L.I.T.T.L.E. D.O.T.S.

外面

2009-05-07T23:07:00.003+08:00

重新看了《如果.爱》，戏里的一首歌“外面”，我重复听了好几遍。

我曾经也有过这样的心境，那是人生中很难熬的一段日子，强烈的想要闯出去，要离开。我遇到很多挫折及阻挠，有些话，到现在回想起来，还是会刺痛我。

如果我是孙纳，我会做出一样的选择，离开林建东。如果选择留下，两个人一辈子，就会过着那种苦日子，梦想永远没有实现的那天。十年之后，回想那段爱情，又有什么是不能放弃的，没有彼此的日子，你我也不是活得好好的。

******

外面的世界很精彩

我出去会不会失败

外面的世界特别慷慨

闯出去我就可以活过来

留在这里我看不到现在

我要出去寻找我的未来

下定了决心改变日子真难捱

吹熄了蜡烛愿望就是离开

外面的世界很精彩

我出去会变得可爱

外面的机会来得很快

我一定找到自己的存在

一离开头也不转不回来

我离开永远都不再回来

******

路

2009-04-02T22:35:00.005+08:00

很喜欢这张照片。那么平静的小镇，仿佛我就是镇上唯一的一个人。
前面的路，不知可通到哪里，我没有勇气自己一个人走完这条路。
也许再也没有机会回到这条路。
很多路，一辈子只会走过一次，所以更要放慢脚步，好好欣赏周围的风景。

~~2009 二月，Bartlesville, Oklahoma, 我到此一游。

期待

2009-04-02T21:59:00.006+08:00

期待家里即将添加新的成员，

不是一个，

而是两个喔---一大一小。

请不要误会，

绝对不是买大送小。

鼻酸的感觉

2009-04-02T20:19:00.003+08:00

心里有一个深深的遗憾，每一次回想，鼻酸的感觉总会涌上来。
身边的人，会慢慢的消失，我还要承受多少次这样的离别？

周末 29 March

2009-03-29T16:34:00.005+08:00

天好黑喔，应该就要下雨了。一想到等一下要在这种湿湿的天气去Holland V 吃饭，就觉得很不想出门。这个周末好无聊，觉得自己快要变宅女了。

很值得一提的是，上个周末，我千里迢迢到KL去看张惠妹的演唱会。一切都太值得了，和现场一万八千个观众一起K歌，真是一个难忘的感觉。

Today is Christmas

2008-12-25T18:21:00.003+08:00

I don't celebrate Christmas as I am not a Christian. However when I was still in Muar, every year the Santa Clause used to visit my home near Christmas day because my grandmum was a Catholic. The church caroling group would sing and dance at my home. The neighbour kids would also come.

While in this year, I spend the whole day, at the place I stay, resting. It has been a tiring week. Recently I feel very pressurised at work as the work load is increasing. predecessor has left for field and I am the only one QC Engineer, overlooking four product lines now, in which three product lines are new and always give me problems.

I was on business trip to Penang to visit supplier from Mon to Tue to resolve some product quality issues with supplier. And I am having conference call almost every night. Hmm...although work load is heavy, but I like the working environment and the group of colleagues I have. There is no office politics and I can focus fully in my job.

December is a happening month... Some special events

1. Predeccesor has left...Pei Pei is now really alone to handle all the stuffs

2. Attended a Christmas Party at colleague's home

3. first time on business trip

4. Attended a one-week training

5. My Dear is going to sail with his ship

6. MAEAA successfully organised it's first activity

Anyway I wish everyone Merry Christmas.

The third weekend of October

2008-10-18T23:58:00.002+08:00

I was back to office this morning. The new product line is going to have production in another two weeks' time. Getting more work to do as my predecessor hands over job to me. He is going to field in December and I am supposed to take over most of the things he is doing now, plus another new product.

These two weeks I am keep thinking whether I want to live in such a way for the rest of my life. I get a not-too-bad salary from a MNC. Most probably after 5-7 years, or maybe 10 years, I can be a manager after gaining enough experiences. I will always report to someone and rely on him/her to rate my performance. The money I have, definitely not enough to have a luxury life, but more than sufficient to get a "pigeon box" house and a japanese car...

That is not what I hope to be. No matter how hard you work for the company, the company eventually is not belonged to you. Most of the time, they will not pay proportionately to the effort you put in.

So I want to be my own boss. Anyway it's not going to happen soon because I have nothing now- no money, no experience. Learn as much as possible is what I can do now.

The 2nd weekend of October

2008-10-18T23:09:00.004+08:00

Last weekend, it was great as I was able to meet 3 different groups of friends.

Friday night, I had dinner with Jeremy and Kuan Nee. We had so much things to talk about. We shifted from the dinner place to another coffee shop and continued to chit chat till mid night. I really like these two friends whom I could share many things.

The next day, finally the outing to East Coast Park was put into action. We spent the whole afternoon cycling in the park. That kind of activity is much more better than wandering in the shopping center or town.

On Sunday, it was reserved for my hometown friends. We had a ktv session followed by a dinner at Holland Village.

I will never be lonely to have so many friends around me ; )

CONNECT Nanyang Photo Competition

2008-10-05T01:08:00.003+08:00

Tyng Tze and Pei Pei won a consolation prize in the photo competition. This is the winning entry.

A new challenge

2008-10-05T00:50:00.002+08:00

I have taken up a new challenge recently. Pei Pei becomes the President of MAE Alumni Association and she is the first lady president of the association. Today I gave my first speech as President.

We have our first recruitment drive and it is very successful! We have almost 100% of the alumni attending the events to sign up with us as lifelong member. Even though the number is not a big figure, but it's a very encouraging outcome.

I like to work together with a group of friends in such voluntary basis. What we do, is really for the interest of the club and our discussion is meaningful. Not like what happened in the company, where people know it's not going to be good overally but they still choose to do that because of certain reasons. And you see how people playing "taiji" to push away what they are supposed to do.

There are a lot more things to be done to MAEAA. So I make a little advertisement here:

"For MAE alumni, pls sign up as lifelong member of MAEAA. One time membership registration fee of 10. You will definitely gain a lot of enriching experinces by joining us."

Still looking around

2008-09-25T21:34:00.002+08:00

Initially I want to write this post in chinese, but realise that it is too time consuming to input the chinese characters.

Well, I think I have not find my direction yet, but it becomes clearer as days pass. I have been thinking a lot to try to understand myself. What do I really want? Even though I always say I want to live to the fullest in my life, but it is not easy in the reality.

The first obstacle is my laziness. I need a way to energise myself up after work. I am quite lucky that most of the time I could leave before 6pm (my working hour is till 4pm). How to spend the 5 hours (6pm-11pm) before I sleep? After work, I am always exhausted and don't even feel like moving around. Guess what's the thing I miss the most after work? It's my BED.

So learn how to motivate myself is important. But before that, I need to look for my source of motivation first. In the last 15 yrs, my source of motivation came from the academic achievements. So what's now? I am still looking for the answer. Hope I could share with you soon.

Bye bye Singtel

2008-09-25T21:11:00.004+08:00

I have a new phone >> LG KF700

First time I use LG phone. The interface is quite similar to my previous Samsung but one special thing with this phone is, it has touch screen function. "Touch screen" is what is hip in the town, thanks to the trend initiated by I Phone.

I like the phone very much as I always want a slide phone. The whole design is cool, though functional wise it has nothing special. It has a 3 Megapixel camera which quite a number of editting functions are available.

Finally I am no longer using a Singtel line. Singtel, has the biggest mobile subscriber in Singapore has not live its name. The network is really terrible as it cause so much inconveniences to me. I think I will never go back to Singtel.

P/S: dear friends, my number remains the same

A boring engineer

2008-09-14T10:20:00.003+08:00

Nothing special about my working life now.

630am Wake up

730-8am Reach company and breakfast

8-1145am Clear emails and do work

1145-1230pm Lunch at the same canteen

1230-4pm Do work and office hour officially ends at 4pm

4-5/6+pm Continue to work if I am happy

******

Now try to recall what I have been doing every nights.

1. Surfing net

2. Watching drama

3. Meeting Dear

4. Working (to clear urgent stuffs or make overseas call)

What a boring engineer. Seems like the focus of my day has been shifted to work and I don't have any meaningful activity (meeting my Dear is an exception) to look forward after work.

So I have decided to take up a position in the MAE Graduates' Club. Hope it will add sparks and values to my boring day.

Don't simply point your finger

2008-09-04T20:33:00.002+08:00

Today is another day I am very angry with my landlord. I received his blaming sms in the early morning and I really hate that my good morning was spoilt by him.

I have a clear conscience that I do not overuse his utilities. I consider myself a good tenant as I close my door softly and keep all the places clean. I do not even utilise fully my chance to wash the clothes twice a week, never watch tv or bring any family or friends to his place. I respect them and yet they take it for granted and demand more. Occasionally (once a month) I forget to switch off main power of the washing machine or heater. That's really rare as I could not remember that much. Then they take this as chance to accuse that I contribute to the increase in utilities, b4 they remember how much I save.

Some people like to point fingers at others before they look at themselves. Not going to tolerate anymore as I really pay a lot for the room. I don't want to give my hard earned money to such people.

A poor fellow works late at night

2008-09-03T22:28:00.002+08:00

Pei Pei is online now, using her company laptop at the place she stays (She doesn't call it home. It's just a place to stay). What's so special about today? She is still working...waiting for a conference call starting at US Time 9am or Sg local time 11pm. On normal days, 11pm is the time for her to sleep as the next day she has to wake up 6+am. Hope she won't fall asleep half way the meeting.

随笔

2008-08-30T00:43:00.003+08:00

有多久没有更新了？工作才两个月，人就变得如此懒散，现在就已经怀念读书的好了。我终于知道，读书好，是因为觉得所有的时间都是自己的；工作呢，把一天自己超过三分之一的时间卖个公司，换取微薄的工资，到底是为了什么？说为了公司好，那简直是笑话。我需要重新找到目标，这样或许心理会平衡点。

发生了这么多事，好像过了很久，却原来只是两个月。我发现自己好残酷，一个抚养我二十四年，一个最疼我的人，在两个月前过世了，我居然可以在短时间内恢复了心情。阿婆走的那天，我人在吉打。接到消息的那一刻，我没有哭，只知道我要马上回家。看到遗体的那一刻，也没有哭，心里突然间好像没有了感觉。直到我摸到冰冷的她，我才惊觉，永远，她不会回来了。第一次，在懂事的情况下，我接触死亡。

少了一个那么爱我的人，生活却没有多大影响。我们都是出门在外的游子，在下决心到外地念书的时候，已经把自己的心变狠了。要到什么时候，才可以天天回家就见到家人？

我希望如果有天堂，我们会重聚。重要的，不是如何死去，而是，如何活着。

Pei Pei is on training

2008-08-08T23:13:00.002+08:00

I received a bad news today. My Shanghai trip in September is canceled. Sien... most probably I will attend the similar training held in Singapore in November.

I am on training these two weeks. I never know training could be so stressful. There is a test every day and the instructor expects us to score 90 mark?! Crazy lo... The most stressful project is yet to come. Ya they may give you good food everyday, but they also squeze out a lot from you... I think I will gain weight. I just could not resist the nice food provided by the hotel.

Photoshooting at NTU Campus

2008-08-08T22:19:00.009+08:00

I am always proud that I manage to study in a beautiful campus. These are the places that I left so many of my footprints on. I do have local friends who came to NTU just because they did not get a place in the other university. But if I have a chance to choose again, NTU, will still be my first choice. I cherish all the time I have spent within the university. Indeed it was my second home. I believe most foreign students who stay in the campus will have the same feeling as me.

The university, was founded in 1955

Leaving footprints is not enough--why not your "bodyprints" as well?

Surrounded by the green green grass and trees

I looked upon the sky and realised that it has no limit

I want to give you a hug

Special thanks to the Photographer

My Convocation 2008

2008-08-03T17:30:00.008+08:00

My convocation was held on 24th July at Nanyang Auditorium. I could only remember I was too busy on that day, rushing here and there to take photos and the time was not enough even though I was there from morning to the afternoon.

The world awaits...

My Family and friend

The important person I meet in the university

"We are graduated!"

The MSA (Malaysian Student Association) Family

This graduation, will always be a memorable one, as I got the chance to represent the graduation cohort to sing the graduation song - "Friends Forever" >> As our lives change, come whatever, we will still be friends forever...

...My life has just begun...

Graduation Dinner at Swissotel Merchant Court

2008-07-31T21:59:00.006+08:00

I have so many photos!! Still in the process of compiling the convocation photos. Here are some nice ones taken during the dinner.

The MSA Gang

Pei Pei & Prof. Chui

"Today I am most handsome!"

The MAE Design Stream

My Fussy Landlord

2008-07-29T22:24:00.003+08:00

This is not the first time I stay with a landlord. While I was in KL, I stayed 3 different owners and I have no problem to stay with each of them. So I conclude that this time, the problem does not lie with me.

Let's see what are the funny theories initiated by the Fussy:

1. The washing machine must be covered by a piece of cloth. The cloth must be oriented in such a way so that the bamboos (used to hang clothes) do not scratch the machine.
>> Comment: SPEECHLESS... ; X

2. The volume of TV must be decreased to minimum everytime before switching off so that the TV would not spoil easily
>> Comment: I have been switching off TV without lowering the volume all the while at home. None of the TV has spoilt speaker

3. The intensity of the light must be changed to minimum before switching off so that the light bulb would not spoil easily
>> Comment: Consulted 2 EEE PHD students and none of them heard of this theory before

4. Mop the floor of bathroom everytime after showering so that the children will not slip down.
>> Comment: Reasonable. But the children never enter the toilet. But could you ensure every bathroom is dry?

.....

Many more little things that make me angry. Don't want to waste so much time write about it.

I must practise the "kungfu of tolerate" till end of Sept.

Back to internet

2008-07-20T22:43:00.002+08:00

I finally has the access to the internet from the place I stay.

So many important things in my life occured in the past one month...

I lost my grandmother on June 20. She could not wait till my graduation. My convocation photo will always be incomplete without her.

I have my first job as a Quality Control Engineer. I started work and now already the third week I am in the company.

I had my first wisdom tooth removal surgery. The wound is healing and I already could eat as normal.

I graduate from NTU and my convocation will be in this week. Most probably that's something I should look forward after so many unhappy incidents. I get what I want the most and even an unexpected bonus. But once I think of my grandmother, I still feel the pain in my heart and how I wish she could share the joy together with me.

Life, can never be perfect.

Not able to update

2008-07-08T07:40:00.002+08:00

The internet is not ready yet at the place where I stay. So far everything is ok except that I have to remove 2 wisdom teeth on coming Friday. It's going to be very scary I guess. So much things to share here. Let's wait till next weekend. The landlord promises to install internet by next week. Oh ya, now is morning 7.49am, I am in the office...

MAY YOU REST IN PEACE

2008-06-25T20:58:00.002+08:00

Pei Pei lost the person who loves her most on 21 June. Her grandmother passed away peacefully at the age of 89.

Pei Pei is sicked

2008-06-18T14:39:00.004+08:00

I have seen 3 doctors for the past few day.

Saturday morning >> I was rushing back to Muar while there was a big crowd at Singapore custom and Larkin Bus Station. I had fever, maybe due to the hot weather. After taking Panadol and having a nap in the bus, everything seemed all right.

Saturday night>> Fever again. The body temperature was increasing to almost 40 deg C.

*
Sunday>> Visited the first doctor. Sore throat and running nose.

Monday>> The medicine prescribed by the first doctor had no effect at all. Fever again. Visited the second doctor and had a blood test.

Tuesday>> No more fever and still having flu. Then I had cold sores. Visited the third doctor to treat the cold sores.

Today, I think I almost recover from flu but then it takes time to heal the cold sores. The anti viral cream is quite effective and I could see the bubbles on my lip are shrinking. I hope I could recover soon.

Updates!!

2008-06-11T10:59:00.003+08:00

June 11 >> One third of the month has gone

Finally, I have decided to accept the offer as a Quality Assurance Engineer. I am going to start working on 1st July. Actually never think of this position before. All the while I am looking for design related engineering work. But then I believe QA Engineer will have good prospect since every company needs quality control and assurance. So I am looking forward to 1st July.

I am actively looking for a room. I viewed one yesterday. Everything is ok except there is no any hawker center nearby. Also a bit expensive. It will be good if they can include internet as well in the rental.

I have nothing much to do these few days. Oh so boring... Going to meet my boss on Friday and maybe going PC Fair with KK. Ya I should go back Muar this weekend. See how la, now most important is to get a place to stay.

Cambodia - where we stay

2008-05-29T10:52:00.007+08:00

The places we stayed in Cambodia:

First 3 days, we stayed in a cheaper guest house - "Palm Garden Lodge". It only costs us USD15 per nite for a twin sharing air-cond room. The room is clean and cosy. But then the air conditioner in my room was not working very well and it took a long time to cool down the room.

It is quite near to old market and Pubstreet of around 10 mins walk. There is also a 24 hour convenience shop nearby. However part of the road leads to the guesthouse is bumpy and the condition becomes terrible if it rains. The guesthouse also provides services like arranging for tour guide and transport. The owner could speak moderate good english and all of them are very helpful.

Then we moved to a more luxurious 4 stars hotel - Somadevi. It is really worth the price to stay in this 4 stars hotel -SGD$53 per nite only! The room comes with balcony and pool view. It is really very comfortable and we have American buffet breakfast in the morning.

It takes only 5 minutes walk to center market. It is further away from the old market and pub street, but still within walking distance of ard 15 min. I tried to ask this hotel to arrange tour for us but I discovered that the price they quoted was quite high. Eventually, I still turned to Palm Garden Lodge for help. I was very impressed by the guesthouse because they were still willing to do it even though we were no longer staying there.

Overall, we have made the right choice.

Cambodia: Siem Reap - Day 5 - 19/5

2008-05-27T15:25:00.013+08:00

The focus of Day 5, was the Floating Village on Tonle Sap Lake which is the largest fresh water lake in Asia. According to the tour guide, floating village is the poorest region in Cambodia. Those people stay in the village are mainly Cambodian and Vietnamese who run across the border.

Tonle Sap Lake viewed from the plane

On the way to the floating village, we passed by the rural area of Siem Reap. Look at the houses they stay. It is even smaller than the single room I have. But it is true, we saw it by our eyes where the whole family stayed in the little hut with no electricity and fresh water. They were still using battery to generate power.

The houses in the rural area

We were on the boat... Ready to go!

The school on the lake

While the boat was moving (we had not reach the central of the village yet), there was one little boy of around 5 years old rowed towards our boat in his pathetic basin. He managed to hold on to our boat (the boat was still moving!) and refused to let go. He asked for money. I only gave him candies. I am not sure if my friends gave him money or not. But personally I feel we shouldn't because once you give him money, you are encouraging him to do it more oftenly.

Another family who chased after our boat. Our boat was moving so fast using motor but the little girl used her hands to row. She was so skinny. How much strength does she have? Yet she did not give up. Eventually she reached us.

Another one. The brother was trying to sell us soft drinks. Look at the little girl. Do you see the python on her body?

I really felt very bad to see that scene. I did not even dare to go near to her because I was scared of the snake too. So I gave the candies to Wantan and asked him to pass it to the girl. Then Wantan held the candies and stunned for a while. I reminded him about the candies and he told me that he did not know what to do. I believe that everyone on the boat at that time, felt sad for this girl.

The colour of the water in the lake around that region similar to the "Milo" we drink. The people there throw their waste into the water. At the same time, they wash their clothes, rear the fish and cook using the lake water. SIGH.......................

The floating village is a must-go place if you go to Siem Reap. You know how how fortunate you are when you see them. Next time, if you really have chance to go there, please bring along your old clothes which you want to throw away to give to the people there.

My Birthday @ Cambodia - 18 May 2008

2008-05-25T12:02:00.006+08:00

The midnight, we went to the popular nightclub in Siem Reap, Sok San. That was also where Dear and my friends celebrated my 24th birthday with me. Not only them, but some of the staffs in the club, like the girls and manager also joined in.

Look at the "cake"... It was a box of candies!! Dear said that they could not find a cake at that time ; )

U know who is drunk?

The next day in the hotel when Michelle was back to join us...

My birthday cake

The group photo

Million thanks to all of my great friends!! Haha I know you all have been working very hard to give me surprise. Indeed that was really a very special birthday where first time I celebrated birthday in nightclub and hotel; the first time I had a special "cake" and also the first time you guys celebrated birthday for me.

Also not forgetting my hometown friends - Sim Yee, Doreen, Khim Kee and Hwee Ting who never fail to remember my birthday and I still received your birthday wishes while I was overseas. Oh Ya... thanks Kuan Nee and Megan!! I got your sms too ; ) Lastly, thanks to Ker Peng and Yun Ying for the dinner treat!

I am glad that my birthday will never be a lonely one with all these friends around me. Of course, I also have a lovely boyfriend, my dear Tyng Tze who is always there to celebrate with me in the past 4 years. I am really lucky.

Cambodia: Siem Reap - Day 3 - 17/5

2008-05-23T22:48:00.013+08:00

Temples again... Haha I sound a bit boring here right... Even though we have visited the most famous temples on the first day, but actually there are also some smaller temples worth seeing.

Vandalism! We pushed the wall down...

Neak Pean was the magical hospital where the waters were thought to have healing properties. The central temple is surrounded by 4 smaller pools where people can ask for power, wisdom, health etc.

East Mebon is a large temple-mountain-like ruin, rising three levels and crowned by five towers. Do you note the difference of this temple from others? No? See carefully... This temple was actually built with bricks instead of stones!!

It's bricks!!!

Model of the Year - Mr. Wantan

Banteay Srey displays some of the finest examples of classical Khmer art. The walls are densely covered with some of the most beautiful, deep and intricate carvings of any Angkorian temple. The temple's relatively small size, pink sandstone construction and ornate design give it a fairyland ambiance.

The beautiful carvings

The pink lady @ pink temple

On the way back, we dropped by at the Landmine Museum. Land mines, laid by the Khmer Rouge, the Heng Samrin and Hun Sen regimes, the Vietnamese, the KPNLF, and the Sihanoukists litter the countryside during the period of war. It is generally accepted that more than 40,000 Cambodians have suffered amputations as a result of mine injuries since 1979. That represents an average of nearly forty victims a week for a period of twenty years.

In the evening, we went back to the mountain near Angkor Wat. We climbed up the mountain and also the temple above the mountain in order to wait for the sunset. Who knows...

It was not easy to climb up...

Look at the sky...raining signs

JUMP!!!

to be continued...

Cambodia: Siem Reap - Day 2 - 16/5

2008-05-21T12:28:00.012+08:00

We woke up early in the morning at 4am in order to catch the sunrise at Angkor Wat. However the driver was late! Fortunately we were just in time but due to cloudy sky, the sunrise was not as beautiful as I expected. Anyway it was still worth for us to wake up so early for the nice scenery around Angkor Wat in the morning.

The reflection of Angkor Wat on the water surface

Group photo (7 of us traveled together for the first few days as Michelle and Bernard left for Phnom Penh)

The children were playing at Angkor Wat Temple (6++am)

After breakfast, we went to Angkor Thom. It is a walled and moated royal city and was the last capital of the Angkorian empire. There are five entrances (gates) to the city, one for each cardinal point, and the victory gate leading to the Royal Palace area. Each gate is crowned with 4 giant faces.

Picture was taken outside one of the gates

Bayon is situated at the middle of the Angkor Tom city. Bayon was the Jayavarman VII's state-temple. There are 37 standing towers, most but not all sporting four carved faces. The best of Bayon are the bas-reliefs on the exterior walls of the lower level and on the upper level where the stone faces reside. The bas-reliefs on the southern wall contain real-life scenes from the historical sea battle between the Khmer and the Cham. Even more interesting are extensive carvings of unique and revealing scenes of everyday life that are interspersed among the battle scenes, including market scenes, cockfighting, chess games and childbirth.

Bayon - the state temple

The blue shirt that Dear wore matched the scene prefectly

Terrace of the Elephants is an impressive, two and a half-meter tall, 300 meter long terrace wall adorned with carved elephants and garudas that spans the heart of Angkor Thom.

After that, we continued our journey with another temple which I forgot the name. However in order to see this temple, we had to climb up the very steep stairway. I was really scared at that time as the slope of stairway is definitely more than 60 deg and the height is around 3 levels.

Unlike most Angkorian temples, Ta Prohm has been left in much the same condition in which it was found: the photogenic and atmospheric combination of trees growing out of the ruins and the jungle surroundings have made it one of Angkor's most popular temples with visitors. The famous movie "Tomb Raider" was shooted in this temple.

First time I saw such huge roots

In the evening we were back to Angkor Wat. Look at the crowd...

Cambodia: Siem Reap - Day 1 - 15/5

2008-05-20T23:28:00.020+08:00

We departed from Changi Airport at 6am to Siem Reap on 15th May. Let's look at who are the group members.

(from left) Wantan, me and Tyng Tze

Vui Yang, Wen Keat and Chee Von

Michelle and Bernard

The flight took 2 hours and we reached Siem Reap Airport at local time 7am (ya there is a hour difference between Singapore and Cambodia time).

For the first 3 days of the trip, we stayed at Potted Palm Garden, which is a guesthouse near to old market. The guesthouse is kind enough to provide free transport to fetch us from airport. We had our first "Tuk-tuk" ride in Siem Reap!

The free "Tuk-tuk" from the guesthouse

Welcome drinks were served upon arrival

The places we visited on the first day:

1. The Old Market

It is actually the local market where vegetables, meats, fishes and fruits are sold to local people. My impression of the market: crowded, noisy, smelly and a lot of funny stuffs are sold including crocoaches. The most terrible thing is, the food stalls are just beside the stalls selling fishes and meat. It was so smelly and yet they still could EAT.

2. Hotel De La Paix

This is the most expensive hotel in the town. A room per night costs USD300.

Me, posed at the lobby for picture

The hanging bed, for dining

Beauty and the Beasts ; )

Beasts in the garden

3. The Angkor National Museum

We did not go in actually HAHA... the ticket is a bit too expensive.

4. The local market beside Mekong River

The above picture shows the local "cinema". A shop with fan, a few chairs and different programmes were played concurrently.

5. Apsara Dance and Buffet Dinner

希望阿婆早日康复

2008-05-14T17:42:00.002+08:00

坏事总喜欢发生在最关键的时期。这一个月来，其实过得很累。最后一个学期的考试，关乎我能否顺利毕业；毕业后第一份工作的面试更是接踵而来；而家里的老人却在这个时候倒下了。长期卧病在床的外公，在我考最后一张试卷那天过世，而一向健康的九十高龄的阿婆，情况一再恶化。我们一直以为她的病是因为身体老化所致，直到最近她的行为越来越不可理喻，而每每我们回家探望她，她的情况又好转，我才突然惊觉，她可能得了忧郁症。

长期的寂寞让她胡思乱想，也导致她极度依赖姑姑，现在甚至不肯让她离开身边一步。要照顾老人已经很不容易，更何况是一个固执的老人。有时侯我也很内疚，这样一个重担就全部落在姑姑身上。有几个人可以像她一样，抛弃自己的理想与前途，留在家里照顾老妈妈？阿婆不愿意离开老家，这么多个子女，全都在城市生活，到最后只有姑姑留下来。而我，和她们一起生活了十多年，也为了更好的发展机会，来到了新加坡升学。我现在唯一能做的，就是常常回家。

希望阿婆早日康复。

What's next?

2008-05-06T17:17:00.004+08:00

So no more exam, no more FYP, no more study, what's next?

Tmr- Friday: a full time interviewee

Weekend: It's spring cleaning! Need to throw away a lot of stuffs... Oh ya I have not clean my room for one month since exam. Haha can you imagine how dirty and messy it is!

Next Mon- Wed: Preparation for the Cambodia Trip. Maybe I will make a trip back to Muar

Thu - next next Tue: Sorry I will be away for my Cambodia Trip

That's so far what I could think of. Meanwhile the most important thing is to get a job so that I could decide where to move to.

It's over!!!

2008-05-06T16:43:00.003+08:00

I just finished my FYP Presentation this morning! Haha what a relieve now! The presentation went on smoothly and I was glad that the moderator did not interrupt the presentation and let me finish everything. Indeed he did not ask a lot of questions, partly because he was left (not much ime left hehe). Moreover the topic that I present is not his area of expertise.

So this FYP is possible thanks to a lot of people. Namely:

my FYP supervisor who took great pains to keep me on the right track;

Mr. William and Andy from SGH, who gave professional insights into the design and usage of the invention;

Mr Daniel and Mr Teo from Machining Workshop who helped me a lot in prototyping; and not forgetting

A group of GREAT friends who volunteered to be the "white rat" in my device testing. They are Jeremy, Wei Jun and Ei Lene(the models in video and pictures), Vui Yang, Kok Heng, Ker Wei, Ka Hong, Luke, Kok Hon, Min Foong, Guan Kah, Wei Qiang, Vernon, Vinson, Ken, Lai Fai, Chia Sheng, Ngai Seng, Yuli and Boon Yen from LDP etc (I try to recall and put all the names, If I miss any, please don't take into heart and I really GRATEFUL for your support.)

Besides I must thank one special person, who has no choice but listen to my complaints everytime I encounter with problems: Thanks so much my Dear, Tyng Tze. It's has been tough for your ears in the past eight months ; )

Without you guys, it's will not be possible to complete the project. I really grateful to your help and support. Please accept my hearty appreciation: Thank you so much!

This is not an excuse

2008-05-05T01:09:00.002+08:00

My maternal grandfather passed away on last Friday. That was the day I had my last paper in the university. I did not manage attend the funeral because my parents were departing for the funeral too early. I knew if I wanted, they would definitely wait for me. Yet by taking into various considerations, I decided not to attend at last.

I only met my grandfather twice. The last time I saw him was around 10 years ago. This is also the reason I feel so wanted to attend his funeral. At least, for the third and last time, let me pay the last respect to him. I really have my difficulties all along for not able to visiting maternal grandparents like my other siblings bi-annually. I know I must have hurted my mother very much but somebody has to sacrifice. I am tiring of squezing in between. None of them is wrong and if they do, is that they love me too much and therefore afraid of losing me.

Now my paternal grandmother, who raised me up is also in unstable condition. Actually she could have lived healthier and happier if she could let go all the unnecessary worries. The illness in her heart leads to the situation now. What she wants is very simple yet we cannot fulfill her wish. I think she is too lonely and I really feel helpless with her current condition.

I could only hope things will get better when days pass. I will stay strong.

I am back...

2008-05-05T00:55:00.002+08:00

I have been tied up with so many things recently.

Last Friday, I sat for the last paper in NTU and yet it did not mark the end of my university life. Tomorrow morning, there will be an important final year project presentation. In the 30 minute session, I need to impress and convince the moderator that I have really achieved something in the project. He will contribute 40% to the grade of my 8-months hardwork in the 30 minute presentation and Q&A session.

Another 3 interviews following the presentation in this week. One of the interviews, I am already in the final round and I am really keen to get the job. I long for a good news that will spice up my life a little bit. My recent life has been filled with stresses from exam, job interviews and coupling with the unpleasant matters in my family. Sometimes you really have to believe that bad things always occur in the most crucial period.

What will matter?

2008-04-18T11:38:00.003+08:00

WHAT WIlL MATTER
by Michael Josephson

...
So what will matter?
How will the value of your days be measured?
*
What will matter is not what you bought but what you built, not what you got but what you gave.
What will matter is not your success but your significance.
What will matter is not what you learned but what you taught.
What will matter is every act of integrity, compassion, courage or sacrifice that enriched, empowered or encouraged others to emulate your example.
What will matter is not your competence but your character.
What will matter is not how many people you knew, but how many will feel a lasting loss when you’re gone.
What will matter is not your memories but the memories of those who loved you.
What will matter is how long you will be remembered, by whom and for what.
*
Living a life that matters doesn’t happen by accident.
It’s not a matter of circumstance but of choice.
Choose to live a life that matters.

A Recruitment Session

2008-04-17T23:00:00.003+08:00

I attended a recruitment session held by one famous oil services company today. So exhausted now. I travelled all the way down to Tampines as their plant is situated in Changi. And the session lasted for 5 hours, from 1pm-6pm. Out of the 14 candidates, only 3 holds bachelor degree. I was competing against master and phd graduates!

I really like this company. From the way they conduct the session, you will know that they are really willing to spend time to find the right person. It was a very informative session where managers of different mechanical departments shared about the detailed jobscopes of engineers. The HR also did a great job by making every candidate to understand the company's core values.

The first assessment was a team building game where candidates were divided into group of 3-4. Then each team was supposed to build a vehicle to carry an egg which would protect the egg from breaking after it is dropped from second floor. Only 2 groups managed to land the eggs without breaking. Proud to say I was in one of the groups.

And the second assessment was a self presentation. Each candidate was required to present in 5 minutes times in front of all other candidates, HR and managers from various departments. I was glad that I was not nervous at all. I think I have performed well. Even though the beginning part of the presentation was not that smooth, but after I got used to the talking, 90% of the questions were well answered. Anyway maybe I was too assertive. I remembered that I said this in the presentation "There are likely other candidates suitable for this position. But I bring an addtional quality that makes me the best candidate for this position..." Oh I hope I did not sound arrogant at that time.

Let's hope for the best for the outcome.

The paper air plane movie

2008-04-17T22:54:00.002+08:00

Imagine the possibilities. Think outside of the box. Who says air plane must look like the typical plane? ; )

http://www.paperairplanemovie.com/

I have a dream

2008-04-14T12:53:00.004+08:00

I have a dream, a song to sing

To help me cope with anything

If you see the wonder of a fairy tale

You can take the future even if you fail

***

I have a dream, a fantasy

To help me through reality

And my destination makes it worth the while

Pushing through the darkness still another mile

Do I ever have dream before? Maybe not. I only have goals and targets, which are achievable. To me, dream is something too far from the reality, beyond our control and capability.

I remembered one incident where my secondary junior told me that she wanted to be an astronomer. I told her that was impossible in Malaysia as we don't have such facilities and even the universities may not offer such course. Later she told me that she was upset because of what I said and I shattered her dream. Well I was just telling the truth and reality is always cruel. Anyway Malaysia eventually has his own first astronout produced in Russia.

This song is so inspring. I must listen to it more oftenly.

Last exam in the university

2008-04-13T00:04:00.003+08:00

This is the last examination in NTU. Four subjects will be tested, starting 16 Apr. My last subject is tested on the last day, last session. Why dont I feel happy when I am writing this?

Happy Birthday To....

2008-04-10T22:47:00.002+08:00

Happy Birthday to...

Dear and Lee Woon

It happens that my best friend and boyfriend were born on the same day (but different year)... Last year Lee Woon played a prank to Dear. She got his number from me (they don't know each other well) and called to tell him that she was his primary school classmate. This year, it's Dear's turn to call her back. Haha the naughty girl has totally forgotten what she did last year. Yesterday Dear called to wish her and told her that he was her old lover. She still could not figure out who he was when he hung up. Yoyoyo...she must be having a lot of old lovers ah haha!

Anyway Dear and I celebrated his birthday together by having movie marathon. We watched 2 movies consecutively, from 720-1130pm. Those 2 movies are of the same genre, ancient chinese warrior movie. He always likes this kind of war and fighting movie.

My message for the Birthday Babies:

To Dear: "(I have written a lot in the birthday card le) Chiong for your dream, you have my support ; )"

To Lee Woon: "Achieve more sales every month, stay health and pretty, quickly grab a good guy around you and no need to complain lonely anymore"

Happy Birthday to you!

Be aware of virus

2008-04-03T14:38:00.002+08:00

Somebody tries to spread virus through my blog. He posted a comment in the previous post, Dinner with LDP Alumni. Then the comment is something like this "please see here" with a link provided. Clicking the link will bring virus to you pc (I click it, using the library public pc fortunately ;P). I have deleted the comment. However please do not click on any suspicious link that is posted by someone you don't know.

Dinner with LDP Alumni

2008-04-03T10:45:00.004+08:00

The gathering was held at a nice, cosy western restaurant at Maritime Building (Tanjong Pagar) on last Saturday (Opps, I am very slow in updating the blog). It involved 5 generations of LDPians!! The first generation, Prof Chui, followed by Pik Kee's batch, Li Kuang's batch, my batch and Chong Chin. It's not easy to get so many people together and I really appreciate Steve's efforts. Let's looking forward to the next outing.

Trip

2008-04-03T10:28:00.003+08:00

My Cambodia trip is confirmed, with tickets booked.

I am supposed to go Genting Highland with my hometown friends on coming Saturday. This trip was arranged during CNY period and I have even bought the return tickets already. However I decided to withdraw from the trip in the last minute because I need to make a trip back to Muar. My grandmother is sicked.

不吐不快

2008-04-01T00:42:00.002+08:00

刚刚被人放飞机。其实很早以前就在犹豫该不该问了，可是看在老交情的份上，我实在不应该不通知一声。结果呢，倒是一问就爽快的答应了。今天，到了最后一分钟，居然又是放飞机，把一早准备的计划全部打乱。如果自己还有别的打算，怎么可以到现在才通知我？真是里外不是人，不问的话，我不够朋友，问了呢，又是自己找气受。最讨厌就是那种说话不算话的人。

The new canteen

2008-03-27T23:49:00.002+08:00

I have taken with picture in this afternoon when I was at N2. When I walked along the corridor of N2 and looked at the building, suddenly I felt very surprised with the change in NTU within these 4 years. Not only a new canteen is built, but more schools like ADM, SPMS, CBE and halls like 3 and 16. So many new buldings... If these were to be built in Malaysia, it probably takes 4 or more years for each building to be completed.

Back to the topic, even though I am fed up with the crowd in Canteen A during lunch time, but Canteen A is still the best place I like to hang around during free time. The times sitting down in Canteen, and talking nonsense with a group of friends are definitely one of the most memorable times in NTU. Not forget my favourite drink, the very thick coffee and milo or the 30c lime juice and soya bean. The drink stall will not move to the new Canteen A and April will be the last month they are operating in NTU.

I guess in the future there will be no more such cheap and nice drink in the new canteen. Although the new canteen will definitely be more spacious and comfortable, but an inrease in comfort level also implies higher cost is incurred. So after the hike in tuition fees and hostel fees, students may expect more spending on food.

Planning for Graduation Trip

2008-03-27T00:23:00.002+08:00

More or less confirm that I will be going to Cambodia Angkor Wat for my graduation trip. I have decided and still waiting for reply from a few friends.

Why do I choose Cambodia?

Reason 1: Budget

I have very low budget as since the government has stopped its supply of $$ to me. Initially I dont want to go for any trip. But seems like if there is no trip, there will be no feeling of graduation. Yo it's graduation you see, not semester break. I can really throw away everything, no books, no exam, no projects... So after staying so long in this stressful environment, it's time to escape from the city. I still can squeeze out some money for the trip since it's really affordable. I expect the whole trip could be kept within $600 (with generous allowance given).

Reason 2: The place

Siem Reap or Angkor Wat is described as "Unforgettable Places to See Before you Die". I also heard from Prof Chui that this place is really beautiful. It is a temple built for King Suryavarman II in the early 12th century as his state temple and capital city. I browse through some pictures in the internet. It is really amazing that they had the ability to build it at that time. However due to large number of tourists, damages are caused to the building. So better to see it now before more damages are made.

So friends, it sounds very tempting right? Then why are you still hesitating? ; )

Historical moment

2008-03-24T02:41:00.002+08:00

I must mark down this historial moment:

24 March 2008, 2.40am

Yes! I have finally completed the FYP 1st draft report. A typical day of mine in the past few days (except Saturday) went like this: sleep- report-eat -report-eat-report-sleep. This kind of of life almost drives me crazy lor. No entertainment at all. I think I must have saved a lot this month.

OK, enough, it's time to sleep. I feel so dizzy now.

I voted

2008-03-09T23:28:00.002+08:00

I voted in the 12th General Election of Malaysia. I am glad that I am one of the Malaysians who contributes to a more democratic country. (Haha I never say which party I voted to ok? But anyway Johor is always a strong base of BN. Both the state and parliamentary seats of my area were taken by BN.) But I am proud to say at least I purposely made a trip back to vote.

BN suffers the greatest defeats in its history. They have even lost the two third majority. Somohow out of my expectation. I did not expect the opposition's strategy would be so successfully. I was very shocked when even the Gerakan acting president Tan Sri Dr Koh Tsu Koon lost the parliamentary seat. Not only so, the Barisan also lost Kedah, Penang, Perak and Selangor. It's time to wake the BN up.

Well a more balanced representation in parliament is definitely good for us. However the ability of the opposition party to rule Penang is still much doubted. Too early to make any comment now. We should remain optismistic and let the time to tell us the truth.

Rushing for FYP

2008-03-05T23:41:00.001+08:00

I am rushing for my FYP report recently. So I may need to neglect this blog until the report is completed.

29 02 2008

2008-03-01T00:21:00.002+08:00

Today 29 Feb, once in every four years. (Just realised that now is 12.25am, is 1st of March already). I have received 2 bad news YESTERDAY: Angela Zhang is not coming to Singapore due to health reasons. That means her concert held at NTU will be canceled also. I am so dissappointed. That is probably the last free concert I would have before graduation. The second bad news, I was rejected by Shell, as expected. I reflected back on my performance in the interview. It was really terrible. I really had done badly. I will make sure that it will not happen again in the future.

Happy Belated Birthday to Doreen

2008-02-22T00:56:00.005+08:00

We celebrated her birthday once during the third day of Chinese New Year already. Her actual birthday was on 17 Feb and today we met again at Marche Vivocity, for her birthday + the last day of CNY + old friend gathering.

Marche @ Vivocity

The images of us reflected on the glass window. Could you see five of us?
*

Doreen and I

I bought a very cute soft toy of mouse for her present. Reason? She was born in the year of rat and this year is also the year of rat. So you can guess her age now. ;P

Kuala Kedah Fort

2008-02-21T00:18:00.006+08:00

Kota Kuala Kedah, for Malaysians, you are sure to read this from your Sejarah (History) before. I managed to see it with my own eyes because it was very near to my boyfriend's grandmother's house.

A recap on its history: It was one of the oldest forts in the peninsula. It gained prominence not only as an administrative and strategic centre, but also as an important regional centre for trade and commerce. It was built during the reign of Sultan Sulaiman Shah II (1602-1620), destroyed and rebuilt many times in the 19th Century.

Some pictures taken:

The mouth of the Kedah River

This is a real cannon

Interview with Shell

2008-02-19T23:39:00.002+08:00

Arhh...it's really difficult. I feel so relieved after the interview. Even in the mid of the interview, what appear on my mind was "have you finish asking?". The interviewer pushed me a lot and went into very detailed of my answer. I did not expect some questions in the ECA part and was not able to give a good answer on the spot. Damn stressful. I think not much chance to get into second round unless miracle appears.

Valentine's Day

2008-02-17T13:14:00.005+08:00

That was the first time I spent the Valentine's Day at Kedah. I arrived at Alor Setar on that morning. The main purpose I went to Kedah was to pay a visit to his family or Bai Nian during CNY period. It was just nice that Valentine's Day fell on Thursday, when I don't have any lesson and also one day before the ninth day of CNY, another big day to celebrate for Hokkien.

We planned to go for movie in the afternoon. But the cinemas nearby were all not operating. So weird that they didn't do business on Valentine's Day. I thought watching movie is something that most couples would do.

We had our dinner or rather appetiser (his parents asked us back to have dinner together at another restaurant later) at Bali-Bali. I really like that restaurant. The ambience is sooooo good. As the name suggests, that is a Bali style double storey resturant. The lower level, is fully air cond and equipped with a performance stage. The upper level is in open air and the customers will be able to enjoy the gentle breeze. Outside the restaurant, there is another mamak-like area. There is a few atap houses with a little table on the floor. So the couples can have their own private space.

We ended up in the air-cond area because the wind was quite strong at night and hence not so comfortable to eat outside. Furthermore, since the restaurant is situated near the main road, it could be quite noisy when cars keep passing by.

Bali-Bali @ Alor Setar
*

"Ladies and Gentlemen, this is the Guest Performer from Johor."

Happy Valentine's Day 2008

I am busy

2008-02-12T22:58:00.000+08:00

Actually I have a lot of stories to share. But I am really very tied up right now. I have a quiz tomorrow and I have not start revise yet! Furthermore I am leaving for Kedah for another 3 days holidays tomorrow night. I have not pack my luggage yet. Oh I need more time.

LDP Chinese New Year Reunion Dinner

2008-02-12T22:35:00.000+08:00

I am already very tired now. But I must write down what has happened on this meaningful day.

I just attended the LDP Chinese New Year Reunion Dinner. Initially we planned to have a simple farewell party for the previous LDP advisor, Prof Chui Yoon Ping who is leaving for another university soon. However I was informed that she could not make it for today dinner and then we dropped the plan.

Then just now she came to the event. We decided to have an in-prompt-to farewell for her. I have an almost completed video made specially for her. While she was still enjoying the skit, Kelvin and I rushed back to my hall secretly to complete the video. The rest was supposed to hold her back for the surprise programme.

When we finally completed the two videos after 1 hour, Vernon informed me that Prof Chui left the dinner with other professors. Oh at that time I really felt like being dunked into cold water all of a sudden. How we wish to show her the clip!! We thought we had a chance when she suddenly turned up for the dinner. Then I decided to give her a call to try if she could come back. Haha fortunately she went back to the office. We managed to show her the video and had a simple farewell for her.

I am so happy. I finally completed the video and showed it to her. Initially I thought I wouldn't have this chance to let her seeing the video personally. I don't know how to describe my mood now but I am really glad. ; )

"Prof Chui, I will miss you."

Happy Chinese New Year

2008-02-01T23:53:00.000+08:00

Happy Chinese New Year!

Wishing you a prosperous year ahead with good health and lots of money.

新年进步

一帆风顺

大展鸿图

身体健康

心想事成

Going back for Chinese New Year

2008-02-01T22:41:00.000+08:00

I just packed my luggage. I think it is lighter than previous years'. Until now I barely feel the mood of new year from the environment. And myself, has no mood for new year too. So I buy less things this year because not much things could attract my attention, be it clothes or food. A bit tired with the same outlets everywhere. Haha at least this results in 2 benefits 1) save money 2) save strength to carry the luggage.

My neighbour has adopted my fish temporarily since I won't be around for one week. I feel lonely without their existence. Everyday I need to look at them for a few times. I especially like to see the tiger fishes chasing each other around the tank. I feel very satisfied when they are all living together in harmony and happily. So my dear fish, be obedient and I will fetch you next week. Eat and play well.

Dear departed for Kedah just now. He has a full 2 weeks' holidays. I am missing him now. Sometimes I feel very guilty. Seems like I miss him more than I miss my family. Human is always like that. We feel very bad at the beginning of separation but soon time will make the pain faded. Most probably tomorrow at this time I won't be so down because I will be busying chit chating in mamak. Very likely at the end of next week I will feel bad again because of leaving the family for Singapore. Because there is pain of apart, then we realise the preciousness of reunion. ; )

So all my friends, treasure the time when you are together with your family and friends. Happy Chinse New Year!

新加坡奇遇记

2008-01-27T20:37:00.000+08:00

其实也不是很奇怪的事啦，只是在平淡的生活中，很少有机会一天里面遇到几件特别的事。

在Jurong Point吃饭的时候，居然遇到了IA Supervisor一家人。这是第一次在离开Exxon后遇到旧同事。过后，在Bugis, 又遇到火灾。火灾发生在四马路附近的熟食中心其中一个摊位，应该不是很严重，因为只有救火车来，并没有看见救伤车，所以我猜测没有人受伤。Dear在Bugis血拼完后，因为找不到他老爸的衣服，我们又去牛车水。结果，我们碰到了神庙办游街，众神诸如财神，土地公，关公，雷公都在，还有舞狮舞龙。在离开家乡后，已经很久没有见到游街了，原来新加坡也有这种传统活动，的确是大开眼界。

最后一个故事，发生在地铁站。一个aunty带着两个女儿和她的母亲，在地铁快要关门时，冲了进来，结果大女儿来不及上车，被遗留在地铁站。当地铁离站的时候，我看见那个大概十岁的女孩哭了。那时的我，虽然同情她，也有一点错愕，我以为以她的岁数，应该可以独自搭地铁了，应该比较勇敢的面对这种情形。这个故事告诉我们，当你偕老带小的时候，请慢慢走，确保每一个人都能上车，不要为了省几分钟，而在孩子心中留下一辈子的阴影。

A summary on my life in the past one week

2008-01-26T23:56:00.000+08:00

Basically I could only remember 2 things:

First, I am sicked. (present tense is used, means I am STILL not recovered yet). It all started with twister fries. Since the fries are only offered during CNY period, I persuaded dear to share a pack of fries with me on Monday night. The next day, even though I had already felt something not right with my throat, I still went to buy apple pie. Then sore throat became serious, and soon I had running nose and fever. It became very serious at night. I could not do anything because the head was heavy and I could not focus. Yet I did not see doctor immediately. I was quite occupied with other things (since I could not do anythin at night, I must catch up during day time). The third (or fourth) day, I went for doctor but maybe it was a bit late for the effective curing period. Till now, I am still having flu. (sob sob...)

The second thing, I did my first formal fyp experiment testing. It FAILED. I have to think of a solution asap. Breakthrough in need desperately.

I think the drug starts to take effect. I feel sleepy. Going to stop here. Goodnight to everyone and take good care of yourself.

副教授偷南大女生内衣裤

2008-01-22T23:01:00.000+08:00

新闻来源：http://zaobao.com/sp/sp080122_505.shtml

一名南洋理工大学毕业、但在外国执教的副教授，涉嫌三次在南大学生宿舍偷窃女生的内衣裤，并拥有来历不明的500多件女性内衣裤和其他服装，昨天被控上法庭。被告李永欢，39岁，被指在同一天内三次盗取三名女生的9件内衣裤。

Hair cut

2008-01-19T16:01:00.000+08:00

I had a hair cut. I want to do it last month but the hairstylist said the hair was not long for all the curls to be removed. So yesterday, I suddenly had the urge to cut the hair and yes, I have a short hair now. This time, no rebond, no perm, no dye and I just have a natural short hair. I think I have tortured my hair too much with non-stop perming, rebonding and dyeing for several years since I left secondary school. A few stylists told me before the condition was bad.

I did it at Sandstrom JP and that was the first time I had hair cut at salon in Singapore. I personally found the price is reasonable for wash, cut and blow but Dear keeps stressing that he could have 5 times of hair cut in Malaysia with that amount. The lady hairstylist is pretty good. Initially VuiYang told me that male stylists' skills are better. However I really could not bring myself to ask for change when the lady stylist came to me. Ya fortunately she was quite patient and I am satisfied with the new hair style. Actually I know my hair is not so easy to be styled because of the length and curls.

Eager to see my new look? Hehe...ask me out and you could see me lor ;P

I think I am sicked

2008-01-17T22:12:00.000+08:00

Sneezing again... The sinus comes back. Is it because I am stressed? Oh more things to do. First time I hope that Chinese New Year should not come too quickly. Half of my February will be gone because of CNY and yet my FYP shows little progress since December. I have to search and apply for jobs also this semester.

I am covering myself with a blanket now, in front of computer. Ahh, back to my work, should not slacked anymore.

Yesterday - not my day

2008-01-17T15:04:00.000+08:00

Yesterday, when all bad events came together:

1. Forgot that a class was canceled and rushed to the lesson

2. I walked down the flight of long staircase that behind Student Services Centre. It led to S4 but the doors to enter the building were locked. It was a dead end. I had no choice but to climb up the at least 5 levels staircase. (I was so near to my destination at that time but the doors were locked!)

3. Screwed up a few pieces of my FYP work

4. The fingers were hurted by the sharp edges of the machine
*

5. I went back to my room in the evening and discovered that my bras were being stolen again.

My sister's wedding on Christmas Eve - Part 2

2008-01-12T12:28:00.000+08:00

The wedding followed the traditional Chinese wedding.

New family members - The five siblings, now become seven

The dinner @ Singapore Polytechnic Guild House

Dear was also attending the dinner.

"May our love lasts forever"

May laughters fill the family forever

我看投名状

2008-01-11T13:33:00.000+08:00

赶在电影下画之前，看了投名状。

这是一部男人的电影，由三位男星主演，唯一有多一点对白的女演员是徐静蕾。男友猛夸电影超赞，一些男同学也不断的以经典对白如“大哥是对的”或 “抢钱，抢粮，抢娘们”来开玩笑。也许是男人的话，都应该看一下电影描叙的兄弟情，也只有男人自己，才会有更深刻的体会吧。

我赞同这是一部精彩的电影，但是主题很沉重，也不喜欢血花飞溅的场面。三位男主角，最后全都死了，而哪一个是死得最不悲惨的呢？

肯定不是三弟。他是被凌迟处死的，在片末一句轻描淡写的交待，让许多人忽略了究竟什么是凌迟处死。凌迟，把身上的肉一片一片割下来，让人流血痛苦而死。不知道他到死的那一刻，是否还相信投名状？太过执著与冲动，一旦信仰被摧毁，往往把自己推向万劫不复之地。

大哥，他杀人，好像都是迫不得已。杀二哥，因为朝廷要他死。如果没有二嫂，二哥是否可以逃过一劫？为何他对三弟又如此仁慈？他知道三弟发现了他与二嫂的秘密及杀二哥的阴谋，却为何没有采取任何行动？他一定知道，以三弟的个性，一定不会轻饶背叛兄弟者。到最后，他多年奋战换来的两江总督，也只是朝廷死亡陷阱的诱饵．

二哥，我对他的影像最不深刻．他是比较幸运的，至少他死的时候，以为妻子还深爱着他，也不晓得兄弟已经背叛他了．他到死的那一刻，还以为自己是为救大歌而死的．

开学第一天

2008-01-07T23:56:00.000+08:00

这是我的最后一个学期了，今天朋友还提到，这是最后一个开学。说这句话的时候，到底应该用怎样的语气呢？读了这么多年的书，终于可以解脱了，或是我们终究也要离开保护膜，面对社会，靠自己的一双手来养活自己？这样的感触与迷惘，会不会随着毕业的到来而越来越深呢？如果到现在还搞不清楚毕业后究竟要做什么，会不会很糟糕？以前很努力的读书，为的就是能够上大学，一直奔向的目的地，眼看就要达到了，却突然不知道该如何继续前进。

船到桥头自然直。能解决的事，不需要担心；不能解决的事，担心也没有用。

28 Dec - Count down to 2008

2007-12-28T20:42:00.000+08:00

My second last semester results are out. The results are pretty good and still slightly below my expectation. Anyway it's over and nothing much I can do with it. My last semester will be starting in a week's time. 4 subjects and 1 FYP. Now I really pray that I could complete my FYP in time. Little time left and again another festive season, Chinese New Year is in 5 week's time.

Another year ends soon. The first half of this year, I spent it in ExxonMobil Asia Pacific Pte Ltd as a Procurement intern. The daily jobs I need to do, still appears vividly on my mind. The images of my colleagues like Eunice, Fook Loon, Eilene are so clear as if we just talked to each other yesterday.

After internship, with the generous allowance from ExxonMobil, I was able to award myself with a trip to China, with my Dear. It was a 8 days trip and we travelled to 5 cities including ShangHai, Suzhou, Hangzhou, Wuxi and Nanjing. It was a worthwhile trip with super nice scenery, food and crazy shopping. It was also my first time travelling by plane.

Pei Pei @ ShangHai

Next after the trip, it was convocation. My Dear's convocation and he graduated, moved out and no longer stayed in NTU. His whole family was in Singapore for few days and I accompanying them throughout the stay. It was also my brother's convocation this year. I admire him as he is so determined to get his degree. He entered polytechnic after STPM, then worked for 1 year and finally got into university at age 24.

Dear's supporters @ Convocation

My final year first semester started in early August. I am back to school as a student. The final year is accompanied with the stresses of projects, FYP, attending career talks, job application...... With a blink of eyes, I was having exam and then the December holidays started.
*

This December I had no holidays because I am doing FYP. Fortunately my eldest sister's wedding became something I could look forward. It was held on Christmas Eve at Singapore Polytechnic Guild House. A simple warm gathering for their families and friends.
*

"Wishing you A house full of sunshine, Hearts full of cheer, Love that grows deeper each day of the year. " It is definitely a blessed marriage.

My sister's ROM in May

Today is Dec 28. I am going back to Muar soon. Going to spend the last day of 2007 and first day of 2008 with aunty and ah ma. ; )

Grandmother and I

2007-12-27T11:42:00.000+08:00

Shame to say but this is the first proper picture I have taken together with my grandmother.

specially delicated to Ah Ma

You raise me up, so I can stand on mountains;

You raise me up, to walk on stormy seas;

I am strong, when I am on your shoulders;

You raise me up: To more than I can be.

My sister's wedding on Christmas Eve - Edited

2007-12-25T12:03:00.000+08:00

Yesterday it was really a hectic day, from morning to night. Haha it was a cross country wedding, from Malaysia to Singapore.
*

That morning, my brother-in-law and his brothers arrived at around 8.15am. Then they were only able to get in to the house at 9.30am. All of them said that was the longest "open door" session they have ever encountered. I also wanted to open the door but the angpao that we (the sisters) received were far too below expectation. How could we open the door with RM30??? Really had no motivation to play with them when all angpaos received were at RM10 each, after so much negotiation. The fourth and also the last angpao, costed RM168 and we eventually let them coming in. (Actually the auspicious hour would end at 10am and we had no choice and no energy to continue with them anymore)
*

"Please open the door...please..."

"No money no talk!"

"Finally, darling I am here..."

The bride (my eldest sister, Ee Chiew) and I

冬至

2007-12-22T11:08:00.000+08:00

今天是冬至,突然很想吃汤圆。

Count Down

2007-12-22T10:53:00.000+08:00

Hohoho...

3 days to Christmas, 2 days to sister's wedding!!

Christmas Gathering

2007-12-22T00:36:00.000+08:00

I had a christmas gathering @ Suntec City 'surf n turf' with my hometown friends just now. The food is really so so. The carimara (sounds nice right? is a pasta only) was even not the same with the display picture. The mushroom soup tasted sour and the salad even more. The fried steak is salty, according to my friend. And the baked rice was like fried rice. Not sure what the boss or chef would think if they saw that there are so much leftover (the boss is actually serving the customer personally). The food is definitely not worth as compared to its price.

Fortunately we were able to stay there to chat till closing hours. That was the only thing worthwhile. I enjoyed talking to them, with the most original Muar's Mandarin. All of us, are buddies since secondary school. I even knew Ker Peng and Yun Ying since primary school. Haha friends of 9-16 years. That was a big portion of my life. I am only 23 this year. All of these friends are the gifts to me. So thankful to meet them. HURRAY to our friendship!

Also not forget to thank Khim Kee for organising the gathering. But I prefer next time we should have more proper survey on the restaurant to go. ;P So who is organising next gathering? I believe the next gathering will be during new year when more people can join. We never fail to have the home visit and mahjonging every year.

Dissapointment deleted

2007-12-19T21:39:00.000+08:00

Just had a chat with my aunty. The dissapointment I faced yesterday, is over. No point make myself upset or I shall say I see the incident from the other view point today. I believe everyone has good intention but just they don't act as you expect. They act differently does not mean they are wrong and everyone just has his/her own style of solving problem. What I have done is correct. I must tell the hidden story so that you will not only see single side. So I hope you will do the same to me also and help me to overcome the limitation of what I can see from eyes. The best communication, is communication by heart.

我被点名了！

2007-12-19T20:21:00.000+08:00

谁点我？最无聊的那个铉期lor。

(A.)被點到名字的要在自己的博客裏寫下自己的答案，然後去掉一個你最不喜歡的問題再补上一個你的問題，仍然組成20個問題，傳給其他8個人，列出其他8個需要回答問題的人的名字，還要到這8個人的博客裏留言通知對方----你被點名了，被點名者不得拒絕回答問題，完成遊戲的人將會永遠得到大家的祝福。

(B.)這8個人要在自己的博客裏註明是從哪裏接到的，並且再傳給其他8個人，讓遊戲繼續下去，不得囘傳。被點到名字的人將會得到大家的祝福，並且所有美好的願望都會在不久的將來實現。

1. 现在最想得到是什么？>>做完fyp

2. 这辈子最快乐的是什么事？>>得到奖学金

3. 最喜欢的颜色？ >>没有特别喜欢一个颜色，要看整体。

4. 希望自己成为怎样的人？ >>可独当一面，可以信赖，有深度

5. 你最想去哪个地方？为什么？ >>欧洲，很喜欢古建筑。

6. 最受不了自己哪个缺点？ >>对亲近的人缺少耐心。

7. 如果有不开心的事情，你会怎么办? >>找人倾诉。

8. 最害怕失去的东西？ >>家人。

9. 五年内比较现实的目标是什么？ >>在知识与钱财方面，为自己增值。

10. 遇到喜欢的人，你是勇敢表白还是默默关注？ >>都有，先默默关注，再找机会接近他，忍无可忍时就表白。

11. 最喜欢的歌手是谁？>>没有，但是最近常听张韶涵的歌。

12. 你希望你的另一半具备的条件是？ >>有头脑。

13. 至今最令你后悔的事是什么？ >>曾经许下一个难以达到的承诺。

14. 你最讨厌怎样的人？ >>虚假，尤其是那种为了利益特地奉承他人的家伙。

15. 觉得自己会几岁结婚、生孩子？ >>27-30

16. 去过最美的地方是哪里？>>上海滩

17. 你认为遇到什么样的事情才会令你觉得人性很黑暗？>>被信任的人背叛。

18. 你此刻的心情？>>期待

19. 重要的日子你想跟谁庆祝？>>男朋友，在外地生活，家人离我太远。

20. 觉得人生最重要的事情是什么？>>好好报答家人。

决定要违反游戏规则，因为实在找不到八个人来继续。

Dissapointment

2007-12-18T12:14:00.000+08:00

Things do not turn out as I expect. I thought I could trust her. But now the situation seems like the secret is not kept and more complications are created. I should have kept myself out of the matter at the beginning. Now I feel that I am so naive. Dear said that what I have done is correct and I could not control how other people take action. But I really care how they think about me. I am not busybody and I do not simply say anything without proof. I am just trying to help and I thought I could. But now I become the one being questioned and sorry, I could not give you the answer even if I have it. I could only take the blame as I don't want to make the situation worse. I will not care anymore as what I have done is enough. This is a good lesson.

Virus attack

2007-12-17T22:39:00.000+08:00

Ahh... my laptop is being attacked by virus!!!

The consequences
1. internet explore shuts down by itself
2. pop up advertisements
3. lagged system
4. cannot online MSN or window messenger
5. unstable start up menu

I am really frustrated with all of these!!!! What the hell of this people eat full too free, create such stupid virus!

Get to know yourself better

2007-12-12T23:39:00.000+08:00

Your view on yourself:

Other people find you very interesting, but you are really hiding your true self. Your friends love you because you are a good listener. They'll probably still love you if you learn to be yourself with them.

The type of girlfriend/boyfriend you are looking for:

You like serious, smart and determined people. You don't judge a book by its cover, so good-looking people aren't necessarily your style. This makes you an attractive person in many people's eyes.

Your readiness to commit to a relationship:

You prefer to get to know a person very well before deciding whether you will commit to the relationship.

The seriousness of your love:

You like to flirt and behave seductively. The opposite sex finds this very attractive, and that's why you'll always have admirers hanging off your arms. But how serious are you about choosing someone to be in a relationship with?
*

Your views on education:

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

The right job for you:

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

How do you view success:

You are afraid of failure and scared to have a go at the career you would like to have in case you don't succeed. Don't give up when you haven't yet even started! Be courageous.

What are you most afraid of:

You are afraid of having no one to rely on in times of trouble. You don't ever want to be unable to take care of yourself. Independence is important to you.

Who is your true self:

You are mature, reasonable, honest and give good advice. People ask for your comments on all sorts of different issues. Sometimes you might find yourself in a dilemma when trapped with a problem, which your heart rather than your head needs to solve.

Try the Test: http://www.quizbox.com/personality/test82.aspx

Sacrifice

2007-12-12T22:44:00.000+08:00

Quoted from "Mitch Albom - The five people you meet in heaven":

Sacrifice is a part of life. It's supposed to be. It's not something to regret. It's something to aspire to... ... Sometimes when you sacrifice something precious, you are not really losing it. You are just passing it on to someone else.

失眠了

2007-12-12T22:10:00.000+08:00

今天失眠了。一整个夜晚，一直到早上，都没有进入深睡眠状态，真的超不喜欢这样的感觉。我居然在这样好的睡觉天失眠了。其实也没有什么烦心事啦，现在除了FYP，我也没有其他好担忧的了。所以呢，一定是昨晚那两杯咖啡惹得祸。晚餐的时候，喝了一杯热咖啡，后来又喝了一倍kopi冰，尤其是后来那一杯，味道更是够。结果，为了一时的享受，换来了一整晚的辗转难撤。现在才发现，自己是那么喜欢喝咖啡的。可是，奇怪的是，我在家，从不动home made的kopi 0，在宿舍，也不泡3合一咖啡。也许，用钱换来的咖啡，总是特别香吧。

在冷冷的天喝一杯热咖啡，心都会变暖。; )

Raining Season

2007-12-07T23:43:00.000+08:00

I just checked the weather forecast. For the next 3 days, it will be "showers with thunder in the afternoon". I like raining, but not everyday. It just makes me sleepy. It also causes a lot of inconvenience. Today I walked in the rain (of course with umbrella) at Pioneer North Industrial Park to search for my FYP materials. It was definitely not a pleasing experience as my feet was wet and I had to be careful with all the cars passing by. Those cars might splash water on me!

Whenever it's raining, especially in the morning, I will think of my aunty. During secondary school times, I could not cycle to the place where I waited for school bus on rainy days. She would then accompany me, walking to the waiting place. Most of the time, I was unhappy throughout the 10 min journey as I hated the car splashing water on my feet and made my shoes wet. I envied those children who could sit comfortably in cars. I remembered well one time I threw tantrum on her but what she cared was whether my body was wet. That is the snapshot. I believe for the rest of my life, whenever I think of my aunty, I will see that moment. That's the way she loves me. That's how we get through the 23 years together.

SingTel Plant Tour

2007-12-04T20:47:00.000+08:00

I have visited the Singtel Satellite Center at Bukit Timah today. The center is situated at the middle of the hill, deserted and isolated. I will never want to work there.

There are a lot of big and small satellites at the roof top and the largest satellite, is of diameter 42m.

December = FYP

2007-12-03T23:55:00.000+08:00

The end of exam also marks the start of the Final Year Project. This December holiday is a crucial period for FYP. I must really produce something significant or else I will be miserable in next semester. Ahh, stress is never ending. Working alone with a project really requires a lot of self discipline and motivation.

Christmas is coming

2007-12-03T23:40:00.000+08:00

HO HO HO!!! Christmas is coming... ...That also means my sister's wedding is around the corner. Her big day is on Christmas Eve. Looking forward to that day tremendously as she is the first one to get married among our generation.

Phototaking @ Coffee Bean
*

Click on the link for a nice Xmas Flash:

http://dq.chinaswitch.com/Christmas/Christmas.htm

Annalakshmi

2007-12-03T23:26:00.001+08:00

It was a special experience to have dinner in the original Indian restaurant. The ambience is good with Indian Deity and dim yellow light as decorations. But I am not too used to the smell.

They serve both Sounthern and Northern India food. It was a buffet dinner but not many varieties. But at least I managed to try a few different types of curry. In a nutshell, it is a worth trying restaurant and the service is really good.

Exam is OVER!!!

2007-11-30T17:07:00.000+08:00

Today is the last day of exam. Yes I manage to survive through this tough week. So now I am going out soon to celebrate the survival haha. I will be going to Annalakshmi, the Indian vegetarian restaurant. This is a pay-as-you-eat restaurant, means you can eat what you want and pay as you feel.

Woo...I am going back to Muar tomorrow. Then next week I will start doing FYP. No semester break in December.

1 more

2007-11-28T12:55:00.000+08:00

Finally this is the last week of exam. I have just completed the third paper of this week. I feel my brain is so overloaded and saturated. I have squeezed so much things into it. Oh never eat well and sleep well for past few days. I still have to endure, for another 2 days. Haha can't wait to take the last paper. I must celebrate the end of exam on Friday!

我感恩

2007-11-23T18:58:00.000+08:00

要时时刻刻庆幸自己拥有的一切，才会知足常乐。就好像现在，我该庆幸一个星期只考四科，而不是五科 ;) 加油，下个星期就可以回家了。

4 more...

2007-11-14T15:08:00.000+08:00

Just completed the first paper this morning. Haha so relaxed and contented now. I am quite happy that I could completed the whole paper, every question, every section in 2 hours. Not necessary all are correct but at least I have tried to solve all.

The second paper is on 26th Nov, 12 days from now. First time I have 4 papers in a week. It's going to be a crazy and damn stressful week... ...

I just discover that Jacky Cheong will not be holding concert anymore. That's mean his Singapore Concert in January will be his last concert in Singapore. Not sure if this is true because they always say this just to boost the sales lor. But I am very tempted to go to this concert because I am already regret for not going to his 雪狼湖. Even though I am not his fan but I think he is a great singer. The cheapest ticket left for double seat is $128. Oh Shall I? Tight budget!!! I almost spend all the money earned during attachment. And I am still thinking of going graduation trip...... My main source is only from the scholarship and earnings from attachment. I don't have parents whom I could depend on. What to do?

So near, yet so far...

2007-10-27T00:02:00.000+08:00

Looking at her blog, I feel like reading stories of a total stranger. Seem like I never exist in their lives before. Biologically connected with the same blood, does not bring the hearts together. When the physical distance is no longer a problem, what hinder us to take a step forward? Nobody ever takes a step forward. We are used to the world without each other and leave it undisturbed, perhaps is the better way out. I ever asked, why is me? Five of us but why is me? When the times slowly pass by, the only answer possible, is destiny. Maybe I am deemed to be different. Maybe.

Cool Personality Test

2007-10-24T22:52:00.000+08:00

Read my VisualDNA™ Get your own VisualDNA™

EXAMINATION

2007-10-24T00:43:00.000+08:00

I will write less for coming 6 weeks as the exam is approaching.

Let's have a preview on what I am going to face soon:

14 Nov 2007: Mechanical System Design and Analysis

26 Nov 2007: Human Factors in Design

27 Nov 2007: Human Resource Management

28 Nov 2007: Materials Engineering

30 Nov 2007: Quality Assurance and Management

First time, I have three papers consecutively. Much have to do to achieve my target for this exam. Starting at this moment, I switch myself to exam mode. Good Luck!

Contributed to the making of MAE Video

2007-10-24T00:11:00.000+08:00

Today I have 2 achievements:

Firstly, I learnt how to operate the milling machine. I started to fabricate the prototype of my FYP, on my own. Even though the piece is not completed yet, but I really have a bit of sense of achievement. Anyway, everytime when I work in shop, I need to tell myself continuously to keep sober and safe. It's dangerous and never play play with all the machines. Our human body is too fragile as compared to the machines.

Then I became the MODEL for the school. Well, it's out of volunteerism basis for the school promotional video. It was fun for the first part when the director of the video asked me to act. Haha actually I just need to carry out routine tasks in my room. They took a few scenes like I walking back to room, open the room and writing emails etc. The real stressful part came when I had to talk about my experience living in hall. I was given the script few days ago and I was supposed to say:

"Living independetly has taught me a lot about self discipline - that's has played a big part in making my uni experience more enriching and fruitful. There is also a sense of bonding that I enjoyed with fellow hostelites, whether in joining hall activities or going out for supper together. It's definitely one of the hightlights of my time here in NTU."

I NG for many many times, because I just could not get everything correct at the same time. For a perfect shoot, it needs to include smooth talking, correct pronunciation, nice smile, correct posture, steady camera......Sien lor, initially i thought it's easy. I also felt bad to make the crews restart again and again. Haha so scared that the director would scream at me. But luckily they were all very friendly, maybe because they knew I am not professional model. So I got excuse to make mistakes. ;P

At the end, they allowed me to split what I was supposed to say into 2 parts and they would take it using 2 shoots. I somehow felt relieved of this changes and things went on smoothly after that.

The whole shooting took 1 hour. Haha not bad right, even though I had NG so many times. That was really an interesting experience to me. I must thank Megan for this lobang. ; )

Professional Communication Presentation

2007-10-20T00:00:00.000+08:00

So happy, I have just completed one more assignment today!!!
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Yes it's over for Professional Communication in this semester. 1 resume writing, 1 presentation and class participation make up of 100 marks for this subject. Indeed I enjoy every class and the tutor, Miss Khoo has really done a good job. Although I feel she is a bit exagerated in teaching, but she is always able to capture our attention.
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Overall I am satisfied with my performance and the feedbacks from tutor are positive. ; ) I feel quite good when my effort is being paid off.

I would like to share with you what I have presented today. Personally I think this is a very useful topic and some of the tips may help you.

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Managing Difficult Co-Workers in Project

The focus of my presentation will be on how to manage different types of difficult co-workers. Co-workers, they have complementary skills and hold mutual accountability to work for the common purpose of the project. Most of the times, there will be one leader to keep the project heading right direction. But there is also possibility that team members have shared leadership and everyone is on the same level of responsibility.

We shall look at three types of difficult co-workers, namely the credit grabbers, the Know-It-Alls and the complainers.

Firstly, the credit grabbers. The primary goal of the credit grabbers, is to appear no less than perfect in the eyes of the bosses. Typically, they will interact well in a group setting, but will be quick to answer all questions and display ultimate knowledge. So basically they do not acknowledge the contributions from other co-workers and accept all the praise for a project without mentioning that they didn't do it alone. Eventually they take the final credit in front of the boss.

So to deal with them, the first time this happens, consider it a mistake. Start by simply asking for appropriate behavior. Mention it to the credit grabbers and ask them to let others know about your participation. The trick here is not to put the other person on the defensive by asking angrily “I hate it when you take credit for things that I’ve done”. Instead, stay calm and non accusatory. When you approach them, you focus on the action, not the person. If this happens again, make sure you let others know about the role you played in getting a project done.

The second type of difficult co-worker, is the know-it-all. The know-it-alls are valuable employees because they have considerable knowledge, but they are also one of the most difficult to get along with. They tend to override others’ opinions and can have a superior attitude. They decrease your confidence and make it difficult to get task done. The real problem with this employee occurs when they are wrong. The know-it-all feels personally insulted when they are overruled.

To deal with this colleague, do your work correctly. If you do not, they will label you as incompetent. Do not challenge them; ask for explanations, ideas, and plans. If the problem continues, it's best to go right to your boss with this. Let the boss have a gentle discussion with the know-it-all as this type is particularly sensitive and feels that they are complete in job performance.

Lastly, we shall look at complainers. The complainers complain about everything from working conditions to the amount of work. They tend to make people around them unhappy at work. Negative people are highly contagious and one chronic complainer can cause low morale in the team. The only good thing about complainers is, they may help by pointing out problems that could be overlooked, though this co-worker probably never suggests a solution.

What do complainers seek for? When your co-worker complain again, what’s the best to say?

“You know, that sounds terrible. I don’t know how you deal with all of these problems.”

So you’re not saying “Yes, I agree that’s a huge problem”. And you’re certainly not saying “Oh, poor thing” in a sarcastic voice. You’re just acknowledging the fact that this is a huge problem for that person.

This approach works because it gives the complainers what they really after: Empathy. He just needs your understanding. Bear in mind that be sincere when you say this to them. This approach also keeps you from being part of a vicious cycle of responses that just makes the complainers complain more and more and more. The cycle is cut at the point you take their distress seriously.

All the tips I have mentioned are helpful when dealing with difficult co-workers. Anyway if the friendly and polite one-on-one does not bring positive changes, the last option is to bring up the issue with your boss.

Prefect Storm

2007-10-14T12:27:00.000+08:00

Yesterday I watched the movie "Perfect Storm", one of the case studies in Human Resource Management. One very imporant part of this movie is, the captain of the ship, chose not to escape and capsize with the ship. Why did he choose to die when he had a chance to survive? (Even though at the end, all crews died including the one who escaped.)We are supposed to link his action to the Freud's Death Instinct.

"DEATH DRIVE: The bodily instinct to return to the state of quiescence that preceded our birth. The death drive, according to Freud's later writings (Beyond the Pleasure Principle, "The Uncanny"), explains why humans are drawn to repeat painful or traumatic events. Through such a compulsion to repeat, the human subject attempts to "bind" the trauma, thus allowing the subject to return to a state of quiescence. In other words, whereas one part of the human psyche is seeking gratification, another part is geared to seek a return to the quiet of non-existence: the "death-instinct." This concept of the "death-instinct" or "death-drive" allowed Freud to make sense of the human tendency towards destruction, including sometimes self-destruction."

So chim......I have read the theory for a few times, totally confused. We had a discussion session on last Friday and my peers were arguing whether he did that because of guilt or hopeless. If you were him, what would you do?

More information on the movie can be found at: http://perfectstorm.warnerbros.com/

Selamat Hari Raya

2007-10-13T20:13:00.000+08:00

Such a pity Hari Raya falls on Saturday. No Public Holiday. In Malaysia, the school is having 10 days holidays for Raya and 1 week for the working people. Here, not even Friday is announced as Public Holiday. Why are the people here so hardworking? Very few public holidays with very long working hours. Retirement age is increased to 62. Do you live to work? How are they going to push up the birth rates with such stressful working environment? You have no time.

I want to work for my life.

1st interview with Citibank

2007-10-12T23:33:00.000+08:00

I have been so busy for the past few weeks. Project, project and project. Also I have attended the first interview with Citibank this morning. Basically I have prepared for this interview for one week. Even though my first priority is not banking, but I still want to perform well for the interview. Not to think with how far I would go first, but I will definitely not to give up any chances.

Indeed this morning the interview was quite casual. I had a nice chat with my interviewer. I think he is a good listener and able to give me response in order to encourage me to speak up more. I give myself 80 marks and I am satisfied with my performance.

Answer the day:

Can you describe the key attributes that make you suitable for this job?

"I always think “things could have been done better”. Not only by thinking, but I plan for the strategy and make it happened. For example, when I was just an ordinary student in MAE school, I heard people complaining about lecture notes, welfare and so on. In fact, I noticed that some areas could be improved and I have a lot of ideas on how to do it. So I took the courage to run for the Academic and Welfare Secretary in the MAE Club. I said courage because in order to get elected, I need to go through the rally where many people shooting you questions on how you could manage the position, and I need to go in one lecture hall, speak in front of 500 students and persuade them to vote for me. Eventually, they trust me and I got the post. Then I started to implement the improvements to the current activities and bring in new programmes. So throughout my term of service, I had successfully organised 12 events for the students. Indeed till today, some of the activities intiated by me are still being carried out. So I believe that I could apply the same thing and add value to my job."