Friday, February 29, 2008
I'm a blogger so I lie?
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)
Thursday, February 28, 2008
My first "ceramah" in Port Klang: Tien Hock Temple 27th Feb 2008
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!
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!
Wednesday, February 27, 2008
Small Ants vs The "Impartial" Mass Media and $$$
Is it just me or is it just all this election fever going to my head? My blood really boiled over when i saw Barang Naik advertisements on the damn telly and Astro. I was going like are they insulting my intelligence?
Reading through ALL the state controlled media was a damn joke. If "impartial" reporting involves focussing 70% or more a damn article supposedly highlighting 2 young female candidates - Carol Chew ( "you know who"- DR Seputeh) and Hannah Yeoh (DAP - DUN Subang Jaya) to the "you know who" candidate, that just tells you how "impartial" our press are.
Seems to me the oppositions are really fighting against the entire world in their campaigns. Not only do they have substantially less exposure (but now somewhat leveled by the wonderful thing called internet), they have to battle on with less $$$ (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!
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!
Tuesday, February 26, 2008
Just Change It!
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!!!!
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!!!!
Wednesday, February 20, 2008
Stay of execution for the Gaffer?
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
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?
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?
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?
Thursday, February 14, 2008
Thank You - Uncle Bob Paisley
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.
Wednesday, February 13, 2008
Parliament Dissolved....... Election Soon!
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!
Make your vote count! Make Malaysia for Malaysian, not those privileged few sitting on top!
Monday, February 11, 2008
My CNY so far................. 11th Feb 08
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.
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.
Monday, February 4, 2008
Petition For Safer Long Distance Bus Rides.
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
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!
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-
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