Before Toastmasters - How I came to fear speaking

Dear reader/s,

I believe there is always a reason behind every single thing. In my case, my fear of public speaking began when I was sixteen. Yes... 

16

At the age sixteen, while I tried to recite a speech from a text/ reference book for an oral test (because I was too lazy to craft one & didn't know how to write a fabulous one), I suffered the greatest shock of my life. 

After my speech, my English teacher, in a lowered voice warned me to 'stop kicking her'. 

In my head, I was like, 'How could I be kicking her? I'm sitting down, for God's sake."

Then, I looked down at my legs and found that ... my legs were indeed trembling. Specifically, my knees, really were ... shaking. So, I replied, 'I'm sorry' and left the chair. 

This experience, occurred because as  I was sitting closely to her to while giving my speech, she suddenly screamed to my classmates to, 'Keep Quiet!', then giving them a short lecture to be fair to the people taking the oral test. This made me really nervous, so... at the heat of moment, I forgot the contents of the speech. (BLOW ONE)

Then, after examining the speakers for the day, she forced me to acknowledge my first ever 'C' grade for my English Oral test. Honestly, I had always aced it, so giving me a C was the biggest shock of life. 

(BLOW TWO)

Well, I did manage to improve my grade after my second attempt (fortunately, she wasn't screaming again) but I could never, remove my fear of that incident happening again, while I give my speech.

So, there. It's all out in the open, why I'm that afraid to speak to older people. 

= D 

Lesson learnt from my own experience, don't scream in front of other people when they're trying to tell you something, you'll give them a shock of their life. 

Project Paper Aftermath

The last break was a little heartbreaking for me... so here's a short summary of it.

THE PROBLEM

During the past Semester break holidays, I had one of my greatest heartbreaks. My project paper didn't do as well as I had hoped for after all the blood and sweat I went through. After all, I put in so much effort in the past year, I interviewed people, read many articles and wrote what I think was relevant and pertinent. So, basically I was upset because I didn't know what went wrong with my paper. I definitely find it puzzling to receive that mark when my lecturer said, 'you're done and okay with your project paper. You are ready to hand it in.' That said, am I supposed to just accept my pitiful fate as it is, without knowing what had went wrong, or how could I have done better. After all, when you receive a bad mark, it's obvious that the evaluator/ marker wants you to know that, "something is wrong, somewhere. Please find out what is wrong to improve yourself".

When a door closes, open ANOTHER door. 

FIND THE SOURCE OF THE PROBLEM

That said, finding an answer to this problem was a little difficult. I tried with my supervisor (rather busy *maybe reluctant) but he couldn't spare me the time/ answer in detail (only brief comments that just said I was not up to his expectations). But I did not lose hope, and managed to find another kind lecturer to go over my paper. She's Puan Maimuna Merican. She looked over my project paper and started going over each page critically (questioning me on my choice of title, objectives, scope) and soon I realized, I was really lacking in certain areas. Realizing that, I could come to terms to the result of my problem. Then, she made me realize how important it was for me to link my material facts and evidence adequately to show how they're connected (mindmapping/ diagrams), and she reminded me what I should do, 'be passionate about what you're doing'.

This struck me because I was sure, for I wasn't that passionate about taking my law degree nor was I passionate about the project paper, but I was passionate about the work I do (thus, the heartbreak I felt since I could do nothing to rectify a poor work done). For this strong reminder cum advice, "Thank you Puan Maimuna Merican".

THE NEXT STEP AFTER THE PROBLEM

I believe this step is the next most important step towards rectifying a problem, which is to learn from the problem. This is to ensure that we do not repeat the same problem again. Hence, knowing that I lacked so much in the paper, should I redo the paper (to show I've gotten a little smarter) or just get over it and do something else?

Honestly, I had mixed feelings about this. Wasn't sure what to do, what to expect. But thankfully, I met up with Datin Grace Xavier, 'Get Over It!' she says. I should, and I'll try. After all, it's no use crying over spilt milk, what's in the past is in the past. That said, it's easier said then done right? Coming from me, who has spent the past two months trying to get over this, so I asked her how. She said, 'Be with your friends. Join some activities. Concentrate on the subjects you have at hand.' What I wanted you, a student, to know when you wrote a project paper were it's procedures to conduct a research. If you pass it, it just shows me, your lecturer, you  know how to conduct a research. It's not something incredibly ground breaking if you aced this. That said, if you scored a C for your Jurisprudence paper, I'd want you to retake it. With that... I received my second enlightenment/ realization.

REALIZATION
I was reminded that school was a place for me to get my foundations, right. The main principles/ issues for a certain subject matter. If you can't get it, you should go back to get it right. Only then, when you get on with life, would I be able to find the answer to the problems (extended from the main problem) I faced.

Hence, I realized, she's right. Why waste time on matters that aren't important?

If I have the time, spend it better on more important things.

For all the above advice, thank you.
Sincerely

Muse: the Body speaks

First and foremost, I have to identify myself - I am a GIRL.

So, since I'm born female, I'm usually surrounded by girls who feel insecure about their body and weight.
That being said, should they feel insecure about their size??? So, after my roommate (who is insecure about her body) raised the issue about being fat a-g-a-i-n... I think it's about time I post something to educate girls out there about their body.

First and foremost, GOD didn't make woman to be the same shape, same size and same person.
For example, twins may be brought up together but do not share the same characteristics. So, we are born or made with differences even if we have the same organs (hopefully), same parents and same environment. So, do not expect you and the woman sitting beside you to always have the same body shape!

I found a link with good pictures on the different body shapes, so if you're interested for more details, go here.

Types of Body (Women)

Then, moving on the weight issue. 

GIRLS should NOT WORRY ABOUT YOUR WEIGHT!

Seriously, the weighing scale just gives you numbers and gives you the weight of your body. Weight of your body includes your fats, muscles, organs and water weight. 

So, can you be light and unhealthy? YES

So, can you be heavy and unhealthy? YES

Why do I say so? I remembered an article similar to this, but this will do for now... hehe

Being underweight or severely obese did cut life expectancy.

WAIT... So I can be light or heavy and still be unhealthy? YES yes YES! SO how can I be healthy?

Simple, just eat healthy and have a healthy lifestyle. =)

I know, healthy food is expensive compared to fried food (easiest cheap unhealthy food example). Why not? Supply meets demand. The people have been demanding fried food as compared to healthy food (since most prefer to make their own). Hence, the price would definitely drop (fried food becomes cheaper) to increase demand of fried food and increase the chains need to supply the public to meet that demand. So who's to blame. You yourself. BLEK. Don't point fingers... it's worthless. You have to educate everyone on healthy eating to reverse this trend and too bad I'm not the Minister of Health to make this change. 

BMI

So, everyone likes to use BMI right? So, I'll give you a BMI answer first.

What's a healthy BMI? Since I'm Asian, I'll give an Asian answer because most of the BMI readings out there are not for Asians. The research by the WHO is here. 

I know you'd be lazy so I had skimmed through it and found this at the 

conclusion and recommendations... at page 161.

1. The WHO expert found that Asians generally have a higher percentage of body fat than white people of the same age, sex, and BMI. Also, the proportion of Asian people with risk factors of type 2 diabetes and cardiovascular disease is substantial even below the existing WHO BMI cut-off point of 25 kg/m3. Thus, current cut-off points do not provide an adequate basis for taking action on risks related to overweight and obesity in many populations in Asia (except for Northern Chinese and Japanese whereby the cut-off could be 5 units higher).
2. In considering BMIs of less than 21, it should be borne in mind that the lower range of BMI might reflect under nutrition in populations with current or recent widespread under nutrition.
3. They recommended that Asians population have this new BMI reading.

Underweight at less than 18.5

Increasing but acceptable risk at 18.5 – 23

Increased risk at 23 – 27.5

Higher high risk above 27.5

So, is BMI the end all. Definitely NOT!  

At page 163, scroll all the way down and there will be a comparison between two persons with the same BMI, with different x-rays, and different body fat levels. (Men were used)

BODY FAT? 

Is that a new word? No... It's an old word. So does that make a difference, yes it does. 

But to know more about it, read here.

DO NOTE! There is a difference between low body fat with muscle and no muscle.

MUSCLE MASS

Why?

If you are too skinny (cause you don't eat much and you work out sometimes), your muscles won't form, if it does; it goes inwards and you'd get to see skin and bones. Then, if you're a woman, you may have hormone imbalance and not have period. *Personal experience (didn't have mine for a year until I took hormone pills).

That being said, I didn't really take pictures in bikinis to show you guys, so I've got other experts data and pictures to prove my point, here.

My conclusion and advice

1. Don't fret about not being able to fit those clothes (body shape)
2. Don't fret about the weighing scale. (Muscle mass + BMI + Body fat)
3. Fret about not eating healthy food.
4. Fret about not having a healthy lifestyle.

Worry about the right things. Live your life as you want it and not as what the public wants it. After all, the public is not living your life and understand your troubles. You do, you live it and you experience it. Don't waste your life. =)

Muse: Sadness

Sometimes, when I reflect over a day's work, I'd ask...
WHAT HAVE I DONE?

Have I done enough? Have I done what I could have done? Should I be feeling this way? How much more should I hold back my feelings?

I feel upset that some people just aren't able to move on. Aren't able to accept who they are. Aren't able to change. But I'd adapt.

Definitely, I don't expect miracles. I don't expect God to drop me things from heaven. I don't expect everyone laughing like the Mad Hatter but I expect everyone to live a life. If time is the answer, hey... I'm granting it to you.

I've surrendered. I've raised the white flag. I'm no longer interested in claiming my eldest sister family anymore.

Once, I gave her respect; 

Then she stepped on it by claiming her rights as an elder over me;

Later erasing her rights by doing things an eldest must never do.

Great power comes great responsibility. Great respect comes from great work. Both goes hand in hand. With neither work, nor responsibility, never claim such otherwise the respect you earn is Z-E-R-O.

Oh well, I believe it's pathetic that a young adult who just hit her 20s needs to inform/warn a person in their late 20s again and again. I believe it is pathetic that I am accidentally excluded from a family dinner because I'm not family. I believe it is pathetic that I am denied entry to take my clothes from my room. I believe it is pathetic that I am not welcome in the house. I believe it is pathetic that an ex-family member does not believe that I love my own mother. Last but not least, I believe it is pathetic that 'family' members try not to solve 'family problems' but try their VERY BEST to solve their friend's problems.

That being said, it is pointless of me to complain further. 

After all, 

maybe I am just a naive snort. 

Maybe I'm just a stupid child. 

Maybe I am just a baby. 

But, maybe after this,

My heart wouldn't be so broken anymore.

Muse: Speed limit

I know it's been so long since I last posted but yeah... I guess it is about time I posted something after my short break from school. So ... it'll be about the...

I know it's kind of lame to discuss this issue but really, it's been on my mind so much that I believe it just wouldn't leave my head until I blogged about it. 

Act 333, Road Transport Act 1987 with amendments up to 1 July 2006

Section 40 Exceeding Speed limit

(1) If any person drives a motor vehicle at a speed exceeding any speed limit imposed for such motor vehicle under the powers conferred by this Act he shall be guilty of an offence and shall on conviction be liable to a fine not exceeding one thousand ringgit.

Section 69 Speed limits

(1) The Minister may, by order published in the Gazette, prescribe a national speed limit for all roads in Malaysia.

(1A) Any person who fails to observe the national speed limit prescribe under subsection (1) shall be guilty of an offence.

Federal Government Gazette, National Speed Limit (Temporary Cessation) Order 2013,c.i.f. 3 - 17 February 2013

Section 2 Temporary Cessation

*The speed limit is 90 km/h for all roads in Malaysia

Federal Government Gazette, Local Speed Limit (Federal Roads) (Specified Time Prohibition) Order 2013, c.i.f. 3 - 17 February 2013

Section 2 Prohibition

*Prohibits motor vehicles from exceeding the speed limit of 80 km/h over all Federal roads in Malaysia.

Motor Vehicles (Speed Limit) Rules, 1989 c.i.f. 1st February 1989, Schedule Rule 3

1. having a seating capacity not exceeding twelves persons, including he driver, and used for hire or reward has a maximum speed limit of 110 km/h for roads described in Schedule to National Speed Limit Order 1989 while other roads have it at 90 km/h.

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

Therefore, since I'm really dumb and don't know the difference between the roads cause I didn't download the Act, XD, shall assume (from personal experience of using the road) that most highways have a speed limit which has dropped from 110 km/h to only 90 km/h while local (small highways) has a reduced speed limit of 80 km/h from 90 km/h. 

So... why the drop in the speed limit? Is it stupid? Useless? Troublesome? 

There is a reason there is a speed limit and there is a reason why it is reduced during the festive season.

First and foremost, I'd address the issue of the speed limit. 

It is vital for all road users to understand and be clear that not all cars could drive safely past 110 km/h (personal experience from driving a Perodua MyVi). Past a certain speed, your car would become unstable, wobbly and be more suspect-able to be uncontrollable behind a wheel. Therefore, since the government assumes the general public are all not able to drive BMW, Volkswagen or Benz which have a heavier body and stronger engines, the set speed is set so, so that smaller cars would not feel intimidated by the big heavier cars even when they zoom past them. Since, according to Bernoulli's principle, the car may be flung due to high speed causing lower pressure of air caused by the faster cars zooming on the right lane against the slower cars; higher pressure moving on the centre/ left lane. So a standard speed limit is set so that all cars travel at approximately the same speed.

**My car shakes if a car zooms past me so it's true, Bernoulli's smart! So... F*** OFF, cars that zoom unnaturally fast, what if I lost control of my car thanks to you? Just cause you can go fast doesn't mean that you can potentially kill me by disrupting my car's stability and control.

Then... why do they drop it during the festive season?

1. There are more road users. Hence, just like people moving in a crowd, you'd really have to slow down, cause there's just too many people who just want to go back home at the same time. After all, we're a multiracial country, Malay/ Chinese/ Indian celebrate, Malaysia celebrates with you. Hence, do remember, even if you think it is your right to celebrate the festival, it is also every Malaysian's right to celebrate as well. What better way but to go back home with you! Then, since you're not the only one paying taxes and tolls, they'd jam into the road as well when you go back home, causing the slow traffic.
2. Sudden slow downs in case of slower traffic in front. It is inevitable when you drive long distance that you become tired and cranky, hence desiring to be fast and furious on the road. However, would everybody be able to brake in time (to exit/ sudden slow cars in front) if they suddenly nod off at such a speed? Absolutely... NOT! Hence, it is purely for safety reasons that the speed is dropped due to people travelling unnaturally long distance to go back home.
3. They want to ensure you can enjoy your festival safe and sound. Who doesn't? 

That being said, a speed limit is not a travelling speed; which it is often mistaken for. It is the MAXIMUM. Oh well, what's the point? Only good drivers like me (a-hem), adhere to it. Selfish drivers.... BLEK. I <3 my life as much as you <3 yours!

Muse : Meeting up with friends

Sometimes, I question myself, why do I go so far, the extra mile just to meet my friends and my teachers?
Not that I think that I am wrong, but it was a question that my mum asked me...

Why are you wasting time to meet with your friends and teachers?

Dear blog,
Even if you've left school a long long time ago, it does not just mean you've finished a phase of your life.
Instead, it means you've grown mentally, emotionally, physically and intellectually (after all, we studied, right?) XD. However, all this are not learned from objects, we've learned them from people, humans that may or may not have the same growth in life with us. Hence, do we disregard these people when they've been the very foundation of our growth in life? They too have been emotionally and mentally linked to our past.

Definitely, it is undeniable that you may have the support of your family but you also cannot deny that you had schoolmates and teachers to support you through your early stages in life. After all, if it were not for your family,  friends and teachers who gave us those tribulations and challenges, we would not have fall and learned to step back up and if not for them, we would not become the people we are today. After all, we are the product of the past and the mold for the future. Next to that, it is because I miss them just as much as my family for I've spent equal amount of time with them and with my family.

Lectures on the 5th and 7th of September 2012

On the 5th of September, I participated in The 26th Sultan Azlan Shah Law Lecture. My verdict of it? Well... Mandarin Oriental is a nice venue. Really classy . Just look at the candid photo I took and you'd think that we were having a super formal and serious meeting... A-hem... yeah right... just chilling at the lobby because we were too early. XD

 Hot 1st Year 2011/2012 Class Representative, Vivien Yeow...

 So how was the lecture? I don't think I've gained so much but these few words still ring in my ears...
Respect must be earned, not commanded. Which reminded me of my uncle who once told me these few words, which has now been repeated by The Right Honourable Lord David Pannick QC in his speech, Scandalising the Judiciary - Criticism of Judges and the Law of Contempt.

Which I believe is a rather neutral point of view for I too share such a view. However, he too shared that the law of contempt be abolished. Me? I think that it is rather reasonable for it to be abolished as there is the Sedition Act and the Defamation Act. However, if I were to forget that there exists both these acts, would my decision change? Maybe.

With reference to Article 10 of the Federal Constitution (the Supreme law of the Land), we have the right to life. Having this right, it is right for us to share our views. However, is it right to injure another's reputation by spouting lies? Definitely not! The judiciary is a body that upholds justice in the country. If even the judiciary is doubted, why not let it be doubted? It should also be open to scrutiny like any other governmental body. We never know, when; how; why; where corruption may occur. So having doubt backed by reasonable facts would put the judiciary on their toes to always uphold justice based on their fair and just judgement! Hence, producing a judiciary that can be trusted and relied on by the public. So why not? If a dog is barking at a mountain, let it bark. The mountain won't move. Similarly, if someone spouts contempt to the court, if the public has no reason to believe them, then the reputation of the judiciary will not be affected. It is only when the judiciary has constantly placed itself in a disreputable position that the public in general will have a unanimous contempt towards the court. Consequently coming to my stand that, the law of contempt is unnecessary as it hinders the government to produce a country that works efficiently, effectively and fairly.

Other than this talk (which I've combined with the 7th talk), what did I enjoy? Definitely the food!! I loved the desserts (ooh... I still remember the Blueberry Cheese Mousse, Chocolate Cake, Lamb Satay and Salmon Sashimi). What did I not enjoy? Having my bags moved everywhere and not being told where it is... Just look at Pauline frowning with her camera, for she too had her bag moved to who knows where... TT.TT

All in all, the lectures that I've gone to rocked to the max! Above is the picture of the 2nd Years that attended (almost typed 1st years... XD).

Money, work and life - KID's view

I've started working the week after returning from Singapore. So I'll share a little about what I've gained, emotionally and intellectually. Since I began working without having money as a motive, my views and your views may differ, so if there is any against my view, I'd love to discuss!

As I started work in the first week, I realized I lost my drive to exercise. Then, in the next week, I realized my purse was getting fatter. In the following week, I realized the expectations and mentality of worker bees that run the hive. Therefore, in this post, I hope I'll be able to sufficiently muse about these matters.

Working reminds me of a machine with interlinked screws and connectors that move to perform a certain function; the job/the work. So, other than the job, since the job already makes you mentally, maybe even physically tired, you do not feel like doing anything at all. You'd rather spend the rest of the day lazing around, being a couch potato, going shopping to 'destress' especially if it's a fixed job. HOWEVER, is this how life really should be? Is life for a mouse really limited to the wheel in a cage? The wheel being the job and life being the cage? I hypothesize that many believe that it is so otherwise no one would working their life off!

Today, I had the experience of recording the punch cards of working adults (not students). Unlike what I have always known, I have seen records of working hours of almost twenty four hours by a handful of people in a group of less than ten. Then, with my eldest sister's job as another reference, I believe that it is the norm and expectations of superiors (after speaking with a few) for people to be overworking themselves for the company. HOWEVER, I'd like to raise a CONSIDERATION for these people working their ass off, is it really worth it?

As I was driving home from work one day, I noticed this. The traffic light, thoroughly broken down but cars move on, everyone still goes back home/ to work. Why? Because there is still another traffic light (so replaceable) up ahead that was giving the same instructions for the same traffic. So... what happens to this traffic light? The poor person (probably the lorry driver); if caught will have to foot the bill. What bill? The bill to repair/replace (his and the other) and the bill for troubling others. However, what the heck was going on the mind of the driver when he banged this? Probably, something about WORK since I was working in the port, there can be nothing else but work. LOL. So will he ever be rich; taking the extra mile, working overtime and receiving a minimum of 1.5 times per hour pay than the agreed wages? HONESTLY NOT!

The above is what can be found in my purse right now. Looks just like bills and receipt being strewn around, right? On sight, it seems like a pile of cash and receipts however, as I was musing these thoughts these few weeks while watching my purse, this is how I interpret this picture. The money is so bright, so colourful, so big, so thick; beautiful compared to the dull, smooth, thin white and black receipts. The pile of receipts in fact is actually much thicker compared to the pile of cash but cash seems to be occupying a larger space. This is my observation, my thoughts? I spent so much. Receipts are cleverly made to be thin and not occupy much space in your purse. With it's smooth texture, it feels great to the touch. Though dull, it saves on ink to use black and white. It also does not tear as easily as cash. Cash is made to be thick, so you think you still have lots of it even when you really don't have so much vice versa goes gor the receipts. It's colourful so you'd like to constantly see it and use it. It's big so it's easy to take out.

Conclusively, money has been made enticing compared to receipts. Receipts continue collecting but money never collect itself in my purse; sadly. So, even if I had more money, the pile of receipts will continue to grow and my cash will continue to deplete. **many forget this since they either don't take receipts/ throw them away

Therefore, with man spending time working ungodly hours to earn more money, will it pay to do so? Those cards that I've recorded the working hours and overtime, these people were working for (obvious reasons due to background facts) more money, however this money will not stay with them for long. Why? Because I did a background check on these people and I've grasped that they've been working in the company for years and yes, they've often work these hours. Hence, a smart guess would be that they will continue to work more hours to earn more cash. Consequently, the next question that arose is, how much cash will one ever need to be satisfied? With more cash, more demands... more "needs" from what was previously "wants". Thus, leading to a never ending cycle.

Unfortunately, this isn't what I want; or what anybody wants for that matter. So......How to begin a change? LOL, path a way to make it. Don't just dream or want it, MAKE IT HAPPEN the best way you think will work. Find a solution, this is a life problem so if you never solve it you will constantly have to work on it till you get it. So nostalgic, reminds me of doing my additional maths homework... XD.but this is life and this is reality, if you don't work your way out of this problem, you will have to remain stuck in the problem because money is a need to sustain a person living in a city. **yes... I am being specific just in case some smart Alec caught thought about Tarzan. LOL...

Till I feel like musing more, see you blog.

Special Seminar on Legislating Laws

As stated in my earlier post, I participated in a seminar at the Parliament building. Well, going to such a BIG place... such as a Parliament building for a " Special " seminar and coming out empty handed would imply that I'm an air head since this seminar was actually 'thought to be' by the Previous Chief Judge to be just for Parliament members... LOL... until he arrived and realized that there were about three different universities participating as well. So, here, I'll  blog about my muse from my experience there.

The talk I loved most (or actually stayed awake most of the time XD) was given by YBhg Dato' Mohd Noor Abdullah, an ex-Court of Appeal Judge. Since I'm not writing word for word and it's just what I understood from his session, whatever written or stated in this post should not be taken seriously without careful consideration of the Federal Constitution and if any; are a mere statement of opinions from either him or me. So, please do not hold YBhg. or me liable since it's merely an educational comment on several articles on the Federal Constitution.

Federal Constitution : Analyzing the Current Challenges

1. Distinctions between West and East Malaysia

Ever since young, when I looked at an activity book or even a newspaper... I'd notice that there will always be two prices. One for West Malaysia, the other for East Malaysia. Though I found it funny, I didn't really question it because I know I wouldn't be able to get an answer for it. After all, both the Penisular and East Malaysia are essentially Malaysia. Besides that, it doesn't raise too much of an eyebrow since I'm from the Penisular and the price for things according to the tag in Penisular is cheaper (LOL). Anyway, back to the point, being a united country, do we really need to put a distinction in a country that is supposedly one? We aren't like North Korea and South Korea which is divided by two different government with radically different views. Malaysia a supposedly united country which has only one identity. Therefore, why the distinction? Why a need for a higher price? Can't they just print the books there with the information posted over the net for printing? Can't we share the burden?

FEDERAL CONSTITUTIONPart I           THE STATES, RELIGION AND LAW OF THE FEDERATION

1. Name, States and territories of the Federation

(1) The Federation shall be known, in Malay and in English, by the name Malaysia.

(2) The States of the Federation shall be Johore, Kedah, Kelantan, Malacca, Negeri Sembilan, Pahang, Penang, Perak, Perlis, Sabah, Sarawak, Selangor and Terengganu.

EXPLANATORY NOTES:

Article 1(2):

The present Article without Clause (4) was inserted by Act 26⁄1963, section 4, in force from 16-9-1963 (i.e. when Malaysia was established). Act 59⁄1966, section 2, in force from 9-8-1965 (i.e.the date Singapore left Malaysia) amended Clause (2) by deleting therefrom paragraph (c) which read as follows:

"(c) the State of Singapore.".

The present Clause (2) was substituted by Act A354, section 2, in force from 27-8-1976. This Clause before its substitution by Act A354 was amended by Act 26⁄1963, section 4, in force from 16-9-1963 (i.e. when Malaysia was established) read as follows:

"(2) The States of the Federation shall be—

• (a) 
  the States of Malaya, namely, Johore, Kedah, Kelantan, Malacca, Negeri Sembilan, Pahang, Penang, Perak, Perlis, Selangor and Terengganu;
• (b) 
  the Borneo States, namely, Sabah and Sarawak; and
• (c) 
  the State of Singapore.".
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  

Focusing on the underlined words/ sentences, the Federal Constitution (FC) did not put a distinction between East and West/Penisular Malaysia.If any, in A1(2) FC; it was done a long long time ago before Singapore was removed, whereby the name of the groups which are the Malaya States, the Borneo states and State of Singapore was recognized independently. However, that clause has already been substituted by Act A354, section 2, in force from 27-8-1976. Therefore, with almost four decades since this amendment, why are we still segregating ourselves from each other? Malaysia is ONE FEDERATION and is ONE MALAYSIA, with the government promoting the 1Malaysia concept, have they forgotten about this as well? As a country that promotes oneness, I believe that the country should hold true to its Constitution and acknowledge each other as one and the same; Malaysians despite coming from different states. Hence, I implore the government to charge 1Price albeit higher but the burden is shared by 1Malaysia as we are one country that should share the benefits equally if it is provided for one country.

2. Distinctions between race and communityThe race column. In Malaysia, when filling up any forms, there is always or usually; a column that requires you to fill in your race/kaum and another column to state whether you are a bumiputra (early pioneers of the land) or otherwise. Since we've always been filling it up without thinking twice (or usually we don't bother), ask yourself this question now... WHY do we need to put a distinction between the races? Do we really need to do so and is it a requirement set by the government due to the Federal Constitution. 

FEDERAL CONSTITUTION

160. Interpretation

(2) In this Constitution, unless the context otherwise requires, the following expressions have the meanings hereby respectively assigned to them, that is to say—

"Aborigine"

means an aborigine of the Malay Peninsula; (**Malay Penisula ~ the Federation)

"Malay"

means a person who professes the religion of Islam, habitually speaks the Malay language, conforms to Malay custom and—

(a) was before Merdeka Day born in the Federation or in Singapore or born of parents one of whom was born in the Federation or in Singapore, or is on that day domiciled in the Federation or in Singapore; or

           (b) is the issue of such a person; (**issue ~ child)

Chapter 4 Land

89. Malay reservations

(5) Without prejudice to Clause (3), the Government of any State may, in accordance with law, acquire land for the settlement of Malays or other communities, and establish trusts for that purpose.

Part XII        GENERAL AND MISCELLANEOUS

152. National language

(1) The national language shall be the Malay language and shall be in such script as Parliament may by law provide:

Provided that—

(a)  no person shall be prohibited or prevented from using (otherwise than for official purposes), or from teaching or learning, any other language; and

(b)  nothing in this Clause shall prejudice the right of the Federal Government or of any State Government to preserve and sustain the use and study of the language of any other community in the Federation.

I've tried searching for race in relation to the segregation of race based on the normal Malay, Chinese, Indian, and Others Criteria. Surprisingly, there is nothing in relation to race other than for the segregation of race for the natives of Sabah and Sarawak as well as a general reference to race. Rather, if there is any reference to the usage of race to segregate the Malay, Chinese, Indians or Others; there is only the word community to refer to the other races. Hence, why are we always harping on each other's throats on racism among us? Our constitution does not encourage us to separate ourselves based on race, rather it respects the other communities. Where has this respect gone in this day and age? **Just as a side note, the word community was not amended from race.3. Privileged MalaysiansThe next question that arises is who are the privileged people in Malaysia? Who does the Federal Constitution protects most?

153. Reservation of quotas in respect of services, permits, etc., for Malays and natives of any of the States of Sabah and Sarawak

(1) It shall be the responsibility of the Yang di-Pertuan Agong to safeguard the special position of the Malays and natives of any of the States of Sabah and Sarawak and the legitimate interests of other communities in accordance with the provisions of this Article.

(**there's more clauses but it's basically the repetition for different situations for Malays and natives of any of the States of Sabah and Sarawak only hence I don't want to make this post too long)

161a. Special position of natives of States of Sabah and Sarawak

(5) Article 89 shall not apply to the State of Sabah or Sarawak...

Chapter 4 Land

89. Malay reservations

8. Equality

 (5) This Article does not invalidate or prohibit—

(c) any provision for the protection, well-being or advancement of the aboriginal peoples of the Malay Peninsula (including the reservation of land) or the reservation to aborigines of a reasonable proportion of suitable positions in the public service;

Dun dun dun dun... It is the aborigines! Article 153 states that special reservation the YDPA has to provide for the Malays and natives of the states of Sabah and Sarawak. Then, in Article 161a and Article 8(5), recognition is given to the superior position of the natives of the Borneo states. Then, the next juicy question that arises is...4. Malay LanguageMany people have a misconception that the Malay Language is the National Language. But it really is the other way around. Take a closer look at our Federal Constitution. It took on the Malay Language as the national language not, the Malay language is the national language. Hence, there is a difference. Take for example; Selena continued drinking until she found that that man shall be is the gigolo.Selena continued drinking until she found that that gigolo shall be is the man.

Part XII        GENERAL AND MISCELLANEOUS

152. National language

(1) The national language shall be the Malay language and shall be in such script as Parliament may by law provide:

Provided that—

(a)  no person shall be prohibited or prevented from using (otherwise than for official purposes), or from teaching or learning, any other language; and

(b)  nothing in this Clause shall prejudice the right of the Federal Government or of any State Government to preserve and sustain the use and study of the language of any other community in the Federation.

(6) In this Article,"official purpose" means any purpose of the Government, whether Federal or State, and includes any purpose of a public authority.

5. Secularization of SchoolsIt is clear in Article 152 (b) in FC that (b)  nothing in this Clause shall prejudice the right of the Federal Government or of any State Government to preserve and sustain the use and study of the language of any other community in the Federation. Therefore, it implies that the FC respect community schools and allows the use of another language even if for official purposes. Therefore, the FC acknowledges and respect the non-secular schools as well.6. Power of the YDPA (the King of Kings)How much power does the YDPA in Malaysia has? Do they have any powers at all?

Chapter 3      The Executive

39. Executive authority of Federation

The executive authority of the Federation shall be vested in the YDPA ..

40. Yang di-Pertuan Agong to act on advice

(1) In the exercise of his functions under this Constitution or federal law the Yang di-Pertuan Agong shall act in accordance with the advice of the Cabinet or of a Minister acting under the general authority of the Cabinet, except as otherwise provided by this Constitution; but shall be entitled, at his request, to any information concerning the government of the Federation which is available to the Cabinet.

(1a) In the exercise of his functions under this Constitution or federal law, where the Yang di-Pertuan Agong is to act in accordance with advice, on advice, or after considering advice, the Yang di-Pertuan Agong shall accept and act in accordance with such advice.

(2) The Yang di-Pertuan Agong may act in his discretion in the performance of the following functions, that is to say:

(a) the appointment of a Prime Minister;

(b) the withholding of consent to a request for the dissolution of Parliament;

(c) the requisition of a meeting of the Conference of Rulers concerned solely with the privileges, position, honours and dignities of Their Royal Highnesses, and any action at such a meeting,

and in any other case mentioned in this Constitution.

(3) Federal law may make provision for requiring the Yang di-Pertuan Agong to act after consultation with or on the recommendation of any person or body of persons other than the Cabinet in the exercise of any of his functions other than—

(a) functions exercisable in his discretion;

(b) functions with respect to the exercise of which provision is made in any other Article.

In other words, I believe it means that the YDPA is a living puppet that has to accept whatever the Parliament advices (like the British advisiors ~more like commands)  him though he has executive authority in the country. Poor King... His Royal Highness deserves more respect and power than that! Just a figurehead other than what is provided by A40(2) but subsection (a) is definitely not really under the King's authoritative power to choose, (b) is merely keeping the stability of a current government body that is holding power. Hence, where is his power? Basically, just to hold meetings for the Conference of Rulers. We have a powerless King that has to be the Yes-man for the country.Should it really be like that? The King must surely have more power than being a figurehead. He is the one man every citizen looks at to save the country. After all, there is no King without his nation and there is no nation without their King. If the King lets a group of crazy people lead the people into doom because he can only say YES to all their requests, wouldn't we be putting ourselves in a very risky situation? Therefore, the King should really have the discretion to have the Final Say unless the Conference of Rulers finds that the King is unsuitable due to him being unable to think reasonably.GOSH... This post is bloody long post and the talk barely lasted more than 1 hour and 30 minutes! XD... Oh well, hope you enjoyed it.

Moving to University Tower

I've recently moved to University Tower, started university and restarted my student life with a new goal and aim on mind. After all, it is a new year, a new beginning, and a new start for anything!

Moving into UT, I've brought lots of things and brought back (at least my sisters, thanks ya~) lots of things as well. I guess it's finding what you really need and keeping those with you.

For my mummy, I'll try to blog more details so that she shan't need to worry too much.

So far, I've signed to be a good Christian sister, to live a good Christian life (do morning revivals and attend prayer meetings) and to be a good student. (yes... they don't allow bad movies / games)

I have clean-up duties (sweep & clean bedroom toilet / mop floor [alternates]) every Thursday!

Yay~! Clean up... one of my favourite past times on the last day of lectures in the week. Hopefully I'd be a able to learn to do a super fast job (in 30 mins cleaning). Mwahahhahahhaha... one goal there by the end of this semester. LOL.

I've also got hanging 'rights'... lol... every Wednesday and Saturday... yay! I can hang my clothes twice a week! Less bulk and crazy folding to do and more fruitful use of my time.

Yup, that's part of the responsibilities and respect that I'd need to practice while I'm here. ^.^

So far, I've been able to live a rather healthy lifestyle... but I guess I'd need to eat less oranges... Had more than four oranges yesterday cause I just love oranges XD .... *drools.... it needs a rather big amount of discipline to stop eating too much!

Every morning and evening, I'd get to incorporate 15 mins of walking to and fro university and University Tower! GREAT right? It's my total dream since Matriculation. Not only that, I'm able to use the gymnasium from 0700 hours to 2200 hours. Cool right? It's so surreal. My dream atmosphere and dream university student life. Add a swimming pool into the equation and it becomes infinite surreal!!

So far, I've travelled to SS 2 and Seapark. I have my spectacles in progress which I hope will be due next week! My poor spectacles has reached its limit. My eyes are no longer able to see so well... It went up by 75 (lazy eye) and a level of added astigmatism (normal eye). However, I'd just be adding 50 for my lazy eye because of the dizziness it would causes me due to the 350 - 0 difference. I was so dizzy with the added 75.

Lest I forget, the morning I made my spectacles, I went to the morning pasar (SS2) and hung out at Guardian till the spectacles shop opened. I bought lots of things! I bought 10 eggs for RM 4.00, 1 stalk of celery, 1 salad lettuce, 1 ginger and 1 carrot for RM 11.40, garlic and onion for RM 0.80, compressed tofu for RM 0.80 and 12 small Fuji apples for RM10.00 . Remarkable isn't it, hehe... my memory's good! Yin Wen shopped together with me and made the whole experience a lot more easier (hehe... cause they were speaking in cantonese and a banana being a banana wouldn't get much of a cheaper price, would they? hehe). Thank you, Yin Wen. Then since we were super early, we hung out at Guardian and I got a 20 pack Kotex for RM 5.70 cause I forgot to bring them with me. TT.TT. When I got to the spectacle shop at 1130 hours (opening time), the ophthalmic assistant was really helpful. She helped a really really blur girl regarding design suitable for my face and type of lens I should get as a law university student. In the end, I left the place with an order and a deposit of RM 100 for the spectacles. Finally, in progress, my poor eyes need those new spectacles!

Oh well, this past week is somewhat similar to a discovery. I've realized that I don't really like oatmeal so much (the one you prep yourself) compared to the 3 in 1 oatmeal packs available. So, next time, I'm going to get that, well... that is after I finished stock my sisters helpfully brought... hehe and learned lots of quirky stuff you can do to your food. Mwhaahhahaha... I shall save that for another post.

That's all for me, regarding my stay at University Tower for now.

Milo and Red Bean Buns Addiction

Gosh... Have you met anyone with Milo and Red Bean Addiction...

LOL...

Yes, my body has been unconsciously trying to move me towards the bun section for red bean even if there's none and milo o milo... why you too?

I'm stuffed but it's craving for you. This is mind breaking... sheesh... If I had realized this sooner, I wouldn't have drunk milo so often last time till I had this stupid addiction without realizing it until a friend told me... YES... you could get addicted to milo.

Well... Red bean can't be helped cause there's no better food here that I like... but back to the point...

DOINK... I'm going to kill milo off my favourite drink list!

I'm not going to drink you anymore unless there's a special occasion for me to do so...TT.TT...

I'm drinking milk from now on. I'll bring my own milk supply or buy packet ones.

Addiction sucks, so don't get addicted to anything, especially smoking (quite a bad habit) and drugs (extreme bad).

If not, face the fact that you'd have to face withdrawal symptoms.

My body is having an inner struggle so much so that it works subconsciously.

It's hard but I'd need to battle it out to overcome. Yes... I can do it, I hope. XD

First week of exams

I've just finished my first round of exams, round two next week. Guess what, I was depressed.

Basically, I find it normal to get depressed over exams but I'm really upset about my diet during the exam week. I know it's not that big of deal to eat anything that's dished out at you but I find it leads to a bigger depression if I'm being served food that I really don't like when I myself am already depressed! Wouldn't it be better if you're served food that you're comfortable with during a week when you need comfort most? GOSH... How can they expect me to be satisfied with just that??

Sigh... another bout of ramblings about food in college.

Gah. I eat so emotionally.

Chicken rice, fruits, 100g keropok and Milo.

Stuffed to the max at the moment.