Suhaimi Sulaiman's World

For new postings go to www.suhaimi-sulaiman.blogspot.com

2011-10-16T05:00:00.000-07:00

For new postings go to www.suhaimi-sulaiman.blogspot.com

Susu Lemak Manis

2011-10-13T22:48:00.001-07:00

For new postings, go to www.suhaimi-sulaiman.blogspot.com

Anak Melayu mesti pandai bertutur dan menulis dalam bahasa Inggeris

2011-10-13T22:44:00.000-07:00

After 3 days of interviewing candidates for various positions in a multinational company, I am quiet disappointed as many Malay candidates were not able to impress my international colleagues.

The reason -- poor command of the English Language.

Yes, you can have all the "technical skills" but at the end of the day, if you can't convince a business partner from India who only speaks English and Hindi, then you are out.

And when you are in senior position, and you can't sell an idea in English, then you are out.

Do I need to go on...?

And we are still debating -- should we teach in English or BM... Can't you see budak Melayu merana in climbing the corporate ladder because their English = BAD.

We want to be global players.

Thanks Mak and Ayah -- you taught me well. Today I am equally good in BM and English. If only more budak Melayu can join me to move up the ladder.

It is about you

2010-11-16T02:17:00.000-08:00

It is not about going to the best play in town or watch the best Hollywood movie at GSC Signature.

Sometimes, we think that we need to entertain people close to us by taking them to the best places to eat, to visit and to spend a weekend.

It is about us.

If we can hold a great conversation while having roti telor at Bestari, then that is great.

"Happening" is within us.

It is us -- we are the Hollywood movie and we are the happening place.

And it is OK to be alone in your room, because you can read a good book, write a good piece (which later will become a book) -- because the Happening is in you.

Right?

WEEK IN WEEK OUT

2009-11-01T04:27:00.000-08:00

“Duduk betul-betul. Karang jatuh siapa susah… Azman, mak kata duduk betul-betul…”

And you really think the 5 year old is going to listen? Of course not! In an era where both mom and dad have to work very long hours in search of the meaning of life, they will not punish the kids. Why? Simple -- because they are guilty of spending so little time with their children. So they have to bribe them with gifts and give them almost total freedom to invade my space. The kids will just run and make noise in restaurants and irritate me to the max… If only they knew when I was small, Abang and I and later when Dokmen came to the world, we were not supposed to move once we were seated. No discipline in/at public places = no outing -- Grounded for a month, at least. And it worked. Perhaps that’s why today I am so anal about discipline during outings….

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You can’t judge a book by its cover. An extra cool sportsman can be the most sentimental being on this planet. Yeah Shah Matrock layan Konsert Siti Nurhaliza. He is braving the rain to see the recording today at Angkasapuri – what do you know … I always believe a strong man (or woman) is one who is not afraid to show his/her vulnerability (and the V-word has been badly defined by society).

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It was a memorable weekend indeed. After one week of the grueling Harvard Business School training dissecting case studies from 7:30 in the morning till past midnight, the weekend was a memorable one. How memorable?

1. Had a great chit chat session with Hafez and Abang Mohamad Noor at McDs Mon’t Kiara till about 4 am Saturday morning… I think Abang Mohamad Noor will have somewhere in his diary “…until 4 am, I was speechless listening to this crazy fat man blabbing about dono-wat at McDs…”

2. Saturdays’ Mee Rebus session with AK Shafizan Johari was a blast too – as usual we ate food enough to feed 8 people in some hungry region in the world. Later I bought another “ikan-laga-Siam”. I now have 12 already!! They are in 12 different glass containers. And yes, they are right to say ‘Suhaimi tu, kalau kau nak tahu, simpan anak ikan…” “Memanglah aku ada 12 ekor kat rumah…” “Ada aku kisah…” (Ooopppss evolving into A_ _ _ _ _ Alia? Oh tidak…).

3. The Dilhafifi birthday get-together was so much fun. Alexis @ Great Eastern mall was perfect. The Tokyo Blues Band was so cool too.
Dil, thank you for inviting me... And the nice things you said touched me...huhu...

4. And lunch and movie with Jefri & Matrock was a fun one. I am just so addicted to the Spaghetti Marinara at Chinoz@The Gardens. And the movie – The Time Traveler’s wife – was really interesting. It’s about a Chicago librarian who suffers from a rare genetic disorder that sends him hurtling through time whenever he is under extreme duress. Despite the fact that he vanishes at inordinately frequent and lengthy intervals, he attempts to build a stable future with the beautiful young heiress he loves. Eric Bana and Rachel McAdams star in this dramatic fantasy, which is directed by Robert Schwentke and based on the best-selling book by author Audrey Niffenegger. Sad ending though…

5. Tomorrow Jono will go to Mekah. Jono, I will miss u and doalah untuk I kat sana. Moga pulang dengan Haji Mabrur… You are great. AORJT.

Ah… Dilhafifi asked, Che Mi, anyone special in your life now? I said, entahlah ….

THE KUANTAN GETAWAY

2009-10-18T06:50:00.000-07:00

The ikan kerai masak lemak in Temerloh was superb. So delicious that we had to ‘tapau’ some for another round of mouth watering experience.

Please … can we have ikan kerai masak lemak in Kuala Lumpur? I love the taste of kerai. Better than patin, anytime.

Also for the very first time after 47 years of being alive, I got to taste ‘satar’. It is something like otak-otak but the overwhelming presence of ‘kerisik’ as another main ingredient made it taste slightly different. Yes, like kerai, can we have satar in KL? Tired of the usual goreng-goreng stuff in KL.

The seafood in Kuantan was superb -- yes, lots of choices in Tanjung Lumpur – we decided to dine at Santai, and it sure was a good choice.

And Hyatt Kuantan was a great place to spend a wonderful relaxing weekend -- close to almost everything -- the beach and downtown Kuantan.

And we bumped into Tengku Nurul & hubby while having lunch at Hyatt’s beach front restaurant.

Just one not so fun stuff. For a huge shopping centre (the one which is right across from MS Garden Hotel) -- the parking self-service payment machine can only be found on 2 floors!!! At least that was what I figured out. For about 200 cars parked on the 4th floor, there was only one machine. And the spiral ramp to access the parking area on the 4th floor, made us dizzy. Felt like ants crawling on a mosquito coil.

If you are so stressed, the sea and sand can take your miseries away. According to Hafez, bury your feet in the sand, sit on the rock, close your eyes and let the water take the bad energy away. I think it worked.

And for a good trip – go with minimal expectations but go with great company. Good food, great conversation, positive energy and a wonderful setting – now that is the new definition of rejuvenation.

I have been to Pahang many times. This time, I fell in love with the state for many reasons – the nice ladies at the front desk of Hyatt, the down to earth folks and the beautiful strangers, and lots more – it sure is a very long list…will keep it close to my heart.

TRAINING JONO

2009-10-09T22:13:00.000-07:00

I slept at around 3 am, on the couch. AK slept much later and while sleeping I could hear him mumbling about me snoring – yes, sometimes you can hear people talking, you can hear what Christiane Amanpour blabs on CNN and you can tell who are parking their cars downstairs while you sleep.

What were we doing sleeping very late? We were helping Jono Munajat a.k.a Jawa a.k.a Kamarul Ariffen Munajat in his ‘accelerated-course’ preparing to anchor Khabar Haji in Mecca. He has 2 more weeks before he leaves for Mecca with Haji Nazri. Together with the Haj team, they will provide daily reports on the Haj season for AWANI’s sister channel OASIS.

AK Shafizan Johari, AWANI’s Business Journalist & Anchor helped out. He played the role of the cameraman -- recording the training session, using my Sony Cybershot versatile camera. Now, this is what I like about people at AWANI. Many of them are ever willing to help. Earlier in the day, Kam helped to train AK, Faizal Murad and Dzulfitri to anchor current affairs talk show programmes.

Due to the fact that I have a full day almost everyday, ending only after Agenda AWANI at 9:00 pm, I have to schedule Jono’s training at around 10 pm. And since Plaza Damas has a great place with many eating places open till very late, I decided to do the training at my apartment at Plaza Damas, Sri Hartamas. While my Cybershot camera is used to record the presentation and questioning techniques, my Vaio laptap is used as a playback machine for analysis and de-briefing sessions.

The training started at 10:00pm at Uncle Don’s Hide Park, over satay, roti kaya, meehun and peach pudding. We went through my powerpoint slides on:

1. Branding and positioning of anchors.
2. Giving souls to stories.
3. Standuppers and crossover, and
4. Voiceovers.

After that we went to my apartment and played roles – all recorded on camera by AK. Jono was the on-location anchor interviewing a Tabung Haji representative and a doctor. Of course lah, I was the Tabung Haji representative and also the doctor. I was looking for his questions preparing and delivering techniques and of course his listening skills – one of the the most important skills needed to be a good journalist.

It was a fun session and Jono has a flair for presentation. All he needs now is strong editorial, correct branding and the x-factor screen presence.

The training ended at around 2:00 am and we went to Mc Donalds at Mont Kira – Me, AK Shafizan Johari and Jono Munajat.

Next, he will be trained on how to do crossovers and video conferencing.

I love sharing experiences and enjoy coaching others to excel. I feel so good when the people that I coach excel and become famous…

Until today, Aznil Nawawi keeps on saying, you know who was my teacher… Suhaimi Sulaiman… a good one. And every time Aznil says that I will cry – cry of joy…

Era of Enlightenment

2009-08-10T01:47:00.001-07:00

Mukmin

Pian came back from Singapore. He came to visit Rizal at Awani and stopped by to say hello to moi. He said he’s tired of Singapore and he wants to live life to the fullest in KL. I think, Pian being Pian, he will have no problems achieving that. Welcome home Pian.

I had a light lunch with Mukmin. He needed to see me to discuss his latest project. Mukmin is an enterprising young man. In his mid 20s he produces documentaries and many other tv programmes -- in addition to other communication ‘packages’. I am very honoured indeed as Mukmin would normally call me up to bounce ideas. I think Mukmin will go very far.

Next – preoccupation with ‘corner’ and ‘collection’.

I find it funny, even if they’re not situated at corners, restaurant operators named their outlets XXX Corner, YYY Corner, Mat Corner etc. Well, we can’t expect everyone to carry the battery operation Besta dictionary. Vocab alahai vocab.

Next, designers, tailors. Many of them named their outlets – XXX Collection, YYY Collection. Interesting….

PPSMI -- Well, try learning English the Peace Corps way...

2009-07-07T22:46:00.000-07:00

Yes, PPSMI and all ...

BTW there is a good way to learn English, an alternative.. no need to fight lorr ..

The Peace Corps Method -- I was an instructor a long long time ago. My sifu was Tuan Haji Fauzi Halim, the Founder of Centre of Modern Languages. We helped prepare government sponsored students to improve their English before they start their American degree programme. That was in 1987...

We will have the discussion tonight on Agenda AWANI channel 501 Astro at 8:15 pm.

Cheers.

Yeahhhh... I updated my blog..

I love you MCKK

2009-04-19T07:08:00.001-07:00

Me & George watching Jeff & Shah Matrock playing rugby

The trip back from Kuala Kangsar after the end of the Malay College Old Boys Weekend was so much fun. Jeff was the designated ‘pilot’ -- of course I was in no position to drive after sleeping only 3 hours over 3 days. What was I doing? Catching up with old friends -- friends that I grew up with at Malay College, some 30 years ago. Oh yes, Shah Matrock was responsible to make sure both me and Jeff will not fall asleep. Seated at the back, he was the designated court jester.

Every year around this time, we will make the ‘pilgrimage’ to Kuala Kangsar to spend time with old friends and link-inspire the present boys of MCKK. Talking about inspiring and guiding, I think Rafizi Ramli is doing such a great job helping out the Malay College debating team – yes, voluntarily.

I got to see the results of his hard work when I dropped by to say hello to the BM & English Debating team at the Debating Room. When I got there, the team members just finished a quiz on general knowledge. It reminded me of my time representing Malay College in the inter-residential school debate competition for the Prime Minister’s trophy in 1979. And my debating team-mate was there too, Rohaizat Darus. He is now a big chief with Sapura. The other team member, Saifuddin Abdullah (now, Dato’ Saiduddin Abdullah) is busy with his responsibility as a Deputy Minister, and was not able to make it this time.

Jeff played beautifully on the rugby field, as always. He has a ‘flair’ for sports. Wahab at 47 was still very fit. Stone too.

Azhar Wahab Fenner

On occasions like this, we get to know interesting new ‘things’ about people around us. This OBW, I had a chance to know how interesting Shah Matrock is. He is not only funny but if you need good company while driving on the North-South Highway, Shah Matrock is the one. He can talk about almost anything -- from sugar content, to investment, to ACCA and politics. And cracks good jokes too.

Pian was there, missing Rizal – Rizal had to anchor Agenda AWANI on weekends.

I must say this time around I had good quality time with Iyoi, Stone, Wahab. Didn’t get to hang around much with Nasha and Robby as they were busy with Nasha’s children.

Spent only a few minutes with George and Kudin. Enjoyed the company of Mooze & Elin.

Kudin and his favourite juniors.

I think I kept Moqq awake all night with my snore. Dia berdengkur jugak. And we accepted our 'less than perfect attributes'. I kept him awake too with my tossing and turning. We stayed at the River Resort.

And as always before leaving the MCKK, tears came out of my eyes – I just can’t explain why… It happens every year.

Mooze

Stone, Iyoi & Wahab

Nasha & Son

In NST Today, Mar 23, 2009

2009-03-22T21:36:00.000-07:00

Suhaimi at the forefront By : HAFIDAH SAMAT 2009/03/22

Astro Awani has its pulse on business with Focus Economy, the channel’s first English news and current affairs show, helmed by Suhaimi Sulaiman. HAFIDAH SAMAT writes.

TV personality and Astro Awani executive producer Suhaimi Sulaiman is on the brink of revolutionising the local broadcasting landscape.

As relentless in his quest for knowledge as he is in his pursuit to educate viewers at large, the multi-faceted TV compere/host has been responsible for setting standards for the industry as early as the 1990s.

When we met at Astro Awani studio in Bukit Kewangan, Kuala Lumpur recently, Suhaimi was busy recording Focus Economy, the channel’s first English news and current affairs show to join its programme lineup this month.

The show debuted on Astro Awani (Channel 501) on March 9.

It airs every Monday at 11.30pm.His guests — made up of experts from the various creative sectors — were discussing the second stimulus package (which was announced by Deputy Prime Minister Datuk Seri Najib Tun Razak on March 10) and how the mini budget can sustain the economy in times of crises.

“The idea for this show came about when the sub-prime crisis started in the United States last year. After discussions with the producers, I knew that the effects would hit our shores eventually,” said Suhaimi.

Focus Economy is tailored as a platform for viewers to obtain perspectives from both sides of the coin.

“Focus Economy takes a different perspective from the other business talk shows. As a responsible media organisation Awani aims to assist the government to spur the growth of our economy,” said Suhaimi, adding that the programme aims at helping viewers cope with the recession.

The rationale to include Focus Economy as the station's maiden English language feature is due to demand.

“The producers have been deluged with requests from viewers to introduce English programmes and we’re glad that it has finally materialised. Our audiences have a strong sense of ownership and we are aware that they want to be a part of the channel. At the end of the day, I believe that a TV station is successful when viewers feel that they’re involved in the programmes. I also hope that viewers will be able to think laterally as the show provides balanced, in-depth news as well as exciting discussions on topical economic issues. With the advancement of new media, viewers have the options to take on the different perspectives in our content. People are worried about the economic downturn and tend to be sceptical about what can be done."

“I’ve about 3,600 friends — ranging from young entrepreneurs to businessmen and CEOs — in my Facebook group and I believe that with their ideas, I can do Focus Economy till 2011.”

Suhaimi, who holds a degree in administration from Portland State University, Oregon in the United States, has helmed several business talk shows during his sterling career which began in the early 1990s.

Here is a TV veteran who is passionate about the broadcasting industry and has a creative take on things.

When he joined Astro Awani, the 47-year-old proved sceptics wrong when he — along with the pioneer team at the station — strived against the odds to steer it into one of the most watched news and current affairs stations.

Suhaimi also introduced some of station’s landmark programmes such as Perspektif Kita and Sudut Pandang — both zooming in on national and international issues.

In his effort to bridge the generation gap between young and established presenters at the station, Suhaimi initiated a mentor-prodigy programme.

He takes on several broadcast journalists under his tutelage under the programme. “The sessions are personalised and fortunately I have a supportive team who is willing to learn,” said Suhaimi, who also co-hosts Agenda Awani, a unique prime-time news bulletin with young anchor Rizal Zulkapli.

The programme discusses, analyses and reports the most compelling news of the day featuring "live" studio guests. The show is aired daily starting 8pm.

Astro Awani general manager Rozina Aziz said the launch of Agenda Awani and Focus Economy signals exciting times ahead for the station.

Agenda AWANI & Focus Economy

2009-03-05T06:14:00.000-08:00

Prepared by our publicist/strategist -- watch out for it:

In an effort to bring high quality news and current affairs programmes to information-hungry Malaysians, Astro AWANI (Channel 501 Astro) is set to launch two programmes in early March.

Agenda AWANI - a unique primetime news bulletin, and Focus Economy - a new current affairs programme, will premiere on 9 March.

Rozina Aziz, General Manager of Astro AWANI said, “In launching Agenda AWANI, we are taking a contrarian approach during the traditional primetime news hour."

"We would like to offer viewers an alternative by moving away from giving the A to Z of daily news to focusing on top stories and reporting them in greater detail. We have become known to our loyal viewers as a channel that provides balanced, in-depth news as well as challenging and exciting discussions of topical issues.”

Starting 9 March, Agenda AWANI will be aired LIVE on Astro AWANI as its signature prime time news programme.

This unique bulletin put the top news stories under a misroscope, giving viewers a complete, all-round 360 view.

Fronting the news bulletin will be Suhaimi Sulaiman who has solid experience as a broadcast journalist and anchor, having been in the industry for 18 years.

"Suhaimi is well loved by our viewers who have come to look at him as a force to reckon with when it comes to news and current affairs.” Adds Rozina, “And in true Astro AWANI tradition, Suhaimi will be joined by young, up-coming anchor Rizal Zulkapli, who will have the golden opportunity of learning from his long-time mentor."

This will be a big step for this young anchor, but he is intelligent and has proven himself as our principal business anchor.

"Rizal has also anchored special analysis programmes in conjunction with the Malaysian General Elections as well as the US Presidential Debates and Presidential Inauguration. He has also interviewed international leaders and personalities in in-house specials VIP AWANI and Tamu AWANI."

Another programme that will make its debut is Focus Economy which will be a very timely show, showcasing bright sparks in the currently gloomy economic outlook.

The programme aims to unearth great ideas and solutions that could help spearhead growth in the short, medium and long term and help Malaysia ride through the global recession.

Focus Economy will be the first English language programme to be introduced as a regular feature on the channel.

“We have received a lot of requests from viewers asking for us to introduce English language programmes. We have established two strong current affairs programmes – Sudut Pandang and Perspektif Kita – that take a look at issues of the times. Having been on air for 18 months now, we felt the time is right to extend the appeal of the channel to more Malaysians, by offering a weekly programme in the English language. Viewers will enjoy our closed caption feature which will enable them to choose whether they’d like to watch the programme with Bahasa Malaysia subtitles or otherwise,” explained Rozina.

The launch of the two new programmes signal exciting times ahead at Astro AWANI which was launched in September 2007 in conjunction with Malaysia’s 50 years of Independence.

Rozina adds, “We have studied the findings of independent research and commissioned specific research of our own. We also monitor feedback received through various mediums and key blogs to get a sense of how people perceive the channel, what they like about itand what they find lacking. Watch this space, as we will be announcing more new content on the channel, based on the feedback we have received from our viewers.”

Agenda AWANI broadcasts daily from 8.00pm to 9.00pm commencing 9 March.

Veteran TV newsman Suhaimi Sulaiman fronts Agenda AWANI from Mondays to Thursdays while upcoming anchor Rizal Zulkapli helms the bulletin on Fridays and weekends.

Also from March 9, Astro AWANI debuts Focus Economy. It will be hosted by Suhaimi Sulaiman, the weekly programme features fast-paced brainstorming with leaders of major companies and industries, Small & Medium Enterprise leaders and government leaders on various pertinent topics.

Looking for bright sparks at times of gloomy economic outlook, the show will focus on new and attractive ideas, innovations, niche and growth areas, markets, opportunities and collaborations.

Tune in every Monday at 11.30pm for a dose of hope and inspiration. Focus Economy is delivered in English with Bahasa Malaysia subtitles.

Yes, yes, I will write...

2009-02-27T20:06:00.000-08:00

In one of the mock-runs for a new programme

Me, Danguria and Yanie

Again, I was stopped the other day at a shopping Mall. This time at Sri Hartamas Shopping Centre.

And the lady said... "Can you please update your blog. Orang lain busy jugak, tapi still boleh update blog..."

I said, ok...ok..

Phew... pressure tu, orang lain boleh marah kalau tak update blog.

Anyway... There are many reasons why I tak update blog... Teramatlah busy... I know... I know... Ini reason takleh diterima akal. Hit me now... Bersalah. Ampun.

Anyway, what have I been up to?

Lots of things..

Among others, juggling responsibilities. I will be hosting 2 weekly shows this March and one new programme Mondays to Fridays in the evening. Tak tercabut kepalo atok ni ha!! But I love the challenge.

In addition to that I am also working on sponsorship, newsroom management, etc, etc. Ah, also, training the anchors on hosting LIVE talkshow. Love it. Like I always say... It is always the busy people who will get things done...

Me and Ellia in the Mentor-Mentee session

Ashwad delivering his line during the training

Marlina

Dzul in a mock-run .

Mimi, a cool intern at AWANI.

Me and Nazri in a mock-run

Pelakon over terbaik ...

Pelakon pembantu over terbaik.

And what about love life? What is that? hahaha.

Today I want to share my latest 'hobby' -- yes... I am now into steam fish -- thanks to my health freak friends -- Zai and Hafez. Because of them I am now into steaming fish... Ikan yang best ialah Siakap.

Hafez & I

So I bought a brand new steamer. Easy to use. Tak mahal, 109 hengget.

For a pemalas guy like me who is now into healthy food (tapi kengkadang belasah gak Ice-Blended Mocha yang manis dan lemak tu), the steamer is easy to use.

OK, how to prepare siakap steam?

On the siakap fillet, taburkan lots of garlic, ginger and batang green onions. Coat with 2 teaspoons of oil and then masukkan dalam steamer for 10 minutes. Then angkat and put a bit of oyster sauce and fish sauce and garam. Then masuk balik for another 5 minutes. After that makan.

Senangkan..

By the way, busy-busy pun sempat jugak lepak ngan kengkawan -- no, they came and dragged me out of the house!

Waiting for my hair colour to develop

Me, Hafez & Schubern

Shubern, Dino, Hafez, me, Dangsuria and Yanie

THE KUALA TERENGGANU BY ELECTION

2009-01-18T22:46:00.000-08:00

I will post the story later.

Pictures first.

Ri-Yaz Heritage Resort & Spa

2009-01-18T17:37:00.000-08:00

I will be back!!!

Ri-Yaz Heritage Resort & Spa in Pulau Duyong, Terengganu is now on top of my list.

A beautiful resort by the sea, it is a good place to unwind.

I stayed there during the Kuala Terengganu Bi-Election.

Good food, courteous staff, nice pool, spacious bathroom, bedroom... what more can you ask.

You must try the keropok lekor, nasi dagang and ayam percik.

Lepak at the restaurant pun dah cukup. Angin laut bertiup kat muka, fresh betul.

Just see the pictures below and you will understand why.

What new year resolution....

2009-01-07T00:48:00.000-08:00

Someone asked me yesterday, what is my 2009 resolution?

I said, same like everyday.

Every morning, I will tell myself, I will do my very best, be true to myself, be the best that I can and be nice to people.

And being nice is the easiest thing to do.

And when we are nice we smile more and we look darn good.

Kan kan kan?

KERMIT THE CUTE FROG

2009-01-03T18:47:00.000-08:00

It has been 5 days now and my voice still sounds like Kermit. No more fever no more cough but voice still tak ada… how meh?

Mana nak elok… I still consume teh ice, makan pedas dan berminyak. I am so degil to the max.

But this phenomenon of voice yang hilang sekali sekala has to happen like twice a year. Macam routine plak. And timing dia selalu bila orang balik from haji. I think it is a hint so that I pergi haji kot.

Will start work again on Monday. So now, tengah cracking to finish some of the fun chapters for the book project.

And Hafez, cepatlah buat popiah tu?

Yanie, Dangsuria & Me

SPONTANEITY

2008-12-31T07:22:00.000-08:00

It was the last day of 2008.

Jeff had his own idea on how to celebrate the New Year. He said, “let us go to Melaka and makan ikan bakar…”

I said, “Good idea…”

And we left the house. Our first stop before Melaka was Citibank as I had to collect my new credit card.

And after that, we made a U-turn.

Instead of Melaka, we went to Genting Highands. Yes, both of us unprepared – clad in shorts and t-shirt.

It was raining all the way and by the time we reached Genting, menggigil beb.

Me & Jeff at Starbucks Genting Highlands

**************

You must go watch this interesting movie, Australia, starring Nicole Kidman and Hugh Jackman. I went to see it twice. First with Hafez and then Jeff.

Australia is an epic and romantic action adventure, set during the brink of World War II.

Nicole Kidman played an English aristocrat who traveled to Australia and met a rough-hewn local, played by Hugh Jackman and reluctantly agreed to join forces with him to save the land she inherited.

Together, they embarked upon a transforming journey across hundreds of miles of unforgiving terrain and faced the bombing of the city of Darwin by the Japanese forces.

Great cinematic experience -- romance, drama and adventure.

Me & Hafez

GREAT INTERVIEW

2008-12-23T03:12:00.000-08:00

Yes, it sure was a great interview. Dato' Sri Tony Fernandes was just so media savvy. And the best part, I got to meet Rozman Omar. We went to school together at Malay College. Rozman is Air Asia's Group Chief Financial Officer.

It was also sort of a reunion with Zaini. Lama betul tak jumpa and we talked about Aziz and Muluk. I have not been in touch with them and I will soon make the call and plan a get together.

BTW the interview with Dato' Sri Tony Fernandes will be featured in Wajah 2008 -- coming soon on Astro AWANI.

******************

Good news. Din is out of the hospital. Great. We will go makan-makan.

*******************

Oh... I will be working on Christmas eve and on Christmas day and the weekend.

*******************

VAMPIRE, SOCIAL SKILLS & TIES

2008-12-21T09:59:00.000-08:00

I think I am somehow related to the vampire.

Ideas just flow around midnight, I look so good around midnight (perasan ni, so what?) and I love shopping at midnight. And good for my wallet, they don’t open Pavilion at midnight. So, I am now a loyal KK customer – the Sri Hartamas outlet.

For the uninitiated, KK is a 24 hour convenience store where you can get almost everything minus the ikan and sayur. KK is a 711 plus more.

And yes, I just came back from KK and it is now 1:15 am.

So do I qualify to be in the vampire clan? But minus the fangs and cape. And I am not thirsty for blood and let me see… hmmm… biting the neck… hmmm… Certain things I will just keep to myself unless you plan to torture me, I will not reveal.

***************

Moving on, out of 10 (pardon my statistics…), yes, out of 10, I think only 3 people have what I would term as A+ social skill in “making strangers feel included in a members-only conversation”. And my good friend Rahmat is one of them.

Rahmat and I are two people who I would say have wonderful-weird frame of reference. Jung & Freud, would just fail to silo us in any category. Rahmat is a genius and his PR skills = A+.

Rahmat called when I was having dinner with Hafez at KLCC and asked me if I was free for our once a month Rahmat-SS-therapy session.

And I said of course, after my dinner with Hafez. And I did not tell Rahmat, I will bring Hafez along. I thought by knowing Rahmat, Hafez would see a different side of me and that would be good for the book that he is writing – yes, my pre-mature bio… no not premature ejaculation, you dirty minded primates!

And we met at my place at Dorchester, Plaza Damas. And the three of us went in my car for supper at Concorde KL.

On the way to Concorde we laughed and laughed as we talked about a story in one of the tabloids about someone who went for a ‘tanam susuk’ and then ‘cungkil susuk’. And this is ‘susuk diamond at RM150 per cucuk’. We were wondering what diamond would that be -- Zhulian or Swarovski? Or cubic Zirconia? And after the laugh we said, hmmm why not, lets go for a skin treatment, buang bintik-bintk hitam etc – hahaha.

Anyway, I have known Rahmat for about 10 years now – yes masa berlalu amat pantas.

We first met when I was in TV3 and specifically, I was the Marketing & Sales Manager of TV3’s film & animation subsidiary, Grand Brilliance.

We were at a tea party at Sri Pentas – occasion = Thanking all the stakeholders.

Rahmat introduced himself and from that day we have been good friends. Makan-makan, karaoke, play-shrink-session and all, we had fun. Rahmat has a wonderful mom and his family members have been so nice to me. I emceed Rahmat’s wedding, and Rahmat’s cousin’s wedding and macam-macamlah.

Rahmat knows how to include people in a conversation. And he did very well with Hafez. He started by asking Hafez his interests and other things that they have in common. And once Hafez said – Performing Arts, that’s when the magic started.

Rahmat travels at least 3 times a year to major film markets in Europe, US and Asia to buy films/movies. And Rahmat knows the movie business in and out. And both Hafez & Rahmat write scripts – Rahmat for his film (soon I hope…), and Hafez, for his play/drama/theatre assignments.

And from something common, Rahmat would move to other subjects and the flow was just so smooth. Now, that is what I mean by A+ social skill.

************

This is the second week in a row that Jef was not around. He was in Alor Setar for another rugby match. Normally we would lepak together either catching up with work/assignments at Starbucks (yes, making use of the internet), or movie or makan-makan untuk menggemokkan badan.

As I was kinda bored, I called Hafez and off we went to Melaka.

Hafez and I had a great time in Melaka makan kupang & ikan bakar. And of course, my favourite gerai is Gerai Ayu No.6 at Umbai/Serkam.

After consuming the gross looking kupang, we went to Jonker Street to experience Melaka’s version of Petaling street + culture.

We met artist Charles Cham, a really interesting guy. He said he used to watch me on Face-to-Face. Gosh… that was millions of years ago. I hosted that programme in mid 90s on TV3.

Charles Cham on the right.

Charles worked as an editorial artist for a few years in KL before he went to France to paint. He became a member of the Association des Artistes Independants in Aix-en-Provence and exhibited in the Salon des Independents in 1990 and 1991. In 1993, he set up his studio in Melaka and named it The Orangutan House. He has exhibited in Singapore, Hong Kong, Bali, Australia, France, United Kingdom, Switzerland, Portugal and Hungary.

I find him very refreshing, down-to-earth and intriguing.

If you happened to be in Melaka, yes, my kampung, do visit his gallery at 12, Jonker Street (Jalan Hang Jebat), Melaka.

**************
Both Jef and I berselimut at GSC Signature earlier today when we watched YES MAN. Teramatlah sejuk dalam cinema.

Easy story line. A comedy.

But Jef was not feeling well, so we decided to go home after that movie instead of the normal Sunday extended-makan-lepak session.

****************

Din has improved. But they will not let him out of the hospital until the fever-graph is almost flat. Now he still has high temperature from time to time.

He was in a jovial mood when I visited him this morning. His mom was there too. Spoke to his mom and like me, she was convinced that Din would be out of the hospital soon. It has been three weeks now. If I were hospitalized for 3 weeks, I would have formed a singing group in the ward and menari poco-poco. Gila beb duduk sepital lelamer.

*****************

Shah Matrock, Danguria, Jef & Me.

TOO MUCH TOO LITTLE TOO LATE...

2008-12-17T03:01:00.000-08:00

No, I will not write about that as I am not an expert on the subject.

I decided to put the picture to attract your attention. Gotcha...

************

Now, where do I start?

It has been a long time indeed.

I have been so busy with work and now that I am on leave I have some time to juggle between planning for new programmes for AWANI next year, write my book with Hafez & Enaarip, sort out my prorities in life -- being reasonable & all and of course update this blog.

And yes, reward myself silly with objects and more objects that will help me feel good about myself -- oh yes, humans not included because I can't own them!!!

Today after more than 2 weeks, Din is still in the hospital.

He has been transferred from Selangor Medical Centre to UMMC.

And the doctor said, he has a 'strange' illness that originated from Africa, short of just saying 'penyakit apa'. Oh yes, read my previous earlier.

He went through a minor operation. They sucked out some 'liquid' from his body and he should be out of the hospital within 3 days or so.

I hope he will recover really soon.

Met Syafique yesterday with Rozy.

Syafique is a very promising young man who has all the pre-req of an anchor. As a talent 'headhunter' I have been proven right like 75 percent of the time.

But the gruelling part is the training and the talent must be able to survive the very trying environment that he or she has to be in to carve a niche in the industry.

All the best Syafique.

And I am still undecided where I should go for a holiday.

As long as there is pancake it will be fine. French toast will be be fine too. And if the place has a kitchen, I will cook my sambal ikan bilis.

I just need to take a break and think.

And meet people and continue learning by observing.

*********************

And eating burger with 21 packets of Chilli Sauce? You are full of surprises... And I love surprises...

***************************

Is it Chikungunya?

2008-12-10T21:54:00.000-08:00

I can't help it and I just had to google 'Chikungunya'.

Din has been warded at the Medical Centre for a couple of days now and they still couldn't figure out what is wrong with him. I went to see him again yesterday and he was so weak.

Name it, from TB to HIV, and X-rays and Scan, every single test came out negative.

The doctor said, Din was given all the medication necessary.

But he still has high fever on and off again.

Din asked the doctor if it is Chikungunya. The doctor said no.

And people are talking about Chikungunya.

So I googled and got the following and Din has the symptoms in red:

The incubation period of Chikungunya disease is from two to four days. Symptoms of the disease include fever, a petechial or maculopapular rash of the trunk and occasionally the limbs, and arthralgia or arthritis affecting multiple joints. Other nonspecific symptoms can include headache, conjunctival infection, and slight photophobia. Typically, the fever lasts for two days and then ends abruptly. However, other symptoms, namely joint pain, intense headache, insomnia and an extreme degree of prostration last for a variable period; usually for about 5 to 7 days. Patients have complained of joint pains for much longer time periods depending on their age. Three months after the viral infection, patients were still suffering from severe joint pain in the morning, dyspepsia, relapsing fever, swelling in the joints. Doctors should also be alert for platelet count abnormalities suggestive of Dengue or Falci. Chikungunya virus is indigenous to tropical Africa and Asia, where it is transmitted to humans by the bite of infected mosquitoes, usually of the genus Aedes.

I hope Din will hang on and fight it.

*****************************

OF COMMON SENSE AND GUIDED TOUR

2008-11-29T02:48:00.000-08:00

Someone very dear to me asked me, why the big fuss and ‘ruling’ on pengkid and yoga, recently?

In his very early 20s he asked, isn’t it obvious?

According to him “kita pun tahulah uncle, tak payah a bunch of people yang a bit more lebai than us to tell us what is Islamic and what is not Islamic. Kalau semua nitty-gritty nak tunggu ada orang advise kita apa yang boleh buat dan apa yang tak boleh buat, susah lah….Abis tu orang non-Muslims mesti ingat kita ni tak boleh berfikir and agama kita tak lengkap. Guidelines kan dah clear. Islam ni banyak kena pakai common sense. Apasal tak ada ruling pasal rasuah and politik wang? Itu lagi teruk. I don’t want my leaders to be corrupt and jadi pemimpin sebab banyak duit nak tabur tapi tak reti berfikir and cakap omputih pun tak leh? Itu bigger umbrella issue. Kita malu lah uncle…Macamlah kita ni bodoh tak boleh berfikir… I am in university, I don’t do drugs and saving myself for sex later when it would mean a lot more… That’s very Islamic compared to tabur duit merata just to be elected. WTF… ”

And I said to myself, need I say more…

And sayang, you are only 21 years old and you can think already. I think our future is bright with people like you. Want to run for office at the age of 24? Boleh ker?

*********

Semalam, my former student who is now a famous anchor in RTM asked me kenapa lama tak update this blog and asik-asik macam frust cinta jer…

I said, kita ni adalah amalgamasi pelbagai perasaan. Kengkadang elok juga kongsi rasa and tak rugi orang tahu kita juga manusia vulnerable.

Orang boleh identify dengan kita dan lagi senang tanpa façade atau topeng macho yang entah apa-apa entah.

******************

Rambut baru

Roul

Rozy, Me, Wan Kamarudin, Dangsuria and Charles Mohan at Media Prima Screenings

Me & Jimmy Shanley at Gempak Astro

THE BOOK

2008-11-24T02:49:00.000-08:00

Yes, so sorry. Been busy working on a book project with Aarif. When I have spare time I will write more stories here. Enjoy the pix below:

AND TO CALM DOWN I GO FOR A DRIVE....

2008-11-17T03:40:00.000-08:00

Thank you Miss Rossa

Ku sedari
Semua jalanku tak berarah kepadamu
Mungkin salah diri ini memikirkanmu

Aku kini telah berdua...

Dan tak seindah cinta yang lalu
Yang jalan dan jalin tanpa restu
Ku akhiri namun tak berakhir
Ku hindari hati tak ingin berpisah

Bila kau dengan yang lain
Sesungguhnya aku tak rela

MY MCKK FAMILY

2008-11-10T00:50:00.000-08:00

Photographs that speak for themselves -- brotherhood of the MCKK old boys ...

Courtesy: Jef's Nikon.

From left: Shah Mat Rock, Alamak-dah lupa nama, Rafizi and Apek and me standing at the back.

My buddy and shrink and confidant -- Moqq

Me and my other shrink Dangsuria

Emcee -- Berkhidmat untuk negara

Lima dirham, lima dirham...

Dangsuria, me and Jef

Jef & Shah Mat Rock

Apek and me (what was it again ...)

Me & Rizal

Apek & Me

Raf & Apek

Dangsuria & Shah Mat Rock

Me & Jef

Me & Moqq

Milla a.k.a Mrs Moqq

Zef & Moqq

Zef, Moqq & Milla

Jef

Dangsuria

Datuk Khalid Ahmad & Shah Mat Rock

Shah Mat Rock, Dangsuria, Jef & Me

Jef, Dangsuria & Shah Mat Rock

Raf & Jef

Class of 96

Paparazzi

Raja SMS -- tak henti henti

Apek, Bullet & Raf

Moqq & me

Moqq & Me

Me & Rizal

Apek & Me

Shah Mat Rock & Me

THANK YOU

2008-11-05T03:01:00.000-08:00

Thank you for the flowers:

The card says "...brilliant interview, well done and keep it up ... your standard is just so high that ....."

How can I not love what I do ...

Love you too ...

ANKLE INJURY & RACE RELATIONS

2008-11-01T10:50:00.000-07:00

I was at Chawan in Bangsar enjoying tea and tahu bakar with the “movers and shakers” when Jef sent the text message “Uncle, I injured my ankle during the game, can you help me get an ankle guard?”

I rushed to the nearest pharmacy to get the ankle guard. And what do I know about ankle guards and sports injuries? Well, this is what life-long learning is all about.

At Guardian Pharmacy I bought two different ankle guards for Jef. By now, it's certain he will not be playing for NS Wanderers in the Cobra 10s tomorrow.

When I met him at PJ Hilton – where the team members were putting up, he could hardly walk.

The prelim check by the doctor indicated no major fracture or too serious an injury.

Nevertheless, Jef’s ego deflated and his spirit dented, as he wanted to help his team to win tomorrow.

We had dinner at Paya Serai at the Lobby of PJ Hilton and got him to retire for the day early. I hope this nephew of mine will feel better and get better tomorrow.

When I was young, when I hurt myself mom and dad would always give me words of encouragement so that the spirit within will help the body to heal faster.

Since Abang Mustafa and Kakak is far away, I'll be the 'surrogate' guardian angel. And I feel good doing it.

**************

Now back to the “movers and shakers” at Chawan.

There were 6 of us.

Rida – a Malay PR consultant who is married to a Ceylonese gentleman,

Eda – a beautiful Malay content developer who is seeing a Chinese sociologist,

Lenny – a sexy Malay lady who recently changed her status from married to divorced after she dumped her lazy Malay husband,

Kay – another recently divorced Malay lady who is still sore at her irresponsible ex-husband, a Malay,

Alvin – a cute Chinese guy who is an engineer and spends more time at the gym than at the dining table and he is into Malays,

And of course me, the listener extraordinaire.

This group is what the ‘Neo Malaysia’ is all about – yes, may be a minority but the number is growing, especially in urban areas – different races coming together celebrating both their similarities and differences.

It is when you are very different from one another that you get really attracted and curious to know how the other party lives and what makes them tick.

And some, like my movers+shakers group ended up marrying someone from a different race.

I would like to believe this was how and what it was like during the glory days of the Malacca Sultanate when Malacca was the centre of trade, power and culture.

Cosmopolitan Malacca was a place where people from the Malay Archipelago, China, India and Europe mingled and traded a variety of goods.

Life was good then – prosperous and culturally rich.

But today, sometimes I think we are moving backwards.

Due to the need to play to the gallery, politicians said things that promoted anger and hatred instead of promoting cooperation and collaboration among the various races.

Whatever happened to lateral thinking?

The same group of people would later talk about national integration. And some would translate all these into majlis tarian, pertunjukan budaya pelbagai kaum etc etc – like it’s not natural.

I just hope the next time when there is a need to play to the gallery, just go and see the “movers and shakers” and learn a thing or two from them.

Understand the adjustments they had to make and how they resolved conflicts in the best intelligent way.

When decisions are based on trust, love and honesty, the result will be just beautiful.

And mix marriages will create a new pool of great genes -- Beautiful people with strong DNA.

Of course there are other issues too, but then again, we can think of the best possible way to solve them…

Think…..

I AM NOW A REPTILE BUT I WANT TO BE A MAMMAL BACK...

2008-10-31T23:58:00.000-07:00

I got up
And I can’t go out and it's like my time is up..

I now have scales
I am no longer with the primates or whales
I am now a reptile

I want to be a mammal again
With lots to gain
With the mirror I am vain

I don’t want to glide
Or have large teeth to bite!!!

All I want is to be loved…

I can hear them say "I told you so"

2008-10-31T20:24:00.000-07:00

I read it wrongly
I interpreted the code wrongly, badly
I thought the metaphor, signs, gestures were for me
they were intended for someone else, others, but me

I know it will come to this
I saw it coming

I thought I could paint the sky red, orange or more red
perhaps blue, or turquoise
the colour of your choice

But now, the pictures are everywhere
more than i can bear -- in the background, the foreground, left and right…
it hurts inside
but I say, I will fight

I look again at the pictures
I am not in it
it is someone else.
it has always been

I am just the court jester
the provider of laughter
from day one and hereafter

A TRIBUTE ...

2008-10-31T00:48:00.000-07:00

The other day Jef said, how come I don't put his pictures on my facebook. Ada what?

Ok... Nanti Uncle letak banyak-banyak, tapi kena pakai Nikon lah... baru sharp...

I will also put Syaza's pics and Jida's pics... Semua gambar anak-anak sedara.... Janganlah sensitive ... bebudak zaman sekarang ni ...

BTW I wish Jef all the best.. He is a very good rugby player and a brilliant trainee engineer. I hope he will help NS Wanderers to victory in this weekend's Cobra 10s.

All the best.

Love,

Uncle SS

An evening with Tun Dr Mahathir Mohamad & Tun Dr Siti Hasmah

2008-10-28T23:32:00.000-07:00

It was an honour indeed.

Did you watch it on TV? I hope you did.

Of seatbelt and underwear

2008-10-27T02:26:00.000-07:00

We were at Signature GSC to watch a B Movie.

Geeezzz... I have forgotten the title -- though it was just yesterday.

Yeah it says alot about the movie, but still, it was a good break from a very tiring week.

Jef thought I needed the break so he decided to drag me out of the house to the movie. Anyway, that's not the real story.

The real story is this:

Once we got in the movie theatre, once seated, I frantically started looking high and low for the seatbelt. I could find it. And I suddenly laughed out loud. Jef looked at me kinda puzzled. I told him, I was looking for the seatbelt. And he said... "it's about time to go for a holiday, Singapore? hahah..."

Another story,,,

You know how it is these days youngsters like to wear their jeans like really really low and expose their underwear (if they wear undies...).

Well Faris Fungus does that at the office almost every single day.

One day all of the sudden Zarina screamed, "Hoi, kau ni nak tunjuk kau punya underwear ni apahal? Nak naikkan nafsu orang ker?"

Mama Rina ... pheww.... Inilah kisah generation gap.

BTW Zarina is the supplier of muruku, kuih tat and segala macam munchies at the office. And she hogs the waste paper basket. Don't anyone dare move the basket away from her. Other than the low rise jeans drama, she is a nice mama.

Now... an idea for a present?

HOPE, HAMPA & HAMPEH

2008-10-25T06:39:00.000-07:00

Syaza takes great pictures.

Ever since he was young I noticed that he had an eye for beautiful creative visuals. He is smart, intelligent and so caring.

Syaza's masterpiece

As his Pak Ngah, I have always been Syaza’s favourite uncle. I’m guilty of spoiling him rotten.

Today, he is far more brilliant than some established politicians that I have interviewed on my TV shows. Syaza understands the way of the world and he understands the mechanics of international relations, politics, business and interpersonal communications.

Me and my brother's son Syaza

Syaza makes great business decisions and he is still a university student. Brave. Takes calculated risks. He is not even 21 yet!!!
He reads and reads and reads. I love him very much.

It was just like yesterday, when I had to dukung him because he would insist, only ‘Pak Ngah dukung Syaza’. And I would take him shopping and he would push the cart and load lots of junk food. But he would justify why he needed them… hmmmm.

Today he is a grown up young man. I don’t get to see him much these days, but we keep track of each other through Facebook and SMS. Most of all I am still Syaza’s favourite uncle. Pak Ngah loves you too Sayang…

****************

It has been an uneventful Saturday. I feel so bad not joining the guys for the recording of Perpektif Kita and Temujanji at Bukit Jalil.

I had to rest. I think I am mentally exhausted due to the preparations for the Presidential Debate, preparations and presentation of/for MCA Elections and now UMNO’s Pencalonan.

My lepak and movie buddy Jef is in Serting, cuti Deepavali kaedahnya. So I am left alone to make the day interesting. Well, apa lagi, draw the curtains and tidur sampailah petang.

Bagun tidur pergi kedai mamak, tak mandi lagi nih..

***************

After doing political specials I am a bit disillusioned…

If only our politicians are more articulate and a lot more intelligent and able to discuss macro and micro economic and international issues well and understand basic perception management and have excellent lateral thinking skills and have good strategic thinking….

They must instill hope in the rakyat. Yes, politicians from both sides. There are good ones, but not many. What a pity. The clever ones are outside of the political parties. How?

****************

AMPUN -- TERAMATLAH SIBUK

2008-10-23T03:58:00.001-07:00

Ya, janji... weekend ni update.. Until then, enjoy these pictures first:

GELAP

2008-10-14T15:51:00.000-07:00

After the 'live' Atma Asia Pemilihan UMNO, Kam, Zul & I went to D' Thahara in Kpg Pandan. They have the best Tom Yam in town.

After that, around midnight, Zul went to my place to use my internet access to do research for WW.

Guess what... as soon as I got home, I punya electricity dah kena potong. I paid all other bills BUT the electricity bill... pengajarannya -- lain kali jangan procrastinate dan jangan dok postpone sampai lupa...adoi...

Nasib baik my Sony VAIO tu standby time dia 3 jam lebih and Celcom mobile punya modem tak payah pakai letrik.

So Zul did his research pakai candle... macam candlelight dinner giteww...

Bila tak der letrik maknanya tak der aircond .. kena tido dekat sebelah sliding door kat balcony. Hujan lebat...kena tempias kat muka ... macam cerita 'Semerah Padi'.

Both me and Zul ketawa sampai pagi mengenangkan nasib akibat tak bayar letrik..

So this morning kena mintak tolong tuan despatch bayar bill kat TNB Kepong. Lepas ni janji will pay online. Tak mahu procrastinate lagi...

Insaf...

TIME, U.S PRESIDENTIAL DEBATE, GERAKAN, MCA & UMNO ELECTIONS

2008-10-14T01:43:00.000-07:00

Yes, so sorry...

I have to prioritise and blog posting made it to number 12 on my list.

I have to help the team with the US Presidential debate analysis, Gerakan, MCA, and UMNO elections.

Lots of editorial strategies on my plate and when I get really stressed, no, I won't bite people's neck, but I will colour my hair.

And yes, colour I did.

I coloured my hair black, but bleached it later after 36 hours.

Anyway, for your info, Astro AWANI now has MCA and UMNO Elections analysis at 5 pm and 9 pm on weeknights starting Oct 13.

It started with a 30 minute interview with Tengku Razaleigh Hamzah yesterday.

In my 30 minute interview, Ku Li shared his frustrations and hopes for UMNO.

At the 'White House' we had lots of kuih raya sedap-sedap from Kelantan.

Haji Nazri, Rozy, Me & Adilah

Me & Ku Li

Ku Li & Me

Adilah, Haji Nazri, Ku Li, Me & Rozy

Tonight, I will be interviewing Dato' Shahaniza Samsuddin, calon Ketua Puteri.

Next, Datin Ismalina Ismail another calon Ketua Puteri, Datuk Seri Ali Rustam, Datuk Nur Jazlan and many more.

I will be interviewing all the candidates 'live' on weeknights at 9:00 pm until Nov 9, 2008.

Lepas tu kita pergi Singapore ek? Naik bas Odyssey...

MAKAN-MAKAN JALAN-JALAN

2008-10-07T03:07:00.001-07:00

Thank you McArie Jr for the beautiful note below that you sent to my Facebook.

"They love you.. but they are not your lover. They care for you, but they are not from your family... They are ready to share your pain, but they are not in your blood relation. They are... FRIENDS!!!!! True friend scolds like a DAD.. Cares like a MOM.. Teases like a SISTER.. Irritates like a BROTHER.. And finally loves U more than a LOVER...."

Anyway, today, Dino, Zul and I decided that we need a break from the food at Bursa's cafeteria. So we went to KLCC and had lunch at California Kitchen-- yes, I am predictable -- and I settled for my Kung Pao Spaghetti...

Zul

Dino

Before that I went to Kinokuniya and grabbed David Busch's NIKON D60 Digital SLR Photography book for my Photography 101 Class with Mr Paparazzo Extraordinaire. No not for me to read but for Mr Paparazzo to learn before he could teach me... What? Yes... I don't like to read technical stuff... I like to be shown by others.... Suddenly I could hear Doc Fazul saying "Su, kau memang mengada...Dari Kolek sampai arini, mengada tak abis...."

This morning, I had nasi lemak and 2 telur tiga-suku masak.

To the fine gentleman who proposed the idea of being in the lobbyist 'chain' in Washington -- hmmm... I like the idea...

LOVE LOVE LOVE

2008-10-03T20:29:00.001-07:00

It’s 11:00 am Saturday morning.

They are playing Frank Sinatra and Billie Holiday here at Starbucks but the song Mamma Mia is still stuck in my head. Also on my mind’s playlist are Money-Money-Money, Waterloo, Dancing Queen and I Do.

All because of last night… I had one of the best times of my life.

Me and 14 of my close friends and their loved ones went to GSC Pavilion (yes, we occupied 2 rows of seats) to catch Mamma Mia, starring among others, my favourite screen queen & multiple Oscar winner Meryl Streep and the man I interviewed once in a junket in Tokyo – Pierce Brosnan.

Mamma Mia is a fun and touching musical-comedy laden and laced with ABBA’s hit songs sung by the talented actors and actresses.

And watching the movie with my crazy good friends who sang along throughout the movie was just fun. It reminded me of the Rocky Horror Picture Show experience.

It was also sort of a reunion for me with the people I laughed and cried with for at least half of my meaningful life on the 3rd day of Hari Raya – Kam & wife (the funky Che Yuz), Tengku Elida Bustaman, Tengku Saifuddin, Tengku Hashim and Khalid Ahmad.

And of course there were The Yang Sisters (the brilliant Joras -- I know you are reading, Prof Dr Madam Curi…and the other Lovely Doctor and hubby who is also one of the most sought after doctors in the country), Ebi the Media Strategist Extraordinaire and wife, and other members of the Kam & Yang clan.

Papa Khalid, Me, Tengku Elida, Tengku Hashim

For my anak-anak (I know you are reading this) a little bit of history...

I grew up in the ABBA era. ABBA was always on top of the charts with beautiful songs around 1975 to early 80s. When I was in Malay College, specifically in Form 2, at the New Hostel, we would spend Sundays listening to ABBA.

In those days, we didn’t have CDs or DVDs. But we had cassette players. So the happening boys during that time were the boys with cassette players. I had a mini one. My dorm mates, Lokman Hashim (my senior, he was Khazanah's Datuk Azman Mokhtar’s batch) and Ajip Rashidi (also my senior) had one too.

Next to cassette player, you were also ‘cool’ at MCKK if you owned a ‘coil’ water heater – untuk masak Maggi Mee…

The songs from the movie Mamma Mia transported me to the New Hostel days and it also reminded me of the day I was caught by Prefect Shahrin Ahmad for ‘reading’ a porn magazine with another friend (who will remain anonymous) while listening to ABBA’s ‘I have A Dream’.

And after the incident Prefect Shahrin and me became the best of friends. He was in Form Six and I was in Form 2. So I was like a kid brother. Today Shahrin is a high ranking police officer (hmmm… sometimes things you did when you were a kid would determine your career later on in life). But my fellow porn reader, is also a high ranking police officer today… Hahahaa.

Anyway, I would recommend you to go catch the movie. I heard Mamma Mia the musical will be staged at Istana Budaya in December. I will be there in the outfit Pierce Brosnan wore in the finale. Yes, the shining blue bell-bottom.

While I had fun with my friends at GSC, I somehow missed my wayang buddy, Paparazzo who is still enjoying Raya in the land where clans live steeped in tradition with adat adopted & adapted from Pagar Ruyung where the Undangs rule (at least on paper).

Me, Tengku Elida, Tengku Saifuddin & Tengku Hashim

************

On the second day of Raya, it was another fun Reunion. My ex-colleague and the once very famous newscaster, Azmi Aziz flew in from Putatan, Sabah with his wife Saf.

Me, Azmi, Saf and Burn (a trendy TV3 producer) had a great time reminiscing at my favourite place, Bestari Nasi Kandar at Plaza Damas.

Azmi and Saf now run a successful restaurant and catering business in Kota Kinabalu. Saf makes the best kuih tart. Azmi was a journalism graduate and Saf was once an engineer. Interesting indeed…

My other good friend Tengku Rozidar studied international relations and TESL but she is now a successful super-entrepreneur who started and now owns the 1901 Hot Dog brand.

See, a university is just a place to learn lateral thinking to plan your life.

Fikir-fikirkan, selamat beramal…

*****************

At about 1:20 in the morning, I was on the phone complaining to Celcom because my mobile broadband failed to function.

The reply I got was far from satisfactory, though the guy who attended my call was quiet courteous. But the script he read was so patronizing as if customers ni bodoh. Datuk Shazally, apa ni?

******************

And guess what? Ethan just walked into Starbucks with his training gear. He is preparing for the marathon. He is fit tip-top shape. Oh... I hate all these health freaks!!! Make me feel so ugly with my Basmati Rice body. Ethan, just eat OK... Don't ask how many calories? I would have to stop typing on my laptop or else Ethan would say I am ignoring him and would ask me to marry my Sony Vaio...

Ethan enjoying his cake

******************

I NEED INSPIRATION AND FEEL GOOD STUFF...

2008-10-02T21:43:00.000-07:00

While it is true “if a dog bites a man, it is not news, but when a man bites a dog, it is news” , news must also have inspiring elements.

Today, I picked up my favourite newspaper and the following stories caught my attention:

1. Pirates in the Gulf of Aden rake in RM100million this year – yes, and part of it came from MISC. Readers would now anticipate higher prices due to higher insurance costs, longer route - now that ships will avoid Gulf of Aden. The US might use this as legitimacy to ‘invade’ in order to protect. Read: Hopelessness.

2. Gerakan party election – Koh Tsu Koon in challenging time with calls by some members to leave BN. Some already left. Readers will visualize instability. Read: Weak leadership.

3. Hindraf supporters ‘created a scene’ at PM’s open house. Readers are angry at rude people tak hormat majlis. If you want to stress a message do it in a credible, polite way. Even Mahatma Gandhi stressed ‘passive resistance’. Read: When we are weak (or perceived as weak), people walk all over us.

4. Gunmen in RM1.3million gems grab in Seberang Perai. Readers are afraid of their safety now. Read: Lawlessness.

5. Couple in Kuala Lumpur who sought treatment from a ‘bomoh’ ended up being beaten to death (beaten = supposed to be part of the healing). Readers are puzzled at the intelligence of Malaysians. Read: And we are going to be a developed nation.

6. Puteri UMNO Chief said members still confused over leadership transition -- they need explanation. Readers wonder -- communications in UMNO = bad and always top down? Read: Weak leadership again.

7. Cop who fired 58 shots into the air in Kuala Lipis referred to psychiatrist. Readers wonder – mental state of the police force... Read: Our protectors will shoot us?

8. Stop the monopoly of the Chinese press by Tan Sri Tiong Hiew King, said Datuk Donald Lim Siang Chai. Readers say, how can this be? Read: Can we ever have a healthy debate?

9. The US700billion bailout – US financial system at the brink of collapse. Readers are worried because our market was and will continue to be badly affected. Read: Do we have what it takes to insulate us from all these?

10. PT Bank Internasional Indonesia buy, a commercial decision, says Najib. Readers say, Temasek? Hmmm...We know.. Bank Negara’s advise? Hmmm...We know. Read: How meh?

I need some feel good stuff please. I want hope. And they say politics is the business of giving hope…Now... Fast...

ON THE SECOND DAY OF RAYA

2008-10-02T06:22:00.000-07:00

It was raining heavily and I was trapped in my sanctuary.

So I decided to entertain myself.

And I recorded this song…

Once again, don’t throw tomatoes or grapes, just throw dollar notes and ringgit… or you can slide it right beneath my Renoma elastic band… hahaha (use your imagination lah…)

Enjoy…

Hari Raya Pertama with the People I love

2008-09-30T23:18:00.000-07:00

On the 1st day of Hari Raya – My family – People that I love…

In the garden with Mak and my brothers

Ayah

Papaya leaf

Mak

Me & Syaza

Jefri

Syaza & his dad (Dakbang)

Dakbang

Dokmen

Ayah & his cucu Jida

Adik

The Sulaiman Atan Clan 1 (Mak, Syaza, Adik, Kak Ani, Dakbang, Jida, Dokmen & Ayah)

The Sulaiman Atan Clan 2

My Siberian Tiger

Me & Azraai

My new house -- hadiah from Ayah -- view dari belakang

WATER WATER EVERYWHERE

2008-09-28T21:50:00.000-07:00

Ashwad and Me

Juling air

Today I realized something. Whenever I stepped out of the car, I will be either on a lantai simen or jalan yang ditar or ‘cobbled roads’.

I don’t remember berjalan atas tanah yang berumput at least over the last 5 days.

Itu sebabnya kasut I tak kotor (and BTW, I only have one pair of working shoes – itu pun cowboy boots…. Tak der pun orang nak hadiahkan I kasut… sob…sob – pura-pura menangis).

Maksudnya?

Kalau hujan, air tak meresap dalam tanah tapi mengalir dan berkumpul di kawasan yang rendah.

Lagi lebat hujan lagi deras air mengalir dan cepat berkumpul lalu banjir – kalau parit dan saluran tidak sempurna.

And this suddenly reminded me of my mom.

Mom would always tadah air hujan yang jatuh dari bumbung dan gunakan air itu untuk cuci lantai, cuci longkang, siram pokok, untuk basuh kereta and to fill the mini pond untuk angsa berenang.

Kadang-kadang air yang ditadah berbesen-besen banyaknya sampai boleh basuh 10 kereta at one go.

Selalunya in KL kalau hujan, ada saja tempat yang banjir, walaupun dah ada smart tunnel.

Kalaulah bangunan gomen dan swasta boleh tadah air hujan dan guna untuk flush jamban ker, cuci lantai ker, kan kurang sikit air mengalir kat jalanraya.

I think mom’s solution to reduce our house water bill can also be used to reduce water bills for big corporations and can help prevent floods in a city with paved roads and walkways.

Macamana air nak meresap dalam tanah?

Tanah dah ada 'coverline'. Parit sentiasa tersumpat sebab orang suka buang sampai merata.

Vote SS for office...hahaha...Kalau SS duk kat Parlimen,lingkup negara kau. Tapi mesti dye rambut murah, tak yah cukai...

OF FROGS AND RAINY DAYS

2008-09-28T00:38:00.000-07:00

When it rains, the frogs will do that desperate but soothing love-call.

When it rains, I just love listening to Barry Manilow…

They don’t make good music and songs like Manilow’s anymore.

And the song 'Ships' is really about me and ayah.

ONE LAST CRY

2008-09-27T09:50:00.001-07:00

Yes Jon Azman, you are right. Spot on.

It's encrypted within. And yes I am down to my last cry.

And it is all about putting a stop to living a lie. I will take on your offer to discuss over coffee at our favourite place.

And Kam too has reminded me several times, while looking for something that I don't have I must never allow myself to get hurt in the process.

Yes I am not making any sense.

It is all part of the encryption. So is life... My life...

RAMADAN COMING TO AN END ...

2008-09-24T06:49:00.000-07:00

Me, Dangsuria & Roy

It’s 8:25 pm.

I just got back from buka puasa with Jef at Carls Jr, Pavilion, my favourite.

And we had Baskin-Robbins’ ice cream for dessert.

And Ramadan is coming to an end. It was just like yesterday when we started fasting.
It’s just so fast.

Every time Syawal comes, I will thank God, for giving me the chance to celebrate Raya with my parents who are already in their 70s. I don’t think I can handle Syawal without them though I know it will be soon... not too long from now … So it makes me appreciate quality time with mom and dad so much.

****************

It’s that time again when colleagues will sell kuih at the office.

I bought kuih sepit and kuih bangkit, my favourite.

And I don’t think they will last for Raya.

My AWANI brothers and sisters have been consuming them during buka puasa.

And that is the best … Makan kuih with good friends.

****************

On Friday they will leave KL.

Roul will go back to Terendak Camp.

Fiza will go back to Batu Pahat.

Samson to Temerloh.

And Azman will balik kampong to Semenyih (yang ini dekat, boleh pergi).

My subordinates will not be around for a week. I will be so lonely at the Newsroom… no one to tease and gurau with… I will miss them.

I will surely miss Dangsuria’s laughter, Kam’s cheeky remarks, Nazri’s attempts at being funny, Mama Rina’s half-baked jokes and double vision and Kate’s irritating ringtone.

Jef will go home to Bahau on Saturday. I will miss his company and witty remarks. He will sure look dashing on Raya day in his Turquoise Baju Melayu.

I will be home in Sungai Ramal with Mom and Dad.

To everyone, Selamat Hari Raya and have a safe journey home.

To the special people in my life – I love you – and you know who you are…

Lagu Raya

2008-09-21T07:36:00.001-07:00

Selepas colour rambut, inilah hasilnya:

SUP LIDAH BANGSAR

2008-09-20T13:39:00.000-07:00

I only reached home at midnight.

Lepaking and bersembang with Moqq, Milla, Kichi + girlfriend and Moqq’s cousins, after Terawih time, was so much fun.

The sup lidah at Pelita Nasi Kandar in Bangsar could be the reason that made us talked and joked non-stop.

Right after consuming the sup, terus berpeluh badan, panas dan rasa nak ketawa – no, I’m not implying anything, or speculate the ingredients…

Among others we talked about my friend Luke’s encounter with a pengemis buta.

Here’s the story:

Luke was in a generous mood. A pengemis buta came and Luke took out his wallet and was looking for a one ringgit, 5 ringgit and 10 ringgit notes. He couldn’t find any. He only had a couple of 50 ringgit . So he took out the 50 ringgit note and gave the pengemis. The blind man, after feeling the note said, “Dik, ini banyak sangat ni, ini 50 ringgit…” And Luke said, “Bang, kalau abang tahulah apa saya dah buat (read: kenakalan dunia), saya kena bagi abang lagi banyak, bang… ambik jer lah…”

Then we talked about how I was so honoured when a girl came over and asked my autograph in a grocery store in Kuala Kangsar and she told me to wait to get her mom to take a photo with me.

I waited and realizing that I was restless, she screamed to her mom,

“Mak cepatlah, orang nak ambik gambar dengan artis ni..” The mom said, “Siapa dia?” The girl said, “Chef Ismail…” And I tersipu-sipu… Banyaklah resemblance…

And we joked about how Milla, and Mohsein’s cousins spent the whole day ‘shopping’ only to buy satu kerongsang… Macam tu lah kalau shopping ngan oang pompuan.

Anyway, before the sup lidah session, I had a great time berbuka puasa with Jef, his parents and siblings at Dewan Perdana FELDA.

They were in town to do some raya shopping and Jef & I thought it would be a great idea to buka puasa with them. And true enough, we had a great time.

Me, Abang Mustafa (Jef's Dad) and Kakak (Jef's Mom)

Me, Jef, and Jef's younger brother Asrin

Asrin & Adik

Makan time

And it is already Friday

2008-09-18T21:39:00.000-07:00

And what will I do this weekend?

Catch up on my reading... yes, 3 books and 7 magazines are waiting for me.

Then planning for editorial content for the coming shows...

I will just curl up like a tenggiling and digest the info on Saturday and Sunday atas couch in my favourite Renoma. Hmmmm... Not a pretty sight.

Then bangun kejap and buat mind-map for content treatment.

And also follow up with Squashy's project. Oi En Squashy, cepatlah, mana feedback dia? I need to incorporate dalam a bigger powerpoint presentation yang dalam Bahasa Melayu punya. You know lah bila jumpa goment ni...

***********

Today, will buka puasa with anak-anak yatim at Bursa with friends.

Tomorrow will buka buasa with Jef and his parents and the clan at Dewan Perdana Felda.

Lepas tu supper/early sahur with Moqq. Kat mana Moqq? Somewhere yang ada sup lidah? Like Pelita in Bangsar?

Looking forward... so malam ni kenalah basuh baju yang warna hitam tu... Oh... I hate washing. Nak hantar laundry tak sempat plak...

Cobaan...

************

BTW Wira, nice to hear from you after bertahun-tahun hilang di mata. Rupanya dah jadi orang London.

************

LIHATLAH SEKELILING KITA, BACA TANDA-TANDA DAN BERTINDAKLAH DENGAN BIJAK

2008-09-17T02:18:00.000-07:00

Selamat pergi Sazli Morah Abas.

He was a good man.

I worked with him when I was in the News and Current Affairs Division of TV3. Sazli was a very hardworking sports producer. I was the Current Affairs & Research Editor then.

Kerk informed me early today that Sazli 'meninggal dunia dan akan dikebumikan di Lenggeng, Negeri Sembilan.'

Many good people and friends of mine have left me forever. Most of them are a lot younger than me. May be my time is near.

Al-Fatihah...

*********************

Members of the civil society are beginning to get tired, some angry and some very angry.

They are asking questions like "do they really care for the people, or they just love to prolong the sufferings of the people who voted for them or against them?".

Whether they realize it or not, or prefer to be in denial, the signs are there -- today, the KLCI closed lower, again...

And foreign investors are thinking twice about us, citing political risks, Bernama Radio says that almost every morning... Anyone listening?

And add the Lehman crisis to that and also the downward trend of palm oil prices... what do we have? Yes, you know the answer.

Sep 16 has gone. Now 'swapping' is the new label.

The people are beginning to ask... 'Do you really care for us?'

Ayah, what is going to happen to our shares?

Have compassion for the common people. They voted you!!!! They want you to perform.

After this, we will see a more powerful and organized civil society movement in PRU13, I believe...

So fellow Malaysians. the next time you see me on the street, you will not ask this editor anymore about this issue, as I have posted what I feel here...And as a journalist I have to remain neutral..

TIME TRAVEL TO THE 50s - 60s ERA

2008-09-15T19:21:00.000-07:00

I don't know about you, but in my case, on a couple of occasions, I will dream of something (yes, mimpi), and a month or two later it will become a reality.

Sometimes not exactly, but the direction and environment would be almost the same as 'described' and 'told' to me in my sleep.

Last night I had a beautiful dream.

I was in a play, in a huge theatre in the 50s and 60s era, and I was the lead star.

But I could not really remember today, my lines...

But I delivered the following song really well in the play... (and yes, I will record it later and upload here and on You Tube).

Dengar...
O...jeritan batinku
memekik-mekik
memanggil-manggil
namamu selalu

Sehari rasa sebulan
hatiku tiada tertahan

Kupandang kiri
kupandang kanan
dikau tiada

Risau,
batinku menangis risau
makinkau jauh
makin hatiku bertambah kacau

mengapa kita berpisah
tak sanggup menahan asmara

O... dengarlah
jeritan batinku..

**********

I had a great time entertaining our guests at ASTRO's buka puasa yesterday at KL Convention Centre.

Thanks to Fadzillah Shahrum of The Bank of East Asia, for sending me the photo below.

Fadzillah and me

RAYA 'COMES EARLY' AT ASTRO AWANI

2008-09-14T23:32:00.000-07:00

Getting ready for ASTRO's buka buasa at KL Convention Centre.

WEEKEND REPORT

2008-09-14T10:57:00.000-07:00

It has been a great weekend indeed.

It is 2 am now.

I just got back from a teh tarik session with Rafizi Ramli.

The occasion? Rafizi’s birthday.

We celebrated his birthday with Murtabak and Daging Masak Kicap.

And since it is Ramadan, there was no Marilyn Monroe coming out of a huge cake singing Happy Birthday President Raf...

We talked about lots of things from politics to MCKK, our alma mater.

I admire Rafizi’s stamina in ‘giving back’ to the community – coaching the debating team of MCKK and helping out the hockey team.

A noble thing indeed...

We all must give back – it is all about sharing.

Part of our wealth, rezeki and talent must be shared with others to help the community -- something like paying zakat.

Rafizi inspires me … I wish I have the drive to do more…

**********

Not once but twice.

Yes, I went to see The Other Boleyn Girl TWICE!!!

First with Jef on Saturday… And the second time earlier today with Roul… I just love the movie …

Anne Boleyn (played by Natalie Portman) was a great strategist.

It is all about working hard to get what you want even though you are not the favourite one…

I can identify with that …

It is a bit like the story of my life…

I won’t go into details.

But I will just say,I had to compete all the time. I won most of the time, but the price of success sometimes made me ask this question – “Is it worth the effort and time?”

Can’t love just ‘datang bergolek and datang melayang?”

And what about a 'level playing field'?

Decipher…

Great minds do think alike…

*********

Ah yes… Baju Raya…

Normally I will not buy any… except for Baju Melayu.

But for a good reason…

As ‘a front-liner for Astro AWANI’ I have to attend functions for Buka Puasa and Hari Raya and I just need to give a variety of ‘colours’ to the photographers, in addition to the smile.

Me and Jef had a great time selecting our Baju Melayu at JL Manshop on the 3rd floor of BB Plaza right in front of Metrojaya.

JL has lots of linen Baju Melayu. I love linen. I don’t like the shiny silk/rayon ones as they tend to stick to my body and make me look like ‘kampit beras Basmati’.

I went for the pink Baju Melayu and Jef got himself a nice blue/purple one.

Right after shopping for Baju Melayu, we went to see The Other Boleyn Girl and later makan at our favourite place – Carls Jr. I am addicted to the Famous Star burger. Yummmm…

*************
My phone kept on ringing with friends asking who will be the next to be caught under ISA after Theresa Kok, Raja Petra and the journalist from Sin Chew.

I said, how would I know? All I know is Datuk Zaid Ibrahim is against it… Now this is interesting….

*************

Now excuse me, I just need to do this… To my English Teacher, my English is still OK…

I very the angry just now. Almost hit the car in front lar, coz the driver simply-simply eat my road. I horn-horn, never change. See-see, oh, he sending SMS. What lar? I very angry if people SMS while driving. Some more eat my road. Celaka. Almost kemek my nice Pearl White car. Some more after I overtake, want to jelling-jeling pandang-pandang. Think what? Siti Nurhaliza-SM Salim song ha? So big ah you drive X5. Blady hell… Make lose pahala only puasa month…

************

SUDUT PANDANG

2008-09-11T20:28:00.000-07:00

It was a fiery, loud and good debate on Sudut Pandang anchored by my colleague Kamarul Bahrin Haron.

The topic -- Social Contract and National Unity.

The guests: YB Datuk Ibrahim Ali (MP Pasir Mas) and YB Jeff Ooi (MP of Jelutong).

Datuk Ibrahim’s point: Understand the history, spirit of the social contract and the less than level playing field -- and 51 years after independence is such a short period to demand for changes in the social contract.

Jeff Ooi’s point; There has been a lot of changes and the thinking on Social Contract must change with the demands of the time.

Overall it was civil and enlightening.

Certain things labeled ‘sensitive’ if argued in a responsible manner with well researched points would benefit everyone.

Sometimes, I feel, the debate on Sudut Pandang is better than hearing the ‘debate’ in parliament.

Sudut Pandang goes on air at 8:30 pm, Mondays to Fridays.

pix; Courtesy of Sultanmuzzaffar

Bare Senses

2008-09-09T23:01:00.000-07:00

I was stuck in the traffic jam near LRT Masjid Jamek and I noticed so many people now walk with their ears ‘plugged’.

Yes, 2 'plugs' -- one on the left and one on the right ear, adorn boys and girls, men and women, connected by wire to iPods, giving them ‘sounds’.

But when I walk in the city or in the country, I prefer my senses ‘bare’, to feel and understand what goes on around me.

I need the information to be a better person.

I will plug my ears when I am confined in a box so that I will still have my window to the world.

*************

I draw inspirations from many sources.

I learn and understand others from many sources too.

Among them, words stringed in lyrics of songs.

I bought an old Sade album the other day and have been positively intoxicated by the beautiful sounds in the CD. Reminded me of my younger days at Portland State University, Oregon.

And certain songs made me understand myself better and helped me to understand others too…correctly or wrongly…

And the interesting lines….

Placing high stakes, making hearts ache.
He's loved in seven languages.
Diamond nights and ruby lights, high in the sky.
Heaven help him, when he falls.

His eyes are like angel’s but his heart is cold.

This is no blind faith. This is no sad or sorry dream

So decipher jer lah...

++++++++++++

Oh btw, I had a great buka puasa with Jef yesterday at Istana Hotel. Delicious food and great company.

Day before yesterday, it was a fun buka puasa with Azman and Roul at Carls Jr, Pavilion and later sup lidah at Pelita Nasi Kandar.

Azman and Roul

Me & Zulhelmi

LISTEN TO GOOD IDEAS AND SUGGESTIONS...

2008-09-06T13:18:00.000-07:00

It is 3 am, early Sunday morning.

I am finally back home at my sanctuary after a very fulfilling day… no… make that day and night and early morning.

Earlier, I dropped off Caroline at her house and later sent Ethan home on the other side of Suburbia.

It has been a mighty long time since I last went out on a Saturday night chilling out with friends and getting to know new people.

Me and Ethan outside Werner's On Changkat

After lots of persuasion, and yes Ethan is so good at persuading, I decided to go along with his plan.

Right after Isyak and the shortened Terawih, I rushed home from Kajang to get ready to go out with Ethan for:

1. Farewell for Ethan’s colleague at Baan 26, Changkat Bukit Bintang, and

2. Birthday of Ethan’s colleague at Werner’s.

Me

Ethan

I enjoyed myself very much. Ethan’s colleagues, the 4 beautiful ladies from Air Asia were so nice and fun.

****************

Before that Jef, at 7:18 pm, sent me a message from his hometown, Bahau “Selamat berbuka. Me and the rest of family, except Asrin, berbuka kat luar…”

And I replied, “Same here. I’m in Kajang with Mon and Dad, Adik and Dokmen. Send my regards to your Mom & Dad…”

Jef’s dad, Abang Mustafa is like a brother and Kakak has always been nice to me. And Jef is a very caring nephew yang manja (I know he will hate me for writing this ... coz it doesn’t go with his macho image… hahaha)

Before reaching home for buka puasa, I stopped by at Sungai Ramal’s pasar Ramadan and bought my favourite Apam Balik.

The family house in Sungai Ramal Dalam, Kajang

My love -- my car

My kid

My other kid

Mom, as usual, when I said, I will be home, will cook my favourite sambal udang and ikan masak kicap.

And the cats kind of missed me. As soon as I got off the car, they came and rubbed their bodies against my jeans.

While waiting for the Azan, me, mom and dad sat outside the house and talked about the possibility of Members of Parliament ‘lompat parti’ and the national budget -- that's quality time..

**********
Earlier in the morning, I felt so lonely.

And I decided to follow Jef’s advice -- “if the quiet weekend is unbearable, go out and make some noise…”

And I did… thanks for the common sense…

Cheers

**********

And Ethan, you have a conference to attend at 8 am. Yes, Sunday at 8 am…. Minimal hangover I hope… Hahaha

*************

Professor Dr Suhaimi Freud Jung Sulaiman and Psycholove 101

2008-09-03T07:46:00.001-07:00

Don't expect to be treated as a priority when u are just an option!

Today, I just had to do it. I had to say it like it is.

My friend RR thinks she is Miss 2nd Best.

She thinks, no, let me correct that, she knows she is just an object of convenience.

And I told her, yes, again, for the 3rd time (…well, some people need time to learn and unlearn. Me included...) to read between the lines.

I just said:

You know you are not the one or no longer the one, or a true complete doormat when:

1. He finds it not at all rude to send and reply SMS throughout dinner or while talking to you.

2. He thinks it is fine to excuse himself for a while during dinner and make that ‘very’ important phone call.

3. He thinks it's macho to risk your life and his by sending and replying SMS while driving recklessly… (yes, to reach home fast so that he can send more SMS while pretending to work in the study/library..).

4. He no longer says thank you, or “that was a lovely time” or “it has been a wonderful evening…”

5. And the kiss finally made it to the Top 10 in the Reluctant Chart -- on his part, that is...

6. And yes, please run to the toilet and cry as much as you want and scream FFFFF, when he accidentally, yes, forgetting you are in front of him, and says “…I love you too…” on the phone...

But you can console yourself still by saying.. Nah… I’m just his good friend…or ... So what, I’m a lesbian…

Wake up girl!!! Don’t wait for the roof to fall on you!!! You are on a different planet…

Now cry for 5 minutes and then, call me, we go have teh tarik or sahur... OK.. I have been there.. and understand it perfectly well... How I got over it? I just hit my head with a bolster and gulp 2 panadols.

Oh BTW, you might want to go to Poh Kong or Habib and check how much is the 'bracelet' that he gave? Hmmm...

Girl, remember this, read my lips... you are PRIMETIME material, you are in the Miss Streep & Hepburn league, not Pia Zadora. That 'bracelet' is... nah.... enough for one day...

YOU CAN DO IT ....

2008-09-02T20:41:00.000-07:00

Today a CEO of a reputable company who is also a good friend asked me to coach him so that he will not be nervous when speaking in public.

He said, he will sweat and sweat and his ideas and thought process will just go haywire once he stands behind the rostrum.

I told him, same here...

I will panic like mad a few minutes before I go 'live' on air. And to calm me down, I will look at the notes, the massive preparations that I have done and will continue telling myself -- Suhaimi, you are well prepared, damn it!!. Only then I will feel ok.

I told him, it's fine to feel that way.

The trick is, tell yourself you are there because you are well prepared, you are good and people want you to succeed.

Yeah... easier said than done.

He said... "I don't know why, people believe in me, but I have this huge inferiority complex.."

Same here. I have a major inferiority complex that I have decided to be on TV to tell myself that I have made it!! I can fight that feeling.

But it does not stop at that. In personal relationships too, I am always afraid I would be on the losing end.

Sometimes I just overdo things to keep me reminded that I am needed and loved...

Strange... The person perceived as the most confident is sometimes the most insecure with a low self-esteem.

You just have to fight the 'small person' in you.

PUASA DAN NAFSU

2008-09-01T08:45:00.000-07:00

It’s the first day of puasa and I lost to nafsu.

Yes, we ordered too much food for buka puasa.

At 5:30 pm, we still couldn’t decide where to buka puasa. Suddenly Jef said, “…let us go to The Gardens…”

I said “Yes, your favourite Thai Restaurant…”.

And before you can say @#$%^&, the table dah penuh dengan Deep Fried Fish with Special Thai sauce, River Prawns with Tamarind Sauce, Pandan Chicken , Tom Yam Kung, Spring Rolls and White Rice. Oh yes, also add ice blended coconut and Thai ice tea to the list.
And after that we had cendol.

Kami tewas pada nafsu… oh tidak…

Tomorrow, I will go slow on food… mengalahkan nafsu

******************

Before berbuka, we did our regular ‘stocking-up’ on reading materials at Borders.

In addition to the fancy car magazines, Jef has now started reading management, motivation and leadership books. He bought Ken Blanchard’s “The Heart of a Leader”. And he will summarize the content for me within a week. So I tak yah baca… Welcome to “Knowledge Management”.

I bought the following books (in addition to the regular – The Economist and Off The Edge) after recommendation and good reviews from friends.

Out of the Tempurung by various writers

Di Balik Malaysia -- dari Majapahit ke Putrajaya by Dr Farish Noor

Oh, we went to Isetan to tengok-tengok benda baru… Guess what? Dia orang dah main lagu raya dah… Baru first day puasa. Camno tu? Atok tak tahu lah…

*******************

MCKK SUMMIT, PERMATANG PAUH, YUT LOY AND RELATIONSHIPS

2008-08-27T22:13:00.000-07:00

Fendy and another talented emcee of MCKK

On Wednesday, Fendy and Zulikhwan treated me like royalty at MCKK, the school of Kings!!

The MCKK boys were so 'professional' and were so good in organizing the Malay College Youth Development Summit 2008 with participants from Malaysia, Philippines, Indonesia, India, Thailand, Saudi Arabia and Singapore.

As an old boy, I was very proud.

Over lunch, I had a good discussion with the Principal, En Mohd Rauhi on upcoming projects for the boys and how I can help out.

Lunch at MCKK

In Kuala Kangsar too, I managed to discuss with Entrepreneur and Cooperatives Development Deputy Minister, Dato Saifuddin Abdullah (Dato SAB), also an old boy of MCKK, on the current political scene.

Also with us were former basketball coach of MCKK Mr Liew, Jakli and Hishamuddin of Class of 78.

Had a great time at KK's Benteng with Dato SAB, Hishe, Jakli and Mr Liew until about 2 am.

Lunch at MCKK

Zulikhwan briefing me on the programme together with Fendy.

Pun Mei Yan (Ave Maria Convent), Fendy, me, Zulikhwan, Parkpien 'Sean' Bamrungpong (Vajiravudh College, Bangkok) and Keehan Hussain Manjee (Aitchison College, Lahore)

Fun moments

Ready to serve

************************

Yes, Jef, we forgot the pau!

I only realized that I left the pau in the car this morning.

Pau Yut Loy yang sedap tu dah basi dalam kereta. All because I was so tired after the trip to Permatang Pauh and KK and just rushed up to the apartment and fell asleep on the couch.

After all the trouble 'competing' with other MCKK old boys for the pau, I managed to secure 2 pau ayam, 2 pau kaya and 2 pau kacang...

Many famous old boys were there at Yut Loy -- all on their way back from Permatang Pauh. We have old boys from both camps, BN and PKR. While we have differences in political views we are still brothers and had a great time having lunch/tea at Yut Loy.

The famous Hishamuddin Rais was there. So was Dato Salehuddin Hashim.

I was there with Moqq.

My senior of 2 years, Johari Kamil Ibrahim was there too -- and thanks for belanja we all, Bro Jo.

I arrived in KL at 7:30 pm. Went straight to pick up Jef at Kota Damansara and we went for dinner at Victoria Station.

************************************

On August 26, at Permatang Pauh, I managed to get first hand info on why Datuk Seri Anwar won big -- no need for some fancy post mortem -- it's all there in the open. No, I didn't get the insights from political analysts, but from the Pak Ciks and Mak Ciks that I met at coffee shops, the new Jaya Jusco, and all over Bukit Mertajam, Seberang Jaya and many other areas. The real barometer!!!

Sometimes I wonder, if the feedback that I got from the voters ever got to the ears of the strategists in BN.

Sometimes when we are in position of power, 'people' will only tell us what they think we want to know.

Time to think, really think.

******************************

Suddenly teringat lagu Datuk Sharifah Aini...

Tapi, dek kau jangan lupa
Kenang daku, dalam doa mu
Itu yang kupinta dari dulu waktu bertemu...

***************************

APPLES....

2008-08-24T06:27:00.000-07:00

Today I received red and green apples beautifully wrapped in a small basket. It sure was a surprise, a beautiful surprise indeed.

In the basket were two small stones with a word carved on each stone. See below:

To the person who gave me the beautiful Sunday morning surprise (who will remain anonymous… as some people prefer to be “low profile”…) the apples that you gave and the message that came with it really touched my heart.

And you know how I feel for you.

The feeling is mutual.

It has been a very beautiful Sunday.

I LOVE YOU VERY MUCH

2008-08-21T07:54:00.000-07:00

Today, I miss my mom.

When I was refilling my fountain pen’s ink, I suddenly remembered mommy.

Mom was a school teacher. She has the most beautiful handwriting I have ever seen. She said in those days, teachers must pass the ‘writing’ exam before they can teach.

When I got ‘number one’ in the final exam in standard one, mom and dad bought me my first fountain pen. When I was in standard two I was already learning how to write ‘cursive’ – yes cursive handwriting.

Mom would hold my hand and fingers and helped me to make the ‘circular movements’ to produce beautiful handwriting on the special exercise book with coloured lines.

She would say… “Cuba Ami tulis tentang cuti sekolah, satu mukasurat. Nanti emak check… Wah, cantik tulisan Ami, tapi boleh improve lagi… Sayang Ami…” And she would kiss me.

And I was so encouraged. I would sleep late at night, just to write and write to impress mom. I would copy pages and pages of Hans Christian Andersen’s stories to improve my handwriting.

And that got me addicted to reading... from 're-writing' Hans Christian Andersen, Enid Blyton and the Hardy Boys Series. Then dad bought volumes and volumes of Encyclopedia Britannica... Wow... more to write!!!

My handwriting today is not nice like mom’s but every time I hold the fountain pen, it would remind me of mommy’s love.

The other day I misplaced my fountain pen and I cried, not because I lost an expensive pen but fountain pens remind me of how mommy taught me to seek knowledge.

Ami sayang mak…

I will be back this weekend mom… Your son misses you. He needs you. Sometimes he feels so alone in a crowded and at times cruel world.

CIPLAK

2008-08-21T05:19:00.000-07:00

Yang ini, I copy-paste from an email I got today...

Life is too short to wake up with regrets. So love the people who treat you right. Believe everything happens for a reason. If you get a second chance, grab it with both hands. If it changes your life, let it. Kiss slowly. Forgive quickly. Life is never easy.

Renung-renungkan, selamat beramal.

TRENDSPOTTING

2008-08-19T22:52:00.000-07:00

You must not only know what the trend is going to be but what opportunities it can create and how you can reap the benefits.

When the 7-Eleven stores started springing up in Malaysia, many thought it would not catch on like in the US. But they are still around and thriving.

And now the idea is being expanded by another company.

If you go to Sri Hartamas, you can see a new 24 hour outlet, KK. There is also a KK in Bangsar. Lagi besar, lagi banyak barang, hingga boleh membuat 7-Eleven tak relevant.

It is about location, location, location.

Bangsar and Sri Hartamas are places where you can see people hanging out from 9pm to sunrise.

Also, the 'creative class' people are nocturnal 'animals' and the new economy and globalization not only create more people in the creative class, but worldwide trading of commodities/financial instruments etc with centres in Europe and US, have resulted in many Malaysians having to stay up to get updates on trading etc etc.

As such, why should 24 hour operations be confined to just sundry goods and 7-Eleven type of businesses, or KK for that matter.

There are now new opportunities for lateral thinking hair salon owners, dry cleaning companies, manicurists, and reflexology therapists. Go 24!!! We are all so stressed and we need pampering during late nights.

When I was a student in Portland Oregon, I did my shopping for groceries at 3 am, after studying, as SAFEWAY (it is something like TESCO, Jaya Jusco) opened at that time -- 24 hours -- yes...

---------

Moving on, I was annoyed earlier this morning.

I went to the bank at 9:35 am to pay my car loan. And I needed to withdraw money from the ATM.

The bank opened at 9:30, but at 9:45, I was still waiting outside as the staff needed to replenish cash in the ATM.

What? You do these things before the back buka lah... It is safer also. Why make us, consumers who give you the business, melangok kat luar? Ini gua nak komplen kat Chairman/President of the bank.

RELATIONSHIP 101

2008-08-18T19:03:00.000-07:00

Sometimes we just need to attend 'refresher' courses.

Relationship 101 is good for urban dwellers who have no time for one-on-one shrink opportunities.

Even with a reputable shrink, it is good to go also... yes, yes... me included... It takes a brave 'man' to admit.

First lesson...see below

Cliche but could just be true....

"If you love someone, let it be and set him/her free, if he/she comes back to you, it's meant to be..."

RESERVE LIST VS WAITING LIST

2008-08-17T20:06:00.000-07:00

This story is about choices. Whether one wants to follow the heart or the mind. Whether you want to go for status quo or you want to go for broke.

Early in the morning Shamin (of course not his real name) was so depressed.

He thinks he is second or third best.

He feels he is always on the waiting list.

He is beginning to believe he is nothing more than a filler.

He gives and gives and never gets anything (that is what he believes...)

And today, he said, he was told to be on standby. If things go his way, then he is needed.

Shamin asked me to help him get out of depression for being My Standby, Mr WhenNeededOnly, Mr Provider and Mr SafetyNet.

I said, "I know how it feels. You have to know where you are in the pecking order, where you stand, what you mean to the people around you. So you want something back for whatever you give? You will end up more depressed if you think that way. When you give, never expect anything in return. So what if you are third best, your contributions will be remembered one day, and you will be the eternal number one. Let them be greedy for juggling number 1,2, 3, 4 and then you. You are full of love to give, anyway.."

Then I stopped the car...

I called Shamin, but there was no answer.

I just wanted to tell him, I could be very wrong....

SUSUK -- The Movie

2008-08-16T22:10:00.000-07:00

Jef and I left the cinema arguing whadda xokifide was the movie all about.

I said, Suzana (played by Ida Nerina) had to continue killing people to stay young and Soraya had to die to give Suzana her 'youth'.

Jef said, there were two different stories merged at the end. Apa dia?

Entah.

The meat eating hantu was far from scarry.

Overall, it was a not-disappointing movie, not so earth shattering and kinda fun.

Sofia Jane's talent tak digunapakai and the Aleeza Kassim/Yasmin Yusof 'relationship' was kinda cool for a susuk intro for the uninitiated.

It's a movie with a blending of indie-mainstream approach.

Oklah...

Jef, next time no meat eating hantu yang bunuh orang dengan ayam dan terbang pakai rain-coat okay!!! Azab...Shaolin Temple pun tak apa.

Tapi nak buek camno, wayang sumo er tak sodap bulan ni... Susuk pon Susuk lah...

When I go tengok wayang, I want a nice story line, good script yang tak payah interpret and pikir berat-berat. Dahlah berjam-jam pikir benda berat-berat kat opis like civil society, new politics, bajet, etc. etc.

Ponek atok pikir ni ha... Lobih-lobih lai baco citor tak semonggah kek sokabar bersumpah-sumpah... ponek atok...

MCKK ROCKS -- GOOD SHOW BOYS!!!

2008-08-14T21:29:00.000-07:00

Zulikhwan & Affendy

Dear Muhammad Affendy Hasni & Mohd Zulikhwan Ayub,

I was in the control room and I was so proud of both of you, especially when the Astro AWANI production team in the control room said "woi, pandai budak-budak MCKK ni... lagi pandai dari some of the VIPs yang kita pernah jemput..."

And I just proudly said... "of courselah, they all budak MCKK..."

And the AWANI Production Team said...."Hmmm.... sekolah dia...patutlah puji memanjang..."

And the best part, they survived anchor Kamarul Bahrin Haron's grill. And impressed everyone.

Kam, Zulikhwan, Affendy and me at the back

----------------

Muhamamd Affendy Hasni and Mohd Zulikhwan Ayub were our guests for Sudut Pandang. This morning's recording will be transmitted at 8:30 pm, Monday, August 18, on Astro AWANI Channel 501.

They came to promote and discuss The Malay College Youths Development Summit 2008 which will be held from August 24 to 31.

This inaugural summit will see participants from Philippines, Pakistan, Singapore, India, Thailand, Vietnam, Cambodia and top schools in Malaysia.

The student leaders will exchanged ideas on community development and others during the summit.

Zulikhwan

And from the way Affendy and Zulikhwan answered Kamarul's tough questions, I believe the Summit will be a great one.

Cikgu Liza, thanks for bringing them here.

-------------------

Affendy is in the MCKK debating team and he reminded me of my younger days in MCKK.

Affendy

I represented MCKK in the BM debate. We made it to the finals of Piala Perdana Menteri in 1979. Though we lost to Sekolah Tun Fatimah, we performed really well. It was televised LIVE on RTM. Yes, my 'girl-friend' masa tu dalam team STF. Nama dia Nor Hafizah Ismail, now dah Datin Nor Hafizah Ismail. The announcer at that time made a blunder though when introducing the 3rd speaker from MCKK.

He said, 'sekarang dipersilakan pembahas ketiga dari Kolej Melayu Kuala Kangsar, Suhaimi BINTI Sulaiman..." Yes BINTI, whadda..., I freaked out for 3 seconds. Then I confidently made my debut on tele... and today, I love the television-business.

ANATOMY OF A TV ANCHOR -- WHAT'S THE BIG DEAL

2008-08-12T03:42:00.001-07:00

I am so happy.

Finally I can urinate with ease.

Yes, they now have males cleaning our toilet at the office.

Previously, we had three Indonesian women cleaning the toilet at the same time and sengaja mop lantai dekat ngan kita, all speaking in a dialect yang pekat and giggling while we were 'standing' in front of the urinal -- possibly talking about us and making fun.

Cuba kalau orang jantan pi mop lantai dalam toilet pompuan... kalau tak terpekik terlolong, tak tau lah...

Women cleaners dalam toilet jantan kacau ketenteraman awam dalam toilet.

Depa ni suka jeling-jeling, I caught them jeling-jeling once...

Lainlah kalau I ni exhibitionist...

I ni pemalu. macam daun semalu...so please, kalau kat urinal belakang I jangan lalu...

IKAN BILIS AND SAMBAL SARDIN AND ALAT NAK BAGI TINGGI

2008-08-11T22:32:00.000-07:00

I was still up at 3 am. Memang susah nak lelap mata. Lapar yang teramatlah sangat!!

So I decided to masak sambal sardin.

Potong bawang besar dan bawang putih, tumis dalam microwave oven for 1 min 30 sec with 3 sudu minyak.

Lepas tu add serbuk cili and put back in the microwave for 2 minutes. Then add sardin and garam and put back in the microwave for 2 minutes -- siap.

And then I buat ikan bilis goreng pakai microwave gak. Segenggam ikan bilis gaul dengan 3 sudu makan minyak and put in microwave for 3 minutes -- siap -- garing macam keropok.

Makan dengan white bread -- menjilat jari dan segala-galanya.

---------------

Oh BTW Mr dot dot dot yang mempunyai ketinggian yang sederhana dah beli 'alat' untuk menambah ketinggian...

Kenapalah.... Can't help but laugh berdekah-dekah

We love you, tak kisah lah tinggi ker pendek ker... Yang penting hati baik...

---------------

SURPRISE

2008-08-11T07:49:00.000-07:00

Thanks M.N dear for the surprise. You didn’t have to...

I was really touched…

And yes, Escada is my favourite. I just love Escada Sunset Heat for Men.

Appreciate it very much.

How can I be angry with/at delayed ‘flights’….

SUNDAY AT SUNSET

2008-08-10T06:51:00.000-07:00

Give alternatives. Don't just criticize...

-------------------

No I am not mad, just disappointed. I have rearranged my schedule. But then, there are things that are just beyond our control, like a delayed flight or a chain reaction of events… Delayed flight eh?

------------------

I just want to be important in someone’s life…. Am I not important to you? I feel I'm not appreciated... (doing a self-pity piss artist mono..) .. Oh since I'm in the mood for self-pity, hear this, I am number 65 in your top 100 chart and just waiting for the roof to fall on me... (got it out of my chest finally...).

-------------------

Reed, it was a fabulous get together/dinner after a minor disappointment…

-------------------

The monkey is on the throne ... Long live Capucine (sometimes spelt 'Capuchin').

-------------------

Rahmat, I hope everything is OK... You need a shoulder and ear... count on me...

-------------------

I am going to dazzle them... mark my words...

-------------------

PATERNAL INSTINCT

2008-08-09T22:47:00.000-07:00

Say what you want but I think my paternal instinct is stronger than some men who have children.

Then you will ask, why don't you have kids? Or, why don't you get married?

Now... I will not want to start an argument but I will just say -- nurturing does not mean I have to end up in a marriage or relationship. You can 'nurture' by just being who you are, with or without ties to the 'kid' or 'adult' you are nurturing... yeah...yeah... throw stones at me now...

Strangers find me very nurturing -- now, define that please...

We all have our own nurturing side.

We have a lot to gain from letting ourselves trust more and more our own instinctive and intuitive reactions...

No I am not crazy... I just look, see and analyze...

My nephew Syaza thinks I am the greatest Pak Ngah in the world.

Yes, you can call me uncle.

No, not because of the high fever I had yesterday...

YOU ARE SO VAIN, SUHAIMI

2008-08-07T19:01:00.000-07:00

They don't call me vain for nothing.

My name is pronounced SUHAIMI VAIN SULAIMAN (VAIN = BIN for those who can't pronounce 'V').

Yes, I spend hours in front of the mirror to look natural. So what? I tak kacau orang....

I love myself... And I love other people too...And I have been accussed of loving certain people more... And i won't apologize for that... Coz it is o' so true

BUT THEY ARE SMART...AND MANY ARE SMARTER THAN YOU

2008-08-06T20:27:00.000-07:00

Sometimes I feel like screaming to my 'friends' in the media and the stakeholders... 'stop talking down to our audience...'

They are very smart.

Yes, smarter than you.

And you want to remain relevant?

Fikir-fikirkan ... Selamat beramal

HELP -- I DON'T REMEMBER YOUR NAME

2008-08-05T20:19:00.000-07:00

Please tell me you face the same thing too...

You are at a reception, and suddenly a familiar face comes to you while you are having a conversation with someone else... And you want to introduce the 'familiar face', but you forgot the name!!!

I am experiencing this more and more...

What should I consume now? Zinc? Ginkgo Biloba? Tongkat Ali/Ahmad? Vitamin Q? Viagra?

Now, I have to write things down, if not lupa....

THE PLUNGE

2008-08-04T18:42:00.000-07:00

Allahyarham Sudirman Hj Arshad once praised teratai as the underdog that stole his heart...

Tiada ku sangka
bunga teratai
menghias suri nyawa
seri mahligai

bunga seroja dalam impian
ingin mencapainya
sayang tangan tak sampai

bunga teratai datang menjelma pula
tiada berbau di halamanku

datang menjelma menawan hatiku
mempersonakan di sanubari

teratai menjelma menawan hati
lalu ku petik ku belai ku cium berkali-kali

bunga teratai mulia jiwamu
mekar berkembang di pangkuanku

lemah dan longlai berseri-seri
mengikut alunan menyuai diri...

THE MUMMY & DATUK MICHELLE YEOH

2008-08-03T04:12:00.000-07:00

Datuk Michelle Yeoh

We were watching The Mummy: Tomb of the Dragon Emperor when it occurred to me – ‘It is not just pure talent – one must also be supported by his/her own people to have the commercial/marketing edge’.

The Bahasa Malaysia/Bahasa Indonesia speaking world must be bigger – as big as China’s population and the Chinese diaspora all over the world -- for Malay actors and actresses to make it big in Hollywood and be noticed like Datuk Michelle Yeoh.

Jet Li and Datuk Michelle Yeoh, who acted in The Mummy, are definitely multi-talented.

Another important factor that has helped them in their career is the Chinese speaking audience/market is huge and by having two great Asian stars in a movie is one of the key factors in marketing the film on this side of the world.

I overheard in the men’s room someone said if it was not for Datuk Michelle Yeoh he would not have bothered to see the movie -- he was so proud of a Malaysian who made it big in the Hong Kong film industry, and now carving a niche in Hollywood -- that was his reason to see the movie. The strategy worked!!! There you go…

------

Earlier we went to pick up Jef’s younger brother Asrin, at Politektnik Shah Alam.

As he is new in the Klang Valley, we just wanted to see how he’s adjusting and all.

From Shah Alam we went straight to The Gardens at Mid Valley and secured our tickets to see The Mummy at Signature GSC.

We had lunch at the Thai Restaurant, Jef’s favourite, one floor below Signature GSC – the pandan chicken was delicious.

Jef & Asrin

Asrin

Jef

It was a fun outing.

Zana's Wedding in Tampin

2008-08-02T07:11:00.000-07:00

At about 1:30 pm we said goodbye to Abang Mustafa and Kakak.

Abang Mustafa and Kakak are Jef’s parents.

Abang Mustafa & I

Before we left, Abang Mustafa hugged me and told me to take care of Jef "kalau nia nakal rotan dia" he said jokingly... hmmm... rotan eh...and before that during sembang-sembang Abang Mustafa told Jef he liked my Versace Eau De Toilette.

So I guess the next time we meet I know what present to give him. Step aside Body Shop...hahaha.

Wait a minute me taking care of Jef? Hmmm.... I can't even take care of myself... But I will try... (with an evil grin.... lawak jer ok). But seriously, me and my friends, we always look after one another... the other day, when I was sick, Dangsuria who was also sick took me out for breakfast. Kam, walaupun dia machoman-in-the-world would go out of his way to attend to me when I have unsolvable problems. In my case, love tidak terbatas kepada family but also the people I work with, my small close circle of friends who are my 'shrinks' and 'life-support-system'. I am just so darn lucky.

We left Tampin with great memories.

Bahulu Tampin

It was great to meet and chat over lunch with Abang Mustafa at Zana & Zul’s wedding (oh… by the way Zana’s dad and Abang Mustafa are good friends and Jef and Zana were born on the same day, 21 years ago.) .

We talked about lots of things from Jef’s performance and future as a trainee aircraft maintenance engineer and the education of his 2 younger brothers, to the economic situation, Permatang Pauh story and where the country is heading.

Zana’s dad was so touched that I decided to come to the wedding and Zana looked beautiful in her baju pengantin.

Jef & Zana (tangan I tak stabil...goyang)

Zana's family and I

Me & Jef

And me and Jef sempat shopping beli baju baru nak gi Tampin ni.

Jef bought a nice red shirt and a nice LaCoste shoes

And tengah malam semalam I helped Jef bleached his hair for the rambut-karat effect…

Lawan tokey tu…

----------

It was nice to meet the extended family...

Being invited to a wedding is an honour, I always try my best to attend any invitation kalau tak ada recording because I will never have the chance to attend my own wedding...

The extended family

Jef pose sambil drive

SERVIS KERETA

2008-07-28T02:37:00.000-07:00

Apa pasal tak bukak on Saturday and Sunday? Sah sah dua hari tu ramai nak servis kereta. Tak paham... Simple... Common sense...

OBSERVATIONS

2008-07-27T19:44:00.000-07:00

I could be wrong but you can tell how your friend/partner/spouse/colleague will treat you in the future once the dust settles by looking at his/her interaction with his/her surroundings. How? Well, the way...

1. He/she drives the car -- a courteous defensive driver vs a cilok-milok Raikkonen.

2. He/she treats the waiter/waitress at the restaurant.

3. He/she treats the 'pengemis buta yang minta sedekah kat Pelita Nasi Kandar yang dipimpin oleh perempuan yang pakai baju kurung baru dan elok potongan baju pula dan kain yang bukan murah...'

4. He/she looks at others -- sekali atau dua kali pandang.

5. He/she takes care of you and your feelings.

But then again, I could be wrong...

BUDDY

2008-07-26T03:24:00.000-07:00

The Weather Team -- Izzah, Hilmi, Shareena & Zul

Zul & I during the recording of Kelab Pop

It’s Saturday and everything went smooth this morning – the recording of Perspektif Kita and Temujanji.

Marlina did well today as the host for Perspektif Kita. It is great to see her becoming confident and comfortable every week in her role as an anchor.

This morning, we recorded an episode on Generasi Pelapis FELDA. I must say, the audience today gave very good ideas during the discussion.

Temujanji went well too with guest Mejar Dr Faiz Khaleed. He is a fine gentleman indeed. We had lunch before the programme. And if only the audience can ask other questions instead of “bila nak berumahtangga? Apakah ciri-ciri wanita pilihan Dr Faiz?” the programme would be a lot better.

I don’t understand Malaysians' obsession/fascination pasal kahwin, bila nak kahwin, bila lagi nak timang anak… Apa pasal dunia mereka kecil sangat? There are a lot of other things to discuss. I guess when one don’t read enough they will start thinking of copulating… entahlah… I give up…

Will be meeting Moqq tonight for our regular get together… Therapy rather….

Tomorrow will be a ‘budak baik’ day for me… Membongkang dalam rumahlah kot, coz my movie-buddy and jalan-jalan-makan-lepak buddy, Jef, is in Taiping for a rugby tournament.

Oklah, duduk rumah jerlah baca Pancaindera and the National Enquirer… I need my dose of _ _ _ _ _ too. Go figure…

TRAINEE MANAGEMENT GURU

2008-07-24T23:01:00.000-07:00

Why do we delegate the task of answering the phone and greeting the guests to the most junior staff who would normally be at the base (read: bottom) of the totem pole? Yes... RAW...

The most appropriate person to answer a customer's query is the most senior and experienced staff. That way, a company can almost immediately increase sales, get new clients, and immediately create a great impression of the organization.

People hate to be passed from one 'person-in-charge' to another when they have problems and need to talk to the 'right' person in the organization. Only a senior person can make the right decision. And isn't that what marketing is all about?

Of course he or she does not have to be answering calls the whole day long, but we can have 4 very senior people taking turns (if the company is big) to answer calls daily. So, a senior manager can spend 2 and a half hours answering calls like 2 days in a row. And it is the best investment in human resource management.

The organization must reposition the 'receptionist and operator' position to become the most wanted position by employees and the one that pays the most.

Especially now, when we do lots of tele-marketing. Better than taking a full-page Ad in the newspaper. And also you can see the bosses in action and see their people-skills. Barulah -- kepimpinan melalui teladan.

SELAMAT PERGI SYED NUR

2008-07-20T21:31:00.000-07:00

When your colleagues or subordinates perform really well at what they do, praise them, tell them that they are good. Tell them that they have done well.

If your friends need support, give them what they need.

If you love someone, do not be afraid to say 'I love you..."

It will not make you less a man (if you are a man), to say 'I love you' to the people that you really love -- well, you know how some men misinterpret and couldn't tell the difference between 'being macho' and 'being insensitive'. To me, it's just plain stupid.

I didn't praise Syed Mohamed Nur enough. He was the best intern ever that I have worked with. At 23 years old with just one more subject before graduation, he was even better than some of the producers that I have worked with. He was a great guy. Very polite and ever willing to help others. I didn't praise him enough.

He collapsed when we were having ice-cream at Astro's Executive Dining Room and passed away a few minutes later in the ambulance while Azean and I were holding his hands. The doctor said, his heart failed minutes after he collapsed.

I am still recovering from a state of shock.

We (me, Azean, Kamarul and Haji Nazri) made the arrangements for managing the jenazah and pengkebumian -- something that I have never done before. We had to help the family as they were so traumatized.

We have one life to live. A short one too. Just give love and never expect anything back. And don't hide your feelings.

Ayah, mak, abang, dokmen, adik, Syaza, Jida, Kak Ani, Mokciknab, Kam, Moqq, Jef -- I love all of you. (I might have accidentally left out some names... I am still recovering from shock... Please accept my apologies).

To my friends at Awani and out there, I love you too.

COMING UP NEXT ON AWANI

2008-07-17T03:40:00.000-07:00

THE ANWAR-SHABERY DEBATE

2008-07-14T19:16:00.000-07:00

Tune in to ASTRO AWANI (Channel 501) tonight, July 15, from 8:25 pm to midnight.

We will not only bring you the debate 'LIVE' but also the analysis with experts and opinion leaders.

CINTA YANG RUMIT

2008-07-13T03:35:00.000-07:00

Seribu satu lodakan rasa
susah tuk aku luah
sungguh rumit untuk kumadah

aku bertahan
kerana ruang, lingkaran dan jalinan

jika tali ke Parthenon timur putus
pohon rendang sekurun kan pupus
dan linangan sedu terus berutus

aku cuba melambai pergi
cuma bertambah rindu tiba dinihari

tapi bila mereka beredar gembira
dengan jari kecil mengait rasa
cemburuku sukar sembunyi di wajah dan mata
cinta yang rumit membuat hatiku mati walau fasad bernyawa ceria pura-pura

dia faham dan tahu
tapi sukar mengerti apa ia mahu

T.G.I.F

2008-07-10T22:34:00.000-07:00

First and foremost, thanks Mukmin for sending my car for washing and also sebab tolong beli perut lembu masak lemak dengan rebung and rendang tok Kualer plus nasi lembik.

And you think Friday is a day to berlunjur and lepak? Definitely not. Lots of planning for next week and editorial preparation for recording on Saturday and Sunday.

But then, it is always the busy people who will get things done... kan kan kan?

Anyway, I am looking forward to lots of things this weekend. Marlina will host her second Perspektif Kita tomorrow. She has a great potential to be a very good talkshow host. I would just give her tips here and there... the rest she will improvise.

As a 'guru' when you see your anak didik berjaya, you rasa nak nangis happy.

Oh by the way, I hope my other student yang kena baca 3 buku sekali gus, is doing fine and hope the new router functions well. Senyap jer... Tak sayang Cikgu lah tu...

Tomorrow after the recording, I have to go find a nice black and white batik shirt for a function with Moqq and the family. Where to get a nice linen batik? I tak gemar yang silk punya sebab they tend to hug my body yang macam guni beras basmati.

I also need to go to ayah and mak's place to send ayah's songkok yang tertinggal dalam kereta.

**********************

Yesterday on Analisis AWANI we discussed the National Integrity Perception Index Report for 2007.

Kam articulating... What??

Kam, me and Nazri

Our guests were Haji Mustafar Haji Ali, Deputy President of Integrity Institute Malaysia, Dr KM Loi of Transparency International Malaysia and Assoc Prof Dr. Mohd Fuad Mat Jali of UKM.

Among others, we discussed some 'scarry findings' like 52.5 per cent of the respondents feared there was a lack of control over corruption in politics. 16.7 per cent of civil servants said they did not consider using their power or position in public office for their own gain as a corrupt act. Worse, a sizeable 39.5 per cent of council officers said they did not think it's wrong to use office funds for their own benefit.

What???

******************************

In the evening, we had a great debate on Kam's show. We discussed 'Politik Baru' with BN's Datuk Dr Zambry Abdul Kadir and Keadilan's Datuk Zahrain Mohamed Hashim.

Datuk Dr Zambry, Kam and Datuk Zahrain