Amused at Istana Kehakiman, Putrajaya

I think it's time I get back to writing, maybe... to find a sense of normalcy/ sanity, maybe... to keep some secrets here.

Today was the first day I visited one of the appellate courts in Malaysia, i.e. the Court of Appeal and Federal Court.

Honestly, it is amazing. Unfortunately, since I went there empty handed, I have to pen down my memories without any photos. =(

The interior and exterior (even the pavements) of the Istana Kehakiman was marble... everywhere, so as I walked around in my court shoes, the steps I made was clear. Reflected by the floor, walls... I'm not so sure about the ceilings! Haha.... funny that I think of the sound of my shoes at this point! 

Then, as I walked nearer and into the Istana, my Master greeted his friends, checked his case and Court at a kiosk before asking me to follow his friend up to the Court room.

This being my first time, the 'wow' factor of the Istana made the whole place seemed like a maze (when it really is not that big -disclaimer- I only walked around 2 floors *hehe but there's definitely more than two floors). So, I graciously followed his friend to the Court and waited patiently before he dismissed me, telling me to visit the other courts since our case would start after 10.00. 

*WEEE~~~! Travel time.

So I sat in the Federal Court (2nd Bench), if I'm not wrong since the other Federal Court was filled to the brim with reporters eager to write on the Church's case on the use of the word 'Allah'. So, I settled myself into the chair for the spectators/ public, i.e. at the back of the Court. (Well, if you're not a lawyer submitting, you also sit here)

*mental note, please check where you're sitting so that the light doesn't make you blind/ tired. 

What of my experience with the bench?

Seriously and honestly, I almost thought I was watching a movie/ drama. The lighting made the male chinese judge's face depict the face of an opera mask. The rest of the judges, were not much different. Haha.... but it was really cool, watching them up there as they considered the submissions of the counsels.

Any shining moments in that Court? 

Yes. When a counsel representing a law firm was suing presumably one of the partners, stating that lawyers are liars, unethical, to know them properly is only possible if one is to judge the person themselves.

The reply by the judge. "You can't say that." 

This reminded me, not to judge a group of person just because of one person. 

Eg. not to judge a basket of apples as bad just because one of the apples had a worm in it.

Eg. not to judge that women are all prostitutes just because there are many female prostitutes.

etc.

Take-back messages

To make sure I can pronounce my words clearly and persuasively. 

Why? I find difficulty in hearing counsels who can't do that well, so naturally, I don't listen to them. If this is happening to me, what more the judges.

To be very prepared. To make sure I've done all that I have needed to do before approaching the Courts.

Any place worth seeing in the Istana Kehakiman?

The Muzium Kehakiman. I liked that I could see relics/ antiques. Besides being able to see them, there were short succint explanations to explain certain objects/ history.

The library?

Well-stocked from what I've seen in less than 5 minutes, but I still prefer my University's library! =D

Well... I think this is my max.... of random blogging.

See you soon....I really should make a schedule to write this!

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

Music and it's attack.

Truth be told, when I woke up early this morning, I thought I prepared myself to receive the worst possible scenario; with regard to criticisms for my project paper. I thought I would be able to embrace all that I had done, but I was far from prepared. I couldn't even begin to ask about the problem because... I realized, I had been running round and round the problem, in my mind. Constantly thinking about it but not knowing the cause of the problem, which IMHO, is pathetic.

So, as I approached my school, my advisers, to ask for their opinion on my research paper, I realized I  couldn't even voice out what I really wanted to say without tears rolling down my cheeks. Even then, I knew  nothing about my project paper from them because they couldn't help me. So, I waited and waited for another appointment I made with another lecturer.

Thank God I asked for that appointment, for I was reminded of the true purpose I entered law school, the real reason I even considered law, which was, to not be idle for a cause I fought for, to be passionate about sth. And to know myself better, without which, I would be dead even if I am not dead.

After that session with her, my day was was sprinkled with a little bit of humour from Toastmasters at BASC.

For all my experience stated above, I thank Ms Maimuna and BASC Toastmasters for making my day, a challenging but  fruitful day.

Thanks.

Experience: Fitness First Menara Axis

On the 22nd of May 2013, Chris invited me to join her for a cycling class in her gym at  Fitness First Menara Axis. That being said, none of us was able to wake up early enough so we ditched the class and at least I; XD played with the equipment.

So, how was it?

Honestly, I have entered a commercialized gym, a club gym, a school gym, apartment gym and even a home gym and I have got to say, commercialized gym makes exercising feel luxurious and compact.

Upon entering the gym, I found it to be really cool since they require a card for access and locker. Then when I walked into the dressing room, it was even more cool since I noticed that there were changing rooms in between the lockers! Really sweet!

So, the first thing I did with Chris and Viv was jog on the treadmill. Well...
I have to say, maybe it's because my mum bought a really good treadmill or I'm a dummie with theirs because I found it difficult to configure the speed. ( I didn't mind my previous apartment's gym cause I really played with it and knew how to configure it fast). It's really tiring to press the speed button while I'm jogging. That being said, I thought that the treadmills were stable and strong enough to withstand the body weight of the runner.

Other than that, if I'm not wrong, it's possible to watch the TV while jogging but I did not bring my earphones (to hear the audio), so I've got no comment regarding this facility. LOL. That being said, I only think it's reasonable to watch TV while jogging if you're not really intent on pushing yourself because you wouldn't even be able to concentrate at what they're saying if you're not. XP I did 1 set of 8 mins. with Chris and Viv, and anor set of 8 mins. just with Viv.

After trying out the treadmills, we found Chris doing crunches! OMG!! Crunches/ Sit ups, I'm not sure what to call it is but since I've done crunches on the mat before, I found the equip. facilitated the proper posture to do them. She was doing normal crunches, side crunches, and even raised lug crunches. Really cool.

Then she played with some of the upper body equipment and guided me along the way. OMG. Chris was so cool, just like a personal trainer!

Then, we chilled a bit; at this point I tried their Sauna and Steam Room. I didn't really like the Steam Room because I thought there wasn't enough Steam (due to the door not being able to shut properly) but I did love the Sauna. Very invigorating.

Oh well, my personal view of a commercialized gym?

Motivation

I found it really lively when people were motivating each other in the gym but other than that, slightly intimidating when I think of all the treadmills being used at the same time. Reminds me of a hamster with a wheel in cage. LOL and all it does is run in the wheel when it feels like it.

That being said, I think it's good to join one if you're interested in joining the gym classes because the atmosphere to exercise would really motivate each participant to really push themselves. =) AND if you're joining a gym class, you'd get to learn different fun ways of exercising. Sweet, no?

Relaxation

I liked the fact that they had a sauna and steam room, really nice shower rooms, and a really nice hairdryer. LOL. It's been ages since I hair dried my hair with a hair dryer because of the paranoia that I'd disturb my roommates (because it does disturb me) and I truly loved their pro hair dryer. XP

Refreshments

I didn't try their drinks but they did provide refreshments. =) Good tactic. LOL. But they really could up their refreshments by labelling the amount of calories for each cup so the patron drinking high calorie drinks is able to ensure that they stay on track with their fitness goals (and to reduce restocking that drink station). 

Overall, I do see myself going to one in the future since I hate traffic jams and I'd rather be exercising than being stuck in one for the whole period. LOL. AND because of the operating hours; rather long... poor staff., but good news for me, XD.

Thanks Chris and Viv!

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. =)

My Virgin FULL Marathon

Me, at a Toastmasters Area Contest, a day just before the marathon.

Can still smile! X)

I'm no sports enthusiast but I do love exercise as it helps my mood and stress levels; other than the fact that it allows me to not be on a restricted diet! XD Oooh Yeah!

So, with that in mind, how do I keep myself motivated to continue exercising?

Well, I favour jogging so I DO marathons! This year, I've ran 3 marathons.

My latest run is actually, TO-DAY! It's the Women's Day Marathon centered at i-City which is approximately 5 - 10 mins. from my mum's office; a reason not to miss and it's held on the weekend my semesters break starts; another reason not to miss.

Then, here comes my point of view of the marathon as I ran the race!

Well, I listened to my senior's advice and ate lots of carbohydrates on Thursday since my run's on Sunday. Thank God I did, I wondered what would have happened to me if I had not listened to her! XD

On the day itself, I woke up at 0300 hours since my race starts at 0430 hours (42+ km **was it planned? XD), got my milo, (since I ate a heavy dinner) and reached there approximately at 0330 - 0345 hours, did a short aerobics session ( to warm up) and moved on to the starting line (just like any other normal marathons). Surprisingly, nobody was crowding the starting line (maybe cause it's bloody long). Then I ran.

I was basically at the front line of the marathon. That being said, after 2-3 km, I started to slow down (probably no pacer/ motivator) and walk(hehe). Then, runners from behind me would motivate me, "Run sister run! You can do it!" Then, somehow out of nowhere, my legs could move further and faster; alas it was short lived. That said, the guy (pacing for his girlfriend/ wife/ daughter) moved on while I lagged behind again. Then, out of nowhere, a girl in black shirt and short pants touched me. That small touch made all the difference. I paced with her pacer and her up to the 20^th km mark (with another small touch – hehe). Then, all hell broek loose as my legs failed me and I just lagged behind after that. Believe me, it was awful. I was basically limping as the balls of my feet ached, the heel of my feet ached, the sides of my feet ached, my leg muscles ached, and my butt felt like it’s going to shit anytime soon (there were many movable toilets but I didn’t want to use it since I doubt the cleanliness). What made me terribly irritated was that I still had the stamina to go further but the physical incapacity to complete the race AND it reminded me of Marcuz cousin's experience, "Limping through the marathon". HUHU... It had to happen to me too? TOO??

So I limped around the Mosque (part of the race route), did stretches on my feet now and then and continued limping until I thought there were too many people cutting me. Then I asked the runners, “What length are you running?” The reply was, “21 km, we still have 2 more kilometres to go, let’s do it!” Listening to her enthusiasm, I almost took the easy way out; after all, I still had 19 more km to run. So, I walked and jogged with her near her turning until I heard the call for 42 km runners to take the U-turn. THEN, instead of taking the left turn back to my house, I took the U-turn. I TOOK THE U-TURN! I’m shocked at my own stubbornness and relentless desire to finish the race but when I did the U-turn, I knew there was no turning back anymore. After all, I had devoted MYR 100.00 to this race, like it or not, I’M GOING TO FINISH THIS! DAMN MY LEGS AND GIVE ME MY PRIDE TO FINISH THIS RACE!

So, I basically limped and walked and jogged. I realized I was walking cum limping quite slowly (because people who were walking rather slowly were cutting me), damn my competitive streak; I can’t run anymore and I’m not going to call for an ambulance to save me from the excruciating pain. So, I reached the end with pride even if it’s a turtle’s pace, 6 hours 30 mins. to 7 hours. Pathetic but possible since I limped and walked more or less 5 hours of the race.

However, I do realize me completing the race wouldn’t have been possible if not for the motivators (the guys, aunties, young adults and performers; including the running nurse). Thanks! A LOT! Now I can proudly say I ran 42 + km thanks to  you!

There were other freebies, but this was in the Finisher's bag with 2 bananas and 3 apples. 

Lessons learned from the race

1.     Be armed with power pack (chocolate liquid stuff) **experienced the difference when given at one of the water stations – it allowed me to run just a tiny bit of  a distance with those aching legs, and most of the runners do have it with them

2.     Wear better shoes – so the shock my legs receive is less

3.     Wear good socks – same as the above

4.     Stay hydrated – with isotonic and water at the stations, and get sprayed by water when possible.

5.     Eat bananas – keeps you sane if you’re a monkey (LOL- no, for the energy)

6.     Train  your legs to not incapacitate you (at least regular trainings of 30km)

7.     Tablets (if you’re really serious to prevent cramps and et cetera)

Personal thoughts on the race

1.     I hated the scenery, it was dull, ugly and repetitive (the mosque and lots of other areas – did a few U-turns).

2.     The parking cost me MYR 10.00.

3.     They did not publicize how to get the discount at MYR 10.00 and had me limping to and fro the ticket counter and the marathon counter.

4.     There was good guiding (bicycles, ambulances, police, supporters, and volunteers).

5.     Frequent water booths.

6.     Good timing devices (not too big and scary)

7.     Very positive and supportive atmosphere.

Temporary Battle Scar

My Results!

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 : New Year 2013

It's been so long since I've posted, I thought I should at least post one more post to compensate for my incompetence. XD

News Years Day?

How was your News Years Eve spent?

Well, there was a Political Celebration at Pandamaran Field which caused my entire neighbourhood to suffer an electricity shortage for a few hours... TT.TT... The person with the mole on his mouth... what's his name... URGH...Ronnie Liu.. made such a commotion, proof... security surrounding the area 2-3 hours before the event even started.  BIG SHOT. Probably test test electricity until Kampung Raja Uda no electricity. Huhu.

Oh well, at least I could experience how my ancestors showered in the night with a candle in their toilet. 

LOL. Other than that, more personal time for me to deliberate and set up my New Year Resolutions.

1. Eat well.
2. Sleep well.
3. Exercise well.
1. Be able to swim to Pulau Tioman. (Focus on Strength and Resistance training)
2. Be able to complete one full Marathon this year. (Focus on Cardio)
3. Be able to complete Brooks Marathon with a better time.
4. Study well.

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.

Cameron 2123 on a personal level

So... why was I in Cameron when it's not even semester break? Why o why?
Yes... it's sweet potatoes!!! LOL... Well... that's part reason but there's also another real reason why I'm in Cameron, cause it's a trip organized by my church!

So, we visited a few saint's house in Cameron, enjoyed gospel songs with them while receiving updates from them regarding the move in Cameron.

TV gained center space in this house with everybody watching Tom & Jerry while the other house was busy reading the newspaper. LOL

Then... group picture with those that followed through with the engagement to where the shirt!

So... what have I gained from this Church camp? Hrm...

The power of pray reading. As you've seen above, we were walking round and round in the morning... round a school field just reciting bible verses (after a church message). Was there a difference? Definitely, reciting from your heart and reading a verse, I believe the answer is clear, =).

The winner will emerge.

Which reminds me, Cameron Highland is famous for it's steamboat thanks to the cool temperature. So many restaurants offering steamboat would be around that corner; and on one lovely evening after all the church meetings (cramped into one day), there was a steamboat planned. After that meal, while taking a walk round the market, someone managed to spot the cake vendor opening shop. Then, we; surrounding the shop with oohs-aahs, droves of people gathered round to see the ruckus we caused (free marketing) and enhanced the vendor's business. LOL... He really was selling his desserts like hot cakes on that day.

That being said, Cameron Highlands really is a shoppers produce haven. So much so that even this Brother here could hold his head up high while carrying bags of produce.

Cameron Highlands 21-23092012

It's been so long since anybody has heard from me, no?
Well... Hopefully, this will be the missing link from where I've stopped!

Basically, on the 21st of September, I went up to Cameron Highlands and ate lots and lots of sweet potatoes and corn!! XD my mouth looked like D cause I was stuffing so many mushrooms... potatoes and corn into my mouth...=) So here's the gist of it.

I went to two tea plantations...
Cameron Valley and Boh Tea Plantation
So... what's the difference?
Cameron Valley is a smaller tea plantation, has a shorter hike, no jam and o-k food. While at Boh Tea Plantation, their refreshments are horrible.

NEVER go to Boh Tea Plantation to eat their cakes. It taste as if it's not cooked AND their hot chocolate is watery, that being said, if it's cheap; I'll forgive BUT it's charged at premium prices, so watch your pockets when you're here.

SO... which is really worth it?
There are basically two sides of a coin on this matter.

This picture is of me at the highest peak you can climb at Cameron Valley Tea Plantation. The most you'd get is this view, which is rather refreshing but the climb up there is rather dangerous. So, if you're having weak legs (unable to climb steep slopes), have someone that's rather stable to support you.

The above is me at Boh Tea Plantation. In terms of view, my bet would be Boh Tea Plantation. Besides that,  the steps to climb are safer (from the car park) and you'll reach the peak where they've put their tourist rest spot // refreshment area.

The view at Boh Tea is great but do consider how you intend to get there. If you're not so well versed with your car, PLEASE do not be a super-hero and think you'd be able to drive there because there are many blind spots (sharp turnings on a hill to get there) and the bus drivers there really test the boundaries that the small road can hold them before falling off the cliff. So, proceed to Boh Tea Plantation with caution if you're planning to bring your car. Ensure your driving skills are on a sufficient level.

So... were Tea Plantations the only places I gone to while at Cameron?... Definitely... NOT... LOL... I also went to the  Ee Feng Gu Honey Bee Farm (near the Kea Farm area) for the first time (even though I'm Malaysian). XD

You get to be super close to the bees... Mwahhahahah... and it's free... of course... considering the risk you'd be in when you disturb them! LOL, anyway... back to the point, there's lots of flowers there for the bees to feed on. Various flowers, and I strongly encourage you to only buy your honey from the bee farm cause it's really genuine local honey for just MYR 45.00 for a litre. I wish I bought some but ... I don't drink honey... so yeah... I didn't buy any. TT.TT

Oh well... this is just the short highlights of my trip, but there'll be more details later!

1st Week of University

It's been so long since I've been back to school that yes... I did get thrown off balance when I returned to school.

So... how was it? XD Well... I have a lecture mate who's now staying at the same building as me AND I have an event to hold that I'm going bonkers about due to the deadline and the problems that are associated with it. WHY IS TIME RUNNING FROM ME!!!!??@@##!! Oh well...

Law? Usual. Read my English literature; Things Fall Apart by Chinua Achebe.

It's a really good book. Introduced me to a different world altogether; the African culture. It has given me real insight towards their culture, their way of thought and how a society braces a different culture.. What's more, I heard a Nigerian boast that he really pays great respect about his parents while reading the book; reinforcing my views as I read further. So... my say? This book deserved the price it won and deserved the number of translation done on it!

I love my Russian class!!! IT RAWKS!!! Just haven't learned to read and write yet. XD

Latest cooking endeavour? Mwahahhahaa... Pop the popcorn!! Pop pop pop!!! 

Ngahahahhahaa.... okay okay okay... From now on... I've also made up a new resolution. I WILL NEVER EAT any deserts if it is not made by me. After all, sometimes... you don't know what's in it and really... the trouble it takes you to do it really makes you think whether it's really worth it to even get the desert in the first place... but yeah... I've toiled and toiled in the kitchen this past week and have come up with a tutorial to make popcorn.

Popcorn

Ingredients

Popcorn kernels

Cooking oil

Directions

1. Pour some hot oil into the wok (enough to contain all your popcorn) and cover it. After some time when you think the oil is becoming hot, add four or five kernels into the wok.
2. Wait till you hear the pop-pop of the kernels before adding the rest of the kernels that you're going to make.
3. While it's popping, shake your pan so that the heat is evenly distributed.
4. When you find that the pop has subsided, set the wok aside. 
5. The pop corn is now ready for seasoning.

Seasonings

Caramel story(I mainly referred to his method to make the caramel but there's basically a long story about this...)

Yes... Like any stupid and confident girl, I thought caramel was as easy as ABC so I made my first batch of popcorn today just after reading a recipe (after much persuasion to try a sweet version) thinking that if I melt approximately 3/4 cup of sugar, 2 tbsp of water and 1/2 cup of oil, things will work out just fine... YEAH RIGHT... it failed... (after I mixed it together with my popcorn {wasting that as well} hoping that it would stick in the end... which it did not). Amateur-ish of me but I am an amateur in the kitchen... XD, but I found this video rather helpful. Gordon Ramsay... you're my savior. Basically, the ratio is 1:1 for caramel sauce, Liquid : Fat.

So good luck playing with the frying pan. ( I tried at least twice before getting it on the third try)

Caramel (Wei Chin's way)

3/4 cup of sugar

Margarine

1. Turn on the fire, place the sugar in the frying pan and follow Gordon Ramsay... XD
2. When it starts to turn amber in color, get the pan off the gas (just switch it off). Continue rolling it until the all the sugar has melted.
3. Then add in the fat (margarine in my case since it was the only one available at the grocery store downstairs).
4. Whirl it around till all fat and liquid has been well-blended.
5. Immediately drizzle it over the pop-corn unless you're planning on making caramel candy.
6. After it is cooled down, pluck the balled up pieces apart and store it well.

Things I've learned from making caramel

• Don't wait too long when before drizzling the caramel on the popcorn. My caramel hardened because I'm doing caramel sauce, the dry way. (2nd Try Mistake)
• To clean the pan or anything containing sugar, simply heat whatever that has sugar on it with water till it's dissolved into the water or easily removable. (Basically, just imagine yourself making a sugar solution - like a Science student conducting an experiment)
• More tips? Refer to David Lebovitz.

Fragrant butter

If you're running low on butter, extend the usage of it's flavor by melting some butter into oil. Then drizzle over the popcorn.

Olive oil and rosemary

Heat olive oil with rosemary and drizzle it over popcorn.

Olive oil + Cider Vinegar Vinaigrette

This mixture does not last overnight as cider vinegar is water hence it will shrink and moisten the whole batch (spoiling it quicker then ever), so... don't do this if you're not planning to use it.

Paprika and salt

I basically popped my popcorn in the oil containing paprika and salt for an even coating on all my popcorn (stir the mixture in the oil to prevent clumps), after popping, I added salt and paprika again according to taste ( My first batch of popcorn and honestly... since I like paprika, my favorite)

There are basically more seasoning combos for popcorn but it's really up to you in the end cause you're going to be the one eating it... XD... I try to mix in some spices to kick up the health benefits of the food I eat ; hence producing the above combos but basically, they're also one of my favourite spices; therefore justifying my special mention of these spices. Mwahahha

**Special note, just in case you're going to dismiss popcorn altogether because it's unhealthy... think again for I've got research to back me up! Popcorn becomes healthy or unhealthy due to the choice of seasonings, So good luck at your attempt in making popcorn. XD

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).

My first facial

It's been so long since I've return here... but yeah... it is not all for naught for I've become a half-zombie with blisters on my legs... Yeah right... haha....So yeah... the list of activities goes like this.

This Monday, on the 3rd of September, I became a practiced hawk... waiting for the digital clock on my laptop to show 9.00 to register my course... then... I registered at 9.00 to unfavorable co-curriculum classes... Which I think I'll drop to take on in  a different semester.Then, by 11.00 o' clock, I went and did my first facial at Fahrenheit 88... wuuhuuuhuuu, just look at my poor face.

That would teach me to look after my face...My nose still hurts....TT.TT... The girl who was doing my face was like... girl don't cry... and I was like... but it's so pain... XD

I'll update soon~

Recipe - Red lentil veggie burgers

It's been so long since I've posted a recipe post... so here comes one!! XD

Actually, I've been doing lots and lots of muffins these past semester break ( cause my mum needs me to finish up the two boxes of dates she bought last year) but I haven't posted any...hehe... unfortunately but I'd post them soon... LOL... when I feel like it! XD The last one was really scrumptious using whatever was in my kitchen but hey... I will post it up soon! XD if there is an urge to share my super duper delicious secret muffins... and yeah... they're really healthy and worth it compared to those muffins you buy out there... =P cause mine is super duper delicious and super duper healthy... XD super duper dumb to promote me muffins without proof but yeah... it is super duper worth it to whip it up. Now... drum roll please.... I shall present to you... Red lentil Veggie Burgers.

Why red lentils? Cause it's one of the fastest lentils to cook and I have my stock from six months ago to use before it goes really really old and useless. Just in case you don't know what's lentils... I'll post a picture of it here...Just in case there are people like me who don't know their way in the local grocery store...The cooked and the uncooked kacang dhal merah = red lentils.

I've basically tried to follow the recipe to the letter but ... since I'm dirt poor and stupid at times... I've bought wrong ingredients thinking they were what I thought they were... haha... and used them instead! XD

the Chinese Celery ( I didn't know such a thing existed until I read the label... XD ) I used it instead of Parsley leaves.

wait... I did quite a few changes to the recipe... so I'll just post my adaptation here...

Ingredients

1 1/2 cups red lentils

Cooking oil to stir-fry vegetables and bast the burgers

1 small onion, finely chopped

3 garlic cloves, finely chopped

1 1/2 teaspoons ground cumin

a few shakes of white / black ground pepper from the bottle if any... at hand

3/4 cup of instant oatmeal (my 'healthy' sister bought them but didn't even touch them)

1 packet of chinese celery, chopped to the approximate length of your palm

2 large eggs, lightly beaten (to hold the burgers)

1 tbsp of salt 

Directions

1. Preheat the oven to 180C. In a large saucepan, cover the lentils with cold water by 2 inches and bring to a boil over high heat. Reduce heat and simmer until lentils are very tender, about 10 mins (maybe earlier). Look at my picture to gauge whether yours is cooked. Drain well.

2. In a medium frying pan, heat some oil to stir-fry onion, garlic and carrots over moderately high heat. When carrots begin to soften, add in ALL the Chinese celery (otherwise the celery would be too tough to form into balls/ patties since they'll be sticking out). If not... just follow the lady's example and use a soft vege whereby you can add it later while you're mixing all the ingredients. Stir in the cumin and cayenne and remove from heat.

3. In  a large bowl// the large saucepan you used earlier, combine all of the ingredients. The lentils, breadcrumbs, eggs, SALT, pepper and vege mixture. Mix them well and form it into burgers. Ball them up into small balls and press them down on the pan.

4. Line a baking pan with foil. Brush the foil and tops of burgers with oil and let your oven do the magic for 15-20 minutes.

This smart alec was too lazy to foil up the last pan since this recipe made me about 30 burgers... and guess what... the ones in the pan (fortunately only five) not foiled up broke apart upon removal. This went to my tummy straight/ or the doggies. Not only that... since I forgot to add salt... it smelled fantastic but tasted bland (stupid WC) so they were salvaged by dipping them in chili/ tomato sauce. Last picture courtesy of Damari.

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.