The adventures of P. C. Wu, the sailor, never ends and he has just embarked on one of life's most enriching journey as audit assistant. So pleased with his profession (inspite of some stupidity due to "newness") that he would enthusiatically recommend any like-minded people (people who wants to live life to the fullest) to join the profession. And he looks forward to the audit peak period when the hull of his passion for business and accountancy will be tested under the harshest of weathers.
Anyway, this blog will not be made significantly more happening because his duty of confidentiality will stand. There are other things to rely on, especially for this admiral who has so much fleets of ships to explore different part of the world called life.
To name one: P. C. Wu will be running his third Singapore Marathon this December, together with comrade-in-arms, Edwin Tan. The engine rooms of both have not been lubricated for a long time but they believe this is going to be the most interesting experience yet.
We are keeping our mouth sealed on one of his most exciting voyage yet.... you can say it is a voyage of no return. Yes, because the only way to sail is forward. His fleet will set sail anytime.
Stay tuned..... for latest news!
This blog may sound abit incoherent. you got to give our correspondent Wu time after not writing for 3 months.
November 11, 2005
August 12, 2005
Just A Thought
上梁不正，下梁歪。
We are aware of its working in our every day's life.
How many would observe that it is actually as applicable in
something as modern as Microsoft Excel?
上面的 row 不 align, 下面的 row 也不 align.
We are aware of its working in our every day's life.
How many would observe that it is actually as applicable in
something as modern as Microsoft Excel?
上面的 row 不 align, 下面的 row 也不 align.
August 11, 2005
John Little Stint
I was employed by my favourite retailer, John Little. It is my favourite because the quality and price of their products suit my lifestyle. Almost the whole collection of my office wear is bought there. The fact that this company functions in a sector which I never work in before made this experience additionally enriching.
The place of operation is at Expo for their warehouse sale. I remember the first time they organized such sale, their advertisement told shoppers something like it is a sale that would happen only once. For your interest, this is already the third or fourth John Little Expo Warehouse Sale. Robinson organized a similar sale at least once. I know because these sales were always held during the ACCA examination period in Expo where the examinations are conducted. I applied to be a cashier but was designated to be a packer. A packer’s job would be to pack shoppers’ purchases into plastic bag, after the cashier recorded the sales, for them to bring home with ease. He is also trained to be a cashier and required to assume the role as and when required.
A work day would start with some house-keeping. That is to refold the clothes which have been messed by shoppers on the previous day. This is a task which I hate to perform in the first couple of days of work…. The task never seems to be completed. I only came to enjoy it towards the end of my stint because I realized it will never be completed.
About 15 minutes before the hall opened, cashiers and packers would standby at their cash tills and work till lunch time and then the end of the shift. I am very fortunate to be “buddied” to a temporary cashier, Daphne, who knows her stuff. I cannot remember a time when she encountered a problem with the cash till which she could not solve calmly and gracefully like an experienced hand. As a packer, my work rate (not without work ethic) is equally astonishing and that led my buddy to ask whether I am trained to be a packer. I have to laugh at the question. Before starting work, I thought I would be trained. ‘Fastest packer…. Most competent cashier’…. That made us the “deadliest” Cashier-Packer Duo for this sale. Things would have been so much different if she is a blur cashier or I am a clumsy packer. Other friends who I got to know includes fellow packers: Ken, Dennis and Joshua.
My favourite day of work is the last day of the sale i.e. National Day. Actually, like many temporary staff, my stint was shortened and set to end on Monday. Due to anticipated large crowd, some were asked back and I am one of them. Anyway, I have got used to waking up earlier at 6am and my throat felt better. The morning of the non-work/school day was quiet and traffic was smooth. My first task was to do housekeeping for children wear. I chose a basket which I am familiar with and started my natural hands movement. Then, to my surprise, Daphne appeared. The deadly duo was back. Quote Willy Wonka ‘The best prize is surprise’. The encore is short as I am to assume the role of cashier in another counter shortly after lunch for as long as 3 hours. Cashiering…. That is something I want to do. Imagine how much worse off I would be if I had said no to the HR department’s request.
This experience would have been more enjoyable if not of a cold and sore throat which began on Thursday evening. These prevented me from being too enthusiastic and adventurous when dealing with shoppers and my new friends. Joy of work: 4.5 out of 5 stars. Personal development: 5 out of 5 stars (Considering my wide spectrum of working experience, I have never done anything like this before).
I will leave with a bit of advice for future shoppers at warehouse sales. I predict that Robinson would organize one for the Christmas season and these would be useful. Firstly, always attend such sales on the first days. I witnessed a few merchandises were gone by the second day and those left were of odd sizes or non-warehouse sale price. Secondly, make sure the things you want to buy come with a barcode or price tag. If there is none, copy the barcode number and price of the same product for the cashier to record. And if it is the last piece without a price tag, tell the cashier so. Finally, queue up in the rows where “deadly” cashier-packer duos are working as they are able to process your purchases much faster.
The place of operation is at Expo for their warehouse sale. I remember the first time they organized such sale, their advertisement told shoppers something like it is a sale that would happen only once. For your interest, this is already the third or fourth John Little Expo Warehouse Sale. Robinson organized a similar sale at least once. I know because these sales were always held during the ACCA examination period in Expo where the examinations are conducted. I applied to be a cashier but was designated to be a packer. A packer’s job would be to pack shoppers’ purchases into plastic bag, after the cashier recorded the sales, for them to bring home with ease. He is also trained to be a cashier and required to assume the role as and when required.
A work day would start with some house-keeping. That is to refold the clothes which have been messed by shoppers on the previous day. This is a task which I hate to perform in the first couple of days of work…. The task never seems to be completed. I only came to enjoy it towards the end of my stint because I realized it will never be completed.
About 15 minutes before the hall opened, cashiers and packers would standby at their cash tills and work till lunch time and then the end of the shift. I am very fortunate to be “buddied” to a temporary cashier, Daphne, who knows her stuff. I cannot remember a time when she encountered a problem with the cash till which she could not solve calmly and gracefully like an experienced hand. As a packer, my work rate (not without work ethic) is equally astonishing and that led my buddy to ask whether I am trained to be a packer. I have to laugh at the question. Before starting work, I thought I would be trained. ‘Fastest packer…. Most competent cashier’…. That made us the “deadliest” Cashier-Packer Duo for this sale. Things would have been so much different if she is a blur cashier or I am a clumsy packer. Other friends who I got to know includes fellow packers: Ken, Dennis and Joshua.
My favourite day of work is the last day of the sale i.e. National Day. Actually, like many temporary staff, my stint was shortened and set to end on Monday. Due to anticipated large crowd, some were asked back and I am one of them. Anyway, I have got used to waking up earlier at 6am and my throat felt better. The morning of the non-work/school day was quiet and traffic was smooth. My first task was to do housekeeping for children wear. I chose a basket which I am familiar with and started my natural hands movement. Then, to my surprise, Daphne appeared. The deadly duo was back. Quote Willy Wonka ‘The best prize is surprise’. The encore is short as I am to assume the role of cashier in another counter shortly after lunch for as long as 3 hours. Cashiering…. That is something I want to do. Imagine how much worse off I would be if I had said no to the HR department’s request.
This experience would have been more enjoyable if not of a cold and sore throat which began on Thursday evening. These prevented me from being too enthusiastic and adventurous when dealing with shoppers and my new friends. Joy of work: 4.5 out of 5 stars. Personal development: 5 out of 5 stars (Considering my wide spectrum of working experience, I have never done anything like this before).
I will leave with a bit of advice for future shoppers at warehouse sales. I predict that Robinson would organize one for the Christmas season and these would be useful. Firstly, always attend such sales on the first days. I witnessed a few merchandises were gone by the second day and those left were of odd sizes or non-warehouse sale price. Secondly, make sure the things you want to buy come with a barcode or price tag. If there is none, copy the barcode number and price of the same product for the cashier to record. And if it is the last piece without a price tag, tell the cashier so. Finally, queue up in the rows where “deadly” cashier-packer duos are working as they are able to process your purchases much faster.
July 17, 2005
July 14, 2005
A Chair-pisode II
Under all circumstances, the ladies had every right not to give way. Here's why:
a)
No ordinary person can stand with the type of aggression and arrogance the settlers displayed. They should watch THE SURVIVOR(s) or THE APPRENTICE more often.
b)
Knowing that there are more people than chairs, the settlers did not seek to mark their territories with their belongings, thereby constructing a legitimate right to the seat. They should play MONOPOLY more often.
c)
Knowing that there are more people than chairs, the settlers chose not to take turns to go for the toilet or free coffee, leaving one soldier to guard the territory. They should play RISK more often.
d)
Knowing that there are more people than chairs, the settlers knew that The Law of Music Chair applies. They should play or watch their children play MUSICAL CHAIRS more often.
There is no doubt that the Conquerors were wrong in the first place. But there is no need to fight such a lengthy war as if dear life depended on the availability of that particular seat. The settlers can give them a piece of their mind loudly (preferable) and leave gracefully, if the Conquerors are still seated. The Conquerors would be shamed (optional) and the settlers would be remembered for their animosity.
That's my personal point of view.
a)
No ordinary person can stand with the type of aggression and arrogance the settlers displayed. They should watch THE SURVIVOR(s) or THE APPRENTICE more often.
b)
Knowing that there are more people than chairs, the settlers did not seek to mark their territories with their belongings, thereby constructing a legitimate right to the seat. They should play MONOPOLY more often.
c)
Knowing that there are more people than chairs, the settlers chose not to take turns to go for the toilet or free coffee, leaving one soldier to guard the territory. They should play RISK more often.
d)
Knowing that there are more people than chairs, the settlers knew that The Law of Music Chair applies. They should play or watch their children play MUSICAL CHAIRS more often.
There is no doubt that the Conquerors were wrong in the first place. But there is no need to fight such a lengthy war as if dear life depended on the availability of that particular seat. The settlers can give them a piece of their mind loudly (preferable) and leave gracefully, if the Conquerors are still seated. The Conquerors would be shamed (optional) and the settlers would be remembered for their animosity.
That's my personal point of view.
July 04, 2005
A Chair-pisode
Yesterday, while attending a seminar, I witnessed a not-so-pleasant incident. To protect the identity of the people involved, their real names will not be disclosed. This is also because I don’t know them at all.
The seminar is about Geomancy (More affectionately known as Feng Shui), one of my subject of interest, delivered by a reputed Architect of Man’s Fate (More affectionately known as Feng Shui Master). Due to the relevance of the topic discussed, turnout for this seminar was overwhelmingly above the organizer’s expectation. A lot of attendees arrived on the door, without first registering for a seat. Although more seats are added, some of them have to make do with a good standing spot, even for those who registered but arrived late.
As with most seminars I attended which last more than 3 hours, a coffee break is allocated in between, no matter how unnecessary it is. Is this a requirement by the law? Someone can enlighten me about this. Anyway, a break, so unwelcome by me, is announced. Under such circumstances, I thought there would be misunderstandings, giving raise to commotion. The organizer was vigilant in this aspect and advised the audience to return to their own seat after the coffee break.
Much as I expected, there were a few misunderstandings and commotion. But the most serious one took place two seats away from me. Two seats, that are two seats away from me, were initially occupied by two males (Settlers) who are friends. However, during the break, while they are away, two ladies (Conquerers) took over their seats. Although I am on my seat at the time of conquest, I am not aware that they are not the rightful settlers. My neighbours, who were aware, came back and verified (after some DNA tests) that the two ladies are not the rightful settlers. Soon after, one of the settlers returned to his shock that his seat was conquered. In an unfriendly manner, he asked the conquerors to return to their original seats. The conquerors declined. At this point, it is quite obvious that they do not have a seat when the seminar started. Then, this man remained beside their seats, trying to reassert his rights, oblivious to the embarrassment he had created for himself. Moments later, his friend returned to the same level of shock that he will have to stand for the next half of the seminar. The volume of their negotiation raised and at this time, three attendees (onlookers) in front of the seats advised that the conquerors should return to their own seats (where?). The same was done by my neighbours (onlookers too). The organizer were alarmed and, I believe, all eyes were on them. The conquerors refused to leave… there is no way for them to give way.
The conquerors’ stubbornness was a turnoff. It was then free-for-all for the onlookers who passed some sarcastic remarks like, “Since they don’t feel ashamed, let them sit lor.”and “You do this type of thing… listening to the talk won’t do you good one.”. At that point, I thought about the purpose of these statements. The organizer then offered the two men seats in front, which they rejected. The wife of one of the men came and asked the conquerors why they occupied her husband’s seat. If I had covered my ears and just look, I would have thought that this wife is telling off these ladies for committing adultery with her husband. Eventually, everyone was seated. At the end of the seminar, the two ladies stormed out of the room.
Up to here, you may deduct (add, multiply or divide) that I am more not in favour of the men’s and onlookers’ actions. Before I go further. What are your views? Who is right? Who is wrong? What are other things that can be done? What could have been done? In this episode, I have only my mind in action. Is there anything I can do at any stage? Is there anything anyone can do at any stage?
The seminar is about Geomancy (More affectionately known as Feng Shui), one of my subject of interest, delivered by a reputed Architect of Man’s Fate (More affectionately known as Feng Shui Master). Due to the relevance of the topic discussed, turnout for this seminar was overwhelmingly above the organizer’s expectation. A lot of attendees arrived on the door, without first registering for a seat. Although more seats are added, some of them have to make do with a good standing spot, even for those who registered but arrived late.
As with most seminars I attended which last more than 3 hours, a coffee break is allocated in between, no matter how unnecessary it is. Is this a requirement by the law? Someone can enlighten me about this. Anyway, a break, so unwelcome by me, is announced. Under such circumstances, I thought there would be misunderstandings, giving raise to commotion. The organizer was vigilant in this aspect and advised the audience to return to their own seat after the coffee break.
Much as I expected, there were a few misunderstandings and commotion. But the most serious one took place two seats away from me. Two seats, that are two seats away from me, were initially occupied by two males (Settlers) who are friends. However, during the break, while they are away, two ladies (Conquerers) took over their seats. Although I am on my seat at the time of conquest, I am not aware that they are not the rightful settlers. My neighbours, who were aware, came back and verified (after some DNA tests) that the two ladies are not the rightful settlers. Soon after, one of the settlers returned to his shock that his seat was conquered. In an unfriendly manner, he asked the conquerors to return to their original seats. The conquerors declined. At this point, it is quite obvious that they do not have a seat when the seminar started. Then, this man remained beside their seats, trying to reassert his rights, oblivious to the embarrassment he had created for himself. Moments later, his friend returned to the same level of shock that he will have to stand for the next half of the seminar. The volume of their negotiation raised and at this time, three attendees (onlookers) in front of the seats advised that the conquerors should return to their own seats (where?). The same was done by my neighbours (onlookers too). The organizer were alarmed and, I believe, all eyes were on them. The conquerors refused to leave… there is no way for them to give way.
The conquerors’ stubbornness was a turnoff. It was then free-for-all for the onlookers who passed some sarcastic remarks like, “Since they don’t feel ashamed, let them sit lor.”and “You do this type of thing… listening to the talk won’t do you good one.”. At that point, I thought about the purpose of these statements. The organizer then offered the two men seats in front, which they rejected. The wife of one of the men came and asked the conquerors why they occupied her husband’s seat. If I had covered my ears and just look, I would have thought that this wife is telling off these ladies for committing adultery with her husband. Eventually, everyone was seated. At the end of the seminar, the two ladies stormed out of the room.
Up to here, you may deduct (add, multiply or divide) that I am more not in favour of the men’s and onlookers’ actions. Before I go further. What are your views? Who is right? Who is wrong? What are other things that can be done? What could have been done? In this episode, I have only my mind in action. Is there anything I can do at any stage? Is there anything anyone can do at any stage?
June 30, 2005
Attitudes to Life.... and Death
I know of this extraordinary monk through my lecturer, Mr. Kweh. He gave me a copy of Ajahn Brahm's book "Opening the Door To Your Heart" in response to a bit of positive gestures by me. He informed me of a talk that is to be conducted by Ajahn and I am glad I attended. I am amazed by his eloquence and more by his ability to see things so simply and from different perspectives that is often overlooked by you and me.
I received a bad news today of a friend who I know of for only about one month. But life have to go on.... there is no option. While doing other things on the computer, I searched for Ajahn Brahm on the internet and ended up on a site with a number of downloadable speeches by Ajahn Brahm. Now, I am wondering why on earth do I search for him on the internet? Anyway, I believe all of them will be useful in all aspect of my development and my contacts' development. Coincidentally or not, one of them, actually the first one I listened to, is very relevant to what I am experiencing now. Read on ....
"When we're actually talking about somebody else's death, what is your attitude towards it? How do you relate to it? Obviously, the death is something you cannot change. But, the way you look at it can be changed. Usually as many of you know when there is such a thing as a death, instead of letting you look at it with negativity, we say it is a break to the life. What a wonderful thing it was to have known the person for such a time, however long that was. For if I haven't known them at all, for if they haven't came into my life I'd be much poorer as a result. See we're relating not to what's been taken away, we're relating to what we have had. We're grateful to have known the person for so long and wouldn't have missed their company for the world. What a wonderful thing it was that I knew the person. And straight away, the way we relate to the problem changed. Instead of ill will, aversion, grief and desire, we are actually looking at it with a positive attitude. The thing itself is not the problem, it is the way we look at it.”
Adapted from a Dharma Talk, "Attitudes to Life" , by Ajahn Brahmavamso on 27 Feb 2004
His talks are available in mp3 format at http://www.bswa.org/modules/mydownloads/viewcat.php?cid=4
Although the file size is large (12.0 to 16.0 Mb), the download speed is relatively fast.
I received a bad news today of a friend who I know of for only about one month. But life have to go on.... there is no option. While doing other things on the computer, I searched for Ajahn Brahm on the internet and ended up on a site with a number of downloadable speeches by Ajahn Brahm. Now, I am wondering why on earth do I search for him on the internet? Anyway, I believe all of them will be useful in all aspect of my development and my contacts' development. Coincidentally or not, one of them, actually the first one I listened to, is very relevant to what I am experiencing now. Read on ....
"When we're actually talking about somebody else's death, what is your attitude towards it? How do you relate to it? Obviously, the death is something you cannot change. But, the way you look at it can be changed. Usually as many of you know when there is such a thing as a death, instead of letting you look at it with negativity, we say it is a break to the life. What a wonderful thing it was to have known the person for such a time, however long that was. For if I haven't known them at all, for if they haven't came into my life I'd be much poorer as a result. See we're relating not to what's been taken away, we're relating to what we have had. We're grateful to have known the person for so long and wouldn't have missed their company for the world. What a wonderful thing it was that I knew the person. And straight away, the way we relate to the problem changed. Instead of ill will, aversion, grief and desire, we are actually looking at it with a positive attitude. The thing itself is not the problem, it is the way we look at it.”
Adapted from a Dharma Talk, "Attitudes to Life" , by Ajahn Brahmavamso on 27 Feb 2004
His talks are available in mp3 format at http://www.bswa.org/modules/mydownloads/viewcat.php?cid=4
Although the file size is large (12.0 to 16.0 Mb), the download speed is relatively fast.
Song For A Friend
Always On My Mind
by Willie Nelson
Maybe I didn't love you
Quite as often as I could have
And maybe I didn't treat you
Quite as good as I should have
If I made you feel second best
Girl I'm sorry I was blind
You were always on my mind
You were always on my mind
And maybe I didn't hold you
All those lonely, lonely times
And I guess I never told you
I'm so happy that you're mine
Little things I should have said and done
I just never took the time
But you were always on my mind
You were always on my mind
by Willie Nelson
Maybe I didn't love you
Quite as often as I could have
And maybe I didn't treat you
Quite as good as I should have
If I made you feel second best
Girl I'm sorry I was blind
You were always on my mind
You were always on my mind
And maybe I didn't hold you
All those lonely, lonely times
And I guess I never told you
I'm so happy that you're mine
Little things I should have said and done
I just never took the time
But you were always on my mind
You were always on my mind
June 27, 2005
Revamp Our Paradise
There has been substantiate amount of renovation and reconstruction going on, especially on the shopping belts, during the past five years. Ten years ago, I would not imagine an underground linking City Hall MRT to Suntec City. What this means is while Suntec City would probably remain a frequently-visited place due to its large retail space and highly-profiled exhibitions, fans have to bear with the dull walk across the war memorial park and bad weather on a lucky day. Now, look what we have today.... Citylink Mall, which not only link us to the faraway land of Suntec, but is itself, a shoppers' haven. Old kid on the block, Marina Square, has just completed its $120 million makeover.... and for a few times, the word 'makeover' is used with exceptional appropriateness. It seems like a whole new navigating experience when I walked around the mall recently. The question on my head is not how am I going to get around this place. The question is how did they do this. It is as if I have reached the 8th wonder of the world.
Considering that the average age of a shopping complex in the city is about 15 years old (not supported by official statistics, yet) and changes around the world is taking place at breakneck speed by the second, our obsession with revamping might not cease in the near future. And cease, it will not. We have another confirmation from The Straits Times that Orchard Road is going to be revamped and the specific, individual development are reported. Most notably, that of Far East Plaza and Crown Hotel. This is, more likely than not, in response to competition from major shopping belts that is going to emerge in City Hall and HarbourFront. Not to mention the Integrated Resorts, further South.
Looking at the big picture, we know that these are for the cause of attracting more tourists to our country. Looking at the same big picture again, I cannot help asking whether Singaporeans, in general, are ready and willing to take on this task of attracting more tourists. The physical aspect of redesigning our retail industry is addressed more than adequately, but what about other aspects which really matters: Customer services and the way we do things. Perhaps we can imagine a revamped shopping mall as a wife who has regain her beauty after a plastic surgery.
On customer service, I hardly find an impluse to write a complimentary letter for a service well-provided. More often than not, inspite of fearing for my own blood pressure, I find it very justified to remember poor attitude to customer services. Can anyone stand with a salesperson who greets you while looking the other way round because they thought you are going to ignore them? Can anyone stand with a salesperson whose head seems bigger because of the brand they are helping to enhance? Generally, frontline staffs do not understand the nature of their job and are simply not respecting their profession enough. They only seem to understand these when serving a expriate or tourists. Even so, they are not ranked highly on a recent customer service survey done on tourists worldwide. Why? I leave you to explain this. The same survey on the locals, the absolute sales supplier, would paint a worse picture. Just as a beautiful wife is not of much use if she finds even smiling at you a chore, there is no point making the malls beautiful when services are ugly.
Then it is the way we do things, especially the way we have to close our shops in the city before 10pm on weekdays. And it is not because we need to open our shops at 6am the next morning. A dating, working couple would find themselves going nowhere but home after a 45-minute dinner. Perhaps to watch a movie. That explains why there are lesser and lesser movie goers in other parts of the world, while there are more here. Today (25th June 2005, Saturday) is brutally honest when asking whether we have nothing better to do. Professionals who clock limitless overtime would find shopping a luxury, although they have the money. During the beginning of the Great Singapore Sale, I was embarassed when three shopping malls openly publicized their midnight shopping hours for one night each over the weekend to kickstart the festival. Our tourists, especially those from cities as modern as ours, must have had a good laugh at this. It seems that the bosses prefer their shops to close earlier, thus reducing operating overheads. It seems that the employees are not willing to work late hours. Come to a consensus, bosses and employees, you know the way to make Singapore a better place. In my opinion, the spirit of a city lies on its night's life. Perhaps that is why we still have people referring Orchard Road as town. There is little life after dark. I may suggest to the cut-cost committee to switch off alternate street lamps since night entertainment is so limited and there is really not much people and vehicles after midnight. Therefore, just as a beautiful wife is not of much use if she sleeps early and wakes up late, a revamped shopping belt would not be much attractive if it closes its door when customers are calling.
I am not protesting for the Government to do something. They have done enough. In some circumstances, their powers are limited. The onus is now significantly upon us to make this land we call home a more interesting place... everyday. A city which truly does not sleep. A place where the streets lamps are better utilised, with policemen who loves night duties in the city. Changes is excellent and that includes changes to intangibles which matter.... still have a long way to go to becoming a beautiful and good wife.
Considering that the average age of a shopping complex in the city is about 15 years old (not supported by official statistics, yet) and changes around the world is taking place at breakneck speed by the second, our obsession with revamping might not cease in the near future. And cease, it will not. We have another confirmation from The Straits Times that Orchard Road is going to be revamped and the specific, individual development are reported. Most notably, that of Far East Plaza and Crown Hotel. This is, more likely than not, in response to competition from major shopping belts that is going to emerge in City Hall and HarbourFront. Not to mention the Integrated Resorts, further South.
Looking at the big picture, we know that these are for the cause of attracting more tourists to our country. Looking at the same big picture again, I cannot help asking whether Singaporeans, in general, are ready and willing to take on this task of attracting more tourists. The physical aspect of redesigning our retail industry is addressed more than adequately, but what about other aspects which really matters: Customer services and the way we do things. Perhaps we can imagine a revamped shopping mall as a wife who has regain her beauty after a plastic surgery.
On customer service, I hardly find an impluse to write a complimentary letter for a service well-provided. More often than not, inspite of fearing for my own blood pressure, I find it very justified to remember poor attitude to customer services. Can anyone stand with a salesperson who greets you while looking the other way round because they thought you are going to ignore them? Can anyone stand with a salesperson whose head seems bigger because of the brand they are helping to enhance? Generally, frontline staffs do not understand the nature of their job and are simply not respecting their profession enough. They only seem to understand these when serving a expriate or tourists. Even so, they are not ranked highly on a recent customer service survey done on tourists worldwide. Why? I leave you to explain this. The same survey on the locals, the absolute sales supplier, would paint a worse picture. Just as a beautiful wife is not of much use if she finds even smiling at you a chore, there is no point making the malls beautiful when services are ugly.
Then it is the way we do things, especially the way we have to close our shops in the city before 10pm on weekdays. And it is not because we need to open our shops at 6am the next morning. A dating, working couple would find themselves going nowhere but home after a 45-minute dinner. Perhaps to watch a movie. That explains why there are lesser and lesser movie goers in other parts of the world, while there are more here. Today (25th June 2005, Saturday) is brutally honest when asking whether we have nothing better to do. Professionals who clock limitless overtime would find shopping a luxury, although they have the money. During the beginning of the Great Singapore Sale, I was embarassed when three shopping malls openly publicized their midnight shopping hours for one night each over the weekend to kickstart the festival. Our tourists, especially those from cities as modern as ours, must have had a good laugh at this. It seems that the bosses prefer their shops to close earlier, thus reducing operating overheads. It seems that the employees are not willing to work late hours. Come to a consensus, bosses and employees, you know the way to make Singapore a better place. In my opinion, the spirit of a city lies on its night's life. Perhaps that is why we still have people referring Orchard Road as town. There is little life after dark. I may suggest to the cut-cost committee to switch off alternate street lamps since night entertainment is so limited and there is really not much people and vehicles after midnight. Therefore, just as a beautiful wife is not of much use if she sleeps early and wakes up late, a revamped shopping belt would not be much attractive if it closes its door when customers are calling.
I am not protesting for the Government to do something. They have done enough. In some circumstances, their powers are limited. The onus is now significantly upon us to make this land we call home a more interesting place... everyday. A city which truly does not sleep. A place where the streets lamps are better utilised, with policemen who loves night duties in the city. Changes is excellent and that includes changes to intangibles which matter.... still have a long way to go to becoming a beautiful and good wife.
June 22, 2005
Aloe Vera Gel
About two years ago, I sent some sales literatures to my friends to publicize Vitamin-C products which my parents are dealing with as direct sellers during their spare time, with their spare income. I promised a bi-monthly publication, but was unfortunately unfulfilled.
Other than having a promise unfulfilled, the good reputation of my brand, P. C. Wu Inc., is intact considering that I was then operating in a controversial industry. I can be very confident about this since it is never my practice to recruit and hard-sell. The relationship is purely one of an honest salesman and a potential, powerful customer and nothing else.
Nevertheless, my parents have since become less involved in this “hobby”. Four years ago, it was Cha Cha, then it was Karaoke Singing. At a time, holidaying is something they did quite regularly. Since I am going to have my higher income soon, I intend to bring back one of the premium products we used to consume from Forever Living Products (FLP). It is none other than FLP Aloe Vera Gel…. Look at the poster above.
Or alternatively, look at the well-designed posters at
http://distrib.foreverliving.com/marketing/pageDisplay.do?page=prodCatAloe&siteID=USA&language=en
I want to share the goodness of this product and if you have done your research and is looking for this, you can ‘relax one corner’ and give me a call immediately.
WHAT DOES THOSE CERTIFICATION MEAN?
Forever Living Products
To find out more, go to www.foreverliving.com
Kosher Certification
The word 'Kosher' actually means 'fit' or 'spiritually fit'. As a result of kosher supervision, kosher products are scrupulously clean, and the word Kosher has become associated with premium quality. Kosher requirements are far more stringent than U.S. Department of Agriculture requirements.
“Kosher food has a powerful energy that gives spiritual, intellectual and emotional strength, while non-kosher food does the opposite. The kosher diet is truly the health-food diet for the soul, containing the spiritual nutrition necessary for survival.”
To find out more about the Kosher certification, go to http://www.okkosher.com/Content.asp?ID=22
IASC Seal of Approval
FLP Aloe Vera Gel is the first aloe vera product to receive the Seal of Approval certified by the International Aloe Science Council. It means you can be sure that FLP Aloe Vera Gel contains at least 15% of IASC Certified Aloe Vera and are properly processed to retain their value.
“It is a symbol that stands for integrity, honesty, quality and achievement. The seal demonstrates that your company has passed a rigid, professional inspection and audit for aloe use and aloe products, and that the quality of your aloe has been validated and certified by an independent group of professionals.”
To find out more about ISAC certification, go to http://www.iasc.org/index.html
100% Stabilized
“It is interesting to know that the valuable active substances of the plant are soon lost after harvesting, if the processing does not follow certain guidelines. To make sure that the properties of the compounds remain intact, the freshly harvested Aloe leaf must be process quickly and the extracted gel preserved.
At FLP, this is where decades of experience are put to advantage. The company has developed and patented for this purpose a unique Processing and Stabilization method so that the entire contents and active substances of the fresh gel remain intact and retain their naturalness. This stabilized Aloe Vera Gel is absolutely equalent in its health-aiding properties with that of the fresh-harvested gel of the plant.”
Adapted from http://www.world-aloe.info/english/aloevera_s1_e.html
I have no information about the Islamic Seal of Approval, but with the above, one should be extremely assured of the quality and goodness of the product.
The Singapore Retail Price (Incl. GST) is $42.96. I supposed this is still very much a hobby to my parents and they would still sell FLP products at a lower price and just clock the points for the fun of it.
Other than having a promise unfulfilled, the good reputation of my brand, P. C. Wu Inc., is intact considering that I was then operating in a controversial industry. I can be very confident about this since it is never my practice to recruit and hard-sell. The relationship is purely one of an honest salesman and a potential, powerful customer and nothing else.
Nevertheless, my parents have since become less involved in this “hobby”. Four years ago, it was Cha Cha, then it was Karaoke Singing. At a time, holidaying is something they did quite regularly. Since I am going to have my higher income soon, I intend to bring back one of the premium products we used to consume from Forever Living Products (FLP). It is none other than FLP Aloe Vera Gel…. Look at the poster above.
Or alternatively, look at the well-designed posters at
http://distrib.foreverliving.com/marketing/pageDisplay.do?page=prodCatAloe&siteID=USA&language=en
I want to share the goodness of this product and if you have done your research and is looking for this, you can ‘relax one corner’ and give me a call immediately.
WHAT DOES THOSE CERTIFICATION MEAN?
Forever Living Products
To find out more, go to www.foreverliving.com
Kosher Certification
The word 'Kosher' actually means 'fit' or 'spiritually fit'. As a result of kosher supervision, kosher products are scrupulously clean, and the word Kosher has become associated with premium quality. Kosher requirements are far more stringent than U.S. Department of Agriculture requirements.
“Kosher food has a powerful energy that gives spiritual, intellectual and emotional strength, while non-kosher food does the opposite. The kosher diet is truly the health-food diet for the soul, containing the spiritual nutrition necessary for survival.”
To find out more about the Kosher certification, go to http://www.okkosher.com/Content.asp?ID=22
IASC Seal of Approval
FLP Aloe Vera Gel is the first aloe vera product to receive the Seal of Approval certified by the International Aloe Science Council. It means you can be sure that FLP Aloe Vera Gel contains at least 15% of IASC Certified Aloe Vera and are properly processed to retain their value.
“It is a symbol that stands for integrity, honesty, quality and achievement. The seal demonstrates that your company has passed a rigid, professional inspection and audit for aloe use and aloe products, and that the quality of your aloe has been validated and certified by an independent group of professionals.”
To find out more about ISAC certification, go to http://www.iasc.org/index.html
100% Stabilized
“It is interesting to know that the valuable active substances of the plant are soon lost after harvesting, if the processing does not follow certain guidelines. To make sure that the properties of the compounds remain intact, the freshly harvested Aloe leaf must be process quickly and the extracted gel preserved.
At FLP, this is where decades of experience are put to advantage. The company has developed and patented for this purpose a unique Processing and Stabilization method so that the entire contents and active substances of the fresh gel remain intact and retain their naturalness. This stabilized Aloe Vera Gel is absolutely equalent in its health-aiding properties with that of the fresh-harvested gel of the plant.”
Adapted from http://www.world-aloe.info/english/aloevera_s1_e.html
I have no information about the Islamic Seal of Approval, but with the above, one should be extremely assured of the quality and goodness of the product.
The Singapore Retail Price (Incl. GST) is $42.96. I supposed this is still very much a hobby to my parents and they would still sell FLP products at a lower price and just clock the points for the fun of it.
June 21, 2005
Running Season
The second half of each year is what I call the running season because this is when all the high-profiled running and endurance races will be held.
Below are the events that are going to be held in the next half-year. For first-timers to endurance sports, I would recommend the Army Half Marathon (21km) and do sign up for the competitive run because you will get a medal when you complete the race. Two and a half month is enough to train for a half marathon.... if you are old or have a history of respiratory problems, consult a doctor before trying any stunts.
2-3 July*
Osim Singapore Triathlon Asian Championship
11 September*
Army Half Marathon & Sheares Bridge Run (21km, 10km)
October
Second Link Bridge Run (10km)
November
Swisstol The Stamford Vertical Marathon (73-storeys)
4 December*
Standard Chartered Singapore Marathon (42km, 21km, 10km)
On top of these, there are other corporate races like the SGX Bull Run and New Balance Aquathlon. The above-mentioned events, other than those marked with asterisks, are confirmed to be held. The rest are expected to be held based on my best knowledge of running events.
Wave hello or signal thumb-up if you happen to see me running around the north of Singapore these few months to train for the above events (Except Singapore Triathlon). I have participated in most of the above events and hopefully, with more time to train, I can complete them in a better timing. The training should also help me achieve the IPPT Gold which has evaded me since 18. This year would be my last to achieve the Gold award under Category X.
May 03, 2005
Day 3 - Night Tour
Nathan Road
You won't be lost when you are at Nathan Road.
Nathan Road was so named after a visit by President Nathan. He likes the stretch of road very much as it resembled Orchard Road just outside the gate of The Istana. His affection for this road is so evident that soon, Hongkongers gradually called this road, Nathan. Just kidding!
Clock Tower
Built in 1915, it marks the start of the scenic Waterfront Promenade and remains as a photogenic monument of Tsim Sha Tsui. Within its vicinity is the PCCW Building, Hong Kong Cultural Centre, Hong Kong Science Museum and Star Ferry Concourse.
Temple Street Night Market
Another name for Temple Street is Men's Street. Mathematically, one will find more men than women, especially at night. The goods sold in this market is thus mainly for men's use, which also includes men's G-strings.
You won't be lost when you are at Nathan Road.
Nathan Road was so named after a visit by President Nathan. He likes the stretch of road very much as it resembled Orchard Road just outside the gate of The Istana. His affection for this road is so evident that soon, Hongkongers gradually called this road, Nathan. Just kidding!
Clock Tower
Built in 1915, it marks the start of the scenic Waterfront Promenade and remains as a photogenic monument of Tsim Sha Tsui. Within its vicinity is the PCCW Building, Hong Kong Cultural Centre, Hong Kong Science Museum and Star Ferry Concourse.
Temple Street Night Market
Another name for Temple Street is Men's Street. Mathematically, one will find more men than women, especially at night. The goods sold in this market is thus mainly for men's use, which also includes men's G-strings.
May 02, 2005
Day 3 - Day Tour
Wet Market @Yau Ma Tei
Call the wet-markets of Hong Kong slaughter houses if you want to. All livestocks, except larger four-legged ones, are displayed alive and killed within minutes of a customer's order. But really, it is not more cruel than any other more civilised wet markets in the world. Communication between the customer and livestock is just more transparent. "You have to die for my dinner" and "I don't want to die. I hate you!". Perhaps that is what makes HongKongers more honest and bold.
Avenue of Stars
About 100 pairs of palms prints of superstars in the HK entertainment industry line the pathway in Kowloon, facing Hong Kong Island. Apparently, palms prints of deceased stars who I know of, like Anita Mui and Leslie Cheung, were surfaced with the Avenue of Stars logo. Are they resurfaced upon their death or not pressed at all? Here I am with the palms print of my favourite HK celebrity, Sam Hui.
Star Ferry
This is one of the icons of Hong Kong. Plying across the heart of Victoria Harbour, the ferry service in its early days charged five cents per person. The fare is still comparatively inexpensive when considering other methods of cross-harbour transportation. Fares is $5.30 for adults and almost half that price for children.
Sheung Wan
The world's longest linking escalators is located at here. Without this, going home would be a strenous exercise. The escalators take you downhill in the morning till 10am and uphill from then on.
Call the wet-markets of Hong Kong slaughter houses if you want to. All livestocks, except larger four-legged ones, are displayed alive and killed within minutes of a customer's order. But really, it is not more cruel than any other more civilised wet markets in the world. Communication between the customer and livestock is just more transparent. "You have to die for my dinner" and "I don't want to die. I hate you!". Perhaps that is what makes HongKongers more honest and bold.
Avenue of Stars
About 100 pairs of palms prints of superstars in the HK entertainment industry line the pathway in Kowloon, facing Hong Kong Island. Apparently, palms prints of deceased stars who I know of, like Anita Mui and Leslie Cheung, were surfaced with the Avenue of Stars logo. Are they resurfaced upon their death or not pressed at all? Here I am with the palms print of my favourite HK celebrity, Sam Hui.
Star Ferry
This is one of the icons of Hong Kong. Plying across the heart of Victoria Harbour, the ferry service in its early days charged five cents per person. The fare is still comparatively inexpensive when considering other methods of cross-harbour transportation. Fares is $5.30 for adults and almost half that price for children.
Sheung Wan
The world's longest linking escalators is located at here. Without this, going home would be a strenous exercise. The escalators take you downhill in the morning till 10am and uphill from then on.
May 01, 2005
Let it be a Journey of Success
One of my best moments as a relief teacher is at Ahmad Ibrahim Secondary School (AISS) this week. I have been assigned to tutor Principles of Accounts (POA) while the teacher reported for his re-service. This is an assignment I have been waiting for since being registered. I have always wanted to teach POA because I enjoyed my accountancy studies very much and wanted to radiate my interest to my juniors-in-accountancy. Teaching POA would also provide a good preview of what would be expected when I eventually became an accounting lecturer or lecturer of any field which I am competent in future. Moreover, teaching in AISS, one of the best schools in the North Zone, can be such a privilege.
On my first meeting with the teacher, Mr. Vale Alexandra, I thought he was like any other teachers, until he handed me a guidebook which would be used in class. I have read the book when researching on what ‘O’ and ‘A’ Levels students learn about two years ago. Mr. Vale is apparently a highly qualified teacher with a Bachelor of Accountancy from NTU and a Master Degree in Business Administration from University of Griffin. He is the only POA teacher whose students are from the normal stream.
Generally, the students responded well to my teaching. Although I spent only one week with them, I am thanked for my effort by the students themselves during my last meal in school. I accept their gratitude with appreciation. At the same time, I have to congratulate their parents and teachers for successfully fostering such sense of appreciation which I hope would be continued into the future.
Let me sing my praise for AISS. I have so far taught in three secondary schools and am exposed to the different management styles and cultures of these schools. Without even entering the classrooms, that alone is an eye-opener. The reason I say this is because I like the way AISS functions. There seems to be a framework to facilitate clear and transparent communication, especially to the students. Everyone, thus, knows their part and that is good.
Another area I want to compliment is the canteen. The newly-renovated school has a canteen that looks like a food court. All the stalls are graded “A” by the Ministry of Environment. The notion that clean food does not taste so good cannot be applied here. I have tried about ten different dishes from different stalls and only one, a plate of mee gorang, failed the edibility test. The failure is controversial considering that I have it after a bowl of Yong Tau Fu.
The most important element of a school is her students. From my stint, I found AISS students enjoy their time in school. They are not merely muggers but lovers of life and its offerings. I have never imagined such a lively school which could mix play with work and fun with discipline. I like this view I see from outside the staff room: Groups of students playing volleyball. Two teams laughing and congratulating each other for each winning smash grounded. Students gathering around the Koi garden for a touch of nature. Near me are some students looking for their teachers for one reason or another. Then, there is sound of piano on the background. On my first day, I thought this piano music was played from CD. It is actually from a piano, on the first storey, played by the students. Upon further investigation, the school really has no lack of budding pianists. Soon after curricular time, The Bazaar, a provision shop managed by the students, would be opened much to the anticipation and delight of fellow students. It is also at this time that I would see more students at play. While their counterparts from other school are hanging around the shopping and fast-food centres, I am proud of them involving in such healthy activities.
Students always teach me something and the lesson I learnt from them is to take life less seriously. After my completion of the exams, I seem to be put on a race. Race to get the job first. Race to be promoted first. Race to success. Races, if won, would mean achievement of physical wants and needs, but do not contribute to the well-being of the soul. Am I to be disillusioned? They taught me to see it as a journey. Not journey to success, but a journey OF success. On my way to achieve personal success, it would be nice to slow down a while to take a breather and appreciate the good views…. to say thank you to my supporters and better, to make somebody laugh… to laugh. Thanks to AISS, I know I should be/am on a journey of success.
My fate with AISS does not end here. Tune it to find out what undone business I still have with AISS.
On my first meeting with the teacher, Mr. Vale Alexandra, I thought he was like any other teachers, until he handed me a guidebook which would be used in class. I have read the book when researching on what ‘O’ and ‘A’ Levels students learn about two years ago. Mr. Vale is apparently a highly qualified teacher with a Bachelor of Accountancy from NTU and a Master Degree in Business Administration from University of Griffin. He is the only POA teacher whose students are from the normal stream.
Generally, the students responded well to my teaching. Although I spent only one week with them, I am thanked for my effort by the students themselves during my last meal in school. I accept their gratitude with appreciation. At the same time, I have to congratulate their parents and teachers for successfully fostering such sense of appreciation which I hope would be continued into the future.
Let me sing my praise for AISS. I have so far taught in three secondary schools and am exposed to the different management styles and cultures of these schools. Without even entering the classrooms, that alone is an eye-opener. The reason I say this is because I like the way AISS functions. There seems to be a framework to facilitate clear and transparent communication, especially to the students. Everyone, thus, knows their part and that is good.
Another area I want to compliment is the canteen. The newly-renovated school has a canteen that looks like a food court. All the stalls are graded “A” by the Ministry of Environment. The notion that clean food does not taste so good cannot be applied here. I have tried about ten different dishes from different stalls and only one, a plate of mee gorang, failed the edibility test. The failure is controversial considering that I have it after a bowl of Yong Tau Fu.
The most important element of a school is her students. From my stint, I found AISS students enjoy their time in school. They are not merely muggers but lovers of life and its offerings. I have never imagined such a lively school which could mix play with work and fun with discipline. I like this view I see from outside the staff room: Groups of students playing volleyball. Two teams laughing and congratulating each other for each winning smash grounded. Students gathering around the Koi garden for a touch of nature. Near me are some students looking for their teachers for one reason or another. Then, there is sound of piano on the background. On my first day, I thought this piano music was played from CD. It is actually from a piano, on the first storey, played by the students. Upon further investigation, the school really has no lack of budding pianists. Soon after curricular time, The Bazaar, a provision shop managed by the students, would be opened much to the anticipation and delight of fellow students. It is also at this time that I would see more students at play. While their counterparts from other school are hanging around the shopping and fast-food centres, I am proud of them involving in such healthy activities.
Students always teach me something and the lesson I learnt from them is to take life less seriously. After my completion of the exams, I seem to be put on a race. Race to get the job first. Race to be promoted first. Race to success. Races, if won, would mean achievement of physical wants and needs, but do not contribute to the well-being of the soul. Am I to be disillusioned? They taught me to see it as a journey. Not journey to success, but a journey OF success. On my way to achieve personal success, it would be nice to slow down a while to take a breather and appreciate the good views…. to say thank you to my supporters and better, to make somebody laugh… to laugh. Thanks to AISS, I know I should be/am on a journey of success.
My fate with AISS does not end here. Tune it to find out what undone business I still have with AISS.
April 26, 2005
I'll Do It For Love
"Do It For Love" by Darly Hall & John Oates
I would fly ten thousand miles
In the pouring rain
Just to see your face
I'd bare my soul to a total stranger
Just to say your name
And I'm not ashamed
Just to love you into every morning
I would change my name
And run away
~Chorus~
I won't do it for money
I won't do it for pride
I won't do it to please somebody else
If it don't feel right
But I'll do it for you (and you)
And at least I'll try
I don't need any other reason
Than I feel it deep inside
I'll Do It For Love
I would write your name across the sky
So the world could see
What you mean to me
I'd sing songs at the top of my voice
In an empty room
Just to dance with you
And to love you into every morning
I'll leave the world behind
And I'll slow down time
*Chorus
What I do for love can take us anywhere at all
*Chorus
I would fly ten thousand miles
In the pouring rain
Just to see your face
I'd bare my soul to a total stranger
Just to say your name
And I'm not ashamed
Just to love you into every morning
I would change my name
And run away
~Chorus~
I won't do it for money
I won't do it for pride
I won't do it to please somebody else
If it don't feel right
But I'll do it for you (and you)
And at least I'll try
I don't need any other reason
Than I feel it deep inside
I'll Do It For Love
I would write your name across the sky
So the world could see
What you mean to me
I'd sing songs at the top of my voice
In an empty room
Just to dance with you
And to love you into every morning
I'll leave the world behind
And I'll slow down time
*Chorus
What I do for love can take us anywhere at all
*Chorus
March 31, 2005
The Sound of Music is coming to Singapore
The Sound of Music is based on the true story of Maria Rainer who served as a governess for the 7 children of Captain von Trapp, a retired Austrian Navy officer. Previously, she was, perhaps, an orphan taken care by The Nonnberg Abbey and was to work for the Abbey in her adulthood. However, Maria was deemed not suited for religious life and sent out on this mission.
The Captain ran his house like a battleship, treating his children like military recruits. I thought he ran it like a circus, treating them like performing animals. But when Maria and the children got to spend time alone together, she introduced them to a different kind of life, teaching them to sing and dance, winning them over in the process. The Captain was away on a holiday with his fiancée, Elsa Schraeder.
Upon his return, he was shocked by the chaos and Maria’s disregard of “The Captain’s Standing Orders”. His cold reserve melted when he heard the sound of music at home for the first time in many years. Then, he realized the importance of knowing and loving his children. That is our SAF equivalent of ‘caring for soldiers’.
Gradually, the Captain indulged in their enjoyment and at one occasion, danced with Maria. It was there and then that Maria realized her love for the Captain. Welcome the Austrian version of “The King and I”? Coincidentally or not, TKI is created by the same duo, Richard Rogers and Oscar Hammerstein, who brought TSM to the world. We shall go back to the story. At the same time, the Captain and his fiancée dissolved their engagement on disagreement over Nazi invasion of Austria. With Elsa gone, there is nothing to come between them and they married 2 weeks later. Yes, 2 weeks.
By the time they returned from their honeymoon, Austria was already invaded by Nazi Germany. The Captain was then pressed into immediate military service, but Maria gained some time for him by convincing the authorities that they are scheduled to sing in a music festival.
Under the not-so-tight escort of Nazi military police, they managed to escape and hide in Nonnberg Abbey. With the help of the nuns, the Nazi soldiers searched for them unsuccessfully. Finally, they left for Switzerland for a new life.
Winner of 6 Tony Awards, including Best Musical in 1959, The Sound of Music is the world’s best loved musical. The original production of The Sound of Music opened at Broadway’s Lunt-Fontanne Theatre on November 16, 1959 and ran for 1,443 performances. The movie adaptation of the same name is equally successful and stands as the most successful movie musical of all time. My mother and aunt watched it on cinema and had to be seated on the stairs with many others.
The Sound of Music will be performed in The Esplanade from 8 April 2005 to 30 April 2005.
Resources: SISTIC www.sistic.com.sg
The Sound of Musical official website http://www.thesoundofmusic.biz/about.htm
March 28, 2005
Day 2 - Night Tour
Bank of China @ Hong Kong Island
The Bank of China Tower has became the icon of Hong Kong Island. The building has won several architectural awards. However, it resembled a knife aimed directly at the heart of the business district. The truth has it that Hong Kong faced a depressing economy when the building is officially opened. Stock market clashed causing death by suicide to reach an all-time high. To mitigate this, the building is crossed with neon lights to symbolize the sealing of the knife. And indeed, from then on, the economy started to recover. It is still in its recovering phase according to my half-day tour guide.
Newspapers and magazines seller
In the cut-throat newspapers industry, Apple Daily has the highest readership. It was founded by Jimmy Lai who is also founder of Giordano Holdings Ltd.
The Bank of China Tower has became the icon of Hong Kong Island. The building has won several architectural awards. However, it resembled a knife aimed directly at the heart of the business district. The truth has it that Hong Kong faced a depressing economy when the building is officially opened. Stock market clashed causing death by suicide to reach an all-time high. To mitigate this, the building is crossed with neon lights to symbolize the sealing of the knife. And indeed, from then on, the economy started to recover. It is still in its recovering phase according to my half-day tour guide.
Newspapers and magazines seller
In the cut-throat newspapers industry, Apple Daily has the highest readership. It was founded by Jimmy Lai who is also founder of Giordano Holdings Ltd.
Day 2 - Day Tour
Repluse Bay
The property price of the coastal district is only second to Victoria Peak due to its exceptional good feng shui. A residential building would typically face the sea which symbolize wealth and surrounded by hills which symbolize a lot of support from important people in life. Repulse Bay has a U-shaped coast with two large hills acting as the entrance to the Bay. This symbolize the Green Dragon and White Tiger. This is very auspicious by feng shui standards. An island is also situated near the entrance of the Bay and this further enhanced its "auspirity".
Sheltered Harbour
Literally known as 'Harbour sheltered from the winds', this is the place where all fishing boats will be berthed during typhoon seasons. Protected by the surrounding hills, it is also home to luxury boats of the wealthiest in Hong Kong. The most expensive boat belongs to Li Kak-Shing, founder of the world's largest port operator, Hutchinson Whampoa Ltd.
Victoria Peak
A 'must-go' of Hong Kong Island, Victoria Peak is, by far, the most popular shooting venue for romance scenes of movies and dramas. Being one of the most inaccessible part of Hong Kong does not deter the rich from setting up their homes here. In fact, boosted with good feng shui and magnificent harbour and city view, property price of Victoria Peak is the highest in the country.
Wong Tai Sin Temple
Wong Tai Sin Temple is Hong Kong's most famous and popular temple. Wong Tai Sin was a shepherd boy living in a part of China's Zhejiang Province called Red Pine Hill. He started practising Taoism at 15. At that time, an immortal taught him the art of refining cinnabar into a medicine that would cure all illnesses. Of course, many were saved from terminal illnesses by his prescription. By the age of 45, he is able to transform stones into sheeps. After his death, a temple was built in China to commemorate him. The temple was shifted to the current ground on the advice of a master.
The property price of the coastal district is only second to Victoria Peak due to its exceptional good feng shui. A residential building would typically face the sea which symbolize wealth and surrounded by hills which symbolize a lot of support from important people in life. Repulse Bay has a U-shaped coast with two large hills acting as the entrance to the Bay. This symbolize the Green Dragon and White Tiger. This is very auspicious by feng shui standards. An island is also situated near the entrance of the Bay and this further enhanced its "auspirity".
Sheltered Harbour
Literally known as 'Harbour sheltered from the winds', this is the place where all fishing boats will be berthed during typhoon seasons. Protected by the surrounding hills, it is also home to luxury boats of the wealthiest in Hong Kong. The most expensive boat belongs to Li Kak-Shing, founder of the world's largest port operator, Hutchinson Whampoa Ltd.
Victoria Peak
A 'must-go' of Hong Kong Island, Victoria Peak is, by far, the most popular shooting venue for romance scenes of movies and dramas. Being one of the most inaccessible part of Hong Kong does not deter the rich from setting up their homes here. In fact, boosted with good feng shui and magnificent harbour and city view, property price of Victoria Peak is the highest in the country.
Wong Tai Sin Temple
Wong Tai Sin Temple is Hong Kong's most famous and popular temple. Wong Tai Sin was a shepherd boy living in a part of China's Zhejiang Province called Red Pine Hill. He started practising Taoism at 15. At that time, an immortal taught him the art of refining cinnabar into a medicine that would cure all illnesses. Of course, many were saved from terminal illnesses by his prescription. By the age of 45, he is able to transform stones into sheeps. After his death, a temple was built in China to commemorate him. The temple was shifted to the current ground on the advice of a master.
March 25, 2005
All the best to my sister
My heartiest congrats to my sister for her successful posting into Yishun Junior College.
Initially, she intended to study in a polytechnic. But looking at her good results in Maths, Science and Chinese Language, it is likely that she can achieve in the 'A' levels examinations. Therefore, I did not have a hard time convincing her to take up the challenge. Her 'not-so-good' performance in English Language is another reason why studying in a junior college is advantageous.
Her first choice of junior college is my alma mater, Nanyang Junior College. As one of the junior colleges with a good brand, Nanyang is "over-subscribed" by the exceptionally larger cohort of students who are mostly born in the year of the Dragon. The competition is made more intense with the better performance by the cohort. In fact, last year's sitting is our best performance in the 'O' levels examinations ever. That is why even some straight-As students are not posted to the college of their choice.
She was then posted to Innova Junior College, the latest addition to the 17 "legitimate" 'A' levels course providers in Singapore. If I were in her situation, such posting would be celebrated with some ice-kacangs. Nothing beats the honour of being in the pioneer batch. As the new kid on the block, everyone, including tutors, are enthusiastic and wants to make things happen. Another key success factor lies in the principal. Innova also boosted good location and feng shui. It is strategically located near Woodlands Library (for research), Causeway Point (for fun and laughter), Woodlands MRT station (for accessibility) and next to Singapore Sports School (for what?).
She did not feel the same way at Innova and decided to "make her way" to Yishun Junior College (YJC). I say make her way because YJC would more than welcome students of her calibre. That is not a bad choice considering that it is located within walking distance which can add up to a lot of time savings in transportation. YJC is also the fittest junior college in Singapore with the highest percentage pass for the NATFA test. Hopefully, she can trim some weight there too. Most importantly, it has been the top value-added school for a few consecutive years which means her chance of eventually studying in a local university is somehow increased.
Now that she is officially a student of YJC, I hope she settle in as fast as possible and start working. Forget about past achievements and non-achievements and focus on the path ahead. Work hard and play hard. There will be hard times but that is the reason why one wants to study in a junior college. Tough times make tough men. The two years would past swiftly but would eventually become one of the most memorable and important years in life.
I wish her all the best in her quest to being the first local university graduate in my family.
Initially, she intended to study in a polytechnic. But looking at her good results in Maths, Science and Chinese Language, it is likely that she can achieve in the 'A' levels examinations. Therefore, I did not have a hard time convincing her to take up the challenge. Her 'not-so-good' performance in English Language is another reason why studying in a junior college is advantageous.
Her first choice of junior college is my alma mater, Nanyang Junior College. As one of the junior colleges with a good brand, Nanyang is "over-subscribed" by the exceptionally larger cohort of students who are mostly born in the year of the Dragon. The competition is made more intense with the better performance by the cohort. In fact, last year's sitting is our best performance in the 'O' levels examinations ever. That is why even some straight-As students are not posted to the college of their choice.
She was then posted to Innova Junior College, the latest addition to the 17 "legitimate" 'A' levels course providers in Singapore. If I were in her situation, such posting would be celebrated with some ice-kacangs. Nothing beats the honour of being in the pioneer batch. As the new kid on the block, everyone, including tutors, are enthusiastic and wants to make things happen. Another key success factor lies in the principal. Innova also boosted good location and feng shui. It is strategically located near Woodlands Library (for research), Causeway Point (for fun and laughter), Woodlands MRT station (for accessibility) and next to Singapore Sports School (for what?).
She did not feel the same way at Innova and decided to "make her way" to Yishun Junior College (YJC). I say make her way because YJC would more than welcome students of her calibre. That is not a bad choice considering that it is located within walking distance which can add up to a lot of time savings in transportation. YJC is also the fittest junior college in Singapore with the highest percentage pass for the NATFA test. Hopefully, she can trim some weight there too. Most importantly, it has been the top value-added school for a few consecutive years which means her chance of eventually studying in a local university is somehow increased.
Now that she is officially a student of YJC, I hope she settle in as fast as possible and start working. Forget about past achievements and non-achievements and focus on the path ahead. Work hard and play hard. There will be hard times but that is the reason why one wants to study in a junior college. Tough times make tough men. The two years would past swiftly but would eventually become one of the most memorable and important years in life.
I wish her all the best in her quest to being the first local university graduate in my family.
March 23, 2005
Best Racehorse in the World
Silent Witness, ridden by F Coetzee
Let me clarify that I do not encourage horse-betting (I admire people who can predict horse races accurately though). This is especially so on this blogspot whose audience includes some of the most promising young men and women of Singapore. What I am sharing here is about horse-racing. To be exact, it is about a race horse.
However, before I proceed, I must say that horse-racing has been one of the most misunderstood sports in this region with many people still regarding it as a form of betting. Not many are able to appreciate it as a sport or motion poetry. Perhaps it is the age limit set for the entrance to the turf club during racing days. When you set an age limit for something, people would assume it is unhealthy and avoid it for the rest of their lifes.
That still does not stop me from sharing something about my favourite sport. Recently, when visiting the website of Hong Kong Jockey Club, I came to know of a potential best racehourse of all time, Silent Witness. Actually, it is already voted World Horse of the Year 2004. But with 4 more wins, this 5-year-old Australia Gelding would achieved the 17th straight victory and edge Cigar as the best horse of all time. Racing experts have predicted that it will accomplish this feat in an extremely comfortable manner. This horse is a big hit in Hong Kong but here in Singapore, this Witness is truly silent.
Reports on it would be inevitable when it breaks the record held by Cigar. But before everyone knows it, you, supporters of eW , are getting it first. It is easy to find inspiration through animals, especially race horses. Remember Sea Biscuit? Be inspired as you witness its journey to world success.
To find out more about Silent Witness, please log on to http://www.silentwitness.com.hk/english/sw05_index.asp
I almost forgot to mention that Silent Witness has not been defeated since its debut on Boxing Day of 2002.
Let me clarify that I do not encourage horse-betting (I admire people who can predict horse races accurately though). This is especially so on this blogspot whose audience includes some of the most promising young men and women of Singapore. What I am sharing here is about horse-racing. To be exact, it is about a race horse.
However, before I proceed, I must say that horse-racing has been one of the most misunderstood sports in this region with many people still regarding it as a form of betting. Not many are able to appreciate it as a sport or motion poetry. Perhaps it is the age limit set for the entrance to the turf club during racing days. When you set an age limit for something, people would assume it is unhealthy and avoid it for the rest of their lifes.
That still does not stop me from sharing something about my favourite sport. Recently, when visiting the website of Hong Kong Jockey Club, I came to know of a potential best racehourse of all time, Silent Witness. Actually, it is already voted World Horse of the Year 2004. But with 4 more wins, this 5-year-old Australia Gelding would achieved the 17th straight victory and edge Cigar as the best horse of all time. Racing experts have predicted that it will accomplish this feat in an extremely comfortable manner. This horse is a big hit in Hong Kong but here in Singapore, this Witness is truly silent.
Reports on it would be inevitable when it breaks the record held by Cigar. But before everyone knows it, you, supporters of eW , are getting it first. It is easy to find inspiration through animals, especially race horses. Remember Sea Biscuit? Be inspired as you witness its journey to world success.
To find out more about Silent Witness, please log on to http://www.silentwitness.com.hk/english/sw05_index.asp
I almost forgot to mention that Silent Witness has not been defeated since its debut on Boxing Day of 2002.
March 21, 2005
THE LIVING DHARMA
Live a life of strength,
Break the barriers that limit your abilities.
Don't set limits to your abilties.
Strive courageously towards the goals
that seem difficult or even impossible to attain.
Be Happy and take up the challenge!
Adapted from Singapore Buddhist Welfare Services
- Vesak Day Celebration 2005 publicity brochure.
Visit www.sbws.org.sg
Break the barriers that limit your abilities.
Don't set limits to your abilties.
Strive courageously towards the goals
that seem difficult or even impossible to attain.
Be Happy and take up the challenge!
Adapted from Singapore Buddhist Welfare Services
- Vesak Day Celebration 2005 publicity brochure.
Visit www.sbws.org.sg
March 17, 2005
Day 1 - Night Tour
Sign boards
You know you are in Hong Kong when you see signboards, signboards and more signboards. I reckon that the number of lit signboards (Big and small) along the streets of Kowloon and Hong Kong has already crossed the 100,000th mark. Making and installing of signboards is indeed lucrative business in Hong Kong.
Night view
The best place to be at night in Hong Kong is the old ferry terminal at Tsim Sha Tsui opposite the magnificent skyline of Hong Kong Island. Highly accessible from Nathan Road, one can reach this strategic viewing spot by bus, taxi, MTR or simply by foot.
Fortune teller
On a stretch of road along Temple Street Night Market, you will find fortune tellers offering their services. You cannot find another fortune teller other than on this stretch of road. This is the same for other goods and services, for example pets, electronic goods, ladies' wear and sports' wear. The respective shops are consolidated within a or a few streets which facilitates competition. That is why shopping can be so cheap in Hong Kong. Do not forget to bargain.
You know you are in Hong Kong when you see signboards, signboards and more signboards. I reckon that the number of lit signboards (Big and small) along the streets of Kowloon and Hong Kong has already crossed the 100,000th mark. Making and installing of signboards is indeed lucrative business in Hong Kong.
Night view
The best place to be at night in Hong Kong is the old ferry terminal at Tsim Sha Tsui opposite the magnificent skyline of Hong Kong Island. Highly accessible from Nathan Road, one can reach this strategic viewing spot by bus, taxi, MTR or simply by foot.
Fortune teller
On a stretch of road along Temple Street Night Market, you will find fortune tellers offering their services. You cannot find another fortune teller other than on this stretch of road. This is the same for other goods and services, for example pets, electronic goods, ladies' wear and sports' wear. The respective shops are consolidated within a or a few streets which facilitates competition. That is why shopping can be so cheap in Hong Kong. Do not forget to bargain.
Day 1 - Day Tour
United Airlines (UA 896) to Hong Kong
An ocean without any shore. What a sight! The flight to Hong Kong takes about 3.5 hours. We took off from Changi Airport at 6.50am and reached Hong Kong International Airport at about 11.15am. I have only recently known the airport has replaced Changi Airport as the best airport in the world. And it is only minutes ago that I know that it is best airport since 2001.
Cheung Tsing Tunnel
There are many ways to travel around Hong Kong. You can travel on your own car or motorbike, a taxi, a mini-bus, a public transport bus, MTR (Singapore's equivalent of MRT), railway train, ferry, tram and even a helicopter. You can travel across and under the sea, underground and under the mountains via tunnels.
Aquarium shop @ Mong Kok (Pets and aquarium street)
This is a very good way to display fishes for sale. Firstly, it is cheap. Secondly, it saves space. Thirdly, it is easier to for customers to choose and make purchase. Last but not least, fishes kept in this manner is less likely to suffer from transmitted diseases or physical injuries. Is it cruel? Don't help the fishes to decide, ask them.
Junk food @ Mong Kok
Such offerings are very common in Hong Kong. It is oily, salty and dirty. I reckon that the healthiest and cleaniest food you can find in Hong Kong are fast-food like Cafe de Coral and Hardee's. But the "fish egg" (better known as fish ball here) is a must-try. One should not leave the territory without having a "fish egg" rolling in the mouth.
An ocean without any shore. What a sight! The flight to Hong Kong takes about 3.5 hours. We took off from Changi Airport at 6.50am and reached Hong Kong International Airport at about 11.15am. I have only recently known the airport has replaced Changi Airport as the best airport in the world. And it is only minutes ago that I know that it is best airport since 2001.
Cheung Tsing Tunnel
There are many ways to travel around Hong Kong. You can travel on your own car or motorbike, a taxi, a mini-bus, a public transport bus, MTR (Singapore's equivalent of MRT), railway train, ferry, tram and even a helicopter. You can travel across and under the sea, underground and under the mountains via tunnels.
Aquarium shop @ Mong Kok (Pets and aquarium street)
This is a very good way to display fishes for sale. Firstly, it is cheap. Secondly, it saves space. Thirdly, it is easier to for customers to choose and make purchase. Last but not least, fishes kept in this manner is less likely to suffer from transmitted diseases or physical injuries. Is it cruel? Don't help the fishes to decide, ask them.
Junk food @ Mong Kok
Such offerings are very common in Hong Kong. It is oily, salty and dirty. I reckon that the healthiest and cleaniest food you can find in Hong Kong are fast-food like Cafe de Coral and Hardee's. But the "fish egg" (better known as fish ball here) is a must-try. One should not leave the territory without having a "fish egg" rolling in the mouth.
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