Enlighten

Time for another switch

2005-12-28T01:23:00.000+08:00

With the release of WordPress 2.0, I can import my old Blogger posts to my new blog at www.wongkeenhing.com. Hence, this blog will no longer be in use. All of you who link to me and bookmark me, please make the appropriate amendments. At the moment, it is only half complete but you can have a sneak peek if you like. It should be done by January 1st. This indicates that Enlighten lasted for exactly six months i.e. half a year. Life is Just should last longer than that. Enjoy.

Boxing day boxing

2005-12-26T20:54:00.000+08:00

I'm bored!!!!! Gaaaahhh!!!! This is no way to spend the day after Christmas. I should be erm... well... yeah you know. Whatever. >.<

Spent the day playing Grand Theft Auto: San Andreas. This is one game that makes me drive slower in real life. Ironic, the fact that a game that lets you go wild and violent causes me to be more careful on the road. So, on boxing day, I boxed people. Badabump-bish.

-We'll be right back after these messages-

Watch a guy doing Numanuma
Then read all about him

-And now, back to Justin's blog-

I bought Furniture's album today; the same one in my Christmas wish list. I'd probably write a proper review later but for now, let me just say that this is something that local indie artistes must match in terms of quality and effort.

Coming back to my boredom *insert word which I forgot*, I watched Big Fish and played Dota again after about a month of *insert another word which I forgot*. Big Fish was unique, in my opinion. Thing is, Ewan McGregor looks too old to play an eighteen year old boy. Heck, I'M 18. Nice movie anyways. Dota was... well... Dota.

If you're all wondering what I'm gonna do with my hair after all that voting, I have decided to just use extra conditioner and moisturizer for the time being. If that fails to make my hair look better, I will seek professional advice. To save some cash, I'd go to BU and find a not so exhorbitant place. Thanks Yee Teng!

Oh, I forgot. A joke-off took place between me and Jia Liang. The person who manage to make the other laugh through some lame joke or other, gets a point. In the span of three days, the score is 8-8. He's running dry, I have a few more up my sleeve. Jia, if you're reading this, BRING IT.

Here's an example:

What's white and cannot climb trees? A fridge.

Badabump-bish

I'm planning to change my blog background but the thing is I'm afraid that it will look too ego. Here's a sneak peek.

As my readers, it is YOU who would mind if it looks too self-centered and stuff. I'm at a loss here. Any opinions?

Christmas Christmas Christmas

2005-12-24T15:52:00.000+08:00

Sorry for the absence, I was busy with this year's Bangsar Christmas production: the portrait of Christmas. It was a blast! We had Actor's Studio Bangsar filled to the brim on both nights. This year, I get to play the guitar, sing in the choir and play the role of a wise man. Tiring but what fun! I get to do a British accent and make people laugh; I've always wanted to do a comedy. Got my wish. :D

Myself, Christine, Angie, Winston, Ju Ean and Lin Yi

It's not everyday that I get to dress like Il Divo. And it was the first time I used hair gel in eons. Khong Su Ann said that I looked too smart. Guess people ain't used to a tidy me. But me having combed hair has a price: it reveals my huge forehead.

Gosh my head is big. I'm hating it.

But all in all these productions are always good experience. I look forward to it every year, next to the annual youth camp. Still, none were as big as the X-Child 2003. The tickets were cheaper, the story deeper, the choir pieces longer, the nights longer, everything. Oh well, this year's has a good effect anyway, thanks to prayer.

A bunch of people and a rastafarian wannabe

Today, for Christmas eve, Li San, Choi Lin and myself went to Delicious for lunch! Mmmmm delicious....

Then I went Christmas shopping for the first time, at least I think its the first time. I rarely get gifts for friends so.... if you didn't get anything from me, blame it on my youth. We then bumped into Winston and Wan. What a delightful surprise! Then we bumped into Pat Woo and Colin Ng! Christmas is magical after all. Also due to the fact that we found parking at Bangsar as easy as 124.

Well I'm off to continue my Christmas eve by taking an undeserved nap. Merry Christmas!

Short Story: Songfest part 3

2005-12-21T13:16:00.000+08:00

This is part three of a short story I've written as a college assignment. I had a pretty good score so I thought you guys might enjoy it.

A small crowd gathered to see Dominic board a shuttle bus. His gazebo friends were dying to go with him, to see him onstage under the spotlight. Due to complications with lodging and a set of assignments which Dominic had already done his, they could not. His parents, supportive as they were, had much office work to worry about; they could not come along either. Alone, he would pursue an ambition he never thought he had.

Beyond the window, buildings became taller and the streets more crowded. As the bus entered Whistern City, the meaning of color had changed in Dominic's eyes. The hues were somehow darker, flashier, and mostly, artificial. Branded stores, offices named after wealthy entrepreneurs, clusters of road signs, all were somewhat new to him. This alien human habitat was where his dreams would come true.

Upon stepping from the shuttle bus, an instant uneasy feeling seeped into his skin. The air was different than that of his hometown; he had been living in sunshine for too long. With his precious guitar slung behind his back, and his mentor's pick safe in wallet, he strode to his destiny. After much referral to the wrinkly piece of paper on which he noted an address and directions, he had found the place. His feelings of great anticipation was then dotted with a pinch of dismay.

The sign read “Lenny's”, which was placed above a spiral staircase leading downward. Along the way, posters of Songfest were pasted on the wall, one he recognized and one he did not. Dominic had also noticed that the narrow staircase was nicely wide enough for the guitar on his back, or any guitar for that matter. It was almost as if the place was built that way for that very reason. As he descended, he wondered why he did not smell cigarette smoke.

As his foot stepped the black floor, the first thing he saw was the stage at the end of the room. Imagining all the music that flowed through it during its lifetime, it looked beautiful. Dominic found his way to Mr. Johnson, who oversaw the Songfest project. His eyes looked like they can automatically search for potential on a stranger's face. Dominic meekly told him his name upon being asked; Mr. Johnson held a name list of all round one participants.

His name checked, the time set, Dominic was to come back for the briefing held the following day. Clutching the keys to the room that was sponsored for him to spend the next few nights, he speculated. Already he thought about his friends back at Des Glaines, already his mind wanders to the contestants who awaited him. He hoped that the people he will meet will be nice to him.

A crowd of forty stood by the stage, most of them getting acquainted to each other. The so-called briefing was about to start, so said Mr. Johnson though it was already twenty minutes past the specified time. One of the young lads, who happened to be nearby, glanced at Dominic with a smirk. He stretched his hand.

To be continued...

Start from part 1

How to make a Justin Wong

2005-12-18T22:02:00.000+08:00

I am seriously shocked and amazed by the accuracy of this little quiz thing. Those of you who really know me, I don't think you can agree any more.

How to make a Justin Wong

Ingredients:

1 part competetiveness

5 parts silliness

1 part ego

Method:
Blend at a low speed for 30 seconds. Serve with a slice of wisdom and a pinch of salt. Yum!

Personality cocktail
From Go-Quiz.com

Narnia outing

2005-12-17T01:30:00.000+08:00

On Thursday, Smashp0p, a fellow blogger, was kind enough to pass me two free tickets for a Chronicles of Narnia screening. Since I met PQ earlier the day, I invited him to watch it with me. Here's photographical evidence:

It was the first time I met someone through a blog. Well, it we Smashp0p (third from the left) who found me in his own blog-hopping session. He gets tons of free tickets and stuff so there I was.

The movie? Well, the direction was good, the cinematography was good, the story was a little predictable but it can't be helped. Sad to say, this movie scores low on entertainment value, though there were a few funny moments. It is not for those who seek to be entertained but to experience the telling of a enchanting story.

Lazy to write a full review lah.

Anyway, here are some cool videos.

Sushi documentary
Tom Cruise kills Oprah

Enjoy.

My Christmas wishlist 2005

2005-12-16T18:42:00.000+08:00

My very first Christmas wishlist! This is the list of things that I want to have but probably will never get. Unless of course, people are nicer than I think they are.

(In no particular order of importance)

1. The Art of the Matrix

Similar to those Star Wars concept art and graphical books, The Art of the Matrix showcases artwork from this trilogy. The front cover itself gives a glimpse of the depth of its contents, just as the movies portray the depth of the unique story. I like digital art, I love the Matrix. Hence, I shall very much appreciate this book.

2. Final Fantasy XII (Original please)

It has been forever since the previous instalments, namely FFX-2 and FFXI, were released and now the next one will only avail itself 2006. The Japanese version will only hit Japenese shores on March so the English version will likely to take longer. Anywho, the FF series has long been accredited as some of the greatest RPGs ever created on the PS1 and PS2. FFX was indeed worthy of awesome points, and FFXII, being newer, will definitely be ten times better as Square-Enix had always managed to do so with every new instalment. The real question is how these Japanese guys do it.

3. A digital camcorder

Okay I know it costs a bomb, an arm, and two legs, but it would be totally awesome to have one. Videotaping events is not the same as taking photos of it, as it gives you better memories and all. Plus, I have always wanted to enter the independent movie industry. With a DV camera and some software knowledge, I have total control over the movies I make! But this is not a must have for me, just a luxury I need to make time for. So you can cancel it off your things to buy list.

4. Furniture - Twilight Chases The Sun

No, I'm not decorating my room with new furniture. It's a Malaysian band called Furniture, and this is their benchmark album, Twilight Chases The Sun. Having heard solo works live from the frontman Ronnie himself, I feel that I will totally get the theme of their music. Emotional, enchanting, and almost spiritual. Of course I can only guess until I have heard them myself. See more info here. Maybe I will buy this one myself.

5. A pair of headphones

Yup. Mine's busted. Anyone can spare fifty bucks?

6. Michio Kaku - Parallel Worlds

Written by one of the greatest theoretical physicists of the present day, Parallel Worlds is a one way trip through cosmology and the fate of the universe. This book is perfect for the theoretical science enthusiasts such as myself, though I am only a beginner. It's really interesting to know what mankind thinks of this universe and beyond, based on logical speculation. Another reason to praise God for his infinite ingenuity in the creation of this world.

7. Creative Labs Zen Micro

An mp3 player would certainly help me as a singer-songwriter to get inspired and constantly fed by music. The Zen Micro looks slick, can store 6GB and glows nicely. Everyone is carrying an mp3 player these days. I'm stuck currently with my mono-speaker Series 60 phone.

That's all I can think of right now. If there's more, I will update and put a link on the sidebar later.

The 100th Post Bonanza!

2005-12-14T21:33:00.000+08:00

Launch the fireworks! Sound the trumpets! This is officially my one hundreth post since the creation of this blog! I have a whole set of stuff lined up just for you! Hope you enjoy the show.

I have just returned from a trip to Penang; this year's church camp was pretty good. I got to Jetski for the first time, rode on a motorbike for the first time, and ate cendol for the first time (I HATE CENDOL).

Overall it was a pretty good experience, even though I was still sick on the first day. Thank God I recovered soon enough, for His grace is sufficient for me. Got to explore Penang through Francis Dunn's fourth instalment of the Amazing Race. My team was unfortunate enough to be driven by an Indian fellow who drives people around for a fare, with a meter-less Proton. Illegal public transport? Got to meet many people, learned many new lame jokes. I feel like compiling a whole library of it right here in this blog.

It was good for a whole bunch of us retreating together to experience God. Indeed, he proved himself to be real to many, and it was pretty encouraging. My renewal of awareness of God and the fact that I was grinded by all the running the Amazing Race, I vowed to change my ways. I must take care of my body, my mind and my spirit. With God's strength I can make it happen.

Next is the preview of X-Men 3! You can see the teaser here.

Like in most usual action thrillers, the teaser had a prominent character explaining how dire the situation will become. Looks like things will get uglier than in the second movie. Here we see Magneto somehow amassing an army for himself, we see the return of Jean Grey though not in the teaser, and even some new characters like Beast, Angel and some mutants I have never heard of. In retrospective, this Bryan Singer-directed movie should be the must watch of all comic book fans and action movie fans alike. 26 May 2006, mark your calenders.

I want to add in my Christmas wish list here but since I want to link to it, I shall make a separate post for that. And since I'm dead tired already, I shall do it tomorrow.

Lastly, I need you to help me make THE MOST IMPORTANT DECISION OF MY LIFE. Here it goes:

Should I get a haircut?

This is how I currently look like, once properly combed with effort.

You can vote by dropping a comment OR dropping a message via MSN if you have my contact. Your vote can make a difference.

That's all for today, good night!

So ends the semester

2005-12-09T23:00:00.000+08:00

I had my last two papers today: Italian at 8am and Moral at 12pm. I had a real bad running nose throughout the entire duration, goodness it was horrible. The Italian paper was tough enough, even if I came healthy and all. Moral? I HATE MORAL. Hated it ever since form 2. There's absolutely no point and its making me MISERABLE. GAAHHH...

Went home and continued playing Grand Theft Auto: San Andreas.

At this point, I have almost finished packing. Now all I need is a torchlight, my goggles, and my toothbrush. I'm going to Penang for five days! Woohooooo!! I hope I will get well enough in time tho, *sniff*. With God's grace, I will! :D

This is my 99th post since the creation of -ENLIGHTEN-. As soon as I return, I will write a special 100th post bonanza! Featuring everything I can ever think of to make the post big. So stay tuned! I'll come back on the 14th so my big post will arrive 15th or 16th. In the meantime, you can still browse through my categories on the left. I added two new ones so enjoy!

Don't miss me too much..

3 funny ad

2005-12-07T22:30:00.000+08:00

Malaysia should come up with ads this strange.

http://www.wcrs.com/vids/Tuperzik.mov

Today's Tech Tip - Performance and Visual Effects

2005-12-06T16:58:00.000+08:00

You might find your computer becoming a little slower since you last defragmented or formatted. With Windows XP, you can adjust the usage of visual effects on your basic desktop in order to cut your computer some slack. Here's how:

1. Right click My Computer>>Advanced Tab
2. Under Performance, click on Settings
3. In the Visual Effects tab, have 'Adjust for best performance' checked

This will cancel all the little effects on your desktop, such as showing window contents while dragging. Without all these animations, fades, shadoes, etc., your performance will be slightly better.

Going to the Advanced Tab under Performance Options can lead you to Virtual memory. You can adjust that as well but it is a different story altogether. Enjoy.

Short Story: Songfest part 2

2005-12-04T00:39:00.000+08:00

This is part two of a short story I've written as a college assignment. I had a pretty good score so I thought you guys might enjoy it.

Dominic had been trying to picture himself onstage, standing in front of a crowd that was waiting to be impressed. Even if he had it, was confidence the only thing he needed? Just confidence in himself and confidence in his own work to get by? He could not even remember the last time he did something and was sure with it. Sunrise after sunrise, he weighed the consequences.

A yellow Sunday came by. Dominic went to meet Vince at the park, where it was always green and joyful. Dogs of various breeds can be seen being walked by their masters of all shapes and sizes. Little children ran from all corners to the next, happy as can be. The community owed its warmth and fellowship to this place; people of all ages were regulars.

"Songfest, eh? I'd say go for it." said Vince, who had always been his best friend, easy-going and moderate.

"I knew you'd say that..."

"What? Don't you wanna try out?"

"I don't know, Vince. Stage performances have always been beyond me."

"That's crazy talk. You're the music kind of guy, the whole gang knows that."

The gang: a bunch of long-time buddies his age who had a tradition of gathering under a gazebo by the lake at the park. Somehow, Dominic foresaw all of them giving him every reason to take a shot at Songfest. No point in asking them, then.

Just that moment, Elaine passed them by. She was one of them; them who faithfully show up at the very same gazebo every time. Dominic stood helplessly, gazing at her movements. She was an embodiment of charm.

"Hey guys, see you at the usual place," she said as they acknowledged her. Vince watched as Dominic trailed her steps with his eyes. He let out a sigh.

"For the last time, man, ask her out." Vince nudged him.

"I've said it before, I just couldn't do it."

"I can't stand seeing you moonstruck anymore! You've been putting this off for weeks now. This iron isn't going to be hot any longer..."

"Give me some time, just… time."

The truth is that Dominic had never planned or intended to approach her for that matter. Though he formulated the exact words of confessions, there just were too many things in his way. Most of them were in his head. Such was the dilemma a timid boy had to face.

The boys found themselves in the company of five other youngsters, among them Elaine. They would talk about anything under the sun, from Middle Eastern politics to chaos theory. But not all of them would appreciate every kind of intellectual conversation. Dominic finds much comfort with this routine: sitting by the lake with the people he cared about most.

Almost a month later, Dominic finds himself packing. It was like sleeping and gradually easing in to a dream. He received a phone call from the people of Songfest just the night before, a phone call that changed it all. The next round was to be held at Whistern City, a bustling metropolis, over the weekend.

To be continued...

Start from Part 1
View Part 3

To live in South Park

2005-12-01T21:35:00.000+08:00

If I were to live in South Park, I'd probably look something like this.

Have fun with the generator

Exercise Your Music Muscle

2005-11-30T22:56:00.000+08:00

Check out this way cool wallpaper. Are you a rock band fanatic? You'd love this. All you have to do is find 72 band names out of the objects in this picture. Don't get it? If you see beetles crawling around, they would represent The Beatles. That's just an example, there are no beetles in this picture. Good luck!

Mysteries of the not-so explained: The Spell Error

2005-11-29T23:45:00.000+08:00

I was doing my psychology assignment when I ran into something wierd.

My sentence was 'Here, the experiment looks into one more factor in mate selection'. Sounds correct, doesn't it? But Microsoft Word 2002 insists that it should be 'factors' instead.

I did not tamper with this picture, it is authentic. Can you explain this mystery?

View the MSN Personal Message Mystery
View the MSN Nick mystery

To Mortal Kombat in South Park

2005-11-27T21:45:00.000+08:00

I watched an episode of South Park and it was entitled Mortal Kombat. Half the show turned into a Japanese-style ninja cartoon. Wanna see ninja versions of Cartman, Stan, Kyle, and Kenny? I like Kenny's the best!

25 November 2005

2005-11-25T13:44:00.000+08:00

I could not think of a better title. My creativity has been sapped by my own laziness. My study break begins and I am not yet prepared for the finals which will commence 2nd December. Aren't we all the procrastinators? No? I'm doomed.

I finally finished my Italian homework and most of my second lab report. I have an excuse to wait a bit on my lab report this time: I have to wait till Dr. Goh returns the first lab report to guide us on the second. He pushed back the deadline for a total of ten days. Like, wow.

Joblessness is the air that I breathe. In fact, I'm still wearing my jammies as I type this, and I got up almost three hours ago, at eleven (I set my alarm at nine). Been downloading some Star Wars Kid, Saturday Night Live, Family Guy and what not. I think that SNL's Celebrity Jeapordy is simply hilarious, the contestants can expertly give the dumbest answers in the universe.

There's nothing I can blog about as I 'prepare' (notice the quotation marks) for exams. So lemme give you some highlights of what's coming December.

- More Harry Gonner
- An updated Star Wars Spinoffs
- The continuation of Songfest, my short story
- Some awesome pictures of Pusat Bandar Damansara
- Will try to come up with more Richard & Rashid

TTFN, huhuhuhu..

Short story: Songfest

2005-11-22T17:02:00.000+08:00

This is part one of a short story I've written as a college assignment. I had a pretty good score so I thought you guys might enjoy it.

It was the end of the day's lessons, the extra-curricular activities were about to begin. The corridor was half-filled with college students; each had their own business to attend to. Among them was a boy, standing still and was staring at a poster on a wall that nobody else had cared about. The wildly colorful illustrations on the poster had the word printed large: 'Songfest'. Dominic had the most curious look on his face as he scanned the details of Songfest for the fourth time.

He walked off filled with wonder. An opportunity like this does not come by very often, and for Dominic, it could be something that can change his life. But he had no reason to believe that he could even qualify; inferiority always had the best of him. The audition was two weeks away.

The double doors opened to reveal the green grass, the blue sky, and the whispering trees, all in a picture-perfect sight. Canaries chirped their way into spring, while the blooming lilies greeted the sun. Des Glaines was a simple town, devoid of skyscrapers and congestion; most of its inhabitants walked or cycled. The shop lots were just a couple of blocks away from Lumina College. This time the journey had never seemed shorter, for Dominic had walked pre-occupied.

Stopping by a music store, Dominic greeted the old shopkeeper, who was polishing a violin.

"Afternoon, Mr. Wayne."

"Dominic, welcome, welcome. What can I do for you?" said Wayne, putting down the violin.

"Songfest," said Dominic. "An audition will be held right here in Des Glaines."

"I know, I heard. Looks like I don't have to tell you to try out," Wayne spoke slowly.

"But I don't know if I could."

"And why not?"

"I… I don't know,"

"Well," Wayne got up and reached for a drawer. "I remember the first time you came into this store, wanting to learn to play the guitar." Dominic listened like a curious little child. "You were all nervous... but your father was supportive. I was willing to teach, and you were willing to learn. A slow start, but look at you now. You have learned well. I understand that you have been writing?"

"Yeah, I have. But I don't know if they're any good."

"Oh, nonsense. If you write, you're eligible, aren't you?"

"Well, yeah. I... I'm just not..."

"What's the grand prize?"

"It's uh... a scholarship, at Berkeley's School of Music."

"My, my. That's more extravagant then last year. You want it don't you?"

"I guess..."

"Then remember this: if you want something, you have to take the first step."

Dominic looked up at his old teacher. Those very words set him reminiscing his days learning music under his wing. In his mind, he scanned the memories he had right there at that music store. Wayne handed him a pick with his wrinkly but steady hands.

"Take this. I hope you will see in it everything you have learned from me."

View part 2

Tomorrow I Will Find Another Day

2005-11-17T12:40:00.000+08:00

The rain is pouring out my window
Along with all my thoughts and dreams
I tried to sleep but no, I couldn't
Too broken is my heart it seems

I feel the emptiness that breaks into me
My shoulders bear the weight that clings on to me
But I know there is always hope

I'll find my way
Through the night
I'll find my will
Strength and might
To go on and should I lose my way
Tomorrow I will find another day

My lonely self has cried an ocean
For all the things that fell unto him
And on the wall I found a mirror
But all I see is light too dim

I thought of what to say to family and friends
But final words it seems are too hard to mend
Cause I know there is always hope

I'll find my way
Through the night
I'll find my will
Strength and might
To go on and should I lose my way
Tomorrow I will find another day

Lest the darkness should take over me
I will always see through the tears, through the tears
I will fall over and over
I will rise over and over
I say to myself again

I'll find my way
Through the night
I'll find my will
Strength and might
To go on and should I lose my way
Tomorrow I will find another day

Lame jokes in BM

2005-11-15T21:44:00.000+08:00

As compiled by Hew Mun Yoke

TEKA-TEKI YANG PERLU DIBERI PENAMPAR

1) Minyak ape yang disukai oleh lelaki?
Answer: MINYAKsikan pertandingan bolasepak Liga-M

2) Kuih ape yang bungkusnya di dalam, isinya di luar?
Answer: Kuih salah bikin.

3) Binatang ape power Karate?
Answer: Kuda belang.cube kira brape black belt dia ade.

4) Siape yang menemukan dompet kulit?
Answer: Yang menemukan dompet kulit tersebut tolong pulangkan kepada saye.

5) Pintu ape yang walaupun dengan 10 org pun tak leh nak tolak?
Answer: Pintu yang ade tulis 'TARIK'

6) Saya ade 3 kepala, 4 tangan dan 5 kaki...siapakah saya?
Answer: Pembohong...

7) Apa dia 'Jauh di mata, dekat di hati'?
Answer: Usus

8) Binatang ape yang seluruh anggota tubuhnya kat kepala?
Answer: Kutu rambut

9) Nenek sape jalannya meloncat-loncat?
Answer: Neneknye si katak

10) Knape lelaki jarang kene penyakit anjing gila?
Answer: Sbb lelaki ni kan 'buaya'hehe

11) Ape beza sekretari baik ngan sekretari kurang baik?
Answer: - kebaikannya lah

The Amazing Race for Asia

2005-11-14T12:58:00.000+08:00

The Amazing Race is coming to Asia!!! Read full articles here:

Malaysia - theStar.
Singapore - Channelnewsasia
UK - C21media

Or read my article:

The Amazing Race is coming to Asia!!! Sign me up!!

Pure wicked coincidence

2005-11-12T12:46:00.000+08:00

This is a story of PURE WICKED COINCIDENCE. Brace yourselves.

One fine day, some guy who came across my blog added me on his MSN. After my Yoruichi post, wushu_whc only wanted to befriend a fellow Bleach fan like myself. I accepted. Check out his Rukia fanblog.

The next day, another guy came across my blog and added me as well. Smashpop added me for fun, he had no idea I was a Bleach fan. First coincidence: two guys added me on MSN within the span of 48 hours, when nobody had actually added me from my blog ever before.

Second coincidence: Smashpop was a Bleach fan. I only assumed he was because wushu_whc was one as well. That makes all three of us being Bleach fans.

So lets recap. Two guys, both Bleach fans, added me on MSN from my e-mail address at my blog at almost the same time. Now get this. Third coincidence: wushu_whc and smashpop know each other.

Wicked.

5 Cekap 2004: Down memory lane

2005-11-11T13:51:00.000+08:00

As I have suggested to Oliver Chua, former classmate at SMK Bukit Bandaraya, the entire set of photoshopped pictures of 2004's 5 Cekap students have been put up in his blog. See it here:

http://lotusmamak.blogspot.com/2005/11/nostalgia-5-cekap-2004.html

That was the product of our hard work and image-editing prowess; Oliver did most of the work, by the way. The main selections, which have been published on the school magazine that year can be viewed via the above link. Here, I will display the outtakes (In no order of significance). Enjoy.

Guess who joined the Famous Friends of Friends

Looks like the One Ring is at it again

Should Daniel Radcliffe retire, I will step up to the task

Who knew Jazli would befriend human

This is Oliver's work, all credit goes to him and him only, period.

Among the many auditionees for the part of Padme Amidala...

.... which has already been taken

Careful, that BB gun from Brickfields might actually hurt

Blog Button Maker

2005-11-10T18:10:00.000+08:00

Ever want to make a 'Link to me' section like what I have on my left navigation bar over there? Here's four blog button makers I have found on the internet.

Brilliant Button Maker

This is the best one I can find. It can own little custom image on it. The others can only do text. It can also do outer and inner border colours.

Online Button Maker

This one displays a whole colour palette so you can pick a colour easily. Doesn't do border colors.
BlogFlux Button Maker
This one can do 80x15 and 80x31 sizes

Adam Kalsey's Button Maker
For simple, unfussy users only

If you want anything more complicated, like my blending colours, drop me a line and I'll make one for you. I did mine myself. If you want to try making one for yourself, note that the font used is SmallFonts and the size is 80x15.

Week 12

2005-11-10T14:43:00.000+08:00

Gosh, its November already. But I shan't mention the fact that time passes by way too fast, shucks I said it. I have but only three weeks to my final exams, and here I am sitting on my butt with my fingers fresh from a losing DotA session. Im pathetic.

I remember how things were just two months ago. It was when I became ignorant of the impending avalanche of assignments come October. It was when I paintballed for the first time, on my birthday in fact. It was when I got a taste of a real talent show, which I had no place in >.<. It was when THE HORRIBLE HAZE STRUCK. Forgot how it looked like? Here's a reminder.

It ain't pretty..

Im pretty jobless right now. I'm searching my old pictures from my camera phone, since the haze ones got me going. Here's a rarity:

Two red Protons that coincidentally parked next to each other

Maybe I'll keep that picture and sell that on E-bay in twenty years time. Damn, I'm in awe. So anyways, I'm in week 12 of the ADP Fall semester. I remember 12 weeks ago when I planned to print out my schedule. I remember 11 weeks ago when I still planned to print out my schedule. I remember 11 weeks ago when I saw this:

Luminiscent..

Then I remember 10 weeks ago when I still planned to print my schedule. Then I remember 10 seconds ago when I realized that I still haven't printed my schedule. Then I remember 3 seconds ago when I realized that I still haven't printed the rest of my psychology notes. See how screwed up my life is? Geez, I owe myself a 4-hour nap.

To be a fan of Yoruichi from Bleach

2005-11-09T23:14:00.000+08:00

Bleach rocks. Yoruichi rules. I was so jobless I actually screen-capture a scene from episode 56 and patch them up together. It was not easy. You will not find this picture ANYWHERE else ever. Click to enlarge. Enjoy.

My Japanese subculture is...

2005-11-07T13:05:00.000+08:00

You Are an Officelady!

It all seemed so blissful at first.
Wear cute little suits, meet friends with matching suits, get a small salary.
Well, you're going to be making copies for the rest of your life, and a good raise is not in your future.
And forget about marrying out of this glass cieling! What?
So you can make coffee at home and wash your husband's underwear? Gross!

What's Your Japanese Subculture?

Harry Gonner and the Half-Nerd Prince - #2

2005-11-06T20:44:00.000+08:00

This is the continuing series of the above title. To better understand the humour in it, you should have at least watched any of the original Harry Potter movies or read any of the books, preferably The Half Blood Prince. Enjoy.

Harry Gonner was delighted at the fact that he no longer needed to stay at the Dudleys' for the rest of summer. What cheered him even more was that he can spend the remaining days at Ron's place: the home of the Weasels. After hours of wrong turns and close calls, Dumbndumber finally managed find the house. He did not want to use magic to get there only because he wanted to feel the wind in his hair. Harry thought it was too much wind for his own health.

Dumbndumber parked his kick-ass car amidst Molly Weasel's precious shrubbery. 'Oh well', he said. Once done with the obligatory greetings, Dumbndumber left Harry to the family's care. Chewing on Molly's tasty treats, Harry hurried up to Ron's room, where he found him making out with Hermione Gangster.

Harry : Hey, don't start without me..

Ron : Oh hey Harry, here already?

Hermione: Did you bring us a fresh supply?

Harry : Yup, here you go. Pick a flavour. Man, I can't believe you guys ran out already.

Hermione: Nice! I'll go with blueberry this time. Yeah, it's kinda risky. I almost got pregnant again.

Ron : That was some night.. Oh, and what's the deal with the Prophecy? We've been dying to know.

Harry : Oh, that. Um... I... don't remember.

Hermione: You don't remember? Harry, the Prophecy was probably the most important clue to discover your very destiny! You were the one person who saw it and you don't even remember?

Harry : Uh... I think I have to kill someone or something.

Hermione: That's better.

Ron : What do your parents say about it?

Harry : Dude, my parents are dead.

Ron : Really? Oh yeah. Whatsisname killed them right? How did he kill them again?

Harry : A shovel, Ron.

Ron : Oh yeah, that shovel. Right. Oh hey Ginny, Harry's got a fresh supply. Pick a flavour.

To be continued...

View previous episode

My Harry Potter alter ego is...

2005-11-02T23:25:00.000+08:00

HERMIONE GRANGER

You scored as Hermione Granger. You're one intelligent witch, but you have a hard time believing it and require constant reassurance. You are a very supportive friend who would do anything and everything to help her friends out.

Your Harry Potter Alter Ego Is...?
created with QuizFarm.com

Adolescent labour

2005-11-01T21:59:00.000+08:00

This was how I spent the last day of October 2005. The night before, I was asked to replace Dinesh for a one day job that pays fifty bucks. The holidays started, I had nothing to do so what the heck, I just went. The job was to count the number of balls in a truck for a recent Maxis guess the number of balls contest.

It says 'count' but I used 'guess' because it was impossible to know for sure until we unloaded the truck to count them. That was exactly what we were paid to do, to determine the answer before verifying the winner. So Suenanica, Shafeeq, Harindar, Roshan, Woon and myself drove ourselves to some really rundown place in Kepong.

We seemingly had to be there by 9:30am but surprise, surprise. We were the first ones there and the place was not even open.

Soon enough, some other people came. They were there for the same job as us; they were all Chinese. We didn't wait long before the doors open. It was a large space with a white corner with rounded edges, it was actually some studio. There was no equipment, only stacks and stacks of boxes containing miniature soccer balls. Then, the actual truck arrived.

Before the counting commenced, the truck was unloaded. They built a wooden makeshift container just for this purpose. The backdoor opened and out the balls flowed. They were mostly miniature balls of two sizes: 6.3cm and 4.0cm. The rest were a couple of dozen actual sized footballs and a few dozen smaller footballs about 12cm in diameter.

We were then divided into groups of four, each had their own boxes buckets and each were assigned one supervisor to bring the balls to and fro from the container and to keep track of the number. Woon, Harindar, Sue and Shafeeq was one group; Roshan and I had to team up with two Chinese-speaking Chinese people.

Free to count the way we choose, my group had an excellent system. One would count the big (6.3cm) balls to fill a box which amounted to 160, one would count the small ones (4.0mm) to fill 600 in a box, the supervisor will bring in fresh buckets of balls and the last one would separate the balls according to size for the first two to count. So thats four people, three buckets and at least two boxes. When either of the box is full, the supervisor will dump the counted balls into a separate container.

That system was not formulated in an instant; it was gradually and wordlessly falling into place. Part of it came from Roshan who counted the big balls and had the return trip to consistently contain 160 balls, no more no less. I don't know about Woon's group, but my group was certainly busier than them. Laughs.

The persons in charge actually promised that food would be provided. But it arrived pretty late, much to Woon's disappointment. We did not eat anything until 3pm, a personal record for my own standards. If only Sue would finish at least half of her own fried rice+fried chicken. It was yummy by the way.

As we continued counting, I realized how jobless we were. The job had taken its toll on my back, and eventually, my Monday. After we were done, we had to open new boxes of 4mm balls and remove each one of them from their individual plastic bags. That was so not in our job description! Shafeeq even took a nap in the container of uncounted balls.

But it wasn't all that bad, the persons in charge let us rest evey few thousand balls. They let us play with the footballs, and we even got to go inside the half-filled truck! It was awesome, swimming in a sea of soft squishy balls. They did not mind at all, in fact they are smiley people. The other labourers, the Chinese youths, was not as eager as us happening Bangsar folk. They were content talking among themselves.

We left the place even though there were more balls to unwrap. Sue gave the excuse that we had to attend to some church meeting. Roshan, church, right. We were still getting paid anyway, but it will only come next week. After that, we crashed Oliver's place which was nearby. You should have seen the look on his face when he saw Roshan sitting in my car which was parked RIGHT IN FRONT of his gate.

At the end of the day, we learned one thing: Roshan sucks at Dance Dance Revolution.

Fright Night 2005

2005-10-29T21:56:00.000+08:00

It was last Thursday when the HELP ADP Student Council event of the fall semester was put together: FRIGHT NIGHT 2005 Featuring the Tower and the Dungeon, a Halloween event in collaboration with Communication Frontiers. It was my first event since I joined ADPSC and I had to oversee marketing and ticketing. Yikes. Somehow we manage to pull off astounding ticket sales during the last minute, so its not too bad.

We completely turned the bottom floor of the ADP block into a haunted house (the dungeon) and the top into a gathering area (the tower). The dungeon was.. dark. The tower was pretty happening. Happening is what you get when you have 150++ college students in a mood to party. Some came with costumes; a few of them got a little too creative.

I, however, was content with a sign on my back that says "Declared dead on arrival'. I'm a walking dead, get it? Its scary! Yeesh..

Chiu Yen, Karen, Renuka and a walking dead

Pretty good event, I might say, though it ended a little early due to security concerns. Quoting from Melody Peters, this was one party that did not go wrong in any usual way. Normally alcohol would be smuggled in or a fight would break out (Peters, 2005)¹. She dressed up as little red riding hood by the way.

After the party, we noticed something REALLY peculiar. We threw up a couple of balloons to the ceiling, and it never came down. The cream is that the balloons contained no helium, and no, no hydrogen either.

The picture is authentic. Can you explain this mystery? :P

At the end of the night, when paranormal activity dissipated, the dead no longer walked.

Cause of death: dislocated knees, bloated butt and Andrew Netto's death (see tomb)

Check out Karen's account of the event. Theres a photo of me on the floor, again.

Notes:

¹ This is what you get when you learn citations in General Psychology.

The Adventures of Richard and Rashid - #5

2005-10-24T00:18:00.000+08:00

This is the continuing series entitled 'The Adventures of Richard and Rashid', the story of a British commissioner, Richard O' Reily, who sailed to Malaya to educate an accidental Public Affairs Minister, Rashid bin Razak, in order to establish relations between the two worlds in the 18th Century.

In a warm, sunny day, we find our heroes squatting under a tree..

Richard: This is simply delightful! *slurp* A new way to have revenge on an object that fell on your head: eat it.

Rashid : Sedap kan? Ah.. ini dipanggil buah durian. Sejenis buah-buahan tempatan yang masyhur.

Richard: It tastes exquisite.. I know, as the first Englishman who discovered this extraordinary fruit, I, Richard O'Reily shall call it.... Duriang. Its... brilliant.

Rashid : Aduhai..

Richard: And what is this funny-looking thing?

Rashid : Ini? Ini rambutan. Sejenis buah-buahan juga.

Richard: A rambutang? Looks yummy, how do you eat it?

Rashid : Bukan rembuteng... rambutan. Nah.

Richard: Mmm, delicious! This rambutang is simply divine! Oh look! I see an ape, a rather peculiar-looking one.

Rashid : Oh, itu seekor orangutan. Comel, kan?

Richard: So a Malayan ape is called an oranguthang? This is journal worthy..

Rashid : Ia dipanggil orangutan.. bukan orenguteng.

Richard: Thats what I said.. oranguthang. A marvellous creature, look at how he climbs.

Rashid : ORANGUTAN.

Richard: I know! I can see another oranguthang too!

Rashid : Adhuuu.....

Tune in next time for more... 'The Adventures of Richard and Rashid'

View previous episode

Feeling lucky with failure

2005-10-19T21:22:00.000+08:00

Funny how a rising internet corporation makes a statement..

1. Go to www.google.com
2. Type 'failure'
3. Click ' I'm Feeling Lucky'
4. See what Google has related your wordsearch to.

So far, this process still works. I don't know how long it will last so try it already.

Creative Commons announces its 1st annual Fall Fundraising Campaign

2005-10-18T10:56:00.000+08:00

From CreativeCommons.org

Creative Commons needs your support. Over the past three years, we have offered authors and creators simple tools to mark their content with the freedom they believe it should carry. These tools have helped build a movement. There are now over fifty-million objects on the web that link back to our licenses. There are hundreds of volunteers working to spread our free licenses across the globe.

To come this far, we have relied upon the substantial support of major foundations. But now we need to show the world that our support reaches beyond foundation boardrooms.

And thus we need your support now. To sustain our growth, we need to build core membership in Creative Commons. We need these members to help us to continue to offer free tools to enable a flexible range of protections and freedoms for artists, educators, scientists and writers. Your (tax deductible) contribution will make an important difference now (More about donations and deductions).

Please join us, or support us, so this movement can continue.

Read full article here

Malaysian race referrals

2005-10-18T10:43:00.000+08:00

Simontalks.com gives an insight on how to call strangers according to their race.

How to call Malay, Chinese and Indians (and Others) in Malaysia

As a fellow blogger, I would like to add one more that serves as a universal method of calling people in the South East Asia.

"Oi"

Back from nowhere 2

2005-10-16T14:31:00.000+08:00

My apologies, ladies and gentlemen. I have not been posting anything real for awhile now. Been pretty busy doing college assigments, most of which I have been putting off during September. Procrastination kills.

To entertain you, here is my first ever psychology lab report available for download.

The Stroop Experiment with Incongruent Color Words in a Second Language

Abstract

This study aims to investigate the effects of word-color incongruence on color-naming. The experiment was designed to test the speed of naming the color of shapes and words. There were five test sheets, each had different kinds of word stimulus; one of them was Chinese incongruent color words. Upon completing a sheet, the time taken by that subject to successfully name one by one all the colors in it was recorded; repeated for other test sheets. From 260 test subjects, results showed that the Chinese speaking subjects took longer than the non-Chinese speaking subjects to name the Chinese incongruent color words. This suggested that illiteracy of the foreign words does not cause Stroop interference.

Download it here.

Popeye ad

2005-10-13T23:04:00.000+08:00

Cartoon Network was removed from my subscription some years ago. But for some reason, I can still remember a specific Popeye the Sailor man advertisement in that channel. I remembered the script word-for-word.

This is spinach.
Popeye loves to eat spinach so he can trample meanies like Bluto.
This is Bluto.
Bluto is big, has a small brain and loves Olive Oyl.
This is Olive Oyl.
She doesn't love Bluto, she loves Popeye.. and Swea Pea.
This is Swea Pea.
Swea Pea is a baby with a big mouth. That makes Pappy mad.
This is Pappy.
Pappy is Popeye's father. He's always on the move, not like Wimpy.
This is Wimpy.
Wimpy only sleeps and eats. That's lettuce, not spinach in his burger.
This is spinach.
Any questions?

Forgive me, four hour naps can really screw my head around.

Mysteries of the not-so explained: The MSN Personal Message

2005-10-11T23:40:00.000+08:00

I found another bug in MSN Messenger (I know, jobless). I was listening to music on iTunes while chatting on MSN. The plugin allows other people to know what song I'm listening to, a good feature, I might add. Then, halfway through a song I closed iTunes and went off to grab a bite. When I returned, I found that my personal message still displayed that song.

And in my computer, my normal personal message is still there. People will think I'm listening to the same song for like an hour.

I did not tamper with this picture, it is authentic. Can you explain this mystery?

View the Spell Error mystery
View the MSN Nick mystery

XavierBabe

2005-10-09T21:11:00.000+08:00

Wan Maria Elena from HELP University College is Cheerleader of the Month!! Yay!!! She was interviewed at XFresh.fm and that's sooooo awesome!! She's currently in my computers class, like, totally my classmate!

You can, like, totally check out her friendster profile... and you, can also, like, check out her other friendster profile.. like totally!

Check out our adventures

A day in the life of Maria, Justin and Fira

2005-10-06T11:38:00.000+08:00

This is the story Maria, Justin and Fira.

They are classmates at HELP University College. All three of them take Computer Studies, like Freshman English 1 and hate Statistics. One day, Justin discovers a TeenVogue magazine.

"What is that?" Justin asks.
"That's TeenVogue magazine," Fira replies.
"Can I see it?"
"Sure."

Justin takes the magazine and starts reading it. Justin realizes that TeenVogue magazine is actually interesting. Justin engrossed himself in the intricacies of the wonderful piece of literature.

Justin continues reading in during Computer Studies class. Justin no longer pays attention to the lecturer. Justin still reads it although Fira was not done with it. Justin doesn't care. Justin must find out what Nicole Richie is up to.

Maria notices Justin reading TeenVogue magazine. Maria gets worried as he is missing the important lecture. Maria suggested that he save the magazine for later but Justin would not listen. Justin is reading the article on a room makeover, even though he does not stay in a dorm.

The class has ended and everyone leaves the lecture hall. Justin brings along his newfound friend outside. He sits down and continues reading TeenVogue magazine. He even leaves his Computer Studies book unattended on the table. Computers used to fascinate Justin. Now TeenVogue comes into his life. Introduction to Computers is jealous of TeenVogue.

This concludes the whacky misadventures of Maria, Justin and Fira.

To scan your own face

2005-10-03T19:44:00.000+08:00

We were pretty jobless at college and we found a scanner innocently sitting in the computer lab..

Tujuh perkara

2005-10-01T23:13:00.000+08:00

I have been tagged by Sarah Liew. After being able to comprehend what it meant, I am now obligated to write the following:

Seven things I can do:
1. Take a four hour nap
2. Spend time figuring out HTML
3. Pretend to be listening when I'm not
4. Pretend I'm not listening when I actually am ;p
5. Go dinner with a bunch of friends and not say a SINGLE meaningful thing
6. Reformat my hard drive and reinstall Windows XP and STILL have all my documents, pictures, music, and videos intact
7. Display my nerdiness without even trying

Seven things you plan to do before you die:
1. Write a will
2. Produce an actual album
3. Star in at least two movies
4. Star in at least two series
5. Star in at least two dramas
6. Work for at least two high-profile companies
7. Perhaps lose my virginity

Seven things I could do:
1. Study for an average of more than two hours a week
2. Clean my room and finish the job
3. Teach myself violin like I planned to do when I borrowed Sarah Teo's violin
4. Going just one day a week without taking a nap
5. Learn to play another John Mayer song
6. Go jogging
7. Drive carefully

Seven celebrity crushes:
1. (I shall conform to typical guyhood for now) Jessica Alba
2. Jennifer Love Hewitt
3. Shu Qi
4. (Can't think of anyone else. I don't watch movies or listen to music for the chicks)
5.
6.
7.

Seven often repeated words:
1. Huh?
2. What?
3. Ahaha.. okay
4. Cripes
5. Shiez
6. Aiyo
7. Er.. no

Seven physical traits I look for in the opposite sex:
1. (Actually I rather not say, because of my range of readers) Must be slim (I am so sorry)
2. Nice hair (on the head)
3. A clear face
4.
5.
6.
7. I'm not really that picky.. other than number 1

Seven tags go to:
1. Blu & Faruqi
2. Choi Wan
3. Oliver (Have you done this yet? I'm not sure)
4. Harindar
5. Kishore
6. Sin Wah
7. (Winston, Yi Lin, and Jia Liang already tagged)

Seven things that scare me:
1. Cockroaches that move
2. Thunder without warning (not that it will happen, won't it?)
3. Roshan's driving
4. Excessive gore
5. When something really bad happens it is my fault for sure
6. When somebody could call my bluffs
7. A corrupted mp3 file that suddenly goes BZKKFFTTTTTZZKK after a minute of music

Seven things I like the most:
1. The fact that no living person actually hates me (really)
2. My intelligence kicking in at the right time
3. My freedom to download whole seasons of TV series
4. When people laugh when I intended them to
5. True music
6. The invention of the internet, and subsquently broadband
7. Parodies, good ones

Seven important things in my room:
1. My computer with internet access
2. My camera phone
3. My bed
4. My table lamps
5. My stacks of burnt and unburnt CDs
6. My camera
7. Finally my books

Seven random facts about me:
1. My left pinkie is longer than my right
2. I don't eat seafood, only fish
3. I drink very little water
4. I bought a harmonica
5. I am allergic to Champs
6. I wore glasses since I was 6
7. Like math, hate bio

Seven things I can't do
1. Like Simple Plan
2. Drag myself to excercise regularly
3. Go one day without switching on my computer
4. Completely understand girls
5. Sleep in an environment noiser than 30 decibels
6. Take less than 3 seconds to remove my phone from my jeans pocket
7. Gain weight

P/S: go to Sarah's blog and count how many times the name "Justin" appears ;) (As of 1/10/05)

College Icon 2005 Finals

2005-09-29T10:30:00.000+08:00

The final round in which nearly manage to compete in took place at Zouk last Friday. Thanks to Roshan And Faruqi being caught in the biggest traffic the universe has ever seen, they picked me up late and arrived way too late. The bouncers won't let anyone in, even with a ticket. But somehow some guy pointed at me and got me in. My reputation precedes me.

By the time I got in, all the performances are over. That was the last regret I ever had in the entire College Icon experience this year. Apparently they all blew the crowd away. I did manage to catch a few pictures as I may never see these talented people again.

Munawir, mua, and Wan Lin

Steven the winner, Hiroaki the EXTREMELY GOOD bassist and myself

All the finalists. Bottom: Munawir, Ai Rene, Steven and Folionxo

Congratulations to all you finalists and winners. It was well-deserved.

Read TheStar's article
Read my semifinals post

Today's Tech Tip - Zip File Opening & WinRar

2005-09-28T21:52:00.000+08:00

Old Windows versions require an installed application to read .zip files. Just go search 'zip' at www.download.com. With Windows XP, you don't have to do that; the OS can open it for you quick and easy. But things are different to those who installed WinRar. You may have unintentionally set WinRar as the default app upon installation to open .zip files as well. Some of you downloaded WinRar to read .rar files and nothing else. I recommend that you stick with Windows XP's quick and easy way. To reset the default program, follow these steps:

1. Open up any normal folder, My Documents will do
2. Tools >> Folder Options
3. Go to File Types tab
4. Scroll to the bottom of the box, and highlight ZIP
5. Look at Details for ZIP extension. Make sure it says 'Opens with: Compressed (zipped) Folders'
6. If it does not, click the Change button.
7. Select Compressed (zipped) Folders and click OK. Then click close.

You're done; you can now access your .zip files in a window like accessing normal folders. Note: copying and pasting with .zip files is slightly harder, so it is best to extract the desired files first.

How To Be A Malaysian Idol

2005-09-25T16:42:00.000+08:00

A step by step process of how to get some of that limelight on yourself. Its simple, really.

1. First, lose some weight till you're 40-50kg. You gotta be slim slim slim!

2. Get a REAL Ah-beng haircut. For maximum ah-bengness, your hairstylist himself must be real ah-beng WITH a real ah-beng haircut.

3. Then dye it! Brown, blonde, streak, highlight, anything! Just make sure its not original color.

4. Sing a Josh Groban song in front of your mirror. Not sure if you can reach the high notes? Great! You're all set!

5. Time to audition. But do not audition in KL. I recommend Penang or Ipoh, preferably Penang; And if you're not from there, just pretend that you are. Use an English first name that Chinese-speaking people can easily pronounce. Eg. Vick, Andrew, Daniel, etc.

6. Present yourself well. Wear something an ah-beng would wear to the mall. Buy accessories from any pasar malam. By now, you should look something like this:

7. On the day of audition, keep calm and collected. No sudden movements, loud noises, or over-the-top facial expressions. Just keep cool. Do not do anything to draw too much attention to yourself. Blend in.

8. Choose a song that you like to sing. If asked why, just say 'because very nice' or something. Be sure not to sing too much, stop at the right time. And right after that say something innocent. 'Sorry very nervous' would be near perfection.

9. Before you know it, you're in KL sitting around with the top 100. You must behave and speak like an ah-beng. For reference, observe Victor and Daniel on video or stalk them yourself, whichever you prefer.

10. Sing your favourite songs and put a very absorbed look while you're at it. Pretend that you're really into the song. Closing your eyes is a must, depending on the emotional level of the song.

Ah-beng songs are usually emo, so close your eyes more. In fact, when it gets climactic, pull all your muscles around your eyes.

11. Don't look now, but you're already in the top 30. By this time, your hair MUST be different. Trim it, re-color it, make it funkier, anything. Again, sing your favourite songs that 'touches your heart' or 'move your spirit' or whatever.

12. No matter what the judges say, just mutter a 'thank you'. Unless, of course, they ask a question. Then you must think before you respond. Ah what the heck, just say 'yeah'. When Paul Moss says something like 'Ah, anyway, all the girls will love you', it is a REALLY good sign.

13. Whoa, being top 10 seems to be a surprise for you. Remember to get all huggy and teary-eyed when the news breaks in.

14. Your performances from now on must be up to mark. That is why you must sing in a Chinese accent. Let the whole world think that you never learned English till you were fifteen.

15. Whenever Jien gives you a chance to say something, always thank your 'fans'. Thank your voters like you're in love with them.

16. Always smile! And whenever you bow, don't to it professionally. See how Robbie Williams does it? Don't imitate him, his showmanship is good.

17. IMPORTANT: Pretend you're modest.

18. Sing your way up to the top 3. By then, you don't have to worry about singing anymore. You just have to make the audience love you because of your flaws or hate you because other people love you. Either one will be fine. A mix will be good.

19. Watch with pleasure when Paul Moss gives a resigned look, wondering why the guy he keeps shooting down lasted this long.

20. Congratulations. You are now the next Malaysian Idol. If you ended up second or third, it means that there is still a bit of Western influence left in you. Oh well, you still get to sell albums with your name on it.

There you are. 20 easy steps. Here are some top-class graduates.

Daniel, the Malaysian Idol himself. Aww. don't you just 'love' him?

Vick, who passed with flying colors. Just feel his ah-bengness oozing from him.

Victor, who has so much potential. Picture says it all.

Andrew, not a perfect example but did great anyway.

Oh, I forgot to mention that you have to be a Chinese lad for best results. Hmmm.. in that case, please vote for me if you see me on TV. Nyeks..:P

Jobless at court

2005-09-24T10:14:00.000+08:00

On the 23rd of September 2005, our dear Pauline Ngiam has officially become a court lawyer. As part of the elaborate installation process, there was a thing called a 'long call of the bar' or something like that. It was an event where a few newbie lawyers present themselves and the judge will accept and officialize it all. Friends and family of those lawyers can attend to show support.

This is where a bunch of jobless roadies come in.

Roy, Winston, Sarah Teo, Edward Soong, Yee San and myself arrived at Masjid Jamek LRT Station at 8:47am.

A view from the outside the courts

We took our seats at the back of RKKK1, whatever it stood for. Pauline's roadies took so much space the family members of the other newbie lawyers (sorry, I don't know the proper terms) did not all get to sit. Marcus, Paik Yang and Joliana arrived a little late. We met Pat Woo outside the room, around to show support to Pauline. With quick tactful movements, I slyly manage to take a picture from inside the court.

Okay fine it was a lousy picture

One by one, the ten newbie lawyers rise from the bench and some veteran lawyer representative guy (again, poor with the terms) will read his/her resume-like speech for them. When the three seemingly important lawyers sitting in front each mention that they have no objections, the judge will announce the installation. I can't remember what she said, but every one of them began with 'Dengan kuasa yang diberikan kepada saya'. After that, another seemingly important lawyer-guy will rise and put a big-black-robe thing (I suck with my terms, I'll never be a lawyer) on the specified newbie lawyer. With that, he/she will return to the bench.

After the long call ended, I slyly took another picture while pretending to speak with my accomplices.

Maybe I should've moved to get a better view

We then proceed to take a zillion group pictures outside. I have none for the time being, I only had my phone camera. Oh, and I found something strange.

A playground-thing by the court

And on to Soong Kee's for a beef noode breakfast. Yum. Visited an old, cramped bookshop with really old books in it. I found the original Stepford Wives storybook. Cool.

Not only Kinokuniya has a first floor

We also passed by the place where Pauline hangs out a lot.

Yup, a real chill out place

Then Pauline sent us back to Bangsar. Imagine cramming six people, driver included, into a Perodua Kelisa. I had to sit on Roy and Edward's leg.

>.<

Click here for Winston's account

To build highway on your lawn

2005-09-22T11:02:00.000+08:00

Talk about dumb. Another reason to hate the government.

One post to rule some of them all..

2005-09-21T23:28:00.000+08:00

I haven't blogged in a while, plus I have so much stuff to 'cover'. I shall chuck them all in one grandioso of a post.

Start off with last friday, 16 September 2005: my birthday. *Thunder & Lightning* (only without the thunder).
I rushed all the way to college for group discussion which I thought I was late for, only to find that I wasn't needed there. Thanks Laily. I made Yi Lin wait when I'm supposed to meet her.
Ah well, fastforward to MY FIRST PAINTBALLING SESSION EVER. It was like totally awesome, though I kinda sucked at getting my bullets to land on a specified target. So much for tactics, John Lian actually ramboed me knowing well that he would be shot at like rainfall. Phan moved like a sloth when shooting and hiding behind a barrier. Christopher had a seemingly foolproof strategy that is to move ahead before the enemy does, but due to lack of the 'moving ahead' part we kinda lost. Sin Wah fought bravely and lasted long. Tan Kok Earn had a pretty bad bruise from a point-blank shot by John the rambo. Junn Yeong displayed veteran skills by lying on his chest to shoot. Weng Leong even rolled himself to safety. Wai Lim's determination has landed him some success. John Lian's friend, a girl, shocked us with her underlying combat accuracy. Kishan yelled a warcry after the ref told him that I ran out of bullets, a fact that I did not realize until after I died in a final desperate assault. Its a good pastime, try it if you have fifty bucks lying around. Oh, and my next-door neighbor had an Indian funeral.

Moving on to Saturday 17th Sept 2005. Took part in a little competition in my church called 'The Preacher'. The title is self-explanatory. I don't how I won, but I know it didn't mean I have the knack for giving a sermon. That night we crashed Pauline's place for a invite-only barbecue. Thanks, Wins! Click here for Wan's account. The roasted weiner-and-crabstick on a stick topped with thick mayo was simply delicious. Learned a game called Snap, which I lost to Yu Jin on my first try, and his, too. Was this close to being dragged and dumped into the pool with my jeans on. I was smart enough to grab hold of my phone with my unpry-able hands. My birthday was the day before, too late for two strong men to displace my pitiful self onto a body of water.

Nope, the waters are NOT calling me

Moving on to Sunday 18 Sept 2005. Realized that I was pretty wide awake in the morning although I only had five hours of sleep. This discovery is a milestone to the day when I can finally figure out how to unstone. Finished all my homework due Monday. ADP is no joke when it comes to coursework; no homework, no marks. End of story. Spent the rest of the day bumming and watching Bleach. Kurosaki Ichigo had one too many near-death expriences.

Monday came and went like a passing plane. It felt pretty good having to pass up my homework knowing that I actually finished them on time. Now I have to tackle a fifteen-page short story, a much-fussed-over psychology lab report and a literature research document all to be done by mid October. Now that I think about it, I shall scream. ARRGGHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHH. End of scream.

Tuesday, tuesday, tuesday. Ephraim and I impromptuly went to Dota at MMORPG, the home of Blueserver 3. He borrowed Roshan's car to get there and he got pulled over by a cop for not wearing the safety belt. Tsk tsk tsk. Ef and the cop reached an agreement that he will drop the summons for an admin fee of RM20 (It's a bribe if you don't get it). Ef gave RM50 and guess what, the cop came back with RM30 change.

Wednesday, today, 21st Sept two double-O five. Learned about classical conditioning and operant conditioning. Both involve having to associate an external stimulus whether neutral, positive or negative to a feeling (emotion or anxiety) or the learning of a desired action from the subject. Psychology is complicated. For dinner, I met up with Roy, Yee San, Winston, Choi Wan and Pauline. We talked about things: blogger conspiracies, local movies and TV, gay bars and their strange names, courtroom judge assassination, the significant roles of Malays in this nation, and other things that escaped my memory for now. Roy will leave for UK this Saturday morning. But Friday we will have an adventure at a court session brought to you by Pauline Ngiam, lawyer lawyer.

I am content with just one cup, thank you very much

Till next time~

Coldplay X&Y Album Art Generator

2005-09-16T10:23:00.000+08:00

Coldplay fan? You might realize that the funny shapes and colours on their latest album's cover actually stands for 'X&Y'. You too can create a similar image using any letters of your choice. Check it out.

This is my name spelt in Baudot binary code

Enjoy

Harry Gonner and the Half-Nerd Prince - #1

2005-09-13T23:06:00.000+08:00

This is the official launching of my new series of the above title. To better understand the humour in it, you should have at least watched any of the original Harry Potter movies or read any of the books, preferably The Half Blood Prince. Enjoy.

It was a dark and stormy night, only because too many people like to start off a story that way. Harry Gonner sat by the window of his cramped-up room, waiting in anticipation. His pet owl, Hedbig, had already fallen asleep at the corner, which is illogical considering that owls are nocturnal creatures. Taking another sip of his Mocha Frappucino™ that he magically conjured himself, Harry scanned the horizon once more.

Due to lack of space in his room, his smaller possessions were placed on the ceiling using magic. The fact is that Harry is gotten so lazy, his dependancy on magic to do things have very much increased. While the usage of magic is forbidden outside the magical realm, Harry has managed to elude expulsion by simply bribing the Ministry of Magic. Thanks to his dead father's immense fortune, he can perform magic anytime anywhere anyplace. He has bribed the ministry so much, his name appears in every annual budget report, which he receives regularly.

A car arrived and stopped right at the front door. Harry's headmaster had finally come to take him away from the dump in which he lived. Without moving an inch of his butt, he waved his wand saying 'Pack my things'; everything in the room started floated into a luggage and arranged themselves. Harry had decided that muttering gibberish to cast magic is lame, hence he gives direct orders to his wand to do his bidding.

Downstairs, Uncle Vermin answered the door, furious because it was the middle of the night. Professor Dumbndumber stood at the doorstep, clad in a full black suit complete with a black tie. He was trying to impersonate a government official but his huge thick beard was a dead giveaway.

Dumbndumber: Good evening, Mr. Wursley. I am here to pick up Mr. Harry Gonner.

Uncle Vermin : Who are you?

Dumbndumber: I am er.. (looks at cue card ready in his palm) Jack Johnson from the erm... (looks again) gov-err-ment.

*Wizards have never heard of the word 'government' before. Dumbndumber picked up a muggle dictionary.

Uncle Vermin : And what kind of business did that boy got himself mixed up with??

Dumbndumber: He is now under the custody of the gov-err-ment in the process of transferring him to a legit foster family. I hope you have no objections..

Uncle Vermin : Well no, none at all! Please, take him away! He scares the family with his magic and made slaves out of us!

Dumbndumber: Is that so? Well now, you no longer have to put up with him. Ah, there he is now.

Harry trodded down the stairs with his luggage dutifully floating behind. He stepped out, joining Dumbndumber as Aunt Petunier and Dudbag peeped timidly from the kitchen. Uncle Vermin closed the door before anyone could utter another word.

Dumbndumber: Come now, step into my kick-ass car.

To be continued..

View next episode

Final Fantasy VII: Advent Children released

2005-09-12T23:09:00.000+08:00

As the title suggests, the long-awaited video-game adaptation has already been released. I have not watched it yet, I am still downloading it. You can download it here. For now, lets look at the preview I wrote some time ago.

Yes, people. Final Fantasy VII: Advent Children will be released on September 14, at the US at least. There is no mention of this film screening on cinema, though, just in the form of DVDs. I recently downloaded a four-minute trailer off BitTorrent, it made little sense to me. The background music of the entire trailer is taken from the final boss fight in the original FFVII, only this time with real instruments and a real choir (Think Duel of the Fates from Star Wars Episode 1).

Take a look at how realistic the visuals are. Click on the above image, and I have proven my point. It's hard enough to produce still images this realistic, imagine an entire film, 70 minutes in all. Gasp, only 70-80 minutes? Yeah, I am disappointed for how short it is. But then I think about the awesome detail in its graphics and how flashy and intense the fight scenes are going to be. Hence, I will watch it twice. In fact, I watched that trailer twice in a row.

As for the story, the trailer made little sense to me, like I said earlier. All I can figure out is that something 'big' is going to take place and Cloud, of all people, have to stop or counter it. (Sounds like a familiar plot?). Here, we have new characters: three men with silver hair, aptly named 'The Silver Haired Men'. Go figure. Incidentally, the villain from the game was also silver haired. I actually mistaken Kadaj, a new character, to be Sephiroth in the fight scenes. Only later I found out that Sephiroth did not appear in the trailer at all.

Aside from new characters, which includes a white-robed guy on a wheelchair, we see some familiar faces, this time having a million more pixels on them. We get to see life-like recreations of Vincent Valentine, Barret Wallace, Tifa Lockheart, Yuffie, Red XIII, Cid Highwind, and even the Turks. To me, the most realistic of them all is Tifa; since when is she so beautiful?? Well, Cloud's face is also very real, but his hair is still ridiculously yet stylishly anime-character-ish. Also, we have Vincent, who now proves himself to be more than just an optional character.

All in all, this should be a good watch, especially for die-hard final fantasy fans. Mouth-watering eye candy plus a solid storyline here will produce at least decent reviews. I just hope that it would not flop like Final Fantasy: The Spirits Within which I put so much faith on before its release.

'I think... I want to be forgiven.' - Cloud Strife

College Icon 2005 semifinals

2005-09-11T19:44:00.000+08:00

It was a clear Sunday morning, as early as eight thirty the contestants assembled. The entire morning was spent for sound checks, and last-minute pre-show stage preps. 1:30pm, the event begins, with none other than Joey G as emcee.

Early Sunday

By the stage

One by one the 20 contestants performed their 3 challenges: a scenario acted out, a song sung, and an extra talent performed. Most of them did great, I was the only one who screwed my song.

On-looking from above

The sound guys

A total of 11 was picked to proceed to the finals to take place at Zouk 23rd September. I will be there, nevertheless, to support my once-were peers. These extraordinarily talented people deserve the the top ten spots. I, however, will settle for top 20.

The stage from the sound guys' angle

After the show

I probably won't forget the people I had this experience with. Talented, open, stage-savvy. It has been a priviledge performing alongside such wonderful people.

Lee Jian, Ice, Ian, and Jeremy

Ian, the only other who did Robbie Williams, and did better too

Pui San, *winks* .. 'nuff said

Munawi and James, the former in the finals

Ice, who put a ringgit note through my holeless shirt and made it reappear in her pocket. In the finals.

Wan Ling, who lent me his guitar for my performance and provided much encouragement. Oh, in the finals too.

I should have taken more pictures of people, didn't get a proper chance. Those guys really stand out. Ah well. Whoever wants free tickets to the show at Zouk start sucking up to me now.

One number per identity

2005-09-07T21:43:00.000+08:00

Our proud little country of Malaysia is finally taking a step towards mobile number portability for its wirelessly wired citizens. View the full article here. Such a development would be very much welcome in this land where its all about convenience and stinge. Yes, this piece of news will delight many, including myself even though I do not plan to switch numbers. But I wonder, what's in it for the government itself? If its nothing much , then I guess I can finally commend the parliament-dwellers for a wise decision.

Looks like we're not the first in this world to implement this feature (why am I not surprised). This is one addition to the pieces that makes up the great endless puzzle that is the social implications of technology. Knowing one's number means being capable to contact that person from anywhere at anytime, a leap from the traditional telephone, which is a leap from postal services. Now that you never have to change your mobile number, it has become very much more associated to your very identity. Of course, to a certain extent it already was but think of how far it will bring itself.

I imagine that fifteen years ago the idea of a number being this attached to a person's name was unfathomable. In the same way, how elaborate communication will become in the future is wow-worthy. Exactly how it will turn out I do not know; but think of the possibilities. How much a part of your identity a number will become? Will people keep that very number for an entire lifetime? Will that number be placed next to your name instead of under your name? Will it replace your name?

If there will come a time when one is stuck with a number for good, wouldn't that number be used in permanent records? As a result, that number is likely to be integrated into other systems such as banks, am I right? When this kind of identity-association gains enough credibility, it is plausible that a massive compilation of personal profiles will be created and made available for public access. Seeing that the internet grows in significance by the year, this concept of an accessible global identity database might just be possible. Connecting with other people has been taken to the next level.

Of course, everything will be perfect if it weren't for crime and corruption; here meaning the improper use of life's technological wonders. Spam, identity theft, viruses, pornography, privacy invasions and fraud, for example. Everytime a new kind of medium is invented, somebody is bound to misuse it; SMS spam had just begun. Prepare yourself to protect your identity, the darkside of technology looms.

Mission Trip 2005

2005-09-07T00:56:00.000+08:00

Here is a DETAILED account of how I spent my last weekend:

Sarah Liew's perspective

And here is a SUPERDETAILED account of how I spent my last weekend:

Winston's perspective

And here is mine:

Last weekend I went to Penang lor..

Movie review: Casshern

2005-09-06T22:37:00.000+08:00

The Japanese: among which thrives a breed of exceedingly innovative individuals, whether in art or science. It was them who created Casshern: the most capturing and emotionally enchanting sci-fi fantasy ever put together on film. Nevermind the unknown director and actors in the eyes of western entertainment, nevermind the troublesome but necessary reading of English subtitles, Casshern is a refreshing breath of air for Anime-lovers and sci-fi fans alike.

Kazuaki Kiriya, director, had employed the use of striking filming techniques which are relatively new and slightly experimental. Layered in thick renderings of CGI and heavy filtering, the scenes were shot in styles and angles familiar to Manga of serious action adventure genres. The entire movie is photo-realistically picture perfect.

Armed with a flawless storyline, Casshern unfolds its plot scene by scene with minimal predictability. Elements include life and death, man and machine, hope and despair, peace and war, as well as love and hate. Set in a post-apocalyptic future (which is by now a bit common), mankind waged war between themselves, drying up the Earth to the last blade of grass. In the face of a growing health crisis due to excessive pollution, Dr. Azuma answers the call with a discovery of a miracle cure.

Upon nearing the completion of his research as funded by the military instead of the health board of the Great Eastern Union, disaster strikes. Rising from the depths came the mutants who became a bigger threat than everything else. It is now up to Tetsuya son of Dr. Azuma, who unintentionally became the only person strong enough to possibly end the war. No other live-action flick to date has a moving ending like Casshern's; when humanity itself is questioned.

The contents of the movie is obviously far more meaningful than what I have just described. Even though the story may not impress as many viewers, the captivating visuals and concepts will. Casshern will be released in the US sometime 2005; when it does, it will set a brand new benchmark for mainstream portrayal of fictional world-saving acts in moviedom. Buck up, western film-makers.

Rating: A+

Your blog Beng-ified!

2005-09-02T22:22:00.000+08:00

How will your blog look like if you are a pure Ah Beng?

Bengi-fy your blog here

Your text will be converted to Ah Beng language. Hold on to your socks, it could get nasty.

Check out my blog in Benglish

You can try this out on other blogs and sites as well, but I would rather spend my time on something more productive.. like downloading whole seasons of TV shows and watch them in my room for hours.

Kenny Sia: genius.

Dubai, a developing desert

2005-09-02T00:08:00.000+08:00

I dug up an old English assignment of mine; I thought it might deserve a spot in this blog.

Dubai, one of the seven emirates of U.A.E, has proven itself to be a growing haven of trade and tourism in the region. With insufficient oil to compete with its neighbors, the founding fathers of Dubai have decided to establish a centre of trade and business. Setting up offices and marketplaces, the government develops rented real estate while still owning it. The city’s infrastructure is a mark of strategic planning, maintaining power supply and greenery, despite of the expensive water.
Here, government paperwork is comparatively quick, which is a feat that should be mirrored by other developing nations. Dubai has achieved a well-deserved status of modern city life, embracing western cultures that some Islamists may not approve of. In the horizon, a curious traveler can see an array of high-rise structures and steel office buildings. Boutiques stock themselves with branded goods to be tended by women, and video games to entertain children as well.
Thanks to remarkable progress through investments, Dubai became an exotic name in the ears of eager tourists around the world. The luxurious Burj Al Arab hotel is recognized for its sail shape in a picture-perfect background, better painted with a twilight sky. Among the places of interest is the Jebel Ali tax-free port and business zone, along with Dubai Internet City, the largest information technology in the Middle East. Tourists can delight in the many duty-free spots, shopping at the Deira City Mall and spoiling themselves with the pleasures of life.
Also, opening 2005 is the ambitious Palm project, a five-kilometer length man-made sand island cluttered with villas, apartments and hotels. With such an impressive description, it is without doubt that Dubai has earned a rightful place in the world of travel and commerce.

Source:
Ringle, Ken. "Dazzling Dubai" Reader's Digest July 2004: 60-65

The Adventures of Richard and Rashid - #4

2005-08-30T22:17:00.000+08:00

This is the continuing series entitled 'The Adventures of Richard and Rashid', the story of a British commissioner, Richard O' Reily, who sailed to Malaya to educate an accidental Public Affairs Minister, Rashid bin Razak, in order to establish relations between the two worlds in the 18th Century.

Rashid : Haih..

Richard: What's the matter, Rashid?

Rashid : Takdela.. kami orang ni sampai sekarang pun masih belum ada kerajaan, masih diasingkan negeri masing - masing..

Richard: Well at least you still have your kings and your respective laws.

Rashid : Ya, tapi sudah beratus - ratus tahun kami dijajahi kuasa asing. Sekarang orang Inggeris pulak.

Richard: No, we don't want to take over your country, we just want to take over your econom... I mean, er.. help your people.

Rashid : Kau nak tolong kami? Dengan memperkenalkan residen jahat?

Richard: Hmm... resident evil... peculiar term.

Rashid : Haih.. takde harap la..

Richard: Don't worry, Rashid. Within a hundred years, your people will unite as one nation and declare independance, living harmoniously in a diverse community. Someday, this land will develop, progressing as a prosperous country thus gaining significance in the world's economy. Its citizens will proudly stand in the sight of the national flag that will be truly unique as they sing their beloved national anthem.

(Richard and Rashid looks at each other for two and a half seconds)

Richard: ...

Rashid : ...

Richard & Rashid: HAHAHAHHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAAAHHHAHHAHAAHAHAHAA

Tune in next time for more... 'The Adventures of Richard and Rashid'

Richard: Hahahah.. *sniff* my sides hurt..

View previous episode
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Have you ever noticed?

2005-08-28T23:26:00.000+08:00

Do any of you watch The Kumars at No. 42 and Malaysian Idol? If you have seen both, have you ever noticed that Sanjeev Kumar sounds almost exactly the same as Paul Moss? Voice, intonation and all? Considering that they're two different people from two different worlds, and they both appear on TV, its an odd concidence..

And all you Harry Potter fans, have you ever noticed how weird Harry's facial expression is on the cover? I mean.. lets analyse the picture.

Picture A shows Harry's right eye covered. Harry looks confident, determined, and ready in anticipation any danger ahead. This is true to the his character as described in the book.
Picture B shows Harry's left eye covered. Harry looks fearful, shaken, and to a certain extent, emotional. This totally reveals the weak side of the boy wizard, that is if he has any.
Picture C shows both Harry's eyes. With a logical analytical approach, I infer that this picture shows a scared, brave, perplexed, prepared, and emotional Harry.

I conclude that his face looks plain funny.

End of analysis.

Paul McCartney's Band on the Run

2005-08-26T21:30:00.001+08:00

Hidden in my cupboard sat a dusty set of CDs, only to be unearthed in the new light by my watchful eye. Amongst the collection of nostalgic value, I found a name that was too familiar to me: Paul McCartney.

I grew up listening to the Beatles, becoming their fan even though I was too young to actually understand the beauty of their music. Before most others do within their lifetime, I have already learned their names and faces as a boy. Their movie 'Help!' also fuelled my interest in their musical identity, I watched it a million times.

Years on, after listening to their greatest hits, B-sides, pre-master takes, covers, and unreleased single, Band on the Run by Paul McCartney & Wings became a truly worthy find. Their title track of the same name reflects the nature and quality of the following ones.

The one track that seeped into my soul was 'Bluebird'. Naturally, I like soothing tones, thus the gentle personality you see in me (to be argued on later, if needed).

In a nutshell, this is a must-listen album to all Beatles fans and classic rock enthusiasts. In fact, give it a 5 out of 5, for what the songs are worth.

I know it will be difficult to find these songs in your P2P Network (KazaA or whatnot), so I put this album up as a torrent. Download torrent file here. I hope it works for you.

If you don't have a BitTorrent Client, download BitComet here. More info on the album here or just google it.

Enjoy.

Kenny Sia vs. Xiaxue

2005-08-26T21:11:00.000+08:00

Roll On the Ground Laughing Out Loud = ROGLOL!!!!
I never knew a single photograph can make me laugh so much...

Before you get the joke, let me introduce to you the Best Asian Blog of 2005.
http://xiaxue.blogspot.com

Here is the blogger who calls herself Xiaxue. Good blog. Just check out the main page. Maybe read a post or two. Now...

Enter: Kenny Sia, a renowned blogger in Malaysia who at one point challenges Xiaxue in a way that... crap I can't find the right words.

Just check out this post

If you want to read the first part of the post, go ahead. I'm referring to the last two images in the post, that is before the comments.

Brace youself..

Editor's note: this post no longer apply, Xiaxue has changed her template design

Dust

2005-08-25T00:23:00.000+08:00

Check out this drawing by Wong Ying Ying

Fill them comments...

When biker met door

2005-08-23T23:27:00.000+08:00

I caused a road accident this morning. All I did was open the door..

My dad was driving me to college like any other day. He stopped at the side of the road so I could get down and make my way to class through a side-entrance. The very second I opened the door, a motorcyclist crashed on it from behind.

If I had opened the door two seconds sooner, I would have been hit when I stepped out.

My fault for not looking before opening. How was I supposed to know a biker would come by? Alas, no amount of defense could justify, the blame is on me alone.

I guess I should thank God nobody was hurt. Otherwise, things could get ugly. My left hand was this close to being mauled. Oh how I treasure my left hand. Without it, I am not able to play a single musical instrument.

God, forgive me for my sins..

Another reason to get Firefox

2005-08-23T22:01:00.000+08:00

And that would be:

My blog is incompatible with Microsoft Internet Explorer. I assume that this is due to a source code mismatch. Either that or my content is just too intelligent for it.

Get it at
www.getfirefox.com

Besides, Firefox is a heaven-sent. Nobody in the world would want to stick to Internet Explorer. Trust me.

Night Safari @ Zoo Negara

2005-08-21T00:23:00.000+08:00

Huh? Malaysia got Night Safari one ahh? Got...... just go to Zoo Negara at night.

>.<

That was precisely what I did yesterday, despite our designated driver calling in sick. There was no point for me to drive as I do not know the way and sometimes, it gets a little tricky fitting thirteen people into a Hyundai Accent .

So we took the LRT.

By the time we got there, it was dark. When I said dark, I mean dark. Also, it wsa pretty dark. And did I mention that it was dark?

As shown in the picture above, I seemed to have lost my head. Looking back, I couldnt really remember when it came off. I must be really engrossed in the picture I was trying to take with my phone.

The animals looked pretty bored when we jakunly gazed at them. Its as if they are the ones who find what they see beyond the fence uninteresting. Yi Lin, the cameraman for the day, would prefer to take pictures of people, like this one over here.

I was happily sipping my orange juice when I noticed there was a ready camera behind me. In response, my natural instincts kicked in like lightning. I even added in a raised eyebrow to add an extra 'surpised' effect in reaction to the sudden presence of that camera. You know, sometimes I really could not control my body.

To add to the darkness, the rain that fell had somewhat hindered our humble outing. Thankfully, it did not last very long; after which Yi Lin was forbidden from singing. The train drivers were still willing to drive, and the animal shows still went on despite the discouraging conditions and turn-ups at that point.

Speaking of animal shows, we expected sea lions (the stage mostly consists of water) but they only showcased animals 'yang aktif pada waktu malam'. The snake, owl, and two rodents were, according to that host-guy, commonly found in Malaysia. Geez, that is totally not the point isn't it? And they should give more creative names to them, unlike 'Boboi' or 'Black'.

We then adjourned to Marry Brown for a bite. I don't know who this Marry Brown is, but he/she should really consider feeding his/her chickens before slaughter. The two pieces of friend chicken that Eugene ordered were just about as big as my fist, in terms of volume. Due to monetary difficulties, I ordered porridge. Eating porridge at a fast-food outlet in a zoo; sounds pretty uncommon doesn't it.

Don't get me wrong, I did have a good time.

Back from nowhere

2005-08-20T14:18:00.000+08:00

For the past couple of days, I have been trying out Wordpress, an open-source blog using your own server. Importing my old entries from Blogspot is possible but due to unidentifiable restrictions within the server I used I cannot do so. Hence, I will stick to Blogspot for the time being. Maybe I will manually transfer the entries myself...

Till next time~

>>Added 11:45pm

I have officially given up on Wordpress. I will only use it when I manage to obtain access to a proper server. So get used to this interface.

Mysteries of the not-so explained: The MSN nick

2005-08-15T21:40:00.000+08:00

It started with me downloading and watching this movie called 18. Its a short local film documenting the phenomenon of street grafitti revolving around '18?'. So, in its effect, I changed my MSN display name to '17?', only because I am seventeen years old.

Then my chat buddies ask me 'Whats with the "+17"?'. I was a little surpised as my nick was supposed to be '17?' and not '+17'.

Then Ms. X* suggested to add myself on MSN, which is, by the way, the coolest thing I have ever discovered about MSN. Oddly enough, I see myself on my own contact list as '+17'.

I did not tamper with this picture, it is authentic. Can you explain this mystery?

*Name(s) have been changed to protect privacy.

View the Spell Error mystery
View the MSN Personal Message mystery

To kill a cockroach in style

2005-08-15T14:54:00.000+08:00

I downloaded a manga entitled "Akana-chan: Overdrive". Look what I found on one page.. Roach-extermination does not get any classier than this.

As the haze dissipates..

2005-08-12T21:02:00.000+08:00

The sky have been enveloped, the days darken. I stepped out bearing no hope for a greener sight. Starting my car, the gauge indicated a nearly-empty tank. And so began my day.

I kept my mileage low to avoid a dead engine; I just don't see any other way. Up the hill, some cars lined up behind me. Somehow, I did not hear any honking. Although I knew for sure that there were tons of it, I just did not hear it.

I refused to.

In the open road, they passed me by. Why would I look at the faces who wished I went to a place called hell?

Swearing at me? Yeah, sure I'll take some of it.. as long as you take some of mine as well.

Take it.

Take it.

They're all the same. The same human beings under the grey cloud of smoke, seeping into our lungs, into our veins, into our minds. Funny isn't it? How humans hurt others, but they are not even helping themselves when doing so?

I looked up and I saw the sun. It was red and perfectly round. Great.. even the sun is getting selfish. As I drove through town, I noticed that things were getting clearer. Was that curse in the midst of being lifted?

Smile all you want. Without the haze, it will feel empty. Not that there was something to fill my life in the first place. Everyday will be just as mundane as the last.

I felt the emptiness of my tank. It will run out, eventually. Just like my will would. The very will to walk, to talk, to emote. The time will come, I will be spent.

The cycle repeats.

Leaning on my car, parked by the ditch, I looked up again. I looked at the sky as if it was looking back.

I said in my heart for my mind to hear and for the sky to obey:

Take me away from this place.

This is not what really happened today. This is not what I really thought and felt today. This is just the result of self-epxression in the form of semi-fiction.

To shrink a Pringle

2005-08-09T20:27:00.000+08:00

Here's something you don't find in Malaysia everyday: Mini Pringles. It is no longer than an inch in width. Cute huh.

The Adventures of Richard and Rashid - #3

2005-08-08T00:27:00.000+08:00

This is the continuing series entitled 'The Adventures of Richard and Rashid', the story of a British commissioner, Richard O' Reily, who sailed to Malaya to educate an accidental Public Affairs Minister, Rashid bin Razak, in order to establish relations between the two worlds in the 18th Century.

At an obscure place in Malaya that nobody has ever heard of...

Richard: For the last time, Rashid, we - are - lost! We are more lost than that poetic herder from Turkey who got stranded in northern Prague back in the days of Boughberry! We should have taken the left turn a mile and a half ago!

Rashid : Alar.. janganlah merajuk, bos. Majlis Kebesaran Raja bermula esok, bukan hari ini..

Richard: Well, yes but I am not going to spend several hours trodding in this endless pathway reeking of animal excretion. This is insane!

Rashid : Sedikit busuk pun tak boleh tahan ke? Ya ampun..

Richard: There.. I see somebody. Go, ask him for directions.

Rashid : Assalamulaikum, bolehkah engkau beritahu arahan jalan ke Kota Bertikam?

Man : Ya, boleh.. Mula-mula, jalan terus sehingga petanda jalan di sana itu. Kemudian, belok kanan ke Jalan Tunku Muzaffar Al-Hashim..

Richard: (By George, that's the longest name for a road I have ever heard in my life..)

Man : .. itu terletak satu pondok. Di belakang pondok tersebut terdapat satu lorong, iaitu Lorong Datuk Syamsuddin Taufik bin Syamsul. Dari situ, pergi terus ke Bulatan Sultan Muhammad Mustafar bin Maharajalela Moktharuddin..

Richard: ...

Man : .. barulah sampai Kampung Aman. Ikut arah Timur ke Jalan Ahmad Iskandar Haji Oman dan kemudian ke Jalan Haji Oman Iskandar Ahmad..

Richard: (What... is... this place?)

Tune in next time for more... 'The Adventures of Richard and Rashid'

View previous episode
View next episode

Enter: August 2005

2005-08-04T22:46:00.000+08:00

And so it was, that the month of July has passed leaving us a trace of bittersweet memory that could only last for so long...

Oh hey, I got a new layout! Isn't it cool? Isn't it fabulous? Yes, it is! Yes, it is! I'm just loving them scenic photos. With this layout, I can switch to any other picture just like that! No more monotonous look, baby.

As I was saying, July was like a time for change. It was the time when security in England was put to the test. It was the time when Malaysia takes a step for the betterment of its economy. It was the time when the world unites as they pour their sympathy towards the poverty-stricken lands of Africa.

Guys! Guys! Check me out! I'm endorsing 100 Plus! Hahahaha.. I look like I'm kissing the can!

Coming back to my point, the past month had somewhat become a period of renewal personally. The way things came to be is very much different than what I would assume it would turn out at this point of time. Sitting on this lazy chair, I visualise myself in the position in which I could have been should I have continued studying in Taylor's College. It would be... a depressing sight.

Arghhh!!!! I haven't read The Half Blood Prince! Where in the world can I find someone willing to lend me a copy? Noooo.... this is the price I pay for not paying the price to buy the book. I'm dying to know who died!!

It would be in vain that I linger in my past, regardless of its significance in my present life. I shall set my gaze on the things that have not yet come to pass, despite not knowing whatever difficulties that lie ahead. May God has His will true and upright.

I'm sooooooooooo....... sleeeepppppyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyy

To breath a cloud of smoke

2005-08-02T21:30:00.000+08:00

In the late afternoon today, Bangsar Baru was covered in a smoky cloud of unknown origin. I do not know the full extent of the area affected by this phenomenon, but I do hope it will be gone in the morning. This is the best photo I can take to display its effects as I could not find a better viewpoint, riding in a car.

Today's Tech Tip - Toolbars

2005-08-01T21:07:00.000+08:00

Do you find yourself accessing "My Documents" or any specific folder too often? In Windows XP, you can put a toolbar on your taskbar as a direct shortcut. All you have to do is follow these simple steps.

1. Right click on an empty spot on your taskbar
2. Go to Toolbars>>New Toolbar...
3. Select the desired folder

Now you can find the contents of that folder just by clicking on that little button. It's that simple. Enjoy.

Ambiguity, literally

2005-07-31T22:39:00.000+08:00

I attempted The Star's Word Puzzle Contest. Just complete the sentences and fill in the blanks with right letters; how hard can it be?

Oh yeah? Try this:

A trident is a spear that has three ___
Fill the blanks: P??N?S
Prongs or points?

Not that hard? How about this:

A new project sometimes ___ well as a result of good publicity
Fill in the blanks: ?OES
Goes or does?

Here comes the clincher:

An ___ proposal for solving a problem is no help at all
Fill in the blanks: IN?P?
Inapt or inept?
Note: Inapt = inept

You can't get any more ambiguous than that.

To eat a Siamese banana

2005-07-31T17:14:00.000+08:00

The other day I ate two perfectly conjoined bananas in the same skin. Logically, it took me twice as long to finish it. End of story.

Borange@M&M's Battle of the Bands 2005

2005-07-29T23:34:00.000+08:00

Borange has suceeded to the finals
5th August 2005,
Sunway Pyramid,
7pm onwards

More info

Be there or be ²

Oxymoron: my driving skills

2005-07-27T23:43:00.000+08:00

Ever since I had my license, the car which I use to transport myself anywhere belongs to my mum. In short, I have been driving my mum's car: a Hyundai Accent. It seems that I am not ready for my dad's car: a Hyundai Sonata, which is too big and bulky for me to handle. Fine then, I'll settle for my mum's.

My capability of maneuvering a car has been picking up gradually for the past few months. When I said gradually, I meant slowly. When I said slowly, I meant that I'll never learn. Every single time I drive my mum somewhere, she had to hold that safety handle at least once. Never once did she not complain about how I handle speedbumps, cornerings, and everything under the sun. Gee, I don't even need the radio anymore.

I need all the practice I can get! But there was plenty a time when my brother hogged the car, and it was for work purposes. If I don't get to drive, my P license will be a mere wallet decoration. There is a teaching value in experience, therefore it is essentially fundamental (or is it fundamentally essential? Ah, screw it) for me to gain some.

My lack of experience did shove its ugly ass in my face. The other day, I scratched my mum's car badly (View the full story). That incident sort of hinted to me that maybe, just maybe, I am not that careful after all.

But recently, I did not encounter any accidents despite the distance I travelled, which is further than I ever did, and various complications. I did, however, have some close-calls. Somehow, in some way, I manage to return home with no physical evidence of misconduct on the car.

Then I recall something my ever-wise dad told me when I kept saying that nothing bad happened to me (Not counting that scratching affair):
"It was not your ability to drive well that prevented those accidents. Rather, it was that of the other drivers."

He didn't exactly say that but that was what he meant, I just rephrased it. It implied that I am still a long way from being a good driver. I could not disagree, but I still could get myself out of tight spots (Again, not counting that scratching affair).

Bottomline: I am just plain lucky on the road I guess...

Think YOU are good at bass?

2005-07-27T00:36:00.000+08:00

Check this video out...

Minorthang

To capture a still object

2005-07-25T23:07:00.000+08:00

The other day, I sat in Ernest's car and happened to pass by the pride of KL. A 5 megapixel camera sat waiting for my delicate grip. The traffic light ahead has been red for awhile now. There was no time to lose.

Gorillaz WMP Skin

2005-07-24T20:18:00.000+08:00

Are you a fan of Gorillaz? Download the Gorillaz Windows Media Player Skin.

Tales from beyond

2005-07-24T20:02:00.000+08:00

I was chatting on MSN the other day with a friend of mine from Australia, and I find the sense of humour down under rather amusing..

Wye Li: did i tell wat happened during the premiere of star wars?
Justin: what happened
Wye Li: well, while my buddies and i are in line, sum random dressed as darth vader had a duel with another dressed as luke
Wye Li: then sumone in the crowd shouted - hey luke mate, kick his ass, he fucked your mom
Justin: HAHAhahahahA
Justin: hahahahaha
Justin: dont you just love those guai los
Wye Li: mate, it gets better
Wye Li: my fren tried to sneak inside the cinema..the guard stopped him, so he tried doing the jedi mind trick - u will let me in
Justin: LOLX
Wye Li: n then we tried to cause a riot by clapping our hands while shouting - WHOOOOO!! THE DOORS ARE OPEN
Wye Li: heheheeh
Wye Li: then inthe cinema, 2 drunk guys walked in, looked around, one looked tothe other n said - mate, lets go, there aint to chiqs in this one
Justin: Hahahahahaha
Justin: my god
Wye Li: haha
Wye Li: have i told u bout the strip show?
Justin: nope
Wye Li: haha..well...basically, we did a strip show for the girls school
Wye Li: well...15 of us
Wye Li: stripped in the hall, till their undies
Wye Li: hhahahahaha
Wye Li: talk about girls going hysterical
Wye Li: well, actually, they stripped till their pants, n then left the stage
Wye Li: one of them remained, n continued stripping
Wye Li: then the others came back on stage in nothing but undies, then they danced
Justin: hahahah
Justin: some country weii...
Justin: no such thing in Msia
Wye Li: i know
Wye Li: then they came back on stage with tight fitting girl swim suits, n did aerobics
Wye Li: n then, they came back in girl school uniforms n did a skit
Wye Li: hahaha
Wye Li: it's basically a night of cross dressing
Justin: wahahahah
Justin: did the girls do anything?
Wye Li: nah...think they organised a debate last month...yr 12 bs yr 12...the topic, boys are more superior than girls
Wye Li: wished i watched it!
Wye Li: DAMN!
Wye Li: oh...they did this - around the world in 70 days thing....to raise moeny for tsunami
Wye Li: this coming tuesday, there's the battle of the bands, boy school vs girl school, vs another school, celebrities are coming
Wye Li: heehehehhe
Justin: wow...
Justin: they actually went around the world?
Wye Li: nah...dont know wat it's about
Wye Li: none of my buddies went
Wye Li: next is the mock assembly!
Wye Li: we get to hold a parody of the school asssembly
Wye Li: cant wait
Wye Li: basically, we dress up as teachers n pay the crap out of them
Wye Li: n the muck up day....where we are not bounded by school rules
Wye Li: heheheheeh
Wye Li: apparently a few years ago, a group stole the head master's car, dismantled, n assembled it back in the staff room
Wye Li: n last last year (think i told u this one), they brought sheeps to ggraze the schoo's grass
Wye Li: last year, they sprayed - sex is good on the main quad
Justin: wahlauuuuuu
Justin: your skool is the best larr!!!!
Wye Li: dei, u have not heard other schools yet
Wye Li: last year, this school had a group, they brought a potty bowl tot he girl school, shat on it, n cemented it to the ground
Wye Li: at night of course
Wye Li: n they took a road kill n placed it on the main gate
Wye Li: another group from another shcool made traps in the locker rooms
Justin: wah... what kind of traps
Wye Li: water bombs n stuff lah
Wye Li: n rotten meat
Wye Li: last year, the yr 12s had a race...they used anything they could find to make a vehicle, n raced it
Wye Li: like putting a chair on a skateboard, n steering it (dont ask)
Justin: hahahaaha

Star Wars spinoffs

2005-07-22T22:34:00.000+08:00

I know I've written this article already, but I've switched to a new blog plus I found more spinoffs.. so here goes. Click on the image to go to the official website.

#1 - How it Should Have Ended: Star Wars Episode IV

This is among the few short cartoon clips depicting how some movies should end, according to the two guys handling the project. So far all the clips are just there to make some laughs, not to make a statement. Its short and sweet, see it for yourself.

#2 - Grocery Store Wars

Enter Cuke Skywalker (a cucumber), who was taught by Obi-Wan Cannoli (a cannoli) about the ways of the Farm (the force), and ulimately face Darth Tater (a potato). This is just a short public message film using grocery items as puppets. Its complete with flying vessels and laser guns! There is no real storyline, only an urge to the viewers to go against chemical filled non-organic products in real life. A good way to support their cause, considering how the names are cleverly altered and the rebel struggle somewhat similar to theirs. Its worth the 8MB download, so watch it.

#3 - Star Wars Episode III - A lost Hope

A Lost Hope is an intentionally hilarious parody of Star Wars Eps 3. Considering that it is only meant to poke fun, a good deal of greenscreen effects was used in its production. Having watched some of Sequential Pictures' other parodies, I say that this is their best work yet. In fact, this could very well be the best Star Wars parody on the internet, to date. It is good to have something laughable out of this episode; I absolutely love their version of how Anakin turned to the dark side. No space battles here, but Anakin's whiny alternate self makes up for it. I downloaded the large Hi-Res version for keeps. Give it a try.

#4 - Thumb Wars - The Phantom Cuticle

This is one of the few short films created entirely using thumbs as characters. Bottomline: it is as silly as it looks. The scale of this creation is large enough to sell on DVD, so you can set your expectations a little higher, on the comedic side at least. Unlike 'A Lost Hope', 'Thumb Wars' has a beginning, a middle and an ending. Its not available for download from the website so may I suggest a certain software? *hint hint*

#5 - Star Wars: Revelations

Now this is the real deal. Star Wars: Revelations is a story that fits right in between episodes III and IV. Created for die-hard fans by even die-harder fans, this here is an ambitious project considering that no money was to be made. It was the Star Wars spirit of the production team that made them willing to lend their time, their collector's edition costumes, their CGI talent and just about everything you see in the movie. For a movie that was not funded by anyone, the result is nothing short of remarkable. It doesn't matter if it lacks good direction and a good plot (which it does), Revelations is a noteworthy symbol of the love of Star Wars. If only they had stretch the story a little longer than the 47 minutes in it. Savour the best part of the movie: free for download.

My Hero: Dr. Michio Kaku

2005-07-21T22:02:00.000+08:00

Call me a bonified nerd, but there is one living person in this world that I admire more than others. That person is theoretical physicist Dr. Michio Kaku. This guy actually specializes in stuff that can only be plausible in theory, hence the title. Things like alternate universes, hyperspace, other dimensions and even time travel? That's his area of study, no kidding.

I find his articles fascinating; I haven't read them all yet but I especially like the time travel paradox and thinking beyond the three dimensions (Hyperspace). See the full article list here. Sitting on a whole bunch of ideas about the universe and what is beyond that is pretty awe-inducing and thought-provoking. It frees my mind of the little things in this little world, the bigger picture just got bigger.

I remember the time when I got so inspired, I wanted to be what he is and more, to discover things that will leave mankind dumbfounded and awestruck. However, that feeling didn't last very long, I was just a kid. One thing that I will do though, it is to save up and buy his latest book: Parallel Worlds. The title itself makes me think.

Of CPUs and UFOs

2005-07-20T22:54:00.000+08:00

I finally upgraded my room PC today. Dota-ing is now easier, my start-ups are faster and my TV shows I downloaded are much smoother. Before this I had to endure a painful Pentium III 733 MHz processor; that's about twice as slow as an average household computer. The amount of lag-time accumulated while I multitask is unimaginable. However, I now have to put up with my Graphics Card fan noise; which will bother me when I sleep. Oh, did I mention that I leave my PC on all night for downloads? You should see my collection of burnt CDs. Its growing and growing and growing..

Got to watch War of the Worlds today. I'm lazy to write a review right now, so... let met just mention that its stunning cinematopraphy makes up for the lack of character development and plot. Sorry to say, this is not a movie to remember. Next time Earth gets invaded by aliens, just yell 'Don't worry, the *spoiler contained word* will save us!'

Play 20 Questions with Darth Vader

2005-07-20T00:34:00.000+08:00

Check out this cool mind-reading flash site I found.

www.sithsense.com

Darth Vader will guess exactly what object you have in mind after asking 20 questions. However, it took him 23 questions to guess my object.. that means I have outdone the Sith Lord himself!! And I'll never reveal what object that was!! Muahahahahahahaha.......

Okay fine it was 'Island'..

Today's Tech Tip - Windows Key Shortcuts

2005-07-18T21:29:00.000+08:00

Do you notice a button with a Windows logo on the bottom left of your keyboard? Unless you're using a Mac or suffering from severe attention disorder, it should be there. If you didn't know, it can do more than just opening up the Start Menu. For example, Windows Key + E will instantly open up My Computer and Windows Key + D will show you the desktop.

Here is the full list of Windows Key shortcuts

Here is the full list of keyboard shortcuts

Oops, I just made your life easier.

Chandler Bing's Wisdom

2005-07-18T21:15:00.000+08:00

"Have you ever wondered which is worse: going through labour or getting kicked in the nuts? its interesting because no one will ever know because no one can experience both."

- Chandler Bing, in the final episode of Season 10 of Friends

The Adventures of Richard and Rashid - #2

2005-07-17T22:19:00.000+08:00

Today's Tech Tip - Removing Windows Messenger

2005-07-15T23:46:00.000+08:00

If you use MSN Messenger on Windows XP, you may have run into problems with the ever-annoying Windows Messenger. Everytime you log on to the internet, it automatically signs in to MSN without your approval and its a bad thing because it is not the latest version. Kiss that green ass goodbye, you're about to remove it forever.

Step 1: Click on Start>>Run...
Step 2: Type "RunDll32 advpack.dll,LaunchINFSection %windir%\inf\msmsgs.inf,BLC.Remove" without the quotation marks

Voila! You no longer have to put up with people thinking you're signed in when you think you're not. View the full article here. Enjoy.

Fantastic? Sure..

2005-07-14T22:14:00.000+08:00

Got to see Fantastic 4 today, which is the premiere, by the way. For some reason, we appeared at Mid Valley to find many available tickets for this movie, even on the premiere. Weird, isn't it. Anyway, I have watched the entire film in its full audio and visual quality in a cinema without distraction; on the afternoon of the first day of screening with college buddies, right after the final paper of exams. It was the perfect environment to catch a movie for the adolescent such as myself; and I am ready to pass judgement. The verdict: do NOT watch this movie.

It was pretty much as bad as I pictured it, seeing how they project the look and the feel of the movie. As I write this, I try not to include any spoilers. But now that I think about it, there is nothing to spoil. The plot was shallow, the conflict was not compelling enough, and the climax did not work. Plus, it ended much sooner than I thought it would. The visuals are good, though.

The very weakness of the whole production is that it is based on an old comic book. It is hence very difficult to create a good plot and storyline out of it. The whole point is just four people with superpowers kicking bad guy ass. I could tell that they did try their best to make a good story and all, but it just did not work. That is why Spiderman 1 & 2 are excellent movies. I also blame the comic book for its corniness, especially the part where they received their powers. Listening to The Thing talk makes me feel like I'm watching a cartoon. Luckily they stayed away from using cheese-flavoured lines like "It is I, Mr. Fantastic, here to save the day!" or "A-ha! We meet again, Doctor Doom."

If you still want to watch it, go ahead. But do it as a social outing. For me, it is one of those movies that I would download from BitTorrent and watch it in my room. Oh, and please buy some popcorn to keep yourself entertained.

The Star Wars Kid

2005-07-13T19:18:00.000+08:00

It is only recently that I immersed myself into the phenomenon that happened two years ago, the phenomenon that is The Star Wars Kid. An innocent dork from Quebec makes a fateful mistake: not properly hiding his video of himself swinging a golf ball retriever a la Darth Maul. Thanks to his schoolmates, Ghyslain the dork is the most popular kid in the internet. If you put it that way, it doesn't sound so bad, does it? Oh, did I say popular? I meant a tad too ridiculed. Read his profile here.

When I started downloading the various versions of SWK clips, or clones, I cannot help but to laugh at the work of comedic video-editing geniuses out there. My favourite was the one where some guy dresses himself in a king kong suit and re-enacted the entire scene; that is swinging a golf ball retriever a la The Star Wars Kid and he did a fantastic job looking like a complete retard. The others are spoofs that vary from The Hulk to Braveheart to Titanic to Pokemon and the list goes on. See the full list at www.jedimaster.net. However, the best one ever is the clip done by I've Had It Productions. See it at www.starwarskidbb.com and click on Clip 2. Pretty impressive...

The moral of the story is: if you ever videotape yourself doing something downright silly, please save your work in a CD and hide it under your bed.

The Curse of the Chicken Pox

2005-07-12T16:14:00.000+08:00

Here's an essay I found lying around. It was done as SPM-level English homework and the topic in question was about the time I got bedridden. It's all fiction, by the way.

Here by the bedside I lay, watching the hours pass me by. On the table rests the many books that I have already read. Arranged on the little shelf in my room lies my collection of DVDs that I have already watched. As I stare at the plain ceiling, my hand clutches a phone that I know will never ring. I am a victim of the unmerciful existence of boredom itself.

Idling at home is definitely not my idea of spending my mid-term holidays. If it weren't for the curse that has befallen me that is the chicken pox, I would have made better use of my time. Alas, my sorry self is now confined within these four walls, deprived of contact with the outside world. Having known that I would have to put up with such a life for another week is driving me insane.

Isolation, however, is only half of my troubles. This wretched condition comes with a side effect so evil that only the devil himself can inflict: the endless itching. Resisting it is a feat achieved only by superhumans, but giving in will only bring more of it and will eventually scar my body. No man, however sinful, deserves such an experience.

Trying to sleep is also another difficult matter. Through the dark nights, I tossed and turn and used every technique known to mankind to make myself fall asleep. But the horrible itch had made all my efforts vain. Hour after hour, I slip in and out of consciousness, only to find myself as good as a dead man late the next morning.

To make matters worse, I have none to blame for this predicament except my very own self. It was only last week when I made a decision that became my undoing. Even though I was advised against it, I insisted on visiting a friend of mine who was suffering from the chicken pox. Due to close contact and my vaccination that refused to work, I am now put into misery by my own foolishness.

Deep inside me brews a volcano that will erupt should the circumstances persist. Laying here motionless on my bed, I could explode without warning. How I yearn to let it all out, to extinguish the flame without by channeling it out through my breath. But no, I could not. My dying but indestructible sense of self consciousness and pieces of my dignity forbids me to do so.

No amount of pleasure could dispel this cruel fate. No amount of console can make me feel that it could have been worse. Nothing can be done to erase my memory of this period of time that has been stolen from me. Soon, I will awaken a new man with a stronger will. For this is the day when I solemnly swear that I will forever be an enemy of the chicken pox.

Application for The Sun's upcoming Campus Pullout

2005-07-11T00:27:00.000+08:00

I recently had the opportunity to apply for a job to write articles for The Sun Newspaper's future campus-themed pullout. My application required a 400-word essay describing my most boring lecture as creatively as I can. Here goes nothing...

Regardless of meaning, silence and darkness are one. An endless abyss envelops this world immeasurable by space and time. Nothingness became the very essence of what seems to be existence. No room for emotion, cognition, or anything for that can take form, not even abstract. A void spark ignites, turning into something that can only be described as a split second. Out of nowhere, without warning, a form of perception arises. Is it I. I have found myself. Time starts to flow as I collect the pieces of what I assume amount to my consciousness. For every piece I embrace, the next one avails itself more willingly as the flow of time picks up the pace. The unfathomable shroud that once invaded my mind gradually clears, releasing my senses from its deathly grip. I realize now that I am a living being: a thinking and breathing organism.

It is the sense of touch, among the others, that establishes contact to my brain first. It occurs to me at this point that my entire body is relaxed. I feel my first breath of air through the shafts of my nostrils, without me having to will it deliberately. It is refreshing and empowering; I can feel my entire body already. Even the functioning level of my mind accelerates toward its normal rate. My thoughts begin to arrange themselves, in proper order and logic. Then, my memories return, bit by bit, depth by depth. I remember my name now, though it is not significant at this time. Now that I am aware of myself, I must proceed to be aware of my surroundings.

I can finally muster enough strength to lift my head that tilts backward. I take in another breath of air with my mouth, feeling my shoulders and chest rise as it happens. As I open my eyes, I instinctively set myself upright. This is when I notice that I am sitting on a chair. By the time I manage to sit up, my eyes begin to adjust to the bright light. Though it was passive all the while, it is only now that I could hear somebody talking. I recognize the voice, though I still could not identify it. I looked around to find myself in a lecture hall at my college. The person talking is the calculus professor, mumbling about things that I can never understand.

How boring.

The Country DotCom Awards 2005

2005-07-09T11:02:00.000+08:00

Hello everybody and welcome to 'The Country DotCom Awards 2005', the show where the best of the best *nameofcountry*.com domains are hereby awarded their category wins. Now, the internet is full of websites to promote tourism and such but as for this show, I only allow the name of the country in the domain name, nothing more. For example, I do not accept www.lifeinjapan.com or www.travelitaly.com, whereas www.japan.com & www.italy.com qualifies. Also, I do not accept .net, .org, .co.uk and the lot; only .com. However, if the domain name leads to another website but maintain its relevance, I consider it qualified. Without further adue, let's move on to our first category.

The Most Up-To-Date

www.canada.com
Canada.com is the one page that has constantly updated information as it serves as a hub for its local newspapers and television channels, unlike any other country dotcoms. On another note, I found an efficient news website that offers plenty of timely news articles on that particular country; that is when I typed in countries like malawi.com, togo.com or kazakhstan.com. But all of them are actually pages from a media conglomerate, World News Network's website. Hence, it does not qualify. Canada.com takes the win.

The Most Informative
www.china.com
Here, I am judging the English version; you have to click on the 'English' button. China.com contains info from news to history, even real estate and dating. Following closely behind is japan.com as the runner-up.

The Best Design

www.morocco.com
Believe or not, Morocco.com grabs this one, after much consideration, of course. Runner-ups are Bosnia.com and Newzealand.com

The Best Look and Feel

www.seychelles.com
This one comes a surprise to me as I almost overlooked this country. The entire website is flash-based but maintains its user-friendliness and simplicity. It even comes with serene beach sounds.

The Best Strictly Tourism

www.england.com
This one judges country dotcoms that has tourism info only. As England.com and Britain.com both led me to Londontown.com, I made it the winner for its sheer usefulness despite its limitation to just London. Runner ups include Australia.com and France.com

The Most Ambitious

www.arabia.com
Let's ignore the non-English version here. Arabia.com attempts to reach a younger audience, as it contains sections for Cars, Mobile, and even Entertainment. No other country dotcoms offer such information in that area.

The Best Intro Page

www.malta.com
Actually, Malta.com is the only country dotcom I can find with an intro page. However, it gives a flash video clip of a beautiful beach, enough make it unchallengable.

The Best Logo

www.malta.com
Malta.com's logo is so good, it is the only reason I made this category. It even has a cool tagline: 'Past Present Future Perfect'. How cool is that? See it for yourself.

Well thats it for the positive awards. I would want to give negative ones but I'll do special mentions instead.

Mongolia.com

At the bottom of the page, I found two links: one 'Pregnancy' and the other 'Pregnant'. I don't get it either.

India.com
My user-friendliness rating: -6. It does not give you any information whatsoever unless you are a registered user. The front page is bare, for goodness sakes.

Germany.com
Looks like some guy managed to grab the domain name before the government or some company does. The result is depressing.

Malawi.com

I never knew that stating the obvious can be so formal.

Well, that's all for today. This is the best proof I can muster to date to show you that I have nothing better to do.

Hating MA125 (Statistics)

2005-07-06T20:30:00.000+08:00

At exactly 9:06 am today I received a message from Aaron Paul and it went exactly like this.

'Hey man i thought you me and Ephraim can do revision together.. Cause we can use all the help..'

Naturally, I would think that it would be a good idea to have a group study before the exams come, which in our case, will take place next week. Then it dawned on me that it is Aaron and Ephraim we're talking about. I can already guess how it's gonna be like. How? Well, let's just say that we got far without getting far. Shall we have a look?

9:06 am
The message was received and replied, concluding that Aaron is to pick Ephraim and I at 10:30 and study at HELP UC.

10:43 am
Aaron arrived and drove us to HELP's main building. First stop: McDonald's. RM2.50 burgers (RM2.64 after tax) became breakfast for the day. Fair enough, everybody needs breakfast. Gotta have something to give us energy, facing a long studious day ahead. Who am I kidding..

12:09 pm
We took the HELP bus and headed to the ADP building. We were to study at the KPD building, Block E, Exhibition Area. Well, that's usually where ADP students get their work done so it's plausible. Upon arrival, we found a grand total of one student studying there, with most of the lights switched off and air-conditioning completely off. Then came a revelation from my belly: the aromatic artifact of genocide will be released from its place of refuge (if you know what I mean). As soon as I exited the restroom, I found Aaron & Ephraim throwing paper planes on fire out the balcony. Exams are only a week away... so why not?

12:50 p.m
We finally sat down at level 1 and took out our books. Yes! A little bit of study is good for health. Alas, Ephraim did not last very long. He got distracted the very moment he opened his stats book. Aaron, on the other hand, managed to fare a little better. But it seems like fate has his games to play.

1:55 pm
"Let's go Uptown" says Aaron.
You should've seen how quick Ephraim got up and stuffed his whacked up stats book in his bag. Before I know it, I ended up in Uptown.. stuffing a stick of delicious chicken satay into my mouth. Well, a lunch break doesn't hurt, ain't it?
"Hey, this satay damn nice lar," says I. *Gotta study gotta study gotta study dammit!!!*

3:13 pm
I got to check out Aaron's place. Let's just say that it is not exactly furnished extravagantly. Aaron's room is in actual fact a storeroom located next to the kitchen. On the other hand, it had all the essentials and a computer in it, a cosy room it was. Plus he gets a bathroom for himself just two steps away.

3:35 pm
We sat around the dining table to continue our so-called revision. Seeing how we (And by 'we' I meant excluding me, in this case) get bored in our seats and get tempted by the heavenly computer with broadband access sitting nearby, Aaron proposes a deal.
"Okay, lets study kao kao for like one hour, then we hang out, okay?"
I don't see how such a thing can actually work, considering that we already goofed off so much. Fine then, whatever makes you study.
"We study until... 4:15, okay?"
Right... is that even one hour?

3:37 pm

4:08 pm

I have nothing more to say

The Adventures of Richard and Rashid - #1

2005-07-05T13:11:00.000+08:00

I am now launching a new series entitled 'The Adventures of Richard and Rashid', the story of a British commissioner, Richard O' Reily, who sailed to Malaya to educate an accidental Public Affairs Minister, Rashid bin Razak, in order to establish relations between the two worlds in the 18th Century.

Along the inner walls of a British settlement at Perak...

Richard : Ah, you must be Rashid. I am Richard and I'm here to teach you English. (As Richard stretched his hand for a shake, Razak stared at it with his mouth ajar) Um, well then I guess we must learn each other's formalities as well. *Ahem* Moving on, I think that it is essential that we agree on a single form of writing to create a common ground of communication thus beginning to break the language barrier between English and... Malay.

Rashid : Eh?

Richard : Therefore, I strongly suggest that we use the English alphabet so that I can form written Malay words and you can effectively pick up the English language. Wouldn't you agree?

Rashid : Apa?

Richard : Well, it is decided then! The English alphabet it is! Splendid. I shall begin by teaching you the very fundamentals of our marvelous language. Now, don't worry, it's as easy as ABC. That's because, it IS ABC! *Chuckles* I never get bored of that one..

Rashid : Tak faham sial..

Richard : Sigh... I remember the time when my old buddy and I went drinking at Southampton, a clown of a fellow, he is. Yadda yadda yadda yadda...

Rashid : *Aduhai, entah mengapa orang putih ini suka bercakap-cakap dengan diri sendiri. Tak masuk akal langsung la.. Lagipun perut saya lapar ni..*

Richard : (Babbles on endlessly)

To be continued...

View next episode

EN101 Group A 2005 Photos

2005-07-05T13:03:00.000+08:00

Attention students from HELP College ADP Department EN101 Group A 2005, the 'graduation' photos featuring the delightful Miss Lalitha is out. This is the link:

http://www.wongkeenhing.com/gallery/public/helpcollege

Please spread the word, and if you have anymore photos from that day please send them to me via MSN.

Enjoy.

The beginning of a new era

2005-07-04T12:53:00.000+08:00

It's official. I have packed my bags and moved to this Blogspot account. I haven't actually felt at home just yet, but I will have a house warming party pretty soon. As for my old house address, www.wongkeenhing.com, I intend to keep it, along with my old content in that server. However, my main content will mostly be here. So adjust your bookmarks!

Testing

2005-07-01T14:31:00.000+08:00

I am considering the use of a blog service to make my life so very much easier. I am currently blogging at www.wongkeenhing.com. I will make an announcement as soon as I make the actual switch. Till next time~