Bukit Antarabangsa landslide and Hari Raya Haji

A massive landslide occured the morning of December 6 that took away four lives and destroyed 14 bungalows and displaced thousands of apartment dwellers nearby.

Hari Raya Aidil Adha fell on Monday Dec 8. We did our prayers at Masjid. As a personal sacrifice, my doas for the whole day was for other unfortunate people - the Malaysians affected by the landslide, the Plestinians and others involved in conflicts all over the world.

I hope the two friends who are residents of Bukit Antarabangsa are spared from all heartache. The first is my yoga teacher who I know is ok since she has been sms-ing me about rejoining the class and the other is Rozita Ariffin. She, I am worried about because I have lost her number. I hope you are ok rozita.

What's Going On ? What Are We to Do?

What's going on? This, for you, my children, is my take on the financial and economic crisis we hear about now.

Everyday we read or hear of the worsening economic climate in the world. The economies of the giants are falling like ten-pins. First the US, UK then the European Union countries, then Japan (did Japan ever get out of its doldrums ?). Next Korea and then China and Pkistan.

It seems like everyone is experiencing a credit crunch. Then their governments announced bailouts to the tune of trillions. Have the govt been stashing these mountains of cash away or just ordering the federal mint to work overtime? Will more cash make their problems go away?

Ok,what about us? Everything looks hunky dory here. The govt just reduced the price of motor gasoline and Shahir foolishly said that they may talk about reduction again in the cabinet. People think the prices of goods and services will go down but only the naive expects that. In fact when the govt increased the price of mogas to 2.70 there was some good that came out of it. The roads were clear and people drove as if their driving tester was sitting beside them. But not anymore.

OK so the Americans arent in the mood to go shopping this Christmas season. For that reason, our exports will reduce. The manufactoring sector will downshift their gears. Some job cuts may happen.

The government's revenue will also decrease due to the drop in price of oil and palm oil. The govt may cut spending or defer some projects which will cause some unfortunate people to lose their jobs also.

SO what about us? So far we have been insulated from these problems. We dont have any savings with Lehman Brothers so that's good. Most of our money is with PNB and Maybank. Although Maybank was recently in the news for some 'unwise' acquisition, it is still a safe financial institution.

Maybe the biggest single thing the govt should do from now is to practise prudence in expenditure.

As for the regular people like us, we still spend and go shopping although at the back of my mind, I'm not sure if it's a good thing to do.
Many people have suggested for the govt to reduce or abolish personal income tax for next year. That would be real good for us.

The one thing I'm really biting my nails about is a recent purchase. We bought an apartment in Melawati called the 3 Residen. It is overpriced but we went ahead anyway. Now I'm experiencing buyer's remorse. Mainly because of the price.

I guess this incoherent rambling may confuse you further.My message to you is study smart, spend wisely but enjoy your life also.
Till next time.

Nov 15 2008 - Welcome home Ayip

Today Ayip returns to KL. Welcome back Ayip. It is exactly 4 months since he left for Melbourne on July 15, 2008.

I feel that he's not going back to Melbourne which is ok but sad. I hope that he will continue at KDE from where he left off.

This week has been rather depressing because of the triple whammy.

One, I have to keep regular office hours because Mat Agil is going to Haji next week until sometime in January. I've already decided to employ ayip as a temp so that I can still go for my yoga lessons. Talking about yoga, the Fatwa council has deferred their ruling on yoga until later. I hope never.Buat lah fatwa kat benda-benda lebih penting lagi. How can they possibly think that our faith is so weak that yoga can lead us astray , I dont know. I am beginning to resent my tax ringgit being used to pay the salaries of these people..


Two, Trivenus has been a served notice to vacate our premises by Feb next year. Now we have to find a new office. It definitely will be in the melawati area. We like this place because of the convenience and safety. Any move will incur costs.

Three, the maid is going back to Indonesia for raya haji holidays for three months. Even though her work is not thorough, it helps having her around.

Nov 6, 2008 - Happy 20 th Birtyday Ayip

Happy Birthday Ayip.

Our first son - wow, and such an adorable baby. Of the four babies you were the most beautiful. No kidding - just look at the baby pictures - the ones not destroyed by moisture/leak from your bathroom.

You were so beautiful that one time when were at the Kuala Kedah or Kuala Perlis Jeti enroute to Pulau Langkawi some guy asked me what's your name. Without waiting for my reply he said 'Isabela'. Isabela was the name of Search's number one song at that time. That's how pretty you were. I think even Che Yang, our then maid, claimed that you were her son! Someone told me this.

You're an intelligent kid. That's why you're one of the only four students who aced the PTS exam in std 3. But the Malaysian education system is not for you. It doesnt do justice to someone who is intelligent but cares little for memorizing textbooks. Regardless, we let you plod on miserably through forms 4 and 5. We could have followed a different path for you but still had faith in the education system.

Not anymore. That's why we sent you to Melbourne. So that you receive an all round education. Education is not just about learning from books, it's about living a new experience and being independent. It's about learning how to be on your own and learning from your own mistakes. Semua ni cliche but need to be said.

So far, what I've got from you is how miserable you are feeling and the number one reason is Elec eng is too tough. I hope you dont have the misconception that university life is easy - that you can study the night before and pass. It's not. U have to work very hard. But we also want you to enjoy your life in melbourne. U used to be able to make friends easily.

It also puzzles me why you never even asked about Betsy? It's a pity that you let your unhapiness consume you that even things that are important to you is lost in the misery.

My wish for you on your birthday is wisdom and sense of responsibility. Happy birthday and lots of love.

Oct 25, 2008 - Happy Birthday Along

Today is ALong's 26 Birthday. Happy Birthday sweetie.

Oct 25, 82 - you we'rent supposed to be born on this date but during the last prenatal visit to Dr. Roopi, she found tht your heartbeat has slowed down and that's not good. When I went to see her agian, she told me there was'fetal distress'. She had to take u out via C-section. That's why we had you on oct 25 - u probably have a few more weeks to go.
On the morning of the 25, I was prepped for the operation - white hosp gown, cap etc. An unexpected thing happen when I was wheeled to the OT - Wan suddenly buckled/blacked out and the medics had to attend to her pulak !! When asked later about what happened, she said I looked like I 'dikapankan'.

You've always been a good student but somehow during std 1-3 you were always playing second fiddle to Mastika Liyana and Najwa (?) Now that vast intimidating forehead of hers(Mastika I mean) is not there for nothing. But I'm so proud you caught up by std 3. You came in third in the year end exams and also in an event during sports day. I remembered shouting myself hoarse but it was worth it.

I regret that I wasnt timely in paying Ustaz Ali for mengaji fees. I'm much better now with my financial obligations. Another regret was the ticks episode when you were taking the PMR exam. I also regret that I didnt visit you when you were in Melbourne, until your graduation.

AS you grew, you became more focused in your studies and excelled wherever you are. The teachers in Houston and Immaculate Conception and Taman Melawati all said wonderful things about you.

You've now spent 8 years in Australia and I know you will be calling it home. It's sad but exciting at the same time. Sad because I only get to see you once a year. But exciting because you have found someone and you love what you are doing. You once told me your interest is surgery and I pray and will support you in whatever you want to do.

Selamat Pengantin Baru-Neng Zairin Hafiza

Neng weds Hisham on 17 Oct 2008. Selamat Pengantin Baru to you both. Macam Pinang dibelah Dua.
Hisham is quite a sport because he's been out to our family gatherings a few times and didnt seem out of place. Wecome to the family Hisham.

On the night of the 17 th we drove to Seremban for the akad nikah ceremony. Dress code was blue. It poured cats and dogs in the evening that all roads leading out of KL were jammed. Never had a trip from KL to Seremban taken 3 hours before, but that nite,for us, it did. If that made Neng or Mak Jo uneasy, I am very sorry. But the ceremony went well.

The following day was the reception. Mak Ngah and Busu penang made the trip too. The dress code was brown. Actually it was gold which is pretty galmourous,but mak jo told me the colour theme was brown to which I scoffed at coz I dont look good in brown, what with brown skin and all.... So I settled for yellow instead. Now, if I had known it's gonna be gold......

The following weekend we drove to Kuala Trengganu for Hisham's side of the reception. His relatives were very welcoming.

Neng has to learn how to kecek Gganu doh.

Selamat Hari Raya Aidil Fitri

Selamat hari raya to my children who are overseas. I miss you all I say, with my mouth full of lemang.

As usual, we trooped to Kampung Juasseh 2 days before raya. (It has to be 2 coz that's all we can stand). The day before raya was filled with heavy cooking. Of course everything was kuning - ayam kuning, daging kuning, ikan kuning. This year Zed wanted to 'mengacau dodol' so they did. I was in charge of the soto - having been anointed by the sifu herself (Mak Jo).

On hari raya we stuffed ourselves silly after the prayers. After handing out the angpaus, came the obligatory picture taking session. There were four generations of the clan immortalized in print. Then its time to pack our bags and head off to Penang.

We also spent 2 nigths in Penang. Here, everything was curry or its variation, but with more exotic meats - there's itik nila etc. We did the usual rounds with the Tanjung Bungah folks and also other friends at Jalan Edgecumbe.

Selamat Hari Raya everyone

Sept 16, 2008

What will today bring?

All those hours spent reading Malaysiakini and Malaysia Today has me caught up in the euphoria of 'change'. We'll see.

August 31, 2008

Wow time files. What happened in august ? Let's see.

First there was Ayah's birthday on August 15.

I wish for a Happy Birthday to my husband and hope there'll be many many more birthdays. At first it was his humour that attracted me. Really, I think he's a real funny guy !! Then later, it was his 'smarts'. He's a really smart guy - not nerdy kind of smart but pandai lah. Could be crossing of the genes. But his most potent talent - putak belit dia. Definitely the crossing of the genes!

We aslo visited Along in Perth. It was fun coz Perth is a lovely city and the weather was lovely for nice long walks. Finally we get to see some kangaroos. Not much in terms of shopping though I finally found my soup tureen. A big too big for my liking but still ok. Perth would make a good retirement place.

Yay, after 25 years of buying things for her, now its her turn to buy me things. Thanks for the nice Fossil bag, Along. Remember, ada credit AUD 200 lagi tau! THe others are too shy to take up your offer I guess.

Happy Birthday also to Malaysia - 31 August. Is it just me or does anyone not notice the lack of gaeity in the air. Oh well, just another holiday.

Arif - First Day at RMIT

Today is the first day of his life as an RMIT student. Good Luck and all the best to you.
Study smart -that's most important. All of us hope that you will take this opportunity to experice what life has to offer. You may learn some things from school, other things from books, but the I think the richest and most memorable things you have to EXPERIENCE.

Good luck and study smart

June 21 - Happy 14th Birthday Amir

Today Amir turns 14. Happy Birthday Sweet.

Notwithstanding the colicky early weeks, you have made the last 14 years the most wonderful time of our lives. I have always looked back with a tinge of regret when I think about the growing up years of Along, Angah and Ayip. There were lots of things I could/should have done differently.Or I wasn't always there for them, but with you I pretty much have matured as a person and a mother and I am quite happy with my performance. How you will turn out depends entirely on you.

Your expected delivery date was a guesstimate. June 21, 1994 came but I wasnt ready. The OBGYN , Dr. Byron Holt, tried to induce birth but wasnt successful. So we had you via Caesarian Section. .
You easily tipped the scales at 8 1/2 pounds but was ICU-ed with the other preemies.
I didnt see you then but everyone said u stuck out like a sore thumb among the teenies.

I had wanted to name you Munir, after Dr.Munir Majid but was vehemently opposed by eveyone. In hindsight , I'm glad. You see, he sometimes wrote articles for NSt and from what I read he seemed, like a smart guy. Later he was involved in the expensive art fiasco as the MAS chairman.

A a 1-yr old toddler, you potty trained yrself! well almost. I just took the easy way out and slapped on the disposable diaper but no, u refused to wear it, except for long journeys. Not only did I save on diapers, I had leftovers from the US made ones.

You're also quite witty ! This is the kid who gave us gems like 'lovely nightmare', 'James Bont', 'the sauce of it' and 'Ice Burp (you cooked this up at age 4 when you had to endure 3 hours of Titanic the movie). There were many more like 'compe-TAY-tion' or 'the Toppest boy' etc.

But you're a little too shy and too 'considerate' for your own good. It's okay -Go ahead and grab that last cookie. You dont have to ask lah. You're our baby after all.

Fuel Price Increase

Last thursday the govenment increased the price of petrol by whopping 40% and diesel by 63%. This is an inevitable move by the govenment in view of the skyroketting price of crude. We are now painfully paying for the government previous sins.
The government has rightly advised the rakyat to 'change your lifestyles'. There have been many calls from the rakyat for the 'government to change its lifestyle' too!

The government must practise prudent management of the rakyat's money. Top of the list is an integrated, comprehensive and efficent public transport system. In fact this was promised during the last fuel price hike but I dont know how much improvement has been made since I dont use the public transport system. But judging from the many letters to the Editors of newspapers, I think the government has been guilty of making empty promises.

The government must make concerted efforts to help the disadvantaged and lower income citizens in these difficult times. Already calls from diverse groups like lorry operators to accountants to nasi campur sellers seeking to increase their prices, are heard. They will increase their prices but I hope not by 40%! Most middle-class salaried workers will adjust their lifestyles - like planning their trips, eating at home more often, defer unnessasary purchases - and they can ride through. But the low-wage earners like the security guards, taxi and bus drivers should be taken care of. I dont know how - may be food coupons or free public transport? But the government must ensure that leakage through abuse or corruption is minimal.
Repeat-The governement must practise prudent management of the rakyat's money. Do away with unnessasary spending. The national service is one such example. It has failed to achieve its main objective which is to foster racial unity; although its minor objectives like improving selfconfidence, independence etc have been easily met. As Najib said, alot of people (ie. cronies) are involved, they cant just stop it. Then compensate these 'alot of people' so that they can still make their returns on thier investments but at a much lower rate. In fact, a personal friend of mine is directly involved in this and I dont want her to suffer any losses.

We all hear about cases of corruption in the government involving politicians and beureaucrats at the highest levels. The government must be very serious in its belated delivery of tackling corruption.

I hope those people using the argument that Malaysia is an oil producing country so then our petrol should be subsidised, would shut up. They are confusing the ordinary people and giving false hopes. The best for us is to accept the fact that oil is expensive, adjust and move on. But the government must take steps to spend the savings from the subsidy removal for the betterment of the people.

The Week That Was

This has been a rather eventful week.
First, was the wedding of Shaik, Uncle Habeeb's son on Sunday. Shaik is Angah's age and is the heir-apparent to Uncle Habeeb's businesses. His sister, Zakiah, who's of Along's age, has a 5 year old son already.

Then, mid-week the government announced the fuel price hike. We now have to brace ourselves for tougher times ahead. The subsidy has become a double-edged sword for us. We were happy to enjoy cheap oil and had become 'complacent' because of it. There was no need to frugal with this cheap but depleting resource. The state of our public transport has not improved since perhaps the 70's. Why should it? oil is cheap, let the people buy cars and build more tolled roads.
The price of fuel is the linchpin of the economy and everything will rise in tandem with it. Wil probably write more on this in another post.

As if that's not enough. Our ofice computer got infected with the Antivirus 2008 virus. How it got past the Mcafee antivirus I dont understand even though it was explained a few times to me. It has to do with unknowingly downloading an infected program, but then what is the mcafee for? The computer is ok now, but I'm worried about this notebook.

Busu Norsham and her family came back from umrah on thursday. Will visit them soon.

This weekend pulak we have a couple of weddings and also next weekend.

Amir's Guitar Recital

Yesterday Amir and his Yamaha Music buddies gave a concert. His teacher, Felix sportingly, sang all the songs to accompany the musicians. Tapi Amir keras aje. Tak sway to the msic langsung.
Here's some pictures of the concert.

Dr.Nor Fariza Abu Hassan - Port Hedland Here She COmes

Today ALong goes to Port Hedland, a rural town, a 3-hour-plane ride north of Perth.
As usual, I wont let my maternal worries get the better of me. It should not,because you have proven yourself to be an intelligent and a responsible person and and wise beyond your years. I hope your assignment there is an educational and enlightening experience and not too boring.

Asthe risk of sounding like a broken record, take care and be safe always.

Fuel Sale Ban on Foreign Vehicles

Today the government will enforce the new ruling on service stations located at the borders - Johor, Perlis, Kedah and Kelantan. Fuel sales to foreign registered cars are banned for all stations within 50 kms of the border.
I say it's about time the government do something to protect our precious subsidised fuel from these foreigners.

Some potential problems await the government. One, from the station dealers themselves. A very significant percentage of their sales volumes come from these foreign cars. There is absolutely no incentive for dealers to follow the ban, unless the government comes down hard on them. Government should impose the highest fines possible for any infringment. Get them where it hurts the most - their wallet!. Next are the enforcers themselves. Will they close one eye? Next are a group of Mlaysians who live in Johor but work in Singapore. This bunch drives Singapore registered cars to escape a levy on Malaysian cars entering Singapore. So brother, you either pay the levy and get to buy cheap fuel or escape levy and buy more expensive fuel. You cant have it both ways. Sorry ah.

I have high hopes that the minister, sharir samad, can make this necessary but unpopular move, work. Its about time we stop subsidising them. If the govt is to incur heavy subsidy burden, then let it just be for Malaysians.
Actually I have a bone to pick with these Singapore cars! Of course I dont know anyone in particular and maybe I generalise them too much. But based on my
observations, they are the 'kiasu' ones on our highways. While we Msians cant get off from paying the speeding summons they can get away with it. Not fair.

So Datuk Sharir, I wish God grants you the courage to take this on.

Arif Abu Hassan - RMIT , here he comes

It's official. Ayip has been accepted into RMIT. Syukur kepada Allah. I hope he makes the most of this opportunity and not waste it.
He will leave on July 15 with Ayah. Ayah will be with him to 'hand-hold' him for a week.
For now he will still enslave himself to Burger King until the end of June.

That brings me to another subject - slavery as practised by the Burger King franchise holder in Malaysia. The payment cycle is the 16th of the month to the 15th of the follwing month. The salary for this cycle will be paid on the 1st of the next month! So one's salary from Apr 16-May 15 will only be paid on June 1st!!!!!Nantilah, bila senang-senang, I will pursue this with the labour dept of the human resource ministry. I will do this for the hundreds of kids enslaved by the company.

Hong Kong May 22-25

We went to Hong Kong last thursday.

The last time I set foot in Hong Kong was sometime in 1991. As soon as the plane landed and I got off the plane, the 'pong' from the harbour hit me. Not so this time. The spanking new airport was ultra modern.

We stayed at the Kowloon hotel right in the middle of Tsim Tsa Tsui (sp?). Hong Kong is teeming with people. Everyone is rushing about- that after the first day, I already missed the greenery and tranquility of Bukit Mas. It's just like Singapore - very clean very efficient and whatever greenery they have, is jealously guarded. After the first day, we missed rice already. Fortunately we found many Indian and Halal shops a few doors away.

I had intended to shop for kain ela to make baju kurung for Neng's wedding. In the 1990s there were many shops selling silk materials, but I could only find 2 this time. And, expensive too. What happened ? Maybe the HongKongers have moved away from tailoring their clothes to buying readymade ones. There certainly is no shortage of shops selling all kinds of clothes. Many many upmarket and luxury brands.

While Ayip and Amir sepnt the day at the Ocean Park - theme park, ayah and I checked out Stanley Market. I bought lots of bedding material- so that was good. But I couldnt find a single shop selling kain ela! AMir couldnt find a single shop selling those tacky souvenirs like the keychains and stuffs. He had wanted to get some for his friends. Yang ada are those at the airport so he gave it a miss.
All in all, Hong Kong has grown to be very sophiscated and expensive.

Atok & Wan's Birthday

Yesterday we celebrated Atok and Wan. It was for their 80 th birthday . Atok on 15/11/28 and wan on 30/4/28.
It was a modest effort with a few hiccups right from the get-go. But the mother of the hiccups came a few minutes after we started. Pak Jo had a call from his neighbour - his house had been burgled. Pak Jo and Mak JO had to leave. We found out later that only some watches and an old comp were stolen. the rooms were ransacked and that was nerve-wrecking mak jo said.
Amir and I performed RObbie Williams' Better Man.
Here are the pictures.

May 13 2008

Today is May 14. That means yesterday was May 13.


Should I fear this date? I dont know. For a few years now May 13 came and went without me noticing it.

May 13 1969 - my family was in Singapore at this time. I was in Primary 6. I remember Atok and some friends were discussing something in hushed tones about events in Malaysia. I think I did catch some wind of it - Malays and Chinese were fighting in Malaysia but we kids went about or usual business. My best friend was Lee Lye Hong.

I am sure many families have suffered directly and indirectly as a result of the racial riots and they deserve our sympathy and respect. So what does May 13 mean to me? It means 3 little words -Agree to Disagree.

I'm quite confident the country will go on business as usual. Political tsunami, lingamgate, NEP, PKR -all these notwithstanding, Malaysians will not change that much. It will take a few more generations for us to mature socially or politically like the americans. Our own selfish sense of survival and pragmatism will ensure that we remain cordial with peope of other races. Nobody wants anarchy. SO everyone live in peace regardless of our differences.
Politicians especially the Malay leaders should get their priorities right. Uplift the status of the citizens through education and poverty reduction. This country is blessed with so much natural resources. God has also spared us from most natural disasters. If politicains dont indulge in corruption, imagine the wealth that can channelled for the benefits to the citizens. We can have better roads, better schools, better cities etc and better standard of living.

Ayip@Burger King @ Carrefour

Ayip officially entered the work force on Mar 22 2008. His first employer is the Burger King franchisee. His pay is RM 3.50 an hour. At this point I support minimum wage wholeheartedly!

Working at BK is good because the family always think of the WHopper as the king of burgers. It's much pricier than Mcdonalds but alot more tasty. We think of it as a treat. Now, he takes home these whoppers at the end of his workday. So, we're forever having some kind of burger or another. I dare say that in a few weeks we would have had enough of these junk food. Tengoklah macam mana.
One day after having worked for a week, he came home at midnight with a long face. The cash register was short of RM 150/- ! So ayah and I went into counselling mode. It turned out that there was a system error.
Bye. gotta go eat a whopper.

Apr 2 - Angah's 23rd Birthday

Yesterday was angah's birthday.


The adage -the days are long but the years are short - is so true.

You were a big baby - 8 1/2 pounder. The birth pangs on the morning of April 2, 1985 are still vivid in my mind. Also the warm feeling I get when you cry and my breasts became engorged.



For 2 1/2 years we called you adik until Ayip came along. You kissed me goodbye at the polikinik kotaraya where I was to deliver Ayip, with that irritating pacifier stuck halfway in-halfway out your mouth. I knew that wan 's gonna cure you from that pacifier syndrome while I'm away. She'd put some gambir on it to turn you off. It worked. But you must have been a real trooper to tahan the bullying act. To add salt to injury we brought home another baby pulak! But You were more accomodating of an adik compared to what Along did, when we brought YOU home.



I remember the frustration I felt teaching you how to read in English when you were in First Grade. But look at you now!

I also remember the frustration I felt watching you cross the road infront of the primary school in Melawati. Remember? Now you criss-cross the globe with ease.

I remember my heart swelled with pride when you got 96 for Science in Std 6. Your other subjects were very good but Science was different animal. The hyphothesis and variables and stuffs were a puzzle until we 'cracked' it. I think it was the highest in the class. Masa tu parents jumpa teachers and some of your friends' moms and dads were there.
My heart was hanging in my throat when you got your SPM results and when you phoned back with perfect scores I could only shed tears of joy. I do wonder whether I should have encouraged you to take on more subjects.
I was proud when you received the first prize in the UN AIDS Essay Competetion but also pissed at that Banting school for not sending anyone to witness the prizegiving. Oh well.

Just a year ago we celebrated your birthday on a bench in a Parisian street. That, after walking and walking to find a cake shop!

So happy birthday my dear. We love you and miss you terribly.

The Morning After - 3 Wishes

Dear Kids. Wow the election results were shocking. Nothing short of a political tsunami.

Ayah and I voted at the sekolah menengah. It took us less than 10 mins to get our voices heard, but I did notice that there ware other lines which were quite long. No matter, this time we got lucky.

After dinner we turned on tv1 to see if the results are in. Sure enough the crawler kat bawah screen tunjuk BN menang - mostly Sabah. At around 930 I logged on to malaysiakini and was flabbergasted. Penang jatuh, Samy vellu & kaveas kalah, Nurul leading. The point here is our tv is still so in denial!

You would have known by now that BN still menang but denied the majority (2/3 of parliament). More importantly Penang is now under pakatan DAP & PKR, Kedah has a PAS Mentr Besar and Khalid IBrahim ( PKR & ex CEO of Guthrie) will be the Sgor MB. Perak in limbo coz MN kena Muslim and DAP yg menang banyak but they'll work it out with PKR. Nik Aziz gets to keep his job. The most despised 32-year old (based on blogs, not my opinion ok) will draw his salary as an MP for Rembau. I feel sad for Sharizat. She lost because of the party she's affiliated to.

I think Malays are fed up of UMNO's arrogance. Even our neighbours share the feeling. Then ayah's friends at today's wedding also said the same thing. With a few sychophants painting rosy pictures all the time the leaders have just lost touch with what the rakyat are saying or feeling. BN suffered a black eye due to the internet. Since the mainstream papers only sing praises we looked elsewhere. The internet uncovered a treasure trove of scandals-misuse of public funds and all maners of cronyism and corruption. Of course there are many other factors.

I hope the leadership will realise that the 'loss' is many things to many people. FOr people like me its the arrogance and corruption. For others it may be bread and butter issues. Crime and religious freedom. Of course not easy to please everyone. But I think the country gains because of a strong opposition. We need check and balance in a democracy.

My other hope is for the opposition (PAS,PKR, DAP) to be able to put aside their differences in ideologies and be able to work together. Otherwise this victory will be meaningless.

My last hope is for all the non Malay elected reps to learn to speak Bahasa Malaysia like Ong Tee Kiat and Koh Tsu Koon, if they haven't already. There is only one way to get to the heart of the kampung people and that is to speak theri language.

Another Little Wish

I wish for the 89 year old grandma Maimun Yusuf who is contesting in Kuala Trg to get back her 10K deposit. If Allah wills that she wins, then All the best to her for realising her dream.

My 3 Wishes for Mar 8, 2008

My Children, tomorrow is polling day. I am very sure there has never before been an election this fiercely contested - from the banner wars, the millions and billions in development aid/economic corridors promised by the BN to the illogical promise of fuel price reduction made by Anwar.



That BN will win, is a foregone conclusion. But out of this dirtiest ever election I hope will be a better Malaysia for all of you and the other children and the future generations.

The first redeeming grace for BN would be for all those who have been tainted - the likes of the bocor and tunnel characters, be given the boot by votesr. Also those who can afford to build palatial homes but cant afford to pay for the quit rent(?) for 12 years or his relatives and close- one-eyes and similarly idiots caught carrying cash-filled suitcases will have nothing to do with the government ever.



We Malays have become more educated compared to our parents and we can thank the goverment for building the schools and making educ more accessible. Yes yes we're grateful for all the help. But with education comes awareness. We are now exposed to the alternative media. We read of the abuses of power and public funds perpetrated by those in ruling party. Dont tell us that we're being told lies. We can judge for ourselves. The proofs are there for all to see. What we got as beneficieries are peanuts compared to what the elites got for themselves.



Its time for the government (read UMNO) to realise that as God-fearing people, they have to take this amanah and serve the rakyat honestly, fairly, ethically and honourably. I hope that enough opposition members get to sit in the parliament to save UNMO from itself. It will self destrcut if it gets too big like what we're seeing now. Enough of trying to out-Islam PAS in form only. How about putting in more substance ? Getting rid of corruption and being fair and ethical are very Islamic indeed.



The other thing I wish to see improve is national intergration. I believe that the key lies in the school system. There is little hope if the Chinese and Indian kids still go to vernacular schools. Every child should attend sekolah kebangsaan which must be secular. Only the strongest of political will (via a strong leader) can do this. For umpteenth years we have fooled ourselves into thinking that we're ONE nation by the superficial displays of open houses and whatnots. But really, after they stuffed themselves silly, mounds of uneaten leftovers notwithstanding, they go home and live happily ever after in separate but parallel universe until the next open house.
The makeup of the civil service , police and army should reflect the racial demographics of the country. At ALL levels of the hierarchy. So if I enter a post office I should see 50 % Malay clerks, 25% Chinse clerks and 10% Indian clerks. Will this remain a pipe dream - I guess so.

I am very proud of you children because you mix well with the other races. You are truly the Malaysian - you have Malay, Chinese and Indian blood in you. No wonder you are so smart! But of course you need to study/work hard too - get that Ayip and Amir?

Let's get back on track. I get uneasy when I read about the numbers of foreigners in Malaysia. We need them for sure We're too good for the 3D jobs so we cant live without them. The govt should make legal workers' entry in Msia more transparent or professional. Instead, the importation of workers is given to agencies. Who are these agents - people with political connections -cronies or relatives. They are the ones getting rich at the expense of the ordinary Malaysian employer or the poor foreign worker. With a proper system that's transparent and hassle free maybe the govt will get to keep more of the monies rather than the agents. If we have to have foreigners, then let's have legal foreigners. There we go again -all road leads to corruption. But I personally hope we can reduce our dependence on them. I play my little part by not having a live-in maid. Our house together with five others share one maid. So that's 5 less maids. We're lucky coz you guys are big enough to not need a baby sitter.

We passed by Bangsar yesterday balik from Subang Jaya. Banyak betul posters esp Barisan Nasional's. As I looked at the glamorous air-brushed face of Sharizat and the simple sweetness of Nurul Izzah (anak Anwar) - candidates for lembah Pantai parliament seat- I have one more wish. I wish ALL the female candidates success. If a female lawan another female, may the better lady succeed. Hope that lone Indian lady contesting under the PAS ticket somewhere in Johore wins. Let them all get into the assemblies. It's one step towards making this place more gender sensitive.

My last little wish is for Sharlinie, the little girl mssing since Jan7. Whereever you are may ALLAH protect you. Allah Knows Best.

Of JPJ, Meetings and Weddings

I have been awake since 430 this morning. No, it's not you, Dad, though I think you slept better last night. Otherwise, that cough- kacau aje. Since I couldnt go back to sleep and havent written in this blog for many days, here I am.


Accompanied Ayip to get his driving license renewed at JPJ yesterday. Hate those govt departments. Why are they always crowded? Surely there cant be thousands of people who need to get their driver's licenses renewed everyday, or are there? And those touts ! I guess it's a supply and demand thing. Because of the inefficiency, the touts are there to fill the need.
But what pissed me off was Ayip himself. He forgot to bring his IC and old license. Earlier, I had asked him to make a copy. He did and left the original on the copier. Many thanks and gratitude to that kind clerk at JPJ who used her discretion and went ahead and processed his application anyway. So Ayip, even tho I didnt mention anything about your foolish act, it's still simmering inside. Now, that's the end of it, if you dont do it again!

We attended a friend's daughter's wedding last sat. Thanks Zizah of Jalan A10 for the invite. Saw many old familiar faces. Even the Matthews came over to say hi. God bless you Mrs Matthews. Such a selfless lady. She volunteers at the hospital cancer wing many days a week. And she takes the bus to get there. I salute you.
We have another wedding next week - Japri's daughter. And anotther one the week after- Ishak's son. One by one they fall. (dont take this negatively)

Last night I went to the KCP members meeitng at KDE. The turnout was not as big as the previous one. Maybe it's members fatigue. We have two cool lawyers in the liason committee. As members, victimised at that, we tend to become emotional. Thank god for these two gentlemen who brought back rationale to the floor.
Since jan 2008 the club has refused to collect our monthly subscription! Entry into the club is denied unless we pay guest fees of 20 ringgit. Amir uses the club facilities more than anyone of us so he terribly affected. Anyway, this unilateral action on the club's part is very distressing because the sale and purchase transaction has not been completed and there was an agreement between the liason comm and the club mgmt that we members can use the facilities provided the subscrition is up to date. Now they reneged on their agreement. ANyway the court proceeding is still ongoing. Some members suggested that we protest ala BERSIH or create a blog just to give some bad publicity to the club or just storm into the club en mass - much to the delight of the floor. But the lawyers advised against any of it for fear of contempt of court or being subjudice.

I think today I'll go to the office in the morning. That means we'll have take-out food for lunch. Petang kalau tak de ape2 nak pegi Kinrara. Nak tengok tanah untuk buat rumah. I know, I know you guys must be wondering - tak puas-puas lagi ke. Now that I've piqued your interest, I'll continue next time. He he he.

Dr. Nor Fariza Abu Hassan @Royal Perth Hospital

Hi Along. I know you're busy with work and such but do take some time off to eat and sms home. I hope after a while when you get the hang of things or when things start to settle down please sit down and do what you said you need to do - like meet with the financial/tax planner . Then if you have the time call home once in a while.

Bye. Luvya

Promises, promises - easy to dish out but long on delivery

Around two weeks or so ago, Angah had asked me for some kaya and tuna spread and I had promised her that I would send them right away. But I completely forgot about it until yesterday, so I only got to do it today. So Sorry, ngah.


Promises, promises - cakap tak serupa bikin. Our politicains do that all the time and now, I am guilty of it.


Its election fever time. This is the time for goodies galore. Atok and Wan (one of their favourite targets to woo are the wargas tua) have already got their Rm 100 ringgit, packets of rice and mee hoon and I dont remember what else. I say on behalf of those folks in Cheras - Bring It On!

In 2004 both Wan and Tok voted but at different polling stations. In thier(BN supporters) zeal to get her vote they practically carried her to her polling station. But guess what? Once they got her vote she's a nobody anymore. She was left at the school -tercengang-cengang cari orang nak hantar dia balik! Fortunately a neighbour gave her a ride home. She's not voting this year of course.

Over in Melawati, we've got some roads which have been resurfaced and their lines redrawn. WHat's nice would be if we can get the mail box situated in a more convenient location so that we dont have to drive in circles (if one follows traffic rules lah) trying to post some letters. The mail boxes used to be where Deen Nasi Kandar now placed their trash cans. How can the interest of a minority usurp that of a majority's?

And can we have a proper collection schedule for our household trash? Once a week just wont do it! And dont get me started on our Melawati township road system - but I think I'm off tangent here.

I 've always been an NST reader, until about two years ago when I started to read the alternative media and blogs. It was an awakening. Now I read both and make my own judgments. I dont buy everything the alternative media says but there is so much that is missing in the mainstream newspapers- scandals involving the ruling party or or some transgressions by some morons disguised as YBs.

I think the main election issues for me would be corruption, crime and polarization among the races. Of course everyone is affected by bread and butter issues like rising prices and I'm no exception. The elcection is still a week away. More on it later.

One Lazy Sunday Afternoon

Yesterday we had a family gathering at Busu's in Kemensah. Not a full house though coz, besides you girls, Lan and family and Naim could make it either. For good measure, Neng's beau (Hisham) was also mentioned as a non-attendee. (he has sportingly attended several of our family do's). Lan couldnt make it coz 'he has to get Najib's plane ready'.

Yesterday was also Uncle Niza's birthday. I made soto and busu prepared the bbq's. The soto was quite good and the sifu herself (Mak Jo) said she'd be retiring from the Hari Raya soto-making business from this year on.

Most of our conversation centered on the coming elections on Mar 8. There never was an election where we were more involved. We didnt do anything but we are aware of issues of governance and talked more about it.

Oh, our old friend from our SIU days will be contesting for a parliamentary seat in Kelantan this election. Good luck Dato' and kirim salam to Datin.

In your sms, Along, you mentioned that you have been very efficient and rarely need to do overtime while the other interns are clocking O/T's like nobody's business and end up having the last laugh with all that money. Well let me tell you that YOU will have the last laugh. So forget about short-term gains.

I am so very very proud (and Ayah too I'm sure) to watch you grow and develop into a fine and responsible young lady - and efficient to boot! So bila nak dapat masuk telephone kat rumah ni? I thot Perth is in the first world.

Amir just got back from badminton. He's getting quite good - infact hari ni he defeated two school players. Ayip, on friday, submitted his appl for UWA and Adelaide. He will apply for RMIT during the IDP open day - the appl fee will be waived on that day.

Sometime in between friday and saturday

It's 234 am sat morning and I was awakened an hour ago by an irritating buzz in my ear. Tried to go back to sleep but a potpourri of irritants prevented me - mozzie bites on my arms, ayah's rythmic snoring and the after-effects of the durians I had at dinner.

I'm pretty sure Ayip was playing some war games on his computer coz I could hear some muffled sounds from his room - he innocently said 'tu music ' . Konon! I wish he'd do more to bolster my (and ayah's) comfort level - that our plans for him in terms of his education is not money down the drain!

The MAS travel fare started friday. The fares were so tempting and I think it's not a shame if we succumbed to the bait. We voted on the destination during dinner and after deliberation , decided on HongKong. Sometime duirng the may sch hols. Only problem is Betsy. So angah and along - u're invited to join us in HK.

The poster wars have started. Our two roundabouts and the school entrances were festooned in blue mostly. Ada some PKR posters and a sprinkling of PAS's. Maybe I'll write on my take on the election/politics in another thread. I just hope the party workers really clean up and remove their stuffs after the election.

21-Feb 2008

This is my first blog entry so I've just titled it with today's date.

The purpose of this blog is to record our family's day to day activities. Every new year I've always managed to get my hands on some spanking new diary but I've never gotten past a few weeks' entries in any of my diaries so far. I hope to do better with an online one!

Yesterday my parents came to visit. I had earlier expressed my concern regarding my father, specifically his hearing. Many times he's caught unawares that he's being addressed. He could be genuinely disinterested in our conversations - but I suspect he's not hearing as well as before. Heck , even I, I think am losing it little by little. But yesterday he seemed perky and chirpy. I had wanted to suggest that he be tested for his hearing but since he seemed ok I left it at that. Both he and my mom seemed to be nicer to each other (Kak LOng confirmed this - the 5 day separation DID it). Both were excited about the prospect of going for their Umrah with my sister Norsham's family in May.

In the afternoon I went to our office. Azmir dropped by and dropped a bombshell. He tendered his resignation. I've never been in a real supervisory position before so this felt to me like we(trivenus) have been abandoned (he got a job offer from Petronas Dagangan).

Earlier in the week, my second daughter Sarah, sms-ed me while she's enroute to visit her friend Shazana, in London. One of my holiday wishes is to drive (actually for my husband to drive) around the UK and see the English countryside in spring. It will probably remain a wish for now but Angah has 2 more years to go so I may get my wish yet. My first daughter Fariza who's an intern at Royal Perth Hospital has been very busy and by her own admission, has no time to eat even. I hope she will lighten up - not sure if she's uptight-maybe just extremely overloaded with work. But she has been sms-ing her little brother with little snippets of her life.

Today I just stayed home and worked from home. I sent a letter to MOHR to request for a list of candidates for Azmir's replacement. This is what I like about this 'job'. I can stay home dressed in my tshirt and kain batik, work some, watch tv some, cook some and even teach my son some.
In fact right now I'm starting to prepare for the family reunion we're going to have on sat. My nasi impit is merrily cooking on the stove. And now my husband wants his tea and currypuff.