Friday, December 28, 2007

Happy New Year - 2008

2007 is drawing to a close and we are all anxiously waiting for the coming of 2008. What is in store for us in the new year? One can only guess. There are many prophecies and forecasts in the world political arenas, economic predictions, warning about global environmental calamities for the next 12 months, but who can be sure what 2008 will bring for us? Only today, in the newspapers, we read about the assassination of Ms Benazir Bhutto of Pakistan. We live in a world full of uncertainties and turmoil. Major world powers, out of self interest play smaller and weaker countries in the world like a game of chess. The discoveries of natural resources of undeveloped countries tend to bring interested players like bees to nectar. Human greed plays a large part in the most trouble spots around the globe. Corruption, greed and self glorification are the main causes for the misery in many countries.

The world we live in is divided into people who are super rich, a large percentage of middle class and a portion of very deprived and poor people. Inequality in wealth distribution vary from country to country. There are some countries rich in natural resources with 95% of national wealth in the hands of 5% of the population. The situation here in Singapore is much better. There are basically no destitute people in Singapore. Like any country in the world there are some very rich and also there are some poor people, but unlike many other countries no one goes hungry. Even the poorest have their basic needs. The Singaporean government has seen to it that no one is deprived of the basic essentials. However, inflation has increased recently and many are experiencing financial difficulties due to the hike in cost of living. The income gap has grown wider and voices of dissatisfaction can be heard in this otherwise very quiet and subdued city state.

What do I wish for 2008? I pray that 2008 will be a good year for all of us. I pray that all mindless world conflicts be ended. I pray that there will be no more loss of lives through indiscriminate acts of terror. I pray for the end of the Iraq and the Afghanistan wars and any other conflicts elsewhere in the world. Let there be peace, love and goodwill in 2008. I am certain this isn’t too much to ask but may prove an impossibility to achieve.

Thursday, December 27, 2007

Christmas Day 2007

Christmas Day 2007 arrived. Got up early and decided to breakfast at the local food market. As we will be having a heavy meal later in the day I selected a light breakfast of “chui kwey”, a sort of rice cake with the texture of jelly - nice and soft. After of few mouthfuls of this soft rice cakes I discovered that one of my crowns has detached itself. I was lucky I did not swallow it. What a bad start for my Christmas Day. All Singaporean dentists are closed for the festive day so I guess I will have to wait until either Boxing Day or later to get it seen to.

This Christmas, I was appointed to cook the Christmas turkey again. On top of that I had to prepare enough curry for 15 people. Preparing food for the family get together Christmas dinner has never been a problem for me. The dinner party went well. The turkey was much appreciated and the curry was very popular. My contributions towards the dinner spread were well-liked. By the end of the evening most of the spread had been consumed.

A few rounds of mahjong ended the evening. Good food, fine wine and good company made the evening a very happy occasion. The evening was a success. Another Christmas has come to an end. Christmas 2008 is another 364 days away.

Not looking forward to the visit to the dentist in the next few days.

Monday, December 24, 2007

When you are old

I went to the market today for some vegetables and condiments. My regular stall was closed. A nearby stall had what I wanted so I did my purchases from an old lady manning the business. I guess she must be around 75 years old. She was a sweet little lady who advised me to buy an alternative vegetable because the one I had chosen was old and not fresh. I took her advice and made my purchase. As I was waiting for my vegetable to be weighed for payment I noticed she had tears in her eyes. I asked her if she was alright. She told me that she has a daughter who drives around Singapore in a Mercedes but would not drive her anywhere whenever she needs a ride. Wherever she goes she has to depend on her kind hearted neighbour. I guess she must have felt extremely neglected by her own flesh and blood. Her daughter apparently is quite well off and doing well in the booming economy of Singapore. The fact that this old lady has to work at a market stall so late in her life is very unusual in our traditional Chinese tight-knit extended family structure. With teary eyes she lamented that when you get old and if you have no money to leave behind, you will be neglected. I guess she meant that her daughter would probably be more attentive to her needs and comfort if when she dies there was money and asset left as inheritance. As she has none, no one cares. The sad thing about it is that when she was young she must have loved her daughter and devoted a good portion of her younger days towards caring for this daughter of hers. She would most likely have worked hard to see to her daughter’s education and her every need. Many from the younger generation would squeeze as much value and usefulness out of their parents as they possibly can. When there is nothing of value left that they can get out of their parents, they would discard their old folks to the mercy of old age.

I see this more and more in a place like Singapore where money and assets have become the ultimate measure of success. I believe this is also a very common trend in many western societies. Older folks who have devoted their lives bringing up their children are considered burdens in their old age, often discarded and neglected. Many above 70 year old here in Singapore have to work at foodcourts clearing tables and sweeping floors and maintaining toilet cleanliness. Where is the dignity in that? I believe that when one gets old one must be entitled to a few good and easy years and be allowed to live with dignity. They should have the opportunity to play with their grand children and generally take things easy. What a sad world this has become when older folks are considered as burden to society and abandoned. By the look of things this situation is going to get much worse.

I sincerely hope that I will not be in the same predicament as this dear old lady. Expect nothing, be prepared for the worst, and if you are lucky that your children do care for you in your old age, consider that a bonus.

Monday, December 17, 2007

Football Crazy

Singaporeans are football crazy. Making money and accumulating wealth is their first passion closely followed by football. 75% of Singaporeans are Chinese and the Chinese are noted for their love of gambling. Football betting is very widespread in this little country and government run betting premises are found in every housing estate around the island.

On a day like yesterday December 16, long queues could be seen at all betting premises. The scheduled matches were Liverpool vs Manchester United and Arsenal vs Chelsea. I guess the “ get rich quick “ mentality of the majority of Singaporeans encourages a healthy business for these betting premises.

The Manchester United vs Liverpool match was at 9.25 pm. I watched the match at a local coffee shop not too far from our house. By the time I got there the place was packed with fans from both teams. The crowd must have numbered more than a hundred. It was a good match. Manchester United came away with an away win, 3 more points but still one point behind Arsenal at the top of the league table.

Gambling of all variety can be found in Singapore. You can place a bet through legal betting shop or through illegal syndicates, with give better odds. There are currently two casinos being built on the island and by 2009 they will be in operation. Singaporeans will have to pay a daily entrance fee of $100 for admission to one of these casinos. I am sure this will not deter the devoted gamblers. Whether these casinos will result in an increase in the number of gambling addicts we shall have to wait and see. There will definitely be an increase in tourist numbers, but maybe at the expense of creating a social ill?

Sunday, December 16, 2007

Dry Xmas?

After many days of cloudy skies, for a change, this morning has started bright with clear blue sky. It does look like we are in for a dry spell. For how long no one can tell. The weather in this region has been very changeable. Within an hour the weather could change from a sunny day to one of torrential downpour. So let’s hope that we have seen the last of the heavy downpours we have been experiencing over the last two weeks. We need a clear and dry period over the festive Xmas and New Year season.

I understand that the rain has finally stopped in Segamat too. They have been having dry days lately and the flood water has receded. However, we are still in the rainy season and things could change and the water level could rise again. This must be a worrying time for the Segamatians, especially those living in the flood prone regions.

Segamat is a nice place with very nice people. I would be sad if it is flooded again. Of course I would say that .........Segamat is my hometown.

Wednesday, December 12, 2007

Segamat Floods

The rain season is here again. It has not stopped raining for the last few days. Malaysia is experiencing heavy rainfall and there are floods in many low lying regions in the country. Segamat my hometown has always been prone to flooding during the rain season from December to February. The flood of December 2006 was one of the worst in memory and many lives were lost. The continuous rain of the past few days has resulted in swollen rivers and in many areas roads are closed to traffic.

The morning papers has confirmed my worse fear. Segamat is flooded again and water is still rising. Weather forecast has predicted more rain to come and things do not look good for the Segamatians. My brother has moved furniture upstairs and has parked his vehicles on higher ground.

During the floods of December 2006, there were no electricity and water supply for many days. Food could only be prepared upstairs using portable stoves and bottled gas. Life must have been quite uncomfortable, especially for families with young children. After the devastation of December 2006, the Malaysian government promised to improve the flow of water in rivers, build flood banks and undertake measures to prevent further floods in the region. I guess, from what we are witnessing now, with flood water on the rise again, they must be still trying to figure out how they can achieve what they have promised. In the meantime, while they ponder over the problem, Segamatians continue to be flooded whenever they get heavy rain especially around the month of December.

Friday, December 07, 2007

Day in JB

December 5th was a good day. The weather was horrible. It rained all day, but that did not dampen our spirit. We left Singapore early to avoid the rush at the causeway. By 7.30 that morning we were at Senai having our usual roti prata breakfast. Of course I did not forget buying breakfast for the Indian boy, our neighbour at our Senai house. After a leisurely breakfast we spent the rest of the morning at the house in Senai.

Shopping at Giant superstore was good. By 12.30 pm we were on our way to meet my brother and his children from Segamat. It was a moment I have been looking forward to for a long time. They finally arrived at 2.30 pm. It was so good seeing them again. The children have grown so much since I met them last. I fell in love with all three, especially Jason the youngest. Like all boys his age he is football crazy and a keen supporter of Manchester United. I got him a MU shirt with Ronaldo 7 on the back and a pair of MU shorts.

The rest of the day was spent in Terbau City where we lunched and shopped until late in the evening when we returned to City Square. We left them at City Square to catch the night train to Segamat. We crossed the causeway and returned to Singapore.

I really enjoyed my day with my brother and family. I am happy that we are finally reunited and constantly in touch via telephone calls and emails. The best thing that has happened is that I have a nephew and 2 nieces to pamper and love.

Monday, December 03, 2007

MSM or Blogs?

I read the Straits Times each morning when in Singapore. I then read the Singapore blogs. The messages coming from the MSM paint a very rosy picture of the Singaporean economy. Singaporean Bloggers tend to paint a rather different picture. Singapore has become the London of Southeast Asia and is already a rival to Hong Kong as the financial hub of the Far East. The Singapore Government through Temasek and many GLCs has invested heavily in neighbouring countries. On the whole, the financial health of Singapore is good and the future looks solid. The predicted downturn of the world economy, if it ever happens, will affect majority of the countries around the globe. Singapore too will not be spared, but with proper management and planning I think Singapore would fare better than most of her neighbours.

The robust economical growth of Singapore brings with it many undesirable side effects. Currently, inflation is at an all time high of 3.5% increasing to a predicted 5% next year. The salary gap between the high earners and the low wage earners has widened considerably. Prices for daily essentials like rice, noodles, cooking oil and fresh produce have increased. There are many who are feeling the pinch of cost of living hike. The newspaper has reported an increase in desperate people seeking help. It has also been reported that the government has taken action to help the needy. I am glad to see that the less fortunate in this vibrant city have not been ignored.

In the newspaper this morning there was another interesting article about financial feuds between siblings claiming on the assets left by their deceased father. There were a few other similar cases highlighted. The Chinese tradition of not dragging one’s own family name through mud no longer exists in Singapore. There have been many court cases lately between family members. Almost all such cases involve assets or money. Singaporeans are predominantly the “ Me “ people. They have been conditioned from cradle to grave to be very competitive. They have this “ I must win “ and “ I want to be first “ mentality. This has served the country well over the few decades since independence, turning Singapore from a third world country to the financial metropolis it is today.

This city state will do well over her neighbours in years to come, because Singapore has a very strict and no-nonsense government and a very submissive and obedient population.

Good luck to Singapore. According to reports from the MSM, Singapore is fast becoming the New York of the Far East. The bloggers are telling a different story. Who to believe?

Saturday, November 24, 2007

My pet subject

Life in Singapore – my pet subject. I have now been living in Singapore on and off for nearly 7 years. When I came here for the first time in 2000 I was fascinated by the progress made by this tiny little island state. Without any resources to speak of, the country has advanced by leaps and bounds over the other Southeast Asian countries. In the past 7 years there have been many improvements in infrastructure such as roads, MRT, public services and many other projects to improve the standard of living for the Singaporeans. Public Housing in Singapore is second to none and the majority of Singaporeans are owners of their homes. The speed of transformation from a squalid little third world country to almost a first world city is astounding. Within 40 years Singapore, an island without any resources, transformed itself from a backward state to what it is today. How did this come about? I think it is through sheer hard work, good and strict governance and maybe little not so pleasant political maneuvers. Less said about that the better.

Becoming a modern and dynamic city has brought with it some very serious problems. One of the most urgent problems for this fast growing city is the aging population. The nation builders of 40 years ago are in their 60s and 70s today. Time for these people to retire from the workforce. The city state is finding it very difficult to support this ageing and non-productive portion of the population. To compound to this problem of the ageing population was a law passed some 40 years ago by the Singapore Government regarding the optimum number of children a couple should have. Any family with more than 2 children were penalized by having to pay higher school fees, medical bills, birth certificates and low priority in the choice for schools. All these discouraged the Singaporeans of 40 years ago from having more than 2 children. Many stopped at one or even had none at all. Owing to this law, Singapore is now suffering from a shortage of manpower.

Clamoring to become the financial hub of Southeast Asia, Singapore has to import workforce from other countries. Foreign talents have been encouraged to come to this little island to work and become citizens. These imported citizens come mainly from India, China and other countries in Asia and even from European nations. The Singaporean government is choosey in who they allow into the country. Only talented and skilled applicants are welcomed. Skilled and talented people are also encouraged to bring in families to increase the future workforce of the country. Good schools and medical facilities are added attractions to lure these foreign talents into the country. The Singaporean government has a target of 6.5 to 7 million populations for 2015. To cater for this fast population growth the government has put in place a programme to upgrade the infrastructure and housing. This involves a large importation of manual labour from nearby countries such as Bangladesh, Indonesia, Vietnam and some also from Malaysia.

The fast and sudden influx of foreigners into Singapore has to some extent taken the true blue Singaporeans by surprise. The majority of Singaporeans are middle class and probably are not fully aware the reason for this encroachment into their island. Whether this is good or bad for the country is not evident to them. What is glaringly obvious to them is the fact that their jobs, their space, their children’s welfare are being threatened by these newcomers. They probably do not fully understand that Singapore needs these foreigners to ensure survival in decades to come. They are more interested in the here and now and the daily survival for their families. Fast growth and a buoyant economy have brought with it some nasty side effect – inflation. Singapore has become one of the most expensive cities in Southeast Asia, not too far below Tokyo and Hong Kong. The middle and low income Singaporeans are now feeling the pinch of inflation and rising prices of daily essentials. I am sure the Singapore government, being as efficient as they are, is aware of this and is taking steps to combat this difficulty.

Importing citizen into ones country, which is what Singapore is doing, comes with it some very unpleasant side effects. This is very evident in the Singapore case. Lately from the MSM and the bogs about Singapore I have come across complaints, grievances, criticisms, objections, protests and grumbles from all various parties concerned. Although mostly from Asia, these parties are all from different countries with different customs and cultures. Clashes of cultures and customs manifest themselves through lack of understanding and intolerance. Bitterness arises when ones livelihood is threatened or when one’s feels there has been an encroachment on his space. The fight for jobs or a seat on the bus or the MRT is potential sources for such bitterness. Distrust between different factions also enhances suspicion and animosity. The cliquing of the various factions of the imported citizens tends to be looked upon as snobbery and aloofness. Cliquing for safety and comfort in a foreign land is quite normal but this could be misinterpreted as unwilling to mix attitude. Furthermore there is also snobbery within each faction of these new citizens. White collar citizens would not mix with the manual workers from the same country. All these silent “rivalry” go on under a surface of calm civility. What will happen in days to come no one can predict. I am certain the Singaporean government is trying their hardest to encourage integration. To achieve this there has to be more compassion, tolerance, humility and understanding. In my opinion, unfortunately these qualities hardly exist in Singapore.

On a good day I love being in Singapore. Everything works and things are so well managed. Buses are on time and MRT are clean and cool. There is hardly any litter on the ground and there is zero graffiti. Shops are full of goods and groceries are plentiful. In Singapore you can get anything money can buy. Everything here comes with a price tag and this price tag is usually high. As I have already mentioned, Singapore is an expensive city to live in.

I do have bad days in Singapore too. Drivers in Singapore are the rudest I have ever encountered. They care little for other divers and even less for pedestrians. No Singapore driver would wave a pedestrian to cross the road even when he cannot proceed himself. He would willingly drive to block you from crossing even when his road is not clear. Jumping queue is another horrible Singapore habit. The “always must win or must be first in line” in a Singaporean’s second nature. On a crowded bus or MRT, very few would offer their seats to needy passengers. Having been here for so long I have sort of got accustomed to these bad habits, so now my bad days are relatively few. Just have to accept that is the way of life here.

These comments I make about Singapore and the Singaporeans are just my personal views. I am non-political and am not affiliated to any political party. I am in no way criticizing the government or the people of this island. I do not intent to offend anyone. If I have inadvertently done so, please accept my apologies.

Thursday, November 22, 2007

The Tiffany's Show

Our last night in Pattaya, and to celebrate our wedding anniversary and my birthday we went to the famous Tiffany Show of Pattaya. I must confess that before the show my opinion about transvestites was a feeling of indifference. I also must admit that whenever I come across one I always feel a little curious and a little uncomfortable. Is it nature or nurture, the question that always pop into my mind. I have neither judged them harshly nor condone their way of life. As far as I was concerned they are free to dress anyway the please as long as they do not offend or infringe on the privacy of others.

Now I have been to the Tiffany’s Show and watch the performance through un-prejudice eyes. I must admit my opinion has greatly changed after seeing the magnificent performance by what I would classify as elegant artists. The performers, although all male were every bit as graceful as any female performer I have seen.

I came away from the show full of admiration for all the performers. If ever you visit Pattaya, do not miss this performance.

Tuesday, November 20, 2007

Reflection

At this time of the year, just after my birthday I usually like to spend a few moments to ponder and sort of plan for the next 12 months ahead. Reflecting on the 12 months that have just gone by, I try to analyze all the major events in this period.

These are the list of questions that come to mind,

Has it been a good year?

On the personal travel front, the answer is yes. It has been a very enjoyable year. Apart from flying between the UK and Singapore we have visited a few places. This time last year we were in Marbella and Tangier. In June 2007 we visited Ho Chi Minh City. We made numerous visits to JB and Kuala Lumpur for shopping and meeting old friends. Our last visit to KL was for a reunion dinner for the Class of ’62. Meeting friends I had not seen for 45 years was quite a nostalgic experience. However, shortly after the reunion we lost a dear friend to cancer. That was a low point of the year. The only consolation was we manage to get together before she left us. It just shows that life can be very unpredictable and fragile.

There are ups and downs when it comes to the family. New arrivals into the family mark the good occasions. I have another 2 new nephews. Our grand daughter has turned 3 and developing into such a loveable young lady. On a sadder note I have lost another aunt. One of my brothers has been told he has a dreadful disease and one of my nephews has leukemia. Thankfully they are both progressing well and I pray for their full recovery.

As one gets older time becomes very precious. I am glad I took early retirement and have the freedom to travel, indulge in my hobbies and most importantly to re-connect with my relatives and siblings. I have managed to visit Segamat twice last year. I must try to visit more often. Relationship with siblings tends to become stale over the year. Coping with our respective families, bringing up our children and generally fulfilling the many parental responsibilities has somewhat made us overlook the importance of staying in touch with loved ones.

During the past year I have managed to become closer with a few siblings. We now write to each other regularly and whenever time permits I will visit more often. My boys are all young men now, each with their own chosen path. I love them all dearly but I am determined not to intrude on their lives and if they wish to be in touch with me, I will gladly reciprocate. I believe they know best in what they have chosen for themselves. I must never interfere unless asked.

What is in store in the 12 months ahead? I can only hope that there will be much happiness. I am sure there will be disappointment along the way, but I can only hope that those will be few and far between. As I said, time is precious and everyday that goes by is a day less for love and goodwill. On my part I will try to be sincere, compassionate and above all understanding and forgiving.

Monday, November 19, 2007

Thailand or Singapore ?

Now back in Singapore after a week in Pattaya Thailand. I cannot help but notice the total difference in culture between the two countries. On one hand we have the easy going Thais who have a considerably lower standard of living. They are poorer and less affluent than the Singaporeans. Their per capita income is much much lower than the Singaporeans. Cost of food, transport and daily essentials are much lower than in Singapore. For this reason alone, there are many European who have retired to this city. Life here is less stressful and I guess if one seeks a comfortable carefree lifestyle with few worries, then Pattaya might be a place for you. Here, you get more for your money and people are friendly and hospitable. Life for retirees who are flexible and adaptable might find this place a good choice for lazing away their twilight years.

However, there are many downside in Pattaya when compared to Singapore. Pattaya is dirty and the public drainage is appalling. After any downpour, which occur very frequently, the sewer under the roads and pavements become blocked and the smell of methane is everywhere. The roads are chaotic to say the least. The only means of public transportation in the city are the Baht buses or the motorcycle “taxis”. The latter are dangerous and not recommended. There does not seem to be a standard of charge for public transportation. The drivers of the baht buses will try to charge tourists as much as they think they can get away with. The shops and places of business on both sides of the roads are usually very shabby and the goods for sale on display are generally of low quality. There are numerous hawkers lining the pavements selling food, fruits and all sorts of sweets. Generally, locally produced products such as local fruits, vegetables and meat are very affordable. The imported equivalents are costly and only used by the European expatriates.

Now which is a better country to live in? I do not think there is a simple answer to this question. It will all depend on what you look for in life. On one hand you have the easy, carefree and almost stress free life in Thailand and on the other hand you have Singapore where you have an almost perfect system where everything from transportation to entertainment is clinically and strictly controlled. In Singapore you have a no nonsense system where the law and regulation have to be abide by. Any deviation from this will be severely dealt with. In Thailand, or at least in Pattaya things are less rigid and more uncertain.

There is the social side of things too. Thailand, aka the Land of Smiles truly lives up to this great compliment. People are very friendly, always greeting you and saying farewell with hands together followed by a smile and a bow. In general the Thais are a happy lot. They are simple and less demanding.

Singapore is totally different. People are always in a hurry. Time is money and the Singaporeans go through life with the appearance they are squeezing every cent out of every minute of the day. The crave for money and the idea of the get rich quick mentality are the main factors that drive the Singaporeans to the way they are today. On the way the Singaporeans have picked up the labels of being rude, uncompassionate, always want to win and be first in the queue. In my opinion, it is a sad situation to be in.

I like the Thais better, but that is just my opinion and preferance.

Friday, November 16, 2007

Last day in Pattaya - 5th wedding anniversary - 63rd birthday

Today November 16 is our 5th wedding anniversary and my birthday. I am 63. It is also our last day in Pattaya. Tomorrow morning we return to Singapore. We celebrated the day sitting by the seaside enjoying the cool sea breeze. It was nice just sitting there chatting and talking about the years we have been together. It has been a great 5 years. I am sure we will have many more happy years ahead.

For our wedding anniversary dinner and also because it is my birthday we went for a seafood dinner. We had a lovely dinner with crabs fried in black pepper, steam sea bass and a stir fried vegetables. We both enjoyed it very much.

Tonight we have tickets for the Tiffany’s Show in Pattaya. All the performers are actually men beautifully dressed in ladies’ costumes. I have heard good reports about this show, so I am looking forward to be entertained.

Another year has passed and another year older. Birthday wishes received from my darling wife Dianne and Carrie via a text message and David my youngest son. My second son Martin surprises me this year, he emailed me this year with a birthday wish, albeit a day late.

William my eldest son has sent birthday wishes from Tehran Iran. I am very fortunate this year. Birthday greetings have come from all my sons.

Wednesday, November 14, 2007

Pattaya - third day

Third day was spent walking the whole length of Beach Road. I have been to many beach resorts including the famous Surfers Paradise on the east coast of Australia and the beach in Marbella. I must say the Beach Road in Pattaya is second to none. One can see it is specifically designed for tourist comfort and entertainment. The deck chairs lining the beach are only a few feet away from the crytal clear water. Ten feet out into the sea, one is about chest high in water. Speed boats line the beach only a few feet away from the water edge. These speed boats take tourists out for a spin along the coast and also to the nearby islands. There are glass bottom boats for fish viewing around coral islands for hire to those who are interested. The whole stretch of the coast along this road is always crowed with tourists from many countries.

The Thai people are a very enterprising lot. They line the whole stretch of the beach selling ice cold drinks from soft drinks to beer. Chilled coconuts are also on sale. There are some who go around selling BBQ prawns, crabs and cuttlefish.

The whole strech of Beach Road is approximately 2 kilometers in length. It is impressive and I am sure for those who come here for the sea, sun, beer and sex will not be disappointed.

On the other side of Beach Road are shops, bars, restaurants and coffee houses.

We enjoyed our day out in this area and we have decided to visit the Beach Road agan before we leave.

Pattaya - second day

Carrefour in Pattaya turns out to be another large shopping mall. This was where we went the second day. It was a massive shopping complex with food, groceries and everyday requirements. We had a good day wandering around the place and enjoying the food and coffee. The complex was very crowded and vibrant with lots of tourists and also many expats who have decided to settle in Pattaya. What is indeed evident in Pattaya is the many European men in their 60+ and older who have decided to make Pattaya their place of retirement. Here the norm is for a European retiree to find a young Thai girl, mostly in her 20s, either marrying her or if that is not convenient, just live with her. Everywhere you look you can see old European men hand in hand with young Thai girls. This is very accepted here in Pattaya. The young Thai girl quite likely come from very poor family. Offering themselves to live with or even marrying old European retirees give them the only way out of poverty.

I do not really condone this arrangement but I do understand the reason why these girls have to degrade themselves this way. Pattaya is a very tourist oriented place with bars everywhere. This is not a place for family vacation because it is geared totally for tourists with alcohol and sex in mind.

Tomorrow we will visit the beach. We have been told it is quite a nice place.

Monday, November 12, 2007

Pattaya - first day

Pattaya Hill Resort has been aptly named, it is situated on top of a hill. It is in the southern part of Pattaya. In Pattaya there are no taxi or buses or trains. The only mode of public transport for people traveling from one part of the city to another is by the Baht Buses. They are actually pickup trucks with a cover over the open back. It can comfortably accommodate about 10 passengers, but often you can see overflow passengers hanging out or standing on a ledge at the back of the truck. To get on one, you just flag it down and get on. They go along a specific route and when you get to your destination you just ring the bell, get off and pay the fares. Tourist usually pay 10 baht while the locals pay 5 baht. However, to get back after a day in downtown Pattaya we usually have to pay 100 baht for the journey to the hotels. These baht bus drivers are pretty shrewd and know exactly how to fleece the tourists.

Today, our first day in Pattaya we went to a shopping mall called the Big C. It is quite an up market place with branded shops and expensive restaurants. After spending a few hours walking around the mall we decided to lunch at MK. This is a very famous chain of restaurants in Thailand. They specialize in steamboats. You have to pick the raw uncooked food you want, from vegetables, meat, dumplings, fish balls and fish cakes and stuffed baby squids. You then cook your food in a pot of boiling stock in the middle of the table. We had some dim sum with our lunch. It ws good and it cost about 7 GBP for the whole meal.

We then decided to do a little shopping to stock up our fridge in the hotel room. Our groceries included some pears, mangoes, orange juice and also some Pringles.

We got back to the resort just before it got dark. Had to pay 80 baht for the hire of a bart bus for the journey. It was an interesting day and we enjoyed ourselves. Tomorrow we plan to visit Carrefour, another shopping centre.

Saturday, November 10, 2007

Pattaya Hill Resort

I am at this moment on the 9th floor of this Pattaya Hill Rsort. We arrived this evening and we are now settled in our room. The room is pretty spacious and clean. The shower room / toilet is not too bad. I have seen worse, but it is not 5 star standard like the hotel website claim to be. Well, it is relatively inexpensive and by Thai standard it is quite good.

We have been for a walk around the resort. The roads leading to and from the resort are pretty dark so we did not venture too far. We visited 2 garden restaurants next to the hotel, not to dine but just to find out what is available. The menus look ordinary and quite inexpensive. We might give them a try later in the week.

We have decided to go to town tomorrow to do a little shopping and sight seeing. Unfortunately we have damaged out digital camera and it has gone away for repair. No photographs on this trip I am afraid. Will write more about Pattaya when I have seen more of it.

Tuesday, November 06, 2007

Jason - my nephew

When I left Segamat many years ago Jason was just a baby. Jason is the youngest child of my youngest brother. On my visit last week to Segamat I met Jason again. He is now 13 years old and what a fine boy he has become. A very polite boy, soft spoken and very well mannered. He was rather shy when we met but we very quickly became friends. I think the box of chocolates made things easier. I must remember to bring him more from UK when I visit Segamat again.

I was rather sorry our visit to Segamat was such a short one, but I am glad we made it. It has been too long since our last visit. First mother is getting older and very few uncles and aunts are left. Those who are left are also getting on in age. Siblings and cousins who are still in Segamat are like me getting older and it would be a shame to stay away for too long. Nephews and nieces are all grown and most have departed either for work or studies in KL or overseas. Very soon there will be very few left in Segamat.

I will return for another visit soon. Segamat will always be home to me. You can take me out of Segamat, but you will never take Segamat out of me.

Saturday, November 03, 2007

Trip to Segamat

It was exciting driving to Segamat on November 1. Started the journey at 6.30 am and we were in Segamat by 9.30 am. Driving into Segamat gave me a feeling of coming home again, especially after a month living in Singapore. Segamat gives me a sense of belonging. Although having been away from this little sleepy town for 41 years, I still consider this place my home. Each time I return I get this thrill and nostalgia. Memories of bygone days come floating back. Each street corner, the playfields infront of the old school, the old buildings in the old part of town, all bring back fond memories. They all look so small!

A wander into the wet market brings back memories of the days when grandfather and I would go each morning to buy my fish for lunch. The old coffee shop where one gets fresh toasts spread lavishly with butter and kaya ( coconut jam ) still stand at the corner of the market. The stone steps leading up to the coffe shop and the five-foot way in front are exactly the same as when I left it many years ago. Life on the whole in Segamat has not changed much over the few decades I have been away. I hope it will never change, because I would like to return often to this little town and get this same feeling of nostalgia and the feeling that I have come a full circle and home again.

The family are all well. First mother, 94 on her next birthday is still very alert and independent. Long may she remain so. We spent a good few hours chatting to her and her only complaint was that we did not inform her of our visit before we arrived. She would have gone to the trouble of preparing carrot cakes for us. I love her carrot cakes, but thought I should not put her through all the work.

The night we spent in Segamat we had a family dinner at one of the many restaurants in the new part of town. The food was good and cheap compared to Singapore where one would have to pay at least 3 times for the same dinner. We had a good time, good food amongst good company.

The next morning Phyl my cousin invited us for breakfast at a local Indian restaurant. We had roti pratas and curry. It was delicious and again brought back lovely memories of long ago breakfasts. After breakfast, we said goodbyes and started on our journey back to Singapore. Heavy was my heart as I drove out of the town. I said a fond farewell to my beloved place of birth, promising I will return again soon.

Wednesday, October 31, 2007

Losses

The loss of a friend or a family member through illness is always a traumatic experience. At times like these we become aware that life is very fragile and unpredictable. Our hectic lifestyle and our constant pursue of material gains and other creature comfort often blinds us to the fact that there are other more important things in life. Only when such losses happen that we are temporarily brought down to earth. Suddenly we become aware that relationships between friends and family members have often been neglected in our now very hectic and unfriendly way of life. We realize too late that we could have been closer to someone. We regret that we could have done more to show affection or we could have said something to bring a little more happiness in someone’s life. We regret not being there to help in times of need or for being away too long without contact or simply taking someone for granted. As Frank Sinatra said in his song My Way, “ Regrets, I’ve had a few “, - no one can go through life without having regrets.

Unfortunately, when the time comes for us to have regrets, it is often too late to put things right. I was with this friend of mine in April when she organized a reunion for our Class of ’62. She was undergoing chemotherapy for her illness. In spite of her ailment, and with the anxiety she must have been experiencing, she almost single handedly took on the responsibilities of the coordination, catering and making sure all who wish to attend were well informed. Little did I realize then that that was to be our last get-together. On reflection, I could have given her a few more words of encouragement. I should have told her how much I appreciated her for organizing the reunion party. I could have told her I value her friendship and that I still remember the happy childhood years we spent together in school. These are all the regrets I now have, but it is too late for me to tell her or show her that I valued her friendship. All that I have left is the hope that she knew I was a good friend.

Very often, our resolution to be more caring towards our friends and loved one cools as the pain of our loss subsides. We tend to forget quickly and return to our less caring ways. The loss of this friend has made me more aware that we are all extremely vulnerable and we are here only for a very short while. With this thought, I sincerely hope that I would be able to look at life through more compassionate eyes. I like to think that I have become a more caring and humble person than I have been before.

So to all who read this, just take a few moment off your busy schedule to reflect. Is there someone who would welcome a few words from you? Is there a friend who needs a helping hand? Is there someone who you have taken for granted for too long? A kind word, a smile, a helping hand, a simple greeting to someone you meet along the way, all these go a long way to brighten someone’s day.

We must from time to time stop and reflect and re-calibrate our lives. We must never take things for granted. Tomorrow may be too late to say the kind words we like to say to someone we care about. Time is precious and once gone will never return.

Monday, October 22, 2007

A sad day

I have just received the sad news that our dear friend who has been inflicted with cancer has departed from us this morning. She passed away peacefully. Let us take comfort knowing that she is now at peace with God.

The Class of '62 had a reunion in Kuala Lumpur earlier this year. She was the organiser and thanks to her, old friends were able to meet to renew friendship. It was a joyous occasion. She will be sadly missed and we will all remember her with fondness and as a very special friend, always happy and generous.

Farewell dear friend. Rest in Peace.

Sunday, October 21, 2007

Segamat

We have decided to travel to Segamat for an overnight stay on October 25th. Have not been back for more than a year. It would be nice to see the family again. I am really looking forward to savouring the famous Segamat durians again. I have it all planned. When we get to Segamat, the first thing we do would be to go for our koon-lo-mee for lunch. I usually have double helpings.

I guess I better call my brother to book dinner at that famous new restaurant in Segamat. Have to tell them to get me some soon-hock fish. I am really looking forward to this trip. I have been to many countries, seen many cities, but Segamat my little hometown still hold a very special place in my heart.

On a sadder note, a classmate of mine from Segamat has been suffering from stage IV cancer. I have been told she is getting weaker and she wants her remaining time with her family. She is in KL. We are planning a KL trip in early November. Maybe we will pay her a visit then.

Saturday, October 20, 2007

Travel Agenda

The next two and a half months is going to be rather busy for us. We are planning a trip to Segamat to see the family and another to Kuala Lumpur to meet up with some school friends and also for some shopping. KL has always been a place where we can literally shop till we drop. Things are cheap and the ringgits go a long way. Hotels are first class. We always pamper ourselves staying in 5 star hotels for around 50 GBP per night. The last hotel we stayed at was the Royale Bintang adjacent to the Curve in Petaling Jaya. It is a top class hotel with a hugh shopping mall next to it. Another part of the complex houses all the restaurants serving cuisines from many different countries. It is a convenient hotel and I think we will return to stay there on our next visit.

After KL we will be spending a week in Pattaya, Thailand. We have been to other cities in Thailand but this will be our first to Pattaya. On the return trip we might spend a night or two in Bangkok. After Thailand we are considering a few days in Hong Kong and Macau before Christmas. Christmas and the New Year will be spent in Singapore. We return to UK in early January.

Garden Renovation - The Saga

The garden renovation promised by the contractor to take no more than 4 days has gone into its 6th day with no end in sight. Bad weather was blamed for the delay, but if you ask me it is just bad planning and management. Over the last few days they have been on the project, I have noticed that the 2 Bangladeshi workers were not putting in their share of the labour. One of them was sleeping on one of our garden chairs most of yesterday afternoon when the contractor was away. I guess one should not expect work dedication from the imported labour force. As they say, if you pay peanuts, you get monkeys.

I will be glad to see the back of this lot and get my life back to normality. The floor of the house is filthy with sand and mud and I have to walk around in shoes in the living and dining room.

It has been raining all morning - another day delay on the card ?

Monday, October 15, 2007

Garden Renovation

We have decided that our garden here in Singapore needed a facelift. The mango tree at the centre of the garden has stopped producing fruits and we have decided that the leaves that accumulate on the ground while we are away could become a breeding ground for mosquitoes.

It has taken them 2 days to remove the tree with a chain saw that broke the first time out of the box, (made in China), and with lots of screaming and shouting the only remain is the hugh stump protruding from the ground. The plasterer has been busy cladding the wall but it rained heavily and some of his effort has been washed away. The concrete slabs that are to be laid have not even made their appearance. Completion has been promised for Wednesday night. At this rate of progress I would be pleasantly surprised if it is half complete by then. Thursday is my day in JB so they will not be able to work.

The team of workers on the job is made up of 2 Bangladeshis and 1 mainland Chinese. The Chinese has done his share of the work all morning but the other 2 took time off as soon as the contractor was absent.

We have decided to have a mosaic of concrete slabs seperated by 2 inch gaps filled with granite chips. It will be quite nice. We hope that we will not have to spend hours removing the weeds and fallen leaves each time we return to Singapore.

The plasterer has just completed plastering the walls - it is going to rain again and by the look of the sky it is going to be a heavy downpour. Poor fellow, he has to replaster the washout bits again.

Sunday, October 14, 2007

Trip To Johor Baru

On Thursday 4th October we journeyed to JB for some shopping and to check on the house. Not much have change to the house and the neighbourhood. Although situated near the Senai International Airport, the area is still not quite developed as expected. When the government of Johor announced the development of the Iskandar Development Region, a 900 sq km site, we envisaged a great transformation to the region. Our house is well within this region, so we had great expectation for the regeneration of the whole region. A year has passed since the announcement, but nothing noticeable has happened. We wait and see what the next few years would bring to the region.

Our house in JB is still the same, except maybe the grass in the yard has grown taller and more overgrown. Our watchman still makes his daily round, so we expect no damage to the property. The Indian lady across the road keeps a watchful eye over the property. For this I have always shown my gratitude. She has a mentally handicap son who stays home. Each time we visit JB I would bring him breakfast of roti prata, some sweets, cakes and drinks. He has become a great friend of mine. From a very shy and reserve boy during the early days, he has become a very smilely person and always rushes to the door to greet us on our arrival. Good to see a smile on his face on each of our visit. We visited the usual spots to shop, buy hooky DVDs and lunch. We decided on fish head curry which was very good as always.

My 2 weeks visa ends on Thursday 14th October. Looking forward to another trip.

Friday, September 28, 2007

Singaporean drivers

Our first night in Singapore and we were invited out for dinner. Having been in the UK for the last 4 months I have almost forgotten the Singaporean drivers’ manners when they get behind the wheel. It was a rainy night and the roads were all wet and slippery. From home to destination was no more than 10 kilometers. It took us about 40 minutes and I was bullied no less than 5 times along the way. I must say I do not enjoying driving in Singapore. Singaporean drivers have manners from the gutter.

Singapore is trying very hard to becoming a first world country. I have no doubt that they will achieve that with the way the Singapore government is going about it. However, when Singapore finally attain first world status, the mentality of Singaporean drivers must also be upgraded.

First world status with a population of third world mentality is futile.

When driving in Singapore I have to constantly remind myself that I am in Singapore and I have to expect the unexpected.

Thursday, September 27, 2007

Singapore again

We are now back in Singapore again. It has been 4 months since we left. Nothing has changed while we were away. The drive back home on the west coast from Changi Airport was as normal except for that there was a little more traffic on the road.

Four months away and the house was covered with dust. The floor was dirty and covered with a thin layer of black dust/soot from vehicle exhausts. Walking with bare feet resulted is black soles on the feet. The first job on the priority list was mopping of the floor. We then went to the local supermarket for our essentials and a little dinner at the foodcourt.

This morning I went out for my morning paper and my coffee at the local market. Sitting down at a table for my coffee and read my papers an old man in his 70s struck up a conversation by pointing to the headline on the paper and saying that there will be more trouble in Myanmar. To my great surprise he continued by saying that the same thing should happen in Singapore. From him I found out what COE and ERP stand for. They should stand for Certificate of Entitlement for car ownership and Electronic Road Pricing. He said they should stand for Certificate of Extortion and Everyday Rob People. He was a very unhappy man. I made a hurried departure from him as I was not prepared to be marked by any government agent who might be lurking nearby. I cannot afford to be marked as one who asks too many questions or who is too outspoken. I need my visa to stay in Singapore.

My next stop was to my vegetable seller friend. I greeted him by asking how he is and about his business. He too indicated a great downturn in his business since our last encounter 4 months ago. Things are getting harder by the day for ordinary people in the street he said.

Singapore is an economical miracle. The stock market is at a high peak and as a country it is doing extremely well. However, from the marketplace, people are whinging and grumbling at high costs, price hikes on daily essentials and transport. One comment often heard is that the great Singapore miracle is only good for a small percentage of the population. For the majority of Singaporeans things are getting tougher.

It is going to be an interesting 3 month stay here in Singapore. Who knows, things might change for the poor Singaporeans. It is changing elsewhere, why not in Singapore?

Saturday, September 08, 2007

Returning to Singapore/Malaysia

Another three weeks or so and we will be returning to Singapore and Malaysia. Just as well, summer is almost over and weather hasn't been too warm lately. Life has been pretty quiet over the last 4 months we have been here. Apart from the occasional visit to see Alexa our grand daughter we hardly have any contact with anyone else. Our 3 UK boys are all independent and hardly have time for us these days. Guess that is to be expected. They are all busy with their own lives and us old folks should not expect too much. I guess parents are not too high on children's priority lists in this modern time.

Back in Singapore and Malaysia we are closer to family and relatives. Looking forward to our regular visits to JB and the occasional trips to Segamat. Singapore isn't too bad, if one accepts the Singaporean way of life - impersonal and unfriendly.

I am really looking forward to visiting Segamat and KL in October. It would be good to return to Segamat to see Wee Ching and hopefully to KL to see Peng Yan again. Segamat has always been the place I call home. That is where my roots are.

Friday, August 31, 2007

Just in time for visitors

No sooner have the renovations of bathroom, shower room and cloakroom been completed, we hear news of family members coming to stay with us. Next week we have relatives from London coming over to stay while their flat undergo a kitchen renewal. It is only a small kichen so I guess the fitting of their new kitchen will only take a few days. Our recent bathroom and toilet renovation took a total of 2 weeks. During that period we felt that it was better for us to rough it out rather than to impose on relatives. In order to complete the work as quickly as possible I had to work approximately 12 hours a day. During that fortnight I really felt my age. Made me realise that I am not as nimble as I was in my younger days. I am just now slowly recovering from my aching arms, knees, fingers and back. Next project on the card will be the renovation of our kitchen.

After the departure of our London "guests", I shall be looking forward to having my sister-in-law and daughter from KL for a few days in mid September. It would be lovely to have them stay with us for a few days.

Then in October we will have to return to Singapore. I cannot honestly say that I am eagerly looking forward to my trip to Singapore, but one bright spark in this trip will be I will get to visit Kl and Segamat. Really looking forward to that.

Tuesday, August 28, 2007

Back to old routine

We had Alexa for 3 days over the Bank Holiday weekend. Yesterday we had to send her back to her daddy at their home in Cobham. I must admit that I do miss her this morning. During the days she was with us, she brought back memories of the time when my 3 boys were her age. It doesn't seem so long ago when my own 3 boys needed me the way Alexa did when she was with us. Now my 3 sons are all grown-ups and independent. Contacts with them are rare. Well, I guess that I should not expect too much, lest I get disappointed.

Alexa is with her daddy and her nanny now. Looking forward to her next visit which I hope will be in a fortnight's time.

Sunday, August 26, 2007

Our grand daughter



We have Alexa our grand daughter staying with us for a few days. This is a very special girl, loving and a pleasure to have around. Ofcourse all grand parents say this about their grand children. Alexa is our only grand child and we love her dearly. We are hoping to have many more grand children, but for the time being, Alexa has given us all the pleasure any grand parents could wish for. Thank you Alexa.

Wednesday, July 18, 2007

Summer in Welwyn Garden City

More than a month has gone by since our return to the UK. It has been a busy month. There was much to do in the garden. The lawn was in a terrible state with grass and weeds about knee high. On top of that nearly half the lawn was covered with moss. It took me nearly 3 days to mow the grass, apply weed and moss killer and weeding the flower beds. Now the garden is in a more presentable state but the lawn is still not right. I guess it will need time to recuperate.

We have decided to renovate the bathroom, the ensuite shower room and the cloakroom downstairs. Much of the last couple of weeks have been devoted to the selection of bathroom furniture plus all the purchase of all the bits and pieces that go with such a project. The actual work has not started but the garage is slowly filling up with what will be installed. I will be glad when we finally complete the renovation.

The weather has not been too good. The promised hot summer has not materialized and so far we have had more than rain than the norm. The floods in the northern counties have affected many but here in Welwyn Garden City we have been spared.

Unfortunately owing to the wet weather we have not been able to organize our traditional summer BBQ. Instead, we have had a few steamboat dinners. However, we are still hoping the weather would allow us to hold at least one BBQ this summer.

Life in Welwyn Garden City is rather quiet and peaceful the way I like it. Unlike Singapore, Welwyn Garden City is calm and uneventful. We go for our daily walk, sometime stopping at the supermarket on the way for our essentials. Most days we just stay home, doing a bit of gardening, paint a little and follow the news to keep track of what is happening in the world. Lately I have spent many hours watching a 70 episode Korean story on DVD. It is all about the going ons in the royal kitchen in old Korea. I am on the 68th episode!!

I am looking forward to the next 2 and a half months here in UK. Singapore is fine for short periods. It gets boring after a while there. However I am looking forward to our October return to Singapore. I am anxious to get back to Segamat to see the family again.

Thursday, June 07, 2007

Returning to UK - June 6 2007

Writing this at Changi International Airport waiting for my flight back to the UK. It have been two and a half months since I left my home in Welwyn Garden City. Much has happened during this stay in Singapore.

Singapore is the same. Read my previous postings if one is interested to find out my feelings about this tiny red dot. Enough said. Much have happened over the last two and a half months. We traveled twice to Kuala Lumpur, once to meet up with my brother before he left for the UK to sort out accommodation for his daughter’s university education later in the year. The next trip to Kuala Lumpur was for the reunion of the Class of 1962. A few trips to Johor Baru during these last two and a half months for shopping and renewal of visa, a few days in Ho Chi MInh and I am on my way home in Welwyn Garden City.

The last two and a half months have also brought some sadness into my life. I lost my second aunt in Singapore. After a long illness she finally gave up the fight. My yoiungest brother who is only 54 years old has been diagnosed with motor neuron disease. Peng Yan my nephew is currently being treated for leukemia. My neighbour in Welwyn Garden City died suddenly. I was not there to say my final farewell. Life is fragile and unpredictable. Just confirms my belief that we must never take things for granted. While we are here on this earth we must always bear in mind that we are all here on a very temporary basis and whenever we can we must make sure that we have compassion and understanding. Kindness to others always leaves me with a good feeling inside. I am determined to better myself during the time I have left on this earth. I would like to make a difference, albeit in a very small way.

Wednesday, June 06, 2007

Ho Chi Minh City - June 2007

Just returned from a few days in Ho Chi Minh City. We joined a conducted tour group starting from Singapore. They were a total of 20 people in the group. My wife Dianne’s sister Yoke Leng and her husband Francis were also in the group.

We went by Tiger Airways, the budget carrier. It was a no frill airline with no refreshments on board. As it was only an hour and forty minutes flight, it was not too bad.

As it was a conducted tour all travel formalities were the responsibility of the tour operator. The hotels were quite satisfactory. In Ho Chi Minh City we were at the Amara, a 4 start hotel. The one night we spent in Voontau we were in MeiLi hotel, a 3 star hotel. That was basic but adequate.

On the first day, on arrival from Singapore we were taken for a tour around the city. We visited the Red Cathedral and the General Post Office. These are very grand buildings built by the French during the colonial days. We then visited a Chinese temples. The Vietnamese are mostly from the Buddhist faith so there are many temples scattered around the city and the adjacent villages.

On the next day of our tour we were taken to see the Cu Chi tunnels. These were the tunnels constructed by the VietCong during their struggle against the Americans and the South Vietnamese Army. We were shown all the ingenious booby traps invented by the VietCong to counter the sophisticated weaponry of the American Army. There was a section of the Cu Chi tunnels preserved for tourists. Crawling through the tunnel, albeit only for a distance of 40m was very tiring and one must appreciate how it was like when the VietCong had to virtually lived in these tunnel for very long periods when they were fighting the American. One must admire their tenacity and sheer dedication and most of all the hardship during those dark years. I came away from that site full of admiration for the VietCong and it left no doubt in my mind the reason how a ragtag army with nothing but sheer guts won a war against a mighty giant like the American Army.

The rest of the day was spent back at Ho Chi Minh City visiting yet more temples. Some of these temples were quite interesting. If only I am more into Chinese folklores, maybe I would have appreciated these temples better.

On the morning of the third day we traveled to a seaside town of Voontau. This is a seaside resort for the people of Ho Chi Minh City. It boasts many hotels by the sea and it was a favorite place of recreation for the French during the colonial days.

On the next morning we climbed the hill with a large statue of Jesus at the top. They called this the Jesus Mountain. To ascend this hill one has to climb many stone steps. The height of the hill from the bottom is only 120 m. For the young and fit climbing that hill was a breeze. However for the many senior citizen tourists, it was a relatively hard climb. After struggling to the top, we were rewarded by a very good view of the sea, the coastline and the city of Voontau. After the hill we visited the palace of the last king of olden day Vietnam. This became the residence of the French Governor. It is now a museum with relics from sunken Chinese ships of the old trading days with the Chinese from up north.

Return to Ho Chi Minh City for the third night of our tour. That night we had dinner on a boat with a live band and a singer. Dinner was good. After dinner we set sail up the Saigon River for an hour cruise.

On our fourth and last day we visited the Mekong Delta. Took a ferry boat to one of the islands to visit some fruit plantations and savor some local fruits and tea. We then traveled on some sampans back to the ferry to take us to our coach waiting on the other bank of the river. On the way back to the hotel we were taken to some lacquer ware factory where we witness some artists painting and constructing lacquer murals.

On the morning of the fifth day we were taken to the International Airport for our journey back to Singapore. The whole trip to Ho Chi Minh City was enjoyable and revealing. Vietnam is still a socialist republic and most people are poor compared to the more advanced states in the region. However, the people are friendly and hospitable. Life is simple for now but I have noticed some signs of westernization and economical advancements. It will not be long before the Vietnamese join the rush for wealth and material possessions like their northern neighbour, the Chinese.

Ho Chi Minh City is a very crowded place of 8 million inhabitants. The most common mode of transport is the motorcycles which can be seen everywhere. The traffic in the city overwhelming and the best way to describe it is - an orderly chaos.

I enjoyed the trip, but will not return for another visit, not because I dislike the place, but because I would like to see Hanoi up north.

Friday, May 11, 2007

Wonderful Day in Segamat

The day started well. We got off early and we were across to Johor Baru in Malaysia by 6.30 am. Decided to use the SatNav to guide us to Segamat. It took us to places we had never been before but it did get us onto the North-South Highway, although the toll charges were higher.

The drive was uneventful. We decided to stop at one of the rest stops for a coffee, but unfortunately it was close for maintenance and cleaning.

Arrived in Segamat at 9.30 am and decided to proceed o our favorite koon low mee stall for brunch. At usual the food was good and we were not disappointed. Two plates of koon low mee and a drink came to RM6, approximately 90 pence.

We then proceed to brother Tong’s house to see elder mother. She was very happy to see us but complained that I should have told her in advance of our visit so that she could make my favorite carrot cakes for us. I did not want her to go to too much trouble as she is now 93 years young and making carrot cakes require quite strenuous stirring. I love her carrot cakes but I am not willing to cause her too much physical effort. At her age she should be taking it easy.

The morning was spent chatting and trying to find out the latest on Peng Yan and Wee Ching’s illnesses. Peng Yan’s is undergoing chemotherapy and I was told the Wee Ching’s illness has been confirmed to be motor neuron. I hope their conditions do not get worst.

Peng Yan is currently in KL for his treatment. I called on Wee Ching but found him out of the house. I must remember to telephone him in the next few days. Went over to See Yee to consult him about Peng Yan and Wee Ching. I had a feeling that he told me in not so many words that prognoses for both cases are not too good.

We then went out for lunch with mother, Tong and wife and Phyllis. The six of us thoroughly enjoyed ourselves over lunch. We had my favorite fish, the soon hock, toufoo, chicken in Chinese wine, asparagus with scallop and oatmeal prawns. Lunch cost RM220 or 30 pounds, half the bill was for the fish which cost RM110. Food is always delicious and cheap in Segamat.

After lunch we went over to the fruit market to buy durians. Unfortunately there wasn’t any durians from Segamat. Those that were on sale were from Thailand, a vastly inferior type that wasn’t up to our Segamat standard. As we could not purchase any durians we got 6 large pineapples for RM20 and a dozen mangoes fro RM35. The total fruit bill came to about 8 pounds.

At 4.30 pm we said our goodbyes to mother, Tong and sister-in-law and went to the local Giant store for some groceries. On the way out of Segamat we paid a visit to see my god daughter. She has grown at least 6 inches since our last visit. She is prettier and a very well mannered girl. I am glad. Gave her an angpow and also one to each of her sisters.

We left Segamat at around 5.30pm and got to Singapore at around 9.30pm. We stopped at Yong Peng for the famous Yong Peng fish balls.

It was a wonderful day seeing the family again. Sad that Peng Yan and Wee Ching are both unwell but let hope by some miracles they come through these ordeals. However, it was good returning to Segamat, albeit only for a day. Somehow it made me feel whole again.

Wednesday, May 09, 2007

Day in Segamat

Tomorrow we travel to Segamat for the day. Have to start very early in the morning to avoid the congestions at the Immigration Check Points. The first half of the journey will be along the Malaysian North-South Highway. This part of the journey will be as uninteresting as it gets when one drives along any major motorways. There are rest stops along the way so we might just break the journey for some snacks or coffee. The second half of the journey will be along the old trunk road between Singapore and Kuala Lumpur, Segamat being midway between the two cities. The whole journey will probably take 3 hours. This part of our journey will be more interesting passing through vilages and through rubber estates and oil palm plantations. Theyn have upgraded the road so driving here is better than the old days.

The main purpose of the journey is to visit family members who are still in Segamat. It is also to satisfy my desire to visit my birth place and to touch base with my roots. As one progresses in life and especially when one reaches the twilight years of life, it is always good to return to ones roots every now and again. Trips like these always bring me back into perspective, and of course happy memories.

The plan for tomorrow is to gather the family members for a lunch, deliver a few angpows and also to visit my god-daughter. Haven't seen her for such a long time. Looking forward to seeing again.

I am also loking forward to havoing a durian feast and to bring some back to Singapore for family members. Segamat being famous for the best durians in Malaysia.

It will only be a day trip, so we would probably leave Segamat at around 4 pm for the journey back to Singapore.

Will write about the trip in my next post.

Tuesday, May 08, 2007

Reunion for Segamat Batch of 1962

More than six weeks have gone by since we returned to Singapore. Time has flown by and much has happened. The first week was devoted to cleaning the house and getting ready for the arrival of Denise and our grand daughter Alexa who was coming to be with us for 2 weeks. I was not looking forward to having guests but now after the event it wasn’t too bad after all. Had to cook and prepare lunch everyday for Alexa, but that was OK as I enjoy cooking anyway. My real problem was having to look after her during a great part of the days when her mother was out of the house. It has been a long time since I had young children to care for. It brought back some good memories of years gone by.

The 2 weeks with Alexa was rather good. She was a very easy child and it was not too difficult keeping her occupied. We had many painting and colouring sessions and by the end of the 2 weeks my repertoire of nursery rhymes have more than tripled. I was also very impressed by how intelligent she has become. At the tender age of 3 she could count to 100, knows her A to Z and she could add any 2 numbers between 0 and 10. A very intelligent child indeed.

We left for a 3 days trip to KL soon after Alexa and Denise left for UK. The trip was very good. Got to meet up with Onn and Julina again. Had a wonderful banana leaf lunch under a tree by a roadside on the first day. Onn and Julina were perfect hosts. Lunch was excellent and the company was better than ever. Onn, cousin of the current Deputy Prime Minister of Malaysia, and having 2 uncles who were former Prime Ministesr is still the same as he was during the school days when we were the best of friends. We met up for dinner again the next day and Dianne and I took them to a very peranakan restaurant. The food there was very very good and we thoroughly enjoyed the meal. Food there was so good we went back to have our last dinner before we returned to Singapore.

The next day was devoted to shopping and dinner with my brother Wee Thow and his daughter Shin Yunn. They were just leaving for a few days in UK to prepared for Shin Yunn’s entry to Cardiff university. The seafood dinner we had was rather special. Had Geoduck for the first time. For those who are not familiar with Geoduck, it is a large clam imported from the waters of Alaska. It is eaten raw, sashimi style with wasabi. Rather delicious.

After our KL trip we returned to Singapore. Gary, Dianne’s son was leaving for a 3 month stint at Nike HQ in Portland USA. We had a farewell dinner and said our goodbyes. He left alone, Carrie his wife will join him next week.

On April 27 we left for another 4 days in KL. On April 28, my school batch of 1962 held a reunion dinner at the residence of one of our classmates. A total of 26 old school friends attended. Some or most of whom I have not seen since we parted 45 years ago. It was a very nostalgic event. Some of us came with our spouses. Most of us have changed in our appearance. Almost all have retired or semi-retired. Many of us have increased waistline and many have receding hairlines. However we all remember the good old days when we were in Segamat. We had a very enjoyable reunion and we have all promised to stay in contact via telephone and email.

Lunch next day was another gathering for the batch of 62 at the Lake Club in the Lake Gardens of KL, guests of Onn who is a member. It was another wonderful get together. We all parted with good wishes to all.

The rest of our time in KL was devoted to more shopping and eating.

We may be planning another trip to KL within the next week or so. Got to visit a development site where Denise has purchased a luxury apartment. Tomorrow I have to go to the Vietnamese Embassy to collect my passport, hopefully with a visa for our planned 5 days trip to Ho Chi Minh City on May 30.

I will be glad to leave Singapore. It is getting to be boring and repetitive. I have recently taken up a course in Forex trading and I have been rather busy learning the trade. It is fun and I hope to make a few dollars to supplement my non-existence income of late. Got to earn some money to fund my travel.

Thursday, March 22, 2007

My Three weeks in Welwyn Garden City

Three weeks have gone by since my return to the UK. Now I am on my way back to Singapore. Writing this in the Holideck Lounge at Heathrow Terminal 4. Of all the lounges that I have visited, this must be one of the worst. Although quiet and clean, this lounge offers nothing more than a few packets of crisps, nuts and soft drinks. Alcohol is available for those who drink. I cannot imagine anyone would pay USD 15 just for the privilege to use this lounge. My Priority Pass comes with my American Express which entitles me to use this lounge free of charge.

The weather during the three weeks in the UK has been very good. Spring was in the air. All the daffodils in the garden are in full bloom. The three plum trees, the apple tree and the pear tree in the garden are all starting to put out their blossoms. Everything was coming alive and it is a great time to be in the UK. A pair of robin are nesting in the nest box and another box nearby is being occupied by a pair of blue tit.

With spring comes the need for some gardening. The lawn has been mowed and the roses trimmed. The flower beds have been weeded and a covering of mulch applied to reduce weed growth. More work is needed in the garden but it will have to wait until our return in June.

I wonder what is in store for me in Singapore over the next 3 months. I will try to paint a little. It is also my intention to catch up with old classmates from Segamat. We have the planned reunion on April 28. Looking forward to that.

Writing this flying at 35000 ft over India. Dianne has been upgraded to First class. Unfortunately I am in Economy. The flight is half full so there are many empty seats available to stretch out for comfort. Singapore in another 5 hours. Looking forward to some warmer weather. It was snowing when we left Heathrow last night.

How I spend the next three months or so in Singapore will depend on our travel schedule. We plan to spend some time in KL, JB and possibly a trip to China.

Wednesday, February 28, 2007

Singapore to UK – February 26 207

Writing this flying at 35000 feet over Iran. 7 hours have passed since departure from Singapore and we have another 6 hours to go before arrival at London Heathrow. The flight so far has been comfortable. The flight attendants have been marvelous and we have been well looked after. I guess that you get a little special TLC when you fly first class. We were originally scheduled to depart Singapore on BA012. On arrival at the airport we were informed that there were 2 vacant first class seats on a slightly later BA016. We chose the latter. This is a Boeing 777 with a capacity for around 240 passengers. A smaller plane which also means quicker embarkation and disembarkation. Well, here I am, in complete luxury as far as air travel goes, on a flat bed writing this for my next posting.

This will be almost a turn-around trip. We will be in UK until March 20 when we will return to Singapore. Spring is just beginning in UK and I would like to tidy up the garden before the new growth. As the weather this winter has been rather warm, I guess the daffodils must be in bloom. We have been in Singapore since December 10 2006 and we miss Alexa our darling grand daughter. I will be good to see her again.

After nearly 3 months of Singapore I have this urgent need to get out and be somewhere else. The tidiness and the regimental culture of Singapore can be quite suffocating after a while. They mentality of the Singaporeans is rather unique. They are so kiasu and kiasi. For those who are unfamiliar with these two description, kiasu means “ afraid to lose to others, always must be on the winning side “ and kiasi with a literal translation of “ afraid to die “. This means the Singaporeans are not risk takers. They would rather others take to plunge and they will follow if they find profit at the end. Everything in life becomes a competition with the Singaporeans, from education for their children to jumping queues.

Life in Singapore can be good and can be bad. The good side of it is one generally feel quite safe. As long as you abide by the rules you will not fall foul of the law. The bad side of living in Singapore is that you always have this feeling that big brother is watching. Of course you will have to learn to accept the Singaporean way with all their bad habits. If you can live with all that, then life in Singapore can be quite pleasant.

I am rather looking forward to UK. The weather would be quite good and with spring in the air it will be a good 3 weeks break from Singapore. Seeing Alexa again will be great too. Another 5 hours of flight and we will be in UK. Great!!

Tuesday, February 06, 2007

A Trip to my Home Town - Segamat

At long last on February 5, I managed a trip back to my hometown Segamat. We left Singapore at 6 am and by 6.30 am we were in Johor Baru. The North-South highway was good because traffic was light at that time of the morning. We called in at a rest stop where we had coffee. If possible try and avoid the beverages at such places. We had to abandon our drinks. They were not even up to motorway standard.

We left the North-South highway when we got to the Yong Peng turn-off. From then on we journeyed along the old trunk road. This road has been vastly improved and the rest of our journey to Segamat was quite good.

We got to Segamat at around 9.30 am. We proceeded to have our breakfast at the coffee shop which is noted for its local coffee and kaya toasts. After breakfast we took a walk along some of the old streets of my hometown, Nothing has changed, except maybe for the merchandise in the shops. We walked passed the shop house and I pointed out to Dianne the little place where I was born and where I lived for 17 years before I ventured out into the world. I must admit it brought back some good memories.

Next we over to visit mother at brother’s Tong’s house. Mother is well and looking very good. For a 93 year old she is extremely healthy. I pray that she will remain so for a long time to come. Her only complaint is the slight loss of hearing. I am so happy she is well. As usual we sat and chatted, with mother asking about how we are getting on and how our children are doing. Having assured her that we are all well, she appeared happy. I could tell she was very pleased to see us. I had to dampen her elation a little by telling her we were not staying the night in Segamat. However, she was quite please at my suggestion that we lunch together at a local restaurant. The lunch was excellent. Good food and loving company certainly make a joyous occasion.

WE stopped at a local fruit seller and bought 10 durians, some pomeloes and some langsat. We presented 2 of the pomeloes to mother for prosperity in the New Year.

After lunch we returned for another chat at home. Then it was time to say goodbye again. I gave her an ang pow to help her celebrate her Lunar New Year My mother asked that I make regular trips home. I said I will try. On the way back to Singapore on the other side of town we dropped in to see one of my aunt and my little god daughter. Unfortunately my god daughter was still at school. We chatted with my aunt for a while and started on our journey back to Singapore.

We got to Singapore at 6.40 pm. On the way home we went by Marn Seng’s, Sister Yoke Leng’s and Gary’s to deliver the durians.

It was a good day. Visits to Segamat always cheer me up. I cannot say it does the same to others. Segamat will always be the place I call home.

Friday, January 26, 2007

Disappointment in Johor Baru

My wife says I am too sentimental. I am now retired and having lived in a foreign land for the last 40 years I have returned to Singapore/Malaysia, well at least to live here 50% of my time. Now that I am back, I have decided to seek out my old school friends for renewing old friendship and maybe remember a little of the old days. My trip to Kuala Lumpur before Christmas was a fruitful and enjoyable experience. On that trip I managed to meet up with four school friends including a very good pal and his charming wife. It was quite an experience. Good food and fine company certainly go a long way to making it a happy night out. That night the group parted with promises to stay in touch. Life during retirement would be better and happier when old friends can get together from time to time to chat and exchange life experiences.

However, my attempts to establish contact with old friends in Johor Baru have so far been unsuccessful. I have twice traveled to Johor Baru hoping to meet up with old school friends there, but twice I have been disappointed. Maybe my wife Dianne is right. I must not expect others to have my enthusiasm to reconnect with old acquaintances. Others may look at life differently and may have other priorities. I shall let the old friends of Johor Baru take the initiative for our reunion, if there ever was going to be one. If not, then I shall have to be satisfied that at least I have succeeded in Kuala Lumpur.

I am looking forward to my next trip to Kuala Lumpur next month. Another dinner with fine friends and renewal of old friendship.

Saturday, January 20, 2007

Guess the Country

What is it that makes me feel so trapped each time I come to this country? Why do I feel unfulfilled and lonely? I often feel that I am wasting away my life here in this tightly controlled state. Is it because apart from family I have virtually no friends here? Maybe it is because I am not used to the special way of life here. Or could it be that the local population have a totally different emphasis on what is important in life.

After much careful deliberation, I think I have come to the best explanation. It is not just one reason or another. It is in fact a combination of all. It is all the little things that make this country unique. However, although all the local quirks and kiasu-ness combine to give me this feeling that I should get out fast if I value my sanity, the one thing that is so unnerving is the fact that the people of this country place so much importance on money and material possession. It is almost a religion that one should amass as much as possible in the shortest possible time. The race for ownership in everything large or trivial is so important to the population of this tiny country that it has become an obsession. In this race for wealth and materialistic possession, there are many casualties, most evidently those at the bottom of the social ladder. They either get trampled upon or worse they are totally ignored. Of course from time to time, in the main stream media, one hear or read about government effort to reach out to the under privileged with financial or other form of assistance. In my opinion these are usually few and far between and very often too little too late. It has also been widely accepted that the income divide in this country is getting larger. There are the few percent of the population who are extremely rich and powerful. Then there are the middle class who are by Asian standard quite comfortable. Lastly there exist at the lowest rung of the social ladder a section of the population who are very poor, again by Asian standard. The number of people that makes up this portion of the population varies, depending on who you ask or who is providing the figures. The magnitude of this section of the population also depends on the criteria one uses to measure wealth. By whatever means one uses to determine the number of the poor, there is no denying that such deprivation exist.

Over the last few years I have been traveling to this country. I have noticed a steady increase in the number of beggars, tissue paper vendors, vagrants and also people sleeping rough. This country is ranked as one of the richest in this region. For such a small population of true blue locals I am amazed to find so many desperate people.

As in any society there will always be crimes. I just have this feeling that this is also on the increase. The daily newspapers can vouch for that. You read about a whole string of reported crimes each day in the newspapers. Littering is another problem on the increase. This country has always pride itself on cleanliness of the streets and thoroughfares. They employ lowly paid foreign workers just to sweep away leaves fallen from trees and other rubbish from the streets. Each morning on my way to Seven Eleven for my papers I have noticed an increase in litter along the roads from the night before.

Increase in crime and litter has largely been attributed to the imported labourers who are here to perform menial tasks of labouring and cleaning. Whether it is true that there imported foreigners are fully responsible for this increase is arguable. I am sure the local are also partly responsible. The street where we live here in this country is used by pupils from a local school. We frequently find litters along this road used by the pupils to and from the school. Are they responsible for the rubbish along our road?

An incident I witness a few days ago. After purchasing the newspaper from Seven Eleven I often settle down to a cup of coffee at the coffee shop nearby to read my papers. On this particular morning I was joined by a couple in their 60s two tables away. They were there for their morning beverages. The man was smoking and he had a bad cough. He was coughing almost non-stop and each time he coughed he brought up a mouthful of phlegm which he spat on the floor of this coffee shop. Within a period of about 5 minutes he must have repeated the process half a dozen times. I could not imagine he did not realise how disgusting his action was. I hastily gulped down my coffee and made a quick exit from that place.

There is an uneasy quiet here in this country. The mumbles and grumbles of discontent are mainly in blogs under the cloak of anonymity. Nobody here would voice their opinion, why, you might ask. Well, I have learnt that here in this country you must always keep your opinion to yourself and if you hear an opinion being given, believe not a single word of it.

What I have written here is just my personal opinion based on personal observation. I do not mean to cause any hurt to anyone or any organization.

Can you guess the country I have been referring to? No prize for the correct answer !!!

Monday, January 15, 2007

Hometown Segamat Flooded

The unusual heavy rain in the southern part of Malaysia has resulted in flooding in many low areas of Johor. Many towns and villages have been isolated and in many cases reachable only by boats or helicopters.

My hometown of Segamat in north Johor saw unprecedented heavy floods during the end of December 2006. Some homes in the region were completely submerged and many had to be evacuated to temporary relief centers. Many homes were left without electricity and water supply for many days. Many residents of Segamat and the surrounding villages lost practically all their possessions. It was a sad time for Segamatians.

The first week in January 2007 saw the easing of the rain and the flood in Segamat subsided. Many moved back to their homes, only to find devastation and destruction. Many home furniture had to be discarded and those who were insured replaced them with new ones. For those who were not insured had to pay for replacements or had to make do without. Items such as refrigerators, washing machines and all other heavier furniture that were not easily moved to higher grounds were the main casualties. Those who moved back home after the flood started the tedious and heartbreaking task of cleaning and disposal of damaged belongings.

Just as things began to return to normality, came the next blow for Segamat. The second week of January brought more heavy downpours. Many towns and villages affected by the December disaster began to flood again. Segamat was not spared. Villagers from surrounding areas around Segamat had to be moved to relief centers again. The water level of the Segamat River rose to a dangerous level. Further rainfall would undoubtedly bring more distress to all in Segamat. Some trunk roads to Segamat were also under water making it impossible for travelers in and out of Segamat.

It is a worrying time for residents of Segamat and for all those who live away and are worried about their family and friends back home.

Let’s hope the next weeks bring drier weather and things can return to normal again.

Saturday, January 13, 2007

JB in the rain

We went to JB on January 12 to renew my Singapore visa. The journey to JB was slow as it was raining very heavily in Singapore when we left. When we got to JB the rain had increased in ferocity making driving very difficult. The journey to Senai took twice as long. Our usual breakfast place was deserted because of the rain. We had our usual breakfast and after purchasing breakfast for our neighbour's handicap boy we proceeded to our Saleng house. The rain continued with great intensity.

After visiting our Saleng house we proceeded to shop at Giant. The supermarket, usually full of shoppers was almost deserted and it was quite an experience shopping in the almost vacant store. Lunch was at the foodcourt at Giant. Had KFC.

Our next destination was Jusco at Terbau City. The journey to Jusco was tricky as by then the road was already under 6 inches of water. On arrival we found the whole shopping complex in total darkness. Electricity cables to the complex had been damaged by the heavy rain and the ensuing flood. Only Jusco was in operation as they are on a different electrical supply. We did a little shopping and decided to leave for JB town and City Square. Easier said than done as by then the rain had further increased in intensity and even the trunk roads were under about a foot of water. There was so much rain water on the roads that all vehicles had to move at a very slow pace. After much wet and hazardous driving we finally got to City Square. Relaxed here with a Starbucks while Dianne went shopping. The rain had not let up but people inside the shopping mall went about their business of shopping and eating ignoring the bad weather outside. We decided to have dinner at Hamid's before returning to Singapore.

On the homeword journey back to Singapore the rain continued albeit with lesser ferocity. I worry about Segamat being flooded again. With so much rain in Johor I am afraid that more floods for my hometown is a distinct possibility.

Monday, January 08, 2007

Old Friends

I left Malaysia for the United Kingdom in the year 1966, the year England won the World Cup. After primary and secondary school, a total of eleven years, our batch graduated in 1962. A farewell party was held and there were promises of staying in touch. Most of those promises either faded away or never got started. Most of us from year 1962 left our hometown Segamat either for tertiary education or took up employment in larger cities in other parts of Malaysia or Singapore. Staying in touch was quite difficult in those days. Telephone calls were expensive and the internet had not been invented. I guess after a short time there was very little contact between any of us. Those with families in Segamat our hometown, only returned during special occasions like Christmases and Lunar New Years.

I left for UK in August 1966. In those days travel was expensive and there was no way one could return home for annual visits. In 1969 after completion of studies I started work and only managed to save up enough for a visit to Malaysia in 1970. Further visits to Malaysia became less frequent owing to work commitments and the thirst for travel and to visit other countries. Memories of childhood friends faded and stayed in the background of my memory for many years. The only childhood friend that was constantly in my mind over the years was Onn. I had always wondered what had become of Onn. It had always been my hope that we would meet up again.

My wife Dianne and I took early retirement in 2000 and since then we had been traveling far and wide. Lately through a posting at Segamat.com, a few of us managed to re-establish contact. On my last trip to Kuala Lumpur five of us, including Onn and his charming wife, managed to meet up for a seafood dinner. The food was good, the company excellent, making it a wonderful night indeed. We parted with promises to keep in touch. Now with the internet and email I hope we will keep contact with one another.

Abdul Malik from Kluang, Balbir Singh, Wee Meng and Tong Lim from Johor Baru are childhood classmates whom I would very much like to meet up again. A get together will be organized soon and I am looking forward to seeing them again.

After so many years away from Malaysia I have finally made my way back home. I believe I have completed a full circle. Now with time on my hand, no more responsibilities towards work or children, I have decided that it would be good to make contacts with old friends again. Memories of school days, friends from childhood are precious and I hope that I would be able rekindle these old friendship again.

Satellite Navigation - Singapore

Today we tested a satellite navigation system in Singapore. The unit is named Tipo. Having spent an hour figuring how to work it, we spent the day putting it to a road test. We drove from west to east of the island and then back again. All in all we found the unit very useful and easy to use. When a mistake in the driving direction was made, the system recalculated a new route and we were able very quickly to get back on track again. The unit is small and compact and easily fixed to the front just on the inside of the windscreen.

The only drawbacks that we found were,

1. The voice for the direction instructions spoke with an American accent and the pronunciation for some road names were unclear.

2. The touch screen is a little sensitive and the alphabet and number panels are too small. Operation on these while the car was moving proved a little problematic.

These are the only down points of the system. I enjoyed using the system and look forward to purchasing it for our use in Singapore.

Sunday, January 07, 2007

Buying a car in Singapore

Car buying in Singapore is a total minefield to a non-Singaporean. Here you have to take into account the value of the Certificate of Entitlement ( COE ), the Preferential Additional Registration Fee ( PARF ), the Open Market Value ( OMV ), Scrap Value etc etc. Then you have the Off Peak cars ( those with red number plates ) which can only be driven at certain period of the day.

The COE is a certificate that entitles one to own a car. This certificate is valid for ten years, at the end of which one must either scrap the car and get back the OMV which goes towards the purchase of a new car and a new COE. If one chooses, one can keep the old car and purchase a new COE for it and continue with the old car.

It is a total mystery to a non Singaporean why sometimes it actually is financially beneficial to scrap a perfectly good 3 or 4 year old car and trade in for a new one. Of course to an outsider it will seem wasteful, but Sngaporeans do it on a regular basis. I am told that this is due to the fluctuation of the value of the COE.

It is a very complicated system and one must understand fully all the mind boggling rules and regulations before a car purchase.

In Singapore, owning a car is a luxury and it is very expensive to keep and run a car. Public transport is excellent and many Singaporens have chosen to do without it. Eleswhere in the world we take it for granted that a vehicle is an essential possession and a necessity but not here in Singapore.