Kenneth's Publication

2 CNY Blockbuster

2012-01-24T22:43:00.000+08:00

Let's begin with I Love Hong Kong 2012.

First, the promo for this movie is really huge. Seems like everyone will definitely going to watch this as first choice. The showtime is quite frequent. But what about the story? Well, it is just below expectation level. Last year's was still acceptable, not so funny. This year, the story revolves around a troubled family. The father worked in TV station. He was old but still had a dream of being TV news presenter. He had 2 daughters and 1 son, each with their own issues. Then, they added in 2012 issue saying how important family is regardless end of the world. One big credit and most hilarious part would be their "You're an apple to my eye" parody.

Next, we move on to All's Well Ends Well 2012.

I love 2009 version and it was real funny. The next 2010 and 2011 were not that good. However, 2012 version was really amazing. I like the concept and 4 mini stories. It began with a woman's monologue. She felt that no matter how strong women are, they still need men. Thus, she created a website where women with needs and men with free time can meet up. Then, 4 separate stories unfolded. There were some funny moments and much more better than I Love Hong Kong.

In conclusion, choose the one that ends well.

The Story Of Stuff

2012-01-20T15:56:00.001+08:00

I watched this video awhile ago and the message really caught up on me. I had a deep thought after watching the video and realized one simple message that I wished I knew it years ago.

The story is pretty simple and it tells nothing but the truth. It reveals the true colours of stuff. Yes, stuff, things around us. We often take things for granted and always think that old ones can be always replaced by new one. This is what we do especially when we see things in its monetary value. With sales every corner, we can purchase almost everything. Don't hesitate, just go on and buy it.

I would recommend this video to the whole world especially now. I shall quote "The World is dying" and human begins to forget the true basis. Everyone is going crazy over technologies and gadgets. People are willing to queue for days just to get an item. It is as if we're being judged by these things. You're not cool if you don't own one. Media exaggerates more and attracts more people to fall into the trap.

I now realize that every stuff I own is just a tool in my life. As long as it functions well, I'm fine with it. Maybe it's fun to stay connected with social networks all the time. Maybe it's interesting to play some games while waiting for the trains. But it isn't that important.

When I see stuff on my hands, I don't only label it as a tool. I see its story, the whole processing story. How can I just throw it away when it is still working okay knowing others had worked hard enough to produce that little stuff?

No, we still can buy anything we like. This video isn't against the action of purchasing but gratitude over things we owned. If stuff is spoilt or faulty, it's okay to get a new one. Don't get overwhelmed by the feeling of wanted to buy more and more. Don't get jealous over someone just bought a new stuff and I'm currently using one from Dinosaur era. It doesn't mean I'm a loser.

My advice is simple. Think before we buy. Do we need it? By the word "need", I mean will we fully utilize it at a maximum performance or we simple just feeling like buying it?

Know what? Just by doing so, we're doing a favour for our mother nature. And it doesn't cost you any cent.

Book Voucher

2012-01-19T14:16:00.000+08:00

Thanks to the courtesy of government giving me RM200 book voucher. At first, I really didn't know how to spend it. In the end, I saw so many people finding ways to spend it. I got a clue. Popular bookstore is the first one to post up poster saying they accept the voucher. So, many people go there. It is simple. Just fill in the details on the voucher and give IC to the cashier to verify your identity.

I bought stationery and books. First time ever, I buy books without second thought. I only spent half of the value. I still have another RM100 voucher left. Now I have to think on how to spend it as the voucher will be expiring in another 2 months time.

Front Of The Class

2012-01-15T20:15:00.000+08:00

Okay, this is a made for TV movie and it was aired few years back. But I saw its trailer recently and I felt so touched. Thus, I watched it.

It was based on true story. Brad Cohen suffered from Tourette Syndrome and he faced so many obstacles along his life. When he was a kid in school, he was scolded and warned by so many teachers. He was asked to apologize to the class for making noises and tics. His parents were clueless and didn't know what was wrong with him. Slowly, his mother did her own research and realized that her child might be suffering from this particular syndrome.

His mother began to bring Brad to meet with other similar patients but she regretted it. It was because they seemed to be trying to hide as if they were doomed. Young Brad said "I will not let it win". He continued to live a normal life. One day, a principal changed his life. The principal taught the entire school and gave Brad a chance to speak out, saying he was just fine and wanted to be treated like the rest. From that moment on, he knew what he wanted to be when he grew up.

It wasn't easy at all. He wanted to be a teacher, educating young kids. But honestly, who wanted a teacher who constantly making noises to teach? He got rejected and in the end, one school gave him a chance. He proved that he was a great teacher. By that, he was The Teacher of the Year.

"To let nothing stop you from chasing your dreams"

It was a very touching and inspiring movie. I was really impressed by the actors, young and adult Brad. They portrayed real Brad very well. Besides, this movie opened my eyes and learned about TS. We just really have to be understanding especially to those that we didn't know. For example, if I ever really saw TS in person, I would feel weird. But not anymore. It is okay to be different. I'm different too, having scoliosis.

I did some online search and found out that currently the real Brad is living a good life, having a child. I wish him all the best and he is now my role model, together with Randy Pausch. Both of them changed my perspective towards life and dreams.

Polluted

2012-01-12T12:15:00.003+08:00

There's one thing that I haven't speak out and I kept it inside my heart for quite some time. Somehow I know that people will give a punch on me for this post. But as you all said, this is a free world and everyone has his freedom to speak. And I'm speaking now.

The world has changed. Even the Time magazine had featured Protester as people of the year. I never say protesters are evil. It is good when people are being united together by one concept in mind regardless racial, beliefs, social status and many more. Showing the world that there's only one race, human race.

Unfortunately, this trend is going on a different battle tactics and I'm not liking it anymore. The virus had infiltrated into social network sites. The worst part is that people are abusing it rather than raising awareness. Believe in me when I say raising awareness and abusing it with harsh words are totally 2 different things. Especially after 709.

It is beneficial to share cause through this kind of media and uniting people all around. It's good that young people start to pay attention into politics and have their own understanding towards certain issues. But before you even share any links or photos, have you go through it using a rational mind and morality?

Now, I'm going to give an example. A cow issue is going on for quite some time. Then, people start to attack verbally towards that lady. Soon, more stories were being exposed which related to her family and relatives. Here comes one photo saying "Whole family is a thief". Okay, you think it is appropriate? Why bring down the innocent ones? If you want to scold people, choose your targets, let the innocents one alone.

Let put on a different shoes. Imagine someone blood related with you had done something wrong. Then, later you find out that he is not the only one but many more also doing illegal stuff. One day, people say "This people with this particular surname are all evils doing illegal things". You didn't even do anything but people shout foul words to you.

This is just one example. There are TONNES of similar photos flowing around the social network sites. I have to say majority pictures showed a very low standard of morality. Try to imagine you're being inside the pictures.

Well, I find that the determination of changing is very good. I understand I'm part of the system and I also want a stable, corruption free country. Therefore, I register myself as voter immediately after I reach the age limit. What do you want when you don't even put an effort to go to register?

This is how advertisement works. If they only publish the stories with truth in words, no one will have a look at it. Eye catching titles with photos, different issue.

Don't misunderstood me. I want to change but not through these dirty tricks. You might say some people did even worse but think, you're doing the same, don't it mean you are nothing different than the people you're scolding?

One more thing. Please give me back my clean, unpolluted social network site back.

Exam Time

2012-01-04T18:34:00.002+08:00

It's exam time again. All the best, everyone.

2012 Resolution

2012-01-01T08:00:00.000+08:00

Every year I have new year resolutions. By year end, I will review it back and see how I perform through out the whole year. Let's see how I score for 2011 resolution.

In overall, I did well. I did follow the resolution. But the resolutions were rather general. I wasn't familiar on setting goals, that was why I started with general ones.

Now, it is time to think about new resolutions.

A. Health & Fitness
1. To gain weight till 60-65kg range
2. To maintain both weight training and cardio according to schedule
(3 days of weight training & 2 days of cardio)
3. To control frequency of eating fast food (Not more than 3 times per month)
4. Say No to junk food

B. Education
1. To constantly revise every lectures
2. To review and keep track of thesis progression

C. Finance
1. To continue with budget
2. To control money spend on different aspect
(Budget more to fitness purpose, not for grooming)
3. To save money for graduation trip

D. Personal Life
1. To learn on controlling emotions
2. To learn on how to speak and what to speak
3. To learn on how to socialize with the community
4. To limit the time being spent over social network sites

2011

2011-12-31T08:00:00.000+08:00

Well, another year passed and how was it? It's okay. I'm not a pessimistic guy. I rather forget bad memories at the rate turning over a new page of a book. Lucky that I have a blog so that I can keep track of my own life.

At the beginning of the year, it was my second semester of my third year. I had an on called CSI and compared to previous ones, I thought my team did fairly well. It was a combined case. So, there was a bigger group to share the pressure.

Few months later, we had our moot court session for the case. I didn't get to be the witness but I saw the process. It was exhausting in the sense of being asked lots of tricky questions. It wasn't easy to answer although the questions looked so simple. One single word could change the entire truth.

I started to exercise after being influenced by my roommate. I began to feel the benefits of exercising especially when I did the right routine for my aim, which was gaining weight. I bought dumbbells and designed my routine accordingly. In the end, I did bulk up a bit and gained some kilos. I was thrilled over it because I never thought I could achieve this dream. I tried so many yet none worked. I finally found the right formula. My current weight is 58kg. Before that, I wished to gain up till 60 by year end. I failed but I was satisfied with my goal.

Back to my varsity life, I went hiking with several coursemates. We went to Broga and I was the tour guide. I was happy to do it again.

Next, it was our annual Forensics dinner. My batch was the organizer and we did so many things to work it out. I was the PR and I contacted the hotel. After communicating for so many times, we eventually got a perfect one and we had the best dinner night ever. The dinner was held at Palm Garden Resort Hotel at Putrajaya. It was beautiful and the food was so nice. The theme was Ancient. I wore a Merlin-like kind of clothes with some tattoos on my body. We performed Bad Romance as the ending show. We had so much fun and we were proud of ourselves.

Then, we had our community service. We went to Rumah Amal Peribadi Mulia at Kajang. We helped them cleaning their houses and had some activities with them. Surprisingly, we went there for the second time for the same purpose due to another similar project. But we improved. We brought them to National Museum and Planetarium. I never went to both before too. For this project, I was the program planner along with another 2 partners. We organized the tour and some activities for them.

One transition phase occurred on us which we were officially graduated from FST because we finished our Chemistry syllabus. I was so excited about it because it was finally over. We studied Chemistry for three years and now we could concentrate on our own subjects. It was an honour for us to know other Chemistry students because they really helped us a lot.

In between the period of finishing second semester and industrial training, we organized another program for one particular subject. It was a bowling competition. It was fun and I improved on my skill. My team got 3rd place.

Finally, I continued with my industrial training. It was awesome because I got what I applied. I had 2 months of training at Fire Investigation Department at Sri Rampai along with another 3 coursemates. I went to several fire scenes and learned to perform some investigations. I also went to HQ at Cyberjaya for meeting. I really learned a lot in these 2 months. I also had a chance to pay a visit to K9 unit and had a look at those dogs doing their work. It was an amazing experience for me.

I attended another convocation session which involved my seniors and my friends but only UKM. There was one for UM but I couldn't go there for several reasons. Anyway, it was great knowing that I will be standing there on the next session. It was memorable with them.

Beside of gaining weight dream came true, I had another one which also came true. I went to Popular Bookfest and met with my favourite idol, Jimmy. I read his book when I was 15 and even till now, I was still a fan. I got his signature and I was so happy.

For the first time ever, I also attended an international symposium. It was the 2nd International Forensic Science Symposium at Le Meridien Hotel. I learned so much with those experts and I got to visit JKM HQ. I met with some people and I learned to socialize in the society.

Now here came the bad memories. I got my thesis title and fortunately my topic was quite straightforward and simple. I did well on my proposal presentation. But when it came to some protocol and application issues, it was a mess. Somehow, there was no effective communication between our office and us because we were being told about urgent stuff at the very last minute. We hated it so much but couldn't do anything at all. Up until now, there were so many problems not being solved yet. I didn't know what will happen for the next few months.

Thanks to one of our lecturer. He arranged 2 trips for us. Although it was on our study week, it was still a good experience for us to pay a visit to Forensic Lab at PDRM Cheras and Forensic Department at JKM.

For holiday, I travelled to oversea for the first time in my life. I went to Singapore with my family. It was a 3-days trip and it was wonderful. We met with relatives and had dinner together. We had amazing time at Universal Studio. I also went to Malacca with my family on CNY too.

Occasionally, I also went to several places to hang out either with family and friends. Online voucher started to expand and this year I got to go to many place for cheaper food.

So, that's my 2011. It was a good year. I hope the next one will be even better. Stay tuned for the next post. My review on 2011's resolutions and my new year resolution.

The Celebration

2011-12-28T21:30:00.002+08:00

Being born in Malaysia makes us know more about different celebrations. We can get a chance to understand more about certain holidays besides of just a day off. For example, Hari Raya, Chinese New Year, Deepavali and Christmas. We celebrate all together. That's what us Malaysians so special compare to other countries.

However, I was slightly disappointed to see several negative news about certain celebration. The news seemed to be like taking one step backward from achieving the goal of being united regardless races. It is kind of difficult for me to explain. I think I shall use an example or a story.

I'm not a Christian. So, Christmas isn't a celebration for me. So do Raya and Deepavali. But I did learn some morals in each celebration. Christmas is about giving and sharing what we have. It's like spreading love all around. One thing I like about Raya is the theme of "maaf zahir batin" which we ask for forgiveness of the things we did wrongly in the past year. Thus, I still wish everyone and my wish didn't reflect my betrayal to my own belief and religion. I understand that it is an important thing for others. I don't think that giving wishes is that difficult and wrong.

Sometimes, if we still don't get the big picture, we might end up in the same situation. We won't be as united as we claim to the world. Don't just say we're 1 Malaysia but prove it with our action.

Winter Solstice

2011-12-22T22:13:00.000+08:00

Wishing everyone to have the best Winter Solstice and have a little taste of Tang Yuan

Voucher Meltdown

2011-12-18T16:49:00.002+08:00

I have to say that the world is moving at a very fast rate. To be exact, I should say Internet is super fast. One minute, there's a voucher for everyone. Then, on the next minute, the coupon is being cancelled due to overwhelming support.

I found it amusing to see people reaction over it. No offence. Of course, KFC wasn't being responsible enough over the issue. They didn't think it through before they wanted to make the move. It was kind of difficult to take it back once you gave the promise. I guess they get to learn a big lesson.

Some people just take it and accept it but not for majority. Some repeatedly share the news to boycott KFC. I just laugh because, yes, boycott, for how long then? A week, a month or a year? I didn't mean to mock at people but sometimes we have to be rational over some issues.

When we face disappointing news, the way we handle it is very important. It reflects our personality. Believe me that in this community, our personality through other people's eyes is extremely vital as it affects everything in our life. Either we can transform into Hulk and damage everything or we can just be cool and laugh it away. Making ourselves angry and hypertension over a fact isn't worth it. We can perform so much better.

Anyway, hope that this brand learned from the meltdown and let not it repeat again in the future.

Things I Learned While Planning Trip

2011-12-15T22:27:00.000+08:00

Being the youngest in family means that I don't have to do many works. In term of family trip, what I have to do is just hop into the car and be a yellow Digi man. Slowly, when I grow up, I will be given more responsibilities. For example, I just contribute a small part by doing rough survey and plan simple outline. That was what I did for my last family trip to Singapore. But that was just for 3 days.

However, I'm the alpha in my pack. So, I have the responsibility to help out whatever I can. I will be going to Taiwan for my graduation trip. It's on July next year. Well, you may say it is too early to plan. But I just don't want to worry over it on my final semester. In the end, before I even go there, I really learn a lot. Suddenly, I feel like I'm more mature than before.

1. Everything is on the Internet
Just google and we can virtually find everything. But sometimes information can be overloaded. For example, this website say this and that say that. How you know which one is reliable? It is kind of difficult in that sense.

2. Be strong and firm to do sacrifice
Every places seem so interesting. But we have to be realistic. Thus, sometimes we just have to sacrifice some spots. It is sad and disappointing but nothing is perfect.

3. Don't just think of spots, think of transport
Again, same like previous one. Pamphlet might introduce everywhere. The tourism just want to earn money from us. Of course they will print out every places. But if one is at north while one is at south, you just can't have both at the same time. For me, I'll choose which one is more convenient.

4. Planning means a plan with details
When people ask you to plan, better don't just plan like A, B and C. Your plan must come with details like what's so special, how to go, time and many more. With details, you'll slowly see the big picture and understand what I mean by the 3 things I learned as above.

5. Be prepared mentally
This one is the most difficult but the best lesson. What I say is that after planning is done, you'll have to be prepared while presenting it. People will agree and disagree. Or maybe you'll have to do lots of changes. So, work overtime.

6. Ignore the drama
Another difficult but nice lesson. During any discussion, there'll be moments when people just want everything to be settled off quickly. So, most of the time, it will be no comments. Then, comments may start to resurface out of the blue after a while. There will be lots of different characteristics to be handled but you just have to learn to ignore them.

7. Don't expect appreciation
When your plan is not good, people will say different things. But they mean no harm because different people looks at things differently. But when you come up with plan full of every details, don't wish for appreciation. You're just a fool by doing so.

8. Learn the cycle
Ultimately when I learned all 7 lessons above, I learn one more. I know how to behave or react when someone is planning for me in the future. Been there, done that. I know the proper and appropriate ways to give suggestions.

In short, I'm really glad that I can be the planner. I never thought I'm capable of being one. Well, I don't know whether my plan is good or bad. At least, I accomplish something and pick up few techniques. This is beneficial for my future life. I like it and I'm proud of myself.

You, who is reading this post, no, I'm not saying about you. Don't worry. LOL.

Extra Pocket Money

2011-12-14T21:15:00.003+08:00

Well, the hottest topic for uncle auntie in the coffee shop will be the RM500 fund for the public. Mostly they will gain benefits from this action by the government. Definitely there are rules and regulations and we have apply for it. My parents heard about it and asked me to get the forms online. My parents aren't qualified to get the money but my grandmother and uncle can.

So, as usual, I try to access the website but typically the site crashed due to heavy traffic. So, I can't get any info about it. Then, one fine morning, I tried again and managed to download the form. I even got the address of places where the forms should be submitted to. The nearest place was Menara PGRM.

My parents called my grandmother and uncle. I helped them to fill up the forms. Then, I brought them to the place. I never drove to there before and I certainly didn't know about the carpark over there. But I just went with it. In the end, I managed to get into one carpark building. As I went to the lobby, I heard noises and I was right, there were counters at the lobby.

It was so crowded with many senior citizens. I saw the lines and help my parents to queue up. Meantime, there was one auntie asked me where to take the form. Well, I downloaded it from the Internet. She asked me to take form for her. Okay, I can help and luckily there was one officer giving out forms like Santa. I took one and gave it to her. She asked me to help her fill up the forms. I directed her to the counters where there were officers standing by. Not that I didn't want to help but who is going to help my grandmother and uncle if I was away?

The submission took less than 5 minutes. It was fast because we prepared everything. Along the way, I heard so many stories and I bet there were quite many rumours spreading around. Of course, I was there to help my both applicants and I could speak better to the officers. But I saw many old people struggling especially those weren't good at Bahasa.

However, overall, it is good to have such fund. Now, it's time to wait whether the money is being approved or not.

Beary Christmas at Pavilion

2011-12-12T14:16:00.001+08:00

At the beginning of December, I was slightly busy with my studies and I didn't know about the bears at Pavilion. I saw few pictures through Facebook and started to be a bit curious. So, I went to have a look. Well, please drop by Pavilion because it is one nice attraction spots for everyone.

Let's give a warm greeting to all United Buddy Bears for coming to Southeast Asia for the first time. It is a brilliant idea to have an exhibition like this. If you want to read more about the ideas behind the bear, you can always google it. For now, I'll share the pictures out.

While every places are fighting to be the best attraction in town, I think Pavilion just won. Have a nice holiday with family and friends at here.

Love the world. Peace.

Having a Diary Planner

2011-12-09T16:46:00.001+08:00

Sometimes when I saw someone using a diary planner, I doubt whether he or she was really using it or faking it. Unless you're a very very busy man, I still don't think that diary planner is that important. I tried to use it before but it didn't end well because I stopped recording things with the planner. I admit that I maybe just 3 minutes and also I don't have that kind of hectic life. I am busy but just not that busy up till the level of using a diary planner.

I have a diary planner and I reach out back to it when things are getting more complex. The year is ending and there are too many stuff to remember. For example, the date of classes and other appointment. The benefit of jotting down the date is not just as reminder but also knowing that you'll be having errands to run on that specific day. If you need other thing, you'll have to choose another day.

Some might say, why plan? Just go with the flow. For me, of course we can't plan everything and no plan is ever perfect. But by having plan, things get easier to be handled with and we can seize the day we have. Not necessarily that we have to use a diary planner, just use a way that we are comfortable with.

A Day with Future Forensic Entomologists

2011-12-01T20:35:00.001+08:00

I followed my coursemates, Mr Yap and Miss Woon to go to the simulation site and watched them doing their final year project. Some might wonder, why two of them have to go there early morning and leave around evening so often. Well, I spent the day with them as I had my own issue to be settled off at there as well.

First thing in the morning, Yap had to go into one particular cabin where his rabbit carcass was left to decompose. For hygiene and safety purpose, I didn't enter the cabin. He took an hour to collect sample and collect observation data. Meanwhile, Woon examined her soil sample and her sample collected yesterday.

After that, Yap would have to try to capture any live insects that might be surrounding his carcass subject. He did it by using the net at the ventilation fan hole outside the cabin.

Unfortunately, during the 3rd day of their project, which was weeks ago, their control sample went missing. Thus, they couldn't collect any data for the control sample. So, they had less thing to do for this moment. The sample they collected were actually quite a lot.

Later, they would go to collect their data logger containing the climate data and transfer the information into laptop.

That's the job for the morning. Normally by the time they finished the work, it would be lunch time. With me as special guest, we went to have lunch outside UKM together.

After lunch, we returned to simulation site again. Today, their supervisor would be joining as well to assist them on the work.

They had their discussion. Yap went into the cabin again for the second data collection. Woon had less work to do because she had more work to do on the 7th, 14th, 21st and 28th day. She already did her work yesterday.

As for me, I had my discussion with their supervisor too regarding to some issues about burial of carcass.

Then, the session ended and that was my day with 2 future forensic entomologists in the simulation site UKM, Bangi.

Before I ended my post, allow me to introduce our forensic's replica of Dharma Intiative Van shown in drama LOST.

When The Last Minute is Approaching

2011-11-30T20:37:00.001+08:00

As I predicted, this week is going to be a long week. But I failed to predict one phenomenon. It seems like all hell break loose and everyone is getting grumpier.

Firstly, as I mentioned on previous post, the class arrangement is super complicated. The class is on and off. Thus, everyone is getting confused about the latest information. You ask me, I ask you. In the end, we got fed up because of the question is being repeated again and again.

Actually, what is the root of the trouble?

The answer is just simple, Attendance.

Somehow, students nowadays are getting busier and there are too much things to handle other than going to class for lectures. Absent isn't good because you'll miss the topic and it will be difficult to understand the next topics. In the end, the timetable has to be reschedule in order to fit everyone's timetable.

What is the consequence?

Things turn to last minute stuff.

When last minute is approaching, we become less patient. So, we tend to be grumpy and angry easily. We can't control our emotion well and start to say things without thinking about it. For example, scolding people over something that he or she never done nor said. The tension builds up and narrow our perspective. We start to lose focus of the bigger picture.

When last minute is approaching, we need a systematic plan to compensate with the precious time. Then, when a slight change occurs, the whole plan tumbles down. We get crazy and lose our mind. But we still need to be alert again and start the planning all over again. We can't deal with life and can't cope with the stress.

So what will happen next? At the end of the day, we just have to go through and get the work done. But if we're lucky to have spare time, we can complain it to someone else.

I will be a listener if you need someone to complain to. It's good as in you let the emotion out of your system. But maybe there's a better way. Find and give own self 5 minutes to leave the mind blank. Then, think and rethink about the topics or problems you faced. When you cool down, you start to think right. Maybe in the end, you understand that the issues just don't worth it for you to be so upset about.

For my batch, we're just one semester and a half away from graduating. Soon, we'll be enter the labour market. It is time for us to suit up and boost our EQ level. It's time to prove to our future boss that we are the one he or she needed.

The last minute is just another evaluation test.

Born Alpha or Being Take For Granted?

2011-11-29T20:07:00.001+08:00

Sometimes I wonder who am I in my circles. I seems to be the one in charge on almost everything especially in normal gathering. Even when I'm not in charge, I will be a target to be asked upon all questions. I don't know the reason why it seems to be everything have to go through me and why I tends to be the one making decision. Am I an alpha male?

Alpha male is used to describe a male individual who possesses the highest rank in the community. For animals like wolves, you can always see there's one particular wolf which stands out in the pack. It leads the way and other wolves follow it. In human society, alpha male always refer to those who have most social efforts and building alliances. In simple word, he is the one you go to when there's question. Normally, he is the one who makes all the decisions and when there's a trouble, he automatically stands out and solve the problem. All his friends listen to him.

Now, I make a review of my role in my community. I often be the one who make decisions. Even if someone made one, he or she still ask me and I give the order. I admit sometimes I volunteer myself but as time goes by, people still look at me as the person in charge although I have nothing to do with the matter. Not that I hate it but why me?

Sometimes, I prefer an organization system. There's always someone with the appropriate power and his own jurisdiction to control. Then, people know whom to ask by referring the area of topics. But the problem is I will need to list out the hierarchy.

Sometimes, it isn't the matter of alpha or not. Maybe the reason is just even simple. People tend to take things for granted. For example, when you volunteer to do one thing, you completed it and people look for you for the second time. Then the cycle continues.

I might be an alpha. You may dislike the way I do things. It's not my problem. It's yours because you don't seize the chance when you have it. Maybe that I see things beyond and I just merely want to point it out. But I don't mean to take over anything.

What do I want?

I just want to be left alone sometimes. I don't have the urge to stand on the top. I don't have the traits to be an alpha forever. I'm willing to learn. But the thing is in our human society, we can't just sit back and accept any roles given to us. I mean, everyone has to be an alpha anyway. Why not just switch the seats occasionally?

Or perhaps it's just destiny?

The Worst Semester

2011-11-28T19:26:00.001+08:00

Looking back at the 3 years spent in both main campus and branch campus, I just realize that the old problems our batch faced were merely small cases. For example, being an isolated group in main campus, had to do everything on our own, exploring everything, going back and forth for missed classes, having no holidays. Some problems were solved but I think everything was pretty much the same for this semester. I was wrong because it was far worse than ever.

I did understand that the authority helped us a lot and they were busy too. Their hands were tied and sometimes they just couldn't do much. I knew that and I wasn't trying to blame them. But I just didn't understand why such problems occurred and somehow, we had to bear all consequences alone and we didn't even have anyone to talk to. For 4 years, we had been suffering and no one understood us.

I was happy that we finally moved back to the branch campus after staying at main campus for 2 years. We were proud because we were the only course who managed to go through both campus lifestyle simultaneously. I thought that no more Chemistry classes and all subjects would be taught by own lecturers, things would change. I was disappointed.

We were clueless that the lecturers weren't being informed at all. They didn't have the guide or course content and we as students only had the old ones from seniors. But the problems were they made some changes and no one knew about the changes. So, we had to improvise by ourselves. The lecturers didn't know about course contents and the worst part was we had no solid fixed timetable. For 4 years, we had to arrange our classes. Time passed and what did we learn? Soft skill of dealing with troubles or academic stuff?

Last time, we were all sad of the ethics form which we had to fill in and submitted for our final year project. We sent it before due date and they only notified us the real procedure 2 days before the due date. The 2 days were even weekends. The worst part was we were being said of doing last minute job. What else could we say? We took it as if we were the one to be blamed.

Sometimes, the classes were being cancelled off again and again. This really spoiled the timetable because eventually we had to replace back. With no solid fixed timetable, everything was being packed at the end of semester. I knew we were smart students but I really didn't think that we deserved such destiny.

To be honest, the subjects for this semester were actually great and all of us were looking forward to finally have a Forensics semester. But the price was all things mentioned as above.

I live everyday as the most precious day because we'll never know what will happen afterwards. Class cancelled? On called class? New pop ups problems? But we are alone because no one will understands us. We have only each other to hold on to.

Not Just An Ordinary Birthday Anymore

2011-11-24T12:08:00.001+08:00

I was helping my parents to pay some bills in post office. Unfortunately, there was some technical problem and we had to queue up in an old fashioned way rather than taking a number. So, I followed the instruction and waited for my turn.

There was one particular old man who took quite some time. Later I realized he wanted to renew his driver's license. I overheard him telling the guy that he wanted to renew for a year. Well, this was when everything started.

On the next time Malaysians renew the license, we can all sync the date to our birthday automatically. Upon of doing that, for those whose birthday is more than 6 months away from the original date will be charged extra. So, for this uncle, that was the case for him. Sorry, you had to pay extra. He seemed to be reluctant and insisted to only renew for a year, in Chinese, "ngam-ngam" 1 year. The guy explained but as usual, the servants tend to either speak very softly or extremely loud, I think the uncle didn't understand his explanation.

Well, now I understood the importance of staying alert on current news. I'm not an everyday reader but luckily I followed some news. We need to because this will affect our life. For example, this uncle dragged the processing time because he didn't know about the latest renewal system. He asked another younger man standing behind him and seemed that this fellow didn't know either. They must be thinking that the post office guy cheated for more money.

So people, remember that after you renew your license and sync the date, birthday is not just birthday anymore. The government implemented this action as the way to prevent the typical "lupa-ness". No more excuses, as they said.

The moral of the story is to read newspaper or by whatever mean, know the latest issues.

IFSS Malaysia 2011 Day 3

2011-11-23T15:30:00.001+08:00

Finally, it was the last day of the symposium. It was like the previous day. We gathered in a big ballroom for common sessions. This time, the topic was really related to us as Forensic Science students. The speakers were basically sharing their opinions about the real scenario of Forensic Science in the world especially our country and the challenges in the future.

One particular part which I totally agreed upon would be the CSI effect where the Hollywood put Forensic Science in such glamour spotlight and this wasn't good. For instance, the public suddenly think that they are the expert by just watching the show. Sometimes, what they showed in the drama wasn't the real truth and it brought up many negative consequences. In the end, we had to change and actually be more cautious while doing our work.

After that, we had our last lunch and moved to different sessions. I followed Toxicology session. Then, there was a closing ceremony and awards presentation. Fortunately, our own office won a prize for the poster presentation. We took pictures and left.

Well, in short, I didn't take many pictures. But what I got was way more than the price I paid. It was a great experience and if there will be another event, I will consider to join. I received the certificate and I liked it.

This symposium had opened my mind.

IFSS Malaysia 2011 Day 2

2011-11-18T10:49:00.001+08:00

The symposium was being launched officially with the opening ceremony on the second day. I noticed that there were a slight increase of number of participants. We were gathered in the main big ballroom. The ceremony started with speeches. Then it moved on to plenary and common sessions.

For the sessions, there were several interesting topics and foreign speakers were delivering the presentation. The main topics were regarding to the stories about the importance of having DNA database in the country and how forensics changed our world. Time limit was a factor and in the end, we had our lunch late. Again, we had our lunch at the hotel cafe.

After lunch, there were 4 different sessions. I continued with the toxicology sessions. There were 4 speakers giving the presentations. The topics were quite nice, for example, the drug labs in our country, the new invention to give more accurate results and some stories about certain drugs. I tried to grab as much as I could. I was extremely tired and I was forcing my eyes to open. The sessions ended around 4pm and I decided to go back home first. I wanted to rest and went back there for the symposium dinner which started at 8pm.

Luckily it was convenient for me to go back home and I managed to take a short rest. I took a shower and a nap. Then, I went back to the hotel again for the dinner.

The dinner was held at the same ballroom and we were given lucky number. But in the end, I didn't get the chance. The buffet food was good and there was performance along the dinner. We met the forensic science students from USM and took some pictures.

After the dinner ended, I went back home. It was a busy day and it was my birthday as well. This was my busiest birthday ever, for 23 years.

IFSS Malaysia 2011 Day 1

2011-11-14T19:48:00.001+08:00

Weeks ago, we received a news from our Head of Program encouraging us to join a symposium. It is the 2nd International Forensic Science Symposium Malaysia 2011 which was held in Le Meridien Hotel, KL Sentral. I was indecisive about it. I gave it a thought for awhile and I decided to join. I missed the 1st, so I wasn't going to miss the 2nd. Besides, it is a good chance to see the world out there, forensically.

Day 1:
I went to the venue with RapidKL, it was located near to KL Sentral. So, taking public transport was a wise choice because it was just 3 minutes walk away from the station. I registered myself and received some goodies.

The registration fee was RM150 but it worth every penny. I joined the Toxicology workshop because I had interest towards it. The topic for the morning session was the introduction of a new SPE-LC machine. Luckily I had some basic knowledge of analytical chemistry to understand the concept.

Surprisingly, lunch was provided. Guess what? We had the buffet lunch and it was really nice. Sorry for no pictures because I was too busy to eat. First round, rice & dishes. Then, Indian rice & dishes, desserts, fruits and ice-cream. I was so full.

I got to join the afternoon session where the workshop took place at JKM HQ. Bus was provided to bring us there. It was my first time visit to JKM. There was a lecture about one particular instrument, QTRAP. It was slightly complicated and the technique was a bit advanced for me to understand. But I still could understand the basic concept. There was a lab demonstration and quiz.

For quiz, everyone had chance to win any prizes. I got 2, one punching bag and one timer. I was the first one to answer and so I could choose my prize. I was satisfied.

That was it for the first day.

Snowflake

2011-11-10T12:14:00.001+08:00

By far, my most favourite dessert will be Snowflake. It is tasty, sweet and full of happiness. I love it immediately after my first try. Now, the business is growing and more people are becoming fans, so do I.

I would recommend Bestseller. It is simple and the best among all. Of course, I tried several flavours as well, for example, soya ice series. For those who want to have hot dessert, there are many varieties in the menu waiting for you. So, no excuse as too sick to have a dessert.

Another thing I like about Snowflake is UFO. Yes, you heard me right. UFO. Well, sometimes it is annoying to wait for nice food. They have a little device for us and we can sit back relax while waiting for our dessert. When it is ready, it will be flashing in red lights and vibrating. So, we will go and collect our orders. The main point is that the waiting time is not that long even if many people are buying.

Now, one last thing I would recommend is the latest dessert, Japan Combo. I didn't have it last time but now it's back and I have to say I fall for it. It is so nice. It is soya ice with green tea balls, baby pearls and red beans. I really enjoy it.

Feeling hot and want to taste something refreshing? Wait no more, drop by at Snowflake. Long queue? Bear with it because it worth any waiting minutes.

It's Time to Think about It

2011-11-08T18:56:00.000+08:00

Sometimes, it's just weird to see the news. For example, Seksualiti Merdeka had been on going for 2 years and out of a sudden, it becomes an issue. But I think it's time for us, the country, to think about it. No more avoiding taboo topics because if we keep on ignore it, it will going to be a big issue in the future.

For me, sexuality is rather a sensitive and private topic. I once asked myself one question, what is someone you know very well had been living in a closet for years and he or she is suffering in life. What will I do? What if one day, someone that close committed suicide just because he or she can't deal with it in life? I guess, no human is allowed to do so because life is too precious.

Maybe politicians step in and try to do something. No matter what, I think LBGT deserves a platform and state out their voice. I admire The Trevor Project and they are trying so hard to prevent youth from committing suicide just because of their sexuality. Maybe it's time for our country to consider about them, show them that we care. If you are facing a problem, I'll be holding your hand to go through the darkest hour. Isn't it the basic humanity that we should all embrace?

I don't know and I can't give any answer such as right or wrong. But it is an issue that we have to handle carefully. What I know is wrong is judging people. For instance, banning a singer because of his sexuality is simply unwise.

Give yourself a time and listen to the voices. We are all the same. We are 1 human race.