Chronicles of Jon-C's Melancholy Life!

When everything seems to go against you, remember You'll Never Walk & Fight Alone!

2010-08-14T21:59:00.004+08:00

When the going gets tough, the tough get's going. When everything seems to be going against you, it's the perfect time to stand up and show what you're capable of. This is the opportunity to show all the doubters,haters and naysayers the middle finger and say it to their face "Fuck you and your back-stabbing. I am better than YOU."

Don't give up, there are low profile but street-smart people out there who will help and guide you. Be strong and hang on. There is light in front of the dark tunnel. Short-term pain for long term stability - get that into your head and haul ass! You can do it. Toughen up and stop moaning. Action speaks louder than all the negative words and gossips.

To the doubter, naysayer and hater - YOU know who you are. Remember this, what goes around come around and karma is a bitch! Please let it be known that your dark intensions can be seen through your thin veiled outer shell. You can label others as evil, selfish or any other worst kind of scum imaginable and make it believable to your intended audiences, but please realise the ultimate judge up there will eye your every move, action and lie.

This is not my battle, but i will fight as if my life depends on it. I don't like to fail nor will i like to see a friend getting ganged up on and bullied to the ground. I made a promise to help and i will. Mark my words - failure is not an option and those who has got your back covered, will fight tooth and nail beside you all the way to see you succeed. Don't let this opportunity go, grab it with both your hands no matter how tough it will be in the first couple of months. Things will only get worse before it gets any better.

Plan your point of attack and strategy. Leave no stones unturned, leave no corners unchecked. Your imidiate superiors might not act in support of you, but you can still get things done your way. Do not fear, there's always a new window if those in front of you looked shut. When push comes to shove, those supporting you will help you heck a hole through the wall to get your call for help through.

All is not lost, there is a big chance to win the war even though everything look bleak now. You might have lost the battle at the moment, but the final outcome of the war is still not yet set in stone. All you need to do, is to decide are you willing to fight and get tough? If the answer is yes, you are well on your way and you must hang in there no matter how bad things will get initially. Time to clean house and throw out all the negative forces and install your own team of soldiers who will fight for you!

Get it into your head - all is not lost. Don't give up without a good fight and do exactly what those who look down on your want - you giving up.You are not fighting alone!

-JonC-

Farewell Senator Edward Moore "Ted" Kennedy - 1932-2009

2009-08-30T14:40:00.007+08:00

The last of the famous Kennedy clan brothers who gave so much for freedom and democracy, not only in the US but also throughout the world has returned to God to be with his 2 brothers who made the ultimate sacrifices on the altar of democracy: John F. Kennedy and Robert F. Kennedy.

To Senator Edward Kennedy, you not only give hope to American people but to all citizens of the world. Your selflessness in pursuing justice and equality for all will serve to inspire everyone to continue the fight and dream for a better world. Thank you and rest in peace.

"Integrity is the lifeblood of democracy. Deceit is a poison in its veins." Edward Kennedy.

Justice For Teoh Beng Hock.

2009-07-21T01:14:00.004+08:00

I was shocked and in disbelief when i heard of the tragic death of a young and idealistic man who tried to make a difference for all of us fellow Malaysians. He tried to break through the lines that have devided us for over 50 years but ultimately was taken away and sacrificed in the fight for better governance and equality for all.

Conflicting details of his untimely demise has been splashed across the media and there still some disturbing and lingering questions to be answered by the MACC. The investigations of corruption on the PR Selangor State Excos and Assemblymen in itself, is already dubious before this tragedy. I am not going to touch on the stupid press statements and unscrupulous reporting by the powers that be. We as matured Malaysians, know better and refused to be spoon fed with lies and deceit anymore. Enough is enough.

We have already lost a man with a bright future to a corrupt system. I sincerely hope PR will buck-up, and not let Teoh Beng Hock's sacrifices and struggles be wasted. Stop the petty differences. Work together irregardless of different ideology and political views, as at the end of the day, all of us Malaysians want the same things - better governance, equality, no corruption and justice.

To those who try to seed hatred with this tragedy, let be know that God and the people are watching you closely. We the RAKYAT are not stupid and easy to brain-wash anymore. Those who sow the seeds of hatred will have retributions coming your way. It's not about politics and race anymore. Let it be known that either way, the truth shall prevail and justice be served.

Teoh Beng Huat, your fight will go on and we Malaysians will seek to undone the injustices done to you. Rest be assured, your name, your sacrifice and what you stand for will not be forgotten. The fight will go on and you will not go down in vain.

Lastly, my deepest condolences to the Teoh family and his beloved fiance. Rest In Peace my fellow Malaysian.

TF 2 - Revenge of the Fallen: My take / review

2009-07-14T10:24:00.004+08:00

After giving it much thought, and coming from a pretty hardcore TF fan, I'd have to give the movie a thumbs down. More hype than anything else i'd say. Probably the only thing that got me through the whole movie was the cool transforming process of Optimus Prime and one hot looking Megan Fox!

As a gear-head myself, nothing is more sexy than to see a hot chick with a mechanic's overall, holding a wrench in one hand and with engine oil smeared all over the body! Dang, Megan Fox is da bomb! As a G1 fan, i absolutely despise the "organic" looking newer Autobots and all of the Decepticons. Bloody hideous if you ask me.

Story wise, there not much to talk about honestly. If not for some of the more funny scenes involving Sam's parents and more specifically his mum, i'd most probably be bored to death. Well, looking at the way the movie ended, there will definitely be a third TF movie.

Lastly, i'll leave the movie as a pure action flick in typical Michael Bay fashion - great shots and great special effects. No more, no less.

Transformers Hype and Madness!

2009-07-01T13:22:00.007+08:00

Been a week since Transformers 2 - Revenge of The Fallen has been playing in the local cinemas, I've yet to be able to get the tickets to the show times that i want. Darn TGV Aeon Bukit Tinggi cinema is just a stone's throw away from my office and i'm still having trouble getting the tickets. My colleague told me he had to buy the tickets, 3 days in advance and yet he still got the early show that starts at 7:45pm and not exactly the best seats as well.

Well, i've been a big fan of the cartoon series since the 80's and the Generation 1 (G1) times. I'm always glued to the tv every Saturday morning trying to catch the 30 minutes series when i was younger. Who can forget that red and blue truck - Optimus Prime? I can't remember how many times i begged my dad to get me the toy for my birthday during my younger days - to no vail.

All, the while i thought i've been through that stage and out grown the cartoon. Oh boy! How wrong i was in assuming that. When the movie first came out in 2007, my jaw dropped right down to the floor. Nevermind the cheesy storyline, the mare fact of seeing Optimus transform in the movie alone was enough to blow my mind away. The yearning for all things Transformer see me spending money to build up my collection of the toys. Damn it! I turned into an old little kid overnight. Imagine a dude my age hunting for them toys on ebay and in the local toy shops. You won't believe how many similar guys do the same thing as me - diehard and harcore fans.

This time around, i'm not gonna get so crazy on the toys part (i've got most of them anyways, especially the different versions of Optimus), but am still hunting high and low for the ticket for the sequel. Till then, it looks like i'll just have to watch more of the first movie on my Blu-Ray.

-Jon"Optimus Prime"C

Recession in football? What recession?

2009-06-09T09:21:00.007+08:00

The sports (specifically the footie) section lately, never seizes to amaze me. When most are suffering on the sidelines with the world-wide recession, the footballing gods are doing their part by summoning the rich disciples like the Man City, Man Utd, Chelsea and Real Madrid to spend big to help revitalise the world-wide economy. How noble of them to do so.

Well, where does it leave us - a debt saddled and "living in history" club, Liverpool? 20 million quids in the transfer kitty for Rafa? Looking at the crazy inflated prices of players across the continent and the expected 6+5 rules which is inflating an already inflated local British Isle players' prices, we won't even be able to afford Kaka's right boot. The mercurial Brazilian just left San Siro for £56m. How about the reported +/- £70m for the *ahem* greasy haired and constantly diving er..... ya know who i mean.

The financial report released last week did nothing to appease the already enraged faithfuls. What ever good news about the pre-tax profit of £10.2m was quickly burnt out by the report of £359m debt and £41m annual loss. The two clowns on top was reported to have claim up to £2m in personal expenses.

I'm braced to see us getting screwed in the transfer market. Already been reported, our targets are already being courted and some already courted by the big carrots being dangled infront of 'em...... cue one Gareth Barry - which in away, is good as we don't need an overated Ingerlund player.

Expect to see more fringe players leave the club in order to free up resources to get the players we need. Andrea Dossena has already handed in a transfer request and heading back to Serie A (likely Juve). Who's next? The often frustrating Ryan Babel? The much blamed and misunderstood Lucas Leiva? Don't even bother talking bout Andrei Voronin - he's gone the day we shipped..... er i mean loaned him back to the Bundesliga.

The really frustrating part is how many of our "spine" team members will leave? Mascherano is being courted by Barca - which i doubt will succeed in tempting our version of Wolverine to leave.... yet. The most worrying player is Alonso. I mean who can blame him after the way he was treated last summer while the gaffer was "pimping" him to the continental clubs to pay for that before mentioned over-rated Ingurland player.

It's gonna be a crazy summer and i'm braced for more heartbreaks. Let's hope most of the "spine" of the team will still be coming over to Thailand or Singapore for the pre-season friendlies. BTW, is it juts me or are the ticket for the game in our friendly southern neighbour, bloody expensive? I'm missing the game pure for the fact that i am brooke and would rather invest in the 1k i would have to spend into my trip to Anfield fund.

Any how, the world still spins on it's 23.5° from vertical axis and life still goes on irregardles of how much shit i am painfully seeing in my beloved footie club. My mostly hate relationship with my work still hovers on. As the club motto goes, i'll never walk alone - and that's what keeping me sane. Walk on.

P/S - We, The Mighty Reds' have been having a recession since the day the pic above was taken in 1990.

-JonC-

The Irony of It All!

2009-05-18T11:50:00.003+08:00

Been too darn distress to update me blog lately. And no, it's not because The Mighty Reds screwed up and didn't win the BPL title. It's was no other than the ugly politics in the Silver State that really got me riled up. By now everyone would have had access into the ugly scenes in the DUN, so it's pointless for me to post the shameless videos and pictures of the despicable acts that happened in there. Using "outsiders" to do their dirty bidding is truly shameful and uncalled for.

Now, the female frog's constantly changing and dramatic explanations about the "hotel key" incident is a fooking insult to all our intelligence. Wait, maybe she'd left her brain after hopping around so much. Videos and pictures have clearly shown she did the "deed" but wait, in Bolehland judiciary she might still get scott free.

For a while there, i thought there was daylight at the end of the tunnel for our judiciary system. Then again in less than 24 hours, the darkness resumed again. All this drama is turning us into the laughing stalk of the world. Democracy is truly dead and buried here.

All this confusion and non-sense ain't doing all of us any good, especially to Perakians like me. Instead of working on getting the economy back on track, our "tai-kor" is busy with lawyers working on taking away the people's power in choosing their representative. I got so bloody disillusioned, i was contemplating to never set foot in Perak again until this mess is settled once and for all.

Let's see if the appeals court will act "funky" again after delaying the PR's appeal to the coming 21st May. Look's like they are not so efficient after all. What happened to the less than 24 hour appeal of execution approval granted to the illegal MB earlier. Hmmmmmmm, i smell a rat of miles away!

Hillsborough, 15th April 1989 - 20 years on.

2009-04-15T09:55:00.009+08:00

I was only 12 years-old, when the live 1989 FA Cup match on RTM was unexpectedly cut short. I had no idea what was going on but managed to catch a glimpse of the crowds struggling and spilling out of the stand on to the pitch at Hillsborough.

20 years later and after reading numerous heroic, sad and tragic stories of the victims and survivors, I still can't understand why it had to happen. It's just plain senseless and tragic to go home in a body bag when a football fan should be happily enjoying the footballing occasion and go home with his fellow mates and fans to celebrate the beautiful game with a pint or two.

I kid you not, when i say that i could have easily been among those who had perished, had i live and grown up in Liverpool and attended the match. My passion for Liverpool is unquestionable and i would have paid an arm and a leg, just to watch my beloved club play - anytime and anywhere.

Every year, come April 15th, i'll pay my own little tribute to the 96. This year is no different. I'll be having my own moment of silence to reflect on the tragic event and pray that justice will be serve to them and their love ones. To me, they are more then just a fellow Red, but an extended family. It's painful to acknowledge that they are someone's father, mother, grandad, brother, sister, nephew, cousin and dear friend. Their senseless lost has left a lasting impression on the very fabric of the club, the fans and the city of Liverpool.

Supporting LFC will never be the same for again all of us. We have left little pieces of ourselves literally on the Hilsborough Memorial and the bond between club and fans will never be broken. 96 of our fellow Reds paid for this special bond with their lives - a debt that none of us or the club will ever be able pay back. We must NEVER EVER forget this. Hence, we must also not give up the struggle to give the dignity and justice back to the victims, their families and fans who have been wrongfully and blatantly blame for this tragic tragedy. Let's all pray and hope that this senseless tragedy will never be repeated again at any football stadium.

Head over to the LFC's official website tribute to put faces to the names of the victims - Hillsborough Remembered - 20 years on

Never Forgive, Never Forget. You'll Never Walk Alone & Justice For The 96.

A Sombre & Mourning Kopite,
JonC

My Mentari Besar: YAB Dato’ Seri Ir Haji Mohammad Nizar bin Jamaluddin

2009-04-07T10:04:00.004+08:00

He was unlawfully and undemocratically removed from office. I lost the state government that i choose no thanks to some under-handed and double-dealing dirty politics. Now, my fellow Perakian, do the right thing by voting for Dato' Seri Nizar as the MP for Bukit Gantang. Let's show we the people of Perak, don't take no shit from the corrupt and desperate. We cannot afford to see the good work by him go to waste. Build a better future for everyone, irregardless of our different racial background, wealth or social status. We owe it to our future generations, to make Perak better and more prosperous place for all.

Ladies and gentleman, Bolehland "proudly" presents you Mr Botox -the PM and Mrs Botox - the "first" lady?

2009-04-03T15:57:00.007+08:00

Well, things sure move fast lately - "corrupted" politicians seemingly "against" the botox clan are getting prosecuted by the "oh so efficient" tool called MACC. A popular state government got over thrown in less than a week. Now, this begs me to think why then are our economy free-falling so fast and steps to cushion and lessen the slide coming so late? Someone getting too busy taking care of other business?

The true colours of this dude will show itself soon. I will bet money on it. Money talks and bullshit walks - this age-old saying is definitely a true reflection of the Bolehland political scenes. Reading the independent news report from alternative news sites, never fails to show me how gullable and erm..... dare i say "smart" some people can be. Makes me think, how i'd be able to earn mega bucks, had i taken up political science and snake my way into the position of a political analyst and consultant to the Brang Naik propaganda and political machine. Then again i would not be able to live on with my conscience.

I hate repeating this cliche, but when will the powers that be start to treat us with the kind of respect a thinking and smart citizen deserves? We're not staying on trees or 3-year olds anymore. DUH! Well, looks like the new PM already got his savy p.r. machine working overtime to make him look good. Catch the corrupted lah, 1 Bolehland lah and changing the racial politics lah. Well, i'd say wait and see lah, how long this p.r. exercise can run until his party start dancing to the same old tune again.

We're all facing the same shit and conundrum, and as my "macha" ffs said in his blog - "The Dark Age.... is finally here." All we can do now is hope and pray that the Botox clan don't deepen the already big hole we find ourselves in - no thanks to the previous 2 PMs.

I truly hope the recent uncertainty brought up by the dirty underhand tactics of you know who, will not frighten my fellow citizens of Bolehland and detract them from the struggle to make this a better and more just place for everyone.

Time flies.......when you have shit to clean and systems to migrate!

2009-03-23T12:22:00.004+08:00

Been a freaking long while since i even got time to sit still to check my personal emails let alone update my forsaken blog. Like the title says, time really flies when you have truck loads of shit to clean up in the office. Just managed to complete 2 con-current projects in my office with a third one still in the process and to be completed by next week pending the final updates.

Imagine having to treat ya house like a hotel, spending just 8 hours at home while the rest of the day is spent in the office slogging it out to migrate over 50 work-stations and notebooks to a new domain sever and email domain. Been a hellish 2 weeks for me in terms of having no social life or what-so-ever. Hardly even managed to watch any tv when i get back home the past couple of days, usually after 12 or 1 am.

Been working like a mad-man and am a walking zombie. 5 hours of sleep ain't cutting it and i am seriously burned out. Well, thats the boring update on me since i went AWOL (again) from blogsphere the past 3 weeks.

That being said, was still happy with the fact that my footie team in red - LFC is doing bloody well to give the hated "you know who" a run for their money. The last 3 results have been absolutely brilliant. 5-0 against Real and 1-4 against "you know who" certainly help me keep a cool head in an already crazy fortnight. Left work last night to arrive home in time to watch another brilliant game against Villa and see us give them a thorough thumping - 5-0. Well, seems like all my frustration and worry about the season has vanish.... well most of it anyway in the space of just 3 games. Football is a crazy business and the ball is round, so ya just dunno whats gonna happen until the season truly ends and the fat lady sings.

Till then, it's back to slogging it out with my notebook again until end of the month when i'll be truly free and relaxed.

-JonC-

What's left of this land?

2009-03-04T17:30:00.004+08:00

What's left of this land?
Where the security forces intimidate and abuse,
Where the security forces take sides,
Where one is guilty until proven other wise,
Where the security forces are political pawns.

What's left of this land?
Where money and power will set you free,
Where serious crimes are like a movie,
Where political misuse of power is rampant,
Where honour has a price.

What's left of this land?
When the rule of law is missing,
When the corrupted are ruling,
When rules are bent and broken for personal gain,
When the very people entrusted to judge are questionable.

What's left of this land?
When royalty take sides,
When the voices of the people is nothing,
When tyrants are running the show,
When the citizens are ignored.

What's left of this land?
Where promises of prosperity, freedom and justice once prevail,
Where bad apples are trying to divide us,
Where law and constitution are turning into a playground,
Where honour is but a distant memory.

What's left of this land?
Where i had great dreams of,
Where i wanted to see become great,
Where time is fast running out,
Where we're all turning into a joke.

What's left of this land?
How can we be free?
When can justice prevail?
Where is our hopes and dreams?
Who can answer me?

A Comedy Titled Boleh Land.

2009-02-17T12:21:00.005+08:00

As if we're not pre-occupied enough with our struggle to fight the economic recession, some power brokers are busy engaging in under-handed politicking. First was the case of the 3 frogs, followed by the undemocratic (unconstitutional) removal of the Perak state government, a Kedah politician's resignation due to constant harassment and finally 2 days ago - the public humiliation of a tireless and hard working Selangor exco-woman.

I am really getting tired of all the political bollocks that's been going on in Boleh Land. What's the price of a politician's soul, integrity and honour? RM50 mil? What's the reward for working hard toward a better Malaysia for everyone? Public humiliation? I truly fear for the future of Malaysia and the road our supposedly "wise" leaders are taking us to.

It's unfortunate that all the hard work done since the last election 11 months ago by PR governments are getting torn down brick-by-brick right before our very eyes. The latest ugly incident involving the state exco-woman truly shows how dirty politics can get in Boleh Land. Power and greed preside over righteousness. Makes you wonder how the events that unfolded are timed so perfectly one after the other doesn't it?

The perpetrator of the whole scandal and the scum-bag that took / expose the pictures better be prepared to face severe backlash from the public. We're not 3 year old kids that will been spoon fed with the propagandas anymore. I really do hope the shenanigans that's been hogging the limelight will rally and move the apathetic younger Malaysians into doing something before it's too late. Sitting around quietly to wait your faith will NEVER be the solution to all our problem. We need to decided our destiny as a nation and as one united people with our own bare hands, not by the invisible hands of the corrupted powers to be.

Elizabeth Wong, it's unfortunate that you won't be able to finish what you started back in March '08. But let it be known what you strive to achieve will be continued on by your fellow PR colleagues. The Malaysian public will continue to support your struggles irregardless of how much "they" try to discredit and humiliate you. Scandal or not, the RAKYAT will not relinquish the fight to make Malaysia into a land where justice, equality and rule of law will prevail.

Ultimate Betrayal & Insult!!!!

2009-02-05T10:05:00.005+08:00

I am so angered and disappointed with all the developments in my home state - Perak. I voted for better governance and more transparency in the PR. Ultimately my vote got betrayed and my intelligence insulted by greed, self-importance and petty differences.

Didn't sleep well at all last night as i was really saddened by all this political circus. Now i can feel how my dad felt when he used to be a campaign worker for another DAP ADUN that jumped in his younger days.

Remember the 4 faces of the "frogs" the could well have effectively killed the democratic creed - a government of the people, by the people and for the people, in Perak. I hope your consciences will come back to haunt you. How can you sleep at night knowing that you have broken the trust of your voters? What the people have given you can also be taken back my the people - your actual boss.

Hee Yit Foong, you've turned your back on the very people that have transformed you from a normal clerk into a Deputy State Speaker all in the name of fame, fortune, power and greed. Have you not read President John F. Kennedy's inaugral speech where he said "ask not what your country can do for you but what you can do for your country." Why are you too blinded by all your greed and petty differences with the senior party members? Why waste your 22 years of sacrifices when change is finally coming? I am trully dumbfolded by news that you complained about not getting an exco position and the new Camry car.

What you do now echoes in eternity. Remember who is boss.

**It's official - no by election, nor a dissolved state assembly. Sultan sides with the corrupt to form new government not mandated by the people of Perak. Democracy is dead as far as i am concerned.

WTF is going on in Perak?

2009-02-04T15:32:00.005+08:00

As i'm typing this, all Perakians might be cursing all the political turmoil that's been going on the past 3 weeks. Apparently the state assembly will be dissolved later today after 3 frogs decided to take the bait to jump over to the corrupt - or rather tried to cover their arses by turning independent.

Those 3 who were elected as the PR representatives are a fooking disgrace. You're already voted to be in power, so fooking accept the mandate from the people to lead the state government. The 2 PKR exco members are "not" clean hence with their pending corruption case. I'm not surprised with all their drama to divert attention from their court date.

I'm most dissapointed with report stating that Deputy Speaker and Jelapang ADUN Hee Yit Foong - 22 years DAP veteran, had resigned from the party and rumoured to be jumping to the other camp (more like a bunch of 'satay' politician and 'yes' man party). Guess the old saying - money talks and bull shit walks is absolutely true in the Malaysian politics scene.

I'm looking forward to going back to my hometown to show the fogs and the corrupt who is boss and i really do hope them frogs will loose their seats - BADLY. Fook you frogs

Year of the Ox! Happy Chinese New Year

2009-01-22T11:33:00.007+08:00

I'd like to take this opportunity to wish everyone a Happy Chinese New Year! Hope everyone will be blessed with good health, prosperity and wealth this coming year of the Ox. To all those taking the long journey back to their hometowns, please have a safe trip home. Let us all persevere and work harder together to face the tough economic times ahead.

Like most LFC supports, i truly hope we will capture no.19 this year.

Gong Xi Fa Chai! Gong Hei Fatt Choy!

-JonC-

New Year, New Beginning!

2009-01-06T12:43:00.003+08:00

Been a while since i updated me blog. Was having the end-year rush madness in the office and was pretty much spent by the time i cleaned up all my last minute rush jobs. By then got hit by the laziness bug and that made me leave my humble little space in blogsphere unattended for 3 weeks. Hehehehe sorry about that. The holiday season always make me lazy.

Spent me Christmas day at home doing nothing but cillin' and sleepin' (as usual). I did attend an early X'mas bbq at me friend's place in USJ a couple of days before that. He just came back from Aussie. Managed to metup with a few of my school mates from Setiawan at the bbq. The funny thing is, me friend actually married my school mate. Hence it became sort of an unofficial gathering for all those from A.C.S Sitiawan.

Give and take a week later, it was New Year's Eve at another party / pot luck at another friend's place in Ampang. Was hoping to catch some of the fireworks live since i was in KL but unfortunately, i couldn't see nuts thanks to some high rise condos blocking the view.

Well, this January will be a pretty special month as we will be celebrating 2 new years, the second being the Chinese one. With the uncertain economic downturn, it'll be a rather quiet one for me. Already got my "13th month" salary and it's already long gone. Used 'em all up to pay off my "hutang" to me banks already.

That's about all that has happened since my "Harry Houdini" act from the blogsphere. Will try my level best to keep me blog update. If ya wanna know what's my new year resolution, it pretty simple - Get A Life! That's a wrap.

-JonC-

Oh Sleep! I Need!

2008-12-17T14:32:00.004+08:00

Took virtually an entire week off last week and only came back to work on Monday. Well, if ya wondering why i said "virtually", here's the reason - network service migration. Company decided to cut cost and upgrade the network connectivity performance all at one go by globally signing on to the BT (British Telecom) bandwagon. Had to cancel one day from my leave. Still got about 40% of data cleanup and entry to do that i bitched about from my previous post below.

I dunno about the rest, i find the best way for me to relax is to sleep, eat and sleep summore (beside watching movies and killing some terrorists with my PS3). Literally spend my days at home with only a few outings to my cousin's place in Damansara. Took my mum to visit his family as he has just got his early x'mas present - his 2nd son. Congrat Stan J! Hope the baby and S.L - the 2nd time mum, will be healthy.

Funnily enough, drop by Ikea as me mum wanted to shop for some stuff for the house to prepare for the rapidly approaching Chinese New Year - end of January. Feels weird to prepare for it since Christmast is still a week away. Have to confess, i only had the stupendously good Ikea hotdogs every single time i visited Ikano Power Center. Well, since me mum was with me, decided to have lunch at the restaurant in Ikea. Not bad at all, the food in there. Had the vegetarian pasta and the leg of chicken with 2 bottles of mineral water for about 19 bucks.

Had a game of field footie last Saturday in Kajang against a bunch of great guys from St Katherine's Church. Needless to say the MyRAWK boys was as "muhibah" as usual with a team of Malay, Chinese and Indian boys playing together. We won the exciting match 2-3 with the wining goal scored very near to the end of the game. I played as a left back in the first 25 mins before i gave way to the others to play. Was a good work out as them boys from St. Kath's can really run!

That sums up my entire last week. Gotta get back to work sloggin it out on me keyboard again to finnish up me work. Till then. Enjoy the live performance of Coldplay's Chinese Sleep Chant - a hidden song from the new Viva La Vida album.

End of the year, holiday mood is here, but i'm as busy as ever!

2008-12-04T09:19:00.007+08:00

Been a hell of a fortnight for me and it's not gonna go any easier anytime soon. When everyone is happily clearing their leave for this year by going on a holiday, i'm freaking stuck staring at my notebook screen for at least 10 hours a day for at least another 2 weeks. I'm trying to finish up the last minute dash to clean up my office's database to prepare for a migration to a new system scheduled for 2010.

That single paragraph literally summed up my life or lack of it for the past 2 weeks. Hence, i ain't got much to work with in terms of coming up with an interesting topic for me blog. The last thing in me head now is to blog as frankly i'm getting tired of looking at the lcd screen of me notebook day-in, day-out. I need a freaking break before i go bonkers and beserk.

Well, since my supported club - Liverpool ain't doing too good and not exactly giving me much joy, it's been a pretty frustrating time for me. Originally planned to got for a week's worth of rest next week and a few more days after x'mas, my plans are basically wrecked unless by some devine intervention, i can miracalously complete my data entry and cleaning up process for the database.

Until that happends, the only fun i'm gonna have is a few games of futsal and this weekend's trip to watch the Liverpool "Legends" play in the Football Master's Malaysia Cup. Well, that's if you can consider the "Spice Boys" as legends. The only legend i'd say is Ian Rush and Nigel Spackman in the team sheet.

Well, time for me to slog it out with my notebook again to complete my work. Till then, enjoy ya holiday trips and have fun, but pls take good care of yourself especially with the recent spat of violence and protest overseas.

-JonC-

First Futsal Tournemant with MyRAWK - The Aftermath!

2008-11-19T10:30:00.005+08:00

3 somersaults and 2 carpet burns later, it was finally over. The rag-tag team from MyRAWK has survived the last minute training and our first ever futsal competition. I was playing for the Team B guys (wearing white) and we lost both our preliminary game - one due to our inexperience and naivety (1-3), while the other was because we couldn't cope up with the stamina of a national league level Afican team (0-2).

The other team sent out by MyRAWK, Team A did a lot better than us as they are our main team with better, fitter and younger players. They won against a local team (2-1), draw (1-1) against a top level African team and finally lost out to the another African team (the same one that beat us earlier) in the last 16 knock-out stage with a score of 2-4. They were so close to qualifying for the quarters and was leading most of the match but just lack the extra steam to hold on till the end to prevent the Africans from scoring.

Considering the fact that we had trained for barely one month+ and hardly with a full team, we did pretty well but ultimately the lack of training & fitness did us in. We were jokingly saying how we will be thrashed by those national level teams and Africans but much to our credit, we held together as a team and fought hard to ensure we walked out with our heads held high and kept the scoreline respectable.

All of us kept cheering each other on through out the match and were easily the most boisterous bunch of guys in the futsal center. When we played the African teams, we could see all the local teams and spectator were cheering us on. We were also the only "muhibbah" team in the tournement, we have Malays, Chinese and Indian playing for MyRAWK. It was great to get feed back from a friend that the organisers were very happy with our participation - we were "fun, noisy, boisterous and friendly."

It was sort of a vindication to the bunch of guys that had worked so hard to make MyRAWK what it is today. We do not need to be egoistic and act like a bully to form a group to represent LFC fans. Being friendly and open to anyone and everyone will win eventually win us more respect and goodwill from all football loving fans. Walk On lads!

Team A (red): Mike (captain), Kelvin, Jaz, Randolph, Tony, Rizal, Ben & Allan

Team B (white): Will (captain), Syam, Steven, Bul, Alvin, Nyana, Ming & Jon

-JonC-

The sacrifice i do for futsal.

2008-11-13T10:39:00.003+08:00

Been a pretty crazy 2 weeks or so for me - not much in term of work (logistics industry slowing down due to the lackluster American economy causing the usually busy Christmas season to be quiet) but because of futsal. Been training hard for a competition and trying to loose more weight to gain my stamina and pace back.

I've been finding it hard to keep pace with the 2 hours training session twice a week. Well, my recovery power ain't exactly the same as when i was in my 20's and the fact that i just play futsal casually once a week is not helping my cause one lil bit. Been having pretty bad feeling about the competition as i do not like to join any with out proper training (only trained one month prior to it - no where near ideal preparation) and not knowing your opponents. My worst fears are confirmed when i was told there will be teams with African and Middle Eastern players - they are big, fast, skillful and physical.

I am not looking forward to waking up this coming early Saturday morning and drag my arse out of bed to go to Kajang for the competition. Well, everyone's been saying we need to be positive and take it as a team. Well, if you know futsal and the team enough like me, then its easier said then done. Looks like it's the famous "park ya team bus in front of goal" approach for us and hope to gain something by counter attacking to nick a goal or two.

So much for the church organised friendly competition and this thing is getting serious. Well, i will be praying for devine intervention to see us through to at least the knockout stages inorder to not make an arse out of ourselves and the sponsor on our shirts. If there's ever a footballing god, we'll need all your help!

-JonC-

US Presidental Elections: The world, not only US needs Obama!

2008-11-05T09:26:00.004+08:00

After 8 years of "cowboy" politics courtesy of one Texan ego-maniac, it's time for a "Change We Need" - the "we" being the whole world and not only the US. I've personally been a keen follower of the Democrats - home to 2 of my biggest political heroes - John F. Kennedy and Robert F. Kennedy. Both are absolute brilliant politicians who was way ahead of their times and unfortunately died way too young. They left behind an uncertain world that needed their strong leadership qualities. I personally believe that if they had lead the US in the 60's, we would be seeing a different world that we're seeing today.

I'm hoping and expecting Obama to win this election. With due respect to McCain who is a good politician and servant to the US over the years - including his time as a POW in Vietnam, i have absolutely no confidence in the people surrounding him, especially Sarah Pallin. I think she's your typical Redneck that talk too much and do even less. The world and US needs a new President who will lead US and ultimately the whole world out of this economic turmoil and endless conflicts. I do not see how the Republicans in their current form and state can do that.

Anyways, checkout the 2-mins short film titled Wazzzup.....2008 that i caught through the Kueeen's (el terrorista's wife) blog below. It truly sums up the current situation in US very well.

I'll be tuning in to CNN throughout the day to check on the results. I sincerely hope this US elections will be as monumental as the one we, Malaysians had in 8th March.

On Top Of The World?

2008-10-29T15:18:00.003+08:00

LFC is on top with a 3 points cushion and won against 2 of the top 4 teams. Things are certainly looking rosy right? Well, not exactly. I'd personally say it's still way too early to be thinking about being crowed as the champion. The EPL is notoriously famous for its punishing schedules in the X'mas holiday period when all other leagues in Europe are on their winter break. Imagine at mid season, you have 2 games to play in 3 days and in the cold / snow. This will definitely seperate the men from the boys.

I'd say we're in the perfect position (not certain) to push for no.19 this season as there are ample of signs that we have the full package to finally nail it down - ugly wins, lucky wins, come backs and a seemingly good team spirit & belief. There's also a difference to the way the gaffer is approaching the games this season - he is taking more risk by putting in more offensive subs. Results of this shift in mindset - to win rather than sit back for a draw, are there to see as we're are actually winning matches that we will definitely draw in the past few seasons under him. There is also a lot less rotation this season and it only happens to protect injured or jaded players.

After nearly 5 seasons, has he finally got the team right? Has the constant tinkering stopped? Well, i've got no answer to these questions as only the gaffer himself can answer them. What is clear is, we've finally got the kind of squad depth that he's been talking of since a couple of seasons ago. We definitely have a more settled side with players that look a lot more cohesive and have better understanding of their roles in the team. I'm happy to see we're not the bunch of headless chickens running around anymore like last season when we were constantly shooting ourselves in the foot with the crap footie we were playing.

How far can we go this time round? I wouldn't want to know and predict at this time. The road to no. 19 does look a lot less bumpy but knowing how fast things can go awry with trouble just round the corners, i'll be happy as long as we keep winning matches and see where it will take us. I am not looking to much into the league table and will only look at thing one game at a time. Seen my fair share of disappointments over the years to know its suicidal to over hype our good form and be over confident.

It's still too early with just 9 games played out of 38. Till then, i'll just sit back, enjoy the football and hope i don't pull out all my hair with the dramatic last minute wins by end of the season. Hopefully by then, no.19 is safely back in Anfield and locked up in the trophy room.

To all those who had lost someone you loved, cherished and held dear to your heart.

2008-10-21T21:01:00.003+08:00

This song / video is dedicated to everyone who has lost someone close to your heart and especially to my mother and my late father.

Fix You, Coldplay:
When you try your best but you don't succeed
When you get what you want but not what you need
When you feel so tired but you can't sleep
Stuck in reverse

And the tears come streaming down your face
When you lose something you cannot replace
When you love someone but it goes to waste
COULD IT BE WORSE?

Lights will guide you home
And ignite your bones
And I will try to fix you

And high up above or down below
When you're too in love to let it go
But if you never try you'll never know
Just what you're worth

Lights will guide you home
And ignite your bones
And I will try to fix you

Tears stream down your face
When you lose something you cannot replace
Tears stream down your face
And I

Tears stream down your face
I promise you I will learn from my mistakes
Tears stream down your face
And I

Lights will guide you home
And ignite your bones
And I will try to fix you.

Health Ministry Warning: Supporting Liverpool Football Club Is Detrimental To You Health!

2008-10-20T19:11:00.003+08:00

For all the excitement from the last minute come back wins that LFC have been pulling out of the rabbit's hat, they certainly aren't good for the faint-hearted supporters. I personally think, i'll bloody stop watching footie by the time i hit 50. I lost count how many times i've nearly pulled all my hair out in frustration of the crap we're dishing out only to be led into a period of gut wrenching and cardio working last few minutes of football.

We're on a roll for come back wins and have duly been tagged as the "Come Back Kings" but i'm convinced that the roll won't go on longer. Lady luck is a fickle minded and hard to understand phenomenon, soon she'll leave us in the lurch if we keep on coming back from the brink of death. We need to be wining games from the start and not do it 1o mins + injury time from the end.

I bet the cardiologist and heart specialist in Liverpool and all over the world for that matter, will have an increasing number of visits from Mighty Reds fans with cardio problems. Well, who can blame 'em? If we keep this up, please don't be surprised i'll soon join the queue.

Anyhow, Walk On and let's hope our school boy defending will stop the PES2009 / Fifa09 like free-scoring Chelsea attack, this coming Sunday nite - 9:30pm! Btw, pls take note that the MyRAWK boy will be organising a special event gathering inconjunction with this top-of-the-table clash. Check out My-RAWK.com for more details on the freebies and prizes that will be given away. See ya there!

-JonC-

15 Things You Might Not Know About Me

2008-10-15T11:37:00.007+08:00

I got tagged by one of me blogging mates; Kerp after i had a ball of a time reading to his hilarious list. Was rather intrigued by Ms. Senorita's scandalous and naughty list too ;0) So here's my list that might bore you or scare you. Muahahahahahaha! Just to be different, i'm gonna do it backwards.

15 - Was a pretty succesful sprinter when i was in me early teens until a serious knee injury put paid to my running carrier. That was the start of my "sick-note" and injury laden sporting life.

14 - Have never lit a cigarette or "the good stuff" in my entire life but drank me first beer / stout at around 10 - thanks to me god brothers.

13 - Dislike gambling and pretty much most other vices except sex and footie ;0)

12 - Not the only child in the family as i had a younger sister who passed away in an accident when i was about 5 or 6 years old - about 25 years ago.

11 - I look up to John Fitzgerald Kennedy as my hero in life.

10 - Started being anti-establishment by about 9 or 10 thanks to me DAP supporting dad.

9 - I like like watching chick flicks and believe in happy endings. Yes i am hopelessly emo. :0P

8 - Was naive enough to think i would get married and start a family by 28 years old.

7 - Read me first porn mag at about 11 and watch me first porn by 12. Beat that!

6 - I dig chicks with shorter hair. *Hint to any future chicks i might date.

5 - I've only ever dated about 5 women and went steady with about 2 of 'em. Hehehehe, yes i am THAT choosy.

4 - Lost count of how many sexual fantasies i had, unlike you Kerp!

3 - Hate reading except maybe porn or footie mags and war stories or books about military equipments.

2 - Used to wear hand-me-down SCUM t-shirts from a cousin when i was ignorant and younger.

1 - I like boobies too!

*on request of ms. senorita..... maybe i should change no. 1 to.... i like to be teased by scantily clad woman in her lingerie or maybe in a secretary outfit complete with glasses rather than one who is totally naked. Blame the damn Jap AV porn! :0P

4 Bottles Of Johnny Walker: Black Label and 2 Buckets of Carlsberg Later, I Can't Figure Out If I'm 31 or 13.

2008-10-13T13:53:00.007+08:00

It was an eventful weekend for me as i celebrated my 31st or was it 13th birthday. All is still a blur to me at the moment, hence the title above. I am still in a daze and having migraine due to lack of sleep and way too much alcohol consumed in the space of 2 days. So much for my intimate dinner and small gathering plans, it's was gonna be a pretty hectic and crazy weekend!

The whole thing started with a 2 hours session of futsal with the MyRAWK and LYN boys in PJ on Saturday evening. But, before that even begun, i had to endure a bad and weird traffic jam on my way towards the futsal place. If getting there was have the "fun," then, am i in for a big surprise! The rest of the boys couldn't make it in time as the traffic was bad enough and the roads were treacherous due to VERY bad visibility because of the heavy down pour. I swear i could see cats and dogs raining from up above! I could hear pipes and metal things getting flung around at the futsal place as there was a construction site next to the parking lot where i parked my car. We started playing at around 4:45 pm instead of the expected time of 3:30 pm - that really fooked up my already hectic schedule that originally gave me only 30 minutes to clean up and head back over to Klang.

Well, if ya wondering what's with the rush - i was supposed to meet up with my colleagues in Neway, Centro Klang at 6pm for karaoke and buffet dinner. I ended up showing up only at about 7:45pm after the footie ended at 6:45 pm. I also had to endure another traffic jam heading back to "Par Sang." Was bloody tired and hungry by then and was in panic mode as i feared i was not going to make it for the buffet only to realise later that the buffet ends only at 11 pm. But anyway, managed to ask one of my colleagues to keep some food for me just in case.

Not long after i arrived, the scary sight of 4 bottles of Black Label suddenly hit me. Shit! I'm in for a torrid night. There we about 15 of us and only about 12 of us that drank. Luckily, i paced myself and did not mix the booze with soft drink but only with plan water. I was not the biggest victim of the night though, as 3 of my other colleagues could hardly walk by the time the havoc was over at around 12:30 am. I was a 'lil light headed up till the near the end, until i was ask to do a chaser with a shot followed by beer. Thank goodness it kicked in only after i reach home - head was spinning but still managed to catch the 1st half of the WC Qualifiers - England vs Kazakhstan before i dozed off on me couch. Woke up next morning only to find out that i've got cake smeared all over me face, hair, shirt and jeans thanks to my colleagues.

The best surprised came when a good friend of mine showed up with a "gift" at my door step around lunch time yesterday - technically i did pay for the darn thing in the first place. It was the Onkyo TX-805 home theater amp that i had traded in my older hi-fi stuff for. I was grinning ear to ear while still in a state of blurness. Hooked up the bad-boy and had a bit of trouble setting it up before i put on Celine Dion's A New Day blu-ray ( yes i know it pretty lame, but you gotta admit her Las Vegas show was awesome!) Only had time to test out the new toy for a bit before i had to rush over to USJ for a friend's open house that was supposed to start at 5 pm.

While i was on my way there, had another big big surprised in the form of a long distance phone call from a dear friend and el-terrorista's wife in NZ (thanks ya! Really appreciate ya call all the way from down under) Met up my Friday night futsal gang there and we chatted and laughed till about 8 pm before 5 of us adjourned to Station1 in Taipan to have a few beers to celebrate my birthday. It was hard trying to down the 2 buckets of beers we ordered as all of us were stuff to the brim with the good food and countless cups of strawberry tea. Well, when guys gather and don't talk about sports, can ya guess whats the main topic was? Hehehehe, it was male bonding time. We finally left around 11:30 pm.

By the time i reached home, i was totally exhausted and extremely tired. Been a hell of a hectic weekend and it's been a while since i did so much running around. The excessive amount of alcohol still intoxicating my head and the tiredness, finally did me in this morning, as i have to call my office for a 1/2 day leave. Still suffering from migraine as i type this entry and so if ya find there's tonnes of typos, ya know the reason why. Irregardless, it was a kick-arse weekend! So thank you and hats off to all of you gals and guys who help made my 31st birthday a blast. I really appreciate all your good wishes and company.

Viva la Vida, Coldplay - Can't get the tune outta me head!

2008-10-08T17:17:00.005+08:00

This is the tune that's been stuck to me clueless brain basically the whole freaking week. Not ya average sounding rock song i'd add. Catchy tune bordering on the pop side with great string arrangements. That single drum beat is simple and yet effective. Btw, the video above is the 2nd version directed by Anton Cobijn as homage to Depeche Mode ( remember their Enjoy The Silence video by the same director?).

Well, who needs blaring guitars and furious drum lines when Coldplay can come out with songs like this. ;0) Besides being good "copy cats" in using other people's tune for some of their songs; Fix It (based on Elbow's - Grace Under Pressure) and Talk (melodies from 80's electro band, Kraftwerk - Computer Love Melody), Chris Martin aka Mr Gwyneth Paltrow do have some flashes of a musical genius.

Being an 80's music freak, i can see so much similarity between his singing style to A-Ha's lead singer, Morten Hacket - the falsetto voice and U2's signature "Infinite Guitar" sounds. The band themselves admitted they were inspired by the two mentioned bands. I've been a fan of their music since their debut album - Parachutes, which is still their best album in my books. Favourite tracks from that album was Trouble, Shiver and of course Yellow. Their second album - A Rush Of Blood To The Head was pretty good too with notable tracks like Clock and The Scientist. Their 3rd album - X & Y, sort of see them loose their way a 'lil and too U2 sounding to my liking, but it did spawn 3 big hits for them - Speed of Sound, Fix You and Talk ( the last 2 are my favourite).

Their latest album; Viva la Vida or Death and All His Friends, still sound like U2 (the producer was Brian Eno, the same guy who produced U2's monumental The Joshua Tree album) but tweaked with more of their own personality. I find the use of the string arrangement to be refreshing and something new compared to their signature piano and guitar sounds. Besides the singles: Violet Hill and Viva la Vida, there's a few more tracks worth checking out like Lovers in Japan and the hidden track - China Sleep Chant.

Just my 2 cents on Coldplay, which might turn out to be too "soft" for some of ya hard rocking dudes. Well, i've never been known to go for those really hard stuff anyway. ;0) AD, just thought i expend on our comments on the band in my previous posting a 'lil through this entry.

Selamat Hari Raya, Maaf Zahir Dan Batin

2008-10-03T11:21:00.003+08:00

I wish all me Muslim friends a "Selamat Hari Raya, Maaf Zahir Dan Batin." Those on the way back to their kampung or on the way home to KL please drive safe. Looking forward to hanging out at all ya open houses! Muahahahaha. ;0)

On a more personal note, its been a pretty boring Raya for me with one one single excursion outta me home for my best mate's open house do in USJ on the 1st day of Raya - his house specialty was an awesome Laksa Johor. Otherwise it has been a quiet holiday and best of the lot, a cost saying one too. Watching Champs League footie and sleeping was basically all i did. Hehehehe.

Still in a holiday mood and am blardee lazy to work. Been doing nothing but stare at me notebook; checking up on news and reading up on blogs the whole morning. Got a couple of reports to do but what the heck, still day dreaming about lemang, rendang, ketupat and kuah kacang. Thingking about 'em goodies just made me hungry again!

Geeeez! It's gonna be a loooooooonnnnnnnnggggg day before office hour finnishes at 5:30 pm!

*Editted - Found my salvation to preserve my sanity till the end of the day - Coldplay! Imagine me nodding me head to their music in front of my colleagues with my headphones on.

RPK in Hotel Kamunting.

2008-09-25T14:32:00.004+08:00

RPK has been sent over to the dreaded Hotel Kamnunting under the draconian ISA - he is in solitary confinement. When the guilty are running free with just a slap on the hands, it is those who strive to expose the wrong doing and the truth that are punished. What kind of a society is the government trying to potray us Malaysian as? It's a disgrace we call ourselves a developing country - the only thing we're developing into is a chaotic mess run by a bunch of corrupt and moral-less jokers.

Check out the article from themalaysianinsider.com: Long day's journey into the night for RPK and family

Pls click on the link to read. I will not post it here as the article is pretty long but it'll pick the part that struck me the most:

According to Marina, there is a very thick wall inside the camp. On one side of the wall is the block holding the isolated detainees; on the other side, another block holds detainees who are allowed to mingle and watch TV.

The only glimmer of sunshine for the renowned writer before his family visit was hearing shouts from beyond the wall. Apparently, the voices belonged to some members of the Hindu Rights Action Force (Hindraf) who were also arrested under the ISA last year when they held a protest march in downtown Kuala Lumpur demanding the long-forgotten rights of ethnic Indian citizens.

"He told me he heard them screaming 'Raja, we know you're here. We just saw you on TV with your wife.' That was his only way of keeping updated on what's going on in the world outside," related Marina.

Her husband's greatest worry, she said, was that three months down the road, the public would have forgotten his existence.

"He told me, 'Please tell them not to forget me'," Marina said, before excusing herself to attend a meeting with the lawyers on filing a new application against her husband's detention."

Well, rest be assured RPK, those who oppose the opression against fighters like you who seek for a better and just Malaysia will never be forgotten. Your incarceration will not be in vain. Freedom beckons for you, the Hindraf 5 and the rest unjustly detained in Hotel Kamunting once PR forms the government.

Merseyside Derby ! Another Special Event Brought To You By MyRAWK.

2008-09-25T14:25:00.004+08:00

The first Merseyside derby of the season is upon us. We'll playing Neverton in their own backyard - Goodison Park. In conjunction with this, the MyRAWK boys will be organising another special event gathering. This time we're back to our own familiar watering hole - M Bar. The event starts at 6:45pm and first 40 early birds will be entitled to free finger food. As usual, there be some prizes to give away through quizzes and a guess-the-score thingy.

So head on over to join in the fun! ;0)

Teresa Kok - Free At Last!

2008-09-19T14:06:00.004+08:00

After a week of ISA detention no thanks to lies, Teresa is released at 1pm today. Thanks goodness for that. Teresa - what don't kill you and break you will only make you stronger. Keep on fighting for the Rakyat. WE know who is working to make Malaysia a better place for all. WE also know who are the culprits working to divide us.

We, The Rakyat Demand A Government By The People, For The People!

When the going get tough, the tough gets going!

2008-09-19T11:34:00.005+08:00

Much has been said about 916, and it has passed by with just a couple of press conferences and of course the customary back and forth allegations by both sides. Maybe the biggest news within the period was SAPP's showing of its middle finger to BN and saying " see ya laters - sucka!" to them.

In all honesty, i was not putting on much hope for the take-over to go ahead on the stipulated date. Just had this uncanny feeling the rotten and corrupted-to-the-core goons still in power will not go down so tamely with out a dirty handed fight. Then again, what is new? Scare-mongering tactics is part and parcel of their aging arsenal of political tricks and show-boating. In the age of information technology, i just can't understand why they are still so hell bent on using propaganda that is such a fooking cliche and taboo - we aint no 3 year olds no more.

I truly believe majority of us fellow Malaysian are mature enough to see through our racial, religious and cultural differences. As different as we are, we have 3 basic common goals - equal opportunity (not only for those rich, elite or well connected hiding behind affirmative actions - that includes shameless chinese who use back doors to work with the umnoputras to rob the country'c coffers), justice - no detention without trial, and rule of law - we want a more secure and safe Malaysia free from corruption.

Religion is not as sensitive as scare-mongers made it to be - NO religion in the world will teach the followers to be corrupt, disrespectful to others and be racists bigots. Those who are faithful, irregardless of Muslims, Buddhists / Taoists, Hindus and Christians, are taught to be respectful of each other and how to be a better person. The higher being up above enlightened all of us with simple words of wisdoms to lead us to the right path but that was twisted and wrongly intrepreted by some mare mortals like us, hell bent on using GOD's words for their own gain. This kind of people, to me are worst than the devil. As long as we understand that ultimately, all religion teaches us to be better and more righteous, the non-sense issues brought by those irresponsible people will be irrelevant and will only serve to put egg on their own face.

Knowledge is power - we cannot afford to be caught up in our own shell or cocoon anymore. We have to break all the stereotype associated with the Malays, Chinese, Indian, Kadazans, Ibans and the other races living under the Malaysian sky. It's been 51 years since independence, it's sad to see how close all of us are but at the same time still see how small difference that can be ironed out through talks and more understanding can devide us by so much. Start to mingle around with your fellow Malaysians- spread the muhibbah spirit. Stop being hypocrites by sticking to your own kind and accuse the others of being racists. Open up your mind, your eyes and your heart - we are all the same, we are born in Malaysia and we are the loyal subjects of the Agung. Do NOT let anyone tell you otherwise.

We have to work together to regain back the Malaysia we KNOW - a beautiful country with abundance of resources. I have to use the old cliche - one stick is easy to break, but when you bound a bunch together, it be harder and quite possibly impossible to break them (unless you have super powers). Inorder to achieve this, ALL of us need to do some soul searching and answer this simple but hard question - what do we ultimately want for Malaysia? I bet you majority would have the same answer. So let's wake up and work together not against each other. Change our mindset and mentality. Break the stereotype.

Winds of change have been blowing since 8th March, let's turn it into a cyclone to blow the corrupted and "dirty" from Putrajaya and start a new. Change is coming sooner or later. Till then lets hold on tight and see how long more the jokers can keep on entertaining us Malaysian with their thin veil threads and "sandiwara."

I might sound like a broken record playing the same old tune. But, i'd gladly do it all again as long as Malaysia becomes the great country it is destined to be.

13 Sept - A Great Day for LFC Fans, But A DARK DARK Day For Malaysia

2008-09-15T11:24:00.002+08:00

As i heard the news of the ISA arrests while in the midst of helping setup the MyRAWK gathering. I felt a sense of deja vu - Ops Lalang all over again! I was shocked by the arrests: why catch the cat when the rat is scot free? The arrest of the Sin Chew reporter on the pretext of "protection" was utter bullshit and nonsense. If thats the kind of lies the government resorts to, inorder to justify the draconian ISA law, then i am well and truly sadened by the already sad state of the legislation and governence of Malaysia. The whole country is run by incompetant and self-centered fools.

What made me really dumb-folded was the arrest of Teresa Kok, Selangor state-exco member, MP for Seputeh and ADUN for Kinrara. How the fook those allegations of her getting involve in the petition to stop the Azan prayer by a mosque, came about is a bloody scandal in itself. I blame that shit of a government propaganda paper - Utusan and that big shit of a rat TOYOL for the totally unlawful and unnecessary arrest of her. DO YOU HAVE FOOKING PROVE BEFORE YOU ARREST HER YOU DUMBWITS?

MCA is turning into a "running dog" party and the hypocrites called Gerakan is not any better either. You can condemn the arrest of the reporter all you want, in my eyes you're nothing but an extinct dinasaur waiting to turn into fosil. How the fook can you not also condemn the ISA arrest of Teresa and RPK? Are they not fellow Malaysian who cared for how the country is turning into a joke, a circus and heading down the drain? I have lost all respect both parties - i had none in the first place anyway.

I have signed a petition i have found through Tony Pua's blog. Pls sign it as a concerned Malaysian to protest the abuse of power through the ISA arrest of Teresa Kok. STOP ISA NOW!!!

FREE TERESA , ABOLISH ISA! Petition

Now that i've got the frustration out of my system. Would just like to touch abit on the Reds' win against the scums. It was a great result and was happy with our fighting spirit and never give up attitude. We pawned them - enuff said. Was a welcome relieved after hearing all the shit thats been going on earlier in the day. To all those who was at the gathering, thanks and i hope everyone had a blast. Walk on towards no.6 and no.19.

-JonC-

Too Busy Too Blog? You Better Believe It!

2008-09-11T18:26:00.005+08:00

Sorry for the lack of update the past week and a half. Been pretty busy with the work involved in helping organise the MyRAWK event for the big showdown against the hated team from Manchester. It is not easy running a whole event with basically 3 or 4 guys who have a day job to attend too as well.

Basically in a nutshell all of you REDs, can head on down to the event to be held at Breakers, Desa Sri Hartamas this Saturday, Sept 13th. The event kicks of at 6:30 pm and the game will kick off at 7:45pm. There will free door gifts, prizes and other stuff to give away through quizzes and a guess the score game. Another incentive for everyone to come on over - CHEAP BOOZE as the game falls within the happy hours.

So head on over and join in the most boisterous bunch of LFC fans you'll find in Malaysia. Be there or be square! Check out the Fantastico banner that i help put up last night infront of Breakers!

*Come support the MyRAWKites or drop by to say hi to me lah!* ;0)

I have a dream!

2008-08-28T12:05:00.006+08:00

The great Martin Luther King, Jr. once said :
"I have a dream that my four little children will one day live in a nation where they will not be judged by the color of their skin but by the content of their character."

Well, i do have a dream similar to that; Malaysia will rise from all the racial and religious nonsense that's been spilled by the politicians. I've heard and seen too much hatred being seeded by the unscrupulous and irresponsible people playing with racial sentiments and religious believes.

I've refrain from making much entries about politics lately due to me getting really sick and tired of the same old non-sense . I've ask when will the politicians grow up way too many times. I've seen too many fellow Malaysian that has given up hope. I've seen too much people talking the talk and not walking the walk. I've seen too many hypocrites. The lists goes on....... but on Tuesday, majority of my fellow Malaysian has shown they're fed up with the status quo.

We are born on the same piece of land, under the same sky and under the same flag, why act as if we're not? Why act as if there's a natural law of hierarchy in every damn thing about this country? We share the same values, the same surrounding, the same resources, so why not instead of going on about who own what, everyone work together to ensure NO one gets left behind? Poverty knows no skin colour. Help those who need help. Excuses are useless to those who need our helping hand. It is our duty as a human and a fellow citizen of the world to help everyone.

Why cover yourselves in a thin veiled cloth of protection when you've already seen that it is not working? The poor aren't getting any richer while those with big guns behind them continue to rape and pillage the country. But, now it's not the time to willow and be sorrow about the all the crap that's has already been done. After 50 years of independence, it is time for us the Rakyat, Malaysian of all races to stand up, to be counted and to say we want our country back. We want a Malaysia by the people, of the people and most importantly for the people.

I will hold on to my dream of a just, safe and prosper Malaysia for everyone. You'll be sure i'll play my part, how about you?

Rejoice my fellow Malaysian, for this August 31st we celebrate our true independence day and the dawn of a new Malaysia! Merdeka! Merdeka! Merdeka!

I need a long break!

2008-08-26T10:20:00.005+08:00

Been feeling tired and pretty run down the past 3 weeks or so. Physically tired is easy to recover from, but mine is more of a case of being mentally tired. Doing too much thinking and brain storming is some how sucking the life of me brains.

Stress from work and more so from the huge undertaking of trying to create the MyRAWK homepage with just another fellow MyRAWKite and IT geek is taxing to the mind and to some extend my body. Continuous sleepless nights for the last 2 months is certainly not helping me physical and mental health. I have only myself to blame as i kept on staying awake till the wee hours of the morning: 2 or 3 am to be more exact, every single day.

The only time i can continously sleep uninterupted is on Sunday (thats if the pesky kids next door don't freaking tear the whole house down next door with their incesive crying, fighting and running). I 've been known to sleep for >12 hours straight and can even skip my breakfast and lunch during that oh-so-good-and-dearly-missed dozing time. A fair number of you have listened to my blur-sounding voice when you called me on Sundays before, hehehehe. Guess any phone call before 2 pm will result in some "ummmmm! ahhhhhhh! yaaaaaaah!" replies.

Well, i've learned that sleeping alone ain't gonna be enuff to sure mental tiredness. You'll need total relaxation to achieve that. Hence, i'm thinking of really taking a long long break away from the hussle and bussle of Klang Valley. Would be good to take a week long vacation to some quiet place like maybe an island to relax - nothing but the sand, sea, blue sky and warm breeze. Would be good though to have a chick in tow. Geeez! Its only 10:30 am in the office and i'm already freaking sleepy, half doozing off and day dreaming. Kekekekeke!

Till the dream holiday trip ( Bora-Bora - if i strike lottery) happens, i shall continue to be a freaking walking zombie in the office and a rather angry looking RED at the MyRAWK footie gatherings!

HTML / Java Scripting: Teaching an old dog new tricks.

2008-08-21T14:24:00.006+08:00

Surprisingly for a self confessed web savvy IT geek, i have never bothered to learn html coding and java scripting. I've always concentrate on the hardware side of things after my nightmare of working with programming languages from my college days. Thinking back to the countless numbers of sleepless nights trying to code and debug the programming assignments for my comp science course is enough to send shivers down me spine.

Most will argue that web programming is still much simple compared to application programming. Well, as far as i am concerned any form of coding is a death sentence to me. I like opening boxes of new IT toys; hook 'em up, set 'em up and run 'em, not sitting in front of a PC typing thousands of lines of codes.

The opportunity to drab myself in web programming / designing came about when MyRAWK guys decided to expend our web preference by running our own website and domain. Me being the resident head IT geek, was tasked to lead a team consisting of Alvin (a fellow LFC supporting and Momo Sissoko loving IT geek), Danny (our LFC loving and gracious web host) and Jeremy (web designer, programmer and developer). Things started out with a flier as everyone was eager to get the whole thing up, but as time went by and burdened by workload (hey, we got to earn a living), the web development pace was left crawling.

To cut things short, we left it literally to the last week before the roll out date to actually do the domain registration, domain ip setup and the web programming itself. We got access into the preliminary website that was designed earlier on last Thursday and decided we need to make substantial changes - queue major coding work ahead. Numerous long nights and countless phone calls followed before we were satisfied enough to have a "soft" launch of MyRAWK's new home in cyberspace - www.my-rawk.com. The green light to proceed was given only hours before our dateline.

As i speak, the site development is still on-going and the look of the site will improve daily as we add more contents and features. We're gonna launch something that will allow everyone to interact in a much better way soon. The whole site will be fully functional and standardized by the game against a certain mortal enemy.

This brings me back to my coding experience - i have never touch, let alone bothered to learn html coding and java scripting. I was on a one way collision / crash course to learn to do it in literally a couple of hours. Alvin, sorry mate to have to call and bug you to no end and thanks for doing the hard coding work before i came in to add those more simple contents and features. WYSIWYG editors with click and drag features can only do so much, so i still have to get me feet wet and into the deep end to do some debugging by looking at the pages of codes. Thank goodness after wondering for a few hours i finally managed to catch enough coding lines to understand what was going on.

Irregardless, please do not ask me to help program a website. I'd be happy to give you pointers and tip and some basic designing rules. Coding wise, i'd suggest you to get hold of one of those WYSIWYG html editor that will allow you to cut and paste stuff much like Ms Words and allow you to view the actual look of the web page without the need for you to type a single line of code. For bloggers, stick to blogspot or some other blog sites that has user friendly setup interfaces that allow you to customized the basic look and colour along with giving you plenty of flexibility to upload pictures. They work well and simple enough.

Looks like there will be more coding to be done in the days ahead...... and more things to learn. Who says ya can't teach an old dog new trick? Must be someone not from the information age!

-JonC-

One World, One Dream - You & Me, We're Family

2008-08-11T15:40:00.004+08:00

Let's just take a breather and think about the Olympic Spirit. Look at the deeper meaning to the Beijing 2008 Games motto - One World, One Dream, its universal value is so simple and easy to understand. Unfortunately, understanding it is so much more simple than doing the necessary to achieve it.

In light of the shenanigans thats been happening to Malaysia - the political uncertainty and the seemingly unnecessary racial tension, i'd say this to everyone. Take a back seat, look at these simple words and listen to the beautiful and simple theme song to the games.

Lyrics - You & Me

我和你，心连心，同住地球村
(Pinyin: Wǒ Hé Nǐ, Xīn Lián Xīn, Tóng Zhù Dìqiúcūn)
(English translation: You and me, heart to heart, we live in the same Earth's village)

为梦想，千里行，相会在北京
(Pinyin: Wèi Mèngxiǎng, Qiān Lǐ Xíng, Xiānghuì Zài Běijīng)
(English translation: For dreams, we travel a thousand miles, to meet in Beijing)

来吧！朋友，伸出你的手
(Pinyin:Lái Ba, Péngyou, Shēn Chū Nǐ De Shǒu)
(English translation: Come! Friend, reach out with your hands)

我和你，心连心，永远一家人
(Pinyin:Wǒ Hé Nǐ, Xīn Lián Xīn, Yǒngyuǎn Yījiārén)
(English translation: You and me, heart to heart, forever we are one family)

You and me, from one world, we are family
Travel dream, a thousand miles, meeting in Beijing
朋友，来吧, put your hand in mine
(Pinyin:Péngyou, Lái Ba)
(English translation: Friends, Come!)
You and me, from one world, we are family

You and me, from one world, we are family
We are family
Travel dream, a thousand miles, meeting in Beijing
朋友, Friend 来, Meeting in Beijing
(Pinyin:Péngyou, Friend Lái, Meeting in Beijing)
(English translation: Friends, come Friends, meeting in Beijing)

我和你，心连心，同住地球村
(Pinyin: Wǒ Hé Nǐ, Xīn Lián Xīn, Tóng Zhù Dìqiúcūn)
(You and me, heart to heart, we live in the same Earth's village)
You and me, from one world, we are family

为梦想，千里行，相会在北京
(Pinyin: Wèi Mèngxiǎng, Qiān Lǐ Xíng, Xiānghuì Zài Běijīng)
(English translation: For dreams, we travel a thousand miles, to meet in Beijing)
Gather...in Beijing

来吧！朋友，牵住你的手
(Pinyin:Lái Ba, Péngyou, Qiān Zhū Nǐ De Shǒu)
(English translation: Come! Friend, reach out with your hands)

You and me, from one world, we are family

*Lyrics taken from wikipedia*

The art of being a prick!

2008-08-11T11:14:00.006+08:00

I've been the "victim" in 2 of my previous relationship from a couple of years back and hated the after taste from it. Seriously think it did something to my head and made me that little bit colder in my future relations, as most of the people around me will a test too.

Last weekend, i had a reversal of roles and played the part of the victimizer. Had to spill the beans to someone who i do not see myself being attached too. The whole thing last for a couple weeks but as with all matters of the heart - somebody will get hurt. I had hoped that the short period time we were together, will meant less hurt, hence i took the decision to end it before it lead on to a bigger emotional mess and uneasiness. I've made it clear from day 1, i will not lie about it when the going gets tough and pretend that everything is rosy and happy.

I was to blame for allowing things to get out of hand in the first place, this i admitted willingly. Had this uncanny feeling, i won't be able to give my all and give the other party what is needed and deserved. That lingering thought made me feel very uneasy and i was bothered to no end. After some soul searching, i laid it all out.

I had to take charge of my life and be that little bit more selfish to move forward. I do not want to be the "nice" guy anymore all the time and act as if i'm happy when its clearly not working.
Wished it could have ended in a better way, but nothing ever turns out right when it comes to ending relationships. No words or apologies will ever be enough to sooth the pain to the other party, but i do hope time will help heal that.

I am relieved, i don't have to deal with the emotional anguish of being in a relationship thats heading no where. But, that doesn't make the act of being THE prick any better. I will take this as a lesson on life and use it to help me grow into a better person.

PS: Thank you to a good friend for listening to me whine about it, and offering me words of wisdom on how to move on.

-JonC-

My History, My Future: From Middle Kingdom to Malaya to Malaysia

2008-08-06T10:01:00.013+08:00

The coming Olympic games in Beijing, China has got me thinking about the "motherland" and my ancestors. I'm a 2nd generation Malaysian of Chinese origin from the Han ethnicity (China consists of man other ethnic groups). My grandma and grandpa came over to Malaya from prefecture of Longyan in the province of Fujian. Technically that makes me a Hokkien "kia" but then again, those from the mentioned prefecture classify themselves slightly differently as our spoken dialects do not sound like Hokkien at all and it's called "Longyan Huà." Please don't ask me how the heck it sounds like as i do not speak a word of it as i grew up on a diet of Hokkien and Cantonese dialects. Funny enough, even my late dad can't speak a word of it but he could understand it. As far as i can remember, only 2 of my cousins can actually speak it. Sound confusing eh? Well, i'm 31 and myself is still pretty much blur so i won't blame ya. In order to simplify things, i just say i'm a Hokkien.

My surname is Cheah (Xie 謝), same chinese character as those with Chia, Seah, Hsieh, Tse, Tze. The chinese character when used as verb, means to express gratitude and when used as noun means thank you. "Xie xie" sounds familiar right? ;0) Apparently, the surname was a that of a prominent aristocratic family from the Jin Dynasty.

Both my grandparents came to Malaya to find a brighter future as it was tough back in China then. There was civil war amongst the Kuomintang and Communists Red Army while the people was suffering from famine. My grandma's brother who was studying in university was killed by the communists, so naturally she hates them. They arrived in Malaya like most early immigrants, through Penang and chose to settle in Lumut, Perak - which is where i am from.

As i understand from the stories told by my uncles, aunts and me late father, my granddad was a well respected member of the community in my "kampung". He owned one of the biggest rice and coconut trading companies back then. He was a self-taught man, he had no formal education and was from a poor family. Apparently he was sort of a medicine man as well. My grandma was your typical "superwoman" housewife from back then. She single handedly took care of more than 10 people (8 of them children) in the household. She was a firm but fair mother, and my dad was always boasting about how he was the youngest in the family and was always her favourite. An interesting but freaky fact everyone told me about the family was that every child that had an official straits birth cert would fall ill and pass away. Needless to say, none of my uncles, aunts and also me dad had one.

Being the typical community came first type of person, my granddad went all out to help new arrivals from back "home" to settle into Malaya. Well, i personally call it naivety as it ultimately got him into financial trouble after being the guarantor to numerous dubious business deals for others. Subsequently, the family business went down hill and finally closed shop when none of my uncles could handle it after the passing of both my grandparents about 40 years ago.

As mentioned before, me dad was the youngest and according to him the most spoiled (that is if you consider having to work long hours helping the family collect coconuts and dry em for sale and help sort out rice as fun). Among all my uncles and aunts, my second last uncle and me dad had the best education. They finished their high-school education - my dad was sent to chinese and later english school while my uncle went to a reputable boarding school in Penang. Dad was a quite the looker hence u know where i got my good look from ;o) and was an active athlete. He was drafted into the army reserves for a good year or two and was based in Port Dickson during the Emergency period with Indonesia after the independence. I am at a lost when it come to when did both my parents met but i do know they have been happily married for close to 40 years before my dad's untimely death in a car accident 3 years back. (Still miss you dad, and not a day goes by that mum and i do not miss you.) They gave life a Red in the form of me after close to 7 years of marriage.

Like most of my generation, i consider myself more Malaysian than just Chinese. However, it's still important to know your own roots. I believe in the concept of "no future without history" so i personally find it important to know where i come from and what my ancestors have to go through to get me to where i am. This helps keep me grounded and appreciate what my ancestors went through to give me what i got now, even though it isn't much. It's also the reason why i strive to help Malaysia grow into the kind of great country all of us hope her to be. We've got everything to be one of the most outstanding country in SEA region. We have so much to gain as a united nation working together for the better.

Why dwell on racial segregation politics and puny issues? Why not work towards the best Malaysia can be? What does religion got to do with politics? Why the disparity in income distribution? When can our apathy mentality be changed? Why help have to be based on your political views, skin color or social status? Where do we see ourselves and our children as a nation in the next 50 years?

If none of us are in anyway concern about the above questions, then we as a nation of 50 years in existence is on the verge of collapse. Personally, I will not give up on my beautiful country i call home. I will not give in to those irresponsible people who try to divide me and my friends. I will not take the non-sense the propaganda machines have been feeding to the "rakyat." I will work with my fellow Malaysian towards better governance and education system that will ultimately lead to a better Malaysia for everyone irregardless of race, political view and social status. This is my vow.

-JonC-

Robbie Keane - Welcome Home!

2008-07-29T10:09:00.006+08:00

Got the news through me phone last night at Desa Hartamas that Irish marksman, Robbie Keane has signed for us. The transfer fees is reportedly around £19million (possibly rising to £20.3 million through bonus payments). This is absolute great news as i rate him a heck lot higher than the other big target of the gaffer: Gareth Barry. Can't believe it when it was reported he rejected us for Wolves 14 years earlier. Well, now all the stars have aligned and he's back to his true spiritual football home: Anfield.

It's been know we have turned into a 2 man team - Gerrard and Torres and the rest of the team ain't exactly supplying the fire power to kill teams off. Remember how frustrating it was to be unable to win games and kill off the opposition last season in games we should have won? Keane i seriously think will be the perfect partner for Torres as he operates deeper as the 2nd striker and thus will create more space and opportunity for "el nino" to work higher up the pitch. My mouth is watering at the prospect of seeing the both of them at work.

Then that leads us to the question of where will Gerrard operate from. The easy answer would have been to stick him back in the middle since it's his favoured position. But, when / if you put Barry in the equation then that changes the whole complexion of the formation. Gerrard to the right? Barry as a left winger and Gerrard center? I seriously have my doubts on how much do we need Barry in our team. I'd have to admit here, i am a big Alonso fan, even though he's not been the same after his block-busting debut season. In my books, he is still the best passer . Anyhow, i'd rather seem him stay (and the board seems to think so too) but the meeting that supposedly took place with the gaffer didn't exactly turned out well and he is now linked to Fenarbache, and with an even lower price of about £12million (Juve reportedly offered more).

Now, this gets even more interesting. What happens to Kuyt if Gerrard is stuck to the right? What happens to Babel if / when Barry is stuck to the left? And now, with French teenage striker David N'Gog has just signed as well. Chances are Babel will definitely stay as he has got bags of potential. Kuyt for all his hardworking could be sacrificed, again something i won't enjoy witnessing. Already some reports are stating that he might well be the one to go.

Is it just me or are we getting a bit too aggressive with our pursuit of transfer targets through the press? We've already have to apologize to Spurs with the manner of how we went ahead with the pursuit of Keane. Rafa's comment certainly did not sit well with their chairman. No matter what, the fact is it will never be easy to loose one of your most popular player and captain to a rival. At least he ain't going over to the Gunners.

The off season is getting crazier indeed with the season starting in about 3 weeks. Till then, keep checking news reports. Who knows our very own nutty professor / gaffer might spring a few more surprises and rabbits out of his Spanish "El Matador" hat?

PS: Am definitely looking forward to the Keane trademark cart-wheel machine gun goal celebration at the Kop end. ;0)

-JonC-

WhY So SEriOUs?

2008-07-24T14:43:00.004+08:00

Heath Ledger - you got it mate. You definitely got it! RIP.

The rest of you, go watch possibly the best villain ever on the silver screen.

-JonC-

Million Dollar Smile?

2008-07-23T13:43:00.002+08:00

How much are you willing to spend to get THAT million dollar smile? I just got whack with a 190 bucks dental fee yesterday for some dental work. The cost covers re-filling 2 cavities (darn ori filling came off) and some other extra work to repair my 2 chipped front teeth and realign 'em.

Thanks goodness i can claim about 100 bucks back from me office. If not, i'll be eating rocks until the end of the month! I really curse and swear every time i have go to the dentist. Absolutely hate the noise of the drill, the smell from the drilling and worst of the lot, the amount i get charged for it.

Was it worth it to get me teeth done? Re-filling the cavities was an absolute must but doing something about my chipped front teeth, dunno yet as no chicks have really praise how good my smile is yet. Hehehehe.

-JonC-

Jazzing Away My Monday Blues: Diana Krall sings Nat King Cole Trio

2008-07-21T14:19:00.005+08:00

Was fooling around in youtube looking for some Diana Krall jazz song to kill time in me office when i stumbled upon the cool looking video below. Check it out, Frim Fram Sauce youtube style!

What more can i ask for? One of my favourite female jazz vocalist / pianist playing and singing my all time favourite jazz trio - Nat King Cole Trio songs.

She's gonna be in town at KLCC Plenary Hall this coming Oct 2nd for a show. Any takers? I'm seriously thinking of going and getting the RM 188 tickets..... poor man can't afford to get any better seats. Need a date too for the show ;0)

Coming EPL 08/09 Season - My Thoughts

2008-07-21T11:52:00.003+08:00

In about a month 3 weeks, the new EPL season will start. The silly summer transfer merry-go-round has made us Reds glow red, not because of the excitement or booze but because of the money constraints imposed by our current dire financial situation and the 2 imbecile on top. That being said, most of the major English clubs have yet to really make any bank-busting transfer as of today. Looks like the after-effects of the global economic slow down thanks to the weakening US Dollar have hit the rest pretty hard too; except a certain club bank-rolled by a certain Russian :0P

Then again the slow-down didn't help lower down the transfer fee for the English players: case in point - Gareth Barry. I still can't fathom how on earth Xabi Alonso will cost less than him. The only selling point to him is he's English and the "6+5" Fifa ruling is not making the situation any better. I believe one of the only reason the gaffer is thinking of going English this off-season is because of that stupid ruling.

I am all for the clearing of dead-woods in the team but the mere thought of us actually having to sell before we can buy is really disheartening. But looking at the current crop of youngsters that we already signed, i still have high hopes of us doing well in the league. We're definitely following the Arsene Wenger route by investing heavily in youth players. Then again, buying potential is a double-edged sword: some will excel and some will fail due to high expectations. I'm personally keeping a close eye on a few of the youngsters - Pacheco, Insua, Lindfield, Nemeth, Plesis, and Spearing. There a few other members from the reserve team thats potentially world-class if they're nurtured properly.

On the club management front, looks like we're set to suffer again under the 2 imbecile thats making us turn into the mockery and joke of the league. All have gone quiet on the DIC takeover, but i am not surprise the sheik is planning his cunning move to wrestle the control of the club. I personally am really disappointed by the short-sightedness of Parry and sadly Moores who sold the club for a few quid more instead of selling to DIC, a much more stable and state funded company.

Most of you guys that know me personally, knew i've joined the "i doubt Rafa" brigade since mid 2 seasons ago. As, i've grown up watching the all conquering team from the 80's era, i'm a true believer in the "pass and move" football philosophy perfected by the great Bill Shankly. I miss those all or nothing attacking football from back then. I do understand the modern game have change significantly, but i did not sign up for drab and boring "effective football." This is well and truly Rafa's make or break season.

Back in the home front, i'm truly feeling the pinch from the fuel price hike. So much so that, i'm really gonna limit my outings to join the MyRAWK gatherings. I've calculated that on average before paying up for the booze, i would need to spend 20 bucks on the traveling expanses alone from my place in Klang. It's gonna be expansive for me to join every gathering so chances are i'll be joining the boys most probably once a month or on big matches only. It ain't gonna be fun shouting and swearing alone at home. :0(

-JonC-

Bloggers' & Broadwalk's nite out - Saturday, 12th July 2008.

2008-07-15T15:22:00.008+08:00

This is the gang of bloggers and Broadwalk regulars at Sam's after the dinner last Saturday evening at Fatty Crab.

Ummmmm.... beeeeeeer! Doesn't it just tells you how much i love me beer? Hehehehehe. Pic was taken at Fatty Crab.

A big thanks to AD for organising the meet up and Bernard for the pics! Was great to finally be able to meetup with everyone from Broadwalk and blog-land after so long. Looking forward again to seeing you gals and guys next month.

Live Tonite: The Rise of Anwar or The Fall of Shabery

2008-07-15T14:35:00.003+08:00

For the first time since i can remember, there will be a live tv debate among the opposition and the Barang Naik government. The topic will be on the price of fuel - all your how, where, what, why and when questions will hopefully be answered in a measly 1 hour show. Better pray Astro don't try be funny by censoring or delaying the proceedings by going to endless commercial breaks. Would you be surprised if it happened (knowing how the mass media works)?

Remember tonite - Tuesday 15th July, 2008 at 9pm in Astro Awani, TV9 and BernamaTV. See how a minister might possibly be made to quit for failing to defend his beloved government. ;0)

Would have been better if the 2 main top man themselves would show up instead of the Information Minister. Come to think of it wouldn't it be more fun to have the infamous Minister of "Mis"information also? I can never forget how he basically screwed all of us Malaysians over in his Al-Jazeera interview before the elections. Really made us look as if we're still staying up trees with his replies.

Checkout the following video of DSAI challenging the power that be for the debating showdown. Link courtesy of "Becky" Mark.

PS - I think the lady's commentary in tis video sucks. Sounds like she's stoned or something. Hehehehe.

My Handy DIY Re-deco Work - Living Room

2008-07-09T10:23:00.007+08:00

Finally more or less 85% done with my re-deco job in me living room. Still got a bit of cleaning up to do to clear my old junks lying under me staircase. Also i might have been overly enthusiastic in Ikea and bought a way too big Lerberg coffee table (made out of steel) that do not match the whole look i am going for.

Here are a few pics of my handy work - all the wall shelves are mounted by me, all the lighting / wiring by me, all the potted plastic plants and also all the other deco items or center pieces using plastics / rubber foam lotus flowers, rock and pebbles is done by none other than me!

All of my stuff are bought from Ikea ( tables/shelves/candles/glass vases/ceramic tray/lights), Living Cabin and Parkson (decorative plastic plants) and *tada* of all places Giant (decorative rocks and pebbles). If ya wondering what the heck are those things in the shelves in the 3rd pic, they are actually my collection of Transformers toys. Hehehehe...... i know i'm still a kid albeit an old one. :0P

For those who are into audio visual stuff, yup the white thingy next to me Sony Bravia LCD TV is me fabled Playstation 3. ;0) I am still missing an a/v amp for my home theater ever since i sold off my old unit. Will get a replacement unit come this end of July in the KLAV show in JW Marriot. Forgot to mention i'm running a 7.1 surround setup. So any takers for a movie night in Klang in me pad?

The last 2 pics are the center pieces i created with rocks, white / black pebbles and those plastic / rubber foam lotuses. Any of you with a outdoor mini water fountain / fish pond / pool can actually get them to spruce it up as they can float! They come in 3 sizes - 10cm, 20cm and 30 cm.

Well, thats pretty much it for my diy re-deco job.

-JonC-

Bolehwood Blockbuster: JonC's guide to making the ultimate thriller / drama / action movie in Bolehland!

2008-07-02T14:06:00.007+08:00

Ever wondered how to make the perfect movie to storm the box office in Bolehland? Well, i have the perfect formula:

Get a Mongolian model, an arms broker, a powderful minister and his other half, the military, the police special unit and tie up the whole plot together with a handsome amount of special military only grade of explosives. Get some supporting acts like a blogger to spice up the sub plot. Remember to make the explosion BIG and spectacular like a Merdeka day fireworks display by hiring an overpaid bunch of pyrotechnic experts.

In order to add in a bit of comedy, throw in a drunk lawyer uttering those famous lines - "correct! correct! correct!" and "he looks like me, sounds like me, but is not me!" You can also throw in a senile senior politician that likes to bud into everything under the Bolehland sun into the fray as well for more bumbling comedic relief.

Must also not forget about the sodomy plot to go with it. Nothing spice up a story better than a sex scandal in the political scandal - may it be homo or heterosexual.

Do not forget the customary police interrogation scene with a handful of beatings thrown in for a good measure. Use the most sophisticated special effects methods possible to make the main protagonist look like he got whacked by 300 Spartans.

If any of you budding movie makers out there succeeds in breaking the bank with this, please give me a share of the spoil and credits. ;0) Need more moolah to pump petrol and survive the inflation!

-JonC-

PS - Disclaimer: This is just a fictional take and parody on the political uncertainty / scandal in the country. Any fictionous characters with resemblance to person (s) dead, living or dying is of pure co-incidence.

Euro 08 Final - Spain Vs Germany

2008-06-27T10:15:00.005+08:00

Hardly lost any sleep the past week due to being too tired from work to be bothered to watch any footie. Tried to wake up this morning to catch Liverpool's Spanish contingent at work against the Russian but i slept right through till 5 am. Woke up just to watch the damn highlights of the 3 Spanish goals.

Always had a feeling them under-achieving Spanish boys will come good this time around. I actually did not expect the Germans to actually come this far, especially after the "effective" football they've been playing. Their attacking play was woeful compared to them Spanish.

Talking about the Liverpool Spanish boys, the one that really shone was Alonso (are we STUPID in getting rid of one of the best passers of the ball in the current squad?). Torres i think got sucked in by all the hype surrounding his great form for us. Sometimes he look to to have too much pressure on his shoulders. The lack of goals ain't helping either. But the sheer presence of him in the attack actually paves the way for other to shine - especially Villa. He drags defenders out of position as they are so worried about him. Reina and Arbeloa hardly featured except in their final group match.

Nothing much to say about the Germans as only 2 of their players actually excites me - Podolski and Schweinsteiger. Definately won't mind having any one of them down our left wing and terrorising the defenders.

Well, i'll definitely be up for the final this Monday morning. Just hope i don't sleep through the damn alarm again!!!! Viva Espania! Viva La Selección! Viva La Furia Roja!

Another manic monday! Another eventless weekend!

2008-06-23T15:47:00.005+08:00

Damn it! I hate Mondays to the core. Being already the lazy arse that i am, mondays are the absolute most fooked up day in my week. Already dead stoned over the weekend by watching Euro footie, i had to wake up with a fooking bad migraine this morning.

Totally no mood to work and sleepy as fook. The only damn thing i can do to keep me awake is by posting in me blog, forums and msn. Thank God today was a quiet day at the office - i can't imagine how i'll go through work if i had piles of shit to do. 1 1/2 hour more to go before i get the heck outta me office and time seems to be moving so darn slow. :0(

Ever since the petrol price shot up, i hardly even go out to hang out anymore. Been a good boy by staying home to watch telly and sleep through the weekend. I did drop by Ikea yesterday to get some CD rack to mount on me living room's wall to organise my dvds, blu-ray discs and cds collection.

I think i'm gonna pickup my other passion - DIY and do a bit of remodeling in my pad to keep me sane, since i basically do not have much of a social life anyway. Have no fooking idea why i suddenly had the urge to reorganise my living hall. Nothing drives a diy enthusiast crazier than the sound of a working electric saw or drill.

Heck, i might even post up pictures of my handy work once i get to finish the re-deco project (as of now, most the ikea stuff are still in their boxes and only the coffee table and shelf unit has been fixed up). I sense more of my hard-earned moolahs heading to Ikea cash registers the next month or so. Stay tuned for the net results!

-JonC-

Elmo Pt II: Aka Kevin Clash

2008-06-18T17:16:00.001+08:00

As promised here is the 2nd part of the interview from Rove with the "real" Elmo. Not really what you expect eh?

Price Hike + Lazyness + Bachelor = Cheapskate Dinner

2008-06-16T09:45:00.009+08:00

I basically slept through the entire weekend and stayed at home instead of going out. Was not too keen on bursting my extremely tight budget (no thanks to me fooking medical insuarance bill). Unfortunately this time round no more home cooked comfort food for me since me mum went back to me kampung last weekend after staying with me in Klang for over 3 months.

Luckily she left over some ingredients that i could cook with (knowing how my lazy arse won't be bothered get them at the nearby market). Hence below was the net results:

The above dinner was whipped up in roughly about 20 mins, and it consists of instant fried mee, oyster sauce lettuce (with a touch of fried shallots), 1 fresh tomato and a 9" omelette ("Fu Yong " style). If any of you bloke can't even cook a proper pack of instant noodles, i'll personally smack ya in the head with me trusted frying pan!

The instant fried mee was cooked to perfection - al dente! Cook 'em in boiling water for about 2 mins, anything longer will turn them soggy. The lettuce was boiled for about 45 secs before i took 'em out and slapped em with some oyster sauce, a touch of vege oil and topped of with some fried shallots. The sliced tomato was suppose to be added to the omelet but i missed it so i just ate it as it - a fruit.

The pièce de résistance was the 9" omelette "Fu Yong" style! Due to no Chinese "Lap Cheong" sausages, i only had onion in it with soy sauce and pepper to flavour it. If you wondered how on earth it turned out in one piece, just take note of the amount of oil and heat you cook it with. A good non-stick frying pan helps too. And yeah baby! I managed flipped the bugger over too. ;0) A tip if ya wanna take a shot at cooking one; its best you stir fry them onions first until they turn slightly translucent (together with the sausages) before you add in the eggs.

I threw in a few cans of beer to quench the thirst. Net result was a filled to the brim bloke who went on with his weekend by watching the marathon run of "The Simmons' Family Jewels" on Channel V in conjunction with Father's Day.

PS - As dysfunctional as it may look, Gene Simmons and Shannon Tweed actually gave life to 2 youngsters that had their heads screwed on better than their own.

He's Red, He's Furry, He's 3 1/2 yrs old and He's From Sesame Street: His name is Elmo

2008-06-11T15:03:00.005+08:00

Here's another side of Elmo you've not seen before in an interview in Rove ( a talk show in Aussie). I'll post up the interview with the puppeteer that plays Elmo later in the week.

Damn! i grew up watching Sesame Street and loved most of the furry characters in there. Favorites will always be Grover, Kermit and of course that red haired cute dude - Elmo. Gotta pay homage to Jim Henson, the guy is an absolute genius. I'll say it here - Sesame Street kicks that damn purple dinosaur named Barney's arse! :0P

-JonC-

Anger Management? What? Me?

2008-06-10T10:08:00.006+08:00

I am seriously contemplating seeing a shrink to shrink my damn anger. The boredom and frustration at work is really driving me up the wall. Those who know me well would have notice a drastic change in me since 2 or 3 years back - my fuse got a WHOLE lot shorter and my swearing got a WHOLE lot louder and more frequent. I'm a heck lot more serious, sensitive, picky and annoying.

Coincidentally, when my rage and temper went off the chart, i was freaking pissed with my shitty work and pay i got from it. The same monotonous job, the endless cleaning of other people's self inflicted crap, the feeling of getting kicked around like a ball, not getting my idea accepted by the management and dealing with a bunch of stubborn dimwits has well and truly taken its toll and screwed me brain up nicely. To top it all off, and the most ironic thing about it all, is the fact that I'm still working at the same company after 9 years. Half the time i ain't got a clue what the fook made me stay - maybe subconsciously i did not realise i am digging my own grave or i actually enjoy the shitty situation (a scary thought indeed).

(frustration + disappointment + anxiety + worry) x stress [work or non-work related] / lousy social life = pure rage or hatred

The above is my theory on whats happening to my glowing hot brain. AD, before you say anything, i know you'll suggest alcohol to dose of the flames. But science has proven that alcohol burns much faster and hotter when thrown into an inferno!!! ;0P Also, i don't think filling up my drying and hole filled melon with the "happy" juices will save me any bit. I've had my fair share of puking me lungs and brains out during me college years.

Maybe, my love of football will save me but what conspired in Anfield the past season or so did nothing to elevate my inner suffering. Shitty politics and performance all round frustrated me even more. Football is one of my best escape from this angst filled life and when it ain't going according to plan, what else could be worst?

Playing football so far has been my best method to vent my frustrations out and dose off the flame in me head. Pity those who play against me though, cause they don't call me a tank for nothing ;0). Then again, the heavens up above conspired to turn me into a fooking Harry Kewell. I've got an injury list so long, it'll filled up an entire file cabinet.

Albeit all this inner turmoil i found a bunch of unkers, young punks and fellow football and fun loving guys and gals through the net. Really appreciate their company and our crazy method of talking cock and exchanging idea through each others' blog. Hey! What better way to virtually scream all your frustration , crazy thoughts and fears so that it can be heard? It's free and people will respond in the virtual world. What more can you ask for? Thank goodness for the internet and blogging!

Lately, i've found another method to vent my anger, thanks to the pretty huge amount of moolah i paid to Sony for my unit of PlayStation 3. Didn't realise my nearly psychotic mind actually enjoys thrashing the shit out of a game controller using my fingers in some rather violent games. Eureka! What better way to soothe and relax me head than crashing cars and shooting people up in Grand Theft Auto 4? How about playing the role of a trained killer in the form of an SAS operative killing terrorists in Call of Duty 4? And best of the lot, play a footie game and thrash the scums and rent boys with a score of 10-0 with Torres scoring triple hat tricks in PES 2008?

Thanks for reading my pointless rumblings and what nots. Hope you'll have a good laugh about it (on my expense) and help you go through the hazardous monotonous life back in the real world. Maybe you'll see it in a whole new light, and think that hey i'm not alone! There are other weirdos and slightly nuts people out there - case in point being myself. ;0)

AD, so far i am still keeping my promise to talk cock er...... i mean update me blog on a "sustained and timely" basis. Muahahahahahaha!

-JonC-

Anyone got caught in the "Petrol" traffic jam?

2008-06-05T15:29:00.004+08:00

Imagine my frustrations when i had to pass through 3 fooking packed petrol stations on my way home from work last night. The fooking queue spilled over to the main road and caused bloody massive jam.

Thank goodness i am staying just about 10 minutes away from me work place, although last night's journey took triple the normal traveling time. Kiasu is a phenomenon not limitted to our southern neighbour anymore, and Malaysian can be just as bad if not worse.

Saving from paying the new price for a day won't make a world of difference! Its as if by pumping petrol last night, you'll never ever have to pump it again. Whathafook!

Okay! Enough of venting my frustration on the jam. Time to plan my strategy to fight for higher pay. New motto in Malaysian life - "barang naik, petrol naik dan elektrik pun naik, tapi gaji tak naik."

-JonC-

What's The Story, Fuel Subsidy?

2008-06-03T11:02:00.008+08:00

It's going to be the same ol' shitty process at ALL petrol stations again later tonite when every Tom, Dick & Harry will rush to the nearest petrol station to pump their tanks full before the announcement to increase the fuel price is made tomorrow.

The dreaded price increase will happen AGAIN once the new prices for the 2 new types of petrol: RON95 (normal unleaded - expected price close to MYR 3) and RON99 (super unleaded - expected price around MYR 4) are revealed to the general public. To those who are not inclined with the terminology and meaning of the RON standard for petrol, all you need to know is that the new RON95 rated petrol will be of lower grade and octane, hence less power than the current RON97 at the petrol pumps. The new 99 will be new "super" unleaded to replace the RON97.

Well most will just say, since RON95 will be cheaper, just stick to it and be done with it. As long as the car still runs, there should not be any problems. WRONG!!! Car engines are designed to run on specific octane and RON fuels. It's better to use the recommended fuel specified by the car manufacturer - bare minimum will be RON95.

Most cars on the road with electronic engine management systems will not have much problem running the new fuels. The onboard ECU (computer) will automatically adjust the ignition to compensate for the lower octane fuel to avoid "knocking." Basically to explain this, you need to understand that fuel and air mixture literally explodes in your engine (more precisely in your cylinders) to create power. If the explosion occurs on the wrong time, it will create a lot of heat and wear to damage your engine. So when this mistimed explosions happens, it's called "knocking." Tell tale signs of this happening is when you notice "pinging" sounds and bad fuel consumption.

Those with normal everyday family car will not encounter much hassle using the RON95 petrol since all we want is to just get to point b from point a. Performance seeker with high performing cars however, will have no choice but to fuel their desire and fuel guzzlers with RON99. Anyone with older generation carburator engines might need to take note of this and get more info from your mechanics to avoid expensive repair bills.

So what does all this do to us? Well, higher priced fuel not only means we have to pay more for petrol to pump to our cars. It also means every other thing that we use, eat and buy will be effected as well. Literally every consumer products and services that we use, have to involve fuel burning vehicles (unless u stay in a kampung where "kereta lembu" is still used to cart goods). Higher fuel prices means higher transportation charges hence leading to higher priced goods. It's all a chain reaction. Basic economics dictates that price increase and high demands will lead to the inflation phenomenon. When this happens, you and i will spend more and save less for the same amount of income. Anyone thinks their salary increments is covering their increase expenses? You get my drift? In the long run, those in the lower and middle income group (me and most of you included) will suffer.

Sorry for the lecture on automotive engineering and economics. Hehehehe, both are among my favourite subjects along with politics and history. I just feel that all this shit needs to be informed to the masses to wake them up to reality. Life ain't rosy in bolehland anymore. It's time to speak our minds and work together to solve this issue and not swept it under the carpet.

So what say you Petronas, "Barang Naik" and Pak Lah?

PS: It's now widely reported the prices will be allowed to fluctuate according to market forces by August. So expect petrol prices to hit the roof at MYR 4-5 per liter.

UPDATE: PETROL PRICE INCREASED TO MYR 2.70 AFTER 12AM TONITE. NO ANNOUNCEMENT ON 2 NEW CLASS OF FUEL.

-JonC-

Here In My Home - Malaysian Artistes For Unity

2008-05-27T09:52:00.005+08:00

Found this interesting effort by some local artists, celebrities and corporate figures to promote harmony and unity among us Malaysian. Please pay close attention to the lyrics as its promoting what i'll like to call "smart" patriotism not blind faith.

Kudos to Pete Tong for coming out with the idea and the rest for showing they care. Another good piece of video work from Yasmin Ahmad as well.

Stop the scare-mongering politics! Stop the racial politics! Stop the bad governance ! The red, white, yellow and blue RAKYAT has spoken.

Checkout their official webby at http://www.malaysianartistesforunity.info/

-JonC-

One month has passed............

2008-05-22T12:50:00.003+08:00

A lot of things can happen in a month. Since my last posting, Liverpool lost in the UCL semi-finals, the EPL season has ended and Torres has brokern virtually every record in the book (ok so i exaggerated a lil bit). The saddest of the lot are the natural disasters that struck Myanmar and China.

The death toll in Myanmar is unknown and the military junta ain't doing anyone any favour with their stupidity in dealling with the dire situation. Thousand are dying while the military leaders are playing their mind games and propagandas.

In Sichuan, China, the Chinese government long known for its bureacracy and redtape is the total opposite of that. It's fast action and decision making is saving thousand from suffering even more hardship and death. It saddens me to look at pictures of old folks and young children suffering.

Mean while back home, the shockwave from the last election is still being felt. The fact that the old horse went berserk and senile is making the political climate for UMNO very touchy. Things are not looking rosy for MCA, MIC and Gerakan either. Internal fighting and factions are causing havoc to them. Well, newsflash - shape up or ship out. The whole structure of the coalition need a total overhaul before they become dinosaurs and exticnt. Not that i am complaining anyway. ;0)

All the croonism and corruption is biting BN's arse HARD. What goes around comes a round - bad karma as they say. Now i truly see a new begining for all Malaysians, the road will be bumpy and there will be necessary sacrifices from everyone in the long road to a progressive and united Malaysia. I am looking at the Penang state government closely to see how good governence should work.

One a personel note, i've been labelled a lazy bum by my good friend and bloggin' mentor AD. So to this i've to say sorry lah macha, things got slower ever since i can't stop playing with my new toy - PS3. Been loosing huge amount of sleep to PES 2008, COD 4 and GTA 4 games. Problems with the new IT setup lately also keeping me on my toes. I'll try to update me humble blog atleast once a week from now on.

Before i sign-off, just have to say i was cheering CSKA London on this morning but no thanks to the "heroics" of one Drogba and Terry along with journeyman Anelka, the scums stole it at the death in the peno kick. Shit happens to everyone else but THEM. I fooking swear they have more than 9 lives. Life just ain't fair sometimes.

-JonC-

Them Manic Mondays!

2008-04-28T10:09:00.005+08:00

Ever had one of those days when that darn Bangles tune keep playing in ya head? Am definately having one today! The only damn thing in my totally blank brain since i woke up today is that damn song on repeat.

After a long and lazy weekend, totally not in the mood to work. Must have banged me head against the bed or something during me sleep. I am mentally and physically drained after a whole fooking month of non-stop work and long weekends in the office.

Also to make time pass by that lil' bit quicker, i've added in the official Dilbert comic strip widget. So use it! Maybe some of you guys might want to add it to your blog so, click on it and hit the grab it tab.

Boy do i hate mondays! This is JonC signing off.

Mondays are not part of the productive work week. - Dogbert's Theory of Mondays, from Dilbert

Bloggin' live from marathon 6 hours k-ok session!

2008-04-19T15:01:00.006+08:00

After 3 weeks of constant work and headache with the email & system migration along with changing of seating arrangement (hence the IT fall guy - i.e. me had to repatch half the fooking data and voice ports), its time to unwind. The choice to release my frustration and stress is the ear splitting 6 hours marathon k-ok session in GreenBox in Bkt Tinggi, Klang with me colleagues.

Came straight after work, along with me Dell laptop. Thank goodness for WiFi in this place. ;0) Hence, i'm able to update me long neglected blog live from GreenBox. Muahahahahaha! I love technology. Check out the pic above, me thinks is a perfect illustration of what i am doing now.

Got to sign off before me mates drown me in beer for fooking around with me lappie when i'm suppose to be singin' me lungs out. See ya!

-JonC-

In Memoriam: 15th April 1989, Hillborough - Never Forgive, Never Forget

2008-04-15T08:43:00.007+08:00

To my fellow 96 brothers and sisters in red who never returned from that faithful match. R.I.P

You'll Never Walk Alone & Justice For The 96:

John Alfred Anderson (62)
Thomas Howard (39)
Colin Mark Ashcroft (19)
Thomas Anthony Howard (14)
James Gary Aspinall (18)
Eric George Hughes (42)
Kester Roger Marcus Ball (16)
Alan Johnston (29)
Gerard Bernard Patrick Baron (67)
Christine Anne Jones (27)
Simon Bell (17)
Gary Philip Jones (18)
Barry Sidney Bennett (26)
Richard Jones (25)
David John Benson (22)
Nicholas Peter Joynes (27)
David William Birtle (22)
Anthony Peter Kelly (29)
Tony Bland (22)
Michael David Kelly (38)
Paul David Brady (21)
Carl David Lewis (18)
Andrew Mark Brookes (26)
David William Mather (19)
Carl Brown (18)
Brian Christopher Mathews (38)
David Steven Brown (25)
Francis Joseph McAllister (27)
Henry Thomas Burke (47)
John McBrien (18)
Peter Andrew Burkett (24)
Marion Hazel McCabe (21)
Paul William Carlile (19)
Joseph Daniel McCarthy (21)
Raymond Thomas Chapman (50)
Peter McDonnell (21)
Gary Christopher Church (19)
Alan McGlone (28)
Joseph Clark (29)
Keith McGrath (17)
Paul Clark (18)
Paul Brian Murray (14)
Gary Collins (22)
Lee Nicol (14)
Stephen Paul Copoc (20)
Stephen Francis O'Neill (17)
Tracey Elizabeth Cox (23)
Jonathon Owens (18)
James Philip Delaney (19)
William Roy Pemberton (23)
Christopher Barry Devonside (18)
Carl William Rimmer (21)
Christopher Edwards (29)
David George Rimmer (38)
Vincent Michael Fitzsimmons (34)
Graham John Roberts (24)
Thomas Steven Fox (21)
Steven Joseph Robinson (17)
Jon-Paul Gilhooley (10)
Henry Charles Rogers (17)
Barry Glover (27)
Colin Andrew Hugh William Sefton (23)
Ian Thomas Glover (20)
Inger Shah (38)
Derrick George Godwin (24)
Paula Ann Smith (26)
Roy Harry Hamilton (34)
Adam Edward Spearritt (14)
Philip Hammond (14)
Philip John Steele (15)
Eric Hankin (33)
David Leonard Thomas (23)
Gary Harrison (27)
Patrik John Thompson (35)
Stephen Francis Harrison (31)
Peter Reuben Thompson (30)
Peter Andrew Harrison (15)
Stuart Paul William Thompson (17)
David Hawley (39)
Peter Francis Tootle (21)
James Robert Hennessy (29)
Christopher James Traynor (26)
Paul Anthony Hewitson (26)
Martin Kevin Traynor (16)
Carl Darren Hewitt (17)
Kevin Tyrrell (15)
Nicholas Michael Hewitt (16)
Colin Wafer (19)
Sarah Louise Hicks (19)
Ian David Whelan (19)
Victoria Jane Hicks (15)
Martin Kenneth Wild (29)
Gordon Rodney Horn (20)
Kevin Daniel Williams (15)
Arthur Horrocks (41)
Graham John Wright (17)

My New Toy!

2008-04-09T14:13:00.005+08:00

Got me brand new toy, a Dell Latitude D630 from me company! Oh happy days ahead until i get tired of it along with my new Sony Bravia 32D300A LCD TV and me spanking new Sony PS3. Well, what a way to blow my bonus, so much to the save for rainy days advice from me parents. Then again thank god for a thing called 0% interest installments.

Sleepless nights ahead trying to play some footie and shoot'em up games. As if the sleepless nights from my office system migration work is not enough. Geeeez! Til then time to get back to work again. Muahahahahahaha!

Oh! before i forget, managed to catch the gut wrenching, heart stopping 2nd leg quater finals at Anfield this morning. Hope i didn't wake any of me neighbours up with my shouting, hehehehehe. Bring on them true blues and devils!

-JonC-

Busy Times Ahead!

2008-04-02T20:44:00.007+08:00

Been a while since i updated me blog. Extremely busy with some email and system migration work for my office - cue setting up 35 brand new Dell PCs, download and convert 40 - 50 GB worth of emails, and install the new PC for the users. As of now only managed to finish up 7 units, including me spanking new Dell Latitude D630 notebook ;0). Me and my other 2 colleagues from my HO in Bkt Jelutong is struggling to get everything settle by this coming 11th April!

I'm expecting to stay in me office and OT to atleast 10 pm daily for the next week and a half or so. So if i go missing from the blog and cyber space, pls don't be worried. Hehehehehe. LFC and my social life will have to take a back sit for the moment. Till then take care, and hope to to get back in touch with everyone soon.

-JonC-

All time favourite movies: My Top 5

2008-03-19T17:28:00.008+08:00

Ever since AD started the Top 5 desert island CD thing, i've wanted to start a list for my top 5 movies. The following are the absolute top 5 movies in no particular order that i will never ever get tired of watching.

Singing In The Rain - 1952
One of my all time favourite musical. Love the songs and dance routines featuring the legendary Gene Kelly! Any of you remember the scene where he danced in the street under the heavy rain? That scene was later remade into an ad for the VW Golf GTi in 2005. What more can you ask for from a musical? Great music, great dancing and a decentgood story-line about the changing times in Hollywood during the period when "talking" movies came out in the roaring 20s.

Citizen Kane - 1941
One of the first ever black and white movie that i enjoyed. I bought the DVD from ebay and has never failed to be amazed by this Orson Welles masterpiece. The story line of how someone can forgo their entire past to become rich and famous, only to realise that it will bring no happiness on your death bed is timeless and still holds true.

The Shawshank Redemption - 1994
The story of how Tim Robbin's character got wrongly convicted of murder and got jailed for 20 years has captivated me since i first watched this movie back in 1995. I like how, in the most extreme of condition, with hope and a little help from Morgan Freeman's character, our hero can plot his escape from the prison and dish the ultimate revenge to those who took advantage of him throughout his 20 years in the slammers.

Star Wars - A New Hope - 1977
Who can forget about THE movie that basically started the whole sci-fi movie craze? The special effects was out of this world when it first came out. I still glee in delight every time the Star Wars tune and the word starts scrolling up the screen at the start of the movie. I actually enjoyed the Trilogy but since i can only choose one, i settled for the first in the series - the original!

Forrest Gump - 1994
I can't get enough of the IQ level 75 character: Forrest Gump. The story line wasn't the most complex piece of writing but somehow the simplicity of it just never fail to capture my imagination. The feel good factor of the movie never fails to cheer me up whenever i watch it. "Life is like a box of chocolates, you'll never know what ya gonna get" - who knew this simple line will be the basis of a simpleton character that seems to take part in some of histories most unforgettable events? Tom Hanks was worthy of his second consecutive Oscar after his also great acting work in Philadelphia.

Gosh! There's so many other movies that could have easily made it into my list. Some of them includes Gone With The Wind, Casablanca, Jerry McGuire, Mary Poppins, Sound of Music, Breakfast at Tiffany's and countless other great movies. I am a sucker for classics, musicals and feel good movies (including some chick flicks) ;0)

So AD and Mark (you're free add in comments section since you don't blog) you guys know what to do. Might tag even more of you guys and gals later! Have fun...... muahahahahaha!

JonC's 5 Top Albums Ever!

2008-03-14T10:10:00.013+08:00

Thanks to my champion blogger of a friend - Anfiled Devotee, i have to bust my brains to come out with my own 5 absolute must have albums. Coming up with this list is harder than i think as the range of music i listen to is as wide as the freaking Grand Canyon! Anything from classical to jazz and rock will keep me entertained as long as the tune clicks with me brain.

1) Nirvana - Nevermind.
The first grunge rock band and song i ever listen to was Nirvana with their angst fueled "Smell Like Teen Spirit" back in '93. A slow starter but still an ardent fan of Kurt Cobain. I was intrigued by the band's start stop melodies before going all out with their guitars blaring. Being a teenager at that time i instantly click with the anti-establishment, social alienation and non-confirmity lyrics. Notable tracks that still relates to my erratic and fiery temper are - Lithium, Come As You Are and On a Plain.

2) The Smashing Pumpkins - Mellon Collie and the Infinite Sadness
The band that had everything in their repertoire - gothic rock, heavy metal, dream pop, psychedelic rock, arena rock and in some instances, electronica. I paid for this double disc album after struggling through a week on bread and instant noodles during my A-Levels college days in Taylor's back in '95. Paying about 70 bucks for this album was a monumental achievement in itself! The songs that got me through my first year in college consists of 1979, Tonight Tonight, Zero, Bullets with Butterfly Wings, We Only Come out At Night, Lily, Beautiful and By Starlight. Again, i was intrigued by the wide ranging arrangement and melodies used by Billy Corgan, James Iha and D'arcy Wretzky (one of the first rock chicks that i dig). I absolutely got blown away by the string arrangements in Tonight Tonight. The song that i relate to most was 1979, it was like listening to the story of my life and the struggle to find myself in the process of growing from a rebellious and somewhat anti-social youth.

3) Diana Krall - All For You - A Dedication to the Nat King Cole Trio.
One of the first Diana Krall cd i ever bought and still rank as my favourite among her albums. After starting my working life back in 2000, i wanted something to help me mellow down and relax after a crazy day at work. By chance i managed to listen to her song over the radio and got hooked on her unique and soothing voice. Had always been a fan of Nat King Cole thanks to me dad and to see the list of songs in this albums made me glee in delight. Favourites from this album consists of the happy songs like Frim-Frame Sauce, Hit That Jive Jack! and Deed I Do.

4) The Beach Boys - Pet Sounds
The American answer to the The Beatles onslaught. Most will question why on earth would i choose this American band who sings about nothing else but surfing, the beach, girls and cars. Well, if you've heard the most notable song from this album - God Only Knows, Wouldn't It Be Nice, Good Vibrations and Sloop John B, you'll understand why i am such a big fan of them. This album has been consistently rank as one of the most influential pop music album ever made. The catchy tunes and vocals arrangement by Brian Wilson (father to 2 of the girls from 90's girl group Wilson Phillips) is awesome and mind blowing. It's been widely publicised that The Beatles' Sgt Pepper's Lonely Hearts Club Band album and one of their very best was a direct respond to challenge brought on by this ground-breaking album.

5) U2 - The Joshua Tree
U2 has to be in my list as they are one of my all time favourite band (especially their older stuff). I've always dig the politics infused lyrics by U2 but this album was different because it drew a lot of inspiration from the US - blues & folk music, geography and politics ( the album was specifically aim at the American market anyway). I instantly got hooked on to the 2 most famous songs from this album: With or Without You and I Still Haven't Found What I've Been Looking For. Another notable song was Where The Streets Have No Name. I can't seem to get enough of the hypnotic sounding guitar rifts by the Edge. The "Infinite Guitar" effect was fooking awesome and hounding. I still sing to these song's whenever i hear them over the radio and tv.

Thats the albums on my list at the moment. Countless that i can't seem to think of at the moment. So thanks, AD from making me waste most of my morning trying to crack me brain on the subject matter. :0P

PS - El Terrorista and Unker Bernard, you guys have been tagged to continue this discussion.

**Edited to include the album covers + the tagged bloggers.

Makkal Sakti! Malaysian say we want to take back out beloved country.

2008-03-10T16:40:00.005+08:00

Been a crazy weekend and a crazy day for me. But irregardless of all the problems in my work place today, nothing can rub the devilish smirk away from my face! MAKKAL SAKTI! MAKKAL SAKTI! MAKKAL SAKTI!

Had a feeling something big and historical is going to happen but never in my wildest dream did i even dare to think that my home state Perak and my adopted home Selangor will fall to BR. That really sent shock waves through the entire region and rub it nicely to the face of "you know who." Well, when you've been arrogant and plundering the wealth of the people, the people will show you the bird and say good riddance!

I was the happiest when i found out the ex-MB of Selangor got booted out from the Selangor State Government spectacularly. The opposition...... *ahem* i meant the ruling coalition swept every darn thing in Klang!!! Even the proxy for one infamous "Chiak Ka Liau" was unceremoniously dumped from the Port Klang DUN. The look on the face of one of me colleague who supports "you know who" was priceless.

The DUN at my hometown was won by DAP and the MP from "you know who" was maintained albeit with a significantly reduce margin. That being said, the MP did do a lot of things to improve my hometown, so i'll have no qualms about him staying put. It's just his bosses that i've got major issues with.

Starting from 8th March 2008, Malaysia will never be the same again. We've said we've had enough of corruption, racial politics and we want equal opportunity. We want to help the all the needy and poor irregardless of the colour of their skin. We've matured into a society that will not be intimidated by outdated scare tactics - no body wants to start any riots. ALL of us want to work together to improve the quality of life for ALL Malaysian.

No more "korek, korek, korek!" No more "bodek, bodek, bodek!" No more "heroes" with IQ lower than a 3 year olds in Parliament. No more "yes man" who do not understand the meaning of standing up for you constituents. No more "longkang" and road watching MP. No more money politics. SYABAS RAKYAT MALAYSIA!

We've changed it and i took part in it. Let's work together for a better future and Malaysia.

The price of freedom, equality and justice?

2008-03-06T11:56:00.003+08:00

All the talk about how 5 million eligible voters are not registered and the numbers of voters who will not be bothered to vote is saddening and mind-boggling. As the citizens of Malaysia, one of our most fundamental right is to vote and give a piece of our mind to the government and politicians - WE RUN THE COUNTRY, WE ARE THE BOSS.

Has the political climate in Malaysia turned so bad that the future leaders and the younger generation have given up hope? If most of the youth think it has, then the future for Malaysia is even bleaker than i thought. I was among those who wasn't bothered until i got my act together and decided to say "fook this, my destiny and how i want my country to be is decided by me and only me!" No one can bribe me, fool me, and sweet talk me into thinking otherwise.

Everybody keeps on harping about how bad Malaysia is and do nothing about it. Nothing is going to change if all we can do is talk. Talk is cheap and action speaks louder than word. If you want the apples to fall, shake the apple tree!

It's been 50 years since our independent, all of us are pretty well educated and can decide for ourselves. Why do we want to let others think and decide for us? Why choose to be spoon fed with lies after lies? The signs are already there, why do we choose to stay blind? It is the dawn of a new era, we need to seize the opportunity to change our country for the better. 50 years of mediocracy, corruption and marginalisation ( not only the Chinese, Indians, indigenous tribes in Peninsular and East Malaysia but also the poorer Malay communities) is eroding everything that is good about our beloved country.

The disparity of income and wealth is getting bigger as the rich and well connected (you know who you are) are getting richer while the middle and lower income citizen like most of us are not getting any better. All the talk of us having the lowest price for this and that in the world holds no weight - our standard of living and income level is lower compared to the countries the comparison is made. How many of us think that our yearly income increment is enough to cover the increases in prices of everyday essential items? Do you believe the inflation rate is lower than your pay check increment rate? All this problems effect EVERYONE, inflation rate and widening wealth distribution knows no skin colour. To all those who said we're better off than say "Myanmar," i'll say this to you - "bullshit."

Some will say, why bother since i can just migrate anyway. Well, to people like me, it's not even an option. I do not have the means to do so economically and emotionally. My grandparents worked hard to start a new life in Malaya and i'm not willing to see the roots they planted going to waste. I am born a Malaysian and i plan to leave this world as one as well.

Those who do nothing and sit around hoping freedom, justice and change to fall from the sky are as guilty as those who vote mediocracy, corruption and marginalisation into existence. So fellow youths of Malaysia, please exercise you rights to vote and let your voices be heard. The change might not come easy but to settle for even more non-sense that we're already suffered for the last 50 years will be tragic.

Now is the time to stand up and be accountable for our own future. Now is the time for us to do something for our beloved country so "ask not what the country can do for you but ask what you can do for your country." This is the best time for us to work towards a better Malaysia. This is the best chance for us to leave our mark for the betterment of our future generation. This is the best opportunity for us to say i took part in changing Malaysia! So, please vote wisely not only for yourselves but also for our younger generations.

Just Change It! Enough Is Enough!

My 2nd & 3rd ceramah in Subang Jaya, USJ 12

2008-03-04T09:34:00.009+08:00

I was compelled to attend more ceramahs after i got hooked ever since i attended the one in Port Klang. The reason i choose to attend those in Subang Jaya was because:
1 - Subang Jaya was the first place i set foot on when i came down to Klang Valley to continue my studies.
2 - USJ was my home for 6 years.
3 - I like the vibe and cleanliness of the entire township - but not the traffic jam lah!
4 - Majority of my friends still stays in USJ.
5 - I still spend a lot of time hanging out in USJ - Futsal nights and countless hours in mamaks.

The first ceramah in USJ 12, took place last Sat night and it featured Hannah Yeoh [cili padi ver 2.0 for the Selangor State Assembly ;0)], Loh Gwo Burne (candidate for Kelana Jaya), Tony Pua (candidate for PJ Utara), Nur Izza (daughter of Anwar Ibrahim), Harris Ibrahim (blogger - The People's Parliment), Teng Chang Khim (incumbent ADUN for Klang) and Teresa Kok (incumbent MP for Seputeh and Kinrara candidate).

It was a great ceramah with a turnout of 5000 to 6000 Subang Jayan and a few out-of-towners like me..... hehehehe! Donations for Hannah's campaign totalled about MYR31k (apparently a record for DAP ceramahs)!!!! Although no where near the budget of the "you know who" candidate, i am sure with the support of her young and tireless team, she'll make sure every single cent will be use to kick "you know who" out of Subang Jaya.

Last night's 2nd ceramah was a crazy affair. It's been hyped-up because "Mr. Opposition" himself, Lim Kit Siang will be speaking. The heavy down-pour did force some to leave but majority of the crowd that initially totaled about 6000+ did stay back and waited in the rain for him. The ceramah started with the 5 time incumbent MP for Cheras - Tan Kok Wai, before Gobind Sigh Deo (Puchong MP candidate and son of Karpal Singh) build up the crowd further with his fiery style of speaking. Next up was Loh Gwo Burne and by this time, it's already raining. When the next speaker from Keadilan (i did not manage to catch his name due to the heavy rain) it was already raining cats and dogs.

The MC - Ram (Hannah's husband) had asked the crowd if they wanted to stop the ceramah but they shouted a resounding NO! The ceramah was suspended until the rain relented and continued on with Edward Lee (Adun candidate for Bkt Gasing) and the President of MTUC (Syed Shahir) speaking. There was two other guests i am not familiar with.

Finally, the cili-padi herself spoke. From what i gathered, her speech has grown progressively better in the space of just 1 week +. She certainly has the drive and the fire in her eyes. Her team of young and inexperience helpers have certainly jumped leap and bounds in their quest to send her to the state assembly. Kudos to the whole lot of them!

While waiting for the star of the night to arrive, one of her supporters spoke about their humbling experiences while campaigning and how they were inspired by the support of the Subang Jayans. When Lim Kit Siang finally arrived at about 11:40 pm, the whole crowd erupted and started chanting his name. Needless to say, i was impress by this 67 year old "fighter," who despite suffering from sore throat and feeling the strain of non-stop campaigning, still have the energy to address the enthusiastic and pumped-up crowd. He proudly declared the support from everyone is better than any medication doctors can prescribe to him, much to the cheer of everyone.

He touched on everything that was wrong with the "you know who" government. The crowd chipped in with humorous comments and interacted with him. I lost count how many times i shouted the infamous "Correct! Correct! Correct!" line. By the time he was done, it was already close to 12:30 am.

Even though i had to walk close to 2km and got myself soaking wet from my toe to my hair, last night was still the highlight of all the ceramahs i've been too. Must give a big shout out to the residents of USJ 12 who had said "enough is enough" and had help organise the ceramahs in their padang. Still buzzin from last night as i type this entry and still feeling good after standing in the pouring rain for 2 hours.

JUST CHANGE IT!

** Sorry for the rather chiplak / chaplang looking pictures. My damn Nokia 5300 phone has a rather lousy camera function and it was not help by the dark conditions.

I'm a blogger so I lie?

2008-02-29T12:38:00.003+08:00

So according to our Barang Naik friends, we bloggers are liars. Well, do you think i am one? Heheheheh, check out the video and have a good laugh about it. Got the link from the DAP election website.

Here is one more good video to wake us up albeit with laughter. "Ubah Cara Hidup" tapi sampai bila? ;0)

My first "ceramah" in Port Klang: Tien Hock Temple 27th Feb 2008

2008-02-28T10:17:00.001+08:00

I attended my first ever "ceramah" last night, organised by DAP in Port Klang. Part of the reason i was intrigued and eager to attend the event was because of the speaker lineups: Lim Guan Eng, Raja Petra Kamarudin, Cikgu Loot Ting Yee (Chinese Education Activist), Teng Chang Khim (incumbent DUN for Sg. Pinang, Klang) and Gobind Singh (son of Karpal "Tiger of Jelutong" Singh). Besides that, the opposition candidates were also there to gather support from the local communities: Charles Santiago, Ronnie Liu, Mrs M. Manoharan (the wife of ISA detained HINDRAF leader) and Badrul Hisham (the PKR candidate going up against Zakaria's daughter in-law).

The "ceramah" mainly was conducted in Hokkien dialect (Klang or "Par Sang" is populated by mostly Hokkien speakers like me) and Bahasa with the occasional Tamil and Mandarin. The first speaker was Lim Guan Eng and his arrival and speech was warmly received by the big crowd that has gathered for the event. After him, "Cikgu" Loot - a highly outspoken and respected Chinese education activist took to the stage. Later, it was the turn of the candidates.

One of the "superstar" of the night was guest speaker Raja Petra who drew loud cheer when he spoke. It was the first time i've actually met and hear him speak. All i can say is, he really blew me away.

By the time the clock hit 11:15pm, it was the turn of Teng Chang Khim. He is a well know politician and lawyer around this part of the world. Infamous for being suspended from DUN Selangor, and one of the guys who exposed Zakaria ( the famous Chiak Ka Liau).

Due to the nature of the police permit that prohibits "ceramah" from continuing after 12 am, time ran out and Ronnie Liu did not have the opportunity to speak. Gobinh Singh couldn't make it for this "ceramah" due to his hectic schedule of campaigning in the PJ, Puchong and Subang area.

I'd say this was a great start to my adventures of attending "ceramah." Never had i thought that i'll actually have fun listening to speeches all night long. Looking forward to attending more, with Lim Kit Siang and other opposition leaders scheduled to grace events in Klang. Heck, i might event attend those in PJ and Subang.

Just Change It!

Small Ants vs The "Impartial" Mass Media and $$$

2008-02-27T10:01:00.007+08:00

Is it just me or is it just all this election fever going to my head? My blood really boiled over when i saw Barang Naik advertisements on the damn telly and Astro. I was going like are they insulting my intelligence?

Reading through ALL the state controlled media was a damn joke. If "impartial" reporting involves focussing 70% or more a damn article supposedly highlighting 2 young female candidates - Carol Chew ( "you know who"- DR Seputeh) and Hannah Yeoh (DAP - DUN Subang Jaya) to the "you know who" candidate, that just tells you how "impartial" our press are.

Seems to me the oppositions are really fighting against the entire world in their campaigns. Not only do they have substantially less exposure (but now somewhat leveled by the wonderful thing called internet), they have to battle on with less $$$ (I myself have donated a small token amount to the DAP fund, and contemplating to add more) and less manpower (no cronies and opportunist following them).

This reminds me of another disturbing thing i encountered during the CNY. A few of my family members received invitations to "you know who" open house in Sitiawan in envelops with "Urusan Seri Paduka Baginda" stamped on them. Inside there was a greeting card included along with the invitation card. The greeting card was from one of the ministry with a deputy minister from Sitiawan . So, i think you'll get my drift. What a convenient way to spread the festive cheer.

If you are able to browse to the blogs of the opposition candidates, you'll be able to find reports of sabotage to their campaign materials. I'm staying very near the Pandaraman area in Klang and the campaigning has been pretty feisty to say the least.

Its sad, how the hunger for power can really bring the "best" out of a human being. That being said, it's hard to fight the temptation when you have the power. Check out the Kennedy quotes below me blog to see why i have taken so much interest into politics (and specifically the oppposition) lately. They summarise why i rant so much extremely well.

It's time to say we've had enough. We want to change for the better. We want proper representation and not those "smarty pants" who sits around nodding their head to everything and only know how to retort arguments by uttering insults.

Just Change It!

Just Change It!

2008-02-26T14:54:00.006+08:00

Well the battle to see what direction the country is heading is finally upon us. The sad fact will always remain - Barang Naik will still rule. But then we have the power to ensure they don't have it all their way. We need to deny them a 2/3 majority to make them accountable for the non-sense we've been seeing the past couple of years. Another landslide victory will be a dangerous thing for the future of all Malaysians.

It's time to stand up and be counted, YOUR votes count. I've finally seen enough to make me register to vote and really felt stupid that I didn't register for the previous election. Sitiawan is my hometown, so I'll be heading there to vote for Perak N50 and P74 representation.

Please make all your votes count!!! I know mine will definitely make a difference.

To find out more about the opposition, please visit their homepage from the links bellow:
1 - DAP
2 - DAP 2008 Election Site
3 - PKR

JUST CHANGE IT!!!!

Stay of execution for the Gaffer?

2008-02-20T11:34:00.005+08:00

With the English League season effectively ended by Barnsley, it's no surprise the verdict on the pedigree of Rafa the Gaffer (in the English game) is looking grimmer by the day. Now with just one egg left in our basket, it's been widely reported that the only way he'll save his managerial career at Melwood and Anfield is by winning the Champions League.

I for one am not convinced that the Gaffer has the X-factor to bring our "holy grail" home. His tactical knowledge of the game is second to none, but his man management skill is a big suspect - the boys are as confused as the opponent on our play. That's where we miss Pako TREMENDOUSLY - the human touch.

The great result from this morning's game vs Inter will buy him some time before the vultures starts circling around him again. But, long term wise, I just can't see how he can bring the team forward anymore in the EPL. We're improving, but the bigger problem is, the rest are improving at a far faster rate then us and leaving us wanting.

It's disheartening to be fighting for the 4th spot with the likes of Everton, Villa, Man City and Portsmouth. We and every other football fans know that with the kind of players we have, we are MORE than capable of mounting a serious and consistent challenge for the crown. Still baffles me how some of the best talents in the game can turn out to be so average looking in our team. The only consistent thing about our season for far is our inconsistency.

In order to avoid more disillusionment and disappointment, I've decided to watch matches with no expectation what so ever. This hopefully will save me from more heartaches from watching the drab footie we're dishing out. The only thing I ask for now is for us to play some decent pass and move football that we're so famous for.

We as the fans of the club should realised that nothing is bigger than the club itself - NOT Rafa, NOT Gerrard and NOT anyone. I can't help but think that some of us are still hiding in our comfort zone - still the best team in UK, 18 titles and 5 European Cups. We're so into our own "we're still the best" mentality, we're seriously not moving forward and still slumbering and dreaming. The faster we wake up to the reality of modern football and adapt, the faster we can shake the slumbering giant tag.

Off-field shenanigans has not help our course - it made everyone jumpy. The tension made the Gaffer lost a few marbles and definitely cost us a lot of points. The boys unfortunately got caught in the crossfire. In an ideal world, as well paid pros, they, in theory should not be effected too much. In reality, the after effects are there for everyone to see. With rumours of the Yanks selling out to DIC, and Rafa's head is on the chopping block again, the mood at the camp will be of an uncertainty.

It's in time of adversities like this, that everyone should look into themselves and rise up to the challenge. No point dwelling on all the problems and wallow in despair. When the going gets tough, the tough gets going. I'm seriously hoping the Gaffer and team is doing this.

As for me it's not just a question of should the Gaffer go or should we stay anymore. It's about the reputation of LFC thats at stake. When push come to shove, the club will need to seek a new direction irregardless of the cost and the emotional pain that we'll have to pay. Short term pain for a better long term prospect and stability is a no-brainer.

I'll be sad if and when the Rafa the Gaffer go, but will be thankful for the 05 Champ League and the 06 FA Cup that he won for us. If he stays, I sincerely hope he'll adapt to the changes in the English game better for the sake of the team. Don't just do it for the sake of rotation and different opponents, do it to make the opponents play to our tune. Till then, I'll hold on to my realist views on his current regime until i see real signs of progress and not more excuses from everyone.

-JonC-

*This entry is posted up concurrently at the blog of MyRAWK

In-fighting even before the battle started?

2008-02-20T11:24:00.003+08:00

The news of Fong Po Kuan's decision to not defend her parliamentary seat for Batu Gajah is disappointing and sad. The in-fighting within the opposition party - DAP is a well known thing. Ego and self agenda is hampering the fight for a better Malaysia. If they don't get their acts right, DAP will not just loose a couple of seats in the parliament, but also more and more young and capable leaders.

It's sad the state of the opposition parties in Malaysia and if they can't get their acts right, how are they gonna take the fight to BN?

Thank You - Uncle Bob Paisley

2008-02-14T15:12:00.003+08:00

12 yrs ago to the day, LFC lost it's most illustrious and successful manager - Bob Paisley. He was the man responsible for 3 of the 5 stars found on LFC's crest. To LFC fans', he's right there next to Bill Shankly as the greatest ever manager to grace the English League - period.

RIP - Uncle Bob.

Parliament Dissolved....... Election Soon!

2008-02-13T16:29:00.005+08:00

Finally got confirmation on my registration to vote. Surprise, surprise, after lying on national tv about not dissolving the parliament until a later date, he did it today. Let's make sure all our votes are counted and show the big G that we're not dumb or still staying on top of trees. Vote for a better Malaysia and for a change. Irregardless of the fact that BN will still rule the country, let's vote for a proper opposition so the "checks and balances" system isn't dead and buried in Malaysian politics.

Make your vote count! Make Malaysia for Malaysian, not those privileged few sitting on top!

My CNY so far................. 11th Feb 08

2008-02-11T10:52:00.000+08:00

It's the 5th day of the CNY. So far, it's been a rather subdued celebration due to fact that there was a few absentees and a few family members struck down by illness. One of me aunt and cousin was hospitalized. Another cousin and his family stayed in KL waiting for the birth of his child.

Wasn't an eventful drive along the coastal roads back to my hometown Sitiawan, Perak. Not that I'm complaining, it's nice having a quiet and stress free drive rather than be stuck in a damn traffic jam.

Most of my cousins are already working adults and they left pretty early; by the 2nd day, most have headed down to KL. I myself came back to the land of Bak Kut Teh; Klang on Saturday, the 3rd day instead of Sunday for the fear of the crazy massive traffic jam.

Other than that, was me usual CNY - stay home, eat and sleep. Managed to pay a visit to my God family who were busy as they run a few convenience stores in the seaside town of Lumut. It was the boarding point for those who visit Pulau Pangkor.

Speaking of which, for such a small town, I do wonder how on earth can it fit so many cars belonging to the tourists who are heading over to the island. What is more amazing, is the number of people visiting the island can actually out number those who actually reside in Pulau Pangkor itself. The ferries we filled to the brim and the hotels were fully occupied. Yet, the tourist kept on coming, so much so that the ferries had to stop their service for the fear of too many passengers boarding.

I swear, every year this is the only time, there's traffic jams in the center of the town. The numbers of outstation cars was mind-boggling. Even my usual watering hole back home was packed to the max. Imagine waiting in the fooking hot sun for a bowl of "chendol."

By the way, if you guys ever go to Sitiawan, Lumut and Pulau Pangkor, stop by the Hindu temple next to The Store right in the centre of Sitiawan town to try THE best "chendol" you'll ever taste. Look for the store where the owners are wearing red colored bow-ties. Yes, you heard it right - you're served by people wearing bow-ties. The store was featured in food guides in the local dailies a few years back. Trust me, you'll never regret it - I practically grew up on this stuff. ;0)

Well, it's time to get back to work before my lazy arse gets kicked. Till then....... enjoy your holidays for those still on leave.

Petition For Safer Long Distance Bus Rides.

2008-02-04T17:52:00.000+08:00

I stumbled across this very important online petition - Bus Crash No More Petition brought on by the tragic death of 21 year old medical student - Lee Nian Ning in an avoidable express bus crash. I urged every concerned Malaysian bloggers or netizens to voice their discontent with the local bus service. We've had enough of innocent lives lost to poorly maintained buses and inept drivers.

For more info pls point your browsers to Bus Crash No More blog. Let's make a difference! Sign the petition NOW! Deepest condolences to the family of the victims.

Lee Nian Ning, Mohd. Zailani and Pang Boon Eng - R.I.P

Happy Chinese New Year!

2008-02-04T09:33:00.000+08:00

A very happy Chinese New Year to all. Let's take the opportunity of this joyous time to get closer to our family and friends. All the best of luck, health and wealth to everyone.

- JonC-

Gone were the days, when my world was colour blind.

2008-01-31T16:48:00.000+08:00

Urged by me good buddy and blogging friend; anfield devotee, I'm gonna reminiscent about those by-gone days during my childhood where the only damn colours most I could see was just red, white, blue and yellow on our "Jalur Gemilang."

I am thankful for a fact that i grew up in a small town area and during a time when things were so much more simple and innocent. I studied in the same Methodist school from age 7 to 17, with classmate from all over the place in Sitiawan, Perak; Malays from the kampungs, Indians from the estate plantations and the Chinese from the town areas. They are all the same to me and I didn't even think i understood what the fook racial tension is all about. The only thing i cared about was going to school to hang out with my friends - being mischievous, disturbing the girls and play sports.

I started noticing the real world during my late teenage years when my inquisitive mind started to dwell more into politics. Can't be help by the fact that my entire clan was supporting the "rebels" and me dad even worked as a campaign worker once. Being transplanted to the city from a small town make you grow and wise up pretty quick.

The internet revolution and information age really opened my eyes to a lot of hidden truths about Malaysian society as a whole. I learned the term "yellow journalism" during my American education system days in college. Well, it's not as bad as that but "selective reporting" and "sugar-coating the truth" is not exactly the kind of ethical journalism you come to expect as well.

The truth hurts and to use "scare mongering" to basically swept everything under the carpet and have it explode right in front of our faces in this critical time in our nation is bloody frustrating and disparaging. Sometimes i wonder are we kidding ourself or blinded by hatred and misunderstanding.

I have not have any serious racist remarks hurled at me or had any unfortunate racially link events happen to me. Then again that doesn't mean I've not uttered some racist remarks when i talk to my own race or have some uttered behind my back. Come to think of it, even though the remarks could have been spur of the moment comments or jokes, it still doesn't make it right.

The tragic thing that saddens me is how a young kid with a carefree and innocent mind grow up into one that has racist tendencies. Has the education system failed to integrate us? Has the mentality of all the races changed at all after 50 years of independence? Has the "scare mongering" tactics come back bite us by making certain people feel more superior that the others? How did one race ended up feeling oppressed and inferior while the other superior? These are just some of the questions that need dire answers for all of us Malaysian to progressed as a united nation.

What we see now is just a distorted and sweetened view of the facet of our society perpetuated by those in power to make everything look neat and tidy. The core of the whole society is crumbling from within. It's time to wake up and smell the coffee, take stock of ourselves and work together not against each other.

If only i could return to those days when things were so simple and i could hang out with everyone with the skin colour of the rainbow without a care in the world. Anyone remember the Petronas ads in conjunction with the 50th Independence Day celebration featuring those kids?

Sorry AD, i deviated abit from the "muhibah" theme for the discussion. This is my take and my thoughts on the whole thing as a whole.

Gone Too Soon: Heath Ledger, 1979 - 2008

2008-01-25T10:02:00.000+08:00

R.I.P Heath "The Joker" Ledger.

Warning: The Perils of Playing Footie!

2008-01-21T12:24:00.000+08:00

Guess what, I got myself freaking injured again in a footie game! I'm turning into Harry "the injury prone Wizard of Oz" Kewell. Geeeeeeeeeezzzz! I've seriously lost count of how many times I've got meself crooked while playing footie the past 3 years.

This time, it's me left knee - suspected a ligament strain or a badly bruise knee. Got it after i was sent flying and tumbling; cue a not so fit guy somersaulting through the air, before i landed badly on me poor knee. All this happen when the game have barely restarted for the 2nd half, I lasted only 5 bloody minutes on the field as i was the sub!!!! Thank goodness i could still walk as those who witnessed it was pretty taken back. They kept asking me if I'm alright.

Me being the right back, was trying to guard the opponent's left winger who was charging towards the goal. I tried to block his path and we barged shoulder quite hard at full speed hence both fell. I took the brunt of the fall as he was literally leaning on me all the way. He went down first taking me with him. I was just about 2 meters from the damn goal post!!!! It was either i fly sideways or straight to the post.

Well, its off footie for the next week or two. More time for me to contemplate on me non-existence life on Saturday mornings or Friday nights. Till then, my bruise ego and me injured knee signing off.

Warning: The perils of supporting LFC!

2008-01-14T12:43:00.000+08:00

Been a frustrating couple of weeks for a hardcore supporter of LFC like me. Sometimes I do think its much better to watch the paint dry than to witness the kind of gutless, boring, and inept performance from the team. The turmoil surrounding the club and the new owners on the financial situation, along the uncertainty over the gaffer and his sometimes bizarre tactics is not helping ease the minds of everyone connected to the club at all.

I've not felt so much anxiety and an anxiousness surrounding the club through my 20+ years of supporting The Reds; there's just too much happening at the same time to take it all in. Everything that can go wrong seems to be going wrong.

All this have split the support into basically 2 factions - the pessimist / doubters and the Rafa royalists. I've always considered myself a realist who sits on the fence. But lately, my stances have steadily shifted towards the pessimistic dark side. I've seen enough of mediocre performances from us. The football from the past couple of years has been mainly disappointing and BORING. The much loved Liverpool FC style of playing pass and move football has since long died and buried.

With the current state of play from us, I'd pray something gets done to ensure we'll play the way we're meant and suppose to do - dictating play, attack, pass and move. I'll be happy just to see us play proper football, not the shit I've been forced to witness. If there's a need to change the gaffer or root out the dead-woods, please do it!

As much as I love and respect Rafa for the cups that he has won us in the past 4 years, its the "holy-grail" that all LFC supporters want. It's been 18 years and counting since we won the league title, and it doesn't look like it'll end soon. The promise of challenging for the title has fizzled out and from the looks of things, we'll have a fight in our hand to hold on the the 4th spot and qualify for the Champs League next season. Being 12 points behind even with a game in hand, doesn't look much like mounting a serious challenge to me. It's as if we've hit a plateau in our development as a proper footballing team and maybe to improve further, we might need a change at the helm.

Looks like the yearly process of cutting out dead-wood from the team has to continue again. I cannot understand why we seem to attract a heck lot of sub-standard players. The most puzzling part is how come good players can also turn ordinary at the blink or an eye.

Lastly, the new American owners better get their acts right soon, before they screw everyone up any further. They've chewed on more than what they bargained for. Reports of their asking price of 500 million pounds is mind-boggling and it's disturbing that they're trying to make a huge profit out of the club when they've done jack. Their plans to plunge the club into more debt to finance their purchase is a major cause for concern. This means that if anything happens to us financially, they'll easily wash their hands off as the debt is on the club.

It's gonna be choppy and troubled waters ahead for LFC. Hopefully we'll take the right maneuvers to sail out of all this madness and uncertainty. I've certainly had enough of all the shenanigans from us; on and off the field.

First ever rant on me own blog.

2008-01-09T14:31:00.000+08:00

The is a bloody monumental milestone for one who likes ranting and cursing about anything and everything. Been posting a shit load of comments and thoughts on the blogs of others, so it was high time for me to start doing it in me very own blog.

Since its the new year - 2008, what better way than to celebrate and look back to my 2007 by summing it all up in one word - SUCKED. My car is still slightly wreck at the front, no thanks to some idiot who jammed his brakes right in the middle of a corner while coming out of a junction when there is no oncoming traffic. Fooking had to foot his bloody repair bills as I DID bang his arse....... I mean his car.

Work was screwed up, the first 6 months was enjoyable then the shit hit the roof and now I feel like I've been taken for granted - worked my arse off and not getting recognised or appreciated by you know who. Enslaved is an understatement to my current situation!

It has been pretty good in my private life wise as I met a bunch of great people who i have the utmost respect for. You lots at MyRAWK made my boring non-existence life that little bit much more bearable. ;0) Those of you who is helping me get me life back on track, I salute and thank you from the bottom of my heart!

Facebook is God sent, me thinks. Managed to tracked down a few of my school mates that I have lost touch for so many freaking years, I'll need all my 10 finger and more to count how long I've not get in touch and meet them.

Last but not least, I'd say it has NOT been easy being a supporter of Liverpool FC. It was building up to be a great year and then all the drama started and wreck most of the great work done. The Champs League Finals in Athens was a both great and an anti-climax. Now the uncertainty in the background with the new owners, the new stadium and the gaffer is making everyone associated with LFC nervous and extremely jumpy. The performance of the team is not that inspiring either and leaves a lot to be desired, especially with the array of talents and depth we "supposedly" have.

Just hope both myself and LFC will do a heck lot better in 2008. All the best to everyone in 2008.