Nadai Nama Nama

PM's Special Party

noreply@blogger.com (Desmond) — Sun, 14 Mar 2010 07:12:00 +0000

A Special Occassion For PM's Online Friends

The YAB Prime Minister of Malaysia may forgive me for not believing the email I received about the invitation to his High Tea Party event at the Sri Perdana Putrajaya on 13th Mac 2010. I was among the 300 that had been invited to the YAB Prime Minister's get together with online friends. Could it be a Friday the 13th prank? Or is the 300 related to some movie about the 300 Spartan heroes? Even as I opened the message in my Blackberry which would have allowed me to respond immediately I was still cautious. Maybe some some of my online friends were playing a joke on me. But the invitation there says Najib Razak and no one knew I was one of the few thousands who signed up for the event hoping for a chance. Surely YAB Prime Minister would not try to pull a fast one on me.

It would have to be a big decision on my part as I would have to invest in an airline ticket to cross the South China Sea. That again would involve driving from Sri Aman, Sarawak and boarding a flight from Kuching to Kuala Lumpur and journey on to Putra Jaya. With the price of the tickets going up minute by minute, I told myself "The Prime Minister is organisng a special party for his online fans and he has invited you dude." That was enough to make me click on the Purchase Now button at Malaysia Airlines Website as I saw the seats disappearing quickly maybe due to the school holidays. I told myself that if this event is cancelled I could be poorer by many many hundreds of ringgit. When I received a second email providing the instructions to attend the function, I knew the invitation may be real and that I had to organise my work so that I would be able to attend. With a week in hand, anything could have happened to prevent me from going to the function. Thankfully there was no hiccups and on the day itself I was safely in Kuala Lumpur. Still wary that the YAB Prime Minister may change his mind about holding the event I did not really say much about this trip to my family, friends, colleagues - not even my wife and she was with me in Kuala Lumpur for her company event. I was afraid that they would not believe me if I told them that the YAB Prime Minister was organising a gathering with his online buddies. I just said there was a meeting at the Prime Minister's Office and I did get that quizzical look from my wife. She was wondering why the meeting was on a Saturday. Its of national interest I told her and I assured her also that I would not be scooting off to Genting Highlands, using the meeting as an excuse. It was a good idea though (and I can have the Planet of the Monyet blogger to drive me there) as I could win back the money for my airfares to and from Kuching.

On arrival in Kuala Lumpur at late evening, I received another phone call from the good people of 1Malaysia dot Com to inform me that I would be sitting at the YAB Prime Minister's table during the function. Wary at first and thinking that it was some radio station prank call, I asked enough questions to ascertain that the information was genuine. It was not that I was not grateful but sitting with the YAB Prime Minister's table was totally unexpected. Attending the function was good enough for me already. Furthermore I had not brought along my best suit. Butterflies were beginning to fly in my stomach.........

I was grateful to my brother as he had helped me find my way to Sri Perdana, Putra Jaya. Imanaged to upgrade myself with a new necktie bought from Parkson. It did raise the level of confidence a bit though my wife hate it as its colour sinks with my shirt. Before proceeding to the function room I did some checklist: Dell computer checked, Sony Cybershot as backup checked, main camera Nikon D5000 checked.

I was again served with another unexpected surprised when I was led to the table and found myself being positioned next to the YAB Prime Minister. Yikes...I was waiting for everyone in the room to stand up and laugh their hearts out when they saw the look on my face. Yes, maybe the whole room would erupt in screams as they were playing a joke on me before the YAB Prime Minister arrived. But no, it was for real. My other new found friends who were at the table were equally anxious and looked as nervous as I was. We all agreed that if the YAB Prime Minister asked us any questions that we were not able to answer we would back one another up. If the YAB Prime Minister asked me the right questions I feared that I may give the wrong answers. I was coughing, not that my throat was itchy but due to the stress.

I have to say in my line of work when one is seated next to a VVIP, one better be equipped with the latest and up to date information. The country's GDP figures, latest export figures, the State Civil Service's vision, the latest statistics, the economic indexes, the 10th Malaysia Plan, Vision 2020....I screened through the websites in the Blackberry Internet.....man I was a total wreck trying to recall those in my head.

When the Prime Minister and his wife finally arrived and joined us at the table I was again pleasantly surprised. Instead the YAB Prime Minister and his wife were very casual and his openess got everyone off guard. He broke the ice with me by talking about my camera "My, My.... you have a serious looking camera there'" And so it started with camera talk and I have to thank my Nikon D5000 for being a lifesaver. Then we talked about almost everything and the information flowed pretty well after that. Everyone on the table felt his sincerity and he even shared with us what his favourite menu is. Smiles were everywhere as everyone in the function hall started their ice breaking sessions ~ photo sessions and handshakes were also aplenty. Being at the High Table means that we get to savour the YAB Prime Minister's favourite dishes. He even promoted his favourites. "You must try it" he persuaded us and everyone of us started digging in as if it was a directive. That was the best moment I guess as we did not really want to be gobbling up more than our honourable hosts. We took only what they took though the rest of the dishes in the middle were really tasty looking.. Furthermore, the cameras were clicking here and there focusing on our table as I was answering the YAB Prime Minister's queries and assisting the fellow guests who wish for his autograph while on the table. I also had to move in slow motion - no sudden moves as his two bodyguards were just standing behind me. I guess I will have to ask for the other photos from my fellow guests who were there.

One of the favourites: Mee Jawa @ Prawn Noodles - yum yum

Both the Prime Minister and his wife's favourite - Kueh Teow with special tasty gravy

The evening was set to become a memorable one. The YAB Prime Minister's delievered his ever inspiring speech on his online efforts to be connected with the Malaysian online community, on how Internet can transcend the physical, cultural and racial 'barriers' that divide everyone. He assured his online friends that the words posted and shared in his facebook and Twitter are his. He admits that it may sound a bit unlike him at moments because he does not like to sound very official in his postings. Its really not like those of Obama's White House Facebook postings which are more serious and official. Our YAB Prime Minister's one is quite sporting and the guests in the room gave a rousing applause in agreement. Our YAB Prime Minister has his own style of blending with his mostly younger fans. He even joked that he may be one of the oldest Facebooker in the room at the moment as he was 'just a bit over forty years old'. Hey, that's my age. Its great to hear that our YAB Prime Minister has a good sense of humour and he delighted the mostly Manchester United fans crowd with his admiration for the soccer club. At the end of his speech, he told everyone to continously provide feedback in his Facebook as he found some of the ideas that are communicated on his 1Malaysia website are very useful.

There was a dialogue session with a few of those attending puttng forward their queries to the Prime Minister and the questions ranged from the Prime Minister's favourite soccer team to the more serious issue of the rising crime rates, racial unity to the economy.

Nor Ashman Razak, the YAB Prime Minister's son (with headphones) shows off his DJ skills when he did the music mix for the event

Going through memory lane and historical link ~ I presented the picture of the late Tun Razak's visit to Kapit to the YAB Prime Minister. Details of the picture are below.

The picture I presented was quite special as it had my late grandad (fifth from left) who was the Member of Parliament for Kapit that time accompanying the late YAB Prime Minister Tun Razak during his trip to Kapit (seen here visiting Methodist Primary School) with the then Sarawak Chief Minister YAB Datuk Patinggi Abdul Rahman Yakub and also Tun Jugah in the early 70s.

Distinguished guests who were with me at the YAB Prime Minister's table

One more time ~ before the PrimeMinister left the function he took a picture with his Online friends. Everyone had a memorable moment and they certainly did not want to leave until the Prime Minister and the wife have left the building.

I have to admit that I had the time of my life during this event. It was a once in a lifetime opportunity that I may never get again. Even if the YAB Prime Minster comes to Sarawak there are protocols to follow. Sitting next to the YAB Prime Minister throughout the event felt like a neverending moment as he had so much to share especially on his aspirations for 1Malaysia. But time flies when you are having fun. I can say I have had various interactions with most VVIPs in my line of work but this Number One leader in the country has set a standard that would be hard to beat, be it on the level of openess and also using the Internet Technology to get closer to the people. The YAB Prime Minister, his wife and children mingled well with all of us, signing autographs and talking about Government policies, employment opportunities, online activities, health tips, music etc. As we shook hands I invited our YAB Prime Minister to come again to Sarawak, especially Sri Aman and Kapit and he replied "Insya Allah.... Sri Aman and Kapit it is".

Thank you YAB Prime Minister. Thank you 1Malaysia.Com.My. Thank you all... and in the cheers of the YAB Prime Minister "SATU" MALAYSIA!!

Happy Chap Goh Meh

noreply@blogger.com (Desmond) — Wed, 03 Mar 2010 19:29:00 +0000

Here's Wishing A Merry Chap Goh Meh

This is a belated post to wish all my friends celebrating this festive occassion a Happy Chap Goh Meh. Sri aman its lantern procession a few days after the Maulidur Rasul 2010 event but I was not there to see it. Maybe next round I hope. I was still recovering from sunburn and the effects of the hot sun earlier on. It was an enjoyable occassion I was told. Maybe I can get the photos from my friends who were there. Anyway Nadai Nama Nama wishes you all Happy Chap Goh Meh - I hope its not too late.

The beer bottles are in safe hands

Happy Chap Goh Meh 2010 (belated): In the old days, the story of young single ladies throwing mandarin orange into the water (river or sea) in hope of finding a partner was one of my favourite tale. As mandarin oranges now are hard to plant in the concrete jungle of Kuala Lumpur, three ladies decided to throw beer in a small packed box and guess who they got - me of course. Those lucky bottles.....I will treasure them forever. *hic* Excuse me :)

Maulidur Rasul 2010

noreply@blogger.com (Desmond) — Sun, 28 Feb 2010 02:37:00 +0000

State Level Maulidur Rasul 2010 in Sri Aman

The State Level Maulidur Rasul celebration this year was hosted by Sri Aman. The event was made grand with the presence of Sarawak's Governor, Tun Datuk Patinggi Abang Haji Mohammad Salahuddin witha Toh Puan Datuk Patinggi Hajah Norkiah, the Chief Minister Pehin Sri Abdul Taib Mahmud, Deputy Chief Minister, Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Alfred Jabu Numpang, State Secretary YB Datuk Amar Haji Mohamad Morshidi Abdul Ghani, Assistant Ministers YB Datuk Haji Daud Abdul Rahman, YB Datuk Francis Harden Hollis, ADUN Lingga, YB Dr. Abang Adbdul Rauf, YB Member of Parliament for Sri Aman Tuan Masir Kujat and YB Member for Lingga, Hajah Simoi Haji Peri and various heads of departments. The procession was made up of about 5000 participants made up of about 120 contigents. In the spirit of 1Malaysia, several non Muslim organisations took part in the procession. Below are some of the images of the procession on that day for viewing.

Red carpet welcome: Arrival of the Sarawak Governor and his wife greeted by VIPs

VIP Section on the stage

YAB Chief Minister delivers his Maulidur Rasul 2010 speech

About 120 contigents from Kuching, Samarahn, Betong and Sarikei Division gathered at the KPSU old sports field Sri Aman as early as 6:30 am in the morning

The 4.5 km walk around Sri Aman Town started off from the KPSU old field, officiated by the Sarawak Governor

1Malaysia spirit saw the Iban Community leaders participating in the procession also

The Chinese Community of Sri Aman from various associations also took part in the procession ~ here we see Cr. Jimmy Chong with the contigent from the Soon Heng Society

True Blue: My former Department from the State Planning Unit Sarawak. I could not recognise of the new faces there now and I only left the Department two years only.

Resident Office of Sri Aman contigent

Striking yellow from the Public Works Department of Sri Aman

The Drainage and Irrigation Department (DID) with their corporate colours

Ministry of Industrial Development - maybe due to space the spelling of Kementerian becomes "Kemterian" on the signage?

The school children also did not wish to miss out of this event

The multi colour costumes of Sri Aman during the procession

My Unimate Cikgu Freddy in purple leads SMK Simanggang in this procession

The VIP stage at Check Point 1 at the batang Lupar Riverine Park where the Sarawak Governor and several VIPs stopped to watch the procession pass by

The Chief Minister proceeded on to walk the 4.5 km with the other VIPs as he is shown around by our two Sri Aman Yang Berhormats YB Datuk Francis Harden and YB Hajah Simoi Peri

Familiar faces from State Implementation and Monitoring Unit and the State Planning Unit

Hornbill Skyway helicopter hovers above the contigents that are making way into the Stadium

The Sri Aman Resident Office Contigent

Finally the end of the procession, a photo pose (with the last two Departments I worked with) Puan Noriah Ahmad the Deputy Director of the State Planning Unit and Encik Udin Bujang the Private Secretary to the State Secretary.

At the end of it all we enjoyed ourselves. For me I loved meeting friends whom I had worked with as most of the contigents are made up of those from Kuching and also Wisma Bapa Malaysia. Salam Maulidur Rasul and Salam 1Malaysia! Now I need to get some lotion for my sunburn.

Shania 1B Najib 4B

noreply@blogger.com (Desmond) — Fri, 26 Feb 2010 09:03:00 +0000

Buzzing Like Busy Bee

Our Right Honourable Prime Minister Datuk Patinggi Najib dropped by Sri Aman after stopping over at Rumah Manai, Lubok Antu last year. This time the longhouse in Sri Aman visited was Rumah Radin at Lachau. The date also coincided with my daughter's birthday. Both were highly anticipated events but duty came first as I made preparations to attend the function and worked with my colleagues in Sri aman to ensure a smooth event. Certainly the Prime Minister's coming to Sarawak is part and parcel of a birthday present for Shania as he picked a good date. It was fortunate that during the Chinese New Year Celebration in Sibu earlier we celebrated Shania's Birthday in advance to coincide with her cousin Jason's birthday, Jason's parents' anniversary and of course Valentine's Day.

Shania blowing the her 7 birthday candles early on an Annivesary, Valentine's Day and Chinese New Year 2010. 1Birthday for all Days.

It was off to Lachau that I drove safely and slowly on Monday morning of 22nd February 2010. I had the choice of going straight to Rumah Radin Ulu Lachau or to SK Saint Martin, the place where the Prime Minister's helicopter will be landing. After seeing a legion of photographers at Rumah Radin already, I knew my chances of getting a good photo would be dashed by these shark hungry journalists. Call it bad experience - everyone wants the best angle and the best shot. So, put about ten to twenty photographers plus a few television crewmen and cameras in a longhouse, i predicted havoc an mayhem. So i proceeded to SK Saint Martin to record the Prime Minister's and Chief Minister's arrival. I was not dissapointed as I manage to enjoy seeing eight to ten helicopters landing at the school - a sight to behold. The first to arrive was our Deputy Chief Minister, YB Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Alfred Jabu anak Numpang with YB Datuk Douglas Uggah and YB Senator Dato' Sri Idris Jala. They were greeted enthusiatically by the school children who were witnessing history (and becoming part of one). The helicopters, the VVIPs landing at their school would be something to remember through their growing years.

YB Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Alfred Jabu, YB Senator Dato Sri Idris Jala and YB Datuk Douglas Uggah greets the students and teachers at SK St Martin

The Prime Minister has landed ~ the helicopter which was bringing the Right Honourable Prime Minister and the Right Honourable Chief Minister landing at SK St Martin. They kept telling me that the helicopter's model was a Blackhawk but it looks white to me.

SK St Martin's compound was becoming like a mini airshow as helicopter after helicopter landed

Finally, the VVIPs emerged from the Blackhawk and one can notice that our Right Honourable Prime Minister was already promoting 1Malaysia with his cap and shirt

As the Right Honourable Prime Minister made his way through the students and teachers, I saw a familiar face. He was Cikgu Dennis who shook hands with the Prime Minister in Lubok Antu at Rumah Manai in my 1Malaysia Rumah Manai post. See his picture below.

In June 2009 - Cikgu Dennis greeted the Prime Minister at Rumah Manai Lubok Antu after the Batang Ai By-Election. Is that the same batik shirt Cikgu? Truly an ardent fan of our Prime Minister.

On arrival at Rumah Radin the ceremony went on smoothly as we can see a section of the crowd here. I did not manage to get a lot of meaningful shots inside the longhouse. I did not want to add to the already many flashlights blasting their ways into the VIPs' eyes

The VVIPs going through the programme book before the start of the official function

In the usual manner after the welcoming speech by the local Ahli Dewan Undangan Negeri Member YB Encik Mong Dagang, followed by the Right Honourable Chief Minister of Sarawak, it was the Prime Minister's turn to give his much anticipated speech. He did not disappoint as he announced a few projects for Sri Aman - one that would lift Sri Aman's dark corners to become lighted areas. His twitter mentioned of the mission to light up 95% of Sarawak by 2012. Apart from that there was a few announcements of road projects to improve connectivity in the Sri Aman District especially under N.26 Bukit Begunan constituency. However the most interesting part of his speech was on how he remembers his late father's passion for reaching out to the rural people. The late Tun Razak was famous for his 3Bs, when he travels outstation and deliver speeches - the 3Bs in Bahasa Malaysia are "Berbush Jacket, Bertongkat and Berdehem" (Wearing Bush Jacket, Walking Stick and a few Ehems in his speech). Najib also amused the crowd when he explained that he was trying his best to pronounce the names of the predominantly Iban area carefully while announcing the projects so as not to utter the word of the place wrongly. That included Lachau, Sri Aman.

So basically everyone was happy at the end of the day as the VVIPs made their way home. The longhouse partied after that with the remaining guests including me. And one knows how that ends. I can hint the Bs that started rolling in was Beer of course apart from other Bottles. But that was not the B I wanted to talk about in my Shania 1B and Najib's 4B post. As i remember correctly the first B was Shania's Birthday, the 3 Bs were Najib's BerBush Jacket, Bertongkat and Berdehem. So where did Najib's fourth B come in? Like an answered prayer maybe the extra B was handed to me by Encik Aliff of the State Development Office Sarawak from the Prime Minister's Office. I tried to make sure I was not drunk when I read the contents but the words were clear as the extra "B" from Najib would bring cheer to about 120 young boys and girls of SK Nangga Klassen. That "B" would be the Bridge.

Thank you YAB Prime Minister. A perfect birthday gift for everyone who will benefit from the Bridge. Our Prime Minster delivers, no doubt about that.

Youtube contents of the visit as reported by TV3 on 22 February 2010. The clips in Saratok and Lachau were jumbled up by TV3 I think. It was here and there. I can see at 2:33 was before the landing at SK St Martin, 2:44 was the entrance to Rumah Radin, 2:46 I can see myself standing behind the Police's Waja with Mr. William Manggoi. Hehehehe....

Backside Bang

noreply@blogger.com (Desmond) — Fri, 19 Feb 2010 15:57:00 +0000

Losing Count and Words

*Drums rolling* so we have it ladies and gentlemen. Another accident, this time a chain accident occurred at Sungai Tenggang, Sri Aman. It was raining and the road was wet and slippery and when one travels fast on a slippery road, there is a 110% chance that an accident will occur,and the theory that can be applied by this potential Nobel Prize winner is that RAIN + SLIPPERY ROADS = ACCIDENTS . Its was nice straight road, so straight to be exact that one gets to wonder how a chain accident involving about six vehicles of all shapes and sizes managed to happen. I don't want to say more and will just let the pictures do the talking.

The road was wet and this black Perodua Kancil had in fact hit another white Perodua Kancil (originally in front but not in the photos I took as it had moved. I took the photos quickly as it was drizzling and I did not want my camera to get wet)

So the Proton Savvy hit the black Perodua Kancil, which caused the white Honda to hit the Savvy and a Proton at the back hit the Honda and a dark blue Proton Saga hit the Honda which was also hit by a Toyota Avanza (far at the back)

So in accidents like this its really hard to negotiate when one tries to apply the "the person who hits from the back is at fault" rule. It because some of the vehicles hit the one in front due to the impact caused by the person from the back causing a chain accident.

It may be a new vehicle being banged by an old vehicle from behind.

Not to worry as the law was around to help and ascertain that hitting someone from behind is against the law in this country. No numbers of foreign legislators can say this is unfair or we will send our protestors to their Embassy or High Commission. The Roadside Safety Consultant (in yellow and blue) is also counting his blessings as he will be able to pick one of the damaged vehicles to transport and repair for the day for some ang pow income for the Year of the Tiger.

Don't Get Screwed

noreply@blogger.com (Desmond) — Wed, 17 Feb 2010 19:15:00 +0000

Drive Carefully Or You'll Be Screwed

On my return trip to Kuching from Sibu I was determined to find the truth about why accidents happen on the road. A lot went through my mind as I tried to observe the drivers that pass me by (or those I overtook). How the oncoming cars signal with their headlights to warn of Police roadblocks ahead. How the driver or motorcyclist in front of you would screech to a halt when they see these headlights and try their best to make a U Turn just 2 feet in front of you. Yes its true that sometimes accidents happen even when there is a Police roadblock. So my mind worked crazily for the first few hours. Why don't we put up large signs along the roadside to alert the drivers of the dangers ahead. Those that go with Big Fonts saying not just saying "SLOW", "SLOW DOWN NOW!" with "PRESS YOUR BLOODY BRAKES NOW DAMN IT!", or something to that effect. Some drivers may not understand so one should have a Multi Lingual Road Sign. "HOI PERLAHAN SEKARANG" or "JANGAN KURANG AJAR, KURANG LAJU BOLEH!". But then again that observation was shattered (and my dream to be a millionaire) when I drove past Sebangkoi in Sarikei Division. An accident occurred at the famous bend which has a sharp (almost 80 degrees) turning - the C shaped turn is enforced with iron railings to prevent cars from going into a ravine of sort. Somebody just flew over the cliff after crashing through the railings. Now I should generally conclude that the major fault, lies with the drivers 90% of the time (10% is due to faulty cars or road conditions or chicken crossing the road suddenly, roadblocks etc). Probably not....maybe only 10% of the drivers in the whole human population may be at fault or they just have this gene that is accident proned. The problem is this 10% screw ups pose a danger to themselves and also the 90% others road users. So if I should win a Nobel Prize, let it be because I wish to suggest that scientists discover these 10% gene carriers in the human population and ban them from ever driving a vehicle thus reducing road mishaps. At least give it a try aye?

When a crowd gathers by the roadside, it usually means someone screwed up....

Probably we should redesign those road signs that gets ignored. This SLOW sign is the last that he got to see before he went straight for the cliff.An alternative is importantl A sexier sign with a topless dancing scarecrow flying across the road maybe? But at night its sure to cause more accident. Let the experts think then, I give up.

Nobody will have nice words for people who screw up on the road and they will probably tell your tale for generations to come

Like I say.........

The press will have a field day coz the story will sell their papers if its a bad accident, what more if someone screwed up

Imagine the poor bumper that gets ripped apart from the main body

Don't ever screw up: on or off the road

Say Tak Nak to Road Accidents. Arrest those accident prone genes! Okay give me my Nobel Prize now. Cheers and Be Safe!

Drive Safely

noreply@blogger.com (Desmond) — Mon, 15 Feb 2010 07:15:00 +0000

Safe Driving This Festive Season

The roads were populated by holiday celebrants this week as many made their way back for balik kampung time. So it is not an unfamiliar sight if one gets to pass by road mishaps along the way. I managed to see four road accidents (two will be put up in this blog as I was too tired to take the pictures of the other two) when I drove back from Kuching to Sibu. I can't say much - just wish to advice those who get the chance to read this before you go for a long long drive back, do drive carefully. I will try to have my say when I go back to Kuching later as I try to detect the cause of accidents which has been the subject of those who wish to do their PHD Degrees. I am sure if someone comes up with a solution to prevent road accidents someday, they will become instant millionaires and put those tow truck drivers out of business. I am not against tow truckers by the way but there should be some way that those who are responsible for taking care of road safety on Malaysian roads should consider hiring these Tow Truckers to be Roadside Safety Consultants. Come to think of it, you do get to wonder why the tow trucks appear like a few seconds after you have had an accident. Hmmm....okay, maybe a few minutes. Its because they have a very efficient communication system (arriving earlier than the Police)and they seem to know which area of the road is accident prone. So with their sixth sense they just lie waiting in the corner with their Milo Shake for some careless road user to make a mistake. Do away with those ceremonies of Road Safety Publicity stints where we get VIPS to hand over some goody bags to motorists before the start of any festive season or holidays. Its a waste of money - probably we can invest it in paying consultancy fees to the Tow Truckers and their Milo Shake.

Somewhere near Abok, Sri Aman: this Perodua Kenari went of the road (notice the tyre tracks) after skidding on some muddy patch beside the road)

The car occupants look just fine, smiling away while taking out their personal belongings from the vehicle - maybe happy to be alive

Our reliable Roadside Consultants who will help the car owners take off the Car Plate Numbers once you have an accident. Anyone knows why this needs to be done? It costs a bloody RM12 to RM20 to make these plate numbers. The Tow Truck came a few minutes after the accident. But how much does that TM telephone pole cost?

Another accident we came upon: along Bintangor to Sibu Road, a white 4WD that seemed to be partially submerge in a large drain

By the looks of things, this quite new looking vehicle with lights on was not some James Bond Car that can transform into a submarine. Its in the drain for a special reason - again due to the slippery road. Imagine if it was the Perodua Kenari in an upside down position as the one we saw in Abok, Sri Aman. The car occupants would be drowned in seconds.

Fortunately this owner (with black specs and in jeans wet from knee down) escaped with no injuries at all. He was disappointed that the Roadside Safety Consultants were not able to rush to the accident site on time as it was almost 6:00 pm on the eve of Chinese New Year.

Enough said ~ sometimes I am guilty of being a reckless road user at times. The joke sometimes is that when one sees Yellow Light at a road traffic sign junction, it means 'Tekan Minyak' or accelerate faster. Or when it is raining, try to drive faster so that you can reach home quickly. You may never reach home at all. Look at it this way - if you are driving an Amphibous Tank maybe you can go beyond any terrain off the roads. Our cars are reliant on good road surface to travel from Point A to Point B safely. If the road is slippery and dangerous, there is no other way but to slow down. The vehicle must always be in good condition and make sure its not the defective Toyota or Honda with a defective airbag. If you are driving a BMW or Mercedes then I believe you can afford to fly from Point A to Point B via Malaysia Airlines, Air Asia or Hornbill Skyways. So far I have stuck with Proton whose only complaint is a body which has holes appearing here and there with a leaking roof only. I am actually telling that to myself before I head home. Its my advice to all of you too. Think of your loved onces if they are in the car with you or waiting at home for your arrival. Drive Safe people!

Gong Xi Fa Chai 2010

noreply@blogger.com (Desmond) — Mon, 15 Feb 2010 03:37:00 +0000

Double Celebrations In Sibu

The Year of the Tiger began in Sibu for me and my family as we spent the Chinese New Year Holidays here. We went to do the customary visiting of Open House held by our friends. It was an enjoyable celebration shared with all Sarawakians alike, what more with the family turning up in full force. At the stroke of midnight, Sibu Town lit up as celebrants let loose a barrage of firecrackers and fireworks. Checking with my friends in Kuching and Miri, this scene is replicated in major Cities and Towns in Sarawak. The lighting up of fireworks has been a regular activity during festivities with the intention of scaring away some evil spirits and bad luck.

Fantastic fireworks light up the skies in Sibu at the stroke of midnight to usher the Year of the Tiger

Not to be missed every year ~ Toasting the Chinese New Year with Mr. John Goh of John Goh Blogspot and family

Family attending Datuk Tiong Su Kuok's open house at CCK headquarters in Sibu

Family posing with the Board of Directors of CCK - its good to see the company I started working with (while waiting for my Form 5) results progressing well in the corporate world. The experience I got from hard work here opened my eyes on what hard life and labour means. No numbers of text books will be able teach me more on the meaning of life. Meeting fellow workers aged 18 years old (sometimes younger) who are already married with families. I should say that experience and working in a freezer (in zero degrees celsius temperature packing fresh frozen prawns for export everyday) made me more determined to study harder.

Visiting our Chinese friends whom we grew up with at Nanga Beguang

Teaching Shania the meanings of Ang Pows - she still does not understand what comes in those red packets and why people give money away. "I told her its for you to buy toys and they want you to buy the toys and books you like." That part she understands I think as she smiled.

So to all my friends, Nadai Nama Nama wishes you a Happy Chinese New Year, Gong Xi Fa Chai and Valenties Day. May the Year of the Tiger bring more prosperity and Good Health.

YB Malcolm Flies

noreply@blogger.com (Desmond) — Sat, 13 Feb 2010 13:50:00 +0000

YB Encik Malcolm Mussen Launches System Tagang in Ulu Engkari

It was back in April 2009 last year that YB Encik Mussen was featured in Nadai Nama Nama. He became the representative for Ahli Dewan Undangan Negeri for N.29 Batang Ai when he won the hotly contested By-Election. Since then most of my readers always ask me where he has been and what he has been up to. I accompanied YB Encik Mussen for one of his official functions to launch the first Sarawak Forest Department's Tagang System in collaboration with ITTO and Sarawak Agriculture Department in Rumah Jaong, Lubok Pantu, Ulu Engkari, Sri Aman. System Tagang is explained in this link by the Agriculture Department. Its a mouthful if I attempt to explain it here. Let me just say that it is a proven conservation project (after a trip to Sabah to learn the Tagal System as it is called there) which will allow for the sustainable supply of fish for the folks in this area. Whew....I told you it would be a mouthful. But launch it he did and it was not without much hardship as the helicopter we used to try to reach the area hit bad weather when we took off from Kuching. We had to make a landing at Sri Aman (I was happy of course to show the YB around Sri Aman and where our best roti canai and nasi lemak was). But the weather did not improve and all of us in the helicopter were jittery. Our YB was quite determined to go to meet his constituents and we agreed to wait. As if the weather was answering YB's prayers, the skies cleared almost two hours later and we proceed with our journey. YB received an overwhelming and rousing welcome and I guess it was worth it when he decided to continue the journey.

Shaky ride due to bad weather ~ helicopter hovering above Pulau Seduku, Sri Aman heading towards Lubok Antu - I fixed my ears to the 'chu chu chu chu...' sound of the engine and everytime a different funny sound comes in between my heart would miss a beat.

Approaching the landing point ~ YB Encik Mussen looks over SK Ulu Engkari - one cannot help but wonder what is in his mind as he ponders on how to bring about development to this remote part of Sarawak

YB Encik Mussen is greeted warmly by the organisers and the longhouse folks

The journey continues ~ from the air we hopped on a longboat and manouvered through the dangerous rapids with the aid of skilled boatmen from the nearby longhouses. The two guys up front have to work hard help pilot us through the rapids.

Walking along the longhouse ruai ~ Welcoming ceremony for YB Encik Mussen and his entourage from Kuching

YB Encik Mussen in the foreground, with Encik Ali Yusop next to him and Encik Sapuan, both from Forestry Department Sarawak

The longhouse folks do not always get VIP visitors often which must be why they turn up in droves at Rumah Jaong Ulu Pantu to spend time with YB Encik Mussen.

Nadai Nama Nama was tempted to move around to take photos during the official function but being part of the entourage means sitting still and just behave

10,000 fish fries of the expensive tengadak species were released into the river by YB Encik Mussen (with our assistance) during the launching ceremony

YB Encik Mussen gives an interview at the Ulu Engkari river bank where he stressed on the benefits of the Tagang System. He also wish to highlight the clear water on which they were standing now is not easy to enjoy nowadays.

YB also explained on the Eco tourism potential of the area especially for tourists who are looking to be one with nature and experience an area which is in harmony with nature. Ulu Engkari is situated near the Lanjak Entimau Wildlife Sanctuary.

As you will be able to see, our pilot Captain Yusof also enjoyed this harrowing ride on the longboat through the Ulu Engkari rapids. He helped us get through the turbulent skies and here he needs the skills of the Ulu Engkari River Pilots to steer along the river

Interesting note ~ SK Ulu Engkari students I managed to interview. Though I mixed up their names I was quite surprised to discover that these primary school girls were pretty independent, washing and drying their own clothes. The one in the middle is only Primary 1. Its an amazing feat that my Shania always get me to wash her school clothes and shoes.

Aerial picture of SK Ulu Engkari

As we lift off, the children were chasing our helicopter on the ground and our boat drivers were waving goodbye. I will always remember this 'out of place' area, situated in the middle of a valley which is almost an hour's journey by air. By boat it will take almost 4 hours from Batang Ai Dam, Lubok Antu ~ that again also depends on the river's water level. This valley is very unlike Klang Valley where you can get almost everything you want like Blackberry Service, 24 hours of light, intergrated transportation system which gets you from Point A to Point B accurately ecetra ecetra. A thousand and one things come to mind, really. I hope YB Dato Sri Idris's lab takes this into consideration when they hole themselves up to come up with good solutions. Trying to compare the gap and always trying to convince the top administrators who are sitting on cushy chairs in Putra Jaya is very much a challenge. Those who have never been to this area and those who reply "Ya Ker?" during meetings. Sometimes they come over here with their set of rules that only apply in Putra Jaya and they remain steadfast about it without going to the ground. "Kenapa mahal sangat nak bina Rumah Orang Miskin di kawasan ini?". One sometimes wonder how these guys prepare a design spec for building a 'Program Bantuan Rumah' for the hardcore poor in the interiors of Sarawak, using the market price determined by Putra Jaya chaps. I believe when they draw up financial estimates plus the 'cost and transportation' of materials', they will not consider how these materials are brought to the area concerned using longboats, frequency of trips, how much to pay the boatmen who risk their lives carrying the building materials (3 boatmen in the case above) and the technicians who come regularly to inspect the construction....I don't have to say more. Just replying to "Kenapa mahal sangat, kenapa Sarawak mesti istimewa sangat?" Its not that we want to be special. The situation here is different, that is the special thing about it, not that we want some special previleges, we just special considerations. Cheers.

Sri Aman Progresses

noreply@blogger.com (Desmond) — Tue, 09 Feb 2010 17:54:00 +0000

Let There Be Light

Since the last Batang Ai Election, Sri Aman has seen some new structures sculpturing its landscape, be it in town or out of town. In striving to boost the tourism sector one signboard seem to be causing some excitement around the town area. That's right, Sri Aman is finally going to get a new hotel which will be located across the existing Hoover Hotel and Theatre Inn. Not only that. As one drives from Kuching to Sri Aman or vice versa at night, the two famous stopovers for tired drivers, namely Sungai Tenggang and Lachau would be in darkness as early as 7:00 pm. That may be set to change as the electric supply is set to be delivered to these two areas including the surrounding longhouse settlements along the way. Electric supply was one of the main issue in the last State Election. The delivery of the promise made by the then Deputy Prime Minister Dato Sri Najib Razak (now PM) at that time shows he is serious about fulfilling his 'People First' pledge.

The signboard that is causing a buzz for Sri Aman folks

A classy hotel in the pipeline - just next to the new Sri Aman township

Electric Supply to light up this once dark corner of Sri Aman

Workers can be seen along the stretch of Sungai Tenggang and Lachau road preparing the electric poles for connecting the electric supply

The folks in this area have not forgotten that promise to provide the area with electric supply. It was seen slow at first but that was due to the need to conduct a detailed study on the capacity of the electric supply required and the number of settlements that require them. Now, most of the folks from this area I met around town were all smiles and I guess I know why. They are happy that the opportunity to progress is within their reach - a steady supply of electricity means increased productivity and opportunity for its human capital to improve (students will be able to study without the disturbing noise and power interruptions that come with the diesel or petrol powered electric generator set). We may get to see more computers at most longhouses and probably with the progress of Internet Broadband and Wireless Internet coverage the population in this area,with proper assistance, will be able to jump onto the Digital bandwagon like those that we get to see only on television advertisements. What more can I say if not, 1Malaysia Boleh!

Year of Tiger

noreply@blogger.com (Desmond) — Sat, 06 Feb 2010 18:08:00 +0000

Sri Aman Picks Up The Chinese New Year Beat

The Chinese New year songs echoed around Sri Aman Town on Saturday night when the Rasa FM Sri Aman organised 'Gong Xi Fa Chai' concert at the Mini Stadium. The crowd had fun and I certainly enjoyed snapping away at the performers who comprised mostly of local artises. When I say local artises, they are mostly people I meet around town. It was a pleasant surprise to see local talents delivering stellar performance. I also discovered that one of the schools was actually active in martial arts. The entertainment function was officiated by the YB Datuk Francis Harden Ak Hollis, the Assistant Minister for Land Development. Below are the pictures:.

VIPs at the function (From left): Pemanca, Puan Felicia Tan (Acting Resident), YB Datuk Francis Harden Ak Hollis, Ruth Jampong (RTM Sri Aman).

Children performing at the concert awaiting their turn to go on stage

Tuned to entertain and also dressed to suit the occassion (our keyboard player in red)

Colourful movements by the children performers

The chidren enjoyed themselves that night

We had a singer who sang and danced some fancy moves ~ his shuffle was a hit with the younger kids

Kong Si Kong Si Nie......i think that was the tune that I can catch and understand. i hope they have the 'Ang Pow Lai Lai' song next time which I am eager to learn

The SK Engkilili must be some Kung Fu school also as the students from the school showed their Kung Fu skills to the audience

This small lady in particular had the right posture and moves that would send her opponets running for cover ~ including me!

'Daddy'...are you gonna buy me the toy or not? Kung Fu pose by this young SK Engkilili student. Perhaps I should allow my Shania attend that taekwando class organised by her school,

"Daaddyyy....Are you gonna buy the toy for me or not....." then again maybe I would not send my daughter to any martial arts school lest I get beaten up with a broom...nah...just kidding :) This small lady is on the way to be the next Michelle Yeoh?

If you don't buy me that toy, I am am gonna stand on my head till I turn blue.... ayoyo.... kids nowadays. This SK Engkilili young boy received claps of approval from the audience

My favourite mechanic from Sri Aman singing a lovely Chinese number..... I was like... wow....he has more skills than just changing tyres. I must make sure to tune my car engine at his shop the next round

The closing number ~ the Rasa FM and Radio Televisyen Malaysia Dee Jays rendered their numbers too.

Everyone had fun that night including me. I had to apologise to the organisers for not joining the reserved chair even when some of the Councillors insisted. I can't as I was moving here and there with my camera (most of them were not used to seeing me running around taking photos). Honestly I would not look good in one of those chairs. Unless they get ready a different VIP for me then I may consider.... i mean Very Inexperienced Photographer's place. So wishing all my friends a Gong Xi Fa Chai :)

A Day With YB

noreply@blogger.com (Desmond) — Sat, 06 Feb 2010 01:26:00 +0000

YB Encik Mong Dagang Visits Rumah Wilson, Po Ai

YB Encik Mong Dagang the assemblyman for N.26 Bukit Begunan and recently appointed Assistant Minister for Agriculture and Tourism visits Rumah Wilson at Po Ai, Sri Aman to assess its potential as a homestay destination and also to see if it can be the venue for Gawai 2010 in Sri Aman for tourists this coming June 2010.

Bare footed VIP guests greets the longhouse folks of Rumah Wilson (The Tuai Rumah wearing batik in the middle)

Pretty maidens of Rumah Wilson hand over the welcome drinks to the Yang Berhormat

An Iban warrior leads the Yang Berhormat along the longhouse ruai

Pua kumbu weavers exhibit their skills toYang Berhormat

Miring ceremony performed by the Yang Berhormat with the other VIP guests from right (Encik Abang Shamshudin Abang Seruji, Yang Berhormat Encik Mong Dagang, Encik Ik Pahon and Encik Ahmad Johaniff)

All the shutterbugs taking the photos under the presence of pala antu ~ do they feel any invisible presence? Looks like they sense something. Hehehe...

We wish to thank the officers from Tourism Malaysia's Sarawak Director Encik Ahmad Johanif, Ministry of Tourism and Heritage Permanent Secretary, Mr. Ik Pahon Joyik and his staff for the opportunity. Hopefully the Ministry will come back to Rumah Wilson soon with some good news.

SK Klassen Bridge

noreply@blogger.com (Desmond) — Tue, 02 Feb 2010 09:23:00 +0000

How The Bridge Was Damaged in 2007

Waiting...waiting for the SK Klassen Bridge to be built. I managed to get the Headmaster to get me some pictures which I intend to send over again to the relevant authorities who are willing to listen. The bridge was damaged by the 2007 flood a few years back and it has been affected by high waters ever since.

High water levels and the force of the water current damaged the hanging bridge in 2007

Water steadily rising causing anxious moments for those who cross the bridge

Students - like this kindergarden student had to be piggy backed by the parents and sometimes teachers to make it across the bridge - just to attend school

Though a few letters and emails has been criss crossing to the relevant people, the YBs have done their best and the State agencies have done their part, we have to thank them for the completion of Phase I but that is just confined to the foundation. It stopped for a while as we have to 'follow financial procedures' before Phase II can start. It is hoped that the federal agency which provides the fund for this projects understands that the hanging bridge may not last while waiting for the Phase II to begin. A second contractor needs to be chosen instead and it will have to go through the 'yawn' quotation process.... When I look at these pictures I feel sad for the parents, children, teachers and Klassen folks ~ what they have to go through day in and day out as the present hanging continues to deteriorates. Its just waiting for the moment to snap. Forgive me if I sound like an alarmist but if you come by yourself to the place you will understand what I mean. Only the Fear Factor contestants will dare to cross it.

Adios Mango Tree

noreply@blogger.com (Desmond) — Mon, 01 Feb 2010 04:03:00 +0000

The Old Old Tree

Blogging is quite a high risk hobby now. So many people watching or on the watch out for blogs. If it is found to be 'offensive', it will be targeted for a Lockdown. Something like a Wrestling hold by some of the authorities and you won't hear the last of it. So it is pretty much like driving along a stretch of road with potholes while being blinfolded and the mission of the blogger is not to hit any of the potholes. Wow..... But anyway, today I will just blog about a tree and post some photos of it. In fact I will post something about a tree being cut and probably raise the anger of some tree loving community. But hey, for the record its our tree okay and we called in the relevant authority to have the tree cut. In fact my parents decided to cut down our 20 years old mango tree which was behind our house in Sibu. And I happened to be at home. And my camera happened to be at home too, so its only fair that we joined forces to catch a few snaps and share it with the blog reading community. The tree was already termite ridden and fruits were inedible. Being more than two storeys tall it was hovering precariously over our roof and also the neighbour's. There was no choice as it can fall any time. We called in our friendly Sibu Municipal Council's contractor and they sent in their team to handle the job. I can say it was a good team because they approached the tree cutting quite professionally. In a matter of hours the tree was down. If I was the one who did it, it would take me just a matter of minutes with a chainsaw. I would just cut it from the base like any timberman would do, shouting 'Timber!' and the tree will fall down damaging as many things it can take down. Which is why I must salute these tree cutting tribes who took the time to analyze how to cut the tree and trim it branch by branch.

The contractor decides the best strategy to cut down the tree to size so as to minimize the damage to surroundings including our fence, house roof and the neighbours' house too

Skilled in his line of job - Little by little, the branches are cut with a chainsaw

The highest point versus the chainsaw

And down it goes.....

On top of the world: Going for the final cut - with mission almost complete the Chainsaw man takes a puff of smoke

Finally - a much deserved rest after a hard days work

The tree cutting was over after two hours and the workers took the branches and pieces that were cut onto their truck. It was quite a fascinating scene to see the skills shown by the tree cutter. I also noticed he did not have any safety gear or something while he was doing his job. Could he have been Tarzan's long lost sidekick or the Tarzan of South East Asia? Would the Occupational, Safety and Health Authorities frown at the explanation that he may be Tarzan's cousin? Oh yeah...I should not say so much as not to offend anyone or cause my blog to be under some scrutiny by the Blog Patrols. Okay...this is just a blog post about tree cutting and why we should cut down trees that are deemed dangerous. Goodbye Mango Tree. Cheers.

Roadside Rainbow

noreply@blogger.com (Desmond) — Thu, 28 Jan 2010 23:36:00 +0000

Treasure Found

Some people believe that one finds treasure at the end of rainbows. But the sight of a Rainbow on the Sri Aman bound road somewhere in Simunjan is a treasure by itself that I had to stop. But the sun was coming down fast that I missed its full effect. will have to wait again for another of those days to get the right rainbow shot.

Any treasure at the end of this rainbow? I won't want to find out as the vehicles plying here goes 130 km/h. Click on the photo for a larger version and you will see the rainbow on the road.

Can Idris Deliver?

noreply@blogger.com (Desmond) — Tue, 26 Jan 2010 00:34:00 +0000

Government Transformation Programme

The Performance Delivery and Management Unit (PEMANDU) last week had an Open Day in Sarawak on 15 - 16 January 2010 at the Borneo Convention Centre Kuching. I attended the Government Transformation Programme Roadshow - or Open Day thats what they call it for the whole two days together with the other government servants and the public the next day.

My views about the event? I did not post anything immediately as I was surfing around to find out if the other bloggers and facebookers acquaintance whom I met at the event had anything to say. So far none so now I'll have to give my sugar coated version as the 1Malaysia roadmapping effort at the midst of preparation. Not that I am commenting as one of the officials invited to the function but as a concerned Malaysian who looks forward to the National Key Result Areas (NKRAs) being formulated and also the Key Performance Index (KPIs) that are currently being listed and polished. The opening ceremony officiated by the Right Honourable Chief Minister was well attended and the preview on the National Key Result Areas and the processes PEMANDU had to come up with it was quite impressive. The speeches were superb and YB Senator Dato' Seri Idris Jala managed to motivate Civil Servants by complimenting them on their excellent ideas. I have to thank him for his good words for the Civil Service, people whom he managed to work with for the past months. That coming from a former Corporate leader it is indeed an honour. The contents of the exhibition and the different sessions held were full of valuable information - compact and comprehensive on especially on the various output produced by the Lab Team.

But how was the Kuching crowd the next day. We were informed that there were more 10,000 people attending the programme in Kuala Lumpur. I won't say the figures here for Kuching but what I will share is that it could have been better. So if any PEMANDU people are reading this, I am just being honest. Open up a lab and set a Key Result Area and Key Performance Index for your future Open Day. Probably the one held in Sabah this week was better - I have yet to check with my Sabahan counterparts or see if anyone blogged about it there. I know the Kuching folks would have turned up in droves to feast their curiousity on KRAs and KPIs menu. After all it touched the core concerns of all Malaysians - Integrity, Quality of Life, ecetra ecetra. Only that the audience seemed suited for those in Government circle with the medium only most of us in the government can understand. But that's the good thing as the public will see how we have to operationalize these words and then implement them. I would have loved to see Yang Berhormats from both side of the fence, political party (including youth members) members across the divide, government servants, community leaders, Councillors, students be it from the higher institutions of higher learning both public and private to participate but then I fail to see them- I would urge all to have a feel of the PEMANDU efforts from their website. Maybe the date was not convenient for the majority that time.

I would like to think positively - that we were on a slow start. YB Senator Datuk Seri Idris did mention that the findings and feedback will be ready for publication very soon - by next month, so if there are anything that the NKRAs have missed on your needs - do give them the necessary feedback in their website. On the the Transformation website, the last I visit, it is still very much in need of improvement though and I hope the improving part will be an ongoing effort. It would benefit those online visitors who missed the actual event. I believe they too have a lot in their minds. For the ordinary folks who are in the rural areas who have no access or idea what KRAs are all about though their needs are featured in one of the KRA, hmmmm..... we will have to figure that out.

Looking forward to YB Dato's Seri Idris's Output soon and certainly eager to see the Outcomes being implemented and shared for all to see

It was also homecoming for YB Dato's Sri Senator Idris as many people would have loved to meet him personally, including this blogger of course. So back to the question of this post which keeps popping up in my mind. Can our YB Senator Dato' Sri Idris deliver? In Dato' Peter Minos' Viewpoints (Eastern Times dated 24th January 2010), it was stressed that the implementation of all these 'good' things and 'noble intentions' need everyone's sincerity. The key word here? Effective Implementation and might I add - some genuine teamwork. We still need the public's participation to ensure the KPIs will be met. Where rural infrastructure is concerned - be it in Sri Aman Division rural areas or the other rural areas, how do we cut down the waiting period for simple development requests from the folks on the ground. Rural roads, bridges, jetty - the small projects that matters that will benefit them tremendously (not the mega projects)? The almost collapsed SK Klassen Bridge is a perfect example of an urgent project request that needs almost a year to solve, involving so many agencies' hands. So my guess is YB Dato' Sri Senator has a lot to look into but I believe he can deliver if all of us chip in. So let's get rolling then.

Back To School

noreply@blogger.com (Desmond) — Sat, 16 Jan 2010 23:58:00 +0000

Shania is Primary One

Firstly I apologise for the many typos in my previous entry about Chapter 2010. I am still trying to adapt to Dell's Inspiron 10 inch screen and the small fonts displayed. Thus designing the blog in a Netbook will be quite a challenge as what is displayed in this Netbook may look different in a normal PC or one with a larger screen. But its a good buy anyway as I find myself being able to achieve more on the go especially with presentations. The Netbook is definitely going to be a hot item for busy people.....I mean busy IT centric people.

Recently I joined the other legion of parents who will be sending their children to school starting 2010. Yes, my little Shania is Primary One this year. Its about two weeks now that she is in Primary One. In trying to get her adapt to the new school environment I had a full week with Shania in Week one and while waiting outside her class for that good one week the Dell mini Notebook was my close companion. Of course during recess I discovered myself being the attraction of young children who were curious. This initial orientation for Shania is a learning experience for her and also for me. My mission then was to capture the moments of Day One so that when she grows up she will get a view of how it was. It would be easy for me to tell her - look at what Daddy had to go through. I was not alone as I saw the other parents were armed with cameras too - be it the big DSLRs or compact Digital ones or the smaller cameraphones. I suppose they too, do not wish to miss the opportunity to be part of their children's school life.

The school conducted a briefing for the parents especially for parents who are sending their children to Primary One for the first time. It also conducted registration two days before school day which I believe is good as it will reduce the traffic congestion should registration be done at the same day as the new year and work starts..

My friend, Wallace was also sending his youngest son, Carlson who is also entering Primary One. He is one of the cameraman I mentioned as you can see that Canon 1000D sling around his neck. He is a veteran at this as his daughter, Chervonne (next to him) is currently in Primary Four.

Shania is wondering what the commotion is all about during her Primary One Registration Day. She has more friends at her nursery, but the sight of more people and parents made her nervous and anxious..

Zzzzzz...... Yes,, it will mean no more late night cartoons for her.

D - Day on Day One at School. Another challenging moment as she keeps peering outside the door and window looking for me and her Mum.

Orientation and Break time - finally we had to find out how best to reduce that load. When the text books start coming in we will have to put less weight in that food and water container.

Shy and Moody start - The Primary One students were the first to be allowed to the canteen so as to get a place to sit. Its a good idea also as when the other senior students come out for recess it will be havoc and the smaller children will have to compete for the chairs and tables.

Some smiles eventually - I knew that she was ready for Primary School adventure

Week Two into Shania's Primary One - I am happy she is adapting. Though some of the other parents chide me and told me the best way to teach children how to swim was to throw them into the water and they will learn how to swim. They sent their children to class on Day One and just left. Well, I told them that there are two sides to the coin. You can teach them the hard way or the gentle way. My Primary One experience was a good one. My parents were around for the first few days and adapting to the new environment was less traumatic. So I don't know any other better way - she is doing fine now. However, this Daddy is not doing that well.

Chapter 2010

noreply@blogger.com (Desmond) — Fri, 15 Jan 2010 18:40:00 +0000

Nadai Nama Nama in 2010

The time is set at 2010. There will be 365 days to this time and Nadai Nama Nama (NNN) has decided that it needs to change too. How will this blog travel through 2010 and beyond? The thing is that the blogosphere is still very much the 'in trend' even though the worldwide web is trying to popularise video blogging or voice blogging. On homeground (Sarawak) where Internet speed is quite a hurdle for those who wish to venture into these new blogging trend, the text and photo presentation will still be prominent. And so it shall be as I have managed to equip myself with the basic gadgets to make NNN sail through this year. So how will NNN steer through 2010? With so many bloggers and blogs getting into the news sometimes for the wrong reasons and sometimes for the right reasons, it will be a cautious journey.

Nadai Nama Nama's arsenal for blogging this year is beefed up by the Nikon D5000 on top of the existing Sony Cybershot, the new Dell Mini Netbook with CSL's mobile modem, the Nokia E66 for communications and the (now no more) Sony Ericsson P1i which i replaced with the Sony Xperia X1 equipped with WinMo 6.1

NNN's blogging framework and concept will be more defined - basically what it is always meant to be. Less on the controversial' topics as I wish to promote 'Safe and Responsible Blogging'. Many of my friends have requested that I should be more informative with the knowledge that I have in my field of work. Some even suggested that I consider giving my political viewpoints. That's the wonder of NNN coz it will do none of these. It will explore different areas - the road less travelled. Blue Ocean blogging from NNN's window is what I will call it. Blue Ocean denotes an area less crowded - a window less opened. It is a contrast to Red Ocean blogs ~ where almost all the people you know will be crowding on the same topic trying to push their thoughts on the same subject. Everyone wants their piece on the same matter. I do not wish to parrot what is already in the mainstream media or popular Blognews. At least that is what NNN aims and if I fail to stick to myside of the line, let it not be too often. But still it will be mostly about capturing (with my camera and thoughts) moments that would have pass me by if I did not describe it. Family, adventures, ideas ecetra ecetra from NNN's viewpoint the journey of the author's Cyber Life. Here's what I mean (A viral Email which I got from a friend which I find meaningful for NNN).

"A long time ago, there was an Emperor who told his horseman that if he could ride on his horse and cover as much land area as he likes, then the Emperor would give him the area of land he has covered. Sure enough, the horseman quickly jumped onto his horse and rode as fast as possible to cover as much land area as he could. He kept on riding and riding, whipping the horse to go as fast as possible. When he was hungry or tired, he did not stop because he wanted to cover as much area as possible. Came to a point when he had covered a substantial area and he was exhausted and was dying. Then he asked himself, "Why did I push myself so hard to cover so much land area? Now I am dying and I only need a very small area to bury myself."

The above story is similar with the journey of our Life. We push very hard everyday to make more money, to gain power and recognition. We neglect our health , time with our family and to appreciate the surrounding beauty and the hobbies we love. One day when we look back, we will realize that we don't really need that much, but then we cannot turn back time for what we have missed.

Life is not about making money, acquiring power or recognition . Life is definitely not about work! Work is only necessary to keep us living so as to enjoy the beauty and pleasures of life. Life is a balance of Work , Family and Personal time.. You have to decide how you want to balance your Life. Define your priorities, realize what you are able to compromise but always let some of your decisions be based on your instincts. Happiness is the meaning and the purpose of Life, the whole aim of human existence.

So, take it easy, do what you want to do and appreciate nature. Life is fragile, Life is short. Do not take Life for granted. Live a balanced lifestyle and enjoy Life!"

Watch your thoughts Watch your thoughts ; they become words.
Watch your words ; they become actions.
Watch your actions ; they become habits.
Watch your habits; they become character .
Watch your character; it becomes your destiny

Nadai Nama Nama could not agree more to the above! Cheers readers.

Under Construction

noreply@blogger.com (Desmond) — Sat, 02 Jan 2010 17:46:00 +0000

Making your 2010 visits More Worthwhile

Nadai Nama nama is currently undergoing some changes to suit the latest changes and installing the more relevant widgets. I realise that some of the viewers who gave their feedbacks wants it to be less taxing on those who are accessing the web from mobile phones. I realise the current layout is quite suitable for some but less than likeable for those who prefer a lighter version. Well here goes a week of testing, adjusting and tweaking. Cheers all.

New Moon 2010

noreply@blogger.com (Desmond) — Thu, 31 Dec 2009 18:51:00 +0000

Peek At Sequel For Famous Movie in 2010

I have never seen the Twilight Saga: New Moon Movie but I am predicting that there will be another sequel to the movie this year 2010. The movie I believe will have themes of sharp fangs....appropriately named Razor Clams. Most of the information of the movie can be found at famous supermarkets in and around town.

I can see the stars of New Moon still looks delicous in this promo

Welcome 2010

noreply@blogger.com (Desmond) — Thu, 31 Dec 2009 16:13:00 +0000

Nadai Nama Nama First Post 2010

The family countdown to 2010 and well, the party goes on. Nadai Nama Nama welcomes all readers to 2010. Let's make it worthwhile. Nadai Nama Nama is transforming its image and it hopes to be finalised within this week so I apologise if the images in the header still shows 2009.

Countdown with the National Television for 2010 arrival, the kids do it in style also.

Welcome 2010 with the familiar 'Oohaa!'

Dad's 70th Birthday

noreply@blogger.com (Desmond) — Thu, 31 Dec 2009 15:39:00 +0000

Farewell 2009 Hello 2010

The 2010 New year Countdown begins. Its twelve months since my It's 2009 blog. This year's countdown is a bit special as we get to celebrate my dad's 70th birthday to mark 2010's arrival. The family had a moderate celebration this year as we know that taking life slow and easy means that we can get to see more New year celebrations. Our family priest in leading our family in prayers spoke about Methuselah the oldest man on record: who reached 969 years old (Genesis 5:27) as in those days there were less health hazards. And so with the luxuries of food and drinks available in this century there is a tendency to over indulge in too many 'toxic' things..... *hic*.... oops. I guess I am guilty here with regards to over consumption of the good things in life.

But it is important to recognise that the family would never be where we are if not for the sacrifices of our parents and our grandparents. And it is during this times that each and every one of us make sure we continue their struggle to make a better living. With that said my Mum and Dad are always the pillars of our family's strength continuing to lead us in the faith and also encouraging us everytime we set to explore new challenges in life - be it in our careers, investment in a new house or car and many more.

'70' candles for Dad's cake

Dad blows his Birthday Cake

Cake cutting - the grandchildren wishing Grandpa a Happy Birthday - Jason, Shania and Justin

The New Year feast begins

And so it is with this note Nadai Nama Nama will wishes all its readers a Happy 2010. May the new year bring new opportunities as it does with bringing more challenges. The celebration of our birthdays are timelines of our achievements as during that time we reflect where we are and how much we have harvested. Its a time to assess how we have spent our 365 days in that year. How much have we put in for our selves, our family and those who matter to us. How much have we given back to society? To the State? To the Country in which we are given the freedom and opportunity to flourish. How we handle the various trials and turbulences shows what type of person we are - the choices we make. And if opportunities fly by, try to make the best of it for it may only be with us for that moment . Happy Birthday Dad, and thank you Mummy and Daddy! To all Nadai Nama Nama visitors......be strong and may God Bless You All.

Teamwork

noreply@blogger.com (Desmond) — Wed, 30 Dec 2009 08:36:00 +0000

A Day At Sibu Wharf

Spend a few good minutes at the Sibu Wharf and you will get to see a lot of interesting scenes. The Rajang River is a big and wide waterway, well known for being the mode of transport for several major divisions. So any water debris floating along the river sometimes pose a major hazard for the water vessels. It can be a small piece of wood or it can be a bigger version. One big floating log became a hindrance for the boats berthing at the wharf a few days ago and I was impressed by the teamwork amongst the express boat owners (and also some members of the public) to clear the obstruction.

Omigosh....that's one mean looking log lodged between the boats

Analysing the problem.....okay, its really a log and not some giant creature waiting to pounce on anyone

Right people, let's get the ropes and get this hindrance out of the way

Okay, we have it covered.....just push it to the side

Go Go Go! its almost out of the way!

Yeah! We did it.....good teamwork people! Now the river traffic can flow freely......

But hey wait.............

So I looked at the cheerful face amongst those boat operators,,,,,yeap, teamwork was the key to getting that log out of the way. My wish is that they could have applied that teamwork spirit to clearing the surroundings at the Express Boat Wharf. Now that would be worth cheering about. One do not have to wait for the Council or Sarawak Rivers Board or the Natural Resource and Environment Board to work this out. Well that's another story for our 'need for a government agency to organise a gotong royong' activity to clear this floating wastes'mentality. Looking forward to 2010 and more Gotong Royongs.

Christmas Fs

noreply@blogger.com (Desmond) — Sun, 27 Dec 2009 06:07:00 +0000

Christmas 2009

Christmas may mean different from one person to the next. For Christians worldwide it is Jesus Christ's birthday. Coupled with the holidays it is also an opportunity to spend time with our loved ones. So its no surprise that we made that 600 km journey drive home from Kuching to Sibu on Christmas Eve, rushing to make it to the evening Christmas Mass at Sibu Iban Methodist Church. I can't share much this Christmas as i discovered that I did not do so well in the PMR. Yeah, I have to admit I had 5 Fs for Christmas this year but I enjoyed it anyway. I should try my best to do well next year but these Fs are the ones I do not mind having.

Family

Mum and Dad waited for us to arrive at home in Sibu. Shania could not wait to meet her grandpa and grandma and kept asking when we would reach Sibu. She was not cranky though as she had been travelling like this since she was two years old. On arrival we proceeded to the Methodist Iban Church where we again met our other family members and relatives. It was a reuinion of some sort as I grew up with the Church and the familiar faces there were as cheery as ever. We got to see the younger version of us when those Sunday School children performed their Christmas songs with their Santa Claus hat and Reeindeer horns. Some may feel that its important to make a distinction between the true meaning of Christmas and also when the idea of Santa Claus and his reeindeers should come in. Here we have an open mind and try to make it enjoyable for everyone without trying to be extreme in our beliefs. The spirit of presents and giving is encouraged as reflected in our Right Honourable Prime Minister's Christmas message. Though he only published it in his 1Malaysia Blog, hopefully he can be more 1Malaysian (putting politics aside) when doing so in future. Even Mahmoud Abbas, the Palestinian leader attended Christmas Eve Mass at the Nativity Church in Bethlehem.

From Getty Images: Palestinian president Mahmoud Abbas(L), Victor Batarseh, Mayor of Bethlehem (M) Palestinian Prime Minister Salam Fayad (R) are taking part in Midnight Mass ceremony, which marks the beginning of Christmas Day, the Church of the Nativity in the West Bank town of Bethlehem on December 24 2009

In time for Christmas Eve Mass at the Methodist Iban Church, Sibu

Not to be missed - performance by the Sunday School children of the Methodist Iban Church

The spirit of giving - Uncle Umpang contributes to the Christmas Charity Collection

Regular Nadai Nama Nama stars enjoying Christmas - Sis Debbie, nephews Justin and Jason and bro in law Johnady while Shania is with her grandad at the back, happy to meet her cousins

Friends

Who can forget last Christmas's 2008 glitch when Cikgu Mamat struggled desperately with the computer display. This year he is more than prepared as the presentation was smooth and without hiccups. I also got to meet a few Facebooker friends for the first time at Church like Boffman. He may be see to be a musician at heart if you do get to visit him in facebook but up close he has a charitable heart. So Merry Christmas to all the other friends whom I did not manage to say Hi in Church.

Cikgu Mamat,our technical expert of last year's celebration is ready with all the backup gadgets and not too complicated slides

Boffman Henry, my Facebook friend who happen to be a relative from Bawang Assan

Fun

The fun continues when we got home and the children have their time at decorating the Christmas Tree while the grown ups have several toasts of the Christmas spirit....*hic*.

Shania decorates the Christmas tree with Aunty Evelyn

Christmas Toast - Oohaaa.

Food and Feasts

The final two Fs one cannot avoid during celebrations like this are the food and drinks and parties. Yes, it will be a week full of attempts to beat the food menus shown in the Asian Food Channel shown in Astro. Food can be an important factor in encouraging World Peace because wars occur sometimes due to the lack of it. So I'll say yes to making sure that all nations reduce their spendings on buying or making designer weapons and focus more on making food available to their people or other poor nations that lack it.

Food was aplenty on Christmas and we had our Christmas dinner at the famous Joystar, Sungai Merah.

Then there was Aunty Evelyn's Birthday where we celebrated both the Birthday and Christmas again at their house

One thing for sure, the local dishes prepared sure beats the fancy restaurant food anytime.

That's about it for now as we enjoy our family moments together this Christmas. I would not know if I would be scolded for getting this Fs but its not always about Failures. Fs are freaking good sometimes - only do not get the wrong ones. Have a Fantastic Christmas people!

Merry Christmas 2009

noreply@blogger.com (Desmond) — Sun, 20 Dec 2009 03:55:00 +0000

Countdown to Christmas

Nadai Nama Nama wishes all its readers a Merry Christmas 2009 and Happy New Year 2010. I will be on leave starting next week and will try to implement the changes to the website. Incidently our Exabyte server also found the inspiration to do some housekeeping this year end and so we would be experiencing some technical difficulty in connectivity and some pictures will not show. Which is why the photo in this post is uploaded to blogger and not pointed to my server.

However I am all set for 2010 and plans are underway to try to get some good images for the blog - or maybe should I open a reliable photo sharing account which are aplenty in the net. Decisions decisions decisions. I hope my Nikon D5000 will not disappoint me. My Dell Inspiron Mini however will be unable to fit in the heavy photo editing tool (like Adobe Photoshop) which means I have to look for some lighter alternatives to enable me to edit photos while on the move with my Inspiron. No worries as the CHIP magazine has provided some softwares to test with. One thing i will also wish for in 2010 is on the reliability of the Internet services @ connectivity in Sarawak. I don't care which one as I almost have almost all of them except for the Wimax or that P wiggy thingy. My new Nokia E66 will partner my reliable Sony Ericsson P1i (which I almost replaced with a Blackberry 8520 but I need to revise that after discovering Dell Inspiron is just as good) so maybe I'd be looking at what Android phones have to offer. So far the CSL Mobile Internet Modem is performing well on Celcoms's 3G while Digi's Edge and Hotlink's 3G are used as backup.

So Christmas is looking White and New Year is looking Bright - I hope you all have made the necessary plans for the exciting ride. Cheers all!