World Tour For Children... you are not forgotten

08 March 2025 Life begins at 44

2025-03-08T13:46:00.000-08:00

A lot has happened over the last three and a half years. I didn’t realize the last update on this blog was on August 10, 2021. Sometimes, as humans, we become overshadowed by the events happening around us, but we forget that the most important thing about life is 'us.' I remember a friend telling me a long time ago, 'Life is a journey, not a destination.' Remember to enjoy the beauty of life as we travel along our journey.

Here I am again, settling down in another new country, Qatar. I have long enjoyed quietness, a feeling I call bliss, while others call loneliness. It has been a while since I’ve returned to this state of mind, where I can feel my inner self aligning with my soul—a feeling beyond description. Emptiness.

Like the old Buddhist teaching says, 'Emptiness is full, full is emptiness.' In my own words, you see much more by shutting your eyes, hear more by closing your ears, and say more by closing your mouth.

However, the core principle of World Tour For Children has not changed, and our support for underprivileged children remains unwavering. We believe children are our future, and each child is special to their parents. We support Da Ai Charity (officially registered as Talian Hayat Kehidupan Malaysia Social Welfare), founded in 2016 and located in the old district of Petaling Jaya, Malaysia.

I have supported numerous donation efforts through Hung Lee Precision Sdn Bhd in Penang. As a responsible business owner, I believe no man is an island, and the sole purpose of our existence is to help our fellow human beings.

The Universe continues to show me its blessings, and I am grateful for how it guides me on the path to my life’s destiny.

We have even started our family tradition of an annual vacation together. Our first family vacation destination was Genting Highlands in 2023, followed by Lenggong GeoPark in Perak in 2024, and Legoland Johor in 2025. As parents, the best gift I can give them is a wonderful childhood memory, and I hope they will cherish these moments for the longest time.

My faithful wife, Cassandra, has always been the pillar of my life. Our life continues to evolve, and I am filled with love and appreciation for my wonderful wife, for her unwavering support, kindness, and the joy she brings into my life every day.

I am proud to introduce Axl Foong, our youngest child in the Foong family. Born on July 5th, 2023, Axl's birth reminded me of how the Universe works in its own unique way. I remember I was still in Brunei when I received a phone call from my wife in Penang, announcing the pregnancy. I could not hide my inner joy and happiness.

I would like to sign off today’s post by committing to visiting at least one children’s home each year, starting in 2025. It has been too many years since our last visit in 2019 to Sivananda Home in Kuala Kubu Baru.

Thus, life begins at 44. No matter what age you are, you can always reinvent yourself, pursue new dreams, and live life with intention.

10 August 2021 Memorable Day Panaga Brunei

2021-08-09T08:56:00.002-07:00

It has been almost two years since my last update. Life is treating me very well and in fact, I am very grateful to the Universe for placing me and my better half in this very friendly and welcoming country, Brunei. I take this opportunity to introduce Cassandra Tang, a wonderful woman I knew since I was 16 years old and a long- lost friend for 19 years.

Suffolk House Penang

We tied the knot in Penang on 12 June 2020 and had our little wedding photography at the Penang famous Suffolk House. The Suffolk House is a Georgian-styled mansion completed in 1809. During the 1810s and 1820s, the mansion was a Government House that assumed the role as a meeting place for critical political discussions, including, most notably, discussions with Stamford Raffles regarding the founding of Singapore.

Our very own Lifestyle magazine published 2021

Not too long after our wedding, I returned to Brunei from Penang and Cassandra joined me within 3 months apart. This is Cassandra's first time leaving her comfort zone in Penang to live abroad permanently. A game-changer for both of us indeed.

Sg Liang hiking trail

We found our favourite strawberry shake at Grandstand Seria!

We knew both of us came from very different backgrounds and bring along mixed life experiences. Along the way, we found our middle way by merely open communications as husband and wife. Middle Way is to find a balance between all extremes and to be able to see the truth those lies in the middle. When emotions such as happiness and sorrow or love and hate are taken to the extreme, they bring suffering.

Ulu National Park Temburong

Cassandra masterpiece

Mr Khoo and family

We met many wonderful family and friends here who treat us as part of their family. Both me and Cassandra feel extremely fortunate and no words could express our sincere gratitude towards the love and care they showed to us.

Capt Hau with his best Malaccan ikan asam pedas

Premium toddler support Brunei

Walnut!

Our motherly figure 干妈 Ah King during 2021 Chinese New Year

Thank you Brunei for COVID vaccination!

Dolphin wreck Muara Brunei

19 June 2021 Question: Where did you get the love from?

Our beautiful one year in beloved Brunei 2021!

Cassadra is relentlessly giving her best for our family, and she is one very strong, independent, sometimes crazy, and sexiest woman I ever met!

Happy 37th birthday my love and thank you for loving me, trusting me and spending your life with me.

I love you

09 August 2019 till 21 Aug 2019 Leh Ladakh India

2019-09-26T23:14:00.002-07:00

My sincere heartfelt appreciation to fellow riders for their beautiful photos especially Meng Lee who took the effort to produce the video for our trip. Our riders are Alvin, Ah Singh, Darren, Archie, Eugene, Hament, Heng, Koh and Quentin.

Pump up your volume on the video 😁

This trip has always been part of my bucket list. This trip was originally planned for early 2019 however it was cancelled due to busy work schedule. However as always, I never give up and continue to make arrangement so I could join my buddy Archie and the rest for the trip in August 2019.

I left Miri Malaysia to Singapore the day before our flight to Delhi. The excitement is all ramp up and this is the first overland trip since the long trip in 2012.

Our original trip schedule

Its been 18 years since my last trip to India. I remember vividly I was onboard APL (now defunct American President Line) container vessel APL Cairo calling to Port of Nhava Sheva on the west coast of India.

Old city of Leh Ladakh

Collection of hand made jewelry and Tibetan singing bowl

Fruit vendor in the middle of Leh town

First day in Leh

The journey up to Leh Palace

Leh Palace is a former royal palace overlooking the town of Leh, Ladakh, in the Indian Himalayas.

The palace was constructed circa 1600 by Sengge Namgyal. The palace was abandoned when Dogra forces took control of Ladakh in the mid-19th century and forced the royal family to move to Stok Palace.

Leh Palace Royal praying room

The first day at such high attitude can the quite taxing for person like me who came from Brunei. Altitude sickness can affect anyone who goes to high altitudes without giving the body time to adjust to the changes in air pressure and oxygen level.

Constant flow of stream behind our hotel

The second day of our trip started early as we are preparing for our familiarisation ride to Magnetic hill. Located at a distance of 30 km from Leh city on the Leh-Kargil Highway is a small stretch of road that defies the phenomenon of gravity. The reason is the magnetic hill that pulls stationary vehicles upwards. Famous as the Magnetic Hill in Ladakh, it is a major tourist attraction in the valley and a perfect pit-stop for tired riders moving on the highway.

Our first group riding photo

Second day of the trip brought up from Leh to Hunder, passing the Khardung La Pass at 5359m above the sea level. The pass on the Ladakh Range is north of Leh and is the gateway to the Shyok and Nubra valleys. The Siachen Glacier lies part way up the latter valley. Built in 1976, it was opened to public motor vehicles in 1988. Maintained by the Border Roads Organisation, the pass is strategically important to India as it is used to carry supplies to the Siachen Glacier.

Archie, Alvin and Steven before we left Ewon hotel

Archie enjoying his photography

Khardung La Pass checkpoint

My first ride at 17582ft!

We arrived Hunder and stayed here for 2 nights. Hundar is a village in the Leh district of Ladakh, India famous for Sand dune, Bactrian camel. It is located in the Nubra tehsil, on the bank of Shayok River. The Hunder Monastery is located here.

Double rainbow at Hunder

The long road from Tuktuk to Hunder

Meng Lee point of view

Steven first water crossing

Milky way

This view is taken from Leh

Day 5 bring us from Hunder to Pongong lake. The distance is more than 120km and we even got lost half way through the journey.

Pangong Tso, Tibetan for "high grassland lake", also referred to as Pangong Lake, is an endorheic lake in the Himalayas situated at a height of about 4,350 m.

Where are we?

Pongong Lake accomodation

Traditional wooden yark woven machine

Day 6 bring us from Pongong lake to Hanle. Truthfully, I cannot recall Hanle after a month return from the trip. This is probably early sign of mid life crisis man

Alvin distinct scramble helmet

Is that Archie?

Eugene in action!

Our hero Mr Heng steadily into the water

The man, Quentin and Singh

How do I look?

Day 7 is the most interesting day among all as we had skin dipping in the Moriri lake! Both me and Heng big brother decided to dip in one of highest lake in the world!

The lake is at an altitude of 4,522 m (14,836 ft). It is the largest of the high altitude lakes entirely within India and entirely within Ladakh in this Trans-Himalayan biogeographic region. It is about 16 miles (26 km) north to south in length and two to three miles (3 to 5 km) wide. The lake has no outlet at present and the water is brackish though not very perceptible to taste.

Back to mother nature with bare all

The lake is fed by springs and snow melt and has a maximum depth of 40 m (130 ft). Aridity and cold desert conditions prevail in the lake region; with summer temperature varying from 0° to 30° C (32° to 86° F) and winter temperature recording −10° and −40° C (14° to -40° F).

Moriri Lake famous for her mirror image beauty

On our last day riding, we did not sleepover in Lato as planned earlier and we return directly to Leh town.

Malali to Leh highway highest pass at 1300ft

The average elevation of Leh-Manali highway is more than 4,000 m (13,000 feet) and its highest elevation is 5,328 m (17,480 ft) at Tanglang La mountain pass. It is flanked by mountain ranges on both sides, featuring stunning sand and rock natural formations.

BSA just keep moving

Our reliable technical support Mr Pinky Singh and team

Steven motorcycle after many days of harsh riding. The back mud guard dropped and secured with temporary raffia rope

Our team arrived safely back to Leh on 16 Aug 2019 and the trip has been most memorable. In fact, I love the trip so much that I am planning for a returning trip in 2020.

Thank you everyone for the wonderful riding experience. We will return again.

Ride to Live, Live to Ride.

River kayaking Stage 3 at the Indus River

03 August 2019 Sivananda Home Kuala Kubu Baru Selangor Malaysia

2019-08-06T14:06:00.001-07:00

First be good person, then religious person

-Sri IR Arumainathan

It has been slightly over four years since our last visit to Baitul Husna Bukit Sekilau Kampung Batu Hitam Pahang Malaysia on 27 June 2015.

The previous balance carried forward remains RM 4604.56 and we decided not to spend this amount during the visit to Sivananda Home Kuala Kubu Baru.

World Tour For Children would like to extend our gratitude to Bum Seng Manufacturing, Penang Malaysia for sponsoring the wonderful vegetarian lunch and Secret Recipe cakes for all 16 child residents and wardens. To make the event more meaningful, Managing Director Cassandra Tang has offered her personal time to join us and she traveled a long journey from Penang to Kuala Kubu Baru Selangor for this cause. I always remember Cassandra as a lady who champion young girls welfare and she believe woman plays an important role in our modern society. Thus it is prudent for these young girls to be well-educated and nurtured for them to be successful in life.

Cassandra, Steven and Chairman Sri IR Arumainathan with the girls

We arrived Kuala Kubu Baru town at 1000hrs and we managed to take some time off to drop by a local Hainanese heritage coffee shop- the famed Sun Sun Nam Cheong which has been around since 02 March 1949.

They are known for their coffee and kaya toast, Hainanese chicken chop and Hailam fried mee, all prepared Hainanese style. Being Hainanese myself, I am curious if these dishes are authentic the way they taste back home in Penang. I ordered all three dishes and indeed the dishes live up to their name. A must try!

Jawi transcript which believe is the original registration dated 02 Mar 1949

Highly recommended home made kaya (coconut jam)

We arrived Sivananda Home at about 1100hrs and warmly greeted by Chairman Sri IR Arumainathan who went on introduced us to Warden Miss Rani, Auditor Mr Surin and Admin Mr Ganga. Our first impression upon arrival is the high level of cleanliness maintained by the facility and well mannered girls.

Common room for indoor activities

Standard arrangement for all rooms

Common toilet including bath facility

Chairman Sri IR Arumainathan took the time to show us around the facility which includes office, visitor room, galley, dining area, praying hall, common toilet, common bedroom and indoor activity room. The building design and layout is impressive with plenty of natural lighting through its large window panels. This encourage power saving by minimizing the need of electrical lighting during the daylight. The water heater system is also powered by solar panel with power saving in mind.

Chairman Sri IR Arumainathan explaining the challenges running the home

The home give priority to girls from broken family e.g. separated parents, father with criminal cases, underage mother and abandon children. It is observed that most of the girls are well behave until 12 years old and there will be challenges once they reaches the age between 13- 17 years old. This is because the girls will enter secondary school education starting 13 years old and this is the period when they are exposed to peer pressure and friends influence in school. The home management has a strict time table for the girls and there is no smart phone policy.

Notice board showcasing the girls work

Provision store are well kept and pest free

The trophy reminds the girls of their achievements

Vegetarian menu for the week

Dining and study area

The home current challenges among all is the need to reach out to more under privileged girls and offer them a shelter here. The facility is designed for 50 children and currently home to less than 15 girls. There are ample space for the needy.

Cassandra having 'girls talk' session

We would like to take this opportunity to thank Sivananda Home Kuala Kubu Baru for the warm hospitality throughout our visit. Please find below full style contact for Sivananda Home Kuala Kubu Baru.

Please find below full style contact for Sivananda Home Kuala Kubu Baru;

Address

Divine Life Society (DLS)

Rumah Kanak-Kanak KKB

Kuala Kubu Bharu Vidhyalaya

Lot 1062, Jalan 1,

Taman Ampang Indah,

44000 Kuala Kubu Bharu,

Selangor D.E.

dlskkb5258@gmail.com

Contact

Miss Rani +6016 364 1342 (Whatsapp)

Office +603 6064 5258

Website

http://sivanandahome.org.my/kkb/

11 June 2018 I do not want to see you in my team. Application is closed

2018-06-11T14:35:00.001-07:00

I would like to take this opportunity to apologies to all friends and blog followers for the much delayed updates. I received numerous enquiries during the last 3 years asking if we still exist.

World Tour For Children (WTFC) movement started in 2011 and our core value remains unchanged over the years.

• Promote Malaysia to the most remote places in the world by road less travelled.
• Share our blessing and love with the children.
• Travel and learn local culture.

My first blog dated 09 Mar 2011 and it was about what makes me started WTFC. Time passes fast and today is 7years and 3 months since I voiced out my emotions and my gratitude towards what life has given to me.

April 2018 Batu Feringgi Penang

Today, I am blessed with two healthy and beautiful daughters who I love very much. I have made many mistakes in my life, over and over again and I never learn from them. I always regards myself as the lucky one and those ‘bad karma’ will not happen to me and so why bother?

During the last 3 years, I have travelled to places I never been before and I have experienced the most wonderful spiritual journey which I regards as ‘tuition class from the divine’. At the end of the 3rd year, the experience I had has completely changed the way I look at life and beyond.

April 2018 Maldives

I have learned the word ‘FAITH’ and its true meaning. The second word I learned is ‘LOVE’ and what it means when someone give you unconditional love. These two words keep me going when everything else shattered into pieces.

We are fully responsible for our action and we cannot run away from the law of nature. If you walk around a supermarket and you often see the sign ‘Once broken, consider sold’. Sound familiar?

Jan 2018 Tengerang Jakarta

Before you take any action in your life, remember ‘you reap what you sow’ and we are all abide by this law of nature. Let this be the mantra in your life.

The mistakes I made was gravely wrong and they cost me my family and their life. I failed my duty as a husband and I failed terribly as a father to my two young daughters. I was lured away by sex and money and eventually fell into the deepest and darkest pit in my life. I reached out for help but people who I called friends avoided me. Looking back, I should have died (and I mean physically dead) in many occasions however miraculously I survived from all the mishaps. When people say that cats have nine lives and I guess those who knows me will say Steven also have nine lives.

For all the young boys and not so old men out there, please take a moment of pause to reflect what you could have done better today towards your spouse? Did you kiss her this morning before you left home? Did you wake up in the morning and give your children a bear hug and reminds them how important they meant to your life? When was the last time you look into their eyes?

The world is fair and equal because everyone is given 24 hours a day. You decide how you want to spend it.

Here in front of you stand a man who failed to do all the above and never again I can wind back the clock to return in time to an earlier period of history.

June 2018 Warri Nigeria

I have walked the darkest path and trust me when I say the journey was lonely, cold, brutal, painful and costly. You will catapult back to the stone age and you never wish to be alive. You weep in the night wishing you are better off dead.

Today I am labelled as rubbish husband, unfilial son, dumbass father, super playboy and the list goes on. I do not want to see you in my team. Application is closed.

Never surround by things from the past. Life is forward thinking and in a permanent state of change. Today’s actions are tomorrow’s results.

March 1983 Kimsar Garden Butterworth Penang

I would like to thanks my parents for their forgiveness towards my barbaric behaviour in the past. Special gratitude to the mother of my children who still allow me to spend precious time with them. I could not ask for more.

And I hope that five years and 10 years from now, I'll be a better man, a more mature man, a wiser man, a more humble man and a more spirited man to serve the good of my people and the good of humanity- Louis Farrakhan

Sharmin and Sheryn Foong

27 June 2015 Baitul Husna Bukit Sekilau Kampung Batu Hitam Pahang Malaysia

2015-08-11T20:11:00.000-07:00

I would like to take this opportunity to sincerely apologies to all our friends for the very late delay in delivering our blog to you. Rest ensure we have not forgotten our responsibility to share our event activities and financial status with our fellow donors. Thank you for your understanding and patient.

Our journey started on 26 June 2015 with buddies from Street Coyote MC Singapore Glenn and Tahir who together bring abundance of riding experience to share. I and Tahir have been riding to Malaysia for the 5th time now and we share many memorable riding moments together for the past 2 years. As for Glenn, this is my first ride with the 'legendary' SCMC icon and I have learnt much from his vast riding experience.

Alamak... side stand spring came out!

Our first petrol stop at Gelang Patah Petron petrol station

We decided to use Tuas Second Link for the crossing because of heavy traffic in Causeway Woodlands checkpoint and everyone knows that could be disastrous waiting time. Our first rest stop on way to Mersing was a local coffee shop who sell one the best meat soup in Jementah. You need to slow down once you reach Jementah otherwise you could easily missed the shop. Please take note for our Muslim friends, this shop do not sell Halal dishes.

We reached Mersing around 26 June 2015 time 1200pm and this place always bring back memories to me and especially to Street Coyote MC who lost one of their family member, ArchAngel here to a boat incident few years ago. The beach in Mersing never lost it charms.

Handsome men from Singapore, Penang and Shah Rukh Khan

After a short break in Mersing, we continue our ride trip to Cherating Pahang and since this is my (and Tahir) first riding trip to Cherating... one word... Far!

Do you see the similarity between the two photos above?

I remembered we reached Cherating Caltex petrol station at about 700pm ++ because we can hear clearly local mosque reciting the Holy Maghrib which also means break fast time for our Muslim friends.

Dinner over at Little Bali Cherating

Like most our previous rides, we never believe to book our accommodation in advance as we prefer to arrive and choose the place we like to stay. We went for Residence Inn Cherating just simply because they are clean and have best rate for Biker's. We also learned that the owner of the hotel is a Harley Davidson rider and have his ride parked in front of hotel lobby.

27 June 2015 Residence Inn Cherating

27 June 2015

We left Residence Inn Cherating after breakfast and only found out that Kampung Batu Hitam is actually 33km away!

The current full address of Baitul Husna Bukit Sekilau is No. 5, Lorong 18 Kampung Batu Hitam 26100 Beserah Kuantan Pahang Darul Makmur.

Please take note that Baitul Husna Bukit Sekilau homes will be shifting to their own building sometimes early 2016.

Baitul Husna Bukit Sekilau

Glenn sharing his life experience with the girls

Common hall

List of children and their study timetable

It always good to bring cheers to the children

Donations from the public

Glenn explaining safe riding culture

Steven and Hasanin exchanging views

After spending almost 2 hours in the homes, Mr Hasanin is kind enough to fetch all of us to town in his private car to purchase donations items for the homes.

Banner in front of the new building

Hasanin showing the team around the new building

The construction of the new building is expected to complete by end of 2015 and it should be ready for occupancy sometimes early 2016. Our team has decided to proceed with the purchase of new bedding's and electrical appliances for the new home.

We did our appliances at local SengHeng electrical

The new 700L SHARP 2 door fridge

All our electrical items are bought with extended

warranty coverage totally to RM 3246.00

Every children deserve a new bed

The friendly staff from Hong Loong Furniture shop

The owner is very kind to provide us best rate in town

We could not ask for a better deal

After spending approximately 2hours in Kuantan town for shopping, we finally returned to Baitul Husna to bid farewell to the children before heading to Genting Highlands. Tahir always wanted to ride to Genting Highlands without success and today we have Glenn with us, I am sure he will able to bring us there.

We take this opportunity to congrats Encik Hasanin and his team

for their hard work and dedication to Baitul Husna

Please find below full style contact for Baitul Husna Bukit Sekilau;

Address

BAITUL HUSNA No. 5, Lorong 18 Kampung Batu Hitam 26100 Beserah Kuantan Pahang Darul Makmur

baitulhusnabukitsekilau@gmail.com

Contact

+60 010 925 7549

Balance from previous RM 6050.56

Total donations collected SGD 2250,

equivalent to RM 6300 (exchange rate of RM 2.80= SGD 1.00)

Total balance RM 12350.56

Donations spent electrical RM 3246.00

Donations spent beddings RM 4500.00

Total spending this trip RM 7746.00

Balance carried forward RM 4604.56

Journey to Genting Highlands

This is our first ride across the East Coast Expressway from Kuantan to Karak, subsequently exit to Genting Highlands.

The three musketeers!

The trip from Kuantan to Genting Highlands took us approximately 4hours including meal breaks. Due to Holy Ramdan month, we are lucky to find some shops along ECE are still open for business.

It was one of the best ride we had to Genting Highlands... less traffic and perfect weather. Everything a biker could wish for.

Bikers rules!

Here we come

Misty Genting Highlands

We left Genting Highlands on the 28 June 2015 and heads directly to Kuala Lumpur to meet up with our friend Chandru at the Hard Rock Cafe KL for lunch. We did not spend much time in Kuala Lumpur this time around and we left to Singapore immediately after lunch.

Rest stop at Machap Johor

A good wash out after 1000km ride

Our dinner at Gelang Patah Johor before we heads home

We covered approximately 1100km

Again, I would like to take this opportunity to thank you all our generous donors to keep World Tour For Children moving forward. This is our fifth year running since we started on Christmas Day 2010 at the Penang Shan Home and we believe we will continue to expand our influence and awareness to more people in the world.

You can do your part by helping us to share our blog with your network and friends. We need you to make this world a better place for our fellow Malaysian regardless of race, religion and background.

Thank you.

Best regards

Steven Foong

12 Aug 2015

28 Feb 2015 Pertubuhan Kebajikan Anak-Anak Yatim Islam Mersing Johor Malaysia

2015-03-23T10:19:00.001-07:00

It has been a while since we had a long ride outside of Singapore to Malaysia. It has always been a challenge for our team to plan for a ride because each of us have our own commitment for work and our family back in Singapore.

Warm welcome for World Tour For Children Malaysia

The trip to Mersing Johor was plan about a week before the ride around 21 Feb 2015. Initially we expect to have 3-4 friends for the ride but due to unforeseen circumstances, Steven is the only sole rider who able to make it for the ride. We decided to proceed with the ride because of the commitment we gave to Pertubuhan Kebajikan Anak- Anak Yatim Islam Mersing.

We will make it happen. Please click on the following for Facebook access: https://www.facebook.com/PKAYIM/posts/924234144274572

First daylight outside of Malaysian Custom Building Johor

I just love the serenity passing palm plantation

Time for a hearty nasi lemak near Panti

I arrived Mersing town approximately 1010hrs and I am pretty familiar with this place. I think this is my third or fourth trip to Mersing. If I remember correctly, the last trip I was here with Ooi and Tahir when we rode up to Kuantan.

It didn't take me long before I found the orphanage. Upon arrival to Mersing town, I took a left and rode another 3km before I came to SMK Mersing on my right hand side. The turning left to the orphanage is another 300m passing SMK Mersing.

Signboard at the junction

Road leading to the orphanage

Orphanage entrance

Newly received bus donated by Johor Goverment

The first impression I have is the place is very clean and the management are very helpful. As we previously agreed. our group has committed to donate one set of uniform for each of the children. The set consists of white cotton t-shirt, a black cotton shoe and a long workout pants.

Management office

Warm welcome from the children

All excited for the bus trip to Mersing town

It took us a while as we drive around town looking for a shop which accept credit card payment.

The second shop we went to Gedung Ten Ten is the only shop accept credit card payment

Quiet Mersing town on Saturday morning

The shop Gedung Ten Ten donated one case of soft drinks 100 plus to us

All plastic carriers are labelled with names

One of the two buses belongs to the orphanage

Sample of long pants

It is always good to share our joy

Mr Is presented a token of appreciation to World Tour For Children

We returned to the orphanage after all shopping done. The time is getting late and I decided to make a move back to Singapore. Thank you everyone for your support and donations.

Balance from previous RM 8391.81
Total donations spent this visit RM 2341.25
Balance carried forward RM 6050.56

The sea has always been a place I find refuge away from fast pace life in Singapore. Words could not describe how the sea has been part of me and it will always be. As I am born into a seafaring family, the sea means something important to our family. Me and my brother are the 3rd generation of Foong's who find a decent living at sea and I cannot tell the future if my daughters will follow suit. This will be tough for them as the industry is monopoly by men but nonetheless I will not stop them if they decide to go to sea. I always find peace and comfort, when other people called it 'water'- we called 'home'.

I left for Singapore after a simple lunch by Mersing beach. It has been a fruitful trip and I on behalf of World Tour For Children would like to sincerely extend our warm appreciation for your endless support always. We look forward for your participation in our next visit.

A good wash down in Johor Bharu

31 December 2014 Support for Kuantan Malaysia Flood Victims

2015-01-18T09:36:00.000-08:00

The second wave of floods ravaging the country has worsened, sending 58,705 people in six states to evacuation centres as of 24 December 2014. While many of us are celebrating the joy of Christmas at home with our loves one, there are many who struggle to keep afloat during one of the worst flood that hits Malaysia in many years.

A headcount showed that Kelantan had the most number of evacuees, at 24,765, followed by Terengganu (21,606); Pahang (10,825); Perak (1,030); Sabah (336) and Perlis (143).

Steven Foong received contribution message from one of his Harley Davidson riders network and decided roll in some funds for the unfortunate.

All donation materials are ready to go in Penang

These are the condition from one of the collection centre

Masyarakat Penyayang building Penang

In a short afternoon 29 December 2014, Steven able to raised a total of RM 2700 from both gracious ConocoPhillips colleagues and HPG riders. This is such encouraging sign that people are willing to do their parts to support the idea of World Tour For Children where we have gained trust from our faithful followers over the years.

Originally, we are suppose to use the money collected for the Singapore flood collection centre but there were proposal by our donors to use the money in Malaysia, where we could have better value for our money. Since Steven have a planned trip back to Penang, he decided to donate via Penang collection centre.

Kind heart Tesco staff helping us with cartons of sardine

Wife Suchin helping out at the payment counter

We bought total of 35 packets of Dutch Lady milk powder and dozens of sardine

All loaded behind our back seat and ready to send to collection centre

Many have asked why not we consume the balance RM 8204.66 and instead we requested for more contribution. The reason is simple; this is a separate one time off event where we specifically offered our help to the flood victims.

Total spending
Groceries RM 1232.85
First aid kit as requested RM 1400
Total spending RM 2632.85
We have balance of 67.15

Due to our amount spent in TESCO, we are further given RM 120.00 voucher which I have credited into our remaining funds.

As for 31 December 2014, our accounts remaining RM 8391.81

It took us a while to source for 50 boxes of first aid kit throughout Penang

We have to help the pharmacy to pack the first aid kit as we are running out of time

We managed to locate the only pharmacy in Queenbay Mall who willing to help

us to prepare the 50 boxes of first aid kit

Standard items in the first aid kit

All boxes are carefully marked and label

Once we arrived at the collection centre, volunteers immediately help

us to load our items on to the last 4x4 to the east coast

Thank you for your continuous support. Our next target will be in Taiping Perak Malaysia in April 2015 when we are on our way back from Phuket Bike Week.

07 December 2014 Persatuan Kebajikan Kanak Kanak Istimewa dan Warga Emas Alor Gajah and Lake Chini Pahang Malaysia

2014-12-14T01:56:00.004-08:00

First of all, we would like to extend our heartfelt appreciation to all donors who continuously supported the World Tour For Children program. Our team will continue with our commitment to spread our love and support via ‘Road Less Travelled’ which we want to create a global awareness on underprivileged children homes where mainly left unknown.

-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
The following are breakdown from World Tour For Children account as for 11 December 2014;

Carried forward from previous balance RM 2706.30

Amount collected this round
HPG (Harley Passion Group) SGD 1500 and RM 200
Family members RM 820
Old Frees RM 850 and SGD 100
Colleague SGD 750

Total collection SGD 2350 and RM 1870
Exchange rate from SGD to RM 2.66

Total collection RM 8121
Balance from previous RM 2706.30
Total balance RM 10827.30

Total spending
Groceries RM 839.24
Adult diapers RM 113.40
Washing machine top load Panasonic 13 kg RM 1670.00
Total spending RM 2622.64

Total balance carry forward 2015
RM 10827.30- RM 2622.64= RM 8204.66
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

We left Malacca after a quick hearty breakfast in the hotel at 0800hrs. The journey to Alor Gajah from Malacca city took us 40mins and we were warmly welcome by everyone upon arrival.

Steven with Chris before taking the North South Highway

Safety first!

It was quite a challenge for us to find the place because the address did not seems to appear on both our GPS and Google Map search. We were told to meet up at the main road and was guided by Mr Magentran to the homes.

The home full style contact;

Address: 1551 Taman Alor Kelemak 78000 Alor Gajah Melaka Malaysia
Email: perkekwa_ag@yahoo.com.my
Website: https://ms-my.facebook.com/perkekwa
Phone: +606 5591 244
Management:
Mr Magentran +6012 398 3411
Mr Ravi +6012 601 5731

Video- team work is great among resident and management

Our group took the opportunity to mingle around the children and old folks, before we were shown around the facilities. We came to understand the house actually belongs to a Singaporean owner and like all management, PERKEKWA is working on the feasibility to have their own property in the near future.

Morgan with Amir in PERKEKWA

Mr Magentran explaining to us on how he runs the homes

Our group also exchanged views on how we could improve PERKEKWA visibility outside Alor Gajah and general improvement of the centre. There are few suggestion given by our group especially on branding, website content, affiliation to other homes.

PERKEKWA ( Persatuan Kebajikan Kanak-Kanak Istimewa & Warga emas Alor Gajah Melaka ) is a charity body strive to provide a comfortable life for the underprivileged and the old folks which are not been taken seriously by the community.

Mr Magentran and his management team fetch us to the nearest local supermarket where we bought essential provisions including adult diapers. We did not look into cleaning materials as we understand they are coming in by another sponsor next week.

Washer delivered to the homes the next days

Louis bought a Superman figure for Amir

Bargain for the best washer

We left the homes around 1130hrs and proceed right to Lake Chini (Tasik Chini Pahang). Approximate distance 240km from Alor Gajah.

Lunch at Alor Gajah

The rain came right after Morgan's comment 'This place is sunny'!

Good ride, Good company

A long stretch of gravel roads to the Lake Chini Resort

Lake Chini Resort!

Getting ready for the night. Park nice nice ok, Don't block other car

Look closely at the cable and padlock. Superb!

Our team arrived Lake Chini resort on the same day approximately 1900hrs and we are lucky because the resort is not full. The condition of the rooms are not great but for the rate we paid, we can't really complain. Nonetheless, we have clean sheets, hot shower, working aircond and ceiling fan. To me, I am comfortable and one of the best sleep in days.

Louis and Steven

Dinner at the resort

View from chalet balcony

Don, Steven and Morgan

Morning view of Tasik Chini

Increase your volume to hear the sound of nature

The next morning, 08Dec2014 we left Tasik Chini Resort at 0900hrs and head straight to Johor Bharu Malaysia.

Rest stop at Segamat

Lunch break at Segamat Johor

Last petrol stop at Machap before Louis head back to Singapore

Time for a good clean at Johor

Thank you every one for safe riding and a very enjoyable trip. We look forward for next HPG (Harley Passion Group) charity ride in April 2015 in conjunction with Phuket Bike Week ride!

Safe Riding Boys!

Steven Foong

14th December 2014

Visit to PERKEKWA (Persatuan Kebajikan Kanak-Kanak Istimewa & Warga emas ) Alor Gajah Melaka Malaysia

2014-11-26T18:24:00.001-08:00

Good morning family and friends

Our humble World Tour For Children road trip is on the move again and we are preparing for 2015 events. As our economy is facing tougher times with the increase of living standards and removal of fuel subsidy in Malaysia, we understand the ever challenges of underprivileged homes in Malaysia and the region.

Again, we seek your kind monetary and time contribution to our event and our cause of delivering assistant to the people via Road Less Traveled.

Please visit https://ms-my.facebook.com/perkekwa for PERKEKWA (Persatuan Kebajikan Kanak Kanak Istimewa dan Warga Emas Alor Gajah)

Our visit will be on;

Date: 07 December 2014 Sunday

Time: 0900hrs at the homes. Please refer to the following for full style address.

Please join us with your family to share some light moments with the residents. The following are confirmation from Homes and items needed.

For those who wish to support, please make your contribution via Bank Transfer to SINGAPORE BANK UOB 360-373-125-3 Foong Ther Hoei. Please indicate PERKEKWA as your initials and update me on your contribution at +65 9171 9635 or th_steve@ymail.com

Thank you on behalf of World Tour For Children team.

Brgds

Steven Foong

27Nov2014

05 July 2014 Handicapped and Mentally Retarded Children Centre Kuantan Pahang Malaysia

2014-07-10T10:29:00.004-07:00

Group picture before we left Tg Cempaka

Our day started with a great swim in the cold water of South China Sea and Mr Ooi even went for a morning jog along the beach. Words could not describe how we feel. The first thing we told ourselves right after we woke up from bed 'We will feel really bad if we don't dip in that cold morning water'

Pak Cikgu the friendly caretaker who used to teach in a school in Balik Pulau Penang

Bu is one of the handful long time serving staff in the hotel

Our local villager Pak Said looking sharp on the Heritage

We left the hotel at about 0915hrs and heads right to PUSAT PENJAGAAN KANAK KANAK TERENCAT AKAL, KUANTAN. The place is not hard to find but it took us a few wrong turns before we arrived. Upon arrival, we were greeted warmly by Mr James and his staff.

Established in 1990, the Handicapped and Mentally Disabled Children's Association of Johor was built by Mr. V. Rajamanikam and today it occupies more than 220 children. The Handicapped and Mentally Disabled Children's Association provides facilities, health, education, and support services to children and adults with down syndrome, spastic, cerebral palsy, hyperactivity and autism, orphans, and victims of abuse.

Mr James with Ooi and Tahir

The homes are running from a rented house at A4784, Jelan Tengku Muhammad, Alor Akar, 25050 Kuantan, Pahang Darul Makmur, Malaysia. it consist of 5 rooms, with a big TV longue and one big space for common room facilities. In addition, we have a large kitchen, a classroom a small garden and staff quarters.

A simple gesture with a big meaning... Welcoming us in uniform red

The young V. Rajamanikam with Mother Theresa

Mr James explaining the foundation of the homes which started by his elder brother V. Rajamanikam

We are all not that different after all

New mattresses from donors

The only kitchen in the house

This time our group has committed to donate one 15kg washing machine and RM500 groceries. It has always been our practice not to provide cash handout and rather we would like to spend some time to understand the challenges and needs of each homes.

The new washing machine come in a right time as the previous machine was damaged beyond repair not too long ago

Inspection of the brand new 15kg washing machine

Thereafter, Tahir and myself with James took the van and went to Kuantan town for the machine payment and groceries shopping. We were surprise that the washing machine was delivered to the home without prior payment and solely based on trust.

Mr Leong has been a great supporter for the homes for many years

Tahir leading the shopping basket!

Two full loads of groceries totaling RM533.60

Loading on the van

We received a few donations from Singapore before we left home, SGD150 from my colleague in the office and RM100 from Tahir. Total amount collected RM490.

Donations carried forward from account: RM 4549.90

Donations collected: RM 490.00

Total donations; RM 5039.90

Expenses during this trip;

Washing machine SHARP 15kg RM 1800.00

Misc groceries RM 533.60

Total expenses RM 2333.60

Balance in funds, RM 5039.90- RM 2333.60= RM 2706.30

Unloading from van

We wish Handicapped and Mentally Retarded Children Centre Kuantan all the best and keep up with the good work

It was already 1300hrs when we left the homes. Without losing much time, we had our lunch over at a small coffee shop and then proceed to Malacca which is about 250km away.

Malacca at 1800hrs

Malacca famous chicken rice ball

Jonker Street

06 July 2014 Early morning before we heads off to Singapore

I would like to take this opportunity to thank you all kind donors and supporters out there who keep us going. Without your support we will not come this far. We truly believe in spreading our care and supports to the most remote places and road less traveled. We do not need Superman to save the world and all we need is YOU!

04 July 2014 Singapore to Kuantan, Pahang Malaysia

2014-07-09T10:57:00.000-07:00

We started planning for the trip about 04 weeks ago. Initially a four days ride from Singapore to Kota Bharu, Kelantan Malaysia and due to feedback and request to shorten the trip, we decided to make it a 03days ride instead. During the planning stage, we have decided to limit the distance travel to not more than 300km per day as we wanted to enjoy the slow ride and also due to the nature of the road conditions. We are traveling via the Malaysian trunk road where it is heavily used by heavy vehicles as well.

First petrol stop at Ulu Tiram Johor

Our group consists of Ooi, Tahir and myself. We had a few more interested friends who wished to join us but their leave application were rejected at the last moment.

We gathered at Thomson Road coffee shop at 0630hrs. Everyone were punctual and we pushed off at 0640hrs. Everything went smoothly and we cleared Malaysian Custom and Immigration by 0730hrs. Since all of us have enough fuel, we decided to heads directly to Mersing for breakfast as planned earlier, making one petrol stop at Ulu Tiram.

Trying out Malaysian favourite breakfast... Tosai and Roti Canai!

One of few traditional sundry shop in Mersing

Sleepy Mersing town on Friday morning

We continued our trip to Pekan Pahang after our super good breakfast. Pekan is the Royal Town for Pahang, where Pahang Sultan and his family lives. The town was a great place to be and it is a huge place, slightly bigger town than we thought. We wanted a small cosy town therefore we decided to ride further north to Kuantan.

Man and his machine

Royal Museum Pekan Pahang

We found The Cempaka Beach Resort (http://cempakabeachresort.wix.com/cempakabeachresort#!contactus/c3kh) purely by luck while we were heading towards Kuantan. This secluded resort is a perfect getaway we need and the best part is, we are the only guest for the hotel on that day.

The reception table was not manned so we have to call the number provided for service

This is the best part of the trip

Pure riding in the wild Malaysian kampung

Everyone is taking time to send our trip photos to their loves one at home

Based on hotel staff, Encik Cikgu recommendation we went to search for the best dinner in town and then followed up by a slow ride to Teluk Cempedak which is about 20km from our hotel.

Arriving at Ayu Tomyam... Harley Davidson and Honda EX5

Ikan 3 Rasa, Ikan Pari Bakar, Sup Tulang, Kangkung and sambal Petai with prawn

Teluk Cempedak weekend bikers gathering

Teluk Cempedak night life

Securing our bikes for the night

Simply beauty... Teluk Cempaka beach

10- 16 April 2014 Singapore to Phuket Thailand for the 20th Anniversary Phuket Bike Week

2014-05-29T18:15:00.002-07:00

The ride to Phuket from Singapore was started with a simple invite by our team captain, KC a few months ago. It was an invite to join bigger and established team, Militia Riders of Singapore and Malaysia. The rest was history.

As part of HPG (for the sake of non riders- HPG means Harley Passion Group), we do maintain a simple but active Whatsapp chat forum where a small group of riders (mainly Harley Davidson enthusiastic) keep in touch and exchanging ideas on safe riding culture in Singapore.

Jurong McDonald- We Go As One, We Back As One

We left Singapore on 10April 0200hrs from Jurong McDonald with high spirit. The team determine to arrive Haadyai Thailand on the same day before dark and that means we have approximately 15 hours of riding time to cover 950km.

Steven's first breakdown - no headlights and with help from Archie Teo

Such a beautiful sight...... But wait, what's that spot in the foreground reflecting the flash?

Our team arrived at Malaysia- Thai border approximately 10April 2014 at 1500hrs LT. Everybody is 'lembik' (soft) by now and we eager to cross border. This is first time experience for some of our team members.

Chillin' out like a boss..... Ain't goin' no where since steven's bike is leaking oil (second breakdown!)

Breakdown 2 for Steven

"Haaaaar....? Like this then how? Steven i think you call cab lah....."

At the thai border liao but cannot get through coz V.t. Lee, Derrick & Kelvin Chan too handsome kena detained by customs to take picture and autographs

With all the drama and efforts, we finally arrived at our hotel in Haadyai (can't remember the name of hotel) at about 1800hrs. By now, all we need is a chill out drinks and a hot shower! Few of us managed to catch a drinks or two while waiting for the rest to be ready for dinner.

Since most of us in the team has been to Haadyai before (and some of the guys even speak fluent Thai! phut Thai keng mak!!!) so we decided to walk to the nearest Halal stall for dinner and it turns out fantastic!

Dinner in Hatyai — with David Lim, Derrick Chang, Kevin Koh and William Lee

This is where we stayed in Hatyai for the day. — with Derrick Chang

Beer-Bike-Buddies — with Derrick Chang and Archie Teo

The day ended with some of us went for much needed massage and the rest went for early bed. The next starts at 0600hrs!

Breakfast hotel With V.t. Lee, David Lim and Derrick Chang

Group photo before we left for Phuket

I heard Robin is 62 this year and it is his Third PBW! Impressive la Robin! — with Chun Cheong Leong

Bikes getting ready!!!!

I have to fast forward the blog here since I am rushing for time. Nonetheless, I don't think many of yo guy actually reads the content too, right? so I won't bother putting too much wording here for you.

In summary, all our team arrived Phuket, Thailand on 11 April 2014 evening in one piece (with exception we had a small near miss along the road) and we had good fun for the next 3 days in Phuket and we are looking forward for our next trip soon!

Our group have more photos to share if you are interested and please do contact me!!!

Ride Safe, Ride Fun!!!

Our most experience rider survived the fall... Mr VT!

The man that makes this all happened, Thank You KC!!!

Morning photos before we left Holiday Inn Express Phuket to Haadyai

The 3 camels amongst the stallions. — with Derrick Chang, Archie Teo and 8K

Phuket!!!!

Express 10mins nap

I think LTA Singapore should let Singaporean be creative and unlock restriction... see what our neighbours can achieve with such creativeness

Militia Rider leading the way

Phuket will remain in memory forever...

Where are the girls?????

Our group photo before we left Haadyai to Singapore. Adios amigo

Holiday Inn Express Phuket

Songkran... Are You Ready to Rumble??? These are the products of Singapore Armed Forces... Don't play play

Aroy aroy mak mak! with Steven Foong and David Lim

I didn't know botak modal is allow to sit?

Finally- GP SHELL. We are home again Singapore.. Home Again

01 Dec 2013 Vroom Vroom from Singapore to Malacca

2013-12-07T08:21:00.000-08:00

Once again, the effort put up by our group did not went into vain as we received tremendous support for our charity ride from Singapore to Bhagawan Sri Ramakrishna Malaysia Charity and Welfare Association in Malacca on 01 Dec 2013.

Top from left Isaac, Lam, Derrick, Chris and VTeck

Bottom Steven in his full riding gear, behind is Ric our team lead

Breakdown from monetary contributions;

Singapore Dollar, SGD 4180

Malaysia Ringgit, RM 1750

The exchange rate we obtained from both money changer in Singapore and Malaysia is 2.555, therefore total contribution received in RM 10679.90 + 1750= RM 12429.90

Breakdown from our expenses;

1) Washing machine 15kg inverter Toshiba x 2pcs from Seng Heng (with extended warranty 5years) and Standing fan Panasonic x 3pcs from Seng Heng (with extended warranty 2 years) from Seng Heng Malacca, RM 4560

2) Computer i3 desktop complete with monitor x 2pcs from NCS Computer, RM 3320

Balance in funds, RM 12429.90- RM 7880= RM 4549.90

Receipt from Seng Heng Electrical

Currently the amount RM 4549.90 is under the custody of Steven Foong and he bear full responsibility on amount until we have identified the next needy homes.

The amount collected this year has exceeded our set target of RM10000 and above our collection in 2012 of RM 9452.

Our fellow riders has played an important role in the fund raising initiative and this amount will not be materialized without our team work.

This is our fourth year going in our charity drive since we started our humble visit to Shan Home in Penang during Christmas 2010. It has grown from a simple 3 person family visit back in 2010 (Steven Foong, wife Suchin Koay and mother Kathy Koy) to an annual event where we gained trust among family and friends where we able to raised substantial amount of donation where we put the money into helping the needy underprivileged children homes. Thank you.

Malacca Historical city

One may complain the colour of shoe but forget others without feet.

Queeing for Malacca famous 'Satay Celup'

This year, we managed to convinced a group of motorcyclist from Singapore who have good intention to bring joy and donation and to be part of World Tour For Children project. As this is our first tour on motorcycles, it has proven to be a successful and we are looking to have more similar event in the future on motorcycles.

There were 08 riders from Singapore (mixture of Malaysian and Singaporean citizen) who were riding various types Harley Davidson and superbikes motorcycles to introduce the children to a group of people from out of town, and the same time to share the joy of riding as pillion riders within the compound of Ramakrishna on Harley Davidson motorcycle.

Our group gathered at SBS Terminal Tuas at about 0630hrs and started our journey 15mins later. This is because we wanted to get away from the morning hour traffic jam at the causeway which usually starts after 0700hrs.

Yong Peng famous duck rice!

Vroom Vroom into Yong Peng quiet town

One of our rider, Chris has suggested us to stop over in Yong Peng Johor for breakfast as we are still early on our schedule. Chris know the place well as this is his childhood hometown. We spent about an hour in Yong Peng before we heads off directly to Malacca.

It did not take a long time before we found our way to Bhagawan Sri Ramakrishna Malaysia Charity and Welfare Association around noon time.

The children and caretakers gave us a very warm welcome and immediately we were shown our way around the home.

The boys are having a good time with the riders

Mr Ravindran showing us around the home

Second floor in the common bedroom

Galley

Clean study room

Invitation for vegetarian lunch

Arrival of washing machines and standing fans

Chris and Isaac helping out to check the terms and conditions of extended warranty

The team getting ready to leave

After a good job completion, our team left Bhagawan Sri Ramakrishna Malaysia Charity and Welfare Association around 1500hrs leaving behind a big smile on everyone faces. Again, thank you for your trust and support and this is all possible from our kind donors.

Best regards
Steven Foong
08 Dec 2013
Singapore

Thank you for your support Christmas 2012

2012-12-25T09:44:00.000-08:00

25 Dec 2012 Penang

Dear family and friends

I am proud to share that our simple Christmas weekend fund raising has successfully collected a total of SGD 2400.00 and RM3500 respectively in two currencies, making the total collection in just two days at RM 9452.00!

Young Mrs Pakiam and the children

Apart of individual donors, we also received special contribution from Tesco Bukit Mertajam Penang, Best Buy Computer Straits Quay and Old Free's Association Singapore. These remarkable organization contributed both services and monetary support by providing free delivery of goods and computer servicing to the homes.

The girls room. The boys and girls beds are separated

The children are exceptional good in track and field sports

The children condition and general appearance has vastly improved since we last visited on 25 Dec 2011 Christmas Day. There are currently 18 children in the orphanage, oldest being 19 years old and youngest 6 months old.

Balance dietary required by Ministry of Health Malaysia

Nareen, 4 years boy with incurable skin disease

Santa Tesco!

We spent a total of RM 3450.96 in Tesco Bukit Mertajam on household and schooling items which includes rice 180kg, cooking oil 60ltrs, milk powder 10kg, bedsheets and towels, milo 12kg, cooking pots and pans, stove, standing fans, plastic chairs 30pcs, toothpaste and toothbrushes, shower soap, washing machine cloths powder, school uniforms and others.

Our donors contributed total of 180kg of rice

Thank you Mr Tesco!

We also contributed two study tables, an outdoor cloths hanger and two sets of brand new Toshiba Satellite laptop worth total RM 3260.00. Apart from the two brand new laptops, we also received contribution of two used laptops for the children. This is because we understand the needs of the older children who are in their secondary years and basic knowledge of IT is the way of the future.

Ms Huey Phing, our lovely volunteer fixing a Christmas tree with the children

We will help you uncle!

Steven Foong having discussion with Ms Pakiam, understanding the challenges and helps needed

Apart of material sponsors, we also contributed RM 1500.00 for 13 school going children school fees and another RM 1500.00 for food allowance. In addition, Tesco Bukit Mertajam contributed shopping vouchers totaling at RM 190.00.

Steven Foong explaining Windows 8 application

Lastly, all these are not possible without the kind act from our generous sponsors from both Singapore and Penang. There is an old saying 'If you think it's easy to break ONE chopstick, then try breaking a bunch of them!'

A message from Mrs Pakiam to all our sponsors 'Thank you very much and May God Bless You and family'

Steven Foong

Singapore

25 Dec 2012

Day 63, 01 August 2012 Dittisham to London!

2012-08-26T08:16:00.000-07:00

Tower Bridge

London is the capital city of England and the United Kingdom, the largest metropolitan area in the United Kingdom, and the largest urban zone in the European Union by most measures. Located on the River Thames, London has been a major settlement for two millennia, its history going back to its founding by the Romans, who named it Londinium. London's ancient core, the City of London, largely retains its square-mile mediaeval boundaries.

Since at least the 19th century, the name London has also referred to the metropolis developed around this core. The bulk of this conurbation forms the London region and the Greater London administrative area, governed by the elected Mayor of London and the London Assembly.

View from our Dittisham B&B

Our final group photo before we left Dittisham for London

As the Team Lead of the World Tour For Children project, I am honored to thank our generous sponsors for their remarkable gifts and supports given to make this trip a truly successful one.

Special thank to our family members and friends, who gave us their best encouragements and supports, which we will treasure for the years to come.

I hope that this simple and yet challenging journey had raised certain level of homeless child welfare awareness among the public but I believe, there are more that need to be done if we want to make this world a better place for them.

Supporting the good causes of Borneo Child Aid, Malaysia is just the beginning of our little project. We aim for the WORLD!

All the best,

Steven Foong
Singapore
26 Aug 2012

Day 62, 31 July 2012 Dunkirk France through the English Channel to Dittisham England

2012-08-26T05:36:00.003-07:00

The name of Hutchings, as is the name of most the English people, is of Saxon origin, occurring most commonly in the South-West of England. The ancestors of the Hutchings were Devonshire people. The earliest Hutchings who was repectable enough to be traced was John Hutchings who was a wealthy enough merchant, judging from the fact that he was able to send his son to Christ Church College, Oxford, the favoured college of the aristocracy. This son, also John Hutchings, is to be the father of the Founder.

He grew up to become Rev. John Hutchings, Rector of Dittisham. His marriage to Sarah Sparke of Dartmouth, a woman of some position, brought him 16 children. Living too fast and too well, he was not too well-off. Yet he managed to send his youngest son, Robert, born in 1783, to Christ Church where the latter matriculated in 1798.

The birthplace of Penang Free School

Getting aboard the ferry to Dover from Dunkirk

Robert succeeded his father as Rector of Dittisham. He erected a beautiful new Rectory house there, and was responsible for the construction of the first road for carriages to drive from Dartmouth to Dittisham.

Today, we find fine memorial windows dedicated to him and his father. Possibly, owing to financial difficulties, while still a bachelor, he gave up his parish in Devonshire to take a Chaplancy in Bengal in 1814. He was then posted to Prince of Wales Island (as Penang was then known) where he succeeded the Rev. Aitwell Lake who was the first Chaplain. Here, he soon learned the language and worked with a Major Mclnne on a revised version of the New Testament.

Yup all ready to sail now that we in the ferry

Dover, UK at last!

Stopping to see what the excitement of Stonehenge is all about- batu je lar

There has been a Church in Dittisham for more than a thousand years as it is assumed there was a Saxon one, though no trace of it now remains. But in the year 755 Devon was conquered by the Saxons and a Saxon Chief settled on the banks of the River Dart. This settlement was part of the manor given by Edward the Confessor to Leofric, Bishop of Exeter, who is certain to made sure there was a Church in the settlement.

This Church was replaced by a Norman Church consisting of only a Chancel and Nave; the line of this roof can still be seen on the east wall of the Tower. In 1328 Bishop Grandisson of Exeter ordered an enquiry into the neglect of duties and of the Church, which was now a ruin, by the Rector, Sir Richard de Inkpenne who died soon afterwards.

St George , the church where Hutchings was the rector

The Church was restored and reconstructed between 1328 and 1333 by the Rector, Sir Richard de Gormersale, the chancel being enlarged and the side aisles added. The Church was reopened and dedicated to St. George by Bishop Grandisson on the 4th October 1333.

Helen proudly showing us St George's church and its history

A list of names on the Porch shows who have been Rectors since 1224, but in 1982 St. George's was no longer able to have a rector of its own and is now part of the Benefice of Dartmouth and Dittisham.

Helen the local historian sharing some information on the Hutchings family

Brief history of Robert Sparke Hutchings; extract from Raymond Boon blog http://teochiewkia2010.blogspot.fr/2010/07/rev-robert-sparke-hutchings.html

1782- Born, parent John Hutchings and Sarah Sparke

Baptism: Dittisham baptd 11 Apl 1781 (not confirm as year early than year born)

1803- St Edmund's Hall, Oxford, BA 30-10-1803 Ordination as deacon of Dittsham at Chapel of the Blessed Virgin Mary, the Palace, Exeter by Bishop Fisher, John/Exeter(1803-1807)

1805- Robert Sparke Hutchings (1805 to 1827). Rector of St. George's Church, Dittisham, Devonshire(note: it was also written his father John Hutchings (1768 to 1802)was also Rector there). It was reported he was rector from 1805-1827, that is wrong as in 1816 he was in Penang. Dittisham is a village and civil parish in the South Hams district of the English county of Devon. It is situated on the banks of the tidal River Dart, some 2 miles (3.2 km) upstream of Dartmouth.

Year 1805: Robert Sparke Hutchings

1808 - St Edmund's Hall, Oxford, MA. Ordination at Exeter St Mary Steps.//Diocese of Exeter on
14th June 1808 as reactor of Dittinsham alias Dittisham St George by Bishop: Manners Sutton, Charles

1813 Chaplain; Presidency Chaplain. The East India Company also appointed Anglican chaplains who served as part of the military service. Resident Chaplain of Prince of Wales Island. The first Chaplain for Prince of Wales Island was Rev Atwill Lake in 1804.

1815 - He was presented to Dittisham in 1815, by the Earl of Mount Edgecombe

1816 - Rev Hutchings is now a Resident Chaplain of Prince of Wales Island.

Found Penang Free School at Love Lane in Penang. Rev Robert Hutchings, wanted to establish a free school to train “a race of intelligent and honest servants” of the Government (Chelliah 1947,37). The Penang Free School for boys was opened on 21 October 1816, at a house in Love Lane. About $10,867 were received from public subscriptions between 1816 and 1824 (Elcum 1908). This school is free only in the sense of being open to all creeds (Campbell,1998).

The Penang Free School, set up by Rev. R. Hutchings in 1816, was reported to contain a class to conduct ‘formal’ Tamil education in the Straits Settlement.

He found a Auxiliary Bible Society in Penang.

Main altar

1817 - The foundation stone of Church of St George was laid. Rev Hutchings paid a visit to Bengal on account of his health but was persuaded by Calcutta Auxiliary Bible Society to stay for 3 years until 1820. Rev Hutchings was a Malay scholar. He translated Old Testatement in Jawi.

1818 - Married in 1818 with ELVIRA10 PHIPPS in India. St Geroge Church Penang was completed in 1818.

In 1818, with the assistance of Rev. Robert Sparke Hutchins (and the use of convict labor), Robert Smith channeled his growing passion by designing St George's Church (modeled after a larger church in Madras), in Penang, Malaysia. St. George’s Anglican Church is the oldest Anglican church in Southeast Asia and located at the corner of Lebuh Farquhar and Jalan Mesjid Kapitan Keling, Penang, Malaysia. The church was named after the patron saint of England. It was completed in 1818 on initiative of Penang Colonial Chaplain, Rev. Robert Sparke Hutchings and consecrated on 11 May 1819 by the Bishop of Calcutta, Thomas Fanshawe Middleton. The Greek temple in the church grounds is a memorial to Francis Light. Today it is one of the oldest landmarks in the city of George Town, and the oldest Anglican Church in Malaysia. In 2007 the church was declared one of the 50 National Treasures of Malaysia by the Malaysian government.

Our late founding father family crest RSH: reads Robert Sparke Hutchings

1819 - Daughter SARAH HUTCHINGS(b1819-d1876) was born. St George Church Penang was consecrated on 11 May 1819 by the Bishop of Calcutta, Thomas Fanshawe Middleton. Northam Road Cemetery was consecrated at the same time. Rev Robert Sparke Hutchings was not in Penang, He was in Bengal, India.

1820 -Son was born on December 18, 1820 in Penang

1821 - Son Robert Sparke Hutchings(b1820-d1910), same name with the father, was Christening on MAR 1821 in Penang, Pinang-Malaya, Malaysia

1822 - make his will in Penang in 18th July 1822

1823 - The founding of Raffles Institute, Singapore.

1 Apr 1823 : Raffles called a meeting with Robert Morrison (Dr), educationist and missionary, and Reverend Hutchings, chaplain of Prince of Wales Island. a meeting was held at Raffles' House on Government Hill on 1st April when a very long and able minute, written by Sir Stamford Raffles, from which sentences have been often quoted, was read, in which he stated that there were three objects hi view. (1) To educate the sons of the higher order of natives and others. (2) To afford means of instruction in the native languages to such of the Company's servants and others as may desire it. (3) To collect the scattered literature and traditions of the country with whatever may illustrate their (sic) laws and customs, and to publish and circulate in a correct form the most important of these, with such other works as may be calculated to raise the character of the institution and to be useful and instructive to the people.

A long paper written by Dr. Morrison was then read, suggesting the scheme for removing the Anglo-Chinese College from Malacca and uniting it with the Institution in Singapore. The Rev. R. S. Hutchings, who was the Chaplain at Penang, then spoke, and after him Dr. Morrison. These speeches were all reprinted in a pamphlet in Singapore in 1838, with the annual report of the Institution Free School. The officers were nominated, including the principal inhabitants, and among the Patrons was William Wilberforce, M.P. of England.

Old Frees member Kek Fei, Chuan Lok, Sek Lam,

Adrian King and Steven Foong with Cher, Suchin and Helen

On 15th April the first meeting of the Trustees was held, Mr. J. A. Maxwell being the Honorary Secretary and A. L. Johnston & Co. the Honorary Treasurers. The subscriptions had amounted to $17,495; being $9,670 for the Institution generally, ?'$1,075 for the Scientific Department, and $6,750 for the Malayan College. The Anglo-Chinese College house at Malacca was intended to be sold, and $4,000 was included in the above amount as its probable proceeds, the East India Company contributing $4,000, Raffles $2,000, Dr. Morrison $1,200, Colonial Farquhar $1,000, the Sultan and Tumongong $1,000 each, and Lady Raffles $400. The other subscribers were Mr. Bonham, F. G-. Bernard, Captain Davis, Captain Flint, D. A. Eraser, G. Gordon, Thomas Howard, Lieut. L. N. Hull, Rev. R. S. Hutchings, Lieut. Jackson, A. L. Johnston, the Malay College, J, A. Maxwell, G. Mackenzie, Dr. Montgomerie, D. S. Napier, Charles Scott, and Rev. G. H. Thomson. A monthly subscription of $300 had been promised by Government for the schools, and $25 yearly for the library. Lieutenant Jackson made a plan and estimate of the proposed building, which he said could be constructed in twelve months, this was approved, and $15,000 was voted for the purpose.

After the meeting, Raffles made public his proposals for an institution of learning,a Malayan college. The resulting birth of the Singapore Institution also led to a call for a library and museum as "a means of diffusing knowledge" to both the Chinese and Malay students equally

The Singapore Institution is today's Raffles Institution. Raffles Institution is an independent school comprising an all-boys' Secondary section and a co-educational Junior College section. It is the oldest school in Singapore. Founded in 1823 as Singapore Institution by Sir Thomas Stamford Raffles, it is consistently ranked as one of the top secondary schools in Singapore in the now-defunct official school rankings released by the Ministry of Education.(source; wikipedia)

1826 - British settlements in Malacca, Penang, and Singapore were combined to form the British Colony of the Straits Settlement in 1826. Rev Hutchings was on sick leave for long period.

1827 - died on 20 Apr 1827 in Penang. Buried at The Northam Road Protestant Cemetery Penang.

Day 61, 30 July 2012 Bastogne Belgium to Dunkrik France

2012-08-25T20:55:00.000-07:00

City of Bastogne

Madasson War Memorial in Bastogne

Visit Brussels, Belgium on our way to Dunkirk.

Manikin Pis the icon of Brussel

Dinner at Port City of Dunkirk

Day 60, 29 July 2012 Remagen, Luxembourg and Bastogne Belgium

2012-08-25T19:33:00.001-07:00

Visited the famous bridge of Remagen in the morning

Have a quick lunch before heading to Trier

Porta Nigra in Trier

Cathedral of Trier

Went via Luxembourg into Bastogne, Belgium

Day 59, 28 July 2012 Regensburg to Remagen Germany

2012-08-15T07:55:00.000-07:00

Entering the old city of Rhens

Wine region along the river Mosel

Scenic route along the river Rhine in Germany

Arrived Remagen

Day 58, 27 July 2012 Telc Czech, Prague and Regensburg Germany

2012-08-15T07:18:00.000-07:00

Morning hours at Telc, Prague

Prague. Lucky to catch the cultural dances at the square

Crossing the river Valta in Prague

Pilsner Urquell Brewery (Plzeňský Prazdroj, a. s.) is a brewery in Plzeň, the Bohemian city which is known as the birthplace of the Pilsener beer style in general, and for Pilsner Urquell, since 1898 the name of the main product of this brewery. Both Plzeňský Prazdroj and Pilsner Urquell can be roughly translated into English as "the Fountainhead at Pilsen" or "the original source of Pilsner".

Day 57, 26 July 2012 Wien to Brno and Telc Czech Republic

2012-08-01T18:13:00.001-07:00

We spent the morning hours walking around Wien before heading out to Czech Republic after lunch.

Brno is the second largest city of the Czech Republic (Prague is the first one) and the cultural and administrative centre of the South Moravian Region.

The cathedral Cathedral of St. Peter and Paul is situated on the stone promontory called Petrov. It is the dominant feature of Brno and creates the city’s typical silhouette. From the former Romanesque basilica, which was built as a part of the former Brno Castle in the 11th century, it was turned into a Gothic cathedral in the 14th century.

Between 1738 and 1748 it was transformed into the Baroque style by Mořic Grimm. The interior of the building is splendidly equipped with the sculptures by Ondřej Schweigl. There is the largest preserved fragment of the city walls under the cathedral.

Steven and Suchin in front of the Cathedral of St. Peter and Paul

Vendor from the Zelny' trh, the old medieval Cabbage Market

Reflected in the surface of placid ponds, the picturesque town of Telč is a true real pearl of the Vysočina region. The ancient royal water fort was founded here in the 13th century on the crossroad of busy merchants´ routes. Besides the monumental Renaissance chateau with an English park, the most significant sight is the town square – a unique complex of historical houses in the Renaissance and Baroque styles.

The historic centre of Telč was added to the UNESCO list of world cultural heritage in 1992, thanks mainly to the chateau and beautifully preserved town square.

Three large ponds surround the small historic centre and provide some beautiful reflections for photographers, as well as opportunities for boating or hiking along the shoreline paths. Only around 6000 people live in Telč, so it has a gentle pace and is a perfect place to relax and unwind.

Day 56, 25 July 2012 Budapest to Vienna, Austria

2012-08-01T16:12:00.003-07:00

Morning hours in Budapest

A visit to Embassy of Malaysia Budapest

Welcome to Austria!

Day 55, 24 July 2012 Budapest

2012-07-31T03:15:00.002-07:00

Ambassador Dato' Kamilan and Malaysian Embassy

staff hosting World Tour for Children-

From Malaysia with Love in his Budapest official residence

Toyota Centre Budapest complimentary maintenance courtesy from Mr. Laszlo Gog of Malaysian and Hungarian 4x4 Magazine

http://4x4magazine.com.my

Fantastic view from the Malaysian Ambassador official residence

Another proud Penangite in Budapest, Steven Ling and Steven Foong

Day 54, 23 July 2012 Sibiu Romania to Budapest Hungary

2012-07-28T16:03:00.003-07:00

Budapest is the capital city of Hungary. With a unique, youthful atmosphere, world-class classical music scene as well as a pulsating nightlife increasingly appreciated among European youth.

Ungaria!

Budapest is one of Europe's most delightful and enjoyable cities. Due to the exceedingly scenic setting, and its architecture it is nicknamed "Paris of the East". The local pronunciation can be approximated by "boo-dah-pesht".

Budapest's Chain Bridge and Castle Hill

In 1987 Budapest was added to the UNESCO World Heritage List for the cultural and architectural significance of the Banks of the Danube, the Buda Castle Quarter and Andrássy Avenue.