Channel 707: You Made Me Smile For Being Malaysian

It's Merdeka Day today. Today marks the 52th anniversary of the nation's independence. H1N1 is still spreading like wildfire, I'm preserving my energy in the fasting month, I've done my necessary shoppings. So what better way to spend a public holiday of doing nothing rather than living a bum marking on the couch. I've always enjoyed watching channel 707 (Astro translation: Discovery Travel & Living). I've always been fascinated with all the great places to go around the world, to explore the great people and the great food around the world. The travel journalist sure did their job well. I just feel like not working, spending a whole year just, travelling.

But today, channel 707 did more than just that. Channel 707 brought me back home and make me realise how great it is to live here in Malaysia. I was watching back to back episodes of Passage To Malaysia and I have to say 'Hey, being Malaysian is not a bad thing at all'. One episode talks about how Jamie (the host that is) went throught the festivities celebrated here in Malaysia (i.e. Hari Raya, Chinese New Year, Deepavali), and how the concept of warmth, family, togetherness being portrayed. It's cool to see Jamie celebrated Hari Raya with the Negeri Sembilan royal family, chatting around with the now Almarhum Tuanku Jaafar, and enjoying great hospitality by the royal family. Then you see Denise (another host, which is interestingly hot) travel down the waters of Langkawi, Penang, Pangkor & Melaka, exploring the wonders of flora & fauna, culture & history. I was amazed to see a Caucasian family been living in Pangkor Island for the past 4 generations, settling down with the locals and loving it. Woww, it just amazes me that we are so proud and bragged about living overseas, yet little that we know that the foreigners think Malaysia as more than just home.

Another show, 'Food Safari' talks about Malaysian food loved by the Australians. There's a Malaysian restaurant owned by a Chinese family and they cook and serve beef rendang, laksa, even roti canai. Malay cuisine being prepared by a Chinese? That is just so 1 Malaysia. And some time ago I've watched Anthony Bourdain's show about his journey into Malaysian culinary world and how he was just mesmerised by the fusion that is going on. Wow, I do watch a lot of TV, haha...

So there you go, watching these shows made me realised that Malaysia is home. We arm warm, fun loving people with nice food to eat and nice places to go to. The foreigners gave two thumbs up to what Malaysia has to offer, and so why can't we? Yes of course, we have cracks and voids here and there in our system. To Astro, I think your Negaraku concept of airing Malaysia related material during Merdeka month is just brilliant! As a Malaysian I just want to say terima kasih...

P.S: I just laughed my ass off hearing Denise's pronunciation of an-gin lembut lembut...

What My Health Says About Me

Working in a refinery, you are constantly exposed with demanding work challenge, not to mention hazardous substances. Also, all the stress in work will make you eat whatever it is and ended up regretting it, huhu. That is why it is an obligation to all staffs to undergo annual medical checkup. Nothing rocket science; just some physical checks (BP, eyesight, hearing) and some blood work. Well, I have done mine about 2 weeks ago, and I have received my report.

Here are some findings on my health based on the report:

1) My blood type is A Positive
2) My total RBC (red blood cell count) is 6.3
3) My MCV is on a lower side (which according to the Internet, means that I have a lower than average red blood cell size
4) My hemoglobin amount per red blood cell is also lower than average
5) Result for uric acid is within range
6) HDL Cholestrol is 1.2 (OK, I guess)
7) LDL Cholestrol (Haha, now this is a concern). Basically LDL cholestrol is also known as the bad cholestrol. My LDL result is 3.2, against the optimal range of less then 2.6. I kinda expect this, since I happen to eat lots of fast foods..Haiyooo, have to cut some maaa
8) And lastly blood glucose; 5.6. Normal. Yeayy!

Well, I may have to refer to my brother on this. I'm not a doctor, so I don't exactly know what these numbers mean (especially the hemoglobin, MCV thingy).

Owhh before I forgot, my BP was OK, but my left eyesight is not performing very well. I got 6/6 for my right eye, but I only got 6/8 for my left eye...

Let's just hope that I will not start wearing contacts or glasses anytime soon...I don't want to look like a nerd!

See Malaysia From The Eyes Of Malaysians...

In the spirit of Merdeka, I came across the website of 15Malaysia. Basically it is a short film project, led by Pete Teo addressing some aspects of Malaysia life. Why 15? Well, according to the website's FAQ, it's simply because it is a nice number (not to mention that there are 15 featured short films in this website). Filmmakers of these films ranged from the unknowns to the reputable ones, like the late Yasmin Ahmad.

I happened to stumble on this site while surfing a gossip column (That's right, I admit it. I enjoy gossips once in a while, haha). At the moment not all videos have been featured; they have their own release dates. I have however check out some of the uploaded videos. 'Potong Saga' tells a story about how a guy was misinformed on how Islamic banking works; but in the end unfolds something more; the fact that people can easily be misinformed and have the tendency of 'following without questioning'. 'Chocolate' by arwah Yasmin Ahmad reminds us that life goes on- even if not all of it is sweet (how I like this statement). Owhh not to mention, we even have politicians of different political background willingly participate in this project. In 'The Tree' the great Tuan Guru himself was the principal cast, giving his words of wisdom in a subtle yet meaningful way.

So, enough reading my thoughts about this. Go check it out yourself! You may have a diiferent word than what I have said. Heck, there's even one video which I thought was great but the ending scene brought me to a conclusion that the filmmaker could be insensitive. (you may know ehich vid I'm talking about once you've watched it). As a teaser, here's one of the showcased short films. Have a good weekend:)

I Pledge Myself Not To Text While Driving…

Apparently there’s new initiative brought to my interest. The Road Safety Department has established a campaign, ‘Malaysians Unite For Road Safety’ or in short MUFOR. The idea of the campaign is to increase awareness among us road users on how important it is to be a vigilant driver. The plan of course is to get 250,000 pledges by 9 September 2009 (09/09/09, cool date eh). Here’s a little bit about the website:

Everyday we are bombarded with news of road accidents that often result in fatalities. The numbers are alarming as recent statistics from the Road Safety Department show that an average of 18 people are killed in road accidents everyday in Malaysia. The lives lost not only weigh heavily on the families that mourn them, but the country as well, for the passing of each of the thousands of lives lost on the road every year has an impact on the fabric of society and the economy.
But who is responsible for these very worrying numbers? We are quick to blame others and point out their weaknesses but unfortunately, we overlook the fact that we are often just as guilty of committing the same offenses and indulging in the same driving habits that lead to accidents. This vicious cycle has escalated to the point that many drivers no longer even think twice before doing something that they shouldn’t – it's as simple as "everyone else does it, why can't I?"
MUFORS is a community project that was set up not only to empower you, the Rakyat, to voice out your thoughts and concerns on road safety in the country but more importantly as a platform for all of us to take a minute to think about how we as road users can do our part to making our roads safer for all.
"Malaysians Unite for Road Safety" Day will fall on 9th September, 2009 (090909). In conjunction with MUFORS 090909, we are calling on all Malaysians to make a pledge on how to reduce accidents and save lives, and to honour these pledges on Wednesday, the 9th of September, 2009 between the hours of 9:00am-to-9:00pm. Our fervent hope is that these pledges honoured over a 12-hour period will transform into a lifetime of change.
Isn't it time we took matters into our own hands? Let's start taking responsibility for our own actions and pledge to save lives, our own and that of others, today. Let Malaysians Unite for Road Safety!

You can pledge yourself by typing in your pledge in the website or send in a photo or video pledge if you feel like being creative. Besides pledging, you can actually vote the top 5 most annoying driving habits. There are tones to choose from. At the moment, I believe the most popular vote goes to aggressive tailgaters (you know, the ones giving their high beams miles before reaching you, just cucuk-ing around your rear bumper. That’s just damn annoying man.So anyway, I’ve done my part (don’t believe me? There’s a screenshot of my pledge after the jump), and I have told you about this. So, go on to the website and pledge yourself! Together we can make a difference:)

The Dawn Of The Resistance

In case you're wondering, this has nothing to do with the political agenda of some sort. Muse (in case you're wondering, they're like one of the coolest British acts ever!) is coming out soon! According to iTunes, 'The Resistance' (the title of the album that is) will be released on the 14th September! I've heard the 30 second preview thing on iTunes, and boy do they sound good! Their first single to be released is titled 'Uprising', and I'm trying to search for it right now. So, if you're a big fan of Muse, this is indeed a very good news!

Download

Seen And Heard - Use Somebody (Kings of Leon Cover by Pixie Lott)

You know that chick Pixie Lott right? (the one who came down to perform at the MTV World Stage, with the now popular song Mama Do?) Apparently she, like Marie Digby, posted a few of cover songs on You Tube, and here's one which I fancy; 'Use Somebody' by Kings Of Leon. You can check out her other covers as well on her YouTube channel. I decide to put on this video as currently this is my favourite song:) Just another twist of a great tune. Enjoy and have good weekend! Happy fasting to those who are!

And...in case you're hooked by the tune, I have the download link for the song here

I've been roaming around always lookin down at all I see.
Painted faces fill the places I can't reach.
You know that I could use somebody
You know that I could use somebody
Someone like you
And all you know and how you speak
Countless lovers undercover of the street
You know that I could use somebody
You know that I could use somebody
Someone like you
Off in the night while you live it up I'm off to sleep
Waging wars to shake the poet and the beat
I hope it's gonna make you notice
I hope it's gonna make you notice
Someone like me
Someone like me
Someone like me
Somebody
(Go and let it out)
Someone like you
Somebody
Someone like you
Somebody
Someone like you
Somebody
I've been roaming around always lookin down at all I see

In The Spirit Of 1 Malaysia

You can't help but think that Malaysia is such a wonderful country to live in. People all different race, colour & religion can live happily in harmony, and the examples are right in front of our eyes. That's why I think the introduction of the 1 Malaysia concept is a good idea! (political ideologies aside, of course). I the spirit of embracing this concept, here's a song creatively crafted for our listening pleasure, courtesy of the AMP Networks. Enjoy:)
Download

Satu Malaysia - Rakyat Didahulukan, Pencapaian Diutamakan

Verse 1

Oh indahnya pabila
Kita bersama
Kau, aku, kita semua
Tiada bezanya

No matter whatever the challenge may be
We’ll face it together, the stronger we’ll be

*Tamil lyrics*(淡米爾語)
Ondraga seinthu, endrendrum vazhvom Santhosham neeranthaeram
(Together we come united as one, and live forever, Our happiness is permanent.)

Chorus

Satu Bangsa
Satu Suara
Satu Nada
Satu Irama
Bersama kita capai semua
Satu Malaysia

Rap

Satu Bangsa we're united in music
Satu Irama united we stand
I feel the hearts of my people when we struggle everyday to be the best that we can
We share the food that we eat, we share the words that we speak, I say what’s up? You say “apa cerita?”
You hungry bro?, jom makanlah!

Verse 2

We go up, never go down
We go up together

*Chinese lyrics*(華語)
Wo men shi yi ge Malaysia (we are one Malaysia)(我們是一個馬來西亞)
Wo men yong yuan zai tong yi ge jia (we are one family)(我們永遠在同一個家)

Together we are strong
Tuan jie yi qi bu fen bi ci (unity with one vision)(團結一起不分彼此)
Together we are strong
Xiang qin xiang ai wan zhong yi xin (we love each other and we share a vision)(相親相愛萬眾一心)
United we stay, forever and ever
That's the way it's gonna be

Chorus 1x

Bridge Sketch

Ean: Dude, JJ!
JJ: Yes Ean.
Ean: You know what part is this in the song
JJ: Yes it’s the part where they go 1 key higher
Ean: Okay we’ll be quiet now okay
JJ: Yea coz we can't sing but everyone else, 1 key higher!

Chorus 2x

Eh, dah habis? Saya nanyi bila?
Eh engkau dah tua dah.
Engkau dengan aku tak nanyi.
Tepuk tangan je.

All Hail Usain Bolt!

I have no idea what to post for days now, I've decided to post a video of the record breaking of Usain Bolt for 100m and 200m sprint in the recent IAAF World Championships, Berlin. Man he's fast!

We Can Learn A Lot From Our Neighbours

Today I received an email from one of my work colleagues. Together attached with the email are the pamphlets of advisory on H1N1 for both patients and caregivers. It’s from our good neighbor, the Singaporeans. When I opened up the pamphlets, I was surprised of its presentations. Now, most of the info are nothing new to the public, but then the way it is presented..woww. Let’s put it this way; you can pass it around to your kids and they will read it and they will follow the recommendations. Period. I salute the Singaporeans for addressing the H1N1 to their people in a very interactive yet conveying just the right message; we have to take care of ourselves.

Here's a sample of the pamphlets:

Onitsuka Tiger...Drooollll

For those of you who don't know me that well, let me tell you this; I am a shoe freak! Back during my student years, I spent my allowances mostly on...footwear! My favourite outlet back then was Size? Now, since I am now working, my shoe addiction has been significantly reduced. But then, I have always been a fan of awesome footwear. And now, my current fave is Onitsuka Tiger. I happened to own a pair, and I can get enough of it. It's hip, comfy, it's basically in my opinion what of the coolest brand in the world right now. This year, I've been considering getting a new pair to fulfill my foot fetish. Here the best bet to get a cool pair of OT is either at Three Point Six stores or Sole What. Well, long story short, today marks a new history; I've bought a new pair! Woohoo! And to make it cooler, I bought myself the Mini range! It's like love at first sight..Check this out!

Now if you'll excuse me, I'm gonna drool on my new footwear. Wipe those saliva of your mouth guys...

Damn You Singapore F1 GP!

In case you haven’t heard..and before I say this, boy was I stressed out reading about this yesterday. You know the incoming Singapore GP? Allow me to put this in uppercases: BEYONCE AND BLACK EYED PEAS WILL BE ROCKIN THE STAGE AT SINGAPORE GP! Check this out:

‘R&B superstar Beyonce Knowles, chart darlings Black Eyed Peas and Canto-pop giant Jackie Cheung are among the line up of acts performing at the inaugural and world premiere of F1 Rocks Singapore with LG at Fort Canning Park in Singapore on Sept 24-26.
The event, held in conjunction with the upcoming 2009 Formula 1 Singtel Singapore Grand Prix, fuses the world’s popular annual sporting series with some of the most iconic stars.
Last March, Universal Music Group International and its joint venture company All The Worlds signed an agreement with Formula One to create F1 Rocks.
Jacky Cheung, Da Mouth and Sodagreen are slated to perform on Sept 24; ZZ Top, Simple Minds and N*E*R*D on Sept 25 and Beyonce and Black Eyed Peas on Sept 26.
More acts to be announced soon.
To rev up the F1 excitement, pop opera group Il Divo will perform at the Singapore Indoor Stadium on Sept 21. And that’s not all – eight locations within Singapore's Marina Bay Street Circuit have been designated for a line up of renowned international artistes including Chaka Khan, Backstreet Boys, Travis, Youssou N’Dour and Mavis Staples. Godfather of British techno Carl Cox and progressive tech-house John Digweed will man the decks.
For more info, browse www.f1rocks.com.’

Now you know why I’m furious. I can’t make it! Dammit dammit dammit!!!

Of Influenza And Hazy Days...

It’s been a few days since my last blog. A lot has been going on, personally and in general. During the weekends I have caught with a fever, sore throat and flu. At first my guess is the same as yours probably, the inevitable H1N1. Luckily, I toughened up myself (together with paracetamol, sweaters, and luck), I have recovered now (except with some minor sore throat). To assure myself, the Occupational Health Clinic rep was here this morning and did the screening test. Alhamdulillah, I passed.

A few things have been going on lately. First is the ever increase cases of H1N1 deaths. Currently, the number is at 13. 5 cases were recorded in the past 24 hours; 3 of which are from Malacca. Even here in my workplace, the new On Job Training (OJT) trainees have been quarantined due to a few cases of suspected H1N1. All of us here are getting worried as hell. In fact, a few of us have started wearing these masks just to feel safe. But then, reading an article from The Star this morning, it seems that the measures currently taken to limit the widespread of H1N1 like closing schools and all does not seem to help minimize the spread. According to them:

They said pandemic closely resembles the pandemic of H2N2 influenza in 1957 when it quickly became apparent that there was little officials could do to stop it.
"Efforts to mitigate it were futile," Brooke Courtney Center for Biosecurity at the University of Pittsburgh Medical Center said in a telephone interview.

More can be read here

Then to make things worse, the haze phenomena is back, and boy oh boy it it’s getting bad. Visibility has been severely limited, and the air quality is just terrible. You can’t help it but feel a sore down your throat. I’m not sure what the current API number here is in Malaysia, but from what I saw with my own eyes, the numbers can’t be good. So guys, please if you can, refrain yourself from outdoor activities.
Signing off…