I am kinda relieved now.. the laborious part is over, at least for me..
Met Prof K at his home with Jim a couple of hours ago.. Did a rehearsal of my presentation twice, after exceeding the time limit the first time.. We went through my slides one by one and rewrote some of them.. Furthermore, Prof K had more or less approved my final report.. there is still some minor layout adjustments here and there.. but overall, the content is ok!! :) :) :) so no need to write anymore!! :p
We did all the above after enjoying a cup of tea prepared by Prof K and playing with his cat... :) It was such an enjoyable afternoon..
Shall do all the minor changes tomorrow.. For now, I just wanna rest my brain and have a drink.. :) :) :)
Jun 28, 2009
Jun 25, 2009
Almost there..
Some updates...
Up til today, managed to churn out some 16 pages of report... need maybe 4-5 more to complete it.. of course, still need to let my professor read and approve it.. Should be able to complete it by this Sunday, the latest.. :)
Going to see Prof K later today.. then would have a trial presentation in my own lab's seminar tomorrow evening.. this Sunday afternoon, would be going to Prof K's house to do a final "rehearsal" of my presentation.. hopefully by Monday, would have everything nailed down and ready for my D-day on Wednesday..
So far everything is on target.. :) Can't wait for this to be over and done with.. Cos already have things planned out.. Sooo looking forward to my post D-days.. :p :p :p :p
Up til today, managed to churn out some 16 pages of report... need maybe 4-5 more to complete it.. of course, still need to let my professor read and approve it.. Should be able to complete it by this Sunday, the latest.. :)
Going to see Prof K later today.. then would have a trial presentation in my own lab's seminar tomorrow evening.. this Sunday afternoon, would be going to Prof K's house to do a final "rehearsal" of my presentation.. hopefully by Monday, would have everything nailed down and ready for my D-day on Wednesday..
So far everything is on target.. :) Can't wait for this to be over and done with.. Cos already have things planned out.. Sooo looking forward to my post D-days.. :p :p :p :p
Jun 22, 2009
Crunch time..
Okay, there shall be very few blog entry in the next week or so.. as I really need to concentrate on finishing my final report.. D-day for my presentation is July 1, at 3:15pm.. I am the last of the presenters in this semester's graduating batch.. Not so worried about the presentation since it will only be 7 min with another 8 min of Q&A... So by 3:31pm, I will be free!! And I would have 1 week to amend my final report after the presentation if the professors demand it, but I hope to get it passed the first time round..
Other than the pressure of writing my report, a couple of personal issues need to be sorted too.. currently, am wading through tons of emotions, that I must admit, am very ill-equipped to deal with.. :x :x Yet, come what may, I need to face it head-on.. but there is no denying that these issues are, severely, affecting my writing of my final report.. Had already accepted the fact that my final report would not be my best "master piece" of these 2.5 years..
Pray or cross your fingers for me... Hope I get through this next 10 days or so, without losing my mind, my cool or my hair, although I won't mind losing some weight.... :p
Other than the pressure of writing my report, a couple of personal issues need to be sorted too.. currently, am wading through tons of emotions, that I must admit, am very ill-equipped to deal with.. :x :x Yet, come what may, I need to face it head-on.. but there is no denying that these issues are, severely, affecting my writing of my final report.. Had already accepted the fact that my final report would not be my best "master piece" of these 2.5 years..
Pray or cross your fingers for me... Hope I get through this next 10 days or so, without losing my mind, my cool or my hair, although I won't mind losing some weight.... :p
Jun 21, 2009
戀人的時尚生活
主唱 : 張芸京
作詞 : 張芸京
作曲 : 蔡健雅
走 回家的路 不用裝酷
天塌下來我也不在乎
看烏雲密布 我很清楚
雨下了妳也不認輸
昨天的一點沖突 我終於心裡有數
關於小幸福 要不是有妳的照顧
做好早餐給我領悟 我是否該還妳一點呵護
看見妳雨傘手機才有感觸
真是說穿了愛 都是平凡的祝福
心 曾經鎖住 曾經孤獨
后座沒有誰將我抱住
而妳的溫度 而妳的安撫
提醒我應該要知足
那天我哭的時候 妳說妳懂我辛苦
那是小幸福 要不是有妳的照顧
做好早餐給我領悟 我是否該還妳一點呵護
看見我鑰匙手機才有感觸
其實說穿了愛 都是平凡的祝福
要不是有妳的照顧
做好早餐給我領悟 我是否該還妳一點呵護
讓妳的明天 后天 都快樂
其實戀人啊 只是這樣
其實時尚生活 也不過這樣
而真正的愛 都是平凡的 幸福
============================================
又是另一首张芸京的歌。。
喜欢她唱出“平凡的幸福”的那种感觉。。
好向往哦。。
作詞 : 張芸京
作曲 : 蔡健雅
走 回家的路 不用裝酷
天塌下來我也不在乎
看烏雲密布 我很清楚
雨下了妳也不認輸
昨天的一點沖突 我終於心裡有數
關於小幸福 要不是有妳的照顧
做好早餐給我領悟 我是否該還妳一點呵護
看見妳雨傘手機才有感觸
真是說穿了愛 都是平凡的祝福
心 曾經鎖住 曾經孤獨
后座沒有誰將我抱住
而妳的溫度 而妳的安撫
提醒我應該要知足
那天我哭的時候 妳說妳懂我辛苦
那是小幸福 要不是有妳的照顧
做好早餐給我領悟 我是否該還妳一點呵護
看見我鑰匙手機才有感觸
其實說穿了愛 都是平凡的祝福
要不是有妳的照顧
做好早餐給我領悟 我是否該還妳一點呵護
讓妳的明天 后天 都快樂
其實戀人啊 只是這樣
其實時尚生活 也不過這樣
而真正的愛 都是平凡的 幸福
============================================
又是另一首张芸京的歌。。
喜欢她唱出“平凡的幸福”的那种感觉。。
好向往哦。。
Jun 18, 2009
Cooking Frenzy..
Here are some of my concoctions since my previous blog entry (下厨做饭) in April..
Dishes:
肉碎蒸蛋 [Steamed egg with minced meat]
辣炒肉碎豆腐 [Minced meat with toufu in spicy sauce]
烧肉 [Roast pork]
东炎虾 [Tom Yam Prawns]
醸豆腐 [Yong Tou Fu]
肉丸炒蔬菜 [Stir-fry vegetables with meat balls]
Kuih:
面煎粿 [Apam balik/Mee Jien Kueh]
蒸鸡蛋糕 [Steamed Egg Cake]
九层糕 [Kuih Lapis - Failed attempt]
More concoctions to come!! :) :) :)
Dishes:
肉碎蒸蛋 [Steamed egg with minced meat]
辣炒肉碎豆腐 [Minced meat with toufu in spicy sauce]
烧肉 [Roast pork]
东炎虾 [Tom Yam Prawns]
醸豆腐 [Yong Tou Fu]
肉丸炒蔬菜 [Stir-fry vegetables with meat balls]Kuih:
面煎粿 [Apam balik/Mee Jien Kueh]
蒸鸡蛋糕 [Steamed Egg Cake]
九层糕 [Kuih Lapis - Failed attempt]More concoctions to come!! :) :) :)
Jun 17, 2009
Stand accused...
One thing that would STILL piss me off is to accuse me of something I didn't do... And after the first "incident", my patience with both of them is wearing thin.. and what happened yesterday just destroyed whatever that was left..
Seriously, who is he to come to the house (most probably unannounced), make use of the scanner, printer and fax machine like he is entitled to because he was supposedly his "friend", helped himself shamelessly to the food lying on the table, talked so bloody loud while expecting EVERYONE to "entertain" him, to accuse me of intimidating him just because of something I said (which I can't even remember what exactly it was!!)????
Who made him his spokesperson?? Who made him the friendly "ambassador" of Malaysia? Who made him the etiquette police?? Who made him the "upholder" of harmony of the house?? And the most important thing is, WHO THE BLOODY HELL HE THINKS HE IS TO COME AND ACCUSED ME OF SOMETHING I DIDN'T DO??!!??
If he or he thinks that I was intimidating when I was being friendly, then both of them haven't seen the kind of "intimidation" that I am capable of yet!! If after having so many meals, parties and conversations together for the last 4 months, he still feels SHY, even in his OWN house among his tenants, then seriously, I have nothing more to say.. If that was really what he feels - being "intimidated" by me, then well, too bad.. I won't change just because some barnacle of a man thought I should..
There were many good reasons for him going back to his room when I went into the kitchen and chatted with them.. Maybe he was in the middle of something when he dropped by unannounced?? Maybe he was tired of entertaining him?? Maybe he rather spend his time productively then to stand around "waiting" for him to finish and leave?
The saddest part is that this could be all in his own self-righteous mind and now I am "poisoned" to think badly about him.. It is unfortunate, but I am only human.. One huge reasons why I chose my friends carefully and don't make them ever so easily.. because most of the time, you can judge a person by the company he keeps and birds of a feather flock together.. If he continues doing what he is doing and he continues to "hide" behind the stereotype of a shy and timid Japanese, then I would ask them to do put down clearly their expectations of future tenants.. I wasn't told that I need to be a "nanny" or that I need to tip-toe around some fragile ego or acute shyness..
Anyway, my conscious is clear.. So my response to this incident is that he ceased being a "friend" to me from today onwards, and I shall not acknowledge his presence/existence if I ever see him again.. He has been demoted from a "common friend" to a "huh-who?".. As for him, I will continue to do what I was doing all along: being nice (at least try to), but only when I feel like it.. If he still feels shy or intimidate, then well, I have only one thing to say, just grit and bear with me for another 2+ months or so, after that he can go and find a "nice" and "friendly" tenant to replace me. This I think should be a piece of cake for him since Japanese are "well-known" to be able to endure "suffering in silence" for years..
Ah.. another huge reason for NOT wanting to work in Japan...
Seriously, who is he to come to the house (most probably unannounced), make use of the scanner, printer and fax machine like he is entitled to because he was supposedly his "friend", helped himself shamelessly to the food lying on the table, talked so bloody loud while expecting EVERYONE to "entertain" him, to accuse me of intimidating him just because of something I said (which I can't even remember what exactly it was!!)????
Who made him his spokesperson?? Who made him the friendly "ambassador" of Malaysia? Who made him the etiquette police?? Who made him the "upholder" of harmony of the house?? And the most important thing is, WHO THE BLOODY HELL HE THINKS HE IS TO COME AND ACCUSED ME OF SOMETHING I DIDN'T DO??!!??
If he or he thinks that I was intimidating when I was being friendly, then both of them haven't seen the kind of "intimidation" that I am capable of yet!! If after having so many meals, parties and conversations together for the last 4 months, he still feels SHY, even in his OWN house among his tenants, then seriously, I have nothing more to say.. If that was really what he feels - being "intimidated" by me, then well, too bad.. I won't change just because some barnacle of a man thought I should..
There were many good reasons for him going back to his room when I went into the kitchen and chatted with them.. Maybe he was in the middle of something when he dropped by unannounced?? Maybe he was tired of entertaining him?? Maybe he rather spend his time productively then to stand around "waiting" for him to finish and leave?
The saddest part is that this could be all in his own self-righteous mind and now I am "poisoned" to think badly about him.. It is unfortunate, but I am only human.. One huge reasons why I chose my friends carefully and don't make them ever so easily.. because most of the time, you can judge a person by the company he keeps and birds of a feather flock together.. If he continues doing what he is doing and he continues to "hide" behind the stereotype of a shy and timid Japanese, then I would ask them to do put down clearly their expectations of future tenants.. I wasn't told that I need to be a "nanny" or that I need to tip-toe around some fragile ego or acute shyness..
Anyway, my conscious is clear.. So my response to this incident is that he ceased being a "friend" to me from today onwards, and I shall not acknowledge his presence/existence if I ever see him again.. He has been demoted from a "common friend" to a "huh-who?".. As for him, I will continue to do what I was doing all along: being nice (at least try to), but only when I feel like it.. If he still feels shy or intimidate, then well, I have only one thing to say, just grit and bear with me for another 2+ months or so, after that he can go and find a "nice" and "friendly" tenant to replace me. This I think should be a piece of cake for him since Japanese are "well-known" to be able to endure "suffering in silence" for years..
Ah.. another huge reason for NOT wanting to work in Japan...
Jun 16, 2009
The Reynolds: Around Tokyo II
Met the Reynolds at Harajuku on a Sunday.. Went to Meiji Jingu Shrine first, then we strolled around Harajuku, Omete-sando and finally walked all the way to Shibuya.. :)
As usual, the Reynolds' boys were the crowd attraction wherever we walked.. Japanese women, old and young, would sometimes come up and say, "Kawaii!!" or "Hi!!" and Rio, being the less shy one, would always waved back and say "Hi" back.. He is such a charmer.. even at such a young age.. ;p :)
We stumbled onto a small little children playground while walking.. after getting the go-ahead from their mum, the kids went to play.. Oh ya, Rio was wearing the same yukata that I bought for him earlier.. :)
We then walked around Shibuya, squeezing through the crowds and bumping into people's feet with the big buggy.. we people watched.. and was also watched by people.. After that, we went to Yoyogi Park so that the boys could stretch their legs and run around..
There were people walking their dogs, playing badminton, making their dogs do tricks, practicing their musical instruments, etc... No forgetting families having picnics or couples enjoying each others company quietly... It was really a lazy Sunday afternoon.. This was my first time being in a park on a Sunday in Japan.. It felt different - peace and quiet.. so unlike the crazy shopping frenzy or suffocating crowds around city area.. And frankly, I don't mind coming back again on a weekend, with a good book and a mat.. :)
After this, we went for dinner in one of the McD around Shinjuku 1-chome.. then we parted.. and thus the end of my 3-day meet-up with the Reynolds... :( :( :( Will definitely fly over to Australia to visit them one of these days..
As usual, the Reynolds' boys were the crowd attraction wherever we walked.. Japanese women, old and young, would sometimes come up and say, "Kawaii!!" or "Hi!!" and Rio, being the less shy one, would always waved back and say "Hi" back.. He is such a charmer.. even at such a young age.. ;p :)
We stumbled onto a small little children playground while walking.. after getting the go-ahead from their mum, the kids went to play.. Oh ya, Rio was wearing the same yukata that I bought for him earlier.. :)
We then walked around Shibuya, squeezing through the crowds and bumping into people's feet with the big buggy.. we people watched.. and was also watched by people.. After that, we went to Yoyogi Park so that the boys could stretch their legs and run around..
There were people walking their dogs, playing badminton, making their dogs do tricks, practicing their musical instruments, etc... No forgetting families having picnics or couples enjoying each others company quietly... It was really a lazy Sunday afternoon.. This was my first time being in a park on a Sunday in Japan.. It felt different - peace and quiet.. so unlike the crazy shopping frenzy or suffocating crowds around city area.. And frankly, I don't mind coming back again on a weekend, with a good book and a mat.. :)
After this, we went for dinner in one of the McD around Shinjuku 1-chome.. then we parted.. and thus the end of my 3-day meet-up with the Reynolds... :( :( :( Will definitely fly over to Australia to visit them one of these days..
Jun 15, 2009
The Reynolds: Around Tokyo I
After Disneyland, the Reynolds and I went to Sunshine City Aquarium on Friday.. The weather wasn't good, it was raining.. so we went indoors.. As usual, the kids had a blast looking at all the fishes and sea creatures.. :) :) :)
Some photos taken at the Aquarium... :)
Then I invited them back to my place for dinner.. Rio changed into the yukata that I bought for him earlier in the day.. And boy, he sure looked cute in it.. :)
While cooking, I chatted with Voone and Dean, and at the same time the kids entertained themselves with cartoon and my landlord's cats.. :) I prepared four simple but nutritious dishes: steamed egg with minced meat, broccoli and capsicum with oyster sauce, egg with onion and dark soy sauce chicken with potato..
I was very happy that they ate everything! In fact, they have been pinching food even while I was still cooking!! :p
After dinner, took the kids back to my room and played with them, while their mum check her emails.. I was so worried about the noise and racket that we were making, but decided to stop worrying and let the kids (and myself) have fun.. :p :p I was "attacked" by the boys with cushions and body-slams.. Their laughter were so contagious and so uninhibited.. It was just superb fun!! :) :) :)
Due to the distance of their hotel from city, they had to leave around 9pm.. :(
Again, had a great time.. and I think the kids did too.. :)
Some photos taken at the Aquarium... :)
Then I invited them back to my place for dinner.. Rio changed into the yukata that I bought for him earlier in the day.. And boy, he sure looked cute in it.. :)
While cooking, I chatted with Voone and Dean, and at the same time the kids entertained themselves with cartoon and my landlord's cats.. :) I prepared four simple but nutritious dishes: steamed egg with minced meat, broccoli and capsicum with oyster sauce, egg with onion and dark soy sauce chicken with potato..
I was very happy that they ate everything! In fact, they have been pinching food even while I was still cooking!! :p
After dinner, took the kids back to my room and played with them, while their mum check her emails.. I was so worried about the noise and racket that we were making, but decided to stop worrying and let the kids (and myself) have fun.. :p :p I was "attacked" by the boys with cushions and body-slams.. Their laughter were so contagious and so uninhibited.. It was just superb fun!! :) :) :)
Due to the distance of their hotel from city, they had to leave around 9pm.. :(
Again, had a great time.. and I think the kids did too.. :)
Jun 14, 2009
讓我照顧你
主唱 : 張芸京
詞曲 : 陳忠義
你一個人失了魂 清晨哭到夜深 不要別人問
我不出聲一直等 聽你說你心疼 當時好傻好天真
如果可以我願意 這樣陪你到永恆
讓我照顧你 面對再大的風雨 也能微笑做自己
像個孩子 躺在我懷裡
讓我照顧你 在這荒蕪世界裡 就算有新的劇情 在明天等著你
然而在你最需要的此刻 請讓我照顧你
總有一天會有人 一個懂你的人 讓你從此不心疼
如果可以我願意 這樣陪你到永恆
讓我照顧你 面對再大的風雨 也能微笑做自己
像個孩子 躺在我懷裡
讓我照顧你 在這荒蕪世界裡 就算有新的劇情 在明天等著你
然而在你最需要的此刻(當你對這世界失去信任)請讓我照顧你
你看破了虛偽 揭穿愛的假面 後悔曾經為他 付出一切
我會在你身邊 當你傷心欲絕 不奢望你 偶然垂憐
============================================
太愛這首歌了。。
因為總算有一首（女歌手唱的）歌，不再把女生塑造成要被保護的對象。。
為愛，不分男女，都會有勇者及“卒仔”。。
就不知我會是何者。。。。。。。。。。。。
詞曲 : 陳忠義
你一個人失了魂 清晨哭到夜深 不要別人問
我不出聲一直等 聽你說你心疼 當時好傻好天真
如果可以我願意 這樣陪你到永恆
讓我照顧你 面對再大的風雨 也能微笑做自己
像個孩子 躺在我懷裡
讓我照顧你 在這荒蕪世界裡 就算有新的劇情 在明天等著你
然而在你最需要的此刻 請讓我照顧你
總有一天會有人 一個懂你的人 讓你從此不心疼
如果可以我願意 這樣陪你到永恆
讓我照顧你 面對再大的風雨 也能微笑做自己
像個孩子 躺在我懷裡
讓我照顧你 在這荒蕪世界裡 就算有新的劇情 在明天等著你
然而在你最需要的此刻(當你對這世界失去信任)請讓我照顧你
你看破了虛偽 揭穿愛的假面 後悔曾經為他 付出一切
我會在你身邊 當你傷心欲絕 不奢望你 偶然垂憐
============================================
太愛這首歌了。。
因為總算有一首（女歌手唱的）歌，不再把女生塑造成要被保護的對象。。
為愛，不分男女，都會有勇者及“卒仔”。。
就不知我會是何者。。。。。。。。。。。。
Jun 13, 2009
Some people..
There will always be some people who would rubbed you the wrong way, regardless of what they do or didn't do.. And frankly, I am "fortunate" enough to have met a few here..
Some would poke their noses into matters that are none of their business.. Some would say the most brainless things.. Some would ask the darnedest questions.. Some would behave in such a way that you wished you could smack them in the head.. Some would laugh/talk so dramatically that you thought you were part of a theatre play.. Some would wear clothes/make-up/shoes that you never thought could be seen outside freak shows or the circus... Some are irritating by just their presence!!
Usually, I won't allow these people to affect me... but sometimes unconsciously, these people somehow have a way of poisoning my mood, no matter I met them in person or through the Internet (chatting or emailing) .. This is the main reason that I don't like to go out socializing.. I chose my friends carefully, and allocate my time accordingly too.. I would only spend time hanging out with people whom I like, people whom I can gain something from (tangible or not) and people whom I have no choice but to meet up... Call me selfish/materialistic/whatever, but I am in control of my time and I have the right to allocate MY TIME as I see fit..
Life is too short to be wasted on people who, in my opinion, are not worth my time..
Some would poke their noses into matters that are none of their business.. Some would say the most brainless things.. Some would ask the darnedest questions.. Some would behave in such a way that you wished you could smack them in the head.. Some would laugh/talk so dramatically that you thought you were part of a theatre play.. Some would wear clothes/make-up/shoes that you never thought could be seen outside freak shows or the circus... Some are irritating by just their presence!!
Usually, I won't allow these people to affect me... but sometimes unconsciously, these people somehow have a way of poisoning my mood, no matter I met them in person or through the Internet (chatting or emailing) .. This is the main reason that I don't like to go out socializing.. I chose my friends carefully, and allocate my time accordingly too.. I would only spend time hanging out with people whom I like, people whom I can gain something from (tangible or not) and people whom I have no choice but to meet up... Call me selfish/materialistic/whatever, but I am in control of my time and I have the right to allocate MY TIME as I see fit..
Life is too short to be wasted on people who, in my opinion, are not worth my time..
Jun 12, 2009
The Reynolds: Tokyo Disneyland
The Reynolds (Dean, Voone, Cody and Rio) came to Tokyo last week.. and I met up with them for 3 days.. what a wonderful fun-filled 3 days it was.. :) :)
First stop was Tokyo Disneyland, of course.. :) How could kids come to Tokyo and not visit one of the best theme park in Japan!?! :) We went for a couple of rides with Cody, as Rio is still under the height limit.. but Rio did went to one, the It's a Small Small World ride.. He was soooo excited throughout the ride that he couldn't take his eyes off all those little figurines dancing and singing..
Then it was the parades, Jubilation! and the Dreamlights!... Again, the boys were very excited to see all their familiar Disney cartoon characters come to life.. They couldn't stop waving and smiling at the characters.. The expressions on their faces were priceless!! :) :)
Here are some cute photos of the boys that I have taken.. enjoy!
The kids had a great day.. and so did the adults.. :p
First stop was Tokyo Disneyland, of course.. :) How could kids come to Tokyo and not visit one of the best theme park in Japan!?! :) We went for a couple of rides with Cody, as Rio is still under the height limit.. but Rio did went to one, the It's a Small Small World ride.. He was soooo excited throughout the ride that he couldn't take his eyes off all those little figurines dancing and singing..
Then it was the parades, Jubilation! and the Dreamlights!... Again, the boys were very excited to see all their familiar Disney cartoon characters come to life.. They couldn't stop waving and smiling at the characters.. The expressions on their faces were priceless!! :) :)
Here are some cute photos of the boys that I have taken.. enjoy!
The kids had a great day.. and so did the adults.. :p
Jun 11, 2009
What the ??!!
Some "interesting" local news..
Tokyo firm rents fake family, friends for weddings..
(And I thought we, the Chinese were chronic in our fear of "losing face"..)
Rakuten sold online market users' personal info to vendors
(How could they pass such info to 3rd party vendors!!??!! Boycott!!)
Education ministry calls for reduction in doctorate course places at national universities..
(Hahahaha.. They should have been emphasizing more on quality rather than quantity years ago..)
Restaurant manager's 'free food if you wash dishes' policy touches hungry students..
(There are still kindred spirits around.. :) )
University student pulls stranger onto train tracks, arrested for attempted murder..
(Things drunkard do.. this time, a university student no less.. )
Keio University posts 27 billion yen deficit after Lehman shock
(Wow!! Wonder how much did Waseda lose??)
Tokyo ward to install sonic 'Mosquito' device at park to drive away loitering youths
(Unbelievable!! What would they think of next?? Device to identify "dirty old men"?)
Tokyo firm rents fake family, friends for weddings..
(And I thought we, the Chinese were chronic in our fear of "losing face"..)
Rakuten sold online market users' personal info to vendors
(How could they pass such info to 3rd party vendors!!??!! Boycott!!)
Education ministry calls for reduction in doctorate course places at national universities..
(Hahahaha.. They should have been emphasizing more on quality rather than quantity years ago..)
Restaurant manager's 'free food if you wash dishes' policy touches hungry students..
(There are still kindred spirits around.. :) )
University student pulls stranger onto train tracks, arrested for attempted murder..
(Things drunkard do.. this time, a university student no less.. )
Keio University posts 27 billion yen deficit after Lehman shock
(Wow!! Wonder how much did Waseda lose??)
Tokyo ward to install sonic 'Mosquito' device at park to drive away loitering youths
(Unbelievable!! What would they think of next?? Device to identify "dirty old men"?)
Jun 10, 2009
Had enough...
of Malaysian politics, that is..
Day in, day out, there is no good nor motivating news coming out of the country.. The government is not doing what it was supposed to do.. Those in-power are trying their best to stay in power, while those who are not are trying to come into power.. It was never about serving the people, although some opposition politicians would beg to differ and I do believe some of them are really genuine in their passion to serve the people.. Yet, those would be in the minorities.. Empty promises, quick cash and instant favors were used over and over again to entice voters.. Then after every (by-)elections, the voters became an afterthought..
All the dirty tricks in the books are used, shamelessly and remorselessly.. Fingers are pointed in both directions at each other, by each other for everything and anything.. The economy is going down the drains.. The country seems to be going to the dogs, and yet the corruption, cronyism and racism persisted and even thrived.. The government is totally clueless in how to stimulate the economy.. It was in denial mode when it proclaimed more than 3 months ago that the country was safe from the global financial crisis while the whole world were suffering.. Now, it is in panic mode when the trade figures burst their bubble by announcing the inevitable.. Sadly, it does not have the brains nor the talent to effectively steer the country out of this financial storm..
Call me anything you like, I wouldn't want to be staying in a country that the government is clueless and hopeless, with its people divided.. The fact that everyone is in the SAME boat failed to sink in.. the "us" versus "them" mentality still persist.. and with the deteriorating security situation in the country, I don't want to be a sitting duck nor a martyr fighting for equality.. I am not the self-sacrificing kind who would serve the greater good.. I just wanna live my life, my way in my own terms, comfortably and at ease..
Again, all these are just me and my opinion...
Day in, day out, there is no good nor motivating news coming out of the country.. The government is not doing what it was supposed to do.. Those in-power are trying their best to stay in power, while those who are not are trying to come into power.. It was never about serving the people, although some opposition politicians would beg to differ and I do believe some of them are really genuine in their passion to serve the people.. Yet, those would be in the minorities.. Empty promises, quick cash and instant favors were used over and over again to entice voters.. Then after every (by-)elections, the voters became an afterthought..
All the dirty tricks in the books are used, shamelessly and remorselessly.. Fingers are pointed in both directions at each other, by each other for everything and anything.. The economy is going down the drains.. The country seems to be going to the dogs, and yet the corruption, cronyism and racism persisted and even thrived.. The government is totally clueless in how to stimulate the economy.. It was in denial mode when it proclaimed more than 3 months ago that the country was safe from the global financial crisis while the whole world were suffering.. Now, it is in panic mode when the trade figures burst their bubble by announcing the inevitable.. Sadly, it does not have the brains nor the talent to effectively steer the country out of this financial storm..
Call me anything you like, I wouldn't want to be staying in a country that the government is clueless and hopeless, with its people divided.. The fact that everyone is in the SAME boat failed to sink in.. the "us" versus "them" mentality still persist.. and with the deteriorating security situation in the country, I don't want to be a sitting duck nor a martyr fighting for equality.. I am not the self-sacrificing kind who would serve the greater good.. I just wanna live my life, my way in my own terms, comfortably and at ease..
Again, all these are just me and my opinion...
Jun 9, 2009
Meeting Mr. President..
Through a friend, I got to know of a luncheon hosted by the Singapore Embassy for Singaporeans and PRs to meet with President Nathan, who was on a one-week official visit to Japan..
I went to the luncheon alone.. formally attired.. not knowing who I will meet there.. and not having any expectation at all.. Seriously, this is the first time I am doing such things.. And frankly I was surprised at myself too for agreeing to go for the event, as there are many cons that would have stopped me from going..
The venue was at the New Otani Hotel, just 30 minutes away from my house (train plus walking).. But with the high-heel boots, it felt so much further.. I reached there around 11:40am.. Showed them my registration and was given a little sticker of Singapore flag to be pasted on my jacket.. Suddenly I felt kinda patriotic.. :p
The venue was already filled with people.. think the total expected attendees was around 300.. comprised of families, business people, students and government personnel.. Since I don't know anyone else, I went around observing people.. :p Haven't heard so much Singlish being spoken for a long while.. it was sure nostalgic (!?!) and comforting.. :)
President Nathan arrived about an hour later.. with his wife and the Minister for Foreign Affairs, Mr George Yeo..
After the speech, the buffet started.. at the same time, President Nathan went around the hall, meeting and talking, and posing for photos with the crowd.. Being one who is not as kiasu or beh-paiseh as the average Singaporeans, I didn't manage to shove my way into having a photo taken with the President..
One grouses that I have was the way those security personnel behave.. although it was necessary to protect the President and understandable that he has a tight schedule to follow, there was no need to be rude or unaccommodating to people who would like their photos taken with the President.. It wasn't as if we were gonna to do anything to the President nor was there anything to gain if we REALLY did.. Come on, the President is just a figure head.. Am just pissed at how arrogant some of them were, just because they were in a position to be.. These "henchmen" had spoiled this great PR-exercise for some of us..
Other than the chance to meet the President, another "attracting factor" of this luncheon is the food!! :) :p :) Got the chance to satisfy my cravings of some Singaporean food.. :)
Met Mr George Yeo at the queue for Chicken Rice.. :) Imagine that.. A Minister having had to queue up like the rest of us for Chicken Rice.. It really showed that there were no special treatment given, not even for a Minister!! And he was really very nice and modest.. Took a photo with him, together with a new friend.. :)
Throughout the whole duration of the luncheon, never once did I feel unaccepted.. I felt welcomed.. and the sense of belongings was unmistakable, even though I don't know 99.9% of the people there.. I wasn't judged by the fact that I am "just" a PR, unlike in some situations with my fellow-countrymen, in which I was constantly reminded that I wasn't patriotic "enough", being out of the country almost my whole adult life.. even the emotions that I felt looking at the flags of both countries were different.. I just do not know how to convey those two contrasting feelings in words.. and I shall not try.. :)
I went to the luncheon alone.. formally attired.. not knowing who I will meet there.. and not having any expectation at all.. Seriously, this is the first time I am doing such things.. And frankly I was surprised at myself too for agreeing to go for the event, as there are many cons that would have stopped me from going..
- Need to dress up in formal wear..
- Not knowing anyone there, except for the friend (Christy) who told me about the event..
- Need to make small talks..
The venue was at the New Otani Hotel, just 30 minutes away from my house (train plus walking).. But with the high-heel boots, it felt so much further.. I reached there around 11:40am.. Showed them my registration and was given a little sticker of Singapore flag to be pasted on my jacket.. Suddenly I felt kinda patriotic.. :p
The venue was already filled with people.. think the total expected attendees was around 300.. comprised of families, business people, students and government personnel.. Since I don't know anyone else, I went around observing people.. :p Haven't heard so much Singlish being spoken for a long while.. it was sure nostalgic (!?!) and comforting.. :)
President Nathan arrived about an hour later.. with his wife and the Minister for Foreign Affairs, Mr George Yeo..
After the speech, the buffet started.. at the same time, President Nathan went around the hall, meeting and talking, and posing for photos with the crowd.. Being one who is not as kiasu or beh-paiseh as the average Singaporeans, I didn't manage to shove my way into having a photo taken with the President..
One grouses that I have was the way those security personnel behave.. although it was necessary to protect the President and understandable that he has a tight schedule to follow, there was no need to be rude or unaccommodating to people who would like their photos taken with the President.. It wasn't as if we were gonna to do anything to the President nor was there anything to gain if we REALLY did.. Come on, the President is just a figure head.. Am just pissed at how arrogant some of them were, just because they were in a position to be.. These "henchmen" had spoiled this great PR-exercise for some of us..
Other than the chance to meet the President, another "attracting factor" of this luncheon is the food!! :) :p :) Got the chance to satisfy my cravings of some Singaporean food.. :)
Met Mr George Yeo at the queue for Chicken Rice.. :) Imagine that.. A Minister having had to queue up like the rest of us for Chicken Rice.. It really showed that there were no special treatment given, not even for a Minister!! And he was really very nice and modest.. Took a photo with him, together with a new friend.. :)
Throughout the whole duration of the luncheon, never once did I feel unaccepted.. I felt welcomed.. and the sense of belongings was unmistakable, even though I don't know 99.9% of the people there.. I wasn't judged by the fact that I am "just" a PR, unlike in some situations with my fellow-countrymen, in which I was constantly reminded that I wasn't patriotic "enough", being out of the country almost my whole adult life.. even the emotions that I felt looking at the flags of both countries were different.. I just do not know how to convey those two contrasting feelings in words.. and I shall not try.. :)
Jun 8, 2009
Counting down..
With so many happenings and activities happening in my life, you would wonder if I have the right mind-set to do any research, much less writing my final report.. well, even if I can't really put 100% of my energy in it, I still need to do all these so that I can graduate this semester..
Another 20 days or so to go, before I need to submit my final report and make a presentation to the panel of professors.. So far, I had read more than 20 over journals and papers related to my research topics.. still have a couple more to go before I can really start writing.. I need to have some substance, even though I will be B.S.-ing a lot.. :p And it also helped that the topic I am writing is very interesting and much more practical than some abstract unreal concepts that only bureaucrats seemed to be obsessed with..
Being a realistic and factual person, I just could not stomach any of those pretentious, windbag-kind of empty talks that would never be considered, much less implemented by those who could really make a difference, aka the governments and/or politicians.. We can discuss until the cows come back, or until all hell freeze over, or until the sun comes up from the west, or until the pigs learn to fly, no one would give a damn about all those rankings.. especially one whose evaluation criteria weren't transparent nor can't be explained convincingly.. but again, it could just be me and my prejudice...
Some of the important dates in the next 20+ days:
Another 20 days or so to go, before I need to submit my final report and make a presentation to the panel of professors.. So far, I had read more than 20 over journals and papers related to my research topics.. still have a couple more to go before I can really start writing.. I need to have some substance, even though I will be B.S.-ing a lot.. :p And it also helped that the topic I am writing is very interesting and much more practical than some abstract unreal concepts that only bureaucrats seemed to be obsessed with..
Being a realistic and factual person, I just could not stomach any of those pretentious, windbag-kind of empty talks that would never be considered, much less implemented by those who could really make a difference, aka the governments and/or politicians.. We can discuss until the cows come back, or until all hell freeze over, or until the sun comes up from the west, or until the pigs learn to fly, no one would give a damn about all those rankings.. especially one whose evaluation criteria weren't transparent nor can't be explained convincingly.. but again, it could just be me and my prejudice...
Some of the important dates in the next 20+ days:
- Jun 19 - Submission of the final draft of my report to Prof K(self-imposed date)
- Jun 20 - Presentation to Prof K
- Jun 26 - Submission of my final report to Prof K (self-imposed date)
- Jul 1 - Presentation to the panel of professors
- Jul 6 - Submission of my finalized report, if changes/amendments are required
Jun 7, 2009
Being cultured.. yet again..
As my days in Japan are numbered, I tried to experience as much Japanese culture as possible.. this time round, it is kabuki!! :)
Especially with the imminent demolition of the Kabuki-za (Kabuki Theater) in 2010, I had to go there and watch one full performance.. and I did go.. with my two housemates of course.. :)
We bought the 2nd cheapest tickets which cost ¥4,200 for the evening show.. the top tier ticket cost ¥16,000!! :o which is way too high for poor students like us.. Here is the view of those top tier seats..
The entire afternoon show consisted of 4 different plays.. We decided to watch the Kabuki in its entirety so as to get the totality of the kabuki experience.. As with Chinese opera, the kabuki actors spoke in tones and used phrases that were not normally heard in everyday conversations.. Luckily there were English Earphone Guide available at ¥650, with an addition ¥1000 as deposit.. so we were able to follow the plot.. :)
There were many similarities with Chinese Operas.. including the all-male casts, specialization in roles, elaborate costumes, face paintings, traditional music instruments and many more.. After watching kabuki, I still prefer Chinese opera.. :p
There were 3 intervals between the 4 plays, ranging from 10 minutes to 30 minutes.. Some patrons brought their own food, while some bought theirs from the stores within the building.. The food prices were ridiculously expensive.. Intervals are also opportunities for shops to sell souvenirs and many kabuki-related merchandises.. We just went around tasting the samples provided.. :p
There were many displays of kabuki-related art pieces.. some were for sale, while some weren't.. We also took the opportunity to check out the other seating.. This view was taken during one of the 3 intervals..
We enjoyed the show very much.. and won't mind coming back again.. :)
Especially with the imminent demolition of the Kabuki-za (Kabuki Theater) in 2010, I had to go there and watch one full performance.. and I did go.. with my two housemates of course.. :)
We bought the 2nd cheapest tickets which cost ¥4,200 for the evening show.. the top tier ticket cost ¥16,000!! :o which is way too high for poor students like us.. Here is the view of those top tier seats..
The entire afternoon show consisted of 4 different plays.. We decided to watch the Kabuki in its entirety so as to get the totality of the kabuki experience.. As with Chinese opera, the kabuki actors spoke in tones and used phrases that were not normally heard in everyday conversations.. Luckily there were English Earphone Guide available at ¥650, with an addition ¥1000 as deposit.. so we were able to follow the plot.. :)
There were many similarities with Chinese Operas.. including the all-male casts, specialization in roles, elaborate costumes, face paintings, traditional music instruments and many more.. After watching kabuki, I still prefer Chinese opera.. :p
There were 3 intervals between the 4 plays, ranging from 10 minutes to 30 minutes.. Some patrons brought their own food, while some bought theirs from the stores within the building.. The food prices were ridiculously expensive.. Intervals are also opportunities for shops to sell souvenirs and many kabuki-related merchandises.. We just went around tasting the samples provided.. :p
There were many displays of kabuki-related art pieces.. some were for sale, while some weren't.. We also took the opportunity to check out the other seating.. This view was taken during one of the 3 intervals..
We enjoyed the show very much.. and won't mind coming back again.. :)
Jun 5, 2009
HK/Macao: Food
Unlike Taiwan, I was not expecting much surprises when I visited Hong Kong and Macao.. The food on offer in these two places didn't really had much of an attraction to me.. since we do get roasted chicken/duck/pork in Malaysia and Singapore.. The only "new" thing that I tried was the Portugis-Macao food.. which was quite nice..
Here are some of the shots of food that I ate..
Take-away Wanton Mee (云吞面)
Claypot rice (砂锅饭)
Cha siew roast pork rice (叉烧烧肉饭)
Egg tart (葡式蛋挞)
Pork chop noodle (猪扒面）
Portugis-Macao dish which I can't remember the name.. :p
However, there were 2 foodie highlights of my trip..
First was my 1st Yam-Cha (饮茶) in a genuine HK dim sum restaurant.. Since I was alone, I can't really order that many dim sum to try.. so I tried the following 4 which are my favorite.. sort of.. ;) :)
Zhu cheong fun with prawns （虾仁猪肠粉)
Yam cake and radish cake (芋头糕和萝卜糕)
Cha siew pau （叉烧包）
Xiu Mai （烧卖)
The 2nd highlight was a home-cooked dinner by Loreen.. It wasn't a 5-course dinner or something fanciful.. to me, it was the thought that counted.. and of course it was delicious.. :) :) Then at the spur of the moment, she cooked a dessert, longan, dates with white fungus soup (龙眼红枣白木耳）for me too.. I am so touched..
This concludes my 1-week holiday to Hong Kong and Macao.. :) :) Next up, "Tokyo adventures with the Reynolds".. :) :) :)
Here are some of the shots of food that I ate..
Take-away Wanton Mee (云吞面)
Claypot rice (砂锅饭)
Cha siew roast pork rice (叉烧烧肉饭)
Egg tart (葡式蛋挞)
Pork chop noodle (猪扒面）
Portugis-Macao dish which I can't remember the name.. :p However, there were 2 foodie highlights of my trip..
First was my 1st Yam-Cha (饮茶) in a genuine HK dim sum restaurant.. Since I was alone, I can't really order that many dim sum to try.. so I tried the following 4 which are my favorite.. sort of.. ;) :)
Zhu cheong fun with prawns （虾仁猪肠粉)
Yam cake and radish cake (芋头糕和萝卜糕)
Cha siew pau （叉烧包）
Xiu Mai （烧卖)The 2nd highlight was a home-cooked dinner by Loreen.. It wasn't a 5-course dinner or something fanciful.. to me, it was the thought that counted.. and of course it was delicious.. :) :) Then at the spur of the moment, she cooked a dessert, longan, dates with white fungus soup (龙眼红枣白木耳）for me too.. I am so touched..
This concludes my 1-week holiday to Hong Kong and Macao.. :) :) Next up, "Tokyo adventures with the Reynolds".. :) :) :)
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)
