BADMINTON/All-England : So near yet so far

New Straits Times
K.M. Boopathy

Jan 22:
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MALAYSIA had a confirmed grip on one and a firm grip on another but it was left to the veteran pair of Choong Tan Fook-Lee Wan Wah to march into the final of the All-England badminton championships at Birmingham’s national Indoor Arena yesterday.

Tan Fook-Wan Wah defeated compatriots Lin Woon Fui-Fairuzizuan Tazari 15-8, 15-7 in 33 minutes to book a berth in the doubles final for the second time in three years.

However, third-seeded Chong Wei appeared to be on the way to an upset victory over favourite and World No 1 Lin Dan of China but inexplicably allowed him to snatch a 9-15, 15-10, 17-14 win in the men’s singles semi-finals.

Chong Wei led 8-1 and 14-13 in the deciding game but just lacked the killer instinct to register a rare victory over Lin Dan.

It will also be a crucial mission for Tan Fook-Wan Wah as they earned the chance to slay the demons of 2004.

Then, Tan Fook-Wan Wah (left) looked set to end a 22-year wait for the men’s doubles title when they led Danish pair Jens Eriksen-Martin Lundgaard Hansen 15-9, 12-5 only to lose 15-9, 13-15, 3-15.

And tonight they face the very same opponents who vanquished them two years.

Giant-killers Zakry Latif and Gan Teik Chai gave early promise of an all-Malaysian doubles final when they took a 14-5 lead against Eriksen-Lundgaard Hansen but succumbed to pressure and went down 17-14, 15-9 in the other semi-final.

Tan Fook-Wan Wah had struggled to recover fully from the setback two years ago and a series of injuries over the last 18 months almost put an end to their careers.

However, thanks to chief coach Yap Kim Hock and the arrival of Indonesian coach Rexy Mainaky, Tan Fook-Wan Wah have made their way to the top and earned the chance to heal the wound that has hurt them the most, the defeat to Eriksen-Lundgaard Hansen at the same venue in 2004.

Razif and Jalani Sidek were the last Malaysian doubles pair to win the All-England title in 1982 and based on their current run in the tournament, Tan Fook-Wan Wah have what it takes to finally land the title.

Tan Fook-Wan Wah were hardly given any chance when they were pitted against World No 1 Candra Wijaya-Sigit Budiarto of Indonesia in the second round but they shocked the former world champions in style.

That was the major breakthrough Tan Fook-Wan Wah needed and they have improved by every match and appear to be in prime form.

Lin Dan will be meeting South Korean Lee Hyun Il, who sent defeated former champion Peter Gade of Denmark to a 3-15, 15-8, 15-1, defeat, for the title today.

As for And Chong Wei, he has to wait for another year for a shot at the title. But the memory of yesterday’s heart-breaking loss will linger for a long time.

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* I watched the match between Chong Wei and Lin Dan, the starting wasn't good for Chong Wei, but as he got to accumulate more points in the second game, I had more hope. Unfortunately although he was ahead of Lin Dan by 8 points in the beginning, Lin Dan gradually picked up his pace and finally won the match. A prove that he is the No.1 player. In the end Lin Dan was the Champion of All-England Championship 2006. Hmmm... good looks, good play. *

Charity for Birthday

January 15th 2006, which fell on a Sunday, was Ken Chu's birthday. I think there wasn't much of a celebration for him, but he celebrated the special day by doing charity. The day before, he collected many children's books from his fans to be donated to the orphanage.




Very meaning way to spend your Birthday...
HAPPY BIRTHDAY KEN!

Guys guys...

I got this forwarded mail.... have seen it many times, but it never bores me...hehee...

Strange human... guys...
If u TREAT him nicely, he says u are IN LOVE with him;
If u Don't, he says u are PROUD.
If u DRESS Nicely, he says u are trying to LURE him;
If u Don't, he says u are from KAMPUNG.
If u ARGUE with him, he says u are STUBBORN;
If u keep QUIET, he says u have no BRAINS.
If u are SMARTER than him, he'll lose FACE;
If he's Smarter than u, he is GREAT.
If u don't Love him, he tries to POSSESS u;
If u Love him, he will try to LEAVE u.(very true huh?)
If u don't make love with him., he says u don't Love him;
If u do he says u are CHEAP.
If u tell him your PROBLEM, he says u are TROBLESOME;
If u don't, he says that u don't TRUST him.
If u SCOLD him, u are like a NANNY to him;
If he SCOLDS u, it is because he CARES for u. (Bullshit)
If u BREAK your PROMISE, u Cannot be TRUSTED;
If he BREAKS his, he is FORCED to do so.
If u SMOKE, u are BAD girl;
If he SMOKES, he is GENTLEMAN.
If u do WELL in your exams, he says it's LUCK;
If he does WELL, it's BRAINS.
If u HURT him, u are CRUEL;
If he HURTS u, u are too SENSITIVE!!
& sooo hard to please!!!!!
If u send this to guys, they will swear that it's not true.......
but if u don't, they say u are selfish.....
The moral of the story is.......SEND THIS TO GUYS OUT THERE ANYWAY...

Safest Place To Hide

Yeah, yeah
It seems like yesterday when I said "I do"
And after all this time my heart still burns for you
If you don't know by now that you're my only one
Take a look inside me and watch my heartstrings come undone

I know I promised you forever
Is there no stronger word I can use
To reassure you when the storm is raging outside
You're my safest place to hide

Can you see me, here I am
I need you like I needed you then
When I feel like giving up
I climb inside your heart I still find
You're my safest place to hide

You see colors no one else can see
In every breath you hear a symphony
You understand me like nobody can
I feel like my soul unfolding like a flower blooming

When this whole world gets too crazy
And there's nowhere left to go
I know you give me sanctuary
You're the only truth I know
You're the road back home

Can you see me, here I am
Standing here where I've always been
And when words are not enough
I climb inside your heart I'd still find
You're my safest place to hide
My safest place to hide

I know I promised you forever
There's no stronger word I can use
To reassure when the storm is raging outside
You're my safest place to hide

Oh! Can you see me, here I am
Standing here where I've always been
When I feel like giving up
I climb inside your heart I'd still find
Yeah, yeah
You're my safest place to hide, oh yeah
You're my safest place to hide


Credit to lyricsandsongs.com

*This is a song from backstreet Boys' latest album, <>. I love it very much, the lyrics are so touching, and along with the beautiful melody, the song is just perfect.*

Gathering for the ex-Beijing Diplomats

Such a tiring day today. Right after coming home from the Undang-undang test and the Theory lesson for motorcar, I was to get ready to go to a gathering held in my father's "boss" -- the ambassodor Datuk Majid's house in PJ. When we got there, it was raining cats and dogs.

Leaving China since more than five years ago, I admit that I had trouble recalling some of the people whom I knew before. Of course, I rememebr Datuk Majid and Datin Maliha. Their 2nd daughter had grown a lot taller, and also their youngest son, who was only a cute little boy when we saw him in Beijing. The little kids who were in Beijing had also grown bigger, looking more and more alike their elder siblings. The aunties and uncles haven't much changed, only that more than half of them I don't recognise, I guess they are those who went to Beijing after we left.

The whole session is more about food, yes... LOTS of food, from catering to pot-luck. It reminded me af the times when we were in Beijing, where once in a while during occasions like Hari Raya, there would be many open-houses and it would be like food feast! I ate so much today, I guess the jog yesterday is doing no good! In the end there was a lot of food left, and the aunties (including my mom) got some plastic bags to take away the left over food. Oh god, this will be a day or two all about left-over food as meals!!

Anyway, I it is quite a nice gathering, as we got to see some 'old' people again. Though, I a good friend of mine didn't come...


Saturday, Jan 14 2006 (10.38pm)

Pics of X'mas dinner with Daniel

Christmas Dinner with Daniel in myKTV at Mid Valley.


Daniel came in to the Karaoke room where the winners are waiting.


That's the friendly Daniel greeting the fans.


Looks like he is quite attracted to the MTV on screen... his own MTV of . Wonder if it's his first time seeing it.


The Q&A session. That's Aunty Paris chatting with him.


He answered our questions, and told us more stuff.


Flashing a smile... SOOO CUTE!!!


See how he holds his microphone... ^^


Cool sitting posture.


It's time for some Karaoke. If I'm not wrong, this was him singing <>. It was like he was performaing on stage, with the similar movement. Cool actions. =D


Singing... notice that there are not many people on the seats. Almost all of them (including me) were in front taking photos, haha..


Group photo with Daniel taken at the end of the session. Everyone tried to get as close to Daniel as possible!

Screencaps of the news on 8 E-news





Credit to Daniel Fan Club.

A Year of Ups and Downs

Year 2005, a year with many mixed feelings, full of happiness, excitement, sadness, disappointment, worries…

January
The first moment of the year was spent in the Buddhist Vihara in Brickfields. There was a blessings ceremony and a donation event for the tsunami victims. A few weeks later, my family also attended another blessings ceremony in Stadium Negara, along with many other Buddhist from around the country.

The start of my Form 5 school year was… not too amazing. Well, we were appointed some teachers whom we ‘fear’ greatly e.g. Ms Lee. Anyway, she turned out quite good, we did enjoy her periods often, I found her changed to a more humourous and open-minded person.

One very important thing—Ken’s album was released on the 15th. This album that I’ve been waiting for so long, was finally out. The songs, hmm… with some rock elements, but gradually I enjoyed listening and singing to the songs.


February
The Chinese New Year was the main attraction this month. The same BBQ dinner for the ‘tuan yuan fan’, and of course the angpau money!

Our class won a prize, for what I forgot. We got a hamper, so our class monitor B Yung asked everyone to bring something the next day to have a party to share out the hamper. That day was the day before our first monthly test. Haha! Crazy people, having party when we are supposed to be serious and studying.


March
On the 19th of March, I went to David Tao’s showcase in Sunway Lagoon. Of course, it was great! For this, I missed the birthday party of B Yung.

On my birthday, my buddies Wei, Jane, Theng and Juen gave me a very expensive present. It was Ken Chu’s CD! I was asking Jane to help me buy, but they bought for me instead! So thankful to them. The class sang a birthday song for me, which was actually my first one from my friends. I was so so happy…


April
Nothing much happened… I guess. Well, Pope John Paul II passed away, a sad news for the whole world.

Me over here, preparing for the Diagnostic Exam, blowing my head off.


May
It was the Diagnostic examination. Such exhausting 3 weeks of papers. This was our first exam following the format of SPM. Of course, it’s tough, real tough.

Got to know that Liverpool won the UEFA Cup. Wow, I couldn’t believe it because I thought Liverpool was quite bad in its performance this year. Way to go!

And after the exam, the Malaysian Idol craze started again. This time I didn’t want to miss out anything, though I did, but thank goodness it wasn’t the Penang Audition… haha!


June
The MI craze continued. Yeah, and I spotted Daniel Lee. Not because he was cute, but I was attracted to his voice, soothing and special.

Then, the AP issue came up. I wasn’t really interested, don’t quite understand the issue anyway. But it got huge attention from the whole country.

July
If I’m not wrong, the Scrabble Competition held by ELS was during this month. I was in Category C, for Form 5 and Form 6. I played 2 games only, and came out as winner! Heehee… it was a close call, I nearly lost.

Lee Choong Wei won the Malaysian Open. Such surprise, yet good news.


August
The most suffering month of the year – physically. The haze caused by the burning forests in Sumatra and some places in Selangor, disturbed the daily lives of amost the whole society living on the west coast. There were 2 days of replacing holidays given to many schools (including mine), and some places were announced Darurat (emergency).

After that, The Katrina hurricane hit the US. This incident revealed many other things, like the status if the black in US, …


September
Time for the trial examination. It was another month of torture again.

Meanwhile, the dengue fever blasted in many high-populated areas such as Penang and Selangor. It was a ‘fragile’ time, as there are often mosquitoes around my area. This fever has caused many deaths, it was especially serious in Penang. I heard that even some of Daniel’s family members got the fever.

Then, there was the case of a primary school teacher who fell to death in the school. He was the brother of my auntie. It was a tragic case, a lesson to the government.

There was the MI Finale, my elder sister and I along with her friend’s family went to Genting Arena of Stars to join in the excitement. It was really fun, watching Daniel’s performance live, and being able to see Victor and Andrew too.


October
A little boy, Jing Ren, caught fire and was burnt of his skin. His case was critical, but he managed to strive through it, which was a miracle. As the family couldn’t cope with the medical expenses, many donation activities were held to lighten the burden, including one by Sin Chew Jit Poh (f I’m not wrong) which Daniel joined. When Jerry Yen was in Malaysia to promote Oral-B, he paid a visit to Jing Ren and wrote him a card.

China had its rocket launched on the 22nd. Another achievement for the country.

On the 8th, a major earthquake occurred in Pakistan. The situation could be as bad as that of the tsunami in year 2004. There were many deaths, and the victims who are alive are facing a lot of problems.

Just before the exam, our class had some conflicts with some teachers, which was caused by the misbehaviour of a classmate. Then, the graduation of the Form 5 and Form 6 students was on the 21st, almost evergirl friends of mine shed tears, since it was gonna be some tough and long time till the next gathering of the class.


November
This was the month. THE month for SPM. All the way, I was really frightened and nervous. I am even shivering now when recalling that particular time. Sometimes I even dream of preparing and sitting for the exam even though I have finished it now. Just imagine how scary it was…

Daniel’s album was released on the 22nd (I think) and his first showcase on the 27th. I couldn’t attend the showcase, but managed to catch a few moments of Daniel singing through the phone.

Another national issue, regarding the Chinese women, was spread through out the country. This is another issue which revealed the negative side of the police force.


December
With the SPM over, it was time to relax. My class went to Penang for a tour, which included a day out in Payar Island. It was a great time spent with the best of friends. I will always miss those days. I managed to catch up the Starwalk Carnival Charity Concert on Dec 9, where Daniel, Victor, Vick, Jac and Eric Lim were among the performers.

One important issue was the lost of gunfire machines such as guns and bullets in Kelantan. Thankfully, the things were recovered in a short time.

Daniel held some autograph sessions in a few places, and my younger sister and I went to that held in Tower Records in Mid Valley. It was the first time I attended his showcase and let him sign the album.

On Christmas day, my sister and I was to have dinner with Daniel along with the other winners and fans. We didn’t really eat, because we were busy asking him questions and singing Karaoke with him *Since it was in myKTV.* It was the best and most memorable Christmas day I ever had.

For a close-up for the country, Nicole David won the World Squash 2005, winning herself the No.1 title and raising the country’s identity. Bravo Nicole!

The last day of the year was spent in Kedah, my hometown, with not much excitement, just watching TV, the countdown concert in KLCC which was shown live on 8TV.


Done with the more memorable incidents which happened in this year. I wish for a better and brighter year and years ahead.

HAPPY NEW YEAR!!!


Tuesday, January 03, 2006 (3.15pm)

Happiest Christmas!!!

I have never really celebrated Christmas, but spending it with my idol is the best! Thanks to my sis Jin, I got the chance to dine with Daniel during Christmas. The dinner was at myKTV in Mid Valley from 7pm to 8.30pm.

My sis and I were quite late when we arrived there, after buying some batteries for the camera (which we borrowed from our friend). While waiting for an 8TV staff to bring us in, Suddenly Daniel arrived and walked pass us. I called out his name, but he didn’t react, I guess he didn’t notice us. We were brought to a Karaoke room, quite big in size, with 2 levels and 2 section on each level. The was a huge OHP screen screen in front showing Daniel’s MV . I didn’t really finish watching it though, regret a bit.

Before Daniel came into the room, Auntie Paris introduce herself. It went on with the other fans. When Daniel came in, Everyone had their cameras ready and there were so many flashes. Daniel looked a bit blur in the beginning and seemed to not know where to stand, haha! He was ..cute of course, and his dressing was funky. It was so great just looking at him..hehee..

Daniel greeted us with his melt-you smiles and sweet voice! Then the questions and answers session began. Ssuet started the session by asking Daniel whether he was scared by the fans¡¯ reactions; grabbing his shirt, hands etc. Daniel admitted he was frightened. He hoped that fans would think of their own and his safety.

Then, it was Auntie Paris’ turn. She asked him whether he was scared to see her; the aunty who asked him whether he remembered her or not whenever she saw him. Daniel said that she was not the only one who did that! And he asked me whether she was one of the winners. She told him that in fact she had to thank Gymnast, because she pm her and asked her how to take part in this contest. Before she could help her, she tried to send in an entry and that’s how she won it! Then she congratulated him on the sales of his debut album hitting 15,000 copies and winning the Golden Disc Award. He was very happy!

Next, Jin asked Daniel about his trip to Taiwan and where he visited there. He replied ‘Tai Zhong’ and ‘Taipei’ and something else, I forgot. It was an experience that Daniel did not like to disclose much. Then I went on to question him about his friendship with Victor. He replied that he had known Victor through some competitions and had sometimes worked with him, like Victor singing and him playing the guitar. I sort of lost my mind and panicked when I asked the questions (coz I haven’t prepared for it) until the PA complained that questions should be asked about Daniel and not some one else! I also asked him about why he must oblige by the company’s directives. Daniel explained that the company is more experience in handling fans and other aspects. But sometimes he did try to lodge appeals! He emphasized that there is a mutual understanding between him and his record company. One thing that he told us was he didn’t really have the heart to release the song but since the company said that the song would make him popular, he agreed. I asked him what his favourite songs were, he replied the 1st as and 2nd fave is (2nd Childhood).

Another non-pinky asked the PA how she thought of Daniel. She replied that Daniel was very ‘gan cham’ because he was a perfectionist. Daniel admitted it. She said that Daniel would ask a lot of questions before finally agreeing to do something!


Jennifer then asked him about how he became the special guest in Jay’s concert. Daniel explained that just like us; he entered a competition & won the chance to meet Jay. During the meet, the participants were given the chance to show what they would show to their idol. He was brave enough to grab the chance and ended as Jay’s special guest.

“During the q-&-a session, I noticed tt Daniel tried very hard to put across the message that he had certain sets of rules to abide by and he sincerely hoped that fans would not misunderstand him. He is still the same old Daniel, the HUMBLE and GRATEFUL Daniel! Therefore, please try to understand that he is neither ‘action’ nor snobbish. We love him, we must TRUST him!” ~Auntie Paris.

Next come the Karaoke time. Daniel started off with , and when he started singing, almost everyone went to the front to take photos of him. Jin even took some videos. It was like the performance he often gave on stage, the difference is that we were close to him. Hah! After that, he sat down again, and answered some questions again. Then, played on the screen, he started singing while sitting (in front of the screen) and later stood up. And a non-pinkie Michelle asked him whether our camera flashes disturbs his performance. He said yes, and went on to elaborate, but at that time I took another photo of him (since he was close and was looking this way), which of course, gave him a surprise. It was naughty of me to play this joke…hope he didn’t mind.

Suddenly played on the screen but he said he didn’t really know how to sing. Somehow, he was standing nearby at that time and looking around, I asked him if he knows . He knew that I was asking him, but he didn’t catch my words. *Anyway, this is enough to flatter me! Haha!* Vivy, Winnie and ~Priscilla~ then sang <> with him. Next, <> !Though many joined in the singing, including me, it was really a different kind of experience to hear Daniel singing right in front! And guess what, though he was standing in the middle alley (with steps) in the beginning while singing, he gradually moved to the side… to MY side! Hahaha! I was rejoicing in my heart! He was actually so close to me that I could reach him just reaching out my hand! Hehe… A while later was played, Daniel wasn’t too familiar with the verse, but I managed to sing the 1st chorus with him, though, I was bad, I passed away the mic later.

Lastly, a duet between Daniel & Tong Tong (a non-Pinky) in the song ,<< Wu Ding>> , they were joined by ~Priscilla~ later. I wanted to join in, but I didn’t really know how to sing the front verse of the song, so I didn’t.

Next came the autograph session. Jin and I went to the 2nd level for that. Our album and single were signed already, so Daniel wrote our names on the booklets instead. We nearly forgot the present we had prepared for him (a neck tie). I took a photo with him first, then Jin took one with him, holding the present. Hmm.. now I know his height compared to mine…haha! For the rest of the time, we sat in our seats, talking or looking at Daniel who were behind and higher than us. I noticed his glass of watermelon juice (his fave) which wasn’t finished by half yet. (Jin wanted to take a photo of it, but the waiter took it away before she could do that. Hehe..)

Daniel left us, without eating, about 3 minutes before 8.30pm. He was to go to the next room for an interview with 8TV. Only then did we have our dinner which was served since the whole session started. Of course, it was cold. After taking some food, we talked a while with Auntie Paris and her daughter Yin, had her autograph, then took a photo with the Superstar guy Wei Jun and had his autograph. I was the last to leave. We went out of myKTV and took a photo with Auntie Paris and Yin.

Well, the whole session was an extraordinary experience. I enjoyed myself all the way, I tried to have my chance of speaking to Daniel. Though, now I regretted for asking him some unsuitable, sensitive and maybe “rude” questions, I really hope that he won’t keep in his heart. After all, I hope to leave a good impression in him and hopes that he would remember me, though I guess I may not be able to attend any of his gigs anymore. From this “dinner”, I gained a lot, besides meeting and chatting with Daniel (that’s the most important thing), I met some really nice people from Daniel Fans Club – Auntie Paris, Yin, Vivian… And got to meet Wei Jun too, hehe…

Anyway, I still hope that I have the chance to meet Daniel again. I will support him, as long as he supports his fans.


Thanks to Auntie Paris in DFC.

Wednesday Dec 28 2005 (1.30pm)

Pics of Penang tour [Day 2]

Yey! Da 9-Gal-Gang will create a history in Payar Island!


This is the group of us who succeeded in...no, not climbing the everest, but reaching the platform at the far end. Though we have life jackets, it was really tough for most of us, and only some of the girls (including me =D ) completed this 'task'. Hmm, no regrets for this visit to Payar Island!


Yoohoo! See us? Those in red lah.. Yeah! we reached our destination. If you think you see some white people in front of us, you are right. I really admire them (a father and his 3 girls) who swam without life jackets.


Oh no! The Jaws!!! Haha...after lunch, we saw some sharks nearby, about 10 metres from the shore. The staff was feeding them some fish.


The starwalk Carnival charity concert. These were some of the performers. Thank goodness we managed to arrive at PISA in time. Overall the show was quite enjoyable, except for the boria performance, which I didn't like.

Lady Luck is with her!!

I'm so so happy for my sister. I got so excited when I saw her name on the TV screen. Yes! It's for the contest to dine with Daniel on Christmas day! And she won! WOW!!! So lucky of her. So didn't really believe me when I said so that her name was there, since the list was blocked by advertisement.

But yeah, it was true, we got confirmation from the forum. Got to know that the winners can bring another person with them, but we don't wanna hope too much before we got the call from 8TV staff. If it's true, provided that our parents allow, this would be a super-duper Christmas present!!! YAHHOOOOO!!!


Tuesday Dec 20 2005 (1.18am)

Daniel @ Mid Valley

Had some trouble planning for this trip. Theng decied not to go in the end, so my younger sis and I was sent to Mid Valley by our dad. *Paiseh a lot dad...*

We had trouble looking for Tower Records upon arrival, since MV is just too ENORMOUS! When we got there, there was already a long queue for the autograph session. From our situation about 15 metres away from the entrance, we couldn't see the happenings in there, but everyone knew the arrival of Daniel when the fans in front (obviously the Pinkies) screamed like hell. aAs the session went on, I got excited every second. I can still remember the view of him less than a metre away! Yikes! SO cute...and handsome! Haha! HE was really fast in the autograph procedure--signing his complicated signature, putting down his pen, shake hands with the fan, then hold his pen again to sign the next booklet (from the album). I had the booklet from the album, while my sis had the MI single signed. It was just a split moment of about 5 seconds, a bit too short, but my wish to see my idol right in front of my eye is fulfilled! Yeah!!!

We had a stroll in MV later after the about half-an-hour autograph session ended. It's so packed with people, that's why my parents never liked to come here, and so it's my sis's first time here. As a second timer, I brought her to Pet's Wonderland as both of us really liked small animals and pets. It was quite boring, as we didn't plan to buy anything. At around 5.30pm, my dad came (again) to fetch us back.

That was it, a nice memory, though I wonder why I'm not as excited as I thought I would be. Hmm...


Monday Dec 19 2005 (12.55am)

Pics of my Penang Tour

1st day at the 'back' door--actually it's the main entrance of the apartment section of Vistana Hotel. Were waiting for the boys to go out for dinner at Gurney.



Our table of people at a seafood restaurant at Gurney Drive. 9 gals and 1 boy..hehee..



My gang and I at the restaurant.



Pui Yeng and I.



Seafood... all finished up by us. I took the fish head, hehe =P



Jane and I at the Gurney Drive. Was supposed to be a beautiful scene in the background, but looked darks here...



Fascinated by the huge Christmas tree in Gurney Plaza. Not actually... KLCC has the bigger, but this one was really beautiful.



That's us outside the Golden Screen Cinemas in Gurney Plaza. We were in the same place for more than 3 hours. Damn!

When will I see you again?

It's been 3 days since we came back from Penang, and I'm starting to miss the trip. I miss the apartment so much! Though it was a bit squeezy, but 9 girls sleeping in a room is also fun, hehee... We went to bed together, except for Kazeendra who kept pulling W Wei up to take photos...akakakaka! Then we wake up to see many people, girls I mean... different feeling as I didn't wake up to see the ceiling, but the girls around. And (I think) Li Ling was always the first one to wake up!

And the girls very kacau la... even Wei and Juen were very naughty. Along with Kazeendra they kept disturbing Jane and I who were sleeping in the bus on the way to Ipoh. I slept later than them, yet they kept making noise.

I remember the night where Shuwen, Li Ling and I were in the balcony. That was the only time I went out there to see the night view. Nothing much to see, just lights, but I liked it. Shuwen and I had trouble taking photos then, her hand, as well as mine, kept shaking causing the photos to be blur. Haha! That girl, she looks so nice and 'si wen' but she's actually so 3 8!

Jane was extraordinarily quiet during the trip. She slept everytime we were on the bus, that's normal, but she didn't fool around like she always did. She could even joke during exam period, but she didn't do that during our trip, sort of scared me. Thank god she return to her "normal" self on the 3rd day, she made fun a bit.

We loved messing around, throwing pillows, kicking and playing with the sea water. I miss the time when we sit in the little 'luggage' room, chatting and laughing away. Now I realise that it was a once-in-a-life-time thingy, I have no idea when I will get a chance with this group of friends again.

My dear friends, when will I see you again?...



Thhursday, Dec 15 2005 (12.05am)

Penang tour [Ke Lok Si, Golden Sand, Ipoh]

Day 3 (Dec 10)
Woke up at around 8-9am, and chatted in bed. Heard that the boys came back at 4 or 5am, so they must be sleeping. We decided to visit Ke Lok Si although the boys might not be interested. Finally we got to eat at around 12.30pm, it was lunch time. Had the Asam Laksa which seemed to be famous in Penang. Satisfaction, yummy. Luckily the whole group of us went to Ke Lok Si, and Hell'O the boys bought a lot of stuff! We even met 5S2 students there. Later, the driver took us to a shop where there were a lot of local goodies sold. Half the class bought the Tambun cookies and many other mouth-watering food. Guess that the driver definitely get a good comission for that. After that it was Golden Sand or Batu Ferringhi time. It wasa a wait again, as the 'organisers' were talking to the manager or staff about the price. Finally we got RM11 for Banana Boat and RM50 for the jetski. I took both rides, with the Banana Boat going first. It wasn't a 'success', since only 3 of 7 of us fell into the water, our pakat wasn't right. Haha. Then I took the jetski ride with Chooi Mun, where I was the driver. 1st time there, but I found SPEEDING really fun! HAHAHA! YAHOO! Though sometimes I was sort of scared and panick a little when we bounced high, I really did enjoy the excitement. I'm really sorry for C Mun who didn't have her turn to be the driver, coz we planned to take the driver seat half to half during the 20-minute period. She didn't mind though, and let me drive when I asked her whether to return to the shore to change driver. Thanks a lot to her for the chance.
After that, we had dinner at a food court nearby. We finally got to eat Fried Oyster, and it was really expensive (it was a tourist area). I had 'tie ban mian' which was quite tasty. We reached the hotel at 10 something, took our baths and sat down. Though our eyes were closing, we wanted to stay up till late coz it was our last night together. We ended up chatting in the small room again, with some of us half-sleeping. Even Jane Ley who went to bed got up just to join in our talk. We heard laughter from outside, so we also laughed out loud. This brought those people out there to stick in their heads to ask whether we heard some noise. Haha! It became a funny trick so we played it again. This kept us awake. Heehee... Finally at 3am we decided to 'hui zhou gong'. Kazeendra wanted to play the 'mummy and children' game, so we cooperated with her saying "Good Night" together and Pui Yeng as the mother said "Good Night, Children". Her her, funny game. We slept well till the next morning though I felt hot at one time.


Day 4 (Dec 11)
We checked out at around 9am, the boys as usual a little later. The driver dropped us near Komtar for the famous Cendol and Asam Laksa nearby. Didn't take any of that, instead we went into the market there and found a cheap yet tasty breakfast. The Ghee Hiang shop selling cookies was no where to be seen, so we hung around in Prangin Mall instead. I had a mission to search for Molecule Hair Saloon, it was where Victor used to work. Yes, I was crazy, like my friends said of me, but they went with me anyway. Reaching the bottom floor of the mall, I gave up searching, and went for an ice-cream in McD. Later when we went to the toilet, Jane went loitering nearby and wow, she found it! The 4 of us went to see it, but ooh, there was only one customer there. There was a man with curly long hair standing outside the saloon, I guessed he was the manager. Wei, as she said, took photos of the saloon, there was a flash and we quickly ran away! As if we were paparazzi! Haha! I didn't know she would really do that. It was almost time to gather and we proceeded to the outside of the mall.
The bus took off at around 1pm. I read the paper a bit before having a nap, but by that time Wei and the others were awaken and they disturbed Jane and I. Naughty people. We stopped at Ipoh nad guess what, the driver brought us to a shop to buy stuff again. He really wanted to make money lar. I secretly bought a packet of "sha qi ma". I even SMSed my cousin who was staying in Ipoh, and later got a call from him. *My sis said it sounds really funny that I would contact him.* The rest of the journey, we watched Chiken Little, it was so cute and funny that I couldn't help laughing from time to time.
We arrived back at Shell station shortly before 8pm, and took a farewell photo. And damn it, I left behind my sleeping bag there, Thank goodness Boon Yung saw it and brought it back home. Can't imagine how my mom would react if I really lost it.



That's our trip to Penang. It was such a great time, despite the obstacles that we met. I'm missing my friends including those who didn't join the trip, already. All the best, guys!
May you all be well and happy... Sadhu Sadhu Sadhu!



Dec 13 2005 Tuesday 1.37am

Penang Tour [Gurney, Payar Island, Charity Concert]

Somehow I don't think it's actually a tour at all. It's more like a hang-out in Penang. We could have more activities, but the programmes weren't planned well, we ended up wasting a lot of time. Anyway, it was still a memorable trip.

Day 1 (Dec 8)
Our group of 30 classmates took off from the Shell station near our school at around 7.50am. We stopped shortly at Rawang rest station (whatever you call it) at 8.40am (coz the driver wanted to yam-char. duhh).. All the way on the bus, we watched 'White Chicks' and listened to songs. Everybody was up when we were over the Penang Bridge. I uess almost half the people were taking photos of the bridge and the sea. Kazeendra was photo-ing herself though, she never got bored with her camera. Haha. Unluckily, we discovered that the Driver wasn't familiar with the roads in Penang.I think the driver drove almost to Bayan Lepas but the Vistana Hotel was only about 10 minutes from the bridge. Yes, we were lost.
Before we entered our rooms or apaprtments, we went out for lunch around Bukit Jambul. My friends and I went to the food court in Kompleks Bukit Jambul. The place was quiet, not many people, I wonder if the food was okay. I got the answer when I ordered the asam laksa, which was tasteless, and didn't really fill my stomach. Despite that, the price was expensive. RM 2.50 for a yucky laksa. Damn. Later we hung around the 'theme park' on thesame floor, and had a car racing game with Jane, Wei and Juen.
In the apartment, we arranged our beds and luggage. At around 7pm, the girls were ready to go to Gurney Plaza. However we had to wait for the boys who only got down at 7.30pm. We spent our time for photos then. Our dinner was at a seafood restaurant near GP. Was a late dinner at 9.00pm at RM 20. Loved the fish and 'lala' or shellfish. Our table of friends managed to finish all the food. Haha!
Later, we had bought tickets for the movie 'Perhaps Love'. The movie was scheduled at 11.45pm, and yes, we had to wait for about 2 hours. It was so boring and tiring as there weren't any seats or benches to ease myself on. People were staring at us, wondering what a group of people were doing there squatting or sitting on the floor. The movie was quite good, Thank goodness I didn't fall asleep. After our movie ended, we had to wait almost an hour for those watching Narnia. It was almost 4am by the time we reach our hotel. We only had 2 hours sleep.


Day 2 (Dec 9)
Supposed to wake up at 6am, I woke up a little later as I didn't hear the alarm. Had some bread to ease our stomaches. We had to wait again for the ferry. I had a nap during the 'voyage' to Payar Island, and felt better on arrival on the island. We were provided with googles, 'webs' (whatever) and life jackets. The girls had a hard time adjusting the things and moving around in the water, while the boys were already half way in the middle of the reefs. I was kinda scraed when I see the reefs in the rocks, and knowing that the fish might knock or 'sting' us, I was even terrified. Some of my friends give up going to see the corals, whiel some others, with the help of the boys, went on to enjoy the underwater scene. I decided to go on, trying to put aside my fear. When I saw the first fish in the water, I was so excited! I didn't dare to swim alone to the platform which was at the end of the area, so I asked B Yung to accompany me. All the way, I couldn't see well since I'm short-sighted, but managed to see different corals and sea urchines (thank goodness I didn't step on them!). I had some trouble getting on top of the platform, but I felt so happy when I stood on it. Yeah! I made it! The other girls with me were Pui Yeng and Kazeendra. We were all so excited! Only then did I realise the wound on my legs caused by scratching the rocks and hard corals. Some were bleeding, same with the others. We returned to the shore for lunch, consisting of fried rice, chicken, fish and vege. There were also watermelon, water and Coke provided. After lunch, someone shouted that there were sharks and so we ran to check it out. It was true, there were 3 or more sharks swimming around 10m from the shore. *thank god they weren't there when I was in the water, as my legs were wounded.* They were about 1 metre long. The tour guide fed them some fish, and some people went into the water to catch photos. After the sharks left, i asked the boys down there to explore the sea cucumber around the rocks. Felix ended up being sprayed with some liquid excreted by the sea cucumber. Haha. Later, despite the pain in the wounds, Kazeendra and I along with Shuwen and Woan Wei and some other boys went on our 'mission' again, to reach the platform. the other girls were still scared, but they made it there. Yahoo! It really did feel great to be there. On the way to the shore, we were motioned to get away from an area where there was a jellyfish. So we got onto the floating platforms near the shore, and it was like a 'rescue' team helping us! Haha, so fun and funny! And to end that, we were safe from the jellyfish.
When we were to leave the place, the boat ferrying us the the main platformwas out of oil. another wait again. After getting on the ferry, we faced trouble getting seats as there were people who were sleeping on rows of seats, while some put there things on seats. They don't even let out the seats though they were looking at the group of us.

Back to Penang, we were stuck in a heavy traffic jam, which delayed our arrival back to the hotel, and of course our trip to Penang International Sports Arena for the Starwalk Carnival Charity Concert. I was worried for Daniellover who was waiting for me to give me the tickets. The group of eight ended up only 4 of us going to the concert, took some cup noodles. The taxi fare was RM 15 with only a 10 minutes journey to PISA, thanks to the bus driver who didn't want to send us there. Selfish guy who wants to save up his diesel money. Anyway, we arrived shortly before 8pm, And even managed to get rid of the unoccupied tickets--we sold them. The concert started at 8.10pm. Among the 4, I was the mpst excited one since I was the only MI fan. Now they know the crazy me. Firstly there was a band called 'Steel Guitar' or something performing, which was quite okay at first but I grew tired of it coz they only sing oldies. Then the first MI finalist, Vic Teo gave his performance of a Michael Jackson hit and Jay Chou's 'Fa Ru Xue'. His vocal was really good. There was Chan Kwok Fai [Astro Talent Quest Winner] doing 2 Chinese songs and Marilyana Omar [Bintang RTM 2004 finalist] with a Malay song and a hindi song. Jaclyn Victor took over the stage, and sent the arena to the highest point with 'Superstar' and 'Gemilang'. Her voice was so strong!
In between there were some lucky draw and auction. Then there was this boria group performing, which was so boring and annoying, with seemed to be everlasting...until we got fed up and felt like killing the so-called 'tukang karang'!!! Even Wei wanted to kick him away! GERAM! Anyway, next out was Victor Lee, my fave MI finalist. He presented a Leslie Cheung's Canto song, and a Madarin song by Du De Wei. I loved his voice, it sounds so nice, not boring at all, and so soothing! And he was so 'leng-chai'! Even Wei and Ley couldn't believe our behaviour, especially mine. Heehee... Next was Saiful, with 2 Malay songs followed my Eric Lim who sang an English song and a Chinese song. The last was of course Daniel, whom half of the audience was waiting for. He presented a mixed version of 'Mimpi' and 'Fei', and the song 'You Ji' / Organic Love. As usual, a hive of bees (fans) raced to the front to catch a better glimpse of him. After the concert, I went down to the VIP area to meet the Pinkies, but felt really uncomfortable there as I do not know many of them, and they don't know me. My friends and I went to a coffee shop opposite PISA and had a quite satisfying supper. Later, we decided to walk back to the hotel since it's not too far away. But I was really scared for it's already 12am when we were walking. It was such a big risk! There were some motorists who horned at us and 'greeted' us, I was really terrified! Thinking about it, I really feel thankful and lucky that I was back at the hotel safe and sound. When we got back, the other gal gang was there and we got to know that their taxi driver were also very scary and went a strange way to get to the hotel. Thank goodness they are safe too. All these trouble, thanks to the driver who didn't want to fetch us. A******!!!



[To be continued...]

Penang, here we come!

YEAH! The day I've been looking forward to for 2 months is finally round the corner!
It's the day for our class trip! To Penang! Wow... so much fun is expected even though I go to Penang every year. Moreover, there will be a charity concert consisting performances by my favourite Idols Daniel and Victor! It will be a really packed 4-day 3-night tour with my buddies.
Besides havng the fun, we all have to take care of ourselves and our safety. Let's have an enjoyable and safe trip!

Angel's tears

Do you realise that the Chinese artists these days have a common 'habit'--cry? Well, it's not that people are not allowed to cry, but why cry in the public?
It's so boring seeing artists cry especially during their concerts. For some of them, maybe it's the first time having concerts, yeah maybe crying for once or twice is okay. But then, crying in every one of their concert?? That's not touching anymore, in fact it is boring to me.I am the type who would rather see people smiling and laughing than draining thier eyes with tears or whatever transparent liquid they can put in their eyes. Why take to trouble? Concert and other achievement are better celebrated with joy and laughter. And it's not only the artists themselves are facing the pressure, don't forget the people who had strived to succeed the task. Everyone has put in their effort, it's the same working other white-collar people and other workers.
Well maybe this is just my opinion currently as I haven't really stepped into the working arena. I do have my crying times because of pressure, disappointment and failure, but I would often do it quietly.


Dec 7 2005 Wednesday 9.23pm

Bravo Michael Bolton

Was at Genting last night for Michael Bolton's concert. Why him? I'm not a fan of his, but I really do enjoy his songs. The 'oldies' were very soothing.

In fact, I did not know more than half of the songs sang last night. Luckily I did manage to sing along during some songs like "To Love Somebody". The first part of the concert was quite ...not boring I should say, just that the songs were more of 'slow' songs, but were very sweet to the ear. I felt so comfortable listening and watching. When Michael went backstage for a break, the misucians took over and showed off their talents. It was so cool, especially the one playing percussion (if I'm not wrong).

Music started again, and Michael appeared from the audience! I wonder how he got there. Many people sitting below (VIP seats) got to shake hands with him. He was such a friendly person as he shook hands from the stage with the people who went to the front. Once he was even almost pulled off the stage by the many hands! By that time, even those sitting above were flowing down to the front of the stage to try their luck.

All through the concert, Michael had only changed once, with both the suits quite simple. That's something I liked about Western artists' concerts.The pay more attention on the music. In between the songs, There were some words delivered, with some humour inserted which won the audience's laughter (though I didn't catch some of the words).

The concert at the Arena of Stars started at 8 something and lasted for about two and a half hours. Overall, it was all so cool, I really did enjoy it!


Sunday Dec 4 2005 11.50pm

Darkness fell... now I see daylight again

It's officially over! I mean for the science stream candidates...those who don't take accountancy. we had our last paper which was english for Science and Technology, which we didn't quite study for that. Yes, after the Biology paper on Wednesday, we were almost all quite relaxed, since there wasn't really anything to revise for EST. Butthen, I found the EST paper quite tough, especially paper 1, the points were quite blur to me. anyway, for many of the papers, I didn't do quite well too, I can only hope for the best.

after the last paper, I was to return the SPBT books. However, we had to wait at the end of a long line, since we got to the APD Room much later (our classroom was the furthest away from there). suddenly, we saw Kazeendra and some others running towards the APD room, calling out "5S1 first! 5S1 first!" Oh! How thrilled we were! So we joined the line and ran with them. Might be a bit ridiculous, and the other class students might be a bit jealous, but who cares?1 it's the last day at school, we were overjoyed! HAHA!!!
Later Juen and I went to join our friends Theng, Wei and Jane in Kang Cheng. Had such a great time, watching TV while waiting for the food. had my first chance of using a tea set, quite fun! After lunch, we just sat in front of the TV again watching a drama, then talking and chatting for about an hour. It was so cool, because we haven't had anytime to do that for a few months already.
The feeling of freedom...

Reaching home at around 3pm, I took a nap for about 2 hours. Another cool thing. In the evening, I start with my diet programme... not really, just that I haven't exercised for around 2 months already. so off I went with a little jog with my family. and as expected, my lung capacity had reduced! Haha! One thing I don't like about having no exam is... have to do lots of housework. during exam, I had my sister taking over most of my part of work, now that it is over, it seems I have to work even more. Shoot.

After exam, it's time to plan ...my future (?!). But before that, gonna have more fun with my friends. My class is going on a graduation tour (whatever you call it). Though I have been to Penang almost every year, this will be a different feeling as I'm going with friends instead of family. we will go really crazy... hopefully a few friends and I really get to watch a concert there. Daniel, Victor and a few other finalists will be performing. Hope our plan turns out good.

For these few days, I guess I'll be sitting at home, surfing the Net, and doing housework. Just don't know yet whether it will be fun... Looking forward to the tour!
Penang, here I come!!!


Friday, Dec 2nd 2005 10.50pm.

Raya Memory

Raya this year ain't relaxing for me. Well at least I got to attend at 1 open-house. Then, it's still all about studies. Boo...

Raya wasn't really a big festival for me when I was young , until I went to Beijing. Since almost the whole embassy were Malays, the celebration was big. The tradition there wa, I mean what I experienced, the morning of the Raya would be a gathering at the ambassador's hou8se, a.k.a. 'The Resident'. Actually I have forgotten some of the activities, but I remember the brunch which was prepared by, hmm.. I forgot, and I think also by the diplomats' wives, including my mom. Whew, the food was such a variety, and lots of them! Haha!! I loved the Raya there, as well as the Chinese New Year! Coz it's cold! It's really fun to have delicacies in the cold weather! heehee!! And especially when it snows... Hmm... and the duit Raya, in RMB...not too much though, quite satisfied. :)

There was once around year 1997 or 1998 (forgot again), not during Raya, but an activity for Raya. It was around the second half of the year, when the children of the diplomats and staff of the embassy was to do a performance for Raya. It was a Raya song, which of course, I never heard of before. I still remember the song, but I don't know the name of it, it goes like "tiba syawal kita rayakan, dengan rasa gembira.. anak muda di rantauan, semuanya pulang ke desa..." We practiced singing for a few weeks, a few days in a week. I managed to catch the rhythm and remember the lyrics in some time. Didn't really enjoy it, since we have to sing it over and over again. And my sisters and I were the only chinese there, seemed weird. What I really do enjoyed was the afternoon tea break! haha!Food, food, food! I really love many of the Malay desserts, especially "Cucuk Kodok"! YUMMIE!!!

well actually, the purpose of the performance was... to be aired on TV. I was so scared in the beginning since I was a stage-fright, and then I would be a 'camera-fright'! In fact, on the day of the performance, the crew of TV3 was there in the Resident to film it. Everyone was busy that evening, The kids geting ready for the performance with some of the women's help, many of the women were busy getting ready for the food, which was for the party held along with the performance, an 'early Raya', it seemed. The filming of the performance went on well, and there was also interviews of the higher officers including the ambassador, Dato' Majid, and also the atmosphere of "Hari Raya" in Beijing. Such fun, there were a lot of food, and the satay was specially made for this occasion, and whole lots of them! (The embassy staff took a whole day to get the sticks of satay prepared.)

Whether the film got on TV or not, I don't no. I told my relatives to watch out for it, but somehow I got no news of it from them. *Geesh, my first time on TV, I never knew of it...* But for sure, It was a great experience for me, a memorable one.

Wish all my malay and non-Malay friends, 'SELAMAT HARI RAYA!!!'