I was thinking just now about the last few days and my exceitement over my "new" phone. Did a few things I never thought I'd do, like trust a guy in China enough to hand over 80 bucks for a memory stick with no guarantee it'd come. Yesterday, I went a step further. I flashed my K750i, risking everything in the process. I mean you know how anal manufacturers can be with regards to their products.
Now, I have a K750i Walkman phone, combining the best of K750i and W800i, which pretty much shares the same hardware, shell excluded. Add my 2GB memory stick and stereo headset, which I bought in Malaysia for Rm38 and I'm all set for my in-camp activities. This ain't my first in-camp, so, I'm more than aware of what my job will be like during these 2 weeks - catching up on lots of zzzz. A little music will make the time pass easier.
Some time ago, I wouldn't dare to do any business over the net, especially those of the auction type where you deal with people you don't know, free-lancers mostly. I mean, there's been a lot of stories circulating about unscrupulous and shady characters hawking their wares on the net, demanding upfront payment and then disappearing when the payment is made without delivering on the promised goods. I mean, those spooked me. Trust is not something most people treat lightly, it has to be earned. God knows what they did to get my trust, or perhaps, should I say what made me believe them?
Oh well, we all change. Although the memory stick was more of a gift from my wife, it was still my decision to get it from that guy in China. I did spend about $15 to get my phone flashed like I mentioned. It was by far the riskiest thing I had attempted. Having splurged on the the phone a year ago, that would seem rather callous of me. Still I went ahead, hoping that it would work out fine. In spite of my reservations, it worked fine, after paying close to $20 for that upgrade. I felt like it was worth it, having a W800i firmware on my K750i.
Well, I'm all set for my reservist. Back soon.
Friday, August 25, 2006
Thursday, August 24, 2006
My first online transaction and more to come...
A week ago, I posted about my birthday and how uneventful it was. My wife was quite intent on getting me a present but could think of anything. So, I thought hard about it and decided that the only practical thing I'd use would be a a bigger memory card for my K750i. It only came with an external 64MB memory. I figured that since the K800i was a tad too expensive, I'd just downgrade my desires....
Off I went hunting on the net for a cheap 2GB Memory Stick Pro Duo. I got a good deal for S$83.90 but the catch is the card will be shipped from China. I had to pay the guy first and wait a week before I get the card. Sounds like a big gamble rite? Not exactly, considering that the same card is retailing for roughly S$160 here. Honestly, I was fearful of the fact that I could be duped and I'm still wondering what made me take that leap of faith. Anyway, I got the card after a few days, came by registered mail, and am now happily fiddling with my phone and dumping so many song, most of which I'd not listen to much anyway. So, if u see a big guy walking around with a big, smug smile on his face, it could just be me.
I did come across something which only serves to further whet my appetite for all things techy and geeky. The first is a handsfree with remote music player compatible with the K750i. Now, I am aware than Sony has the HPM-82 coming soon to our shores, which is compatible with several other phones, but I am not sure when that will be coming in. I did find an alternative, the IDNA MRH-200, available online for UDS45.00. You could plug in any earpiece or headphones and still use the remote to control the music playback and answer calls. It is cool though the k800i paired with the bluetooth stereo handsfree, HBP-DS970 would look so much cooler.
The other one that whet my appetite was the possibility of flashing the firmware of my K750i to a W800i firmware, which would not only make my K750i work just like a W800i, sadly enough, it would also void my warranty. Still, it'd look awesome, imagine a K750i with a Walkman logo on the screen. Why am I doing all these? Simply because my reservist is coming up and my unit will probably be tasked to guard Jurong Island again, so this will come in handy to break the monotony.
Yeah, I could live with a K750i for 2 years more I guess. Whether or not it happens remains to be seen.
Off I went hunting on the net for a cheap 2GB Memory Stick Pro Duo. I got a good deal for S$83.90 but the catch is the card will be shipped from China. I had to pay the guy first and wait a week before I get the card. Sounds like a big gamble rite? Not exactly, considering that the same card is retailing for roughly S$160 here. Honestly, I was fearful of the fact that I could be duped and I'm still wondering what made me take that leap of faith. Anyway, I got the card after a few days, came by registered mail, and am now happily fiddling with my phone and dumping so many song, most of which I'd not listen to much anyway. So, if u see a big guy walking around with a big, smug smile on his face, it could just be me.
I did come across something which only serves to further whet my appetite for all things techy and geeky. The first is a handsfree with remote music player compatible with the K750i. Now, I am aware than Sony has the HPM-82 coming soon to our shores, which is compatible with several other phones, but I am not sure when that will be coming in. I did find an alternative, the IDNA MRH-200, available online for UDS45.00. You could plug in any earpiece or headphones and still use the remote to control the music playback and answer calls. It is cool though the k800i paired with the bluetooth stereo handsfree, HBP-DS970 would look so much cooler.
The other one that whet my appetite was the possibility of flashing the firmware of my K750i to a W800i firmware, which would not only make my K750i work just like a W800i, sadly enough, it would also void my warranty. Still, it'd look awesome, imagine a K750i with a Walkman logo on the screen. Why am I doing all these? Simply because my reservist is coming up and my unit will probably be tasked to guard Jurong Island again, so this will come in handy to break the monotony.
Yeah, I could live with a K750i for 2 years more I guess. Whether or not it happens remains to be seen.
Tuesday, August 22, 2006
The wedding and an uneasy peace
It's official, she's married, off the market. Malaysia's most eligible bachelorette is now hitched. That's not the big news though, for me the bigger news was the number of people I know taking the day off just to catch the "LIVE" telecast of the wedding ceremony at 9am. And to think there is a repeat of that at 7.30pm. Even our national football team don't get as much coverage - we got all 0f 30seconds worth of excerpts on Football Crazy, for those lucky enough to have subscribed to SCV. So much for World Cup 2010....
OK back to the wedding of the year....
Granted that she is the media darling of Malaysian entertainment, probably of the Malay-speaking world, the wedding and the media circus surrounding it is extraordinary. I don't think even the wedding of Charles and Diana had the privilege of a repeat telecast back then. Well, she did look divine in her wedding garb, as she always does. Well, I guess that's the price you pay for being famous - a sacred ceremony becomes a spectacle in itself. No private ceremonies involving only relatives for her. I was reading the papers the other day and it stated that the alleged cost of the whole wedding was close to $6million. I'm sure some of it are sponsored. Nevertheless, it's an obscene amount isn't it? Especially when you consider that, probably, 75% of her fans can't begin to understand that figure, let alone imagine.
Oh well, they could afford it. Still, I can't help but wonder at the haste of the whole affair, I mean the ink on the Datuk's divorce papers has hardly dried and the division of matrimonial assets between the Datuk and the ex-wife was still pending when the announement was made. Little wonder then, that a lot of tongues were wagging and palms gleefully rubbing at the prospect of sleazy stories coming out. I think I better shut up about this already, else I'll be one of those people spreading rumours. In any case, my wife's been sniggering and teasing me to no end that my self-proclaimed girlfriend is now hitched to a Datuk. What was that I said about Siti being the object of desire and fantasies of many a hot-blooded malay male? I just hope their marriage lasts, unlike the other "Wedding of the year", if you know what I mean....
OK, back to the real world...
The ceasefire in Lebanon has been in effect for roughly 2 weeks now. I still can't believe how long it took for them to get their act together. Lebanon is not exactly resource rich as are Kuwait, Saudi Arabia or Iraq, for that matter, so it was in no one's strategic interest to intervene, least of all, the US. I can't help but draw parallels between the crisis in Lebanon and the Rwandan Genocide a decade ago. In both crisis, world nations powerful enough to do something dragged their feet in putting an intervention force or peacekeeping force. The end result? A racial genocide in Rwanda claiming roughly 1 million lives and millions more became refugees. Though, the situation in Lebanon is not as acute, it still says a lot of the ulterior motives of the powerful nations. Heck, even Japan practice selective diplomacy with the Iranian nuclear standoff, simply because, it can't survive without Iranian oil. Why else are they adamant against any economic sanctions placed on Iran?
Oh, lest I forget, Italy has offered to lead the UN peacekeeping mission in Lebanon with a contribution of 2000 troops. I do remember sometime back that there was a call for a Muslim peacekeeping force in Lebanon, however, no Muslim leader has stepped up to the plate and offered to take the lead. It's a good thing, from my perspective that the US is not leading this. Being a staunch supporter of Israel, it could not afford to be involved in such events, perhaps, worried at its waning credibility.
What credibility???? Exactly!
OK back to the wedding of the year....
Granted that she is the media darling of Malaysian entertainment, probably of the Malay-speaking world, the wedding and the media circus surrounding it is extraordinary. I don't think even the wedding of Charles and Diana had the privilege of a repeat telecast back then. Well, she did look divine in her wedding garb, as she always does. Well, I guess that's the price you pay for being famous - a sacred ceremony becomes a spectacle in itself. No private ceremonies involving only relatives for her. I was reading the papers the other day and it stated that the alleged cost of the whole wedding was close to $6million. I'm sure some of it are sponsored. Nevertheless, it's an obscene amount isn't it? Especially when you consider that, probably, 75% of her fans can't begin to understand that figure, let alone imagine.
Oh well, they could afford it. Still, I can't help but wonder at the haste of the whole affair, I mean the ink on the Datuk's divorce papers has hardly dried and the division of matrimonial assets between the Datuk and the ex-wife was still pending when the announement was made. Little wonder then, that a lot of tongues were wagging and palms gleefully rubbing at the prospect of sleazy stories coming out. I think I better shut up about this already, else I'll be one of those people spreading rumours. In any case, my wife's been sniggering and teasing me to no end that my self-proclaimed girlfriend is now hitched to a Datuk. What was that I said about Siti being the object of desire and fantasies of many a hot-blooded malay male? I just hope their marriage lasts, unlike the other "Wedding of the year", if you know what I mean....
OK, back to the real world...
The ceasefire in Lebanon has been in effect for roughly 2 weeks now. I still can't believe how long it took for them to get their act together. Lebanon is not exactly resource rich as are Kuwait, Saudi Arabia or Iraq, for that matter, so it was in no one's strategic interest to intervene, least of all, the US. I can't help but draw parallels between the crisis in Lebanon and the Rwandan Genocide a decade ago. In both crisis, world nations powerful enough to do something dragged their feet in putting an intervention force or peacekeeping force. The end result? A racial genocide in Rwanda claiming roughly 1 million lives and millions more became refugees. Though, the situation in Lebanon is not as acute, it still says a lot of the ulterior motives of the powerful nations. Heck, even Japan practice selective diplomacy with the Iranian nuclear standoff, simply because, it can't survive without Iranian oil. Why else are they adamant against any economic sanctions placed on Iran?
Oh, lest I forget, Italy has offered to lead the UN peacekeeping mission in Lebanon with a contribution of 2000 troops. I do remember sometime back that there was a call for a Muslim peacekeeping force in Lebanon, however, no Muslim leader has stepped up to the plate and offered to take the lead. It's a good thing, from my perspective that the US is not leading this. Being a staunch supporter of Israel, it could not afford to be involved in such events, perhaps, worried at its waning credibility.
What credibility???? Exactly!
Friday, August 18, 2006
Suspicions over rationality
I pity celebrities, I really do. Most celebrities are endowed with talents which most of s could only ever dream about, be it, sports or entertainment. They go out there with the hope that whatever God-given talent they have can be used to entertain people, put a smile on the faces of the masses and generate a feel-good feeling.
Most of the people who live in this part of the world would know who Siti Nurhaliza is. Posessing a truly wonderful voice with powerful lungs to boot, and not forgetting that sweet, innocent look and wholseome appeal, she is truly the dream wife or girlfriend of most young men and the ideal daughter-in-law for many a Malay auntie. Oh, and lest I forget, she gives a pretty good recital of the Quran too. Now, if that's not an image of perfection, I don't know what is. I'd be lying through my teeth if I was ever to say that she is not attractive and I do not like her. Heck, I'd marry her if I could. When news broke out of her alleged romance with a businessman who holds the title of Datuk, a form of chivalrous rank in Malaysia, it started a media frenzy. I mean at least half the Malay-speaking world was intrigued.
Soon, the identity of the man became a hot topic in the tabloids of Malaysia. When the identity of the man was, finally, divulged, it was accepted with much shock. The man is 20 years her senior, with 4 kids, the eldest of which is a young man of 19. I pity the boy, the woman of every Malay man's desire and fantasy is going to be his stepmum. Now, I have got nothing against it. It's her choice, her life, let her live it the way she sees fit. In fact, while I feel she could have done better than getting hitched with a 47-year old moustachioed man who looks like a cross between George Lam, Tom Selleck aka Magnum PI and a smirking cat, I could only wish her all the best as she embarks on the next phase in her life. Still, I could just imagine the smug datuk singing in the shower, I'm snogging Siti tonight to the tune of Are you lonesome tonight? thinking, eat your heart out, you other men, she's mine, muahahahahahha , with an evil laughter which Dr Evil would be proud of.
The worst thing to come out of this is the allegations that Siti is a husband snatcher and a home-wrecker. It's typical of the Malays and our general reaction to things around us. Our suspicions and distrust towards each other precedes our rationality. How else would that explain the countless allegations against Siti? I am not defending Siti nor am I against her, like I said, it's her choice. However, I take it as a slight at our own morals when we question others to which we have no right to question. We Malays, have this weakness that when we see a person successful, we immediately think that it is gained through immoral means. It is difficult to progress when suspisions are at the forefront of our dealings.
Heck, recently, I read up a blog and it was posted that Siti was rather open about her past relationship with another celebrity and was all touchy feely with him on numerous occasions. Her squeaky clean image is just that - an image, a facade behind which she hides. Well, it's not allegations posted by that blogger, she was just posting an email which she has received making those allegations. Could we stoop any lower than that? Even the common people are not spared. Recently, there were allegations that a Malay family selling Nasi Lemak at Changi Village practised black magic in order to make a bigger profit. And that allegations were made by someone who knows this story from someone who was told by someone that areligious teacher saw it firsthand. Let's not forget the many people discrediting others of their fame, wealth and happiness.
What I mean to say is that we all, not just the Malays, have to be more respectful of one another in our lives and daily dealinsg with one another. Bad mouthing, throwing false allegations and trying discredit one another is all a lack of respect we show. Let the people around us live their lives without having us judging them, having negative thoughts of them and worse, spreading those negative thoughts.
Lastly, as hard as it would be for me to say it,
Selamat Pengantin Baru Siti.
Most of the people who live in this part of the world would know who Siti Nurhaliza is. Posessing a truly wonderful voice with powerful lungs to boot, and not forgetting that sweet, innocent look and wholseome appeal, she is truly the dream wife or girlfriend of most young men and the ideal daughter-in-law for many a Malay auntie. Oh, and lest I forget, she gives a pretty good recital of the Quran too. Now, if that's not an image of perfection, I don't know what is. I'd be lying through my teeth if I was ever to say that she is not attractive and I do not like her. Heck, I'd marry her if I could. When news broke out of her alleged romance with a businessman who holds the title of Datuk, a form of chivalrous rank in Malaysia, it started a media frenzy. I mean at least half the Malay-speaking world was intrigued.
Soon, the identity of the man became a hot topic in the tabloids of Malaysia. When the identity of the man was, finally, divulged, it was accepted with much shock. The man is 20 years her senior, with 4 kids, the eldest of which is a young man of 19. I pity the boy, the woman of every Malay man's desire and fantasy is going to be his stepmum. Now, I have got nothing against it. It's her choice, her life, let her live it the way she sees fit. In fact, while I feel she could have done better than getting hitched with a 47-year old moustachioed man who looks like a cross between George Lam, Tom Selleck aka Magnum PI and a smirking cat, I could only wish her all the best as she embarks on the next phase in her life. Still, I could just imagine the smug datuk singing in the shower, I'm snogging Siti tonight to the tune of Are you lonesome tonight? thinking, eat your heart out, you other men, she's mine, muahahahahahha , with an evil laughter which Dr Evil would be proud of.
The worst thing to come out of this is the allegations that Siti is a husband snatcher and a home-wrecker. It's typical of the Malays and our general reaction to things around us. Our suspicions and distrust towards each other precedes our rationality. How else would that explain the countless allegations against Siti? I am not defending Siti nor am I against her, like I said, it's her choice. However, I take it as a slight at our own morals when we question others to which we have no right to question. We Malays, have this weakness that when we see a person successful, we immediately think that it is gained through immoral means. It is difficult to progress when suspisions are at the forefront of our dealings.
Heck, recently, I read up a blog and it was posted that Siti was rather open about her past relationship with another celebrity and was all touchy feely with him on numerous occasions. Her squeaky clean image is just that - an image, a facade behind which she hides. Well, it's not allegations posted by that blogger, she was just posting an email which she has received making those allegations. Could we stoop any lower than that? Even the common people are not spared. Recently, there were allegations that a Malay family selling Nasi Lemak at Changi Village practised black magic in order to make a bigger profit. And that allegations were made by someone who knows this story from someone who was told by someone that areligious teacher saw it firsthand. Let's not forget the many people discrediting others of their fame, wealth and happiness.
What I mean to say is that we all, not just the Malays, have to be more respectful of one another in our lives and daily dealinsg with one another. Bad mouthing, throwing false allegations and trying discredit one another is all a lack of respect we show. Let the people around us live their lives without having us judging them, having negative thoughts of them and worse, spreading those negative thoughts.
Lastly, as hard as it would be for me to say it,
Selamat Pengantin Baru Siti.
Wednesday, August 16, 2006
Yeap, twas my birthday
Yeap, yesterday was it. The day children look forward to, women dread and men just want it over and done with. The day my life began, all 29 years ago. Well, lemme see, Natasha Henstridge of Species fame shares the same date, so does Ben Affleck - not that I care - and Japan surrendered, ending World War 2. Oh, and Elvis died within hours of my birth.
I was working on my birthday though, I hadn't planned for anything special to mark the day, neither had my wife. Just a simple dinner at Secret Recipe at IMM, after which we went marketing for some necessities. Not the ideal birthday to some, but it does it for me. For the past few years, especially since starting work and getting married, birthdays doesn't seem that important to me anymore. I mean, besides being the day we were born, there's nothing else to suggest that it is a special day. I mean, the sun was still shining, birds still chirping and I still had a job to do.
I had always wondered what's there to celebrate in the first place. Is it to celebrate the past or to celebrate the future? Should I be joyous over the past 29 years or joyous for the years to come? I thought to myself, have I done anything in the past year to be joyous about? Is there anything that I am anticipating that would make my life a whole lot better? On all accounts, I'd have to say a conservative no. Besides getting my car, going on 4 trips up north and patching up after the big fight, nothing really happened that would have been a major cause of celebration. I lived my life, did what I should, and that was it.
We all have our own way to mark our special day, the day we saw the light. Some go on a cruise or holidays, some pamper themselves with fine dining, others have a wild night out and hope to wake up without regrets, others offer prayers and some just treat it like any normal day. I prefer the last option, it's a lot less complicated. On days such as theses, the adage, "It's the thought that counts", seems to ring so much truer. My best bud sent me an SMS, a rather long one at that, wishing me all the happiness, and that meant a lot to me. It doesn't matter how many people remember your birthday, but who does, matters a lot. Thanks bro.
Personally, I don't dread my birthday, neither do I loathe it. It serves as a reminder for me that time doesn't wait for me and that, in spite of what has happened, life goes on. I haven't had a birthday party in 2 decades, no birthday cakes since I was 10 or 11 and , though I do get the small gifts from my family every year, there hasn't been a celebration of my birthday in years. Just the birthday wishes from my mom on the morning of my birthday, every year, without fail. Mom called me at 6am to wish me a happy birthday and asked what I wanted for lunch. She'd normally whip up a succulent meal on special days, I just said, it's ok, just cook as you would on any other days. I think I've lost the zeal to celebrate my own birthday.
Mom and Dad asked me what I wanted for my birthday. For once, I was stumped, I hadn't thought about it and had no idea what I would like. In previous years, I would have plumped for an MP3 player or a new HD LCD TV, this time, I just said "nothing". Yeah, I know was hell-bent on upgrading the sound system in my car and was pretty upset at how things panned out then, I've grown to realise that there is much more to life than material posessions - I knew that, I just lost track of it. Every now and then, we all need that kick up the butt or that slap in the face just to remind us of how good we have it.
I guess 15th of August was my time.
I was working on my birthday though, I hadn't planned for anything special to mark the day, neither had my wife. Just a simple dinner at Secret Recipe at IMM, after which we went marketing for some necessities. Not the ideal birthday to some, but it does it for me. For the past few years, especially since starting work and getting married, birthdays doesn't seem that important to me anymore. I mean, besides being the day we were born, there's nothing else to suggest that it is a special day. I mean, the sun was still shining, birds still chirping and I still had a job to do.
I had always wondered what's there to celebrate in the first place. Is it to celebrate the past or to celebrate the future? Should I be joyous over the past 29 years or joyous for the years to come? I thought to myself, have I done anything in the past year to be joyous about? Is there anything that I am anticipating that would make my life a whole lot better? On all accounts, I'd have to say a conservative no. Besides getting my car, going on 4 trips up north and patching up after the big fight, nothing really happened that would have been a major cause of celebration. I lived my life, did what I should, and that was it.
We all have our own way to mark our special day, the day we saw the light. Some go on a cruise or holidays, some pamper themselves with fine dining, others have a wild night out and hope to wake up without regrets, others offer prayers and some just treat it like any normal day. I prefer the last option, it's a lot less complicated. On days such as theses, the adage, "It's the thought that counts", seems to ring so much truer. My best bud sent me an SMS, a rather long one at that, wishing me all the happiness, and that meant a lot to me. It doesn't matter how many people remember your birthday, but who does, matters a lot. Thanks bro.
Personally, I don't dread my birthday, neither do I loathe it. It serves as a reminder for me that time doesn't wait for me and that, in spite of what has happened, life goes on. I haven't had a birthday party in 2 decades, no birthday cakes since I was 10 or 11 and , though I do get the small gifts from my family every year, there hasn't been a celebration of my birthday in years. Just the birthday wishes from my mom on the morning of my birthday, every year, without fail. Mom called me at 6am to wish me a happy birthday and asked what I wanted for lunch. She'd normally whip up a succulent meal on special days, I just said, it's ok, just cook as you would on any other days. I think I've lost the zeal to celebrate my own birthday.
Mom and Dad asked me what I wanted for my birthday. For once, I was stumped, I hadn't thought about it and had no idea what I would like. In previous years, I would have plumped for an MP3 player or a new HD LCD TV, this time, I just said "nothing". Yeah, I know was hell-bent on upgrading the sound system in my car and was pretty upset at how things panned out then, I've grown to realise that there is much more to life than material posessions - I knew that, I just lost track of it. Every now and then, we all need that kick up the butt or that slap in the face just to remind us of how good we have it.
I guess 15th of August was my time.
Thursday, August 10, 2006
Come, join my queue!
Yesterday, we celebrated our nation's 41st birthday and many Singaporeans were in or around the National Stadium, which, by the way, will be torn down after the National Day Parade, for the fireworks spectacle of the Parade. For many families, it's been a ritual of sorts, having a picnic along Kallang river and wait for the fireworks display.
The National Day Parade in itself is a mega-event watched by most Singaporeans, not just for the pomp and pageantry but also for the spectacular displays which has never failed to take the spectators breath away. From the sky-divers to the pilots to the Guard of Honour contingent to the show itself, every single display is greeted by a chorus of cheers and thunderous applause. Personally, I have never been to the NDP. Though, when I was still serving my NS, my camp was one of the centres for ticket distribution for the NDP tickets. I remember the snaking queues, the pitched tents and the picnic-like atmosphere. Only thing that was missing was live entertainment and BBQ pits and they'd have a party.
One thing that did not escape my mind was the fact that I was on duty that day. My brief was simple, stay in the air-conditioned comfort of the medical center and see to any medical emergencies that might take place within the queue. I thought that was typical of the army to have extra medics on standby for any emergencies for a bunch of people sitting around, doing nothing while waiting for the tickets to be distributed. There were 2 medics on standby that weekend as opposed to the standard 1. Despite the queue being quite orderly and no incidents took place within the queue, seeing that the people were quite orderly and water being available in the form of watercoolers, there was still one casualty. Funny thing is, he wasn't even queueing. He skidded his motorbike outside the camp while sending food to his family. Till now, I still wonder what happened to the food.
One good thing that has taken place since is the introduction of balloting for the NDP tickets instead of having people form up queues 3-4 days in advanced for them. That saves a lot of time and resources not just on the would-be spectators, but also the organisers and the Army boys who'd have to set up the queueing area and man them on the day itself. Even if the wonders of technology has stopped Singaporeans from engaging in one of our national pastimes, apart from food and shopping, it is one pastime I'm glad we'd no longer have. I mean, there are still a lot more we could queue for. I mean there's the queue at the hawker centers during lunch time, there's the queues at the post offices at the end of the month and, of course, the long queues at Singapore Pools for 4D and Toto.
Some people, admittedly, queue up just the sake of queueing without knowing what the queue is for. While some people would say that if something is good, it's worth queueing for, these people seem to equate it as if it's something worth queueing for, it must be something good. The next time you end up in a long snaking queue, try asking the person in front of you what they are queueing for, chances are they might not know because they are following the herd, kinda like the zebras and wildebeest on Animal Planet.
PS: On a different note, I'm still waiting for the UN Resolution on the Israeli-Lebanon conflict to be passed. Seems like they are still squabbling over the terms to be used. Oh, and tomoorow going to watch the fireworks again. you know?
The National Day Parade in itself is a mega-event watched by most Singaporeans, not just for the pomp and pageantry but also for the spectacular displays which has never failed to take the spectators breath away. From the sky-divers to the pilots to the Guard of Honour contingent to the show itself, every single display is greeted by a chorus of cheers and thunderous applause. Personally, I have never been to the NDP. Though, when I was still serving my NS, my camp was one of the centres for ticket distribution for the NDP tickets. I remember the snaking queues, the pitched tents and the picnic-like atmosphere. Only thing that was missing was live entertainment and BBQ pits and they'd have a party.
One thing that did not escape my mind was the fact that I was on duty that day. My brief was simple, stay in the air-conditioned comfort of the medical center and see to any medical emergencies that might take place within the queue. I thought that was typical of the army to have extra medics on standby for any emergencies for a bunch of people sitting around, doing nothing while waiting for the tickets to be distributed. There were 2 medics on standby that weekend as opposed to the standard 1. Despite the queue being quite orderly and no incidents took place within the queue, seeing that the people were quite orderly and water being available in the form of watercoolers, there was still one casualty. Funny thing is, he wasn't even queueing. He skidded his motorbike outside the camp while sending food to his family. Till now, I still wonder what happened to the food.
One good thing that has taken place since is the introduction of balloting for the NDP tickets instead of having people form up queues 3-4 days in advanced for them. That saves a lot of time and resources not just on the would-be spectators, but also the organisers and the Army boys who'd have to set up the queueing area and man them on the day itself. Even if the wonders of technology has stopped Singaporeans from engaging in one of our national pastimes, apart from food and shopping, it is one pastime I'm glad we'd no longer have. I mean, there are still a lot more we could queue for. I mean there's the queue at the hawker centers during lunch time, there's the queues at the post offices at the end of the month and, of course, the long queues at Singapore Pools for 4D and Toto.
Some people, admittedly, queue up just the sake of queueing without knowing what the queue is for. While some people would say that if something is good, it's worth queueing for, these people seem to equate it as if it's something worth queueing for, it must be something good. The next time you end up in a long snaking queue, try asking the person in front of you what they are queueing for, chances are they might not know because they are following the herd, kinda like the zebras and wildebeest on Animal Planet.
PS: On a different note, I'm still waiting for the UN Resolution on the Israeli-Lebanon conflict to be passed. Seems like they are still squabbling over the terms to be used. Oh, and tomoorow going to watch the fireworks again. you know?
Monday, August 07, 2006
Martyrs, rejection and getting the words right...
Did you guys catch the news over the weekend?? Damn, it was entertaining. Ok, in the nutshell, the Muslim world is up in arms, well, at least just the extremists, Israel got snubbed and the UN are still squabbling over some words to stop the violence in Lebanon. Yeap, it's an interesting world we live in.
To kick off today, I was watching the news on Channel News Asia (CNA) and CNN, yes, I subscribe myself to the epitomy of American journalism, over the weekend and they reported that somewhere in Kalimantan, Indonesia there are militants getting ready to go to the Middle East by becoming martyrs. There was footage of some 50 men, some boys maybe, all decked out in black, complete with the customary balaclava, lining up in formation with the commanders in front. I have been in the Army, as has most Singaporean men, and this is no army. In fact, they looked like extras of a bad Jean Claude van Damme movie.
I don't get it, firstly, why the balaclava?? If it's some important mission ordained by God, why the need to mask yourselves?? Our Prophet (PBUH) went on countless missions carrying the word of God and I don't think balaclavas were invented yet then. C'mon, be real, if it's the truth you are fighting for, why hide behind a mask? Secondly, the men lining up didn't seem to have the conviction. The half-hearted commands and execution of said commands were amatuerish at best and these are the same men going to the Middle East to wage a Jihad against the Israeli war machine? Such a waste of time, effort and life. Lastly, they were supposed to be trained in matial arts but couldn't throw a punch properly. If these men think they want to die a martyr, they are wasting their lives; it's no longer just an Islamic fight, which guarantees martydom, it's a fight for humanity against Israel.
I'm not against such a show of force, but at the very least make it believable and don't make the Muslims look like a bunch of mindless idiots running around Israel with bombs attached to their torsos. Suicide bombings just don't cut it anymore, what was once seen as the pitiful Palestinian fight against the Israeli occupation, now is branded terrorism by westen media. Where's Ghandi when you need him? Gone are the days when one man could bring down an Empire. These days, you don't just get shot in the head, the rain bombs and missiles on a whole city to kill just one man.
Ok, on to more exciting news. Malaysia's in the news, for the right reason in my point of view this time. Something to take note of, of the four countries in South East Asia with a sizeable Muslim population, Malaysia, Indonesia, Brunei and Singapore, only Singapore has diplomatic relations with Israel. This is beacuse Singapore shares much in common with Israel being a country whose majority is a minority in the region. Israel is a Jewish State in the Arabic/Muslim hinterland, as is Singapore a predominantly Chinese nation in a perdominantly Malay neighbourhood. The major difference is that Singapore engage in multiculturalism and ethnic integration while Israel practices segregation and selective annihilation.
In light of the reason attacks, been a month already, Malaysia and Indonesia has been vocal critics of the Zionist State, very vocal. In fact, the Israeli ambassador to Singapore suggested a dialogue to ease the simmering tension and deep-rooted hatred to Israel. Guess what the embattled Malaysian Prime Minister, Abdullah Ahmad Badawi had to say to that? Roughly he said, Malaysia has no diplomatic ties with the State of Israel and does not recognise Israel, as such, such dialogues is an issue not for consideration in the first place. That was by far the best response yet. There is also a call by Pak Lah, as he is affectionately known in Malaysia, for a Muslim Peacekeeping force in Lebanon. For what? To give more reasons for Israel to attack more Muslime there? They already killed a number of UN observers, who's to say they won't do the same to the Muslim peacekeepers and say it was an accident.
Last topic of the day, UN is still haggling over the terms in the resolution to stop the Israeli bombardment of Lebanon. I don't understand this. It took the UN just hours to pass Security Resolution 660 to condemn Iraq's invasion of Kuwait and here we are, a month on, and still no sign of any resolution being passed. In fact, it took the US all of a week to assemble a fighting force and mobilised into Saudi Arabia to prevent further Iraqi invasion. I can't help but wonder where is that force now? Is this because Lebanon has no natural resources worth protecting? Oh, they are doing Israel a favour by crippling Iraq and Afghanistan, as well as, keeping an eye on Iran. When, there are no checks on the region, terror will reign, and I meant the terror is Israel.
What's so difficult about telling Israel to stop the bombardment of Lebanon and Hizbullah to stop the foolish acts of attacking a de facto world power with no tangible results and return the 2 soldiers they set out to rescue before turning that into an operation to annihilate Hizbullah and terrorise the Lebanese? the world powers just don't get it, the longer they wait, the more people die, the more they fuel anti-US and anti-Israel feelings in the Muslim population, especially those in the Muddle East, I mean Middle East.
Oh, and a parting shot to the world leaders; get your heads out of the bush and start doing something for the betterment of humanity!!!!!!!!!!! Tha's your real job!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
To kick off today, I was watching the news on Channel News Asia (CNA) and CNN, yes, I subscribe myself to the epitomy of American journalism, over the weekend and they reported that somewhere in Kalimantan, Indonesia there are militants getting ready to go to the Middle East by becoming martyrs. There was footage of some 50 men, some boys maybe, all decked out in black, complete with the customary balaclava, lining up in formation with the commanders in front. I have been in the Army, as has most Singaporean men, and this is no army. In fact, they looked like extras of a bad Jean Claude van Damme movie.
I don't get it, firstly, why the balaclava?? If it's some important mission ordained by God, why the need to mask yourselves?? Our Prophet (PBUH) went on countless missions carrying the word of God and I don't think balaclavas were invented yet then. C'mon, be real, if it's the truth you are fighting for, why hide behind a mask? Secondly, the men lining up didn't seem to have the conviction. The half-hearted commands and execution of said commands were amatuerish at best and these are the same men going to the Middle East to wage a Jihad against the Israeli war machine? Such a waste of time, effort and life. Lastly, they were supposed to be trained in matial arts but couldn't throw a punch properly. If these men think they want to die a martyr, they are wasting their lives; it's no longer just an Islamic fight, which guarantees martydom, it's a fight for humanity against Israel.
I'm not against such a show of force, but at the very least make it believable and don't make the Muslims look like a bunch of mindless idiots running around Israel with bombs attached to their torsos. Suicide bombings just don't cut it anymore, what was once seen as the pitiful Palestinian fight against the Israeli occupation, now is branded terrorism by westen media. Where's Ghandi when you need him? Gone are the days when one man could bring down an Empire. These days, you don't just get shot in the head, the rain bombs and missiles on a whole city to kill just one man.
Ok, on to more exciting news. Malaysia's in the news, for the right reason in my point of view this time. Something to take note of, of the four countries in South East Asia with a sizeable Muslim population, Malaysia, Indonesia, Brunei and Singapore, only Singapore has diplomatic relations with Israel. This is beacuse Singapore shares much in common with Israel being a country whose majority is a minority in the region. Israel is a Jewish State in the Arabic/Muslim hinterland, as is Singapore a predominantly Chinese nation in a perdominantly Malay neighbourhood. The major difference is that Singapore engage in multiculturalism and ethnic integration while Israel practices segregation and selective annihilation.
In light of the reason attacks, been a month already, Malaysia and Indonesia has been vocal critics of the Zionist State, very vocal. In fact, the Israeli ambassador to Singapore suggested a dialogue to ease the simmering tension and deep-rooted hatred to Israel. Guess what the embattled Malaysian Prime Minister, Abdullah Ahmad Badawi had to say to that? Roughly he said, Malaysia has no diplomatic ties with the State of Israel and does not recognise Israel, as such, such dialogues is an issue not for consideration in the first place. That was by far the best response yet. There is also a call by Pak Lah, as he is affectionately known in Malaysia, for a Muslim Peacekeeping force in Lebanon. For what? To give more reasons for Israel to attack more Muslime there? They already killed a number of UN observers, who's to say they won't do the same to the Muslim peacekeepers and say it was an accident.
Last topic of the day, UN is still haggling over the terms in the resolution to stop the Israeli bombardment of Lebanon. I don't understand this. It took the UN just hours to pass Security Resolution 660 to condemn Iraq's invasion of Kuwait and here we are, a month on, and still no sign of any resolution being passed. In fact, it took the US all of a week to assemble a fighting force and mobilised into Saudi Arabia to prevent further Iraqi invasion. I can't help but wonder where is that force now? Is this because Lebanon has no natural resources worth protecting? Oh, they are doing Israel a favour by crippling Iraq and Afghanistan, as well as, keeping an eye on Iran. When, there are no checks on the region, terror will reign, and I meant the terror is Israel.
What's so difficult about telling Israel to stop the bombardment of Lebanon and Hizbullah to stop the foolish acts of attacking a de facto world power with no tangible results and return the 2 soldiers they set out to rescue before turning that into an operation to annihilate Hizbullah and terrorise the Lebanese? the world powers just don't get it, the longer they wait, the more people die, the more they fuel anti-US and anti-Israel feelings in the Muslim population, especially those in the Muddle East, I mean Middle East.
Oh, and a parting shot to the world leaders; get your heads out of the bush and start doing something for the betterment of humanity!!!!!!!!!!! Tha's your real job!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Friday, August 04, 2006
If only I could stop the devastation......
I was just trawling the net, blog hopping to take a look at what people around the world are writing about. One thing that struck me was the fact that the violence taking place in the Middle East is drawing lots of reaction from the people of the world. Mostly, the reaction is one of horror, exasperation and anger.
Horror at the violence, exasperation at the indecision and anger at the politicians.
Undoubtedly, I am one of them who feel the same way. Words just can't express the grief and pain etched on the faces of the innocent victims. The grief and pain at seeing your home destroyed, your family vanish and your life, hopes and dreams shattered. There are countless images, videos and commentaries talking about the situation in Lebanon. But that's all there is to it - talk.
There was talk of a ceasefire a week ago, but that has yet to materialise. The sluggishness of the whole process coupled with the delay of aid is only exacerbating the problem. I don't even want to talk about peace in the region as that, in reality, is a far-fetched idea, at least for now. Tony Blair, long been seen as Tonto to Bush's Lone Ranger persona, doesn't seem to have the guts nor the spine to issue a strong-worded statement pushing for a ceasefire. Hmmmm, this seems to be too big for me, I'll hide behind Bush. He'll know what to do. That seems to be his style of leadership. Truth be told, he IS the Prime Minister of a sovereign nation. Pity the Brits, having a spineless leader leading them.
Dr. Condoleezza Rice is jetsetting all over the place without any concrete plan to stop the violence. Probably, there was no plan to plan a stop to the violence. Confused? Befuddled? So am I. There's nothing much the world can do to stop it all. The UN has lost a lot credibility in it's failure to stop the US from invading Iraq and Afghanistan. It's position as the world's governing body has been downgraded to that of a US crony. Any sympathy gained by the US has also been eroded by it's invasion of Iraq and the impasse over the current situation in Lebanon. While once the world stood in awe at the resilience of the Americans in the wake of the 9/11 terrorrist attacks, the world now stares in disbelief at its flagrant and overt support of Israel terrorism of the innocent civilians of Lebanon.
Honestly. if I could I would have wringed Tony Blair's neck, bitch-slapped Condoleezza Rice and gouged out George Bush's eyes. I think Blair wouldn't have felt anything, seeing that he is spineless after all, neither would Rice feel a thing - damn, did you see the amount of make up that woman puts on everytime you see her on TV?. George Bush on the other hand would feel a slight tinge at the back of his head but it wouldn't matter anyway cos he's never opened his eyes anyway, except when it is to his advantage. I can't hide my feelings when it comes to these politicians. Anger is too kind a word to describe my feelings.
Yes, I am exasperated, angry and disgusted. Lebanon is a beautiful place, posessing a charm few countries could dream of. Years of civil war, followed by Israel occupation in the 80's has reduced the once magnificent country to a pale shadow of its former beauty and glory. How could I not be? Have you seen the photographs that depicts the devastation? I feel so sad and helpless looking at the children being killed. How many more has to be sacrificed before the world stands up to put an end to this violence?
I just hope that the people responsible for these atrocities get their just rewards. For the people of Lebanon and Palestine, have faith, be strong and never give up, insyallah, God will answer your prayers.
Horror at the violence, exasperation at the indecision and anger at the politicians.
Undoubtedly, I am one of them who feel the same way. Words just can't express the grief and pain etched on the faces of the innocent victims. The grief and pain at seeing your home destroyed, your family vanish and your life, hopes and dreams shattered. There are countless images, videos and commentaries talking about the situation in Lebanon. But that's all there is to it - talk.
There was talk of a ceasefire a week ago, but that has yet to materialise. The sluggishness of the whole process coupled with the delay of aid is only exacerbating the problem. I don't even want to talk about peace in the region as that, in reality, is a far-fetched idea, at least for now. Tony Blair, long been seen as Tonto to Bush's Lone Ranger persona, doesn't seem to have the guts nor the spine to issue a strong-worded statement pushing for a ceasefire. Hmmmm, this seems to be too big for me, I'll hide behind Bush. He'll know what to do. That seems to be his style of leadership. Truth be told, he IS the Prime Minister of a sovereign nation. Pity the Brits, having a spineless leader leading them.
Dr. Condoleezza Rice is jetsetting all over the place without any concrete plan to stop the violence. Probably, there was no plan to plan a stop to the violence. Confused? Befuddled? So am I. There's nothing much the world can do to stop it all. The UN has lost a lot credibility in it's failure to stop the US from invading Iraq and Afghanistan. It's position as the world's governing body has been downgraded to that of a US crony. Any sympathy gained by the US has also been eroded by it's invasion of Iraq and the impasse over the current situation in Lebanon. While once the world stood in awe at the resilience of the Americans in the wake of the 9/11 terrorrist attacks, the world now stares in disbelief at its flagrant and overt support of Israel terrorism of the innocent civilians of Lebanon.
Honestly. if I could I would have wringed Tony Blair's neck, bitch-slapped Condoleezza Rice and gouged out George Bush's eyes. I think Blair wouldn't have felt anything, seeing that he is spineless after all, neither would Rice feel a thing - damn, did you see the amount of make up that woman puts on everytime you see her on TV?. George Bush on the other hand would feel a slight tinge at the back of his head but it wouldn't matter anyway cos he's never opened his eyes anyway, except when it is to his advantage. I can't hide my feelings when it comes to these politicians. Anger is too kind a word to describe my feelings.
Yes, I am exasperated, angry and disgusted. Lebanon is a beautiful place, posessing a charm few countries could dream of. Years of civil war, followed by Israel occupation in the 80's has reduced the once magnificent country to a pale shadow of its former beauty and glory. How could I not be? Have you seen the photographs that depicts the devastation? I feel so sad and helpless looking at the children being killed. How many more has to be sacrificed before the world stands up to put an end to this violence?
I just hope that the people responsible for these atrocities get their just rewards. For the people of Lebanon and Palestine, have faith, be strong and never give up, insyallah, God will answer your prayers.
Wednesday, August 02, 2006
Blood and sex and our participation
Have you read the news recently? Have you seen the photos of the devastation wrought on the people of Lebanon?
It's a shame. A country so beautiful destroyed by the hands of man. My uncle was in Beirut for a year or so working for MAS as the country head somewhere in 2003-04. He showed me photos of the place and I was gobsmacked. It looked so serene. Beirut was like the French Riviera. That's how beautiful the city is. I honestly couldn't care less if 2 groups of people with differing political ideologies wants to beat the living hell out of each other. I couldn't care less if they wanted to assasinate each others' leaders and send suicide squads to wreak havoc in the other's territories. What I do care was the targetting of innocent civilians.
In that respect, both sides are acting like savages. Hezbollah attack Israel's border patrols and captures 2 soldiers. Israel then retaliates with unequal measure by bombarding targets all over Lebanon indiscriminately, even killing UN observers. Hezbollah then fires back missiles at residential areas of northern Israel. Personally, I agree that Israel has the right to self-defence, though they are stretching the definition of self-defence to include the destruction of Hezbollah at all costs. After so much destruction and death, the world community are slowly beginning to react to stem the bloodshed.
I don't know about you, but I find it funny and, at the same time, debatable on the response of Big Brother. Their swift reaction to Iraq's invasion of Kuwait and their subsequent invasion of Iraq under the pretext of stopping a tyrant in the form of Saddam Hussein doesn't seem to be replicated when Israel attacked civilians in Lebanon. I can't help but wonder where is the swift reaction for the North Koreans or the many tyrants now in power in Africa. It also poses the question if the powers that be are selective of who they want to help or who they think are worth help.
As much as I want to go on at the political terrorism some countries are practicing, no amount of frustration would change the fact that the leader of the most powerful nation in the world has shit for brains and bias to boot. On to more interesting and gratifying news for now....
I remember reading Berita Harian, the local Malay newspaper featuring this particular campaign revolving around youths and premarital sex. The slogan of the campaign is "Lebih sexy, katakan tidak", transliterated to More sexy, say no. One of the campaign stills features a young girl looking into the mirror which shows her but pregnant, driving home the point of being pregnant is not sexy.
Honestly, pre-marital sex is a problem which leads to more serious social problems such as teenage pregnancy, discarded new-borns, unprepared parenthood which leads to more problems. You get my drift. It's a vicious cycle. I was reflecting upon this campaign and how effective it would be and somehow I had this feeling that such efforts are only scratching the surface. I mean most community efforts require participation from all walks of life. Otherwise, such efforts may be futile as the targeted audience would not be reached otherwise. Also, participation from parents are crucial though some parents can't seem to care less about their children's well-being much less such efforts.
From what I do know and can see, most of the youths who are susceptible to negative influences and, thus, would be more open to such activities, would be those who come from broken home or have broken hopes. The life they lead is one revolving around friends, desirable or not, it's their choice. Pubs and clubs are more of their kind of place as compared to mosques or community centers. Personally, I feel, all youngsters need is attention, love and someone to talk to. If they can't find it at home, they'd go elsewhere to find the acceptance they crave. I believe and hold on to that adage that everything starts from our home. If we can't get our home in order, there is no way such efforts will work.
That said, such efforts need to be brought to the fore as even making our youths aware of the potential pitfalls is winning part of the battle. I mean being young and impressionable, youths are likely to get involved in such activities, what more the youths who struggle to find acceptance from their parents and peers. So, I'm all for it, let the youths know what they are getting into even if we are scratching the surface, it's a start.
PS: I am confused, we have a campaign by Action for aids promoting safe sex and we have this campaign with promotes abstinence. Can't help wondering which is better.....
It's a shame. A country so beautiful destroyed by the hands of man. My uncle was in Beirut for a year or so working for MAS as the country head somewhere in 2003-04. He showed me photos of the place and I was gobsmacked. It looked so serene. Beirut was like the French Riviera. That's how beautiful the city is. I honestly couldn't care less if 2 groups of people with differing political ideologies wants to beat the living hell out of each other. I couldn't care less if they wanted to assasinate each others' leaders and send suicide squads to wreak havoc in the other's territories. What I do care was the targetting of innocent civilians.
In that respect, both sides are acting like savages. Hezbollah attack Israel's border patrols and captures 2 soldiers. Israel then retaliates with unequal measure by bombarding targets all over Lebanon indiscriminately, even killing UN observers. Hezbollah then fires back missiles at residential areas of northern Israel. Personally, I agree that Israel has the right to self-defence, though they are stretching the definition of self-defence to include the destruction of Hezbollah at all costs. After so much destruction and death, the world community are slowly beginning to react to stem the bloodshed.
I don't know about you, but I find it funny and, at the same time, debatable on the response of Big Brother. Their swift reaction to Iraq's invasion of Kuwait and their subsequent invasion of Iraq under the pretext of stopping a tyrant in the form of Saddam Hussein doesn't seem to be replicated when Israel attacked civilians in Lebanon. I can't help but wonder where is the swift reaction for the North Koreans or the many tyrants now in power in Africa. It also poses the question if the powers that be are selective of who they want to help or who they think are worth help.
As much as I want to go on at the political terrorism some countries are practicing, no amount of frustration would change the fact that the leader of the most powerful nation in the world has shit for brains and bias to boot. On to more interesting and gratifying news for now....
I remember reading Berita Harian, the local Malay newspaper featuring this particular campaign revolving around youths and premarital sex. The slogan of the campaign is "Lebih sexy, katakan tidak", transliterated to More sexy, say no. One of the campaign stills features a young girl looking into the mirror which shows her but pregnant, driving home the point of being pregnant is not sexy.
Honestly, pre-marital sex is a problem which leads to more serious social problems such as teenage pregnancy, discarded new-borns, unprepared parenthood which leads to more problems. You get my drift. It's a vicious cycle. I was reflecting upon this campaign and how effective it would be and somehow I had this feeling that such efforts are only scratching the surface. I mean most community efforts require participation from all walks of life. Otherwise, such efforts may be futile as the targeted audience would not be reached otherwise. Also, participation from parents are crucial though some parents can't seem to care less about their children's well-being much less such efforts.
From what I do know and can see, most of the youths who are susceptible to negative influences and, thus, would be more open to such activities, would be those who come from broken home or have broken hopes. The life they lead is one revolving around friends, desirable or not, it's their choice. Pubs and clubs are more of their kind of place as compared to mosques or community centers. Personally, I feel, all youngsters need is attention, love and someone to talk to. If they can't find it at home, they'd go elsewhere to find the acceptance they crave. I believe and hold on to that adage that everything starts from our home. If we can't get our home in order, there is no way such efforts will work.
That said, such efforts need to be brought to the fore as even making our youths aware of the potential pitfalls is winning part of the battle. I mean being young and impressionable, youths are likely to get involved in such activities, what more the youths who struggle to find acceptance from their parents and peers. So, I'm all for it, let the youths know what they are getting into even if we are scratching the surface, it's a start.
PS: I am confused, we have a campaign by Action for aids promoting safe sex and we have this campaign with promotes abstinence. Can't help wondering which is better.....
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)