The Rat Race in Malaysia

Every year a commendable effort by The Edge-Bursa Malaysia, the RAT RACE, draws 100s of corporate chiefs and executives who take delight running in hot and humid Malaysia, braving sun and rain if may to raise record-breaking millions for charitable organisations.

The Kuala Lumpur Rat Race in the tradition that is the Rat Race (I aptly call it the Race Against Time---RAT Race), participants run in their office attire armed with laptops, PDAs, briefcases, mobile phones and some even sporting colourful hair-do’s with fancy dresses to match.

A usual over a hundred participating teams from both local and foreign, private and public listed companies, participate each year. This is an honourable cause which shows that being human isn't just about work and play, it is about giving back to society and caring for the community.

A Millionaire is the making: $2 a meal

The mushrooming of many a place offering a filling meal at $2 has come to my attention. So far I have given my business to the outlets in Bandar Manjalara, Bandar Mahkota Cheras, and even the one in Ampang New Village. I would say outlets as the owner is most probably the same enterprising person.

A relative of mine had the opportunity to make small talk with the owner and it seems that this gentleman is planning to open over a 100 of these $2 a meal concept restaurants in the Klang Valley. According to him the goal is not to make money as in getting rich quick. His philosophy is rather different and noble. He intends to educate people to be vegetarian. Yes thats right---its a vegetarian restaurant.

My first visit was not because I knew of the $2 a meal deal but rather because I had the itch to go vegetarian for the day and I was much surprised when I saw that a meal of 3 "dishes" with a plate of rice was only at $2. More so when I saw that besides the obvious they also had wantan mee, noodles, nasi lemak, and all at the same affordable price of $2. Water and tea is free.

The concept is rather simple. Self service - you queue up to order, pay and after finishing return the utensils, plates, cup, and whatever to the proper allocated bins with signage. Simple and cheap. I definitely would go gain sometime when I next become a vegetarian again for a day.

Malaysia Politics is not a Tsunami

I just wonder what people nowadays are thinking. Everything just about it has do do with "tsunami". Do they really know what the word tsumani means?

A tsunami (pronounced /(t)suːˈnɑːmi/) is a series of waves created when a body of water, such as an ocean, is rapidly displaced. Earthquakes, mass movements above or below water, some volcanic eruptions and other underwater explosions, landslides, underwater earthquakes, large asteroid impacts and testing with nuclear weapons at sea all have the potential to generate a tsunami. The effects of a tsunami can be devastating due to the immense volumes of water and energy involved. Since meteorites are small, they will not generate a tsunami.

The latest I heard of this word being used in error was in a radio ad while on the way to work. It was one advertising some amazing self help economic guru who had published some 45 best sellers on the topic of economic know-how; most obviously some sort of get rich DIY text. In this ad the word tsunami was used to described the current world economic situation. Economy, now does that in anyway remotely tie in to a natural disaster? I would believe that the current world economy is no more than a man-made disaster and definitely not some natural disaster (aka act of God in insurance terms).

Another classic example is how the not so recent March 2008 Elections held in Malaysia where my fellow Malaysians experienced a "sea" of change of having the long entrenched political coalition of some major political parties visibly denied a 2/3 majority in the ruling government of Malaysia. This they the ignoramus also termed a tsunami, a political tsunami they so say and wrote. I'm really disappointed but amused at the same time. Therefore before the next time it is used to refer wrongly to a situation that is not a natural disaster where most probably life and property is lost, please rephrase it.

Banana Leaf Rice: Careful where you eat it though

Banana leaf rice is a typical dish in South Indian cuisine.

In banana leaf rice, white rice is served on a banana leaf with an assortment of vegetables, curried meat or fish, pickles, and/or papadum. It is traditionally eaten with the hand although I do prefer to eat with my hands clean using the fork and spoon. Banana leaf is used as it is believed that the hot rice will release the coating on the banana leaf, which aids in digestion.

In Malaysia, Banana Leaf Rice is particularly popular among the locals. Kanna Curry House opened some time ago in Bandar Manjalara with neighbours Ambank (Arab Malaysian Bank to the unfamiliar) and a Chinese Food Court.

I thought I would try out the food sampling available and boy did I choose the wrong place to eat. Firstly, the servers there were authentic Southern Indians "imported" from India so there was a wee bit of a communication problem. Secondly, the prices they charge for Banana Leaf Rice is horrendously pricey - much to my dismay (although previously I did go for the typical roti canai and teh ais (iced-tehtarik) and the prices for these were so-so). Thirdly, the quality of presentation of what you may is very inconsistent.

Let me tell you how I fared in this fleece shop. I went over on a good ol' typically hot and windy afternoon for lunch. I stepped in the shop and proceeded to the counter where all the dishes were being kept warm via the electrically heated water thingajamig. Surprised that I didn't get the service I wanted, I walked out and sat at one of the tables at the patio (walkways - by the way it is against DBKL---City Hall regulations to place tables and chairs here, I would know since the restaurant I used to work with always had their business issued fines for doing so).

Anyway after a brief wait I was approached by the waiter/server and I gave him my order - Banana Leaf Rice and a teh ais, and he said not to worry as they will serve it over. Impressive I so thought at first. After some more waiting, the "leaf" arrived. It was a washed Banana Leaf cut to size. Thereafter another good few minutes of waiting before the rice arrived. Aside from the rice nothing else was really that warm or hot at all despite the earlier layout I witnessed. This was followed by a decanter held in hand by a server who then proceeded to lay a small scoop of each 3 different vegetable dishes next to the rice on the Banana Leaf. Being hungry I did not wait further but started scooping the food in. Then a another server came up and asked me if I would like a piece of Chicken, freshly fried, he said. I said ok and this cold piece of fried chicken was added to my leaf plate. Nearly finished by this time another server came up and asked me if I would like some papadum--an Indian flour-based cracker and proceeded to place one measly piece on my leaf plate but not before dropping a piece on the ground and another on the table. He asked me if I would mind having the one on the table as well. I of course said not.

A small group of 4 other customers said down at the next table and surveying what I was eating debated amongst themselves if they should have Banana Leaf Rice as well. The girl amongst them reminded them that it would be costly. Hmm she does know something about this place I thought to myself. When I finally finished what I had so uncleverly ordered to try out, I noticed that the method of serving was much different in their case as they had more various types of "condiments" on their leaf plates than mine.

All in all I paid over $20 for my meal and drinks (I had another teh ais since the first order they delivered wrong a teh limau ais and it was after all a hot day). Mind you the rice and vegetables were $4.20 for what I would normally be charged $2.00 at max elsewhere. For my meal that day I would have only been charged no more than $10.00 elsewhere -- that's 50% or half of what Kanna Curry Fleece-- oops I meant Kanna Curry House charged. I wonder how much the other table was charged...

Now don't get me wrong. I'm not dumb only naively trusting others as I believe that the majority of people do no wrong and even when they have I tend to forget and forgive.

Back to the issue of being fleeced, do not frequent or give your business to food venues which do not display their prices as required by law or who you think is not good value for your hard-earned (sometimes) cash.

Virtual murder an online reality

Police say woman logged on virtual reality game and ended ex's avatar.

TOKYO - A 43-year-old Japanese piano teacher's sudden divorce from her online husband in a virtual game world made her so angry that she logged on and killed his digital persona, police said Thursday.

She used his identification and password to log onto popular interactive game "Maple Story" to carry out the virtual murder in mid-May, a police official in northern Sapporo City said on condition of anonymity, citing department policy.

"I was suddenly divorced, without a word of warning. That made me so angry," the official quoted her as telling investigators and admitting the allegations.

Written by children

Can you imagine yourself to be the nun, sitting at her desk grading these papers, all the while trying to keep a straight face and maintain her composure!

PAY SPECIAL ATTENTION TO THE WORDING AND SPELLING. IF YOU ARE EVEN REMOTELY FAMILIAR WITH HOLY SCRIPTURE, YOU'LL FIND THIS HILARIOUS! IT COMES FROM A ROMAN CATHOLIC ELEMENTARY SCHOOL TEST. KIDS WERE ASKED QUESTIONS ABOUT THE OLD AND NEW TESTAMENTS. THE FOLLOWING STATEMENTS ABOUT THE BIBLE WERE WRITTEN BY CHILDREN. THEY HAVE NOT BEEN RETOUCHED OR CORRECTED. INCORRECT SPELLING HAS BEEN LEFT IN.

1. IN THE FIRST BOOK OF THE BIBLE, GUINESSIS. GOD GOT TIRED OF CREATING THE WORLD SO HE TOOK THE SABBATH OFF.
2. ADAM AND EVE WERE CREATED FROM AN APPLE TREE. NOAH'S WIFE WAS JOAN OF ARK. NOAH BUILT AND ARK AND THE ANIMALS CAME ON IN PEARS.
3. LOTS WIFE WAS A PILLAR OF SALT DURING THE DAY, BUT A BALL OF FIRE DURING THE NIGHT.
4. THE JEWS WERE A PROUD PEOPLE AND THROUGHOUT HISTORY THEY HAD TROUBLE WITH UNSYMPATHETIC GENITALS.
5. SAMPSON WAS A STRONGMAN WHO LET HIMSELF BE LED ASTRAY BY A JEZEBEL LIKE DELILAH.
6. SAMSON SLAYED THE PHILISTINES WITH THE AXE OF THE APOSTLES.
7. MOSES LED THE JEWS TO THE RED SEA WHERE THEY MADE UNLEAVENED BREAD WHICH IS BREAD WITHOUT ANY INGREDIENTS.
8, THE EGYPTIANS WERE ALL DROWNED IN THE DESSERT. AFTER WARDS, MOSES WENT UP TO MOUNT CYANIDE TO GET THE TEN COMMANDMENTS.
9. THE FIRST COMMANDMENTS WAS WHEN EVE TOLD ADAM TO EAT THE APPLE.
10. THE SEVENTH COMMANDMENT IS THOU SHALT NOT ADMIT ADULTERY.
11. MOSES DIED BEFORE HE EVER REACHEDCANADA.. THEN JOSHUA LED THE HEBREWS IN THE BATTLE OF GERITOL.
12. THE GREATEST MIRICLE IN THE BIBLE IS WHEN JOSHUA TOLD HIS SON TO STAND STILL AND HE OBEYED HIM.
13. DAVID WAS A HEBREW KING WHO WAS SKILLED AT PLAYING THE LIAR. HE FOUGHT THE FINKELSTEINS, A RACE OF PEOPLE WHO LIVED IN BIBLICAL TIMES.
14. SOLOMON, ONE OF DAVIDS SONS, HAD 300 WIVES AND 700 PORCUPINES.
15. WHEN MARY HEARD SHE WAS THE MOTHER OF JESUS, SHE SANG THE MAGNA CARTA.
16. WHEN THE THREE WISE GUYS FROM THE EAST SIDE ARRIVED THEY FOUND JESUS IN THE MANAGER.
17. JESUS WAS BORN BECAUSE MARY HAD AN IMMACULATE CONTRAPTION.
18. ST. JOHN THE BLACKSMITH DUMPED WATER ON HIS HEAD.
19. JESUS ENUNCIATED THE GOLDEN RULE, WHICH SAYS TO DO UNTO OTHERS BEFORE THEY DO ONE TO YOU. HE ALSO EXPLAINED A MAN DOTH NOT LIVE BY SWEAT ALONE..
20. IT WAS A MIRICLE WHENJESUS ROSE FROM THE DEAD AND MANAGED TO GET THE TOMBSTONE OFF THE ENTRANCE.
21. THE PEOPLE WHO FOLLOWED THE LORD WERE CALLED THE 12 DECIBELS.
22. THE EPISTELS WERE THE WIVES OF THE APOSTLES.
23. ONE OF THE OPPOSSUMS WAS ST. MATTHEW WHO WAS ALSO A TAXIMAN.
24. ST. PAUL CAVORTED TO CHRISTIANITY, HE PREACHED HOLY ACR IMONY WHICH IS ANOTHER NAME FOR MARRAIGE.
25. CHRISTIANS HAVE ONLY ONE SPOUSE . THIS IS CALLED MONOTONY

Humour is Good

Brother wanted
A small boy wrote to Santa Claus,'send me a brother'....
Santa wrote back, 'SEND ME YOUR MOTHER'....

Meaning of WIFE
Husband asks, 'Do you know the meaning of WIFE? It means 'Without Information Fighting Everytime'!'
Wife replies, 'No, it means 'With Idiot For Ever'!!!'

Importance of a period
Teacher: 'Do you know the importance of a period?'
Kid: 'Yeah, once my sister said she has missed one, my mom fainted, dad got a heart attack & our driver ran away.'

Confident vs. confidential
A young boy asks his Dad, 'What is the difference between confident and confidential? '
Dad says, 'You are my son, I'm confident about that. Your friend over there, is also my son, that's confidential! '

Anger management?
Husband: 'When I get mad at you, you never fight back. How do you control your anger?'
Wife: 'I clean the toilet.'
Husband: 'How does that help?'
Wife: 'I use your toothbrush .'

Positive Thought of the Day

Professionally every day could be a great day. You could make significant progress towards achieving your most ambitious goals by having the right attitude. Start your day right by being positive and this will have a powerful, very beneficial effect on anything to do with the things you do, and could offer you some excellent opportunities as positive actions receive positive results.

90.3 in the Klang Valley - Discover Malaysia Through the Right TRAXX

TRAXXfm - a one-stop holiday guide that will enlighten you about all the wonderful offerings that Malaysia has. They are already taking the country's airwaves by storm with a brand new presentation so get all geared up for an interactive and informative avenue on domestic and international tourism destination guides. The all new TRAXXfm also comes with great music, a wide reppertoire of everyting from the olde skool to the nu skool ranging from retro, R&B, dance, jazz, rock, right through world music and international hits. Listeners will also get the latest updates on everything under the sun when TRAXXfm's team goes 'LIVE' from their mini studio in MaTiC and everywhere in and around the country on location.

The deejays will also provide the latest updates and information on events in the country that includes sports, concerts, Tourism Malaysia linked events, state events and the latest and best information on food and beverages,through designated slots everyday from 9:00 am to 10:00 am and 12:00 pm to 2:00 pm. Bringing you the best, TRAXXfm also has numerous road shows and other visual radio programmes planned to get in touch on a more personal basis with listeners.

TRAXXfm is definately the right choice to tune in to as the station has something for everyone.

TRAXXfm started broadcasting in 1982 and the station broadcasted nationwide as well as to neighbouring Singapore, Brunei, and parts of Thailand. TRAXXfm is the only Malaysian Radio station that pioneered English as the medium for delivering its programmes when it started as Blue Network and then Radio 4 and the station also played an important role to educate, inform, and to entertain listeners. Currently, TRAXXfm operates 24 hours Live, focusing on great music as well as excellent talks shows and interaction between Deejays and listeners.

'TRAXX' derives from the word 'TRACK' and the 'XX' denotes the old tagline 'Xperience the Xcitement'.

Sex on the Beach

Sex on the Beach is one of many generic cocktails whose sole link is a reference to “doing it.” What’s in a name—indeed! Sex is often associated with cocktails, though such an observation would not surprise Freud or Kinsey, experts in the field. Sex on the Beach and its offspring are usually and appropriately called “shooters.” Sex sells, and these drinks are particularly formulated with the libido in mind. Some of the wildly inventive names are meant to titillate, while others are blatant forays into potty talk. Winston Churchill or James Bond would never sidle up to the bar and request a Bald Pussy or a Tony’s Screaming Weenie. The names of these drinks are clearly fraught with double entendre—”I’d like a Screaming Orgasm, if you please.” And as with real sex, these drinks come with their risks. The generally sweet but seriously potent concoctions go down so easily that multiple Orgasms will often lay the young toper out prone for the wrong reason. Not everyone wants Sex on the Beach. Joseph Scott and Donald Bain, in The World’s Best Bartender’s Guide, give the recipe for the variant Sleazy Sex on the Beach as follows: “Add 1 ounce of Grand Marnier, but only if you’re feeling particularly wasteful and have little respect for Grand Marnier.”
INGREDIENTS
2 ounces vodka
2 ounces peach schnapps
3 ounces fresh orange juice or grapefruit juice
2 ounces cranberry juice
INSTRUCTIONS
Stir all ingredients over ice in a highball glass.
Variations:
After Sex: Mix together 2 ounces vodka and 1 ounce crème de banane.
Orgasm: Mix together 1 ounce amaretto, 1 ounce Kahlúa, and 1 ounce Bailey’s Irish Cream. Absolut Sex: Mix together 1 ounce Absolut Kurant vodka, 1 ounce Midori melon liqueur, 1 ounce cranberry juice, and 1 ounce lemon-lime soda.
Screaming Orgasm: Mix together 1 ounce vodka, 1 ounce Kahlúa, and 1 ounce Bailey’s Irish Cream.

Ammonium bicarbonate from China

The import of ammonium bicarbonate from three manufacturers in China has been banned as the substance has been found to be tainted with melamine. Ammonium bicarbonate from Broadtech Chemical Int. Co Ltd, Dalian Chemical Industries and Tianjin Red Triangle International Trading Co Ltd has been categorised under Level 6 which means automatic rejection.Health Minister Datuk Liow Tiong Lai said having pinpointed the contaminant source, the ban of ammonium bicarbonate made by other China manufacturers would be relaxed to a “hold and test” status. Ammonium bicarbonate is a raising agent used in biscuit production and local biscuit makers get almost 95% of the ingredient from China. Liow said the tainted ammonium bicarbonate was most likely due to cross contamination as some factories that produce food-grade ammonium bicarbonate also produce other chemicals such as urea and melamine. There is no benefit in using melamine in biscuit production. Ammonium bicarbonate from other manufacturers in China has been placed under Level 5 (to be tested before release) and that from other countries has been placed under Level 4 (under surveillance). Liow, who was not certain of the market share of the three companies, was speaking to reporters after meeting 50 representatives from biscuit manufacturers and ammonium bicarbonate suppliers. Last week, Malaysia banned all import of ammonium bicarbonate from China after it was found to contain traces of melamine, leading to the recall of 18 types of biscuits from local makers Khong Guan and Khian Guan. Malaysia Foodstuff and Toy Merchants Association president Yeow Kock Tiong appealed to the ministry to relax the ruling on milk-related products from China from Level 6 to Level 5. “Many imported products are already in the market and they have been tested and cleared. “It is the same product and the same brand. Why bar them at the entry point when there have been no problems with the products?” he said.

Najib accepts portal’s apology

KUALA LUMPUR: Datuk Seri Najib Tun Razak has accepted the apology from the editor of news portal Malaysiakini over a report about his fake manifesto. “The journalist who wrote the article has also resigned as a sign of accountability over a fake story. This shows professionalism on her part,” the Deputy Prime Minister said at a press conference at the Parliament lobby on Wednesday. “I’m satisfied with the apology from the editor of Malaysiakini and also the journalist who has taken full responsibility over the story.” Najib, who is Umno deputy president, said the culprits behind the report are still hiding as no one knew who was responsible. Asked if any investigation would be carried out to determine who the culprits were, Najib said he would “leave it to the authorities”. He had earlier slammed the online report on the manifesto, which was attributed to him, calling it a complete lie and an attempt to tear Malaysia apart. The report carried the ‘manifesto’, in an e-mail from a purported “Najib Support Group.” It said the ‘manifesto’ was to back Najib’s bid for the Umno presidency. Najib’s office issued a statement on Monday denying that he had issued such a manifesto.

Jalan Alor’s renaming becomes hot news in cyberspace By LOONG MENG YEE

KUALA LUMPUR: The international media has picked up on the controversy over the renaming of Jalan Alor to Jalan Kejora. In Singapore’s The Straits Times online, the news made it into the Top Ten most popular read stories yesterday. Kuala Lumpur City Hall’s decision to rename the road also appeared in online versions of foreign agencies such as AFP and France24. Popular search engines such as MSN, Yahoo and Google posted the story on their news sites as well, so did information portals such as AsiaOne. The decision has drawn flak from almost everybody, including traders, tourists and residents. The issue is still being actively discussed at various online forums and the general consensus is €“ why fix something that is not broken? In his blog, Wangsa Maju MP Wee Choo Keong said that certain things, such as changing the name of a well-known street, just did not need doing. “Many people are not happy with the change and they are speaking up against it,” he said. On the Malaysian Bar website, reader Tan Peek Guat asked what benefit would City Hall gain by antagonising the people? The complaints had reached Federal Territories Minister Datuk Zulhasnan Rafique. He said that he understood the sentiments of the people as Jalan Alor was an international landmark and promised to listen to all sides. He said he had asked Datuk Bandar Ab Hakim Borhan for a report and a decision on the name would be made soon.

Don’t be stupid, Chong tells women By EDDIE CHUA

KUALA LUMPUR: If women want to be sexually indulgent with their lovers, they must also beware that the acts captured on videos and cameras may one day end up on the Internet. MCA Public Services and Complaints Department head Datuk Michael Chong said there had been six reports of such cases in the past 10 months. He said none of the women who complained to him was drugged or forced into sexual acts; they were all willing partners. “Women should not be so stupid. There were also cases where the men had used these pictures and videos to blackmail the women.” Chong was asked to comment about the case of two Malaysian women whose 200 intimate photographs with their boyfriend were posted on Oct 16 in one of the blogs that had exposed Hong Kong actor Edison Chen’s sex scandal. Both the local women, said to be popular among the foosball fraternity, were students of a local private university in Cyberjaya when the pictures and videos were taken between 2004 and 2005. Apart from posting the photographs of the threesome in compromising positions, the blog also provided links to download two videos featuring the women and their sexual encounters. The identities of the women, their background and circle of friends were also exposed after more pictures emerged of them attending private parties and going on holiday trips. The article was published on the blogsite after it received a tip-off from an Internet user identified only as “Zac Efron”.

Bright and Light is not always that obvious

Contrary to the traffic belief that motorists in general are more observant of bright and light colors, I tend to agree that it is more like a source of attraction. My car is a good light neon color and it draws IDIOTS like bees to honey. They are supposed to notice my car for the love of Malaysia!!!

There was this time an Equatorial Hotel catering lorry truck knocked into the back of my car. I was stuck in a common occurence in KL, a traffic jam, and this dear gentleman driving the offending vehicle just turned in to the road and knocked into my car. Unfortunately I was stationary all the time and couldn't avoid him even if I saw what he was going to do with cars and cars in front of me.

Traffic Log Gregorian Date 21-10-2008

I'm feeling pretty nice and perky this morning. It takes a lot to rattle o'l me from my nice morning. Bah! Had a run-in with some idiot wearing a DBKL (Dewan Bandaraya Kuala Lumpur - "Town Council of Kuala Lumpur - Kuala Lumpur is the capital of Malaysia - Malaysia is a country in Asia, located south of Thailand and just above Singapore) jacket colored red. Not that the color red drums up much passion or flares me up like a snorting bull in a prized bullfight arena, but the fact that I had stopped at the traffic light, between the MARA building and Pertama Complex, and this smart aleck (obviously devoid of brain matter) literally squeezed his way through nicking my side mirror in that frivolous act. I sounded my horn at him but instead of waving apologetically like what most motorcyclists in the bygone era of my youth used to do, he did like most modern Malaysian motorcyclist, he carried on nonchalantly without a care. Just what is it with people in Malaysia nowadays? I won't used the word Malaysians because my dear o'l country has become a gargantuan melting pot of sorts with people from poorer Asian countries making a beeline for our golden shores of opportunity (if you can call our beaches golden, that is). Things are not just what they used to be. I'm not a racist but just where are my friends that used to be a large majority and good mix of Malays and Indians? I don't think that after a successful over half a century long of having reduced British influence in Malaysia should have us now in this dreary position that we currently call Malaysian Life. Sorry. Back to the headline...now what gives a motorcyclist the right to travel in ALL directions and paths (Paths: road, pedestrian walkways, One-way streets, double line markings, in-between obstacles ie. cars, et cetera...and the list goes on). Who gives them the right to weave in and out of traffic or even hoot when a car needs to turn into the fast lane just because they are travelling right in the middle of the two lanes? What about making their way from left to right or vice versa with just a twist, at most a few, to indicate their direction --- and the mystery is just who is the smart one who brought about this change in regulation? Without the need for signal lights...

Cheapy the Cheapskate

Ever heard of the saying, "a cent for a cent's worth"? An eye for an eye, that's what I've heard almost too often but when it comes to getting quality and good value for your money; is a $1 really a $1's worth? This rings true in most cases when you engage an unscrupulous vendor to give or sell you his service/product. When you see that the quality of the same is way less than what you thought your money's worth is...but is it really true in such circumstances. For instance, if you buy a K-car but you expected an European finishing and quality, is that realistic or even possible? Satisfaction is very subjective to the individual and it is in this aspect that we must also remember there are guidelines and standards for acceptance. Bigger brands sell at higher prices and do you know why? It's not because of their exceptional quality, sometimes you get same and even better from lesser known brands, or even the processing that it goes through. Its because of the marketing $ that went into bringing about the product to you. So next time don't be too concerned about the brand. Think more in terms of whether it suits so, you like it, and of course more importantly, is it worth it.

Cheapy the cheapskate are those who are always out looking for bargains at the expense of other people, takes liberties with free items, and are willing to pay much less than the actual determined value of the product or service they want.

Massage Parlors in Malaysia

No matter where I go in Malaysia, this land of the warm and friendly Malaysians, I always come across the local health spa versions that are basically cheap rip-offs of the original trade-sake (sorry not so cheap by local standards) that "spews" out happy endings.

In my line of work, I've come across licensing applications from these so-called spas that are no better than a massage parlor which is a poor disguise for a brothel. The "ladies" in the world's oldest profession are licensed. Hmm.... impressive, and they are also therapists, beauticians, and masseuse....very very professional.

The "healing" centre will basically be located just about anywhere with masseuses who will parade in the waiting room for the customers. The customer makes his choice with his other head and what he sees and likes.

A friend of mine thinks that extra time is given if he's liked. Heck I don't know---all I hear are others telling me that they are shortchanged because the time always seem shorter. We see men go and come there. It’s sad to see them with a big smile on their way out. What is it that draws men to such places? Weakness or fondness, and if either just of what type? Maybe if these places really become legitimate and correctly licensed, then perhaps we won't have so much negativity surrounding it. Parlors like these are a dime a dozen...just don't ask for full-service.

Do before you die

Give it a hard thought. With all this hype about angst and such, what is it that fascinates us more and what is it that you need to do or have thought of doing (just before you go)? I'm feeling a bit dark today and hence this question that we should all ask ourselves...

Chicks are Hot and Dames are Cool

Just what exactly do people mean when they say that Chicks are Cool and Dames are Cool? Why can't Dames be Hot and Chicks be cool as well?

The answer lies in the common perception that age belies the person. As a female of the human race, the energy and allure of youth is often considered as hot, whereas when that same person gets older she becomes cool...

Are you UCHC?

To all the Uber Cool Hot Chicks in this world. Today is your day---word of caution: watch your spending. You don't need to spend to look in the trend...

(Who Watches The) Watchmen

An R-rated movie this outing is makes a pretty good watch by my standards. I admit I am a comics buff. The story is set in 1985 in the alternate reality where costumed superheroes exists and Nixon is the President of the United States. The story revolves around a group of superheroes, 6 actually, some whom are retired after an act of law is passed banning costumed vigilantes. The active ones remaining are Dr Manhattan (the only one who has any real superpowers), The Comedian, and Rorshach.

Director Zach Snyder in making the movie saved around $40million dollars by casting actors who were not typical A-list stars. He however has been pressured to make the film shorter and more audience friendly, something that he reluctantly agreed to.

The film stars Jeffery Dean Morgan, Billy Crudup, Patrick Wilson, Matthew Goode, Jackie Earle Haley, Stephen McHattie, Carla Gugino, and Malin Akerman. It will be released in 5 month's time (around March 2009).

Joe the Plumber

In the course of the exchange during the Presidential debate between Obama and McCain, the candidates made a national star of Joe Wurzelbacher, a plumber who confronted Obama about his tax policies Monday at a rally in Ohio. Both men addressed their remarks directly to “Joe the Plumber,” who would not say Wednesday night whom he would vote for. “It’s pretty surreal, man, my name being mentioned in a presidential campaign,” Wurzelbacher told The Associated Press.

McCain goes on the attack in final debate

Economic proposals spark sharp disagreement as Obama defends new plan.

Republican Sen. John McCain launched a heavy assault on Democratic Sen. Barack Obama’s judgment and experience Wednesday night, making a last-ditch effort in the final presidential debate to change the course of a campaign moving decidedly in his opponent’s favor.McCain bore in on details of Obama’s new $60 billion proposal to address the country’s economic problems, saying they would mean steep tax increases for many Americans. Under the proposal, which he unveiled Monday, Obama would offer tax breaks for companies that create jobs, eliminate penalties for early withdrawals from retirement accounts, postpone foreclosures and boost federal outlays to states and cities.“Why would you want to raise anybody’s taxes right now?” McCain asked. “We need to encourage businesses.”

Paris Hilton is looking for love (and in all the wrong places)

Save Paris! Paris Hilton is looking for (platonic) love in all the wrong places: reality TV shows. In her latest endeavor, "Paris Hilton's My New BFF," which premiered on MTV Sept. 30, a group of hopeful sidekicks compete for the position of Paris' new "best friend." Oh, Paris! You need... more someone who can trip Dina Lohan on her way to the ladies room; someone who dutifully holds your hair out of your face while you hurl Rich Pressco into the bushes outside Chateau Marmont. Is some regular, nonfamous person trained and able to do all that and gaze with tasteful adoration as you shove the bartender aside to dance on the bar? Of course not! Here are top 10 suggestions for a friend who can place that extra "F" in BFF ...

High School Musical 3 (aka HSM)

What will become of Troy and Gabriella? Will Sharpay finally get over herself? And, more importantly, what will they be wearing?

Its worth the wait and a watch.

'Las Vegas of the Middle East'

Dubai has been called the Las Vegas of the Middle East, with its carefully cultivated image as an oasis of liberal entertainment set amid an expanse of conservative countries like Saudi Arabia.The Saudis ban alcohol and require even foreign women to wear enveloping black robes in public. In contrast, alcohol flows freely in Dubai's hotels and women can wear bikinis on city beaches.But what most foreigners don't know — and what the government is not advertising — is that beneath the liberal facade is a legal culture based on Islamic laws and tribal rules that looks a lot more like Riyadh than Las Vegas.While the laws are not always enforced, it is illegal for couples in Dubai to hold hands, hug or kiss in public — much less have sex on the beach.

Britons jailed, fined for sex on Dubai beach

DUBAI, United Arab Emirates - A Dubai judge on Thursday ordered a British couple jailed for three months for engaging in sex on a public beach this summer. Judge Hamdi Mustafa Abu el-Khair sentenced Michelle Palmer and Vince Acors to three months in jail, a fine of $350 and deportation from Dubai after serving their sentence. The two defendants were not in court to hear the verdict their lawyer on Thursday vowed to appeal.The clash of cultures between residents and the foreigners who flock here to work and play came to a head in the trial of Palmer and Acors, who were accused of having intercourse in public after meeting hours earlier at an all-you-can-drink champagne brunch.

Oops! Gas station charges 35 cents per gallon

Accidental pump discount sparks 90-minute frenzy in Wisconsin...

WISCONSIN RAPIDS, Wis. - Sure, gas prices have come down lately. But to 34.9 cents a gallon?That's what Kelly Joosten and dozens of other motorists paid at a Citgo station Monday. The sign advertised $3.43 for a gallon of premium fuel, but the pump cost read $0.349 a gallon."That was amazing," said Joosten, who normally spends about $100 to fill up her 1998 Ford Expedition.

`Porno' a five-letter word

LOS ANGELES (AP) -- Kevin Smith made a movie with such a bothersome title he cannot even place ads for it in some places.

Some newspaper, TV and outdoor ads for Smith's comedy "Zack and Miri Make a Porno" have been rejected because of their content or the five-letter word that ends the title, said Gary Faber, head of marketing for the Weinstein Co., which is releasing the film.

Among those refusing to carry ads are about 15 newspapers and several TV stations and cable channels, Faber said. Commercials for the film during Los Angeles Dodgers games on Fox Sports were dropped at the team's request after some viewers complained, said Dodgers spokesman Josh Rawitch.

Some playfully risque ads with images of "Zack and Miri" stars Seth Rogen and Elizabeth Banks were forbidden by the Motion Picture Association of America, which called the ads "highly sexually suggestive and not suitable for general audiences."

The company developed a version of the stick-figure poster without the film's name, bearing the slogan, "Seth Rogen and Elizabeth Banks made a movie so outrageous that we can't even tell you the title."

More on winning the Lotto and its free

SIMPLE STRATEGY TIPS ODD-EVEN LOTTO NUMBER TIPS
When you select your Lotto numbers, try to have a relatively even mix of odd and even numbers. All odd numbers or all even numbers are rarely drawn, occurring less than 3 percent of the time. The best mix is to have 3/2 or 2/3 which means three odd and two even, or two odd and three even. One of these two patterns will occur in 68 percent of the drawings.

HIGH-LOW LOTTO NUMBER TIPS
Winning numbers are usually spread across the entire number field. If we take a number field and cut it in half, we have the low half and the high half. In a 52-number game, numbers 1 to 26 would be in the low half, and numbers 27 to 52 would be in the high half. All high numbers or all low numbers are rarely drawn, occurring only 3 percent of the time. The best mix is to have 3/2 or 2/3 which means three high and two low, or two high and three low. One of these two patterns will occur in 64 percent of the drawings.

LOTTERY NUMBER GROUP STRATEGIES
Look at a list of past winning numbers for the Lotto game you play, and you'll see, more often than not, that one or more of the number groups is not represented. For example, in the combination 5-14-30-32-43-52, there are no 20's. Tracking and studying Number Groups can help you decide which group to omit and which group to give extra heavy play.

LOTTERY GAMES SKIPPED STRATEGIES
List the number of games skipped (games out) since the last hit (win) for each of the winning numbers during the last five games. Then mark the number of times each skip occurred. If any skip from 0 to 5 did not occur, play the Lotto numbers that are out that many games. (Help working with lotto games skipped.)

LOTTO NUMBER SUM ADVICE - PLAY A BALANCED GAME
After you choose five numbers you want to play, add them together and make sure that the sum of the six numbers adds up to somewhere between 106 and 179. Sums that fall within that range will account for over 70 percent of all lottery jackpots won.

REPEAT HITS LOTTERY TIPS
In the 6/52 MEGA Millions, on average, one lottery number will be a repeat hit from the last drawing every other drawing or 42 percent of the time.

HOT NUMBER LOTTERY SECRETS
Numbers that have been out (losers) for six games or less account for about half of the winning numbers. Losing numbers that have been out for 10 games or less account for about two-thirds of all the winning numbers. Losing numbers that have been out for 13 games or less account for about three-quarters of all the winning numbers. This tells us that hot numbers are more likely to hit, but don't forget to include at least one long shot in your group of 6.

COLD NUMBER LOTTERY SECRETS It is difficult to know when a cold number will end a long losing streak. If you play a number every drawing because you think it is due, you could be chasing it for many months. Although, when a number has been out for 70 games or so, it might be worth chasing.

Lottery Pools and Lottery Syndicates POOL YOUR WAY TO LOTTO RICHES
Several of the 101 lotto jackpots won were won by groups of people who pooled their money. Sharing the ticket cost with others stretches your Lotto budget. By playing with a group, you can afford to buy more lottery tickets—and play larger wheeling systems—than you could (or should) by yourself. Draw up an agreement and have the members of your pool sign it. When you form a Lotto pool, your group is also pooling its aggregate luck. A jackpot could happen because of the luck just one member brings to your pool. Select your partners carefully. Share your luck with winners, not losers. Avoid negative people. Not only are they unlucky, but they dampen enthusiasm and drain energy from others. You want to enhance your own luck, not dilute its strength. One quick way to tell winners from losers is simply to ask them: "Do you think you are a lucky person?" Many people quickly admit, "I'm unlucky. I never win anything." They won't bring good luck to your group either. CASH IN ON A POSITIVE ATTITUDE No one should play games of chance out of desperation because they need the winnings. The needy have a greater fear of losing the hard-earned money they gamble with. It is just one of life's dirty tricks that the very fear of losing blocks the winning forces. Thoughts are charged with energy, especially when triggered by emotion. Fear attracts exactly that which one fears. A strong desire for a goal that is charged with positive energy, attracts a positive response, especially when every effort is made to attain that goal.

AVOID NUMBER COMBINATIONS THAT HAVE BEEN DRAWN BEFORE
Many players like to bet the numbers that have won someone else a big jackpot, and by doing so, they are almost guaranteed NOT to win one themselves.

AVOID BETTING CONSECUTIVE NUMBERS
Even four consecutive numbers is a very rare occurrence that, in most Lotto games, has never happened once.

AVOID BETTING ONE LOTTO NUMBER GROUP
Never choose all six numbers from one number group, such as all single digits, or all teens, or all 20's, etc. All five winning numbers drawn from one group is highly unlikely.

AVOID THE COMBINATION 1-2-3-4-5-6
The most popular set of numbers most often played is: 1-2-3-4-5-6. Thousands of tickets are bought with this combination every drawing. The selection is too far out of balance to come up in a random drawing.

AVOID PATTERN BETTING
Pattern betting is an even more popular method of marking bet slips. Patterns of numbers marked in a row to make a straight line, either across the bet slip vertically or diagonally get heavy play—which means sharing the prize with others if the numbers are drawn as winners. Other designs such as patterns of initials or numbers or crosses also get heavy play.

AVOID NUMBER MULTIPLES
Other popular combinations that get heavy play are the number multiples, especially 5-10-15-20-25-35 and 7-14-21-28-35-48.

AVOID ALL SAME LAST DIGITS
Many people like to play same last digits, such as 3-13-23-33-43-52, or all digits that end in seven, or some other favorite lucky number. Even four same last digits occur in less than two-tenths of one percent of all drawings. Winning sets of numbers with no more than one repeated last digit represent nearly 90 percent of all drawings.

AVOID LOW NUMBER COMBINATIONS
The majority of Lotto players like to play the calendar numbers, such as birth dates and anniversaries—and their children's ages. This means that the most heavily played numbers are 1 through 31. MEGA Millions has 52 numbers. If you play only the calendar numbers, you might be sharing your jackpot with dozens of other winners. It's not to say that you shouldn't play your personal numbers if you feel they are lucky for you.

In Lotto, the Trend is Your Friend---hogwash or good sense you decide...

How to win - A free lotto strategy that guarantees your chance at winning

Similar to the ideology that if you do little wrong, its a little wrong, and if you do a big wrong, its the mother of all wrongs, and if you don't do anything you are never wrong. Applying the same concept to winning the lottery and attempting to hit the jackpot of mega millions, you have at least a chance of striking and winning the lottery if you buy at least a ticket. With your single betting slip, you are at least guaranteed an opportunity, without it you get zilch. This advice is free but your bets are not. Remember, one last bit of sagely advice---bet only within your means....

Never accept cash without a record

Especially when you're working with friends or relatives. I had this bad experience with a relative who insists that he paid me cash for a contractor's invoice. Funny thing was there was no record of any sort except the fact that there was an invoice and a call from the contractor demanding payment. Excuse me but I do have some confidence and personal principle when it comes to money. End of the matter was that the relative agreed to pay reluctantly but then again that left a lot of bad blood abrewing because he still thinks he's right and so do I. So if you ever chance to come across such incidents, do not ever accept cash without a record. Of course there were times as well when the customer insisted that he paid cash for my services...

Los Angeles Wildfires Blamed for One Death According to Mayor

Atlanta, Ga. 10/13/2008 07:25 PM GMT
The Los Angeles wildfires that have threatened the suburbs surrounding the downtown area of the city have been blamed for at least one death according to Mayor Antonio Villaraigosa. Reports have indicated the death occurred in the San Fernando Valley where fires have charred 3,700 acres since Sunday morning. No details of the death have been released. A second wildfire ignited on Monday in the hills above suburbs in San Fernando Valley.

Dilly the Radio DJ

Dilly has a great voice and a wonderful personality. She's a sweet gal and I just love to listen to her and JD over the Malaysia Red FM (104.9 in the Klang Valley) on the Red Evening Drive (Mon - Fri @ 4 - 8PM). She's also a Female Voice Over Talent and a Freelance make-up artist according to her webpage at http://www.dillyshakir.com --- I'm tuned in...but just wish that she changes her profile pict soon...

Click to Order

A few minutes ago I was ready to buy a book online. I thought it would help me. I love reading and I often do that, because I have trained myself to extract value from everything I read.

It was a cheapie, barely $20, but could be worth it. Anyway, it seemed a no-brainer purchase.

Sooo, I dutifully clicked through the form. I filled out my name and address. I filled out my phone number. I filled in my pet iguana's name. I filled in my height (I'm a little taller than Eric Tsang by the way). I filled in my grandpa's reading habits. I filled in our weather (weltering hot sunny, 35 degrees C here at 1.40pm).

In fact, I spent good time filling in every blank I could find. Then...

"Click to Order."

Imagine my surprise - on the next screen I was informed that the book was a real one. Paper pages. Whaat! Who sends real books these days? Then the second shock. The shipping cost was almost twice the price of the book. Now, I don't know about you, but to pay twice the price and wait maybe 20-25 days for paper-based information was not for me. That guy lost a sale.

But I learnt from the experience.

Running a Country should be like running a Club

Face it. We all live in our own little communities that make up this wonderful world in a planet called Earth, one of the little planets in a solar system out of many galaxies that are out there. We all need a place we can relate to, a place to come back or visit, a place to sleep, eat, and procreate.

I liken a country to a club because we are all members of at least one and while we respect the individual, or should at least attempt to, the wants and dictation of the majority rules. People who do not abide the club rules are penalized. Like a BBC (Billionaire Boys Club) a country draws its members and grows. People associate wealth with success and like generates like. When the club coffers are full, the maintenance of its facilities is done properly and the members benefit. Unfortunately, the cake is only this big and as in a club membership is always limited. The next resolution would be to open a branch elsewhere, but then again a country can't just "open a branch" elsewhere unless they colonized or seize another country which again is not right.

Weekend blues that's life....

Lizzie Berkley (Elizabeth)

In 2008, Berkley signed on to star in a multi-episode arc of CSI: Miami, in which she plays Horatio Caine's (David Caruso) ex-lover, Julia Winston, who is also the mother of his recently discovered son. The episodes which Berkley appeared in were very highly rated and all of them featured in the top 10 Nielsen ratings chart.She has since appeared in the show's season six finale and has confirmed that she will be returning for season seven in the fall. Too bad she's married but she still has that wow factor.

The House Bunny (2008)

Anna Faris rocks and not just with a widening of the eyes and a shimmy of the ta-tas. I last saw her in Scary Movie, back then she sucked. But what would you expect from a movie of such genre. Now she stars in the gaily laughable, formula comedy The House Bunny — and she gives an A+ performance in the kind of farce from which she's more than ready to graduate. Faris plays Shelley Darlington, a Playboy Bunny banished from Hef's mansion on the grounds she's way old: 27, which is, she's told, 59 in Bunny years. Homeless, the cheerful waif stumbles her high-heeled way onto a college Greek row. And before you can say Zeta Alpha Zeta, she becomes house mother to a sorority of losers in danger of having its charter revoked because they can't recruit any new losers to join them.Wisdom from Shelley to her Zeta girls: ''The eyes are the nipples of the face.''

Search Web on Facebook Via Microsoft Live Search

It's been almost a year since Microsoft invested $240 million in Facebook. What does that type of cash get you these days? A search box, apparently. Facebook announced this week that it will include an option to search the Web via Microsoft Live Search without leaving Facebook.com.

"By integrating web search into Facebook, you can increase the information available to share with your friends, family and coworkers on the site," according to a Facebook blog post. Not quite sure what your friend's latest status update means? Google--uh, I mean, Live Search it in the Facebook search box on the upper-right-hand corner. A drop-down menu will give you the option to search the term within Facebook.com or on the Web. Live Search will produce search returns within Facebook, but clicking on a link will produce a pop-up window directing you to your link of choice. Facebook said it is "working on a number of other new ways to leverage all the web has to offer" but did not provide additional details. Facebook made no mention of whether search terms will show up in a users' news feed, but let's hope the social networking site has learned its lesson on that front after the Beacon debauchal.

True Friends

True friends understand you best and offer a solution or just a strong shoulder when life is at its worst. And they’re usually the first to celebrate with you when life is wonderful.

Vodafone and Verizon to offer new touch-screen BlackBerry

Research In Motion is taking on Apple with a BlackBerry phone that puts a new twist on touch-screen technology.

RIM is known for its e-mail-oriented phones with large keypads. With the new model announced Wednesday, called the Storm, RIM is giving up for the first time the physical keypad in favor of a large screen, similar to the one on the Apple iPhone.

But RIM has listened to users who find the iPhone's glass screen awkward to type on because its virtual buttons provide no tactile feedback. The Storm's whole screen is backed with springs; when pressed, it gives under the finger.

The long-rumored Storm will be available before the holidays from Verizon Wireless in the United States and from Vodafone Group in Europe, India, Australia and New Zealand, the companies said. The price has not been announced..

The iPhone's facility with Web browsing and movie playing are big reasons for its appeal. The Storm will initially lack an equivalent of Apple's iTunes movie store, though shorter clips will be available through Verizon Wireless's VCast service.

As a Web browser, the Storm more closely emulates the desktop experience than the iPhone does. That is because the screen can distinguish between light touches and firm pressure. A light touch can move around a cursor, while firm pressure activates a link, much as moving a mouse cursor has a different effect from clicking a mouse button, said Mike Lazaridis, co-chief executive of RIM.

Google puts tunes from YouTube a click away

Google introduced a new type of e-commerce ad that YouTube users can click to buy digital goods from Apple's iTunes or Amazon.com.

In its continuing effort to find a way to make money from its YouTube unit, Google introduced on Tuesday a type of e-commerce ad that YouTube users can click to buy digital goods from Apple's iTunes or Amazon.com. Under the new program, viewers of a video with a music track, for example, would be able to click on an icon to download that song from one of the two music stores.

Obama campaign geared for attacks

The Obama campaign said it was expecting the "nastiest attacks" yet as McCain trails in polls and Democrats have built a lead in voter registrations.

S. Korea aims to end stigma of adoption and stop 'exporting' babies

Just how much, though, is the critical question as the South Korean government is pushing aggressively to increase adoptions by South Koreans and decrease what officials consider the shameful act of sending babies overseas for adoption. Since the 1950s, tens of thousands of South Korean children have been adopted by foreigners, mostly Americans, because of South Koreans' traditional emphasis on family bloodlines and reluctance to adopt.

To bolster domestic adoptions, the government last year began offering $90 monthly allowances per child for those who adopt children up to 12 years old, as well as more generous health benefits for the children. Even greater health benefits are now given to adopted disabled children. The government also made it easier for South Koreans to adopt. Single people can now qualify, as well as older ones. Until last year, prospective adoptive parents could be no more than 50 years older than the child; now the age gap has been increased to 60 years. In addition, the government has made foreign adoptions more difficult by imposing a five-month waiting period before children can even be considered for overseas adoption. It also increased payments to foster parents to try to keep children inside South Korea longer and increase their chances of being adopted domestically. The government's goal has received much media attention and popular support here. But adoption agencies and some adoptive parents and experts say the government's new policies are concerned less with the children's welfare than with saving face. Increasing the age gap and allowing singles to adopt have lowered the standards for domestic adoptions in a way that could be detrimental to the children, they say, even as the government has created unnecessary obstacles to foreign ones.In recent years, adoption agencies have conducted campaigns — some featuring movie and TV stars — urging adoptive parents to tell people about how their families were formed in the hopes that more openness would lead to less prejudice. The government's efforts got a boost when some celebrities adopted and went public with the news. Still, many adoptive parents choose not to share how their families were formed, according to adoption agencies, with some engaging in elaborate ruses to pass off the children as their biological sons or daughters.

Central banks coordinate global cut in interest rates

In a move of unprecedented scope, the world's major central banks lowered their benchmark interest rates Wednesday, a coordinated effort to halt a collapse of share prices and a freeze in credit markets that threatens to set off the first global recession since the early 1970s. The action failed to calm gyrating markets, however, amid the growing realization that a serious and prolonged recession may be difficult to avoid. The Federal Reserve, the European Central Bank, the Bank of England and the central banks of Canada and Sweden all reduced primary lending rates by a half percentage point. Switzerland also cut its benchmark rate, while the Bank of Japan endorsed the moves without changing its rates. In another monetary first, the Chinese central bank joined the effort — without explicitly saying it was doing so — by reducing its key interest rate and lowering bank reserve requirements to free up cash for lending. The Fed's benchmark short-term rate now stands at 1.5 percent. The European Central Bank's is 3.75 percent.Taken together with other moves in the United States, Britain and Continental Europe in the last few days, the rate cuts look like part of a broader, global strategy that embraces aggressive use of monetary policy and taxpayer recapitalization of ailing banks, generating cautious optimism among crisis-weary analysts.

U.S. may take stakes in banks

Having tried without success to unlock frozen credit markets, the Treasury Department is considering taking ownership stakes in many United States banks to try to restore confidence in the financial system, according to government officials.

Treasury officials say the just-passed $700 billion bailout bill gives them the authority to inject cash directly into banks that request it. Such a move would quickly strengthen banks' balance sheets and, officials hope, persuade them to resume lending. In return, the law gives the Treasury the right to take ownership positions in banks, including healthy ones.

Traffic Today

I'm definitely not amazed by the quality of car drivers on the roads. We Malaysians can and are many things, and one of these is the fact that we can be and are real monsters on the road. We could wish that these people clean out the filthiest bus station latrine with their own face, if you know what I mean.

Just when things are starting to come together quite nicely and we are enjoying our sometimes smooth cruise --- Malaysia is a land of many traffic jams --- on the highways and city roads, along comes the occasional idiot who will annoy you (perhaps I should rate them on the same level as the Road Mosquito aka Malaysian Motorcyclist). They won't buzz you but they surely do annoy you.

Just this morning a Hyundai swerved into my lane from the opposite side without even giving a consideration that my vehicle was in the way. Just yesterday I did the same but I swear I really didn't see the oncoming traffic and the fact that the particular vehicle was cutting in as well from a one-way lane the wrong way didn't help either. But this moron today practically made eye contact and still went ahead.

Well the powers-that-are have created this problem that I don't see a solution, so the next best thing is to drive carefully even more and of course pray hard.

Smarter and more confident

TRUST. Trust in yourself and believe that you are smarter and more confident. Know that you can see and rely on your instincts as correct and begin to trust yourself more. The more you do, the more confident in your own instincts and abilities you become. The occasional disappointment that will occur is only a part of your learning and growth curve and will make you stronger.

And October's emphasis is...

The emphasis is on money this month: how to get it, keep it, grow it and spend it. The global crisis is sending shockwaves into each and every nation where there is a financial market and it does not seem to be over too soon. Better be prepared if not already otherwise the consequences may be dire. Buckle-up and weather out this storm period.

Along with acquiring and using money in smart ways are issues concerning credit, debt, interest rates and the way your money is being managed. Look at the housing market and stock market. You are advised to do very careful research during the advanced 3 weeks before applying for loans or credit. Instead of spending additional money on new items, do what you can to pay down existing debt. If you're stretched to the max, remain as calm as possible and check out any and all options that help you protect yourself, your income and quality of life. Job seekers may get jobs but not receive the same level of pay that they would have a year ago.

If you're not on the jagged edge financially, don't quickly make any final decisions that affect your finances. Take your time, you'll have a better view of things. You'll also be treated with greater respect. You may also be paid more or receive benefits that you wouldn't ordinarily get.

If you feel pressure to make a choice and hurry through a process, don't. If at all possible, keep yourself steady, focused and calm for just a few more days. If you jump the gun or feel so nervous about money that you agree to less than ideal terms and sign documents, you're likely to be at a loss. Rewards and opportunities are only what you make of them. Remain calm and very hopeful - and you'll probably be better off.

Sad day as Malaysia PM announces step down

Wednesday, October 8, 2008, Kuala Lumpur - Prime Minister Datuk Seri Abdullah Ahmad Badawi announced to a packed conference room on the 39th floor of the UMNO headquarters that he would be steeping down as Prime Minister of Malaysia in March next year. Looking dapper in a dark-striped suit and tie, Pak Lah as he is fondly called by many, reminded the crowd to publish only what was in his statement and not deviate from it. It was indeed a sad day for Malaysia and as a Malaysian I too feel an obvious sense of loss and slight despair. This great and former icon of good governance and statemanship that I have good memories of will soon be fading out of the political scene in Malaysia. Whatever its worth it is worth mentioning that his past achievements were nothing short of great and it is in this respect that I personally feel that he should remain active (perhaps behind the scene) to provide a check and balance in the government. Oh Pak Lah where will you go? Please stay active for the sake of country and its people. Hidup Pak Lah!

Not feeling optimistic?

You're not feeling all that optimistic about recent plans? These plans may just prove to be unrealistic. Take a deep breath and move away. That's just the first step toward success, though, as long as you're willing to change course. If something didn't turn out as you'd hoped today, don't beat yourself up over it. When you fail or when you succeed, all that matters is YOU.

Managing by Profile and Saving Cost at the same time

Once you profile your business into specific areas and categories, start by identifying the costs associated with each of those categories. Surely there are better ways of doing it and by so identifying your costs you will be able to decide whether they are necessary or can be reduced or even be improved. use benchmark data to create your custom cost reduction assessment. This os what I term cost reduction assessment and it helps to define the opportunities at hand. Examples of the categories that are important are: Salary and Staffing, Project Portfolio & Business Management, Supplier (Vendor) and Outsourcing Management, and Discretionary Items. When you manage your business well, you stand to win.

I'm thinking of this day October 8, 2008

That I look forward to happiness and harmony. That I have always enjoyed the gifts of happiness and harmony that people tend to shower on me, ensuring that I enjoy great happiness in my relationships. After all, I'm actually quite easy to please. All I need to feel happy are little gestures from my loved ones, to prove their affection and to give me something in return for the kindness I have shown towards them. At work, almost nothing can upset me. I have a lot of confidence in me and my ability to find creative and ingenious solutions to any problems I encounter is a boon. Even if when I do tend to get a little hypersensitive, I know how to preserve a calm exterior under any circumstances, enabling me to react in the right way. I am me so therefore I am I and I inspire confidence!

Making Good Conversation

Have you ever been surrounded by new people and been nervous about what to say? Well don't because it doesn't hurt to talk and listen, and listening of course is the biggest secret of all good conversationalists. It's easier to talk than to listen.

Making successful small talk with someone you've just met isn't rocket science, but having said so its more than having to remember standard open liners (which you shouldn't). Be natural and concentrate on the person you are making good conversation with. If you show that you are interested, you'll be surprised at how quickly people open up.

Here are practical "tips" to get you started for starting a conversation when you don't know what to say or when talking to a complete stranger (caution on the latter: with the crime rate nowadays you may not wish to be just talking to anyone let alone a complete stranger).

Be positive and be lavish with your compliments. A mild form of flattery as this is will most probably get you everywhere. People are reciprocal. They by nature are inclined to think well of you if you show you think well of them. Importantly leave sex out of it.

Be observant of the surroundings, what people are wearing, eating.... Notice those points and make good remarks of them.

Be politely inquisitive and interested in their life, hobbies, and interests. You can be off the hook with this one as the conversation will quickly move up a notch once you talk about a subject which they are interested in.

Don't ask questions which will draw a monosyllable yes or no answer. If the question does get such a reply, drag it further by thinking like a reporter: Ask who, what, when, where and why. Instead of, "Did you see the latest Robert Downey, Jr. movie?" try, "What did you think of it?"

Listen, really listen, to the other person. Shy people who have trouble making conversation are so anxious about what they are going to say next that they don't listen to what the other person says. Every answer to your intriguing questions opens up new conversational avenues to explore. Follow up on those leads. As an added bonus, the more you concentrate on the other person, the less your palms will sweat, the fewer words for you to stumble over. And your new acquaintance is bound to be charmed by your astute appreciation of his or her own sterling qualities.

World Cosplay Summit 2008

The sixth-annual World Cos-Play Summit in Nagoya, central Japan, drew 28 contestants from 13 countries, including China, Brazil, Germany, Italy, Singapore, South Korea and Thailand. The two-day contest will named a winner on Sunday. Japan is serious about aggressively promoting animation and the culture that it represents overseas. The country has been trying to use the power of pop culture to raise its clout on the international stage, recently appointing cartoon cat robot Doraemon as an ambassador.