tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-137159742024-03-14T12:30:40.452+08:00Gentle CreationIt's about life precious pieces of mosaic. Beautiful yet so fragile. Every one of us are made special, so we love and we live with each other. Tribute to the universe...Lizhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07993972401351163702noreply@blogger.comBlogger255125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-13715974.post-74048317488898689012021-08-28T14:44:00.003+08:002021-08-29T00:08:35.530+08:00Work Ethics and Good Etiquettes<div style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: helvetica;"><span style="vertical-align: inherit;"><span style="vertical-align: inherit;"><br /></span></span></span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: helvetica;"><span style="vertical-align: inherit;"><span style="vertical-align: inherit;"><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-HwJ_6Xh6J58/YSnQcEhSiKI/AAAAAAAARZU/BHwENDiiViMrkj3k9opMwFSLahTLoMKnwCLcBGAsYHQ/s6528/IMG_20200816_112844-01-01%255B1%255D.jpeg"><img border="0" data-original-height="6528" data-original-width="3008" height="320" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-HwJ_6Xh6J58/YSnQcEhSiKI/AAAAAAAARZU/BHwENDiiViMrkj3k9opMwFSLahTLoMKnwCLcBGAsYHQ/s320/IMG_20200816_112844-01-01%255B1%255D.jpeg" width="147" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="vertical-align: inherit;"><span style="vertical-align: inherit;">Have passion in whatever you do. Such as I, I am in love with all that I do, every single day.</span></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><br /><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-jMgyNlJzn-w/YSnZsk5A8tI/AAAAAAAARak/C0nmRxDJIiwR-aHK5N0ih_g1EmnGh-aTQCLcBGAsYHQ/s2683/IMG_20210811_170445_1-01%255B1%255D.jpeg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2683" data-original-width="1507" height="320" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-jMgyNlJzn-w/YSnZsk5A8tI/AAAAAAAARak/C0nmRxDJIiwR-aHK5N0ih_g1EmnGh-aTQCLcBGAsYHQ/s320/IMG_20210811_170445_1-01%255B1%255D.jpeg" width="180" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="vertical-align: inherit;"><span style="vertical-align: inherit;">Adhere to your company's policies and its working philosophies.</span></span></td></tr></tbody></table><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="text-align: justify;"><span style="vertical-align: inherit;"><span style="vertical-align: inherit;">Today, I am inspired to write about one's career and what kind of work ethics and etiquettes a person should espouse in order to persevere in whatever situation they are in. </span></span></span></div></span></span></span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: helvetica;"><br /></span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: helvetica;">I think I am qualified to give advice on this topics as I have been working for the past 24 years in various industries. Looks like job hoping but I will not clarify anything here, lol! My portfolio ranging from Advertising, Magazine (Virtual Malaysia), Public Park Management, Event Management (corporate events and trainings, weddings, family days, treasure hunts and team buildings), Healthcare Accreditation (MSQH), FMCG (Adabi Consumer Industries), Environmental NGOs (projects with MENGO, Shell, Binturong Alam and many more), Education (City U) and Hospitality (4 and 5 star hotels). I was in Business Development, Marketing and Public Relations in all these industries that I have mentioned. In between working with companies, I did free lancing works as well, ranging from clothing, designing, gardening and consultations. My portfolio is huge. You may see evidence of my versatility in this blog and if you are following me on my social media platforms, you can see more. On top of all these, I love hiking, exercise and yoga. I am a gardener (collects bromeliads, hibiscus, orchids, roses and others that catches my fancy). I love cooking. I have made a few cooking videos for my Instagram just for fun. I am very artistic. God has gifted me with many artistic and creative talents, be it in arts, crafts, writing and performing arts. I am grateful for this gifts. I love animals to boot. Have special connection with birds. I don't keep them but I rescued and released them by chance. Birds love to build nest at my abode. It's the most amazing connection I had with birds and you may browse this blog to read my many encounters. </span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: helvetica;"><br /></span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: helvetica;">Okay, all of the above are my credentials to giving sound advice in this blog. You may know by now that I am not simple minded or daft. Lol! That's settled, now back to this topics. </span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: helvetica;"><br /></span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: helvetica;">Being in so many industries and having acquired multiple skills at this age ( I am 48 by the way), I could talk about anything under the sky with ease. Very few things in life surprise me. Life could be really brutal, I know. Been there and done that. Especially in the rat race. A few times, I was a victim of office politics and back stabbing. That was normal in any corporate environment where people try to outshine one another. Keep calm, read on. </span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: helvetica;"><br /></span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: helvetica;">Here are my advice related to good work ethics and etiquettes to the young people out there who are aspired to be someone successful in any industry of their choice. </span></div><div><ol style="text-align: left;"><li style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: helvetica;">Be Patient</span></li><li style="text-align: justify;"><span style="vertical-align: inherit;"><span style="vertical-align: inherit;"><span style="vertical-align: inherit;"><span style="font-family: helvetica; vertical-align: inherit;">Be Respectful</span></span></span></span></li><li style="text-align: justify;"><span style="vertical-align: inherit;"><span style="vertical-align: inherit;"><span style="font-family: helvetica; vertical-align: inherit;">Acquire Knowledge and Skills</span></span></span></li><li style="text-align: justify;"><span style="vertical-align: inherit;"><span style="font-family: helvetica; vertical-align: inherit;">Find a Mentor</span></span></li><li style="text-align: justify;"><span style="vertical-align: inherit;"><span style="font-family: helvetica; vertical-align: inherit;">Act Proactively </span></span></li><li style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: helvetica;">Build Credibility and Integrity</span></li><li style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: helvetica;">Never Put Sand in Someone's Rice Bowl</span></li></ol></div><div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span style="vertical-align: inherit;"><span style="font-family: helvetica; vertical-align: inherit;"><b>Be Patient </b></span></span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span style="vertical-align: inherit;"><span style="font-family: helvetica; vertical-align: inherit;">Many young people are impatient. They keep on jumping from one job to another for better salary or sometimes because of work pressure. Job hoping is not good for building a long term learning and job experience. You need to persevere in one place at least for a minimum of 2 years before jumping on the next bandwagon. I have been doing job hopping and I know the implication. So I am writing this to advice people not to follow my footsteps. Staying long in one particular post is good for your portfolio. Your next employer will see this as being loyal, ability to handle work stress and overall integrity. Believe me, by persevering in your job, you will learn more and be better at your next posting. Do not just look at the salary package, look at the kind of experience you could gain as your ticket to the next higher level job. If you ever want to change jobs, ensure that it is a higher position than your current one. That will be better for your portfolio and credential for future employer to see, not your salary range.</span></span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span style="vertical-align: inherit;"><span style="font-family: helvetica; vertical-align: inherit;"><br /></span></span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span style="vertical-align: inherit;"><span style="vertical-align: inherit;"><span style="vertical-align: inherit;"><span style="vertical-align: inherit;"><span style="vertical-align: inherit;"><span style="font-family: helvetica; vertical-align: inherit;"><b>Be Respectful</b></span></span></span></span></span></span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span style="vertical-align: inherit;"><span style="vertical-align: inherit;"><span style="vertical-align: inherit;"><span style="vertical-align: inherit;"><span style="vertical-align: inherit;"><span style="font-family: helvetica; vertical-align: inherit;">Always be respectful to people around you especially the elders that has more knowledge and experience than you. Do not think highly of yourself because of your education level, your family status or your upbringing. Simply be humble and respect everyone. Being kind and courteous will bring you far in life. People will be more open to you, treat you as courteously as you are treating them and you will get sincere cooperation from everyone in your daily working life. Especially when dealing with many departments, being respectful is part of good interpersonal skill. Make friends with everyone to ease your work with them. The hardest thing in working life is when you have enemies. It will effect the work flow and increase your stress level. This is where backstabbing and wild gossip started. When people hate you and wanted to bring you down, your career is hard to flourish.</span></span></span></span></span></span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span style="vertical-align: inherit;"><span style="vertical-align: inherit;"><span style="vertical-align: inherit;"><span style="vertical-align: inherit;"><span style="vertical-align: inherit;"><span style="font-family: helvetica; vertical-align: inherit;"><br /></span></span></span></span></span></span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span style="vertical-align: inherit;"><span style="vertical-align: inherit;"><b><span style="vertical-align: inherit;"><span style="font-family: helvetica; vertical-align: inherit;">Acquire Knowledge and Skills</span></span></b></span></span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span style="vertical-align: inherit;"><span style="vertical-align: inherit;"><span style="vertical-align: inherit;"><span style="font-family: helvetica; vertical-align: inherit;">At the earlier stage of your career, you are at the learning phase. You need to absorb as much knowledge and working skills needed for the job as well as for moving forward to your next phase of your career which requires more responsibility and accountability. Open your heart to learning new things. Be the glass half full person. Be optimistic. When your boss asked you to do petty task or extra work, just embrace it. Never complain or refuse it. It may be challenging at the beginning but that is where the learning begins. It teaches you perseverance, patience, perfecting office skills such as Microsoft Office (Words, Excel, PowerPoint, Visio and etc), Adobe (Photoshop, Illustrator and Premier) or any tech software that is being used for your daily job. These are example in my line of work. It may differ with different career path of your choice. Not just that, you are perfecting your reporting skill, communications and even English at business level. Only with extra work and extra hours you will be able to master certain skills needed for your next career advancement. If you are chosen to do extra work, congratulations, your boss trusted you with the task. It's a good sign that your boss sees a potential in you.</span></span></span></span></div></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span style="vertical-align: inherit;"><span style="vertical-align: inherit;"><span style="vertical-align: inherit;"><span style="font-family: helvetica; vertical-align: inherit;"><br /></span></span></span></span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span style="vertical-align: inherit;"><span style="vertical-align: inherit;"><span style="vertical-align: inherit;"><span style="vertical-align: inherit;"><span style="vertical-align: inherit;"><span style="vertical-align: inherit;"><b><span style="vertical-align: inherit;"><span style="font-family: helvetica; vertical-align: inherit;">Find a Mentor</span></span></b></span></span></span></span></span></span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: helvetica;"><span style="vertical-align: inherit;"><span style="vertical-align: inherit;">A mentor could be your direct boss or people with experience who could be your point of reference. Someone who could support, advice and guide you. Every successful person must have a least one or two mentors in their lives. I have many throughout my life. </span></span>They are the one whom I referred to, whenever I needed guidance. Having mentors enriches your knowledge and wisdom. We could learn from someone else's experience too. </span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span style="vertical-align: inherit;"><span style="vertical-align: inherit;"><span style="vertical-align: inherit;"><span style="font-family: helvetica; vertical-align: inherit;"><br /></span></span></span></span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span style="vertical-align: inherit;"><span style="vertical-align: inherit;"><span style="vertical-align: inherit;"><span style="vertical-align: inherit;"><span style="vertical-align: inherit;"><span style="font-family: helvetica; vertical-align: inherit;"><b>Act Proactively</b></span></span></span></span></span></span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span style="vertical-align: inherit;"><span style="vertical-align: inherit;"><span style="vertical-align: inherit;"><span style="vertical-align: inherit;"><span style="vertical-align: inherit;"><span style="vertical-align: inherit;"><span style="vertical-align: inherit;"><span style="font-family: helvetica; vertical-align: inherit;">Being proactively will take you far in your career advancement. Act quickly before your boss even asked you to do anything. Foresee what will happen next and plan for the best actions. Volunteer to do certain task without being asked. React accordingly when you see issues that needed actions to be solved before it turns into bigger problems. Show to your boss that you are reliable and accountable for the task under your supervision. </span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span style="vertical-align: inherit;"><span style="vertical-align: inherit;"><span style="vertical-align: inherit;"><span style="vertical-align: inherit;"><span style="vertical-align: inherit;"><span style="vertical-align: inherit;"><span style="vertical-align: inherit;"><span style="font-family: helvetica; vertical-align: inherit;"><br /></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span style="vertical-align: inherit;"><span style="vertical-align: inherit;"><span style="vertical-align: inherit;"><span style="vertical-align: inherit;"><span style="vertical-align: inherit;"><span style="vertical-align: inherit;"><span style="vertical-align: inherit;"><span style="vertical-align: inherit;"><span style="vertical-align: inherit;"><span style="font-family: helvetica; vertical-align: inherit;"><b>Build Credibility and Integrity</b></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: helvetica;">Credibility is when people trust and believe in whatever you are saying and your capabilities. Integrity is all the good quality of being trustworthy and honest in your work. So this is really important in your career. Without it, it's difficult to climb up the corporate ladder. You may take the current situation in Malaysia political scene. Why are we keep on changing the government and the Prime Minister? Viola. Do you get it now?</span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: helvetica;"><br /></span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: helvetica;">Sometimes, doing small little things could build up your credibility and integrity, such as clock-in to work on time, always meet up datelines, not being calculative at work, taking good care of company's assets and stuffs, always following the company's policy, volunteering at work for a good cause and most importantly, not having any scandals at work. Apart from these small things that usually we think are not important, the obvious things that could give you good names is by performing well at your job which far exceeding the company's expectations. E.g. If you are in Sales, you are able to achieve the sales target and bring in new businesses. If you are in graphic designing, you are able to produce creative ideas that wowed the bosses and enhances the branding. If you are in Marketing Communications, you are able to communicate the brand effective to the stake holders, upkeeping the good image of the company, assisting in revenue generation via various marketing platforms and having strong network within the industry. That's it. </span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: helvetica;"><br /></span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span style="vertical-align: inherit;"><span style="font-family: helvetica; vertical-align: inherit;"><b>Never Put Sand in Someone's Rice Bowl</b></span></span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span style="vertical-align: inherit;"><span style="font-family: helvetica; vertical-align: inherit;">Last but not least is to never put sand in someone's rice bowl. You know about Karma? If you know and believe in Karma, you will never ever do this. Putting sand in someone's rice bowl means, bad mouthing, backstabbing or telling lies about someone that might affect his/her livelihood. That someone might lose his/her job because of our actions. That is putting sand to their rice bowl. Never ever do this. The law of the universe says, 'what you give is what you get'. This will be the end of your credibility, integrity and career advancement. It might not happen now, but rest assured it will happen in your future. Full stop. Kalas.</span></span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span style="vertical-align: inherit;"><span style="font-family: helvetica; vertical-align: inherit;"><br /></span></span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span style="vertical-align: inherit;"><span style="vertical-align: inherit;"><span style="vertical-align: inherit;"><span style="font-family: helvetica; vertical-align: inherit;">So folks, these are the 7 essential ethics and etiquettes young people out there should espouse in their career advancement. With these in practice, I believe anyone will be able to climb that corporate ladder with ease. There's no such thing as when you work hard and truthfully, you didn't get the reward. No such thing! Every hard work and good deeds will get a reward. You may learn this is every religion. You may add work smart too. However I do not emphasize work smart in my writing because work smart has the tendency towards being lazy, short cuts and cheating at your work. So better not to mention this if you do not know the meaning of work smart with integrity. Just be sincere and honest. Do not envy others for their successes. Instead use it to fuel up your own desire and work harder to succeed. Cleanse your heart from ill thinking of others. Then your life will be happier. </span></span></span></span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span style="vertical-align: inherit;"><span style="vertical-align: inherit;"><span style="vertical-align: inherit;"><span style="font-family: helvetica; vertical-align: inherit;"><br /></span></span></span></span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span style="vertical-align: inherit;"><span style="vertical-align: inherit;"><span style="vertical-align: inherit;"><span style="vertical-align: inherit;"><span style="vertical-align: inherit;"><span style="font-family: helvetica; vertical-align: inherit;"><span style="vertical-align: inherit;"><span style="vertical-align: inherit;">That's it for now. Take care folks! </span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></div>Lizhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07993972401351163702noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-13715974.post-15675809295734992462021-08-24T17:59:00.006+08:002021-08-25T11:48:51.196+08:00IBIS KLCC - So good for your quarantine<p></p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-CWJrNIxWcko/YSS7AQedBPI/AAAAAAAARYU/C4vz92JGC-UF5-rHLvMhXcnZWbuK0mIYwCLcBGAsYHQ/s3648/IMG_20210820_160013%255B1%255D.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span style="font-family: helvetica;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3648" data-original-width="1680" height="320" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-CWJrNIxWcko/YSS7AQedBPI/AAAAAAAARYU/C4vz92JGC-UF5-rHLvMhXcnZWbuK0mIYwCLcBGAsYHQ/s320/IMG_20210820_160013%255B1%255D.jpg" width="147" /></span></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: helvetica;">Room with a view</span></td></tr></tbody></table><span style="font-family: helvetica;"><br /></span><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-mMSIc0AkLo8/YSS7dJkpIcI/AAAAAAAARYc/FVHB5aOgg4s0dG_LrvJE5c-r4h3vvDVhwCLcBGAsYHQ/s3648/IMG_20210824_170119%255B1%255D.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span style="font-family: helvetica;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1680" data-original-width="3648" height="147" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-mMSIc0AkLo8/YSS7dJkpIcI/AAAAAAAARYc/FVHB5aOgg4s0dG_LrvJE5c-r4h3vvDVhwCLcBGAsYHQ/s320/IMG_20210824_170119%255B1%255D.jpg" width="320" /></span></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: helvetica;">Neat room with practical layout</span></td></tr></tbody></table><span style="font-family: helvetica;"><br />Ibis KLCC is a 4-Star City Hotel. Right smack in the middle of First World Kuala Lumpur. I chose Ibis KLCC because I wanted to feel at home being in the middle of my hometown First World Kuala Lumpur. Yes it's where my family came from but now we have resided to the outskirt of Sungai Buloh area for greener lifestyle. 'Rumah kampung' (village house), they say. But I love it. We have the best of both worlds.</span><p></p><p><span style="font-family: helvetica;">Okay back to Ibis KLCC. I just wanted to give them the credit and review they deserved. I love the room arrangements. I booked just a standard single occupancy room with a queen size bed. The room has a beautiful view. I could see the tips of KLCC and my room was facing the high risers of a few condos which many have green balconies. I just love it! The working table was facing this magnificent view. I am writing my blog and chatting away my days without noticing it. </span></p><p><span style="font-family: helvetica;">The room allows lots of sunlight. It was always bright. Lifting up my spirit everyday with positivity. The room colouring was great, earthy yet vibrant colour which is very soothing to the eyes. The floors are clean and beautifully made. The bathroom was small but practical. They had beautiful vanity mirror with a switch light that is touch the mirror only. Very modern looking mirror. </span></p><p><span style="font-family: helvetica;">When I checked in, the hotel gave a welcoming letter that has all the information that a guest needed including how to order food from outside restaurants, the hotel restaurants and the convenient store. I have tried food from the hotel pastries, so delish! And I ordered additional toiletries and instant Korean ramen from the convenient store. Very good services so far. The hotel was really accommodating with special requests. They gave me things that I asked for subject to availability but I got what I wanted. That makes me happy. </span></p><p><span style="font-family: helvetica;">The hotel staffs were courteous, very polite and services were delivered on time. I had problem with the mini bar, the maintenance came and fix it for me so quickly. They followed proper Covid-19 procedures. Maintenance staff wearing full PPE. Even during check-in the reception was in PPE. I was sprayed with disinfectant before going into the room. Even though fully vaccinated, it's no harm to take precaution. I had to carry my own bags which were so heavy, but that's the SOP that can't be avoided, right. So I will not be mad at the hotel for treating me like a virus carrier. Hahaha.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: helvetica;">The quarantine food was not too bad. Only that they were sent sometimes already cold so I had little appetite to eat. However, the taste and varieties were good. No doubt of that. They served a high quality food rotating between Malay, Chinese and International. I had spaghetti, nasi lemak, seafood, chicken and lamb. The hotel package is worth every money you spent. </span></p><p><span style="font-family: helvetica;">Being quarantined at Ibis KLCC will not make you miserable or psychotic. That's the best part about it. So I will highly recommend this hotel for quarantine to anyone who is looking for a good hotel to stay. </span></p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-p89i8y2toPo/YSTA7npPZHI/AAAAAAAARYk/0KMmelBDEJg906UveTgCAQ_Y_U2-8NAPwCLcBGAsYHQ/s3648/IMG_20210823_124704%255B1%255D.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3648" data-original-width="1680" height="320" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-p89i8y2toPo/YSTA7npPZHI/AAAAAAAARYk/0KMmelBDEJg906UveTgCAQ_Y_U2-8NAPwCLcBGAsYHQ/s320/IMG_20210823_124704%255B1%255D.jpg" width="147" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Seafood spaghetti - With prawns, squids and mussels</td></tr></tbody></table><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-NNkxqUlGiys/YSTBHJE6UKI/AAAAAAAARYo/uBoHfGV9RAUGP1vyDIdqPTIYb0rzZINDwCLcBGAsYHQ/s3648/IMG_20210824_161009%255B1%255D.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3648" data-original-width="1680" height="320" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-NNkxqUlGiys/YSTBHJE6UKI/AAAAAAAARYo/uBoHfGV9RAUGP1vyDIdqPTIYb0rzZINDwCLcBGAsYHQ/s320/IMG_20210824_161009%255B1%255D.jpg" width="147" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">So delish!</td></tr></tbody></table><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-QR6N6ewum8M/YSTBSSI3koI/AAAAAAAARYw/cJYCRM-C3ikrqxTqG6DNGHsTrLY_fHengCLcBGAsYHQ/s6528/IMG_20210824_161020%255B1%255D.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="6528" data-original-width="3008" height="320" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-QR6N6ewum8M/YSTBSSI3koI/AAAAAAAARYw/cJYCRM-C3ikrqxTqG6DNGHsTrLY_fHengCLcBGAsYHQ/s320/IMG_20210824_161020%255B1%255D.jpg" width="147" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">French Vanilla Latte - RM15.50nett</td></tr></tbody></table><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-sr3o4tmvuek/YSTBh0ErgXI/AAAAAAAARY4/2vPbR2fjDWgTKxXfDoz_8fyx8Df0-6FVQCLcBGAsYHQ/s6528/IMG_20210824_161047%255B1%255D.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="6528" data-original-width="3008" height="320" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-sr3o4tmvuek/YSTBh0ErgXI/AAAAAAAARY4/2vPbR2fjDWgTKxXfDoz_8fyx8Df0-6FVQCLcBGAsYHQ/s320/IMG_20210824_161047%255B1%255D.jpg" width="147" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Salted Egg Yolk Croissant - RM9nett</td></tr></tbody></table><br /><p><br /></p>Lizhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07993972401351163702noreply@blogger.com5Malaysia4.210484 101.975766-24.099749836178844 66.819516 32.520717836178846 137.132016tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-13715974.post-38343470719465647922021-08-24T00:01:00.003+08:002021-08-24T00:01:35.712+08:00It's Complicated<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="190" data-original-width="507" height="120" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-s4Ptd_M6hSw/YSPERQ1zsBI/AAAAAAAARYM/Bx8AjZPgeBc33EZKXB6hAVPTTJvhTy_-ACLcBGAsYHQ/s320/Capture.PNG" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" width="320" /></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Like a cat and a dog. Different, complicated yet possible to love one another.</td></tr></tbody></table><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-s4Ptd_M6hSw/YSPERQ1zsBI/AAAAAAAARYM/Bx8AjZPgeBc33EZKXB6hAVPTTJvhTy_-ACLcBGAsYHQ/s507/Capture.PNG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: helvetica;"></span></a></div><span style="font-family: helvetica;"><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;">I have so much time to write during my quarantine. Another 7 days to go. I wanted to revive this blog. It has been abandoned for the last 2 years. It's because I was busy fixing my life. I have been living abroad in Doha, Qatar. New life, new career. </div></span><div style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: helvetica;"><br /></span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: helvetica;">What makes me decided to move to Doha? It was surreal to me even now. I can't believe how fast time flies. I have not written anything for the past 2 years. Opportunity to work in Doha came to me unexpectedly. It happened so fast. Decision made instantly without blinking an eye. I was willing to let go of my well paid and comfortable job in Kuala Lumpur for a lesser pay in Doha. Lol! Yes. That's the fact. </span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: helvetica;"><br /></span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: helvetica;">People always thought that working abroad means a better pay. Well, that's not always the case. Sometimes people move abroad just because they wanted a new life. A new beginning. That's what I was looking for.</span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: helvetica;"><br /></span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: helvetica;">I was not happy for so long. Losing career opportunities many times due to bad decisions, having people backstabbing me and having bad relationships that left me scarred. The list was endless. Not many people could understand the struggle that I had to go through. Being a private person, it's not very obvious to everyone. I always thought that God is punishing me for my past sins. I prayed and repent for many years. And maybe the opportunity came when the right time came. It was really the right time and the right moment. </span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: helvetica;"><br /></span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: helvetica;">Throughout this life struggle, I became stronger and more independent. That's the good result of it. The bad result was that I am too independent, I have developed an OCD about orders and cleanliness and I am very territorial in my space. Adding to that, I became cold and detached. I can't trust people easily. In relationship, I can no longer express myself as I am scared to become attach to anyone or to be hurt ever again. Phew... I am totally a scarred person. </span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: helvetica;"><br /></span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: helvetica;">Writing these down really made me realised how broken I am. Lol!</span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: helvetica;"><br /></span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: helvetica;">Recently I have found a man who cares too much. He fell in love with me like within 1 day. That's it. I am having a hard time believing his proclamation of love. So he had to keep up with my no expression of emotion and non romantic relationship. Lol! My bad. </span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: helvetica;"><br /></span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: helvetica;">So looks like my life is changing for the better. Happiness might not be definite, however, I will never give up. Jack Ma said, 'Giving up is the greatest failure'. </span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: helvetica;"><br /></span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: helvetica;"><br /></span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: helvetica;"><br /></span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div>Lizhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07993972401351163702noreply@blogger.com0Malaysia4.210484 101.975766-59.934325980246761 -38.649234000000007 68.355293980246756 -117.39923399999998tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-13715974.post-33792689605959472832021-08-23T16:24:00.005+08:002021-08-25T12:02:51.914+08:00Tips for Hotel Quarantine<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ap-GSsZJr3k/YSNZm5HsSEI/AAAAAAAARWg/1iSltWAKHJoeXJxaFuXLu2rol7IdlHg5QCLcBGAsYHQ/s3648/IMG_20210823_112437%255B1%255D.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span style="font-family: helvetica;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3648" data-original-width="1680" height="320" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ap-GSsZJr3k/YSNZm5HsSEI/AAAAAAAARWg/1iSltWAKHJoeXJxaFuXLu2rol7IdlHg5QCLcBGAsYHQ/s320/IMG_20210823_112437%255B1%255D.jpg" width="147" /></span></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: helvetica;">Some of the green balconies of the condos facing my window</span></td></tr></tbody></table><span style="font-family: helvetica;"><br /></span><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-kRhXPMcIPyU/YSNZvPwrGPI/AAAAAAAARWk/mlJnWwbrHwsBbPOwcJNH6HtDveOHydDWwCLcBGAsYHQ/s3648/IMG_20210821_091624%255B1%255D.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span style="font-family: helvetica;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3648" data-original-width="1680" height="320" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-kRhXPMcIPyU/YSNZvPwrGPI/AAAAAAAARWk/mlJnWwbrHwsBbPOwcJNH6HtDveOHydDWwCLcBGAsYHQ/s320/IMG_20210821_091624%255B1%255D.jpg" width="147" /></span></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: helvetica;">Fresh blue sky of Kuala Lumpur</span></td></tr></tbody></table><span style="font-family: helvetica;"><br /></span><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ni6m1yuDMro/YSNZ6jb1sYI/AAAAAAAARWs/K7PUCl_923oZA6ebij1-AoGLosTeOJ4TQCLcBGAsYHQ/s3648/IMG_20210822_125303%255B1%255D.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span style="font-family: helvetica;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3648" data-original-width="1680" height="320" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ni6m1yuDMro/YSNZ6jb1sYI/AAAAAAAARWs/K7PUCl_923oZA6ebij1-AoGLosTeOJ4TQCLcBGAsYHQ/s320/IMG_20210822_125303%255B1%255D.jpg" width="147" /></span></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: helvetica;">Food bag with mention of good consumption time</span></td></tr></tbody></table><span style="font-family: helvetica;"><br /></span><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-zfy3ngyY0z8/YSNaAnjT9II/AAAAAAAARW0/M-xKViH0MSYEaYB_xX8dOFye43zG-dLPgCLcBGAsYHQ/s3648/IMG_20210823_124721%255B1%255D.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span style="font-family: helvetica;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3648" data-original-width="1680" height="320" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-zfy3ngyY0z8/YSNaAnjT9II/AAAAAAAARW0/M-xKViH0MSYEaYB_xX8dOFye43zG-dLPgCLcBGAsYHQ/s320/IMG_20210823_124721%255B1%255D.jpg" width="147" /></span></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: helvetica;">Save it for later for ramen</span></td></tr></tbody></table><span style="font-family: helvetica;"><br /></span><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-bqnhetvcYeQ/YSNaQlZXLsI/AAAAAAAARXA/2Kwh4TuhjcwcZOgihjT9SJKcRs9maX6-ACLcBGAsYHQ/s3648/IMG_20210821_163535%255B1%255D.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span style="font-family: helvetica;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3648" data-original-width="1680" height="320" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-bqnhetvcYeQ/YSNaQlZXLsI/AAAAAAAARXA/2Kwh4TuhjcwcZOgihjT9SJKcRs9maX6-ACLcBGAsYHQ/s320/IMG_20210821_163535%255B1%255D.jpg" width="147" /></span></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: helvetica;">Yummy ramen from a convenient store</span></td></tr></tbody></table><span style="font-family: helvetica;"><br />I came back to Malaysia after 2 years of working in Doha, Qatar. I am on my 42 days annual leave. Although we are in the pandemic, I made the decision to go ahead with my holiday in Malaysia as I miss my family and friends so much. During this unprecedented time, you wouldn't know what will happen next. </span><div><span style="font-family: helvetica;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-family: helvetica;">The travel and return policy during this pandemic varies from one country to another. In Qatar, the fully vaccinated travellers are being exempted from being quarantined provided their PCR (<span style="background-color: white; color: #202124; font-size: 16px;">polymerase chain reaction) </span>test are negative. The PCR test has to be done 72 hours before travelling and another PCR test upon arrival at the airport. However, this is not the case for Malaysia. It was announced earlier that we could get a home quarantine for the fully vaccinated Malaysians returning home. However, the hotel that I booked for quarantine advised me to have a written consent from the Ministry of Health in order to get the home quarantine. </span></div><div><div><span style="font-family: helvetica;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-family: helvetica;">I have written to the Ministry of Health before my travel through an email provided by the hotel I booked for my quarantine. It was very sad, that the email box was full. It was bounced back more than 5 times. I lost count of the email notifications that I have received saying the inbox was full. So here I am at Ibis KLCC writing away about my 14 days quarantine. </span></div><div><span style="font-family: helvetica;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-family: helvetica;">I am not bored though. It has been 7 days today, in the quarantine. I have had an amazing 'me time'. Pampering myself with all sorts silly things a girl could imagine. For the benefit of others who would like to check on others' experience being quarantined in a hotel, here are experience and some tips to share:</span></div><div><ol style="text-align: left;"><li><span style="font-family: helvetica;"><b>Bring You Own Cutleries</b> - This is important for a particular person like myself, I like to have an enjoyable meal time. I love fine things in life. The hotel will only give you plastic fork and spoon. That's it. Because being in quarantine, though fully vaccinated like me, they treated you like a virus carrier. Everything touched by you will be incinerated later as clinical waste. So I had with me my beautiful fork, spoon and chopstick. I enjoy myself eating noodles during the quarantine. I bought Korean Ramen from the hotel's convenient store. They do deliver it to your room once a day at a scheduled time.</span></li><li><span style="font-family: helvetica;"><b>Bring Along Personal Care, Toiletries and Personal Gadgets</b> - Such as laptop, tab, phone, facial and body massager (if you have), exercise items, nail clipper and most importantly Google Chrome Cast to watch Netflix and YouTube on hotel TV. Also can cast your Spotify on TV. My days were filled with fun binge watching of Netflix, dancing to the most updated music on Spotify and yes, facial and lots more. I had an amazing 'me time'. It is advisable to bring your own shampoo and conditioner especially if you have long hair. Hotel will only give you the two in one gel/shampoo. It's not good for prolonged usage. Also bring your own body lotion. Can't skip your skincare during the quarantine, okay. </span></li><li><span style="font-family: helvetica;"><b>Bring Extra Readymade Beverages or Snacks</b> - In case you do not like to spend money during your quarantine, just bring your own stuffs. I brought with me my favourite cappuccino and homemade nuts which I made with an air fryer. So good. </span></li><li><span style="font-family: helvetica;"><b>Eat in Moderation </b>- Do not gorge on your food. Know your diet and keep those that can be kept in the room mini bar. I kept things like fish balls, chicken sausage and boiled eggs from breakfast for noodles. Lol! However, keep in mind the food has its expiry date. So know when it's time to throw away if not consumed. You might get food poisoning. </span></li><li><span style="font-family: helvetica;"><b>Exercise Daily</b> - At least 1 hour a day without fail. Discipline yourself for this. You need to sweat to stay healthy in a small confinement. And keep that extra weight away. No one likes to get fat during quarantine, right. Ensure you look your best the moment you step out of your room.</span></li><li><span style="font-family: helvetica;"><b>Open the Curtain</b> - Let in the sunlight. Enjoy the view. It will keep your room fresh and you will get the energy to continue another day. I was lucky to have a room with a view. I could see the tips of KLCC and the condos with green balconies facing my room. Obviously Malaysians are beginning to embrace green living. Many opt for balcony gardening. Kudos Malaysians! I am proud of you! Keep it up. Oh ya. Opening the curtain will help with claustrophobic people such as myself. Can't live in a room without windows. It feels suffocating. </span></li><li><span style="font-family: helvetica;"><b>Keep Positive Mindset</b> - Always check yourself to be positive. Think positively. Everything happens for a reason. Every clouds has its silver lining. Be humble all the time. Do not scold the hotel staff over petty matters. To err is human. Try to be courteous to everyone during this pandemic time. You are not at your worst condition yet. A lot of others out there has nothing to look up to. So be grateful and be respectful of others. </span></li><li><span style="font-family: helvetica;"><b>Communicate Daily</b> - It means, to call or text your loved ones daily. Keep yourself in touch with the outside world. Video call will be great to lift up your spirit and you will be more careful with your appearance as others can see it clearly. Update about yourself to your family and loved ones. Trust me, it will make a lot of difference to your well-being, okay. For all you know time passes so fast, you didn't even notice it.</span></li><li><span style="font-family: helvetica;"><b>Shower and Look Good Always - </b>This is really important. Always take shower at least 2 times daily. In the morning, and before you go to sleep. Take good care of your hygiene. Always look good even in the room. Wear body lotion and perfume. This is good for your well being. Even if you think no one is watching you. Do this for your self. You wouldn't know when that video call will come. Always be ready. </span></li><li><span style="font-family: helvetica;"><b>Clean Your Room </b>- Make your bed. Do not leave it unmade when you are not in it. Arrange your personal belongings in a systematic order. Do not clutter the room. Maybe for me I am an OCD person especially with orders and cleanliness. So I can't live in a clutter or unmade bed. But I think this is not an illness, it's a positive way of living. Your mind will be at ease and happier in a clean and orderly environment. When you leave the hotel room, ensure it is clean. It's good for your reputation. I don't know why I bother, but well, it's just me. Karma says, make other's work easier and yours will be too.</span></li><li><span style="font-family: helvetica;"><b>Write a Diary</b> - Like myself, I recorded my life in this blog. I took lots of photos and videos as well. I will post some of it here later. </span></li><li><span style="font-family: helvetica;"><b>Do Self Development Study</b> - During quarantine, you may read books online, learn new skills and upgrade yourself in anything you would like. Just anything. Ensure to use the precious time to better your self in anyways possible. Time is money. You don't waste it by sleeping the whole day. It's no good that way. Listen to me, okay. Be productive. </span></li><li><span style="font-family: helvetica;"><b>Be Grateful and Pray</b> - Last but not least, be thankful everyday. Be thankful for the food, the roof above your head, the good bed you slept in and the job that you have. Pray for your family, your friends, your country and the world for a better tomorrow. One prayer makes a lot of difference. From your lips to God's ears. May it be granted by Allah SWT. Aamiin to all the good prayers. </span></li></ol></div><div><span style="font-family: helvetica;">Well, there you go, my experience and tips for hotel quarantine. I hope it will be useful. Take care. Till the next postings. Chiaooo...</span></div><div><br /></div></div>Lizhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07993972401351163702noreply@blogger.com0Malaysia4.210484 101.975766-24.099749836178844 66.819516 32.520717836178846 137.132016tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-13715974.post-78716516212672128562021-08-21T19:41:00.005+08:002021-08-25T11:59:37.589+08:00Back to Malaysia<div style="text-align: justify;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-UGYJV8ieBb0/YSDlxO3spNI/AAAAAAAARUU/jk78ji70u2McToNiw5S3yXpiHzn8jMhIACLcBGAsYHQ/s6528/IMG_20210816_224113%255B1%255D.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="6528" data-original-width="3008" height="320" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-UGYJV8ieBb0/YSDlxO3spNI/AAAAAAAARUU/jk78ji70u2McToNiw5S3yXpiHzn8jMhIACLcBGAsYHQ/s320/IMG_20210816_224113%255B1%255D.jpg" width="147" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-SzS1ItHLtyE/YSDloflQRsI/AAAAAAAARUQ/d6TvGZ21MUg7Tc_w_smPBnrWnvO9Hc5xgCLcBGAsYHQ/s5120/IMG_20210817_094220%255B1%255D.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="5120" data-original-width="2368" height="320" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-SzS1ItHLtyE/YSDloflQRsI/AAAAAAAARUQ/d6TvGZ21MUg7Tc_w_smPBnrWnvO9Hc5xgCLcBGAsYHQ/s320/IMG_20210817_094220%255B1%255D.jpg" width="148" /></a></div><br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Hu9J2Dkomts/YSDl9wdxqVI/AAAAAAAARUc/1lMzdtOTozctgJIO73ABLuUXgxHOtq65gCLcBGAsYHQ/s3648/IMG_20210817_152612%255B1%255D.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3648" data-original-width="1680" height="320" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Hu9J2Dkomts/YSDl9wdxqVI/AAAAAAAARUc/1lMzdtOTozctgJIO73ABLuUXgxHOtq65gCLcBGAsYHQ/s320/IMG_20210817_152612%255B1%255D.jpg" width="147" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-zgshZkEZmGA/YSDmIIhH5tI/AAAAAAAARUk/DzycZBpGlZMhIcuoe0zHpkgEubj-6Io6QCLcBGAsYHQ/s3648/IMG_20210817_153040%255B1%255D.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3648" data-original-width="1680" height="200" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-zgshZkEZmGA/YSDmIIhH5tI/AAAAAAAARUk/DzycZBpGlZMhIcuoe0zHpkgEubj-6Io6QCLcBGAsYHQ/w92-h200/IMG_20210817_153040%255B1%255D.jpg" width="92" /></a></div><br />On 17th August 2021, in the early hours of Tuesday I embarked a journey back to Malaysia from Qatar. It has been 2 years since last I was in the Malaysia's soil. I was enthusiastic and full of positivity when I made the decision to come home during this pandemic. Malaysia is at its peak of high positive cases of Covid-19 on a daily basis. Right now, as I am typing, the record is at 22, 262 positive cases today. It's not showing any reduction although more than 50% of the population have been fully vaccinated. </div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;">Malaysia has recorded a very high number of of doses being administered to the community per day. Around 400k of doses per day which is one of the highest in the world. The rapid vaccination process will ensure herd immunity towards this virus. Though many have recorded infection even for the fully vaccinated people, vaccination at least prevents chronic illnesses. </div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;">Government of Malaysia has imposed strict travel and return policy in the country. Travellers, Malaysians coming home even fully vaccinated, needs to get a written consent to avoid 14 days compulsory quarantine at designated hotel. I have written to the Ministry of Health for the reduction of days being quarantined at the hotel, but it seemed that the level of competency of our ministries are not really commendable. Their email was full. No one actually properly monitor their email for this request. So here I am in the hotel quarantine instead of at home with my family although I am certified Covid-19 free before my travel and another swab test at the airport as per touched down. </div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;">My Sejahtera App, is compulsory, just like Ehteraz App in Qatar where all your swab test and certificate of vaccination are being shown. This app is mandatory for citizens to enter premises. However, the level of competency of the agencies that involved with the certification update especially Ministry of Health and the state counterpart were not really connected live. Technology at our fingertips yet we are still using manual transaction to manage Covid-19 in Malaysia. So I received email advising me that it will take 2 to 3 weeks for My Sejahtera to reflect my Covid-19 certification from Qatar.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;">Oh well...regardless all the setbacks, I love my country. The political turmoil that is going on at the moment really affect our development as a developed country. Now we are neither here nor there. Stagnant and not moving forward until we have a strong government. Today, 21st August marked another history in Malaysia as Y. Bhg. Datuk Seri Ismail Sabri has sworn in as the 9th Prime Minister of Malaysia. </div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;">Honestly I have no preference of who will be the Prime Minister after the change of government in 2018. I have written about it when we had the change of government if you follow me. I have seen how Malaysia crumble and how the people suffer. The then government was inexperienced and therefore nothing great was evident during the Pakatan Harapan (PH) ruling under the Honorable Tun Mahathir Mohamad (much respect to him and forever, he is the greatest of them all). Our beloved Tun M was the 4th and 7th Prime Minister of Malaysia. Such a great history of Malaysia. He took office again at the age of 92 as the 7th Prime Minister. He is a living legend. Forever my idol. </div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;">However, still during PH ruling, we only saw the fights for power, land and money. Being the oldest PM in the world and having to deal with the coalition he was in, Tun M was not really able to rule like before. A lot of people to consider and his promise to hand over the position to the Prime Minister in waiting, Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim. Sigh.... We only saw disunity and instability. Then the power struggle started with back stabbing and changing of Prime Minister. So many people aspired to be the Prime Minister right now. The people were left confused, frustrated and as for me, I was speechless. Have you ever experienced the phrase, <i>'you were spoilt for choice'</i>? Lol. That's how we are right now. The frustrating fact was that, non of the choices were known to be good to manage the economy and the country. However, Malaysia is getting desperate. We are desperate as when the pandemic strikes, it left us struggling for our lives, our livelihood and our country development to be a developed nation. So I just want to wait and see. I will pray for the best for this beloved land.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;">I am home. I want to talk about my coming home after 2 years. </div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;">The moment the plane touched the ground, I was in love all over again. It was raining. How beautiful the rain was. I have not seen real rain such as this for the passed 2 years. In Qatar, it's really dry. My country so green, so fresh and clean. I am in love again.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;">Though in the quarantine, I opted for a premium hotel in the middle of <i>First World Kuala Lumpur.</i> Lol. That's the term I will be using from now on whenever I say Kuala Lumpur. It is <i>FIRST WORLD KUALA LUMPUR</i>. I catch this phrase from my current lady boss, Ms. Mary. She was really articulate and so dynamic. I am getting more attached to her by days. So I will be using her term for Kuala Lumpur. Because I am in agreement with her. I am so proud of my hometown. Nothing compares to it.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div>Lizhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07993972401351163702noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-13715974.post-32415070314759943102018-09-01T22:53:00.001+08:002018-09-01T22:53:31.779+08:00About being respectful <p dir="ltr">I would like to share my experience about this subject,  i. e.  Respect.  It's a simple word but not easy to apply in our daily lives.  </p>
<p dir="ltr">Recently, the gray sky seemed to be replaced by a sunshine so bright we all felt it with the changing of Malaysia's government.  Right after GE14, I started a new job.  It was like a new hope and definitely a new beginning. </p>
<p dir="ltr">The first day at work already a major flop.  I reported to duty 15 minutes late because I miscalculated the traffic as it was my first time driving to work on a busy Monday.  Furthermore,  I had a stomachache so I went <u>into</u> the washroom first. I was appalled that I was called to the boardroom by a young boss who preached me about being punctual and show of good example to others. I was forced to apologise. It was really insincere apology coz I don't feel it in my heart to apologise but I said it anyway. That's the first welcome I received.  </p>
<p dir="ltr">And I was given an appointment letter afterwards stating the amount of salary that has been creatively altered as from what was agreed upon during the interview session.  My second shock of the day but I signed it anyway. I don't want to easily be calculative towards the company.  </p>
<p dir="ltr">After not even a month in the employment , I was being humiliated many times in the meeting.  All my setbacks were being mentioned loudly and viciously for all to hear. It was more like a fault finding exercise rather than solution. I lost the respect of my subordinates and colleagues as they thought I was incapable.  </p>
<p dir="ltr">Accomplishments were not being acknowledged and I lost most of my Saturdays and Sundays having to work on events. The bosses treated the staffs like slaves and robots.  We were not allowed the freedom to express our potentials.  The customs and ways of doing things were solidly planted.  You just feel like you are stucked there. There were never suttle ways of addressing issues and people.  Your emotional zen was being bulldozed and disrupted. You lost your peace. </p>
<p dir="ltr">The moral of the story here is that if you are a leader,  you need to show what a good leader supposed to be.  Leaders don't simply give orders.  They need to show how it's being done.  Then you get people to follow your examples.  Then you get loyal supporters who will back you up all the way to success.  Leaders compliment staffs in the crowd but address short falls in the private.  Leaders respect their subordinates and so they gain respect in return. Success can't be achieved alone. It's not a one man show. Please lah.... I got sick of it all and I left after a mere 3 months. </p>
<p dir="ltr">I guess leadership skills are absent in many leaders nowadays. Egos and sense of entitlements keep hindering them from learning. I am not teaching leadership skills here. I just want my readers to know,  we are just a human being living a temporary life. We might be on top today but you wouldn't know one day the wheel will start rolling downwards. When that happens, how are you going to face it? Malaysia has seen it first hand. This is a lesson for all of us. </p>
<p dir="ltr">Life is a mystery.  God is the most perfect planner. Be humble always.  Respect all that you see around you, even your environment like the trees and the soil and the bees.  With respect,  this world will be a beautiful place to live in.  </p>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-VCF0_TCHZXw/W4qn6YCAaOI/AAAAAAAANG8/WRtpsYYedx0wDHFvZMOmXZbG-6GqC9SOgCHMYCw/s1600/PhotoGrid_1535808658826.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"> <img border="0" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-VCF0_TCHZXw/W4qn6YCAaOI/AAAAAAAANG8/WRtpsYYedx0wDHFvZMOmXZbG-6GqC9SOgCHMYCw/s640/PhotoGrid_1535808658826.jpg"> </a> </div>Lizhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07993972401351163702noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-13715974.post-9372220198598577672018-08-31T22:13:00.001+08:002018-08-31T22:13:34.238+08:00Appreciate All Finer Things in Life after the Storm<p dir="ltr">Life is indeed a journey.  You learned so much along the way.  For me, my journey was not a straight path.  The road was longer, bumpy,  lots of thorny bushes and falling trees disrupting my way but it kept me wiser and stronger to face the next obstacles.  I am truly grateful.  </p>
<p dir="ltr">I've been searching so long for the meaning of life.  I researched about the world's wisdom from diverse culture and creed hoping to understand how the Creator works.  It left me disappointed for the longest time.  Be it in personal life,  family or career, I failed in all areas of life that I hit the lowest of lows and the deepest of bottoms.  </p>
<p dir="ltr">When you reach to that lowest bottom then only you will see the bigger picture. You know what to aim and you learn how to use all your resources in order to climb back to the top.  </p>
<p dir="ltr">I thought I could be wise by just reading someone else's experience.  No it doesn't work that way.  You can only be wise by being alive and living your life. We can not be static. Travelling and interacting with another living thing; humans,  animals, plants and nature.  You need to move and do something everyday. </p>
<p dir="ltr">I am starting a new journey right now. A new me understands things better.  All bad weather will see a better day.  Everything will be better. A wise  successful businessman once taught me about the magic word 'better'.  He made me believe in better :) </p>
<p dir="ltr">Today I am humbled and wiser. I understand this evanescent life is just a test for the hereafter.  We are created for a purpose and we are not alone. We can't live alone.  We are the instrument of God, i.e  Allah SWT.  Alhamdullillah for this life, for the lessons and for the blessings.  </p>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-o8dBq8Cm-Y8/W4lNBWoIABI/AAAAAAAANGg/aMVuy8BQscsPYH-5b-5XSPFGzVAaD2FAQCHMYCw/s1600/IMG_20180824_104028.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"> <img border="0" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-o8dBq8Cm-Y8/W4lNBWoIABI/AAAAAAAANGg/aMVuy8BQscsPYH-5b-5XSPFGzVAaD2FAQCHMYCw/s640/IMG_20180824_104028.jpg"> </a> </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-hqJoFeYm7wo/W4lNCYRTXUI/AAAAAAAANGk/KgdmHUFhwTAVbU7InsbJNlcejZ9g5Nw_ACHMYCw/s1600/IMG_20180825_155152.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"> <img border="0" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-hqJoFeYm7wo/W4lNCYRTXUI/AAAAAAAANGk/KgdmHUFhwTAVbU7InsbJNlcejZ9g5Nw_ACHMYCw/s640/IMG_20180825_155152.jpg"> </a> </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-1pdPf5ehMAo/W4lNDPyMtvI/AAAAAAAANGo/eEYy5ae4JEYhh5IKWMwlE1OGGz9iK4t0gCHMYCw/s1600/IMG_20180826_090607.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"> <img border="0" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-1pdPf5ehMAo/W4lNDPyMtvI/AAAAAAAANGo/eEYy5ae4JEYhh5IKWMwlE1OGGz9iK4t0gCHMYCw/s640/IMG_20180826_090607.jpg"> </a> </div>Lizhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07993972401351163702noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-13715974.post-22747329070158124352018-08-31T21:31:00.001+08:002018-08-31T21:31:26.068+08:00Happy 61st Independence Day Malaysia!<p dir="ltr">I am happy with the new Malaysia.  So far so good.  Much better than the previous government.  I hope Malaysia will be great again and as a Malaysian,  we could say it proudly to the world.  </p>
<p dir="ltr">The first quarter of 2018 was like a roller coaster.  Then I started with a new office job after 5 long years of working on a freelance basis.  Some more,  I was not choosy with the job offer.  Then I got disappointed and left the job.  </p>
<p dir="ltr">The Almighty works in a mysterious way.  From the worst job ever,  I got to a better job ever.  I am so happy and thankful that Malaysia feels like a great place to be once again.  It has been a long time that many people like me are suffering and struggling to make it in the business as well as in the career.  After the great GE14, Malaysians united like never before.  It's like a new phase of moving forward to greater heights for the country and the citizens.  </p>
<p dir="ltr">Let's just celebrate our diversity, embrace our differences to make Malaysia great again.  <u>Sayangi</u> Malaysiaku! Selamat Hari Merdeka!  </p>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-6oInqhahUX8/W4lDK-MGFyI/AAAAAAAANGU/oHrkUpld9hITbi0_rpv_X6lhyzBYs9qagCHMYCw/s1600/IMG_20180831_210729.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"> <img border="0" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-6oInqhahUX8/W4lDK-MGFyI/AAAAAAAANGU/oHrkUpld9hITbi0_rpv_X6lhyzBYs9qagCHMYCw/s640/IMG_20180831_210729.JPG"> </a> </div>Lizhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07993972401351163702noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-13715974.post-62640988163940334542018-06-01T23:49:00.001+08:002018-06-01T23:49:13.735+08:002018 a new beginning <p dir="ltr">After a long hiatus of healing and reflection,  here I am again visiting my special place.  </p>
<p dir="ltr">2018 is such a historical year for me and the entire nation.  I had so many new beginnings and so does our beloved Malaysia.  An act of disruption has brought us all together to end the era of kleptocracy and dominance hierarchy. What a breath of fresh air.  <br><br></p>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-F_k2720irSI/WxFq93mkJqI/AAAAAAAANEM/QMP34AjDpPAT1zcoPRSmZ2WSt3cXQhuDQCHMYCw/s1600/IMG_20180423_091606.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"> <img border="0" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-F_k2720irSI/WxFq93mkJqI/AAAAAAAANEM/QMP34AjDpPAT1zcoPRSmZ2WSt3cXQhuDQCHMYCw/s640/IMG_20180423_091606.jpg"> </a> </div>Lizhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07993972401351163702noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-13715974.post-54842165068101322142016-07-14T21:27:00.001+08:002016-07-14T21:39:40.636+08:00Why this Chicken Pox <p dir="ltr">2016 Eid celebration was bitter sweet. Unforgettable. A blessing I am sure. Alhamdullillah :)</p>
<p dir="ltr">So I had the most unusual Raya ever. My arm was never a bother to me. I was still in good spirit of celebration. Family some how was my joy and comfort. I had very few happiness lately, so I rejoice every little bit of happy vibes that goes my way. </p>
<p dir="ltr">I followed my father and step mom everywhere for Raya celebration. We went up to the north to join my sister at her husband's kampong in Kedah, the land of Jelapang Padi. It was an awesome time for all of us. Then we went to my little brother wife's kampong in Perak.</p>
<p dir="ltr">And after all the fun, I got down with chicken pox! </p>
<p dir="ltr">And I am writing this with a hand infested with the ugly pox. Some more, can't go out for 2 long weeks. Another one week plus to go. </p>
<p dir="ltr">Please pray for me. I hope all the unfortunate events will end. I am desperately need to move on. Enough house rest. No more. Huhuhu. </p><p dir="ltr">Alright folks. With lots of love and good thoughts. Chioa for now. Mwah! Mwah! </p>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-54QtzDhVJiM/V4eTGTqFSNI/AAAAAAAAMbU/d7qshcy62js/s1600/FB_IMG_1467813579839.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"> <img border="0" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-54QtzDhVJiM/V4eTGTqFSNI/AAAAAAAAMbU/d7qshcy62js/s640/FB_IMG_1467813579839.jpg"> </a> </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Due to my cemented arm, I couldn't fit into my raya attire. Dressing up modestly. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-WI9utYD8H_g/V4eTHYhFLTI/AAAAAAAAMbY/106YT8piuQU/s1600/FB_IMG_1468501990615.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"> <img border="0" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-WI9utYD8H_g/V4eTHYhFLTI/AAAAAAAAMbY/106YT8piuQU/s640/FB_IMG_1468501990615.jpg"> </a> </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Look at the padi field. As far as the eyes can see. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-TVrqRXE_UnU/V4eTNjHKELI/AAAAAAAAMbc/GQJ3ikYwhGk/s1600/IMAG1463.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"> <img border="0" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-TVrqRXE_UnU/V4eTNjHKELI/AAAAAAAAMbc/GQJ3ikYwhGk/s640/IMAG1463.jpg"> </a> </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Tarraa... My right elbow after surgery infested with big gooey pox. Yucky, right!</div>Lizhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07993972401351163702noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-13715974.post-53062503748488095102016-07-04T00:16:00.001+08:002016-07-14T21:07:39.852+08:00A series of unfortunate events <p dir="ltr">2016 is not my best year so far. I have been tested to the max. A series of unfortunate events which left me very little hope to continue living. But you will never know what strong is until you had to be strong. It's tiring, being strong for most of your life. </p>
<p dir="ltr">So another dreaded episode of my life came this blessed month of Ramadhan. The month I love most because my Mom gave birth to me in this holy month. A day before Ramadhan, I was again being an independent woman and so called strong; unfortunately fell from a chair and I broke my left elbow. </p>
<p dir="ltr">This strong woman didn't even go to clinic to get treatment thinking that she could bare the pain. She endured for two weeks with just a painkiller bought from a pharmacy. However the pain didn't go away and the hand can't be straightened. And that's when she finally gave up and went to the nearest hospital to fix the problem. Here goes... </p>
<p dir="ltr">At a time when I really can't take a brake, I am facing yet with another life challenge. I went to the emergency to check on my right arm last Thursday night, 27th June'16. After about two hours I met with the MO incharge. In order to get my arm xrayed, the MO got my urine tested to ensure I am not pregnant. Yup, even when I told that I am not married. He said we follow procedure. Okay good to follow procedures.</p>
<p dir="ltr">After basic finger tips sense of touch and condition of the skin plus arm movement, the MO said most unlikely I had broken anything. It was before the xray. Then after the xray, he said with confidence, no fracture. I was given a nerve and painkiller pills. That's all. I left the hospital with pure relief as nothing was broken. I thought. </p>
<p dir="ltr">The next morning I was called by the hospital and was informed that there was a fracture and was asked to immediately come back. I went there and was again xrayed. This time an Orthopeadic Dr saw me and he advised that I might need an immediate surgery. They put me into a temporary cast and was given an appointment to meet the ortho specialist on Monday. What kind of surprise was this. I was devastated hearing about the possible surgery.</p>
<p dir="ltr">So I went, again was xrayed. And the Dr confirmed the need of surgery to put a plate for the fracture. My operation was scheduled on next Friday, 1st July'16. I was nervous and freaking out. It cost me RM2,010.00 to put on the plate (and this is a government hospital). They gave me a quote and details of bank account to pay. But I can't straighten my arm and it's painful. So I decided to go ahead with the operation albeit many doubts and financial difficulties. </p>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-jlGjZsD5lwQ/V3k6VZRqNvI/AAAAAAAAMX0/03NC5goDDTk/s1600/IMAG1392.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"> <img border="0" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-jlGjZsD5lwQ/V3k6VZRqNvI/AAAAAAAAMX0/03NC5goDDTk/s640/IMAG1392.jpg"> </a> </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">First time in the 42 years of my existence, being hospitalised. So, it's like a big deal to me. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-3jJaUpn8B-Q/V3k6ZCgI0XI/AAAAAAAAMX4/GeuecZs1cfI/s1600/IMG-20160701-WA0003.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"> <img border="0" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-3jJaUpn8B-Q/V3k6ZCgI0XI/AAAAAAAAMX4/GeuecZs1cfI/s640/IMG-20160701-WA0003.jpeg"> </a> </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Wearing the ugly but comfy hospital uniform. Not so bad. The doctors and nurses were nice and courteous. So I feel well looked after. Kind of a resting period for me, though. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-FdRSJLvJgRo/V3k6asyet0I/AAAAAAAAMX8/PJhTv_A5jmw/s1600/IMAG1414.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"> <img border="0" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-FdRSJLvJgRo/V3k6asyet0I/AAAAAAAAMX8/PJhTv_A5jmw/s640/IMAG1414.jpg"> </a> </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">The surgery went off smoothly and I left hospital only after 3 days. Enough time to celebrate Eid in another 3 days. My hand looks good. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br></div>Lizhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07993972401351163702noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-13715974.post-64751721527127790172015-12-09T17:13:00.000+08:002015-12-09T17:13:28.428+08:00Pictorial Desa Diary FarmI think I am feeling lazy to write anything. Let the photos do the talking, ya. Enjoy!<div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-stAQmT47lHQ/VmfwB4p-D-I/AAAAAAAAMWI/agwaS4TP0n8/s1600/SAM_3774.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="96" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-stAQmT47lHQ/VmfwB4p-D-I/AAAAAAAAMWI/agwaS4TP0n8/s640/SAM_3774.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Desa Dairy Farm, Kundasang, Sabah</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-P-X1x7pnwik/VmfkQ9MA79I/AAAAAAAAMUw/F4CkwwiORVk/s1600/IMAG8328.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="360" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-P-X1x7pnwik/VmfkQ9MA79I/AAAAAAAAMUw/F4CkwwiORVk/s640/IMAG8328.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The ticket to Desa Dairy Farm</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-1_OEbYSjTSs/VmfkmnUEErI/AAAAAAAAMU8/MxOERwvYFUg/s1600/SAM_3763.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="426" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-1_OEbYSjTSs/VmfkmnUEErI/AAAAAAAAMU8/MxOERwvYFUg/s640/SAM_3763.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Hello sunshine!</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-flBJVp-lz3E/VmflGLFb9-I/AAAAAAAAMVI/EUC4qJz0AGw/s1600/SAM_3798.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="426" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-flBJVp-lz3E/VmflGLFb9-I/AAAAAAAAMVI/EUC4qJz0AGw/s640/SAM_3798.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The diary cows are here folks! Black and White, I like. It's a hot hot day. </td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-st5Il0ecVVQ/Vmfl5LGHlsI/AAAAAAAAMVU/eq0fVr92bTM/s1600/SAM_3808.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="426" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-st5Il0ecVVQ/Vmfl5LGHlsI/AAAAAAAAMVU/eq0fVr92bTM/s640/SAM_3808.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The barn. It's very high tach, i.e automatic faeces removal and cleaning. Systematic food and water distribution. Awang got so fascinated by it. Me feeling, it's very hot out hear. </td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-1JUgGrgSM98/VmfueY6l1KI/AAAAAAAAMVw/4kguOq3aHEU/s1600/playing%2Bwith%2Bcalves%2Band%2Bbillies.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-1JUgGrgSM98/VmfueY6l1KI/AAAAAAAAMVw/4kguOq3aHEU/s640/playing%2Bwith%2Bcalves%2Band%2Bbillies.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The farm has a section where visitors could play with the calves and the billy goats.</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">A lot of scenic spots for taking photos folks :) </td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Hp62jM7Svik/VmfwDZzTEgI/AAAAAAAAMWQ/3Q9etA4pzx4/s1600/SAM_3773.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="426" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Hp62jM7Svik/VmfwDZzTEgI/AAAAAAAAMWQ/3Q9etA4pzx4/s640/SAM_3773.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Mountainous view covered by the clouds </td></tr>
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Lizhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07993972401351163702noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-13715974.post-29789978296641347082015-12-09T16:15:00.003+08:002015-12-09T16:15:31.204+08:00<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-wwn2i7Rfqeg/Vk7RkICcD3I/AAAAAAAAMT0/n6uXDzZ87NQ/s1600/SAM_3579.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="194" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-wwn2i7Rfqeg/Vk7RkICcD3I/AAAAAAAAMT0/n6uXDzZ87NQ/s640/SAM_3579.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Mount Kinabalu at dusk, a view from a roadside leading to Kundasang</td></tr>
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Still on my last trip to Sabah. We had our community programme in Mantanani on 8th -11th Sept'15. We finally decided to head out earlier from the island to spend some precious available time to explore Kundasang. Our plan is to go to the dairy farm and to witness the magnificent Mount Kinabalu from the most beautiful point we could.</div>
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12th Sept'15 (Sunday): We woke up as early as possible before the sunrise. Such a breathtaking view from Crystal Hill. We checked in on the weekend, not many tourist after the earthquake and the remnant of the quake can still be seen on the road tarmac and the side of Mount Kinabalu from afar. In order to boost up the tourist arrival, many resorts and homestays were offering special rates. As in our case, Crystal Hill Resort is just opened for guests. The rate was RM120/nett per room without breakfast for a Deluxe Room. It was a good deal so we took it with a smile. </div>
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A gentle reminder to all tourists; <b>Dress properly folks. You are in the sacred ground of the Sabahans. </b></div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Morning in Cyrstall Hill, Kundasang</td></tr>
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Kundasang is a highland paradise situated in the district of Ranau, Sabah. It;s pretty much like Genting Highland and Cameron Highland in Peninsular Malaysia. The climate is cooler and therefore the weather allows vegetables and beautiful flowers to be cultivated successfully over there. Lots of beautiful vegetation can be seen along the way as well as the majestic Mount Kinabalu. Kindasang is the nearest town to Mount Kinabalu. We were there to see it from the nearest point without climbing it. Hahaha!</div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="font-size: 12.8px;">A view to die for - I took this with my handphone from our breakfast table.</td></tr>
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<tr><td><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-GNb1fqoC030/Vmfb7D04_FI/AAAAAAAAMUU/kvdCWf5f0dQ/s1600/IMAG8326.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="360" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-GNb1fqoC030/Vmfb7D04_FI/AAAAAAAAMUU/kvdCWf5f0dQ/s640/IMAG8326.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="font-size: 12.8px;">Sometimes all you need is your handphone. See the background of the majestic Mount Kinabalu. Still supreme even after the legendary earthquake.</td></tr>
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We had our breakfast quickly to go to Desa Diary Farm. We heard about it from our friends. They have a New Zealand's diary cattle and it has been praised to be really beautiful with Mount Kinabalu as a background. I wouldn't want to miss this opportunity. So off we go. </div>
<br />Lizhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07993972401351163702noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-13715974.post-77837197448598268772015-10-25T21:24:00.002+08:002015-10-25T22:36:15.187+08:00Igal Igal Kids of Bajau Ubian<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-rGDyq7IyqxQ/VizVaip44UI/AAAAAAAAMTU/eHsjIUCnkf8/s1600/Igal%2Bigal%2B2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="426" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-rGDyq7IyqxQ/VizVaip44UI/AAAAAAAAMTU/eHsjIUCnkf8/s640/Igal%2Bigal%2B2.jpg" width="640"></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">One for the album, the day we went away - Picture courtesy of Abdul Rahman Osman</td></tr>
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I can't get enough writing about the people of Mantanani. Their hospitality was superb, one of the best that I've ever had. Saying good bye was really hard. Everyone I met on the island was friendly and nothing but praises for them. </div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-5vtPCyw9MjE/VizUkP-30MI/AAAAAAAAMTM/tKeiA52OA6Q/s1600/Igal%2BIgal%2BDancers.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-5vtPCyw9MjE/VizUkP-30MI/AAAAAAAAMTM/tKeiA52OA6Q/s640/Igal%2BIgal%2BDancers.jpg" width="640"></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The Igal Igal Dancers. So cute!</td></tr>
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These are the Igal Igal Dancers that I had the opportunity to get to know. They were cute little princesses. I can't get enough of them. Chirpy, full of life and smart too. Mwah! Mwah!<br>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-CaS5igXG-yM/VizW2eqtj9I/AAAAAAAAMTg/QVeF7OahPS8/s1600/Mantanani%2BSupermodels.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="426" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-CaS5igXG-yM/VizW2eqtj9I/AAAAAAAAMTg/QVeF7OahPS8/s640/Mantanani%2BSupermodels.jpg" width="640"></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Mantanani Supermodels! 1, 2, 3, pose. 1, 2, 3, pose. They got it right!</td></tr>
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Children of Mantanani are extremely smart, friendly and fabulous with cameras. They know how to give the best poses. Saying good bye to these lovelies was the hardest. They sent us to our boat. Lots of hugs and kisses. I was touched. May one day fate brings us together again. You all will be all grown up and fabulous. Mwah! Mwah!Lizhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07993972401351163702noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-13715974.post-47086260657068063482015-10-25T20:39:00.002+08:002015-10-25T20:39:54.184+08:00Mantanani Island - Homestays<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-dmE9o0nbshg/Viyz730MRgI/AAAAAAAAMSE/XEnovE1oLrQ/s1600/SAM_3135.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="426" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-dmE9o0nbshg/Viyz730MRgI/AAAAAAAAMSE/XEnovE1oLrQ/s640/SAM_3135.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Dried fish in the making</td></tr>
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<h3>
8th-11th October 2015: 2nd visit for Sharing & Caring Programme</h3>
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We came back to Mantanani, this time for Sharing and Caring Programme for the adults. Our programme was brought by Shell to create and educate the community about alternative and sustainable livelihood. Since their main source of income came from the sea, we gave them a bit of soft skills and opportunities to generate future career/income. I won't go into details here. </div>
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What I am going to show is the experience and how many of you could be of help to this Bajau Ubian community. There are many ways we could contribute to their economy, i.e. by going there itself would help the community. If you go there, please choose to stay at the homestays instead of the resorts. It's not just way too cheaper, it is also a good deed. Homestays there are certified by the Ministry of Tourism Malaysia under the 'Program Homestay Malaysia'. Their rate is reasonable, i.e. RM100 per day per person. That is a full-board rate inclusive of breakfast, lunch, dinner and snacks in between as well as supper. Please call En. Muhammad, the homestay coordinator @ +01125319022 for reservation.</div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-7H8iO8HaaaM/Viy4h_0_DCI/AAAAAAAAMSQ/K-ink0Ju1-0/s1600/SAM_3099.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="426" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-7H8iO8HaaaM/Viy4h_0_DCI/AAAAAAAAMSQ/K-ink0Ju1-0/s640/SAM_3099.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">One of the homestays, how they looked like.</td></tr>
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As for guides, you can hire any of the teenagers over there to show you around and about the island. They are really friendly people and they are eager to be of help. But ensure to pay them for their effort. For our trip, we pay all our helpers and guides RM50 a day. We treated them to all meals and refreshments that we had as well. The task was like carrying our things, introducing us to the right people and guiding us to interesting places. </div>
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Those who want to dive or snorkel can still do so while staying at the homestays. Some of the resort accept walk-in guests. We did just that with Mantanani Dreams Resort. And we had a karaoke session over there as well. It was a wonderful experience.</div>
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Activities around the island can be planned together with the homestays as they could also provide a boat ride to Mantanani Kecil and Lunggisan Island for a picnic or just island hoping. You can easily customised your trip any time you like with an extra budget of course :) </div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">This is the receiving hall to welcome guests. It's still under construction when we were there.</td></tr>
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In the future guests to homestays will be hosted at the Receiving Hall that they are building it right now. Interestingly, the hall will be built using recycled bottles filled with rubbish. It's an effort of one of the NGOs that are based over there to reduce the rubbish found on the beaches. Please be aware that rubbish are found in abundance along the beaches because of two things, (1) it was washed ashore from the mainland and (2) it was from the locals themselves as they do not have a proper garbage disposal system. </div>
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A few NGOs have been championing this issue. The locals are acceptable and cooperative towards all the efforts. From how I see it, we just need the government to lend extra hands in transporting the garbage out of the island via regular boats as this is very costly for the community to do it themselves. Other than that, they are pretty much self sufficient. Water source is from the ground. They pump out their own water from the earth. Electricity is generated from a big generator centralised for the whole island about 6-hour a day. Yeah, please bare in mind that during day time, there will be no electricity until 6.00 p.m. Don't just stay-in during these time, go out and explore! </div>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-yv22Sj_8e_c/VizFv1_VLOI/AAAAAAAAMSw/LgOwFEX1xtU/s1600/Igal%2Bigal%2Bbajau%2Bdance.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="426" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-yv22Sj_8e_c/VizFv1_VLOI/AAAAAAAAMSw/LgOwFEX1xtU/s640/Igal%2Bigal%2Bbajau%2Bdance.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Igal Igal Bajau Dance performed by children of Mantanani</td></tr>
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On our first visit, the homestays owners threw us a BBQ dinner with charming performance of Igal Igal Dance by the children. It was really cute and quite festive. However, on our second visit, we had to go out of the island earlier than planned, so the homestays had the Igal Igal Dance performed in the morning of our departure. As we can see, these children are really cute. The custom was for guests to slit small notes in between the dancers' fingers as a token of appreciation of their dance.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-tUy479rtHrM/VizJE898bQI/AAAAAAAAMS8/0a-eTvQMCBU/s1600/SAM_3395.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="426" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-tUy479rtHrM/VizJE898bQI/AAAAAAAAMS8/0a-eTvQMCBU/s640/SAM_3395.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The monsoon session just about to start usually from October onwards</td></tr>
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A day before we were about to leave, it was started to rain. Strong wind and pouring rain cats and dogs at the wee hours. I was awakened by the sound and took the photo at around 3.00 a.m. from my bedroom window. It was beautiful to have rain after awhile not having it in Kuala Lumpur. I love rain. Hehehe...<br />
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Okay, the posting is too long. I don't want people to scroll to much. To be continued.<br />
<br />Lizhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07993972401351163702noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-13715974.post-82964964431768051332015-10-25T13:29:00.000+08:002015-10-25T13:29:05.225+08:00Lunggisan Island - Hidden Treasure of Mantanani<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-U96L-08zRHE/VixFrltXyUI/AAAAAAAAMO0/NlLZ8n4WPeM/s1600/SAM_2774.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="426" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-U96L-08zRHE/VixFrltXyUI/AAAAAAAAMO0/NlLZ8n4WPeM/s640/SAM_2774.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
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6th September 2015: Lunggisan Island Escapade</h3>
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After our successful first programme in Mantanani Besar Island, it was time to go home. Around 10.00 a.m. we took the opportunity to explore Pulau Lunggisan which was only less than 15 minutes boat-ride away. The island was round in shape. It has no human habitation. At one side of the island, there's a huge cave that kept a hidden treasure. The precious cave holds the most sort after bird nests. </div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Introduction to Lunggisan Island - Superb crystal clear water, impressive white sandy beach, feels like in heaven.</td></tr>
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There were a lot of charming side to Lunggisan Island, one was the breathtakingly crystal-clear water. High visibility that you can see through the seabed even as when it was really deep. The shape of Lunggisan Island itself was charming. Like a big green bun, protruding round-half-circle. The beach we landed was like a small bay. We were anchored on the almost perfectly white-soft-sandy beach. A hidden paradise, the sand felt gentle to my bare feet. Instantly I forgot about the UV rays. </div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The Panaromic view of the secluded bay in Lunggisan Island</td></tr>
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It was just a short pit stop for us. Our flight back to Kuala Lumpur was that same evening. We were there just about 30 minutes. I took the panaromic picture of the entire beach before we hopped on our boat and left the beautiful little paradise. </div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-maeuAhNBTzM/VixVab8r7MI/AAAAAAAAMPg/z17xmRY89k8/s1600/Lunggisan%2BIsland%2Bcharm.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-maeuAhNBTzM/VixVab8r7MI/AAAAAAAAMPg/z17xmRY89k8/s640/Lunggisan%2BIsland%2Bcharm.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Little charming things you could find in Lunggisan Island</td></tr>
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As much as dead corals are beautiful, they are not a good sign. I hope Mantanani Islands could preserve its natural habitats. Humans tend to destroy their surroundings for survival but educational programmes by the NGOs and government is hoped to make the difference. On a bigger picture, I would rather address the welfare of Bajau Ubian community more than anything else. They needed to be helped in terms of alternative livelihood, education, basic amenities and most importantly effective rubbish/sewage disposal system. They shouldn't be left out to fend for themselves at a place that could be a future popular tourist attraction. But I don't agree that we should sacrifice them in the name of tourism either. Their ancestors were there before the era of Japanese occupation, so why would they be transferred out just so that we could turn the islands into main tourist attraction. It doesn't feel right because it's wrong.</div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-7ZZZBUlImfQ/VixgqqoqwZI/AAAAAAAAMP4/PjX0Umh285w/s1600/Lunggisan%2BIsland%2Bescapade.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-7ZZZBUlImfQ/VixgqqoqwZI/AAAAAAAAMP4/PjX0Umh285w/s640/Lunggisan%2BIsland%2Bescapade.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">In Lunggisan Island, you see lots of blue hues. Magnificent! </td></tr>
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Okay, back to Lunggisan Island, it's a worthy trip to make. Lots of blue hues high up above and down below. No kidding as you can see it in all of my photos here. If you happen to go to Mantanani Island, don't miss the opportunity to go there. Be it a diving trip, a community programme, or just curious to have a look, just do it! </div>
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Like all my travelling activities, I recorded almost all here in my blog, so does this one in Mantanani. I will write some more because it is not even near finish yet. Stay tuned folks :)</div>
<br />Lizhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07993972401351163702noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-13715974.post-86532407957835389722015-10-23T17:32:00.002+08:002015-10-23T18:26:45.247+08:00Mantanani Island - The school children programmes<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-lG4g3UZ4UV8/VijtoaiaXPI/AAAAAAAAMNE/0IKWltilDwA/s1600/SAM_2723.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="426" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-lG4g3UZ4UV8/VijtoaiaXPI/AAAAAAAAMNE/0IKWltilDwA/s640/SAM_2723.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The day when children got all excited to see a drone flying above them - with our team mate Mahfiz</td></tr>
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We had a wonderful participation from SK Pulau Mantanani for our school programmes. Children of Mantanani interestingly were enthusiastic to learn. They were lively, participative and supportive towards all that we asked them to do. Our programme was a success. It's a full 10 points. As much as the children had a great time learning, we had a great time teaching and getting to know them.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-8hZ6RmGvjsk/VijuzKbyLiI/AAAAAAAAMNM/Dpopg_Y4dQE/s1600/SAM_2720.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="426" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-8hZ6RmGvjsk/VijuzKbyLiI/AAAAAAAAMNM/Dpopg_Y4dQE/s640/SAM_2720.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The drone that caused all the excitement in Mantanani by our team mate Nasrul Affendy.</td></tr>
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When it comes to posing for cameras, Mantanani children were not shy. They love cameras which made our job easier. Unlike other parts of the world where children living in a tourist attraction community that has a norm to ask money before posing for a camera, these children are still pure and untouched by the capitalist mentality. Thank God for that and hope they would stay that way, always.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-RZzRw6oJPnc/Vij1Sw8MxwI/AAAAAAAAMNc/rJQVPAkJ2gM/s1600/school%2Bprogramme.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="512" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-RZzRw6oJPnc/Vij1Sw8MxwI/AAAAAAAAMNc/rJQVPAkJ2gM/s640/school%2Bprogramme.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Mata Helang Programme, the brainchild of Awang</td></tr>
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SK Mantanani has its own solar generated electricity and internet access. However, the usage was only restricted to the school and not to the community at large. Most NGOs and community programmes were held at the school premise for this convenience. </div>
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Our Sharing and Caring Programme for the school children was aimed to empower them in the following areas; i.e. building up confidence, self worthiness and improving communication. Parts of the syllabus were to learn basic English, basic journalism, and basic photography. The syllabus stressed on experiential learning with fun activities and role play. Indirectly, they were able to recognise their own potential, understanding nature and their surrounding. Courtesy of Shell, we donated cameras and science equipments for their continuous learning. </div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-CVEkbEtYdEM/Vin4HcepL_I/AAAAAAAAMNs/MBE7JtHmv54/s1600/School%2Bprogramme.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="426" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-CVEkbEtYdEM/Vin4HcepL_I/AAAAAAAAMNs/MBE7JtHmv54/s640/School%2Bprogramme.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Memento presented to Cikgu Limun, Headmaster of SK Pulau Mantanani<br />
From left: Mahfiz, Zul, Liz, Cikgu Limun, Awang and Cikgu OJ<br />
<span style="font-size: 12.8px;">Photo courtesy of Abdul Rahman Osman</span></td></tr>
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My team was comprised of professional photographers and passionate philanthropists. Their skill was out of this world and one of the best in Malaysia. Zul is a photojournalist, writing for many renown newspapers and magazines in Malaysia, whilst Mahfiz, Nasrul and Rahman, they are extremely skilful, experienced, creative, awesome and lots more. No words to describe these special people. </div>
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I am truly humbled not to use their photos here to tell our story because I couldn't get my hands to them gorgeous photos fast enough for my blog. They are all busy people therefore I had to be content with my own mostly selfies taken from my Smart Samsung Camera. Hehehe.</div>
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Some of the photos by these professionals are posted below. Lalala... (hope they won't be mad).</div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-qcwSxhx5rkQ/Vin5Y4-fLUI/AAAAAAAAMN0/3HWQVFSM-jg/s1600/sunset%2Bmantanani.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="426" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-qcwSxhx5rkQ/Vin5Y4-fLUI/AAAAAAAAMN0/3HWQVFSM-jg/s640/sunset%2Bmantanani.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">One of numerous amazing captures by Nasrul Affendy. Makes me speechless.</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-ViHsl6x7h7I/Vin8xX72kMI/AAAAAAAAMOY/m4oPEsliHnA/s1600/Arul%2BMantanani.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-ViHsl6x7h7I/Vin8xX72kMI/AAAAAAAAMOY/m4oPEsliHnA/s640/Arul%2BMantanani.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Arul, one of our little island friends captured beautifully by Abdul Rahman Osman in infrared mode</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-9sQcdmKgWGc/Vin8xTH9ssI/AAAAAAAAMOU/fhsatZnG3H0/s1600/Sail%2Baway%2Bby%2BMahfiz.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="448" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-9sQcdmKgWGc/Vin8xTH9ssI/AAAAAAAAMOU/fhsatZnG3H0/s640/Sail%2Baway%2Bby%2BMahfiz.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Sail away. Miniature boat made by the children to play with. This beautiful moment captured by Mahfis MA</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-3wtMMbZF_hE/VioDFbIxgjI/AAAAAAAAMOk/IyJ4m9-tWKA/s1600/Zul%2Barticles.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="426" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-3wtMMbZF_hE/VioDFbIxgjI/AAAAAAAAMOk/IyJ4m9-tWKA/s640/Zul%2Barticles.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Two of most recent articles by Zul for NST and Travel Adventure Magazine. He's also an avid adventurer. That guy on the covers was him.</td></tr>
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Last but not least, my BFF Awang, whom also was our team leader who brought us together for this project. He is a passionate environmentalist. He is like a celebrity in the environmental NGOs circle in Malaysia, championing issues of sustainable living and environmental conservation. He appeared regularly in our local radios and TV stations.<br />
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Okay... that's all folks. This is a posting dedicated to the children of Mantanani. Mwah! Mwah!Lizhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07993972401351163702noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-13715974.post-45339162901840420422015-10-22T20:53:00.000+08:002015-10-22T21:06:56.712+08:00Mantanani Island - Getting to know the community<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">One of the houses of Bajau Ubian of Mantanani Island</td></tr>
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<b><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">3rd-6th Sept'2015:
Kuala Lumpur-Kota Kinabalu-Kota Belud-Mantanani Island</span></b></h4>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">Mantanani Island is located off the North-West coast of Sabah, Malaysia.
It is a cluster of three islands, i.e. <a href="http://gentlecreation.blogspot.my/2015/09/mantanani-island-prelude.html"><span style="color: blue;">Mantanani Besar</span></a>, Mantanani Kecil
and Lunggisan. However, only Mantanani Besar has habitants, a population around
2000. People there are called Bajau Ubian. They speak their own language which
is totally different from Bahasa Malaysia. Best communication is via Bahasa Malaysia,
however with the boost of tourism industry and the presence of many NGOs at the
islands, most Mantananians can speak and understand basic English. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">The main source of income is all related to the sea as most are
fishermen. Other occupations are small enterprises owner such as the groceries
and eateries. There are also some that work at the resorts as a guide, cook,
housekeeping staff, general worker and diver. Based on our random survey,
average income per household is around RM500/month.<span style="font-size: 13.5pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Meeting up with the community and authorities for our programmes</span></td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;"><a href="http://gentlecreation.blogspot.my/2015/10/mantanani-island-story-of-us.html"><span style="color: blue;">There were six of us</span></a> travelling from KLIA2 to Kota Kinabalu at the earliest hour. The flight
to Kota Kinabalu took about two and a half hours. We reached the airport around
11.00am after a slight delay by Air Asia of course. From the airport, we took a
private vehicle to Kota Belud, about an hour journey to our next destination,
i.e. the jetty. We took a boat provided by our homestay operator at Jeti
Kg.Rampayan Laut, Kota Belud. It took us only 45 minutes to reach Mantanani
Besar Island. It was a beautiful journey, enjoyable boat ride of the South
China Sea and it was a scene to behold. I kind of mesmerised by it. The boat
has no roof so we were exposed by the scorchingly hot UV rays. However, once
the boat started to move, the wind made it more bearable and you hardly feel
the heat. This was when my SPF 130 sunblock served its purpose. <span style="font-size: 13.5pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">The day we arrived</span></td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">As we were reaching the shallow water of the island, the water started
to change to light blue, almost green sometimes and emerald green. It was
crystal clear, I held my breath full of excitement. Such beautiful water and
high visibility. I can see the seabed. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">Beautiful coconut trees and white sandy beaches can be seen from afar.
It was not even near landing. And as when the boat approaches the beach (yes we
anchored all the way to the beach instead of a jetty because it was nearest
point to our homestays), we were greeted by the village children and the people
of Mantanani observing us with curiously but not without a smile. <span style="font-size: 13.5pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">The things that facinate me on first day of arrival.</span></td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">A lot of caws and ducks along the stretch of the beach we landed. The
caws like to eat just about anything it can find and it roam the entire island.
The village is called Kampung Padang. There are only two villages in the
island, i.e. Kg. Padang and Kg. Siring Bukit. The most populated is Kg. Padang
where the homestays are. Houses were built a mere 5 meters apart from each
other. There were no motor vehicles on the island except for bicycles. No road
and no engine noises except for the sound of generators and boat engines.
That's it. A very basic simple lifestyle. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">The hospitality we received from the homestays was beyond our
expectations. We had our welcoming drink provided by one of the homestay owner,
i.e. Tuan Haji Boy (homestay that I stayed with my friend Awang). We were
separated in three different homestays, two pax for each homestay. The
community were courteous, very friendly and they smiled all the time. We
felt at home in their homes.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">Homestay rate was RM100/pax per night inclusive of meals (breakfast,
lunch, dinner, snacks in between as well as supper). Bajau Ubian are great at
cooking. We ate like a p**. Sorry but truly. I gained a bit when I was there.
Thanks to the fresh seafood and the good cook. <span style="font-size: 13.5pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Lobsters, Garoupa, Red Sea Bream (Ikan Kakap Merah), abalones, parrot fish, sea snails and what not. We ate all these during the 4Day 4Night stay at the homestay</span></td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">Humidity is extremely high in Mantanani as I mentioned earlier. It is
advisable to only wear thin fabrics, not to forget shades and lots of sunblock
(only if you are not planing to swim or go into diving because sunscreen lotion
can kill the corals). I used SPF130 sunblock and never parted from my hand-fan.
Electricity at the island is generated from one big generator, therefore it was
rationed for only 12 hours a day, i.e. from 6.00 p.m. to 6.00 a.m. the next
day. However, during our stay, the generator broke down and it was humid like
h**. Sorry again. I sweated like nobody business, I ran out of shirt and
panties. I had to open all windows and sometimes slept outside on the balcony.
Torchlight or headlamp is a must as there are no street lights. Blackouts
happen pretty often and you might want to take a night walk. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">Owh, another important thing is that, they use an underground water from
individual water source that they dig deep in the ground. It was amazing how
they all could dig out water this way. The taste is not salty but thick with
minerals. Taking shower with this water sting the eyes at first but you get
used to it afterwards. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">Our first agenda was to get to know the community, putting up posters
and meeting up the community leaders. It was a taxing task for us on our first
day of acclimatisation but we managed. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">My next posting will show the community programme that we had with
school. We taught the children of Mantanani about Basic Photography, Basic
English Communication and Basic Journalism. Think it was too hard for them?
Nope. they coped very well and shined with million colours. <span style="font-size: 13.5pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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Lizhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07993972401351163702noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-13715974.post-53377902150667620312015-10-15T02:53:00.002+08:002015-10-15T02:57:10.621+08:00Mantanani Island - The story of us<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The Mantanani Island Community Project Crews</td></tr>
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Okay, this is how I am going to write this. Now I am in a hospital shift taking care of my loved one. I am just going to summarise my story short for this particular posting. </div>
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Here we go again, the six of us embarking on a journey to Mantanani Island in Sabah for the second time. We went there for a purpose, i.e. a community project which taught the local about alternative livelihood and sustainable living. It was a challenging task for all of us but we made it happened within our capacity. The project was a specially designed programme namely Mantanani Sharing & Caring Programme 2015.</div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-HInqATDN-zE/Vh6PjJ7i8aI/AAAAAAAAMKI/M-AEILK_fOU/s1600/Flying.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="478" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-HInqATDN-zE/Vh6PjJ7i8aI/AAAAAAAAMKI/M-AEILK_fOU/s640/Flying.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Flying via Air Asia. Photo courtesy of Awang's Samsung Handphone</td></tr>
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We had a perfect team. Our crew members were consisted of a leader, i.e. Awang, myself as a facilitator together with a photojournalist cum scuba diver facilitator, a photographer cum children programme facilitator and two videographers. It can't be any more perfect than this!</div>
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I was happy and very thankful to be able to create memorable experience and spending time with these selected individuals. In fact I was feeling honoured to be able to work with them, professionals who shine bright in their respective fields and most importantly they are friends that matter.</div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">This is how we do it. On a local speed-boat to Mantanani Island.</td></tr>
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Our first trip to Mantanani was made on 7th-10th September 2015. We had Sharing & Caring Programme with the school children. The second trip was on 8th-11th October 2015 which we had programmes with the adults. Alhamdullillah, all the programmes went well. </div>
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Our greatest challenge in Mantanani was the weather itself. It was scorchingly hot. The only transportation to reach there was via a speedboat. You either take the ones provided by the resorts or take the ones offered by the homestay. In our case we use the homestay as we would like to get closer to the community. There you can see us converged on a locally made speed-boat. We saw the boat handler made his own boat using very minimal tools. Very impressive. </div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Kg. Rampayan Jetty</td></tr>
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The starting point to go to Mantanani Island was from the jetty in Kg. Rampayan. They had many jetty to go but the shortest distance according to our Homestay Leader was this one. So off we go. It took us only 45 minutes to reach the opposite shore. </div>
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I fell in love with the sceneries. Even the jetty looked classic to me. The mangrove was another story. They say you can see fireflies at night as well as proboscis monkeys. But we haven't had the time for it on both our trips to Mantanani. Maybe next time.</div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The locals use these types of speed boat to move about</td></tr>
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The sceneries during boat ride was super fine. Lots of seagulls, even a flying fish if you get lucky, lots of activities going on and the mountainous background was breathtaking. The sea water was super magnificent blue, with emerald and green hues to it depending on the depths. However, as you can tell, it's crystal clear, baby! </div>
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Who would have thought that this island existed in Malaysia. Nobody really pay attention to it even until now when I am writing this. Therefore I hope this posting will help bringing it up a recognition higher locally and internationally. God's willing. Aamiin.</div>
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Okay, until next posting. I am signing off now. It's 2.50 am. I am already too sleepy sitting stiffly on a hospital chair. Going to sleep on this chair too. Huhuhu.... Chiow. Mwah! Mwah!</div>
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Lizhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07993972401351163702noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-13715974.post-61132749068767960932015-09-22T16:50:00.001+08:002015-09-22T17:02:07.345+08:00Mantanani Island Prelude<p dir="ltr"><br>
The best thing about smart phone is that I could update my blog anywhere and anytime as I pleased. Right now I am in a taxi going home from an LRT station. </p>
<p dir="ltr">God knows why I had to take public transportation at this juncture in life. It's not the best means of transportation for me but I had no choice. Beggars can't be choosers they say. </p>
<p dir="ltr">I've been lagging on my creativity lately. So here I am writing on the go. Don't want to waste precious memories I had recently in Sabah. </p>
<p dir="ltr">It's drizzling at the moment. Just the thing we needed to cleanse the polluted air. People are suffering because of the haze caused by agricultural open burning in Indonesia. It's a yearly event now. We are not surprised anymore. </p><p dir="ltr">So I went to Mantanani Island in Sabah recently. The island was breathtakingly beautiful as in the picture. My friend Nasrul Affendy took the photo via a drone. It's out of this world. Not the ordinary kind. </p><p dir="ltr">Till the next posting. Stay tune as I am just reaching my home at this moment. To be continued :) </p><p dir="ltr">Mwah! Mwah! </p>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <a href="http://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-_jtHi0PCUqc/VgEWXTF-fcI/AAAAAAAAMIQ/iw6hfD-G6c8/s1600/IMG_20150922_164937.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"> <img border="0" src="http://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-_jtHi0PCUqc/VgEWXTF-fcI/AAAAAAAAMIQ/iw6hfD-G6c8/s640/IMG_20150922_164937.jpg"> </a> </div>Lizhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07993972401351163702noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-13715974.post-85275174608423665122015-07-26T14:13:00.000+08:002015-07-26T14:48:00.232+08:00Cirebon-Jakarta-Kuala Lumpur<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Travelling to Tegal Gubuk via an 'Angkut'</td></tr>
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23rd May 2015: Cirebon Shoppinglogue</h3>
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<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: small;">6.00am: Heading towards Tegal Gubuk Market, a local market that's really huge. 30 hectare in all. It is said to be the largest market in Indonesia. Mainly selling at a dirt cheap price of clothings, all kind of fabrics and tailoring supplies. My second time visiting Tegal Gubuk. Mark my words, your trip here will be all worth it. However, you had to bare the scorching heat and humidity of the place. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: small;">The market starts on Tuesday and Friday night from 10.00am and closes at noon 12.00noon until Saturday. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: small;">7.00am: Reached Tegal Gubuk. We started scouting the area for the best bargain. I can see improvements made to the market. Wooden structures have been replaced by an orderly bricks and tiles. Previously, all floors were by wood but now they slowly change it to tiles which is more practical. If it rains, there will not be mud spoiling their wares. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: small;">We shopped there until about 10.00am. We pretty much know what to get, so it's very quick for us. And our Angkut which we rented for the whole day was there to fetch us back.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: small;">1.00pm: We headed to Cirebon Train Station to buy train tickets back to Jakarta as we are going to shoot back to KL the next day itself. The ticket costs us IDR105,000.00 per person (about RM29.00). </span></div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Circa October 2010 visit in Cirebon - We had the best 'Bakso' and 'Teh Botol' experience</td></tr>
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<span style="font-size: small;">2.00pm: Tired of eating rice, we opted for a not to be missed only in Indonesia, i.e. teh botol (or rather its competitor as they didn't have teh botol at the hotel) and the instant bakso flavoured cup noodle. We've been trying to get 'bakso' the whole time on our trip but it was just too packed with shopping activities. The famous 'bakso' in Manje</span></div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-ud7AF13nGlI/VbRpKVOI_6I/AAAAAAAAMHQ/Uxl9qw5onno/s1600/cirebon%2Bto%2Bjakarta.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="512" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-ud7AF13nGlI/VbRpKVOI_6I/AAAAAAAAMHQ/Uxl9qw5onno/s640/cirebon%2Bto%2Bjakarta.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Cirebon back to Jakarta via Express Train</td></tr>
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<h3>
24th May 2015 (Sunday): Cirebon-Jakarta-Kuala Lumpur</h3>
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<span style="font-size: small;">4.00am: Hotel staff knocked our door; i.e. it's a wake up call. No phone in the room. They brought us breakfast. A tosted bread with jam and butter, boiled egg and tea.</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: small;">5.30am: Our 'angkut' arrived to take us to the railway station.</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: small;">6.15am: Boarding the train back to Jakarta. Beautiful sceneries along the way. We saw farmers busy planting new 'padi' in the as-far-as-the-eyes-can-see fields. Excellent view!</span></div>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-ZkX_2GE-wBg/VbRpNQCSo_I/AAAAAAAAMHY/7_Cg3aORmhI/s1600/jakarta%2Bto%2Bkl.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="480" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-ZkX_2GE-wBg/VbRpNQCSo_I/AAAAAAAAMHY/7_Cg3aORmhI/s640/jakarta%2Bto%2Bkl.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Back to Jakarta straight to the airport to head home to Kuala Lumpur</td></tr>
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<span style="font-size: small;">9.30am: Arrived in the city of Jakarta and quickly took a private vehicle straight to the airport. Our flight was sheduled at 2.30pm. Cost of renting two cars was IDR500,000.00 (about RM140.00). We had to use the private car because so many bags. Lots of extra shopping bags. Pheww...</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: normal;">10.00am: Stopped for an early lunch at the Rumah Makan Kita, a padang restaurant (as if I didn't order food in the flight). The food was delicious as always in Padang Restaurant. But lots of flies. Ewww... . And yeah, I ate again in the flight. What a gorging. 'Nasi Briyani' some more! It's no surprise I had purging and fell sick right after I got back. </span></div>
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<span style="font-size: small;">11.00am: Arrived at the airport just nicely. It was a smooth ride back to the airport on Sunday morning. No traffic jam. </span></div>
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<span style="font-size: small;">2.30pm: Boading the flight home. Ate like a p** and slept the whole ride home. </span></div>
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<span style="font-size: small;">7.30pm: Touched down in KLIA2. Home sweet home and tired to the bones. </span></div>
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</div>Lizhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07993972401351163702noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-13715974.post-50386730457884953882015-07-25T23:12:00.000+08:002015-07-25T23:19:47.801+08:00Rose Chamber B&B-Kartikasari-Toko 3-Rumah Mode-Cibaduyut<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-wyTyNhTYZ1U/VbOGTG7Ni8I/AAAAAAAAMEA/2ByyJ-J9YWs/s1600/Flowers.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="532" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-wyTyNhTYZ1U/VbOGTG7Ni8I/AAAAAAAAMEA/2ByyJ-J9YWs/s640/Flowers.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Orchids, <span style="font-size: 12.8000001907349px;"> Ixora, </span><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: xx-small; line-height: 32px; text-align: start;">Echinacea, </span><span style="font-size: 12.8000001907349px; line-height: 32px;">Mexican Bluebell, Sansevieria and many more. Love it!</span></td></tr>
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<h3>
22nd May 2015: Bandung Excursion</h3>
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5.30am: All rise. Embracing another wonderful day. All I care about any place I visited is the environment. It has to be beautifully landscaped and soothing to the eyes. The Rose Chamber Bed and Breakfast has all that. I had a blast time at every corner.</div>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-CLZ8dgqLpnQ/VbOLsqRMgxI/AAAAAAAAMEQ/ttqIEeELNHU/s1600/The%2BRose%2BChamber.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="512" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-CLZ8dgqLpnQ/VbOLsqRMgxI/AAAAAAAAMEQ/ttqIEeELNHU/s640/The%2BRose%2BChamber.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Rose Chamber B&B, Bandung</td></tr>
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The room rate at the time we arrived was IDR260.000.00/night with breakfast for 2pax (about RM70.00). It's a weekday rate as we were there on Thursday night and checked out the next morning for our next itinerary to shop in Cirebon. </div>
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The owner is an Indonesian married to a German wife. So the decoration and feel of the place was a fusion of traditional wood carvings with touched of modern architecture and furnishings. It's run by the family themselves. </div>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-_3FsJD-gDzY/VbORC8WgY2I/AAAAAAAAMEg/_zPAVB8x0xA/s1600/breakfast.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="512" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-_3FsJD-gDzY/VbORC8WgY2I/AAAAAAAAMEg/_zPAVB8x0xA/s640/breakfast.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Breakfast of omelette, pancake and nasi goreng.</td></tr>
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6.30am: We had our breakfast and quickly arranged our next shopping excursion. Lots yet to do. </div>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-B-T7kq9mdxc/VbOT2hyH2UI/AAAAAAAAMEs/bIpOpwEajvI/s1600/Kartikasari.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="426" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-B-T7kq9mdxc/VbOT2hyH2UI/AAAAAAAAMEs/bIpOpwEajvI/s640/Kartikasari.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">This is Kartikasari a very famous brownies and cake house in Bandung</td></tr>
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8.00am: The first shopping we did in Bandung was in Kartikasari, it opens early. Kartikasari is a famous brownies and cake house. It opens early at Lots of brownies and cakes to choose from. They sells other popular Indonesia delicacies as well such as the smoked banana cheese and fermented tapioca. There are candies, cookies, crackers, mochies, tarts and ice-creams. All so mouth watering. I bough the delicious Prune Cake. Owhhh so yummy, everyone who tasted it said so. A must repeat buy in Kartikasari.<br />
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10.00am: Shopping in Pasar Baru Bandung. A fabric heaven for fashion designers, boutique owners and fashion enthusiasts. We had great bargains for laces and other fabrics we need for our Hari Raya Aidilfitri.<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-P-_kKd0htT0/VbOZva1_0YI/AAAAAAAAME8/pdiwUPY9UHw/s1600/Pasar%2BBaru%2BBandung.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="360" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-P-_kKd0htT0/VbOZva1_0YI/AAAAAAAAME8/pdiwUPY9UHw/s640/Pasar%2BBaru%2BBandung.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Shopping laces in Pasar Baru Bandung</td></tr>
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My sister insisted in finding 'buah salak'. The fruit was delicious. Very sweet unlike in Malaysia which is slightly sour.<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-CRVowo9K0Wo/VbObBljILKI/AAAAAAAAMFE/cYi3ilOtcQA/s1600/SAM_2263.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="426" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-CRVowo9K0Wo/VbObBljILKI/AAAAAAAAMFE/cYi3ilOtcQA/s640/SAM_2263.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Very sweet Salak Fruit outside of Pasar Baru Bandung</td></tr>
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1.15pm: Shopping for a Levis Jean in Toko 3 Bandung. My sister requested to stop there. I had nothing of interest. Just a window shopping for me.<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-PvEQP-UmpFk/VbObBxayNHI/AAAAAAAAMFI/0hsNXHFNzvE/s1600/SAM_2264.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="426" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-PvEQP-UmpFk/VbObBxayNHI/AAAAAAAAMFI/0hsNXHFNzvE/s640/SAM_2264.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Toko 3, a place people buy original branded jeans which is more cheaper than in Malaysia</td></tr>
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2.00pm: We had lunch at Sederhana Padang Restaurant. It's one of a clean outlet to eat for those who care about food hygiene. Lots of choice to eat from. But one thing a must order is the Avocado Juice, they called it Alpukat Juice. <br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-RGV4vMEinQ4/VbOdnDTT3tI/AAAAAAAAMFY/6Cee6hJxzQg/s1600/Lunch%2Bat%2BPadang%2BRestaurant.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-RGV4vMEinQ4/VbOdnDTT3tI/AAAAAAAAMFY/6Cee6hJxzQg/s640/Lunch%2Bat%2BPadang%2BRestaurant.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Sederhana Padang Restaurant in Bandung</td></tr>
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3.00pm: Shopping in Rumah Mode. An exclusive mall selling branded clothings. I bought a pair of sandals cause I broke my high wedge shoes. I fell at Toko 3 while going down from the vehicle. Rumah Mode is not really my ideal shopping mall. Nothing attracted me. Kuala Lumpur has better bargain if looking for fashionable clothings. We left Rumah Mode at 4.30pm.<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Qk4bjU-8_uM/VbOf8ai9owI/AAAAAAAAMFk/JrmPr7fPRys/s1600/SAM_2273.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="426" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Qk4bjU-8_uM/VbOf8ai9owI/AAAAAAAAMFk/JrmPr7fPRys/s640/SAM_2273.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Rumah Mode</td></tr>
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4.30pm: A very jam Friday in Bandung as we headed to Cibaduyut, an area where you can buy goods made from leather. My eldest sister wanted to buy leather gloves for her husband. The place was all leather. You can see leather shops everywhere. There were leather shoes, bags, gloves and jackets. It's a leather heaven!<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-KN_P1q3rwZk/VbOjx97wNCI/AAAAAAAAMF0/sk83Blp-f7A/s1600/SAM_2279.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="426" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-KN_P1q3rwZk/VbOjx97wNCI/AAAAAAAAMF0/sk83Blp-f7A/s640/SAM_2279.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">At the Cibaduyut Mall awaiting our driver to go to Cirebon</td></tr>
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6.30pm: Finally we have completed our itinerary for the day. All were tired and can't wait to head for Cirebon, our next destination. We were travelling there via a private vehicle. The journey turned out to be a very hectic one. It took us almost 7 hours to reach Cirebon. We regretted for not taking the train.<br />
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1.00am: As we arrived in Cirebon, the driver surprising was not familiar with the town. He can't even direct us to a proper hotel. We wanted a hotel which is nearby the train station as we planned to take the train back to Jakarta. After rounding the station for about three times, we found one inn closest to the station and decided to stay there.<br />
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We stayed there for two nights. It's already passed midnight. We were tired to the bones.<br />
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To be continued in the next last posting about Indonesia shoppinglogue. Stay tuned, folks :)<br />
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Lizhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07993972401351163702noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-13715974.post-20466861570556594192015-07-25T20:37:00.002+08:002015-07-25T23:20:32.160+08:00Bandung - Malaysians' Favourite Shopping Destination<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-_KZx5nSLkNk/VbJfeStWfvI/AAAAAAAAMDQ/eS7Tyyu9U4U/s1600/Jakarta%2BTrain%2BStation.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-_KZx5nSLkNk/VbJfeStWfvI/AAAAAAAAMDQ/eS7Tyyu9U4U/s640/Jakarta%2BTrain%2BStation.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">This is Gambir Train Station, Jakarta. We were leaving for Bandung. My sister hated being photographed. Hahaa..</td></tr>
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<h3 style="text-align: justify;">
21st May 2015- Jakarta to Bandung</h3>
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<span style="text-align: justify;">Bandung is a shopping heaven for Malaysians. Many Malaysians flocked to Bandung each year to buy fabrics and luxury items from their many factory outlets. Business owners usually go there to buy straight from the warehouses or get a good deal from the local market. </span><br />
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We travelled to Bandung via an express train as a better way to travel in comfort and to avoid the massive road jam as well as the long hours on road. It was done all in a rush as we hoped to be able to do our shopping as we arrived. However the shopping plan crushed due to miscommunication with our travelling buddies who took a different car to the train station, we wasted almost 3 hours at the station waiting the other party who were in fact already at the station but we didn't see them until after 3 hours! Ridiculous. Yup, I know. </div>
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The environment in Gambir Train Station is pretty much like in Malaysia. It is the side of Jakarta that feels like home. Very modern and the crowd can be said to be middle to upper class. You don't see poverty around. No beggars and no shabby clothed people walking around. Surprising to see how the city could separate its population like this. Social division is very apparent in Jakarta. It's the result of corruption and previous lame government. It can similarly be said about Malaysia. How disappointing and lame the government is now under the current PM. Sigh... I shall stop there. </div>
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Okay, the ticket price was IDR100,000 which equivalent to about RM27.00 (exchange rate at that time). Arrived at Gambir Station around 12.00noon but boarded the train at 3.30pm. The moment the train started to move, we see the real picture along the tract. How poverty was lining the tract. People building houses and building the lives like only inches away from the railway tract. It was scary when you saw children so near playing and running. How can they curb accidents from happening. It bugged my mind the whole journey to Bandung. </div>
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As we were nearing Bandung, the scenery was magnificent. Padi field as far as the eyes can see. And the sunset was beautiful. It took us almost 4 hours to reach Bandung at 7.00pm. </div>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-H9nM-PJX6OY/VbJg5r6u3lI/AAAAAAAAMDc/I3z42OCg3YM/s1600/Station%2BGambir%2Bto%2BBandung.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="480" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-H9nM-PJX6OY/VbJg5r6u3lI/AAAAAAAAMDc/I3z42OCg3YM/s640/Station%2BGambir%2Bto%2BBandung.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">All excited to board the train. Like God knows how many years since I've been on a train.</td></tr>
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My Goodness, it took me so long to finish posting about my Indonesia trip. I am forgetting many details. Now am trying my best to record as much as I could gather from my journal. </div>
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As we arrived in Bandung at 7.00pm, we took a rented vehicle to mobilise ourselves. Of course so many operators will approach you for this matter. We choose a car that can fit all nine of us. We didn't make any hotel reservation. So we walked in to a few hotels located at the centre of the town but couldn't find a satisfactory one. After the third time trying to find a hotel failed, we decided to get our dinner first at a place my sister recommended as she had been there before. The place is called Kampung Daun. Located at a highland area of Lembang that felt almost like in Cameron Highland. It was already 9.00pm when we reached there but the restaurant accepted last diners at 10.00pm. So we were lucky.</div>
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Kampung Daun was a superb place to dine. A kampung (village) style eating heaven with wooden structures and man made stone decorated streams. I would say. Everyone was famished. We ate and unwind. The vehicle driver was invited to eat with us as well. Our culture taught us to be courteous and we must share our food with whomever we are with. <br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-s_GIbW_dWXY/VbJxe1yxsUI/AAAAAAAAMDs/FKa6mYG1f9w/s1600/Kampung%2BDaun.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="512" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-s_GIbW_dWXY/VbJxe1yxsUI/AAAAAAAAMDs/FKa6mYG1f9w/s640/Kampung%2BDaun.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Dinner in Kampung Daun, Bandung</td></tr>
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We ordered their signature most popular dish, i.e. grilled/fried gouramis fish (kaloi fish in Malay), ox tail soup (sup ekor in Malay) and other smaller dishes. It's yummy and worth our travelling up the hill to reach the place. We paid not more than IDR900.000.00 for nine person, which equivalent to RM250.00. Not so bad, heh. </div>
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Along the stretch of the road to Kampung Daun Restaurant we saw a lot of lodgings. It looked serene and very cool up there. We decided to stay nearby the area and we finally settled at a place called the Rose Chamber Bed and Breakfast. It turned out to be a very memorable place that all of us really enjoyed in Bandung. </div>
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I would love to share the details of the place in my next posting. For now I am signing off :) </div>
Lizhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07993972401351163702noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-13715974.post-87522221585396993332015-06-30T12:00:00.002+08:002015-06-30T12:01:50.091+08:00JAKARTA<h3>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-ep1yC1EplW0/VZICo0n-O1I/AAAAAAAAMCw/_dZfapyjGX4/s1600/Bajaj.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-ep1yC1EplW0/VZICo0n-O1I/AAAAAAAAMCw/_dZfapyjGX4/s640/Bajaj.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">This is a 'BAJAJ', a tree-wheeler public transport or 'Angkot' that still exist in Jakarta, mostly seen around busy market area like Tanah Abang</td></tr>
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20th & 21st June'15 - Jakarta Shopping Spree</h3>
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Landed in Jakarta at 5.30 pm local time. Jakarta time was an hour later than Malaysia (5.30 pm in Jakarta means 6.30 pm in Malaysia). The airport was under major construction. Looks like they were building a really huge one like KLIA and KLIA2 or bigger, I think. The remaining airport in operation was really small and we can't even find a money changer because it operates only until 1.00pm, we were told. Yikes!</div>
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True to its infamous traffic jam, Jakarta was worst than Kuala Lumpur. I can't believe it myself but my sister and I had to suffer for almost four hours in a taxi going to the hotel in Tanah Abang area that usually takes less than an hour to reach. The taxi fare was IDR180.000 (about RM50+). We were told that the jam was worst than normal due to an accident which occurred in the afternoon somewhere far away but affected all the roads. Phewww... </div>
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Reaching the hotel late at night, we were hungry like a wolf and our eldest sister, Along who took an earlier flight that arrived in the morning, thankfully she bought us a take away food from an Arab restaurant. It was yummy! </div>
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<tr><td>,<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-kS4Fqjfn1dg/VZIDThgTw8I/AAAAAAAAMDA/mkC_gBn3aOw/s1600/Tanah%2BAbang%2BMarket.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="512" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-kS4Fqjfn1dg/VZIDThgTw8I/AAAAAAAAMDA/mkC_gBn3aOw/s640/Tanah%2BAbang%2BMarket.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="font-size: 12.8000001907349px;">We went straight to our first itinerary, i.e. shopping at the famous Tanah Abang Market</td></tr>
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Rise and shine so early in the morning, we had our breakfast at the hotel, and walked straight to our first itinerary, i.e. Tanah Abang Market. The distance was only about 10 minutes walk from N1 Hotel (pronounced as Inn One in Bahasa Indonesia. Room rate was at RM130 per night with breakfast). Tanah Abang Market is a one stop textile wholesale market for traders and business owners. The shops opened at 9.00 am but we were earlier than that. That's the trick. You get the best bargain during the shop opening. They call it 'pecah telur' which literally means <i>'breaking an egg'</i>. It actually means morning opening price to bring in the luck of the day. The first customer that walks in must buy something in regardless of the price, they can not be turned off or the business will not pick up throughout the day. Something like that. It's an Asian business culture belief. We had great business bargain indeed! Everyone was happy. </div>
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<tr><td><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-8Azje5p9mpg/VZIB90sh0VI/AAAAAAAAMCo/VcoXZHn1V94/s1600/shopping%2Bnearby%2Bhotel.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-8Azje5p9mpg/VZIB90sh0VI/AAAAAAAAMCo/VcoXZHn1V94/s640/shopping%2Bnearby%2Bhotel.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="font-size: 12.8000001907349px;">Shopping nearby hotel in Tanah Abang. All within walking distance, i.e. market, perfume stall, a convenient store and a textile museum.</td></tr>
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Also along the street neaby N1 Hotel was a perfume shop and a convenient shops. We bought little this and that to bring home. A happy shoppers we were. I regretted for not buying more of the perfume. The fragrant lasted longer than I expected and it smells heavenly. It is a must repeat place in Jakarta apart from Tanah Abang Market. </div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-66VzKJUJJQA/VZIDFCtCvoI/AAAAAAAAMC4/WaeFBoPUBnU/s1600/Jakarta%2Bhard%2Breality.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-66VzKJUJJQA/VZIDFCtCvoI/AAAAAAAAMC4/WaeFBoPUBnU/s640/Jakarta%2Bhard%2Breality.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The cold hard reality of life in Jakarta; Student demonstration that happens frequent enough, as well as the harsh life of its citizens due to inequality of wealth division.</td></tr>
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We were so much rushing to go to Bundung on the same day as we were shopping in Tanah Abang. The shopping was made in a haste, but we got everything we came there for. In our rapid movement from one shop to another, I can't help but noticed, what an amazing city, Jakarta is. Such a really busy city. A kaleidoscope of colours and texture that can make one feel dizzy. You can see it yourself from all the photos here. Such a contrast of the rich and the poor, the high and the lows, the modern and the traditional. All mixed up in a pot.</div>
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The stress of city life can be felt strongly. The socio-economy division was really apparent. Jakarta has many big shopping malls and countless 5-star hotels but it equals to as many homeless people living on the streets and building shelters where ever they could find. Some are living on water pipes along rivers, and under bridges. The sad reality of unequal wealth division. </div>
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Jakarta really had to find ways to solve its infamous traffic jam. I can conclude easily that it was due to the lack of metropolitan means of transportation such as the MRT and Monorail. Therefore the usage of motor vehicles was massive. More than the highways could cater. My sister even voiced out loud her curiosity about how the people in Jakarta reach their offices on time in such a jam.</div>
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Our next destination was Bandung. Stay tuned, folks!Lizhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07993972401351163702noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-13715974.post-49408848970322907182015-06-13T23:15:00.002+08:002015-06-16T21:07:12.033+08:00Jakarta-Bandung-Cirebon<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-et_QKU-jHHU/VXw73GlDBaI/AAAAAAAAMCI/L9MgAXItq0I/s1600/SAM_2014.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="425" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-et_QKU-jHHU/VXw73GlDBaI/AAAAAAAAMCI/L9MgAXItq0I/s640/SAM_2014.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Travelling liberates the mind</td></tr>
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<h3>
20th-24th May 2015: 5-Day 4-Night, Jakarta-Bandung-Cirebon</h3>
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I am always the happiest when I went travelling. It's such a liberating experience, it opens up our mind to many things that it sometimes challenging our norm. Most of the times, we are no longer in our comfort zones. I like! Like! Like!</div>
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My recent trip to our neighbouring country, Indonesia is not without challenges. However, it was fun and worth every pain. I love it! Love it! Love it!</div>
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Travelling with sisters and friends whom you can trust is the best! I am grateful for every little thing and lessons along the way. The precious moments shared and created were priceless. I am glad to have shared it with my loved ones. </div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-5BNwkFp9Hiw/VXw73ROakdI/AAAAAAAAMCQ/FdBnx4aYoRc/s1600/SAM_2015.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="266" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-5BNwkFp9Hiw/VXw73ROakdI/AAAAAAAAMCQ/FdBnx4aYoRc/s400/SAM_2015.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Exploring my talents and endurance of a harsh existance</td></tr>
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This trip that I embarked on was not a vacation per se. It's more like a business trip for my other talent, that is sewing and designing cloths. Yes I am a Jake of all trade master of none. I went there to buy sewing and clothing supplies. I went there together with a bunch of like-minded people who have the same passion and talent. We've been in the business for almost all our lives; some of us on a full time basis and some, on a part time basis, such as me. I went to Indonesia to learn my trade. At the same time I want to enjoy my trip as a tourist too. </div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Haven't finish reading this. Sigh... </td></tr>
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Our trip started in Jakarta where we bought supplies in Tanah Abang, a very famous wholesale mall and continued to Bandung with hired private vehicle. In Bandung we went to another famous wholesale mall, i.e. Pasar Baru. We went to Rumah Mode, one the many factory outlet that sells branded clothings for our personal Hari Raya needs. We also went to Kartika Sari, a famous bakery that sells many mouth watering Indonesian delicacies. I just can't have enough of its 'Pisang Salai Cheese' (smoked cheese banana) and its Prune Layered Cake. Simply Yummy! </div>
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Our final business trip stop was in Cirebon via an express train where we went to a local trade market not known to many foreigners. It was a very huge market that starts from 10pm and ends at around 12 noon the next day. </div>
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So this is just a teaser. I will be putting lots of photos and details in my next posting. Stay tuned, folks :) </div>
Lizhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07993972401351163702noreply@blogger.com2