BobzWorld

My Home Town

2011-09-22T08:06:00.000-07:00

My Home Town
By Lintang bob Yong
“I took a little trip to my home town…………….” I sang as I drove.
Those catchy lyrics of Paul Anka’s song reminded me that I must, no matter how busy I am, make a visit to the village where I have spent one third of my life time. My home town is in the state of Selangor and about 20 kilometres south of Kuala Lumpur City.
Being busy like anyone else, I have postponed the trip more often than not; even though the place is accessible by easy means of transportation.
My late father, a tin-smith emigrated from China 75 years ago, set up his business in Salak South (now called Salak Selatan ). I was born in this tiny township where all residents were later resettled in a fenced up village, named Salak South New Village. This resettlement was orchestrated by the British Administration during the ‘emergency period’ and is situated just five kilometres away from my birth place.
“I only stopped just to look around………..” I continued singing.
The village I knew has changed beyond recognition and I felt like a total stranger in it. The name has been changed to ‘Kampung Baru Salak Selatan’. The old road leading to the village from a trunk road was no longer there. Instead, I found myself driving along a high-way, named Sungei Besi Highway and I had to navigate myself to find the slip road that leads to the entrance of the village. The notorious landmark; a wooden movie theatre which was then the centre of the villagers’ entertainment has disappeared. This made it more difficult for me to locate my late father’s shop which was just a stone throw away from the theatre. As a teenager, I frequented the theatre often.
Eventually, I found my bearing and stopped by a row of seven wooden shop houses. Shop numbered 2 was where our family stayed and I had great memories of my neighbours’ children as my playmates. We used to play under the cherry tree in front of the shop. The shop was sold after the death of my parents. The cherry tree was gone and the shop numbered 2 had made way for a three-storied concrete building. My childhood friends are also no longer staying there. The rest of the shops, looking the same as they were; though the owners and businesses had since changed hands many years ago are still standing. One particular famous medical shop, known as Thien Teck Tong is still around. I met up with the youngest son whose father was a Chinese sinseh and learned that he has taken over the business after the death of his old man. There was also a bicycle repair shop, the business of which is now run by the grand children and they have turned it into a motorcycles repair shop. I remember that there were also two sundries shops but the businesses are no longer operating now.
Wanted to look around more, I drove along those roads that I used to hang around with friends. In the olden days there were not many motor vehicles on the road so it was relatively safe to play along the roads. Sometimes we cycled to the nearby ponds and caught fighting fish. During school holidays, we even climbed the adjacent hill to the other sides of it.
The birds were singing………..
Continued my journey, I could see some of the houses look the same and familiar but many of the wooden houses are rebuilt with bricks and concrete. I felt sad when my memories flashed back to the times I spent my childhood days with friends playing in their houses. Though I felt a sense of guilt and regrets for not keeping in contact with them, my heart was singing and wanting to revisit my home town again, perhaps with luck, I might be able to meet up with some of my childhood friends.
And so the music, it goes on and on………….

Alleycats Live At The Royal Lake Club

2011-09-15T03:28:00.000-07:00

Alleycats Live at The Royal Lake Club
By Lintang Bob Yong
It was ‘Saturday Night Live’ on July 17, 2011 at 9.30 PM. I went to the Batek Bar and found myself staring at so many faces looking at one direction. All eyes were on the stage. Obviously, they were looking forward to watching Alleycats’ performance. Wow! I reckoned there were 300 or more people at the Batek Bar that night; many were seated comfortably; some were standing leisurely and others were happily hanging around chit-chatting. All of these people had one thing in common; they all were waiting patiently for the show to start.
The Alleycats is a Malaysian band which was formed in 1969, and gained popularity in the late 1970s. They consist of musicians from Penang, and became popular in their home state earlier on in their career. The Alleycats had produced all together 27 albums. Their first released album was “Terima Kasih”, with their first single Senandung Semalam.
They have played in Singapore, Indonesia and Hong Kong. Over a period of time, the Alleycats’ band members had changed and the present members consist of David Arumugam (vocal), Glenn (vocal), Mike (keyboard), Jimie (Bass), Dina (lead guitar) and Boy (drum). Their music is classified to be of western folk and pop music.
The crowd roared as soon as the Alleycats made their appearances on the band stand. The first number they sang was ‘Sampai Salam’ receiving a thunderous applause, followed by ‘To Love Somebody’ and ‘Jasemin’. I enjoyed their subsequent renditions-‘Oye Como Va’ and ‘Andai-nya Aku Pergi Dulu’. Songs like ‘Pocho Pocho’ and ‘My Achy Breaky Heart’ got all the line dancers on the floor. Coincidentally, the Alleycats sang 27 songs during the three sessions. Each session was 45 minutes long.
The night ended at 12.30 PM with David’s famous trademark shout of, ‘Terima Kasih” and the crowd echoed with more ‘Terima Kasih’. I believed everyone went home happy that night.
“Terima kasih” to all.

Watch more videos on these links.
Pocho Pocho & Achy Breaky Heart
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5kHvcFcyJws
Andai-nya Aku Pergi Dulu
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=cd5dxpwcqEE
Knocking on heaven’s door, All shook up & To love somebody
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tCxCOu9Nvxc
Oye Como Va
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jBxGGUR0tf8

My Experience after a Motor Accident

2011-08-26T08:10:00.000-07:00

http://www.youtube.com/user/yonglintang?feature=mhum#p/u/24/lf1s-7ixre8
My Experience after a Motor Accident
By Lintang Bob Yong
On June 13, 2011 at about 1.30 PM, I was travelling along Jalan Hujan Emas, Overseas Union Garden, on my way to pick up my granddaughter from school. At the T junction my car was hit at the rear by another car coming out from a side road.
On impact, I thought my car would turn turtle. But instead my car swirled around 180 degree and stopped right in the middle of the main road, facing the car that hit it. I stayed in the car, dazed for a few seconds and wondered whether I was still alive. The engine was still running and when I tried to drive the car to the side of the road but it couldn’t move an inch. I got down from my car and walked over to the driver and was surprised to see her sitting there equally dazed. I examined my car and was shock to see that the left-rear wheel was almost detached. At close examination, I notice the axle on the car’s rear has broken and the wheel was made immobile. Further, the left-rear car’s body work and paint was damaged, and the door was jammed.
On hind sight, though not happy with the fault of the errant driver, I thank the Lord from keeping both of us safe and away from bodily injuries. It is God’s mercy too that at the time of accident, there were no other cars, motor-cycles and people in the vicinity.
After having calmed down and without further delay I called a toll-free telephone number provided by my insurer. About 10 minutes later, I received a call from a tow truck operator who told me that he was sent by a PIAM authorized motor repairer and he was on his way to the site of the accident. He was helpful and towed my car to the Sri Petaling Police Station to make my report. I accompanied him to the police station in his tow truck. This was the first time I ever sat in a tow truck.
After making the report, I was told that I had to go to the KL High Street Traffic Police HQ to have the report verified and to obtain certain documents if I wanted to file my insurance claim without losing my NCD on the next policy renewal. I have also been informed that the HQ would close its office each day at 3.00 PM.
After making the report, my car was towed straight to Sum Motor workshop at Old Klang Road with me riding as a passenger again. The ride was slow and bumpy. During the journey, my mind was filled with anxieties about, among other things, the period that I would be deprived of the loss of use of my car.
The staffs at the workshop were sympathetic and rendered all the assistance that was necessary and assured me that my car would be repaired as soon as possible. I was grateful that they sent me home after all documentations were completed.
I got up early the following morning, praying that I could have all the things done before the closing time. I was mentally preparing myself to spend at least 2 hours for this errand, bearing in mind that this has been the norm that one has to wait for some time when making motor accident report. I was prepared for this and brought along a book so that I could read it while waiting to be attended.
I was at the High Street Traffic Police Station at 10.00 PM and to my surprise, the entire procedure took only 10 minutes. The police and the staff were courteous and friendly. In my opinion, the service was a marked difference from the bygone days. The motto ‘Clean, Transparent and Efficient Government’ must have been put into practice earnestly by the public servants. With this glaring improvement, I felt a sense of pride that the police has live up to its promises and the rayat’s expectation. I left the place happy and contended.
On June 24, 2011, I received a phone call from the motor repairers informing me that my car was repaired and ready for collection. I took possession of my car on the same day. All in all, my car was in the workshop for 12 days.
I was happy with the good service and the satisfactory repair works provided by Sum Motor Sdn Bhd.
Because I was not at fault in the accident and not wanting to lose my NCD, I filed an OD (own-damaged) claim to my insurer. The Insurers’ KFK (Knock for Knock) agreement allows my insurer to recover the cost of repair from the other party’s insurer who is liable for the cost of the damage. I am also entitled to claim for ‘loss of use of’ of my car during the period that it was in the workshop while undergoing repair.
I filed my claim 'for the loss of use of' on June 30, 2011. On July 13, 2011, the insurer of the other party offered me a compensation of 25 % on the amount I claimed. I rejected the offer and appealed for a more reasonable sum. And with the help of a good friend, the insurer on July 22, 2011 revised their offer of compensation upto 68% of my original claim amount. I accepted the offer on August 5, 2011 and received a cheque on August 18, 2011. The repair bill for the damage of my car was fully paid by my insurer direct to the repairer.
All in all, the entire episode took 67 days.
Although this was a traumatic experience to me, I thank God for his blessing.

click My slide In-House Karaoke Competition 2011

2011-07-15T06:42:00.000-07:00

RLC In-House Karaoke Competition 2011 Final

2011-07-15T03:18:00.000-07:00

By Lintang Bob Yong
For the first time, the In-house karaoke competition which was held on May 13, 2011 at Banquet Hall was packed with more than 150 members and guest.
The concept of ‘free admission’ to witness the competition was most welcomed by members. Hawker food was available before and during the event in a free and easy atmosphere. It turned out to be a hit to everyone. However, there was a hitch in the billing to the members. This problem will be rectified in the next event. The Karaoke Sub-Committee was pleased with the tremendous support it received.
This year all the 15 solo contestants went straight to the final as the heat was cancelled due to insufficient entries. There was also no duet category as the Inter-Club Karaoke Competition decided to scrape it. To replace the duet category and with a view to prepare our Club for future inter-club competition, a junior category was added but only 2 juniors signed up.
At the end of first round, 5 winners competed once again for position ranking.
Solo Category
The Champion: Christopher Lee
2nd placing: Adam Teo
3rd placing: Kamaliah
4th placing: David Wong
5th placing: Kwan Dih Chow
6th placing: CK Khoo (Reserve)
Junior Category
The Champion: Lim Wei Han
2nd placing: Akmal Ariff
Congratulations to all winners!
All the winners in the solo category would represent our Club in the Inter-Club Karaoke Competition which would be hosted by Kelab Golf Negara Subang on June 4, 2011.
It is worth mentioning that this year competition attracted 6 newcomers and 2 of them emerged as the Champion and the 1st Runner-up. The untiring efforts of the Karaoke Section Sub-Committee to encourage new and younger participants must have paid off. However our Section will continue to work hard to realize its dream to discover younger talent and encourage new talented adult members to join in the annual In-house Karaoke Competition. We hope our Club will maintain our superiority in the Inter-club Karaoke Championship Competition.
The Competition was professionally judged by Gary Goh, Jenny Ong and Sam Iskandar. To all the judges, we expressd our appreciations.
Thanks to our Karaoke Section Chairman, Dato Kamal for his guidance to KSC and his entertainment to the crowd with a song during the intermission.
We also like to record our appreciation the presence of Mr Teoh Cheng Hai, our Club Vice President, club members and their families and guests who showed their full support for this event.
The success of this event will not be possible without the hard work of the Organizing Team. Thank you for doing a good job.
Go to these links to watch the videos)
Christopher Lee
http://www.youtube.com/user/yonglintang?feature=mhum#p/u/22/bd0FbGzb8ZA
Adam Teo
http://www.youtube.com/user/yonglintang?feature=mhum#p/u/23/JKkwEsEjzDI
Kamaliah
http://www.youtube.com/user/yonglintang?feature=mhum#p/u/24/lf1s-7ixre8
David Wong
http://www.youtube.com/user/yonglintang?feature=mhum#p/u/18/1qRTVswO4o0
Kwan Dih Chow
http://www.youtube.com/user/yonglintang?feature=mhum#p/u/17/KZ50yMIBGxs
Lim Wei Hun
http://www.youtube.com/user/yonglintang?feature=mhum#p/u/21/urg2TEh_CSA
Akmal Ariff
http://www.youtube.com/user/yonglintang?feature=mhum#p/u/20/LWw_wcfGj94

2010 Happy 12th Anniversary RLC Harriers!

2011-02-03T00:20:00.000-08:00

Happy 12th Anniversary RLC Harriers!
By Lintang Bob Yong
Anniversaries come and go. This year’s the RLC Harriers 12th Anniversary also came and went. But it was celebrated in a different manner. Though the event was organised in a simple, free and easy style, it has caught the attention of the Club’s President and many of the General Committee Members. They attended the event in full force. Their comments were that they had thoroughly enjoyed every minutes of the fun filled actions, the peculiarity of which could only be appreciated by the hashing fraternity.
I joined the Hash Section in year 2000 and had since participated in the past 10 Anniversary Celebrations. I would rate this one to be more in line with the hash tradition and was glad that I did not miss it.
The Anniversary Run was on a Tuesday 7 December. The GM flagged off the run at 5.00 pm sharp. It was an in-house run, in the confine of the secondary jungle at the tail end of the Main Range. The tail end was still an energy sapping, “Dragon Trail.” The trail no matter how difficult it was did not sap the spirit of the hashers.
The 40 hashers encountered ‘checks’ and invariably a few ‘false trails’ along the way. That was nothing unusual. However, 3 hashers were unexpectedly being misled by a fellow hasher who created a new trial on his own by throwing papers along the infamous ‘Dragon Trail’. Unhappy initially, they felt betrayed but it turned out it was a blessing in disguise for they admitted their enjoyment in tracking the forever exciting “Dragon Trail.” Such an episode could not of course escape the eyes and ears of ‘Extra Virgin’ and consequently, the good and bad hashers were ‘on-down’ at the circle without the acceptance of their pardon.
The highlights of the event were staged at the club Gazebo and more than 80 Members attended the dinner. Food was plentiful. What could have made hashers happier? Nothing but chicken, beef or mutton washed down with chilled draught beer! Satay was served before dinner! What a handful and mouthful?
The most notable was seeing male hashers dressing in colourful Hawaiian shirts and matching short pants, and the females donned in their sexy sarongs or spaghetti sundress with hats to match. Many hashers wore slippers too. The theme of the On! On! was of course “Hot, Hot Tropical Nite” in the true sense of the expression.
The celebration of the 12th Anniversary would not be complete without the cake-cutting ceremony. Our Club President, Dato’ A Sani Karim led the other General Committee Members, the entire Sub-Committee Members, the past Grand Masters and the ex-club President, David Yap, the founding Member of the Hash Section, performed the symbolic cake-cutting ceremony.
Games like “My Own Coconut Drink”, “Belly-shaking for males and Hip-shaking for females” were keenly contested. Winners were declared and happily walked away with prizes donated by well wishers. Lucky Dips, Special Lucky and Table Draws were organized and winners grinned from ears to ears when Lady Luck smiled on them.
The night would not end without some die-hard hashers wanted to dance all night long, as they wished. But reluctantly, when it was time to end the party, they had accepted that all good things must come to an end and bid farewell to everyone.
The entire activities were recorded on videos.
Watch them on:-
http://www.youtube.com/yonglintang
http://www.facebook.com/group.php?gid=347325647377

Reminiscing over you, The Royal Lake Club!

2011-02-02T22:50:00.000-08:00

Reminiscing over you, The Royal Lake Club!
By Lintang Bob Yong
I was born and grew up in Kuala Lumpur. The Lake Garden then was perhaps the only public park in Kuala Lumpur where folks could spend their weekends doing whatever outdoor activities they had planned.
Since there was a lake in this garden, the naming of this park as The Lake Gardens was an obvious choice. During my youth period, I used to have fun in the Lake Garden. Nearby there was an old bungalow which to my young mind was a haunted house. But the concrete steps leading up to the entrance of this house appeared mysteriously friendly to me. The door which I could not see through added more thoughts to my curious mind as to what was inside. That old bungalow as I later learned was the club house of The Royal Lake Club.
In 1975 at the age of thirty seven years, I walked through the door of a new building that replaced the old bungalow. I was glad that I became a member of The Royal Lake Club. Since then, I have been an active member, bringing my business associates and my family for food, sport activities and club functions. When my children were old enough, I brought them to the club and we spent a considerable time at the swimming pool. The children library was a big educational help to my two young daughters who often frequented the place.
Later I decided to play an active role in the club and have since served in the Food & Beverage, Harriers and Karaoke sub-Committees. The sports that I enjoy till to date are badminton, swimming, ballroom dancing, hashing and karaoke. Now, aged 72 years, I have not thought of giving up these sports as yet. I have taken part in the In-house and Inter-club Karaoke Competitions since 2003 and am glad that I played a part in contributing to the success of our club being the only club that have won the Challenge Trophy for three consecutive years.
The fellowship with the club members is unforgettable and I enjoyed and loved every minute. No doubt in my mind that The Royal Lake Club is my second home for the last 35 years. In this club, I do not have to worry about my personal safety as security is second to none and the good car park facility is the talk of the town.
I am glad and proud to be a member of The Royal Lake Club.
May God bless our Club.

The same article was published in the Royal Lake Club Newsletter-August 2010 Issue

Are you Malaysian first?

2010-04-12T21:35:00.000-07:00

Are you Malaysian first?
By Lintang Bob Yong
Our Deputy Prime Minister thinks otherwise. In his recent statement he believes he is Malay first and Malaysian second. Since then, a lot of troubled water has passed under the bridge. This simple straight forward question has now turned into a political issue, debated intensively from coffee shops to the House of Parliament.
Forget about what the politicians are saying and if you were asked this question, would you have difficulty in answering it? Someone shouted, “no problem, I am Malaysian first. If you don’t believe me, here is MyCard. Isn’t it clearly stated that I am a Malaysian? I am definitely Malaysian first, he proudly declared. I will not want my nationality to be treated as second class. I am loyal to the king and I would die for my country”. He went on and on and on......
My wife and I were in United Kingdom. Someone wanted to know whether we were from China. I could understand why he asked because we look Chinese and we converse in Cantonese dialect with each other. Though we are the descendants of the Chinese, people in China often referred us as Malaysians and they could not fully understand our Cantonese. In case you don’t know, the Cantonese that we speak in our country is punctuated half in Malay vocabulary and the other half in Cantonese.
I was born in Kuala Lumpur and became a citizen of this country well before Malaya got its independence from the British. I have contributed economically and my parents too, with blood, sweat and tears to help made Malaysia what it is today. For all intent and purposes, I am the legitimate son of my country. I am a Malaysian.
In our country, there is a tendency to mix up the race, religion and customs with nationality. While we cannot change our race and our colour, we strive to become useful citizen and will loyally serve our country. We are proud to call ourselves Malaysians where ever we go and are prepared to defend and die for our country without hesitation.
Every Malaysian should have the same rights and equal opportunities afforded to them, regardless of their ethnicity. Is this not what we understand of the 1Malaysia concept, initiated by our Prime Minister? If not, how are we to unite our citizens to become one people and one nation? Do we need to fight among ourselves to achieve the obvious?
I am Malaysian first. Period.

Bless This School-St Gabriel's School

2010-04-05T03:13:00.001-07:00

Bless This School-St Gabriel’s School
Lintang Bob Yong

I decided to pay a visit to our beloved school this Easter Sunday. Since I left in 1957 after having sat for the Senior Cambridge School Certificate, I had not set foot on it. Time flies, isn’t it. It is now more than half a century ago and I can feel the nostalgia in me when I come face to face with our school.
Searching the whereabouts of our school came as a surprise to me because I spent an hour trying to locate it. I had to stop and ask for directions from three passersby and a police station. I was born and bred in Pudu area and it shocked me to admit that I felt like a total stranger in my home town and our school which had been my sanctuary during my teenager’s years.
I was naive to believe that the area would remain unchanged since I left. The area was then simply known as Kampung Pandan (a place for rubbish dumping) and our school is located on this site. Now fifty years on, many housing estates have sprung up and the area has many new names such as Pandan Indah and Taman Maluri; and perhaps a few more names that I have not heard of.
It was a sheer joy when I saw the name of our school and I found myself standing at the school gate eagerly waiting to get in. I took a quick look at the surrounding and notice that the school’s precinct was clustered with tall buildings and the presence of a few other schools. It was a complete different picture that I had in mind. I remember well that the school was built on a filled up mining land for which I could see yonder. The field annexed to the main school building was barren and we used to play football in that sand filled waste land.
Our school did not look like the one I used to be with. The class room which we used to study was on the second floor; the one and only class room on top of other class rooms. It was hot, but we could see the entire waste land from our windows. The lone structure of this single building block which now has out buildings attaching to it look more like squatter houses to me. The colour of this particular block which was white then is now painted brown. I am sad to say that our school appears run-down.
It was hard indeed for me to experience this drastic change since I had many fond memories of our school. However, my sadness turned to joy when I saw the old rugged bronze school bell was still proudly hung to the stand and I think to myself it must have been as old as me. This is the same bell that was used for our fire drill in the primary school while we were temporally housed at Pudu English Girl’s School. The faithful school bell has served its purpose and I am glad it has been appreciated and taken care of by the school authority. This symbolic school bell must be kept intact to remind us of the poor and humble beginning of our school.
As I bid farewell to our school, I felt proud of the fact that the main building block of our school was the result of our school building fund campaign, in which the students contributed weekly out of the pocket monies given to them by their poor parents.

60 Minutes of Darkness

2010-03-29T02:21:00.000-07:00

60 Minutes of Darkness
By Lintang Bob Yong
A sighted person was helping a blind man to get home. The helper said to him that they must hurry because it would soon be dark. The blind man asked what darkness was.
In a sighted world, most people have not experienced a total darkness. And darkness has often been associated with evils and spooky situations. Most children are afraid of darkness when left alone.
The global community celebrated the earth Hour 2010 on Saturday, March 27. On this day, all lights were turned off for an hour from 8.30 pm to 9.30 pm.
What is this Earth Hour all about? What is the significance of it?
The earth Hour which was initiated by WWF (World Wide Fund for Nature) started in 2007 in Sydney, Australia. It was an attempt to avert catastrophic global warming. The campaign was globalized in 2008 and in 2009, there were over 4000 cities in 87 countries took part in this event. This event is to remind people of the immediate need to fight climate change that has threatened to harm nature.
This video will give you an insight of the Earth Hour.

Malaysia has participated in the Earth Hour 2009 and Earth Hour 2010.
So, did you turn off the lights on March 27?
Yes, I did.

Life in the 40's....St. Gabriel's School and me

2010-03-01T08:10:00.000-08:00

Life in the 40’s............. St. Gabriel’s School and me
By Lintang Bob Yong
I attended St Gabriel’s, a missionary school back then in 1946, where all the students came from poor families in the nearby vicinity of the school. Our school was a “borrowed-school” which means we had to attend classes in the afternoon, after the regular school (Pudu English School) finished their classes in the morning.
The school was founded by an Australian priest, whose name was Rev. TE Currie on April’s Fool Day, 1946. Till today, many of the old students who are now successful in their own rights have fond memories of our founder headmaster, who passed away more than 25 years ago in his home country.
Being a non-government aided school then; there were no spectacular academic achievements for the students to shout about. But there were many unforgettable activities that I can still vividly recall. I am very proud to talk about them with great enthusiasm whenever I had the chance to reminisce.
We attended classes with our shirts off, yes half-naked. Our headmaster reckoned, with the hot climate of our country, it would help us to cool down and therefore we were able to concentrate more in our studies. Looking back, I must admit this had worked!
Every day we were fed with a tea spoon of palm oil because the headmaster felt that we were too skinny and under-nourished. Most of us were in fact looked more like the African children that we often see on TV. Our parents were poor folks, feeding from hands to mouth. As far as I know, the palm oil had done us good as many of my class mates who are now in the late 60’s and early 70’s, are still strong and kicking.
Before the end of each school term, we were to weigh ourselves naked and stand in front of our headmaster. Even though some of us had yet to reach puberty, we were too shy to face him. So we would try all tricks to stay away from this ordeal. As we grew older, we learned that the reason for him to do this was to allow him to examine us physically at close range so that he could detect skin diseases that required medical attention. We were too young to know about hygiene and our parents were too busy to look after us.
We had our headmaster and the teachers to thank for their untiring efforts in educating us, showering us with loving tender care and passionately looking after our welfare and health.
Till to date, I believe that my well being was moulded by Rev. TE Currie who had taught us to learn scripture and read the Bible. We were even required to attend classes on physiology conducted by him. “With God nothing is impossible” which by the way was our school motto then.
In remembrance of my headmaster and school, I have adopted this school motto to my blog.

I am a Tiger

2010-02-08T19:13:00.001-08:00

I am a Tiger
Bob Yong
According to the Chinese zodiac, there are 5 elements to categorize each of the 12 animals which rotate in every 12 years of the Lunar Calendar. These elements are metal, wood, water, fire and earth.
Accordingly, in year 2010, the tiger is a white metal tiger which starts its reign on the 14th of February; the first day of the Chinese New Year. Some Chinese prefer to call it the “golden tiger” as it sound more auspicious.
Tiger which is a huge powerful animal has been described as beautiful, smart, brave and confident. If you are born in the year of tiger, you are ambitious but boastful, as well as quick-tempered. On the other hand, you have always been accepted as a great and true friend to be associated with for life. In time of crises you can be depended upon. Business-wise, you are successful because of your honesty, persistency and flexibility.
Sadly, tiger is well sought after for its meat and parts which are being made into traditional medical products, mainly manufactured in China.
A lot names are associated with tiger. No doubt you have heard of tiger-man, tiger dance, tiger-tail, tiger-suit, and recently, a celebrity named Tiger Wood has been the talk of the town and the world.
So, what kind of tiger are you; a crouching tiger perhaps?

Quiet Time With God

2010-01-07T00:59:00.000-08:00

Quiet Time With God
Bob Yong
One of the basic essentials of being the followers of Jesus Christ is to spend some quiet time with God. Much as we want to make time to meet with God, we often take the easier way out by allowing other priorities to take charge of us. To connect with God, we must find time daily, irrespective how busy we are. If we fail to keep appointment with God daily, we would not be able to hear His voice. Allotting a daily time of Bible reading and prayer is essential in one walk of faith. Singing songs of praise is another great way to be near and be with Him.
Time spent with God is time well spent.

God is the creator of the universe. He gave us the mountains, sea and the animals, including us so that we may live harmoniously and peacefully in His grace. It’s an awesome world with amazing grace.

Should the use of the term Allah be an issue?

2010-01-01T05:48:00.000-08:00

Should the use of the term Allah be an issue?
By Bob Yong
The constant harassment by the government and the religious bodies to restrict the publisher of the Catholic Herald to use the word Allah in the Bahasa Malaysia of the Bible version had caused injustice to non-Muslims. Christians view this as a violation of the Federal Constitutions.
The Malaysia Muslims argued that the word Allah which means God is the exclusive use by Muslims is hard for right thinking people to comprehend and has become a laughing stock of the world. To begin with, the word Allah is Arabic in origin. Not a single Arabic country has ever objected to its use in other counties. As a matter of fact, the word Allah has been used a long time ago well before Malaya got its independence.
Christian Bible is translated into many languages and can be downloaded from internet without restrictions and difficulties. It is mind boggling as to why our authorities seem fit to classify Bible in BM version under Section 22 of the Internal Security Act. Why and how the Holy Scripture has been viewed as a threat to the security of our country?
Freedom of choice to embrace and practice any religion of our choice is guaranteed in the Federal Constitution. Nothing is mentioned in it that the use of the word Allah is prohibited. Sikhs in Malaysia use Allah in their prayers too and so have many other countries.
Believing in any religion and praying to Almighty, I believe will enhance ones own well being and will bring peace and prosperity to our country. It does not matter whether I use Allah or God or Shen (Mandarin) or Rab (Sikhs) in my prayer.
But one thing is clear in my mind that religion is not to be mixed with politics. Politicians are not Allah and they should not behave like one. Allah is happier if we, irrespective our religious belief and cultural backgrounds, pray as One Malaysia.
Now let’s pray for peace and understanding.

Christmas isn't Christmas (Till it happens in your Heart)

2009-12-17T20:53:00.000-08:00

Christmas isn't Christmas
(Till it happens in your Heart)
By Bob Yong
Christmas is around the corner and Christmas without singing the merry carols is no Christmas at all. It is the season to be jolly and the festive mood couldn’t be any sweeter by listening to those ever green Christmas carols which all of us are familiar with since young.
Living in Malaysia, snow has always been a mysterious and fascinating commodity to children. Being born and grew up in a tropical country like ours, we listen to many Christmas carols being sung, depicting the beauty of snow. Until now these carols are still clearly ringing in our ears. When young, I always wanted to touch and feel the snow and had been dreaming about it on every Christmas.
I’m dreaming of a White Christmas.................

Not forgetting that Jesus was born on Christmas day...............
And remember, Christmas is the time to love and time to give.
Wishing you a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year

God is my refuge and strength. When I am afraid, I will trust in Him.

Voice of a Senior Citizen

2009-12-03T05:59:00.000-08:00

Voice of a Senior Citizen
By Bob Yong

Come January 2010, the new budget announced by the Government recently will come into effect and this has left senior citizens in a lurch. While it has often been said that old is gold, the government does not appear to think that it is so.
Here are the reasons why:-
5% Real Property Gained Tax (RPGT)-Ordinary citizens who had bought houses often considered such purchases as investment for old age. This notion has changed after the announcement of the 2010 budget whereby a property sold after January 1. 2010 will be subject to a 5% RPGT on the total gain. This means if you were to sell a house, bought at RM200, 000, 20 years ago, at RM1 million after the effective date, you will be taxed 5% on the gain of RM800, 000. The tax will work out to RM40, 000.
RM40, 000 would mean nothing to property speculators but it is a heavenly lot to retirees, especially to those who are required to sell the house to meet medical bills.
Prior to this, the 5% Tax was based on a sliding scale for a five years term. Should an individual’s property be disposed off after 5 years, no RPGT will be imposed. Why is there a need to change this? Does the Government know the long-term property owners are the losers? If indeed it is necessary to do this, the new rulings should only be applied to properties bought and sold after January1, 2010.

RM50 Service Tax on credit cards-Although the amount to begin with is a small sum to fuss about but the government has overlooked that these credit cards are for security and convenient reasons for the holders, particularly of that of senior citizens who do not want to carry a big amount of cash, lest they fall preys to snatch-thieves and robbers. Seem to me by citing the reasons that it would cultivate good habit of prudent spending and discouraging those who have many credit cards to give up some, is like putting a cart before the horse. It is more acceptable to the credit card users that the Service Tax will only be imposed for those who have multiple cards. A bad pay-master is always a bad-pay master and it has nothing to do with the number of cards one holds.
Senior citizens are always at the receiving ends. While employed, they had paid all taxes dutifully. With this in mind, the Government should be mindful not to further burden the senior citizens with all the unnecessary taxes. The Government is responsible to look after the public fund diligently, and must bring those who misuse the public fund to book without excuses. It is not right to ask the public, especially the senior citizens to make good the misappropriation of fund by these crooks.
I ask the Government to leave the senior citizens alone and let them enjoy their twilight golden years.

It's More Than Just Being Lucky

2009-10-29T00:41:00.000-07:00

It's more than just being lucky
Bob Yong
This was what happened on October 28, 2009.
Stepping out of a lift at a basement parking lot, I walked towards my car which was parked some 100 feet away. Suddenly, I noticed a MPV drove up and stopped in front of another car, a few feet away from us. A young woman rushed out of this MPV and headed straight towards another car parked close to mine. She got into her car (I presumed) and came out with a brick in her hand. On seeing this, the man hurriedly reversed his car in high speed; obviously he was trying to avoid being hit should the woman throw the brick at him.
At that time, I was about to cross to the other side of the path with my pet dog named Goldie in my left arm. I felt the MPV whisk-passed me, just missing us by an inch. As a result, the MPV brushed against my right arm and the wheels ran over the tip of my shoe.
Though we were not hurt, I was shocked and stood there motionless for a moment before realizing this was a near-missed. It could have turned out to be more serious than it looked. I could have been knocked down and killed or badly injured!
Looking back, I can conclude that the Lord was walking by my side on that day. He protected me and Goldie from harm.Praise the Lord.
Here is a gospel song “If the Lord wasn’t walking by my side” by Elvis Presley.

Life Is Mission

2009-10-25T00:58:00.000-07:00

Life Is Mission
By Lintang Bob Yong
I was on the way to a dinner party at a local renowned restaurant. As my car was parked at a distance away from the restaurant, I needed to walk along the 5-foot way to reach my destination. Nearing to the restaurant, there were a few aquariums, put up by the eatery that housed the sea creatures which had attracted a lot of attention from passerby. Curiosity made the better of me and I stopped by to have a closer look. There were big eels more than 3 feet long, garoupa fish look like monster, lobsters with eyes popping out, staring at me. There were other species of fishes that I could not identify.

I looked at the garoupa fish and took a fancy to its monstrous appearance. They swam and periodically chased their own kind and I wondered whether they knew their destiny. One garoupa fish swam towards me and greeted me by nodding its head as if to say hello. I murmured something like “see you later” and off I went to my party.
I was having fun at the dinner table, enjoying my food. A dish, named steamed fish, was served. I took a good look at the cooked garoupa fish. Suddenly it dawn on me that fish could be the one I bid farewell earlier on at the aquarium. I didn’t expect that we had to meet this way, and so soon. A sense of guilt felt over me.
God has created fishes as a food chain for us, just like some animals are a food chain for other animals. We are in this world for a purpose. God the creator of universe granted us the privilege to obey and be lead by Him.
I felt better when I think God has his way of doing things.
Listen to this gospel song, Life by Elvis Presley

Malaysia-52 years of independence

2009-09-02T06:46:00.000-07:00

Malaysia-52 years of independence
My reflection by Lintang Bob Yong

I asked a school boy aged 12 of what he understood by the term “1 Malaysia”. He answered that all Malaysians are the same. What he meant was all Malaysians are equal. I asked the same question to a man in the street. He replied that in his opinion, 1 means 1; there is no other equivalence he could think of. When asked to elaborate, he explained that 1 means any one can be the prime minister of our country.
A lot has been said and written on unity, royalty, equality, justice and fairness, integration of ethnic groups, co-existence and live in harmony and peace, religions tolerance, embrace cultural differences and of late, abolition of the need to state racial identity. It is not my intention to elaborate on these subject matters in this article.
Indeed, 1 means 1 and I find it hard to accept that 1 can mean 2 or 3 and any other descriptions the politicians are saying now. “Tear the walls down” by all means, but this must be done by all Malaysians who believe in the true sense of “1 Malaysia”. Perhaps, the most appropriate interpretation of “1 Malaysia” is the theme song featured in the film of the 3 musketeers which is “one for all and all for love”. Is this what we wish to believe? If so, I give my full support and Pledge of Allegiance to Malaysia.
In a war, soldiers died for their countries and more often than not, army generals would also perish with the soldiers. This kind of honorable act and leadership by example is diminishing fast in modern society. When Malaysians go hungry, will our leaders prepare to go hungry too? If they do, then this “1 Malaysia” concept must be promoted with all cost.
Our Federal Constitution is the guiding light and no matter which political party governs our beloved country, one must bear in mind that all Malaysians accept Malaysia as their country and have pledged their loyalty to the King and Country. Why then the Malaysian minority are treated differently in many aspects of their lives?
Tell me why.

Elvis Presley-It's yesterday once more

2009-08-16T01:33:00.000-07:00

Elvis Presley- It’s yesterday once more
By Lintang Bob Yong

Elvis died in the year of 1977 at the age of 42 and today, Aug 16 is the 32nd anniversary of his death.
Elvis was the king of rock ‘n’ roll, an international icon and a pop superstar in the music world. Elvis recorded more than 700 songs and many hundreds more that were not released. Till today, his music is still as popular as ever. Shortly after his death, rumours had it that he had been seen in many parts of the world. His fans simply did not accept that he was gone.
Elvis was my favourite singer too and like many others, I am one of his millions of ardent fans. His unique voice and singing style had a great influence on me. I like his songs and naturally would impersonate his style of singing and I, at my younger days tried very hard to be a copy-cat of him. Even now, I continue to sing his songs with enthusiasm and passion.
I have recorded some of his songs and burned a CD as a tribute to him in 2007.

There could be more than 70,000 Elvis impersonators all over the world. In Malaysia, I met quite a few of them personally.

In-house Karaoke Competition-Royal Lake Club 2009

2009-08-12T06:44:00.000-07:00

In-house Karaoke Competition-Royal Lake Club 2009
By Lintang Bob Yong
This was an annual event organized by the Karaoke Section. There were 12 soloists and 6 duets in the final. These were the winners selected from the 2 heats conducted earlier in the month of June.

The results of the final are:-
Solo Section
Champion: Emily Tan
1st Runner-up: Jade Liew
Joint 2nd Runner-up: David Wong and Puteri Kamaliah
4th Runner-up: Sally Ngam
Duet Section
Champion: David Wong and Emily Tan
Runer-up: Philip Soo and Puteri Kamaliah
Congratulations to all winners!

Bob and Cecilia sing The End of the World

Money does not fall from the sky

2009-07-19T02:52:00.000-07:00

Money does not fall from the sky
By Bob Yong
Cashing on human greed, fraudsters are capitalizing their skills to making fast bucks by coming up with all kinds of tactics to hoodwink the public to part with their hard-earned money. These get-rich schemes promoted by unauthorized investment companies are offering high returns or interest on deposit placed in trust with the bogus companies. The scam is normally in the form of a direct sales model whereby a multi-marketing level method is used. The modus operandi is nothing new and yet many people are still drawn to these get-rich-quick schemes without hesitation. When a scam comes to light, many would have lost tens of thousands and even millions of ringgit. The biggest surprise is many of these people who being conned are educated and some of them are successful professionals.
More than 18,000 cases, involving total financial losses of close to 2 billion ringgit (2007) are now being investigated by the police. Attention is drawn to the much talked about conman, Bernard Madoff who heads a bogus investment company, ripping off billion of dollars from the public in United States of America. Those who believe in easy money must realize that money does not fall from the sky.
The ingenuity of the fraudsters is beyond comprehension. These con-men are clever enough to come up with schemes that are so convincing that even experienced investors cannot tell the difference between the genuine and the false one.
Of late, there are restaurants offering membership to the public. These are restaurants that have many outlets all over the country. Besides collecting membership fee which may amount to RM100-200, members are encouraged to place with them deposit which guaranteed interest. Membership allowed members to redeem points, based on their deposit sum by patronizing the food outlets and members will also receive a fixed monthly interest on the deposit amount for a stipulated periods.
All scams prey on the public greediness and emotions. Legal opinion cautions investors that before one commits in any scheme, it pays to check it out first. Senior citizens are often targeted and it is prudent for them to learn more on how to protect and keep their hard-earned money safely. Learning, identifying and differentiating the true investment from the scam are itself an investment technique which can save them from falling victims to fraudsters.

This Is It

2009-06-30T23:40:00.000-07:00

This is it-The 50-show London concerts by Michael Jackson that never was

By Bob Yong

Born in August 29, 1958, Michael Jackson, the king of Pop died suddenly on June 25, 2009 in Los Angeles of suspected cardiac arrest. The 50 years old superstar and an iconic figure of the world left a legacy which includes debt amounting to millions of dollars and unfulfilled contracts. His death undoubtedly shocked the world, particularly to the generation that grew up with him. His passing is a big lost to the entertainment world where the fans are accustomed to his moving performance of moonwalk and crotch rubbing. His music and messages are distinctively carried in his songs.

MJ was probably not the first singer to capitalize on his bizarre clothing to enhance his image. Elvis and many others did that too. While Elvis Presley was known as Elvis the pelvis, MJ was trademarked as the Michael the wacko. On the other hand, it was no doubt that Michael was the King of Pop and Elvis was the King of Rock n Roll. It was also been compared that Michael’s moonwalk was a bigger step for mankind than Apollo ll. It is expected that the sale of Michael’s records and video would top the charts after his death.

During the height of his popularity at age 29, Michael bought a 1000ha Neverland Ranch in Santa Barbara County. MJ behaved like the cartoon character, Peter Pan because he was trying desperately to reclaim the childhood he has lost. After his child’s molestation trail, Michael went into recluse and had not recorded any songs for 8 years.

MJ’s music had succeeded in overcoming racial barriers, breaking down the between cultures and polarization of human kind. MJ was a huge phenomenon.

Below are a few of many videos, selected from YouTube, featuring Michael at the height of his musical career.

1964. The Jackson 5 with Michael as the lead singer was established.

1969. Jackson 5’s first album was released on the Motown label.

1982. Thriller, costing USD 1 million to make is the bestselling album of all time.

1983. Billie Jean, showing MJ’s awesome moving performances (crotch rubbing)

1985. We are the world-a song co-written by Lionel Richie was used to raise funds for Africa.

1987. The Bad album-this music video topped the charts

1991. Black or White was released and this music video mesmerised everyone.

Michael, may you rest in peace.

Hashing-How safe is safe?

2009-06-25T23:51:00.000-07:00

By Bob Yong

Lack of knowledge about hashing is no bliss. It is in fact the root cause for many misfortunes. Getting lost in a forest is not uncommon, but getting out in one piece is a different story. To ensure that hashing is indeed safe, hashers are assumed to have acquired some basic knowledge on hashing and are able to exercise common sense. They must also be pre-prepared for each run, be it an easy or a difficulty run.
According to sources, adventurous hashers are likely to get lost when they go off the trail to explore for something new. Some hashers feel the need to compete with fellow hashers to complete the trail at a shortest possible time. Some hashers even attempt to short-cut the trail in order to finish ahead. Remember, hashing is non-competitive and definitely not a test of your skills. More often than not, hashers go missing or lost because they compete against each other on speed. Some are over-confident and misguided by boastful and inexperienced hashers.
If you are lost or about to be lost, calm down and think. It is important to stay put and get as warm and comfortable as possible, until help arrives. According to experienced hashers, it is a personal behavior that you would attempt to get out this unfamiliar situation as fast as you could. By calming down, you are able to look and listen for important signs; namely the sound of water, vehicles, machinery or the call of fellow members. When darkness fell, you must not walk around; least you may fall off a ravine or a cliff. Stay in a spot where it is easier for rescuers to find you.
When it is necessary to stay the night, try build yourself a shelter. Clear the ground in and around your shelter of leaves and debris and start a fire to discourage insects and snakes. The fire will not only keep you warm and will also keep wild animals away.
Injuries are avoidable if you think of safety first. Do not run or jump if you are unsure of the terrain of the trail. Keep in mind that it is a difficult task and time consuming for rescuers to locate the lost hashers. When found, ferries the injured persons out of a forest are a tremendous task to the rescue team.
Encounter wild animals?(click here)

Father's Day

2009-06-25T21:35:00.000-07:00

On this day Barrack Obama said:-

21st June,

2007: Let’s admit to ourselves that there are a lot of men out there that need to stop acting like boys; who need to realize that responsibility does not end on conception; who need to know that what makes you a man is not the ability to have a child but the courage to raise a child.

2008: Any fool can have a child. That does’nt makes you a father. It’s the courage to raise a child that makes you a father.

2009: We need to step out of our own heads and tune in. We need to turn off the television and start talking with our kids, and listening to them, and understanding what’s going on in their lives.

So, what makes a great father?

1. A great father is available man (open 24 hours)

2. A great father is a righteous man

3. A great father is a sensitive man (click here)

4. A great father is a hardworking man

5. A great father is a God-fearing man

(Mathew 1:19-25)

Are we in a helpless situation?

2009-05-08T20:28:00.000-07:00

By Bob Yong
Not a single day goes by without our mass media reporting that people are being terrorized by criminals everywhere and anytime of the day. When these criminal activities were reported to the police, the law enforcing officers had openly said that they were helpless in dealing with the crooks. The internet is full of stories and advice on how the crooks’ modus operandi works. So much so, I am beginning to feel that no place is safe enough in this country anymore. I cannot help but developed a phobia of being alone, especially when I am driving on a high way late at night.
First, we learned that ministers’ houses were burgled and now even an OCPD was robbed in his own house. Who’s next? I think to myself-maybe the criminals are planning to target the PM’s house.
There is no need for us to remind the police to do their job. They often said the situation was under controlled. Was it? As far as I am concerned, the security situation is getting from bad to worse; day by day. The police however are quick to arrest anyone, who disagree and dare to criticize the government’s policy in spite of the constitutional rights of freedom of expression and speech. Yet, they are at a lost as to how to deal with the perpetrators who in my opinion have to a certain degree infiltrated the police force.
It would appear that not only the morale of the people is at its lower ebb, but the authorities, especially the police suffered the most humiliation in the hands of these small time crooks. These daring crooks will soon turn into a big time organized criminal syndicate when they know that the police are afraid of them. In Mexico, you had a situation where the drug lords became the big bosses of the police force. Eventually, the Mexican army had to step in to help clear the mess. I hope we will not fall into this predicament.
We feel concern as we watch the crime rate over the past years escalated to an unprecedented high level. Who are these crooks? Why are they so daring? Where are the politicians who talk so much of championing the cause of the people? Have they not failed to ensure and provide a safer environment for the public?
There are more questions than answers that I can think of.
Watch these on youtube:-
Snatch thief at gas station
Robbery at Taman Maluri
Robbery at Permas Jaya

Bukit Jallal

2009-04-12T05:02:00.000-07:00

We can only pray that all the hills that featured in the video will remain as they are, beautiful and accessible to all hashers....

The trail and thrill of hashing..........

2009-04-12T04:22:00.000-07:00

By Bob Yong
12th April 2009

What exactly is hashing? Quite simply, a hash is a trail run, marked out by a ‘live or dead’ hare. The trial, usually last for 90 minutes and can be set anywhere, preferably in the jungle. Along the way, the trail is marked by a limited variety of 'hash marks' such as chalk markings, papers or even some forms of colorful flour which tell the pack if they are on the correct trail; be it a true trail, a false trail, or a pure evil trail. The trail is usually designed in such a way that the fore-runners also known as FRB’s (Front Running Bastards) are being delayed or deterred from going too fast so that the rest of the pack can catch up. A good hash will have the whole pack finishing the trail within 15 to 30 minutes of each other.
If you can run a 10-minute mile for about an hour, you can hash.
Most hashers prefer running on a shaggy trail which is defined as anything but a fairly nice road, jungles, swamps, forests, cliffs, drain pipes, sewers, construction sites, and anything that looks mean.
A ‘live hare’ hash occurs when one or more hares set out half an hour prior to the pack. Part of the fun of this kind of hash is seeing if the hares will be dumb or stupid enough to let themselves get caught by one or more members of the pack. The ‘live hare’ task is to ensure he will not fail his duty of being caught by some members of the pack who are assigned with this secret mission.
A ‘dead hare’ hash is a little different. There is no hare to catch. The trail was laid out anytime from a couple of days to a few hours earlier, before the actual run. Still, the trail should be good enough to slow down the FRB's for the slower members of the pack to catch up.
Reference: Mother Hash

Black Magic Woman-2006

2009-03-05T09:34:00.000-08:00

Besides running and drinking, hashing has more than its share of fun. Let's go down to memory lane......

Lock up the bullies under ISA

2009-03-05T09:25:00.000-08:00

By Bob Yong
5th March 2009

Our country is now awarded with the degree of a highest order for being the master of all political games. Not a single day goes by without the mass media reporting many sensational stories.
I watched the video of a fracas at Parliament House and was disturbed that a senior, veteran and outspoken Parliament member was stopped from entering the Parliament Assembly by a group of young upstarts, able-bodied but bad mannered men. These bad, rotten apples and so-called youth leaders acted like war-lords, demanding that MP Karpal Singh, who is wheel-chair bound must first apologize (apologize for what?) before being allowed to enter the Parliament Assembly.
I think to myself, who are these people they think they are? Obviously they are acting above the laws. Worst so; this happens right at the door steps of a place we respected as Parliament. Can they be so naïve to believe that this is an educational trip to make them future political leaders? I don’t think so.
These rowdy, abusive and low-down creatures must be thrown in the country’s worst dumpsite and be left there to fester and rot. There is no room for bullies in our midst and they are completely useless and a shame to our society.
In schools, bullies are reprimanded by teachers. Likewise, in politics, the leadership of the political parties can ensure that their stalwarts practice the ethics and good mannerism at all time.
Unquestionably, the sanctity, integrity and supremacy of our Parliament must be protected and upheld by all. Any attempt to usurp power by undemocratic means must be stopped and those responsible must be charged under ISA.

Green Fields

2009-03-01T09:21:00.000-08:00

This is redo of a 2006 videoclip

He's a hasher, he's true blue

2009-03-01T09:05:00.000-08:00

By Bob Yong
1st March 2009

I started hashing in year 2000 and have gone through the experience of being terrorized by the wild life habitats that live in the jungle. Snake, bees, leeches and other crawlies are viewed as nuisance to hashers. Proud to say, after more than 500 weekly runs, many of which were treacherous, I have become a hash hardcore. Well, not quite so, as my fellow hashers may like to think otherwise.
Hashing is good for health and shall be recommended and encouraged to people who like outdoor activities, though some may believe that hashing is a dangerous sport. But the most disturbing fact is that many parts of the jungles we used to roam were cut down and destroyed for the sake of modern developments.
To me, I believe hashing besides having a good body workout; it can also promote awareness of environment preservation and ecological balances.
It is time we learn that deforestation has a serious consequences to the wild life and we must accept that animals in the wild have the rights to live and co-exit with us.

The right of privacy

2009-02-21T07:40:00.000-08:00

By Bob Yong
21st February 2009

In no uncertain term, the right of privacy must be protected; more so, when it is blatantly violated in a place where we called home.
In politics, more often than not, those who are quick to judge others are those whose moral character is in question.
These shameful so-called leaders who are themselves immoral are making use of every single opportunity to condemn on the morality of others to gain political mileage.
Assemblywoman, Elizabeth Wong is acknowledged by many that she has done a good job in her duty as an elected state representative. She is firm when dealing with environmental issues and this perhaps causes her to step on toes of those corrupted officials.
I like to quote a passage written by P Gunasegaram from his column, Comment in The Star.
“Let’s admit and acknowledge for a wide section of the public - the vast majority of us normal human beings - there are boyfriends and girlfriends and intimate moments of great privacy. If a partner violates that privacy for any reasons, the other party is not to blame - the blame lies with the person who broke that trust, not the person who gave it.”
I share his view.
I also feel that it is a criminal act for anyone who takes and distributes the pictures which are private in nature and not intended for public circulations. Stricter laws must be at hand to protect privacy, not just for the people in power but for the general public, like you and me. I endorse harsher penalties for those responsible of this criminal act.
It is however difficult to draw a line to separate one’s public and private life when one is holding a public office. The advent of Internet makes it all the more easier for the culprit to do it.
The private lives of politicians are constantly under strict scrutiny and the aspiring politicians must be conscious of their acts and behaviors, lest their dreams to serve the country will be derailed by misfortune.

Let us shame the political frogs

2009-02-08T10:08:00.000-08:00

By Bob Yong
7th January 2009

I am perturbed with the unbecoming behaviors of the state assembly members in Perak.
The political scene in our country is fast turning into a joke to the world. The question of state assembly members switching camps or frog hopping is getting fashionable in this country. Of late, the Bota state assemblyman can be so fickle that he changed his mind just like changing his clothes. One minute he was leaving BN for PR and the next, he was back with BN. All this happened within a few days. His action, obviously did not speak well for the principles he believes in and neither did he demonstrate his loyalty to any party.
Integrity should play a part in politics. But then again, the past records had proven that such a word, “integrity” is almost not in the mind of these shameful politicians.
Party hopping is not only unethical and immoral; it also reflects the lack of commitments of these hoppers to the people who had elected them.
If a politician can stoop so low to betray their own principles, what can stop them from lying that they did not accept money in the hopping game? These political frogs do not understand or deliberately disregard their conscience in order to enrich themselves at the expense of the people. Virtues like honesty, selflessness, trustworthiness and keeping promises cannot be compromised at all cost. It is not only wrong in the eyes of the public; it also means a total betrayal to his family, party, constituent and country. With so much of wrong doings, how can these shameful activities of the state assembly members are rewarded with millions of ringgit?
I believe and for democracy to prevail, those who jump ship must first resign from their positions and contest again in the by-election. Let the electorates decide on their future. It must be remembered that state assembly members are under oaths to represent and serve their constituents, rather than helping themselves with all the millions.
Shame to these political frogs!!

Goldie-Shih Tzu

2009-02-06T20:18:00.000-08:00

Goldie
By Bob Yong
4th February 2009

The Shih Tzu featured in this video is named Goldie and she is a darling to everyone who knows her. Goldie is 3 years old and can perform some simple tricks. She is outgoing and friendly. At times, she can be stubborn and like to think things out for herself. Overall, Goldie is passionate, obedient and likes to stay affectionately close to the owner. If she is left alone, Goldie will cry and her pathetic sight will soften anyone’s heart.
It is recorded that Shih Tzu originated from Tibet for hundreds of years. Shih Tzu in mandarin means lion. As its appearance resembles the lion, it is referred as a lion dog or simply named as “Shih Tzu Kou”. Kou is dog in mandarin.
During the Manchu Dynasty (1643-1911), the lion dogs were the property of royal family and legend has it that anyone owning a Shih Tzu outside the Royal Palace was sentenced to death.
Shih Tzu has a quaint oriental appearance. It looks like a small mandarin with beard and moustache. Shih Tzu is small in size but they are strong and sturdy and must not be mistaken as fragile.
Owning a Shih Tzu often give the owner a wonderful time of companionship.

BobzWorld: What A Wonderful World

2009-02-02T20:40:00.000-08:00

Indeed we are living in a wonderful world. The well written lyrics of this harmonious and evergreen song depict the relationships between our nature world and the human race.BobzWorld: What A Wonderful World

I'm so lonesome I could cry

2009-02-01T10:05:00.000-08:00

This song was recorded by bobsongster at SingSnap on December 11, 2008

Welcome to my world

2009-01-31T02:12:00.000-08:00

Welcome to my world (BobzWorld's theme song), a world of Mother Nature. It is our duty to ensure that we practise nature conservation so that the future generations of all living things can live peacefully and harmoniously. Won't you come on in?

Resolutions 2009 For All

2009-01-30T22:01:00.000-08:00

We will stay loyal to our King and Country

We will read but not to believe everything published in the internet

We will not believe all the words uttered by the politicians

We will tolerate and embrace all other religions

We will not be self-centered and will let others to have their say

We will face bad news squarely

We will learn to laugh at ourselves

We will practise a healthy lifestyle

We will stay in touch with our friends

We will believe in God and love our families always

By Bob

Everybody is talking...........

2009-01-30T21:23:00.000-08:00

By Bob Yong on 15th December 2008

Prime Minister said it was possible for Malaysia to have a non- Malay leader.
Kelantan Umno Liaison Chief, Anuar Musa said Malaysians “should not get carried away with Obama” ( a black man being elected as US President.)
Indonesia recently passed a Bill that would make ethnic and racial discrimination series crimes.
Some leaders of Malaysia are still saying that sensitive issues are not to be discussed openly. Why are these issues so sensitive that we need to sweep them under the carpets? Are we behaving like Ostrich?
What are the concepts of Ketuanan Melayu and Social Contact and how are these come about?
Everybody is proud of “Malaysia Boleh”. Why then is a particular Malaysian if he is capable and qualified, tak boleh jadi leader of this country?

When citizens of Malaysia think as Malaysians, talk as Malaysians and act as Malaysians, there will be no more sensitive issues left to talk about.

Everybody is talking but I can’t hear a word what they are saying!

Dreams of My Father

2009-01-30T21:01:00.000-08:00

Dreams of My Father

The US 2008 Election fever is on. Each of the presidential candidates is the author of one book. Barack Obama has written a book, “Dreams of My Father” and John McCain’s book is titled “Faith of My Father”
But, Bob Nobody has written a story told by his father during his young days, and another story about mothers.
Perhaps these two presidential hopeful should write stories about their mothers as well.
I must admit that I have not read the books written by Obama and McCain, but it would be interesting to know whether any of the readers had.

The Black vs. the Oldest

Since Unite States of America is the “Police” of the world, the US presidential election has always created a lot of interest around us. I have been following their campaigns closely.
Today all Americans shall decide who would be the next President.
Irrespective who he is, I am going to Gasing Hill to talk to the birds and bees while the rest of the world can wait for the result.
Let’s bet. I predict the Black will beat the White and Obama is on his way to the White House. Will he repaint the White House black as soon as he moves in?

Change it is

Obama’s winning of the US presidential election prompted me to write a few lines.
Obama, the son of an emigrant father became the 44th President-elect of USA on 4th November 2008. This was a historical event which saw USA, after more than 125 years, having a first black president. Well, he is not totally black because his mother is a white woman. It was a dream came true for the minority groups.
Why is USA so strong and powerful? It is simply because its citizens of all racial origins can make the changes the country needs.
What do the country needs? Choose the best available person for the nation’s chief executive regardless of race and belief.
At the local political science, our PM, Abdullah Badawi says, it is possible for a person from a minority group to become the prime minister of Malaysia.
So, how do we go from here? Think about what Martin Luther King, the black civil right activist said before he was assassinated.
This was what he said. “……judge not by the color of his skin but by the content of his character”.

The songkok

2009-01-30T20:40:00.001-08:00

By Bob Yong
15th June 2008

Wearing the songkok, whether it is at the private or public functions has nothing to do with the race or religion of the wearer. For the assemblymen, wearing the songkok besides showing a mark of respect to the Sultan is also a way to demonstrate unity among Malaysians, especially those elected to hold high offices in the government.

We are what we are. Any outfit we daunt does not change the color of our skin or betray the religion we embrace. It is hypocritical to believe that the attire and headgear one wears will make the difference in you. Neither does any fashionable outfit can change your ethnic group you belong to.

When one speaks English language, it does not make you English. Similarly, wearing saree does not make you an Indian. It will be a shame only if you forget your roots. Any outfit and headgear we wear is a matter of individual choice, comfort, convenience, necessity and perhaps adaptability in a country we live in.

Newspaper reported that a Malay father sends out Chinese-style invitation cards to his Chinese guests for the occasion of his daughter’s wedding. Most commendable is the married couple who are Malay would take their wedding photos wearing traditional costume of the Chinese, Indian, Korean and Japanese.

Are there better ways to call ourselves Malaysians?

Petronas goes bust by 2018?

2009-01-30T20:38:00.001-08:00

By Bob Yong
12th June 2008

Petronas made a profit of RM570 billion, out of which, the government received RM335.7 billion. It will go burst within 10 years if the profit payout continues, said its President and CEO, Tan Sri Hassan Marican, as reported in the media.

This man is talking rubbish. He does not understand what profit is. I am no accountant but I know 3(income) minus 2(outgo) equals to 1(profit). He is talking about 2 and we are looking at 1.

Profit arises when the income exceeds the outgo. All expenses including R&D, cost of drilling and exploration works, salary and many other expenses are taken into account before profit is ascertained. Profit drops when expenditures go up, assuming the revenue stays the same. Understandably, profit will drop due to many reasons. The glaring truth is that Petronas’s accounts and profits are never made transparent. Money spends on many unnecessary projects are already the talk of the town.

Bloggers said this.
Quote: Terengganu earned an estimated RM30 billion. Sabah and Sarawak have also earned an estimated RM30 billion.
Petronas paid the government an estimated RM1 trillion by way of corporate tax. Furthermore, Petronas did not pay Terengganu, Sabah, Sarawak, or the federal government an estimated RM900 billion by way of corporate tax.
Petroleum Development Act 1974 requires Petronas to make its accounts public. Petronas' accounts are not published and are not tabled before Parliament. Unquote.

Demonstrators asked the government this.
Where has the money gone?

The government has not satisfactorily explained to the rakyat on the tremendous petrol price hike. What the minister-in-charge has done was pulling wool over the rakyat’s eyes, saying something like changing our lifestyle, cutting ministers’ entertainment expenses and no big cars for ministers, etc. Not only the rakyat are not able to see the picture painted so far, the people running the government are equally blurred.

Father's day

2009-01-30T20:31:00.001-08:00

By Bob Yong
15th June 2008

On mother’s day, I wrote a story on how we took our mothers for granted. We only realized we missed them when they were no longer with us.

On this father’s day, I have another story to tell.
This story was repeatedly told to me by my father when I was young.

“There was a grand-father, a father and a son living in a remote part of China. They were poor farmers having little or no formal education at all. But being brought up in a traditional way, they knew about Chinese value such as filial piety, a culture which was passed down from generations to generations.

The grand-father being old was invalid and must be dutifully looked after and this caused financial problems and difficulties to the father and son.

One day the father told the son that the grand-father must be put away in the jungle. The son said nothing. The father put the grand-father in a basket and with the help of the son carried the grand-father to a place far away from home and left him to die.

The father wanted to dump the grand-father together with the basket and the pole which was used to carry the basket with the grand-father in it. The son said the basket and the pole needed to be taken back home. Father wanted to know why. The son explained that the basket and the pole can be reused when it is time for him and his son to carry the father (who will then become an invalid grand-father) to the same place as they just did.”

On Father’s day, have you ever thought of these:-
1) Most fathers are stubborn and won’t ask anyone for help. Getting lost while driving to a destination is not uncommon. Perhaps buying him a GPS unit may help.
2) Since the fuel price hike, filling up the petrol tank of your father’s car is also a good idea.

Remember this. Regardless of your relationship with your father, you’ll miss him when he is gone from your life.

Blogosphere or Blogger-fear?

2009-01-30T20:29:00.000-08:00

By Bob Yong
12th June 2008

If you cannot beat them, you join them. The government has decided to engage the bloggers head on. The Deputy Prime Minister, Datuk Seri Najib said that remaining silent is no longer an option.

Bloggers are known to be assertive and believe in a “no holding back punches” in perusing and hunting down the truth. Some bloggers without fear of arrest, more often than not got into trouble by continuing criticize the government and its many corrupted officials openly. Some private sector high profiled individuals are not spared either. Dare to cross this line; the government will not hesitate to act against them. What line? One may ask. There is a demarcation line; purportedly drawn by the authorities on its own terms, which is only visible after charges are levied against the bloggers.

Bloggers welcome the news that the government has finally agreed to blog along with them. Blogging community communicates with each other through out the world to exercise the freedom of speech and expression without fear of arrest. Do not forget, bloggers provide feedbacks to the authorities on their mistakes. Up to now, bloggers feels that their invaluable services offered by them are not given due recognition and appreciation.

The government’s decision to blog along with the bloggers is a big step towards practicing democracy, which should be welcome by all Malaysians.

On the other hand, bloggers must follow ethical journalism and be responsible to their own action. There is no such thing as absolve freedom of speech, said the Prime Minister, Datuk Seri Badawi recently, at the Asia Media Sumit in Kuala Lumpur. Individuals can be charged for libel and slander if they deliberately making false accusations.

Are you too old to fight?

2009-01-30T20:26:00.000-08:00

By Bob Yong
1st June 2008

Yes for many, but not for Tun Dr Mahathir. I perceive him as a fighting cock of the century. Tun Dr Mahathir was the first to join UMNO Baru, having a membership number 0001.Tun Dr Mahathir announced his resignation from UMNO on 19th May 2008 amidst many controversies strived in the power struggles of UMNO.

Tun Dr Mahathir is 15 years my senior. At my younger age, I admired him for his intelligence and considered him the capable leader we ever had then. He has the guts to stand up to the bullies by telling them to get lost, especially the powerful nations like USA and UK. That was back then in the 90’s.

At the beginning of his political career, Tun Dr Mahathir was sacked from UMNO in 1969 by the 1st Prime Minister. When he was in power, he curbed the privileges of the sultans; the sacking and trail of Anwar Ibrahim, the then deputy prime minister and the dismissal of the Chief Justice together with a few other high court judges. The current VK Ligam video clip debacle has added feather to his colorful character.

It was rumored that he sacked all his deputies because they were too close to him for comfort, politically speaking.

The shock announcement of his resignation was the last straw in the camel’s back, attempting to force the present Prime Minister, Datuk Seri Badawi to step down. Badawi was then Mahathir’s deputy and he was hand picked by Mahathir to succeed him when he relinquished his premiership. Look as if another Mahthir’s past deputy will fall to the axe! Only this time, he does not have the axe in his hand.

To my mind, the responsibility of fighting for social justice, humane equality and for that matter the well being of a political party that one belongs does not rest on the shoulder of one person or any body or any group of bodies. It is the collective effort of many that will prevail. In the political arena, ages of the fighters are irrelevant. What is important is the fighting spirit of the veteran soldiers, for they fight for what they believe in. Our country is not short of sophisticated political personal. But choosing to fight it alone is another story.

A captain shall not abandon his ship during stormy weather. He should be the last to leave. But now, Tun Dr. Mahathir is not a captain anymore.

Is it the outfit or the mind?

2009-01-30T20:25:00.000-08:00

By Bob Yong
25th May 2008

When will the National Islamic Students Association of Malaysia (NISAM), especially its vise-president, Munirah Bahari. ever learned? NISAM’s myopic view on “school uniform worn by girls at government schools encourages rape and pre-marital sex” is devoid of facts.
Before they teach others righteousness, it is more important for NISAM to do some research to find out whether or not boys ogle at female bosoms because of the school attire they worn. For many people, the white blouse worn by the school girls is not at all attractive, and definitely cannot be considered ‘sexy’. If the blouse is sexy, it is in the mind of individuals. As a matter of fact, and in the context of modern civilization, the school uniform is nothing more than ordinary attire, commonly worn by Malaysians. Many victims of rape and sexual harassments are the work of pervert individuals who also prey on older women, under-aged girls and even infants.
Having a pure mind makes a pure person. Having a mind that perceives female as sex objects breeds corruptions and contempt.
It is better for the office bearers of NISAM to concentrate on their studies and leave the guardians of moral to the appropriate authorities. Learn before you preach, I say it to the members of NISAM and in this way, they will grow up better equipped and become useful citizens for the betterment of the country.

Is there life after retirement?

2009-01-30T20:23:00.000-08:00

By Bob Yong
21st May 2008

There is life after death, if you believe it. But while you are still kicking, can there be life after retirement?
Most of us worked for more than 30 years before retirement. I retired at the age of 65 and that would mean I would have worked for 45 long years. If that was not enough for a working life, what was? I am still physically strong and healthy and with God blessing, perhaps I will remain at this state of health for many years to come.
While in employment, you could hardly find time for recreation because each day was filled with tasks, discussions, appointments, meetings and entertaining clients. There were times you could hardly see your family. Upon retirement, can the things that you dreamed of and liked to do become a reality? Forget about the feeling that you are no longer wanted; accept the new challenge and get on with your life.
I must admit that the thought of retirement put me in stress as to what to do with all the free time at my disposal. Experts say, besides having saved enough financially to last you, hopefully, for the remaining of the life, it is advisable to draw up a plan on how you would like your retirement life to be.
To survive, we need to work for a living. After having worked for 45 years, I believe I deserve a reward for myself. The kind of reward will depend on your financial position and your physical condition, like traveling to places where you have not been before and doing your own things leisurely. It is bliss to get up at 10 o’clock in the morning.
I had traveled to many foreign countries on holidays and during my employments. Nowadays, with the advent of computers, I learn more about internet surfing which helps me in perusing my hobbies, like writing, and video-photography. I also spend time socializing at my clubs and take up hashing, qigong, ballroom dancing and karaoke singing. I even took part in karaoke singing competitions at the age of 65!
Live after retirement can be just as fulfilling and rewarding. I am enjoying it.

Free-How sweet it sounds?

2009-01-30T20:21:00.000-08:00

By Bob Yong
19th May 2008

First, the cheap air fares offered by AirAsia. Then zero air fares by MAS, counter offered by AirAsia promoting sub-zero air fares. Look as if Malaysians are in for a great time in free traveling, both domestically and internationally. Not only the commercial airlines are competing for business, but it appears that the political parties in our country are trying hard to oust each other, by offering free things.

What about free medical care for the poor and the senior citizens? How about the Inland Revenue Department takes the initiative to refund all the over-paid moneys due to taxpayers without having those to ask for it? There are many more things the government can do to ease the burden of the daily life of its citizens. If the entrepreneurs can compete for business, how about the government departments compete for providing better services to the general public?

The terminologies used by the airlines in promoting their business are misnomer. The air fares may be free but the bottom line is travelers still need to fork out money to pay for the fuel surcharge, insurance levy, airport tax and other applicable charges. Similarly, not all things, purportedly free, offered by the government are really free. The country’s revenue is derived from the many form of taxes collected from individuals and corporate bodies. So, any things said to be free by the government are actually financed by tax-payers’ money.

Talking about having it free, there are something worth fighting for are freedom of speech and expression and freedom of worship.

Can free be made sweeter?

Mother's day

2009-01-30T20:19:00.000-08:00

By Bob Yong
11th May 2008

This morning I was in the church, listening to our pastor talking on “Are You Looking after Your Mother?” in conjunction with mother’s day, today.
My mother died when I was 40 years old. The pastor’s topic brought back many fond memories of her who came from China with father to seek better opportunities in this land, then called Malaya, more than 75 years ago.
Here is a story I like to share with you.

“I have not been visiting my mom for sometime due to busy schedule of work. I thought the best thing to do is to send her some flowers and wish her “Happy Mother’s Day”. So I went to the flower shop and ordered red and yellow roses. I paid the bill and requested that the flowers be sent to her. While leaving the shop, I noticed a small boy, asking the vendor how much a stalk of rose cost. When told it cost RM2, the boy’s face reflected disappointment as I could see he had insufficient money to pay for it. I told the vendor that I would pay for the rose. The boy was happy, thanked me, took the rose and disappeared.
I usually passed by a cemetery to get to office. While on the way, I saw the same boy kneeling at a grave yard with the rose in his hand. I stopped the car, approached the boy and asked who the person he paid respect with was.
With tears in his eyes, he said it was his mother who died recently.
I wasted no time and immediately went back to the flower shop. I told the vendor there was no need to deliver those flowers as I would take them along myself to my mother.”

Have you visited your mother of late? Go visit you mother to day and say “I love you”.

The wind of change

2009-01-30T20:18:00.000-08:00

By Bob Yong
10th May 2008

Before the 9th General Election, the ruling parties in the government could do almost anything they wanted and got away with it. Before the 9th General Election, the opposition talked a lot but no authorities would listen to them, except by putting some of them in jail.
Now the opposition begins to say what they want and the authorities listen to them. It is now clear that the Malaysians know what they want and are now waiting to see what the politicians preach are what they do. In other words, can the opposition deliver?
Ironically, the ruling parties are now listening and doing the things the opposition advocating doing before, like agreeing that, among other things, blogging contributes constructive criticism which can help the government to improve their performances and bring about nation unity and development.
The fever of blogging has not only caught on with the ministers but it has also prompted many retired politicians to start their own blogs. The latest blogger in the news is Tun Dr Mahathir.
All of these happenings pointed to one startling fact that some people can be fooled some of the time but not all the people can be fooled all the time.
The winds of political change has started and will continue to change as long as the people feel dissatisfy with promises that are not kept. Empty promises worth nothing and no one should be happy tolerating them and it does not matter from which party they come from.
Blogging is universal and blogging is power.

Should the live telecast of Parliament be continued?

2009-01-30T20:17:00.000-08:00

By Bob Yong
1st May 2008

Like it or not, live telecast of parliamentary proceedings is welcome by most Malaysians. It is too hasty for the authorities to conclude that the live telecast is a waste of taxpayers’ money and does not benefit the people.
Malaysians will not only come out in full support for the live telecast but will also like to see more air time being allotted to the sessions. Many feel that the live telecast will fit in well with the public’s desire for more transparency and accountability of the Parliament members. These members of Parliament will be aware, when they are in front of the camera, that they cannot shirk their responsibilities and hide their laziness for not preparing their home works in advance. Besides, the live telecast is an educational tool for Malaysians to learn more about parliament from which they can increase their political knowledge.
On the other hand, parliament members are required to behave themselves and any outburst during the debates will reflect badly on them.
Since this is the first time live telecast is allowed, Parliament members might have got excited to being TV stars overnight and are likely to over react their roles. Once the novelty is over, it is hoped that the Yang Berhomats shall discuss and debate issues intelligently.
The answer is a big Yes for the live telecast to continue.

Who is right and who is wrong?

2009-01-30T20:16:00.000-08:00

By Bob Yong
21st April 2008

What happens to our society and the world we live in? Why are there so many busy-bodied countries attempting to run the affairs of other countries?
People, other than those from affected countries, should respect the independence and integrity of nations and leave them to handle their domestic problems in their own way. More often than not, there are states of poorer countries wanting to declare independence unilaterally. Their attempts are motivated not without the interference and assistance of powerful countries. It is indeed a known fact that developed and militarily powerful countries are behind all these coups.
The western countries are quick to take on the busy-body jobs without proper and deep understanding of the history, culture and heritage of the poor or poorer nations.
The media, especially those that are controlled and powered by the finance of some western countries are practicing one-sided reporting, by condemning and stirring up sentiments in order to achieve their own agenda.
Sports are sports and why are some countries; especially EU countries want to use the recent Tibetan domestic affairs which are an internal problem of China, to sabotage the Olympic Games?
These countries, especially USA should take a good look at their own backyard where shits are piled up everywhere. They should spend more time clearing this mess!
How would they feel and do if the 50th state of USA wants to go it alone and declare it a separate country- called Hawaii?

Getting the message through

2009-01-30T20:13:00.000-08:00

By Bob Yong
24th March 2008

Look as if the mainstream media is out and blogging, an alternative media is in. It is generally felt that mainstream media is somehow or other under the control of the ruling parties which form the government. Take the March 8 Election as a guide; one can hear little or no news from the opposition parties in the mainstream media. The outcome of the general election among many things changes the lives of the people who can now look ahead for better distribution of the country’s wealth and equal opportunities to Malaysians. All of a sudden, the elite in the ruling parties, who often tell others to listen to them, are now willing to listen from others.
Before the election, the government threatened to close down the blogs or arrest the bloggers and put them in jail under ISA. Now they agreed that bloggers play an important part in nation building. Bloggers have their rights in our society because they contribute informative and valuable insight of the relevant authorities where corruptions and nepotism are being practiced openly. Bloggers put in place a check and balance system for the grass roots level, without them the citizens are in the dark, and short-changed by the administration.
A true blogger is also willing to expose the wrong doings of the opposition parties who act against the wishes of the people. Bloggers are unpaid watch dogs. We shall therefore appreciate the unpleasant job they do and hope they can continue to do so without the interference from the authorities.
To talk sensibly is an art and to listen attentively is a virtue that many politicians, sad to say, have not acquired them.
We are a in a multiracial society country. We are intelligently matured enough and wish to read more views from the blogging community. We will not stop reading the blogs. We shall listen to them and then exercise our wisdom to believe in them or not.
Statistics showed that about 50% of the Malaysian population used the internet last year.

As I was saying............

2009-01-30T20:09:00.001-08:00

By Bob Yong
15th March 2008

It has been a long time that I heard a commendable remark from a politician, Dr. Lim Keng Yaik advocating his strong advice to BN which suffered a humiliation at the March 8 General Election. The Star’s report on 11th March 2008 refers. He opined that giving silly excuses and shirking responsibilities after losing the contested seats reflects the immaturity of the sore losers. Dr. Lim’s suggestion to those who lost in the contest to “shut up and carry on”, meaning to do the walk rather than the talk.
Whether it is in politics or organizations, being self-centered and arrogance are not only the biggest enemy in one’s live; it is also a destructive force that can bring down an empire. Support from the grass-roots or down-lines must never be overlooked. Without them one may not be where they are now. Failing to live up to the inspiration of the masses, politicians will lead themselves to a path of no return. The results of the recent General Election saw the fall of many heavy weights.
As a true Malaysian, who was borne, grew up, educated, worked and most probably dies here, I am not a supporter of any political party or any particular person. But I believe in good deeds they do, or have done. A man with full of words is likened a garden full of weeds. He does not deserve respects and admiration.
Equal opportunities to all Malaysians should be the slogan adopted by all parties. Opposition parties, which gained in road in our hearts should bear in mind that Malaysians will let them know in the next general election whether or not they have kept their promises.
I am a Malaysia and shall always be one. In my eyes, all Malaysians are of one people. There is no other place than Malaysia for me. This is my home where I shall lay my hat.