Learn Hindi

Learning Hindi Language in Kuala Lumpur (KL), Selangor and Klang Valley Malaysia.

Ever wanted to learn a new language? Understand the language of your favorite movies, especially Bollywood?

I myself, besides being a vivid English movie fan, do enjoy watching Hindi movies to a certain extent. My latest favourites would be 'Jab We Met' and 'You, Me or Hum'. To many Hindi movie lovers, we've seen the movie relying on the subtitles, but then, wouldn't it be nice to understand the dialogs itself?

So if you're one of those like me who have a liking for the Hindi Language, be it because of the beauty of the language, be it because you like Hindi movies, or Hindi Stars, like Shah Rukh Khan, Salman Khan, or maybe Katrina Kaif, Kareena Kapoor and Aish. Or you are planning a trip to India, be it Kashmir or to see Taj Mahal. Or maybe have a business and work relationship there. Even maybe you're eager to learn a new language.

Here is our opportunity to learn this language.

Read on...

Based on the picture I got below, Hindi is a widely spoken language in India. It is also one of the National Languages. The light blue shows areas in India where Hindi is widely spoken.

The tutor offers Hindi Language classes to a wide audience, ranging from children to teenagers, and all the way to working adults.

You can contact 012-4117086 or WhatsApp..

This entry answers the below question:

1. Where do I learn Hindi Language in Penang?

2. How do I understand Hindi movies?

3. How can I learn a new language?

4. How can I translate Hindi songs.

5. How do I get learn about Bollywood.
So yes, it's true. Malaysia, Truly Asia, a Melting pot of many cultures.

ps- Some people locally here, refer to Hindi Language as Hindustan or Hindustani.

BCard

Passed by Caltex a couple of times and noticed the big banner promoting their recently launched loyalty card - Journey. Interestingly Caltex was one of the only 2 petrol providers in Malaysia that had till date resisted joining or coming up with a loyalty card program.

-Source Caltex Malaysia Website-

So they have used an interesting approach on co-branding. Unlike Bonus Link that ties up with Shell but maintains Bonus Link's brand, Caltex used a unique approach tying up with BCard (a recently launched Loyalty card as well - or resently heavilty promoted loyalty card) which I believe is probably owned by Berjaya Group looking at the member merchants many are tied to Berjaya I believe, e.g. Starbucks, Kenny Rogers, Wendy's (Malaysian parent franchisor).

I previously was not that interested, coz never understood, so can you use your Starbucks card AND the BCard. Haven't tried, probably you can.

So with Caltex now joining in, I opted to apply. I am not really loyal to any brand of petrol, just what's on the way and gives a good return to myself.

Well, plus point of applying the BCard at Caltex (at least when I just did), there were many many vouchers included, Lazaada RM30 voucher for RM100 purchase, Zalora, Starbucks 20%. You also get alot of vouchers for Pappa John's, Wendy and so on, but to those outside Penang, tough luck, can't really use most of them.

Anyway, with the freebies they already give, seems like a decent card. And will probably encourage Bonus Link to have more promotions. Hahaha.

Well, have fun. I'm creating my account at BCard's website.

Some thoughts on buying Insurance for your Child

My kid is now close to 2 years old. Most of us go through a learning process being parents, definitely reading and talking to people helps a lot, however there are some things that we just learn, adjust and fine tune along the way, wouldn't you say?

One of the key things we usually consider is to get insurance for our children. Below was my thought process. Feel free to comment or share other ideas.

I took Takaful Malaysia for my son. Somehow I am little paranoid so each of us have a different company, myself AIA, wife GE, and my son TM (Takaful Malaysia).

Some considerations for myself when choosing insurance for my son. 

·        Life insurance should be nil or a minimum. Articles online suggest people who have a lot of tanggungan (liabilities) should have a good amount of life insurance. Children are our tanggungan (our liability) and don’t really have tanggungan. I still took a minimum Life Ins since for RM10 per month can get around 35k coverage.

·        Hospitalization cash / allowance, i.e get paid $ for each day hospitalized. I took this cause I am thinking generally most of our hospital bills would be covered / claimed under company, so at least can claim some allowance from our personal insurance

o   Need to check if can claim insurance from company but still claim hospital allowance from our insurer.

·        Payor plus (or whatever its called) – i.e if anything happens to payor (ourselves) they kid’s insurance policy renewal will still be paid by the insurance.

·        Income tax (Malaysian Income Tax) – I believe education ins & medical insurance fall under same category, so having an education helps get good tax relief also.

·        Personal Accident / PA – for myself AIA didn’t know should take or not, but for wife and son we have taken. I think next year I will update my AIA for PA too. For around $2 per month, I think the PA is worth it, unless you already take additional PA with your car insurances (e.g Alliance Road warrior). Interestingly not many people take PA, nor many agents push / recommend PA, I’m not sure why. - anyone any idea?

·        Most people say don’t take insurance with investment link. My thoughts

o   I tend to agree.

o   Why I took – TM only had investment linked one (no fixed return or FD type).

o   But oklah, so far their fund seems to be doing ok, but to be fair, in 2013 Malaysian stock exchange was very positive, so expected. And they have a fair amount of funds I can choose from and the prospectus claims free switching.

·        Maybe consider prudential takaful, I think they have yearly cash payout also if no claim, TM used to have, but seems none already
Also consider until how many years does it cover especially medical, TM is up to 70 I think.

o   I think I might have heard of policies (education insurance policy) which are to cover until the child starts working , going college or 18 years, however IF there is no option to extend the medical coverage post that age, I think too risky, as could be diagnosed, then e.g at 18years no more coverage

Why I chose takaful, one as above, don’t want to put all eggs in one basket. Also has hosp. allowance, Islamic, it clearly shows the agent commission in the simulation and I liked that they (or the agent) were willing to send me each simulation scenario I asked for (if you would like to take a look, leave me a comment).

SSPN Tax Relief vs Higher Div rates outside

So in my previous post, I wrote on how to reduce your taxable income, especially starting 2012, the government has increased SSPN taxable relief to RM6,000. So then we started to discuss, if you can get better returns outside, say 5% compared to say SSPN gives 3% dividend, does it still make dollar sense to go for this tax relief.

If you google like from SenseOfMoney, the average div (simple averaging) is 3.56%. So let's do a comparison to see what % of dividends you should expect from other sources if you decide to not invest in SSPN. Let's assume SSPN pays out 3.5%. The RM6,000 tax relief is from 2012 to 2017. Believe after that would reduce down to RM3,000 or extended. So to keep things simple, we shall calculate based on saving RM6,000 yearly in SSPN from 2012 to 2017 with returns of 3.5%.

 *Note one key assumption to the below calculations is that the tax relief savings you get, you save back into your SSPN (to keep it simple). Now  if you save the tax relief savings into a higher yield vehicle, this should translate into higher total savings.

If you're in the 19% tax bracket, your compounded returns with the above assumptions should be RM48,405 (RM48k):

 

To have comparable returns from external sources that don't give you the tax relief on your RM6k savings, you'd need to find a vehicle that gives you 8.5% per annum on average:

Now, for those big buck earners, who've reached the highest taxable bracket; 26%, your compounded returns for a yearly savings of RM6k would be RM51k.

 To have comparable returns from external sources that don't give you the tax relief on your RM6000 savings, you'd need to find a vehicle that gives you 10.5% per annum on average:

Remember though that SSPN when compared to bonds, FD, mutual funds and so on has certain difference i.e withdrawal requirements, capital guaranteed and so on. So take this into considerations too, e.g. the flexibility you require with your hard earned money, and the amount of cash you have.

If you notice anything that doesn't quite seem to add up, please leave a comment. This in based on my own understanding and calculations. 

Need some further financial advice - what's app to +6011-18953997 or  What's app me

Buying Baby Stuff

Usually when we plan to buy things, sometimes frequently over some months or even years, we consciously make note of the price, and choose out shops that offer a good value, price or deal. When you have a child, you come to the realization that you will be buying some additional things on a frequent basis, and probably consider your nearest or favourite hypermarket as your solution and destination.

If you're lucky enough you'll come across shops or friends who bring in the realization, that on a normal day (meaning no sale), odds are that your daily baby items are in reality cheaper at Baby Stores versus the hypermarkets. Yes it is pretty hard to believe but that's the truth.

My friendly started me off, be indicating that there are several baby shops in Kepala Batas / Bertam that have prices that are alot cheaper then other places. Yup we drove all the way there and it was cheaper. Interesting. But that was too far. So what's the main purpose of this blog?

1. To indicate locations of baby stores that you'd want to go survey and decide for yourself which are cheaper.Things that we usually buy are diapers (lampin pakai buang), interestingly we used to call them pampers, but few people still use that brand, too expensive maybe. Also where to buy milk powder (from Frisco, Nestle, Dutch Lady, Enfagrow, all the basic to fancy stuff) and Nestle's baby cereal- Cerelac. There are other things that you'll be buying including Rusks (Heinz's Farley's, Milna)

2. To share some indication of pricing of the goods.

Shops to buy Baby Stuff (items mentioned above). 1. Choo Choo Train. There are two shops that I know of. Both seems to have the same prices. I've done some comparison in Bukit Minyak, Sungai Rambai and Bukit Mertajam and have found on average this shop's prices are the most reasonable.

The first shop is located at Bukit Minyak. Turn into the road where the new Carrefour is (previously another shopping outlet) and its in the row of shoplots facing Carrefour. You can also refer to the map on their website. Parking is decent. Choices and variety at both the branches are pretty comprehensive for diapers, milk, bottles (including Tommy Tippee, Medela), baby swing (Endoi) and little bit of baby clothes.

The 2nd shop is located in Bandar Perda. From Kapitan Nasi Kandar, you can see the shop across the road, however the sign board is faded so look closely. Or coming from Bandar Perda main entrance (where TNB and JPN are on your left upon entering) take the first right. You'll pass Bank Rakyat on your right go straight, and then take the next right into the row of shoplots, which is opposite Kapitan Nasi Kandar and Qasar Hadramawt Nasi Arab . Click here for a map.

Another plus point about this shops is on average I find them (workers / shopkeepers) pretty friendly and rather well informed about baby stuff. This is important, as you want people to give you honest USEFUL and correct information when shopping for stuff for your baby. But as usual, go google and also ask an expert to verify.

2. Now that we're in Bandar Perda, there is another shop of important mention, a baby clothes shop, where there's a good selection of baby clothes starting from RM3 (or RM6 per pair). I found the material pretty good and comfortable. This are non branded, good for daily / house wear. Understand that this shop has a factory so they offer it cheap (or maybe last seasons - but does it matter?). It is located in the shop row behind Maybank, click here for location.

3.Hock Lee Trading. This shop is located near Bukit Mertajam (BM). It is more of grocery store that sells Baby Milk Powder for a decent price. Its located on a 1way street, so you'd need to 'circle around to get there. Otherwise, on the junction (by the court) instead on turning left to Summit at the fork, turn right and then left before Alka Ria and go straight. Then turn left, go straight then run right, then left then park. The walk to Hock Lee. Click here for map.

4. There are around 2 shops in Sungai Rambai area. I found the prices average at best.

5. For those staying in Bertam, there's plenty of baby shops nearby, all competitively priced.

6. On the island, I would say Sg Ara is your best bet.

I was going share a price list as well of how much is baby stuff, especially those that you'd buy often, but slow internet and somehow the formating of this entry seems messed up since my paragraph is all continuous looks like a mess.

Looking for baby shops near your area, unfortunately I can't blog about all the shops, one coz that would be a really long blog, I wouldn't know all the shops, and my internet connection sometimes frustrates me to much. So what to do? Ask your friends in your area where the shops are, OR, check out links like friso.com.my/highlights/promotions-events/friso-family-retailers.html which indicates its retailers so hopefully their prices are good.

Porch Swing Chair Endoi

Relaxation

Yes relaxation is very important in life. Finding activities that offer such to us varies among individuals, family and location. One of my favourite relaxation is sitting by this swing. I'm not sure exactly what to call it, I guess the most common name for it is endoi rotan. Which means a rattan swing. Might also be called a wicker porch swing. I'm not even sure if the main frame is built from rattan or bamboo (buluh). 

Anyway, having an endoi sure is a fine addition to your household relaxation options. The easiest way to get started is to buy a set from furniture shops. Which have the metal base and a rattan endoi attached to it. With this you wouldn't have to look for places to hang it as the base is usually a circular base - well balanced on your floor. Only thing if you plan to put it outdoors, the base could rust under rain and mess up your tiles / flooring. When our endoi from the furniture shop started rutting and 'mereput', we decided to look for a new one. And this time the plan was to hang it (outdoors) as well. We looked at the furniture shops and came to realize that even though the wicker rattan swings were so nicely designed, it was quite expensive. 

So started looking at rattan shops. In Penang, and probably around Malaysia, if you drive around you'll notice shops selling only rattan furniture. Most of this are located in quite warn down shops (a dying art) and then there are some ala boutiques. Well probably the prices will also differ accordingly. 

So here's the rattan endoi we went for. Its  lasted us well over 1 year now in rain and shine but don't expect too much since it is made of rattan. 

 

As you can see, one of the key changes we made is to 'hang' it instead of using the metal base outdoors. Obviously you need to pre-plan and 'renovate' your house accordingly to create such an option and place to hook and hang your swing.

From the above picture you can see the mechanism to create the 'hook'. Tip - when you are doing your house grill, gate or awning, ask the contractor to help add this type of wall plugs in places you think you'll be hanging your swing or other heavy stuff. This is not the normal wall-plug where you just drill a small hole, hammer in a plastic or wooden wall plug and screw in. If you look closely this has the nut screwed in to the reversed bolt which was something like 'riveted' into the wall / ceiling's column. Not sure what this is called, probably you can get it at the hardware store if you plan to do it yourself. Remember that you'll need identify structures that will be able to support your expected weight. The spring looking hooks I got from my old swing which had rut.

The metal chain is available at any hardware (HW) store. I couldn't figure out what's the weight or Newton rating that it can support though, so just 'tried' and risked it. If you're more hardworking you can spray the chain to match your preferred color, but not sure what's the best material to use, as a otherwise it'll flake.

So there you have it a nice swing in your porch or patio. Ok going back to where to buy. My recommendation is if you want something value for money go hunting for rattan decor shops, the old school type. If you want it quick and easy, just get it at the furniture shop. Here's some links to rattan shops around Penang and Mainland.

Rattan shop near Summit BM : there are two shops here. Summit BM will be on your right and slightly in front ~500meters you will see 2 shops 50meters apart on your left. I find the 2nd shop after summit to be more reasonably priced and friendly. Try finding parking at the parking lot right next to Summit, or drive slightly further you should see an open parking area on your left (by now you would have passed the 2 rotan shops).

Chulia Street : Coming from Jetty, once you cross the Kapitan Keling Mosque junction, drive on straight and you'll see a 7-Eleven on your right. You should see one rattan shop on your right. There used to be another one further down on your left, not sure if still open.

Bayan Baru Roundabout - There is a shop at the Bayan Baru round-about, Rattan de-Cor or something is the name. This one is a little more high end then the old school shops above. Its in the same row of shop houses as the clinic and Teratak Spa.

Giant Bayan Baru - After you park, right before you enter the Giant Hypermarket building, there is a stall selling rattan items. They didn't have the endoi last I checked though.

There are also 'mobile' bamboo / rattan furniture shops, and as the name implies they move around from places to places. I've seen / heard of them being around Sg Ara and Farlim, Penang. Probably try asking the hawkers around that area and they might know.

Among the many other furniture you can get from Rattan shops are rocking chairs, baby eating high chairs and some nice chair and table sets that won't cost you too much.

Wet Markets in Penang Mainland

The previous post covered on some of the wet markets on Penang island.
Lets cover some of the markets on the Mainland Penang. Mainland Penang covers Seberang Prai Utara (North), Seberang Perai Tengah (Centre) and Seberang Perai Selatan (South).

Seberang Jaya Market
This is one of my favourite markets. Prices are reasonable, and the folks friendly. What I like most about this place? The morning food stalls. You can get a variety of food here, from Roti Canai, Nasi Lemak, Roti Jala, Curry Mee, Tosai, Idli, and so on. In fact I notice that there are more people in the food court then in the market. You can get your normal vegies, fruits, egg, chicken and beef meat. Don't think they have mutton here.Parking, there is a main parking before and after the market, you can also park along the roadside. The morning breakfast stalls are before the market, just follow the crowd.

Bukit Mertajam (BM) Market
This is a pretty large market. I haven't really spent much time here, but you should be able to get nearly everything you want. Parking is along side the road, and also there are some parking areas along the main road.

Chai Leng Park Market
This market is located in the housing area of Chai Leng Park. You can get all your vegies and fruits here.


Market Sama Gagah
Is market according to my friend is a market with kampung prices. i.e the prices are rather cheap, especially for the breakfast. I haven't got a chance to head here, but sure am looking forward to the breakfast and marketing here. The map link above my not be 100% exact as its not available on the online maps.


Market Orang Kaya (Rich Men's Market)
I'm not sure sure what the name of this market really is, but even in Wikimapia it says market orang kaya. This is an evening market, you can probably go there 4pm onwards, but after 6.30pm, nothing much is left. You can find vegies, fruits, and fish here. It is mean mostly for the working crowd that can stop by after work before they get home.

As usual, there are many more markets on Penang mainland, which I myself am not familiar with.

Wet Markets in Penang Island

Wet Markets on Penang Island

Yes, a rather interesting topic to write about isn't it. Pasar pagi / Pasar Basah di Pulau Pinang.  But yes I think this question has been asked by many many people. I myself, and many friends have asked the question

• where do you buy fresh produce, vegetables, fruits, chicken, halal meat, lamb, mutton and beef?
• And also, I go to this market, but it doesn't sell specific things, so how? Where to go
• What's the timing of the market? Yes there are evening markets, pasar petang, that sells the above too.

Generally, again, I'm saying generally, things are fresher in the markets rather then super markets, and at times cheaper (very subjective). Let's start with the markets in Penang.Obviously this are not ALL the markets in Penang, but the ones I've been too.

Bayan Baru Market
This market is (obviously) located in Bayan Baru. It is located right next to the Bayan Baru market food Court, between the Bayan Baru Mosque and Sunshine Square. This market is one of more well 'arranged' market. There is parking on nearly every corner of the market building, and additional parking around that areas.You can get nearly all your market needs here, there are many of stall operators. Easily get vegetables, fruits, fish, meat like chicken and beef. I don't think there's mutton meat here though. Click here for a map of Bayan Baru Market

Sg Nibong Market / Taman Tun Sardon Market
This market is located in the Gelugor area. Also quite accessible to those in Sg Nibong area. It is located in the housing area. Parking is ample, if you cannot park at the parken next to the market, road side parking is easily accessible.This market is adjoined to a food court too, and you can get some nice breakfast here, including roti jala. Breakfast here is quite crowded. I would say the number of stalls are rather less, and also the meat selection is limited if I recall.. The plus point is it is very close to the residential area there and easily accessible to them. Point of mention is there if you like 'minum petang' / evening snacks and tea time, this place has a good selection. Options range from kuihs including one of the best Seri Muka, fried fritters (pisang goreng), capati and its curry and also roti jala. You can hangout there and have your snack or just pack it back. Try to go around 5.30pm or slightly earlier to have a wider choice of kuihs, the stall would be open until 6.30pm - 7pm usually. Click here for a wikimapia link.

Anson Road Market
It is located on Anson road, slightly after the Macalister road junction, before you get to Jalan Perak. The market here is pretty small, and caters for a smallers volume of customers. Parking, hard to get nearby one, but drive around there are a few spots which require some walking. Prices are pretty good here. Sells fish also. No halal meat here.

Pulau Tikus Market
This market is smack in the middle of Pulau Tikus. Landmark nearby is the Pulau Tikus Police Station, before Belleview Plaza.  Parking is little challenging on weekends as it does get quite crowded here. I found the prices slightly higher here, possibly due to this area being a little bit 'upmarket' with the relatively richer crowd shopping here. You can get your vegies and fruits here. There are quite alot of choices here, definitely more then the Anson Road Market.  Fish also. For meat, I'm not sure if they have Halal Meat. Anyone? Click here for a wikimapia map.


Batu Lancang Market
This market is easily accessible from Batu Lancang, Jelutong or Greenlane. This is an EVENING Market. I'm not sure about the timings, but it probably should be open around 3pm onwards. Going after 6.30pm possibly most stalls would start to close or be close already. You can find vegetables, fruits, fish. There is mutton available here (Halal one should be available here). Overall the options are good here, and seems quite well arranged. The parking is also convenient, as there is a large lot next to this market. This market also serves other purposes, with the top floor being a hall used for ceremonies including kenduri (receptions) kahwin. To get here , if you are coming from gelugor round about, go straight down Green Lane. You cannot right turn at the main Greenland junction, so continue to go until you reach the flyover (overpass) to Lam Wah Ee hospital (the narrow flyover), take this, and take your first right and drive slowly. You should be able to see the Building

Chowrasta Market
Chowrasta, this market is smack in Georgetown. You get all the fun here, traffic, difficult parking and so on. Actually there is ample parking but it is rather far off, one option being the council's multi-storey parking on Hutton Lane. Chowrasta Market itself is a gem in itself, with alot of old' school nostalgia it seems. Here you can also get pickels / buah Jeruk. 

On the top floor, you there are actually shops selling clothes, shoes etc. And most wonderful of all, there are plenty of second hand book stores here. Most close by end of the evenings.
Now going back (and down) to the market it self. Choices are a plenty, you get it all here. You can even get fresh halal meat, chicken, beef, mutton and so on here. One of the main attractions here is you can get Ayam Kampung (Village chicken) which basically means fresh chicken reared naturally without all the inorganic additions in the typical chicken. You can literally choose  your chicken, alive and they will slaughter (sembelih) it for you there and then. As fresh as it gets and more natural.

All the markets above are morning markets unless mentioned otherwise (e.g. Batu Lancang Market)

This entry answers the following questions

• Where can I find fresh markets in Penang Island.
• Where to find fresh vegetables, fruit, fish, egg, chicken, meat, beef and mutton (Halal).
• Where to find Ayam Kampung. 
• Evening and morning wet markets.

Menjawab yang berikut

• Mana pasar segar / pasar pagi di Pinang / Pulau Pinang.
• Cari Ayam Kampung
• Cari Daging Halal
• Cari sayuran, buah buahan, telur.
• Beli barang masakan dapur. 

Happy Fresh Marketing!

Money Changer Forex in Penang

Where do I find a Money Changer / Foreign Exchange booth in Penang?

I have written quite a number of blog entries related to travel, among others Visiting India , precious traveling tips in India, Penang to Phuket and even a marketing analysis on Firefly vs its LCC competitors

So one of the obvious things we need to do is get some foreign currency prior to traveling overseas. It is always a good idea to
1. Carry currency of the country of your destination.
2. Keep some spare local (your home / return country) e.g. for return taxi fair and so on.
3. Keep some commonly accepted foreign currency usually the USD, Pound or Euro. Travellers cheque is also useful and provides some security against lost as it requires you to sign off on the travellers cheque when using it.
4. Internationally accepted credit card, e.g. Visa / Mastercard.

Sometimes we think its ok not to have local currency of the country of destination, however beware as sometime even the airport taxi requires cash and does not accept credit card, e.g. I think the Airport Taxi in Penang is a clear example.

So as you are travelling overseas, the question arises, where do I exchange currency?
Note most banks DO NOT offer foreign exchange except mostly at airports. And even those at airport charge a ransom, i.e are unreasonably cut-throat so that should be a last option.

In Penang, there are a number of outlets which has money changer. Most shopping complexes have a money changer, including

• Queensbay
• Sunshine Square Byn Baru - on ground floor near the Maybank ATM. Go through the entrance next to CIMB Bank.
• Jusco Aeon City Sbrg Prai - on ground floor as well.
• Little India - I would think the best rate are at little India, my logical reasoning is there are a huge number of money changing booths / outlets from various licensed operators. In little India, you can try the many FOREX shops e.g on Chulia Street, Jalan Masjid Kapitan Keling and inside the cove.

One more thing I noticed is you get the best value for your Ringgit Malaysia (RM) in our home country, i.e. Malaysia. So to put simple exchange to foreign currency at a local FOREX booth, rather then when you are overseas.

For a list of Money Changes, check out the federal bank's (Bank Negara) link here website
Ok. Happy traveling.

ps- sometimes when I exchange money, I tend to jot down the serial number of the bank notes for trace-ability.

Mengkuang Dam

Note - this place seems closed for upgrading works (as of 23 Feb 2014). If you happen to know why and when it will re-open please leave a comment. Tx...

Empangan Mengkuang or commonly known as Mengkuang Dam is one of Penang's water reservoir located in Mainland Penang. The other famous dams in Penang include the Air Itam Dam and the Teluk Bahang Dam.

You know what, I've seen dams, but never seen a Hydro-Electric Dam, those must be even more huge!

Few weekends ago we decided to go to Mengkuang Dam. The place offers a serene view, nice jogging track along the damn, benches for family and grass to just sit, loiter and enjoy the view and breeze. People come here to relax, jog and exercise, and take a break from the hectic life.

Last checked (26 Feb 2010), Alhamdulillah the dam still has lots of water during this drought

Empangan Mengkuang also offers some nice picturesque spots and views for those into photography.

Pretty nice sunset. I'd say the sunrise here would be spectacular

Parking itself if a lot, however it does get quite full during the weekends.

Notice the parking area behind me, yes, rather large

Getting to Mengkuang Dam is a little tricky to the non-locals of the area.

How to get to Mengkuang Dam / Getting there :

The best way to get there would probably be by getting on the Kulim Highway (BKE), if coming from Penang, means heading towards Kulim, and take exit Penanti / Berapit. Once you have exited, if memory serves me correct take the right, i.e towards Berapit and drive along. The drive would be around 10 minutes after the toll exit. If you're looking for a LARGE signboard written "Welcome to Mengkuang Dam / Selamat Datang ke Empangan Mengkuang", well just continue looking as I never found it. Instead look for a rather medium sized sign-board showing PBA (the water authority of Penang). Following the sign, i.e turning right on the long winded road brings you into Mengkuang Dam, just drive up and look for parking.

Ok enjoy nature.

My Name is Khan

My Name is Khan, recently released in cinemas in Malaysia. For Penangites you can watch it at Bukit Jambul (BJ) Cinema.

The movie stars Shah Rukh Khan and Kajol plus a number of other strong actors including a kid who acted in Tare Zamin Per as Khan in younger days in the movie. SRK (Shah Rukh Khan) plays the role of an individual with autism well, not over-doing it and Kajol also performance well. For most Malaysians, the SRK + Kajol couple most remembered is Kuch Kuch Ho Ta Hai.

Quoting from http://www.manilatimes.net/index.php/opinion/11858-my-name-is-khan,

"Shahrukh Khan, the actor playing Rizwan Khan, explains: “it’s not about a disabled man’s fight against disability. It’s a disabled man’s fight against the disability that exists in the world—terrorism, hatred, fighting . . . It is also about Islam and the way the world looks at Islam but we are not taking any sides. We are only trying to say that there are only good people and bad people. There are no good Hindus, bad Hindus, good Christians, bad Christians. Either you are a good person or a bad person. Religion is not the criterion, humanity is.”

Overall the movie was strong and nice. It had many positive messages, and was well edited. There were some sweet moments, laughter, and also sorrow. I did find the part of Khan returning to Georgia a little to long winded, however I guess it was needed for the movie to justify Khan meeting the President after his heroic work there. However the movie picks up again after the Georgia section.

It seems a certain part was edited out of the movie, not sure why, either since typically Hindi movies are little long (cinema's can then play lesser showings per day) OR due to sensitivity. Again, just guessing. Talking about Hindi movies, if you've seen them in the cinema, you'd notice half way, it comes up "INTERMISSION". Yes in India, there is actually a physical break where the movie stops, so people can go buy some more popcorn, drinks and even bio-breaks. A good marketing approach wouldn't you say?

In an interesting interesting quote un-quote the director Karan Johar to say "[...] What's really shocking is the fact that when I was writing the film, I never thought that what happened to the protagonist of the film would happen to Shah Rukh."

The most entertaining part would be the beginning thru mid part of the movie, which later continues to carry a heavy topic.

So what's your name? ....

Enjoy.

Harvard Business School to study 'Najibnomics'

An interesting article on New Straits Times (NST), Harvard Business School to study 'Najibnomics' .

Among mentioned in the Najib Economics study:

• The Harvard Business School in Boston will undertake a case study, highlighting Prime Minister Datuk Seri Najib Razak's courageous and bold initiatives to tackle financial crisis.


• The previous case study on Malaysia published in April 2002, entitled "Malaysia — Capital and Control” written by Rawi Abdelai and Laura Alfaro, has been one of Harvard’s most successful case studies.

The study by Rawi Abdelai and Laura Alfaro is very interesting and consists of critical observations. I found it useful in my previous write-up Malaysian Banks and the Current Meltdown.

I wrote it early 2009 for my class submission coinciding with the meltdown hitting Malaysia. I too will be looking forward to the new publication and see how my own write up tallies with it.

If you are looking for other journals and reference on the 1997 Financial Crisis that hit Malaysia and other South East Asian Countries, you scroll down to the last portion of Malaysian Banks and the Current Meltdown & can read the write up and read through the Referencing Section at the bottom.

Flyover to Jln Tan Sri Teh Ewe Lim - accident trap and queue cutting

Coming from the Gelugor Round-About thru Green Lane, there is a 1 lane flyover going to Jalan Tan Sri Teh Ewe Lim. This ramp is pretty tricky and also some times vehicles try to swerve into the middle lane last minute to continue on GreenLane. That's why if you notice, the middle lane usually jams up here, and in this case the left lane is now usually the faster lane during peak hours.

So what do we do about this type of concerns. Or maybe other ideas and feedback we have, be it adding a left turn signal option since there is a separate left turn (e.g. the road turning into Tmn Tun Sardon/Brown Garden from Gelugor)?

Well for Penangites, you have the option of submitted a feedback, complain and / or suggestion thru penang gov's website, http://epintas.penang.gov.my/.

E-Pintas is Penang Complaints and Information System. Syabas to Penang.

For the Jln Tan Sri Teh Ewe Lim, below is my f/back to the website as below

Maklumat Aduan
Tarikh Aduan : 15-06-2009
No Aduan : 0906-3596
Perkara : Flyover to Jln Tan Sri Teh Ewe Lim - accident trap and queue cuttingAduan : From the Gelugor round-about thru Green Lane, the most right lane ramps to the \'overpass\'. And the other two lanes (middle and most left) continue towards Masjid Negeri. The problem is alot of motorist from the most right lane, last minute after passing the last traffic light before the overpass/flyover, try to cut lane into the middle lane to go towards Masjid Negeri instead of using the overpass. This creates a very accident prone area, and queue cutting. I\'d suggest, put up a \'Pastikan Lorong Anda\' Signboard indicating the right lane goes up to the ramp, and the other 2 lanes head straight. Also make it a double line once you cross the last traffic light before the ramp to Jln Tan Sri Teh Ewe Lim overpass to avoid queue cutting. The area I\'m referring to is http://maps.google.com/maps?f=q&source=s_q&hl=en&geocode=&q=penang+green+lane&ie=UTF8&ll=5.392702,100.303717&spn=0.013373,0.022659&t=h&z=16


Maklumat Tindakan
Dimaklumkan garisan berkembar untuk melarang kenderaan memotong, lorong dan tanda anah panah di muka jalan akan dibuat pada malam 29.06.2009. Sekian, terima kasih Bahagian Perhubungan Awam Jabatan Khidmat Pengurusan Majlis Perbandaran Pulau Pinang

What to do in a car accident

I've always asked myself, "What to do in a car accident?"


Here's some info, catered more towards smaller accidents.


First of all, don't panic. Second remain calm. Accidents are something we try to avoid, it could be dangerous, takes up a lot of time and requires a lot of running around. So why do we still drive like hooligans or Formula 1 drivers? I don't know...


I think if it is not a bad accident, i.e. no major damage, it would probably be best to move your car carefully away from the main road and to the road shoulder. Indicate to the other party also to do the same. Try to memorize the other person's license plate number, just in case they decide to drive away, even jot it down on a paper. Having a paper and pen in your car is a good practice.


Carefully alight from your car. So now it would come to 2 possible solutions. First is settlement, i.e. the person responsible for knocking to settle based on an estimate for knocking, repairs and paint. If you do agree for a settlement it would be best if you know a car workshop and get a quotation based on the accident, usually the panel workshops of insurance charge rather high. (even higher if they claim from the insurance, even up to 2x??). Remember though if you decide to claim insurance, you'll need to make a police report in 24 hours.


So for the person who's 'guilty' , usually the one who knocks from the back, probably would need to consider a couple of things before deciding going for settlement. I guess if the accident is severe, probably best to claim insurance. However if it is minor, maybe consider the 'cost' of claiming insurance.
1. Police compound, which is RM300 or RM350 I think.
2. Lost of NCD / NCB, i.e No Claim Bonus. So if your insurance policy is more then a few years, once you claim insurance you'll loose this 'rebate' upon your next renewal.
3. Whether your own car's insurance is comprehensive or just third party. If your own car is badly damaged and you have comprehensive, then it's probably best to claim insurance as otherwise you'll need to pay the person you knocked, and also for your own car - that's a Double Whammy.
4. Time running around.


So if you decide to claim insurance, first you'll have to make a police report. Even if you're the guilty party, I think it's better to make a report, not sure if the fine is more or not if you don't. For Georgetown area, the Police Office to make a report is the Patani Road police station. Yes this is another good question, how do you know, which police station to report to for car accidents, as they go by district. Even more if you're traveling outstation.
--> Anyone got a complete list of which stations cover which areas?




At the police station (Balai) to to the trafik / traffic police counter, they will give you a form (report) to fill up. An example of the report is usually posted on a wall. This does make reporting easier and more user friendly. Once you've filled up the report, go back to the counter, and they will assign a queue number. Once your turn is called, they'll set up they PC (computer) to file your report. If you're familiar with the keyboard they'll let you type it out, otherwise just tell them don't know how to use computer if you don't know. Once done, you'll be assigned an investigating officer. Wait your turn and meet the police officer. Another point to remember is to always have your car grant (geran kereta) and insurance cover letter and a copy of it at least since you'll need it in this situation and maybe during road-block inspections? The officer will record your statement and ask you to confirm it again. Then the officer will ask you (or accompany you) to your car with a police officer with a camera to take a picture of the damage.


And you're done for now. You'll be given a receipt and if it's during office hours you can purchase the report. Otherwise you'll have to come back next time. Anyway you'll have to come back to get a copy of the investigation result report (keputusan siasatan) for you insurance claim. In your receipt usually it'll have the investigating officer's name, if not, ask or write it down as it'll be easier to follow up for the 'keputusan siasatan'.


Ok now for getting your car fixed (based on someone knocking you) . Not sure what's the difference if you're on the other side. The car knock company will usually ask you to provide copies of your driver's license, IC, car grant (geran kereta), 2x copies of police report of the each car involved in the accident (i.e. the knocker and the knockee :) ), 2x copies of the investigation report, insurance cover note. If someone else was driving your car, then the persons Identity Card and Driver's license.


It seems insurance companies usually charge 'excess' for
1. New drivers, usually below 2 years experience (P drivers I guess) So if you have 'graduated' to full, it's best to keep a copy of your P license to prove your number of years driving.
2.Not named driver. So if the person is not named in your insurace policy, there would be excess as well I believe.
3. Also most insurance company have a policy like for claims, you will have to pay e.g. first RM200 of the claim. For my Takaful Malaysia, since I took the additional wind-screen coverage, they do not apply this excess to me.


So for the person knocked (non guilty party) according to the workshop, if you meet any of the above criteria, you will have to pay first and them claim back from the third part (knocker) insurance party.


For your geran, if your car is still under hire purchase, you probably would not have the latest copy. So you'll have to call the hirer purchase company and request them to fax it to you (or your claim workshop) however they usually required a written authorization from you, which you could send by fax.


Few things to note, it is best to negotiate and clarify your expectations with the workshop BEFORE you commit to give them the car for claims. ( I guess this depends also how bad your car is hit, i.e whether you can drive away or have to leave your car at the workshop I guess, or negotiate before authorizing the tow??). Among items
1. If a replacement / temporary car is provided. Any charges ?
2. How many days you need to leave your car. Better try to talk to both the person in charge 'outside' and the 'clerk' in charge in-side.
3. Whether you need to pay any charges?
4. Whether you need to leave the car for the adjuster to come over. It seems for minor claims, they can just snap photos and submit online. Not bad!


Also if you are the 'knockee' (yg kena langgar), you can claim 'Lost of Use', which the workshop told me is RM30 per day, i.e for your taxi charges etc. Don't know if this covers weekends. Best to keep all your receipts until you get the payment. Not sure if you are the knocker (yg melanggar) you can still claim or not.


So as precaution, here's a summary
1. Keep a pen and paper around in the car.
2. Keep a copy of your geran (Car Registration / Pendaftaran Kereta, i.e.the JPJ geran) and cover note (or the original I guess)
3. Keep a copy of authorized workshops that your insuran has published (usually available from their websites). I'm not sure what's the difference or additional difference if you go thru a non-panel, or even if you're allowed to do it. For Takaful Malaysia, they even have a 1800 number you can call during emergencies for support and towing, Takaful Malaysia's 1800 is 1800-888-788. Seems like a 'lucky number.
5. Don't Panic
6. Call someone if you're worried.
7. Be aware of where to make your police report.


And most importantly, DRIVE SAFELY. I remember what my cousin Samir says, BETTER LATE then MR LATE!.


Ok take care. This is just my understanding of the procedure, might have someerrors.


p.s I know knockee and knocker probably aren't correct English, but it gets the message thru. And well if Google can become a work, why not knockee and knocker. But maybe for another meaning?? See, here BM would be nicer, Si Pelanggar and Si Kena Langgar. haha.

Giant Bayan Baru - Resolved

Syabas to Giant.

On February 2009, I had blogged about a potential accident trap at the entrance/exit of Giant Bayan Baru. I had also sent a copy to Giant thru email of the concerns hilited on the blog. Giant has since then, replied to me and taken corrective action.

In this entry, I would like to extend my congratulations to Giant for being very responsive, looking into the matter seriously and coming to a resolution. I had actually updated my February 2009 entry to include that the matter has been resolved. However I think it's best to share with you how the issue has been resolved.

Basically when you entered or exist Giant for one of the entrance, there were a lot of cars and bikes parked very close to the should of the road. So it creates a very tight area to manoeuvre between cars parked, entering and exiting. As well as creating some blind spots.

Based on below pictures I recently took, you can see that Giant has placed barriers to discourage people from parking dangerously.

So basically they have cordoned off the shoulders of the road by the entrance. Avoiding the possible chocking of that area during peak times.

Finally, SYABAS to Giant Hypermarket for a superb Customer Relations Management (CRM) and also taking their customers seriously.

ps- If you like to shop at Giant, you might want to consider the Giant Citibank Credit Card. You can find me review by clicking here.

English to Malay Translations

Malay Language

I recently read an article in the Newspaper, you can read the online version by clicking here. The Firefox Mozilla people were saying that they were hoping more Malaysians put in the effort to help out the effort to translate Firefox to Malay (Bahasa Melayu / Bahasa Malaysia) however response to help out in this effort was luke warm. If I remember correctly efforts for translations into Thai, Indonesian etc have already been completed for some time now. He urged Malaysians to contribute.

Yes, so true, if you go to Firefox's website and choose Other Systems/Languages, you can browse through the many languages it is available in. In the article someone argued that possibly one of the reasons why there isn't any huge concerted effort to translate it is because most Malaysians are well versed in English (or other available languages for that matter) so they can easily manage without a localized version. And I quite agreed. But what the Firefox guy answered moved me. Yes, possibly most Malaysians who are on the net, know English pretty well and can manage easily. But the purpose of having a local Malay Language Version is for the Malaysians that are not yet online, and probably one of the factors stopping these Malaysians to go online is (besides other factors like not having internet access apparently) is that they just don't know how, find the English version difficult and so. And regardless, why not right? If you go thru the list of already available languages, it'll be nice to have a local one.


Here's the excerpt

"Additionally, feedback that he received also suggested that most Malaysians do not think there is a need for a localised Firefox since they understand the English language well.

However Kanai begged to differ.

According to him, what these English-proficient users fail to see is that there are plenty of other people who are not yet part of the Internet community because they do not understand the language used in the browser.

With this initiative, Mozilla aims to overcome the language barrier which is a key obstacle in bridging the digital-divide, he said."

Imagine this - Mozilla Musang Berapi. (Fire-Fox). Just joking on that one. Hmm, is Musang Fox or is it Serigala or Keluang (what's Keluang?). Or Rubah? Yes now this brings me to another point. The lack of online English to Malay (vice versa) dictionary or translation tools.

Surf you favourite translation website, say Google Translator , and nope, the pull-down for language does not have Malay.

Google the word Kamus, and the top results are all Kamus Indonesia. So how? What I wanted to share in this post, is the interesting answer. There is a very nice person who has taken the effort to make available a simple Malay - English Dictionary online through Scribd. However it states not to hotlink the url. So I won't put the link here. But you could easily go to http://www.scribd.com/ and search for Malay Dictionary.

And yes, Dewan Bahasa Pustaka (DBP) has made available a pretty decent dictionary. I just discovered this. I was going to suggest they should but yes, they've already done it!.

Go to http://prpm.dbp.gov.my/and the just type in a word you want to translate, make sure you have PRPM (Pusat Rujukan Persuratan Melayu) selected and tadaa!. Interestingly it works both ways.

Note- you need to select which tab you want to display, e.g. Kamus BM, Kamus BI by clicking on it. The results are pretty good!

Last question. So why didn't I myself blog this in Malay Language? Don't get angry, but I found it difficult to blog in Bahasa Baku (i.e. Proper Malay Language, by the book). I actually started a Malay Language Blog but well, see for yourself, by clicking here. Seldom updated. Honestly Malay is a very easy language to pick-up. Just see all the foreigners and how quickly they've picked it up. Spoken Malay usually is 'simpler' then written unless you use Bahasa Pasar (market Language) to write as well!

Well. Ikutlah....:)

Rebate on Insurance

Reading the Star today, at http://thestar.com.my/news/story.asp?file=/2009/5/18/nation/3924369&sec=nation it hilites positive news where consumers get rebates for the motor insurance. Excerpt from there

"Come July 1, car owners who buy motor insurance directly from insurance companies without using the services of an agent will qualify for mandatory rebates, a move that could render agents redundant.

The move would see new customers being given a 5% rebate on their insurance if they buy it via channels such as the Internet, telemarketing, direct mailing or by walking into the insurance company. These customers would also get a 10% rebate for renewals in the second year."

Interesting, and good news for the general public. Maybe not for the agents though.

Anyway, just a point to ponder, I blogged about Takaful Malaysia some time back, and I have been using them for my motor insurance for years plus. I have been enjoying mudharabah sharings of 10% & above on my premiums at the end of each renewal. They send it by cheque.

Definitely a welcome to the other insurance players. Mmm, our bike insurance with Kurnia expires end of June. What timing! Should I wait till July to renew?

National Taekwando Championships 2009

The 22nd Traditional Taekwon-Do Championship (Open) 2009

It's the time of the year again. National GTF Taekwando Championships.

As last year, the LMTC gave us the opportunity to be the team managers working with the LMTC instructor May Li to the championships, to be held in the Summit Plaza, Subang.
So on the 3rd of Aprill 2009, my dearest co-manager and I gathered at teacher's house in Tanjung Tokong. Both of us were excited. Last year was a nice and refreshing trip for us. The responsibility was huge, but the satisfaction was worth it. We arrived there around midnite. It was definitely refreshing to meet up with the team members and friends. They're all friendly and helpful.

1.30am the bus arrives. We put our stuff into the bus and board, all ready for the trip. A total of 31 of us. Quite a number of black belts this year.

I get a buddy as well to sit next too. She's great company I would say. Nice and relaxing to talk and chill with.

Both of us haven't had the chance to practice and grade up since have been busy with other stuff on the weekends. Sad.

We stop at Bukit Merah R&R. We use the word so often, R&R, but do we really know what it means? I think it's Rest and Recuperate. And look at the beauty of this acronym, in Malay, R&R also brings the same meaning! Yes, believe it or not. Rehat dan Rawat. Amazing.

Initially no one gets down. But the bus was really cold. And I mean really cold. So alot of people get down, and some go buy some hot drinks to dring along the ride.

I request the bus driver and co-driver to reduce the aircond. Now, how do I tell someone it's too cold. Should I say, can you lower the aircond? or Can you increase the aircond? Yes I could just say, can you increase the temperature of the aircond, but what if he thinks I'm saying increase the aircond. So finally what do I say? Pakcik, sejuklah! (Uncle, it's too cold here) Ha-ha.

He says ok "I'll make it less cold". He even shuts off the engine and aircond while waiting, so it doesn't get too cold. Allright. Now I'm going to enjoy the trip, and hopefully fall asleep. Usually I dooze off easily.

Now everyone's on the bus, and the pakcik starts off and drives, turns on the aircond. Guess what. Less cold seemed to be like just less by 0.5'C. Everyone's still shivering. I go to the uncle again and tell him it's still too cold. He says that he can't reduce the aircond (increase the temp) cause it'll make the engine stop. Now this I don't get. How can reducing the aircond do anything bad for the aircond? I'm confused to say the least. To be fair, I'm no mechanic and haven't driven a bus, but when I drive my car, I thought the cooler the temp, the more petrol it uses. In fact, if you turn OFF your air-cond, the pickup is better, i.e LESS strain on the engine? --->Anyone any idea??

Anyway, we reach Summit Hotel around 7.30am. The to the hotel and ask if we can check in early. Standard reply - sorry we're full and need to wait until people check out. Check-in time is 2pm...

So we head to the rest room to freshen up and then walk to Summit Plaza. This year the competition is held on the Ground Floor. Nice.

We're participating in a number of events from Individual Coloured Belts Pattern, Sparring to Black Belt Sparing and Patterns. (Coloured Belts just means which all belts except Black)...Now that I'm writing about Coloured belts. I guess it's scientifically true if I remember correctly. As Black is actually not a colour, but the absence of one. If when light shines on it, it absorbs all the light and does not reflect any color, so its black. Yellow belt color would reflect yellow color right?
Here's some of the pictures.
Warm up and practice before the tournament. We arrived early and had some time for practice.

Free Sparring

It's interesting to note this year, even for the coloured belts, no body protector was allowed. Only head gear, and the gloves for hands and legs. Last year, head gear, body protector and no gloves. This year looks more 'aggressive' to say the least. Yes, it's pretty hard to do chopping kicks when you're wearing a body protector.

Round 1. Actually there's only 1 round here. 1 minute.

Most people like to jump and move around. Does it really keep you alert or just tire you? Guess depends on your fitness.

One of our team members getting his medal. (Most right)

The younger participants category lacks no action. They're usually more eager and all out sometimes. What's important is to be vigil, well prepared and wear proper protection.

A very interesting fight. Both were strong competitors and made the match a good watch.

Returning kicks. You usually want to be careful not to slam shins with each other unless you've been practicing some moi-tai or wearing a shin-guard.

Some like to keep their foot raised, to reach quickly when the opponent nears.

Whoops, a kick to the back. Actually that's not allowed and could lead to penalty points.

Here's an incoming back-kick.

Here comes a slapping kick, ready or not. Remember in Taekwando it is always wise to keep your hands up. But sometimes that leaves your stomach vulnerable.

You see the kid in blue is launching a kick, but has left himself open.

Somehow the kicks seem predictable looking at this snap shots, but when you're in the ring, nothing is slow motion. A blink and you might have a whopping headed your way.

Incoming flight. Look carefully, both feet are in the air. Watch out, he's kick might just land on you.

As you can see, most have different starting stance as well. But basically one arm protects the ribs and the other the head.

Wow, that's a pretty high chopping kick.

Ouch, that might have hurt.

Here's the referee breaking them up, either due to a fault or time-over.

Here's the individual pattern. It is also interesting to see besides the free sparring. The art, breathing, chi, and also how perfect the kicks and punches are among the things to look out for.

Closest to the camera is our contestant. He has a real fine pattern mastery and superb kicks and form.

A well done Red Belt Pattern by our contigent member.

Another of our proponents in the individual pattern.

Here as well. Our team did take part in a number of the sparring and patterns. Below is the red belt pattern.

The beginning of the pattern among blue belts.

Want more, here's a video snippet of the pattern.

One for the team.

The official opening ceremony. Interestingly the 'opening' is done halfway through the tournament.

Saturday's event ends around 8.30pm. Some of the black belts are still waiting for their turns. We decide that the rest should go have dinner before the stalls / restaurants close. Most of the teenagers go along with their friends for dinner. We took some of the younger ones with us. Had dinner at some restaurant names Mandy's or something. Was on average.

We head back to the hotel. I'm ready to have a nice hot dip in the bath tub, to relax and relief all the sore muscles, especially my leg and back muscles. Nope, I didn't spare, but I was running around...And guess what, the bathroom was not vacant. One of the kids, or now was it 2 of them together, were enjoying themselves in the tub for some time. Even brushing their teeth in while soaking in the tub...:p

Anyway, I finally get to bath and my wasn't it relaxing and soothing. Yes a hot dip in hot tub really works for the aching muscles.

I request for some additional pillows and covers so we can spread them on the floor. I let the kids sleep on the bed and I bunker on the sheets. Finally the 3 kids are asleep. Suddenly a mobile phone rings. One of the other kid picks it up and says it the other kid's mother calling. I tell him to tell the Aunty that her son is asleep. But she still insists to talk to him. OK, might be an emergency I think. We shale and shake the kid till he wakes up, and talks to his mum. He hangs up and I ask him what happened? He says his mum wanted to ask him whether he's asleep or not yet..HAHAA.

Sunday - kids in my room wake up a little later as their events were done yesterday. Today is for the open category and black belts mainly. And guess what, yup, the kids are hogging the bath tub again. Ok, let's wait again.

Teacher sends the other kids to my room as well to take care of. Wow, I've got a handful of kids now running wild in the room.

After everone's ready we head to the ring to support our team members.

This friend got a walk over victory.

Here's a time-keeper which might look familar.

Sometimes we try our best to take photos of the action but it is hard. However this fluke here sure gives real feel of what's happening in the ring.

I'm hungry for lunch. So is my dear. I decide to try something interesting in one of the stalls. Crispy Double Cheese & Onion. Wow, it was really nice. Just the crispy part and with the fillings. My co-manager loved it as well! A must try. Same floor as McD in Summit, opposite it and Mr Teppanyaki.

It's now 1pm, and we need to check out. The hotel is calling. I talk to the hotel personel and request late check out for some of the rooms and check out the rest.

The bus is here. Those that are done with their events gather and head towards Sunway Pyramid. We reach Pyramid at around 2.45pm and walk around in our own groups, with each group having at least one responsible person.

4.45pm, we gather at Sunway Pyramid's exit and board the bus and head towards Summit to pick up teacher and the remaining team members.
5.20pm, we leave for Penang. Teacher suggest we stop at one of the R&R that sells fruits. I say, ok, Sg Perak it is, and request the bus driver to do so. This time we're more prepared. We have hot soup and hot tea.

Also Sungai Perak R&R is a great place to get fruits, including Buah Salak. Fresh Buah Salak. Yes, you can get alot of Jeruk Salak from Penang but not fresh ones.

And around 11pm we reach home safely. Thank you God for the safe trip and journey.

Anyway, if you want to know more about Taekwando, Learning Teakwando and contacting LMTC for classes, you can read about it by clicking here.