080808 Forum Featured Topics

2010 Nissan 370Z Roadster with video

08auto — Fri, 10 Apr 2009 00:28:36 GMT

2010 Nissan 370Z Roadster with video

The 2010 Nissan 370Z Roadster retains the same greasy bits as the coupe, but adds open air action in the form of a new power-operated, fully-lined fabric top with a glass rear window. The top automatically connects to the windshield header so the driver doesn't have to fiddle around with a latch and it can be lowered or raised from inside or out, through the use of an interior-mounted switch or a button on the door handle. A glass wind blocker between the headrests keeps buffeting to a minimum without impacting visibility, and although we haven't seen the new 370Z convertible with its top up, we've been assured it's far more attractive than its predecessor.

The car will be unveiled together with 2009 Nissan NISMO 370Z.
For more information visit: http://www.autoblog.com/2009/04/07/2010 ... 370z-w-vi/

The Shinjuku Incident (2009)

08media — Fri, 10 Apr 2009 00:14:05 GMT

The Shinjuku Incident (2009)

In the early 1990’s, a tractor mechanic from China nicknamed Steelhead enters illegally into Japan to search for his girlfriend Xiu Xiu. To make ends meet, he joins his friend, Jie, in Shinjuku in doing menial labor. Steelhead finds out that Xiu Xiu has married Eguchi, a Japanese Yakuza leader. Steelhead decides to stay on in Japan and to obtain citizenship, he agrees to work for Eguchi as a killer. Soon, Steelhead gets used to the power and finds himself embroiled so deeply in the ways of the underworld that there is no turning back...

6th Prime Minister of Malaysia unveils new Cabinet

08news — Fri, 10 Apr 2009 00:05:50 GMT

6th Prime Minister of Malaysia unveils new Cabinet

Najib takes his oath of office as Prime Minister at Istana Negara on Friday. - Bernama photo - 3 April, 2009

Datuk Seri Najib Tun Razak who took his oath of office as the new prime minister on April 3, announced a 28-member Cabinet with 25 ministries that saw eight ministers dropped and seven new faces appointed.

NEW CABINET LINE-UP:

Prime Minister and Finance Minister 1: Datuk Seri Najib Tun Razak

Deputy PM and Education Minister: Tan Sri Muhyiddin Yassin

Ministers in Prime Minister’s Department
Unity and Performance Management: Tan Sri Dr Koh Tsu Koon
Law and Parliament: Datuk Seri Mohamed Nazri Aziz
Religious Affairs: Brig. Gen. (Rtd) Datuk Jamil Khir Baharum
Economic Planning Unit: Tan Sri Nor Mohamed Yakcop

Deputies: Datuk Liew Vui Keong, Senator Datuk Dr Mashitah Ibrahim, Datuk SK Devamany, Ahmad Maslan, Senator T. Murugiah

Finance
Datuk Seri Najib Tun Razak
Finance Minister II: Datuk Ahmad Husni Hanadzlah
Deputies: Datuk Chor Chee Heung, Datuk Dr Awang Adek Hussein

Education
Tan Sri Muhyiddin Yassin
Deputies: Datuk Wee Ka Siong, Datuk Puad Zarkashi

Transport
Datuk Seri Ong Tee Keat
Deputies: Datuk Abdul Rahim Bakri, Datuk Robert Lau

Home
Datuk Seri Hishammuddin Hussein
Deputies: Datuk Wira Abu Seman Yusop, Jelaing Mersat

Information, Communications, Arts and Culture
Datuk Seri Dr Rais Yatim
Deputies: Datuk Joseph Salang Gandum, Senator Heng Seai Kie

Energy, Green Technology & Water
Datuk Peter Chin Fah Kui
Deputy: Noriah Kasnon

Plantation Industries and Commodities
Tan Sri Bernard Dompok
Deputy: Datuk Hamzah Zainuddin

Rural and Regional Development
Datuk Seri Shafie Apdal
Deputies: Datuk Hassan Malek, Datuk Joseph Entulu

Higher Education
Datuk Seri Khaled Nordin
Deputies: Dr Hou Kok Chung, Saifuddin Abdullah

International Trade and Industry
Datuk Mustapa Mohamed
Deputies: Datuk Muhkriz Mahathir, Datuk Jacob Dungau

Science, Technology and Innovation
Datuk Dr Maximus Ongkili
Deputy: Fadillah Yusof

Natural Resources and Environment
Datuk Douglas Uggah Embas
Deputy: Tan Sri Joseph Kurup

Tourism
Datuk Seri Dr Ng Yen Yen
Deputy: Datuk Seri Sulaiman Abdul Rahman Abdul Taib

Agriculture and Agro-based Industries
Datuk Noh Omar
Deputies: Johari Baharum, Rohani Abdul Karim

Defence
Datuk Seri Dr Ahmad Zahid Hamidi
Deputy: Datuk Dr Abdul Latif

Works
Datuk Shaziman Abu Mansor
Deputy: Datuk Yong Khoon Seng

Health
Datuk Seri Liow Tiong Lai
Deputy: Datuk Rosnah Rashid Shilin

Youth and Sports
Datuk Ahmad Shabery Cheek
Deputies: Datuk Razali Ibrahim, Wee Jeck Seng

Human Resources
Datuk Dr S. Subramaniam
Deputy: Datuk Maznah Mazlan

Domestic Trade and Consumer Affairs
Datuk Seri Ismail Sabri
Deputy: Datuk Tan Lian Hoe

Housing and Local Government
Datuk Kong Cho Ha
Deputy: Lajim Ukin

Women, Family and Community Development
Datuk Seri Shahrizat Abdul Jalil
Deputy: Datin Paduka Chew Mei Fun

Foreign Affairs
Datuk Anifah Aman
Deputies: Datuk Lee Chee Leong, Senator A. Kohilan Pillai

Federal Territories
Datuk Raja Nong Chik Zainal Abidin
Deputy: Datuk M. Saravanan

PIKOM PC FAIR 2009 (1)

08deals — Thu, 09 Apr 2009 23:51:47 GMT

PIKOM PC FAIR 2009 (1)

10 - 12 April 2009 (11:00am - 9:00pm)

· KL Convention Centre, Kuala Lumpur - Kuala Lumpur City Centre, 50888 Kuala Lumpur
· Persada Johor International Convention Centre, Johor Bahru - Jalan Abdullah Ibrahim, 80000 Johor Bahru
· Village Mall, Sungai Petani - Kedah
· Dewan Masyarakat Tawau, Tawau - Sabah

17 - 19 April 2009 (11:00am - 9:00pm)

· Miri Indoor Stadium, Miri - Sawarak
· Sibu Trade & Exhibition Centre, Sibu - Sarawak
· Penang International Sports Arena, Penang - Jalan Tun Dr Awang, 11900 Relau
· Mahkota Parade Melaka, Melaka - Jalan Merdeka, 75000 Bandar Hilir

24 - 26 April 2009 (11:00am - 9:00pm)

· Dewan Jubli Intan, Muar - Johor

More info: http://www.pikom.org.my/cms/General.asp ... 1&CatID=12

EARTH DAY 2009 - April 22

08events — Thu, 09 Apr 2009 23:45:05 GMT

EARTH DAY 2009 - April 22

Earth Day 2009, April 22, will mark the beginning of the Green Generation CampaignTM! This two-year initiative will culminate with the 40th anniversary of Earth Day in 2010. With negotiations for a new global climate agreement coming up in December, Earth Day 2009 must be a day of action and civic participation, to defend the Green Generation’s core principles:

* A carbon-free future based on renewable energy that will end our common dependency on fossil fuels, including coal.

* An individual’s commitment to responsible, sustainable consumption.

* Creation of a new green economy that lifts people out of poverty by creating millions of quality green jobs and transforms the global education system into a green one

Under the umbrella of the Green GenerationTM, thousands of events are currently being planned in schools, communities, villages, towns and cities around the world. As in 2008, on April 19th Earth Day Network will celebrate Earth Day on the National Mall in Washington, DC, plus large-scale volunteer events in New York, Boston, Chicago, San Francisco, Seattle, Los Angeles, Denver, Austin, Atlanta, and DC in partnership with Green Apple Festival.

08/04/09: Champions League

08sports — Tue, 07 Apr 2009 23:37:43 GMT

FOOTBALL: CHAMPIONS LEAGUE

Manchester United 2 - 2 Porto
Manchester United have it all to do to reach the semi-finals of the UEFA Champions League after being held 2-2 at home by Porto. The holders appeared to have stolen another dramatic Old Trafford victory when substitute Carlos Tevez turned home Wayne Rooney's flick-on at the near post on 85 minutes. But a minute from time, Porto substitute Mariano Gonzalez was left unmarked at the far post to give the 2004 winners a fine chance of dumping out the reigning champions.
Porto, who knocked out United in the last 16 five years ago, enjoyed a dream start on their return to Old Trafford when Cristian Rodriguez seized on a poor clearance from Jonny Evans to rifle a crisp shot past Edwin van der Sar after just four minutes. United were level in the 15th minute when Wayne Rooney pounced on a dreadful back-pass from Bruno Alves to lift a shot over the exposed Helton.
The Red Devils had been poor for most of the first half, but improved after the break as they streamed forward in search of a winner. The breakthrough came five minutes from time when Tevez reacted sharply to Rooney's flick from Gary Neville's throw-in to seemingly give United a vital advantage. But the hosts reckoned without a plucky Porto fight-back as Lisandro Lopez's cross was helped on to the unmarked Gonzalez and he lifted the ball past the onrushing Van der Sar.
And to become the first team to successfully defend the Champions League, United must also become the first English team to win at Porto's Estadio do Dragao in the quarter-final second leg next Wednesday.
Rodriguez Goal : http://videos.sapo.pt/MhriMbaA8TmUwzEmhM4p
Rooney Goal : http://videos.sapo.pt/hAJMDz8dCd2KPHZ61HYf
Tevez Goal : http://videos.sapo.pt/5jLEAZmfI28zkbOIWtDO
Gonzales Goal : http://videos.sapo.pt/mic8maPGHWrarZDsRLVi

Villarreal 1 - 1 Arsenal
Arsenal came from behind at Villarreal to claim a 1-1 draw in the first leg of their UEFA Champions League quarter-final clash. The Gunners started slowly and keeper Manuel Almunia picked up an early injury in a clash with Giuseppe Rossi - but before he could be replaced Marcus Senna had lashed home a sensational goal from 25 yards. Almunia's replacement Lukasz Fabianski then pulled off a couple of excellent stops to keep his side in the tie before the break.
After the interval, and seemingly with Arsene Wenger's half-time team-talk ringing in their ears, Arsenal were rejuvenated and grabbed the crucial away goal. Their pressure finally told just after the hour and it was a moment of pure genius from Emmanuel Adebayor. The Togo star chested down Cesc Fabregas' looping ball into the box, before acrobatically finishing in the corner.
Both sides had chances to score again, but it ended in a draw with Arsenal now favourites to progress with a vital away goal in the bank ahead of the return leg at Emirates next week.
Senna Goal : http://videos.sapo.pt/9kGAtNYNMemsLLzt9uGk
Adebayor Goal : http://videos.sapo.pt/fo3qdi27eQdmBDzdfWpb

Pasta De Gohan Lunch Menu A+B from RM 15.80

08food — Wed, 11 Mar 2009 15:00:25 GMT

Pasta De Gohan Lunch Menu A+B from RM 15.80

Value for Money Lunch Menu

11.30am to 5pm
Monday to Friday (except Public Holiday)
last order by 4.30pm

A+B from RM 15.80

Choose 1 from A
and
Choose 1 from B

RM 15.80
A=Corn & Butter, Cream Squid & Cod Roe, Potato & Bacon Cream
B=Corn & Tuna Toast, Tomato Toast, Potato Salad Toast

RM 16.80
A=Wafu Cod Roe, Wafu Al aglio Olio, Wafu Chicken & Mushroom
B=Spicy Code Roe & Potato Gratin, Wafu Tuna Gratin, Tomato and Basil Gratin

RM 18.80
A=Meat Bolognese, Eggplant & Bacon, Neopolitan
B=Egg Curry, Prawn Curry, Chicken Curry

RM 19.80
A=Carbonara WARAKU style, Sausage Carbonara, Edamame Carbonara
B=Curry Pilaf, Chicken Pilaf, Prawn Pilaf

Shamrockin St Patrick's at 1Utama 13 March 2009

08events — Wed, 11 Mar 2009 14:46:52 GMT

Shamrockin St Patrick's on the streets of 1Utama 13 March 2009

It's Malaysia's Biggest St Patrick's Bash Ever!
6pm onwards, Friday, 13 Mar at 1 Utama (New Wing)

From live performances by Australian rock band Skybombers and Dutch gymnasts Corpus Acrobatic, to exciting games like Bungee Run and Zorb Ball. And to top it off, enjoy great international cuisine paired with smooth GUINNESS Draught!

Enjoy a Pint of GUINNESS
As a ONECARD member, you will receive a free pint of GUINNESS Draught plus one game coupon at the St Pat's bash!

How To Redeem Your Pint of Smooth GUINNESS Draught
All you need to do is bring your ONECARD and register at the redemption counter during the St Pat's bash. You must be an active ONECARD member, aged 18 and above, and a non-Muslim.

This offer is limited to the first 500 ONECARD members who register. One pint (300ml) and game coupon per ONECARD member.

Check out all the St Pat's activities at www.guinness.com.my

Street Fighter : The Legend Of Chun Li - Official Trailer

08media — Wed, 04 Mar 2009 00:32:25 GMT

Street Fighter : The Legend Of Chun Li - Official Trailer

Street Fighter: The Legend of Chun-Li is the second movie based on the Street Fighter video game, starring Kristin Kreuk as Chun Li.

The movie starts with Chun Li as a young girl learning wushu from her father. Chun Li is another typical young girl whom her parents have groomed into a concert pianist. As a teenager, Chun Li saw her father kidnapped by Bison (Neal McDonough) and his crony, although she was left unharmed. When she grows up, she seeks revenge for what Bison has done to her father.

Obama's HIV-tainted blood mailer held

08news — Wed, 04 Mar 2009 00:28:16 GMT

Obama's HIV-tainted blood mailer held

WASHINGTON (CNN)

MATTA FAIR MARCH 2009

08deals — Wed, 04 Mar 2009 00:21:55 GMT

MATTA FAIR MARCH 2009
13 March 2009 until 15 March 2009

Organizer : MATTA
Venue : Putra World Trade Centre (PWTC)

More information : http://www.matta.org.my/events.php?event_id=79

Kitaro Live in Genting 2009

08events — Wed, 04 Mar 2009 00:14:38 GMT

Bon Simpanan Merdeka 2009 (BSM) on sale

08finance — Thu, 19 Feb 2009 00:08:10 GMT

Bon Simpanan Merdeka 2009 (BSM)

Bon Simpanan Merdeka 2009 is now on sale in all commercial banks in Malaysia.

BSM is a government bond targetted to those age 56 and above or retirees.

Minimum holding is RM 1k and maximum is RM 50k, with annual interest of 5%. (0.42% per month).

Maturity is 3 years but the BSM can be redeemed early at the nominal value and including the profit amount due before the maturity date but after the first profit payment.

Dates of issuance and sale period:
* 18 March 2009 ( BSM 01/2009 – RM1 billion)
( Sale period 18 Feb to 17 March 2009)
* 4 June 2009 ( BSM 02/2009 – RM1 billion)
( Sale period 4 May to 3 June 2009)

Halia's Valentine Buffet dinner

08food — Wed, 11 Feb 2009 10:49:34 GMT

Halia's Valentine – all time favourite Churrasco Buffet with a Twist of Love!

Sime Darby Convention Centre
No. 1A, Jalan Bukit Kiara 1, 59000 Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia.

14 Feb, 2009

Valentine Buffet Menu

Appetizer & Salad
Chinese Deep Fried Crabmeat Stick
Poached Tiger Prawns
Thai BBQ Beef Salad
Thai Mango Salad
Japanese Potato Salad
Japanese Green Tea Noodle Salad
Norwegian Smoked Salmon
Assorted Green Garden Salad
Assorted Cold Cuts & Pastrami
Corn on Cob
Baked Potato with condiments
Deep Fried Tortilla Bread
Tomato Salsa
Guacamole Dip

Soup
Creamy Crab & Garlic Soup
Assorted Bread & Butter

From The BBQ Skewer
Chicken Breast wrapped in Sliced Beef
Spicy Chicken Drumstick
Garlic & Black Pepper Beef Rolled with Turkey Ham
Oriental Lamb
Honey Glazed Meat Loaf
Jumbo Sausage
Paprika Fish

Stall
Mongolian BBQ

Dessert
Assorted Fresh Tropical Fruit Skewer
Assorted Thai Dessert
Ginger Brulee
Caramel Pear Mousse Cake
Strawberry Mousse Cake
Tiramisu
Baby Pillow Blueberry Cream
Baby Pillow Orange Cream
Crème Caramel
Ice Cream Bar

Coffee & Tea

RM59++ per person

Parking is ample and free. For reservations, please call (03) 2089 3799.

This 14 February 2009, Halia of Sime Darby Convention Centre (SDCC) brings back their unique Valentine’s Day experience, amidst calm green surroundings and away from the hustle and bustle of the city centre. Instead of the standard Valentine set menus offered elsewhere, the team at Halia has decided to offer their all-time favourite Churrasco Buffet with a twist of love. The response was overwhelming when it was introduced for the first time for last year’s Valentine’s Day.

For starters, there’s an international spread of delicious salads and appetizers such as Creamy Crab & Garlic Soup, Poached Tiger Prawns, Chinese Deep Fried Crabmeat Stick, Thai BBQ Beef Salad, Japanese Green Tea Noodle Salad, Norwegian Smoked Salmon and Green Garden Salads.

The delectable main course will be served by waiters who will go from table to table with large skewers of Chicken Breast wrapped in Sliced Beef, Spicy Chicken Drumstick, Garlic & Black Pepper Beef rolled with Turkey Ham, Honey Glazed Meat Loaf and Paprika Fish.

Oriental Lamb, an SDCC specialty, will also be served on the skewers. Marinated for 12 hours with a secret recipe comprising herbs and spices, the lamb is cooked slowly until the meat is tender and succulent.

There will also be a live cooking Mongolian BBQ stall for diners to create their own stir-fry dish. Spoilt for choice with a variety of fresh ingredients – seafood, beef, chicken and a generous selection of greens - diners just have to mix and match whichever combination of ingredients to their liking and the items are cooked ala minute with a delectable sauce. The peanut-based sauce is an interesting mix of various flavours which are sure to tantalise your senses!

Do leave space for dessert as there will be an extensive selection of tempting cakes to choose from such as Vanilla & Chocolate Delight, Strawberry Mousse Cake, Tiramisu and Baby Pillow Blueberry Cream. A must try is the Ginger Brulee, guaranteed to spice up your evening further. There will also be Fresh Tropical Fruits, Assorted Thai Dessert and lip-smacking Crème Caramel.

Valentine diners will also enjoy coffee and tea as well as a complimentary glass of cocktail or mocktail aptly named “Twist of Love”. To end the night, each couple will be presented with a “Halia Surprise” dessert, flowers and a special photograph as a loving keepsake.

The Valentine buffet, priced at RM59.00++ per person, is available from 6.30pm to 10.00pm on 14 February at Halia which is on the first floor of Sime Darby Convention Centre located at 1A, Jalan Bukit Kiara 1, Kuala Lumpur.

Beading Addict - accessories and beads

08classified — Wed, 11 Feb 2009 10:25:26 GMT

I'm an accessory junkie + beading addict who managed to combine the 2 into my favourite past time.

All my beads are lovingly hand picked from my travels.

Each piece is unique (unless specifically stated) & I do not do repeats unless requested (provided I still have the materials)

Stones used in each piece may vary in size & shape as all the beads used are natural stones (unless its glass beads).

Visit: http://www.beadingaddict.blogspot.com/

Some products available online:

Code: 'Flower-power'
Description: Round flower motive glass bead+ 925 silver rose
[Approx 24.5 cm measured bead-2-bead]
Note: The length of the anklet can be customised

Price: RM 25

Code: 'Blow-the-blues-away'
Description: Round natural blue stone + round glass bead with flower motive
[Approx 16.5 cm measured bead-2-bead in stretchy cord]

Price: RM 15

Code: 'My-red-star'
Description: Clear white Star shaped glass beads + Red flower glass bead motive
[Approx 15.5 cm measured bead-2-bead in stretchy cord]

Price: RM 12

Malaysia's bank rate cuts to depend on external developments

08finance — Wed, 11 Feb 2009 10:15:59 GMT

Malaysia's bank rate cuts to depend on external developments
By Law Kai Chow (TheStar)

KUALA LUMPUR: Bank Negara is not looking to lower its key policy rate unless there are further developments abroad that will make it necessary, its Governor Tan Sri Dr Zeti Akhtar Aziz said.

“We’ve frontloaded monetary measures because of the lag effect,” she told reporters Wednesday on the second day of the Bank Negara High Level Conference 2009.

The central bank had cut its key policy rate - the overnight policy rate (OPR) - by 25 basis points last November and by another 75 basis points to 2.5% at the end of last month. At the same time the OPR was cut in January, the statutory reserve requirement was also reduced by 150 basis points to 2.0%.

In her opening remarks at the Bank Negara High Level Conference 2009 on Tuesday Zeti said that the global financial crisis has exposed the vulnerabilities of the international financial architecture and there is a need for renewed thinking to reform the global financial system, said Bank Negara governor Tan Sri Dr Zeti Akhtar Aziz.

“Today’s conference takes place at a time when we need to reflect on the many issues that are emerging from the current global financial and economic crisis and the new challenges and lessons it brings to central banks,” Zeti said in her opening remarks Tuesday.

Bank Negara governor Tan Sri Dr Zeti Akhtar Aziz (left) shaking hands with the People's Bank of China governor Dr Zhou Xianchuan at the Bank Negara High Level Conference 2009 on Tuesday

“The international dimension of these changes calls for an outcome in which the global financial system is less prone to disruption and failures and in which economic progress is a shared prosperity among nations.”

Zeti said the current crisis presented the opportunity to re-evaluate, promote and embrace sustainable long-term solutions, adding that globalisation had a deep impact on the way modern economies function.

“The benefits of globalisation have accrued to diverse communities and regions but it has also brought with it significant risks,” she said, noting how the financial crisis had turned into an economic crisis, with repercussions now being felt on a global scale.

The Bank Negara event, themed “Central Banking in the 21st Century: Implications of Economics and Financial Globalisation,” was held in conjunction with the Malaysian central bank’s 50th anniversary.

Central bank representatives from over 50 countries are attending the two-day conference.

China’s central bank governor Dr Zhou Xiaochuan in his keynote address said while the republic was less impacted by the global economic crisis than the West, it would not be insulated.

He said China may use foreign exchange policy and interest rates to reduce the amount people saved and help boost consumption.

“We need a comprehensive package to help lower savings rate, including exchange and interest rates,” he said, adding that there was a need to change consumption spending.

“China needs to cut savings and boost spending,” he said, adding that traditionally Asians tended to save more than people in the West.

Zhou said China needed to emphasise on increasing internal demand or domestic consumption, especially in the rural areas.

To mitigate the downturn, he said China also needed to further develop its financial and capital markets.

All's Well, End's Well 2009

08media — Tue, 03 Feb 2009 15:34:30 GMT

All's Well, End's Well 2009

Release Date
23 January 2009

Language
Cantonese

Running Time
1 Hour 36 Minutes

Director
Vincent Kok

Cast
Louis Koo, Ronald Cheng, Sandra Ng, Raymond Wong Pak Ming, Lee Heung Kam, Ha Chun Chou.

Official website
http://www.happyhome2009.com

Synopsis
Kei (Ronald Cheng) eldest sister Sandra (Sandra Ng) is a hot-tempered magazine editor and her temperament has left her single all this while. They have a traditional family and one of the rules is that none of the siblings could get married before their eldest sister. In view of this, Kei sort help from the famous "Casanova", Koo Chai (Louis Koo), who is the new journalist in Sandra's firm to pretend to court his eldest sister and lure her into the mood of love.

With Sandra falling in love with Koo Chai, she decides to introduce him to her parents (Lee Heung Kam, Ha Chun Chou). However, Koo Chai fell in love with another girl, Mun during an assignment and this broke Sandra's heart. To avoid the disappointment of her parents, Sandra asks Mr. Wong (Raymond Wong) a private investigator to pretend as her boyfriend.

With Sandra love life going nowhere and her career plunging low, will she get what she wants? Will Kei find his true love and marries her sister off? Who will Koo Chai choose? Will all's well end's well?

Trailer

Gala Premiere

Google Earth allows exploration beneath oceans and Mars

08news — Tue, 03 Feb 2009 14:53:03 GMT

Google Earth allows exploration of oceans, Mars
By TERENCE CHEA

The Associated Press

February 02, 2009

Google Inc. on Monday launched a new version of Google Earth that allows users to explore the oceans, view images of Mars and watch regions of the Earth change over time.

The new features mark a significant upgrade to Google Earth, a popular software program that provides access to the world's geographical information through digital maps, satellite imagery and the company's search tools.

Google Earth 5.0 was unveiled at the California Academy of Sciences in San Francisco, where former Vice President Al Gore, singer Jimmy Buffet and others spoke about its capacity to educate the public about global warming, ocean acidification and other threats to the planet.

'This is an extremely powerful educational tool,' said Gore, who won a Nobel Peace Prize for his work raising awareness about climate change. 'One of my fondest hopes is that people around the world will use Google Earth to see for themselves the reality of what's happening because of the climate crisis.'

Google Earth has been downloaded more than 500 million times since it was launched in 2005. The software is available for free on Google's Web site. Researchers and organizations can purchase a more powerful version for $400.

John Hanke, director of Google Earth and Maps, said the idea of adding oceans came three years ago when a scientist pointed out that the software was missing the water that covers almost three-quarters of the Earth's surface.

Google Earth users can now plunge beneath the ocean's surface, explore three-dimensional images of the underwater terrain and view articles and videos about marine science contributed by scientists and organizations such as the National Geographic Society.

The Historical Imagery feature lets users see archive satellite images of individual locations to see how the region has evolved over time as a result of climate change and other forces. For example, viewers can observe how the largest glacier in Glacier National Park has melted over the past decade.

With Google Mars 3D, users can view three-dimensional, satellite imagery of the Red Planet taken during NASA space expeditions.

The new version also allows users to created narrated tours of places using the software's content and images.

'It's not just a fun demo,' said Google Chief Executive Eric Schmidt. 'What it really is is a platform for science and research and literally understanding the future of the world.'

Watch the entire tour series here: http://earth.google.com/tour.html#v=1

Awana Hotels & Resorts Holiday Contest for Bloggers

08deals — Tue, 03 Feb 2009 13:44:54 GMT

Awana Hotels & Resorts Holiday Contest for Bloggers

Rediscover Freedom with Blogs

It’s 2009 now! Does spending more time with your family one of your New Year resolutions this time? Don’t miss the opportunity to win a relaxing holiday at Awana Hotels & Resorts! Blog and you will stand a chance to experience the tranquil beach at Kijal, refreshing highlands or the majestic sea view of Langkawi island.

So what are you waiting for? Start posting and you’ll stand a chance to win a holiday either at Awana Genting Highlands, Awana Kijal, or Awana Porto Malai, Langkawi. All you have to do is drop us an e-mail and we’ll stop by to check out your blog regarding Awana Hotels and Resorts on your entry.

Simple as that!

DEADLINE: 10 February 2009

Grand Prizes:
1st Prize: 3 days 2 nights stay at Awana Kijal for 2 persons with breakfast
2nd Prize: 3 days 2 nights stay at Awana Porto Malai for 2 persons with breakfast
3rd Prize: 2 days 1 night stay at Awana Genting Highlands for 2 persons with breakfast

Weekly Prizes:
3 x 8 weeks 1 Holiday Card worth RM50 for each winner.
(Total - 24 pcs)

For more details: http://www.awana.com.my/en/blogcontest/index.htm

Love Me Do - Top 7 Videos

08gossips — Tue, 03 Feb 2009 11:51:02 GMT

Love Me 'Do - Top 7 Videos in no specific order

CHEAH KEI YUEN & POO MING LEE

LIM MENG FONG & KHOR HUI MING

LEE CHUN BOON & LOUISE CHU WEI SHAN

DANIEL SOO CHOON HAN & YEO WEI NEE

TEO SEH KIAT & YAP HUAY SEAN

LIM HSIEN HAN & WONG BEE HONG

NG CHOR HAO & LAU EE VON

What's Love Me 'Do?
Malaysia's first online public voting wedding contest, where one lucky couple will stand a chance to win a sponsored beach wedding reception of their dreams at Berjaya Langkawi Beach & Spa Resort.

It is an online contest packed with love and excitement. With 4 phases of public voting, blogging, video streaming, picture galleries and mini contests, logging on will become an everyday affair.

Learn more here : http://www.lovemedo.com.my/about-love-me-do

Standard Chartered KL Marathon 2009

08events — Tue, 03 Feb 2009 11:32:15 GMT

Standard Chartered KL Marathon 2009 To Become Biggest Marathon Event In Region

KUALA LUMPUR, Jan 20 (Bernama) -- The inaugural Standard Chartered KL Marathon, one of eight international series, is set to become the biggest marathon event in Malaysia with an expected 12,500 participants.

Youth and Sports Minister Datuk Seri Ismail Sabri said with RM300,000 prize money guaranteed for top Malaysian finishers, the target would be achievable.

"An international race such as the Standard Chartered KL Marathon 2009, will develop an active, healthy and energetic lifestyle among Malaysians as well as foster the spirit of excellence among professional athletes and ordinary citizens from all walks of life," he said adding that participation would be open to all ages.

The marathon's event organiser, Octagon Asia Managing Director, Ivan Brixi said Merdeka Square (Dataran Merdeka) would be the flag off and finishing point for the marathon scheduled on June 28.

He said the route would be decided later, but disclosed that participants are set to run pass several famous tourism landmarks in and around Kuala Lumpur.

"Octagon's goal is to establish the Standard Chartered KL Marathon as the best in the region and to ultimately achieve the silver and gold status recognition from the International Association of Athletics Federations (IAAF)," he said.

Meanwhile, Standard Chartered Bank Malaysia Berhad, managing director and chief executive officer Julian Wyner said KL Marathon is one of eight marathon series sponsored by the bank, worldwide.

"We are very excited to add Kuala Lumpur to the Standard Chartered series of marathons. In all eight countries where we sponsor marathon events, each has created a real buzz among the marathon-running community globally. We know that KL Marathon will be no exception," he said.

The marathon is endorsed by the Youth and Sports Ministry and sanctioned by the Malaysia Amateur Athletic Union (MAAU), IAAF, the Association of International Marathons and Distance Races (AIMS).

-- BERNAMA

Toyota unveils Intelligent Urban Living Designs

08auto — Tue, 03 Feb 2009 11:22:30 GMT

Toyota has announced the winners of a sponsored design competition hosted by London's Royal College of Art. Based on the theme of 'Intelligent Urban Living', the winners include a simple but effective vertical storage system to keep bikes out of reach of thieves and a keyboard display that makes life easier for two-fingered typists.

Inspired by the design of Toyota's innovative iQ city car, which addresses many of the challenges of modern city living with its compact dimensions, the contest generated inspiration that gave a new twist to some familiar household objects and produced innovations to make modern life easier and more environmentally responsible.

Working from the premise of four categories—Living Room, Bedroom, Kitchen and Garage—RCA students and alumni devised new but eminently practical ideas for a great range of everyday items. Three shortlisted designs from each category were presented to a distinguished judging panel that included Lance Scott of Toyota ED2; designers Ron Arad and Sebastien Bergne; Design Week editor Linda Relph Knight; and representatives from Toyota GB Plc, the RCA and marketing agency Brandwidth.

Source: BusinessWeek

Jason Mraz Tours Kuala Lumpur, 4th March 2009

08events — Mon, 19 Jan 2009 14:41:30 GMT

Date/Time: 4th March 2009, 8pm
Venue: Stadium Negara, Kuala Lumpur
Ticket Price: RM258, RM208, RM168, RM138, RM88, RM68

Ticket prices are categorized into RM68 & RM88 (free seating), RM168 & RM208 (number seated) and RM138 (Rock Zone) standing and RM258 (The Pitt standing – limited tickets only) and there will be an exclusive early-bird sale event coming this Saturday, 17 January at Sungei Wang Plaza Concourse from 12pm – 3pm; offering one-off early-bird 15% discount tickets to Jason Mraz Live in Malaysia 2009.

The album’s first single, “I’m Yours” has proven an international radio blockbuster, with worldwide #1 chart-topping runs. “I’m Yours,” which caused an online commotion upon its initial release, can now be found in thousands of user-generated videos from more than 25 countries, with more than 40 million views on YouTube. “I’m Yours” has already received double platinum certification from the RIAA for sales exceeding 2 million in the USA and worldwide.

For more information, visit Axcess Tickets

Exabytes prOXperity Promotion 13th Jan - 31st Jan 2009

08deals — Tue, 13 Jan 2009 15:00:25 GMT

Exabytes is having a webhosting and domain name promotion:

Period: 13th Jan - 31st Jan 2009

50% off on 13 Jan 2009 (Tuesday)
40% off on 14 Jan 2009 (Wednesday)
30% off on 15 Jan 2009 (Thursday)
20% off on 16 til 31 Jan 2009

More details here: Exabytes prOXperity Promotion

Some terms and conditions:
This promotion is applicable for new signup only.
This promotion is not applicable for package renewal.
This is a one-time discount, which means, next hosting renewal price will be the original price before discount.
In case of hosting cancellation, domain's registration fee is not refundable.
Promotion for 50% discount is valid on 13th January 2009 only.
Exabytes reserves the rights to cancel this promotion or make changes without prior notice.

The Invisible Rope: Holiday Video

suki — Wed, 07 Jan 2009 11:39:36 GMT

The Invisible Rope: Holiday Video

Just watch, no need explanation.