人文科系的好玩之处

中学时，个人认为，我花了很多时间，去背一大堆我并不是很感兴趣的宗教。世界各地的历史与文化，政治学的各类主义，生活美学，却甚少读到。

与友人谈及明年的人文科-政治学时，发现外国所给予的题目，与本地的历史题目，实在是相差太远了。

譬如：“请比较一下美国与法国的革命，并写出它们之间的相似与不同之处，再分析一下到底这两个革命是被什么主义所影响，继而写出它们的利与弊。”

第一个反应，竟然是反应不过来。咋舌之余，还冒了一脸冷汗。

当中的多元思考，也不必多说。

创意，很多时候，是不经意被发现的，而不是刻意去想它的。

就好像这个夏季，就在没有精心安排下，去看了很多不是我正修读的科系的东西。

看着某部港剧，了解到原来鉴识科学 （Forensic Science）里有一个很有趣的定律-罗卡定律(Locard's Theory)。

这就是名句 “凡走过，必留下痕迹”的最佳写照。这项定律，也被广泛地用在犯罪研究学（Crime Investigation）里。

也触摸到经济学里一个蛮特别的理论。 博弈论-Game Theory。这说明了人类所作的决定，会因别人的决定而受影响。这理论，有个很有趣的案例-囚犯的困惑 (Prisoner's Dilemma)。此外，还被引用于很多领域如数学，生物，甚至是政治学。

政治学里的"零和游戏" ( zero-sum game), 也从这里引申出来。即，两个正大战的人物，只有一个会生存的道理。

文学范围呢，我们也可看看台湾作家的文章，当中也不乏很多具批判性的。陶杰、龙应台、李敖等写的东西，都可以让我们看见一些平时所忽略的盲点。还有一位旅美作家，欧阳文风，也写得蛮不错；若有时间的话，看一看梁文道先生所写的东西，相信也会有另一番体验。

修读太多关于科技的东西，有时候，会忘记人文科系所能够看到的不一样。

若不了解人文与社会现象，的确会让修读科技的我们，陷入牛角尖里。角度的差异，有时会激发具有前瞻性的构思。

梦想的呼唤- 关于 Step Up 3

梦想，可以很大，也可以很小。

还记得，很久以前，有位朋友告诉过我，他要当一位导演。更艺术的一种说法是，当一位电影制作人。

看了 Step Up 3 后，才发现，里头有一句话，蛮老套，但也很受用。

“重要的是，当中的过程。”

这套戏，除了其非常精彩的舞步外，最好看的部分是当男主角，Luke 去访问那些舞蹈者，对舞蹈的看法。

再好看的舞蹈，也要有那意义的存在。否则，就只剩躯体的动作，而失去了灵魂的衬托。

理想，不需要为了面对真实世界，而完全摒弃。依然可以把它搁在一旁，又或者一边学习，一边维持对那爱好的热忱。

或许，太过戏剧化，太过理想化。乌托邦式的梦想，始终是21岁前的玩意儿。

很小的时候，老师已经灌输我们，梦想是成为一名专业人士。不断的修改，也只是从医生，变成会计师。或者，从太空人，变成一名商人。

当暑假即将结束，感触也似乎特别深。

还记得，当初有位朋友，没想过会因写作而结缘。希望他能在台湾创出一番事业，在文学领域一展宏图。

写作，一个集孤独和爆发力的活动。安静，却又吵闹。因思绪的冲击而难以抑制。有想过写词，毕竟，尝试，是肯定的前奏。

失败的话，就拍拍胸膛说，“不好意思，我真的不好。” 能够在理想面前认输，是多么的灿烂，多么的夺目。

其实，每个人，都是自己生命的工程师。

偶尔走着走着，回头看一下，这些年来，我做过了什么。照着镜子，我，真的能够认得自己吗？

或许，我们，又会有一种不一样的体验。

Of Reflecting and Rethinking

I came across this article and would like to share with you guys.

The Disadvantages of an Elite Education

(For those who are interested, you can read it. It is a thought-provoking one though it's quite long. )

For those who are not interested, I will just summarise the main points over here.

1. It makes you incapable of talking to people who aren’t like you.

2. An elite education inculcates a false sense of self-worth.

3. You learn to think of yourself in terms of those numbers. They come to signify not only your fate, but your identity; not only your identity, but your value.

4. The idea of not being successful terrifies them, disorients them, defeats them. They’ve been driven their whole lives by a fear of failure.

5. The system forgot to teach them, along the way to the prestige admissions and the lucrative jobs, that the most important achievements can’t be measured by a letter or a number or a name. It forgot that the true purpose of education is to make minds, not careers.

6. Elite schools speak of training leaders, not thinkers—holders of power, not its critics.

7. Thirty-two flavors, all of them vanilla. The most elite schools have become places of a narrow and suffocating normalcy.

8. What happens when busyness and sociability leave no room for solitude?

9. Now that students are in constant electronic contact, they never have trouble finding each other. But it’s not as if their compulsive sociability is enabling them to develop deep friendships.

How do we make use of our tertiary education? Very often we have forgotten why we are here, and when you look back at what you have written on your personal statement or application essays, you will wonder,

"Have I really written this?" O_O

*Reflect and rethink of the true purpose that have made you travel so far to UK.*

Student Movement

I attended PAN yesterday.

I listened to some of the speeches. Inspiring for some, some are boring.

We discussed about student movement, about changing the situation in Malaysia, about empowering the youth.

We discussed about the aims of organizing PAN. We talked about legacy, tradition, and history.

It's always by tracing the past, you will only know what you are doing in the present and what you are going to do in the future.

Power of student movement. I have almost forgotten that it used to be my drive and motivation.

I remembered when I started writing in Sinchew and Malaysiakini.

I remembered when I started admiring 凌国文 and 郑丁贤 writing styles.

I used to dream that by coming over to UK to study, I can do something I cant do in Malaysia due to some restrictions eg: University and University Colleges Act. But, as time goes by, I lose my track.

And now suddenly I recalled , I used to believe in the talk by this Professor of Tsinghwa University in China- Long Ying Tai (龙应台).

【Of 21st Century-Facing Global Challenges- How should university students prepare themselves?】.

-By having critical thinking. Think independently and manage to discern the true from the false and to be able to understand the facts and the fictions.

-By acquiring knowledge. Tear down the ignorant walls and interact more. Expand your horizon.

-By doing something. Action speaks louder than words. Do something substantial and practical towards a cause.

-By holding high integrity. Without a clean personality, we cant do anything to change the situation.

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

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

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? ^^

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

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. =)

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Life and How to survive it?

Do have a read on this. You might discover that all the while, we could have missed the most important things in our lives.

Enjoy!

Psychology Test

I have tried numerous tests like such, nevertheless, none of them provide me the accuracy which match with the self-examination which I have done to myself across the years. But, this one really got me awestruck. It practically matches, and evaluate me in a comprehensive and thorough way.

Scroll down...

Your view on yourself:

You are down-to-earth and people like you because you are so straightforward. You are an efficient problem solver because you will listen to both sides of an argument before making a decision that usually appeals to both parties.

The type of girlfriend/boyfriend you are looking for:

You are a true romantic. When you are in love, you will do anything and everything to keep your love true.

Your readiness to commit to a relationship:

You are ready to commit as soon as you meet the right person. And you believe you will pretty much know as soon as you might that person.

The seriousness of your love:

You are very serious about relationships and aren't interested in wasting time with people you don't really like. If you meet the right person, you will fall deeply and beautifully in love.

Your views on education

Education is very important in life. You want to study hard and learn as much as you can.

The right job for you:

You're a practical person and will choose a secure job with a steady income. Knowing what you like to do is important. Find a regular job doing just that and you'll be set for life.

How do you view success:

You are confident that you will be successful in your chosen career and nothing will stop you from trying.

What are you most afraid of:

You are afraid of things that you cannot control. Sometimes you show your anger to cover up how you feel.

Who is your true self:

You are full of energy and confidence. You are unpredictable, with moods changing as quickly as an ocean. You might occasionally be calm and still, but never for long.

Global Peace Festival 2008

"One family under God"-Aju!

This is the phrase which I will remember for the rest of my life. I took part in the Global Peace Festival 2008, which begins on 17th of Oct-19th of Oct. For the past 19 years, I will say that this is one of the events which have really touched my soul deeply.

On the 17th, I went to University Malaya to participate the International University Students Assembly(IUSA). It was a really great opportunity to be able to meet up with student representatives from Thailand,Cambodia,Hong Kong, Germany, Japan, and of course some local public universities students.

There is one Thai girl whom, I think is the best acquaintance I have ever made in this grand event. Her name is Chanintorn Pensute, in short, I will call her Chen. She has completed her undergrads in Political Studies, and now going to continue on her Master programme in London School of Economics(LSE). She is nice and polite, and also knowledgeable as well.(pretty, 4gt to mention. ^^)

Not to forget also, Aom, Proke, Natda, Kao(Thailand),Ken(Germany), Michi(Japan), Jimmy(Hong Kong) and Alvin(Brunei). For sure I will remember u guys forever.

On the 18th, I went to Taman Bukit Angkasa, Kg. Kerinchi to do a voluntary community service project, under the name of "Services for Peace and Unity". This is my very first experience in doing voluntary work, and it made me feel so contented and rewarded. Due to insufficient manpower, I was called up to be the team leader of Group 38(there are 62 groups, each carries around 20-30 members). I have to distribute the t-shirts, then write down my members' name and bring them to our assigned location, Block 15.

I gave instructions and helped in getting the equipments ready for my members. I had to listen to the Tok, which is the Head of Block 15. We had to scrap of the rust, clean the corridors, and paint the poles. Although it was exhausting, I was pretty enjoying it. I brought my members some drinks to quench their thirst when they were working. In fact, I felt touched as each one of us, worked together, regardless of races and religions. Guess this is the main message conveyed by this project.

Towards the end, I met the Co-Chairman of Universal Peace Federation(UPF) and the founder of this Global Peace Festival, Dr. Hyun Jin Moon. He completed his undergrads in University of Columbia, and a MBA from Harvard Business School. He then completed his Ph.D in a Korea university. He is an inspiring and aspiring leader, in having the 'biggest dream of all'-to create a family under God.

On the 19th, which is towards the end of this meaningful event, I went to Bkt.Jalil to join the celebration. I personally think that this event is just to raise fund in providing monetary aid for this GPF 2008. It's not as fun as the previous days, mainly because i believe that the people present there today couldnt really understand the key themes and the core values proposed by Dr.Hyun. They are just shouting, waving and enjoying the celebration, due to the fact that there are some celebrities coming over to perform.

I was really heavy-hearted when I had to say good-bye to my international friends. Though it was just a 3-days event, for me, it had given me the chance to know more people and gain the valuable experience of doing voluntary service.

The question is, when the GPF 2008 ends, does the passionate slogan, "One Family Under God" remains as a slogan? How do we promote the culture of service and peace as a student? Guess these are the two main questions we'll have to reflect and think about it.

[See you guys in GPF 2009 Thailand!!]

Appreciated by CAP Director of Malaysia, Mr. Nicholas Lee Chee Kuan, and was posted on the official blog of GPF Malaysia.