Snow in London

This is a significant event. The first day of snowing. =)

Though tomorrow is my programming test, I still plan to take a break to write this down. It doesnt always happen, anyway. haha.

Christmas break is approaching. I am going to Bath, Birmingham and Manchester for a short vacation. Perhaps, it's time to take a short break, after the treacherous autumn.

So, back to study! Guys and gals, do continue to support my blog. =)

Of Last Week of the Term

When we were in primary, secondary or even pre-u, the last week of the term used to be the most relaxing week. We can even opt for not going to class. In university, it turns out to be the busiest and most tiring week ever. Crazy.

Yesterday, I decided to give myself time out, at least for a night. I randomly walked into the Holy Trinity Church, and listened to the performances by Imperial Gospel Choir. I am not a Chrsitian, nor an avid choir-singing lover. Just feel that I need to rest, at least a little.

What are awaiting me for the rest of the week:-

1. Programming test
2. Submission of Group Design Project Proposal
3. Lab Orals


All these are counted. =.=


Well, but I really have a good time joining UKEC. haha. That's the life I am looking for. Not the dull and competitive life in IC. It's good for the brain, not for the soul. (Ok-lah, good for the soul too, but maybe jz a little?) =p

深夜沉思

读回朋友的blog,

突然读回自己写的留言。。没想到对他的忠告，竟然现在也得对自己说一番。。

“每个人的资质都不一样。哪里不好，就补救。。。
我相信。。上天是不会亏待勤力的人。。

失败了，失望了，再爬起来。。总有一天，你也可以拥抱梦想。

共勉之”

深夜两点，在咖啡因的作祟下，竟然还在电脑前面。。寻找那久违的正面思想。。

Quote of the Day

"Let me tell you something you already know. The world ain't all sunshine and rainbows. It is a very mean and nasty place and it will beat you to your knees and keep you there permanently if you let it. You, me, or nobody is gonna hit as hard as life. But it ain't 'bout how hard you hit; it's about how hard you can get hit, and keep moving forward. How much you can take, and keep moving forward. That's how winning is done. Now, if you know what you're worth, then go out and get what you're worth. But you gotta be willing to take the hit, and not pointing fingers saying you ain't where you are because of him, or her, or anybody. Cowards do that and that ain't you. You're better than that!"

p/s:saw this somewhere on the net..and thought of sharing here on the blog..=)

Funny and Stupid

When a person is tired and stressed up, he will do funny things..

First, he thought of studying till the wee hours in the library...

Second, when there were only 2 stops to reach his destination, he overslept in the bus and missed 2 stops from the destination instead.

Third, he is on the blog at 2.13am, and dont feel like sleeping..

Just forget about this post, pretty much ranting some stupid useless boring stuff in life..

Random

Yesteday was my first night in the uni library. It was cool and exciting as there were not many people around. I can practically print or photocopy anytime I like.

I have never thought that Uni life is meant to be such, or maybe I am just giving myself some extra unnecessary pressure. A non-assessed test is driving me crazy here! But back in Alvls, I couldnt be bothered to study for any class tests. I went out for mamak, with Naan Cheese and Kopi panas in the middle of the night. Plus, overlooking Genting from the peak of a mountain near a friend's house. Oh, those were the good old days..lol

Today, I went to Malaysian Hall and had lunch and dinner there. I met some old friends, like Jason and Yinhui. While at the same time, I met some new acquaintances like Vincent, Li Ching and WaiShan. Well, pray hard we all can get the Junior Executive position and we can hang out more often! haha...=))

Tuesday is my Christmas Test, and yet I am still not finished in revising all the subjects. =((..

Till then, people..

一句话

人，最重要的是，不是站在哪里，而是朝向哪里。


(^@^..thanks daddy for this quotation. I am not thinking in a negative way anymore. I come here for a reason. After a chat on skype, I understand one thing. Success is all about falling and failing until we found the correct way. )

曾经愤世嫉俗，曾经满口怨气，重读潘建成的故事，才发现他还未发明USB 晶片时，也整天在吃饭盒。到他成功那天，总共有约3千抑或是3万个橡胶筋 (rubber band).

突然想起当时有首歌是这样唱的，“没有人能随随便便成功。。”

Random~~

Imagine. Creative. Innovative.

They are the keys to survive in Imperial (especially in EEE course).^^ Time really flies, and I am now in the Week 7 of my first term. Let's see what is awaiting for me, hmm...

Week 9- Christmas Test

Week 9- Driving Test 2#. (Programming test)

Plus, tonnes of Digital Logic problem sheets, Math tutorials, yet-to-be-understood Electronic Materials and Analysis of Circuits.

Troubles don't come in aplenty , they come one after another. And, the worst part is, they tend to accumulate.

And, to tell you readers something cool:

I heard that in 2nd year, there's one ang moh who has been learning programming since he was 10. And, guess what, he managed to detect the flaws in the firewall protection of the ICT department in EEE!!

So, he went to tell the personnels about this, and they confirmed it and rectified it immediately!

*This is like telling your driving instructor during your first driving session, about how to drift on the road..while he expects you to ask how to move the gearbox...O_O*

His 1st year final programming project was rated A++ as well!

So, that's Imperial. You will meet things and people beyond your imagination...

414

坐着那熟悉的414，看着一路上的建筑物和车辆，然后再看回巴士里的乘客，突然觉得，在巴士外面的，是没有顾虑的玩乐，而巴士里面的，都承载着每个乘客向往的目的地。

有时候，真的觉得很累。喘不过气的我，正被堆积如山的课业所嘲笑。面对着电脑，都会合上眼睛。剩余的声音，就只有隐约听见，一班学长在电脑室玩电脑游戏的键盘声。

但，每每一想到，当时是如何执著，如何竭尽所能来到这里，就知道，I come here for a reason.

真的，I come here for a reason.

每次想到这里，都会想起，《创世纪》里的一句话。 “万丈高楼从地起”。或许，别人已经在一楼，甚至是三楼；但是，若在起跑点就放弃，又如何成就心中的梦想？

听说，年底EEE有个presentation. 最佳的学生，会被给予Royal Academy of Engineering 的奖项。

想着想着，原来，巴士到了Sussex Garden. 按了按车铃，下了车，发觉心情沉淀了许多。

Short note

I wrote this during the long break after my Alvls finals. And, all the while I have never dreamed of getting the prize.

However, now it shows that when you really put an effort in doing something, unexpected results can happen.


I am so so so so damn happy~~~~=))))))))))))

Check this and leave a comment.

一点感触

走在街道上， 望见许多的枫叶，累积在道路的两旁。原以为每一片都似乎一样，仔细一看，其实，片片皆有自己的叶纹，自己的色调，自己的形态。

落叶纷飞，微风吹拂，告诉我秋天的味道，原来是这样的：有着夏天的余温，同时也有着冬天的寒冷。那欢乐的夏天，已转换成一个心境尴尬的秋季。秋告知我冬天的寒冻，都是特别孤寂，特别难耐，所以，每片叶子，都必须自己面对冬天，因而落叶。

能够坚强走过寒冻，方能嗅及春天的花香。

可是，仔细想想，冬天若来了，春天，还会远吗？

Kiss me, Because I am a girl.

This mv brightens my lonely, yet lovely Sunday morning in Wilson. Enjoy! =)

《后语》
十月的伦敦，飘起片片泛黄的枫叶；
不时地微风，吹进骨子里，
却也唤醒了心中，那浪漫的遐想。

曾经幻想着秋天的情景，
原来，秋天是多么的令人陶醉，令人迷恋，令人疼惜。

3rd week~~

Time flies. Before I realised, I am now in the 3rd week of my Imperial life. Lectures are still tough, and getting more difficult.

Basically, my daily activities are rushing to uni, study, then rush back to Wilson House and rest. Therefore, there are nothing interesting to be blogged about. LOL

Anyway, there are several updates I would like to post up here.

1. Next week, 31st of Oct, I am going to Nottingham for the Nott Games, while as a spectator or a player, I think it will be known pretty soon.

2. I got an extra 1hour per week math lesson, which I hope it can compensate some of the wasted hours spent on the actual Math lecturer.

3. Today, I went to the Science Museum with a bunch of Malaysians. It's so big and exhilarating to see those scientific experiments and have a glance on those cool and rare pictures. (Much more better than PetroSains in KLCC. And the most important thing is, the admission is FOC! =)

4. First time to practice Lion Dance for the ICUMS. The stunts are not so tough, just that need lots more of practices and patience.

Stay tuned for more updates, people! thanks for supporting my blog~~~=)

Lectures Blue~

It's Friday! And on Saturday, I will be going to Belgium with a bunch of Malaysian gang.

This first week of lectures, has really opened my eyes wide. The lecturers really expects alot from you. They just threw you whole lots of new things, new terms, and wished that you can catch up by your own.

Maybe UCSI didnt really prepare me well. Or, maybe I was quite slacked off in UCSI. I didnt take up Further Math during my A-levels, and now I am trying so hard to understand a topic within a short period of time.

Perhaps, just like what my friend used to say when he went to MMU.

千万不要害怕输在起跑点，因为最终重要的是，毅力与勤力。


to sign off, i end up with some poetic lines,

那风，很猛，很猛，
云层的乌黑，遮盖了那心中的骄阳；
但愿，
雷雨过后，
脸上， 展露出，
一丝，
彩虹笑容。=)

First Week in London

Actually, there are nothing much to be blog about, since most of the things happened are rather insignificant. lol

However, I will try to update my readers with some stories...

1. I was involved in the super fun, yet super tiring Egg-Race Project. 6 of us are required to build a model to hold a ping-pong ball for 15-30 seconds, and launch it across 3m. Although ours are not really successful, the efforts put in are worthwhile afterall.

2. I had a badminton tryout yesterday. But, probably I will not be selected into the teams. Still, keeping my fingers cross. =)

3. Had a really good time cooking, especially in Southwell..^^

4. Signed up for some societies eg: Astronomy, Model UN, Felix (IC newspapers), Badminton Club and Malaysia Societies..


till then, people..bye! =)

*Alert*

Hey people, I am pretty much settled down in Wilson House, which is my hall, located at Sussex Gardens. It is not very far from Imperial, comparing to the journey and distance I have to travelled everyday. To be exact, I need around 27mins to walk across Hyde Park to reach my department.


Well, as what I have read on ZW's blog, I would like to blog about this too. Yesterday night (Monday) was the first ever successful shared dinner ever prepared. The Malaysians (Shari, ZW, me, Shi Yunn, Jialin, Tai...) went to Saintsbury to get the raw materials and sauces, and we decided to cook together.

Here are the menu:

Spicy fried rice: Shi Yunn
Salmon Fish: ZW + Chee Leong
Minced Meat with Egg+ Fried Prawn: me
Vegetables: ZW+ Shari+ Chee leong
Pork Steak: PQ
Salad: Ken

and some pastas and rice...(will upload the pic later on, once i get hold of it)^^

So, though is a very tiring day (have to take tube from Gloucester road back to Wilson), it's really fun to meet all the Malaysians to cook together!

p/s: rushing for uni, ppl, till then =)

Random Pics from London

These are some of the pictures I took in London for the past 2 days. Enjoy=)

First Post from London

I am now writing this from London.

I am currently staying in Mara House for 2 days, and will be moving into Wilson House on the 3rd of Oct.


So, till then people. I will try to post more pictures instead of words to describe London.


=)

最后的篇章

Disclaimer: The post below is very emo-ish. Read at your own risk.

在大马的日子，也不长了。

所以，才决定利用华语来刻下当中的心情感受。一时之间，我语塞了，竟不知道要以怎样的文字，来表达那心中的冲击、澎湃。

我重新审视自己的方向，看着两年前的自己，然后现在的自己，再展望四年后的自己，也得到不少启发。很多时候，你要的，你不会的得到；反观，你没想过要的，却会拿到。 这里，我只想说的是，原来一切随缘，并不是悲观的说法，而是看尽了无常的人生盛宴，而成熟地珍惜目前。

一直以来，论语说，父母在，不远游，游必有方。那现在，我远游的目标是什么？少许朦胧，少许不确定。

在林凡的《一个人生活》里有一句，“冰凉的夜里让眼泪温热我”。我又想，英国那里是否会冷冻到，让游子的回忆流下不舍得泪水吗？

当时间越来越少，我们就越会去争取。哪怕是一分钟的相聚，也足矣。因为，当时间流过后，我们或许会追悔着当日的遗憾。

离别在即，我开始珍惜这里的一切。 纵然大马的政经文教依然如此，但是，还有很多沉淀在心底的情感，紧紧系着我们。

我曾经为了梦想，放弃了某些东西。现在，却想要追回一个平衡点。

没有灵魂的梦，就像没有家的豪宅。-夜曦



p/s: 最近去玩回那风筝，原来，一放一收，才是生活的规则。

To my friends, classmates, family and people that I might have forgotten

Untitled

In one week's time, I will be saying goodbye to Malaysia.

Many friends who are going to study abroad soon, have started to blog about the memoirs, moments and anecdotes which are stored in their minds, and can still be retrieved until today.

I tried to remember, to reminisce and to recall, yet what appear, were not the significant milestones which I have achieved, but the happy and sweet moments which I have passed through without notice. I was surprised.

The first time I was detained and caned in the class by Cikgu Fong, my Primary BM teacher.

The first time We chased a classmate around the school compound, until my school uniform was torn (terkena the side of the windowpane,-.-).

The first time I was protected by a young gangster head in the school bus, and got lots of free snacks and, of course free seats as well. He even lent me some Misteri Naga comic books but I couldnt find him when I have finished reading them.

The first time I took a bus when I had diarrhoea. (Very bad experience, dun ask! )

The first time I made a phone call to a girl.

The first time We cracked jokes and spilled a mouthful of water in front of the teacher.

The first time I fought with a classmate.

The first time I was so happy being a class monitor for straight 2 years. (2005/06)

The first time We made surprises for teachers and friends.

The first time We debated with our English teacher about an issue.

The first time We wrote about our class, our teachers an kept those in a book.

The first time I saw unity in my classmates when the teachers asked about the book.

The first time I consoled a girl on a phone for about 2hours and it cost me a RM15 for the bill.

The first time I took an hour walk to search for a piece of one-year-old newspaper article at National Library.

The first time I took a dinner with a girl and walked her home and made a video for her birthday.

The first time Me and My Friends skipped the Physics class and went to play badminton.

The first time We laughed like nobody is around at the cafeteria.

The first time We cracked some unforgettable jokes in Ulu Sepri.

Too many first times to be brought with the luggage, which is why I choose to store them in the room. So that, when I come back, I will be able to take them out and have a look.

"We ought to keep our memories because we need them when we are alone, when we feel cold and when we fall."

P/s: I accidentally re-listened to this song. Nice one indeed.

杂文

对着，
发光的荧幕，
听着，
打字的杂音，

独自，感受着，
单一的心情。

孤寂的夜，在雨珠的衬托下，没有更为热闹，
反之，
更为冷清，更为寒冻。

启程的心，
牵引着，
不愿走的回忆。

当初的梦想，
竟，
失去了，
那曾有的，
潇洒。

他，
仰笑，俯瞰自己，
却看见
空虚地徘徊，
在
虚拟
的空间里。

发着，
不知所谓，
的
牢骚。

词两句

二十年的岁月，就像喝下去的绿茶，淡淡的一口，浓浓的思念。

望着，那草地上的一滴露珠，仿佛，一切的回忆，浓缩起来，等待着晨曦的照射，化为一丝希望，迈向西方。

Finally almost there

A place I have always dreamed about. A place which I have thought that I might not be able to go, at least for now.

But, now it's happening. I am going to London, and I am finally almost there.

Things happen for a reason. And, for a person who loves scenery, I got Wilson House as my future accommodation. I can just easily overlook the spacious and picturesque Hyde Park from my room. I heard there's a sport centre nearby (wow!), as well as some Malaysian restaurants (Kebab!), and big shopping malls like Tesco and Marks and Spencer.

The drawback is, I will miss lots of fun time with friends who stay in Southwell and other Evelyn Gardens hall, as well as Southside and Beit. =(

Plus, cycling across the park amidst the morning breeze seems refreshing and awesome! =)

Just have a sneak peak on the park which I will walk through everyday. =p



Hyde Park-take 1


Hyde Park-take 2

Experience

This is the place, where 18months of memories were built upon. Today, after leaving it for a few months, I revisited it and I had a lot to share with you about this place.

I was told that, I will be interviewed, simply because maybe I am talkative? This is because I somehow couldnt find any valid reasons for them to interview me, when I heard these the moment I met my interviewers. A and B

"Why you find a student who is going to UK? Why not getting another high achiever who is studying in U.C.S.I currently? "

"I actually forgot about the interview already. Too many things."

Is this the way u expect when u are told u are going to be interviewed? I don't know, at least it's not within my expectation.

Overall my interviewers are quite polite, but there's one question which I find it hard to answer. I just don't know how to answer it.

"Why you prefer Imperial to U.C.S.I?"

And, when I request a financial assistance to sponsor me to take part in a student event in Prague. I debated with the VC for about 2 hours on why should U.C.S.I sponsor.

Here are some of the words worth to be remembered:

1. International event might be a crap? We wouldnt know?

2. Why would u want to choose ICL instead of U.C.S.I? (Duh again..~~)

3. We dont want to rare u already, and give away our asset to other universities. (Why sounds so P**-ish? This answer is given when i asked why no info on UCAS or US admission is given to us.)

4. Writing to express your opinion is a type of leadership. To link with other people is another type. We only look into the latter. (Now I know when a person wana say NO to you, any kind of reasons will be given .)

5. Why you kept on picking up something good from other colleges? (Takkan, I ought to praise U.C.S.I?)

6. If the President of Student Council or the President of CCS asked, I would recommend them. But you did not hold any positions in our clubs. (Does Alvls student stand a chance to run, given that there are so many degree students? And, does that mean a President from your club is eligible to take part in the IYLC? Oh my..)

Well, I was seriously speechless when I walked out from the place. And, as I recalled the whole interview process, I felt so familiar. The way they spoke, and the reasons they put up, were just like the mentality of certain people in our country.

I heard that renovations are currently being done in this place. Even an elevator is built from ground floor of block B straight up to computer lab.

But isnt this looked like our country? We have top-class infrastructures, but human capitals managment?

Nevermind, sometimes we need to walk out of the box if the box doesnt want to move.

3108 Thoughts

Heavy rain in the morning. Just woke up and felt like going back to sleep again.

Therefore, to kill boredom, I went to buy the 1Malaysia first day cover. I admit that I am not an avid stamp/ first day cover collector, but still the first day cover is quite attractive.

So this is the first day cover.


And this is the miniature sheet which costs me RM5. It's like a hologram with a 3D-effect.


Well, u see, somehow, this reminds me of the degree of patriotism issue which occurs every year without fail. There are so many ways to show it, but some just insists on waving the flag is the only method to show; while some even thinks that we should just keep quiet in order to be patriotic.

I buy 1Malaysia first day cover-wor. I support Barangan Buatan Malaysia-lar. At least I walk my talk, better than some who just leaves shoutouts as shoutouts, or keep slogans as slogans.

U see, that's the problem. Here, we need to show people our love. We can't just store it deep inside our heart.

However, we have to make sure one thing. Our love is towards our country, which doesn't switch name every 5 years.

Here I wish, Hari Merdeka, Malaysia! =)

Is that patriotic? Yea, perhaps not. Because I didnt wave my flag. =p

Random

Just finished watching Burning Flame 3, the HK series.

One phrase which I remember clearly was, "Out of difficulties, makes miracles". (排除万难，就会有奇迹出现)

A nice one indeed. =o

And, another unrelated announcement, the poll will be closed. And for the PPSMI policy, 6 votes were received. Nobody supported BM for secondary. 3 goes for the second and third options, respectively.

A day in KLCC

Today, I accompanied my mum to KLCC to shop, as well as to go to the Chinese Book fest, for some prominent editors/ columnists' sharing sessions.

And, on the way, we met a cute Japanese student who was losing her direction to KL Sentral. Therefore, my mum offered to help her out and taught her the way. *She also told her I am her son, and asked me to exchange emails and names. I wondered what is my mum doing..O_o*


From left to right: Mum, Atsuko

So, later we went to KLCC and took our lunch. Later, we just went to Isetan and chose some clothes and a pair of jeans.

And, at the book fest, I was honoured to meet up with some famous local columnists, like 许国伟, who holds a discussion with Jamaluddin on 988 radio station every morning 8-10am; 欧阳文风, who is best known for his cognitive theory, education philosophy and gay issue; and of course, not to forget the renowned Sinchew Daily editor, 郑丁贤, who is good in criticising the government's policies in a subtle, yet sarcastic way.

So, these are some of the shots taken this evening.


from left to right: 许国伟, me


from left to right: me, 欧阳文风


from left to right: me, 郑丁贤

Today, is a tiring day, yet a fruitful and enriching day. It's good to have a chance to meet up with the real persons behind those thought-provoking articles.

*this is my 100th post~~~^@^*

Best. Tarikh-tarikh. Ni. (BTN)

Kawan-kawan, you tau mana tarikh-tarikh yng best sekali dalam bulan Ogos ni?

Jawapan: 17-21 Ogos 2009

Actually, before I was summoned for this camp, I had read much negative impressions provided by previous scholars. I began to worry, and feel the tension before reading the clean, nicely-printed invitation letter from JPA.

Due to the obligation for the scholarship, I had to step into this camp, which is located deep inside Rembau, the stronghold for KJ.

And, to my horror, first day during registration, I was allocated to a dorm which took in 11 people and I was the only Chinese boy. LOL.

Nevertheless, I knew that, "out of difficulties, makes miracles". And, what happened the rest of the week, was truly unexpected.

I had my first abseiling experience there (which I missed it during my NS training), and it was so so so fun! The anxiety when you are up there, looking down the ground; the excitement when you are 'scrolling' down the tower; and the relief when you can finally touch the solid soil below your feet.


Plus, here comes the most important and critical element which has accompanied me in the camp- Jokes!!!

Let me introduce you the best joker in the camp!

The 2nd person from the right, our tok penghulu! Only those who witnessed the joke can fully comprehend it and remembered the moment till the eternal. (Btul tak, karmun and zhi wearn? ^^)

And, now, let me move on with my LDK group members.

Formal clothings in dewan makan.


After LDK. With our Facilitator, Ms. Sabrina.


Baju sukan at dewan makan.


The Mafia Gang.


From left to right: Austracia, Me, and Karmun.


As the saying goes, "a picture can tell thousand words". So, I would like to let these pics telling the rest of it.

With my responsibility today, what I can conclude is, sometimes we do have to overlook certain aspects to enjoy ourselves and to avoid further depression. When people are harsh with their words, try to smile sarcastically and trust me, the smiles do help.

Merdeka, means that 'dalam hati mereka'. It will always be mereka who gives, and mereka enjoy the benefits. It will never be who gives certain thing, and who takes it.

It's time to fasten our pace for development, rather than quantify certain things to show the fragile justice we have. We ought to review what's wrong and amend it accordingly, rather than take it as the only reference we could have.

Anyhow, this camp is seriously damn memorable, damn funny, and damn crazy!!!! Ulu Sepri rockzzzz to the max!!!! =)

Malaysian Student Leaders Summit 2009

It's the 3rd year for this event. Yet, frankly speaking, it faired worse than last year.

Firstly, the speakers list in the website is quite deceiving. Most of the speakers, I mean the big shots were not even present.

Secondly, it's so pathetic to substitute an 'impromptu' youth forum and four different students from various universities Majlis Perwakilan Pelajar (MPP) just had to discuss some topics to pass time. (Yet, they even stopped an Egyptian to share his thoughts. Yea, it's abit unfair for using most of the time, but since this event attracts foreign students, we should let him to share his experience in his country or similar events, so that we can benefit from that.) =.=

Thirdly, most of the stduents (of course, this includes me as well) were out there to chat and know new friends, rather than staying inside the cold, boring hall for the last lecture on Article 153 of the Constitution. They even cancelled the group presentation.

The only good things were the discussions amongs group members, the food of Hotel Nikko and some unexpected networkings. lol.

I had the opportunity to snap a picture with Tan Sri Koh Tsu Koon, and met with a alumnus of Yale University, of course there were some seniors from Imperial, new friends from Warwick, UCL, Cambridge, UPenn, Uni College Dublin and a cute girl who is heading to Sydney.

So in short, the good things outweigh the bad ones. I will give a rating of 6.5/10.

End notes: When a friend asked me last year, would you go for this year MSLS, I would say, let's just see how's the speakers list featured. And, for next year, I would say, let's just dont visit the webpage, and sign up according to your intuition. The list is not convincing enough. =)


2nd from the left: Hanna Yeoh, 3rd from the left: Angkasawan


Dr. Mahathir


Koh Tsu Koon and me

Random Evening Pics

1. Dilemma of sky and sea


2. Whirlpool


3. Footprint on the sky

R.I.P Yasmin Ahmad

Yasmin Ahmad (1958-2009), arguably the best movie director Malaysia has ever produced, passed away last Saturday night due to stroke and brain haemorrhage.

A true patriot, a humble film maker who has been always promoting national unity through her movies and advertisements and a sincere lady who has attempted to produce movies which transcend cultures, races, and religions.

Though she has left us in such a premature way, her spirits and efforts will always be remembered in our hearts. The heart-warming Petronas advertisements which remind us of the value of filial piety during major festive seasons, and of course, never forget the thought-provoking Merdeka advertisements by Petronas as well.

Those ads are put in such a way, where no special effects are being used. What we see, are what we feel. She is described as one of the rarest gems in the vast sea, and I am afraid I couldnt agree more. Her productions have made most of us to sob and to laugh naturally, as well as forced us to think deeply of what is happening in our community.

Year in year out, she has won many international awards, despite some of her movies are regarded as 'unacceptable' and 'controversial' by a small group of people. However, I believe, what she has done all these years, are not for the awards, but rather to reflect the reality in our nation, and hope to make a change.

She dares to step into the 'Inconvenient Truth'. And, her courage should be learnt and adopted by the younger generation, for the courage is what we called 1Malaysia Spirit. It's far more meaningful than those speeches or policies which are being implemented.

Hopefully, her works will be remembered in eternal. For years to come, when we can be united as one race as what has been portrayed in her productions, we shall remind ourselves, that once, there was one lady who has contributed to the nation today.

Today, we have lost a great lady, but we dont want to lose her efforts tomorrow.

To cut it short, let us have a look on some of her advertisements.

Funeral
Percintaan Tan Hong Ming
Race
Merdeka Sunat
Pembinaan Sampan

潘健成分享会与台湾教育展

上星期六，又再次到KL一趟。这一次，是在Raja Chulan, Hotel Istana.

这一次，则是为了潘健成这名字，慕名而来的。一位来自适耕庄的独中生，靠着一股不服输的毅力，以及永不言弃的心态，终于成功在台湾闯出一片天，扬威海外，成为了群联电子的董事长。


听了他的演说后，感觉到的是实现梦想的崎岖，和能够面对挑战的信心。

他的语录中，的确有一些是值得我们去了解，并加以应用的。

（一）今天之所以成功，是因为之前做了许多对的事。
（二）文凭对于找第一份工作才重要，对于往后的工作，已经是实力了。
（三）金钱可以买很多东西，却买不到荣耀和声誉(fame and reputation)。

我也问了他一些问题，关于大学生涯应该知道什么。他赠了我一句，“在大学，不要限制自己，而是放开自己；尽量认识多朋友，增广见闻。”同时，也知道大一到大四所学的，也是基本；真正的核心技术，是自己去学，自己去研发的。

这一堂讲座，感触特别深。外籍人士看到的是，大马学生的能力；我看到的是，大马学生的悲哀。

*****************************

听完后，就到厅外的台湾教育展绕一绕。看了后，原来台湾国立大学、台湾国立科技大学和国立交通大学的科技与工程也具有世界级水准。

其实，会华语和英文的独中生，或者国中生，若经济上无法到欧美国家留学，台湾也是一个不错的选择。甚至，还会比国内多家私人学院更好。

然后偶遇一位在台大念政治系三年级的女生，也发现到偶然的谈话也蛮不错，蛮投契的。呵呵。重点是，美女一个，之前是在吉隆坡中华中学念书的。

总的来说，这一趟旅程，又学了不少东西。哈哈

预告

今天实在是很累，原本想把心得放上部落格，却没那个心来写。

所以，我将会在短期内放上来。

题目：《潘健成分享会与台湾教育展》

敬请期待了！ 呵呵。。

Announcement

From now onwards:

1. I shall stop commenting on issues related to my nation's politics and economy

2. I shall refrain from making a stand on any political and economy issues, and shall always remain neutral in all circumstances.

3. I shall uphold my responsibility and integrity as a government-sponsored scholar to abide by the terms and conditions in the agreement.

4. I shall not explain the reality in my country to any third parties, without the consent of my sponsor.

5. I shall keep quiet and be ignorant towards any national issues.


Yours sincerely,
Luminodreamer

可爱的长者

或许，人老了，真的会如人所说的一样，变回小孩子般，向人撒娇，甚至幼稚到认为自己的思维是最好的。

哦，别误会。我并不是以一支竹竿打翻整艘船，或以偏概全，诠释所有的老人。我只不过是指，这部落格的主人。（请阅这里）

有时候，我觉得这老人，很可爱。可怜没人爱。好像退位后，不断要引起大众的注目，而一而再，再而三地出言不逊。说的话，也似乎没什么逻辑。正确一点来说，根本就是废话。

就好像，追求自己心爱的人时，为了夺取其芳心，而不断引起他/她的注意。

种族问题。唉，那真是50年不变啊！其实，我也相信大家现在看到的，不是那老人的甘榜思维所能看到的。教育、经济、政治，在整个世界的剧变下，我们了解到转变、改变是无可避免的。

那些老调重弹的言论，大家的耳朵，也听到腻了吧！

前阵子，当伯拉还在位时，他也不落人后，频频发出强烈的批评，势要赶人下台。那，来到了人权问题，赵明福之死，他又出奇的安静。

最近的一篇言论，是关系到他对于自己推行的英文叫数理政策。说穿了，也只不过是一般的政客。

也许，他自己所做的事情，比反贪污局更为黑暗吧。1987年的茅草行动，1988年的司法危机，1998年亲手逼自己的副揆吃那么大只的肥猫。2003年，提拔了伯拉；2008年却也逼了他黯然下台。

我很想知道，他做之前，有否想过这些事情，会一一抹杀他于85年推动的Proton Saga，91年的2020宏愿，96年的吉隆坡塔，98年的双峰塔和共运会？

事过境迁后，历史将会记载真真烙进人民心里头的事情，而不是美观的外在设施。

22年的蒙昧，够了。是时候，往前看。就当他是位得空没事做，闲人说闲话的老头子吧！

悲哀的感叹

当首相还为自己于上位白日后，拥有民众的65%支持率，感到兴奋；不料，却传来赵明福之死。

白日政绩，毁于一旦。再多的解释，也只是掩饰。漏洞百出的言辞，更让人感到这世上，竟然有人冷血到如此的地步。

报章上说的没错，一位再普通不过的小市民，坠楼身亡竟然泛起这么大的涟漪(ripple effect)，已经为政府敲响了警钟。这意味着，政府公信力，犹不复再。

公信力，就像女子的贞操那么的珍贵。失去了，就无法取回。

很多政府机构，似乎表面上为人民服务，暗地里却名副其实是政府的心腹。反贪污局，成立了那么多年，我们在道德科、公民意识科也读了其任务，可是，现实中，它的舞弊例子，却是比更多的私人机构，更为严重。（噢，遗漏了大马前锋报-Utusan Malaysia）

70年代的香港，也曾是贪污重地，但是ICAC的魄力和被赋予的独立权，成功为香港建立新形象。

原来，说穿了，我国的反贪污局，其实是只有空壳的建筑物。

如果一国家的政策或制度，必须牺牲到人民的生命，才能使政府官员感到醒悟的话，这国家的前景，其实也没有什么可以好期望的。

很多的独立调查委员会，到最后也不了了之。PKFZ的舞弊案？ 南北大道？医院和球场的建筑问题？林甘短片？蒙古女郎炸尸案？

若非雪州政权移交，我们很可能不知道原来做牙医，竟然有能力建造一间巴厘风味的豪宅。

教育政策？更免谈了。我国的教育，就好像一个可怜的病人。被人截断了脚，又装上义肢以示抱歉。被人开错刀，又匆匆缝上针线。

两个月前，我希望出国回来后，能够改变。可是，我现在看到的是，一个濒临倒台的末代王朝。

我想，无法讲述的思绪

有时候，看起来表面的风光，隐藏了更多的无奈和悲哀。当我们看到别人走上红地毯，抑或是看到别人上台时被掌声掩盖的喜悦，理所当然的，我们会给予最羡慕的眼光。可是，真真被赞赏的那个，就真的觉得如此开心吗？

更为正确的说法应该是，其实这是多年辛苦后，一个感动的休息站。

很多时候，只有真真走过荆棘的道路，才知道竞技场的奖台上，能够站着的，都是靠血泪，一针一线编织出来的。我的经历，虽说不上什么伟大的磨炼，但是，这短短的18个月，却是20年来，走过最为真实，最为可贵的一次。

第一次，脱离不切实际的梦想。泡沫被揭破后，才从跌倒中，爬回来。
第一次，失去了赞赏的光环。一切从头开始。
第一次，踏踏实实从低做起。了解到，成功的加冕，是由更多的时间与尊严所换回来的。
第一次，面对现实上的竞争。原来找吃，是靠真材实料。而真材实料，是除了文凭外，更多的软技能的锻炼。

今天，我感到欣慰。一切的付出，并没有白费。当然要感谢的人，除了鼓励我的人，支持我的人外，也要感谢那些无缘无故让我难做的人。哈哈，终于体会到这句话的意思了。

梦想成真的时刻，原来是没有想像中那么兴奋。只不过，那心，的确会会心一笑，然后眼泪，缓缓地，流出眼角。望出窗外，原来雨停了，彩虹桥再现。

虽然梦寐以求的求学地点终于得到了，可是我也不会知道，得到的，或许不如想象中那么好；放弃的，也未必是不好的。这一切，都是在那时候的选择。选择了，就得走下去，为自己的选择负上应有的责任，不得怨天，也不得怨人。时过境迁后，或许我们会蓦然回首，看着原来是一次次的选择，促使了我们与他人相知，相惜，然后，挥手，分开；原来是一次次的选择，让我们对一切所发生的，感到无限唏嘘。

p/s: 同时，也重看了The Terminal，和听回创世纪的片头曲《创造晴天》，心中满是感慨。


Every cloud has a silver lining. If you don't walk through the rain, you wont be able to see the rainbow-Anonymous.

编按：当年的赌局，笔者经已胜出。21点 BlackJack.

Blues

The sky is blue,
the clouds are grey.

Sitting by the corner,
weeping without a single drop of tears.

It's said that when the pain is deep, the best way is to overcome it with our courage and determination. Eventually, the pain will go and return with a gift. It's a test of perseverance. It's an examination of sincerity.

Time is the worst fortune-teller. It flows through our paths of lives, and crosses them at the right moment. But, it can't foresee the future. So, that's why people said, time will tell, just not now.

I am waiting patiently.

When dream comes true

When dream comes true, your heart beats faster.
When dream comes true, your tears flow slower.

When dream comes true, your hands will tremble.
When dream comes true, you will feel letting the whole world to know. And, the next second, you will stop for a moment, and keep the good news for your best friends, for your parents and of course for the person who is always in your heart and mind.

So, dream is finally turning into a reality. I use my own hands to weave the web of dream, and the feeling is just so nice.

Stay tuned~

Crossing fingers, break the leg.

It's either a 100% or a 0%. But no matter how, I do hope I will be able to senyum sokmo day in day out.

I am anticipating it, with a tonnes of hopeful wish. Please don't let me down.

If it occurs eventually, I shall post it up immediately.

Stay tuned for the heart-stopping, breathtaking and jaw-dropping moment! (seems melebih-lebih pulak ni..XD XD)

A beautiful story

I read this beautifully-written love story on a person's blog. A thought-provoking and heart-warming story about a young soldier who falls in love with a pen-pal.

Read it here. =)

18th International Youth Leadership Conference (IYLC) 2009

Actually, I didnt imagine that I will get accepted to take part in such a wonderful event. Frankly speaking, I was actually out of boredom, I took some of my times to write the essays to spend my hours.

And, who knows, I was selected and got in! =)

The 18th IYLC 2009!!!!



But...How am I going to fundraise the conference fee which amounts to RM5000?? and the airfares, miscellaneous? Any hints, ideas, people?

Editor notes: The fundraising is totally a failure. All sources stamp a REJECTED word on my face. Maybe next year? ^^

Fear

The same fear comes again. It's there, I know. After 2 years, it returns. Or maybe it's like a swirling unrest, it never leaves, but has been staying by my side for all the time.

It's hard to stay strong when your dream is at stakes, especially when the gigantic troll is having your dream on his palm.

It can crush it to pieces effortless, or throw it back to you. But, you stand no chance in determining which way it will opt for.

A fear which shudders u like a chilling wind at 3am in the midnight, or makes you restless like the sizzling hot weather in Malaysia.

Given a choice, would you work in Malaysia?

This is one of the most heated debates of all time, and now it is ongoing on a student forum. I do hope anyone who happens to stumble across my blog provides some valuable opinions on this issue. But first, I will post up my opinion on this issue.

Let's get the ball rolling..

Malaysia, as a developing country, we have managed to build magnificent skyscraper like Petronas Twin Tower, world-class Sepang F1 circuit, and hosted many significant world conferences like NAM and OIC, as well as being the host for the 16th Commonwealth Game in 1998. Plus, every year, (if we could just have an official statistic on brain drain), many young and vibrant, talented Malaysian students get admitted into the top universities in the world.

So, by reading the examples above, we can say that, our country is obviously better than many others Third World Countries which are impoverished and under-developed. Therefore, to compare with them, is not a good way to improve ourselves. The countries we should compare, or more precisely speaking, observe would be Japan, Singapore, India and China. (or maybe Vietnam)

It's just the same as an excellent student who always wants to get admitted into some prestigious universities in the world, rather than opting for our local public universities which are constantly sliding between 200-400. Going for the best is the only way to be better.


Japan, which was almost destroyed in WW2 by the atomic bomb, not to mentioned many of its citizens are born handicapped due to the radiations. But, in about 50 years' time, we can see how its education system has evolved, by having the arguably toughest entrance exam in the world. Japan is so advanced in its science and technology. But, Japan is ranked in top 5 of having the highest suicide percentage due to high stress levels.

Singapore, our twins. Separated in 1965. Started from scratch, yet we can see how Lee Kuan Yew brings up Singapore to be a well-respected and renowned small island. Both NUS and NTU made it into top 100, with 30 and 70 respectively in THES-QS ranking table. Singapore, with little natural resources, able to excel tremendously in economy and education. However, due to the elitism mentality and the high stress levels, we can read from the newspapers that most of the professionals are acting wild and uncontrollable at times. And politics, in the near future, I dont think PAP will lose, let alone fostering a strong democratic nation, like what we see in USA and UK.

For China and India, their GDPs are growing gradually despite the financial slump. And, in terms of education and economy, again they are the leaders in Asian region, if not the world. And, if you have read before a book entitled 'The World is Flat" by Thomas L. Freidman, you will see Mumbai and Calcutta is the next biggest Silicon Valley in the near future. However, the gap between the rich and the poor is getting wider days in days out, and this is not a good sign if they are to come up with a stable society. And, for this, those who have watched "Slumdog Millionaire", will know about the actual scenario happening in India. For China, if you have been following the international news for years, you will come to see that many poor Chinese are living in an impoverished condition. Child abuse is rampant nowadays.

What am I trying to point out is, there is no country in the word which is as perfect as decribed by Plato in his book Republic.

In conclusion, we should always be grateful that we are born in this country. Three majority races and the minorities in East Malaysia, with so many local scrumptious delicacies, with an abundance of cultural heritages and of course with a colourful history.

While for the racial discrimination, Malay superiority mentality (Ketuanan Melayu) by some conservative right-wing Malays, it is for us, the younger generation to change. It's obviously hard. That's why we should study abroad, learn how a good democratic nation is being administered and gain the knowledge required to help our nation. And, contribute what we have learnt to our government.

We don't abandon a toddler who is learning to crawl, but instead we teach him to walk right?

I have seen many Malays are well aware of what is happening in our country. And, the Chinese, Indian and other minorities are willing to forgive and come back to serve the country.

I know, I am being simply idealistic, to form a Utopia. But, remember all things are started off with a little dream.

What say you?^^

© Luminodreamer

First Attempt on Malaysiakini

I have never thought of being able to write in an English commentary to any mainstream media.

Though it was edited, I am happy that it is published on the net.

Disclaimer: This piece of article is written based on the author's personal experience and observations. Due to its highly controversial nature, reader discretion is advised.

'Not all geniuses are good at scoring As'

Luminodreamer | Jun 8, 09 5:27pm

As usual, raging and disappointing complaints are being made to the press when many students who scored stellar results in the SPM examination are not able to secure the much- coveted JPA overseas scholarship.

According to official statistics released by the Education Ministry in March, the number of students who managed to score straight A1s in the SPM 2008 examination increased to 1,676, compared to 892 in 2007.

Read more on here

© Luminodreamer

Rejected

Sometimes, a picture really tells thousand words.

>.<

=S

I like how pictures describe the inner feelings, but I am not good in drawing. So, that's all about life. If u get it, you are indeed lucky. If u don't, just accept it.

Nothing much. Pure rambling.

Another scholarship reject. I am looking forward to the opportunities ahead. Nevermind. At least, not a winner, yet not a loser.

Cheers~~

One Month

How long is a month's time?

I wonder.

Been waiting for two years. Maybe one month is really nothing.

Wooh~ I am tired of the long battle. Hopefully it's not the Waterloo Battle which is waiting for me at the end of the dark tunnel.

Keep the spirits up and breath the word to myself again. Perseverance.

London Dreams

IF I were to have the chance to go to London, (it's not wrong to wonder about those nice places, right? lol) these are the 'most-wanted-to-visit' places.

Let's go for the lucky number one!


Trafalgar Square

And, no.2 goes to...


Thames River

Here comes no.3...


Hyde Park


Editor note: These 3 are the most recent dreamed places. Hopefully, they are the recurrent dreams which will turn into reality some days. This post will be edited from time to time. Stay tune for more.

©Luminodreamer

The Terminal

Note: To those who are uncertain of their goals, those who are having exams, those who are lost in the vast sea and simply those who are seeking for the light of guidance.

Everyone is waiting for something in his/her life. In our hearts, we have a terminal. People come and people go, just like the airplanes in the airport. We meet up some in an unexpected way, and we leave some in an inevitable way.

It's always hard to say goodbye, when we are leaving those we love at gate C43, yet, it's equally difficult to wave hello to a new acquaintance at gate A40. Still, we have to take it with an open mind and a warm heart. Life goes on.

New things, new people, new expeditions, bring a profound and exciting experience to us.
Old things, old friends, old memories, keep a sweet, yet intangible pictures of the past in the ebb and flow of our minds.

Memory is like a good wine, which tastes good as time goes by. It's not meant for us to keep taking it out and look at it, but instead, meant for us to remember the things which made us who we are today, once in a while.

So often, we whine and complain about the injustices being done upon us, and we tend to forget to seek for the gems in the stones. We get hit and we bleed, but usually the gems are hiding in the stones, and after sometimes, only then we will realise, we have become stronger and braver than before.

Things happen for a reason. Only when we turn around, we will understand it. Experience brings us here, but hope bring us to our destinations. A place where our hearts are belonged to.

Be a thinker, an observer and a dreamer. Don't be afraid of the thorns, for the roses are within your grab. Hold on tight at the cliff and have faith in reaching the peak.

A book once whispered to me, "It's not how hard you get hit, it's about how hard you get hit and bounce back. The harder u are hit, the higher u can bounce."

To quote a phrase from Paulo, "To realise one's Personal Legend is a person's only obligation".

Ces't la vie.

First Attempt on Malaysiakini (Chinese) -当今大马

Disclaimer: This piece of article is written based on the author's personal experience and observations. Due to its highly controversial nature, reader discretion is advised.

全面探讨公共服务局奖学金
黄翰斌 | 5月28日 中午12点11分

又是一年一度公共服务局（JPA）海外奖学金发放的季节。随着越来越多优异生登报、上电视，内阁已同意接管JPA奖学金，并将改名为首相奖学金，接着将检讨奖学金的录取标准及遴选机制，以期达到一个公平和透明化的制度。

Read more on here

不知道的路

似乎很久都没以华文来书写文章了。突然决定使用，也不知是怎么一回事。总之，近来，所做的一切，也都好像没什么逻辑，亦无法以常理去明白。

其实，命运这东西，也真的无法去掌握，也不是你我可以呼之则来，挥之则去的。通常，你心中非常渴望的，都是难以实现，如果不是无法成真的话。反之，你不太想，或者不太去放心思下去的，则会在弹指之间发生。或许，这就是所谓的，“有心种花花不发，无心插柳柳成荫”吧！

现在的我，已经变得些许功利，变得少许现实，也变得多少虚荣了。何时发生？坦白说，我也不知道。说起来，可真是好笑。童话故事里的美好，我仍相信，但也多了份怀疑。

这可以追朔到07年吧。一个充满戏剧性的转涙点。

很“幸运”地被遴选到国民服役。就在SPM成绩放榜后的一个星期里。根本就没有充足的时间去思考未来的去向，也没有足够的时间去考虑申请奖学金。除了JPA，TNB，Petronas，Telekom，ASEAN外，也就没什么多余的时间剩下。

进了营，看尽了人生百态。一个含有各种背景人士的社会缩影。一有空档，就为面试准备。不断阅报，还叫家人带点儿时事杂志近来。怎知道，希望落空了。梦想破碎。

我不想要过像同期同学的未来去路。我也入读过中六两个礼拜。我看到的，芙蓉中六，只会让我更为容易满足于现状。新加坡，则是最远的外地留学。糊里糊涂下，我选择了A-levels。

我决定，与命运赌一局。因为，若选择了A-levels，本地大学，就不再是我去的地方了。

结果，命运的转折，让我看到了希望。在偶然下，我遇见了位平凡的贵人。我知道了UCAS，我认识了Mabecs，结交了论坛友人。

在不知道有否钱前往UK继续念书，我申请了UCAS。在不知是否会被Imperial录取，我也参考了网上Personal Statement写法， 以及友人的意见后，也冒了个险，申请了。

在不知道有多少机构提供奖学金，我尽我能力，参与许多活动，协助提高自己的价值。在不知道会否被叫去任何的面试，我亦不断找人练英文。

就像大马电子奇才潘建成所说，“今天之所以会成功，是因为之前做对了许多事”。

很多的不知道，才造就了今天的不一样。

看着一些同期同学正烦着会否被属意的本地大学录取，我知道我做对了。
看着一些满足于现状的友人，我庆幸我走了一条布满荆棘的路。

说到不知道，又有一则故事分享。那时候，不知道会否被Imperial录取，而新加坡NTU的截止日期近在眉睫，在父亲半推半催下，也申请了。（其实，不太钟情于新加坡，不是好高鹜远，而是不喜欢那里的人眼里只有绩效，崇拜精英主义（elitism))

没有申请奖学金，却奇迹般被叫去。原本无心向往，也就不想浪费别人的机会。可是，想到呆在家里也无所事事，就当着是磨练自己胆量吧，顺道去Pavillion KL 走一趟。

一星期后，获知得到了南洋奖学金。或许是幸运吧。

一位朋友说，“相信自己，相信命运”。或许有些东西，真的是冥冥中注定了吧。

可是，现在又有了个难题。得到了别人梦寐以求的奖学金，英国之梦却遥遥无期。想放弃新加坡，继续发梦。问了十个，十个都说我疯颠、不理智、高傲、傻仔等标签。就连父母与亲戚也如此说。

当然，这不是怪责他们不谅解。因为，若是换个角度来看，我也觉得我自己太傻，放掉一个如此好的优惠。那Global Immersion Programme 和 Unique Leadership Training 连串的活动，能够参与学生交流，与世界接轨，正合我心意。

但，在心坎处的英国梦，那遥远的许愿，曾经那么强烈，现在依旧丝毫没减少，反而还因坎坷的道路，而变得更为清晰。

这些日子以来，我都不断与命运搏斗。不曾放弃过，也未曾被挥拳至倒地不起。

犹记得拳王阿里说过，“只要那一秒你还在拳台上，就要相信，你有站起来的可能。”

想了又想，若当时我不走那些“不知道”的路，我还会是今天的我吗？

我只知道，当年的赌局，还未胜出。只不过赢回了本钱而已。

Shell Scholarship Phone Interview

This was the first time I had a scholarship interview over the phone. Plus, it was about 45 mins long. Just imagine how pain your ear could be!

Well, a lady officer called up at about 9.20am, 10mins earlier than the scheduled time. The first question she asked was "Is it ok if I call u now?"
And, I told her, "Sure, no problem. I have been preparing for the call since 15mins ago."

The interview conducted by Shell was pretty much structured to a fixed format. They started off with course preference, then proceeded with co-curricular achievement, continued by a '4 choose 1' business topic, then ended with a little Q & A session.

So, it kicked off by asking my course preference and offers from universities. And, I told her " I would like to pursue EEE in my undergraduate years. And for offers, I have some like from Edinburgh, ICL and ANU, so yea."

"So, now we are going to focus on extra-curricular activities. So, tell me, one of your activities which you are proud of."
"Erm, yea, so, the activity which I am proud of is the Malaysia Student Leaders Summit..bla bla"

"What lessons or challenges u faced when u took part?"
Hmm..we came from different environment. Well, and we are from different races, and the topic we were discussing was 'BM is a tool for national unity'. Some of my group members are studying in Australia, UK, US or local. While, an 18/19 yrs old youngsters like me, really get exposed to such an environment..bla bla..

What is the main objective or aim when u decide to take part?
Well, the main objective in my mind back then was practically to take part in a scholary discussion on socio-economical issues. And try to establish as many friendships or personal relationships as possible as they are useful for me to get connected with those malaysian students who are studying abroad..bla

Any obstacles u faced while dealing with people from different age groups? Give us an example.
Well, in responding to that question, i would like to talk about my experiences in participating Global Peace Festival. I was called up to be group leader...bla

Besides the language barrier problem u faced, what other challenges that u had to take up?
Erm, yea, I had to deal with RELA troops who are much more older than me. I sought advices from my seniors. And bla....

Ok, anymore activities which u would like to tell us?
Yes. I had taken part in a charity drive, and volunteered myself to be a fundraiser..bla
How do u conduct? What are the challenges?
As above..bla...

Ok, right now, We will move on to the next session. I will give u 4 business topics to be chosen. Corporate Social Responsibilities (CSR), High quality graduates in today's employment market, meeting growing energy need without consuming.., use of internet in business...
Ok, erm, can u please give me a second to choose?
I think I will go for high quality graduates...bla..

So, tell me your definition on high quality graduates.
Yea. A high quality graduate, has to be be honest, responsible, bla...
So, what is the importance of having them for multinational companies?
Yea, indeed it's important. Like Shell for instance, when they invest in countries like UK, Netherlands, Malaysia or in China, high quality graduates are able to adapt the surroundings, and understand the cultures. like in Msia, we have to understand the three main races, and the minorities like Iban and Bidayuh..or in China, we need to understand about the cultures of 50 races. It can help Shell to recruit locals...bla..
And, if u are in the position to produce, what are ur strategies?
I will start from education. Education is important. Besides the normal hard skills, we shud as well as emphasize the importance of soft skills, by training them to be more versatile, flexible, bla..
Anymore other strategies?
Yes, the social part. the society should play their roles. Like cyber cafe (i mentioned computer shop or cyber shop i forgot..haha..) and shopping complexes, the universities students love to hang out and waste alot of times, rather than to train up themselves on leadership qualities and boost thier CV, bla...
So does that mean by reducing the licenses, we could produce more high quality graduates?
Erm, maybe not, but i believe it will certainly enhance the probability of producing highly talented graduates..
Any more to add in?
Yea, maybe we can start off from parents. Parents are the closest people since we are born. so, the parents may teach us or guide us to be more successul by instilling..bla...

Ok, Mr. Phang, today our session ends here. Thanks for your time.
Oh yea. May I ask something about Gourami Business Challenge which I read on Shell webpage.
What's that? What makes u so curious?
Erm, i read it something like erm, evaluate the performance of graduates or bla...
Is it something under Shell Recruitment Day?
Yea.
Ok, basically is a day where we give case studies and evaluate the graduate performance..
Oic. Thanks alot.
Yea, so we will inform you in 10 working days. Bye.
Bye and thanks again, Ms.

There goes the precious 45mins. Done badly? Done ok? or Done beyond expectation? I duno. Only the person who interviewed me knows it.
Hope I can hear some good news later.~~

Notification

Well, after an arduous and tired wait, I am glad that it's all over.

I was offered the Nanyang Scholarship by NTU. It's something equivalent to the more famous ASEAN undergraduate scholarship, but this is one which you have to compete with the Singaporean students, and stress more on leadership qualities rather than just the normal 'outstanding CCA performance'.

More importantly, the allowances are higher. And, priorities are given to participate in NTU Global Immersion Programme and Unique Leadership Training.

And, after browsing the NTUMSA (NTU Malaysian Students Association) forum, only I realise that every year, not more than 10 Malaysian students are awarded this scholarship. (Is it true?? o.O)

But, how about ICL? Now I understand the feelings of 'torn between two lovers'. lol.

Enough said. On cloud nine. =)

Shell~~

Oh Shell, do u know how long have I been waiting for your reply?

It is as if waiting for a Yes from the one you love. The anxiety, the disappointment, the nerve-wracking moment, like a soul-sucker, eating away mine bits by bits as day goes by.

However, patience is a virtue, and it's rewarding as well.

Just minutes ago, as usual, I click the link on Shell website. Guess what? The status changed!


I am glad that, after such a long wait, I was shortlisted for the interview. Is my luck rolling in? Or purely a mirage in the desert?

Well, as an explorer, I do hope it's The Oasis I am looking for. =)

ASEAN/Nanyang Undergraduate Scholarship

Basically, it's just nothing more than an interview, by saying this, I mean they try to know u better, at the same time, u try to sell yourself more.

So, the evaluating team consists of 5 people. One Indian guy will be the Dean of Admission. The other 4 people will be the deans of the faculty which you are going to enroll, so i guess the 4 of them are different for each candidate.

Well, I will briefly tell what happened. haha. At about 1130hours, I was called in by a polite, young and vibrant lady from the Scholarship Department.I was the last candidate for the morning session. Then, after knocking the door, what appeared in front of my eyes were the five interviewers. 4 Chinese, 1 Indian. 4 bespectacled, 1 with normal eye-sight.

So, the interview kicked off. I was asked some very unexpected questions. "Why didnt u click the link in the website to accept our offer? Are you aware of other loans offered by NTU, besides the scholarships and tuiton grant? If not, u might leave right now.

So, I straight away answered that I was not aware of those loans. And, I did say, "it's still a loan, not a scholarship". Then, the Dean of Admission told me about the conditions of the loans(eg: 20yrs repayment period, 0% interest...). And, to ensure the awkwardness and bad impression did not ensue, I showed great enthusiasm and interest on the loan schemes, and told them that finance is my main concern. And soon after, they proceeded with next questions.

Other Qs include:
1. Did u apply to NUS? And Why do u prefer NTU?
Ans: Well, I didnt apply to NUS. It's because I found out that NTU is a better place for engineering. NTU provides more hands-on practical lessons, and I believe that it's more useful for engineering students.

2. Explain briefly about your extra-curricular activities. (Show something special, people! Because based on what u speak, it will lead on to the next question and so on)
Ans:I will elaborate on two co-curricular activities which have taught me some lessons of life. First of all, I would like to talk about leaderships. I took part in the Malaysian Student Leaders Summit in 2008. A great platform indeed. We shared infos as well as brainstormed on the ideas in attending socio-economical issues happening in our countries. Secondly, I did freelancing with Sinchew Daily for about two years back. I wrote about educational, youth and some political issues.

(Then, luckily I did bring my articles folder to the interview. They did ask for some evidences and asked me some random questions about my articles. eg: how long do u need to write. are u writing out of fun and interest. how much do u get paid per piece...and they nodded with each other while reading those articles.) ^^

3. One or two technical Questions about your course.
(Eg: My course is EEE. So, they asked how interested are you in Science and Math? I said,
'I am not interested in Pure Science and Math, as I am more inclined towards the commercial and entrepreneurship sectors to benefit the people'.
Before I continued, one of the deans slightly raised up his voice,
'Do u think that pure science and math cant help to benefit the world?' So, I twisted.
'Well, in my opinion, if I were to study pure science and math, it will lead me to become an academician, while I myself is more towards to put things into practical, rather than study the theory.'
'I agree with what you have just said.' ended the dean. Is it a good sign or a bad one? I am not sure. I just know that, twist as much as u can, when the questions sound intimidating.)

4. Anymore question, Mr.Phang?
Ans: Well, I wonder what kind of life the students in NTU are having? I did browse through the website, but I would like to hear a more personal view from you.
Dean of Admission: We have lots of clubs...sports, speaking, debating, bla...
Ans: That would be very interesting and enriching...
Dean of Admission: Indeed, so it's just how u balance your life and study.
Ans: Yea, sure. And what if I would like to continue my Master in US like MIT, Georgia Tech?
Dean 2: Yea, of course u can. You are kept open once you have completed the stipulated bond for the MoE tuition grant. But, keep in mind that we dont have any "magic link".
Ans: Oh I see, yea, by saying that I doesnt mean "going through the back door" and....
Dean of Admission: Oh..no, we didnt mean that too...And I was quite curious how come you didnt apply for the NTU-Georgia Tech EEE+Computer Eng?
Ans: Erm, I was not confident back then. So I applied for EEE in NTU and would like to try to achieve a good results, so that later I might be able to seek for a postgrads in US school.
Dean 3: Yea, but not with a 3rd Class honours. At least you must hold a Second-Upper or First Class to be admitted into one of those schools.
Ans: Yea..I understand and I will work hard for that.

When the interview was about to end, One Chinese dean suddenly blurted, "Hmm, one last more question, u said u play badminton. I wonder which level are you playing at?"
Ans: Well, I am pretty much an amateur player, maybe a district player? haha. So, sir, does that mean you are interested in badminton too?

He laughed, "Oh no..I play others like cricket or tennis." Then, he chat with some other deans. "I believe I can still beat the young players." Soon, everyone in the room laughed. And, I was told that my session ended, and they thanked for my time and willingness to attend this interview.

So, pretty much an interesting interview. Or I would say the best interview experience I have ever had. =)