEI — Pesanan sms yang diterima pagi semalam daripada seorang kenalan terus mengejut benak fikiran saya ketika membelek akhbar tentang nasib anak-anak di Rumah Anak Yatim dan Anak Hidayah Madrasah Al-Taqwa, Hulu Langat, Selangor.

Katanya, semasa anak-anak yatim itu hidup, mereka tidak dijaga sendiri oleh ibu bapa. Mereka di hantar ke rumah kebajikan itu. Di sana mereka diserah kepada ustaz untuk diberi makan minum dan dididik dengan ilmu agama. Senang cerita tahulah pihak asrama dan madrasah itu hendak mencari dana untuk memelihara anak-anak mereka.

Mereka pun anak-anak yatim, tentu banyak sumbangan derma dihulurkan oleh orang ramai yang bersimpati.

Jadi soal makan minum, pakaian dan kesihatan sudah ada orang yang ambil peduli. Tidak perlu risau apa-apa lagi. Semua ditanggung beres.

Maka dengan ‘kemudahan’ sedia ada, ibu atau bapa serta saudara mara tidak datang menjenguk pun tak apa. Bukan sebulan sekali menjenguk anak-anak yatim, malah ada yang sudah terlalu lama hingga berbelas tahun tak datang bertanya khabar anak-anak sendiri.

Paling malang, apabila anak-anak yatim itu meninggal dunia kerana tertimbus tanah bukit yang runtuh menimpa mereka, ada waris-waris tanpa segan silu terima wang simpati.

Kata kenalan saya itu lagi, wang itu setelah diterima patut disumbang semula ke rumah anak yatim.

Betul juga pandangannya itu. Itu yang semolek-moleknya. Tetapi resmi orang kita, nampak duit mata pun jadi kelabu. Lupa tentang cerita duka, sebaliknya mula terbayang apa hendak dilakukan pada wang derma itu.

Melihat kepada trend orang Melayu bukan sahaja sekarang tetapi sejak dahulu lagi, ada kalangan kita baru hadapi dugaan menjadi janda atau duda dan baru ada dua atau tiga orang anak kecil, sudah mengaku kalah untuk menjaga mereka. Ada yang tanpa malu-malu serah kepada rumah kebajikan atau rumah anak yatim.

Memang pada permulaan hidup ini susah tetapi apabila sudah berkemampuan, ambillah anak-anak itu daripada rumah kebajikan. Rasalah sendiri bagaimana susah senang untuk membesar dan mendidik mereka. Jangan langsung membiarkan anak-anak tinggal di rumah anak yatim.

Pemikiran orang Melayu terhadap rumah kebajikan dan rumah anak yatim patut diperbetulkan. Pihak pengurusan rumah kebajikan pun perlu betul, jangan menerima sahaja orang awam menyerahkan anak-anak mereka.

Kena selidik dan periksa dahulu kemampuan mereka dan saudara mara mereka. Pastikan anak-anak yatim yang diterima masuk terdiri daripada mereka yang telah hilang tempat bergantung.

Jika ada saudara mara yang berkemampuan, minta mereka membantu ambil alih menanggung kos hidup anak yatim berkenaan.

Sebagai Melayu, tak malukah kita melihat anak-anak waris sendiri hidup di rumah kebajikan.

Sesungguhnya Allah nak tunjukkan kepada kita bagaimana sikap waris keluarga anak-anak yatim.

(Taken from www.utusan.com.my)

358.TRAGEDI TANAH RUNTUH BERULANG…

2011-05-23T21:47:00.005+08:00

Alfatihah…enam belas nyawa terkorban dalam kejadian tanah runtuh di Hulu Langat, Malaysia pagi semalam. Terlalu sedih dan pilu apabila kejadian yang melibatkan anak-anak yatim yang tidak berdosa… Bukan pertama kali tragedi tanah runtuh sebegini berlaku di Malaysia.

Masihkah ingat dengan peristiwa Highland Towers dan kejadian-kejadian tanah runtuh di Bukit Antarabangsa?

Tapi seperti biasalah, kejadian sebegini hanya diingati seketika sahaja. Lantas kemudiannya semua lupa sehingga kejadian berulang semula.

Tentulah ada peraturan-peraturan pihak berkuasa tentang cara-cara yang betul untuk memotong cerun. Tentu ada cara-cara penguatkuasaan bentuk pembangunan bangunan berhampiran cerun.

Pastinya ada tatacara pembangunan dan pembinaan yang tertib dan tersusun.

Kita tentu tidak suka malapetaka berulang disebabkan kealpaan dan kerja-kerja samberono manusia. Kita tentunya tidak selesa melihat gambar-gambar mayat dikeluarkan daripada timbusan-timbusan tanah runtuh. Namun kenapa kerja-kerja pemotongan tanah, pembangunan dan pembinaan bangunan sesuatu projek tidak mengikut ketertiban peraturan dan tatacara sedangkan dalam wudhu' dan solat harian pun kita diajar kaedah tertib?

Tentunya kita jelik mendengar ada menteri berteriak bangunan tiada kelulusan setelah malapetaka menimpa.

Sebagai imbasan, saya pernah menghantar surat kepada pihak berkuasa merujuk kepada kerja-kerja pembersihan bukit dan pemotongan tanah pembinaan rumah-rumah berhampiran kawasan perumahan yang saya didiami. Malangnya, tak nampak pun apa-apa tindakan.

Hari ini kerja-kerja pemotongan tanah di kawasan tersebut masih berjalan lancar. Tidak kelihatan apa-apa papan tanda yang menunjukkan bahawa projek yang dijalankan telah mendapat kelulusan daripada Pihak Berkuasa tersebut pun. Kerja pemotongan cerun sudah terlalu hampir dengan kawasan perumahan Puncak Meru, ipoh yang didiami oleh pesara-pesara kerajaan yang telah banyak berjasa.

Janganlah hendaknya terjadi satu lagi tragedi tanah runtuh barulah pihak-pihak berkuasa terhegeh-hegeh nak menjenguk dan saudara mara serta para pemimpin pun menangislah teresak-esak.

Pihak pemaju juga perlu akur nasihat jabatan kerajaan seperti JKR yang sentiasa mengingatkan tentang perlunya menjaga cerun seperti papan tanda yang dipaparkan walau pun cerunnya tidak seberapa. Sekadar ingatan buat diri sendiri dan sahabat-sahabat, kita dituntut untuk melaksanakan sesuatu amalan atau pekerjaan dengan tertib dan mengikut tatacara yang ditentukan supaya kesempurnaan terjamin dan perkara yang tidak baik dapat dihindarkan.

Kita juga dinasihatkan supaya menegur mana yang tidak kena supaya ada penambahbaikan.

Renung-renungkanlah…

357. MAN UNITED IS THE BPL CHAMPION…

2011-05-23T01:24:00.012+08:00

The EPL championship was clinched the previous week when Man United grabbed a point at Blackburn with a Wayne Rooney penalty conversion.

That was the single point needed to accumulate the unassailable lead that, crowned Manchester United as the Barclays (English) Premier League champion for the record 19^th time.

Still, the team that took the field in their last match at Old Trafford this season against Blackpool took to the field with full of passions, vigour, focus and determination to win as if the championship was still at stake.

The first Man U goal by Ji Sung Park was a real beauty in simplicity.

Blackpool with Charlie Adams taking charge at the midfield, highlighted by that wonderful free kick goal was just marvelous. The way he gathered his team to equalize and then took the lead was just brilliant.

What an asset this player would be to Man U if Sir Alex cares to bring him to Old Trafford.

Just too bad for Charlie Adams and his team, on the night that Man U was penned to receive the Barclays EPL championship Trophy, no one could spoil the Man U party. The way Vidic rallied his team back to earn a deserving victory was very commendable. Just love to watch the Anderson's and Michael Owen's goals again and again… Wow

In the end, Blackpool lost condemning them back to Championship football where they were the previous season.

To Man U, Sir Alex Ferguson and the team of 2010/2011, congratulations on this successful campaign and as a long time fan, I said “Thank you for such an entertaining season. Hope to be at Old Trafford ground next season.”

To Edwin Van der Sar and Gary Neville who will be hanging their boots after this season, TQ for all the services at Man U.

To Michael Owen and Owen Hargreaves who might be leaving for new clubs, all the best in your new venture.

HAIL MANCHESTER UNITED, THE GREATEST ENGLISH FOOTBALL CLUB EVER...

356. THE NOBILITY OF TIME

2011-05-18T16:09:00.007+08:00

As I was travelling along the Nanjing Road, Shanghai, appreciating the beautiful landscapes of the city, I kind of noticed an interesting face of a clock erected at the front of a building. I immediately requested the driver to stop the car just for me to have a closer look.

The imposing sculpture of a melting clock in the design of a footprint was too mesmerizing to give a miss.

Took a few quick shot with a promise that I would definitely source for more information since I could not locate any plaque nearby.

What I found out from my search was more interesting.

Apparently this sculpture echoes the “The Persistence of Memory”, the famous painting of the celebrated Spanish artist, Salvador Dali that first appeared in 1931 featuring a melting watch to symbolize the passage of time.

It was erected in 2007 in commemoration of the Shanghai exhibitions of Dali's works.

Similar sculpture named "THE NOBILITY OF TIME" were erected in Mendrisio, Switzerland and the capital city of Andorra.

The sculpture has also been displayed in London, Berlin, Vienna and Paris.

355. NICE AND ATTRACTIVE SET OF NEW STAMPS OF MALAYSIA

2011-05-16T18:09:00.005+08:00

Collected a registered mail from the Philately Unit, Pos Malaysia today. Actually the postman failed to deliver the mail and I was supposed to collect last week but just could not make time.

The envelope unveiled the latest set of the new stamps plus first day covers for 2011… nice set of attractive stamps.

Pos Malaysia seemed to churn out a stream of marvelous designed stamps worthy of collections.

There is also a note that the 2010 stamp album has also been released early this month. I'm eagerly waiting for my copy to complement the earlier sets of annual albums in my collections.

Well, I guessed there is a need to keep sufficient funds in my account with the Philately Unit, Pos Malaysia to ensure I do not miss out on any new release of 2011.

354. TERKEJUT BERUK KENE TEGUR…

2011-05-16T08:32:00.005+08:00

Oleh: muzill.mansor

Saje nak cerite…

Pagi tu aku memang kalut…dan serabut… dah dua tiga minggu mengayun kat treadmill. Ikut mood…kadang-kadang tegeliat…

Tapi pagi tu memang angin satu badan.

Selesai treadmill, belakang sakit giler… Lemak tak kurang-kurang gak.

Takleh jadik nie... sambar kunci kete berdesup terus kat famasi carik koyok. Mane tempat yang dah keriyok, sedap ni kalau tampal koyok.

Selambe je pakai seluar pendek… takle pendek sangat…kire bawah lutut le. Sekali-sekali je pakai macam ni.

Depan farmasi terserempak sorang pak Aji, dia renung aku dan terus dia bagi salam. “Assalamu ‘alaikum”.

Sape ntah ni…Tak kenal pun…Dah pakai ketayap putih, pak aji le tu kot... Orang dah bagi salam, jawab je le. Tak jawap, biadab lak…

“Wa’alaikum mussalam warahmatullah”.Panjang le sikit jawab salam, kene respek lebih, ni Pak Aji.

Dia senyum, aku sengeh le balik. Aku tengok dia teropong lain macam je…Macam ade bende tak kene…

”Pakcik nak cakap sikit, jangan marah ye” kate Pak Aji.

“Takpe, abende pakcik nak cakap?” aku tanye.

Pakcik susul dengan soalan tambahan “Ngape pakei seluar pendek, tak tutup aurat tu?”

Hahh…Aku tengok dia atas bawah, atas bawah…Kire seluar pendek aku ok pe?…bawah pade lutut…

Bengang gak kene sound macam ni. Nasib baik takde orang lain.

Teringat pulak pesan cikgu-cikgu… biar beradab dengan orang tua…cool le sikit…

”Oh, saya nak cepat tadi, tak sempat tukar seluar lepas exercise, lain kali saya lebih beringat. Terima kasih pakcik” kate ku… control gilerrr, beb.

Ok le, bukan kene bayar pun. Lantak le…Orang tua kadang-kadang diorang tengok macam lain…mane boleh same dengan orang mude…banyak beza…

Kite ingat dah ok, dia orang tengok tak ok.

Dia senyum…barangkali puas dapat sound aku.

Aku masuk kedai beli koyok. Pelik tapi bila keluar kedai dan masuk kete, rase sengal-sengal dah mule lege…

Sesekali mase workout kat treadmill sekarang, teringat muka Pak Aji yang relaks je…Ntah-ntah dia pun teringat muke aku yang terkejut beruk kene tegur…aku senyum sendiri.

Sape lah hamba Allah tu…

P.S

Sempena hari guru…Kepada semua cikguku dan semua guru, daripada peringkat tadika sehinggalah ke peringkat university dan peringkat professional. Begitu juga guru-guru tak rasmi…

TERIMA KASIH CIKGU.

353. TULIPS AND LOTS OF TULIPS FROM HOLLAND…IN SHANGHAI

2011-05-12T09:36:00.003+08:00

Piaoliang...zhen piaoliang. those are the words that spurted out the moments I set sight on the colourful tulips or 'yu jin xiang' in Mandarin. Pure magic.

The flowers were from Holland, planted, supervised and managed initially by Dutch horticulturists but the scenes belong to Shanghai Flower Pot in Shanghai, the biggest tulip garden in China.

There were lot and lots of blooming tulips despite our visit in late April. The Shanghai Tulip Festival commences in late March till early May every year for the last seven years.

Tulips of various colours and species were planted in various plots around a very large area surrounding a beautiful lake exuberating a fresh, colourful and exquisite sight.

The Shanghai Flower Port sprawling over 99 over hectares encompassing a mesuem, research and development centre and tulips garden of more than one million bulks is indeed very well planned with rows and rows of blooming bright, colourful tulips lining up meandering roads and well cropped shaded trees. Three large windmills enhanced the Dutch flavor.

I was fortunate to be in Shanghai on my recent birthday, escorted by my dear brother, spending half a day at the Shanghai Flower Port during this late springtime to witness these picturesque creations and manipulations of colours extravaganza.

Such beautiful and exquisite sights would have easily inspired Robert Louis Stevenson, one of the greatest English poets to write memorable poem of the day. Alas, I’m not Stevenson. So, forgive me for these poor narrations to describe and capture my moments in this worldly paradise.

For 100 Yuan per entrance, it is very inexpensive for rare sights of dazzling colours of tulips.

Red and white tulips with intermission of lavender greeted visitors by the entrance.

As you walk into the garden, a large scenic lake opens up with a water fountain in the background and blooming tulips in various plots dotting the perimeter of the lake. Boats are available if you care to flex the leg muscles.

What I like most about this tulip garden is the infrastructural design that allows brisk walking along the meandering paths and shaded trees at leisurely pace hopping from one plot of tulips to another with ease and comfort.

Workers though busy manicuring the flowers were seen smiling at the visitors presumably satisfied that their works get attention and appreciation.

The sanitary facilities are well kept and exceptionally clean.

Coffee houses are available but they only serve limited dishes for lunch. For a change, we had organic and crunchy cucumber and succulent tomatoes for lunch, the lightest lunch ever but still enjoyable and filling. One plate of cucumber and tomatoes cost only 10 Yuan and we are thankful for that healthy meal.

The garden compound is kept squeaky clean.

For those who wish to visit Shanghai, plan the visit in early April and mark the Shanghai Flower Port as a must visit destination. The visit would definitely be a real memorable one.

Zaijian.

352.REGE RON 97 NAIK, REGE GULE PON NAIK…ADE TEMAN KESAH?

2011-05-10T18:33:00.017+08:00

Ramei kawan teman sebok semacam…heboh baghang naik…buat kain ghentang gantong tepi jalan.

Ape nak heghan yob, yong…bukan nye naik seghinggit... eleh,bukan banyak pon, dua kupang …mahei lagi ghege kain ghentang tu.

Teman tak kesah pon sebab memang teman tak suke makan gule…kalo minum kopi pon kopi 'O', minum teh pon 'O', minum milo pon 'O' juge. Nak moghah lagi, ayor paneih pon cukop.

Beli sekilo gule kat ghumah, tahan bebulan dalam balang…

Kalo teghingin nak kipoh, teman tumpang kawan…ghase nak ke Kay El, teman naik keghete api laju..ETS…best..laju dan moghah sebab teman dapat diskaun oghang pencen...yang baguihnye lagi pramugari pon mude-mude dan suke senyum...sejuk je ati nengok...

Ntah le teman…sedih bile mikior...Oghang kite nie suke ghioh tak bepasei...udoh menteghi kabo kene naik rege...ikut je...deme tu pandei-pandei belake...

Teman senang je…oghang komplen-komplen teman buat nohen je...nak jeghit-jeghit pun sekaghang bukan ade pekdah…

Dapat pencen ujung bulan tu pun kire udoh syukur…lagi pun teman makan nasi pon dah koghang, takut tinggi gule, dah koghang makan lemak-lemak, takut kolestrol pulak tinggi …

Ramei kawan teman jadi doktor…deme kabo, usah makan maneih, koghangkan makan nasi, koghangkan gagham, beghenti isap rokok, banyok besenam, ade duit pegi melancong... rehat minda, kate deme le.

Nak koghang ghonsen, deme kabo, keghete tinggei kat ghomah, naik beskal... jalan kaki lagi bagoih…

Seghonok nye teman, dua tige bulan lagi badan teman sikit punye slim ke...Eh eh takkan teman soghang kot, tentu ramei lagi yang slim melim lepeih nie...huhu.

Badan sehat hati pon senang, badan ghingan jalan kencang, takde nok nyusahkan oghang...

351. THE THRILLING DECIDER AND THE WINNER…IS MAN U, OF COURSE

2011-05-09T01:58:00.009+08:00

Half time: 2-0 Full time: 2-1

It was not supposed to come this far for Man U to clinch the title but as usual football is such an intriguing and passionate game, the suspense had to creep in and dragged the championship to be decided by this crunching match with Chelsea, the defending champion.

I looked forward to watch this decider especially after last week's defeat by Arsenal left Man United with only three-point advantage over Chelsea.

The starting eleven on both side threw some surprises with Park Ji Sung being preferred to Nani and Kalou's inclusion kept Torres on the bench.

Wow, what a dream start. A wonder first goal on 36^th second by Hernandez from a Park Ji Sung pass was pure magic. Man U was one up against Chelsea even before I finished my first cup of warm water.

Sir Alex Ferguson must have drilled hard into the players heads for them to come out roaring like tigers.

A Wayne Rooney's strike on the 7^th minute was just excellent but was deflected by Cech. That would have been a wonderful second goal. Alas, it was not meant to be.

It was all Man U stamping its authority on the field with Chelsea still to find its footing.

Frustration must have crept in by then for Ivanovic to launch a reckless tackle on Rooney on the 12^th minute earning him a yellow card. Man United was just pure brilliant.

Rooney shot again on the 14^th minute but just missed the left post.

Chelsea hit back on the 19th minute with a shot by Kalou but was deflected by the alert Van Der Sar.

Park on target crashing a powerful shot on 22nd minute but was blocked by Cech. It could have easily been three goals if not for the superb performance by Peter Cech as the Chelsea custodian.

Giggs then made a sublimed cross into the goal area which was met perfectly by a header from Vidic resulting in the marvelous 2^nd goal.

The scene in the stadium was sheer ecstasy.

Despite Man U dominance, Chelsea managed to spring a few sporadic attacks including a header by Kalou which was tipped over by Van der Sar on the 25th minute.

The first half definitely belonged to Man United with Giggs, a towering figure in the centre of the field.

The second half started with three changes. Chelsea brought in Ramirez for Obi Michel and Alex coming in for Luiz. Evans replaced John O’Shea on the Man U side.

The introduction of Alex and Ramirez definitely brought some urgency for Chelsea. The game seemed to tilt in favour of Chelsea with more possession, penetration and purpose.

Van Der Sar was excellent as usual shutting out many attempts by Chelsea.

Torres was introduced on the 61st min replacing Kalou to add more bite upfront but he was rather ineffective.

The game was stretched at times with Ramires taking charge in midfield while Man U dilly dallying in the middle of park.

Minute 65 saw a miscue from Alex but Hernandez failed to capitalize.

Frank Lampard put life back for Chelsea with a fortunate goal on the 68th minute.

The temperature immediately went up a few notch with Man U in sixes.

Ryan Giggs, the ever reliable workhorse rallied back to take control in midfield and allowed Man U to preserve the score till the last minute.

Vidic, Ferdinand and Van der Sar marshalled the Man U defense solidly at the back.

As Howard Webb blew the final whistle on the 94th minute even Sir Bobby Charton was seen clapping elated by the win.

Sir Alex Ferguson too a bow acknowledging the crowd's support knowing that another point next week against Blackburn would bring the EPL championship back to Old Trafford for the record 19^th time.

Full time statistics indicated that Man U was the better team of the day.

As Man U players trooped out smiling and hugging each other, Man U crowd rejoicing, a Chelsea fan was seen nail-biting mourning the comprehensive loss...

350.MENYAMBUT HARI IBU SAMPAI MENDERMA…

2011-05-08T18:27:00.003+08:00

Sambutan Hari Ibu 2011 di kediaman Menteri Besar Perak hari ini lebih bertepatan dengan jasa ibu-ibu tersayang.

Setiap ibu pastinya berpesan kepada si anak supaya berbakti kepada masyarakat dengan cara memberi sumbang bakti dan berbakti kepada diri sendiri dengan terus meminda ilmu.

Acara pagi ini bermula pada jam 9.00 pagi dengan ceramah agama daripada penceramah tersohor,Ustaz Kazim Elias. Dewan terbuka penuh sesak, pandangan yang biasa dilihat di mana saja Ustaz Kazim berceramah. Ceramah ustaz selama satu setengah jam yang bersahaja penuh humor dan kiasan sangat menarik dan bermanfaat.

Orang ramai sebenarnya telah mula berkumpul sejak jam 8.00 pagi lagi.

Ruang-ruang gerai bersebelahan dewan juga mula dihias dan dipenuhi produk dan bahan-bahan jualan awal-awal lagi termasuklah Gerai no.25 yang diperuntukkan kepada Kelab Bakti Gunung Keledang.

Kali ini Keledang Ladies memaparkan produk makanan seperti nasi lemak, madu lebah, kuih-muih dan barangan terpakai seperti kain tudung untuk jualan. Semua kutipan diserahkan kepada Yayasan Keledang untuk didermakan kepada golongan fakir miskin dan golongan yang memerlukan.

Pertandingan melukis bagi kanak-kanak turut dianjurkan dengan tajaan oleh Ambank menarik ramai penyertaan.

SELAMAT HARI IBU…TERIMA KASIH KEPADA SEMUA KELEDANG LADIES, KELEDANG KIDS DAN SEMUA YANG MEMBERI SUMBANGAN.

349. MENJUNJUNG KASIH...

2011-04-20T09:42:00.009+08:00

Tidak terucap betapa gembira dan syukurnya semua ahli-ahli Kelab Bakti Gunung Keledang diatas perkenan anugerah dan kurniaan daripada DYMM Paduka Seri Sultan Perak, Sultan Azlan Muhibuddin Shah, semalam sempena hari keputeraan Tuanku yang ke-83 kepada tiga orang ahli-ahli kelab yang telah banyak berjasa menaburkan bakti di bumi negeri Perak tercinta.

Ahli-ahli tersebut yang telah menerima pingat kebesaran negeri Perak iaitu Darjah Paduka Mahkota Perak (DPMP) yang membawa gelaran Dato' ialah:

1. Sdr Dr Haji Zakaria bin Abdul Kadir

Pakar neurologi di Hospital Pakar, Ipoh juga seorang dermawan ini adalah Presiden Kelab Keledang dan Presiden Yayasan Keledang pada tahun 2010.

Beliau juga adalah penggerak utama sukan renang di negeri Perak sebagai Presiden Persatuan Renang negeri Perak.

2.Sdr Dr Haji Mohamad bin Abdul Kadir

Pakar radiologi Hospital Fatimah, Ipoh ini adalah Presiden Kelab Keledang dan Yayasan Keledang pada tahun 2001.

Beliau juga kini adalah ahli lembaga pengarah Hospital ArRidzuan, Ipoh dan pengarah beberapa buah syarikat lain.

3. Sdr haji Megat Ahmad Shahrani

Seorang kontraktor Melayu wibawa yang telah memenangi beberapa award antarabangsa atas sifatnya sebagai kontraktor tersohor, Sdr Megat adalah Setiausaha Kehormat Kelab Keledang pada tahun 2010 dan kini menyandang jawatan Naib Presiden kelab.

Beliau juga pernah menjadi Presiden Persatuan Kebajikan Austisme Malaysia (NASOM) selama 9 tahun sebelum melepaskan jawatan berkenaan pada tahun lalu.

Kepada ketiga orang Dato' baru, Sdr Presiden, AJK dan seluruh ahli serta keluarga Kelab Bakti Gunung Keledang / Yayasan Bakti Gunung Keledang merakamkan setinggi tahniah.

Semoga anugerah tersebut dapat menyemarakkan lagi usaha menabur bakti untuk masyarakat.

Menjunjung kasih, Tuanku...

348. DAULAT TUANKU

2011-04-19T15:33:00.003+08:00

347. TOP JOBS ONLY FOR THOSE WHO ARE PROFICIENT IN ENGLISH

2011-04-11T15:15:00.007+08:00

Petaling Jaya, Malaysia: It does not really matter if you are top of your class or have a string of degrees, that dream job may not be yours unless you can speak and write well in English.

Feedback from local and international employers indicates that verbal and written communication skills in English remain the most sought-after attribute in prospective employees.

According to a recent Malaysian Employers Federation (MEF) survey, it is the most important trait employers look for when recruiting graduates.

The MEF Salary Survey for Executives 2010 revealed that 68% of the companies surveyed named communication skills as the top quality required in job applicants, followed by working experience (67%), interpersonal skills (56.2%) and passion and commitment (55.7%).

MEF executive director Shamsuddin Bardan said globalisation had changed the nature of jobs, making communication skills, specifically in English, a valuable asset for today's worker.

He added that this was an essential criterion even for professions traditionally seen as “backroom” staff such as engineers, technical personnel and scientists. “It is especially so for those working in multinationals and bigger firms,” he said.

“Today, our clients are worldwide. In factories, for instance, engineers are a different breed from the past,” said Shamsuddin.

“Now, they have to be involved in various aspects of business and interact with clients.”

Shamsuddin expressed concern that many local graduates today could not speak or write proper English, saying this was a reason why they faced difficulties getting jobs in the private sector.

Kelly Services (M) Sdn Bhd managing director Melissa Norman concurred, noting that six in 10 graduates who attended its interviews could not communicate effectively in English.

The company is one of the top headhunters in the country.

Norman said it was important to master English as it was widely used among the business community, both in Malaysia and internationally.

The Kelly Global Workforce Index survey released in 2010 listed “communication skills” as one of the top five most desired skills within the corporate sector.

“We have encountered local graduates who are weak in spoken and written English and have limited vocabulary,” said Norman.

“These candidates can only manage to secure jobs in small-medium enterprises and small businesses.”

Various industry and business leaders also warned that the decline in English was affecting Malaysia's global competitiveness.

Federation of Malaysian Manufacturers President Tan Sri Mustafa Mansur said the young ones who could not communicate in English were unable to negotiate the best deals in business transactions or investments.

“We need to send people out to market our products, negotiate deals or get contracts signed. If they cannot communicate well in English, we will lose out,” he said.

Pemudah co-chair Tan Sri Yong Poh Kon pointed out that, contrary to popular belief, it was important for civil servants to have a good command of English due to a growing borderless world.

“The standard of English also affects the quality of the public sector as civil servants have to interact with international citizens and the business world as well as articulate Malaysia's stand on issues to the international community. These include negotiations on important agreements such as trade agreements.”

Noting that the quality of English in the country had declined over the last two decades, former Human Resource Minister Tan Sri Fong Chan Onn warned that the country would lose out to its neighbours that did not teach English in schools previously.

“Thailand, Indonesia and China are making efforts to improve their English through their education system,” he noted.

Article extracted from www.thestar.com.my

346. WRISTWATCH ANNUAL 2011

2011-03-28T14:43:00.005+08:00

by: muzillmansor

Dropped by Passions Watch Gallery, Bangsar Village, Kuala Lumpur yesterday to pick up a few copies of WRISTWATCH ANNUAL 2011. Haven’t managed to browse through yet...

The extra copies were for close friends. Each copy is retailed at RM 126.00 ( RM: One hundred twenty six) only.

There are more copies available at the gallery. Those interested can call PASSIONS directly @ (603) 22870001 & (603) 22870002

345, “LU ALA LUA PULUH SEN KA?”

2011-03-28T14:15:00.004+08:00

Tersentak teman dengan soalan begitu...Aduh, berbulu betul telinga teman.

"Saya ni bukan anak Cina, Bang. Saya anak Melayu tulen, anak Malaysia" bentak teman.

"Kalau saya anak Cina sekali pun, rasanya abang boleh bercakap dengan bahasa Melayu yang betul, kan?" Saya mengacu soalan balas kepada Petugas lelaki di kaunter sebuah agensi kerajaan semasa menjelaskan bil cukai pagi tadi.

Walau pun saya tak bagi syiling, nota wangtunai yang diberikan sudah berlebihan.

Barangkali terkejut dengan kenyataanan teman, petugas tersebut tergamam membisu.

Teman tak kisah bahasa apa petugas tu nak guna, cuma teman fikir, eloklah bahasa yang dituturkan betul dalam sebutan, tepat susunan dalam tatabahasa dan kosa katanya.

Semua kawan-kawan teman, sama ada daripada kaum Cina, India, Punjabi mahu pun Orang Asli, bertutur dalam Bahasa Melayu yang betul... langsung takde telo.

Manalah tak bengang, tup-tup si Melayu sekor ni cakap pelat giler...

Kan bahasa tu jiwa bangsa. Nak cakap dalam bahasa Melayu, Inggeris, Tamil ke waima Mandarin sekali pun, amalkanlah bahasa yang betul.

Bahasa yang disusun cantik apabila ditutur, sedap didengar dan mudah difahami...

Barangkali boleh dicadangkan kursus atau kempen kepada kakitangan ...sekadar satu catatan dan satu pandangan.

Catatan: muzill.mansor

344.LAT BARES IT ALL IN THE MUSICAL…was there and you should too

2011-03-20T22:35:00.011+08:00

Promised Dato' LAT, the iconic Malaysian Cartoonist, that I would definitely make time to watch the musical on his life. So yesterday the whole family and I trooped to Istana Budaya, Kuala Lumpur to watch 'LAT Kampung Boy, the Musical'.

There was a huge crowd outside the theatre and I was pretty happy that the show received overwhelming support even for the afternoon show. The tickets were reasonably priced but the programme books were missing. Perhaps the tickets prices could have been increased to cover the cost of programme books which are necessary to follow the story lines and sequences.

The musical revealed quite substantial facets of LAT's untold stories which he kept to himself all this while.

All in all, the musical was refreshing and entertaining. Awie was exceptional as LAT and Atilia played the part of Faezah, Lat's wife, very well indeed.

The star of show without doubt was Omar Abdullah. He was just pure magic as Pak Samad Ismail, the Managing editor of NST.

I would definitely recommend the show to friends…

Throughout the show, I was wondering about the props and the settings which was rather subdued in comparison to Puteri Gunung Ledang, Lantai T. Pinky or Cuci-cuci.

Perhaps the article by HADI, LAT's youngest son on the musical in today's the New Straits Times extracted below may provide the appropriate answers.

I STILL remember that evening when Harith Iskander and Hans Isaac came to our house in Ipoh.

It was during Ramadan. I found out from Hans that they wanted to do a musical about my father, Datuk Mohd Noor Khalid, fondly known as Lat. Of course, my father knew about this project earlier, but he kept it under wraps. He hadn't told me anything about it before Hans did.

We broke fast together. Hans and Harith asked me and my siblings a few questions about my father.

They were doing a research on him, so they could construct his character on stage more accurately. I just kept quiet at the dinner table, playing with the ice cubes in my air sirap and let my siblings do the answering.

I was excited to see a projection of my father on stage. It was a little difficult at first to imagine that Malaysia's famous rock star Awie would be playing my father.

I know my father as a person who is somewhat shy, but confident. His goofy smile, which I believe runs in the family, is his signature and no one else could imitate that.

I was sceptical whether Awie was suitable to play my father as I couldn't imagine him doing the "Lat smile". But they both share similar personality and image.

When my father was young, he was a blues rocker in terms of image -- his hair, his attitude and his love for rock music. I remember seeing a picture of him and thought, "this guy looks like he doesn't have a job".

His hair was long and messy, and he was wearing a black jacket. Although the photograph wasn't really clear, I could tell that the jeans he wore was worn out.

There was a cigarette hanging from the corner of his mouth. His picture can be easily described as "Bob Dylan wannabe". It was then I realised that Awie was actually suitable to play my father.

On March 16, my family and I went to Istana Budaya to watch Kampung Boy the Musical for the opening night. The show opened with a montage of Lat's cartoons followed by the story of Lat as a boy, which is a reflection of his graphic novel Kampung Boy.

Later in the show, the young Lat exited the stage and introduced the audience to the adult Lat played by Awie.

When Awie entered the stage, he was greeted by thunderous applause. I couldn't help smiling and laughing at his hairdo, which was identical to my father's. His attire was also similar to my father's style.

Awie, as Lat, then started talking and ranting about city life. He puts one hand in his pocket and the other to occasionally scratch his hair, just the way my father used to do.

He also stood and carried the attitude like a typical kampung rocker. It felt as if I was looking at my father's photograph as a young man coming to life.

Faezah, my mother, was in the spotlight for the first time. Her character was played by songstress Atilia, who carried out a remarkable performance.

And for the first time, we were told the story of how Lat met Faezah. It was a very awkward moment for me as my parents never discussed their love life with us. But watching it on stage was a treat.

I enjoyed every bit of awkwardness that I felt as I watched the projection of how my father fell in love with my mother.

The musical focused on Lat's dilemma and the sacrifices he had to make to fulfil his dream as a professional cartoonist.

To achieve his dream, he had to leave his kampung and focus on his career. It showed how he faced his problems living in the city and his complications with my mother.

My father would've never told anyone about his problems, but the musical revealed them. It showed his emotional struggles, which he never would have shared with anyone other than his family.

The audience of Kampung Boy the Musical were lucky enough to experience and see the other side of Lat that was previously kept close to himself.

The musical was not as grand as the critically-acclaimed P. Ramlee the Musical or Puteri Gunung Ledang, but we all know that my father wouldn't want it that way.

The musical stayed true to his personality and that of his work, which is humble and down-to-earth.

At the end of the show, me, my brother Haris, sister Nur Ain, and my parents went back to our hotel rooms. We talked about the musical and laughed at the funny details.

When my brother, Haris, and I were about to leave the room, we congratulated our father.

Not because the musical was a success and we enjoyed it, but for the fact that he was bold enough to reveal his fragility through the musical. Kampung Boy truly is about the other side of Lat

Yes, that is LAT that I know, a simple, modest and very humble man…

343. NICE AND ATTRACTIVE…AND VERY AFFORDABLE

2011-03-02T21:40:00.004+08:00

Scouting for Value for Money (VFM), nice and attractive new dress watches is a simple task for me. There are bountiful choices available at reasonable prices in all sorts of shapes and sizes.

Look no further beyond the famed house of Orient of Japan who has been consistently producing gorgeous models every year, a very commendable effort indeed.

Spotted many models of interest recently. The prices are ridiculously inexpensive for such elegantly designed models. My top choices are displayed here for common viewing.

Those interested to secure these watches at special prices may do so through LT Watch Gallery.

342. AN EXPENSIVE DAY…A VALUABLE EXPERIENCE

2011-02-28T17:04:00.004+08:00

By: muzill.mansor

Spend nearly the whole day at the Ipoh Main Post Office. There are 10 traffic summonses to settle for the two cars and today is the final settlement day. There are long queues of restless and frustrated souls at the Traffic Police Department and the Main Post Office.

Just can’t blame anybody but myself. I guessed this time my laidback attitude again cost me dearly… Lots of expensive time and money...

In summation, it is always best to pay off the traffic summonses early.

Spending more than five hours waiting and in between agony and anxiety, boredom faces and systems down, my mind was wondering about the many things that should have been done and attended more prudently and intelligently…so much for an eye opener and regret.

It would definitely be better off if I had been more discipline be it driving cars or going about my life.

I guessed my Pa was right all along. Discipline is the bridge between setting mere goals and real accomplishments.

(Sigh)…Too much at stake right now.

Save time, save money and save all the hassle…and save for the best.

There is no two way about it. I have to change right now…for me, for the better future and for the loved ones around me.

341. LAT KAMPUNG BOY, THE MUSICAL…WHAT’S NEXT?

2011-02-27T13:05:00.005+08:00

Received a call from LAT on Wednesday. We talked about his coming 'LAT KAMPUNG BOY, The Musical' to be staged at the Panggung Sari, Istana Budaya (National Theater) on March 16^th to April 3^rd 2011.

He was pretty excited yet cautious and nervous about the public response. I told him that everything should be fine. I also told him that I have watched Awie performed on stage in 'Cuci2 the Musical' and the actor/singer performance was superb then. I'm sure he will perform just as credible as LAT in 'Lat Kampung Boy, the musical'.

A lot of people are anxiously waiting for the show. In fact, our whole family and the whole gang of his Ipoh buddies are going down to Kuala Lumpur to lend support. Was told by LAT, our friend, Rizal Pakeeza is trying to make arrangements to ferry the Ipoh contingent.

What's next? That was the question lingering in my mind. Yes, after the musical, what is the next project line up for LAT, the iconic world-famed cartoonist?

This man has done a fantastic job in putting Perak, his home state and Malaysia on the world map, yet not much was given back by the state to honour his works. I'm still praying for the best to come…

If only LAT exists in Europe or USA, his work would have filled a museum and deserved the creation of a theme park.

As if reading my mind, he voluntarily explained that he was having a meeting with a top Perak state executive councilor the next day to kick start his long stalled pet project...let us just called it, LAT's signature project.

The rest…well, it is privy between two good friends.

340. A NICE BOX FROM LONGINES…

2011-02-23T13:09:00.010+08:00

By: muzill.mansor

I have quite a reasonable collection of watch boxes, be it plastic, leather, wood and lacquer. Some boxes are still nicely wrapped waiting to be filled up despite my rather handsome collections.

Nonetheless, this one box is rather special for it carries the ‘Longines’ brand name. It has spaces to fit in five watches as well as spaces for cufflinks and rings.

The only dilemma is I do not collect rings or cufflinks…

Maybe, it is a hint from my dear friend who presented me the box…for me to also pick up another line of collections…hahaha.

Nope, watchwise I'll be better off maintaining my status quo as as a loyal fan, collector and retailer...

339. Two Police Reports Lodged Pertaining Fake Letters From Perak MB

2011-02-09T09:31:00.004+08:00

IPOH, Malaysia- The Perak Menteri Besar's special officer Datuk Azhar Ahmad Monday lodged two police reports concerning the case of forged documents bearing the name of the Menteri Besar and state departments that were used by certain quarters to cheat people.

The first report was lodged at Pantai Remis police station at 6am and the second at Sungai Senam police station here three hours later.

Speaking to reporters at his office here Monday, Azhar said the reports were lodged after he received two letters, with the Perak Menteri Besar's letterhead and purportedly signed by the Menteri Besar's special officer, on approval for state government-owned agricultural land.

"I never signed any letters of approval for state government-owned land... the letters are fake and intended to defame our officials and probably to tarnish the reputation of the menteri besar," he explained.

He said the first letter, dated Dec 9 last year, involved approval for 324ha of agricultural land in Kenering, while the second letter, dated Jan 13 this year, involved about 400ha land in Pengkalan Hulu.

Azhar said both letters were fake and ill-intended as he had no power whatsoever to approve land applications.

"Hence, I call on all individuals who had received such a letter or have fallen victim to the syndicate to lodge a police report, or seek confirmation from the state government before making any payment," he said.

Last week, Menteri Besar Datuk Seri Dr Zambry Abdul Kadir also called on the police to investigate whether there was an inside job in the case, which was first detected last year.

-- BERNAMA

338. THE DAY I BROUGHT HOME A RUSSIAN MODEL…

2011-02-04T11:54:00.012+08:00

By: muzill.mansor

It was three Thursdays ago…In between appointments in Kuala Lumpur and armed with a couple of hours free time, we managed to roll into the Pavilion Shopping Complex hopping from one watch gallery to another. Haven’t been to this place for quite a while and there is just so much to see. So, have to be quite selective.

The Swiss Watch Gallery carries quite a wide selection of interesting IWCs, Grahams and JLCs. Of all the exhibits, the JLC crystal Atmos clocks really fascinated us. With a price tag of RM 72K and RM80K each before discount, any of the two would definitely be ideal to grace a collector's display cabinet. Just adore the pieces and would love to bring any of the two atmos, home except that the budget did not really permit then.

The TW Steel watch kiosk displayed models that were quite familiar especially those already featured in Lt Watch Gallery. Still, we spent some time there just to compare prices. Of course we came out smiling because we offer more attractive prices.

Wata Time Gallery, being one of the largest watch retail outlets offered bountiful of choices. Two U-Boats models were very impressive, reasonably price and worth considering. We might drop by again in the next trip to pick up one unit for the collections.

The stop at the Red Army watch gallery turned out to be no ordinary pit stop. It was a real long stop. There were just so many fascinating Russian models on display. Granted, we have never before given a second thought to Russian made watches although a close friend of ours have a good selection of Poljot, Aviator, Pobeda and Raketa in his collections.

There were so many fabulous and magnificent Russian made models to choose from. One can easily bust the credits cards and the bank balances in exchange for these gorgeous, big and busty models to take home.

Moving my eyes and hands stroking from one model to another, I was mesmerized by this one particular creation of Alexander Shorokoff. Just could not take my eyes of this beautiful creature…stunning, elegant, poised and looking ready to be taken home…Alas, this beau was only for display and not to be sold.

The face with two popping eyes devoid of unnecessary accessories and make-up overdo was so clean and pure.

The back is very transparent with neat engine and magnificent movement with orderly colour tone.

The crown is signed and sealed.

The black leather strap is just fitting.

I was just bowled over… I could not care less. Just wanted to possess the model and bring home and stamped as mine.

Pleaded with Awie, the Salesperson… A phone call to the gallery’s owner and upon my introduction, this master creation by Alexander Shorokoff is mine for the keep. Oh yes, I know the owner from a previous visit. We had then a very fruitful conversation especially after introducing my blog to him.

Securing this Russian beau, a limited edition of only 610 pieces created in Alzenau and dedicated to the people of Alzenau, Frankfurt, Germany was pure excitement, especially so when this is the first Russian connection...watches of course.

Say what? Of course I'm still excited about this encounter.

I'm praying hard for a more stunning beau with Russian connection to roll and flow into my life...and that would just pure blessed because it would be God send!

337. GONG XI FA CAI

2011-02-01T08:57:00.003+08:00

Wishing all the visitors celebrating the Chinese New Year, a very happy and prosperous new year...

Thank you for visiting this blog. Appreciate the support...

336.JUALAN LIMAU TAMBUN SANGAT LARIS…

2011-01-31T18:48:00.005+08:00

Limau tambun adalah antara buahan yang menjadi buruan kaum Tionghua di Perak lebih-lebih lagi pada tahun baru.

Malah ramai juga orang Melayu yang membeli limau tambun untuk dihadiahkan kepada rakan-rakan kaum Tionghua yang menyambut tahun baru.

Menjelang tahun baru Cina tahun ini, tinjauan rambang mendapati kebanyakan gerai yang menjual limau tambun disepanjang Jalan Dr Raja Nazrin Shah, Ipoh berhadapan Hotel Hilcity mendapati jualan limau tambun meningkat dengan banyaknya.

Mengikut Puan Loo Nyee Moi, pemilik gerai no. 16, jualan harian dua jenis limau tambun iaitu yang masam manis dan yang manis meningkat berganda. Harga runcit adalah antara RM10 sebiji hingga RM 35 sebiji. Masih ada ruang selesa untuk tawar menawar jika membeli lebih dari sebiji. Jika anda bijak menawar, potensi untuk dapat diskaun sehingga 20% amat cerah.

Buah-buah limau yang dijual adalah buah-buah segar dan baru dituai daripada ladang-ladang dilereng bukit dan lembah di sekitar kawasan Tambun.

Kepada semua rakan-rakan Tionghua yang akan menyambut tahun baru, diucapkan "SELAMAT TAHUN BARU. SEMOGA TAHUN BARU AKAN MEMBAWA LEBIH KEMAKMURAN."

335. GALLERY DEDICATED TO LAT

2011-01-30T01:42:00.005+08:00

iPOH (MALAYSIA):The Ipoh City Council has decided to pay tribute to the “original Kampung Boy” - cartoonist Datuk Mohd Nor Khalid, better known as Lat, who grew up in Kota Baru, on the outskirt of the city.

Mayor Datuk Roshidi Hashim said “Galleri Kartunis Lat” would be promoted as one of the city’s 10 icons but declined to reveal the location of the gallery except to say that it would be run by a non-governmental organisation.

“We chose Datuk Lat for his overwhelming contribution to the growth of the cartoon industry and in making Kampung Boy one of the most loved characters worldwide,” he said.

Speaking to reporters after chairing the Ipoh Council’s full board meeting here yesterday, Roshidi said it would give its full support to the NGO to ensure that the project takes off.

Roshidi said the council would leave it to Lat to decide if he wanted to put his drawings of Kampung Boy in the gallery.

“It (Kampung Boy) is after all his right,” he said.

(Taken from www.thestar.com.my)

334. BIG PLANS TO LIFT PERAK ECONOMY

2011-01-22T22:51:00.004+08:00

IPOH (MALAYSIA) : Perak will focus on agriculture and resources, tourism, renewable energy, education. marine, shipbuilding and heavy industries sectors to boost its economy under the Economic Transformation Programme.

Mentri Besar Datuk Seri Dr Zambry Abdul Kadir said Perak's strengths were in its natural resources - minerals for mining activities, abundance of agriculture land and biodiversity for tourism.

“Currently, most of the related economic activities are skewed towards the lower end of the value chain, hence limiting the potential returns that Perak can reap from these resources,” Zambry pointed out.

Moving forward, Perak will look into the overall value chain and identify higher value-added activities for the local players to start venturing into.

Datuk Seri Dr Zambry Abdul Kadir hopes the Federal Government will allow Perak to set up its own low-cost carrier terminal in the northern part of the state.

At the same time, the tourism sector will be strengthened by improving the existing products and forming a thematic tourism circuit.

Zambry planned to create an additional 10,000 jobs annually with more emphasis on skilled and semi-skilled human capital.

“We understand that the bulk of the demand for the manpower in Perak will still be on unskilled labour,” he said

During an interview with StarBizWeek, Zambry announced a few developments that were taking shape in the state.

Animation

The Perak Innovation & Creative Resource Centre (Pincer) is collaborating with Spacetoon International to launch its box office 3-D movie Mentera some time in August.

Costing some RM20mil, Pincer marks the state's foray into creative content. The centre will not only become an animation centre, but will also be involved in merchandising.

For its joint venture with Spacetoon, it has pumped in some RM8mil for the production of Mentera.

“We have been working together for three years. It was a long and painful exercise to convince them to come. But now we are in the post-production stage. We believe that returns will be forthcoming,” he said.

Zambry added that one of Perak's NKRA was for the development of information technology, which will be carried out through animation.

“We have identified creative content as a way to stop some of the migration of talent overseas. We are initiating more strategies to get these talent back,” he said.

Pincer is located behind the Perak Techno Trade Centre in Taman Meru, Jelapang near Ipoh.

LCCT

Zambry said initial discussions with the Federal Government for Perak to set up its own low-cost carrier terminal (LCCT) in the northern part of the state has taken place.

“We hope the Government will give it due consideration. The site is expected to take up 4,000 acres in the vicinity of Parit Buntar and Taiping, which is in the area of the Northern Corridor Economic Region.

The construction will likely cost half a billion ringgit, and it will be funded by the private sector,” he said.

Zambry, together with Perak Sultan Azlan Shah and Regent Raja Dr Nazrin Shah have formed a team to lobby for the LCCT.

He emphasised that the LCCT was not meant to compete with Penang, but would complement it.

Zambry said in five to eight years, the LCCT could possibly handle five million passengers a year.

This would bring about economic activity and make Taiping and Parit Buntar a new growth centre.

Education

More colleges will be set up to boost growth and investment in the state.

“The Premier International Medical University will be set up in Perak and will be run privately by a group of companies. One of the companies involved is a leading firm in the education field,” said Zambry.

He said Perak had approved 60 acres of land to SEGI College to build a health services campus for a university college along the Ipoh-Lumut Expressway.

(Taken from www.thestar.com.my)

333.BANYAK IKAN…

2011-01-19T19:56:00.007+08:00

Kata Orang Kuala Kangsar, "Huh, tempat kami banyak betul ikan, baling aja kail... ikan pun magut."
Kata Orang Kampong Gajah, "Tempat kami lagi hebat, kuak aje ayo... nampak ikan."
Kata Orang Parit, "Itu takde herannye, tempat keme kuak ikan... Baru Nampak Ayo."
Ini cerite Orang Parit le…bukan cerite teman...hehe

332. LENDING A HAND TO PERAK'S POOR

2011-01-18T23:51:00.006+08:00

The Perak government via Yayasan Bina Upaya Darul Ridzuan aims to create sustainable livelihoods for 40% of the state's population who currently live below the poverty line.

Perak has 2.6 million people, of whom 40% have a monthly income of below RM1,500. These people also have dependents. Right now, there are some 20,000 names registered under this category with Yayasan Bina Upaya.

This body has been mandated by the state to spend RM4mil per year to provide micro-financing to deserving recipients.

“Initiated last March, this scheme will give out loans ranging between RM1,000 and RM20,000 to qualified recipients,” said Yayasan Bina Upaya's Chief Executive, Khairul Azwan Dato' Harun Saruji.

So far, a total of RM 900,000 worth of interest-free financing have been given out to 125 recipients. Going forward, recipients not categorised as hard-core poor will be charged some interest.

In Malaysia, the overall poverty line stands at around 3%. Those categorised as hard-core poor earn below RM420 per month.

Under the e-Kasih programme, (a national database system to implement and monitor anti-poverty programmes), the 6,000 hard-core poor in Perak have now been “zerorised”.

“I have an accumulated amount of RM7mil for micro-financing, which I intend to fully utilise this year. We have to be very careful about giving out the money only to those who really need it. Right now, we give training to our recipients and also monitor their progress. They have to be reminded that they need to pay back the loans,” said Khairul.

He added that he had 100 trained volunteers throughout Perak who not only monitored the borrowers, but gave recommendations of people who truly needed these loans.

“The most important thing is to create sustainable livelihoods for the borrowers. Right now we provide support to the recipients. For instance, among the single mothers we have set up a flea market called Uptown Ladies Market' where there are some 50 traders who only consist of single mothers selling a wide range of unique products,” said Khairul.

He added that he often followed his volunteers to investigate the real situation of some of the potential recipients.

Recently he visited a family living in the outskirts of Bidor who were in dire needs. The mother was slightly disabled and could no longer work. The husband earned RM20 per day collecting and selling tapioca when it didn't rain. They had one school-going child and lived in a railway quarters.

The house was in very bad shape, with a leaking roof and no proper door. Electricity had already been cut, so they were using candles. Water came from a well which was a few hundred metres away, while firewood was used to cook.

“When I saw them, the mother was preparing her child for school. I saw only plain porridge in the pot. At that time, the father came back riding his bicycle and carrying his tapioca. After introducing himself, he pointed to his empty rice bin and started crying. He said they had not eaten properly in two days,” said Khairul.

“Although they were so poor, they were still so determined to send their child to school.”

Khairul immediately arranged for their electricity supply to be reconnected, Yayasan Bina Upaya also sponsored the repair of the house and a motorcycle for the husband.

“The ultimate aim is to increase the income and improve the lives of this 40% of people,” he said.

Extract from:The Star

Comments:

Delighted with this long overdue program especially so, that it is being spearheaded by an organisation headed by an Anak Keledang...Hopefully the program covers the Orang Asli community.

331. THE CHANGING OF GUARDS…YET THE FOCUS ON SOCIETY REMAINS

2011-01-09T14:08:00.008+08:00

We are already in the 9^th day of 2011 and the 4th day of Safar 1432. I've been deliberating on the topics to write as my first article of this year.

There are a few of interest especially the impact of price increases in many commodities on the public and the continuous floods that has and is hitting various regions in Malaysia. Mind you constant price increases poked huge holes in the pockets of the rakyat, yet the leaders we chose played safe by being mute and dump. I do know what I need to do to this kind of leaders come the next election. There is one stinking rubbish bin in my house ever ready…

nonetheless, the show must go on.

Last Wednesday, at the Perak Royal Golf Club, a new President presided the first meeting of our service club, KELAB BAKTI GUNUNG KELEDANG (Keledang Club) for this year.

Dato' Razali Khalid (DRK) was installed as the 2011 President of the Keledang Club on the 12^th December 2010, 10.40p.m, witnessed by our club patron, the Raja Muda of Perak, DYTM Raja Dr Nazrin Shah ibni Sultan Azlan Muhibbuddin Shah, in a very colourful and blissful atmosphere.

DRK, who was the 2010 Vice President, ascended the presidency, taking over from the industrious Dr Zakaria Abdul Kadir who completed his office of one year.

In Keledang, it is customary for a member to hold the office of Presidency for only one year to facilitate the office of presidency to be rotated among the members.

Sdr Haji Megat Ahmad Shahrani, who was the 2010 Honorary Secreatary was elevated to the office of Vice Presidency.

In outlining his mission this year, the new President was very focus to move forward all the ongoing projects especially the club's two major project viz. THE RELIEF CENTRE FOR UNWED MOTHERS (additional building) at Ampang, Ipoh and THE YAYASAN KELEDANG ORPHANAGE HOME In Kampung Melayu, Ipoh.

With the streams of big funds rolling in from donors including from the Menteri Besar Perak who pledged RM100,000 and the Perak Islamic Religious Council who donated RM200,000, those building projects should be completed and ready for occupation by the third quarter of 2011.

Under the present difficult circumstances where we are facing social problems of gigantic nature, it is only right that we get together under the banner of NGO to help alleviate the problems by contributing in the positive manner.

Leaving all the problems to the government to resolve does not seem right. Quoting Tun Mahathir's words during our club's encounter with him some time back "NGOs have positive roles to contribute to the society..."

My mission for the year is to assist our club to mobilise more resources from all possible legal avenues so that more social projects can be undertaken by our Keledang club and through the club.

On this score, I humbly record my sincerest appreciation to a good friend and a fellow blogger, Tuan Syed Mohri Al-Idrus who was very sensitive to the needs of the orphans. One phone call to purchase ten watches from his special sales took a twist when he was told of the actual intention of those intended purchases. That phone call led to his direct contribution in the fund raising programs for our YAYASAN KELEDANG's new orphanage home.

Thank you, Sir. Looking forward to meeting you to deliberate our next course of actions.

Just ponder a minute on those little things that we can do to make Malaysia a better place for us and our brothers and sisters to live in…

330. GOODBYE 2010 HELLO 2011

2010-12-31T23:27:00.008+08:00

Catatan: muzill.mansor

Setiap tahun 31 Disember lah hari yang paling sibuk selesaikan urusan syarikat dan urusan sendiri. Tetapi kali ini semua urusan kena dicepatkan satu hari pasal cuti Dato’ Najib bagi kerana Malaysia menang Piala AFF Suzuki.

Tahniah pasukan Malaysia. Baguslah sebab bolasepak Malaysia pun dah lama malap. Sesekali menang takkan salah nak raya sakan…

Apa pun hari Khamis saya ligat pusing keliling Bandar selesaikan banyak benda.

Agenda pertama ke Pejabat Agama Islam Negeri Perak di kompleks Islam. Bayar zakat, barulah rezeki jadi berkat.

Dari situ ke Pejabat Socso, bergegas pulak ke bank bayar ansuran dan terus ke pejabat KWSP bayar caruman bulanan.

Senang bila semua bayaran dan caruman dikemaskini dan tak ada tunggakan lagi.

Masih ada masa ke pejabat penasihat pelaburan, jenguk sekejap semak portfolio pelaburan dan ambik cek jualan saham. Lega sungguh bila saham-saham dalam portfolio dah bernafas semula dan boleh diurusniaga seminggu dua nie. Best giler bila kaunter yang baru beli, regenya dah mula naik tinggi. Thank you Auntie... Syukur...dah boleh pasang angan-angan buat projek baru tahun depan.

Singgah kejap kat kedai kain. Sambar sekeping dua kain nak buat baju Melayu. Spare untuk tahun 2011. Mana tau ada aktiviti macam sambutan Maulidurrasul atau satu dua aktiviti yang sewaktu dengannya…

Senang hati bila banyak kerja beres menjelang tengahari. Masih ada masa untuk buat posting jam cantik kat blog LT dan peruntuk masa di waktu malam buat yang tersayang.

Jumaat ada Pertandingan Paintball NPOC kat Sungai Petani lepas solat Jumaat. Pegi jangan tak pegi. Seronok sangat jumpa rakan-rakan sepasukan termasuk coach. Lama sungguh tak main dalam pertandingan sejak pulih daripada sakit.

Tahun 2010 memang best. Walau pun ada satu dua insiden kurang selesa seperti kena demam denggi berdarah tapi lagi banyak peristiwa gembira. Syukurlah pada Yang Maha Esa atas bertambahnya rezeki dan kurniaan yang paling berharga.

Tahun 2010 tinggal beberapa minit untuk berlalu pergi…pergi dengan sejuta ingatan, kenangan dan susulan.

Terima kasih semua…

SELAMAT TINGGAL 2010 dan SELAMAT DATANG 2011.

Semoga kita semua menjadi manusia yang lebih bertaqwa dan berguna.

Assalammu ‘alaikum…

329. The Magnificent Rolex Explorer II

2010-12-28T23:45:00.004+08:00

By muzill.mansor

My focus with Rolex Explorer I and Explorer II was more or less zoomed in after a few friends began inquiring about Rolex Explorer I.

Looking through the inventory, a unit of Explorer I and two units of Explorer II are available for retail. Hence the posting on @LT Watch Gallery a few days back. The responses on the postings especially on the Explorer I were exhilarating.

Thank you so much.

An excerpt on the Rolex Explorer II as extracted from http://www.secondtimeround.com was reproduced below for the benefit of Rolex explorers lovers and enthusiasts.

The History of Explorer II

Introduced in the early 1970's as model 1655, it is in essence a GMT Master with a fixed bezel. It has the same calibre movement as the GMT (1575) and has a forth hand which rotates once every 24 hours. This hand was read using the 24 hour engraved steel fixed bezel.

Rolex introduced the watch as an essential tool to all 'speleologists' (more commonly known as 'cave explorers' ).

Rolex also claimed that the speleologist "soon loses all notion of time: morning, afternoon day or night." For these intrepid souls Rolex developed the watch that could tell them whether the "2" on the dial was 2:00 a.m. or 2:00 p.m. (14:00). This may well be true, but there are other things with a higher demand than speleologists. The limited popularity that it had was because of people in the aviation field, air traffic controllers, etc.

In its life the watch for the first 3 years had an orange hand, and up until 1985 it had a red one. The 1655 Explorer II and the 1019 Milgauss are the only Rolex Models which use hands that are not used by any other model.

The Explorer II 1655 was not really popular until 1991, five years after it was re-launched with a sapphire glass and the same movement as the GMT Master II. This allowed the owner of the watch to set the hour hand backwards or forwards in one hour jumps without disturbing the second or minute hands. This facility allowed the owner to change time zones without losing a preset accurate time.

The Legacy of the Explorer is a long and interesting one and will just continue.

328. THE OLD BATTERED WATCH WARRIOR…

2010-12-24T16:15:00.010+08:00

This face belongs to Yew Cheong, the friendly watch seller and watch doctor. The wrinkles and the eye bags registered on the face signify the years in time that has passed by him. The face of a man who makes his living selling wrist watches, wall clocks and alarm clocks in a small shop tucked in between a jewellery shop and the many fruit outlets along the main road of Bidor.

Bidor, a little town near Tapah in the district of Batang Padang, Perak is famous for its crunchy guavas and succulent mangoes. Bidor is also the place in those days for cheap petais sold by the Orang Asli.

Yew Cheong has been involved in the watch business for more than 50 years. Starting his trade in the old Hugh Low Street, Ipoh, he then moved on to Bidor in the fifties where he opened his watch shop and stays put till now. Besides selling watches and clocks, he also provides repair and maintenance services. At time he also buys pre-owned and vintage pieces as a community service.

I had the opportunity to get acquainted to this marvelous man years ago when I frequented the town while managing my development projects.

Stopping by at his shop for short chats on watches while surveying for vintage watches owners dumped at his shop was a regular routine then. The first purchase made from him was a wall clock. Followed by a few quality buys including Pagols, Rados, Orient and Seikos secured at decent prices.

Watch owners from as far Teluk Intan and Kampar dropped by his shop to trade-in old watches in exchange for some new fancy pieces.

Some owners hard pressed for cash departed with their watches including some sentimental units.

Yew Cheong never turned away owners no matter how battered the watches might be because he knew the owners were cash desperate. I guessed his long association with the Bidor put him in good stead to really know his community and picked the right people to help.

It has been a while since I last saw him. On the way from a project nearby, I decided to pay him a visit yesterday. The old man looked excited to see me. Nothing much has changed. The old cheap stock of watches and clocks are still there. Some vintage wall clocks sent for repairs some time back are still visible at the back of the shop, an indication that perhaps work are falling back.

Upon my enquiring, Yew Cheong lamented that after half a century maybe it is time to hang up the tools. He said at 70 years plus, the body is aching, the hands are trembling and the failing eyes can take no more.

Yet when talking about old watches, his eyes lit up again while showing me a traded piece of Longines quartz with the fading words "KHIDMAT SETIA 1989" scripted at the case back. He insisted on me taking the watch at the same price he paid to the original owner desperate for cash. I just obliged…

Even at this advanced age, he is still serving his community as the watch doctor, seller and financier with a smile.

He sure knows how to restore watches and put life back to old vintage watches but whom does he turn to during this advanced age of his aching body, trembling hands and failing eyes…

327. BACALAH…

2010-12-21T13:52:00.008+08:00

Oleh: Muzill.mansor

Sempat singgah di sebuah kedai buku di Kinta City untuk membeli beberapa buku. Ramai bebudak tekun baca buku walaupun terpaksa duduk kat lantai.

Ada yang memilih untuk membaca sambil berdiri. Seronok giler tengok deme tekun baca.Tak kiralah buku apa yang dibaca asalkan ada hobi membaca.

Lagi seronok tengok kedai penuh orang menunjukkan rakyat Malaysia sukakan ilmu.

Teringat waktu kecil dulu, ayah selalu gak bawa kami empat beradik lepak kat kedai buku. Ayah cari buku novel dengan buku ilmiah, kami melilau cari komik. Macam-macam jenis komik kami baca. Suka tengok lukisan, suka juga ikut jalan cerita. Adik-beradik pakat-pakat jimat wang saku supaya boleh beli banyak jenis komik. Cuma bila banyak komik nak beli kena minta ayah tambah sebab fulus memang selalu tak cukup. Sudahnya mana komik yang kami suka macam GILA-GILA, ayah terus langgan saja setiap bulan.

Ayah tak kisah kami baca komik sebab kata dia, masa sekolah dulu pun dia suka baca majalah dan komik. MAD magazine, Kid Carson, Tarzan, Billy The Kid, Beano dan Dandy kira favourite dia lah. Kata ayah, Tok Wan bagi duit untuk langgan majalah mana yang suka. Tradisi baca Beano dan Dandy kira kami teruskan je lah.

Ayah cakap komik adalah karya seni halus, sumber ilmu dan inspirasi. Hanya orang-orang hebat dan tajam pemikiran macam Dato’ LAT, sahabat kami yang mampu melakarkan watak-watak kehidupan sebagai cerminan hidup dalam bentuk kartun.

Sampai sekarang koleksi kami, komik Melayu, Cina dan Jepun termasuk Dragon Ball dan Budak Getah tersusun rapi kat rumah.

Yang bestnya sekarang bila sepupu-sepupu datang rumah, cabinet tempat simpan komik lah jadi tumpuan sampai kekadang tak mau balik selagi komik-komik belum selesai dibaca...

Dah besar ni, kira dah graduate ke novel-novel berat tapi komik mana boleh tinggal.

Amalan membaca ni kena pupuk daripada usia muda supaya jadi satu tabiat. Rakyat yang rajin membaca adalah rakyat berilmu. Nak jadi pemimpin pun kena rajin membaca, baru peka.

Kalaulah semua kedai buku macam Borders yang sediakan ruang membaca yang selesa… tentu lebih syok lepak kat kedai buku.

326. A NEW LEASE OF LIFE FOR THE NEW YEAR…

2010-12-09T18:14:00.010+08:00

By: muzill.mansor

The Hijriah year of 1432 is just three days old. Still not too late to wish ma’al hijriah to all Muslim friends all over the world.

Late last year a good friend of mine, an ex-banker handed over what looked like a battered worn out watch with specific instruction to put life back into the watch. He said the watch, a present from a friend was among his favorite just like his Tag Heuer Link. Unfortunately when it stopped running, it was left idling in the drawer.

I was caught up with quite a number of events and festivities especially kenduris, company’s and club commitments to give the watch a second look.

Luckily the mid-week break gave me a breather.

Took the opportunity during the breather to drop by my watch clinic to have the watch examined.

It was a simple task of resuscitation, swift makeover and light polishing at the cost of a few dimes.

To Reza, here’s your Tonino Lamborghini with a new strap, shining and running.

Indeed it is a case of a new lease of life for a new year...

325. PERAK LOST LIVING HERITAGE

2010-11-23T15:12:00.006+08:00

A friend of mine, Pak Peter forwarded this e-flyer and requested for the event to be promoted. I took the liberty to paste it on this blog for public viewing.

Please make a date for this event.

324. FROM US IN KELEDANG…TO YOU THE KIDS OF THE FUTURE

2010-11-16T22:57:00.005+08:00

It started from observations and conversations among members and familie during the recent Ramadhan breaking fast ceremony at a few orphanages. There seemed to be a common character among the residents of these orphanages viz, timid, low esteem and lack of self confidence.

These observations made through the trained eyes of a medical specialist in the form of none other than our club President, Dr Hj Zakaria and concurred by many other members and families who felt obliged to address the matter in the best possible manner.

Hence, the idea to conduct a motivational course was mooted and Dato' Azmi, the Head of the club's Welfare Bureau was tasked to formulate a motivational course plan including identifying the suitable age group, ideal training location and reasonable budget.

Kem Dato' Sagor, a training centre in Kampung Gajah which Dato' Azmi was very familiar was identified as the right location within the reasonable prescribed budget.

Once, the motivational course module was place in proper perspective, the task of fine tuning and identifying the candidates was handed over to the club's Education Bureau to set the motion. Dr hj Murshid, the Head of the Education Bureau must be commended for his relentless effort in pursuing the orphanages to send the right numbers of participants.

One hundred students who are residents of ten orphanages age ranging from 14 to 16 years old were targetted to attend a full boarding three-day course on character building, motivation and career guidance.

Facilitators from the camp, universities, corporate leaders and professionals among club members were roped in to conduct the course.

On Friday, The 12 NOVEMBER 2010 afternoon, 83 participants turned up at the camp. Regrettably a few participants could not make it due to several reasons including transportation. Registration went on smoothly.

The ice breaking session that followed was interesting despite most participants were new to each other.

After tea, they adjourned to their separate assigned dormitories for a good bath and break before dinner.

Ustaz Amir from Sek Men Lambor Kiri who acted as the Imam for the Maghrib prayers gave a kuliah in between the Maghrib and Isyak prayers.

The official opening ceremony that followed the Isyak prayers was conducted by our club President, Dr hj Zakaria who whizzed his way from Ipoh I less than one hour. It was short but very meaningful. This is the first time in the club's 33 years history that such a course specially designed for residents of orphanages in Perak was ever conducted. Credit must be given to the President who envisages such a noble project.

A short paper was presented after the opening ceremony.

It was a long and hard day of listening endurance for the participants and they were release at 11.00 p.m for a decent rest.

Day two on Saturday started as early as 5.30 a.m for the Subuh prayers and a short tazkirah followed by a good healthy breakfast.

Back to the dormitory for a change in uniform suitable by morning drill at the field. A good exercise is always good for the body. Under the command of able instructors, the participants were taken through various rigorous routine to ensure that they are alert and at attention during the talks.

The session that followed was an eye opener.

It was heartening to see the participants reacted warmly to the 'heart to heart' session conducted by Pn Hjh Ainul, the wife Sdr hj Sazali, one of our former presidents.

Sdr Tan Sri Ahmad Azizuddin took over the afternoon session. As a Merdeka veteran, Tan Sri is the most appropriate person to take the participants through the memory lane of independence, the sacrifices and the true meaning of merdeka.

Tan Sri and Puan Sri must have been very pleased with the program and the response to warrant them to give raya to each participant.

Our club member Sdr Cikgu Hj Zabidi, a true educationist made his contribution by following up the Tan Sri's merdeka spirit.

Saturday night was reserved for career talk on various professions ranging from medical, architecture, engineering and accountancy.

Sdr Dr hj Zakaria, our club President who is a renowned neurologist took about half an hour to give an overview on the medical profession. His academic success was built on blood, sweat and tears. A true kampong boy who rose from poverty and a very supportive mother who toiled the morning suns and broke the evening lights to see her kids achieved excellence in life.

Datin Fairuz Hassan 'Adli was tasked to brief on the legal profession. She handled her session with poised and grace. The motherly tone adopted by her charmed the participants.

Our 2002 club President, Sdr Hj Sazali, an established architect in Ipoh came in next shedding some sparks on the architectural profession. Judging from the response, some participants seemed to pay attention.

By the time Ir Khairul Anwar, the immediate past President who is a civil engineering consultant took over the mike it was already 10.50 p.m. In the simplest language possible, he explained the intriguing world of engineering and how our lives are affected.

The last speaker, Dato' hj Mansor Ahmad, the 2000 club President and a chartered accountant with 33 years experience was given the task of explaining the accountancy profession. The time on the wall clock was 11.10 p.m. It was normally bedtime for the participants. Most of the participants in the hall were already half awake.

Observing the situation, he opted to simplify the presentation on accountancy profession through the character of a duck i.e a Peking duck or a Cherry Valley.

The duck was dissected into various components and products generating tremendous potential income for accountants to count. Slowly and surely then the hall came alive again…at least for the next 20 minutes giving enough time for a good wrapping up. Through the duck, the work of an accountant was given a light overview.

Well, we didn't expect them to understand much anyway. The objective was just to give an insight or an overview into the various professions so as to provide a guiding light into the future.

Sunday, the 14th November 2010, the last day was reserved for Dato' LAT's session. IN his usual relax manner, LAT took the boys down his memory lane in explaining that a career in cartooning is possible provided one is willing to work hard, has sharp observation and sincerity in the heart.

It was a long and tiring three day session for participants, the Dato' Sagor's facilitators and the club.

Thanking every single one who contribute towards the success of the program, the club President performed the closing ceremony just before lunch.

Summing up, the motivational program for the students from the orphanages was worth the efforts, the money, the time and resources.

The spirit of KELEDANG shone like a beacon through the program for it was the combine effort of every single member of Keledang family that pulled us through.

WELL DONE KELEDANG, WELL DONE KEM DATO" SAGOR…WELL DONE KIDS.

323. A BEAUTIFUL PANERAI BUT WHERE’S THE CROWN…

2010-11-11T07:53:00.012+08:00

This fascinating Panerai caught my eyes at the first glance a few days back...but where's the crown?

Bro Nazri was right. This is a special model release by Panerai specially for the left handers.

Besides Panerai, other watchmakers like Seiko has also released a kinetic professional diver model for left handers needs as per earlier posting no.74 @ LT Watch Gallery

More pictures, specifications and availability @ LT Watch Gallery

later...much later

by:muzill.mansor

322. THE FLOOD IS RECEDING BUT...

2010-11-10T08:44:00.013+08:00

The flood situation in Kedah state in the northern part of peninsular Malaysia has improved according to local press.

During our Keledang club's meeting on Sunday, it was decided that the club extend some assistance to the flood victims. I was tasked to visit the flood areas and report back to the club's committee who then will make the final decision.

Monday morning I called my dear friend and former classmate, Dato Mansor Ismail, the President of Langkawi Recreation Club( LRC), an NGO active in helping the flood victims. I was informed that the flood situation has improved but certain areas are still under water.

When told that our club would like to contribute, he was very appreciative. He said, "Any help no matter how little would most certainly be welcome." LRC has together with several other NGO in Kedah together launched a Flood relief Fund to mobilise funds for the needs of flood victims.

I made a call to the flood hotline at the Kedah State Secretariat. Upon inquiry, a lady politely answered the phone and informed us that donations can be forwarded to the natural disaster Fund under the State Secretary office.

We also got to know that donations can be forwarded through the Kedah State Welfare Department.

Well, at least we have three conduits to channel our donations and aids.

We set our journey back to Alor Setar after the Zohor prayers. The weather was kind although heavy rain started to pour by the time we reached Gurun. Exited at the Alor Setar South toll Plaza, we noticed that indeed the flood has receded. The road leading to the city is cleared although the Kedah River is still swollen.

We proceeded to Taman Golf where the federal minister of housing family home is situated near our kampung(village). Part of the road in the housing estate was still under water.

There were many cars parked along the road leading to the kampung. Jalan Dato' Syed Ahmad Shabudin in front of our family's house in still flooded to knee high.

There was a small lorry loaded with boxes of food and mineral water. We were told that every day this lorry from the Buddhist Society will come to distribute free food and bottled mineral water to the flood victims in the kampung. All help are most welcome. So, a big thank you to the Buddhist Society.Keep up the good work.

I waddled through the flood to reach my parents house. The water was foul with stinking smell.

We surveyed the area around our house. The water mark left by the flood indicated that the flood reached just below the window level. Though water was still ankle- deep around the compound, we were quite relief and thankful that it was receding.

Some of the houses at the lower ground were still flooded.

We then proceeded to the main relief centre at the Stadium Sultan Abdul Halim in Suka Menanti amid heavy donwpour.

Despair and empty faces awaited us at the stadium.

The numbers remained at the relief centre has dwindled to just about 300 from the initial 2,436 on the 03 November 2010. Most of them are from Seberang Pumpong area nearby.

Much need to be done at the stadium especially keeping the compound clean from litters and the toilets hygienic.

No activities were organised to keep those at the centre occupied. Perhaps gotong royongs could be organised to pick all the plastic containers and trash littering the compound.

From the stadium we moved to the paintball court where Muzill and his gang normally practised. The rice fields around the court resembled a huge lake.

Taking the route through Pantai Johor and Mentalun, we proceeded to Alor Setar on the way back to Ipoh, wet but happy that Muzill has made a wise decision to move out his grandparents just at the right time.

This morning, I was on telephone conversation again with Dato' Mansor Ismail, the former Langkawi Municipal Council President and now the President of Langkawi Recreation Club (LRC) to get the updates. Really happy that he is spending his retirement time doing the noble community services through his NGO in reaching out to help the needy including the flood victims.

Well done Dato'...

Keledang Club will be very happy to extend our assistance to the flood victims through the LRC. I pray that my fellow club members will give generously...

321.Kelab Rekreasi Langkawi Lancar Tabung Derma Bantu Mangsa Banjir Di Kedah

2010-11-09T22:30:00.002+08:00

LANGKAWI, 5 Nov (Bernama) -- Kelab Rekreasi Langkawi (Kerel) bersama beberapa badan bukan kerajaan (NGO) di Kedah melancarkan tabung derma kilat untuk membantu mangsa banjir di negeri ini.

Presiden Kerel, Datuk Mansor Ismail berkata NGO terbabit termasuk Pertubuhan Kebajikan Islam Malaysia (Perkim) Langkawi, Koperasi Pembangunan Komuniti Pelancongan Langkawi, Kelab Penerbangan, Kelab Fotograf, Persatuan Basikal Bukit Langkawi, Persatuan Menembak Langkawi, Kelab Sepak Raga Tuju dan Langkawi Motorsport Club.

Tiada sasaran kutipan ditetapkan untuk kempen itu, katanya kepada pemberita selepas melancarkan tabung itu di Kompleks Latihan Perahu Layar Kebangsaan di sini malam tadi.

Beliau berharap orang ramai dan pelancong akan menghulur sumbangan kepada tabung itu yang akan dijalankan selama sebulan sehingga 5 Dis ini.

-- BERNAMA

320. RUMAH TOK WAN BANJIR LAGI…

2010-11-05T09:36:00.007+08:00

Petang Selasa bergegas pulang ke Alor Setar setelah mendapat panggilan telefon daripada Tok Wan pada waktu pagi. Kata Wan, jalan masuk di depan rumahnya sudah dinaiki air. Air sungai di belakang rumah juga sudah mula melimpah…

Saya maklumkan kepada Wan, insyaallah selesai satu dua tugas, saya pasti pulang untuk tinjau keadaan dan buat keputusan.

Wan cakap dia tunggu di rumah sambil berpesan supaya kala balik nanti pandu dengan cermat di jalanraya.

Kurang lebih jam 2.30 petang mula perjalanan dari Ipoh. Sampai di Alor Star hampir jam 5.00 petang. Semua kenderaan dialihkan melalui Plaza tol Alor Setar Utara. Lebuhraya PLUS dinaiki air dekat UUM.

Meluncur terus ke rumah Tok Wan. Sememangnya air telah mula membanjiri jalan di depan rumah. Kenderaan orang kampong berderetan di bahu-bahu jalan di taman perumahan yang berdekatan yang agak tinggi.

Anak-anak kecil riang bermain air limpah.

Nasib baik bawa Nissan Frontier, boleh redah masuk kawasan rumah Wan yang agak tinggi. Ada jiran tumpang letak kereta di garaj Wan. Kalau air naik lagi kereta-kereta tu pun pasti terjejas.

Sungai di belakang rumah Wan sudah senak. Air mengalir laju melimpahi kawasan rumah-rumah di tebing sungai.

Air sungai terus mengalir deras mencecah kekawasan reban ayam di belakang rumah Wan.

Jalan-jalan di depan dan kanan rumah Wan juga mula digenangi air.

Dari amatan, memang banjir besar akan tiba, harap-harap jangan sebesar banjir 2005. Letih membaiki perabut yang rosak dan mencuci lantai-lantai yang penuh dengan lumpur.

Saya bincang dengan Wan. Wan lebih suka tinggal di rumah. Tunggu dan lihat keadaan dan kemudian baru buat keputusan. Saya bimbang…

Saya lebih minat bawa Wan dan Tok pindah sebelum air bertambah besar. Perabut-perabut yang mampu diangkat ke tingkat atas rumah, dipindahkan segera. Wan kata, dia ikut saja keputusan saya.

Lepas solat Maghrib dan makan malam, Tok Wan dan Tok tawakkal tinggalkan rumah dan ikut saya pulang ke Ipoh kerana air naik dan terus naik…

Catatan: muzillmansor

Berita terkini: Khamis-jam 9.30 malam 4.11.2010

Dapat berita daripada Jiran di kampong. Air sudah membanjiri rumah-rumah kampung termasuk rumah Tok Wan. Berapa tinggi paras air yang masuk tidak dapat diketahui kerana jiran-jiran sudah mula pindah semalam.

319.OF BLINK, RADAR NUMBERS AND RAYMOND WEIL…

2010-11-01T18:09:00.008+08:00

Nothing much has been written worthy of mention on currency and notes lately. Come to think of it, I don’t recalled writing anything on watches or clocks as well for quite a while. What more a book review.

This book ‘BLINK’ was a present received some time back but never managed to haul myself to complete reading until recently. For those who are looking for some material to loosen up the mind, this book suits you.

What I want to jot down is not the book review rather a preowned piece of RM100 Malaysian currency note tucked in between the pages of the book. I must have placed it there some time back during those initial glances at the book contents.

Turned out this currency note carries a radar number with a ZA series. Placing interesting currency notes in books surfaced from ATM, from a bank counter or a shopping change is supposed to be temporary but most of the time the transit period seemed permanent.

I remember clearly about this RM100 note bearing number ZA 1495941.

The note was handed to Muzill to make a payment over a counter when he realized that it carries a radar number. Returning the note with a smile, he casually mentioned that I might want to keep the note and requested me to have a second glance.

Indeed it might not be an UNC, still it has a special value…and by the time I took another note, he has already settled the bill.

I just returned the smile…

Oh yes, what has the book and the radar note got to do with the Raymond Weil? Well, I was wearing this watch when the radar number was rediscovered recently in the BLINK. This RW is a special gift from my better half many years ago and I’ll always treasure this priceless timepiece…

318. TERIMA KASIH JABATAN KESIHATAN…

2010-10-26T12:04:00.005+08:00

Jadual biasa 'fogging' dijalankan pada petang hari. Berbeza pagi ini.

Seawal jam 6.40 pagi sekumpulan pekerja Jabatan Kesihatan Negeri Perak telah bertungkus lumus membuat 'fogging' di sepanjang jalan di halaman rumah dan di belakang rumah. Jam 10.00 pagi pasukan kesihatan yang membuat pemeriksaan rumah ke rumah masih gigih bertugas.

Pegawai Kesihatan yang bertugas memaklumkan bahawa hari ini ada kes suspect denggi terbaru, katanya keluarga Hj Makmur di pangkal Persiaran Bukit Meru 10, Meru Heights, Ipoh. Wabak denggi yang menyerang kawasan perumahan kami lebih dua bulan lalu belum berjaya dibendung dan masih berleluasa.

Usaha Jabatan Kesihatan masih berjalan saban hari, penduduk-penduduk juga berusaha menjadikan kawasan rumah masing-masing bersih dan bebas nyamuk.

Masaalah yang belum selesai adalah lot-lot perumahan kosong terbiar dipenuhi lalang, rumah-rumah yang ditinggal kosong dipenuhi belukar.

Sampah-sampah kebun dari goyong royong anjuran Jabatan Kesihatan tempoh hari bersepah dibahu-bahu jalan belum dikutip lori-lori Majlis Tempatan.

Pokok-pokok hiasan di sepanjang beberapa jalan berserabut tanpa urus dan daun-daun kering tidak disapu.

Jabatan Kesihatan tidak mampu selesaikan masaalah tersebut kerana bukan dalam bidang kuasa mereka. Maka wabak denggi tidak pasti boleh terus dihapuskan di kawasan kami.

Majlis Tempatan yang bertanggungjawab atas urusan pembersihan sampah dan menghantar notis kepada pemunya lot-lot kosong dan rumah kosong barangkali masih tidur dan pekerja-pekerja yang dihantar dilihat banyak rehat daripada bekerja…

Kepada majlis tempatan tersebut, teruskanlah gya cara kerja mu dan tidurmu seperti lagu ‘tidurlah wahai permaisuri’ dendangan P.Ramlee.

Nak tulis surat aduan lagi kepada agensi tersebut barangkali dah tak lalu…

Nak harapkan Wakil Rakyat, alahai, kalau ada bau pilihanraya, mungkin timbullah bayangnya semula di kawasan ni...

Kepada kakitangan Jabatan Kesihatan Negeri Perak, sekalong penghargaan dirakamkan dan tahniah atas kerja kuat. We salute you for your vigorous efforts. Kalau kerajaan nak bagi bonus, inilah jenis pekerja-pekerja yang layak.

317. UPDATE ON 'KAMPONG BOY' THE MUSICAL

2010-10-25T22:17:00.005+08:00

Met my friend, Dato' Lat at the Surau this evening for the Maghrib prayers. Caught up with him on his latest projects after the prayers... was informed that 'Kampong Boy' might not be able to be stage this year.

The project could hit the stage in March next year.

I told him, irrespective of the performance date, please keep me informed. Our family enjoys theatrical performances once in a while whenever we can spare the time together. The whole family except Muzill was at Istana Budaya recently to watch 'CUCI-CUCI' the Musical. Unfortunately we missed the date on the 'MAHATHIR'.

What a fantastic show 'CUCI-CUCI' turnout to be. The spontaneous dialogues was just hilarious and satirical...

316. IT WAS SET 30 YEARS AGO…

2010-10-21T11:52:00.008+08:00

Dato Seri Najib Tun Razak, the Prime Minister of Malaysia officially declared Malacca as a developed state yesterday, precisely on 20/10/2010.

Congratulations to all the past and present leaders of that small yet thriving state for the achievements of pushing a sleepy hollow place into a world tourist destination.

A lot of credit has been showered to the charisma and the vision of the present chief minister which I guessed is quite justified.

But I liken the development of a state to the athletic event of a relay race. All the runners play their part to win.

The process of the development of Malacca I reckoned began during the time of chief ministership of Tan Sri Abdul Rahim Thamby Chik back in early eighties with full support of Tun Mahathir, the then Prime Minister of Malaysia.

What a visionary leader and hands on manager he was.

He was very meticulous with financial results of departments and state agencies assessing the real performances, analysing the variances and getting the departments to buck up. He was full of ideas on moving the state forward with well executed tourism projects.

I know… because I served under him then in Malacca as the State Treasurer, entrusted with managing of the state funds over 17 departments, during the days when Ali Rastam (Dato Seri), the present Chief Minister, too was a departmental head.

Back then, we already dare to produce a surplus annual budget for the state!

Malacca folks should be proud of their success despite the limitation of state resources.

To me, the real architect for Malacca's achievements today is undoubtedly Tan Sri Rahim Thamby Chik who laid the foundation.

He was succeeded by Dato' Seri Mohd Ali Rastam, a fine builder who completed the development of Malacca in grand design.

WELL DONE MALACCA!

315.SATU IKATAN PADUAN KASIH...

2010-10-19T12:48:00.008+08:00

314. SMOKING OUT THE VIRUS-CARRYING AEDES MOSQUITOES…

2010-10-18T20:12:00.011+08:00

The Ipoh Health Department staffs have been making their evening rounds smoking out mosquitoes almost every day ever since the dengue fever becomes endemic in our area. This evening is no exception.

Residents of Meru Heights, Ipoh have been the subject of attacks virus carrying Aedes mosquitoes since early August.

More than 20 cases of Dengue fever victims have since been admitted and the list has yet to stop.

Pointing fingers does not stop the Aedes mosquitoes from breeding and spreading the disease. Concerted efforts from Ipoh City Hall, all government agencies and all parties concerned including the residents are the only way to curtail and control the mosquitoes.

Hence the initiatives by the Health Department for doing the evening rounds and spearheading the gotong royong last Saturday was most commendable. Thank you Sirs…

Though not many residents turned up at the Community Hall last Saturday morning for the gotong royong, I guessed most of the residents did participate judging by the piles of garden refuse along the roadsides. They chose to stay back and clean up their own compound.

I just wished the Ipoh City Hall had sent the lorries to collect those piles of garden refuse which could be potential mosquitoes breeding grounds.

Clearly, the efforts of the Health Department are producing results as there are fewer mosquitoes in the area.

To Ipoh City Hall, please be more proactive. There are so much more you guys can act.

I acknowledged once in a while you people did visit us to produce compound tickets, gave us free samples of Abate and then fogging. We really appreciate those gestures. I reckon it takes much more than that to rid of the virus-carrying Aedes mosquitoes.

A couple of months ago, I wrote a long letter to the Mayor appealing for assistance to tidy up our area prompting some positive actions.

Thank you Mr. Mayor.

Once again, I appeal to the good Mayor of Ipoh, do pay us a visit and witness the uncollected rubbish, the overgrown empty housing lots, the unkempt empty houses, the untidy construction sites, the rubbish dumps, the uncut grass along the clogged main drains and along the hill slopes.

I know that you do care...and seeing is believing.

A breakfast or evening tea dialogue with the residents, Mr. Mayor would certainly be most welcome. Do bring along your officers and cleaning contractors just to make the dialogue more lively and fascinating.

God willing, together we can make this world a better place to live...

P/s (updated 19 Oct 2010 at 12.30p.m)

I saw some workers cutting grass on both sides of the road in front of my house , Are they from Ipoh City Hall? Thanks anyway...

313.NEED TO RECHARGE THE BATTERIES…

2010-10-18T12:31:00.005+08:00

My mechanic called me on Saturday for an appointment to collect the cars for maintenance. My old Morris Minor has not hit the road for some time and the Nissan Frontier's battery is dead.

Come to think of it, my blog too has suffered a power failure. It's turning into a cobweb and thoroughly deserves its due maintenance.

There were many topics of interest of late that I could have written. Interesting topics ranging from peculiar Eid Mubarak's celebrations in Malaysia that lasted more than one whole month of Syawal, wedding receptions that followed practically every Saturdays and Sundays, the dengue fever that is still a cause of concern to our neighborhood, to the recent Malaysian budget that was announced by Dato' Seri Mohd Najib Razak, the Prime Minister last Friday.

Still, the zeal to punch the keyboard for a decent and readable article was missing for one reason or another.

Try to select a novel or two from the pile purchased long ago to start reading but failed miserably after just a few pages.

No matter, I must snap out of this hibernation. Perhaps it is a good idea to revisit the currencies and stamps albums that are gathering dust.

Like the cars, I too need to recharge the battery fast and let the blog and I 'breathe' again…

312. KAMPONG BOY to hit theatre as musical in December

2010-09-21T20:44:00.004+08:00

KUALA LUMPUR, Sept 21 – Having been translated into various languages and adapted as animation, the well-loved local cartoon strip ‘Kampung Boy’ is set to scale greater heights.

It will hit the theatre as a musical for a world-class stage in December this year.

Needless to say, its creator, iconic cartoonist Dato' Mohd Nor Khalid, better known as Lat, is elated.

While he finds it difficult to believe that his work would be made into a musical, the man views it as an appreciation of his works.

“I am grateful that the Kampung Boy cartoon still continues... even the animation is still around and I have plans with Astro to have an animation series in the future,” added Lat.

He advised budding cartoonists interested in animation to be creative and find different ways to feature the Malaysian culture.

“Even on low budget, creative ideas would assure the work reaches the foreign market without the need to imitate Western ways.”

Meanwhile, the musical is a joint project between the Malaysian National Institute of Translation (ITNM) and Tall Order Theater Production.

It will not only bring the famous cartoon to the stage, but it will also feature the 1Malaysia concept.

INTM communication, marketing and sales department manager Zinitulniza Abdul Kadir said, Kampung Boy was chosen to be made into a musical, based on its storyline which depicted Malaysian communities and cultures.

“The Kampung Boy books have been translated into 15 languages and we feel it’s a good way to promote our culture.

“Upon request from Lat himself, the musical will also include the 1 Malaysia concept, not just in terms of its crew but also its actors who will consist of various races.

“This is why, Prime Minister Datuk Seri Najib Tun Razak agreed to be a patron,” she told reporters after launching the Malaysia Book Lovers Seminar 2010 here today.

To be staged in Bahasa Melayu, Zinitulniza said the musical would include the ups and downs of Lat’s life as cartoonist, scenes from his cartoon works and his new ideas, which would be presented in a way to captivate the audience. – Bernama

311. Selamat Hari Raya Aidilfitri!

2010-09-10T14:33:00.008+08:00

Hari Raya kali ini agak berbeza dengan tahun-tahun lepas. Selalunye pagi raya ayah, ibu, abang, angah & adik akan bersiap dengan baju raya untuk ke masjid sembahyang raya bersama tapi kali ini x cukup satu korum. Abang masih di hospital pagi raya ni.

Ayah cakap x pe la. Kali ni kite raya ngan abang kat hospital je la. Jadinye lepas sembahyang raya, kami berlima dengan rendang daging rusa, lemang, kuih raya & x lupe jugak baju raya abang menuju ke Ipoh Speacilst Hospital nak beraya dengan abang.

Sampai kat hospital, kuih raya sume dah dibalun oleh angah...hehe abang x selera sgt tapi tetap dengan senyuman. Seronok tengok telatah adik2nye yang x habis2 nak kacau abang. Raya kali ni simple je tapi cukup bermakna.

SELAMAT HARI RAYA AIDIL FITRI, MAAF ZAHIR DAN BATIN

Posted by: Kakak

Update on 25 September 2010:

Kakak suffered high fever on Saturday, 18 September 2010 and was admitted to Sime Darby Medical Hospital, Subang Jaya on 22 September 2010 on dengue fever. She is still under treatment.

310. URGENT RECRUITMENT: A JOB VACANCY FOR CLUB/FOUNDATION SECRETARIAT EXECUTIVE

2010-08-24T23:02:00.005+08:00

I am going off track a bit with this posting.

Since the departure of Mr Harith Idris to take up a job appointment with Pantai Hospital, Ipoh the club’s secretariat has been without an executive to manage and administer the daily tasks.

Our 70 members’ strong-community service club, The Kelab Bakti Gunung Keledang and its foundation, Yayasan Bakti Gunung Keledang, hence is seeking to employ a young male graduate with at least one year experience dealing with NGO to fill the post of Secretariat Executive.

Fresh, healthy, caring and ICT literate male graduates with diploma or degree in management, business, communications or any relevant discipline willing to work intelligently and diligently are most welcome to apply.

Attractive remuneration package with vast potential to strike high profile networking is available.

Candidates who are seeking to apply for the vacant position are advised to visit the club’s blog at www.kbgk@blogspot.com to have an insight about the club’s activities and understand the role of this reputable Perak based NGO.

We promise you will gain valuable experience.

Interested, please call the Honorary Treasurer, Muzill Mansor @ 010-3010018 or the Honorary Secretary, Tuan Haji Megat Ahmad Shahrani @ 019-5555876 or send in your resume to @ muzill.mansor@gmail.com and we’ll arrange for an appointment date.

SEE YOU...

Posted by: muzill.mansor

Updated on 25 September 2010:

Thank you for the responses. The club has identified the right candidate, Encik Meor Muzaffar who assumed the post recently. Thanks again folks...

309. ROLEX DAYTONA SEMI-GOLD...A GIFT FROM THE HEART.

2010-08-13T11:03:00.005+08:00

He did not take much time. He did not ponder for long. He knew exactly what he to look for. He has budgeted for the cost and he has the money to spare.

A few glance at the timepiece and upon checking the necessary papers, he concluded the sale. It was a simple and straight forward transaction.

That Rolex Daytona timepiece exchanged hands.

He was a simple man of many means. He was a very caring boss who handles his staff from his heart.

The Rolex Daytona purchased was not for him but for a very loyal employee who has dedicated his long and outstanding services to the company.

To dish out thirty odd grand for a gift to a loyal employee is a very noble act...and the fact that the employee profusely declined the gift initially...

Indeed, the month of Ramadhan is a blessed month. I’m touched...

308. AHLAN WA SAHLAN...YA RAMADHAN KAREEM

2010-08-11T15:31:00.005+08:00

Ramadhan menjelma semula disambut dengan berlapang dada tanda kesyukuran. Satu tahun menunggu ketibaannya dan belum tahu tahun depan masih ada kesempatan.

Selamat berpuasa. Semoga kita semua mampu meningkat amalan dan kebajikan, beroleh barakah yang berganda di kesempatan Ramadhan kali ini.

307. Forty billionaires, led by Buffett and Gates, pledge to donate half their wealth

2010-08-05T12:26:00.005+08:00

SEATTLE: Forty wealthy families and individuals have joined Microsoft Corp. co-founder Bill Gates and billionaire investor Warren Buffett in a pledge to give at least half their wealth to charity.

Six weeks after launching a campaign to get other billionaires to donate most of their fortunes, the chairman and CEO of Berkshire Hathaway Inc. released the first list Wednesday of people who have signed what he and Gates call the "giving pledge."

Buffett decided in 2006 to give 99 percent of his fortune to charity. Then, he was worth about $44 billion. After five years of investment returns while making annual gifts to five foundations, Buffett's fortune totals nearly $46 billion.

Bill and Melinda Gates do most of their philanthropic giving through their foundation, which had assets of $33 billion as of June 30 and has made at least $22.93 billion in total grant commitments since 1994.

Buffett said he, the Gateses and others have made 70 to 80 calls to some of America's wealthiest individuals. The people who agreed to the pledge are from 13 states, with the most participants in California and New York.

Among those who haven't signed the pledge, some prefer to keep their philanthropy anonymous, some were not available to talk, and others were not interested, Buffett said.

Many on the list will be asked to call others, and small dinners will be held across the country in coming months to talk about the campaign.

"We're off to a terrific start," Buffett said.

Buffett said he and Bill Gates also will meet with groups of wealthy people in China and India within the next six months to talk about philanthropy. They hope the idea of generosity will spread, but they have no plans to lead a global campaign, Buffett said.

Gates and Buffett estimate their efforts could generate $600 billion dollars in charitable giving. In 2009, American philanthropies received a total of about $300 billion in donations, according to The Chronicle of Philanthropy.

Stacy Palmer, editor of The Chronicle, was surprised and impressed by the speed at which the giving pledge idea has been accepted.

"I think it's remarkably fast that so many people went public with their commitments. The world of philanthropy tends to be very slow moving," she said.

Palmer noted that many of names on the list are people who are known for their philanthropic generosity. She said she would be more excited when she sees names that have not been on other major donor lists.

Taking the idea past billionaires toward millionaires and regular working people could make an even bigger impact, Palmer added.

Jason Franklin, executive director Bolder Giving, a relatively new organization that encourages big gifts from everyday people, agreed.

The Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation gave Bolder Giving a $675,000 challenge grant earlier this year to encourage more people to give at least 20 percent of their personal wealth to charity.

Franklin estimates the giving power of the world's millionaires eclipses the potential donations from U.S. billionaires many times over.

Gates and Buffett are asking billionaires not just to make a donation commitment, but to also pledge to give wisely and learn from their peers.

Their group has no plans for combined giving, and none of the philanthropists will be told how or when to give their money.

"Everybody has their own interests," said New York Mayor Michael Bloomberg, who participated in a teleconference with Buffett on Wednesday as one of the individuals who has signed the giving pledge. "That's what's wonderful about private philanthropy."

Bloomberg, who has a fortune estimated by Forbes magazine at $18 billion, said he has changed his personal philosophy over the years from wanting to be more private about his giving toward trying to play a leadership role. He said his whole family is in tune with his giving plan.

"I've always thought your kids get more benefit out of your philanthropy than your will," he added.

Others who have signed the pledge include filmmaker George Lucas, media mogul Ted Turner and Microsoft co-founder Paul Allen. - AP

Taken from www.thestar.com.my

Comments:

Malaysia too has its fair share of billionaires philanthropists who donated millions for charitable purposes. The notable among the list are Tun Daim Zainuddin, Tan Sri Syed Mokhtar Albukhary, Tan Sri Jeffery Cheah and Tan Sri Lim Kok Wing.

Of course the line is long and many, for Malaysians generally are kind-hearted people. The world definitely is a better place to live in if many more are willing to give that just to take.

In the spirit of Ramadhan, let us start giving...

306. REGISTERING YOUR E-BIZ WITH THE COMPANIES COMMISSION OF MALAYSIA (SSM)

2010-07-26T18:28:00.011+08:00

Received several enquiries pertaining to my earlier posting on errant e-biz operators. Just to be doubly sure on the right course of action to pursue, we trooped to the office of Companies Commission Malaysia (Suruhanjaya Syarikat Malaysia) at the Greentown Mall, Ipoh last Tuesday.

We were there two Tuesday ago (before the posted article) to register LT Watch Gallery as a sole proprietor enterprise specifically for online watch trading.

That bit of news as reported by the Star was a timely reminder and we thought it wise to revisit the SSM office and enquire what more need to be done. Prior to the registration of LT Watch Gallery as a sole proprietor enterprise dealing with watch trading, all products turnovers were reported in our private company's accounts.

At the SSM, Ipoh, the officers on duty were extremely courteous and helpful providing whatever assistance and information required. The lady officer on duty at the counter today immediately recognised me and enquired the purpose of today's visit.

That prompted me to show the STAR article. We were told we have satisfied the SSM requirement by registering LT Watch Gallery.

What we need to do further is to maintain a proper set of accounts on all e-business transactions and proper upkeeping of all documentation pertaining to purchases, services and sales.

We were then referred to another lady officer who obliged with all information needed.

1. Registration of E-Biz

Peninsular Malaysia and Labuan

E-Biz operators can register their business entity at the nearest Suruhanjaya Syarikat Malaysia's (SSM) office. Bring along your IC, a photocopy of the IC plus the proposed name of E-Biz. The fee is RM 70 for the first year and thereafter a fee of RM 60 per annum upon renewal.

Operators of e-biz have the choice of choosing to operate as a sole proprietor, partnership or a Sdn Bhd. If a Sdn Bhd entity is preferred then filing of company registration with a minimum of two promoters and a stated paid up capital need to be done by a qualified Company Secretary as provided in the Companies Act, 1965.

Products offered for online sales must be legally traded within the context of all Malaysian and International Laws.

For an e-biz with a small turnover, I suggest a sole proprietorship enterprise is adequate.

Registration can be conducted over the counter by coming personally to SSM office or online via E- Lodgement.

For further details, please log in at SSM website@ http://www.ssm.com.my

2. Sabah and Sarawak

E-Biz operators in Sabah and Sarawak wishing to register their online business need to do so at their respective Pihak Berkuasa Tempatan(PBT) or Local Authorities like Majlis Perbandaran Bintulu for someone in Bintulu or Dewan Bandaraya Kuching Utara for someone in Bandaraya Kuching Utara.

This piece of information was provided by the lady officer at the SSM, Ipoh office.

Details of registration fees at the PBTs are not available at the SSM office.

3.Process of Registration

The whole process of registration only took two hours from the time of arrival at the SSM office till the time the certificate of business is issued.

I must complement the efficiency of SSM to complete the registration process in such a simple manner and cheap too.

No hassle and no fuss at all. Bravo SSM.

Happy Registration to all fellow blog traders...

Muzill.mansor

305. ACTION TAKEN AGAINST 400 UNREGISTERED E-BIZ OPERATORS

2010-07-21T11:21:00.008+08:00

GEORGE TOWN: The Malaysian Communications and Multimedia Commission (MCMC) has taken legal action against 400 local online e-business operators in the last two years for not registering as business entities.

Malaysia Business Ethics Institute (MBEI) chairman Dr Zainal Abidin Abdul Majid, said most of the operators were charged under Section 12(1)(a) of the Business Registration Act where they face up to 12 years in jail or a fine of up to RM50,000.

He said this yesterday after attending a business ethics dialogue which was launched by Deputy Domestic Trade, Cooperative and Consumerism Minister Datuk Rohani Abd Karim here.

Dr Zainal said the MBEI advised online site operators to upload their code of ethics onto their respective websites.

“Nowadays, in the globalised age, e-business is growing rapidly but at the same time, site operators must also promote strong business ethics to attract customers,” he added.

To read more, please refer to: http://thestar.com.my/news/story.asp?file=/2010/7/21/nation/6703388&sec=nation

Comment:

Just a piece of advise to fellow bloggers retailing whatever items, get your e-biz registered and stay within the right side of the law.

304. KAMPAR CLOCK TOWER, MALAYSIA

2010-07-09T16:08:00.004+08:00

This clock tower was erected in 1957 to commemorate the independent of Malaya on 31 August 1957. it is located in the town of Kampar, a township bulit in the heart of Kinta Valley, Perak, one of the biggest tin mining region in the world at that time.

Tin mining has since ceased operations in the area when the tin price collapsed in the late eighties.

On 21 May 2009, the sub-district of kampar was officially elevated to a full district of the state of Perak by HRH the Sultan of Perak. The plaque of the district elevation is now prominently featured on one of this clock tower's walls.

303. HISTORY IN THE MAKING...

2010-07-08T23:09:00.005+08:00

Keeping awake on two successive nights was a daunting task. Eventually between frequent blinks and big yawns, managed to catch the goals that counted.

Holland and Spain booked their places in the Final of the World Cup after tough battles. Both teams have never won the World Cup although Holland has appeared twice in 1974 and 1978 but came out second best on both occasions. Whichever team wins, a new name will be engraved on the Cup. Both teams are equally skillful and excellent, capable of being a worthy winner.

What interest me though are the performances of some club rejects early in the season. Wesley Sneijder and Arjen Robben proved that they are world class players despite Real Madrid dumping them. Sneijder finding his footing in Inter Milan and Robben excelled in Bayern Munich. Both met in the European Cup final where Inter and Sneijder triumphed.

Sneijder and Robben are equally instrumental in placing Holland into the final. A total of seven goals were scored between them. I have always admired Sneijder operating intelligently in the middle of the park with his accurate distribution, clever positioning and ability to shoot from distance.

Arjen Robben is a very skilful and 'delicate' player. I might find his theatrical antics on the field at times distasteful but in the modern world of soccer every shred of skill is always an advantage.

As for Germany, much has been said about the foresight of the German Football Association and the shrewd strategy of the team coach, Joachim Loew in placing trust in youth which have paid dividends handsomely. The values of these little known players like Muller, Jerome Boateng, Sami Kedhira and Mesut Ozil have shot rocketed sky high.

The Bundesliga has again proved to be a good nursery of future stars ready to blitz the world soccer and probably may eclipse the path of Rooney, Ronaldo and Messi.

Unfortunately, in the game where it counted the most, the young German guns just could not raised their game against the experienced Spanish side. Without the drive of influential Muller, the team succumbed to Spain losing by the single fabulous headed goal of Puyol.

The encounter in World Cup 2010 final between two great soccer nations of Holland and Spain professing attractive attacking soccer is something to savior. Perhaps Torres who has been prowess at Liverpool can finally ignite and avoid being labelled a World Cup outcast.

Fans are expecting this final game could surpass the epic encounter of 1974 between Holland and Germany; the clash between Johan Cruff, Johan Neeskens and Resenbrink on the Dutch side against Beckenbauer, Breitner and Gerd Muller on the German side.

I believe the outcome of the game will be determined by the battle of Sneijder and Robben on the Dutch side and Villa and Puyol on the Spanish side. If Sneijder and company can muscle their way and dictate the flow of the game, Holland can finally exorcised being labelled as a bridesmaid and lay claim on the elusive Cup.

To Holland and Spain, have a good and clean game.

May the best triumph...

302.BETWEEN SKILLS, TEAMWORK, PLAY ACTING, HANDS AND UPSETS...

2010-07-04T17:45:00.021+08:00

Four quarterfinal matches played to the highest quality. There were upsets, disappointments, youth brilliance, superb play acting and foul hands that determined the destiny of teams finally placing Holland, Germany, Spain from Europe and Uruguay from Latin American to compete for the two places in the final.

Such was the intensity of the competition of a game called soccer that was supposed to be played with both feet and head eventually ended in the frustration of the whole of Africa because stinking hands were used to deny Ghana from a semi final place in the World Cup due to an Uruguayan striker who decided both his hands were better served to prevent a certain winning goal for Ghana.

I was fascinated by the performance of Ghana, Africa's sole representative in the quarterfinals. Their silky skills and the fluidity of their game was sheer delight to watch. With Michael Essien missing from the squad, not much hope was given to the Ghana team yet the players were undeterred and played like African warriors.

The blend of youth in Asamoah Gyan, Jonathan Mensah, Ayew and Kevin Prince Boateng and the experience of Sulley Muntari carried the African hope very well into the dying seconds of the quarterfinal match only to be denied what would have been the winning goal by the hands of Suarez. So cruel!

To be fair, I thought the referee should have allowed that goal and let Ghana took their rightful place in the semi final. Alas, soccer is not about fairness but about moving forward to make the game much more exciting to watch in the future.

The match between Holland and Brazil managed to prove a point which I have noticed all along the tournament. Soccer is now one of the best places to perfect players acting skills. There were plenty of play acting executed perfectly that many players could easily walk into Hollywood or Bollywood to start acting careers when they finally hang their soccer boots. Such was the perfect play acting displays of some players that at moments, I felt like watching good Tamil movies.

Nonetheless, Holland was magnificent, coming back from a goal down to turn the table on Brazil. Sneijder was just phenomenal and I would love to see Sir Alex Ferguson bringing him over to Man United to bolster the average midfield. Well, just a wishful thinking...

The youthful German team again proved that with a proper youth development programme, a world beating team could be produced. MÜller, Ozil, Boateng and Khedira were full of steam and plenty of skills.

In Neuer, Germany has a pair of safe hands to man the goal for many years to come.

Philip Lahm at 26 years old proved to be a very able captain leading by example.

A four-goals present to Australia, another four-goals gift to England and yet another four more goals memento to Argentina are real generous gifts indeed from the German youthful team spearheaded at the front by the master sharpshooter Miroslav Klose.

Even, Chancellor Merkel was up and jumping with joy at the magical display of her German team.

The Argentine performance was plain mediocre. Messi, the world footballer of the year, after so much hype, like Rooney ended as World Cup flop, registering a zero goal throughout the tournament.

Diego Maradona, with all his skills and experiences as a player could only watched in despair from the sidelines.

Spain, one of the pre-tournament favourites, after the early stutter, managed to live up to the expectation. David Villa who is now the tournament top scorer is really outstanding.

The other Spanish players except for Xavi are still finding their mark to reproduce their clubs performances.

Fernando Torres in particular, is a real disappointment. He needs to pull up his socks fast to avoid being in the same World Cup rubbish bin as Messi and Rooney.

Simply love to see Uruguay and Germany in the final. Nothing would be more interesting that to watch a clash between Europe and Latin America.

Still, a repeat of 1974 final between Germany and Holland would not be too bad after all.

301.JELIK TAPI BENAR...

2010-07-01T15:17:00.009+08:00

Saya menerima banyak sms daripada rakan yang bermula dengan kata 'Salam'.

Saya kurang pasti apa sebenar yang dimaksudkan. Adakah sang pengirim ingin menyampaikan salam secara ringkas atau terikut dengan amalan satu masyarakat yang memulakan bicara dengan kata 'Shalom'? Biarlah mereka dengan cara mereka, kita tentunya dengan cara kita. Jelik tapi benar...

Itulah hakikat kini. Meringkaskan kata hingga hilang maksud dan makna serta kemanisan santun bicara.

Timbul dibenak, apakah terlalu sukar untuk menekan punat-punat butang telefon untuk mengejakan sepenuhnya kata azimat 'Assalamu alaikum' kalau pun tidak mampu menitip ungkapan 'assalamu alaikum warahmatullahi wabarakatuh' dengan lengkap. Kan lebih sedap dipandang dan dibaca daripada kata ringkas 'salam'.

Sebenarnya kebaikan adalah berganda menuturkan ungkapan 'salam' dengan tatacara salam yang lengkap seperti yang dianjurkan oleh Rasullullah sallallahu alaihi wasallam.*

Rakan saya dari Kaherah gemar memulakan smsnya dengan ungkapan 'Salmu Aliqum'. Sebutan 'a' didepan disepikan. Entahlah, mungkin ejaan ikut lidah Arab Mesir.

Apakah kerana manusia kini terlalu memburu masa dalam kekalutan kerja mewajarkan banyak perkara kita ringkaskan? Saya tidak punya jawapan kerana saya juga terkadang turut tersasul dalam kealpaan.

Barangkali kita boleh bermula hari ini membiasakan semula ungkapan "Assalamu alaikum' sebagai mukaddimah kata mula bicara tanda hidangan silaturrahim antara kita yang bernama insan muslim.

Dalam masa masih bersisa setengah tahun bagi 2010, sama-samalah kita mendoakan kesejahteraan dan kebahagiaan sekelian saudara-saudara kita seagama Islam.

* Rujuk Shahih Riyadhus Shalihin halaman 289 & 290

300. SWATCH GROUP FOUNDER NICOLAS HAYEK DIES AT 82

2010-06-29T16:04:00.005+08:00

ZURICH, June 29 — Swatch Group Chairman Nicolas Hayek, one of Switzerland’s most prominent and colourful entrepreneurs, died of heart failure at his workplace yesterday, the company said.

Hayek, who turned 82 in February, was widely credited with saving the Swiss watchmaking industry by reorganising the ailing Asuag and SSIH watch companies, merging them into Swatch Group, which he took over with other investors in 1985. He became chief executive and chairman in 1986.

“With the unexpected death of Nicolas G. Hayek, Switzerland and the Swiss economy lose one of their leading personalities,” Swiss President and Economy Minister Doris Leuthard said in a statement.

Hayek was a driving force for the Swiss economy with his courageous engagement for entrepreneurship, she said, adding, “We owe Mr. Hayek a lot.”

In the late 1970s and early 1980s, the Swiss watch industry, which excelled in complicated mechanical watches, had trouble coping with the advent of highly reliable and much cheaper quartz watches.

Hayek did not hesitate to embrace quartz technology for the Swatch watch, launched in 1983, and the colourful plastic watch quickly became popular all over the world.

Its success drove the recovery of the Swiss watchmaking industry and helped turn the company into the world’s largest watchmaker.

“Mr. Hayek’s contribution to the Swatch Group and the Swiss watch industry was immense. We view today’s announcement as a significant loss for the company,” said Citi luxury goods analyst Thomas Chauvet.

Executives across the industry heaped praise on Hayek, with Jean-Claude Biver, boss of official FIFA World Cup timekeeper Hublot saying his death left “an incredible void” in the Swiss watchmaking industry.

He left a company in good health. In May Hayek, who was often seen with two or three watches on each wrist, said Swatch was on course for a record year, with sales expected at more than 6 billion Swiss francs (RM17.7 billion).

“Nicolas G. Hayek’s extraordinary vision enabled him to realise and ensure the sustainability of a strong watchmaking enterprise with high Swiss added value. He is rightly recognised as a leading entrepreneur in this country,” the company said.

Hayek’s son, Nick Hayek, has been CEO of Swatch Group since 2003 and was elected to the board at the last annual general meeting in May.

Chauvet said the “Hayek pool” remains the largest shareholder in the group, controlling 41 percent of the votes. Analysts said this was unlikely to change with the passing of Swatch’s leading light. — Reuters

299. THE MANY FACES OF THE WORLD CUP...

2010-06-26T00:07:00.014+08:00

Fourteen teams have booked their places for the knockout stage of the World Cup leaving the last two places to be decided between Switzerland, Spain and Chile.

The colourful soccer tournament have produced many upsets and along the way an array of interesting faces of fans, players, officials and managers. These are moments that have been captured for memories.

Faces of despair

The agony of pain

sadness and frustration...

and the thrills of joy.

298....BUT A HEART BREAKING ENDING

2010-06-23T10:39:00.008+08:00

The team drew its first game with Mexico, lost the second to Uruguay and won against the mighty France in fashionable style but in the end, it was just not good enough.

Well, that is the story of South Africa, the host nation of the 19^th World Cup soccer tournament.

Every single player of the Bafana Bafana team played their hearts out. They ran the whole length of the field, distributed the ball efficiently and outfoxed the French megastars. It was sheer joy to watch the crispy and fluid brand of soccer orchestrated by Pienaar in midfield.

Mokoena as captain marshalled his defence solidly at the back, apart from that few seconds lull penalised by Malouda for the French only goal.

South Africa created lots and lots of scoring opportunities. Alas, only two of those opportunities were converted. Had the players been more composed and converted three more goals from the abundant opportunities created, South Africa would have been through to the second round instead of Mexico who lost by a single goal to Uruguay.

Still, all the South African players should be proud of their performances unlike those French players who presumably must have left their hearts and souls at home.

South Africa might have tumbled out of the World Cup but their gritty displays in this tournament have surely won them many friends round the world. The team has shown the world that with good teamwork, high spirit and cohesiveness, a former world champion like France can be put to shame.

There is much to rejoice and hope South African soccer. The future is indeed bright as a solid foundation has already been put in place during this tournament.

With more exposure and more experience playing at bigger and more competitive leagues, players like Mshabalala, Mphela, Sibaya, Khuboni and Josephs can further improve and become more resilient and focus.

Steven Pienaar would not be a polished and effective player as he is now if not for the experience accumulated playing in a tough league like the EPL with Everton FC.

South Africa would be a force to reckon with in the near future for soccer as the game of passion is a great tool of unity for diversity.

HAIL BAFANA BAFANA...

297. A GOOD BEGINNING FOR SOUTH AFRICA...

2010-06-14T15:47:00.023+08:00

Quite a good start considering not many give them even half a chance of matching Mexico. Most of the South African players performed credibly well matching the Mexican players stride by stride and fighting for every inch of the field. President Jacob Zuma must have been proud of the performance.

The crowd seemed to enjoy themselves though at times the noise was a bit displeasing and too loud.

Steven Pienaar was marvellous in the centre of the park spreading the ball to the front players and falling back to assist the defense when required. If only he was fully fit, the darting runs would have created more positive impact on the result of the game.

Tshabalala goal was fabulous. I'm pretty sure many soccer scout would have got his name in their lists.

Khune manning the goal, pulling save after save, was just fantastic. Love to see him fitting into a good EPL team next season.

As captain, Aaron Mokoena has to shake off his nervousness at the back.

Mphela and Modise need to really take their chances well the next time. With a little more composure and more experience, South Africa could have registered their first win in the World Cup tournament. One point nonetheless is a good beginning.

A little pep talk by Carlos Alberto Pereira the Coach, a fitter Steven Pienaar, more shooting practice and more composure before the next game with Uruguay and France will do wonders for the South African players.

I still think that among the African teams competing in the World Cup, South Africa, Ghana along with Ivory Coast have the best chances of moving into the next round.

A small note though is the choice of Subkhiddin Mohd Salleh as the fourth official of the game between South Africa and Mexico. For a small soccer nation like Malaysia, his appearance in the 19th World Cup as an official has done us proud.

296. BAFANA BAFANA, THE WORLD CUP HAS ARRIVED...

2010-06-11T21:01:00.009+08:00

It was a long four years of waiting for the soccer fans all over the world and a long four years of competitions for the soccer nations to produce the 32 nations for the World Cup competition in South Africa.

History was created on this day when the World Cup competitions finally arrived on the shores of South Africa. FIFA could not have chosen a better host than South Africa judging by majestic stadiums constructed, the pains taken to spruce up the soccer cities and the beefing up of securities.

Oh, what a night it was. The Gala display on the night of official opening in such a magnificent modern stadium was pure exhilaration and breathtaking. There were cheerful dances and colourful dresses amid the rhymic beats and songs performed by local and international artists highlighted by the jets zooming above the stadium.

South Africa, the President, Nelson Mandela and the people of South Africa has indeed put their hearts and souls, trust and hope to prepare for this grand and joyous occasion.

Let us pray that the South African soccer team orchestrates by Steven Pineear performs on the field as marvellous, clinical and magnificent as the ecstatic opening night.

295. THE GOLDEN ATMOSPHERIC CLOCK: JAEGER-LECOULTRE

2010-06-04T10:10:00.011+08:00

An article in the ‘Revolution’ magazine on the Atmospheric Clock in early April this year caught our attention. I never had the prior pleasure of seeing the Atmos what more owning a unit. We did not pursue the matter further because as it is there are already too many clocks in the collections for comfort.

A couple of weeks later we were at a shopping mall in Petaling Jaya walking towards one of our favourite Nasi Padang restaurants. As we were casually strolling along to the restaurant, we noticed a gallery displaying all these vintage stuff and some old clocks including one piece that looked very extraordinary.

We walked into the gallery to be met by a frail looking pleasant gentleman who volunteered to show us around. He happened to be the owner of the gallery.

Lots of antique stuff including unique wall clocks but we were keener to have a thorough look at that mantle piece that caught our eyes and brought us into the gallery. He obliged us by taking out the clock from the display cabinet and show us how the clock worked. According to him, the clock is an Atmospheric clock that runs on atmospheric pressure. It needs no winding or battery. It has no chimes and runs beautifully smooth.

Jaeger-LeCoultre is the only company that produced the Atmos.

The clock is gold plated including the glass case. The whole workmanship looked very tidy, sophisticated and regal.

We probed for more information including the accuracy and the after sales service. Bear in mind this is not an ordinary clock that we deal every day and needs lots of thick fat dough too to bring it home. He assured us that the clock is in superb working condition after full service upon securing from overseas.

Well, a bit on the Atmos clock technicalities.

The Atmos clock movement devised by French engineer Jean-Leon Reutter is powered by changes in ambient temperature. A hermetically sealed, gas-filled capsule acts as the agent that winds the clock's mainspring by expanding and contracting when the temperature rises and falls respectively, and a shift of a single degree centigrade is all it takes to power the clock for 48 hours.

Its massive balance, a torsion pendulum, oscillates twice every minute, significantly reducing consumption, while energy loss as a result of friction is also minimised, thanks to its gear construction which is so perfect that it does not even need lubrication.

What is there more for us then to ask since looking for this one unit is like searching for a needle in a hay stack.

Just buy and pay...

Upon paying the normal 10% deposit, took the necessary paper and off we went back to Ipoh.

Back home, we asked some reliable friends in the horology business. Most of them discouraged us pursuing further with the clock. According to them, no one in Ipoh is capable of servicing the clock in case of any eventuality.

Took two long weeks to ponder on the pros and cons of continuing with the purchase.

In the end, we decided to proceed with the purchase. Last Friday we decided to take the clock home, after all, it’s an Atmos!

We were very fortunate to have Irhomdeys to accompany us to the gallery to inspect the clock before collection as he was just as curious to have a look at this real beau. When comes to vintage clocks and watches, I must say, he is the most knowledgeable and authoritative of all the Malaysian watch and clock bloggers

...and I reckon owning a piece of Atmos is the pinnacle of any serious watch and clock collections.

Thank you Habib...your presence was very assuring.

294. HAPPY CITY DAY, IPOH

2010-05-27T20:18:00.009+08:00

Today Ipoh celebrates the 22nd anniversary of its city status accorded back on the 27 May 1988.

A few new areas notably around its City Hall building in Greentown and the Tambun area have since been developed. An area called Bandar Meru Raya along the North South Highway near Jelapang interchange was earmarked as annex city for administrative cum business centre but sadly after 22 years just a few buildings started to show their faces sporadicly here and there.

Many groundbreaking ceremonies were held by the previous three Menteri Besars yet actual developments remained a distance. Ipoh City folks, nonetheless, are patient beings and they are still waiting for the real progress to materialise.

Maybe Dato' Roshidi, the present Mayor has something up his sleeves to move Ipoh up the City league in terms of cleanliness, soft landscape, greenery and provision of city parks to promote healthy living, more commercial facilities to promote trade,tidy burial grounds to sooth the eyes, hygienic food outlets for families to feast and upgrading of drainage system to avoid flash floods especially in Jelapang.

Good luck to you, Sir

One item worth mentioning was the construction a new landmark in the form of a three-pillared clock tower to commemorate the day Ipoh received its city status. The clock tower with its majestic Moorish architecture now stands proudly right in front of the City Hall building and the centre of public nightly congregations.

Alas the plaque narrating the basic information on the clock tower was long gone, victim of vandalism.

Still, Happy City Day, Ipoh...

293.GRADUATES UNEMPLOYABLE DUE TO POOR ENGLISH

2010-05-21T14:20:00.004+08:00

Employability is still a problem in the outsourcing sector, even though there is a sufficient supply of fresh graduates.

Outsourcing Malaysia (OM) chairman David Wong said a recent survey among 30 companies offering 220 jobs revealed that only 11% of the applicants were considered "employable", adding that the respondents were members of OM.

"A total of 9,300 graduates applied for the positions but some 90% didn't get through the door. They were just not considered employable"

"The country will churn out some 35,000 graduates this year so the supply is there. The question now is how many of these graduates are considered employable by the various industries?"He told reporters during an outsourcing roadshow at a hotel in on Tuesday.

Wong said OM was currently conducting a joint study with Multimedia Development Corporation (MdeC) and Multimedia Industry of Malaysia (Pikom) on the employability of fresh graduates.

"We have come up with an online test similar to what is being done in India. The results of this RM300,000 project will be shared with the Higher Education Ministry so that we can produce graduates who are relevant," he said.

MDEC (industry development) vice-president Saifol Bahri Mohd Shamlan said most employers cited poor command of English among graduates as a reason for not hiring.

"Skills and internal practices of a company can be taught but you need to be proficient in English to learn. We need an intervention programme to ensure a supply of skilled labour."

-THE STAR METRO Thursday 01 April 2010