Time is not an enemy, unless you try to kill it

"Your Wish Is My Command"

2008-07-04T13:01:00.000+08:00

I am a money magnet
Everything I touch turns to gold
I have more riches than King Solomon's Mines
Money falls like an avalanche over me
There is more money being printed for me right now
I am receiving money making ideas everyday
I am receiving unexpected checks in the mail
I have more than enough money for everything I want
I have my dream cars & home
I have the best of everything
I am grateful & celebrate everyday
I know when I ask for what I want.......
No matter what it is that I want.......
No matter how impossible it may seem.......
If I believe & know it is mine.......
The answer must be....... "Your Wish Is My Command"

Chew away...

2008-05-17T03:12:00.001+08:00

Here's the first secret I want to share with you ...

It's so ridiculously simple that I've actually considered NOT sharing it with you.

You might be tempted to dismiss it, but that would be a big mistake. You'll understand why in a moment.

So, go ahead and make this promise aloud to yourself now: "if someone taught me how to flip a switch I wouldn't dismiss it as simple - I'd just enjoy this light."

With your permission, here are a few of these switches...

Ridiculously simple as they might seem, they're all scientifically verifiable and also plainly observable for yourself.

In fact, you might start to notice a big difference fast.

First, some vital background ...

Why People Feel 'Zapped'...

Did you know that most people aren't aware of the fact that the whole act of 'digestion' actually takes a whole lot of energy?

FACT: We burn over 10% of our available "fuel" every day just digesting our food!

We certainly can't turn off digestion, but we sure can make it easier - freeing up mountains of energy - with this neat little trick.

Brace yourself ... (Remember your promise?)

Chew every bite of food 30 times before swallowing.

Silly, right?

No.

Actually more profoundly life-changing than you can possibly imagine.

On this surface, this may sound like it wouldn't do much, but we're now discovering how many ways this practice unleashes our hidden energy.

For example ...

Digestion starts in the mouth. If we skip that process, we only get a fraction of the nutritional value of our food.

Next ...

Gulping down partially chewed food puts tremendous stress on our digestion and saps us of our vital energy via several pathways.

And it gets worse, but hold up for a second.

Tune in to your stomach right now ...

I mean it. Turn your attention to how your stomach feels for a quick moment.

You may be aware that it doesn't feel so "right".

Before you jump to wild conclusions, I'm no Kreskin.

I make my 'safe bet' through statistics like these...

No guesswork, no voodoo.

from the National Institutes of Health
(U.S. NIH)

Over 70 million Americans are affected by various digestive diseases at any given time
Most disease goes untreated and unreported

You may even recall a case of this from earlier in the day or yesterday.

What's worse is that these digestive problems don't even manifest in a sore stomach - only in fatigue.

This is one of many the easily-avoidable ways we chronically prevent our bodies from unleashing our available vitality.

Ready for a kicker? - Well, not only does it sap our energy, but it weighs on our minds preventing clarity of thought.

Anyone in chronic pain knows this quite well.

You simply don't function as well mentally when your body is in pain.

But ...

Many times, simply correcting our chewing habits can open the energy floodgates by freeing up energy that was already there!

And get this:

This is only one of dozens of little "body hacks" like this that cumulatively can turn you into a "demon" in the board room, on "the courts," and even in the ... (I'll let you finish that sentence so I don't have to say something inappropriate)

As you discover how simple and easy this is, you'll only look back and laugh at how much money we've all wasted on bogus supplements and kooky magic tricks to put sloppy fix-it patches on our health.

Here's one more 0f many more ...

The Damaging Impact Water Has On Your Energy...

There are some things I'm about to tell you about water that will not only blow your mind, but will also have an almost immediate impact on your energy.

First - most of the advice you get about drinking water is dangerously wrong.

No one really knows for sure exactly how much water you should drink, and the blanket advice we get is pure unadulterated garbage.

Take this example ...

"Drink 8 glasses a day."

Now, that may look like sound advice, but further analysis shows it's an overly simplified "wives tail."

To be more blunt: "8 glasses a day" is actually a well established urban myth.

As recently revealed by the American Journal of Physiology, there is absolutely NO scientific evidence to support the popular 8-glasses-a-day theory.

Now, none of these scientists at AJP are saying we don't need water (that would be silly). It's just that these overly simplified platitudes are not helping anyone's health.

What's needed is real scientific information and not half-truths.

What we do know is that "8 glasses a day" by itself isn't sound advice.

First, you need to drink water regularly throughout the day. Drinking 8 glasses in the morning and assuming you're "golden" for the day is more dangerous than you think..

You should, in fact, hydrate every single hour. (On the next page we'll give you a free tool to help you remember to do just that - and a lot more.)

Many people who simply take up the habit of drinking a glass (or even half a glass - more about that in a minute) every hour notice their energy levels skyrocket.

Why?

Because most of us are chronically dehydrated.

If you don't think you are, try what I'm advising here for 48 hours and see what happens.

Again, this is a statistically valid "safe bet."

Still Feel Drained?

Another safe bet: you're tired all the time and you simply can't figure out why.

Dehydration making you tired?

You bet.

Dizziness
Chronic fatigue
Impotence
Hair loss
Headaches
Low back pain
Constipation

36 Great Tips for Keeping Travel as Simple as Possible

2008-03-24T22:45:00.001+08:00

Here's a really good tip for travelling smart. Many people still over-pack when travelling, and get carried away while travelling. These tips keeps you down to earth. Read it here.

It is time

2008-02-23T01:31:00.004+08:00

I've been fairly hardworking for the past year. I think it's time for a break. Planning for a trip to Europe again (this time central/east). Just a quick one with my wife and some other friends. I think it's perfect timing. I'm worn out, and MAS travel fair 2008 is back with cheap tickets.

The basic itinerary is:
Kuala Lumpur --> Rome -->(bus) Bari ---> (ferry) Dubrovnik ---> (flight) Zagreb ---> (bus) Vienna ---> (bus) Prague ---> (bus) Frankfurt ---> (train) Marburg. Then back to KL from Frankfurt.

Will post some research material here from time to time. I've a general idea of getting around on a budget. But there's probably more to it....

Lilly Proves Miss Teen USA 2007 Wrong

2008-02-18T23:54:00.003+08:00

Miss Teen USA 2007 (Miss Carolina) says a fifth of Americans can't locate the US on a world map - because those American's don't have a map.

Well, Lilly (a toddler), the world map master proves her wrong

Cheap way to travel around Europe

2008-02-18T21:37:00.003+08:00

So, if you're planning a trip around Europe, what would be the most fun and cheap way to travel? This is my friends advice...

"I'd say go by bus - it is more secure than Inter-railing, as a lone traveller,many of the journey's are overnight,and therefore,no accommodation costs. Also,many stations have bathroom (shower) facilities and I have found it to be a fun,and relaxed way to travel.

Checkout - www.eurolines.com,they offer 2 passes, one for 15 days and another for 30 days. You can travel between 30 cities all across Europe.Also, includes
going from England to France,so no extra ferry or tunnel costs,which is cool.

I have travelled from Ireland to Europe on this ticket a few times,and find it brilliant. Also, check out hostels in cities,you will always be able to find deals.

Another good thing,you would be able to get the youth ticket,which works out cheaper - under £250 for the bus travel.

If you want to travel via train, I have done this as well (both all over Europe and internally in Germany- eg.in Germany,you can buy tickets,as youth,for say 10 days,and you can travel as much as you like on that ticket.

Inter-railing can be fine,but there are problems with robberies on night trains - couchettes (bed) are extra,and everything adds up.If you are going to be travelling over night,be vigilant. I never had problems,but met plenty of people who had been robbed (even groups together).You know the drill,be friendly,and nice,but trust should not be a given.

(www.interrailnet.com/ - is the official site. But maybe if you know of a college/uni near you,they often have a travel office/or someone who can give you advice. Also, with the trains,you have to decide on how many zones or whether to get a global ticket,for 22 or 30 days,and of course its more expensive.

For accommodation - if you can prebook online, before arrival,you will get a cheaper fare. Try www.hostelworld.com or www.hostels.com and for specific countries,or areas,maybe google them.

If you are a student, be sure to bring and use the card,as many places offer reductions,eg.museums, transport in cities,even some hostels.

My advice,when eating out,be fugal.Eat where locals do,and you can generally be guaranteed good food, at a lower price.Anywhere on a "main square" or street,will be more expensive.Also,for food for travel,go to a hyper market or large store,rather than buying attrain/bus stations or stops.

budgettravel.about.com/library/weekly/aa052002a.htm
freephotooftheday.com/
www.geocities.com/caseallen/travel/tips.html -

these sites are good, and maybe you can get some ideas.

www.allthingsfrugal.com/library.htm - this really deals with stretching the pennies. I think you can have a great time,and not over spend.Lots of museums are free,or sights have discounts.Always ask. Dont forget to get your European Health Card (E111), as it entitles you to free medical within EU.

And before you go,get travel/personal insurance. Better to pay maybe £50 for the month,than find yourself in trouble.

Another tip - in stations,they usually have lockers, so you could leave your bags,and sightsee with ease.

Ok, I hope you find some of this info useful,and that your trip works out well."

International Cheap Flight Tips

2008-02-18T13:04:00.002+08:00

Here's a collection of some cheap flights
from all around the world.

Between London and Hong Kong
www.oasishongkong.com/gb/en/home.aspx
flight from £100

and between Singapore and Australia
www.tigerairways.com/home/index.php
very cheap flight

Flights within South East Asia
www.airasia.com

You will find easily flight between Barcelona to London in
www.farecompare.com
www.easyjet.com

You can compare what you find, flights out of europe to
australia.

www.bestflights.com.au/

In Australia
www.qantas.com

Or for the other side:
Barcelona to Los Angeles
www.aa.com

Los Angeles To Sydney
www.airpacific.com

Good luck and good trip

Getting ffmpeg working on Ubuntu Gutsy to encode 3gp

2008-01-21T00:08:00.001+08:00

I got myself a new machine, installed Ubuntu 7.10 Gutsy and started installing ffmpeg.
Most of the howtos, forums and tutorials out there are kind of distorted (in regards to get ffmpeg decode/encode 3gp for older phones). Mostly because I noticed ffmpeg changes the naming convention of configure options and parameter options for AMR.

First, install the pre-requisites (make sure universe and multiverse is turned on in apt options)

sudo apt-get install liba52-dev libdts-dev libgsm1-dev libvorbis-dev libxvidcore4 libxvidcore-dev libdc1394-dev libfaac-dev liblame-dev libx264-dev libfaad2-dev libtheora-dev libsdl1.2-dev mplayer mencoder

Next, get ffmpeg. I didn't bother to install svn at the time. It's recommended to get the latest svn entries. So I just took the nightly bare sources (no subversion metadata).

tar jxvf ffmpeg-export-snapshot.tar.bz2
cd ffmpeg-export-/libavcodec

At this point, read the libamr.c file (It used to be amr.c as posted in many tutorials. Not anymore). Download the 3gpp drivers as instructed in this file. I just downloaded the float version. Get this one, it is faster.

mkdir amr_float
cd amr_float
wget http://www.3gpp.org/ftp/Specs/archive/26_series/26.104/26104-610.zip
unzip 26104-610.zip
unzip 26104-610_ANSI_C_source_code.zip
mv c-code/* .
cp -f makefile.gcc makefile

Once the right stuff is in place, a minor modification must take place in libavcodec/amr_float/makefile. The CFLAGS must be replaced with:

CFLAGS = -Wall -DMMS_IO -I. $(CFLAGS_$(MODE)) -D$(VAD)

Then do the usual ./configure;make;make install.

Here's my config options:
--enable-gpl --enable-pp --enable-libmp3lame --enable-libfaac --enable-libamr-nb --enable-shared --enable-pthreads --enable-x11grab --enable-liba52 --enable-libfaad --enable-libgsm --enable-libtheora --enable-libvorbis --enable-libx264 --enable-libxvid --prefix=/usr/local

The configuration option for amr used to be --enable-amr_nb, so don't get confused with that and use --enable-libamr-nb instead.

Now, I can download youtube FLVs, encode them to 3gp files, and watch them on my mobile!
ffmpeg -i movie.avi -f 3gp -vcodec 3gp -b 100000 -s 320x176 -r 12 -acodec aac -ar 8000 -ab 16 -ac 1 movie.3gp

Here's a list of other options for other mobile devices.
ffmpeg -i movie.flv -vcodec wmv1 -acodec adpcm_ima_wav movie.wmv
ffmpeg -i videotoconvert.flv -ab 56 -ar 22050 -b 500 -s 320x240 output.mpg

For nokia n80
ffmpeg -i "$1" -ar 16000 -ac 1 -acodec aac -vcodec mpeg4 -s 352x288 -r 24 -b 350 -ab 32 "$1.3gp"

Nokia s60
ffmpeg -i movie.avi -s 172x144 -r 10 -ac 1 -b 48 -ab 12 movie.3gp

Nokia NSeries
ffmpeg -i movie.avi -f mp4 -vcodec mpeg4 -b 250000 -r 15 -s 320x176 -acodec aac -ar 24000 -ab 64 -ac 2 movie.mp4

Nokia 3250, 5500, E50, E62
ffmpeg -i movie.avi -f 3gp -vcodec 3gp -b 100000 -s 320x176 -r 12 -acodec aac -ar 8000 -ab 16 -ac 1 movie.3gp

For Ipod
ffmpeg -vcodec xvid -i input.avi -b 375 -qmax 10 -bufsize 8192 -g 300 -acodec aac -ab 96 -ac 2 -s 320×192 output.mp4

Ipod (fullscreen)
ffmpeg -i in.avi -f mp4 -vcodec mpeg4 -maxrate 1000 -b 700 -qmin 3 -qmax 5 -bufsize 4096 -g 300 -acodec aac -ab 192 -s 320x240 -aspect 4:3 out.mp4

Ipod (widescreen)
ffmpeg -i in.avi -f mp4 -vcodec mpeg4 -maxrate 1000 -b 700 -qmin 3 -qmax 5 -bufsize 4096 -g 300 -acodec aac -ab 192 -s 320x180 -aspect 16:9 out.mp4

Malaysia General Elections Soon

2007-12-28T14:50:00.000+08:00

Fellow Malaysians. The general elections is coming soon. Let's forget our petty little disagreements amongst each other...and unite!

Guide to Malaysia Blog

2006-06-19T11:51:00.000+08:00

I opened a new travel blog about Malaysia. Check it out: http://www.dormantbrain.com

Back home

2006-03-04T03:13:00.000+08:00

Believe it, I'm back. Gimme a ring y'all, and lets hangout.

A message from the "Iraq" Resistance

2006-02-27T17:13:00.000+08:00

Some of you may think this as bull crap. But here's the link, and you decide.

http://www.informationclearinghouse.info/article7468.htm

My favourites:

We are simple people who chose principles over fear.
We have suffered crimes and sanctions, which we consider the true weapons of mass destruction

It is our duty, as well as our right, to fight back the occupying forces, which their nations will be held morally and economically responsible; for what their elected governments have destroyed and stolen from our land. We have not crossed the oceans and seas to occupy Britain or the U.S. nor are we responsible for 9/11. These are only a few of the lies that these criminals present to cover their true plans for the control of the energy resources of the world, in face of a growing China and a strong unified Europe .

Bush joke

2006-02-27T16:35:00.000+08:00

Bush, Manmohan Singh, Aishwarya rai and Sonia are traveling in a train. The train goes through a tunnel and it gets completely dark. Suddenly there is a kissing sound and then a slap! The train comes out of the tunnel. The women and Manmohan are sitting there looking perplexed. Bush is bent over holding his face, which is red f rom an apparent slap. All of them remain diplomatic and nobody says anything.

Sonia is thinking: These Americans are all crazy after Aishwarya. Bush must have tried to kiss her in the tunnel. Very proper that she slapped him.

Aishwarya is thinking:
Bush must have tried to kiss me but kissed Sonia instead and got slapped.

Bush is thinking:
Damn it. Manmohan must have tried to kiss Aishwarya. She might have thought it was me and slapped me.

Manmohan is thinking:
If this train goes through another tunnel I will make another kissing sound and slap Bush again.

Thirsty? Don't get that coke. Just Google.

2006-02-27T16:20:00.000+08:00

Somebody at Google must have been really thirsty when he thought of this idea. They're going into the F&B business, with Google Gulp. And they're going with this Auto-Drink (tm) marketing gimmick.

Well, nice try Google. Though it maybe a joke, there's no telling they might end up having it on the shelves.

On cartoons and freedom

2006-02-15T04:45:00.000+08:00

The dispute over the cartoon of Prophet Muhammad (PBUH), is pointless. Its a quarell over two very distinctively different cultures; the West and the Muslim community. Its hard to settle a fight over two people with very different mindsets.

To the West, freedom of speech is important. Denmark has every right to say what they want, as so do any other countries. But I'd tell them; we live in a world with different religion and culture - please be more sensitive. To the Muslims, characterising the Prophet is a VERY sensitive issue, especially if it is associated negatively. The West, especially Europe is a very well civilised and mature community; Wouldn't it be a civilised thing to do to at least 'respect' other people's feelings?

Freedom of speech should never be abused for being overly offensive. I have several German friends, but I'd never tell them that they're a bunch of Nazis, even if I had the freedom to do so, because I know they might be hurt or even worse, hostile towards it. Freedom is a good thing, but freedom must have limits. Why do you think every country in the world has traffic lights? Because everyone knows, giving too much freedom on the road will cause chaos, un-organisation, which may result in accidents and people getting killed. Humans naturally have interest in something bizarre and disastrous. Humans need a considerable amount of control and discipline. Humans naturally gravitates toward sin like a moth gravitates towards light. That's the reason why religion was brought to us in the first place. That's why we create laws and courts. We need a cap on our freedom so we don't naturally abuse freedom.

The muslim community, could have settled this dispute peacefully. Islam teaches to follow law and order of the host country you live in. I wish there weren't any bombings and killings. The Muslims are angry because the West jokes about their Prophet being a terrorist, and Muslims defend that by saying Islam is a religion of peace. By responding violently, it defies everything about Islam being a peaceful religion. Now the West will not only think the Muslims are a bunch of terrorists, but also a bunch of hypocrites. These bombings should stop. The muslims should step back and re-think about things, because obviously all this terror is not going anywhere, but in fact making things worst. There will always be a provocation to stir emotions, and everytime the Muslim responds violantly, they loose, because that's what the provocator wants in the first place. Muslims should start using their brains, instead of their emotions.
The Prophet used his brain by using negotiations in Treaty of Hudaibiyah, and it turned out a success. This cartoon isn't the first time the Prophet is smudged. During his time, he was called an evil sourceror, a mad man, and many other offensive remarks, but the Prophet didn't retaliate in violence. He used his brain. That's exactly what Muslims should do today, especially in this modern era.

I think the violence, killings and anger isn't just about the cartoon. I think its about the pervasive victimisation of the Muslim world, by the West's imperial past. The cartoon was just a trigger for thousands of years of aching hearts.

Until both sides can be more sensitive towards each other, we will never live peacefully. I think we never will, and that idea disgusts me.

Humble light

2006-01-18T10:41:00.000+08:00

Humble light
Originally uploaded by apairudin.

I've gained 2 new interests since the past month or so: cooking and photography. I know I'm an amateur photographer. I do use GIMP to beautify my photos a bit, because I use a really cheap and amateur camera. I may not be ready to invest in more expensive and featuristic cameras yet. I'm happy so far though, and that'll suffice.

New Photo Storage

2006-01-16T10:56:00.000+08:00

Mates, I got myself a new place to stuff my photos. I like its features - simple and easy to organise. Have look mates. http://www.flickr.com/photos/apairudin

First Night in Austin

2006-01-16T01:48:00.000+08:00

Austin was having its first big new year's celebration called First Night, and we were conveniently there to witness it! Here's a photogallery from Austin360.com. I know this is old news, but didn't really have much time to write here. It was a non-alcoholic, family oriented event with loads of art exhibitions and performances, a vibrant parade and topped up with fireworks as usual when the clock hits 12.

As Austin is said to be the worlds Live Music Capital, we didn't want to miss out, and hanged out at a rock joint. The band was really good. They weren't only musicians, but also performers and entertainers with their funky tricks and tickling humour.

We stayed with Erin and Jess, and they were very thoughtful for taking us hiking, had a pure texas style BBQ at Salt Lick City (which was REALLY good, and I've gotten positive testimonials from many locals).

All in all, I loved Austin, better than Houston really. Its vibrant, full of energy, plenty of things to do. Maybe there'll be a second trip there. Enjoy the pics:

On Suicide bombings

2006-01-04T04:15:00.000+08:00

Interesting quote from a topic discussion from BBC on Iraq's Election:

"There is no comment received from members of the insurgency. But if there had, what would it say i wonder? After all, what possible reason would they have to blow themselves up? Is it to prove a political point? Is it because they love Saddam? or is it because a foreign power has occupied their land and has killed tens of thousands of their people, possibly their own family.
Which of those reasons would you blow yourself up for? Dont buy the Bush democracy BS, his concept of democracy, (remember his dodgy vote counting in Florida, twice), is not worth the value of a single death."

- Dave S, London

No religion in the world teaches blowing themselves up. Suicidal bombings certainly is not for religous causes. I hope, more people can be aware of this, especially those from the Western world. I'm glad Mr Dave S is showing a good example of an educated and rational Westerner.

Christmas weekend

2005-12-30T09:05:00.000+08:00

Finally, we got a break and had a 4 day holiday during Christmas celebrations. A dear friend generously offered us to join the celebration with her family. Thanks! And the celebration was at a weekend house on a beatiful bayou near Galveston Island! Double thanks!! Off course, with her family (parents, brothers, sisters, niece and nephew), it was a loud croud. We karaoke'd like crazy through christmas afternoon. But then, since the weekend house, was located on a nice, quiet bayou quite near to the windy beaches....it was pristine.

R.I.P

2005-12-23T07:16:00.000+08:00

I bought these pair of Dockers sunglasses yesterday. YESTERDAY! And they're gone now. Ouuuuu...i knew I should have got the ones with thicker rims.....
Costed me 10 bucks for these. Darn.

Ice ice baby

2005-12-22T22:27:00.000+08:00

We were about to go to work, when we suddenly noticed ice on the car. Yes...ICE!. If it had snowed the night before....i would just kill myself for snoring my way through it. But, it did snow christmas eve last year. Hopefully, I can witness a white christmas this year....(fingers crossed). But that's going to be somewhat odd in the coyboy state Texas. Bummer.
Anyway, since I have extra time on my hands, I just want to share with yall that we found a really really nice Malaysian restaurant in Houston, called Cafe Malay. The ikan bakar daun pisang, ikan belacan and kangkung tumis is really one of the best I've tasted (even when comparing to restaurants back in Malaysia). The owner's Malaysian, and the food is pretty much authentic. The location? Err...that needs a little improvement. It was hidden from the streets, and a little decor from outside could really make a difference.

We had a chat with the owner, and according to him, he made some sort of partnership with the guys in Nonya Restaurant in New York. Now, I've heard that Nonya in New York had a very good review from Zagat survey. Well, the food is really good, I can tell you that. The prices are really affordable, but one thing it could do is have their staff dress more accordingly, and could use some hair cream as well.

Universal Command Guide for Operating Systems

2005-12-22T04:56:00.000+08:00

A friend introduced me to the Universal Command Guide for OSs (UNIX/Linux/BSD/Windows). Cool ey? I'm supporting a bunch of different unixes and linuxans, and trust me...it takes a hell of an effort to keep your head straight switching from an OS to the other and remember which are the correct commands.

Wanna read it from front to back? Nothing wrong with that, but if you asked me...a total waste of your effort. Never torture your mind by remembering stuff you can lookup quickly. I'd just have it handy on a rainy day.

Nature and modern living fusion

2005-12-19T12:37:00.000+08:00

I've been trying to get out of Houston and possibly see some desert and cactuses along the west Texas, but just haven't got the chance yet. The closest to nature I did get was Houston's Arboretum and Nature Center. The guys and I had a nice walk. I'm pretty happy about it, getting away from the huslting city.

Besides getting along with trees and bushes, we also did some holiday shopping, and got myself a waterproof redwing shoe. Just preparing myself for a wet winter. Its forecasted to rain, and even possibly snow this tuesday, something I'm looking forward to. Also went to the Galleria, a massive and popular posh type shopping complex. As exclusive as our own Starhill, but almost as big as our Midvalley Megamall. The galleria also has an ice skating rink, and I didn't let go of that opportunity off course.

Howdy do...

2005-12-16T09:16:00.000+08:00

At last, I have time to post here. Sorry guys, you know me when I get busy. Haven't seen much in Houston yet. It's Christmas season, you we all know about the sales and bargains everywhere. We tried our luck at Katy Mills Mall, and I got a way with a leather jacket worth USD 350 at only USD 99. I'm a happy dude, many people tells me how nice it is, and how cheap I got it for.

Last weekend, an old friend whom I haven't met in almost 7 years came up to Houston. He's working in Laredo, near the Mexican border, so I really appreciate his effort driving 6 hours way up here. We had fun at the Moody Gardens in Galveston Bay, had some hot Mexican food, toured around downtown Houston and did some shopping in Ikea. Hmm...come to think of it, there's really not much to do here except shop. Yikes...

Houston, we have a problem....

2005-12-01T14:13:00.000+08:00

I just arrived in Houston for another 3 month business trip. Looking forward for a trip around the US as well. Will try to keep this updated. Cherio!

Cameron Highlands

2005-11-26T17:55:00.000+08:00

Went for a weekend trip to Cameron. Stayed at the nice Bala's Holiday Chalet which had a nice tea garden. Not too fancy, but soothing and calm. First day was up to Mount Brinchang, where the highest road in peninsular Malaysia is. It had a nice viewing tower, and had at all for myself for about 5 minutes, before 5 full load of cars of other tourists came barging in! But anyway, the drive up to Mt Brinchang was just excellent. The view of vast huge hills of tea plantations was definately worth it.

I was enjoying the silence when they started coming and shouting at each other eventhough they're 1 feet apart. What the hell were these people thinking?! I drove long distances to enjoy a break from the noisy city, and these guys just wreck everything up. If I wanted to hear people shouting, i'd go to KL, not Genting! Pfftt.. Anyway, after that, went to stroll around the markets around Kea Farm: rose farms, honey farms, flower farms, etc. It just seemed like a normal weekend trip to the market for me, just with some different looking vegetables.

Music Studio at my fingertips

2005-11-10T23:27:00.000+08:00

Just found out my office actually has a music studio. Drums, electronic piano, keyboard, shakers...only guitars are missing and need to be brought personally. This I feel would be a good opportunity to play everyday and improve my old and rusty skills.

Back in Malaysia

2005-11-07T00:10:00.000+08:00

Guys, I'm back in MY. Just in time for the festive Eid celebrations. Had loads of fun gobbling loads of food and having laughs with family and relatives. Its good to be home.

Rome

2005-11-06T23:57:00.000+08:00

I was a bit turned off when first arriving at Rome. The airport didn't seem much compared to KLIA or Schipol, the train to Roma Termini was old, had bad ventilation, and even worse, had engine problems and our travel stalled for about 20 minutes in the middle of nowhere. Though I really enjoyed the magnificent view of the Alps during the flight. We also made reservations at a bed-and-breakfast, which we had problems finding because it had no signboards at all. It was the kind of hostel without any reception, the entrace was like entering any normal apartment with doorbells on the outside shared by 8 other neighbours. It exterior was horrible. To my surprise, after going in, it was excellent. It's called Alberto & Maria Hostel, which had really nice rooms, comfortable beds, big enough bathroom and a kitchen. Maria (who was very friendly and warm) gave us a good map, tips, brochures...everything we needed to know and what to do in our 2 day stay. Excellent.

We arrived late in the afternoon, went out at 4 p.m headed to the Colleseum. We approached it from an amazing elevated view of Via Labicana. By the time we were inside, it was almost sunset. The strong orangish/yellowish colour from the sun shined perfectly on the Colleseum, and it was just jaw dropping. Next, a walk through the Roman Forum, then back to grab a cheese pizza and ate it on the street overlooking the Colleseum. It was almost dark, and the illuminating lights shooting at the Colleseum was a delightful view. Then, walked along Via dei Fori Imperiali and passed Capitoline Museum and all the other ancient buildings along the street. Every footstep was with awe, wondering how such amazing structures could exist 2000 years ago.

Next morning, we went to St Peter's Basilicca and afterwords, we spent the whole morning queueing for the Vatican Museum. As you may have already heard time and time again, Sistine Chapel is an amazing piece of work. The art was alive, moving, in 3D, jolting out like you're touching you, and you're touching them. All the neck ache was worth it, I don't think I'll ever see another beautiful interior of any other building again. I also met up with a long lost good friend. He and his lovely friends bought me yummy pasta for dinner and we had an amazing conversation to catch up. Time was unfortunately very short, and hope to see Lukas again, somewhere...

Colmar, France

2005-11-06T23:43:00.000+08:00

Colmar without doubt is one of the most beautiful small towns I've ever seen. I enjoyed it not only because I got to visit my sister there, but also because of its vibrant but yet peaceful surroundings. I stayed at my sister's studio at Avenue de Fribourg, and started wandering around very early in the morning before the sun came up. No people were present except for a man cleaning the streets and a cafe owner preparing to open shop. The temparature wasn't too cold, light and brisk just the way I like it. It was quiet and peaceful, nothing to be heard except birds chirping, and there was smell of fresh baked bread. I knew it was going to be a start of a very good day. I had the opportunity to see the whole town wake up.

Walked through Rue Turenne and found Petite Venice (or little Venice - the most romantic spot in Colmar most people say). Then carried on forward to Place de L'ancienne Douane, Place de la Cathedral, Place de la Mairie, Place des Dominicans, all breathtaking squares with magnificent display of beauty. Every building and every street in Colmar is different and has its own unique surprises. Eventhough its a small town, so many little details impressed me that I needed to walk very slowly to appreciate every one of them. The buildings are in different shapes, form and colour. Some are green, blue, orange, pink...you name it, made me feel like I was in lego land. Some are marvelous and meticulous in architecture. Some have edgy, crooked and un-even shapes which makes you think you're in some kind of cute cartoon. Awesome. All these mixed wonders fusions Colmar into what it is. Bumped into a couple, overhearing them converse in Japanese. I say to the guy "Ohaiyo, nihon no kata desu ka?" (Morning..you're japanese?). He just replied "hmm" without any facial expression. I probably was intruding their privacy and joy, so I let them be.

Continued further to Place D'unterlinden. It was 9 a.m by the time I reached there, just when the Unterlinden Museum opened for entrance, so I went. I was at awe seeing the 13th to 15th century art work, especially the one's by Martin Schangauer. Some of the engravings needed to be under very dim light, to protect it from its delicate and vulnerable self from very old age. It also has various collections and paintings, sculptures representing renish art from the end of the middle ages to the Renaissance. Coming out from the museum was another surprise. The previously empty town, was suddenly filled with groups of tourists from Japan and Britain. Everybody had the look of a cheerful 5 year old. Many of the Japs brought their own drawing pads and paint brushes, sat in a corner...and painted.

Next was to the house where Frederic Auguste Bartholdi was born. Yup, the dude who sculptured the Statue of Liberty. Neighboring this is Pfister house and also the oldest house in Colmar. Then, went to Place Rapp, Bruat Fountain - monument of the commander of the french fleet (also work from Bartholdi). Next to this was a nice water tower. By 11.30 a.m, I covered most of Colmar (on foot), and enjoyed every second. Went back to my sister's place, then did the whole round again, this time together with her.

Learning to ski

2005-11-06T23:08:00.000+08:00

My first skiing experience...and I loved it. Had a one hour session with a skiing instructor to learn the basics, and the rest 4 hours was just pure fun. I must say, I didn't do bad at all...I fell twice trying to do some stupid stunts, but everything else was just fine. Check it ouuut..

Anyway, since it wasn't winter, we cheated a bit by skiing in De Uithof , an indoor skiing/snowboarding/ice-skating/wall-climbing/other-sporting dome. I love skiing, but it really is an expensive hobby, especially for a Malaysian myslef, the nearest skiing slope would probably be somewhere in Japan...ouch!

Say hi to the Malaysian Olympic Skiing Team (and their cute coach)

Starting fresh..

2005-11-06T22:45:00.000+08:00

I recently had my own blog at my own server using a free domain service. The free domain is having problems, and I really don't have enough time to administrate the server no more, so blogspot is the best next alternative I know.

If i have the time, i'll try and migrate my old blog entries. Have fun ..(or not)

About

2004-11-30T13:22:00.000+08:00

I dwell now where I was born - Petaling Jaya, Malaysia. It used be full of rubber plantations when I was a kid. Now it's considered a posh area, though I only live here because its convenient to get to work for both my wife and myself.

I'm happily married to Junn. I work for Shell and she works at ExxonMobil, so in the corporate world we really are rivals. But sometimes we're rivals at home too when I forget to throw out the garbage, or when she hogs up our internet bandwidth downloading chick flick movies.

Both of us love traveling, and eating good food. We've traveled most western European countries combined. I did some USA. She did some Brazil. Our next trip would be Japan, hopefully next year if we save enough money.

At work, I'm a Technical Lead for Global UNIX/Linux, where I have a few engineers working with me, mostly running systems and services for Shell businesses around the world. I play a lot with RHEL, RHNS, AIX, Solaris. I used to do a lot of Oracle. I also developed web applications using PHP. I consider myself well versed in MySQL and PostgreSQL. So UNIX/Linux, Web applicatons and Databases is pretty much my domain.

Outside of work I enjoy cooking, traveling and road trips. I'm sometimes a musician. I'm a drummer, pianist and a guitarist. I used to right my own songs for MY listening pleasure only - to other people its often more painful. I have an electronic drum set which I only used a couple of times, a Casio keyboard and a cheap wood guitar. It's not fancy, but its enough to let me go crazy. I used to have a band at university, and we won second place in a Battle of the Bands competition. We played Freebird by Lynard Skynard. I listen to Metallica, Smashing Pumpkins, Guns N Roses, Bon Jovi, so you can guess I'm more of a rocker. But classical and jazz is enjoyable too.