I was only 6 when our nation achieved independence. I have little collection of the happening then. What I remember were events that took place during my school days. There were lots of program for us school kids. I was always taking parts in cultural shows, elocution contests, big walks........in the name of nation building. I took part in those programs despite having to help my parents with the daily chores: I had to carry drinking water from the public paip to my rakit home; I had to collect empty milk cans from the back of kopitiams and clean them for my mum's coffee stall (to carry take-away drink) and I had to baby sit my younger siblings..........Life was tough but I had fun.
In the neighbourhood, my sisters and I were called Yah, Ti, Nab,and Yam by our Malay Friends. We had Pok Su and Pok Ya who would give us free kelubi and sugar cane whenever they stopped by on their way to the market. Mok Su would give us extra 'tepung bungkus' (malay kuih) for our purchase.
I grew up in a melting pot. I was aware of the differences between my Malay friends and I. I was fine with it when I was young, I was fine with it when I joined the teacher training college in the 70's and now as we celebrate our 52nd Merdeka Day, I am still fine with it. Merdeka! Merdeka! Merdeka!
Sunday, August 30, 2009
Monday, August 3, 2009
August 3rd 2009 -A Hectic Day
The Nightlines started and Abang sat up on the couch to wish me Happy Birthday. Then, off he went upstairs to go to bed. Thank you dear for the good gesture. I knew he was very tired from driving the distance from our kampung to USJ the previous day. God Bless you,dear, for being there always.Ameen.
It took me a while to fall asleep. At 5.00 am my cell phone alarm was right on time. Just like the past 3 times, I quickly got ready. Said my Subuh prayer and waited downstairs. This time, my boy, N, his wife and baby son were a bit late. But they remembered to wish me happy birthday with a book on MJ's life. The traffic to Shah Alam was more congested but bearable and I kept praying for a smooth journey. Ours was no. 4th car at the parking bay and the area still deserted. By the time we arrived at the Immigration Department, there was already a long Q.
Again N looked agitated after he left the front counter and went to the writing counter. I went up to him. He was given new forms to fill. He did not understand why he needed to fill them and he did not have extra photos of his wife and son. I too was rather annoyed because their visa extension applications ware pending so why the new forms!! Then I recalled one lady's outburst during our 1st visit: 'Setiap kali datang, borangnya lain! Baris lama-lama, disuruh isi borang baru dan kena baris semula. Datang awal-awalpun tak guna!!' Anyway, my boy proceeded to the front counter and was given number 2003 and 2004 for counter "Penggajian" .
I couldn't bear his stressful look, so I went up to counter 4 and asked a young lady, not in uniform and about to photocopy documents, for some explanations. Thank God, she was so helpful. She made a few inquiries and explained to me and N. Anyway, we still could not comprehend why we need to fill the new application forms!
My grandson has been given 6 months visa extension but not my daughter-in-laws. Why? I have yet to comprehend. After paying RM 662 for his son's visa, as usual, N was asked to go back and fetch the passport at 3 pm. The wife has been given 3 months extension but that would be in one week time. N looked at me. I knew the SOS look. I volunteered to travel up again next week and accompany his wife to the department since the officer said only one of them has to be present. And so that he need not take leave from his probational job. Oh, for you, my loved ones, I am all ready for the hassle!
After a refreshment at the usual restaurant, we headed for home as I needed to be in KLIA at noon as Adik was arriving from LA. She had gone to San Diego 10 days ago for The Comic Conventions with her two comics artist pals. Since the arrival time was 1250, so Abang and I thought pushing off at noon would be just fine. Just as we were leaving the house, Adik massaged to say that the plane was docking. It was an early arrival and we were 20 minutes away! Anyway, I told Abang not to rush as Adik needed time to reach the main exit. Adik and I kept in contact via cell phones. Thanks Maxis for the free calls on my birthday. It's a blessing in disguise indeed. The timing was perfect. We arrived just as Adik appeared with her pals at the main exit. So no parking and no exposure to the airport air for long. Syukur Alhamdulillah. Eisu's mum was waiting so we wisked Adik away and homeward bound.
We stopped for packed lunch at the restaurant. Adik's favourite lala lemak makes her drooled. I guessed any local food was just fine after a week of processed foods!
After lunch, Adik excused herself and retired to her room promising our gifts after her sleep. Some more anticipation. Adik promised me soft toys. From her 2007 trip I received Willy, the killer whale. Wonder what would it be this time.
N left for Shah Alam and I waited for the plumber whom I called before leaving for the airport. Ah San, the plumber arrived with his new assistant. Michael has quit the job and has gone back to Sabah. He was a good and polite worker. The automatic valve in the water tank needed replacement. The leakage in the bathroom warranted new external piping. Ah San estimated it at RM180 + RM 380. I looked at Abang, the bargainer. Ah San agreed to do for RM500. Beggars got no choice. The leakage had done enough damage to the room floor and the ceiling downstairs!
After 2 hours or so, repaired done. The bill came to RM530 because I asked for a "pushing' pipe head! I commented to Abang that it would only cost us about RM 300 in the kampung!
About 6.30pm. Adik was still sleeping and Abang gave N money to go get pizza for my birthday dinner. We could not go out for all-you-can eat steamboat 'cause Adik had to go through home quarantine for a week due to the A H1N1 pandemic. Syukur Alhamdullihah. I have the most precious gift for my birthday. This time, my hubby, my son, my daughter, my daughter-in-laws and Adam Hajime, my most lovable grandson are with me. What more could I have asked for?
What a day! My birthday.
It took me a while to fall asleep. At 5.00 am my cell phone alarm was right on time. Just like the past 3 times, I quickly got ready. Said my Subuh prayer and waited downstairs. This time, my boy, N, his wife and baby son were a bit late. But they remembered to wish me happy birthday with a book on MJ's life. The traffic to Shah Alam was more congested but bearable and I kept praying for a smooth journey. Ours was no. 4th car at the parking bay and the area still deserted. By the time we arrived at the Immigration Department, there was already a long Q.
Again N looked agitated after he left the front counter and went to the writing counter. I went up to him. He was given new forms to fill. He did not understand why he needed to fill them and he did not have extra photos of his wife and son. I too was rather annoyed because their visa extension applications ware pending so why the new forms!! Then I recalled one lady's outburst during our 1st visit: 'Setiap kali datang, borangnya lain! Baris lama-lama, disuruh isi borang baru dan kena baris semula. Datang awal-awalpun tak guna!!' Anyway, my boy proceeded to the front counter and was given number 2003 and 2004 for counter "Penggajian" .
I couldn't bear his stressful look, so I went up to counter 4 and asked a young lady, not in uniform and about to photocopy documents, for some explanations. Thank God, she was so helpful. She made a few inquiries and explained to me and N. Anyway, we still could not comprehend why we need to fill the new application forms!
My grandson has been given 6 months visa extension but not my daughter-in-laws. Why? I have yet to comprehend. After paying RM 662 for his son's visa, as usual, N was asked to go back and fetch the passport at 3 pm. The wife has been given 3 months extension but that would be in one week time. N looked at me. I knew the SOS look. I volunteered to travel up again next week and accompany his wife to the department since the officer said only one of them has to be present. And so that he need not take leave from his probational job. Oh, for you, my loved ones, I am all ready for the hassle!
After a refreshment at the usual restaurant, we headed for home as I needed to be in KLIA at noon as Adik was arriving from LA. She had gone to San Diego 10 days ago for The Comic Conventions with her two comics artist pals. Since the arrival time was 1250, so Abang and I thought pushing off at noon would be just fine. Just as we were leaving the house, Adik massaged to say that the plane was docking. It was an early arrival and we were 20 minutes away! Anyway, I told Abang not to rush as Adik needed time to reach the main exit. Adik and I kept in contact via cell phones. Thanks Maxis for the free calls on my birthday. It's a blessing in disguise indeed. The timing was perfect. We arrived just as Adik appeared with her pals at the main exit. So no parking and no exposure to the airport air for long. Syukur Alhamdulillah. Eisu's mum was waiting so we wisked Adik away and homeward bound.
We stopped for packed lunch at the restaurant. Adik's favourite lala lemak makes her drooled. I guessed any local food was just fine after a week of processed foods!
After lunch, Adik excused herself and retired to her room promising our gifts after her sleep. Some more anticipation. Adik promised me soft toys. From her 2007 trip I received Willy, the killer whale. Wonder what would it be this time.
N left for Shah Alam and I waited for the plumber whom I called before leaving for the airport. Ah San, the plumber arrived with his new assistant. Michael has quit the job and has gone back to Sabah. He was a good and polite worker. The automatic valve in the water tank needed replacement. The leakage in the bathroom warranted new external piping. Ah San estimated it at RM180 + RM 380. I looked at Abang, the bargainer. Ah San agreed to do for RM500. Beggars got no choice. The leakage had done enough damage to the room floor and the ceiling downstairs!
After 2 hours or so, repaired done. The bill came to RM530 because I asked for a "pushing' pipe head! I commented to Abang that it would only cost us about RM 300 in the kampung!
About 6.30pm. Adik was still sleeping and Abang gave N money to go get pizza for my birthday dinner. We could not go out for all-you-can eat steamboat 'cause Adik had to go through home quarantine for a week due to the A H1N1 pandemic. Syukur Alhamdullihah. I have the most precious gift for my birthday. This time, my hubby, my son, my daughter, my daughter-in-laws and Adam Hajime, my most lovable grandson are with me. What more could I have asked for?
What a day! My birthday.
Sunday, July 26, 2009
Tibute to Yasmin Ahmad
Approximately 12.20 am 26 July 2009, the Nightlines news was interrupted by the sad announcement of Yasmin Ahmad's passing. At age 51 and at the helm of her career, she is gone forever. Still in shock, I text Adik who is attending Comics Convention in San Diego with her pals. They just could'nt believe it. Adik has little interest in local films but not Yasmin's. That is the impact Yasmin has on the youngsters who are Star Wars, Indiana Jones oriented.
Yasmin's passing is a great loss not only to the film industry but to all of us, Malyasian, who cherish family values and racial harmony and who are tired of the stereotyped local celluloid entertainments.
In her works, she taught us to express our love to our family; to share love with our helper, friends and neighbours be it black or white; and to love our country.
In her dispositions, she taught us self-confidence, assertiveness, go where your heart desires, never say die, "senyum itu sedekah" and Malaysia Boleh.
In her death, she taught us "Health is Wealth". Never compromise your health. Going for excellance, Yasmin encountered endless obsticles. She is internationally acclaimed yet locally, she has not received her due. To you out there, who are sour grapes, who gave her hardships and did not recognise a gem when you saw one, shame on you, stress contributers !!
To you, Yasmin, you are one of a kind; you are trully 1Malaysian! May you continue to inspire more talents in your field to carry on your legacy. RIP and may Allah swt place you among the blessed ones. Ameen. We will miss you on Hari Raya, Chinese New Year, Deepavali, Christmas and everyday.
To Yasmin's family, my family and I wish you well. Our hearts and prayers go to you at this hour of grief. Alfatihah.
To all of us, Malaysian, let's carry on Yasmin's good works and aspirations in whatever way we can. Let's help our PM make 1Malaysia comes true and soon.
Yasmin's passing is a great loss not only to the film industry but to all of us, Malyasian, who cherish family values and racial harmony and who are tired of the stereotyped local celluloid entertainments.
In her works, she taught us to express our love to our family; to share love with our helper, friends and neighbours be it black or white; and to love our country.
In her dispositions, she taught us self-confidence, assertiveness, go where your heart desires, never say die, "senyum itu sedekah" and Malaysia Boleh.
In her death, she taught us "Health is Wealth". Never compromise your health. Going for excellance, Yasmin encountered endless obsticles. She is internationally acclaimed yet locally, she has not received her due. To you out there, who are sour grapes, who gave her hardships and did not recognise a gem when you saw one, shame on you, stress contributers !!
To you, Yasmin, you are one of a kind; you are trully 1Malaysian! May you continue to inspire more talents in your field to carry on your legacy. RIP and may Allah swt place you among the blessed ones. Ameen. We will miss you on Hari Raya, Chinese New Year, Deepavali, Christmas and everyday.
To Yasmin's family, my family and I wish you well. Our hearts and prayers go to you at this hour of grief. Alfatihah.
To all of us, Malaysian, let's carry on Yasmin's good works and aspirations in whatever way we can. Let's help our PM make 1Malaysia comes true and soon.
Wednesday, July 22, 2009
Long Lost Blog
Syukur Alhamdulillah. I'm back on this site after this while. When I started it in 2007, I was a real rookie in the cyber arena. But I had so much fire in me that I needed a venue for it to continue burning. Somehow, after 3 postings I was cought up in many things in life that I sort of stopped blogging and forgot all about it!!! Now that I have retired and have more time to myself, I have been exploring quite a bit and by chance and still have 'jodoh with it' I am back on this site. God's willing I hope to be able to continue doing so for a long time to come. And for that, I have so much to learn about life as blogger.
Saturday, September 22, 2007
Why ?
Little Nurin is finally laid to rest witnessed by all walks of life and off course by the very person out there that tortured and murdered her. Her father who finally accepted her demise said the one who did that to her is not human but animal. No,no. Animal kills for survival. This is the work of devil.
He is a devil? He is possessed by the devil? He couldn't help himself? He was an abused child himself? He is a mad man? Who is he?
He did it once. Got away. He did it second time. Still got away.
His third victim never lived to tell her story. Why was Nurin held captive the longest ? Was she the most 'interesting' prey?. Or was it the sense of security that he felt since the hand of law not long enough to reach him twice before ? Did he expect to come to this ? Was he deceived by Nurin's bubbly disposition when in fact she was having high blood and kidney problem?
Why did he dispose of her little body the way he did? Why didn't he just dump the body in the river or by the dump site? Did he shed tears when she died? Was he fearful at that moment?
A month; 4 weeks, Nurin was held and repeatedly assaulted. Why did no one hear anything, see anything and suspect anything? Where did he hold her captive? In a cave? In "lubang cacing"?
Her father said that God love Nurin More. Why God allowed such fate to befall such a sweet child? I'm told there is a reason for every happening. So why this? Does it take death to make people really look harder, more thorough for the devil ?
May you rest in peace little one. May your death means many many things to many many people for a long long time.
He is a devil? He is possessed by the devil? He couldn't help himself? He was an abused child himself? He is a mad man? Who is he?
He did it once. Got away. He did it second time. Still got away.
His third victim never lived to tell her story. Why was Nurin held captive the longest ? Was she the most 'interesting' prey?. Or was it the sense of security that he felt since the hand of law not long enough to reach him twice before ? Did he expect to come to this ? Was he deceived by Nurin's bubbly disposition when in fact she was having high blood and kidney problem?
Why did he dispose of her little body the way he did? Why didn't he just dump the body in the river or by the dump site? Did he shed tears when she died? Was he fearful at that moment?
A month; 4 weeks, Nurin was held and repeatedly assaulted. Why did no one hear anything, see anything and suspect anything? Where did he hold her captive? In a cave? In "lubang cacing"?
Her father said that God love Nurin More. Why God allowed such fate to befall such a sweet child? I'm told there is a reason for every happening. So why this? Does it take death to make people really look harder, more thorough for the devil ?
May you rest in peace little one. May your death means many many things to many many people for a long long time.
Tuesday, August 28, 2007
New Venture
Finally the e-book I have purchased got delivered. Its late delivery have me worried for having fallen victim to internet scam! So Jason Tan at http://www.OnlyInMalaysiaMah.com/?ref=kartina51 is genuine after all. Thank you Jason, for giving me back internet trust.
It is about how to do e-business the fast, simple and Malaysian way. I'm kind of trying out a new field which in real life scares me a great deal. I'm too shy to approach people to promote any kind of sale at all. Unlike my mum who is a 1st class sale person though she has never attended school !!
So what the hack am I doing ? Getting myself into a no no land ? I must be crazy or what ?
Maybe the idea of not having to face the potential client make it attractive or maybe I did inherit some of my mum's ability and is waiting for the right time to manifest itself !!!
Anyway, I still have a lot to do to start my e-project. HELP!!!!!!
It is about how to do e-business the fast, simple and Malaysian way. I'm kind of trying out a new field which in real life scares me a great deal. I'm too shy to approach people to promote any kind of sale at all. Unlike my mum who is a 1st class sale person though she has never attended school !!
So what the hack am I doing ? Getting myself into a no no land ? I must be crazy or what ?
Maybe the idea of not having to face the potential client make it attractive or maybe I did inherit some of my mum's ability and is waiting for the right time to manifest itself !!!
Anyway, I still have a lot to do to start my e-project. HELP!!!!!!
Monday, August 27, 2007
1st Entry
Three weeks into retirement. There seem to be endless things to do. The plants need rejuvenating, the house needs dusting and cleaning, the cats need pampering,........ all these have been neglected far too long ! Who says retirement is boring?? Wish there is more to 24 hours a day.
Sue says to take it easy, there will be plenty of time for everything. Wish I could believe that. It's 6.20pm right now. I need to take a break though I would like to write more on this blog that I have just created. Guess it has to wait. Will be back soon.
Sue says to take it easy, there will be plenty of time for everything. Wish I could believe that. It's 6.20pm right now. I need to take a break though I would like to write more on this blog that I have just created. Guess it has to wait. Will be back soon.
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