'My Little Jottings'

ADHD or not ADHD

2011-04-13T22:24:00.000+08:00

Differing opinions from doctors can be very confusion for anyone dealing with medical or psychological conditions. My son was first diagnosed with ADHD by a child psychologist and was later re-diagnosed as normal by a pediatrician. He said it was his expert opinion my son did not have ADHD. Why? Simply because my son did not display the classic symptoms of a child with ADHD. According to the doctor, my son would have bounced up and down in his clinic that was filled with toys and interesting objects. My son instead sat quietly on the chair waiting to be diagnosed.

As much as I was relieved to hear that, I do question the manner in which he diagnosed my son. It was a quick 10-minute observation. I do agree he was well behaved at the clinic but it was due to the fact that it was a new environment, a new doctor starring at him and well, everything was new, thus the quiet composure.

After reading so much about ADHD and the symptoms, I was quite sure my son has it. Especially, the part on being impulsive. There are many other signs too like excessive talking, lack of attention, hyperactivity, temper tantrums and many more. These 'symptoms' as they call it, are consistent everyday.

So, I am still not sure if the second opinion is right or for that matter even the first one. You see how confusing it is? You think by going to a doctor, you will at least be sure of the answer. Perhaps I should go for 5 opinions and weigh my decision on the number of 'Yes ADHD' or 'No ADHD'. The one with the most will determine my child's condition.

I guess when he was diagnosed with ADHD for the first time, I felt at ease not because I have an excuse. But I felt I understood why he behaved in a certain way. Even he could not help his situation. It was no longer about bad parenting or having deprived him of love. I was sad yet not surprised but at the same time, I was quickly trying to move into my next step - research and help my son overcome this condition. I was determined to get him on track - with new diet, exercise and natural healing techniques.

Nothing has changed, the new diet plan and new yoga exercise is in progress. Still no signs of improvement but I am confident with consistency in the programme, undivided attention and with all the love and care, he will overcome whatever condition he is in today. ADHD or not...

Overcoming Challenges with ADHD

2011-03-18T19:39:00.008+08:00

Its been a challenging day. Nothing out of the ordinary though. The usual tussle in getting my son to brush his teeth, sitting on his throne, having breakfast, doing his homework, eating lunch and dinner. In between, the temper tantrums, kicking his baby brother, experimenting on his baby brother i.e putting little things into his mouth, placing his cup of milk on the floor and giving it a kick, kicking anyone he sees and shouting.

Although there was nothing out of the ordinary here, I felt a little different this time. The challenge of handling him became tougher after knowing he has ADHD. While the discipline is consistent, I had to constantly remind myself that whatever he did was unintentional and he had no idea why he was doing it.

So do I punish him or do I just talk to him? Do I ignore him? I did all of it, as I believe my son is very intelligent and he has no problem understanding clear instructions. He simply chooses to ignore them. Depending on the severity of the issue at hand, I will either punish him or simply talk to him. Others that are not too urgent, i ignore them for the sake of both us.

I believe when a child is constantly given clear directions and is reminded why its important to behave and follow certain rules, it will eventually sink deep inside their subconscious mind. With strong foundations and values, even the most difficult child will be able to remember the guidance drummed into them during their childhood days.

Of course the key is to be consistent.

Surviving ADHD

2011-03-17T15:03:00.005+08:00

The day my son was diagnosed with ADHD (Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder), I was sad, confused and even a little angry but I wasn't surprised. I needed a confirmation but I suppose deep down I didn't want to be right. I realized he isn't exactly an ordinary Joe, which prompted me to see a child psychologist in the first place.

He is 4 1/2 years old and he has all this while been hyperactive, aggressive, unable to sit still, impulsive, destructive and very sensitive. We also see him as a boisterous little fellow who is full of life, love and amazing vision and intelligence. He understands everything he listens to and watches.

So it was only normal for us to think, he demonstrated what any child, at his age would do and that it only gets better as he grows older. Denial? Perhaps. But in all fairness, I did take him to a clinical psychologist at a hospital in Subang when he was 3. She told me it was too early to diagnose him with ADHD or anything and that I had to wait at least another year to be sure. Well, that's that and we are sure now. But he's going to be 5 soon and therapy becomes much more difficult.

If there is one lesson I learnt from here, it's to always listen to your intuition. When you think something is not quite right or normal, seek help immediately. Even as a baby, he hardly slept. He woke up almost every hour at night and needed to be rocked to fall asleep. During the day, he slept only for 10 minutes at the most for every 5 hours he was awake. Stressful? You bet! Normal? Certainly not!

But despite consulting pediatricians, nothing helped. It was just brushed off as something that I had to live with- a child who had trouble sleeping. After 2 years old, he was better at sleeping. But his terrible two started at 18 months and its an on-going affair till today.

Now, after speaking to the psychologist, I find out, its not normal and babies who do not get enough sleep would eventually have problems.Things could have been different if therapy had begun when he was at least 3 years old. However on a more positive note, its not too late! I am determined to make life easier for him and for all of us.

I will be consulting another doctor to double confirm if its ADHD on Thursday. Hope that goes well. Meantime, I am literally at the computer researching on ADHD and alternative methods to help my son. Top of the list is his diet and Dr Bach's flower remedies.

I will be posting his progress and how we are 'surviving ADHD'. So here's to my new regime and programme-willing to try anything and giving an update on his well-being.

TO A HAPPY 2009!!

2008-12-31T19:37:00.003+08:00

My new year resolution : Lets stay positive and centred no matter what happens. May 2009 prove to be a prosperous, happy and healthy year.

Obama, the New President of America

2008-11-05T22:46:00.004+08:00

The world celebrates Barack Obama's win as the first African-American president of the United States. Indeed its a historic win over Republican John McCain. Today, Obama is one of the most powerful man in the world.

Read his victory speech below.

Tuesday, November 4th, 2008, Chicago, Illinois: Text of President-elect Barack Obama's victory speech in Chicago on Tuesday, as released by his campaign:

If there is anyone out there who still doubts that America is a place where all things are possible; who still wonders if the dream of our founders is alive in our time; who still questions the power of our democracy, tonight is your answer.

It's the answer told by lines that stretched around schools and churches in numbers this nation has never seen; by people who waited three hours and four hours, many for the very first time in their lives, because they believed that this time must be different; that their voice could be that difference.

It's the answer spoken by young and old, rich and poor, Democrat and Republican, black, white, Latino, Asian, Native American, gay, straight, disabled and not disabled - Americans who sent a message to the world that we have never been a collection of Red States and Blue States: we are, and always will be, the United States of America.

Read More

Yoga is for everyone

2008-10-30T12:30:00.006+08:00

But the National Fatwa Council doesnt think so. The report in the Star: The National Fatwa Council will soon come out with a ruling on yoga exercise.

The Islamic Development Department’s deputy director-general (operations) Othman Mustapha said the council’s chairman, Prof Datuk Dr Abdul Shukor Husin, would make the announcement.

Othman told reporters this after opening the two-day seminar on Islamic Jurisprudence and Eternal Islamic Thinking at Universiti Sains Malaysia here yesterday.

On Tuesday, lecturer Prof Zakaria Stapa of Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia’s Islamic Studies Centre advised Muslims who have taken up yoga to stop practising it as it could deviate from their belief.

I think most Muslims would agree that nothing would deviate their belief in Islam, if they are true followers. I have been practising yoga for more than 2 years now. I dont remember learning anything about Hinduism nor have I become a pious Hindu as a result of yoga.

Yoga has made me more positive, centred, alert, healthier and happier.

Okay, here's a clear definition of yoga. Its not a religion. (maybe they feel since it originated from India more than 3,000 years ago, it must be something controversial??)....hhmmmm

Yoga is really a science to perfect one's physical and mental state. For me, it is a way of life to experience enduring health and happiness. And if you think its easy to achieve this, you must be joking!!

There is no short cut to it- my yoga teacher cannot stress enough on the importance of practice, practic, practice. Yoga is my only escape from the world that bombards us with unhealthy practices and bad news. It is a wonderful retreat where I am in harmony with myself and my surroundings.

With Yoga I am able to rectify my system and ensure I improve the quality of my life and my loved ones.

So, it will be a pity if my dear Muslim friends cannot experience this wonderful science.

Reporter Released

2008-09-14T09:43:00.000+08:00

The Sin Chew Jit Poh reporter was released yesterday. On why she was arrested under ISA in the first place : Home Minister Syed Hamid Albar said that Tan was detained because of alleged threats on her physical safety.

So, let me get this straight. She was arrested because there was a threat on her life but the person and his supporters behind the alleged threat is still at large? Okay, so ISA is not only used on those who are a threat to the public and country but also to protect people under threat. What lame excuse...

If that is not enough Syed Hamid also implied that the reporter was to be blamed for the public furore over the ‘Chinese squatter’ remark. Of course, its all her fault for doing her job and having the guts to expose uncouth 'leaders'. And Ahmad Ismail is the poor innocent bystander.

Well, one thing for sure, these actions will not intimidate people. ISA is used by insecure Government who has failed!

A BLACK day in our country

2008-09-13T10:10:00.000+08:00

The police have arrested Malaysia's leading blogger Raja Petra Kamaruddin, a reporter for the Chinese-language Sin Chew Daily Tan Hoon Cheng and an opposition politician, the Selangor senior state executive councillor and Seputeh parliamentarian, Teresa Kok under ISA yesterday.

Raja Petra, was charged in the Sessions Court on Aug 15 on three counts of criminal defamation over his statutory declaration on the murder of Mongolian translator Altantuya Shaariibuu. Tan Hoon Cheng is believed to have been arrested over her report on former Bukit Bendera Umno division chief Datuk Ahmad Ismail’s racist remarks while campaigning for the Permatang Pauh by-election last month.

Kok is believed to have been picked up in connection with a residents petition in Puchong over a mosque. She was allegedly accused by the former mentri besar Datuk Seri Dr Mohd Khir Toyo. (We dont even know if he has prove of this. Can I then accuse someone of inciting racial remarks just to see them arrested under ISA?)

Although it was anticipated, one was hoping it would not take place. Well, I suppose one cannot blame the Government, as they are left with no option! They needed drastic action to shut everyone up. Like they say, when all else fail, use the ISA.

While the Government continues making these grave mistakes, those detained under ISA becomes more powerful and popular - and rightfully so.

The man who made the racist remark, former Bukit Bendera Umno division chairman Datuk Ahmad Ismail, was not taken to task. He is a free man!!

We pray for the safety and well-being of those arrested. We hope they will be release soon.

To old school mates...

2008-09-08T17:58:00.000+08:00

Having to meet old school mates after more than 15 years is truly exciting. More so to quench your curiosity of how they may have turned out to be. Are they successful, married, still single, with kids etc etc..

I had a pleasant time meeting up with some of my junior school mates at a friend's wedding last weekend. It's good to see these boys doing well and have become responsible adults.

Many I couldnt recognise. Some I really wanted to see but could not make it, others looked the same. I felt strange travelling down memory lane- the emotions and feelings stuck with these memories have become part of me.

I wonder why I never kept in touch with them. Old school mates are probably the ones who know you the best when you were in school.

Anyway, these junior boys have become men. What was I thinking?? Of course they grow up. Infact, some of them have strong opinions about the country, its policies and the government. I am quite sure, someday they too will become leaders.

To my old school mates from PD High School - cheers!

New Morning by Yeo Yang Poh

2008-03-11T11:18:00.000+08:00

A well written article worth the read

The 8th day of March 2008 is a milestone in Malaysian history; and the 9th, the following day, witnesses a new morning.

For half a century, Malaysians (for a variety of reasons both real and imagined) have got accustomed to living under a political monopoly, believing and fearing that any substantial change would be detrimental to their own interest. It was, in part, an indoctrinated fear.

That psychological shackle of fear has now been broken.

The Barisan Nasional (including its predecessor), having ruled the country since independence, is naturally wondering why its iron-fisted monopoly has been so suddenly and unexpectedly breached. For the sake of moving the nation forward, this enquiry, if it can be carried out with brutal and painful frankness, will be a meaningful one.

The reasons for this moment of truth are multiple and complex, almost too numerous to list. But I suggest that they include the following:

(a) There is no denial that the coalition formula was necessary for the attainment of independence. The spirit of working together, as equal partners, was both admirable and essential. Equal, that is, though not in terms of numbers, but in terms of rights and responsibilities. However, over the years, the gradual erosion of this spirit, brought about by the greed for power and wealth, has betrayed the essence of the coalition formula, and has turned it from a winning formula into an oppressive one.

(b) To maintain power and control, it became expedient to arrange politics according to race, in order to divide and rule, first along racial lines, and then along religious ones. The coalition becomes equal only in the payment of lip service. It gets increasingly difficult to convince the affected persons that this is a partnership of equals, while their representatives are compelled to continue insisting that it is.

(c) The preoccupation by the ruling elite in pursuing personal power and wealth, fuelled by an unbroken string of successes no matter how audacious their conduct has become, has entrenched a culture of ignoring the genuine needs and wishes of the people. The citizens' voices of appeal may grow louder and louder, but are met with either deaf ears or insincere promises that are repeatedly broken. Those who dare to turn up the volume of their complaints are harshly dealt with. But the people cannot be fooled forever. Carrots delivered just before each election might have worked for a while, but cannot work indefinitely. And the people cannot be cowed forever.

(d) For decades Malaysians with genuine grouses or who wish to offer solutions for societal problems were told to work "within the system". "If you want something (that ought to be yours in the first place), come and work within the system" is the fatherly decree issued throughout the years. That might be acceptable if the system in fact works. Alas, most experience of working within the system soon became "begging the system", with small successes and huge frustrations. Is it surprising, then, that a time will come when the people will say that enough is enough?

(e) A system of the above nature allows sycophants and leaders with personal agenda to thrive, while those who wish to reveal the truth and improve the lot of the people are at best ignored and at worst persecuted. Such is the perfect recipe for an eventual downfall.

(f) The above expanding phenomena, and many others, have manufactured a host of fatal problems such as endemic corruption, depletion of national resources, inequity in the distribution of resources, abuse of power, and the like; in short, an unfair society. It is a matter of time before simmering discontent acquires an erupting force.

(g) Arrogance on the part of the ruling elite (again because of their unbroken record of successes and the fear tactics that they have no reservation in using) makes them blind to the repeated warnings that things are about to boil over. The use of threats, splashed on the front pages of newspapers in the days leading to the election, sickened many, and probably backfired. Some of those threats had clear racial undertones. It was Malaysians who, in casting their votes, had surprised the Barisan by rising above racial divide (such as in Penang and Klang). The Barisan has underestimated the growing maturity of the Malaysian electorate.

There are of course many more reasons and causes than those mentioned above. If the Barisan wishes to regain lost ground in the future, it needs to sincerely pay heed to frank advice, and remedy its serious shortcomings.

Now that the political monopoly has been broken in a number of States, and the future prospect of breaking the same at the federal level has become an attainable goal rather than a dream, the Opposition (which is now the ruling party at some State levels) has a mountain of work ahead. So much hope is pinned on their shoulders.

Among the most important things that the Opposition must do are the following.

(i) They must never forget, not even in their sleep, that their much-improved victory is not their victory, but the victory of the people. Thus they must serve the people with humility and dedication. They should be proud, not of their success, but of the people who have enabled them to succeed.

(ii) Having been in the opposition for so long, some of them need to quickly learn the ropes of governing. Teething problems are inevitable. Be transparent and frank to the people, and remedy any errors as soon as they are discovered. While the people expect perfect bona fide and honesty, they will be forgiving about imperfections in the execution of tasks, when things are done transparently.

(iii) Identify and divide tasks into various categories: those that require urgent attention, short-term goals, long-term policies, and so on. Set timelines for each task, though not cast in stones, and make every effort to keep to them. Engage or employ the right people for the right jobs. Outsource if need be.

(iv) Pay immediate attention to issues that are most burning to the people, such as the economy, poverty issues, equitable distribution of resources and opportunities, security, etc.

(v) Set up effective oversight mechanisms immediately, especially in relation to financial matters, the processing and granting of permits and contracts, and corruption in the public sector. This must include a strict monitoring of the members of the Opposition themselves, to ensure that no corruption or cronyism is practised.

(vi) Set up effective mechanism to receive and address complaints from members of the public.

(vii) Opposition leaders at all levels, and in particular the top leaders, must ensure that there is no in-fighting among themselves, for this will quickly destroy the faith that Malaysians have placed on them by giving them this opportunity that is hitherto unprecedented in Malaysian history.

The challenge for the Opposition in the coming months and years is a huge one. There will be many more ways to fail in this challenge than to succeed. They have to be always vigilant, honest and humble. Opposition members are not exempt from frequent visits by the demons of human weaknesses. The same people who have put them there can as easily reverse the decision if they should betray the faith placed in them.

Checks and balances are essential for any system of government. This new morning in Malaysia will in the long run benefit all Malaysians, whatever their political persuasions may be. Let us all get down to hard, honest work.

Yeo Yang Poh
9/3/2008

Why Malaysiakini domain blocked

2008-03-11T11:16:00.000+08:00

It is at least good to know that the domain was not blocked on purpose why wrongly assumed.

500,000 visited Malaysiakini on poll night
Mar 10, 08 7:54pm
Over half of million people visited Malaysiakini on election night last Saturday as the results were announced.The traffic was so high at 11pm, that the ‘Malaysiakini.com' domain was blocked by the company in United States which hosts the website's domain name."We were well prepared for the anticipated traffic despite that Malaysiakini was made free. We put in additional servers, stripped down our page to make it lighter and faster to download and we have six mirror sites in place," said the online website editor-in-chief Steven Gan."What we did not foresee was that the domainâ€‘name server which is in charge of directing traffic to our Malaysiakini servers had an automatic shutdown system when it detects extremely high traffic."This automatic trigger is to stop an attack on their server â€‘ and here again, we cannot be certain whether it was indeed an attack or simply phenomenal traffic."According to Gan, domain name server's task is to serve as a ‘post office'."Put simply, the ‘post office' suddenly received tons of mail addressed to Malaysiakini which they considered junk mail, and they decided not to deliver them."Malaysiakini was quick to redirect traffic through another address."We were the only news organisation giving up-to-the-minute results on the elections. Not surprisingly, traffic grew to over 500,000 users an hour - at which time the domain name server (DNS) failed."We apologise for the breakdown," said Malaysiakini CEO Premesh Chandran. "The DNS is hosted in the US and we were unable to contact them to recover the domain name for a number of hours," he added."However, bloggers and readers did a great job in passing the word that the site was still available via the public IP address. "We really appreciate the support we got from the blogosphere," said Premesh.Subscriber-only from tomorrowMalaysiakini will return to a subscriber-only website beginning tomorrow. The website went free for one week last Tuesday as the country was about to go to the polls."Democracy is about voters acquiring sufficient knowledge to make an informed choice. By making Malaysiakini available to all, we want to play our part in helping Malaysians exercise their democratic right," explained Gan.As compensation to Malaysiakini's existing subscribers due to the free offer, one additional week has been added to their subscription periods.

The People have Spoken

2008-03-09T10:45:00.000+08:00

The results are out and the voters have finally expressed themselves through the ballot papers. The BN won an embarassingly simple majority, thanks to Sabah and Sarawak.

Does this mean we will see more ministers coming from West Malaysia. They definitely have the power to demand so because if it wasnt for them, BN would have suffered a beating of their lifetime!

What saddens me most is that the government still has not learned anything. Despite promises that the earliest results will be shown on TV at 7pm, nothing was coming through. Thank god for Malaysia Kini!

However, after sometime, even Malaysia Kini was barred.This happened while we were observing a recount at the Rembau Parliamentary state seat-Khairy lost, then a recount, then he was leading by 800 votes. Then poof! the website server went down. This is how we practise democracy in Malaysia. Do they really think they can fool us?

When the people are tired and fed-up, they will say so. And lately, despite cries and appeal, the government just sat on their laurels. Well, serve them right and hooray to the people power.

This being said, I do feel sorry for some really hardworking BN MP's and state assemblymen. Its nothing personal. People voted for party, people voted for a change. Lets hope from now on ministers and politicians stop thinking they are indisposable. Samy, you were too arrogant and ignorant for your own good.

Some say the Indians will not be well represented in the parliament. Who cares? Were the Indians ever well represented in the first place?

Now, we just hope there will be more fairness and just in the system and equal rights for all Malaysians.

Special thanks to Hindraf and Bersih. By the way, Malaysia kini server is still down.

Election fever with Indian theme

2008-01-23T12:34:00.000+08:00

Its always interesting to read the papers prior to the election. Ministers and MP's going all out making their usual promises. This year, there seemed to be a focus on the Malaysian Indian community. Thaipusam being declared a national holiday after all these years.

Then of course, we have the Selangor Menteri Besar Datuk Seri Mohd Khir Toyo setting up a special unit to handle the plight of Indians without birth certificate. The star carried the story:

A special committee under the Home Affairs Ministry will be set up to handle the plight of 40,000 Indian children nationwide who do not have a birth certificate.
Selangor Mentri Besar Datuk Seri Dr Mohamad Khir Toyo said the decision to set up the committee was made after he highlighted the matter to Prime Minister Datuk Seri Abdullah Ahmad Badawi during the Umno Supreme Council last week.
He said many Indian-based non-governmental organisations (NGOs) had approached him to help raise the plight of the children.
“These children are unable to attend school, register for programmes or get jobs as adults.
“The Prime Minister was shocked when I informed him and immediately asked for a special committee to be formed under the Home Ministry,” he said during an Indian cultural show organised by the Barisan Nasional Volunteers Association here on Saturday night.
Dr Khir said the state government was working closely with several NGOs to get the parents to register their children.
He added that the birth certificate should be issued quickly if all the requirements were met.
He said the requirements included information on the hospital of birth and supporting facts from grandparents or close relatives.
“We have to be careful. We have to safeguard against foreigners who might use the chance to register for citizenship,” he said.

The prime minister said he was shocked. Shocked?? Why? Is this the first time he's heard of this problem despite all the publicities on many Malaysians without birth certificates and IC's?

Well, I am of course glad that it is being done but like the sms that has been going around, lets not be fooled by promises and fly by night actions. The welfare of Malaysians as a whole has to be taken care of despite race and religion. Malaysians want follow through, quality of life, fairness and equality in every aspect be it education or business.

My Vacation in Europe

2008-01-19T03:41:00.000+08:00

Bonjour, Guten Tag, Buon Giorno...The hellos we exchanged in Europe. It was the longest vacation. Three weeks Trafalga Tour in Europe on a coach. It was a juxtaposition of excitement, disappointment, lethargy and romance.

Travelling with 48 people on a coach from different parts of the world may be a scary thought to many but for me and my 3 companions, it was an exciting plan. They turned out to be boisterous, fun, energetic and caring bunch of group.

Our trail: From London to Calais via Dover. We boarded the bus and drove through Belgium to Amsterdam. From Amsterdam to Koln, Germany then to Heidelberg then to Schaffhausen to Zurich in Switzerland and to Luzern. From there it was to another country Liechtenstein and on to Innsbruck, Austria.

We headed south to Italy with Verona being our first stop. It was to Venezia later, Bologna and celebrated Christmas eve in Vatican City, Rome and off for a sight seeing in Firenze (Florence), Naples, Pisa, Genova then to Monte Carlo, Monaco. From here, it was to Nice, France then Cannes, Avignon and straight to Lyon. From Lyon, we headed to Paris to usher in the New Year.

We must have travelled at least 6500km. Fantastic!!

On top of Mount Pilatus, Switzerland, lovely mountains in Innsbruck, Austria

Breathtaking views of the alps

(from left) David by Michealangelo and street painters in Sorento, the Collesseum in Rome

The Vatican City, gondola ride in Venice and ruins in Rome

The leaning tower of Pisa, the lifestyle of the rich and famous in Monaco

The Eiffel Tower and the garden of Versailles in Paris

Welcoming 2008

2008-01-17T11:04:00.000+08:00

Celebrating New Year's Eve with a bang is probably on everyone's list of must do, as it has been said the way one usher's in the new year reflects on the quality of life the rest of the year. I have friends who welcomes the new year by holding on to cash and gold. Apparently, you will receive more money for new year. Interesting theory and it has worked for her.

I was in Paris on New Year's Eve. It was wonderful and was beyond my expectation. What was more important was the fact that I was with 3 other wonderful people. That's what made the difference. The company you're with when you celebrate festivals and happy occasions.

Well, since I was in Paris last year, lets hope I will be in New York end of this year....fingers crossed!

Happy New Year 2008!

Nazri, "Stupid and Insensitive" quote

2007-12-04T00:24:00.000+08:00

“It was stupid of the officials not to be considerate (and) to look into sensitive matters like this. I believe it could have been done in a better way if (the state government) had just waited a few more days. Let the Hindus celebrate their Deepavali,” he said. “Deepavali is a religious festival. It could have been handled much better and with more sensitivity (to) the feelings of the Hindus,” said Nazri Abdul Aziz, Minister in the Prime Minister Department.

Extract from Malaysia Kini- Nazri commenting on the destruction of the temple in Shah Alam by the MBSA.

You think....??!!! I am just wondering what took him such a long time to comment on the issue. Did he have amnesia or something? Hello.... its been almost a month now after the incident. How considerate of Nazri to think about the feelings of the Hindu community. Wait a minute, didnt the Umno general assembly take place during Deepavali? Hhmmmm.....

Gee, when will they learn that the rakyat are not stupid. All these sugar-coated words are not going to help with the elections. Here we have a government who silence the minorities, as they are not exactly represented in the Parliment (lets not even start about MIC). A government who do not listen to the plight of the rakyat, regarless of the race - Orang Asli, hardcore poor Malays and Indians. A government that makes promises to all people only before elections. And once the elections are over, its back to square one.

I remember as a student I used to burn the midnight oil during Deepavali. Yes, true to the spirit of Deepavali. Unfortunately, it was for the exam papers I was studying for the very next day. I hated it! I used to wonder why is the government so cruel. Couldnt they have allowed at least couple of days after the festival before the next paper...

Even as a child I knew we were different and that we may be discriminated. I used to wonder if I would do well with my skin colour and if I would be discriminated. Yes, not only because of my race, it is also due to the fact that I am a woman. I dont know which is worst. But I am surviving it.

But my feelings go out to the poor in the estates who have been neglected. What goes through their mind, I wonder.... Some living for the sake of it, hoping that one day change will come - for the better. So many afraid to voice out, some ignorant - probably kept that way so that its easier to fish for votes. But change is coming and its by the people.

The temple issue had just broken the camel's back. While I am not for structures being erected everywhere, there are ways of handling sensitive issues and it looked like the council members just had fun doing what they did. And to think there are so many illegal immigrants especially Indonesians who have gone on for years living happily in their illegal squatter homes and having legal IC. To think that these people have been allowed to do so by the government.

My point here is, it longer works if the government is merely making promises. You may just win the elections, but to a growing rakyat who are frustrated and they are not going to take it sitting.

I think Khir Toyo is in trouble....While Nazri does not think Selangor Menteri Besar Dr Mohd Khir Toyo has any “personal vendetta” against Hindus, he said the manner in which the latter implemented the state’s ‘zero squatters’ policy leaves much to be desired.

“I think we (can) put it to experience, which he probably lacks. I agree with you that matters touching religious issues should be handled more cautiously and not in a wanton way according to individual whims and fancies,” said Nazri.

Scape-goat or not, its time to see some changes in the state government as well...

An obssession - Good or Bad

2007-12-01T00:54:00.001+08:00

An article I wrote for a local website http://www.think.com.my/ some time ago. I have reproduced it here again.

One day, it dawned on me: something in my life was amiss.

As practised in my religion, I’m vaguely mindful that my self-worth does not come from wealth and possessions. But my actions said otherwise. Habitual shopping had gathered an array of ‘but it was on sale’ jewelry and ‘I must have those’ handbags. There were rotted handbags, clothes with price tags still intact and shoes with brittle edges. According to my spouse, I had filled the closet with unimportance.

The fact that my other half pointed out my materialistic ways was rather ironic as well. Coming from someone obsessed with watches, cars, bikes and trucks—and obviously unable to stock up on the real thing—he made up for it with magazines. Thousands of magazines. Dating back to the 1970s. With five more new magazines every week.

And irregardless of gender—although it’s clear that men have the more expensive ‘hobbies’—I discovered how much our lives were ruled by cravings for more, more and more. Truth be told, our casual hobbies had become ferocious obsessions. How? And why?

A SPADE IS A SPADE
A friend of mine collects antique furniture. He travels to different parts of the world to obtain that piece of furniture if it’s what he’s been looking for. He scans through the Internet and if he sees something he really likes, he goes into an ‘I must have it’ moment. If he doesn’t get it, he goes into depression. Almost all the time, he gets it.

He calls it a hobby.

But truth be told, an obsession is an obsession. Far from merely being a state of mind that affects a select few, obsessive behaviour affects just about everyone at some time in his or her life. From fascinations as ordinary as glass objects and bonsai plants to those as controversial as gambling or sex, it is a case of insanity that comes and goes like the flu.

There is a fine line that separates desire and obsession. It is normal to desire a better job, a compatible mate or spiritual peace. A normal state of desire patiently pursues these things with an openness to change when other options come into grasp. Yet when we come to wanting something so intensely, the shift away from reason is almost unnoticeable. Obsessive behaviour causes us to lose our ability to patiently and objectively look at the facts for what they are and make sound decisions rather than compulsive reactions.

For example, desire says, “I’d like to be married, someday when the time is right.” Obsession however, says, “I want to get married. I will get married. I must get married. Oh look, here is a chance to get married. I’ll do it.”

THE DRIVE FOR SUCCESS
So is it bad to be obsessed with something? Anything?

Not really. In fact, what we often call ambition—the ‘drive for success’—is in fact a distant brother to obsession.

Take Thomas Edison, the man who discovered light. In his search for a suitable filament in the creation of the common light bulb, he tested over 3,000 different materials. Everything he used heated up and burned away in seconds as electric current passed through it. As the months passed, his family and friends (all of whom would have been accustomed to using gas lamps) would have considered this strange hobby a ridiculous, impossible obsession. They may have thought he was going mad.

But Edison was not mad—simply obsessed. He was determined to accomplish his goal, and eventually realised that it was not so much the wrong type of wire but the necessity to vacuum out the air within the bulb. He succeeded, and thankfully too.

It works the same for us. The same trait that destroys a life can also enhance it. When the obsession is for something generally admired, others may look upon it with a sense of wonder. However, when that obsession is for a goal that is not easily related to, it is seen as the beginnings of possible mental illness.

It even works with regards to material things. Take buying property. Logical rationale says that we cannot afford such an item presently. But what is wrong with investing in a house? Many of us have managed to own a house knowing that we will struggle to pay the monthly instalment, because we view it as a solid investment. Robert Kiyosaki of Rich Dad, Poor Dad states unequivocally that the only way to become rich is to do as the rich do, i.e., accumulate financial assets. Rich people buy assets; poor people buy liabilities.

* * * * *

Naturally, I sense a contradiction in myself in trying to justify material obsessions. I tell myself that it is reasonable for someone to be obsessed with great athletic achievement, curing cancer and social reform, yet I lack the conviction to follow such noble paths of desire.

But all is not lost for the average simpleton like me. I recently cleared my closet of those unused clothes and donated them to charity, friends and family. I have told myself that I can live without my material possessions, and that the things that matter most are whether I have been a good, kind and generous person to my loved ones.

And speaking of loved ones? I hope my husband will one day realise it too. For the moment, he’s still holding on to his old magazines.

Not an Enriching experience

2007-12-01T00:35:00.000+08:00

This may come out looking like a complaint letter. But after what I went through it must be said that many locally owned company or GLC (Government Linked Companies) are truly what they are thought to be-Grossly Lethargic Confused Bunch. Why oh why in the world do they set up a customer service department when they have absolutely no idea how to handle or help the customers.

As a frequent traveller with MAS, my husband applied for the Enrich card. This with the hope that he will enjoy benefits, convenient ticket booking, change of flight schedule, redeeming travel points for vacation or flights with much ease, as claimed by MAS.

He was actually a Gold card member but was downgraded to Silver as he no longer thinks its beneficial flying MAS. With an accumulated 60,000 points, we decided to redeem it for a Golden Holiday vacation. This is after we were unable to redeem for a flight to London (and yes we requested for it 4 months before the flight date).

Anyway, we called the Enrich customer service to book for our vacation in Cherating a week ago (2 wks before our vacation date). So, in the back of my mine, I should be able to start making plans for my trip once they confirm it in the next 3 days, perhaps. But of course, as predictable as their incompentency, they couldnt confirm with us even after a week. Hey, we need to pack and etc etc....just tell us if its on or not. They couldnt even do that.

By the way, the customer service said we would actually help ourselves if we personally go to the MAS office.

So, my husband and I were feeling quite adventurous and we decided to go to MAS office Enrich counter. And yes again they couldnt help us. Apparently, the Enrich bunch could only minus points! The obvious thing for them to do is to send us elsewhere -down to ticketing Golden Holidays. So we did, took a number and waited.

Well, after waiting for 2 hours, the Golden Holiday ticketing officer said "you should not have come here until your holiday is confirmed. This is the payment counter". Imagine our frustration and anger! Do these people really know what they are doing?

I am wondering what is the point of having Enrich, when they cant even help us with a simple task like booking a holiday via the phone (talk about convenience). The hotel is either booked or not! Thats all we want to know. If its not, we will make plans for another holiday....Hello!!!! Does anyone have brains over there?

Thank god, the ticketing officer was quite helpful and patient although he had customers who equally wanted their flight plans changed etc and were equally frustrated. The scene at the ticketing office was that of passengers waiting exhaustedly for their delayed flight. Many were even sleeping.

Anyway, the officer confirmed the bookings for us, although it clearly wasnt his job. We too, called to hotel to check for room availability. Plenty were available. Why then, couldnt the customer service book and confirm our bookings within a week and inform us via a telephone call? Do they need 6 months notice?

Come on guys, you are suppose to make life easier for your customers just like what you have claimed. But obviously you guys are so complacent and have absolutely no idea of what to do and what other departments do. Frankly, there are too many of you with little substance. No smiling, no politeness, lethargic like the Government Departments and the list goes on.

We are leaving for Europe on a long vacation and we are flying SIA. Its cheaper by RM900 too!

Tribute to the protestors

2007-11-28T23:35:00.000+08:00

The last couple of weeks Malaysia has been in the limelight for all the 'right' reasons. Staging peaceful protests to get desperate message across to the government. The Hindraf and the Bersih rally showed just what it took to come out and voice out displeasures. Forget the fact that the government prevented these protests from taking place. Forget the fact that the police used force, tear-gas, water cannon with chemical substances on innocent people who protested peacefully. Forget the fact that the Government made an utter fool out of themselves by trying to shut the people up.

It is finally right because for once after a long time, these incidents that took place during the protest received wide international media coverage. The truth were reported by AlJazeera, BBC, Reuters, Malaysia Kini and many local blogs. Of course, one cant depend on getting information from reading the mainstream media.

The latest Hindu Rights Action Force (Hindraf) rally is definitely a day to remember for all Indians. This is indeed a wake-up call for the Government. The Indians have been marginalised for a little too long. We, Indians deserve to have our grievances resolved. Gang activity among the Indians are symptoms of a disenfranchised community. How long is this to go on? I am amazed as to how the Government can keep shoving these issues under the carpet and keep thinking that the Indians or for that matter Malaysians will keep mum about how they are treated.

I am therefore thankful that Bersih and Hindraf rally took place. I wasnt there but I salute those who were. To me they are heroes. How long do they expect the rakyat to stay quiet and oppressed? Surely, they realise that there will come a time when the rakyat will stand up for their rights. Well, if they still havent, let me assure the Government that the time has come. And its only the beginning.

The Government better listen or face the consequences of having to manage a chaotic society. And lying through the media isnt going to help either. I am sure I speak on behalf of many decent Malaysians who are disgusted with the Government's lies through the media. It is an insult to our intelligence! Please for heaven sake, wake up! The rakyat is not stupid.

While the world watches the dignity and courage of the Malaysian Indians protesting their social plight and how the Government is slowly destroying places of worship, I dare say this is only the beginning. Its going to be a tough battle but it will be done. Peacefully...

As the great Mohandas Karamchand Gandhi said "I object to violence because when it appears to do good, the good is only temporary; the evil it does is permanent".

And to the heroes who made it to the Hindraf rally despite police road blocks days before the rally, here is what Mahatma Gandhi once said "Strength does not come from physical capacity, it comes from an indomitable will".

Al-Jazeera - Ethnic Indians protest in Malaysia
http://youtube.com/watch?v=G-a...

New to blogging

2007-11-20T18:55:00.000+08:00

Everyone has been there, done that and some have even gotten a tad bit tired of it. Not me, I am the new kid on the 'blog'. Can you believe it?? Why did it take me such a long time to do such a simple, friendly and easy task....sigh...one will never be able to tell. Procrastination is my biggest enemy.

Well, lets just say, I am officially a blogger today! How wonderful. I am indeed proud of myself.
So thats that. We shall think of other topics to write on once I get the hang of this new found hobby.

cheers