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.
Friday, January 26, 2007
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 !!!
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
Saturday, January 06, 2007
Phuket Cancellation
Read in the papers today that they are predicting more violence in Thailand. Different factions are jostling for power and influence. The current Thai premier has told the country to brace themselves for more trouble to come. The situation in Thailand I gather is very volatile and anything could happen. They still have no idea who carried out the bombings on new years eve. There are numerous speculations but nobody can tell what might happen from day to day.
In view of the uncertainty and the volatile situation in Thailand at the moment, we have decided to postpone our visit to Phuket. Cancellation of hotel will cost us but Tiger Airways will refund in full because they have cancelled our return flight.
Phuket will always be there and we will visit under calmer circumstances.
In view of the uncertainty and the volatile situation in Thailand at the moment, we have decided to postpone our visit to Phuket. Cancellation of hotel will cost us but Tiger Airways will refund in full because they have cancelled our return flight.
Phuket will always be there and we will visit under calmer circumstances.
Goodbye 2006 - Welcome 2007
2006 is behind us and we have crossed over into a new year 2007. As I looked back over the year that has just gone by, I asked myself,
Was I a better person than I was in 2005?
Have I, without knowing caused pain and sadness to someone?
Have I been compassionate and understanding?
Have I been too arrogant?
Have I spent enough time with my family and friends?
What have I achieved during the last twelve months?
Have I learnt anything new?
I would like to think that as I get older I have become wiser. I hope that with age I have also become a better person. I hope that in 2007 I would be able to bring happiness to all I come in contact with. I will try to be more compassionate and where needed I will always be willing to lend a helping hand. If I manage all these, then it will be a very good year for me.
Was I a better person than I was in 2005?
Have I, without knowing caused pain and sadness to someone?
Have I been compassionate and understanding?
Have I been too arrogant?
Have I spent enough time with my family and friends?
What have I achieved during the last twelve months?
Have I learnt anything new?
I would like to think that as I get older I have become wiser. I hope that with age I have also become a better person. I hope that in 2007 I would be able to bring happiness to all I come in contact with. I will try to be more compassionate and where needed I will always be willing to lend a helping hand. If I manage all these, then it will be a very good year for me.
Monday, January 01, 2007
Phuket - Thailand
We are scheduled to visit Phuket on January 9, 10 anf 11. In view of the New Year Eve bombings in Bangkok, we are wondering if we should proceed with the journey.
The second wave of bombing at the stroke of midnight into 2007, was aimed at tourists. I am wondering if Phuket will be safe during our trip. Just have to keep an eye on how situation develops in Thailand over the next week.
Thailand aka the Land of Smiles has started 2007 on a bad note. lets hope things do not deteriorates further.
The second wave of bombing at the stroke of midnight into 2007, was aimed at tourists. I am wondering if Phuket will be safe during our trip. Just have to keep an eye on how situation develops in Thailand over the next week.
Thailand aka the Land of Smiles has started 2007 on a bad note. lets hope things do not deteriorates further.
Happy New Year
Happy New Year to one and all. Let us hope and pray that 2007 will bring with it Peace and Harmony between nations, Love and Compassion all over the world and let us all contribute towards the peotection of our environment.
Sunday, December 31, 2006
My day in Johor Baru
Our trip to Johor Baru today was most enjoyable. The drive into JB was quick and trouble free. Surprisingly the traffic to JB was very good and within half an hour we were in Malaysia. Today is the Haj holiday and there were fewer vehicles on the road.
We visited our house in Saleng and then proceeded to shop at Giant supermarket for groceries and fruits. Bought a pair of cordless telephones for our Singapore home. I think we went a little overboard and spent nearly RM400 at Giants, more than our usual shopping bill. Some items purchased are for UK but most are for Singapore consumption.
After Giant supermarket shopping we proceeded to Carrefour along Jalan Terbau. Bought a few items from Carrefour. Carrefour has a wider range of products we usually buy from Giant and we found that it is cheaper too. We have decided that our future grocery shopping will be from Carrefour instead of Giant.
On our return journey to Singapore we stopped at Pelangi shopping mall. We could not find a decent restaurant for our New Year Eve celebration dinner. Bought a few hooky DVD and continued our journey back to Singapore.
Our New Year Eve celebration dinner was at Clementi Food Centre - we had Singapore Laksa!!!
We visited our house in Saleng and then proceeded to shop at Giant supermarket for groceries and fruits. Bought a pair of cordless telephones for our Singapore home. I think we went a little overboard and spent nearly RM400 at Giants, more than our usual shopping bill. Some items purchased are for UK but most are for Singapore consumption.
After Giant supermarket shopping we proceeded to Carrefour along Jalan Terbau. Bought a few items from Carrefour. Carrefour has a wider range of products we usually buy from Giant and we found that it is cheaper too. We have decided that our future grocery shopping will be from Carrefour instead of Giant.
On our return journey to Singapore we stopped at Pelangi shopping mall. We could not find a decent restaurant for our New Year Eve celebration dinner. Bought a few hooky DVD and continued our journey back to Singapore.
Our New Year Eve celebration dinner was at Clementi Food Centre - we had Singapore Laksa!!!
Saturday, December 30, 2006
Singapore Off-Peak Car
Just read in the papers that Singapore cars that have off-peak registrations are not allowed to enter Johor during peak hours. Off-peak cars are only allowed on the Singapore roads during periods between 7 pm and 7 am the next morning and from 3 pm on Saturday through to 7 am on Monday. I guess these restrictions will also apply to Malaysia from January 1 2007. With that in mind, it looks like we will be able to use our off-peak car in JB only during weekends. However this will be a problem as we will need the car to visit Malaysia utility offices to pay utility bills. Such offices are closed during the weekends.
Well, we will have to think about solving this problem soon.
Tomorrow is Sunday and that means we are allowed to enter Malaysia with the car. Plan to do a little shopping at Giant Suprmarket and also a visit to Terbau City. Lunch will be at one of the restaurants in Terbau City.
Well, we will have to think about solving this problem soon.
Tomorrow is Sunday and that means we are allowed to enter Malaysia with the car. Plan to do a little shopping at Giant Suprmarket and also a visit to Terbau City. Lunch will be at one of the restaurants in Terbau City.
My life in Singapore
My life in Singapore cannot be called dull, but on the other hand I wouldn’t consider it interesting either. To live in Singapore I have come to the conclusion that one has to understand the mentality of the people. There are many good and gracious habits of the Singaporeans and there are as many ugly aspects one encounters here too. To have a happy life here one must learn to “ blend in “. I certainly do not mean that one has to bring oneself down to the level of some ugly sides of the Singaporeans, but one has to learn to accept that it is the norm here. If one cannot accept this concept then it is better to stay clear of this little “ red dot “.
The longer I remain here in Singapore, the more I find life bearable. In the beginning I was constantly at odds with certain behavior here, where in a civilize society one would take as rudeness. Here are but a few of the what I call unacceptable behavior one encounters in a day to day life in Singapore.
Queue jumping – this is a norm. Singaporean must be first in everything; hence they are always looking for ways to be ahead.
Loud – Singaporeans speak loudly in public places. Noise pollution or courtesy to neighbours is an alien concept.
Never give way – if you see a Singaporeans walking towards you and without avoidance would result in a crash, you better give way or there will be a crash.
Rude drivers – Singaporeans like to be considered as citizens from a first world country. The way they drive, they might as well come from a third world African state.
Money grabbers – To Singaporeans money is God. There is no other more important item in the whole world that even comes close in importance as money is to the Singaporeans. There is a saying that Singaporeans would sell their mothers for money; however, I personally think that that is going too far.
Ungracious – You seldom hear a Singaporean say thank you when you hold the door open for them or when you allow them to pass before you. However, I tend to put that down to the Singapore way and not rudeness through intention.
I very seldom see young Singaporeans offering seats to the elderly or the needy in public transport or anywhere else for that matter.
Of course there are many good points about the people of Singapore. Surprisingly I am unable to think of any right at this moment. When I do, I will publish them in my blog at a later date.
The longer I remain here in Singapore, the more I find life bearable. In the beginning I was constantly at odds with certain behavior here, where in a civilize society one would take as rudeness. Here are but a few of the what I call unacceptable behavior one encounters in a day to day life in Singapore.
Queue jumping – this is a norm. Singaporean must be first in everything; hence they are always looking for ways to be ahead.
Loud – Singaporeans speak loudly in public places. Noise pollution or courtesy to neighbours is an alien concept.
Never give way – if you see a Singaporeans walking towards you and without avoidance would result in a crash, you better give way or there will be a crash.
Rude drivers – Singaporeans like to be considered as citizens from a first world country. The way they drive, they might as well come from a third world African state.
Money grabbers – To Singaporeans money is God. There is no other more important item in the whole world that even comes close in importance as money is to the Singaporeans. There is a saying that Singaporeans would sell their mothers for money; however, I personally think that that is going too far.
Ungracious – You seldom hear a Singaporean say thank you when you hold the door open for them or when you allow them to pass before you. However, I tend to put that down to the Singapore way and not rudeness through intention.
I very seldom see young Singaporeans offering seats to the elderly or the needy in public transport or anywhere else for that matter.
Of course there are many good points about the people of Singapore. Surprisingly I am unable to think of any right at this moment. When I do, I will publish them in my blog at a later date.
Monday, December 25, 2006
My Hometown Segamat Flood
The torrential rain over the past week has taken a toll on many low areas in Malaysia. Unfortunately, my hometown of Segamat in Northern Johor has been badly affected. The town was completely cut off for 2 days. Roads into and out of Segamat were submerged in many feet of water.
Many buildings including shops and residential houses in the newer part of town have been flooded. Some relatives of mine have had to be evacuated because their residences were under 3 to 4 feet of flood water. Electricity and water supply to the affected areas have been cut due to cable and pipe damage. In certain areas these essential services have not been reinstated.
It is sad to see so much damage and suffering cause by nature. Thankfully the worst is over as the rain has stopped. Clearing, cleaning and repair work can start now that the water has receded. The highways into and out of town are open and hopefully life can get back to normal again.
Sunday, December 24, 2006
KL and Back
Tuesday 19 December 2006 was a bad day for driving up the North-South Highway from Singapore to KL. The drive was pretty slow due to the heavy downpour practically all the way. Started the journey from Singapore at 9.30 am and by the time we got to the Malacca junction it was almost 12.00 pm. As we were in no hurry to get to KL, we decided to make a detour to Malacca town for lunch. We looked for and found this lovely peranakan dining place and had a delicious lunch. The lunch was certainly worth the detour.
After lunch we continued our journey north toward KL. The rain continued to be heavy so the remainder of the journey was slow. We got to KL at about 4.00 pm. Owing to the heavy rain of the day, we later found out that a great part of Johor has been flooded including our hometown Segamat. All roads in and out of Segamat were impassable. Our town has been completely cut off.
Mandarin Oriental was our hotel. Situated right next to KLCC and the Twin Towers it was conveniently located for shopping and food. During our 3 days stay we did our usual tour of KLCC, Bintang Walk and Imbi Plaza. Food was always good in KL. Bak Kut Teh for breakfast, noodles for lunch and dinner at the Overseas Restaurant.
The last night was special. I got to meet up with Onn again. Onn my friend from my school days back in Segamat was kind enough to arrange for the dinner at Fattycrab Restaurant. He also arrange for me to meet up with Chin Moh, Soo Leng and Yok Yin. The best part was I got to meet his charming wife Julina. It was a wonderful dinner and a pleasant trip down memory lane.
We will be making another trip to KL in the new year and I hope to be able to see all my old friends again, especially Onn and Julina.
After lunch we continued our journey north toward KL. The rain continued to be heavy so the remainder of the journey was slow. We got to KL at about 4.00 pm. Owing to the heavy rain of the day, we later found out that a great part of Johor has been flooded including our hometown Segamat. All roads in and out of Segamat were impassable. Our town has been completely cut off.
Mandarin Oriental was our hotel. Situated right next to KLCC and the Twin Towers it was conveniently located for shopping and food. During our 3 days stay we did our usual tour of KLCC, Bintang Walk and Imbi Plaza. Food was always good in KL. Bak Kut Teh for breakfast, noodles for lunch and dinner at the Overseas Restaurant.
The last night was special. I got to meet up with Onn again. Onn my friend from my school days back in Segamat was kind enough to arrange for the dinner at Fattycrab Restaurant. He also arrange for me to meet up with Chin Moh, Soo Leng and Yok Yin. The best part was I got to meet his charming wife Julina. It was a wonderful dinner and a pleasant trip down memory lane.
We will be making another trip to KL in the new year and I hope to be able to see all my old friends again, especially Onn and Julina.
Monday, December 18, 2006
Kuala Lumpur
Kuala Lumpur my favourite city in Southeast Asia. It is nowhere as clean and orderly as Singapore, but unlike Singapore it has character. One feels alive when in KL. At least here one does not get the feeling that "big brother" is watching you wherever you go. A more relax atmosphere and a fantastic place for R and R.
Food in KL is far superior than that found in Singapore and far cheaper. Shopping in KL is better and cheaper and a totally more interesting experience.
The KLites are friendly unlike the majority of Singaporeans. Here you see smiling faces instead of the "I do not care" stares one gets with the Singaporeans. Malaysian are a friendly lot and it is always a pleasure being in Malaysia. Coming across the causeway from Singapore into Malaysia is like a breath of fresh air.
I am traveling to KL tomorrow. I am all packed and looking forward to a few days in KL. Ofcourse I am a little bias, I was born in Malaysia.
Food in KL is far superior than that found in Singapore and far cheaper. Shopping in KL is better and cheaper and a totally more interesting experience.
The KLites are friendly unlike the majority of Singaporeans. Here you see smiling faces instead of the "I do not care" stares one gets with the Singaporeans. Malaysian are a friendly lot and it is always a pleasure being in Malaysia. Coming across the causeway from Singapore into Malaysia is like a breath of fresh air.
I am traveling to KL tomorrow. I am all packed and looking forward to a few days in KL. Ofcourse I am a little bias, I was born in Malaysia.
Saturday, December 16, 2006
A day in Johor Baru
Today we decided to go to Johor Baru in Malaysia. Started early at 6.15 am hoping to beat the usual heavy traffic at the immigration check points in Singapore Woodlands and also in Johor Baru. Unfortunately as it is the end of year school holiday in Singapore there was already a long queue at the Causeway when we got there at 6.35 am. We managed to get into Malaysia at 8.00 am. Proceeded to Senai where to stop for our usual breakfast of wonton mee and coffee. Got to our Senai house at 9.00 am only to find that the water supply to the house had been terminated owing to non-payment of water bills. On top of that, we received a letter from the sewer department of Senai summoning us to court for non-payment of sewer charges. As the house had not been occupied there should not be any sewer charges. A visit to the sewer department soon solved the problem and procedures has been started to rectify the anomalies.
Stopped at our usual Malay fruit seller for our supply of fruits. Bought some mangoes and pineapples.
Visited the water department to pay the fine and outstanding charges but as there was a long queue waiting to be served when we got there we decided to pay the fine another day and at the same time apply for reconnection.
The rest of the day was spent at the Holiday Inn Plaza and Terbau City. At Holiday Inn Plaza, Dianne my wife, visited the hair salon for a hair cut while I shopped around for the latest hooky DVDs of the latest movies. I found 11 movies for a mere RM66 ( approx 9 GBP ). Also bought a little USB fan for the laptop. Now I can keep cool while working on the laptop.
Lunch was at the Meritus Meridian. It was a buffet lunch. It was delicious and a mere RM85 ( 12 GBP ) for both of us.
Terbau City was for shopping. Dianne bought a few blouses and a handbag. We shopped for groceries at Jusco. Bought some soft coconuts and a box of doughnuts for Ivan and Kenny ( brother-in-law’s boys ) and then proceeded home to Singapore.
Return journey was traffic free and we got back at 9.00 pm after dropping off the coconuts and doughnuts for the boys.
Stopped at our usual Malay fruit seller for our supply of fruits. Bought some mangoes and pineapples.
Visited the water department to pay the fine and outstanding charges but as there was a long queue waiting to be served when we got there we decided to pay the fine another day and at the same time apply for reconnection.
The rest of the day was spent at the Holiday Inn Plaza and Terbau City. At Holiday Inn Plaza, Dianne my wife, visited the hair salon for a hair cut while I shopped around for the latest hooky DVDs of the latest movies. I found 11 movies for a mere RM66 ( approx 9 GBP ). Also bought a little USB fan for the laptop. Now I can keep cool while working on the laptop.
Lunch was at the Meritus Meridian. It was a buffet lunch. It was delicious and a mere RM85 ( 12 GBP ) for both of us.
Terbau City was for shopping. Dianne bought a few blouses and a handbag. We shopped for groceries at Jusco. Bought some soft coconuts and a box of doughnuts for Ivan and Kenny ( brother-in-law’s boys ) and then proceeded home to Singapore.
Return journey was traffic free and we got back at 9.00 pm after dropping off the coconuts and doughnuts for the boys.
Tuesday, December 12, 2006
Back in Singapore
Now back in Singapore. Winter has arrived in the UK. When we left on Sunday December 10 the weather was grey and wet. It was a typical winter day. Can’t say I am not glad to leave the wet wintry weather. However, not that I am here in Singapore, I am not too sure I am going to enjoy the heat and the humidity. Anyway I am going to be here for the next two months so I better get used to this weather.
Heathrow on December 10 was a total disgrace. Chaos was everywhere. Owing to the extra security measures at the airport, the queues through security checks were a total shamble. The people who came up with the way passengers were handled should be ashamed of themselves.
All passengers after check-in were told to queue in a holding tent outside the terminal building. The queue formed was around 250 people in length. Then there were the constant calls for people with earlier gate closing time to come forward to join a priority queue. We had 4 hours to spare before our gate closing time, so we were classed as low priority and hence constantly pushed back to the end of the queue. We finally got to the security checks with only minutes to spare before the gate to our flight closes. It took us 4 hours from the time we joined the queue to boarding our flight. It was not the best day for UK with so many frustrated world travelers seeing the ugly side of a very angry and disappointed mob.
The journey from home in UK to home in Singapore took us a total of 24 hours. It was a long day!! The flight was OK. We were in Economy class on this trip so there were no luxuries. BA has never been known for comfort. Food was of the usual airplane variety. BA cabin-crew was OK but one could see that the aircraft has seen better days. The toilet furniture were old and needed repair. One of the toilets had a broken seat and the panel behind had been glued to hide a crack. The seat I was in had a broken headphone socket with sound coming only from one earphone. Well BA is noted for safety and maintenance of its aircrafts. Let’s hope that although the aircrafts are old, they are well maintained.
First day in Singapore, the weather is considerably warmer than that in UK. Looking forward to a trip to JB this Saturday and a few days in KL next week. In January we have booked a few days in Phuket.
Heathrow on December 10 was a total disgrace. Chaos was everywhere. Owing to the extra security measures at the airport, the queues through security checks were a total shamble. The people who came up with the way passengers were handled should be ashamed of themselves.
All passengers after check-in were told to queue in a holding tent outside the terminal building. The queue formed was around 250 people in length. Then there were the constant calls for people with earlier gate closing time to come forward to join a priority queue. We had 4 hours to spare before our gate closing time, so we were classed as low priority and hence constantly pushed back to the end of the queue. We finally got to the security checks with only minutes to spare before the gate to our flight closes. It took us 4 hours from the time we joined the queue to boarding our flight. It was not the best day for UK with so many frustrated world travelers seeing the ugly side of a very angry and disappointed mob.
The journey from home in UK to home in Singapore took us a total of 24 hours. It was a long day!! The flight was OK. We were in Economy class on this trip so there were no luxuries. BA has never been known for comfort. Food was of the usual airplane variety. BA cabin-crew was OK but one could see that the aircraft has seen better days. The toilet furniture were old and needed repair. One of the toilets had a broken seat and the panel behind had been glued to hide a crack. The seat I was in had a broken headphone socket with sound coming only from one earphone. Well BA is noted for safety and maintenance of its aircrafts. Let’s hope that although the aircrafts are old, they are well maintained.
First day in Singapore, the weather is considerably warmer than that in UK. Looking forward to a trip to JB this Saturday and a few days in KL next week. In January we have booked a few days in Phuket.
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