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.
Friday, August 31, 2007
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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!!
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.
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.
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 !!!
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.
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